Commission initiates countywide text amendment to allow indoor shooting clubs; board sets waiver process and conditions

The Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners voted to initiate Phase 1 of a privately‑proposed Unified Land Development Code text amendment that would allow indoor shooting ranges to seek a Type II waiver from the current 500‑foot separation requirement. The motion to initiate the amendment passed 4–2 after extended public and commissioner questioning about noise, proximity to schools and alcohol policies.

Victor Grillo, president and founder of the Founders Club, described the operation as “a social club” that supports local law enforcement and community training. Grillo said the organization is funding a charitable arm: “WE ARE ACTUALLY CREATING A FOUNDERS FOUNDATION THAT WE ARE FUNDING WITH $2 MILLION…DEDICATED TO HELPING LAW ENFORCEMENT,” and said the clubs provide free training, community classes and officer support.

County planning staff explained the proposed text change would not automatically allow any new range; it would add code language letting applicants request a Type II waiver that triggers review and a public hearing before the Board. Planner Emily Meilands told the board Phase 1 is an initiation for deeper study: “PHASE 1 WE DID JUST INITIAL RESEARCH ON THE REQUEST…IN PHASE 2 WILL DELVE FURTHER INTO RESEARCH ON SAFETY MEASURES, MITIGATION REQUIREMENTS.”

Commissioners repeatedly pressed the applicant and staff about how alcohol and membership rules would be enforced. Commissioner Joel G. Flores said he was skeptical of relying on an honor system: “I'M NOT A FAN OF ALCOHOL AND WEAPONS,” and asked for sound‑transmission studies broken down by weapon caliber so staff can evaluate potential impacts on nearby residences. Applicant representatives said they have sound studies from other locations and offered to provide those to staff for the Phase 2 analysis.

Several commissioners signaled conditions they expect in any waiver language: written limits around proximity to schools or daycare, explicit sound‑proofing or acoustic performance criteria for shooting ranges, on‑site security staffing and clear rules that any alcohol consumption would be segregated from firing ranges and that guns cannot be carried into active alcohol service areas. County staff said they could add criteria and additional standards during Phase 2 and recommended initiation to allow that research to proceed.

The board’s initiation vote was recorded as: Gregg K. Weiss — yes; Maria G. Marino — yes; Sara Baxter, Mayor — yes; Marci Woodward, Vice Mayor — yes; Joel G. Flores — no; Bobby Powell, Jr. — no. Initiation moves the text amendment into Phase 2 research, which staff said would include additional safety and noise studies and the drafting of specific waiver criteria.