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Residents urge Warren County to reconsider proposed Bentonville shooting range
Summary
Local residents told the Warren County Planning Commission they fear a proposed shooting range in Bentonville threatens safety, noise and property values; neighbors cited proximity (about 67 feet), high projected round counts and potential legal liability and urged the county to find an alternative site.
Jeff Bagherly, a North River District resident, told the Warren County Planning Commission he opposes a proposed shooting range in Bentonville because the nearest firing point would be roughly 67 feet from his property. "It's not safe for myself. It's not safe for my wife... my kids and my grandkids to be there," Bagherly said, urging commissioners to hear his plea.
John Jenkins, another Bentonville resident, questioned the sufficiency of the sheriff's department presentation and raised potential legal exposure for nearby property owners, saying an individual shooting toward a house could be charged with "reckless endangerment" and that such conduct "can lead to a felony." Jenkins also criticized the lack of a clear cost estimate for constructing or mitigating an outdoor range.
Drew Bagley, who said he is the son of a nearby landowner, reported he documented high decibel measurements and has contacted accreditation and oversight bodies, warning that local law-enforcement accreditation and associated grant funding could be jeopardized if the office fails to protect property and safety.
Commissioners did not take a land-use vote during public presentation time. Several commissioners noted the county held an informational presentation by the sheriff's office at a recent work session; staff confirmed the recording is available through the Board of Supervisors' videos on the county website. Planning staff and commissioners encouraged continued engagement and noted that any formal land-use decision would come through the appropriate public hearing process or future agenda item.
