AGENDA DATE: 8/18/2021
TITLE:
Title
Proposed Firearms Ordinance
BODY
SUBJECT/PROPOSAL/REQUEST: Consider the adoption of a proposed firearms ordinance
ITEM TYPE: Regular Action Item
STAFF CONTACT(S): Richardson, Walker, Kamptner, Farley, Lantz
PRESENTER (S): Amanda Farley
LEGAL REVIEW: Yes
REVIEWED BY: Jeffrey B. Richardson
BACKGROUND: In the 2020 Session, the General Assembly approved an amendment to Virginia Code ? 15.2-915 permitting localities to pass an ordinance prohibiting possession, carrying, or transport of firearms, ammunition, or component parts in buildings, public parks, recreation centers, and permitted events areas that are owned or used by the locality or authority or entity controlled by the locality for governmental purposes.
The Board of Supervisors held an advertised public hearing on a draft of the proposed ordinance implementing the enabling authority in Virginia Code ? 15.2-915 on July 21, 2021. The Board received written public comments both supporting and opposing the ordinance before the public hearing and received additional comments at the public hearing. After the public hearing was closed, the Board discussed the provisions of the ordinance and directed staff to return with an amended ordinance. Since July 21, the Board has continued to receive comments from the public both supporting and opposing the ordinance.
STRATEGIC PLAN: Mission - To enhance the well-being and quality of life for all community members through the provision of the of the highest level of public service consistent with the prudent use of public funds.
DISCUSSION: The proposed ordinance (Attachment A) would prohibit firearms or their component parts, ammunition, or a combination thereof from being possessed, carried, or transported into any buildings, parks, and recreation centers owned or used by Albemarle County or authorities or other entities created or controlled by Albemarle County for governmental purposes.
The June 7, 2021...
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