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Public splits over proposed ban on target shooting on Town land
Summary
At a public hearing, Brookline residents split on a proposed bylaw banning target shooting on town land; supporters said a bylaw would aid enforcement while opponents warned of reduced range access and legal conflict with pending state legislation. The Selectboard deferred final action and requested Police Chief Hebert attend the next meeting.
The Brookline Selectboard heard extensive public comment June 8 on a proposed bylaw that would prohibit target shooting on Town-owned land. Brian Rater read the proposed language and said the Conservation Commission has had similar prohibitions in place for about 10 years; the Conservation Commission's rules and the town proposal are intended to improve enforceability on public conservation parcels.
Supporters including Drew Kellner and Buddy Dougherty said a bylaw would give police clearer authority to act. Opponents, including resident Evan Cone, raised concerns about loss of local shooting ranges and the timing of the proposal relative to pending state legislation. Cone argued that limits could further reduce access to practice ranges and said, "LA money" is involved, a claim others disputed during discussion.
Board members debated scope and enforcement. Steve Dolfini expressed support for limiting any bylaw to land under Conservation Commission control, while Ed Perry said he generally supports the concept but wants more input and clarity about legal risk. The board agreed to invite Police Chief Hebert to the next meeting to discuss enforcement and to consider bringing a version of the bylaw to Town Meeting, potentially with an expiration date to allow voter input.
The public hearing record includes multiple residents who said shooting is part of the town's rural character and urged enforcement of existing laws rather than a new bylaw. The board deferred final action pending further guidance and broader input.
