County interviews Cody Firearms Museum curator for state shooting complex joint powers board; commissioners clarify $6 million is fundraising target, not county

Park County commissioners interviewed Daniel Michael, curator of the Cody Firearms Museum, as part of the selection process for the State Shooting Complex joint powers board.

Michael described his museum background, work with the task force that pitched the Park County proposal to the state task force, and interest in the complex's educational and event potential. He said he expects the facility to host national-level events and estimated the state's goal of 12–15 major annual events is attainable.

Commissioners used the opportunity to correct a circulating claim that Park County had approved $6 million in county tax dollars for the shooting complex. The chair said the $6 million figure discussed by the task force refers to private sponsorships and fundraising goals; commissioners emphasized that Park County had not committed tax money.

Michael, who said he attended SHOT Show on behalf of the museum and has engaged industry contacts, told commissioners the museum could provide marketing and networking support to help attract events and sponsors. He said the museum has hosted receptions for shooting events and that the audience for the complex and the museum overlaps.

Why it matters: the joint powers board will guide planning and outreach if the state proceeds with the shooting complex. Commissioners said legislative approval remains pending and the board appointments will follow once the state process is complete.

Next steps: commissioners will complete interviews and make selections once legislative authorization is confirmed.