Castle Rock Colorado repeals an open carry ban in parks and public buildings. Town council voted 4-3 on second and final reading tonight.
The three dissenters asked that the issue be put to a vote of Castle Rock's voters instead of pushing forward with the repeal tonight. They also said the repeal would not be the end of it - they will try to get the issue on the ballot this November. Good for them.
It seems the four members who voted in favor are heavily influenced by Rocky Mountain Gun Owners, Colorado's "no compromise" gun lobby that the NRA characterizes as "extreme". One of the four is the mayor of Castle Rock, who also is an owner of the nearby Centennial Gun Range - go figure.
They also disregarded the recommendation of the chief of police and the majority of the police staff and city workers, the public safety commission and majority of the planning commission.
The reason given for overturning the ban? "The Constitution". Pure gun lobby rhetoric, going back to the "birth of the country" etc., etc. Apparently, they aren't familiar with the Supreme Court, which time and again has upheld restrictions on the Second Amendment. In other words, yes, you can restrict gun laws and be acting within the law. It's a judgement call. Unfortunately, it seems Caste Rock's citizens are governed by some folks with poor judgement - but hopefully they will all get to voice their opinion via a vote this November and let the chips fall where the may.
"Let the citizens decide. It's more than just the seven opinions up here that need to be heard." — dissenting council members