08/03/2026
Coming soon: West Jefferson Safe Rider program!
Proposal for the "Safe Rider Challenge" Chief Brandon Smith, Mayor Ray Martin, Owners of Whit's Frozen Custard Jami and Rick Oyster, and Representatives of the 2LT Dominic Frybarger Foundation:
I would like to present a community partnership initiative designed to promote safe riding practices among the growing number of youth operating electric bicycles and motorized scooters throughout the Village of West Jefferson.
As these forms of transportation continue to increase in popularity, so does our responsibility to ensure our young riders understand the importance of safety. Every day, children operating e-bikes and scooters—many weighing approximately 100 pounds—share our streets with vehicles weighing more than 4,000 pounds. Unfortunately, many of these young riders are doing so without helmets or other protective safety equipment.
Our community has already experienced injuries involving both a youth and an adult rider that required hospital treatment. As members of Village Council, we recognize the importance of improving safety for everyone who uses our streets. Council is currently working toward developing ordinances that would establish additional safety requirements for riders under the age of 18, including the use of helmets. However, implementing new legislation takes time.
Rather than waiting for new regulations to take effect, I believe we have an opportunity to encourage safe riding habits today through positive reinforcement.
I am proposing the creation of the Safe Rider Challenge, a partnership between the West Jefferson Police Department, Whit's Frozen Custard, Mayor Martin and the 2LT Dominic Frybarger Foundation.
Under this program, when a West Jefferson Police Officer observes a young rider operating an e-bike or motorized scooter safely—such as wearing a properly fitted helmet, obeying traffic laws, and riding responsibly—the officer would:
• Interact with the rider and congratulate them for demonstrating safe riding practices.
• Take a commemorative photograph with the rider (with parent or guardian permission when appropriate).
• Present the rider with a Safe Rider Challenge sticker to proudly display on their helmet, bicycle, or scooter.
• Award the rider a Safe Rider Recognition Certificate, redeemable for a free frozen custard at Whit's Frozen Custard.
With appropriate permission, the rider's photograph may also be shared on the West Jefferson Police Department's page to recognize their commitment to safe riding while encouraging other young riders to follow their example.
The goals of this program are straightforward:
• Increase helmet use among youth.
• Promote responsible operation of e-bikes and motorized scooters.
• Reduce preventable injuries.
• Foster positive relationships between our youth and the West Jefferson Police Department.
• Encourage parents to discuss safe riding habits with their children.
• Create a culture where safe riding is recognized, celebrated, and encouraged.
Funding for the free frozen custard certificates, Safe Rider Challenge stickers, and promotional materials would be shared between the 2LT Dominic Frybarger Foundation and the owners of Whit's Frozen Custard, making this a true community partnership with little or no financial impact on the Village.
I have personally discussed this proposal with Chief Brandon Smith, who has expressed his full support for the concept. I have also spoken with the owners of Whit's Frozen Custard, who have enthusiastically agreed to participate in this initiative.
I believe this program provides our community with an opportunity to proactively encourage safe behavior rather than simply responding after accidents occur. A positive interaction with a police officer, a Safe Rider Challenge sticker, and a complimentary frozen custard may seem like simple rewards, but together they can create a lasting impression on a young person.
If even one child chooses to wear a helmet because they hope to earn a Safe Rider Challenge sticker—or because they see their friends proudly displaying one—we may prevent a serious injury or even save a life. Saving just one serious injury or worse, saving a life, makes the program worthy.
This initiative reflects the very best of West Jefferson: neighbors, local businesses, law enforcement, and community organizations working together toward a common goal. By recognizing and rewarding safe choices, we can help build lifelong habits that protect our youth while strengthening the relationship between our police officers and the families they serve.
I respectfully ask for your consideration and support in launching the Safe Rider Challenge. Together, we can make West Jefferson's streets safer, celebrate responsible young riders, and demonstrate that our community values education, encouragement, and prevention as much as enforcement.
Thank you for your time, consideration, and your continued commitment to the safety and well-being of the residents of West Jefferson.
Respectfully,
Karl Frybarger
Village Council Member
Village of West Jefferson
