Commission continues rezoning for town-owned training facility after notice, safety and process concerns

The Whitestown Plan Commission voted to continue consideration of a rezoning request for a town-owned parcel proposed for a joint police and fire training facility — including an initial outdoor firearms range — after neighbors raised concerns about notification, signage, and safety.

Chief Scott Ralston said the town purchased the parcel near the wastewater treatment plant (listed in staff materials as roughly 7900 South 459/450 East) and described a phased buildout with an initial outdoor range and later indoor classrooms and canine-training space. "This isn't a vote on the firearms range itself. This is a rezone," Ralston told the commission.

Multiple neighbors and nearby property owners said they did not receive mailed notice required under Indiana law for parcels within the statutory notification radius and that the posted signage and online QR-code link were not sufficiently visible or accurate. Matthew Cummins, who owns property abutting the proposed site, said municipal crews conducted brush clearing that crossed his property line without prior notice. Residents also asked for environmental analyses (lead contamination), maps of the range's potential sound and ballistic reach, and objected to the concept of an open outdoor range near homes and schools; some urged an indoor facility instead.

Commissioners and legal counsel noted the petition requires a neighborhood meeting at least five days before the public hearing and that inconsistent notification or meeting procedures can create grounds for appeal. The chief and staff agreed to review and correct mailing records, signage placement and the planning-case address, and to hold the required neighborhood outreach. The commission voted to continue the rezoning petition to the February planning commission meeting to allow the petitioner and staff to confirm notifications and host the neighborhood meeting.