Letter: Shooting complex can be enjoyed by all

Dear Editor:

The Libby Rifle Range has been updated through the combined efforts of the Libby Rod and Gun Club, the National Rifle Association, the U.S. Forest Service and Lincoln County. It is now called the Lincoln County Shooting Complex.

Available for use by the public is an archery range, trap, skeet and the traditional tables used for handguns, rifles and shotguns. Currently, volunteers are building a large multipurpose building. Families are encouraged to engage their children in the shooting sports.

The Lincoln County Shooting Complex is a great addition to our community and is the direct result of many hours of volunteer time.

The issue of the use of fully automatic weapons at the shooting complex has been discussed at some length with the county's insurance company. It has been agreed that the county will treat the use of fully automatic weapons as we do the Sheriff's department when they want to use the complex for training.

The firing of automatic weapons will be allowed by permission only. A structured event will be permitted by contacting the District No. 1 county commissioner prior to the event. The complex will be signed and closed to the general public during the structured event. A fee may apply to the use of automatic weapons to replace the back stops that are damaged extensively during such an event. The complex will be signed, 'No automatic weapons without permission.'

This approach allows for the full enjoyment of the complex by the public and addresses public safety as well. This approach also satisfies the requirements of our insurance and protects Lincoln County from liability issues.

In response to a letter to the editor in The Western News, it has been suggested that I am anti-police, anti-military and banning guns. To the contrary, my husband, our two sons and one grandson have all served or are currently serving in the military. Most of the members in my family ' men and women alike ' are members of the NRA. We enjoy all the shooting sports.

My concern is for the appropriate use of this valuable facility.

Rita Windom

Lincoln County

Commissioner,

District No. 1, Libby