Title
AN ORDINANCE ALLOWING SHOOTING RANGES WITHIN THE CITY OF HUDSON AND AMENDING THE LAND DEVELOPMENT CODE.
Brief Description: The City of Hudson is interested in permitting indoor shooting ranges in Districts 6, 7, 8, and 9. The ranges would be a conditional use in these districts, subject to review by the Planning Commission and are already subject to strict regulation by the state of Ohio.
Body
Legislative History
None.
Purpose & Explanation
The City is always seeking ways to expand business opportunities within the city, and a growing industry in the private sector is indoor shooting ranges. No commercial indoor ranges currently exist in the city.
Not only do these ranges add to the current tax base, but they often times work in public-private partnerships with local police departments for training. The Police Department is continually looking for new opportunities to train its police officers locally whenever possible. Currently, the Police Department travels out of the City to train, and by allowing such ranges, the city could promptly realize savings in both time and expense in its police operations.
Indoor shooting ranges also offer several advantages, primarily their year-round availability and controlled environment, making them ideal for regular practice and training. They foster a sense of community and provide a new social environment for residents, offering classes and specialty leagues for various groups. Ranges also provide consistent conditions and safety features, enhancing the shooting experience, especially for beginners.
The State of Ohio already regulates commercial and private shooting ranges throughout the State in a manner that relies upon nationally recognized safety standards.
This legislation seeks to clarify the City’s regulations on commercial shooting ranges to attract such businesses to the community, accomplishing the above goals and otherwise promoting the safety and welfare of our community.
Timing Considerations
An emergency clause is requested as this change will allow the City to move forward swiftly with this effort in attracting new businesses that will grow the tax base and offer improved safety training opportunities for the Police Department. This will greatly impact the life, health, property, and public peace within the community.
Fiscal Impact
None
Recommendation
Suggested Action
That the Codified Ordinances of the City of Hudson be amended to allow indoor shooting ranges in Districts 6, 7, 8, and 9.
Submitted by,
Christopher Foster, Council President