imported post
another article posted tonight in daily hearld website:
http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=171241&src=2
Gun World could open store in Wood Dale
By Kat Zeman | Daily Herald Staff
It appears that a new gun shop and shooting range soon will have permission to open in Wood Dale.
Gun World, which had to close its doors in Bensenville to make way for O'Hare International Airport expansion, wants to relocate to Wood Dale.
The owners are seeking permission to operate a gun retail shop, shooting range and gunsmith operation in a building at 660 Pond Avenue - across the street from Wood Dale Junior High School.
On Thursday night, city council member gave the proposal a nod of approval by a vote of 5-3. A final vote is scheduled for next week.
Dozens of people spoke out both in favor and against the request. The main concern voiced by opponents was the proposed shop's close proximity to the school.
"I am very grateful to live in the United States and have the right to bear arms," Wood Dale resident Gina Lombardi said. "I am not opposed to Gun World being in Wood Dale. It's just the wrong spot. Go north of Thorndale (Avenue) where it's completely industrial."
The proposed site is located in an area zoned for adult businesses that could include massage parlors and adult bookstores. But the gun shop requires special zoning approval.
"This issue is not about gun control," said Marshall Subach, attorney for Gun World. "This issue tonight is about zoning and land use."
Gun World is a legitimate business that has operated in Bensenville for roughly 30 years without a problem, Subach said.
The shop will not be visible from the school and its peak hours of operation are not during school hours, he said. The shop would be open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on weekdays and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on the weekends.
"I feel it's an acceptable use," said Alderman Christine Winger, who voted in favor. "It is an established business and has a proven track record of safety."
Aldermen Joe Kohlz, Edward Kneip, Danield Shawke and Sam Lewitan also supported the request.
"I think there's a better location for it somewhere else in town," said Alderman Eugene Wesley, who voted against the request along with Nunzio Pulice and John Kadala.
Some residents raised concerns about noise levels and the impact a gun shop will have on nearby businesses.
"My concern is that it's going to impact the property value of my building," said Jay Rinaldo, who owns a building near the proposed gun shop.
As for noise, a number of people, including a police officer, testified that people outside the building will not hear sound from the indoor range.
Yvonne Bock has lived two blocks from the police department's shooting range for more than 20 years.
"I never heard any sounds, and I have no problem with this, not even as a parent," Bock said.