Ready to ride? Ripon City Council considers expanding ATV/UTV operation hours

The Ripon City Council is considering extending the hours during which people can ride their ATVs or UTVs on city roads.

Currently, the hours are from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., but riders are requesting an extension from 4:30 a.m. to midnight to accommodate shift workers commuting to and from work.

John Ernst, a local ATV and UTV enthusiast, expressed his support for the change.

"We want first-shift workers at some of the largest companies here to be able to get to work, and second and third shifts to be able to get home," Ernst said. "People spend maybe $20,000 on these vehicles, and they should be able to use them."

However, concerns about noise have been raised by residents like city council member Ellen Sorensen, who says some constituents worry about early morning disturbances.

"I've heard from people who want to sleep in on their one day off a week, and they're concerned about additional noise," Sorensen said.

Steve Hopp, president of the "Country Road ATV/UTV Riders" group, downplayed the noise issue.

"I think the noise is minor compared to a Harley-Davidson or some pickup trucks and semis," Hopp said.

Sorensen acknowledged that the council faces a tough decision.

"It's always a balancing act between those requesting an extension or expansion and those who feel they've already compromised," she said.

The city council is set to vote on the proposal during their meeting on Tuesday night.

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