Officials ready ordinance to change gun rules at Sebastian County parks

Sebastian County Judge David Hudson will submit a proposed ordinance Tuesday night to the Quorum Court that would repeal the county’s ban on firearms at Ben Geren Park, Lavaca Park and Midland Park.

Arkansas Carry contacted Hudson on May 7 asking him and the Sebastian County Quorum Court to repeal a county rule that bans firearms at Ben Geren Park. Arkansas Carry Vice Chairman Steve Jones noted in his letter that the ordinance violated Arkansas law which prevents local governments from enacting gun control legislation.

Daniel Shue, prosecuting attorney for the 12th Judicial District, sent a letter to Hudson on May 11 saying that the county ordinance banning all firearms from Ben Geren Park must be repealed because it conflicts with Arkansas law.

The ordinance Hudson proposes would repeal the ban but create language prohibiting the discharge of firearms — except if “lawfully defending life or property” — in the public parks.

Sebastian County Quorum Court members will consider the proposed ordinance at their May 19 meeting.