Residents urge Randolph County to limit TASC gun range's noise impact on community

The Randolph County Board of Commissioners held a meeting on June 2, 2025, where community concerns regarding the gun range on Fuller Mill Road were prominently discussed. Residents voiced their frustrations about the impact of the shooting range on property values and local quality of life.

The meeting began with a resident highlighting that the presence of the gun range has led to a 25% decrease in surrounding property values, equating to an estimated $12,000 in lost revenue for the county annually. This revenue, the resident argued, could be redirected to support local initiatives such as the Soil and Water District Mobile Classroom and strategic planning grants for nearby towns. The speaker emphasized that the gun range does not contribute any revenue to the county, including permit fees, and operates on deferred farmland, resulting in minimal tax contributions.

Another resident, Ed Leitz, raised concerns about the gun range's operations, noting its proximity to residential areas and its year-round operation, which includes shooting on holidays. He compared the TAS gun range to other facilities in the region, pointing out that many of them have stricter regulations and are located in less populated areas. Leitz urged the commissioners to consider the noise and disruption caused by the range, which he described as significantly louder than other local options.

Steve Thayer, another community member, expressed frustration over the lack of communication from the gun range management. He suggested that the club members may not be aware of the noise disturbances affecting nearby residents. Thayer proposed that the gun club could utilize its reported cash reserves of $188,000 to invest in sound barriers to mitigate the noise issue. He also mentioned efforts by residents to raise awareness through signage in their yards, indicating their concerns about the gun range.

The discussions highlighted a growing tension between the gun range's operations and the quality of life for nearby residents, with calls for better communication and potential solutions to address the noise and property value concerns. The meeting concluded without immediate resolutions, but the issues raised are expected to be revisited in future discussions as the board considers the community's feedback.