A council member in Kansas City, Missouri, is spearheading a radical new proposal to reclaim the city's streets from the grip of illegal all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and motorbikes. The plan, which would see the vehicles seized and destroyed, aims to put a permanent stop to the dangerous sideshows and street racing that have plagued neighbourhoods.
A Bold Proposal for Safer Streets
Council member Crispin Rea is the driving force behind the resolution, which seeks to change state law to allow authorities to dispose of the offending vehicles rather than auctioning them off. Rea argues that the current system merely perpetuates a cycle, where confiscated ATVs and bikes are often bought and used for the same illegal purposes. His proposal is designed to break this 'churn' and make the streets safer for everyone.
In a public statement, Rea emphasised that "Every resident, driver, rider, and pedestrian deserves safe streets." The proposal is scheduled for its initial review next month. If it passes the city council, it will then proceed to the state General Assembly for consideration in January.
Escalating Danger and Enforcement
The urgent need for action was highlighted as recently as last week, when the Kansas City Police Department shut down a sideshow in the downtown area. According to reports from Fox4, five individuals were arrested, and nine vehicles performing stunts were towed away after they blocked traffic and ran red lights.
The situation turned violent in April, when a police officer was struck and run over by an ATV. Prosecutors allege that Kendall Coleman, 28, was the driver. During an attempt to apprehend him, the driver reportedly reversed the ATV into a wheelie, striking the officer before driving over him and fleeing. Fortunately, the police department confirmed the officer has made a full recovery.
Community Impact and Opposition
For local residents and business owners, the problem has become a daily source of fear and frustration. Downtown Kansas City has become a hotspot for reckless riders, making some feel unsafe stepping outside after dark. Earlier this year, frustrated business owners revealed they were considering relocating due to the pervasive chaos.
David Lopez, a local business owner, voiced the community's anger in May, stating, "This isn't a race issue, this isn't a political issue, this is a safety issue." He described how the constant danger was chipping away at the foundation of a business his family had run for 45 years.
However, the proposal has its critics. Chris Scott, a lawyer representing Kendall Coleman, called the plan a "bad move." He raised concerns about due process, pointing out that vehicles often have multiple owners or lenders. "This seems like an easier process for the city... to skirt the civil forfeiture process and just take somebody's property without any form of due process at all," Scott told media.
This new proposal builds upon a recently implemented law that increased penalties for repeat offenders. Mayor Quinton Lucas has previously vowed to ensure "real consequences" for those engaging in reckless behaviour, signalling the city's determination to restore order and safety to its streets.
