Minutes 1996 0819 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Minutes - City of San Leandro City Council and Page - 12 - Redevelopment Agency Meeting - August 19, 1996 6.24 Matter of Gun Violence. Mayor Corbett stated that many cities and school districts have been working together for crime reduction within the region. The Mayor requested a staff report from the Police Chief. Chief Maginnis acknowledged this issue as an emotional one. He applauded the audience in attendance for their cooperation. The Council requested information on tracking and tracing firearms. Chief Maginnis described how guns are sold and said the Police Department has access to a gun sales computer database. He thanked those in attendance who had offered assistance with the listing of the proposed banned firearms. He indicated that the ordinance will have no instant cause and effect. He cited the D.A.R.E. program as a success that has come to fruition over several years of continued work within the schools. He cited 14 other councils who are being asked to look at this issue. City Attorney Steve Meyers reviewed the terms and conditions of each of the proposed ordinances. He clarified that further City Council direction regarding the percentage, if any, is required prior adoption of the gross receipts tax ordinance. Upon direction, an ordinance would be brought back to the City Council at a future meeting. Upon conclusion of the staff report, the City Attorney responded to several questions by the City Council. He reviewed and clarified the issue of potential revenue designation, either as General Fund or Special Fund revenue. Responding to a question regarding responsibility for a discharged gun, the City Attorney clarified that the City is preempted by the State; the City cannot impose an additional provision. He also clarified that drug testing is not required with the certification process. He explained that police officers are exempt from the ordinance, due to the ability to resell firearms. Chief Maginnis assured the City Council that the firearms are melted down and not resold. Council Member Glaze applauded the audience for their respect and dignity to each other during the Public Comment period. He stated that he does not advocate taking guns away from people. He said the ordinance may not do much, but it is a first step. He said, in many ways, it is a symbolic effort; and he is willing to do so in order to send a message. It is not the guns; it is the violence associated with the guns. He said he hopes alternatives will be created to help the children in the community. Council Member Galvan agreed with many of Council Member Glaze's comments and stated that he was interested in entertaining legislation at the State and Federal levels to stop violence. He said he did not want a vote to be construed as support for or against guns.