Minutes - Council - 01/27/2026 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Councilmember Buscher asked how officers would determine whether a truck driver’s use of an engine retarding brake qualifies as an emergency under the proposed ordinance, seeking clarification on how that distinction would be established during enforcement. Police Chief Bluml explained that officers would use professional discretion when enforcing the ordinance. During a traffic stop, officers would ask questions and conduct a brief interview to determine whether the use of an engine retarding brake was necessary due to an emergency. Based on that assessment, an officer could issue an education, a warning, or a citation. He noted that the issuance of a citation does not determine guilt and that drivers retain the right to contest it in court. He emphasized that officers are trained to apply discretion appropriately when evaluating circumstances and enforcement options. Councilmember Buscher asked whether the city could proactively notify major trucking companies and frequent commercial carriers that use Ramsey as a thoroughfare to ensure they are aware of the proposed engine-brake noise ordinance before enforcement begins. Police Chief Bluml stated that the department cannot easily identify which specific trucking companies are responsible for the violations. However, if the ordinance amendment is approved, the Police Department plans to communicate and educate the public about the change by sharing information on the City’s social media channels, including Facebook, to reach drivers and the broader public. Mayor Heineman agreed that the proposed approach addresses the concerns raised, noting that education, combined with enforcement, should be effective. He noted that regular highway users are likely to adjust their behavior once informed, as most people want to avoid violations, and expressed confidence that the issue would be resolved quickly under the proposed ordinance. Councilmember Riley stated that the primary goal of the proposed ordinance is to reduce noise rather than issue citations, emphasizing education as the preferred first step. Motion by Councilmember Riley, seconded by Councilmember Peters, to introduce Ordinance #26-01, amending Section 30-5 of the City Code related to noise and engine retarding brakes. A roll call vote was performed: Councilmember Buscher aye Councilmember Riley aye Councilmember Stewart aye Councilmember Olson aye Councilmember Specht aye Councilmember Peters aye Mayor Heineman aye Motion carried. City Council /January 27, 2026 Page 9 of 10