COLDWATER, MI (WTVB) – Branch County Prosecutor Zach Stempien discussed a proposed Off Road Vehicle ordinance with County Commissioners during their work session on Wednesday.
Stempien said it’s hoped the ordinance would provide consistency.
The ordinance had to include state law language
Stempien hopes the ordinance clears up some misconceptions about how ORV’s are operated.
John Massey of Coldwater first proposed the ordinance to Commissioners in October. Golf carts are not a part of the proposed ordinance.
Those who violate the ordinance would face a civil infraction and a fine of between $250 and $500. The violator may have to pay restitution for any damage caused.
Fines from the ordinance would go into a ORV Fund. Half of the money would go to the Branch County Road Commission to repair damages caused by ORV’s and for the posting of signs indicating the speed limits for ORV’s and if the road is open or closed for such vehicles.
The other half of the funds would go to the Sheriff’s Department for ORV enforcement and training.
After further discussion, Commissioners took no action. The ordinance is expected to come back before them sometime in the future after further review.
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