Colby City Council Discusses Electric Scooter Concerns, Approves Community Requests
June 16, 2026
Electric scooters and other motorized devices became the primary topic of discussion during the Colby City Council meeting on June 16, as city officials and residents examined safety concerns, state regulations, and the need for additional community education.
The council first worked through a light agenda, approving several requests before turning its attention to a lengthy discussion on electric scooters, e-bikes, and other motorized transportation devices.
Among the evening's approvals was a request from Colby Community College Band Instructor Michelle Meyer to use Fike Park for a community band concert scheduled for July 5. Council members also approved a street closure for the inaugural Miles for Meals 5K fundraiser benefiting Genesis-Thomas County. The event, scheduled for June 20 was to benefit Genesis with donations being matched by Farm Bureau Financial Services.
Council members approved a $5,000 budget request from Options Domestic and Sexual Violence Services. Followed by the approval of a $4,000 budget request from the Western Kansas Child Advocacy Center. Executive Director Dion Rivera reported that the organization provided 451 services to 88 children in Thomas County during 2025, including 21 forensic interviews, 227 advocacy sessions, medical examinations, therapy services, and court preparation assistance for child abuse victims.
Council members additionally approved closing the Colby Aquatic Park on June 27 for the annual swim meet, a closure that will affect public access for the entire day.
The evening's most extensive discussion centered on electric scooters, e-bikes, golf carts, and similar devices that have become increasingly common throughout the community.
Police Chief Jake Hess read through state statutes and local ordinances governing the various types of transportation devices. He explained that electric-assisted bicycles equipped with pedals are treated the same as traditional bicycles, but motor-driven devices without pedals require further certification/license to legally operate in the city.
Hess acknowledged confusion exists because of the wide variety of devices now available, with most being purchased online, and may not indicate where they fall under Kansas requirements.
Several residents participated in the discussion. Community members expressed concerns about children being restricted from riding while examples of adults in the community disobeying traffic laws were presented to the council. Another member suggested that the city partner with schools to provide safety classes and educational programs before the upcoming school year.
Hess stressed that the department's current focus is educating the public rather than enforcement. He noted that officers have been stopping riders to explain regulations and contact parents when necessary.
The discussion was fueled in part by a recent accident involving a child who rode an electric scooter into a vehicle. While no serious injuries were reported, officials said the incident highlighted the need for greater awareness.
Council members generally agreed that additional public education would be beneficial. Suggestions included informational campaigns through schools, social media outreach, and potential community safety demonstrations to help parents and riders better understand applicable laws.
The Colby Convention and Visitors Bureau presented its proposed 2027 budget and highlighted ongoing efforts to attract overnight visitors through tournaments, conferences, and community events.
For department reports, Electric Utilities Director Brad Davis provided an update on the June windstorm response, reporting approximately $68,000 in labor, materials, and equipment costs. Davis praised city crews for restoring service and noted that employees logged 257 overtime hours during the recovery effort.
Davis also reported positive results from recent testing at the city's power plant. Annual capacity testing showed the facility generating 18.87 megawatts, after recent upgrades to infrastructure. The increased efficiency is saving the city approximately $12,000 per month in purchased capacity costs and could eventually create opportunities for additional revenue generation.
Fire Chief Scott Hilbrink reported that the department's new replacement vehicle has arrived and is awaiting equipment installation and graphics. The department remains two firefighters short of full staffing.
Police Chief Hess reported that officers are preparing for the upcoming concert, continuing parking enforcement efforts, and pursuing grant opportunities for traffic enforcement equipment. He also announced that two new officers are expected to join the department this summer.
Before adjourning, city officials announced that July 3 will be recognized as a city holiday in observance of the Independence Day weekend.
The council concluded the meeting by entering executive session for personnel matters.