Gun Possession in Whitman County Parks

[JeffDubya]

We have discussed this issue in passing in the past, but as I am becoming more actively engaged on the issue, I thought it was time for a dedicated thread.

As many of you know, I really enjoy camping - and for me, the small campground at Kamiak Butte (Whitman County) can be ideal. It is shockingly close to my home (10-15 minutes, depending on how eager and lead footed I am to escape reality). Especially considering that the most I can get away for is generally 12-24 hours, I love it. It's also a very under-utilized park, so I usually have the place largely to myself, at least on the nights I tend to visit.

During my discussions with the park ranger, I discovered that possession of a firearm in Whitman County Parks is a violation of county ordinance.

2.12.170 Firearms and Weapons permitted in designated areas only

No person, other than law enforcement officers acting in their official capacity, shall carry any firearm, nor shall any person discharge across, in or into any park area, a firearm, bow and arrow, air or gas weapon, or any device capable of injuring or killing any person or animal, or damaging or destroying any public or private property, except in such area and under such circumstance as the park's director may designate. (Ord. 67705 (part), 2008).

Seeing as how the camping area is relatively private, the park is fairly isolated, and the gates are closed after dark, I find this law to be wholly unreasonable. While laws like this are generally written with the interests of public safety in mind, depriving me of my right to self defense against another individual - or in an emergency - against wildlife, seems a bit absurd.

The director of parks (Tim Meyers) has sent my concern and a copy of the ordinance to the Whitman County Prosecutors office for a legal opinion, and as such, no organized response is required at this time. However, I believe this law is unjust, is violative of the constitution, and state law is more than sufficient to deal with people who behave or act in an unlawful manner.

I'm quite certain that this issue will have to be brought before the Whitman County Commissioners, so please be ready to start a letter writing campaign and also attend one or more meetings to help get this ordinance off the books.

Updates to follow.