By BECKY KISER
Hays Post
Whether to allow UTVs — utility type vehicles — to be driven on city streets, which types, and how they will be regulated will be discussed at a third work session by Hays city commissioners Thursday night.
The most recent proposed ordinance would allow the side-by-side vehicles categorized as worksite utility vehicles/utility task vehicles, as well as the mini-pickups categorized as micro-utility trucks.
ATVs (all-terrain vehicles) and golf carts would not be allowed.
The registration program for the vehicles would be managed by the Hays Police Department and include:
* Inspection and a one-year tag
* Registration fee of $100
* Violation of proof of insurance would be a $300 fine plus $100 court cost
* Three-tiered registration and license violation structure establishing fines at $150, $300, and $500
* UTV usage would not be limited to location, time, or trailer towing restrictions
Review of the 2022 budget draft will continue and commissioners will be asked for consensus on the outside nonprofit agency requests for funding from the city.
"I think it's a show of support to our community to make sure the agencies in the community are able to provide operations that benefit the entire community," Assistant City Manager Collin Bielser said of the funding.
He used Fort Hays State University as an example.
"The city's been contributing money to Fort Hays for many, many years and obviously Fort Hays is a big economic driver and important part of our community. It's important for the city to show that sign of support.
"I think it's just something we can do to make sure our community is the best that it can be," Bielser said.
Two requests for nuisance abatements will also be presented for a vehicle at 607 Elm St. and a general nuisance at 3312 Lincoln Drive.
The complete July 15 agenda is available here.
The meeting starts at 6:30 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.