ITHACA, N.Y. (WHCU) — A candidate for Ithaca Common Council is opposing a proposal on firearm safety.

The ordinance would require gun owners to lock or disable their weapons while at home. Republican Zach Winn says it’s a bad idea.

“Placing legal restrictions on constitutional rights of self-defense and private property are not within the purview of the City of Ithaca,” he says. “This measure will also likely produce another lawsuit, which the city can ill afford.”

Winn sees the proposal as self-serving for city leaders.

“This resolution serves only to produce headlines and self-congratulations, while major issues affecting the community are going unaddressed,” he says.

Alderpersons Robert Cantelmo and Jorge DeFendini support the legislation. Talks will continue in July.