Arizona Legislators Press Maricopa County Sheriff to Reopen Joe Foss Shooting Range

By Daniel Stefanski |

Two Arizona legislators are raising alarm over the recent closure of the Joe Foss Shooting Complex in Maricopa County.

Earlier this month, State Representatives Quang Nguyen and Selina Bliss addressed a letter to Maricopa County Sheriff Russ Skinner. They expressed concerns regarding the shooting range’s public closure on June 30, 2024, and urged its immediate reopening.

The legislators highlighted that the Maricopa County Parks and Recreation cited the need for more officer training time as the reason for the closure. They noted this would allow officers and deputies to learn, qualify, and requalify with firearms more efficiently.

“The Joe Foss Shooting Complex has long been a vital resource in Arizona, boasting many loyal members,” the lawmakers wrote. They stressed that the closure has frustrated many, particularly long-time members of the JFSC community.

Concern was also voiced over alternatives members might turn to, such as shooting in the desert, which brings its own risks. The legislators believe keeping the range open would mitigate these concerns and prevent unintended consequences.

In response, Maricopa County Parks and Recreation provided an update on July 15. They acknowledged community feedback and announced that an independent firm specializing in range repair and mitigation would conduct a site analysis. The range will remain closed during this period, pending further evaluation and repairs.

Daniel Stefanski is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.