P.O. Box 3369
Anaheim, CA 92803-
3369
www.anaheim.net
CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
City of Anaheim
POLICE DEPARTMENT
DATE: AUGUST 20, 2024
FROM: POLICE DEPARTMENT
SUBJECT: RESPONSE TO THE 2023-2024 ORANGE COUNTY GRAND
JURY REPORT, “E-BIKES FRIEND OR FOE”
ATTACHMENT (Y/N): YES ITEM # 06
GOVERNMENT CODE § 84308 APPLIES: NO
RECOMMENDATION:
That the City Council, by Motion, approve the attached response to the 2023-2024 Grand Jury Report, “E-bikes Friend or Foe,” and direct the Mayor to execute a letter and forward the response to the Presiding Judge of the Orange County Superior Court and the Orange County Grand Jury.
BACKGROUND:
The modern electric bicycle (E-bike) emerged in the 1990s, combining traditional pedaling with a battery-powered motor to provide pedal-assist functionality. With the surge in E-bike popularity, Orange County has seen a notable rise in their use, leading to new challenges on the roads. Issues such as riding on sidewalks, speeding, and collisions with pedestrians and motor vehicles have become more common. Additionally, modifications to E-bike motors can result in speeds beyond their intended limits, exacerbating safety concerns.
DISCUSSION:
The 2023-2024 Orange County Grand Jury report, titled "E-Bikes Friend or Foe," examines the complex challenges posed by the increasing use of e-bikes. The report reveals a lack of uniform regulations across the county's 34 cities, which often leads to inconsistent enforcement and public confusion. It emphasizes the necessity for a standardized approach to regulate e-bike use, particularly as incidents of accidents and injuries have risen. Furthermore, the report calls for improved data collection on e-bike- related incidents and stresses the need for comprehensive public education campaigns to ensure riders are well-informed about safety practices and local regulations In responding to each Grand Jury finding, the City of Anaheim is required to either (1) agree with the finding or (2) disagree wholly or partially with the finding. Responses to Grand Jury recommendations must indicate that the recommendation (1) has been implemented; (2) has not yet been implemented but will be implemented in the future; (3) requires further analysis; or (4) will not be implemented because it is not warranted or is not reasonable. Explanations for responses are requested when applicable.
Approval of a response to the 2023-2024 Orange County Grandy Jury Report Entitled “E-bikes Friend or Foe” August 20, 2024
In accordance with California Penal Code Sections 933.05(a) and 933.05(b), the City Council is required to respond to the Presiding Judge of the Superior Court on the applicable findings and recommendations within 90 days. As such, Staff recommends that the City Council authorize the Mayor to sign the attached letter prepared in response to the Grand Jury Report.
IMPACT ON BUDGET:
There is no budgetary impact.
Respectfully submitted,
Rick P. Armendariz
Chief of Police
Attachments:
1. Orange County Grand Jury Report
2. Recommended Responses to the Orange County Grand Jury Report