Commissioners propose shooting closure near Genoa to enhance public safety

Concerns over public safety and recreational shooting regulations took center stage at the Utah County Commission meeting on October 26, 2022. The discussion focused on a proposed shooting closure in areas where target shooting has been linked to safety issues, particularly in residential zones near Genoa.

Commissioners highlighted that the majority of shooting incidents are occurring in a specific southern area, which poses risks to nearby homes. The proposal aims to restrict shooting in these high-risk zones while still allowing access for other recreational activities, such as ATV riding. This approach follows previous experiences with broader land closures that were deemed excessive and impractical.

"We learned lessons from past proposals," one commissioner noted, emphasizing the need for a more targeted approach. The current plan is significantly smaller than earlier suggestions, which had included vast areas that did not align with where shooting typically occurs. The commissioners are open to public feedback to refine the proposal further.

The meeting also addressed the need for designated shooting ranges to accommodate recreational shooters displaced by the proposed closures. Mayor Bill Wright of Payson expressed support for creating safe shooting environments, underscoring the importance of balancing Second Amendment rights with community safety. He mentioned ongoing discussions about establishing a new shooting range in collaboration with the Citizens Marksmanship Program.

As the commission moves forward, they are considering improvements to existing shooting ranges, including enhancing safety measures like berms to prevent stray bullets from impacting residential areas. The urgency of public safety concerns is driving the commission's efforts to finalize a comprehensive plan that addresses both recreational shooting needs and community safety.