City council discusses proposed e-bike registration
The Sanibel City Council heard about a possible e-bike registration program for those using the city’s Shared Use Path (SUP) system at its recent meeting and provided direction to staff via its feedback.
On May 5, Recreation Department Director Andrea Miller gave a presentation on the potential program.
She explained that data from the 2026 SUP Count Report showed that the city continues to experience increased usage of the system by pedestrians, traditional bike riders and e-bike riders. The growing demand creates a need for a clear regulatory framework for e-bike users in an effort to protect all SUP users. Miller outlined the following objectives for the proposed registration program:
– Improve safety for all SUP users through clear e-bike operational standards.
– Promote accountability by requiring visible registration decals.
– Provide enforceable guidelines aligned with city Code and Florida Statutes.
– Support equitable access for residents, workforce members and visitors.
Under the program, all e-bikes operated on the SUP by age 16 and older would be registered annually through the Sanibel Recreation Center. Upon registration, each e-bike would receive a color-coded decal indicating its class, which would have to be displayed on the front handlebar or gooseneck area.
The e-bike classes were identified as:
– Class 1: Pedal-assisted and less than or equal to 20 mph
– Class 2: Throttle-assisted and less than or equal to 20 mph
– Class 3: Pedal-assisted and less than or equal to 28 mph
The fee structure for the program would be a $10 registration for residents and on-island employees using Classes 1-3 and $10 registration for Sanibel businesses, such as rentals and resorts, and non-residents for Class 1; island businesses and non-residents would not be permitted to use Classes 2-3.
In terms of application and eligibility, she outlined the following:
– All users: Documentation of e-bike class (bill of sale or manufacturer specifications) and a signed acknowledgment of the SUP Code of Conduct (to be developed)
– Residents: Proof of residency/property ownership or a valid Sanibel address, and a list of authorized e-bike operators of those residing at the address
– On-island employee: Proof of on-island employment, like a current paystub (employers registering e-bikes for employees would also have to agree to revoke permits and remove decals within 10 days of employment termination, ensuring ongoing compliance)
– Sanibel business: Proof of current Business Tax Receipt (BTR)
Miller explained that enforcement and penalties would be a graduated framework that is consist with the city’s existing Code and presented the following:
– First offense: The person liable for the violation would be issued a written warning advising such person of the violation; provided, however, no civil penalty shall be assessed for a first offense.
– Second offense: A civil penalty of $100, plus a filing fee of $10; provided the penalty is paid within 15 days after issuance of the ticket. In the event the penalty is paid after 15 days, the payment required shall be a civil penalty of $125, plus a filing fee of $10.
– Third offense: A civil penalty of $350, plus a filing fee of $10.
– Fourth or subsequent offense: A civil penalty of $500, plus a filing fee of $10.
She proposed three options for the council to consider in its discussion: continue with the current e-bike regulations and make no changes; implement the proposed program; or wait until House Bill 243 — Electric Bicycles and Senate Bill 382 — Electric Bicycles are adopted before proceeding with any local policy and/or regulation changes.
During their discussion, some councilmembers voiced opposition to a registration fee for residents. The council also found consensus in its interest for a possible program for Classes 2-3, but not for Class 1.
Based on the feedback, staff will come back before council again at a later date.
IN OTHER NEWS
– The council voted unanimously 5-0 to approve a contract for about $2,325,808 with Marolf Environmental for the Post Hurricane Ian Lift Station Control Panel and Platform Improvements — Phase 1 project.
– The council voted 5-0 on an ordinance to amend the Code of Ordinances to repeal a section related to a prohibition on gas-powered leaf blowers to be consistent with Florida Statutes.
– The council voted 5-0 on an ordinance to amend the Code to remove an obsolete prohibition on flat roofs for multifamily buildings.
– The council voted 5-0 on an ordinance to amend the Code to revise vegetation buffer standards for commercial and institutional uses.
– The council voted 5-0 to accept the 2026 Emergency Operations Plan Executive Summary.
Staff reported that the city engaged The Olson Group to support its ongoing efforts to strengthen emergency management planning. The firm previously assisted it with completing the 2019 EOP and Hurricane Ian AfterAction Report, which identified key lessons learned and areas for improvement.
Based on the work, the city contracted it to update and rewrite the 2019 EOP.
Staff noted that the updated plan reflects current FEMA and National Incident Management System standards, incorporates lessons learned from recent events and uses an all-hazards, whole-community approach. The process included coordination with the city’s departments to clarify roles, improve operational readiness, and enhance response and recovery capabilities.
– The council voted 5-0 on a resolution appointing resident Jason Cohen and city Building Director Craig Mole’ to serve on the Lee County’s Program for Public Information for the National Flood Insurance Program. The other applicants were residents Teresa Ressel and Daniel Lessen.
– The council held the first reading for an ordinance to amend the Code to allow a limited exception to height limitations for the elevation of existing structures. Prior to the reading, it discussed the draft legislation and amendments were made. The second reading will be held on June 2.
– The council discussed and provided direction on a draft ordinance to amend the Code to establish public roadway speed limits by ordinance and reduce speed limits on certain roadways and/or sections.
– CliftonLarsonAllen gave a presentation on the city’s fiscal year 2025 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report, which was prepared by the Finance Department. The firm reported that its financial statement audit opinion and the federal and state awards audit opinion were both “unmodified.”
– The council recognized May 6 as Sergeant Anthony Neri Memorial Day through a proclamation, which also recognized him for his ultimate sacrifice and expressed sincere appreciation for the exceptional service that he provided to the Sanibel Police Department and community. Neri passed away during a training exercise on May 6, 2019, while on duty.
– The council recognized May 3-9 as the 57th Annual Professional Municipal Clerks Week through a proclamation.
– The council recognized May 15-21 as National Public Works Week through a proclamation.
– The council recognized May as National Cities, Towns, and Villages Month through a proclamation.