The Wayzata City Council adopted an emergency ordinance Monday requiring persons under 18 to wear helmets while riding electric-assisted bicycles, motorized bicycles and motorized foot scooters.

The unanimous vote on Ordinance 850 came after Interim Police Chief Baker outlined increasing safety concerns about juveniles on motorized bikes and scooters traveling at speeds over 30 mph. The ordinance takes effect immediately as an emergency measure to address the busy summer season.

"Safety concerns are of the utmost importance for both the rider and oncoming pedestrians sharing the same space," Baker told the council. The police department has received several complaints about juveniles on motorized bikes over the past five years, with incidents increasing significantly as the devices have become more popular.

The council also approved the city's 2024 audit report, which showed strong financial performance with no compliance findings. The general fund ended the year with approximately $515,000 more than budgeted, primarily due to higher-than-expected revenues from building permits and investment earnings.

In other business, the council approved a conditional use permit amendment for The Retreat at 1221 Wayzata Boulevard East to upgrade its west wing. The healthcare facility, which has operated in the city for 22 years, will maintain its current capacity of 91 residents while improving the building's accessibility and modernizing the 1950s structure.