Dennis Galvin, Westford Resident 

Article #9 on the fall town meeting warrant, proposes a zoning bylaw giving the Planning Board authority to regulate, by special permit, firearms businesses in town.  The article should be rejected because it duplicates existing authority held by the Chief of Police and is a backdoor attempt to prohibit gun sales in Westford.

The proposed by-law gives the Planning Board special permit authority over all firearm-related businesses in Westford.  Generally, the Planning Board reviews and approves site plans to ensure conformity with zoning standards.  Rarely, does the board exercise authority to regulate or block a use. It can only do so when a use is prohibited by law; such was the case with the Asphalt plant.  The one exception is when the board is given special permit authority over a particular use.  Generally reserved for the Zoning Board of Appeals, this authority is typically held back from the Planning Board, because it is an elected board, hence subject to political pressure.

It is not sound policy to give the Planning Board, special permit authority over firearms businesses. First, this authority already rests with the Chief police under state law. The chief can specify requirements for how such businesses will operate, including the layout of the premises. It mandates that firearms businesses be conducted in a business district, not in a residence.  Article #9 duplicates state regulations and creates the possibility that a politically motivated board could use this authority to block firearms businesses outright, subjecting the town to a possible lawsuit.

Ownership and possession of firearms is a constitutional right. Town counsel has made that clear.  It’s foundation is the right of self-protection. Anti-gun activists have not been persuaded. In a court battle, their chances of victory are slim to none.  The sentiment supporting Article #9 originates from misguided and inaccurate perceptions of legal gun ownership and its relation to gun violence.   Massachusetts has the strictest gun laws in the nation, there is no need to tighten them.  Gun violence is driven by unlawful firearm possession, compounded by un-incarcerated repeat violent offenders, drug addiction, alcohol abuse, out-of-control immigration and the lack of care for the mentally ill.  Proponents of Article #9 completely ignore these facts.  This article should be rejected.  Town Meeting will be held Monday, October 16th  at 7 PM at the Westford Academy gym.

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