The Williamson County Commission voted 19-5 to opt out of the handguns in parks act passed by the state General Assembly last year.
 

Williamson County Commission voted 19-5 in favor of Resolution No. 6-10-11 prohibiting handguns in county parks, recreation areas and other similar public places owned or operated by Williamson County and used in any manner by Williamson County Schools or Franklin Special School District.
 

The Indoor Sports Complex on Heritage Drive is the only county-owned recreation facility in the city.
 

The vote happened at 10pm after about 45 minutes of discussion and the defeat of three proposed amendments. One would have allowed legal handgun carry permit holders to keep their gun in their vehicle while at a park; one would have "sunset" the opt-out again on May 31, 2011; and a related one would have established a 10-person ad hoc committee to explore options before May 31, 2011.

Commissioners who voted against the resolution were Jason Parra (4th Dist.), Jeff Ford (6th District.), Bert Chalfant (7th District.), Russell Little (11th District), and Steve Smith (12th District.).
 

The 24-member commission represents 12 districts. Those representing areas of Brentwood include Districts 5, 6, 7 and 8.

Among those speaking in favor of the resolution were Cherie Hammond, Ravenwood High School PTO President, and Chris Bosen of Brentwood, an independent candidate for the 5th District commission seat.
 

Approximately 10 people spoke about the resolution during public comments, the majority against the opt-out resolution.

Last week, in a special-called session, the Williamson County Board of Education, drafted a resolution proclaiming its support of the resolution. If passed, it would have affected county schools ability to use county-owned parks and recreation areas for school-sponsored programs and athletic practices and competitions.