Featured photo: Flint Police Chief Terence Green and Mayor Sheldon Neeley
FLINT, Mich.—Judge Pickell today issued a preliminary injunction filed by extreme gun lobbyists to allow people to bring firearms to Flint City Council meetings.
This ruling allows people to bring weapons to any meetings subject to the Open Meetings Act held at city hall, but still upholds the prohibition of firearms in other public spaces at city hall, for other general business.
“We have witnessed an AR-15 assault-style rifle carried at a city council meeting, as well as a person outfitted with a bullet proof vest,” Flint Police Chief Terence Green said.
Green added: “This after reports of several threats against council members, city staff and the mayor’s office. We have a responsibility to maintain public safety. The measures we have taken at city hall are much like those in court buildings, classrooms, hospitals, theatres and airports.”
“Today’s ruling exceeds a level of disappointment, given the climate of gun violence in our country,” Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley said.
Neeley added: “We took a legitimate stance to attempt to keep people safe while engaging with their city government. We have seen horrific acts committed in public spaces. It is beyond disappointing that gun lobbyists can use legal tactics that render helpless our best efforts to protect residents. We look forward to the opportunity to have this lawsuit fully adjudicated to uphold the right of residents to remain safe in public meetings.”
