The police department introduced the topic during a regular meeting on July 25 after Gov. Kim Reynolds signed a new law allowing UTVs throughout Iowa effective July 1.

The topic returned in the form of an amendment to the code of ordinances, detailing regulations for these vehicles as well as golf carts. It also included a map of where the different vehicles would be allowed.

On Monday, councilor Gabe Isom was the first to levy his stance on these recreational vehicles being used on Marshalltown’s streets.

“I will be voting ‘no’ with the hope that we will remove the ATV language,” he said. “My long-term concern is for nuisance. We talk about police shortages and staffing. I don’t think it’s in our best interest at this time.”

Councilman Gary Thompson voted ‘No’ on an agreement for Bolton and Menk to design a water feature near the YMCA, citing his preference to build on city-owned property.

Councilman Jeff Schneider agreed with Isom but said he does support amending the language of the ordinance in regards to golf carts and bikes. City Administrator Jessica Kinser noted the amendment also cleans up the code and places golf carts in an appropriate section.

Some councilors expressed support for allowing UTVs, as well. Councilor Mike Ladehoff said laws regarding these vehicles hold operators to a high standard like most standard vehicles, including the need for lighting, seatbelts, insurance and registration.

“It gives a nod to the young adults in our community. This is a trend that is happening all over the United States,” Ladehoff said. “We’re not talking about 12-year-olds running around with them. I don’t want to put more of a burden onto the police. But even by turning this down, you’re going to have some problems with this in town with people thinking they are legal.”

Ladehoff said he would be in favor of bringing the ordinance back before the council at a later date if problems arise from UTV use.

Before the council went to a roll call vote, Police Chief Mike Tupper left the council chambers. Councilman Gary Thompson motioned to postpone the vote on the ordinance until the next meeting so the police department could be represented during the process. Ladehoff seconded the motion, and it passed with Isom and Schneider voting against.

In other business

The council approved entering into a professional services agreement not to exceed $50,000 with Bolton and Menk to prepare a cost estimate and preliminary design for a water feature. The water feature, previously discussed as a splash pad, would be constructed at Mega-10 Park next to the YMCA.

To construct the water feature on the estimated 6,000-square-foot parcel, the city will need to enter into a 28E agreement with the YMCA, which owns a majority of the land. The city has a similar agreement with the YMCA for the Marshalltown Aquatic Center.

Parks and Recreation Director Geoff Hubbard said the water feature would be between 2,000 and 3,000 square feet.

At a prior meeting, Thompson said he is in favor of a splash pad but would like it to be built on city-owned property. He asked Hubbard if there was any possibility of changing the location to city-owned land.

“If you find me a big enough space that has parking,” Hubbard said. “Anywhere else, you’re going to have to find space to build a parking lot. Then you’re adding $1 million to the project.”