Lexington committee advances proposed $1,500 racing fines

Lexington’s Social Services and Public Safety Committee unanimously advanced a revised ordinance targeting street racing and dangerous driving exhibitions, including drifting, burnouts, doughnuts and wheelies. The proposal would impose a $1,500 civil penalty for a first offense and, for a subsequent offense, allow a 60-day vehicle impoundment and a fine of up to $4,500; vehicle owners could be held liable, with a right to appeal. The measure is intended to add a civil enforcement tool alongside existing state criminal penalties, following resident complaints and concerns about street racing. The full Urban County Council must still consider the ordinance before it can take effect.