Idaho city plans signs that say "not a gun-free zone"

GREENLEAF, Idaho - People arriving in a small Idaho city may soon be greeted by the message that it is not a gun-free zone.

Greenleaf City Councilman Steven Jett and two anonymous companies donated five signs welcoming visitors to a city that isn't gun-free. City officials are waiting for the Idaho Transportation Department to approve the signs before they're erected.

"Myself, as a city councilman, and apparently the rest of the City Council agrees that gun-free zones are targets," Jett said. "If you look at the shootings that have happened, they are gun-free zones. Schools, malls and recently churches. I want people to know that this is not a gun-free zone, and we are not a target."

Jett said Greenleaf is a small town without a police force, so it's important for residents to know how to use guns. Greenleaf relies on the Wilder Police Department.

Signs cite a city ordinance passed in 2006 encouraging eligible gun owners to seek proper training.

"We also cited that the Idaho Constitution states that the mayor of any city may call up anybody to enforce the law if they have to," Jett said.

In addition, the ordinance states that residents should store extra food and water supplies in case of an emergency or evacuation.

Idaho law currently bans guns around schools and federal buildings. However, in an effort to eliminate gun-free zones, lawmakers approved allowing concealed weapons on public university campuses last year.

Jett said the new signs aren't costing the city any money.

He said residents interested in carrying a gun should attend a gun safety class or hunter education course. Jett noted that many of the classes are held at the Greenleaf City Hall.