Vandalia City Council approves allowing UTV’s and Golf Carts on approved city streets–Effective January 1st

After being mentioned for months and hours of discussion, the Vandalia City Council has approved an ordinance that will allow UTV’s and golf carts on approved city streets, with the ordinance to take effect on January 1st.

During Monday’s Vandalia City Council meeting, there were some minor changes to the ordinance. But, Alderman Bret Brosman proposed some larger ones. Brosman proposed adding several more crossing streets on Randolph Street and also more crossing streets on Kennedy Boulevard. Mayor Rick Gottman said that he was against any added crossings beyond those that were included in the ordinance that was hammered out during the July 6th work session–which includes 3 crossings on Randolph Street and 3 crossings on Kennedy. It was mentioned that any additional crossings on Kennedy would need to be approved by the Illinois Department of Transportation. Brosman argued that particularly with Randolph Street being such a long street, the 3 current crossings did not seem to be enough. Brosman also again stated that he did not believe they needed signage at each street crossing but simply a sign at the entrances of town letting motorists know this was a UTV and golf cart community. But, the ordinance that was worked out on July 6th would be for signage at each crossing. Brosman originally made a motion to pass the ordinance including his additions and changes but then withdrew that motion. Alderman Bob Bowen then made the motion to approve the original ordinance with just the minor changes and not the changes proposed by Brosman. Alderman Ken Hubler seconded Bowen’s motion. In the roll call vote, Ken Hubler, Russ Stunkel, Andy Lester and Steve Barker voted Yes with Bret Brosman, Kenny Lewey and Bob Bowen voting No. So, the ordinance was approved by a 4 to 3 vote with Alderman Mike Hobler absent from the meeting. Brosman stated the only reason for his No vote was because the added crossings he proposed were not included. Before the vote, City Attorney Ryan Connor had again told the city council any ordinance they approve would have to meet this standard……

Audio Player