Utility vehicles (UTVs) and golf carts will be allowed on city streets after a tie vote Monday broken by Houston’s mayor.
Under the ordinance that received its third reading, the council voted 3-3 to allow both types of vehicles on city streets as long as the driver is licensed, insured and registration occurs with the Houston Police Department. ATVs are not included as part of the new law.
Opposing the measure were Aldermen Charles “Chalky” Wells, Don Romines and Joe Honeycutt. Supporting it were council members Sheila Walker, David Arthur and Mary Barnes.
Permits will cost $15 and are renewable Dec. 31 annually in the year they are registered. A decal is required to be placed on the vehicle or cart, as is a bicycle safety flag attached to the rear of the vehicle. They must be operated during the day. Persons who are not 18 must wear a safety helmet.
In other matters, members:
—Held the first reading of an ordinance that raises water and sewer rates by 2.75 percent in January. The previous annual increases have been 3 percent.
—Approved an agreement between the City of Houston and the Missouri Department of Transportation that deeds state right-of-way to the city on Oak Hill Drive from Highway F north to U.S. 63.
—Approved the first reading of an ordinance that gives guidance on the type of businesses that are allowed in a home. It cites specific examples. For example, voice and music instruction is allowed, such things as restaurants or barbershops or beauty parlors are not.
PDF: Home occupations ordinance
—Okayed $500 to help with the cost of sponsoring the annual City of Houston golf tournament at Oakwood Golf. The event is Aug. 22-23.