CJ mayor triggers thoughts about armed population
From our weekly issue dated April 30, 2008
To improve “the safety and security of the citizens,” city of Cave Junction Mayor Tony Paulson is viewing the possibility of requiring heads of households and businesses to arm themselves.
The mayor brought up his view at the conclusion of the city council meeting Monday night, April 28 in city hall. He characterized a rough copy of what could be an ordinance to amend the city municipal code as “just an idea.”
“Give it some thought,” he said, as he gave copies of his informal proposal to council members.
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The outline he provided would allow the discharge of weapons in city limits “in the defense of one’s person, home or business.” The current code limits the discharge of any firearm in city limits to peace officers.
Further, according to the outline, every household head and owners or managers of businesses operating in the city limits would be “required to maintain a firearm, together with ammunition.” The amendment would be implemented “to provide for the emergency management of the city, and to provide for and protect the safety, security and general welfare of the city and its inhabitants.”
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Conscientious objectors or persons with physical or mental disabilities would be exempt from the rule, should it be adopted. “Economically challenged” persons and felons also would not be included in the possible decree.
Paulson also provided a USA Today article stating that the burglary rate has declined significantly in the city of Kennesaw, Ga. which enacted a similar law in 1982. The article adds that Morton Grove, Ill. adopted an anti-gun ordinance at the same time, and that its burglary rate has risen.
