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Published on July 24, 2024
Arizona Representatives Urge Maricopa County to Reopen Joe Foss Shooting Complex in Buckeye HillsSource: Google Street View

The recent shutdown of the Joe Foss Shooting Complex, located in Buckeye Hills Regional Park, has drawn reactions from the local community and state representatives who have concerns about the site's availability to the public. Arizona State Representatives Quang Nguyen and Selina Bliss have stepped forward to address these issues, urging Maricopa County to reconsider the decision that halted public access to the facility.

In a letter, dated June 30 directed to Sheriff Russ Skinner and the Maricopa Board of Supervisors, Representatives Nguyen and Bliss outlined their position. “We write to you today in our official capacity to express concerns regarding the Joe Foss Shooting Complex. It is our understanding that on June 30th, 2024, the Joe Foss Shooting Complex located in Buckeye Hills Regional Park was closed. According to the Maricopa County Parks and Recreation, the reason for this closure was to allow for more officers and deputies to be able to learn, qualify, and requalify with firearms and reduce the wait time for such training. We strongly urge you to reopen the shooting range to the public as soon as possible," the letter says

Quang Nguyen, a Republican serving Legislative District 1 and chairing the House Judiciary Committee, alongside Selina Bliss, emphasized the implications of the decision not simply on the convenience for firearm enthusiasts but also the potential ripple effects on the environment and public safety. As noted in the letter, which AZLeg.gov recently published, they highlighted how "Keeping the Joe Foss Shooting Complex open to the public would eliminate that concern and avoid other unanticipated problems or unintended consequences."

The representatives suggested that the closure could divert the shooting activities to less regulated environments, such as the desert, which possess the risk of people starting shooting in places not designed for such activities, leading to broader environmental and safety issues. Their concern is backed by voices from the community, many of whom are frustrated with their favorite shooting range closing, according to the information from the representatives' letter. Nguyen's and Bliss' stance resonates with a population that holds the Joe Foss Shooting Complex in high regard for its long-standing presence and service to shooting enthusiasts in Arizona.

As the dialogue continues, the response from the Maricopa County officials remains to be seen.