It is the intent of the City Council to allow horse drawn carriage tours of the community, but to regulate such tours in a manner that will protect the safety, livability and attractiveness of the community. The carriage business restrictions found herein are necessary for the following reasons:
(A) To recognize that tours and sightseeing-type businesses have a positive effect on the economic development of the city and help to further promote the tourism industry;
(B) To protect the health, safety and welfare of the citizens of the city by limiting the number of horse drawn carriages by avoiding congestion in the public streets;
(C) To preserve the desirability and livability of residential neighborhoods by limiting tours through the residential areas of the city;
(D) To preserve the property values and protect the health and safety of the residents of those neighborhoods by limiting tour-related traffic through the residential areas of the city;
(E) To utilize the city's investment in pedestrian oriented improvements by encouraging exploration of the city on foot; and
(F) To protect pedestrian safety by regulating loading and parking, and attempting to avoid further traffic congestion in the downtown area.
(Ord. O-07-10, passed 5-29-07)