Huge turnout for UTV signups
It was speculated that Decatur’s new UTV ordinance, legalizing the use of Utility Terrain Vehicles on city streets, would prove to be popular. Tuesday night underscored just how popular. No less than 55 UTVs were registered that night at the Decatur Police Department in merely a three-hour span, 5-8 p.m., according to Police Chief Leonard Corral Jr. That came just one week after city council approved the new ordinance. And the vehicles were lined up at the Seventh St. police station well before 5, Corral added. The chief and his wife, Kim, handled all the inspections, filings, etc. “I received a lot of praise from the UTV owners,” Corral said., “A lot of them were very excited that the city passed the ordinance, especially since it was such a nice day yesterday to drive them. “I really don’t see having any problems with UTVs being on our city streets, Corral added. “Last year, we had an all-time high of over 300 golf carts registered. We hardly have any problems with them. He added a reminder: “UTV drivers can be arrested for violating traffic laws the same as you would be when driving a car.” UTV owners must provide their Indiana registration certificate and proof of insurance during the inspection in order to obtain a 2022 City of Decatur UTV permit sticker. Owners will have to register their UTVs every year at the police station to obtain a new yearly sticker. The inspections are free. Those who still need to register a UTV, will have to call the police station (260) 724-8646 to set up an appointment with the chief or Deputy Chief Chris Brite. Corral said at the latest council meeting that he and Brite will handle the effort as officers are busy on patrol, etc. The ordinance is available on the department’s website www.decaturinpolice.com.