Lawmakers Push for North Metro Gun Range Expansion
The North Metro Range is in high demand. From local police to FBI agents to a growing number of gun permit holders, the facility is seeing more people come through the doors. That’s why there’s a push at the state Capitol for a $6.5 million expansion.
City officials and members of local law enforcement testified Thursday on the need for the North Metro Range expansion. The city of Maple Grove owns the gun range, which is open to the public on Saturdays. During the week, it’s where local law enforcement trains. It’s one of only three facilities like it in the metro area.
Lawmakers say expanding the facility is a good use of taxpayer money.
“It’s a wonderful resource where people are coming in our community,” said state Rep. Kristin Robbins, R-Maple Grove. “I know there’s a lot of interest in the public in having greater access to it.”
Rep. Kristin Bahner, DFL-Maple Grove, added the project will benefit law enforcement as well.
“The expansion specifically is there to build on some additional training space as well as some de-escalation training, which really makes them able to serve communities well and remain safe while doing their job,” said Bahner.
Bahner is the chief author of the bill in the House. In the Minnesota Senate, Warren Limmer of Maple Grove authored a similar bill.
The North Metro Range is not alone in its request. In the east metro, Woodbury and Cottage Grove are also seeking money to build a gun range.
