THE collision between a longboarder and a resident in his truck in the run-up to Monday night's debate on a longboarding bylaw added yet more pressure to what was always going to be a difficult council decision.
But the majority of council chose to support a bylaw that allows for fines of $100 for such offences as boarding at night, on the wrong side of the road or without concern for others.
The longboards of scofflaws can also be impounded.
The district took its time on this one, involving as many as possible in public workshops on the issue before coming up with a bylaw that will punish the thoughtless while allowing the enthusiasts the "privilege" of using district roads for their growing sport.
Council and the local RCMP, who were part of the discussion process, are of the opinion that an outright ban won't stop longboarding and will increase the amount of police involvement - perhaps giving rise to dangerous chases.
We agree. Far better to put the boarders on notice that sharing the road - not blocking it - and skating safely, not dangerously, is the key.
Clearly, the longboarding community itself must step up to the challenge of continuing education about safe practices. Parents should also inform themselves about the appropriate equipment and training available.
But most importantly, like Coun. Doug MacKay-Dunn, we believe there needs to be a co-ordinated approach between the district and city bylaws.
