Ryan Ellis took the floor at the latest White Sulphur Springs City Council meeting on Monday, Jan. 14 to propose the addition of a 100-acre shooting range behind the water tower on the edge of town.
Ellis, who has owned and operated the Mountaineer Guns in downtown White Sulphur for the past three years with his wife, Mary, said that customers frequently ask about and discuss the possibility of adding a local gun range for the public’s use. The council, spearheaded by Councilmember Kathy Glover due to the absence of Mayor Bruce Bowling, said that the idea would be a multi-step process should it begin to take form.
The site at the water tower is already home to a shooting range intended for use by law enforcement and other professionals, but at this time, is not designed to accommodate public use. The remaining acreage, Ellis proposed, could be leased from the city for the purpose of housing the gun range. He emphasized that not only would local users benefit, but also guests at the Greenbrier Resort that enjoy outdoor, sportsman activities.
“I think it would be a good addition to the community and it would be something I’d be happy to build and manage if it would be well-received,” said Ellis.
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In other news, the council approved $1,833 in funds to go to the Mountain Transit Authority, which they have done previously. The funds will be matched by both state and federal monies. Mark Gillespie discussed how MTA is considering building a hub transfer facility in the city, which will help support overall transportation. He said they are planning on “finding the space” to house such a hub, as they hope it will help bring people to town and make local travel easier.
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Councilmember Mary Collins said that the Christmas decoration contest was a big hit this year, with a large number of participants working to make their property competition-worthy. “The town looked great,” she said, “especially over the Christmas holiday.”
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Martha Snyder gave an update on activities and other events happening at the Wish Center, White Sulphur’s community center. So far there have been paint nights, food handler classes, and more, with plans in the future to host open houses, CPR classes, counseling, Tai Chi, and yoga throughout this year. Updates will be available as activities are scheduled. The public is invited to attend.