Island County residents now have the option of making their neighborhoods golf cart friendly.
Commissioners unanimously approved a new ordinance Monday that provides the framework for creating golf cart zones in rural areas, and named Beverly Beach the county’s first approved area.
The five-year-long effort, which included the passage of a state law in 2010, began with South Whidbey resident David Pentz and his use of a golf cart to remain mobile in his community.
After being warned by a sheriff’s deputy, Pentz’s friends and neighbors set out to change the law. Pentz lost his long battle with cancer last Thanksgiving.
“We had hoped that when this passed David would be part of this group,” said Tom Cahill. “Your vote in support would be a fitting memorial for him and for all other folks for whom the use of golf carts will enhance the quality of their lives.”
Commissioner Helen Price Johnson said she was glad to see the long approval process finally coming to fruition and noted the new law would both allow “our folks to be able to age in place” as well as provide an opportunity to use less fossil fuels.
“I will be casting my vote in memory of David Pentz,” said Price Johnson.
Commissioner Jill Johnson said that while she had intended to vote against the new ordinances for liability concerns, she admitted she “might be getting increasingly risk averse” and decided to back the rules anyway.
“I’m also beat,” said Johnson, as both Price Johnson and Commissioner Aubrey Vaughan had already voiced their support at previous meetings.
The law requires that 50 percent or more of residents on the roads in question sign a petition to request the golf cart zone. They will only be approved in areas with speed limits of 25 miles per hour or less, and carts must meet seat belt, rear-view mirror and signaling requirements, according to Island County Public Works Director Bill Oakes.
Drivers must be at least 16 years old and have previous driving experience or education. A valid license is not required, but those with a revoked license will not be allowed to drive the carts, Oakes said.
Neighborhoods who wish to apply must pay an initial $150 fee, plus $100 per sign designating the area, with a $50 per sign annual fee for maintenance, Oakes said.
Several residents voiced support Monday for the golf cart ordinance.
Anita Jerome said that after five years of “waiting and hoping” for the golf cart law, she said the vehicles would be a “green” way to get around and provide a “gentle reminder” for drivers to adhere to 25-mile-per-hour speed limits.
“You would be adding quality of life to countless seniors and those with mobility issues,” Jerome said.
A couple of other residents were critical of the law because they believed golf carts would cause accidents or be used irresponsibly.
“While I’m very sympathetic with the need to get some mobility through golf carts, I’m just thinking, golf carts are for golf courses,” said Paulette Becker. “They are not automobiles. They’re not safe. I think they are difficult to see, and if they are being driven late in the evening… will we see them?”
Similar laws have already passed and zones approved in Langley and Coupeville by their respective city and town councils.
Gary Piazzon, a Coupeville resident, said he’s not aware of any accidents in Coupeville and that it would be a good law to extend island-wide.
“I’m totally supportive of alternative forms of transportation that reduce CO2 emissions and promote people getting around better and safely,” Piazzon said.
