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Avery County considers ordinance banning weapons at DSS and health department properties; second vote planned for January
Summary
County staff introduced an ordinance to prohibit open and concealed carry at the Department of Social Services and health department properties; the board conducted a first vote and will consider a second and final vote in January as required by procedure.
A proposed Avery County ordinance to prohibit open and concealed carry on Department of Social Services and county health department properties was presented to the commission Dec. 1.
County staff (S4) explained the ordinance makes such carry a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $500, with a $50 minimum fine. The presenter said the ordinance addresses concerns specific to DSS and the health department facilities and could be amended later to include other county properties if the board chooses.
Under county procedure for local ordinances the measure requires a vote at two separate meetings. Commissioners conducted the initial reading and vote at the Dec. 1 meeting; the presenter and county manager confirmed a second vote would be required in January for final adoption.
Commission discussion included references to prior, less restrictive draft language and the possibility of expanding the ordinance to additional county properties at a future date. No public opposition or public comment on the ordinance was recorded during the meeting portion where it was introduced. The matter will return to the board for a second reading and final vote in January.
