HOLLY — The Holly Police Department reminded residents this week that bicycles, scooters, skateboards and other wheeled devices must be dismounted in designated areas of downtown, adding that the requirement also applies to anyone arriving on a high horse.
Officials said the clarification became necessary after several residents interpreted the newly installed “DISMOUNT & WALK” signs too narrowly. Under the updated guidance, residents entering Battle Alley while visibly elevated by moral certainty, superior judgment or knowledge of how things were done here 30 years ago must return to ground level before proceeding.
Police said officers on increased downtown foot patrols will initially focus on education, reminding violators to climb down, take the reins and walk alongside their opinions until leaving the pedestrian safety zone. Repeat offenders may be asked to demonstrate that both feet and at least one firmly held conviction are touching the ground.
The ordinance also affects residents traveling by soapbox, although officials clarified that soapboxes may still be carried through downtown provided nobody stands on one. Riding a wave of public support remains under review, while officials said anyone coasting on reputation should dismount “out of an abundance of caution.”
Longtime resident Walter Dobbins questioned whether the rule applied to him, noting that he had occupied the same high horse since 1987 and had never previously been asked to get off it. Police advised Dobbins that existing mounts are not grandfathered and directed him to continue through Battle Alley on foot.
Officials said enforcement could eventually be expanded to public meetings, though preliminary estimates indicate the Village would need substantially more officers.