MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — Despite debate, there could be more limits on where you can and can’t carry firearms in Morgantown.
In a 4-3 vote from Morgantown City Council, a reworked ordinance was passed on a first reading that states only current or retired law enforcement officials would be able to carry firearms in municipal buildings including city hall.
Deputy Mayor Bill Kawecki discussed what he described as a difficult process considering the ordinance.
“It wasn’t an easy vote. And, I don’t know if there’s an easy answer to them, one side or the other,” said Kawecki on the ordinance itself and the debate it presents.
The ordinance was not without some opposition as council members, local citizens and members of the West Virginia Citizen’s Defense League alike spoke out against the ordinance. One commonality that was mentioned by council members on both sides was that the key focus is safety.
“Councilor Bane said it, he was worried about the safety of the employees and I am too,” said Kawecki about the emphasis of safety from both sides of the debate.
Kawecki, who voted yes on the ordinance, explained that the ordinance passed is not meant to condemn gun owners but rather to give peace of mind.
“What we’re trying to do is create a safe atmosphere, one where people can feel comfortable about expressing their opinions and not worrying that something uncomfortable might happen,” Kawecki explained when making the decision.
While the gun carrying debate is far from dead, Kawecki, who’s also an admitted gun owner, believes public buildings are better protected by professionals.
“I would prefer to leave the safety of our community in the hands of professionals and we have a very good police force,” said Kawecki.
A similar ordinance was previously discussed back in December 2016 when it was met with familiar equal split.
