The City Council met last week to debate changing the city’s zoning to restrict the locations where gun shops would be allowed in Newton.  The plan put on the table at the meeting had a series of rules that would have limited possible sites to just two places – Rumford Ave and The Street on Rt 9.

The proponents had hoped for a quick vote that night to change the zoning immediately.  Instead, a sizable contingent of councilors pushed for a blanket ban of all gun stores in the city.  To that end, the item was tabled until the next meeting when a blanket ban will be debated.

Those arguing for a blanket ban were concerned that the proposed zoning change would still allow gun stores in the city.  Those arguing against the blanket ban were concerned that it had the potential to drag the city into lengthy and expensive legal actions since it raises some hot button Second Amendment issues.

This week there was an interesting new angle on all this.  Alana Stein, the General Manager of The Street made clear that regardless of whether zoning permitted it, the Street would have no interest in leasing to a gun shop.

““The Street Chestnut Hill strives to partner with businesses that meet the daily needs and wants of our family-centric customer base,” Stein said in a statement. “As such, we have no interest in leasing to a gun shop at The Street now or in the future.”

Here’s more about it from the Chamber of Commerce