Ask the Chief June 4, 2020

The weather is warm and people are outside enjoying life. This means you will see a lot more golf carts and ATVs putting through town. That being said, I have had many complaints of golf carts ATVs being driving very poorly. Some of the complaints include unsafe left turns, kids driving, failing to stop at stop signs, failing to yield at yield signs, and driving on Hwy 68 (you can only cross 68). Most recently I learned of a near collision where a golf cart turned left from the far right side of the lane and was almost hit by a vehicle. Operating a golf cart or ATV in Minneota is a privilege that can be revoked for negligent driving or repeated violations. The owner of the golf cart is responsible for how it is being used and everyone who has gotten a permit had the opportunity to get a copy of the city ordinance. Golf carts must follow the same laws that apply to cars with additional rules outlined in the ordinance such a 15mph speed limit and no driving after dark (even if equipped with headlights). If you want to keep your permit and avoid a fine I encourage you to drive responsibly and to make sure your golf cart is only driving by others who will also drive responsibly. Going forward, I will be making more stops of golf carts that fail to drive safely and I will be documenting these stops so that if it continues permits will be revoked and tickets issued. This is completely in your control and you will decide (based upon how you drive) if you lose your permit.