At its meeting on June 18 the Bristol Town Council (BTC) received a preliminary draft of an ordinance governing the use of golf carts on public streets. Glenn Duncan, legal counsel for the BTC, said that a recently passed Indiana statute has clarified what cities and towns can propose regarding these vehicles.

The new law defines a “golf cart” as a conveyance that is “designed to be used on a golf course,” so that other slow-moving vehicles are excluded. Issues that the BTC will look at include requirements for annual inspection stickers, driver’s licenses, liability insurance, and safety features (such as lights after dark).

Any proposed ordinance will have to include restrictions on where golf carts would be allowed to cross state highways. Some BTC members suggested consideration of a “hardship clause,” whereby handicapped persons or senior citizens who no longer have a driver’s license could make use of the mobility and independence offered by a golf cart.
Two ordinances were approved on first reading, one regarding changes in park pavilion rental, and the other changing required meetings of the Park Board from monthly to quarterly.

Handed out for consideration were copies of noise ordinances from Goshen and Nappanee. The BTC has been dealing with this issue for some time, and plans to update its current ordinance in the future.

Bill Wuthrich, town manager, reported that the renovations for the new Subway restaurant are “looking good.” Plans call for new windows, 30 parking spots, and seating for 50 patrons. One audience member objected to a “chain store” coming in, but BTC members noted that they have constantly heard requests for a “fast food” establishment in town to accommodate those who live and work in Bristol.

Marshal Michael Swallow presented a plaque to Reserve Officer Brendan Eash recognizing him as the top OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) enforcement officer on the Bristol Police Department in 2008. The award was given by the Indiana Drug Free and the Elkhart County Drug Free Partnership.
The Beautification Award for June was given to The White Daisy for interior and exterior renovations at its new location in downtown Bristol.