The Jefferson City Council voted to not move forward to allow certain vehicles within city limits.

Since the Iowa Legislature passed last year that all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and over the road vehicles (OTVs) could be operated on county and city streets. However, the city of Jefferson’s ordinance did not allow for ATVs to be operated within city limits. The topic was considered two times by the law enforcement committee and both times the committee unanimously voted to not bring it to the council. 

At the most recent city council meeting last month, the topic was put on the agenda for the council to vote whether or not to move forward with drafting an amendment to the ordinance to allow ATVs within city limits. The measure was voted down 3-2, with council members Matt Wetrich, Pat Zmolek and Harry Ahrenholtz voting against it. City Administrator Mike Palmer describes if he was surprised with how the council voted.

“No, not particularly. They (the council) discussed it somewhat at the prior (council) meeting. It was pretty clear that it was going to be put on the agenda. I know since I’ve been here I’ve never had where committees have recommended not in favor of it. This was kind of like a last appeal. Council members are welcomed to put something on the agenda.”    

Palmer adds because the council took an official vote, he doesn’t believe the matter will come back to the council.