The City Council, with the bare minimum of five votes, on Tuesday night approved allowing electric scooters on city streets on first reading.

In favor were Council members Anthony Byrd, Demetrus Coonrod, Jerry Mitchell, Russell Gilbert and Erskine Oglesby.

An amendment was passed saying that riders must be at least 14 years old.

Those under 16 must wear helmets.

Councilman Ken Smith said a "Google search" shows numerous problems with the scooters throughout the country, including a high number of serious accidents.

He said, "I will be keeping my fingers crossed that Chattanooga is not one of those cities in the headlines."

Councilman Darrin Ledford said he admires "the entrepreneurial spirit" of scooter companies, but he said he was swayed by the high number of serious scooter wrecks. He said it was a danger not only to the rider, but to pedestrians.

Councilwoman Carol Berz also said she had concerns and she abstained.

Councilman Gilbert said it would be a handy way for college students to traverse downtown, and Councilman Byrd said Chattanooga is known for being open to new concepts.

