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Authority adopts no-weapons policy after passenger brought machete attempt
Summary
Board approved a formal weapons policy banning weapons on property and vehicles after staff reported an incident in which someone attempted to bring a machete on a bus; the policy allows board-authorized, trained personnel to carry weapons for security.
The Twin City Air Transportation Authority adopted a formal weapons policy after staff reported an incident where someone attempted to bring a machete onto a bus.
Staff told trustees the agency lacked a formal passenger-weapons policy and reviewed policies used by similar agencies. The proposed policy states that no person — passenger, visitor or employee — may possess or use weapons while on property owned, leased or controlled by the agency or on vehicles at any time. It extends the prohibition to employees while representing the agency and specifies that small items purchased during shopping trips (for example scissors or small kitchen knives) must be kept in original packaging and stowed in a bag or container. The policy states that guns are not allowed on agency property regardless of whether the person holds a concealed-weapon permit. The board may authorize trained personnel, such as security guards, to have a weapon on company property when the executive director determines it is necessary for safety and security.
Trustees moved and seconded the policy and adopted it by roll-call vote. A staff member said the policy change was motivated by the recent attempted machete incident; the board also discussed adding decals to indicate the no-weapons rule once a policy was in place.
The policy takes effect immediately upon adoption; staff will proceed with implementation steps such as signage and communication to riders.
