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Middletown police propose $1.7 million range upgrades to host regional training; council asks for phased plan and revenue forecast
Summary
Middletown police asked council on July 1 to fund upgrades to the municipal firing range to add electricity, a 40x60 training building, paved access, water/septic, lighting, perimeter security and a simulation house so the city can host regional training.
The Middletown Police Department asked council on July 1 to consider an estimated $1.7 million renovation of the department’s training range to support expanded firearms, sniper and simulated‑force‑on‑force training and to host outside agencies.
What was proposed Deputy Chief (name given in session) outlined a site that currently has a primary range, secondary range and a long‑range sniper capability (up to 300 yards), but lacks electricity, a classroom, restrooms, adequate parking, and a paved access road. Proposed upgrades include bringing single‑phase power to the site, perimeter fencing and a keyed sliding gate, a 40x60 training building with two restrooms and a small classroom/kitchenette, paved parking and prep pads for tactical vehicles, lighting, video surveillance, a water well/septic system and a modular simulation (shoot) house for force‑on‑force exercises.
Why it matters: With upgraded facilities the department expects to deliver more in‑house training, host regional classes (bringing revenue or reciprocal training slots), reduce travel costs and improve response capability; the department also said revenue could be generated by charging outside agencies to use the facility and by offering OPATA‑certified training locally.
Cost and phasing Police staff provided a conceptual cost estimate for the overall project (site development, building build‑out, utilities, paving, lighting, surveillance and a SIM house) in the general area of $1.6 million to $1.8 million (estimates to be refined through formal bids). Deputy chief proposed phasing the work: priority items are power, road improvements, water/septic and range surface; later phases would include the training building, SIM house and full perimeter improvements.
Council reaction and follow up Council members praised the training potential and public‑safety benefits but asked for a phased approach and a clear revenue/recovery plan. Councilor Horn and others said the range could be a regional asset but cautioned that return on investment will take many years; Councilor Carter asked for details about how existing city projects and priorities would be balanced with the request. City management said staff can present a midyear supplemental packet outlining possible funding sources and recommended phasing for council consideration.
Ending Council asked police and city staff to return with a refined, phased budget, a revenue forecast (courses per year and fee schedule), and a proposed funding strategy so the project can be reviewed as part of the midyear appropriations process.
