Gun Store Divides Los Gatos

Gun rights in the upscale town of Los Gatos is dividing the community.

Hundreds of people turned out Monday night to learn more about Templar Sports at the town council meeting to talk about the store selling guns on University Avenue.

Many residents say the town should not have issued permits for the controversial store without a public hearing.

Andrea Rubnitz want the store to move: "People talk about nail salons coming in or retail coming in and it's a big production yet a gun store goes in and we have no say."

Greg Larson, the town manager, says Templar Sports followed the rules in the permitting process and is operating legally. There was not a public hearing because there is not a town law requiring a special permit and hearing for gun sales but there is for salons and massage parlors.

Supporters of Templar say asking a law abiding business to close is unfair.

Robert Oneto came from San Jose to show his support to the council:  "They've completed all permits all paperwork I hate to see bigotry pointed at them."

The town council is now considering changing zoning and permitting laws for firearms sales.

Larson says under current law there is no reason to shut Templar down. After hearing hours of public comment, the council decided at midnight to continue the item until Feb. 11. Public comment will resume and the council is then expected to consider changing regulations

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