By signing this petition you agree that an indoor shooting range is not an appropriate land use in our historic downtown and a zoning text amendment should not be granted!

WHY ARE WE AGAINST IT?

There are a myriad of reasons that we don’t feel a gun range in downtown is appropriate on Ferry Street. Among them are safety concerns, public optics, environmental issues and just general common sense. We agree with gun owners that having a place to practice responsible firearm use and provide training is critical to responsible gun ownership. Current zoning ordinances allow shooting ranges in Martinez - but in Commercial Recreation Districts, not Central Commercial Districts. This isn’t a debate about the Second Amendment.

It’s a conversation about appropriate land use as spelled out in the regulations that govern our city.

It’s an effort to maintain the unique, historic and charming character of Downtown Martinez, while also holding true to the zoning ordinances that have allowed our community to flourish in recent years. New businesses have refreshed dusty, blighted store fronts and a once sleepy East Bay town is now a thriving destination business district with still more potential to be actualized.

Allowing a business as controversial and divisive as a gun range has the potential to stymie the progress we’ve made. At recent city meetings, the community opposition was visible. And in staff reports, well documented with 72% of comments submitted being opposed to allowing the zoning text amendment.

We want to make sure that our downtown continues to be a safe, welcoming and vibrant place for all!