Avery County moves forward with first reading of ordinance banning weapons at DSS property

A proposed Avery County ordinance to prohibit open and concealed carry at the Department of Social Services property received its first reading at the Dec. 1 commission meeting and the board signaled support to move the measure to a second vote in January.

A county presenter described the proposal as addressing two elements: banning open carry of weapons (guns, rifles and similar items referenced in the draft) and prohibiting concealed handguns on DSS property. The draft classifies violations as a misdemeanor with fines up to $500 and a minimum fine of $50.

The presenter said the draft would apply initially to the DSS facility but could be amended later to cover additional county properties or recreation sites if the board directs staff to do so. The county manager said he had earlier proposed less‑restrictive language but agreed this tailored ordinance is needed for DSS and health‑department sites.

If the board wishes to adopt, state procedure requires a second vote at a later meeting; the presenter explicitly noted the ordinance would be voted on again in January for final adoption. No roll‑call vote tally was recorded in the transcript beyond the board's voice approval to move the item forward; staff will return with the ordinance on the next agenda for a final vote.

The transcript used the phrase "mis meter violation" when describing the penalty scheme; article text references the penalty as described by staff: misdemeanor with fines up to $500 (minimum $50). The transcript did not provide a statute number for authority; the draft ordinance language and the second reading requirement were presented by county staff for board consideration.