Hughesville Borough Council at its recent meeting voted to amend its Motor Vehicle and Traffic ordinance to prohibit the operation of electric scooters along streets, alleys, and sidewalks.

No public outcry preceded the formal passage of the amendment passed unanimously by council.

Mayor Richard Smith noted that the amendment, which also prohibits unicycles on streets, alleys and sidewalks, is a safeguard against accidents.

He noted the rise in injuries from both electric scooters and electric bikes in recent years nationwide.

Councilman Dan Cale stated that state law already prohibits electric scooters from being operated on public roads and sidewalks.

By passing a local ordinance, council is, in effect, protecting violators from stiffer penalties under existing state law, according to borough officials.

“That’s what the public doesn’t understand,” Council President Andrew Mook said.

Under the newly passed ordinance amendment, which goes into effect immediately, violators can be assessed fines of up to $1,000.

However, Cale noted that it includes a clause whereby scooters can be confiscated in lieu of fines.

The ordinance does not cover electric bikes which can be operated on public roads by drivers who are at least 16 years old.

In other matters, council approved an ordinance restricting parking at Spruce and East Water streets to two hours.

Council approved permits for the Fourth of July Fireworks event as well as the Christmas in July Parade set for July 25. The parade permit is contingent upon securing insurance coverage for the borough.

Greater Hughesville Business Association President Robin Landgrebe reported to council that high tree grates and overgrown weeds are an issue along sidewalks in parts of the downtown.

Council met in an executive session following the meeting to consider contract issues.

The next meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. Monday, June 22 at the municipal building.