The Oak Harbor police department is overrun with guns. At a recent meeting, the city council unanimously approved grant funding to address the problem.

According to Police Chief Tony Slowik, a room fit for 75 rifles and 60 handguns now has over 300 firearms that have been seized for various reasons.

Slowik said that Washington codes regarding extreme risk protection orders, unlawful possession of firearms and domestic violence have resulted in an increase of firearms being relinquished, stored and tracked.

Because of the uptick, the Department of Commerce has made $1 million available to cities for increased storing and tracking of firearms. Slowik will ask for $100,000 of this for higher tech.

The chief’s eyes are set on a double lock safe system, a monitored security alarm, climate control and a storage system to track and maintain accountability. By moving things around, the department can turn the 27-square-foot designated space to 167 square feet, he said.

When someone is court-ordered to relinquish guns, 70% of the time the person turns in 10 or more, Slowik said. In criminal cases or when the owner is dealing with mental health issues, oftentimes the police hold guns for two to three years.

Citizens also freely turn guns in to the department, he said.