An ordinance allowing licensed drivers over 18 years old to operate golf carts on some city streets during daylight hours was approved Monday by the Great Bend City Council. The ordinance was approved with seven councilmembers voting in favor and councilmember Davis Jimenez voting against it. Some details were decided Monday before the ordinance came to a vote. The council considered allowing the carts to operate from sunrise to 10 p.m., but opted for sunrise to sunset. The council also chose to up the minimum age to 18, after initially considering 16. Councilman Gary Parr also suggested a higher registration fee, with a portion going to youth programs, and the council settled on a $50 registration, payable at a one-time inspection and reviewed annually. (Fees go to the general fund.) Police Chief Steve Haulmark said he is not opposed to the ordinance. He does not believe it will create an extra burden on staff and when people come for their registration sticker they will be given a copy of the ordinance.
Read more: Great Bend Tribune