Chester commission denies indoor shooting range in Town Center District proposal

Queen Anne's County officials are considering a proposal to amend zoning regulations to allow indoor shooting ranges in the Town Center District, a move that has sparked significant discussion among community members and planners. The proposed text amendment would permit these facilities, provided they maintain a minimum distance of 100 feet from any residential property.

The Town Center District, primarily located along the Main Street corridor in Chester, is designed for mixed-use development that emphasizes pedestrian-friendly environments. Currently, the district permits only a limited number of uses, excluding most light industrial activities. This proposal follows a similar amendment made in early 2024, which allowed indoor shooting ranges in four other districts, including the Airport District and Urban Commercial District.

During the meeting, staff expressed an unfavorable recommendation for the amendment, citing the district's intent to prioritize residential and pedestrian-oriented uses. Concerns were raised about potential noise and safety issues associated with shooting ranges, although proponents argued that sound levels would be comparable to industrial air handlers and that modern range designs effectively contain projectiles.

Douglas Gray, owner of RS Shooting Sports, advocated for the amendment, highlighting the potential for revitalizing underutilized properties in the Town Center. He emphasized the importance of remaining in the area to serve local customers and suggested that existing vacant buildings could be repurposed for the shooting range, avoiding the need for new construction.

The discussion revealed a divide among commissioners regarding the classification of shooting ranges as commercial or industrial uses. While some argued that the facilities align more closely with commercial activities, others maintained that the Town Center's zoning intent should limit such developments.

As the meeting concluded, the future of the proposed amendment remains uncertain. The decision will have significant implications for the community, potentially reshaping the character of the Town Center District and influencing local business opportunities. Further discussions and evaluations will be necessary to determine the outcome of this contentious proposal.