Douglas County Shooting Range implements safety measures and doubles revenue with self pay kiosk

The Douglas County Board of County Commissioners held a special budget meeting on March 31, 2025, where a significant focus was placed on the Douglas County Shooting Range. The discussion highlighted the range's history, safety measures, and recent financial improvements.

The meeting began with a review of the shooting range's establishment, noting that in 1997, the Douglas County Sheriff's Office secured a Pittman-Robertson grant of $60,000 for design and grading work. Over the years, the facility has undergone changes, including the reorientation of the pistol range to address safety concerns related to stray bullets entering nearby neighborhoods.

A key point of discussion was the innovative operating model currently in place at the shooting range, emphasizing safety as a top priority. The introduction of a safety video, featuring Sheriff Coverley and Scott Morgan, has been made available on YouTube. Visitors are prompted to watch this video upon arrival at the range, with a QR code provided for easy access. This initiative aims to ensure that all users are well-informed about safety standards.

The implementation of a self-pay kiosk has also transformed the payment process at the shooting range. This system has led to a notable increase in revenue, with reports indicating that revenues have doubled since its introduction. The kiosk caters to the modern preference for cashless transactions, allowing users to pay with credit cards rather than cash. Additionally, a fee increase from $3 to $5 has contributed to the financial growth, alongside an option for patrons to make donations to support the range.

Overall, the meeting underscored the successful evolution of the Douglas County Shooting Range, highlighting its commitment to safety and financial sustainability. The board expressed pride in the facility's progress and the positive response from the community.