Malad City Newsletter October 2026

We would like to thank those citizens who reach out to the Malad City Mayor, City Council,
and the City Office and Public Works Department to inform us of problems that are taking
place within the city. In September, we received several reports from citizens. When we
receive these reports, we try to address the issue immediately.

One issue that has been brought to our attention and is a county-wide problem is speeding.
Malad City contracts with Oneida County for law enforcement. Oneida County has had a
problem in retaining law enforcement officers. One long-time officer recently retired. It has
caused pressure on the department, with officers having to work overtime just to fulfil
basic responsibilities. However, Sheriff Williams has informed the city that two new officers
have recently been hired. Those officers need to receive POST training, but within a few
months, it is hopeful that the Sheriff’s Office will be able to raise the level of patrol on city
streets and county roads. The city appreciates Sheriff Williams and his dedication, and that
of his officers. They have always worked hard to keep our community safe.

What can we do as citizens? One issue that was raised is that of the speed limits on city
streets. If you believe the speed limit is too high on your street, consider providing a petition
signed by residents along the street to the City Council requesting that a speed limit be
lowered. Depending on the circumstance, the city may want to do further investigation or
do a traffic study. However, the City Council does have the authority to change speed limits
in a municipality. (Be aware that 50 South in Malad City is a State Highway and is under the
jurisdiction of the State of Idaho.)

The default speed limit in Idaho for city streets is 35 miles per hour. In Malad City, the
highest speed limit is 35 miles per hour for 50 South, set by the State of Idaho. On Bannock
Street, 1st West, a portion of 300 East, and 500 West, the speed limit is 30 mph. In other
areas of the city, the speed limit is 25, unless otherwise posted, with school zones having a
state-mandated speed limit of 20 mph.

E-bike laws are becoming a topic of discussion nationwide. Idaho has a three-tier
classification system under Idaho Code 49-106. Class 1: Pedal-assist only, the motor stops
providing assistance at 20 mph; Class 2, throttle-assisted or pedal-assist; the motor can
propel the bike exclusively and stops at 20 mps; Class 3, pedal-assist only, the motor stops
providing assistance at 28 mph. All legal e-bikes must have fully operable pedals and a
motor output of less than 750 watts.

Malad City has an E-Bike Ordinance, which is Ordinance No. 490. If you or your children
have an E-Bike, it would be helpful for you to become familiar with the State law and the
local ordinance. With regards to the City Park and Walking Path, the following is in the
recent Ordinance #502 approved for Park Rules: “All gasoline-powered motorcycles,
mopeds, dirt bikes, ATVs, off-road motorcycles, and any other motorized vehicles
designed to exceed maximum speeds in excess of 20 mph are explicitly prohibited from
being used on the walking paths or any area not specifically designated for such use unless
specifically authorized by the City.”