We, the undersigned residents of Hayfield Township, respectfully oppose the ordinance which prohibits the operation of Utility Task Vehicles (UTVs) on local side roads within our community.

This ordinance restricts a form of transportation that is not only common in our rural and semi-rural areas, but also practical, cost-efficient, and deeply woven into the way of life for many residents. UTVs are often used for property maintenance, travel between homes and agricultural land, and community engagement. Their use, when done responsibly and with safety precautions, poses no greater risk than other vehicles on these same roads.

We understand the intent to ensure safety and preserve road conditions. However, a blanket prohibition disproportionately impacts residents who rely on UTVs for daily tasks. Rather than a full ban, we believe the council should consider a regulated approach that could include:

Safety requirements such as lights, mirrors, and flags
Speed restrictions
Limited operating hours
Licensing or registration

Such measures would balance public safety with personal freedom and practicality.

We, the undersigned, petition the Hayfield Township Board of Supervisors to:

Repeal Ordinance, OR

Amend the ordinance to allow regulated UTV use on designated side roads

We urge the Council to engage in further dialogue with residents, gather public input, and pursue a solution that supports both safety and the needs of our community.

In rural communities like ours, where communities are close-knit and distances between services can spread out, UTVs prove invaluable. They are not only environmentally efficient but cost-effective, providing a reliable alternative to full-sized vehicles. This ordinance doesn't seem to consider the unique needs of our residents. Instead, it forces us to rely on less efficient, more expensive modes of transport, inconveniently steering many of us away from a sustainable transportation option.

Furthermore, studies and experiences from other small towns demonstrate that regulated UTV usage on side roads can be safe and beneficial. For instance, in some nearby communities, adopting specific safety measures such as speed limitations, designated paths, and mandatory safety gear have successfully integrated UTVs into local traffic with minimal incidents. Our request is straightforward and sensible: amend or repeal the ordinance to allow UTVs on side roads with appropriate safety regulations in place.

Changing this ordinance would breathe new life into our community, returning a sense of freedom to the many residents for whom this is not a luxury, but a necessity.

Stand with us to urge Saegertown officials to critically reconsider this ordinance. With your support, we can push for reasonable changes that respect our lifestyle and safeguard our needs. Please sign this petition to repeal or appropriately amend the UTV ban in our community.