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Martin County board preliminarily approves draft ordinance to ban weapons in county buildings; final adoption requires full board
Summary
An intern‑drafted ordinance to prohibit deadly weapons in county buildings was presented and approved by members present; commissioners noted exceptions for law enforcement and some federal employees and agreed the item will return for a full vote because state law requires unanimous board approval for adoption.
Martin County commissioners on Aug. 14 reviewed and voted to approve a draft ordinance that would prohibit deadly weapons in county buildings, but commissioners acknowledged the measure cannot be adopted until all five members approve it.
The draft ordinance, researched and prepared by county intern Sadie Tice with assistance from Sheriff Tim Manning, would make it unlawful for any unauthorized person to carry a deadly weapon inside a Martin County government building. The draft defines “deadly weapon” broadly to include guns, knives and stun devices, but exempts ordinary pocket knives under state law and lists explicit exceptions for law enforcement officers, judges and certain federal employees while performing official duties.
Ms. Tice outlined the measure’s intent to protect staff and citizens; County Manager David Bone noted a small change to the draft to avoid inadvertently prohibiting federal employees who use weapons in the discharge of official duties (for example, employees in a feral hog program). Sheriff Tim Manning had suggested pursuing an ordinance to enhance safety.
Commissioner Elmo “Butch” Lilley moved to approve the draft ordinance and Vice Chairman Dempsey Bond seconded. The board members present voted in favor of the motion. However, the record states that because one commissioner was absent, the ordinance will be presented again at the next regular meeting for final action; the transcript cites N.C. Gen. Stat. §153A‑45, which the county said requires approval by the entire board for adoption.
If adopted, the ordinance would make violations a Class 1 misdemeanor, and it specifies procedures for storing weapons in locked vehicles and details severability and an immediate effective date upon adoption. The meeting record does not show any public comment on the ordinance or provide a final adoption date.
