Democrats Call for Vote on Gun Show Ban (News Release, 12/20/16)
News from the Democratic Caucus
For Immediate Release: December 20, 2016
(WHITE PLAINS, NY) Upon learning of the proposed gun and knife show slated to take place at the Westchester County Center in January, members of the Democratic Caucus are outraged and committed to take action.
“I first introduced the County Gun Show Ban in 2010, when I heard of the actions taken by the County Executive. Since that time, I have fought to have a fair hearing for this bill that aims to ensure the Westchester County Center is used for purposes that promote the positive ideals that make up one of our County’s most treasured assets” said Legislator Ken Jenkins (D-Yonkers). “I am asking that Board of Legislators immediately hold a vote on the proposed gun show ban legislation. We need to discuss how we as a County feel about using our facilities on purposes so closely associated with horrific violence” added Jenkins.
A ban on gun shows at the County Center was instituted by former County Executive Andy Spano but was later rescinded by the current County Executive in 2010.
“To host this sale of firearms and knives on County property sends the wrong message to those we have been elected to serve” said Legislator Ben Boykin, Chair, Committee on Public Safety and Social Services (D-White Plains). “The County Center is the home of an exciting local basketball team, many of our children have graduated in that building, each weekend it is filled with County residents excited to learn about whatever new exhibit is in town. To use this family friendly property to sell weapons is not in the best interests of Westchester County residents. I fully expect my committee to bring legislation to the full Board of Legislators for a vote” added Boykin.
Legislator Catherine Parker (D-Rye), who has recently held meetings with residents concerned about the opening of a gun store in Harrison, added “this is a growing trend in Westchester County and we on the Board of Legislators need to send a clear message that enough is enough. Everyone has seen too many stories of gun violence in communities all over the country. We should be doing everything we can to keep these weapons out of our County not inviting them in.”
“In our current climate, with reported threats of violence at more than one Westchester school in recent weeks, it sends a terrible message for the County to sanction a gun show on its property. The County should not put the community at risk, and potentially create liability for our taxpayers. It's time for the County to reinstate the gun show ban on its own property” said Legislator MaryJane Shimsky (D-Hastings-on-Hudson).
