RACINE - The proposal to allow retired police officers carry concealed weapons was met with mixed reaction from the public Monday night.

One woman stood up to question the city's proposal while two retired police officers stated they would feel safer if they could carry concealed weapons. The two were among a dozen retired and current police officers who attended Monday's meeting of the Public Safety and Licensing Committee.

Despite some criticism, the committee passed the proposal unanimously. Aldermen Robert Mozol of the 15th District and Terry McCarthy of the 9th District were not present.

"I think in the best interest in the United States of America and homeland security … this is a good thing we should support," said committee chairman, 8th District Alderman Q.A Shakoor II.

The proposal will be on the City Council's May 6 agenda. It will be the second time it has been brought before the

Council.

Regardless of whether the City Council approves the proposal, the police chief has the authority to certify retired police officers because of federal law.

"The chief has absolute discretion to make that decision," said City Attorney Robert Weber.

Federal law HR-218, the Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act of 2004, made it legal for retired officers to carry firearms if annually certified.