Second Amendment proponents petition board once again

HENNEPIN — A Lake Thunderbird attorney is encouraging Putnam County Board to declare the county a second amendment sanctuary.

Jeffrey Purtell made a second appearance before the board on May 10 hoping to convince trustees to pass an ordinance protecting the rights of gun owners, even in the face of what supporters say is a potential for federal interference.

During Purtell’s first appearance before the board, which was attended by a packed courtroom of residents, the attorney cautioned the board that not enacting an ordinance to protect gun rights could setup gun owners for problems should the federal government try to limit the scope of gun ownership or possession. He and his supporters sought to empower the board to supersede federal interference, however Putnam County State’s Attorney Christina (Judd) Mennie told those assembled that the county cannot adopt any resolution that would supersede federal law.

Putnam County Board President Charlie Lekaitis said the board officially opposes any action passed by the General Assembly that infringes on second amendment rights but stopped short of promising any ordinance declaring the county a second amendment sanctuary.

“We feel that what we’ve done supports the Constitution and the second amendment and that sends a message,“ Lenkaitis said.

The board will make a final vote on a resolution during June’s meeting.