Measure limits weapons on the job to Zanesville police

Zanesville City Council avoids Section 9 violation, but still acts to disarm employees. Earlier discussions had included possibility of a wider ban.

March 9, 2004
Zanesville Times-Recorder

ZANESVILLE -- Zanesville police officers will be the only city employees carrying firearms on the job, as the result of an ordinance passed Monday night by city council.

The measure was required in light of the state's recent passage of a concealed carry law, which takes effect April 8. The portion limiting weapons on the job to police officers is an addition to the employment policy in the city employee handbook.

Also part of the state law is a requirement to post signs on all city property where weapons are prohibited.

There was no discussion on the bill, other than a question from Council Member Jack Humm, who asked how many signs will be necessary and how big they will have to be. Service Director Mike Sims said they are checking the state law for size and placement requirements and have only had some preliminary contact with sign companies about possible cost.

The signs will state, "Unless otherwise authorized by law, pursuant to the Ohio Revised Code, no person shall knowingly possess, have under the person's control, convey, or attempt to convey a deadly weapon or dangerous ordnance onto these premises."

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