Walnut : Skating Proposal Delayed

The City Council has put the brakes on a measure to restrict in-line roller skating.

The council tentatively approved the proposal on Jan. 8 but postponed a final vote Wednesday after several residents protested that it would deprive many youngsters of a healthy recreational outlet.

“It’s helping the kids stay off the streets,” said Walnut resident Pat Johnson.

The ordinance would establish a 20 m.p.h. speed limit and prohibit skating at night and closer than three feet from pedestrians or 20 feet from store entrances.

Johnson said his main complaint was that it would ban skaters from play areas in city parks.

“They’re being chased out of the parks and into the streets,” Johnson said, adding that he encourages his son to participate in Rollerblade hockey games at local parks and schools.

The council gave Johnson 30 days to make alternative recommendations and advised the Parks and Recreation Commission to evaluate city parks for possible skating sites.

The council will take up the matter again at its April 8 meeting.