The approved gun range, proposed by Michael Pizzy of the Apex Shooting Center and Founder Shooting Club, will be situated in the M1 commercial district, surrounded by industrial uses. Pizzy emphasized that the facility would function as more than just a shooting range, offering training for local police departments and educational classes on gun safety for families. His presentation stressed the indoor nature of the facility, designed to minimize noise and disturbance to the surrounding area. The board added a condition requiring minors to be accompanied by an adult, which the applicant accepted.

Public comments largely supported the project, with Enrique Russio advocating for the gun safety education it promised. He remarked, “A knowledgeable user that has a firearm is a safe user,” underscoring the importance of proper training. Matt McLaughlin, representing the organization behind the gun range, highlighted their annual commitment of over $250,000 to charities and community programs.

The board’s decision, passed by a 5-1 vote, reflected broad support for the initiative, with members acknowledging its alignment with city regulations and potential benefits. However, the approval did not come without scrutiny, as board members and residents raised concerns about safety measures, the types of firearms allowed, and the potential for alcohol consumption on-site. McLaughlin clarified that all firearms would adhere to state regulations and emphasized the facility’s robust safety protocols.

In a separate matter, the board addressed a variance request for a community residential home, Maryland Adult Family Care Home, which sought to operate within 756 feet of another similar facility, contravening the 1,000 feet ordinance requirement. The home, operational since 2015, provides care for the elderly and individuals with mental health needs. Despite meeting five out of six criteria for a variance, the board’s decision hinged on whether special conditions justified the variance. Ultimately, the board approved the request, recognizing the home’s contribution to community-based care.

The meeting also featured discussions on variance applications related to stormwater management. A property at 13507 Northeast 24th Place was under review for unauthorized paving work that encroached into the side yard. Staff recommended denying the variance, citing non-compliance with city regulations and potential stormwater management issues. The applicant, Craig Jarrett, detailed the challenges faced during construction, including misinformation and contractor issues exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Public comments were divided, with some residents expressing concerns about flooding and regulatory compliance, while others praised Jarrett’s improvements to the property. The board ultimately denied the variance but suggested the applicant work with city officials to achieve compliance without the need for a variance.

Another case involved a variance for a multifamily structure on Northeast 123rd Street, where the applicant sought to reduce the rear setback from 25 feet to 10 feet and 1 inch. The staff recommended denial, pointing out that the proposed development could lead to privacy and noise concerns for neighboring properties. Residents voiced strong opposition, citing traffic and aesthetic concerns. Despite the applicant’s argument that the variance was a minor adjustment necessary for reasonable property development, the board upheld the staff’s recommendation, maintaining the setback requirements.