Glendale City Council bans sale/possession of guns on city property

GLENDALE, Calif.

The Glendale Civic Auditorium has been a venue for gun shows at least three times per year over the span of more than 21 years.

Hundreds of gun enthusiasts turned out for the Glendale Gun Show held at the auditorium on March 2.

Steve Friesen, the operator of the gun show, says there were no problems or incidents during the event nor has there ever been in its history. But a Glendale city councilman has proposed an ordinance to ban gun shows on city owned property.

The facility is located across the street from Glendale Community College, residential neighborhoods, parks, ball fields and an elementary school. The Coalition for a Better Glendale says the location made it inappropriate for a gun show.

Friesen disagrees. He says no one leaves the auditorium with a gun immediately after making a purchase because they abide by California laws.

The state's gun laws are some of the strictest in the U.S. and require dealers to perform a background check on the buyer. A 10-day waiting period is also enforced for the delivery of the firearm.

Gun control has been a huge debate in the last several months across this country. Outside groups such as the National Rifle Association and the local tea party have said they oppose the move.

Supporters and opponents showed up Tuesday to voice their opinions before the Glendale City Council voted.

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