A group of Sale Creek residents concerned about an adjacent shooting range was advised by the County Commission on Thursday they may need to sue the owner of the shooting range.
Commission Chairman Jim Coppinger said commissioners are sympathetic, but may not have any way to help the residents since the permit came through the County Zoning Board.
Several residents of Leggett Road said the owner of the range, former Red Bank Police Chief Ronnie Dodd, has advised them to move away from the shooting area on Saturdays when there is activity at the range.
The residents said they were standing on their own property when they were told to move.
Tim Grace said he stays inside along with his family on Saturdays, and he also keeps his livestock in that day.
He said he learned recently that his property value has gone down because of the shooting range.
Several commission members and Planning Agency Executive Director Barry Bennett said they believe Mr. Dodd made "representations" to the County Zoning Board.
Mr. Grace said the permit request did not mention a shooting range, only "low-impact outdoor" activities.
Mr. Bennett said Mr. Dodd did tell the Zoning Board that there would be shooting, but that it would be on a very limited basis and involve a concealed weapons class.
Commissioner Fred Skillern said Mr. Dodd "has been advertising on the Internet and bringing in people from everywhere. They are shooting 15,000 rounds in one day."
Commissioner Greg Beck said, "If you are having to tell the neighbors to move before you start shooting, that is not right. That is way, way out of order."
Commissioner John Brooks said it appeared to be "more of a public safety issue than a zoning issue."
Mr. Bennett said there were no conditions written into the permit so there is no action the county building inspector can take.
Commissioner Skillern said Rep. Jim Cobb is studying how the state could help the residents.
Commissioner Curtis Adams said he would like to tour the property. Mr. Grace suggested he go on a Saturday when shooting is going on.
The Dodd website says the 2009 Tennessee Georgia International Defensive Pistol Association Regional Championship will be held at the site on June 27.