NEW SMYRNA BEACH, Fla. – The New Smyrna Beach City Commission on Tuesday unanimously voted down a proposed ordinance that would have allowed “peddle pubs,” formally referred to by the city as commercial mega-cycles, to operate on local streets.
The proposal stemmed from a request by local entrepreneur Christopher Smith, who hoped to launch a business called “Rolling Cheers.” During the meeting, Smith told commissioners he was a small business owner with no corporate backing and said his operation would not create a nuisance.
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City staff, however, recommended against the ordinance, citing concerns about noise, safety and traffic impacts in the popular beach community.
Smith pushed back on the noise concerns, telling commissioners the bikes would be equipped with a small stereo system that operates “at respectful volumes,” adding it would be quieter than golf carts, boats and outdoor patios.
Despite his assurances, several residents spoke in opposition, raising concerns about who the attraction would draw to the area and how many similar businesses could follow if the ordinance passed.
After discussion, the commission voted unanimously to reject the measure, keeping peddle pubs off city streets for now.