The Joe Foss Shooting Complex at Buckeye Hills Regional Park is slated for a resurgence under a new partnership that hands over the reins to the City of Buckeye, according to an announcement made following a unanimous decision by the Board of Supervisors. Maricopa County states that the complexity, which closed in early July after a previous agreement fell through, will be resurrected for both law enforcement and the public's sharpshooting enjoyment.
"We heard loud and clear: people want this range back open to the public as soon as possible. But look, we had to do it right," said Supervisor Steve Gallardo of District 5, explaining the range's location within his jurisdiction, "By choosing the City of Buckeye, we get a long-term Agreement with a community partner who has a stake in the complex’s success," and he along with his colleagues see this as a path to stabilized operations that should ultimately boost the experience for anyone wanting to safely engage the pull of a trigger.
The city is now tasked with the upkeep, including maintenance and repairs, as well as any capital improvements necessary to align the facility with the various levels of safety regulations that ensure the range is up to snuff for all those stepping up to the line. It must also maintain the schedule as required by the Agreement, opening the range to eager residents at least three days out of any given week.
"I appreciate the City of Buckeye’s willingness to step up and manage this valuable public asset within the city’s planning area and the county’s park system," expressed Supervisor Clint Hickman of District 4, crediting Maricopa County Parks and Recreation for their thorough work over the past months to rehabilitate the range indicating the facility is prepped and ready for its dual role in training law enforcement and eventually, welcoming back the public to its ranges.
The range is no stranger to shifts in stewardship, being previously managed by various non-profits since its 2009 introduction to the public. The stipulation requires a government entity or a non-profit to hold the operational baton—a regulation that the City of Buckeye now takes on. Updates on the facility, including the necessary information on the re-opening schedule, can be found by residents at buckeyeaz.gov/joefoss.
