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Council approves weekly firearm disposal permit for Disarmory Ministries
Summary
The council approved Motion M4225 authorizing Disarmory Ministries to host weekly firearm disposal events at Greenfield Presbyterian Church through Nov. 1, 2025; the ministry said it has destroyed over 600 firearms and described on-site safety and destruction procedures.
The Berkeley City Council on June 2 approved a charitable solicitation permit for Disarmory Ministries to conduct weekly firearm disposal operations at Greenfield Presbyterian Church, 2312 Greenfield Road, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays through Nov. 1, 2025.
The permit (Motion M4225) was described in the packet as complete with necessary approvals and site visits. Jessica Reenstra, representing Disarmory Ministries, told the council the group "disposes of unwanted weapons for members of the community" and said the organization has "destroyed over 600 firearms" since it began operations.
Reenstra detailed safety measures: security guards are on site during events, individuals are asked to bring weapons unloaded, staff verify firearms are unloaded, and the ministry uses powered chop saws to render weapons irrecoverable "according to ATF guidelines." She also said donations to the ministry are limited and a staffed donation bucket will be supervised during operating hours.
Council members asked about the donation container's security and about community outreach. Reenstra said the ministry uses paid ads, social media and news coverage to notify residents and relies on recurring weekly operations so people can plan to attend.
Council member Hennen moved the measure with support from Mayor Pro Tem Gavin; a roll call vote recorded support from council members and the motion passed.
The permit allows the ministry to host on-site destruction and accept small monetary donations to support operations; the motion included no additional city-funded support. No adverse incidents were reported in the council packet or at the meeting.
