Changes to the OHV helmet bylaw and fines discussed.

Wearing helmets while operating off-highway vehicles (OHV) in the city was a topic of discussion at the most recent Corporate Priorities Committee meeting.

Council members were briefed on current provincial laws, as well as city bylaws regarding helmet and OHV use, and asked for feedback regarding city staff requirements, increased fines for residents not following bylaw, and potential exemptions to the bylaw.

“We’ve been asked by some members of the public to consider following the provincial exemptions for helmet use, specifically in the case of the OHV having a roll-over bar,” said Mayor Craig Copeland. “In that case, the province doesn’t require a helmet to be worn, but our bylaw still requires it within city limits.”

Council requested for administration to draft amendments to the bylaw to lower some requirements, for Council’s consideration, and discussed other potential changes to the bylaw including increased fines related to OHV infractions, to be more in line with other municipalities.

“These rules are in place for safety of the riders and the general public,” said Copeland. “If they aren’t being followed, then perhaps heavier fines need to be in place.”

Changes to the bylaw will be brought to a future council meeting for first reading.