02/27/1989 Meeting - Laserfiche WebLink

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e Mr. Holmer referred to a provision in the skateboarding ordinance regarding impounding of bicycles or skateboards and asked whether owners will be required to register skateboards and bicycles. Ms. Bohman indicated that more information is needed about this point. Responding to Ms. Ehrman's inquiry, Ms. Bohman said fees were included under the regulations rather than as part of the ordinance and would be set and enacted by the manager following the council's action. Ms. Ehrman requested council review of proposed fees before their enactment. Ms. Bascom reported interest in other communities about Eugene's mall and expressed hope that increased commercial activity in the center of the mall will not be excluded (particularly pushcarts). Ms. Bohman responded that commercial activity on the mall will be allowed, but the ordinance will require separation between activities and will prevent them from interfering with each other. Mayor Miller opened the public hearing. Charles Burke, 455 East 13th Avenue, suggested that skateboards should be allowed to cross the mall along with bicycles. He pointed out that pedestrians are able to hear skateboards approaching. e George Schaefer, 15552 Old Stagecoach, reported that many mall businesses are struggling financially and he encouraged establishing a fee structure that will provide incentives to enhance the appearance and accessibility of the mall. He opposed the assessment of burdensome fees that will discourage businesses from activity designed to attract more people to the area. Dave Rogers, 2057 Willamette Street, questioned the legality of impounding skateboards and asked whether bicycles would also be impounded for violations. Mr. Rogers suggested reserving an area as a skate park if skateboards are made illegal in an increasingly large area. Stephen Davee, 1827 Harris Street, #305, identified himself as a University student for whom a skateboard provides essential transportation. He pointed out that bicyclists can use streets, but skateboarders lack that option. Peter T. Wotton, 350 Pearl Street, #202, said he was a member of the Commission on the Rights of the Aging and a resident of Ya-Po-Ah Terrace. As a bicycle rider, Mr. Wotton said his safety was endangered by other bicycles because of their quiet operation. He opposed allowing skateboards where bicycles are not permitted. Mr. Wotton emphasized the importance of providing young people with options and said he supports the ordinance on the condition that a skateboard park is established and that a schedule for that establishment is set by the council immediately. Russ Brink, 132 East Broadway, spoke as a representative of Downtown Eugene, Incorporated, whose mission is to enhance downtown and maintain its position as the center of the community. Mr. Brink considered the proposed ordinance a key element in accomplishing that mission and he directed the council1s e MINUTES--Eugene City Council February 27, 1989 Page 5 --