Wagoner council pauses vote on ordinance to allow elected officials to carry handguns in city facilities

The Wagoner City Council on Monday took no action on Ordinance No. 984, a proposed change to the city code that would have authorized elected officials who hold a valid handgun license to carry concealed handguns in city-owned buildings, except in courthouses, jails and other specifically excluded facilities. Instead of passing the ordinance, the council directed staff to form a committee to develop recommended revisions and return the matter for further consideration.

The proposal, introduced as an amendment to Title 10, Chapter 3, Section 10-306 of the Wagoner Code of Ordinances, was amended during the meeting to expressly require a valid handgun license “issued pursuant to the provisions of the Oklahoma Self Defense Act.” City attorneys noted that omission needed correction before any ordinance could be validly enacted.

Supporters of the ordinance said allowing the limited carrying by officials would improve safety. Don Spencer, president of the Oklahoma Second…