Wasilla ponders ATV restrictions

BY TODD L. DISHER
Frontiersman
Published on Thursday, October 22, 2009 6:52 PM AKDT

WASILLA — With mounting pressure to address the use and abuse of all-terrain vehicles inside city limits, the Wasilla City Council on Monday will discuss the results of a survey it conducted about possible solutions.

“We have had quite a few people who have called us, and quite a few people coming to the council meetings, saying this four-wheeler thing has to stop,” said Councilwoman Dianne Woodruff, the council member who introduced the survey. “I thought we should see what the pulse of the public is.”

For herself, Woodruff admits there is a problem, but would hate to see ATVs be banned outright. She said she knows most people are responsible riders, but the few who do not respect the laws of the city or property of others have the potential to ruin it for everyone.

ROBERT DeBERRY/Frontiersman file photo Ellen Markie leads a group of ATV riders through a series of cones during an ATV safety course. In a recent survey conducted by the Wasilla City Council, 45 percent of respondents said riders need to take an educational training course.

City code restricting off-road vehicles inside city limits are relatively strict. It is only lawful to operate an off-road vehicle on a city street rights-of-way but not on roads or sidewalks. Drivers must be over 16 years old unless accompanied by a parent or guardian or in possession of a motorcycle permit. Lights and helmets are required, and the speed limit inside residential and business areas is 10 mph.

Parents are responsible if they knowingly allow or do not take reasonable precautions to prevent violations by children younger than 18.

The laws are not the problem, Woodruff said, it’s enforcement. Police have stepped up their efforts, but there is only so much they can do with limited resources, she said.

Woodruff said she would like to see identifying numbers visible on every ATV. This way, she said, “When someone goes zipping by at 70 mph, you have a way to report them to the police.”

Education should be another priority, she said. People need to be better informed of the laws, and parents need to be aware of the risk ATVs present to their children, Woodruff said.

“I would really hate to see (ATVs banned in the city),” she said. “I really wish the ATV community would police itself so we don’t have to get to that point.”

To gauge the public, Woodruff proposed the survey that was posted to the city’s website on Aug. 24. In the ensuing 60 days, 140 people responded to the 10 questions asking their thoughts on age limits, training, education, registration and identification required to operate ATVs.

Of the 140 respondents, 70 percent identified themselves as ATV owners. The majority were between 30 and 60 years old, and almost all live in the city limits or the greater Wasilla area.

As far as age limits, 43 percent said 15 years old should be the minimum age for riders. Another 21 percent said there should be no age limit, and 17 percent said there should be no age limit so long as the rider is a licensed driver.

The vote was split over requiring an educational course for riders: 45 percent said yes, 46 percent said no, and 9 percent were undecided.

There were similar results for registration requirements: 48 percent said no registration should be necessary, and the same amount agreed with some combination of state and city registration.

In another category, 54 percent said identification visible from at least 50 feet away is not necessary, but 40 percent said a license plate or other identifying marks should be required.

The majority said there is enough enforcement of the existing laws, and 35 percent said enforcement should be stepped up even given the associated costs.

The 10 mph speed limit was just right for 65 percent of respondents, but 25 percent thought it should be increased, and 10 percent thought it should go down.

The last question got right to the heart of the matter. It asked respondents if the city should ban ATVs inside city limits, but not on private property. The survey showed 14 percent said they should be completely banned, and 31 percent said they should only be allowed on designated trails; 15 percent supported restrictions not listed on the survey, and 40 percent said ATV use throughout the city should not be restricted.

“This is not a scientific survey,” Woodruff said, urging people who did not respond to come to the city council meeting on Monday. “I want to hear from both sides. I want to know what they think are possible solutions.”

Contact Todd L. Disher at todd.disher@frontiersman.com or 352-2252.

Final ATV Survey results



Total amount of participants:  140



 

1. What is your age?



0%...............0 - 20 years                             

12%............21 - 30 years                          

24%............31 - 40 years                          

36%............41 - 50 years                          

19%............51 - 60 years                          

8%..............61 - 70 years

1%..............71+ years

 



2. Do you live within City limits?



30%............Yes, within City limits

62%............No, but within the greater Wasilla area

5%..............No, Mat-Su Borough resident

4%..............No, Alaska resident

 

3. Do you own an all-terrain vehicle?



70%............Yes

30%.............No



 

4. Should there be a minimum age for the use of an all-terrain vehicle in City limits?



43%............Yes, a minimum age of 15

17%............No, as long as they are a licensed driver

21%............No, there should be no minimum age requirement

19%............Other



 

5.  Should the user of an all-terrain vehicle be required to take an educational course before legally being allowed to operate the machine?



45%...........Yes

46%............No

9%............Undecided





 

6.  Should the users of all-terrain vehicles be required to register their vehicles?



16%...........Yes, Required to register with DMV and the City of Wasilla

7%..............Yes, Required to register with the City only

25%............Yes, Required to register with DMV only

48%............No, Registration with the City is unnecessary

4%..............Undecided



 

7.  Should an all-terrain vehicle be required to display a license plate, or other identification, which is visible form a distance of no less than 50 feet?



26%............Yes, License Plate Required

14%............Yes, other identifying markings

54%............No

5%..............Yes, but with a different distance of ____



 

8.  Should the City increase its enforcement of all-terrain vehicle users, given the associated increase in cost?



35%............Yes, increase enforcement

54%............No, there is enough enforcement in place

11%............Undecided



 

9.  Should the current speed limit of 10 mph be increased or decreased?



25%............Increased

10%............Decreased

65%............Remain the same



 

10.  The City of Wasilla recognizes the right of an individual to use their equipment on their own property.  For the following question please assume that the use is not on your personal property.  Should the use of all-terrain vehicles be allowed within City limits?



14%............No, Completely banned within City limits

31%............Yes, only on designated trails

40%............Yes, without restrictions

15%............Yes, with restrictions not listed


Copyright © 2010 Frontiersman

Comments

79 comment(s)

    Hybrid wrote on Nov 5, 2009 8:24 PM:

    " So hey, how bout we ban the white trash that is spoiling life for everybody? If you are rude enough to ride irresponsibly, you need to go back to wherever you came from and leave the Valley to people who really care about their neighbors and their neighborhood.

    The Mat Su valley was paradise in the 60s and 70s until all the selfish, self-centered idiots moved in. Go away! "

    To We The People wrote on Nov 5, 2009 5:51 PM:

    " There is a city hall meeting monday night. I think we should all be there and make our voices known. it's time to stand up before the hippy liberals run us over. "

    WE THE PEOPLE wrote on Nov 4, 2009 9:28 PM:

    " If there is one thing atv's do well, they make plenty of noise! If the city pursue's this nonsense of banning atv's further, I say we rally on our atv's in the heart of wasilla and let our throaty 4-strokes tell the city that WE THE PEOPLE still hold the power and we will not tolerate them treading on our personal freedoms any longer! They can't ignore a thousand noisy machines on the doorsteps of city hall! Lastly, always ride wearing a helmet! "

    Chris wrote on Nov 4, 2009 1:38 PM:

    " I say we ban hippy-liberals. Problem solved. "

    Just Like ATVs wrote on Nov 3, 2009 4:18 PM:

    " I say we ban ALL wild life within the city limits of Wasilla. They eat my flowers, my fruit trees and sometimes those stupid things STAND in the middle of the road. Not only that some of them RUN out in the road right in front of me as if they knew I was coming. Not all of these wild life animals are small. Some of them are big enough to not only total your car but KILL you. I say if we ban ATV's then Ban all wildlife. Good luck WPDwith enforcement. "

    to Leon wrote on Nov 3, 2009 6:46 AM:

    " When caught, put a billboard sized license plate on the so called "off road" machines that race up and down paved neighborhood streets with no regard for human life or limb. Also require the rider to wear a brightly colored clown suit so that we can see them coming. It would also help if the machine was painted florescent lime green with florescent orange tires. Give the rider a choice, like salad dressing. Follow the rules or we paint it, ban it, or seize it. Problem solved. "

    Mat-Su wrote on Nov 2, 2009 9:56 PM:

    " Dianne,
    Please go back and re-read the 4th comment, it gives you the guidance you so desparetely seek, and the logic how the same issue is in all forms of recreation or travel, bicycles to automobiles........There is only 1 real answer.

    E N F O R C E M E N T ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! "

    Leon wrote on Nov 2, 2009 3:09 PM:

    " a "License" to ride a "off road" vehicular machine off road??? you must be one of those state employees looking for more Revenue...heres a clue pick up youre bags and move youre keester back to the big city if you dont like the valley..god forbid if people actualy had a life without government restrictions and revenue creating sports....my Snowmachine, my 4 wheeler, my Boat and my dirtbike are "Personal Private" property not operated on public funded roads or public maintained surfaces, so what is it folks, who realy owns the land, the people or the governement??? "

    To answer Dianes question wrote on Nov 2, 2009 1:31 PM:

    " No. The pulse of the public is no. No banning ATVs.

    The small, vocal, whiny minority of NIMBYS that just moved here in the last five years because of good housing prices comapred to Anchorage wants their values.

    We, valley residents say a resounding NO!

    And I do not care to dine with you, either. How dare you even think about talking our privilege away. "

    Solution wrote on Nov 2, 2009 12:53 PM:

    " continued: Allow those who have their ATV's licensed to use the road ways, and put an age limit of 15 provided that they also have a drivers permit. Thus also gaining additional revenue for the state and the ability to easily identify the abusers. It also provides those ATV riders who use this a main form of transportation to not distroy private lands, bike paths and ditches to get to where they need to go. "

    Solution wrote on Nov 2, 2009 12:50 PM:

    " I realize it is easy to yell and scream to enforce the laws, punish the parents, the kids, and the outsiders, but why not offer this as a solution. In other states that allow ATV's on not only marked trails, federal land, and road ways they require you to license the ATV, with an actual license plate, not just a sticker. Thus it gives police the ability to track down and enforce those who break the laws. Allow those who have their vehicles licensed to ride on the actual road ways to get to and from places...... "

    Help wanted wrote on Nov 2, 2009 12:36 PM:

    " Nobody minds ATV riders who are not endangering themselves or others and who are not causing damage to public or private property. So far, increased enforcement hasn't helped enough. How can we better identify those that ruin it and help our police catch and hold them responsible? Do you want police to take resources from other duties for more enforcement or do you want to pay for more resources? Are there better ways to get the message across to riders? How do we solve the problems? Constructive suggestions welcome. Dianne Woodruff 841-5232. "

    Hybrid wrote on Nov 2, 2009 7:02 AM:

    " Require a license to ride and have a sensible age limit for riding, just as for motorcycles. If a kid rides without a license or breaks the laws, go after the parents big time. Fine them, make them serve time in jail, whatever it takes to get the point across that ATVs and snowmachines are not babysitters.

    I believe this would work.

    Oh, and for the love of mike, do not, I repeat, do not put two year olds on miniature snowmachines! This is madness! "

    Old War Veteran wrote on Nov 1, 2009 10:57 PM:

    " Too Woodruff, Thanks, but no thanks. I would not sit in the same restaurant as you, much less sit at a table and eat with you. "

    YOU People wrote on Nov 1, 2009 5:41 PM:

    " " it is you people who are crowding our great community trying to change it to meet your personal life style. Love it or leave it " That didn't work for the Natives and it wont work for you. The times they are a-changin. I like the YOU PEOPLE comment. "

    Jeff Hewitt Wasilla wrote on Nov 1, 2009 5:18 PM:

    " DO NOT FURTHER TAKE OUR RIGHTS. WE MOVED HERE TO RIDE OUR ATVS. HOW MANY PEOPLE NEED TO SAY THIS?

    Jeff Hewitt, Wasilla "

    To Diane wrote on Nov 1, 2009 5:16 PM:

    " Thank you for chiming in.

    I agree with mosts posts on this topic (the clean ones).

    Please. Think about the future. Your future. Your political career.

    Enforcement is the right call. Banning will be difficult to enforce.

    Unless, of course, you want more police.

    Or is that your goal?

    No banning, Do the right thing. "

    hey diane wrote on Nov 1, 2009 4:11 PM:

    " as a constituent, i recommend that ypu enforce the laws regarding riding on bike paths, traffic calming in the area and the like. banning atv's is the wrong direction. read the posts. listen to us. enforcement, not banning is the solution. "

    To Viet Nam Vet wrote on Nov 1, 2009 9:49 AM:

    " I thank you and all veterans for your service, and would be pleased to buy you lunch so you can tell me face to face what is on your mind. I agree veterans should have the best health care. I've paid into social security for 35 years and agree those who can work to support themselves should. I too am concerned about the balance of trade. I've worked hard to increase public notice and support the public process on the MSB planning commission and city council, because public participation makes this country great. Dianne Woodruff "

    Dianne Woodruff wrote on Nov 1, 2009 9:09 AM:

    " Thanks to those who suggested parents take the keys out and put them someplace the kids can't get them when parents aren't home. I like to see families riding together, but I'm amazed at the number of kids way too young to safely drive the family car with roll-over protection, seat belts, and air bags that are endangering themselves and others while unsupervised on machines that don't have any of that safety gear and that go nearly as fast or faster. "

    To Palmer Farm and Power Wagon wrote on Nov 1, 2009 8:20 AM:

    " You are right. A few irresponsible riders have made this an issue, and I'd also bet most of them were raised here. I've also had more requests for additional restrictions and enforcement from long-time residents than from newcomers. Increased enforcement is helping, but often WPD can't get there before the speeding ATV is gone. Licensing and registration so we can better educate and identify those causing the problems is better than banning. Nobody wants the death of or caused by an irresponsible ATV rider and the property destruction must stop. Dianne Woodruff "

    Palmer Farm wrote on Oct 30, 2009 6:11 PM:

    " Thank you. That's what I figured to; a few ruining it for the rest. But I guess its easier to look outward and make up this silly idea that its "people from the lower 48 moving up here and wanting to change things" rather than swallow the truth and accept responsibility. I'm willing to bet that the majority of those people driving thier ATVs like idiots are children or youth that were born and raised here. "

    To Palmer Farm wrote on Oct 30, 2009 1:35 PM:

    " As a person who has had my fair share of run ins with the riders who just don't care, I would say that it is just another area where a few ruin it for the many. I know there are people who really try to be good neighbors on their machines. I have no beef with them. It has to do with the decline of civility and good parenting, I think. It is the same reason a woman with a car load of kids in her mini van will flip you off and think nothing of it. "

    Palmer Farm wrote on Oct 30, 2009 11:37 AM:

    " Wow. Those were, uh, "interesting" posts. I especially like the different blog names for the same person. Hope the beer didn't get spilled onto the keyboard. Sooooo, meanwhile....back on topic; Just to make sure I understand this right. I thought that ATVs were a part of Alaskan life (love 'em!). But apparently, I need to understand that riding recklessly, endangering others, destroying other people's property, flipping people off and such are all ALSO part of "being Alaskan" and to think otherwise somehow means one is "from California". Do I have it correctly? "

    The Old Vietnam Vet wrote on Oct 30, 2009 12:28 AM:

    " I guess everything I fought for, the friends that I saw tortured on the battle field died in vain. Just so you could GIVE it all away...........to the people who crossed our borders illeaglaly...........Have you no pride in your country? Could you at least care about the men and women who fought and died for you right to GIVE IT ALL AWAY? I do not believe in a global economy. Call me old, but me and my buddies who died assured you the right to give it all away............YOU deserve NONE of............the..............rights.............we...........fought for.....you.............are............not...........worthy "

    The Old Viet Nam Vet wrote on Oct 30, 2009 12:22 AM:

    " The wind is blowing...........the snow is piling up............... Why Dianne Woodruff, why? I fought for this country. I fought for YOU to have the right to speak you mind. WHY? Why do you expect me to pay the way for those who refuse to work? Why? I fought the cold, cold winter, the impassible roads, the non existence of roads. Why? How can you ever justify this? Are you a modern day robin hood? I should work hard so others don't have to? I expect an answer. "

    Woodruff wrote on Oct 30, 2009 12:15 AM:

    " Think about it..............I have been a hard working man. Why should I pay the way for those who refuse to work? Why? That is an honest question. Things in the U.S. have gone down the toilet. WHY? Why should I, a war veteran pay the way for those who refuse to work? Why? I am an old man................why? I have paid my dues and get substandard health care? Why? Somebody please explain this to me because I just don't understand. Please support people who WORK for a living......I.....Worked.....HARD........WHY..should.....I...pay...their....way>.....I...really....want......a....reasonble...........answer...............tell me?.....................why? "

    Woodruff wrote on Oct 29, 2009 11:59 PM:

    " As I listen to the wind blow............the wind has never changed over these 50+ years.......as I listen to the wind blow it breaks my heart to see new comers try to over take our small town....When I was a child I remember the days when the only transportation was by a 3 wheeler or a snow machine......... this is not a new thing.............yet we have these new comers who think they have all the answers...........was Woodruff here in the 60's or 70's when the roads where wiped out? when we had no electricity? "

    Wasilla wrote on Oct 29, 2009 11:52 PM:

    " Wasilla has a Mayor that atually CARES about the people who LIVE in Wasilla. He can't stand Woodruff because she is a CONTROL FREAK........ Our wonderful Mayor wants to keep the charm that Wasilla once had................but then we have the outsiders...............you know the ones who need to GO HOME SALLY............... GO HOME SALLY.........This IS the last Frontier................. GO HOME..............why did you move to Wasilla any way? You say the ATV;s when you were shopping for a home........what's your gripe??/ "

    Remember Woodruff wrote on Oct 29, 2009 11:48 PM:

    " Yes, it is true. If it is in the best interest of the police department or the City then Woodruff is behind it! She is all for taking away the rights of the people! She is a socialist at heart and had a Obama sign in her yard! Woodruff MUST be replaced for the rights of the people! All she cares about is what the CITY wants and the Mayor doesn't even like her! What does THAT tell you? "

    Woodruff wrote on Oct 29, 2009 6:50 PM:

    " Keep in mind that Woodruff is a control freak and is in it to grab as much control from citizens as possible. If it's good for the city and her over inflated ego, then she's behind it. If it is bad for the common citizen and takes power away from them, she's for it. It it gives power to the police department and deprives citizens of their liberty, she will vote for it. Remember your freedoms at election time. As usual, she'll open her mouth and expose her power hungry control freak attitude. "

    PG wrote on Oct 29, 2009 12:03 PM:

    " My husband and I are in our late 60's and I have a RZR S model side by side and my husband has a Arctic Cat Thunder Cat. I am disabled and that is the reason I have a side by side. We are responsible, intelligent people who respect people's property and only ride on trails designated for ATV riding. I find it disgusting that parents let their children ride their ATV's without any respect for life, limb or property or others. For those of you who ride irresponsibly, get out of Dodge. "

    Mat-Su wrote on Oct 28, 2009 10:14 PM:

    " No No No...Enforce the laws.....
    E N F O R C E M E N T.....
    Impound the machines breaking the laws.......Only when their back pocket hurts,,,"LOST MONEY" ..will the lowlifes learn to supervise their kids.or themselves .Californian, Washintonian or Alaskan. Why should we who live here have to pay for a few lowlifes, and lose another traditional freedom... It is for some, the only way to get around, legally.. "

    knik rider wrote on Oct 28, 2009 8:55 PM:

    " Furthermore, What is the point of making more laws when the cops can't even enforce the laws already in place. I see far more dangerous acts performed by drivers on the roads in Wasilla than I see performed by those on the saddle of an atv. What are we going to do next, ban all cars and trucks from the public roads in Wasilla? Come on people take responsibility for yourselves, your kids, and your community! "

    knik rider wrote on Oct 28, 2009 8:52 PM:

    " Many have commented that it is the few irresponsible riders who are ruining the priveledge of riding our atv's freely for everybody. I absolutely agree, and I also agree that the riders causing the problems are the 12 year olds riding without supervision! Parents, be parents and care about your kids and what they are doing! take your keys out of your atv's restrict their riding priveledges because a twelve year old is not mature enough to handle that kind of responsibility. "

    Go Home Sally wrote on Oct 28, 2009 7:39 PM:

    " If you don't recognize that phrase, then YOU are Sally. Go home. I have lived in this Valley for over 25 years. We like it the way it was. If you don't like that then take your Anchorage, California mentality and go back to where you came from. If you don't like ATV's then why did you move to the Valley? I'm sure yo saw them whenuwherehomeshopping. Why move here and expect us to conform to YOUR ways? I guess for the same reasons I have to push #1 for English. "

    Power Wagon wrote on Oct 28, 2009 2:51 PM:

    " How does the saying go? "It only takes a few to ruin it for everybody"? To those of you like me that ride responsibly; don't get upset at those that are now asking for some beefed-up regs and enforcement. Get upset at those that drive fast, jump driveways, ride through parks, cross without looking and give others obscene gestures and have brought this upon us. "

    To Lee wrote on Oct 28, 2009 12:18 PM:

    " If these people actually rode their machines "off road" and off of people's private property, there wouldn't be such a problem. Matter of fact, we wouldn't see much of them. The fact is they run in and out of the roads (sometimes right down the center line) and across other people's property with out a care. Eroding everything in their path. Try to stop them and they give you the finger. It needs to be taken care of, since the riders don't care enough to police themselves. "

    Palmer Farm wrote on Oct 28, 2009 8:14 AM:

    " Right. Because it's the "Californians" operating thier quads without any regard for the safety or consideration of others. You know, I don't like it when people from the lower 48 move up here and try to bring thier want for excessive government with them either (oh, and hate to tell ya...but the #1 state for Alaska immigration is Washington, NOT California!). But to blame this on those people is just ignorant and demonstrates a lack of accountability. "

    lee wrote on Oct 27, 2009 10:51 PM:

    " after 36 years here in Wasilla I have seen every intent by newer comers and proported do gooders do all they can do to restrict intertainment under the alleged guise of safety, and to what is gained? less for kids and young adults to do, so then what? people talk about registering there off road toys, hello folks there not "on road" there not "Vehicle's" by deffinition under the federal CFR's, they are "Private" property that are not operated on "Public roads funded by the tax payers" "

    Mat-Su wrote on Oct 27, 2009 8:15 PM:

    " If all the Californians would go home, the problem would probably go back home with them. "

    to I live in Big Lake wrote on Oct 27, 2009 6:12 PM:

    " How does some additional requirements for ATV riders equate to the huge government regulations of California? That goes beyond exaggeration to simply absurd! Have you ever been to California? Also, I fail to find the "charm" in the growing number of inconsiderate, reckless ATV riders flying down streets at high speed, jumping roads and driveways without looking and making a bigger nuisance out of themselves more and more every year! If people had a bit more civility, then I guess regulation wouldn't be necessary! "

    kids wrote on Oct 27, 2009 12:45 PM:

    " i see them everyday, hauling butt on dads machine while he is obviously at work cause these machines are far too big for a 11-12 year old to have or ride. the ones going super fast are kids, the ones jumping driveways and streets are kids. the ones doing 80 down the paved bike path...kids. id say 90% of these problems would go away if there was an enforced age restriction, and parents take your keys out of your wheelers while you are not there. "

    Elude wrote on Oct 27, 2009 11:30 AM:

    " Not a good idea to run from the cops. Eluding combined with reckless driving and speeding, add in a few beers and you could be facing some big time fines and jail time. Perhaps some who have tried it could comment here and enlighten us. Regarding the driveway/intersection jumpers who don't look left or right, they seem to have the russian roulette mentality. I would love to hear from them too. Especially the one's who have slammed into the side of a car doing it. "

    jp wrote on Oct 27, 2009 8:48 AM:

    " if you make it illegal, it will put in a sense of risk and make it challenging and fun to run away from the authorities.
    that being said, it is my opinion that it would put more people at risk! "

    Wasilla City Council wrote on Oct 26, 2009 11:42 PM:

    " Wasilla City Council Members who want to see ATV;s out of the City. Dianne woodruff, Doug Holler, Taffina Katkus and Nancy Hall. I was at the meeting tonight when another council member, can't remember the name mentioned that she was surprised that Holler was so adamant about getting ATV's off the road when she saw him riding his ATV on the road last year. What gives? Is it okay for council members to ride but not the rest of the residents? What gives? Politics as usual. "

    I live in Big Lake wrote on Oct 26, 2009 11:39 PM:

    " yes, I do. ATV's are a given out here. As a driver of a vehicle (a car) I have learned when I come to an intersection, I actually leave room for the snow machines and ATVs. You know why? because they are a given. period. I know to watch for them. Why turn Wasilla into anchorage or california? why? This is Alaska. Forget your growth. If you don't like it go back to where you came from. Wasilla, please don't take the charm and alaska way out of Alaska. "

    Power Wagon wrote on Oct 26, 2009 10:43 PM:

    " I don't like big government, excessive enforcement for the sake or generating revenue or satisfying greenies. If you would have asked me at anytime in the past, I would have immediately responded with a "no" regarding ramped-up ATV enforcement. But today, being honest and objective...Wasilla and the valley have grown. There's a LOT more riders out there. Common courtesy, common sense and respect have declined a great deal. I still don't like that its come to this; but maybe some additional regulation is now necessary. Shame. "

    alaskamountainamn wrote on Oct 26, 2009 9:14 PM:

    " This survey is without scientific merit because of the nature of it's implementation. The numbers are meaningless and absolutely no decisions should be based upon this data. If you want reliable data then hire or contract with someone who knows how to conduct research correctly. This is just another example of garbage-in-garbage-out methodology and any debate regarding the results of this survey is as irresponsible and unreliable as the data itself. Ask around city hall and see if anyone took statistics in college and maybe they can point your staff in the right direction. "

    Enforcement wont work. wrote on Oct 25, 2009 1:20 PM:

    " Try enforcement and come back next year and revisit the problem. I guarantee you that nothing will have changed. We already have the same problem with unlicensed, uninsured drivers of automobiles. Enforcement hasn't changed their behavior either. They still drive illegally. They still drive drunk. That said, banning ATVs probably won't work either. Unless you seized every ATV every time. Nobody is really interested in doing what it will take to solve the problem. "

    Mat-Su wrote on Oct 25, 2009 10:29 AM:

    " ENFORCEMENT.NOT BANNING IS THE ANSWER, ITS ALWAYS THE ANSWER, BUT ITS EASIER TO BAN...
    Of the 20 vehicles that went by yesterday, if enforcement was there, many more dollars would be raised in speeding fines, and 8 would have saw the enforcement and went 10 mph and obeyed all laws..Today there would only be 5 speeding by, and within a month, all would be normal except the hot rods that never learn. ENFORCMENT
    Same as cars and truck
    And yes airplanes are a sacred cow, don't get that discusion started here "

    Knik-a-billy talent wrote on Oct 25, 2009 8:35 AM:

    " Two stories in the same paper intertwined. Reckless ATV riders and growth out KGB. I swear no less then 30 ATVs and dirt bikes went past our house yesterday until about 11 pm. Mostly kids under 16, some so small they bearly straddled the seat. Driving home I clocked one on a dirt bike at 40 mph never slowing at the intersections, arcing the cross streets, in a short sleeved shirt, maybe 12 yrs old. Man we have some talent out here. Hopefully they live to see the growth. "

    Total chaos... wrote on Oct 25, 2009 7:30 AM:

    " Some of us enjoy airplanes. Under your version of total freedom to do whatever you want, I should be able to taxi out to my neighborhood street from my driveway and take off, because that is what we did 50 years ago. I could do it safely, but my neighbors would soon complain to the FAA and that would be the end of that. In fact that is another sore subject in the valley. Too many airports. The ATV problem is an image problem. Unwanted attention because of a few will ruin it for the many. "

    Mat-Su wrote on Oct 24, 2009 8:23 PM:

    " Oh, and CHAOS, before the multi-use pathways were built along side all the roads, those areas were used by all by transportation corridors. When they paved the roads and built them, they didn't build one on the other side also for the motorized only, "called separated pathways" So everyone had to use the paved ones or create a new trail, which turned very muddy and then dusty, They never thought about who really uses the ditches, so lets call them bike paths, for the 4 bikes that use them. REAL bikers use the hiway "

    Mat-Su wrote on Oct 24, 2009 8:18 PM:

    " TO CHAOS.
    Having been here over 1/2 a century, I could tell you of years that it snowed so much, that the only things on the roads were SNOWMACHINES, so yes, there again, put a wheel kit on them, they are already rubber tracked, just like that truck you see running a round with 4 track kits. AND They too could be built to be on the roads. Start thinking with your brain, there are many options bedsides BANNING anything. There again, not in this narrow minded state "

    Total chaos... wrote on Oct 24, 2009 2:26 PM:

    " I'm sure that the cops can't wait to have all of you out there on the highway with your ATV's. I doubt that it will happen for you considering the image your riders have created for themselves. Personally, I would rather have you up on the roadway. I hate those dust clouds you make as you race along the sides of the roads jumping driveways, and the wear and tear your machines cause to the edge of the pavement. We might as well put snow machines on the highway too? "

    Mat-su Mike wrote on Oct 24, 2009 1:05 PM:

    " The only thing we need is a little enforcment, the majority of ATV riders in Wasilla and outlying areas ride with respect to others weather it is vehicle traffic or personal property. I agree there are some riders (usually kids ) that disregard laws and curtisy to peoples land, neighborhoods etc, Fine the parents, impound the ATV so fourth, but to ban or force registration is rediculous, Thats all we need is another tax to pay. Once again most of us live in the Valley for privacey and freedom, dont bring yourAnchorage laws here "

    Mat-Su wrote on Oct 24, 2009 9:33 AM:

    " Re: To Jimmy,,,What???? Motorcycles mingle all summer with the traffic, No problem, some even drive in the winter with side cars..
    And they make studded tires for atvs, it makes them VERY stable, just like cars, In fact that little blue car running around is starting to look a lot like an enclosed atv to me. Will it be banned?? Looks like a Rhino with doors.
    Why try to include them ,, eliviate a problem,,, create more revenue,,, and industry...
    Lets just BAN them...Yeah, thats the simple minded approach, and logical for this state "

    we were hre fiirst. wrote on Oct 24, 2009 9:12 AM:

    " guaranteed that we were here riding our ATV's LONG befire any of the naysayers.

    Take your junk show and leave- i recommend girdwood or seldovia, hippy. "

    To Jimmy.... wrote on Oct 23, 2009 9:14 PM:

    " Put them on the streets? Are you suggesting they be put on the Glenn Highway too? Now that I would like to see! Especially during rush hour traffic after the first black ice hits. Or in the summer mixing with semi's and RVs. Yeah, that is a great solution. "

    Jimmy wrote on Oct 23, 2009 7:46 PM:

    " ATV's are as safe if not safer than motorcycles. I know in Montana, South Dakota and other Cities (city/town ordnances) are putting license plates on their Atv's and are driving them just like they are a car. Put them on the streets, make them follow the same rules as cars. Saves on Fuels as well. "

    To Mat Su Mike wrote on Oct 23, 2009 3:51 PM:

    " No one is advocating that ATVs be taken away from people. Just that ATV riders ride their machines in less populated areas. Alaska is a big state, use your imagination. Zipping up and down crowded highways, or round and round the block is boring and dangerous. Feel free to actually take your machines someplace interesting and safer to ride. "

    To Mat su mike... wrote on Oct 23, 2009 3:26 PM:

    " Shhhhhhh...Obama will think that is a good idea. He would love to take your gun away. "

    ATVs welcome.... wrote on Oct 23, 2009 2:34 PM:

    " For you ATV enthusiasts, may I suggest Cold Bay Alaska. Last time I was there, you didn't even need a license plate on a car. A good place for all you valley trash who have lost your license due to DUI's etc. It the perfect place to ride too. No cops, and less than 100 residents.. No pavement .True bush living. ATV's welcome! Just watch out for the bears. "

    Mat su mike wrote on Oct 23, 2009 2:17 PM:

    " So let me guess, a guy used a gun to rob the gas station, we better take away EVERYONES guns so it is a safer place to live, why do you think the majority has to pay the consequences for minorities bad decissions? "

    Change happens wrote on Oct 23, 2009 1:32 PM:

    " Just because something was done before doesn't mean that it's appropriate to continue doing now. Growth happens everywhere and it's time to restrict ATV use for the safety of everyone involved. This isn't a little country town with dirt roads anymore. I've come close to hitting more than one person who just jumped out of a ditch going 50 mph on an ATV. Something needs to be done. "

    Mat-Su Mike wrote on Oct 23, 2009 12:58 PM:

    " This a joke, I have lived in Wasilla since Teelands was still in the middle of town, had a general delivery post office and a single blinking light in the middle of town, as a matter of fact we owned the very first four wheeler in the Mat -Su valley. I guarentee the majority of complaints are coming from newer residents who want the Anchorage laws and the ever so shrinking solitude of Wasilla, it is you people who are crowding our great community trying to change it to meet your personal life style. Love it or leave it "

    WASILLIAN-4-LIFE wrote on Oct 23, 2009 11:35 AM:

    " I have a 4 wheeler and I ride everywhere. I think people should have respect while riding. As for people not wanting anybody in city limits riding, move. I'm sure it was being done before you moved to wher you are so if you don't like it GO BACK TO ANCHORAGE OR WHEREVER IT IS YOU'RE FROM. "

    Idea wrote on Oct 23, 2009 11:28 AM:

    " How about enforcing the current laws on the books, instead of creating more laws?

    Just a thought. "

    To matsu wrote on Oct 23, 2009 11:23 AM:

    " You are right but too late. Same for rider groups, they needed to act sooner but apparently don't care. "

    15 age limit wrote on Oct 23, 2009 11:06 AM:

    " What would the 8 year olds do then.... Spend time with parents? "

    Why we get a drivers license wrote on Oct 23, 2009 11:03 AM:

    " You want childern killed if you don't uphold a licensing and age limit on atv riders. Plain and simple. There are laws regulating driving a vehicle for a reason. Yesterday I was at the exit for the Wasilla Police Station waiting to turn when an ATV driven by a 12-14 yr old slide around the corner in to the driving lane. The police in the car behind me did NOTHING. Wake up! Kids do not have the mental capasity to judge. Thats why we dont let them drive cars. "

    Lifelong Respectable Alaskan wrote on Oct 23, 2009 9:38 AM:

    " I remember as a kid growing up in Anchorage going to the Sears mall and seing snowmachines in the parking lot. I used to ride mine where the Dimond center now sits. I also remember 3 wheeling across hillside. The time of riding is going to end for Wasilla as it did for Anchorage. Growth and regulation are going to happen and you had better catch up with it or you will get buried in it. Start to enforce it now and protect your property so you will have something to enjoy. Citizens have spoken and are ready! "

    Whats Happening wrote on Oct 23, 2009 8:49 AM:

    " That potentially is a lot of rules put on recreational motorist. However it seams necessary and should be consider for everyones own good. I am interested in seeing how this plays our. Keep us post Frontiersman. "

    reason 312 wrote on Oct 23, 2009 7:59 AM:

    " NOT TO GET ANNEXED INTO THE CITY OF WASILLA!

    WE LIVE HERE FOR A REASON.

    LEAVE THE CITY TO DO WHAT IT WANTS- LIBERALIED ANCHORAGE VALUES.

    BUT DO NOT INCORPORATE THE REST OF US INTO THAT FATE.

    NO, NO, NO. "

    Mat-Su wrote on Oct 23, 2009 7:56 AM:

    " I really wish the automobile community would Police themselves, so we wouldn't have to ban automobiles. All because of a few bad D.U.I./speeders/reckless, but we'll have to BAN them all, within city limits.
    Wait, we can hire Enforcement Officers with vehicles and radios to curb the scafflaws.
    I wonder if that would work here, actually ENFORCE some laws, HIRE some officers, with radio's, on ATV's to patrol, I wonder if the problem would just disappear? Like Coast Guard does with boats.
    What a concept...ENFORCEMENT instead of BANNING, for everyones sake.
    Nah---Too logical for this state "

    The reason... wrote on Oct 23, 2009 7:38 AM:

    " The only reason this subject keeps coming up is because of those discourteous riders who can't seem to follow a few simple rules. Having said that, this poll is a joke with a 70/30 bias. I agree with "GET a Clue" except for his comment about FOX NEWS. The results surprise me, apparently there a lot of riders who don't like the renegades either. Kids should be on age appropriate machines and supervised by their parents, not just sent out on the streets to mix with traffic. BAN EM. "

    Wasilla_blogzilla wrote on Oct 23, 2009 6:14 AM:

    " Wasilla is quickly approaching a date with destiny. Uncontrolled development coupled with a diverse population that chooses not to respect their neighbors rights will result in even more restrictions on the personal freedoms that are the reason many of us originally moved here. This coupled with the greedy expansionist philosophy will result in even more deterioration of Wasilla's quality of life and an ever increasing tax burden. Yep! That's how they do it in the lower 48. "

    Get A Clue. wrote on Oct 23, 2009 1:06 AM:

    " 70% are ATV owners. Who did you find to take this survey, Fox News? Take a real one then let's talk about it. ATV RIDERS ARE A REAL PROBLEM. "

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