In the Sandpiper Bay community, many homes have cars.
Not Gail Higley’s.
“But I gave it up because I’m afraid to drive anymore," laughed Higley Monday.
Higley and her son often get around on their golf cart.
“We live in a golf community… hello!", added Higley.
Most of what they need is just around the corner but the Higley’s say they’ve received many warnings from police about riding in their golf cart.
Monday, Port St. Lucie Police Chief John Bolduc presented a proposed ordinance that would allow golf carts to be used between sunrise and sunset, on locally funded roads with a speed limit of 30 miles per hour or less.
Vice Mayor Shannon Martin asked aloud what about the golf carts out on Tradition Parkway or the parents who use them to pick up their kids at school?
In neighborhoods like Tradition, 6-year-old Cohen gets “carted” to the park.
“Like if it’s near us, then we take the golf cart," he said.
His mom, who didn't want to be identified, said they bought a golf cart before they bought their house.
“It’s environmentally friendly and cost effective. We have seat belts so it’s safe,"
Former golf pro Tom Roberts says he doesn’t have an issue with the carts in his neighborhood but adds they’re motorized vehicles and someone could get hurt if they’re not careful.
“The majority of people are really good and courteous but there’s always that one who thinks he can drive anywhere," said Roberts.
The initial ordinance would allow anyone at least 14 years of age to operate a golf cart.
Some on the city council want to see a permit or license requirement added.
Mayor Greg Oravec said a number of new and planned developments in the western part of the city are incorporating golf cart use, so he didn't want to see the city go backwards when it comes to multi-modes of transportation.
The topic will be brought up again at a future council meeting.