Elgin gun store vote doesn't bode well

The 5 to 4 vote of the Elgin City Council to approve a gun store/shooting range in a residential neighborhood within 100 feet of two schools and Easter Seals is disheartening - for these reasons: who the majority listened to and didn't listen to, and likely outcomes.

At the council's last meeting, the majority listened primarily to threats from the Illinois State Rifle Association and gun supporters. Not listened to were lawyers who said the legal situation is not what the NRA says it is, and dozens from the neighborhood - some living a half block away - who object to zoning changes putting their quality of life at risk. Also not listened to: the landlord for Easter Seals and the preschool, who said the gun store might force both to move out.

The council vote did not respect zoning laws requiring 1,000 feet distance from a school; suggestions of better locations; Elgin's development goals prioritizing health care and education; and understandings of good governance that prioritize resident welfare and existing establishments.

Among likely outcomes: those who deal in guns will eye Elgin as an opportunity for straw sales and weapons trafficking. The disregard for zoning laws shown so far is a red flag. How well will the gun store abide by other laws and guidelines governing gun sales and safety?

More outcomes: loss of value for nearby homes, families moving out of the neighborhood, Easter Seals and the preschool moving out, police having their hands full to monitor a gun store in a dense residential area. God forbid Elgin has an uptick in shootings - but statistics are not reassuring.

Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford

Elgin