BARRE, Vt. -
Signs promote the 2013 Central Vermont Gun Show planned for next month at the Barre Auditorium. But Mayor Thom Lauzon wants certain guns banned from the 200 plus tables.
"In light of the recent events and timing of the gun show, I think it is the responsible and appropriate thing to do," Lauzon said.
In the wake of the recent school massacre in Connecticut, Lauzon is asking show organizers-- the Barre Fish and Game Club-- to voluntarily ban the display and sale of military-style firearms and high capacity magazines during this year's gun show.
"If you look at federal law that is no longer in effect, it is a long list of what would be considered military-style assault weapons, in regards to capacity, and magazine that can hold 10 rounds or more," Lauzon said.
Lauzon, who supports the gun club and supports legal and responsible firearm ownership, also plans to put plainclothes police officers in the parking lot to prevent illegal sales outside the show for the first time.
"People have already tried to point out that we don't have the authority to do that. I will beg to differ, we do and don't challenge me on that. We have an ordinance in the city of Barre," Lauzon said.
The Barre Fish and Game Club declined to comment for this story until they have an opportunity to meet with the mayor.
"I am in support at this time, putting some distance in between selling guns in Barre," said Paul Poirier, a member of the Barre City Council.
Lauzon sent a letter asking councilors to review the request at their next meeting Tuesday night.
"I think asking people at this time to be a little more considerate of gun sales, in particular assault weapons, I think it would reflect the views of the community at this point," Poirier said.
Another gun show, the Green Mountain Gun Show, is planned in two weeks in South Burlington. City officials there do not plan on making any special requests to the promoters. At this point there are no plans for a statewide ban on these kinds of guns at gun shows.
