PC 11/12/97 - Laserfiche WebLink

response. Ms. Foster stated that she has lived in Pleasanton for 20 years and she loves it. She noted that her husband was an FFL dealer, and she would like to see the zoning remain in place. Ted Crowton, 6013 Acadia Court, Pleasanton, apologized to Kimberly Rowland if he or any other member of the NRA frightened her. He informed the Commission that none of the local gun dealers have ever sold a gun that was used in a crime and that people who purchase firearms from home FFL dealers are not involved in criminal activity. He believes this ordinance is trying to change the Constitution. He stated that he feels safe in Pleasanton and the ordinance should be left the way it is. Sallie A. Nordyke, P.O. Box 871, Willows, advised the Commission that she and her husband promote the gun shows at the Fairgrounds. She stated that there are over 11 pages of rules and regulations that must be enforced at all gun shows. She also stated that she spends approximately $1,500 per year on safety straps so that all fIrearms going through the door are rendered inoperable. She further advised the Commission that there are both uniformed and non-uniformed law enforcement personnel present at gun shows. Ms. Nordyke pointed out that gun shows at the Fairgrounds generate revenue for the City and she would hate to see Pleasanton spend any of its money in a legal battle to enforce this issue. She concluded by advising the Commission that "if it ain't broke, don't fix it." Chair Cooper asked Ms. Nordyke what the procedure was for proving security at the gun shows. She responded that although there will always be some uniformed police officers or sheriffs at the gun shows, she is required to hire 24-hour security for each show. PUBLIC HEARING WAS CLOSED Commissioner Kumaran stated that he believes the issue is more emotional than political. He commented that he tends to listen more closely to the residents of Pleasanton rather than the out- of-area people in the audience because he wonders what their motive is. He further stated that he is not viewing this as a political issue, but rather as an ordinance issue to promote safety within the community. He expressed his concern that if the ordinance is not passed, then the number of home firearms dealers may rapidly increase in Pleasanton. With regard to firearms sales in the commercial zoning district and in sporting goods and antique stores, he recommends that the sales be conditionally permitted. He agrees with staff's recommendations that firearm sales should be conditionally permitted in the industrial zone because it would provide an outlet for both the dealers and the prospective buyer. Commissioner Kumaran stressed that this proposed ordinance does not prohibit the sale of fIrearms, but rather prohibits the sale from occurring in residential areas and, at the same time, allowing it in other designated areas. He believes that firearms sale at the Fairgrounds should be determined by the County Board of Supervisors. Planning Commission Minutes Page 12 November 12, 1997