Park County commissioners table State Shooting Complex lease, ask joint board to propose contribution

Park County commissioners voted to table consideration of a lease for the Wyoming State Shooting Complex after commissioners raised concerns about consistency and taxpayer subsidy.

Chair introduced the lease for separate action after the consent agenda, and Commissioner Simone said she pulled the item because the square footage and rental amount needed clarification. Simone noted the lease lists roughly 286 square feet and a $1 per year rent and asked that the county apply the same standards it uses for other lessees. "Renters need to be treated the same," Simone said, arguing that a $1 annual rent would effectively subsidize the complex with taxpayer dollars.

Other commissioners and staff disputed whether the situation was identical to previous lease decisions. One commissioner noted the complex is a state entity and suggested approaching the joint powers board first about utilities or a reasonable contribution, while Planning/Buildings staff were asked to provide comparable lease rates. Staff cited an $18 per square foot benchmark for current county leases and said that, at about 286 square feet, the market rate would equate to about $4.29 per month under that figure.

After discussion the board directed the chair to bring the issue to the State Shooting Complex Joint Powers Board and asked that the board consider contributing to utilities or propose a modest rent. Commissioner Simone moved to table the lease "until December 16"; the motion was seconded and passed by voice vote. The chair said she would contact the joint powers board to place the item on that board's agenda.

The tabling delays a final lease authorization and gives staff time to report comparable lease data and potential utility‑cost arrangements before the board revisits the item.