Golf carts allowed Jan. 1

by Leah Justice
The Town of Tryon has approved the use of golf carts on town streets, effective Jan. 1, 2014.
Tryon Town Council met Tuesday, Nov. 19 and unanimously approved the new ordinance.
Council has been discussing allowing golf carts for a few months following several residents asking for the use.
Tryon’s ordinance includes that golf carts can be operated on town streets that are 35 mph or lower during daylight hours unless the golf cart is equipped with proper lighting. Regulations state that a golf cart operator must obtain a permit and sticker from town hall that will be valid for one year as well as sign a form certifying that the driver has read the ordinance, demonstrate proof of ownership and proof of liability insurance and sign a waiver of liability releasing the town and its employees from all liability.
Golf carts will also have to have an inspection performed by the police department.
The golf cart ordinance also restricts golf cart traffic on Trade Street during business hours with the ordinance stating that golf carts are restricted on Trade Street between the hours of 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. Golf carts are allowed to cross Trade Street during those hours in order to get from one side of the town to another.
Tryon was not required to hold a public hearing but asked for public comment. Resident Bill Crowell was the only resident to speak and said if residents can’t use golf carts during daylight hours on Trade Street the town is just defeating the whole purpose of allowing them.
“It makes it impossible for me to get to work,” Crowell said. “Saluda does it all day and it’s safe. You let mopeds out here and it’s safe. I really think you need to look at (allowing golf carts) all day.”
Council members said Crowell can cross Trade Street during the restricted hours and told Crowell a way he could get from his house to business with a golf cart.
Police Chief Jeff Arrowood said he should have all the regulations in order and be ready to implement the ordinance at the first of the year.
The town also adopted fees for operating a golf cart in the town. Fees will include a $50 permit per year per cart, an inspection fee of $25 and a $100 penalty for violating the ordinance.
Tryon drafted its ordinance from the City of Saluda’s golf cart ordinance, which has been enforced in Saluda for several years.