County moves toward memorandum of understanding to expand 4‑H shooting sports at landfill site

County staff and Cooperative Extension updated the commissioners July 21 on plans to formalize a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to allow expanded 4‑H shooting sports at the county landfill site.

County attorney Jennifer Slusser, planning, public utilities and cooperative extension staff said the site has hosted archery and air‑pistol activities for years. Following stakeholder meetings with 4‑H leaders, landfill operations and extension, staff concluded the site could accommodate additional disciplines with modest site improvements — building safety berms, relocating dirt and following 4‑H/NRA standards for range design and operations. Staff said proposed use would be limited to Johnston County 4‑H shooting sports only and initially restricted to two Saturdays a month unless otherwise approved in writing; additional training days for competition prep could be allowed by arrangement with county management.

County leaders emphasized the need to coordinate with university partners (NC State Cooperative Extension) and to ensure no conflict with ongoing landfill operations or a private farmer who maintains part of the site. Staff said they will discuss the draft MOU with the university, incorporate safety standards, and aim to return to the board in August with a recommended MOU for approval. Commissioners noted a potential local source for fill dirt and encouraged speed on site improvements so the program can expand safely and remain in county facilities.