KEOSAUQUA —
The Van Buren Board of Supervisors will vote on whether to open county roads to all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) at its meeting next month.
This week, the board held a discussion regarding a petition requesting the board designate all secondary gravel roads in Van Buren County as routes for legal travel of ATVs and side-by-side vehicles.
Supervisor Mark Meek said he visited with a supervisor from Mitchell County and they reported having no troubles after passing a ATV resolution there.
“They only have it on gravel roads and they have a sunset clause,” Meek said. “I definitely support it and I would like to see them be able to drive in the winter.
Supervisor Ted Nixon said he discussed the matter with a Franklin County supervisor who told him “everything is working well,” with their ATV resolution.
“The problem I have is with the wording in the resolution.”
It requires the supervisors to state they have inspected the roads and they are suitable for ATV operation.
“I’m not sure I’m qualified to inspect all the roads and evaluate the road conditions for ATV operations. There are a lot of curves and hills, let alone deer. I have a concern with that clause,” Nixon said.
County Auditor Jon Finney said the wording has to be included in accordance with state law.
Supervisor Marvin Philips said he would like the following items be in the resolution: proof of liability, the ATV be licensed in the state of Iowa, the driver be of legal age and the ATV be required to operate with the lights on.
“I like the idea of the resolution sunsetting after the first year,” Philips added.
The board will vote on the proposed resolution at 1 p.m. Aug. 13 at the board office.
Local News
Van Buren County Supervisors to decide on ATV resolution
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