KENNESAW, Ga. (AP) — A single ordinance separates this city from other fast-growing communities in the Atlanta metropolitan area: Every head of household must own a firearm and have the appropriate ammunition.
This year marks the 25th anniversary of the law, and despite the passing of a quarter-century and a population increase from about 5,000 in 1980 to more than 30,000 in 2005, city officials say they don’t have any intention of changing things.
“It’s not going anywhere. I think it helps deter crime,” said Mayor Leonard Church.
Kennesaw’s police department cites the 1982 law — developed in part as a response to an anti-gun ordinance enacted at the time in Morton Grove, Ill. — as part of its crime-prevention program.
Few accidental shootings, and none involving children, have been reported in Kennesaw in the 20 years that Lt. Craig Graydon has been with the department.
Not all residents are aware of the law, which is not strictly enforced.
No one has been arrested for not owning a gun and no penalty is imposed for violating the city ordinance, Lt. Graydon said.
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