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Councilmember Elvig noted there is a big difference between an ATV and a golf cart, which is <br />often electric and makes little or no noise. He acknowledged that other cities have allowed golf <br />carts to come into a core area and it seems effective but he does not envision four- wheelers <br />coming to The COR in the same way since an ATV has soft tires, not made for road use, and are <br />louder. He stated he could consider allowing ATVs in the northern area, but not The COR, and <br />noted that snowmobiles are not allowed all over Ramsey for a reason. Councilmember Elvig <br />stated ATVs can also damage grass and are a faster, stronger, and louder machine than a golf <br />cart. <br />Mayor Ramsey suggested that maybe the City should then outlaw Harley Davidsons because <br />they are larger, louder, and some do not have signals. <br />Councilmember Backous indicated he does not object to ATVs being used in the country but his <br />neighborhood has more narrow streets and he would be concerned with the safety of residents <br />and children since four - wheelers are harder to see. He stated he agrees with Councilmember <br />Strommen that many people sit in the "parking lot" of Highways 47 and 10 so maybe the <br />Council should put its energy into those issues instead of wasting time talking about something <br />that is not a problem. Councilmember Backous stated if this issue involves a long debate, he <br />would just as soon scrap it from the beginning <br />Mayor Ramsey stated then the City should outlaw bicycles because they can also be dangerous. <br />He stated this consideration does not have to be a long and drawn out process, it can be done <br />quickly, and addressed again next summer if changes are needed. <br />Councilmember Tossey stated he has not heard an outcry for this either but would favor <br />unrestricted use because if there is a violation, the ATV will get tagged, just like a moving <br />vehicle. <br />Councilmember Wise agreed with Councilmember Tossey to open it up and stated he also thinks <br />not many will use ATVs. However, he would support revisiting the issue should any problems <br />arise. <br />Councilmember Elvig stated he is certain there will need to be regulations, rules, or permits and <br />asked how much time staff has already been spent. <br />Police Chief Way stated he has invested a few hours. <br />Councilmember Elvig asked how many staff resources will be used to put together this program, <br />draft rules and regulations, and monitor it. He noted the Council wants to cut staff hours and he <br />wants to protect staff resources. <br />Councilmember Tossey stated the Legislature has already addressed traffic regulations that <br />dictate what motorists can and cannot do. <br />Mayor Ramsey stated four Councilmembers (a majority) have indicated support to move <br />forward. <br />City Council Work Session / April 24, 2012 <br />Page 8 of 10 <br />