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The billion-dollar problem in firehouses: Potentially toxic gear, tight budgets and a fight over who pays to replace it
By Katherine Langford
Manatee County seeks community input on expanded e-bike age restrictions
Marcus Chen
Marcus Chen
Managing Editor · St. Paul, MN
Marcus manages the day-to-day editorial workflow across all brands, coordinating coverage assignments and ensuring editorial standards are met. He previously served as city editor at the Pioneer Press and holds a degree in Political Science from Carleton College.
More from Marcus →Managing Editor · Monday, November 2, 2026 at 9:46 PM · 1 min read
MANATEE, Fla. (WWSB) - Concerns about children riding electric bikes on neighborhood roads and sidewalks are prompting Manatee County to reconsider its rules and public safety leaders want parents and community members to help shape the response.The county is examining a proposal to expand its existing age restriction to all classes of e-bikes and e-scooters. The current ordinance prohibits children younger than 16 from operating Class 3 e-bikes on public roads, bicycle paths and shared-use pathways.Manatee County Public Safety Director Jodie Fiske joined ABC 7 News at Noon and 1:00 p.m. to talk about the issue. She said the county is seeking less restrictive alternatives that could improve safety through education, outreach and community involvement.“It’s our younger riders. Ages 9 to 14 that account for the biggest bulk of these injuries,” Fiske said.Fiske said District 5 Commissioner Dr. Bob McCann called for the review during the July 28 County Commission meeting, citing concerns a
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