Council believes mini trucks too dangerous in Duluth

After all the debate was finished, the council voted to not allow mini-trucks onto Duluth roads four to five.

Mini trucks are similar to an ATV with a truck bed on the back, and are able to go up to 55 miles per hour on a highway. The problem, according to Councilor Gauthier, is that "it's too dangerous to drive because if you crash, you will either be pinned up against the bed or a door and be seriously injured or even die."

Councilor Fosle also added that, "They are just a glorified ATV, and they are illegal on the Duluth roads."

During the debate, the council seemed pretty split on the decision, even after the explanations by farm workers Ben Fischer-Meritt and Steven Wiggle, who said that the mini-trucks were very useful for their business and would lower fuel costs for their farm because of their efficiency on the roads.

Councilor Cuneo said, "The mini-trucks are about as safe as a motorcycle, and they are allowed on the road in Duluth. The trucks can also be used as a useful tool for the local economy."

Councilor Hartman agreed also saying that motorcycles are more dangerous and they are more similar to a small car than an ATV. Fuel economy was also a topic, as Councilor Gardner stated that mini-trucks have been approved by the EPA, and they aren't as damaging to city streets as other trucks are.