Council OKs $68,000 design and feasibility work for proposed shooting range near water plant

Henderson City Council approved a $68,000 work order for engineering and schematic design for a proposed shooting range on city property near the water treatment plant.

City staff told council the work order covers the outdoor firing range, a covered shooting canopy with lighting for night use, and a feasibility report and schematic design for a potential future indoor training building of about 14,000 square feet to house offices, indoor ranges and storage. "Total price is $68,000 we do have that budgeted for this year," a staff member told the council during the item.

Staff described a phased approach: build the outdoor range and canopy first, then pursue indoor construction later if funds allow. The staff presentation said the project would follow National Rifle Association (NRA) guidance for range design and would be used for local law‑enforcement training and tactical requirements. Officials also discussed possible cost‑sharing or cooperative training use with state agencies, including the Department of Public Safety and corrections agencies.

Councilors asked about access and placement; staff said the site near the water plant has available land and few nearby residences, reducing noise and safety concerns. The council made and seconded a motion to approve the work order; the motion carried.

If built, the indoor component would require more detailed funding and technical work because indoor ranges have specialized construction requirements, staff said. The feasibility report will include parking and site layout, preliminary cost estimates by phase, and schematic building plans to aid future budgeting.