This petition addresses the community's strong opposition to the opening of a gun and ammo store, within half a mile of our local elementary school, other daycare facilities, and in a residential area. The store's proposed location is in a small shopping plaza, adjacent to a hair salon and pizzeria frequently visited by children, and across the street from a Rite Aid and a restaurant, near the DMV and other high-traffic retail spaces. This proximity to schools, as well as family-oriented and government businesses, is deeply concerning.

The community's distress is exacerbated by the store's location on a walking route taken by many children to school. In an era where students regularly engage in active shooter drills and express concerns about gun safety, the presence of a gun store in such close vicinity to a school is seen as insensitive, potentially traumatic, and contrary to the values of a family-friendly town.

Additionally, the legitimacy of the store's approval has been called into question due to the fact that, on the application, the owner listed the store as a “sporting goods” retail business, which allowed the application to be approved immediately without question.

The opening of this gun and ammo store in this location not only contradicts Somerville's reputation as a safe, community-focused town but also risks making it a subject of negative attention nationally, in a country grappling with the consequences of gun violence. This petition urges the relocation of the store to a more suitable area away from schools and residential areas, aligning with community values and ensuring the safety and well-being of our children and residents.