Coronado will push state and federal lawmakers to develop e-bike safety legislation and oppose offshore oil drilling along San Diego County’s coastline in 2026 under legislative policy guidelines adopted Jan. 20 by the City Council.
City Council approved over 20 pages of documentation noting the city’s position on dozens of situations including e-bikes, traffic concerns and offshore drilling.
The e-bike legislation would support rules and regulations on electric bikes and motorcycles within city limits.
Coronado’s regulations for e-bikes and other motorized mobility devices, including electric scooters, skateboards and hoverboards, took effect on Jan. 3, 2025. The ordinance provides for fines of up to $25 if violated.
According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, state traffic laws and vehicle codes govern e-bikes’ operation on streets and bikeways, placing them under state and local control.
At the request of Council member Mark Fleming, the city added noise camera technology to its priority list, in addition to photo radar. Noise cameras are roadside systems used to detect and photograph excessively loud motorcycles and other vehicles.
The council also addressed offshore drilling in response to a Trump administration announcement that it will open the Pacific coastline, including California, to oil leases.
The city’s original guideline noted that the council would oppose measures that includes any San Diego County coastal area in the lease/sale program until environmental protection is assured.
On Jan. 20, council members agreed to take out the latter part of that sentence, with it now reading: “…oppose legislation which includes any San Diego County coastal areas in the lease/sale program.”
City Manager Tina Friend gave a report on the guidelines that set the city’s official position on different legislative issues. These guidelines have been established for several years now, according to Friend, and come up every year for approval and changes.
This document is used as a framework when contacting members of the U.S. Congress or other agencies about matters affecting the city.
Even though the guidelines exist, Coronado can still have another opportunity to make a position statement on a specific issue if brought to a meeting, according to a staff report from a meeting in December.
