Local leaders in Ottumwa will consider an ordinance that would put restrictions on where people could carry concealed weapons. When the Ottumwa City Council meets in regular session Tuesday evening it will consider an ordinance that would prohibit firearms from being carried on city owned or leased buildings, parks, the courthouse and the law enforcement center.
The Iowa Legislature changed the state code so that county sheriff’s will no longer have discretion in issuing concealed weapons permits after January first of next year. Sheriffs will be required to issue anyone a permit unless they are under the age of 21, have been convicted of a felony or domestic abuse, are addicted to alcohol or been treated for mental illness within the previous two years.
The change could result in a number of people carrying concealed weapons into council meetings, the courthouse and law centers and other public events. If approved by the council, the ordinance would protect local governing bodies and others.
By Mike Buchanan, KBIZ, Ottumwa