The Teton County - Town Council Joint Information Meeting on August 4, 2025, focused on the pressing issue of bicycle safety, particularly concerning the use of electric bikes (e-bikes) in the community. The meeting featured a presentation from the Friends of Pathways, highlighting the ongoing discussions and community feedback regarding e-bike regulations and safety measures.

Brian Schilling, the pathways coordinator for the Town of Jackson, opened the session by outlining the history of e-bike usage in Teton County, which began to rise significantly in 2018. He noted that local authorities had previously allowed various classes of e-bikes on pathways, following the state legislature's classification of these vehicles. In 2023, the Town of Jackson implemented speed limits on town pathways, establishing a maximum speed of 15 miles per hour, with designated slow zones.

The meeting underscored the community's ongoing concerns about e-bike safety, with many residents voicing their opinions to council members. In response to these concerns, the Pathways Task Force and Friends of Pathways initiated a community outreach process to gather feedback and develop recommendations for improving safety measures.

Alex Norton from OPS Strategies presented findings from a community survey conducted in March, which garnered nearly 1,300 responses. This survey aimed to identify key issues and potential solutions regarding e-bike safety. The collaborative effort involved interviews with various stakeholders, including local law enforcement and public health officials, to gain insights into the challenges faced by the community.

The discussions at the meeting reflect a proactive approach by local officials to address safety concerns related to e-bikes, emphasizing the importance of community engagement in shaping effective policies. As the conversation continues, the council and community members are expected to explore further recommendations to enhance safety on Teton County's pathways.