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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes - City Council - unsigned - 1990-01-09 22 1/9/90 City Council, Adjourned Regular Meeting Redding Convention Center 777 Auditorium Drive Redding, California 7:07 p.m. The meeting was called to order by Mayor Carter with the following Council Members present: Buffum, Dahl, Fulton, Johannessen, and Carter. Also present were City Manager Christofferson, Assistant City Manager McMurry, City Attorney Hays, Director of Planning and Community Development Perry, Chief of Police Blankenship, Police Captain McDonald, Senior Associate Planner King, City Clerk Nichols, and Secretary to the City Council Moscatello. REGIONAL FIRING RANGE (C-070-010-050) Mayor Carter welcomed those in attendance and explained that this is an informational meeting and a scoping session for the environmental studies. City Manager Christofferson stressed the importance of the project to both law enforcement and to the public. Mr. Christofferson explained that training is critical to law enforcement, and there is a legal liability to any agency that is not training its officers properly. He added that the full range of training, pistol, rifle, tear gas, combat training and night training opportunities, should be available. The Benton Range is no longer available for training, and homes are encroaching upon the Record Range. The primary objective is to train Redding's officers; however, the facility will be available to the City of Anderson, the Shasta County Sheriff's Department, the California Department of Fish and Game, and the California Highway Patrol. Mr. Christofferson stated that the availability of a public facility for general recreational shooting and siting of rifles by the public, and a facility for hunter safety programs is also important. He added that the Redding Gun Club is part of the public. Mr. Christofferson conveyed that staff looked at up to 100 sites. Thirty of the sites were looked at seriously and full studies were prepared on six sites before choosing the Hunt Ranch property. A map of the Hunt Ranch was shown to the audience which outlined the location of the wildlife preserve and the law enforcement shooting range and the public shooting range. He conveyed that the topography is ideal and it is close enough for use and far enough away that the range will not be encroached upon for some time. Mr. Christofferson referenced a letter from Mayor Carter to Chairman Reit of the Shasta Board of Supervisors dated October 3, 1989, stating the City's intent to proceed with the project without the benefit of the permit process as permitted by law. He conveyed that the City has not received a response from the County. Mr. Christofferson indicated that the Department of Fish and Game is interested in the property and will provide $300,000 for a wildlife easement on the property in perpetuity. This will provide a buffer for the shooting ranges and create a more attractive use than what could happen with private development. He conveyed that a grant for a public shooting range facility in the amount of $198,000 has also been made available. 23 1/9/90 Senior Associate Planner Jim King showed an extract of a video tape of the proposed public shooting range and the law enforcement training range in relation to the surrounding area. Police Chief Blankenship stated that this is a regional law enforcement safety issue as well as a community safety issue. A facility for law enforcement training and a safe, controlled location for the public to use is necessary. Chief Blankenship reviewed the history of the current law enforcement training site, the Record Range, and explained that the Range is limited in use because of encroaching development. He conveyed that the facility does not have the capacity to accommodate the present or long-range needs of law enforcement. Chief Blankenship explained that law enforcement is concerned because appropriate range sites are decreasing as the area grows in population and acquisition costs continue to escalate. Chief Blankenship explained that law enforcement training reduces police officer injury and increases confidence; reduces citizen injury and increases citizen confidence in the police; and reduces liability exposure which decreases government cost to the taxpayer. He emphasized that the public also needs a facility because the Police Department is receiving more calls of indiscriminate firearms use on both public and private land, the California Department of Fish and Game averages 600 to 700 students per year in the Hunter Safety Program, and the Redding Gun Club has processed an estimated 10,000 students through its Hunter Safety Program in the last fifteen years. Chief Blankenship showed a video tape of target practice sites on private and public lands. Mayor Carter asked for a show of hands of those who are opponents and those who are proponents of the proposed site as a shooting range. Dr. Roger Harris, stated that the Redding Gun Club has a 59 1/2 year history. Dr. Harris explained that the Gun Club was asked to leave the Benton Firing Range two years ago with the trust that the City would find another site. He conveyed that the Gun Club is not a private club, it is a coalition of public shooting groups whose intent is to provide family oriented activities, as well as a place to shoot and a facility for local schools to use. Programs for hunter safety, firearms safety, and competitive shooting were also available, and the Gun Club intends to reestablish these programs when a new facility is available. Dr. Harris emphasized the importance of finding another location. Regarding the proposed public shooting range at the Hunt Ranch, he indicated that trap and skeet shooting would be on the rim of the canyon wall and rifle shooting would be at the bottom of the canyon. He conveyed that if trap and skeet shooting were at the bottom of the canyon, lead shot could not be retrieved, and the lead would become an environmental problem. Dr. Harris indicated that the Hunt Ranch would meet the needs of the Gun Club for 25 years and build out would not be complete for several years. The hours of operation were reviewed. He stated that there will be a 1% to 2% increase in traffic because of the shooting range, and 66% of this traffic will be on the weekend when traffic is at a low level. There will be space for 25 self-contained recreational vehicles. He explained that many shooters from out of town will use the facility during weekend shoots and stay at local hotels and eat in restaurants. Dr. Harris said that noise tests indicated there will not be a noise problem. Noise can only be heard at minimum levels and even the noise from trap and skeet shooting on top of the canyon wall will be 24 1/9/90 minimal. He indicated that the Gun Club would like to sell beer and wine, and he pointed out that there are other sports events where liquor is served. Dr. Harris added that there has never been a liquor related accident at the Gun Club. Chief Blankenship stated that Shasta County Sheriff Phil Eoff regrets that he cannot attend; however, he does support the project and will be able to provide some inmate labor and assets seizure funds. Banky Curtis, California Department of Fish and Game (DFG), stated that DFG has been interested in this property for many years because deer in the Cow Creek Deer Range winter here. Mr. Curtis explained that the County zoned this area one residence per 80 acres to accommodate the herd, but DFG realizes that governments change, and it is DFG's intent to protect the herd. DFG wanted to buy this acreage, as well as 7,000 acres across the road, but funding was not available. This matter was discussed with the City of Redding when the City stated its intent to purchase the property for a shooting range. The DFG is willing to invest $300,000 to preserve the area, and the reason such consideration was given is because it is such a good price for this much land. Mr. Curtis indicated that the funds will be appropriated through the Wildlife Conservation Board. He indicated that the deer will be able to adjust to the noise of the guns; and although it may not seem compatible, a shooting range is still better than what could happen to the area. Mr. Curtis indicated that DFG will develop a management plan and take input from members of the community about use of the land. He invited the community to discuss this matter with DFG. Mr. Curtis indicated that the area will be preserved as a wildlife habitat for deer, elk, turkeys, quail, etc., and recreational opportunities such as hiking and bird watching will be available. The area will be open for habitat development and to schools for study. Shasta College and the University of California Extension Services can use the area for experimental grazing programs. A lease agreement for cattle grazing will be executed with the present owner for a number of years. Mr. Curtis explained that a 10% excise tax on fire arms is collected by the Federal Government and given to the States for wildlife programs. A tax on pistols was added to this program, and this portion of grant funds are to be used exclusively for public shooting ranges in California. The City is being considered for $198,000 in these grant funds. Council Member Dahl noted that the bottom line is that DFG wants to work in conjunction with the City of Redding to preserve into perpetuity that portion of the Hunt Ranch for a wildlife conservation area. Mr. Curtis explained that DFG will own the rights to the land. Mr. J.P. Nelson, representing the National Rifle Association, stated that he would like to go on record as abstaining from the hand count requested by Mayor Carter. Mr. Nelson stated that there are fewer injuries in shooting than in any other sport. He added that hunter safety programs reduce accidents, and well trained law officers are less likely to use firearms, and well trained officers do a better job if they need to use firearms. In response to questions from Mayor Carter, Mr. Nelson stated that he is familiar with shooting facilities in the Bay Area, such as those in Oakland, Richmond, San Quentin, etc. He indicated that there are many very expensive homes near the Auburn Trap Club. The Realtor's Board has not been able to provide evidence that property values have dropped because of such facilities. 25 1/9/90 Senior Associate Planner King conveyed that there are legal and environmental reasons why this area will not be used as a toxic waste dump or landfill. Mr. King explained that the Environmental Impact Report (EIR) will address issues such as the traffic impacts on Oak Run Road, the on-site sale of alcohol, ground water, the deer herd and livestock, the economic impact, land use compatibility with adjacent property, and many other issues. Francie Sullivan, Shasta County Board of Supervisors, noted that Redding is trying to do something good for the community, and there is a need for a shooting range. However, she opined that there may be a better location. She asked Council to please consider alternative sites. Supervisor Sullivan noted that there are other sites available on land owned by the timber industry. She conveyed that she will do everything possible to find an alternative site. Supervisor Sullivan conveyed that access to the site is a big concern because the access road is less than perfect. She conveyed that improvements to Old 44/Oak Run Road cannot be a joint City/County project because the County's budget is limited, and it is very unlikely that the County will be able to help solve this problem. Supervisor Sullivan asked Council to take those expenses under consideration. She sympathized with Council's dilemma; however, she asked Council to find a site that does not enhance one group at the expense of another. Mayor Carter noted that the City is still negotiating for the property. Marshall Gordon, 2334 Lake Redding Drive, stated that he is tired of driving four hours to get to good quality shooting matches. He said that Redding should have a shooting range and he could, therefore, spend his money in Redding. Ed Gorge, 1320 Old Alturas Road, stated that he objects to taking money out of Redding by removing the property from the tax rolls. Mr. Christofferson stated that the City of Redding will pay property tax on the property. Brian Cornell, 2711 Del Rio Drive, Stockton, stated that he is representing Sam Fox, a property owner near the south corner of the Hunt property. Mr. Cornell relayed that Mr. Fox is concerned about the impact of the shooting range on property values. He pointed out that if the City is buying the property for that price, that is lowering property value. Mr. Cornell pointed out that the price was based on the entire area, and some areas are worth more money than others. Mr. Cornell expressed concern about the access road. He conveyed that rifle shots will be heard at night, and there is also no buffer for Mr. Martin's or Mr. Taylor's property, and all are concerned about the noise. He conveyed that Mr. Fox is also concerned about the lawsuit Mr. Hunt is involved in. Mr. Cornell indicated that Mr. Fox's property is for sale if the City wants to buy it. Cindy Ryan, 1939 Shady Lane, stated that she is a Redding student. Ms. Ryan pointed out that any controversial issue has pros and cons. She pointed out that development in Redding is nice; however, there comes a point when development has to cease. She noted that this is especially true for preservation of wildlife. Ms. Ryan stated that the issue here is to develop a gun range and wildlife preserve. There may be better or worse sites, good and bad points, but the important point to consider is the need for a training facility for law enforcement. 26 1/9/90 William Coon, 109050 Oak Run Road, Oak Run, stated that he moved into the area to enjoy the quiet and enjoy the deer. Mr. Coon noted that it will not be the same if the shooting range is built. He asked that it be documented on paper what will be done to alleviate the traffic, who will pay for the improvements, and who will be in charge. Mr. Coon stated that the City should not be able to bypass the County Planning Commission and should go through the County planning process. Larry Kepple, 22498 Buckboard Trail, Palo Cedro, explained that he lives three miles from the proposed site, and he is concerned about the noise. Mr. Kepple asked the City to be a good neighbor and mitigate the sound. He also expressed concern about mixing alcohol and guns. He said he was taught that guns and alcohol do not mix, and he believes that the City should not fund a facility that allows guns and alcohol. Danny Fitzgerald, P.O. Box 118, Oak Run, stated that he is concerned about the traffic and about fire danger. He emphasized that there is an extreme fire danger in the area. Mr. Fitzgerald stated that he is opposed to the project. Eric Brinner, 2733 Orfino Lane, stated that the key is to go out to the shooting range and enjoy yourself, not go there to drink and shoot. He emphasized that safety is important. He explained that he took the hunting and safety course at the old shooting range, and it is disturbing that there is no facility available in Redding to shoot. Ed Gill, 10019 Oak Run Road, stated that when City representatives went out to look at the property, they did not have the common courtesy to close the gate. Mr. Gill pointed out that livestock graze in the area, and children live there. He asked why they should let the City locate there, if the City cannot take care of the neighborhood. Homer Parks, 6830 Old 44 Drive, Palo Cedro, stated that these people are not opposed to the gun club, they are opposed to the location. Mr. Parks said that the facility is too far from town. Mr. Parks opined that grazing land is not that dependable; that a cow has to carry its lunch to get across the plain in the summer. He asked what the City's plans are for water. Mr. King said the plan is to drill a well. The hydrology reports show there is adequate water. Mr. Parks predicted that salt water would be found. He stated that the road is not fit for this much traffic, and it is not a deeded road. He pointed out that if he went into the City of Redding to build, he would be required to build a road first and make improvements according to Code, but the City is going to go out there, build a facility, and not fix the road. Mr. Parks pointed out that it will cost a lost of money to fix the road. Lavenia Koot, 22510 Meadow Crest Lane, Palo Cedro, stated that she is opposed to the shooting range at this area. Ms. Koot explained that Supervisor Sullivan has spoken on her behalf. Dr. William Farrell, 9019 Winding Way, Millville, stated that he appreciated the presentation by the Chief of Police. Dr. Farrell pointed out that nobody wants the facility in their backyard; however, hunter safety is very important. He added that the road must be dealt with whether or not the range is built there. Regarding the sale of beer and wine, Dr. Farrell explained that safety procedures were in effect at the old range, and women and children were often seen 27 1/9/90 picnicking. He conveyed that if there are problems or incidents, they will be dealt with at that time. Dr. Farrell added that he is a neighbor, he drives the road, but he is in favor of the project. Alfred Greco, 10935 Oak Run Road, Oak Run, stated that he is not opposed to guns, he is pro gun and loves to hunt and target shoot. Mr. Greco explained that he is opposed to having the shooting range in his backpocket. It will be too noisy. He said a test was conducted, and they can still hear the noise. The road is too small, and it will cost the taxpayers more money to widen the road. He pointed out that the City had a gun range, and homes were allowed to encroach upon the area, and now the City wants to move the facility out to Oak Run. Mr. Greco suggested that the range remain in Redding as an indoor firing range. Morelene Elders, 10924 Beaver Road, Oak Run, stated that what they have worked for all their lives is being threatened. Ms. Elders pointed out that traffic will be increased on an already dangerous road. She said that people with weapons and drinking and driving on a bad road is not a good combination. Ms. Elders pointed out that the gun club stated that they cannot support their club without alcohol. She asked what we are really telling our kids when we tell them to say no to drugs. Ms. Elders emphasized that by not going through the County planning process, the City has taken away their rights. Mike Bennett, 16216 Serene Drive, conveyed that he is a proponent of the range site for law enforcement and the public. Mr. Bennett conveyed that he is also concerned about traffic and alcohol. He complimented Chief Blankenship on his presentation regarding the need for a shooting range. He added that the improper use of firearms is a dangerous activity, and safety is important. Hank Slowik, 22455 Meadowcrest, Palo Cedro, expressed dismay that there were no opponents of the shooting range to balance the proponents of the shooting range on the earlier part of the program. Mr. Slowik opined that the cost of the range will be higher because of hidden costs. He explained that the traffic improvement checklist is very short in notable areas. This is a facility with 100 to 150 firing positions, and no upper limit on development has been set. This is only where the project begins. Mr. Slowik said that additional costs may fall upon the City or County because a 3 1/2 mile stretch on Old 44, which includes two bridges and four major intersections, needs to be improved. The improvements could equal the purchase price of the range. Mr. Slowik expressed concern about who would enforce the law in the area and pointed out that there is only a volunteer fire department in Palo Cedro. He said that noise is a problem, and he asked how the range can be afforded when the County cannot afford hospitals or libraries. He added that there will be job losses because of this project. Mr. Slowik asked Council to consider other sites owned by lumber companies. He stated that once this site was seized upon, Council stopped considering other sites. He asked Council to take the time to make the right decision. Terry Scott, 13249 Fernie Way, stated that he represents the black powder group, the Louderback Fiddlebackers. Mr. Scott explained that this is a family oriented group who do work in the community and participate in demonstrations at schools and parties. He said there is a great need for a facility, and the Louderback Fiddlebackers support the proposed gun range. Speaking for himself, Mr. Scott noted that subdivisions are here and more will develop. There are traffic problems throughout the County, and those problems will have to be 28 1/9/90 addressed as they arise. He reiterated that it is a shame there is no place to shoot. He applauded Council's efforts. William Bedwell, 2062 Lake Boulevard, conveyed that he was the range operator for the Redding Gun Club. Mr. Bedwell stated that the Gun Club can operate without selling beer; however, it is a large part of their profit and a way to keep shooting costs down. He said there were no problems with drunks at the range, and there was no reservation about telling people to stop drinking or leave the range if need be. He reiterated that alcohol has never been a problem at the range. Dr. Jerry Walters, 24389 Racoon Way, questioned this group's right to make a decision. He expressed concerns about safety, noise, and property values, and Dr. Walters asked if the Sheriff has jurisdiction over that property. Staff replied yes. Dennis Cullen, Shasta County Peace Officer's Association, stated that they have several questions regarding the proposed law enforcement site. Mr. Cullen noted that the Record Range has served their needs for 20 years, and they wonder if its livelihood has come to an end. He noted that as it sets, its term is limited; however, its use can be modified to extend its viability. Mr. Cullen noted that the proposed hours of operation are less than what is currently allowed at the Record Range. The Record Range is open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. on an as needed basis; and night shooting has been curtailed, but it has never limited departmental shooting. He explained that officers must be able to train in the dark. Mr. Cullen asked what use of the proposed facility will cost per officer per year. The cost at the Record Range is $24 per officer per year. Mr. Cullen pointed out that there is private land right next to the boundary line of the law enforcement training range which could be subdivided. He stated that the range must be a long term facility. Mr. Cullen noted that travel time will be considerably longer; however, the cost to the vehicles is not significant. What is important is the cost of taking an officer off duty to train. In response to Council's inquiry, Mr. Cullen stated that alcohol is available at the Record Range during social functions, but not on a daily basis. He is not aware of any problems with alcohol. Raymond McHale, 1526 Canby Road, a member of Northern Free Trappers, stated that people moved into that area because they wanted to get away from the noise and traffic. He conveyed that he is for the Club because one is needed. Mr. McHale asked how many people against the noise of the gun range go to a football game and drink a beer. David Williams, 10222 Deschutes Road, Palo Cedro, said he is a member of the Louderback Fiddlebackers and the Northern Free Trappers, and it important to have a safe place to shoot. Herb Davidson, 145 Beaver Road, Oak Run, representing Save Our Community, stated that they are not anti gun, anti gun club, or anti development. However, the community believes in developing Palo Cedro and Millville in a responsible manner. He said their future depends on commercial and residential development, and they want to prosper and maintain a rural lifestyle. Mr. Davidson pointed out that they did not move next to a gun club. Because homes are encroaching on the Record Range, the City is moving the site out of town. He conveyed that he is a range instructor and member of the Shasta County Peace Officer's Association. Mr. Davidson asked who the range will really 29 1/9/90 benefit. He noted that if he does not belong to the Redding Gun Club, his access to the facility is extremely limited. The site is fifteen miles outside of Redding, and there are serious drawbacks to the proposed site. Council Member Dahl conveyed that he has been dealing with this issue since he has been on the Council. Many sites have been looked at, and wherever it is sited, there will be opposition. Mayor Carter stated that the real problem is growth. Council cannot control this growth, but Council is trying to monitor the growth and help maintain the quality of life. Growth must be provided for. Max Jenkins, 11346 Oak Run Road, Oak Run, stated that he lives near the Hunt Ranch. Mr. Jenkins conveyed that they did not think they would be able to hear the test firing; however, they could not only hear the firing, they could distinguish between the types of guns used. He stated that he knows of two pieces of property which have fallen out of escrow because of the proposed gun club. Ted Elders, 10924 Beaver Road, Oak Run, stated that he is not anti gun club. He recognizes the need for the facility, but he is opposed to the site. Mr. Elders objected to the format of the meeting and pointed out that each of the speakers before the comment period was for the shooting range. Mayor Carter conveyed that the first portion of the meeting was for information purposes only. Abe Hathaway, Rt. 1, Box 440, Oak Run, stated that he is concerned about the depth of the EIR being proposed. Mr. Hathaway pointed out that the minimum water flow requirement of 750 gallons per minute for fire control to protect structures and property cannot be generated. The basin is dry for five months of the year, and the fire season is lengthy, and the fire danger is high. The volunteer fire department is inadequate and response time from Millville is quite lengthy. Mr. Hathaway indicated that they raise cattle in the Swede Creek area, and the water supply is spring fed. He explained that they will lose the ability to use that property to its fullest extent. Mr. Hathaway said that the shooting range will impact adjoining land use. There are significant archaeological sites that will be impacted, and because public access has been limited for 200 years what will be found will be very unique. He indicated that his biggest concern is the total cost of acquiring the property and shooting on the property. The total cost has been grossly underestimated. Mr. Hathaway said he is not against the shooting range in his backyard, but the City should be responsible. He noted that a planning mechanism to protect the Record Range should have been created just as one was created for the Airport. Mr. Hathaway said the EIR will consider deer, and he would like to be given the same consideration. John Carr, 10202 Oak Run Road, Oak Run, stated that he is a property owner on the ridge overlooking Oak Run Road. Mr. Carr talked about how he came to live in the area and about being a good neighbor. He expressed concern about the noise, the rights of the neighborhood, and how a shooting range would have a negative impact on any area. Mr. Carr asked Council to consider a new site. Don Weatherbee, 1945 Grand Coulee, Central Valley, stated that the Gun Club will survive, and they appreciate Council's efforts. Mr. Weatherbee conveyed that they would like to be a good neighbor and hope they will be given the chance. Mr. Weatherbee pointed out that the golf course serves beer and wine and the Churn Creek Road access 30 1/9/90 is windy; and San Francisco Street, where the Benton Range was located, used to be narrow and windy and it was improved. He opined that the road will be safe. He added that the noise must be mitigated, and if the range is placed in the middle of 3000 acres, it will be. Robert Hill, 3043 Placer Street, conveyed that he lived near the Gun Club, and neither the noise or traffic from police officers driving to the Record Range were objectionable. Mr. Hill reiterated that there is no longer a gun range, and with Council's help, there will be one again. He urged Council to get on with project and said that roads will be fixed as needed. Compy Compomizzo, 4025 Meander Drive, stated that many retired people on fixed incomes enjoy shooting because it is a low cost sporting activity. Mr. Compomizzo conveyed that he lived near the Benton Firing Range, and the only way he heard the noise was to go outside and cup his ears. At one-half mile it was hardly noticeable. He pointed out that shooting is a sport like walking or hiking, and the City puts forth effort into those activities. Mr. Compomizzo emphasized that it takes courage to put effort into recreational facilities. Bob Faye, Star Route, Box AF, Whitmore, sympathized with the feelings of the community. He stated, however, that he would be more than glad to trade the noise problem for well trained law enforcement. Mr. Faye opined that the City should buy additional property and monitor the noise and traffic. Bob Liddell, President of the Redding Gun Club, thanked those people who have supported the project and all those concerned people who showed up tonight. Mr. Liddell expressed hope that those people who are opposed to the project will see fit to use the facility. Mayor Carter conveyed that letters supporting the shooting range were received from Clair Hill and John Reginato. Council Member Dahl stated that staff should move ahead with the preparation of the environmental studies and answer the questions raised this evening. Council Member Fulton agreed. He expressed concern about the lack of water and hoped that this can be mitigated. Council Member Fulton noted that the EIR will provide the answers before Council makes the final decision. Council Member Buffum conveyed her concern about the traffic. She noted that they have received many good suggestions, and Council is trying to listen to both sides of the issue. Council Member Johannessen expressed his concern about the comments relating to fire, alcohol, and traffic. He emphasized that the EIR is necessary to see what mitigation measures can be made. Mayor Carter stated that the purpose of tonight's meeting was to allow proponents and opponents to vocalize their views. He added that it was also staff's goal to educate everybody. MOTION: Made by Council Member Dahl, seconded by Council Member Fulton, to proceed with the Environmental Impact Report for the proposed Regional Firing Range. The Vote: Unanimous Ayes Mayor Carter thanked the audience for attending. 31 1/9/90 ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, at the hour of 10:45 p.m., Mayor Carter declared the meeting adjourned. APPROVED: __________________________________ Mayor ATTEST: ___________________________________ City Clerk