In a recent government meeting, community concerns regarding the proposed establishment of a gun club near residential areas were at the forefront of discussions. Residents voiced their apprehensions about noise pollution and safety, emphasizing the need for adequate buffer zones between the gun range and nearby homes and cemeteries.
Anthony Whitehead, a local resident, raised questions about the sound impact of the gun club, referencing existing precedents such as the joint land use study around Fairchild Air Force Base, which established significant distance regulations due to noise concerns. He highlighted the importance of protecting nearby properties, particularly sensitive areas like cemeteries, from the potential disturbances caused by gunfire.
Whitehead also criticized the Spokane Gun Club's environmental stewardship, noting that Central Valley had spent nearly $3 million on site cleanup due to contamination issues, including lead and arsenic. He argued that the club's desire for grandfathering rights—similar to those of an established high school nearby—should not overshadow the community's need for safety and environmental responsibility.
Another resident, John Ogden, echoed these sentiments, expressing his strong objections to the gun club's location. He described the noise from multiple shotguns as a significant threat to the peace of the rural community, suggesting that gun ranges should be situated in more isolated areas. Ogden also raised concerns about the impact of gunfire noise on solemn occasions, such as graveside services at nearby cemeteries.
The discussions highlighted a growing tension between recreational use of land and the rights of nearby residents to maintain a peaceful living environment. As the community continues to grapple with these issues, the need for clear regulations and effective communication between stakeholders remains critical.