Unitarian Universalist of Sarasota - Proposed No-Weapons / No-Weapons Policy

1. Purpose: The Unitarian Universal of Sarasota (UUS) are committed to maintaining a safe, peaceful, and welcoming environment for worship, community, and spiritual growth. To support this commitment, UUS enforces a strict prohibition on firearms and weapons on its property and at all UUS-sponsored events.

2. Scope: This policy applies to:

• All UUS-owned property, including buildings, grounds, parking areas, and common spaces
• All worship services, meetings, classes, programs, outreach activities, and social gatherings conducted under UUS auspices

3. Prohibited Items: The possession or carrying of the following is prohibited on UUS property or at UUS-sponsored events:

• Firearms of any kind, including handguns, rifles, shotguns, or any device designed to discharge a projectile
• Weapons or items intended to cause bodily harm, including but not limited to knives (except  pocket  knives less than 2 inches or utility knives used by authorized persons for cooking or maintenance), batons, stun guns, pepper spray, or similar devices
• Any object carried in a manner that could reasonably be perceived as a weapon

4. Exceptions: The sole exception to this policy applies to sworn federal, state, or local law enforcement officers who are:

• Authorized by their agency to carry a firearm, and
• Acting in an official, on-duty capacity

Off-duty law enforcement officers or licensed (by state) security personnel may carry weapons only as permitted by law and department policy, and only with prior approval from UUS President, Vice President, Minister and Director of Finance and Operations.

5. Enforcement: Entry onto UUS property or participation in UUS-sponsored events constitutes acceptance of this policy. UUS leadership, staff, ushers, or volunteers may:

• Deny entry or request departure if a prohibited item is observed

Failure to comply may result in denial of access, and notification of law enforcement.
 
6. Communication and Training: This policy shall be communicated through congregational materials, including bulletins, welcome information, electronic communications, and the UUS website. Clear signage stating “No Firearms or Weapons Allowed” (or similar language) shall be posted at primary entrances. Staff, ushers, and volunteers shall receive guidance on respectful and consistent enforcement.

7. Review and Exceptions: UUS President, Vice President, Minister and Director of Finance and Operations may grant limited, temporary exceptions under extraordinary circumstances following formal review and prior approval. This policy shall be reviewed periodically to ensure continued appropriateness and compliance with applicable Florida law.

8. Legal Compliance: UUS will comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws regarding weapons and liability.
 
Safety Task Force Members Present
Chair - Bob Kester
Anne Foye
Catherine Bonner
Paul Lewis
Sharron Howard
Joan Verizzo
Bill Geller
Jim Redifer
 
February 19, 2026
Revision 1E

---