By KALEY LYON

klyon@dailynews.net

The Hays City Commission's consideration of an ordinance permitting the use of micro-utility trucks within city limits again has been postponed.

At Thursday evening's work session, the commission agreed that legal issues associated with the proposed permission need further clarification.

The ordinance would permit the use of such vehicles on city streets, but state statute prohibits such use on federal highways, which could mean the vehicles would not be allowed on Vine Street.

City Attorney John Bird said he is not yet certain whether the city could pass an ordinance allowing the vehicles on Vine Street.

"I researched it, and I can argue it both ways... because it's a federal highway," Bird said. "And state statute says that they can't be driven on federal highways."

Bird and the commissioners agreed it would be a good idea to solicit an opinion from the Kansas Attorney General's office.

"I would have trouble passing this until we come to some kind of an understanding on that," Vice Mayor Ron Mellick said.

It was agreed a state opinion would be solicited, and discussion will resume at a later date.

Licensing procedures and legal requirements for the use of such vehicles also was discussed.

Originally, the ordinance had been scheduled for possible action at a mid-September regular business meeting.

City staff, however, had recommended the item be postponed for further exploration of a licensing system.

Rather than pursuing an additional system for the vehicles, which must be at least 48 inches wide and no more than 144 inches long, requirements would comply with those of other motor vehicles owners and operators.

The primary concern of city staff is vehicle operators maintain liability insurance. According to the ordinance, any driver found without insurance would be punished.

Vehicle operators also would be required to have a valid driver's license.

In other business:

* City staff has made the administrative decision to no longer accept tree limbs at the city compost site.

At next week's regular meeting, commissioners will take possible action regarding an ordinance that would enable the city to fine policy violators.

* Commissioners heard a request for funding, in the amount of $20,000 from First Call for Help. This has been tabled for further consideration.

* Bids for construction of a restroom in west Frontier Park will be on next week's agenda.

* Bids for improvements to Golden Belt Estates Third Addition also will be discussed next week.

* Abatement procedures for several tracts of land on Elm Street will be considered next week.