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HERRIMAN — The city of Herriman is still struggling over how to make a gun range a reality for its residents. City Council members have voiced support for the range, but the location is still a big problem.
Last week's City Council meeting lasted until midnight, with about three hours of passionate public comment. Thursday, the council talked about the important information that it still needs before it makes a decision.
The city of Herriman believes most residents want a place where they can shoot their guns.
"Overwhelmingly, a large response has been in favor of a gun range," said City Councilman Mike Day.
The city has a 40-acre donated parcel of land where it could build a 15-acre range. But in the closest neighborhoods, there's overwhelming opposition.
"We're not opposed to the idea of a gun range in Herriman, we think that's a good idea," said Herriman resident Kenny Thomas. "We just think that the location that the city has decided upon, without much public input, is not the best location."
They're concerned about safety with two nearby schools, as well as too much noise from the guns. So, the council has decided not to vote yet.
"In general, the council is all on board with the idea of a gun range," Day said. "We like it, we think it's a great amenity, we think it would be a great attraction to Herriman City. Location is a little problematic."
The council and staff now has plans to look for a different location, and Day is optimistic.
"If we can find a location that works, it could be a win-win for us," He said. "But right now we do not have one, so we are going to have to do some work."
Opponents see it the same way.
"If we can find an alternate location, we think it's a win-win," Thomas said.
City council member will look at the issue again Dec. 13. They've also added information to the city's website, which they hope answers a lot of questions in the community.
