Most have noticed nearby towns tightening or revising their e-bike and scooter rules. During the Thursday, Sept. 25, city council meeting, the issue came up in Hickory Hills as well.
After a series of close calls and a few minor crashes, the council discussed what steps might make sense locally, focusing on e-bikes, scooters and mini-bikes.
Mayor Mike Howley, Police Chief Adam Gulczynski and aldermen focused on e-bikes and scooters. Gulczynski described near-misses at stop signs, kids riding through the new park at high speeds, and a recent mini-bike crash involving a child that is still under investigation.
The council agreed on the need for new rules, but not yet on the specifics. The next step will be a committee meeting before a draft ordinance is introduced, giving residents an early chance to weigh in.
Gulczynski told the council there is little difference between e-bikes and mini-bikes. “Mini-bikes have always been illegal,” he said. “There’s no difference in these vehicles other than electric now– in my opinion they should be treated the same way.”
Comparisons came up with Oak Lawn and Evergreen Park, where e-bikes are regulated rather than banned. Hickory Hills is weighing whether to take a similar approach or move toward a ban.
The council also revisited the long-running Sabre Woods redevelopment project, formerly the Sabre Room site. City Attorney Louis Cainkar said the redevelopment is “just the second step” in a longer process, with at least two more approvals still needed.
Howley said progress on the project will take longer than once expected: “It’s probably more like spring, maybe the middle of next year (2026), maybe longer” before work begins.
Alderman Mike McHugh said a recent false fire alarm at the community center “showed some hiccups” in how quickly the fire department could get inside. Firefighters eventually shut off the system, but the process took longer than it should have. He added the city is working on fixes so access will be smoother next time.
McHugh also said the community center parking lot will be repaved and striped, both to spruce up the new park area and to have it ready for holiday events.
The next City Council meeting is scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 9, at City Hall.