03.SU250043 BOS REPORT.PDF

Report to the Board of Supervisors
Prepared by the Maricopa County Planning and Development Department
Board Hearing Date: October 21, 2026
Case #/Title: SU250043 – Shadow Country Police Shooting Range
Supervisor District: 5
Applicant/Owner: Sara GilBride, Prefling Engineering / Shadow Country, LLC
Request: Special Use Permit (SUP) for a shooting range in the Rural-190
zoning district
Site Location: Generally located 1¼ miles southeast of the southeast corner of
Vekol Valley Rd. and I-8 Frwy. in the Vekol Valley area
Site Size: Approximately 40 acres
County Island Status: N/A
Additional
Comments:
 The SUP proposes an open-air police sniper training shooting range on a 40-acre parcel that will
be used exclusively for law enforcement training and not open to the public. The facility will serve
as a controlled firing range designed for precision fire training that will include both basic and
advanced SWAT certifications. Training sessions will never exceed 19 individuals on site and will
be limited to 70 training sessions per year.
 Bottled water and portable restrooms will be hauled-in and hauled-out for each event.
 Access is onto a private access easement that connects west to Vekol Valley Rd. There is an
interchange with I-8 one-mile north of the site.
 Per the Maricopa County Framework 2040 Comprehensive Plan the site is within a Rural Influence
Area and a Rural Service Area. The low impact use not triggering any demand for services and is
appropriate in this area.
 Staff received six letters of support from various law enforcement agencies, Bureau of Land
Management, and US Border Patrol. The letters mentioned how valuable this type of training is
for law enforcement training and public safety. There is no known opposition.
 Approval of SU250043 will require majority vote of a quorum.
October 21, 2026
SU250043
Page 1 of 4

Commission
Recommendation: On 9/10/26, the Commission voted 7-0 (motion by Commissioner
Whitney D3, seconded by Commissioner Rochwalik D3) to adopt a
motion recommending the Board of Supervisors approve
SU260043 subject to conditions ‘a’ – ‘p’:
a. Development of the site shall be in substantial conformance with the Site Plan entitled
“Shooting Range“, consisting of two full-size sheets, dated July 20, 2026, and stamped
received July 20, 2026, except as modified by the following conditions. Staff may
determine slight refinements to remain in substantial conformance with the approved site
plan. Minor and major amendments to the site plan will be determined in accordance with
Chapter 3 of the Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance.
b. Development of the site shall be in substantial conformance with the Narrative Report
entitled “Shadow County Police Sniper Range”, consisting of seven pages, dated July 20,
2026, and stamped received July 20, 2026, except as modified by the following conditions.
c. This facility shall not be for public use. Any other uses of the site shall require a major
Special Use Permit amendment that must be approved by the Board of Supervisors.
d. All training sessions on this site shall not exceed 19 individuals and shall not exceed 70
training session days per year.
e. Operating hours shall be limited to 6:00 am to midnight.
f. Any outdoor lighting, excluding flashlights, shall be shielded so that the light is directed
downward below the horizontal plane of the fixture and light shall not trespass onto
adjacent properties.
g. There shall be no munitions and/or firearms stored on site.
h. The assembly area and firing line areas of the site shall not be visually screened.
i. The parking area shall be surfaced with compact ABC materials, except for any accessible
parking spaces.
j. This Special Use Permit shall be valid for 30 years and shall expire on October 21, 2056,
or upon termination of the use for a period of 90 days or more, whichever occurs first. All
site improvements associated with this Special Use Permit must be removed within 90
days of such expiration or termination of use.
k. All firearms shooting shall be conducted within the designated firing line area, and the
shooting of firearms shall be fired toward the berm in the south portion of the designated
firing line area as illustrated on the site plan.
l. No ammunition, rounds, casings, or debris of any kind generated by the shooting activities
shall exit any property boundaries.
m. The following Planning Engineering conditions shall apply:
1. Site access easements must be dedicated and recorded prior to building permit
issuance.
October 21, 2026
SU250043
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2. The property owner is responsible for the maintenance of the berm located in the
south part of the firing line area since this berm exceeds the County’s cut/fill
standards. Safety of the shooting berm’s condition and vicinity shall be the
responsibility of the property owner, which includes insurances that any errant
bullets shall not leave the site. Berm height and compaction must facilitate the
safety of the patrons of this facility.
3. Building permit and flood use permit must be required for any grading within the
floodplain of the site.
4. Engineering review of planning and/or zoning cases are for conceptual design
only. All development and engineering design shall be in conformance with Section
905 of the Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance; Drainage Policies and Standards;
Floodplain Regulations for Maricopa County; MCDOT Roadway Design Manual;
and current engineering policies, standards and best practices at the time of
application for construction.
5. Based on the conceptual design nature of the information submitted, changes to
the site layout may be necessitated by the final engineering design of the site’s
drainage infrastructure.
6. Maricopa County does not provide water, sewer, fire or emergency services. It’s
the responsibility of the applicant/property owner to coordinate and secure water,
fire, and sewer services for this site.
7. Sealed final Grading and Drainage (site infrastructure) Plans with sealed final
Drainage Report must be submitted with application for any building permits for
this site.
n. The following Maricopa County Environmental Services Department (MCESD) the
following condition shall apply:
1. The use of portable restrooms is allowed due to the remote nature of the site and
intermittent use of the site subject to the following:
a. The portable restrooms shall be brought in, and removed from, the site for
each training event.
b. Each training event must not exceed more than 19 individuals at any one
time.
c. Training events must not exceed more than 70 days per year.
d. If at any time these conditions cannot be met, or the use of the property
changes, then permanent restrooms with plumbing fixtures and septic
system to treat wastewater must be obtained.
o. Noncompliance with any of the conditions assigned to the approval of this Special Use
Permit by the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors may be grounds for revocation in
accordance with the requirements and procedures as set forth in the Maricopa County
Zoning Ordinance.
October 21, 2026
SU250043
Page 3 of 4

p. The granting of this change in use of the property has been at the request of the applicant,
with the consent of the landowner. The granting of this approval allows the property to
enjoy uses in excess of those permitted by the zoning existing on the date of application,
subject to conditions. In the event of the failure to comply with any condition, and at the
time of expiration of the Special Use Permit, the property may be considered for revocation
to the zoning that existed on the date of application. It is, therefore, stipulated and agreed
that either revocation due to the failure to comply with any conditions, or the expiration of
the Special Use Permit, does not reduce any rights that existed on the date of application
to use, divide, sell or possess the property and that there would be no diminution in value
of the property from the value it held on the date of application due to such revocation or
expiration of the Special Use Permit. The Special Use Permit enhances the value of the
property above its value as of the date the Special Use Permit is granted and reverting to
the prior zoning results in the same value of the property as if the Special Use Permit had
never been granted.
Presented by: Martin Martell, Planner
Reviewed by: Darren Gérard, AICP, Planning Manager
Attachment: 9/10/26 P&Z Packet (42 pages)
Note: 9/10/26 Draft P&Z Minutes are not available as of the writing of this report, but can be
provided upon request later, or accessed via Agenda Center, when available.
October 21, 2026
SU250043
Page 4 of 4

Report to the Planning and Zoning Commission
Prepared by the Maricopa County Planning and Development Department
Case: SU250043 – Shadow Country Police Shooting Range
Hearing Date: September 10, 2026
Supervisor District: 5
Applicant: Sara GilBride, Prefling Engineering
Owner: Shadow Country, LLC
Request: Special Use Permit (SUP) for a shooting range in the Rural-190 zoning
district
Site Location: Generally located 1¼ miles southeast of the southeast corner of Vekol
Valley Rd. and I-8 Frwy. in the Vekol Valley area
Site Size: Approx. 40 gross acres
Density: N/A
County Island: No
County Plan: Rural Density Area (RDA) (0-1 d.u./ac) – Rural Influence Area
Municipal Plan: N/A
Municipal Comments: None received to date
Support/Opposition: None known
Recommendation: Approve with conditions
SU250043
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Project Summary:
1. The applicant on behalf of the property owner is requesting a Special Use Permit (SUP) for an
open-air police sniper training shooting range on a 40-acre parcel that will be used exclusively for
law enforcement training and not open to the public. The future facility will serve as a controlled
firing range designed for precision fire training that will include both basic and advanced SWAT
certifications. According to the applicant, the intent of the facility is to meet a demonstrated
regional need for standardized, high quality sniper training available to law enforcement agencies
and opportunities that are rare for SWAT sniper training in Arizona.
2. On February 20, 2025, Code Enforcement verified that development on the site had occurred
without entitlement or permits with a new driveway, fencing, and placement of a shipping
container on the site (V2500195). On July 31, 2025, an executed compliance agreement with the
property owner and the County with a critical deadline for completion of entitlement and
construction permits on June 1, 2026. However, since the property owner is nearing completion
of entitlement to address the code violation the critical deadline has been extended
administratively to February 22, 2027.
3. Training sessions will include an average of eight to ten participants per course that will never
exceed 19 individuals on site at any one time to maintain safety. The facility is planning to host
70 training sessions per year. Operating hours will be between six in the morning and midnight
weekly. No munitions or firearms will be stored on site. All staff and instructors are CPR and
emergency medically trained. All participants will receive a full safety briefing before their course
begins in an initial assembly area. This facility will utilize a uniquely existing horseshoe shaped
hill on this site for a bullet impact area in the south half of the property to contain all projectiles.
4. This site is ¾ mile east of Vekol Valley Rd. and one mile south of the I-8 Frwy. in the southeast
corner of western half of the County. Access to the site from Vekol Valley Rd. will be via a 50’
wide access easement to a 16’ wide gravel driveway to access the parking area. There will be ten
standard parking spaces in the parking area which will be surfaced with compact ABC materials
and one stabilized surfaced accessible parking space. From this accessible parking space there
will be an accessible stabilized path to the firing range area. The parking area is adjacent to a part
of the site that will be used as the initial assembly area used before each training session. The
assembly area will be surrounded by a six-foot tall cattle fence that will contain portable
restrooms, canvas tent, storage shed, and one shipping container to store the tent and other
accessory items when not in use. Due to the existing location of this parcel, and in order to
preserve the natural drainage to the nearby Vekol Wash, the perimeter of the site will be fenced
with a 4’ cattle fence with two strands of razor wire.
SU250043
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Aerial photo of subject site
Aerial image & surrounding environs
SU250043
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Excerpts from the Site Plan
SU250043
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Initial Assembly and Parking Areas
Firing Range Area
SU250043
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Existing On-Site and Adjacent Zoning / Land Use:
5. On-site: Rural-190 / Natural desert
North: Rural-190 / Natural desert
South: Rural-190 / Natural desert
East: Rural-190/ Natural desert
West: Rural-190 / Natural desert
Zoning Map
Utilities, Services and Infrastructure
6. Water: Hauled
Wastewater: Brought in/brought out portable chemical restrooms
School District: None
Fire: Rural Metro
Police: MCSO
Electric: None
7. This site is in a very remote part of the County with the nearest Sherrif’s office, fire stations,
schools, and hospitals in Gila Bend 40 miles to the west or in Casa Grande 30 miles east of the
site. Additionally, there are no electric service providers or utility lines anywhere near this site. On
SU250043
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March 12, 2026, the County Environmental Services Department allowed for the use of portable
toilet chemical restrooms on the site with conditions in lieu of a septic system since the training
events will involve small groups of people intermittently throughout the year. Any potable water
will be hauled to the site for training events.
8. The following table includes existing and proposed half-width right-of-way and the future
classification based upon the Maricopa County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) Major
Streets and Routes Plan. On June 4, 2026, MCDOT determined based on drainage and geographic
constraints that the north section line half-width right-of-way along the north property line and the
mid-section line half-width right-of-way along the east property line is reduced to zero feet.
Street Name Half-width Half-width Future Classification
Existing R/W Proposed R/W
E/W Section Line 0’ 0’ Arterial Alignment
N/S Mid-Section Line 0’ 0’ Collector Alignment
E/W Mid-Section Line 40’ Reserved 40’ Reserved Collector Alignment
Adopted Plan:
9. Maricopa County Framework 2040 (adopted 5/20/26): This plan designates the site as Rural
Densities Area (RDA) with densities of one dwelling per acre or less due to the lack of urban
services available to this site. Additionally, the plan identifies this site within the Rural Influence
Area since there are no urban services in the area.
Public Participation Summary:
10. The applicant has complied with the requirements stated in Maricopa County’s citizen review
process with the required posting of the site and notification to adjacent property owners within
300’ of the subject parcel and interested parties via first-class mail. The applicant has submitted
a Public Participation Results Report. According to this report the applicant received no concerns
from the public concerning this request. Prior to writing this report staff received six letters of
support from various law enforcement agencies, Bureau of Land Management, and US Border
Patrol. The letters mentioned how valuable this type of training is for law enforcement training
and public safety. Additionally, staff received a letter from a neighboring property owner warning
the property owner of this facility that they often fire guns in the direction of their site, but this
was not opposition or support of this request.
Outstanding Concerns from Reviewing Agencies:
11. Maricopa County Environmental Services (MCESD) had concerns about a facility without a water
system, septic system, or permanent restrooms. After negotiations with MCESD and the property
owner it was determined if events limit the number of people on site at any one time to 19 and
restrict this use to no more than 70 days per year the use of hauled in/hauled out portable
restrooms are acceptable. Additionally, since this facility will be used so infrequently that hauled
potable water during an event is acceptable.
Staff Analysis:
12. The site is in an isolated part of the County with the nearest resident over 3½ miles to the
northwest. Surrounding the site is undeveloped natural desert. There are open public lands to the
east of this site where hunting with firearms is an allowed use making the intermittent use of the
SU250043
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site as sniper range for law enforcement hardly noticeable. During the review period staff received
numerous support letters from law enforcement agencies expressing a view that these types of
facilities are rare and offer enhanced training opportunities for law enforcement. The temporary
nature of development on this site with a tent, shipping container, shed, and fencing will create
limited impact to this site. Due to this aspect staff would support the use with the condition of a
30-year time limit on this SUP. Because the site has no potable water well and no septic system,
staff support limiting the use to no more than 19 people on the site at any one time and to no
more than 70 training events per year. Another condition would prohibit the storage of munitions
and firearms on this site. Still another MCESD condition to haul-in/haul-out portable restrooms
and requiring permanent restrooms with septic system if uses change is reasonable. Finally, a
condition that excludes ammunition, rounds, or casings generated by the shooting activities
within the confines of the property would lessen even more of an impact to the surrounding
properties. With these conditions in place the facility is reasonable and compatible with the
surrounding area.
Recommendation:
13. Staff recommends the Commission adopt a motion recommending that the Board of Supervisors
approve SU250043 subject to the following conditions ‘a’ – ‘p’:
a. Development of the site shall be in substantial conformance with the Site Plan entitled
“Shooting Range“, consisting of two full-size sheets, dated July 20, 2026, and stamped
received July 20, 2026, except as modified by the following conditions. Staff may
determine slight refinements to remain in substantial conformance with the approved site
plan. Minor and major amendments to the site plan will be determined in accordance with
Chapter 3 of the Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance.
b. Development of the site shall be in substantial conformance with the Narrative Report
entitled “Shadow County Police Sniper Range”, consisting of seven pages, dated July 20,
2026, and stamped received July 20, 2026, except as modified by the following conditions.
c. This facility shall not be for public use. Any other uses of the site shall require a major
Special Use Permit amendment that must be approved by the Board of Supervisors.
d. All training sessions on this site shall not exceed 19 individuals and shall not exceed 70
training session days per year.
e. Operating hours shall be limited to 6:00 am to midnight.
f. Any outdoor lighting, excluding flashlights, shall be shielded so that the light is directed
downward below the horizontal plane of the fixture and light shall not trespass onto
adjacent properties.
g. There shall be no munitions and/or firearms stored on site.
h. The assembly area and firing line areas of the site shall not be visually screened.
SU250043
Page 8 of 10

i. The parking area shall be surfaced with compact ABC materials, except for any accessible
parking spaces.
j. This Special Use Permit shall be valid for 30 years and shall expire on October 21, 2056,
or upon termination of the use for a period of 90 days or more, whichever occurs first. All
site improvements associated with this Special Use Permit must be removed within 90
days of such expiration or termination of use.
k. All firearms shooting shall be conducted within the designated firing line area, and the
shooting of firearms shall be fired toward the berm in the south portion of the designated
firing line area as illustrated on the site plan.
l. No ammunition, rounds, casings, or debris of any kind generated by the shooting activities
shall exit any property boundaries.
m. The following Planning Engineering conditions shall apply:
1. Site access easements must be dedicated and recorded prior to building permit
issuance.
2. The property owner is responsible for the maintenance of the berm located in the
south part of the firing line area since this berm exceeds the County’s cut/fill
standards. Safety of the shooting berm’s condition and vicinity shall be the
responsibility of the property owner, which includes insurances that any errant
bullets shall not leave the site. Berm height and compaction must facilitate the
safety of the patrons of this facility.
3. Building permit and flood use permit must be required for any grading within the
floodplain of the site.
4. Engineering review of planning and/or zoning cases are for conceptual design
only. All development and engineering design shall be in conformance with Section
905 of the Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance; Drainage Policies and Standards;
Floodplain Regulations for Maricopa County; MCDOT Roadway Design Manual;
and current engineering policies, standards and best practices at the time of
application for construction.
5. Based on the conceptual design nature of the information submitted, changes to
the site layout may be necessitated by the final engineering design of the site’s
drainage infrastructure.
6. Maricopa County does not provide water, sewer, fire or emergency services. It’s
the responsibility of the applicant/property owner to coordinate and secure water,
fire, and sewer services for this site.
7. Sealed final Grading and Drainage (site infrastructure) Plans with sealed final
Drainage Report must be submitted with application for any building permits for
this site.
n. The following Maricopa County Environmental Services Department (MCESD) the
following condition shall apply:
SU250043
Page 9 of 10

1. The use of portable restrooms is allowed due to the remote nature of the site and
intermittent use of the site subject to the following:
a. The portable restrooms shall be brought in, and removed from, the site for
each training event.
b. Each training event must not exceed more than 19 individuals at any one
time.
c. Training events must not exceed more than 70 days per year.
d. If at any time these conditions cannot be met, or the use of the property
changes, then permanent restrooms with plumbing fixtures and septic
system to treat wastewater must be obtained.
o. Noncompliance with any of the conditions assigned to the approval of this Special Use
Permit by the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors may be grounds for revocation in
accordance with the requirements and procedures as set forth in the Maricopa County
Zoning Ordinance.
p. The granting of this change in use of the property has been at the request of the applicant,
with the consent of the landowner. The granting of this approval allows the property to
enjoy uses in excess of those permitted by the zoning existing on the date of application,
subject to conditions. In the event of the failure to comply with any condition, and at the
time of expiration of the Special Use Permit, the property may be considered for revocation
to the zoning that existed on the date of application. It is, therefore, stipulated and agreed
that either revocation due to the failure to comply with any conditions, or the expiration of
the Special Use Permit, does not reduce any rights that existed on the date of application
to use, divide, sell or possess the property and that there would be no diminution in value
of the property from the value it held on the date of application due to such revocation or
expiration of the Special Use Permit. The Special Use Permit enhances the value of the
property above its value as of the date the Special Use Permit is granted and reverting to
the prior zoning results in the same value of the property as if the Special Use Permit had
never been granted.
Presented by: Martin Martell, Planner
Reviewed by: Rachel Applegate, Planning Supervisor
Attachments: Case Map (1 page)
Site Plan (reduced 8.5”x11”, 2 pages)
Narrative Report (7 pages)
MCDOT comments (1 page)
MCESD comments (1 page)
DPR comments (2 pages)
Recorded Access Easement (5 pages)
Reserved Right-of-Way Reduction Waiver (1 page)
Approved TIS Waiver (1 page)
MCESD Allowance for Vault Toilets (1 page)
Administrative Compliance Agreement Extension (1 page)
LAFB Comments (2 pages)
Support Letters (6 pages)
Neighboring Property Owner’s Request (1)
SU250043
Page 10 of 10

Application Name: Shadow Country Police Sniper Range
Legal Description
7S-1E-15
Applicant Applicant Phone/Email
6028033778
Sara GilBride
SU250043
Case Address Parcel Primary:300-34-018G
67605 S VEKOL VALLEY RD GILA BEND, AZ 85337
GILA BEND, AZ 85337
Generated August 12, 2026 10:12 AM Gross Acres: 40 approx. Map scale 1:6,489
Supervisor District No. 5
Requesting a SUP for an open air police sniper range, not open to the public
/
Maricopa County Planning & Development - Phoenix, AZ

MARICOPA COUNTY P&D COMMERCIAL OVERALL SITE PLAN INTERSTATE
GENERAL NOTES & CONDITIONS: 8
FOR FACILITY
’ SNIPER RANGE - SU250043 EAST, MERIDIAN,
’ 15, 1 ARIZONA.
ROAD RANGE
A PORTION OF THE NORTHWEST QUARTER OF SECTION 15, RANGE
SECTION RIVER
TOWNSHIP 7 SOUTH, RANGE 1 EAST, OF THE GILA AND SALT VALLEY
RIVER BASE & MERIDIAN, MARICOPA COUNTY, ARIZONA TRAINING OF SOUTH, SALT COUNTY,
VINICITY MAP VEKOL
NOT A PART PORTION 7 AND
USA BUREAU OF VACANT LAND MANAGEMENT 15 SNIPER GILA MARICOPA
A TOWNSHIP
OWNER/DEVELOPER THE
OF
PRIVATE
NOT A PART
APN: 300-34-018Z ENGINEER
ZONING: RU-43
USE: VACANT
OWNER: NATHAN KEITH HAHN/
KALLIE MARIE HAHN
SITE DATA
4435 E. Chandler Blvd
Suite 200
Phoenix, AZ 85048
480-625-9795
DECLARATION OF RESPONSIBLE CHARGE NOT A PART PREFLING Engineering
APN: 300-34-022
ZONING: RU-43
USE: VACANT
OWNER: SMITH GARY
JR/MARK/STEVEN/SUZANNE ETAL
ROAD
GENERAL NOTES PLAN
VALLEY
SHEET
VEKOL SITE
PROPOSED LOT COVERAGE
NOT A PART
USE: VACANT
OWNER: BLM
NOTES TO THE CONTRACTOR COVER
OVERALL
NOT A PART
APN: 300-34-018W SITE PLAN NOTES
ZONING: RU-43 Version
USE: VACANT
OWNER: CARBONARA MICHAEL D
1 2 3
MJP MJP
by: MJP 07/20/2026
by:
by:
LEGAL DESCRIPTION PROJECT NARRATIVE Designed Drawn Checked
Date:
INDEX OF SHEETS
SEAL
BASIS OF BEARING BENCHMARK NOT A PART
APN: 300-34-018F
ZONING: RU-43
USE: VACANT
OWNER: TRADE INVESTMENTS LLC UTILITY COMMITMENT TABLE
EXPIRES: 9/30/28
JOB NUMBER
FLOOD INSURANCE RATE MAP INFORMATION 100
SHEET
NOT A PART
USA BUREAU OF VACANT LAND MANAGEMENT 1 OF 2
RECEIVED 20. JUL 26 - SU250043 - 3. SUBMITTAL

FACILITY
EAST, MERIDIAN,
15, 1 ARIZONA.
GRAVEL ROAD RANGE RANGE
SECTION RIVER
TRAINING OF SOUTH, SALT COUNTY,
PORTION 7 AND
SNIPER MARICOPA
GILA
A TOWNSHIP
THE
BASIN A PARKING OF
VP = 4,010 CF AREA PRIVATE
VR=3,685 CF EDGE OF FIRING LINE
HWE=1769.0
BTM=1768.0
4435 E. Chandler Blvd
Suite 200
Phoenix, AZ 85048
480-625-9795
PREFLING Engineering
NOT A PART
USE: VACANT
OWNER: BLM
DETAILS
PLAN
SITE
LINE Version
LINE
FIRING 1 2 3
FIRING
OF OF
MJP MJP
EDGE EDGE by: MJP 07/20/2026
by:
by:
Designed Drawn Checked
Date:
FACILITIES BLOW-UP PARKING CALCULATION SEAL
EDGE OF FIRING LINE
EXPIRES: 9/30/28
FIRE LINE BLOW-UP JOB NUMBER
100
SHEET
2 OF 2

Project Narrative
Case #: SU250043
Revised: July 20, 2026
Shadow Country Police Sniper Range – APN 300-34-018G
Prepared for
Maricopa County Planning
Prepared by
4435 E. Chandler Blvd, Suite 200
Phoenix, AZ 85048
RECEIVED 20. JUL 26 - SU250043 - 3. SUBMITTAL

Sniper Range Narrative, APN: 300-34-018G
Table Contents
Introduction and Background .................................................................................................................. 3
Purpose of Request ................................................................................................................................... 4
Description of Proposal ............................................................................................................................ 4
Relationship to Surrounding Properties ................................................................................................. 5
Surrounding Properties ............................................................................................................................. 5
Benefit to community/area ...................................................................................................................... 6
Circulation System ..................................................................................................................................... 6
Development Schedule ............................................................................................................................. 6
Community Facilities and Services .......................................................................................................... 7
Public Utilities and Services ...................................................................................................................... 7
Appendix A: Law Enforcement Impact Statements .............................. Error! Bookmark not defined.
2

Sniper Range Narrative, APN: 300-34-018G
Introduction and Background
Applicant Introduction – Prefling Engineering is serving as the civil engineering representative
for the sniper range project, assisting in developing the site into a controlled, open-air law
enforcement training facility. As a licensed civil engineering firm based in Phoenix, Prefling
Engineering will prepare the documents necessary for the Special Use Permit, the Plan of
Development submittal, followed by complete construction-ready plans and permit
documentation required for final approval.
Owner and Chief Instructor, Nathan Hahn – Nathan’s professional foundation began in the
United States Marine Corps, where he served as a Scout/Sniper Team Leader and completed
two combat deployments—first to Iraq in 2006, and later to Afghanistan in 2011. Additional
Marine Corps roles included 0311 Infantryman and Rifle Range Instructor. He achieved the
rank of Staff Sergeant and was honorably discharged following the completion of his service.
As a result of combat exposure during his deployments, he is recognized as a disabled
veteran.
Nathan has accumulated more than five years of experience as a SWAT sniper instructor, a
qualification that continues to expand. His instruction career began at GPS Defense Sniper
School in Peoria, where he served as an instructor for two years, training SWAT snipers from
across the country along with military units and other government agencies. His work there
included the instruction of Navy SEAL personnel attending preparatory training prior to
entering their formal sniper course. GPS Defense Sniper School operated as a respected
training program until the passing of its owner, at which time the company was absorbed by
another organization.
Following his tenure with GPS, Nathan transitioned into the fire service and is now a Captain–
Paramedic with the Gilbert Fire Department, where he has served for 12 years. In addition to
his primary assignment as a firefighter, he acts as a SWAT medic for the agency’s tactical
team. Approximately three years ago, he was approached by the Gilbert Police Department’s
sniper unit and asked to develop and lead a regional police sniper basic training program. He
completed his third formal class in November 2025 at the Gila River Police training facility,
instructing 19 students from 11 agencies due to the high regional demand for qualified SWAT
snipers. Instruction in precision-fire operations continues to be a professional focus, driven by
his belief in the critical role sniper capability plays in public safety and tactical response.
Nathan has completed two formal police sniper instructor certification courses and has
attended multiple advanced SWAT sniper programs across various states. These continued
educational efforts ensure that his instructional material remains current, technically accurate,
and reflective of evolving operational standards, allowing him to deliver consistent, high-
quality training outcomes.
3

Sniper Range Narrative, APN: 300-34-018G
Purpose of Request
The purpose of this request is to obtain approval from Maricopa County for the development
of an open-air police sniper training range on the 40-acre parcel (300-34-018G), which will be
used exclusively for law enforcement training and not open to the public. The proposed
development will serve as a controlled outdoor firing range designed specifically for precision-
fire training, including the delivery of basic and advanced SWAT sniper certifications. Planned
improvements include designated on-site parking, secure storage and equipment staging
areas.
The intent of the facility is to meet a demonstrated regional need for standardized, high-
quality sniper training available to law enforcement agencies and qualified government
entities. Currently, training opportunities for SWAT snipers are limited, resulting in
inconsistent access to certification and ongoing professional development. This range will
provide structured curriculum-based instruction for SWAT snipers, offering both initial training
and continuing education to ensure officers are properly prepared for precision-based
operations. Local law enforcement impact statements have been attached to this narrative
(Appendix A), emphasizing their excitement for its completion. The facility will operate as a
private, non-public training site; it is not an open shooting range and will not be accessible to
the general public. Training sessions will remain deliberately small, with an average of 8–10
participants per course and not to exceed 19 individuals on-site to maintain strict safety
oversight and instructional quality.
This request includes the information necessary to demonstrate compliance with applicable
Maricopa County zoning, development, and land-use requirements. Approval will allow the
applicant to proceed with site development plans, ensuring that operational function, safety
protocols, and facility construction meet County standards and support the long-term
professional training needs of regional law enforcement agencies.
Description of Proposal
Number of Customers per session and per year – A typical training session will consist of
approximately 8-10 individuals and will never exceed 19 individuals on site on the range at any
given time. This site is estimated to host 70 private training sessions per year.
Operating Hours – The site is not open to the public and will be utilized for private training
sessions throughout the year. When in use, the operating hours could be anytime between 6
AM and midnight, seven days a week. As needed, temporary lighting will be provided on site
for training in the form of handheld flashlights.
Site Specifics – The sniper range will provide advanced precision rifle training specifically for
SWAT-level law enforcement personnel and other authorized government agencies. The
purpose of the facility is to increase operational competency, precision, and readiness through
4

Sniper Range Narrative, APN: 300-34-018G
structured instruction and qualification-based training. The range will not serve the general
public and will operate exclusively for approved agencies and personnel. No munitions or
firearms will be stored on site.
Following its evaluation of the subject property, MCDOT issued a determination on June 4,
2026, that no future roadway right-of-way dedication is required along the northern, eastern,
or southern property boundaries due to drainage and geographic constraints. MCDOT
recommended a 0-foot future right-of-way reservation along all three alignments, eliminating
the need for future roadway dedication in these locations. Access, drainage, utility, and
easement requirements remain applicable to the property.
Emergency Action Plan and Safety – All staff and instructors are CPR and emergency medical
trained. All trainees will participate in a full safety briefing before entering the range or
handling any firearms. The range master will also have cellphone contact with 911 to
rendezvous with emergency services.
Screening – The bullet impact area is located on the southern portion of the range where an
existing horseshoe-shaped hill naturally contains and safely confines all projectiles. A 4’ high 2-
strand barbed wire fence will be installed around the range portion of the property.
Relationship to Surrounding Properties
The subject property is identified as Maricopa County Parcel 300-34-018G, comprising
approximately 40 acres of undeveloped desert land within a rural area of southern Maricopa
County. The site lies east of Vekol Valley Road and approximately 1 mile south of Interstate-8,
with surrounding land characterized primarily by large open tracts, low-density rural land use,
and limited built infrastructure. The area is remote, with no existing residential subdivisions or
commercial facilities immediately adjacent to the parcel. Its size and seclusion make it an
appropriate location for controlled precision-fire training while minimizing potential
disturbance to nearby properties.
Due to its open desert context, no population density, and distance from urbanized areas, the
site is well-suited for a specialized law-enforcement training facility requiring controlled noise
tolerance, clear ballistic safety zones, and large uninterrupted sightlines. The planned
improvements will establish clearly defined access, controlled vehicle routing, and secure
operational boundaries while preserving the natural characteristics of the surrounding
landscape.
Surrounding Properties – The immediate area is dominated by large, undeveloped rural
parcels inside the floodplain of the Vekol Wash. There is no surrounding infrastructure and
nothing in the area except an abandoned ranch a few miles away.
5

Sniper Range Narrative, APN: 300-34-018G
Benefit to community/area – The project site and the surrounding lands consist primarily of
open, undeveloped desert with no residences, businesses, or active development occurring
for several miles in all directions. This isolated setting makes the location ideal for a controlled
training environment where sound, activity, and operational exercises will not interfere with
neighboring uses. The proposed sniper range will support the wider public interest by
providing a dedicated facility for law enforcement agencies from across Arizona to receive
advanced sniper and firearms training. By improving the preparedness, accuracy, and tactical
skill of officers, the facility will contribute to safer law enforcement responses, reduced risk
during high-threat incidents, and an overall enhancement to public safety throughout the
region. Law enforcement positive impact statements regarding this project have been
submitted to the county and are attached to this narrative (Appendix A).
Circulation System
Primary access to the site is achieved from Vekol Valley Road. The proposed plan includes
using an existing driveway entrance and constructing a designated parking area to ensure safe
ingress and egress for training participants and support personnel. Internal circulation will be
organized to accommodate emergency access, equipment transport, and controlled trainee
movement between staging, range, and instructional areas.
The proposed circulation system is intentionally simple and controlled to support safety and
operational efficiency during training activities. All vehicular access will occur through a single
designated driveway connection from Vekol Valley Road, leading directly into a defined
parking area at the entry of the site. One ADA-accessible parking stall will be provided at the
site. The stall will consist of a stabilized surface meeting the requirements of 2010 ADA
Section 502.4.
No vehicular traffic will occur beyond the parking area, ensuring that all movement within the
operational areas of the property is restricted to personnel on foot. This eliminates internal
traffic conflicts, reduces dust and disturbance to training zones, and maintains a secure,
distraction-free environment. From the parking area, instructors and trainees will access the
staging area, firing lines, and instructional spaces on foot. An accessible travel path will
connect the ADA stall to the northern firing line.
Emergency vehicles will be able to enter the site via the driveway and use the parking area for
staging, operations, or turnaround. The circulation approach prioritizes safety and separation
between vehicles and active training areas to support controlled precision-fire instruction.
Development Schedule
Development of the proposed sniper training facility is expected to occur in a single,
coordinated construction phase following approval of all permits and entitlements. Initial site
work will include ground preparation for the parking area and the establishment of basic
6

Sniper Range Narrative, APN: 300-34-018G
access infrastructure. Once parking improvements are complete, installation of storage
facilities, staging areas, and restroom accommodations will follow.
It is anticipated that site development, including construction improvements and safety
verification, can be completed within a defined window following county approval.
Operational readiness is expected shortly thereafter, pending completion of facility
inspections and compliance checks. The project is intended to be fully constructed and
functioning in a single build-out, with no phased expansion proposed. This schedule allows for
timely development while ensuring each step is completed in a manner that meets regulatory,
safety, and training standards.
Community Facilities and Services
Schools: There are no schools within 10 miles of the site.
Parks: There are no parks within 10 miles of the site.
Amenities: There are no amenities within 10 miles of the site.
Public Utilities and Services
The site is in a remote desert area with no existing public utilities or service connections. On
3/12/2026, the Maricopa County Environmental Services Department approved the use of
portable chemical toilets on the property. Because training events will involve small groups, no
more than 19 participants, and will occur intermittently throughout the year, there is no
requirement for a septic system or permanent restroom facilities. Drinking water will be
brought to the site for all training events to ensure that participants and instructors have
adequate hydration and access to clean water during instructional activities.
7

MCDOT Planning TAC Comments
Date: January 20, 2026
TAC Assigned Number: SU250043
APN: 300-34-018G
Description of Request: Special Use Permit for outdoor shooting range in the rural-190 zoning
district
Project Name: Shadow Country Police Sniper Range
Reviewer Contact Information
For any questions related to the comments herein please contact MCDOTPlanning@maricopa.gov
or 602-506-4619.
1st Submittal Comments
• The perimeter mid-section and section line alignments of the proposed
development requires the setback line to start from a future half street Right-of-Way of 65-
feet and 40-feet, respectively, per the Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance Section 805.
Engineering Division P: 602.506.4889
2901 W. Durango Street F: 602.506.5969
Phoenix, Arizona 85009

Water and Waste Management Division
Subdivision
Infrastructure
& Planning Program Project Name: Shadow Country Police Primary Contact Name: Sara Gilbride
301 W. Jefferson St. Sniper Range
Phoenix, AZ 85003
Planning Application Type: Special Use APN(s): 300-34-018G
S u b d i vi s io n @ m a ri co p a .go v Permit
e s d .m a r i c o pa .g o v
Reviewer: Elliott Wheaton, P.E. Planner Name: Martin Martell
Email: Elliott.Wheaton@maricopa.gov Planning Case #: SU250043
Phone: 602-376-6035 Date: January 16, 2026
The Maricopa County Environmental Services Department (MCESD) has completed review
for the Shadow Country Police Sniper Range planning case(s). Please note the following
MCESD requirements for site development:
Onsite Wastewater (Septic) –
A Notice of Intent to Discharge application for a septic system is required for any
construction. Application must be submitted to the MCESD Onsite Wastewater Program.
• Wastewater is not permitted to discharge to an adjacent parcel’s septic system.
• If conducting food service in unincorporated Maricopa, a grease trap will be
required by Onsite Wastewater program.
• Setback requirements must be maintained per Arizona Administrative Code, Title
18, Chapter 9, Article 312, C (Features Requiring Setbacks).
Underground Storage Vaults may be installed only under the conditions outlined in
Maricopa County Environmental Health Code, Chapter II, Section 6.
For Onsite Wastewater related questions, please contact the Onsite Program at (602) 506-
6666 or by email at septicquestions@maricopa.gov.
Additional Notes –
*It should be noted that this document does not approve the referenced project. Comments are provided
for the benefit of the applicant for MCESD permit requirements and as an advisory to Maricopa County
Planning and Development Department. Other Maricopa County agencies may have additional
requirements. Final review and approval will be made through Planning and Development Department
procedures. Applicant may need to submit separate applications to the Maricopa County Environmental
Services Department for approval of proposed facilities regulated by the Department. Review of any such
application will be based on current regulations at the time of application.
Page | 1

Planning & Development
Engineering Plan Review
Date: July 20, 2026
Anh Harambasic, PE
Planning & Development Memo To: Darren Gerard, AICP, Planning Manager, Department of Planning &
301 W. Jefferson St., Suite 170 Development
Phoenix, Arizona 85003
Phone: (602) 506-3611
www.maricopa.gov/planning Attn: Martin Martell, Planner, Planning & Development Services
email address:
Anh.Harambasic@maricopa.gov
via: Doug Jones P.E., Engineering Supervisor, Planning and Development
From: Anh Harambasic P.E., Plans Examiner Engineer, Planning &
Development
Subject: SU250043
APN(s): 300-34-018G//67605 S Vekol Valley Rd Gila Bend
Description- application is for a special use with a plan of development permit for the
sniper range
Engineering has reviewed the 3rd site plan routed for review, for the subject application
on 7.20.2026 and has the following comments.
DRAINAGE CONDITIONS
1. Site access easements must be dedicated prior to building permit issuance.
2. Owner is responsible for the maintenance of the berm which exceeds County
cut/fill standards. Safety of the shooting berm condition and berm vicinity shall
be the full responsibility of the owner to maintain and to ensure errant bullets
do not leave site. Berm height and compaction must facilitates the safety of
the patrons.
3. Building permits and flood use permits are required for any grading in the
floodplain.
General conditions
4. Engineering review of planning and/or zoning cases is for conceptual design
only. All development and engineering design shall be in conformance with
Section 1205 of the Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance; Drainage Policies and
Standards; Floodplain Regulations for Maricopa County; MCDOT Roadway
Design Manual; and current engineering policies, standards and best practices
at the time of application for construction.
5. Based on the conceptual design nature of the information submitted, changes
to the site layout may be necessitated by the final engineering design of the
site’s drainage infrastructure.

Page 2 of 2
1. Maricopa County does not supply water, fire, emergency or sewer services.
It is the applicant/owner’s responsibility to coordinate and secure water, fire
and sewer services for this site.
2. Sealed final Grading and Drainage (Site Infrastructure) Plans and Sealed Final
drainage report must be submitted with the application for Building Permits
Please contact me with any questions.






June 4, 2026
Nathan Hahn
Sara GilBride
4435 East Chandler Boulevard Suite 200
Phoenix, Arizona 85048
Delivered via email: sara@preflingeng.com
Re: Recommendation of Future MCDOT Right-of-Way – APN 300-34-018G – Revised to include updated
request by applicant on 6/3/2026
Dear Applicant:
Maricopa County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) has previously issued a letter on May 26, 2026
for the applicant’s original request on January 21, 2026 to waive the northern section line requirement of
65-feet to be preserved for the future right of way as required by Section 805 of the Maricopa County
Zoning Ordinance.
Based on drainage and geographic constraints, it is recommended that the requirement for future
half street right-of-way for the northern section line be 0-feet.
The Applicant requested on June 3, 2026, for MCDOT to include the eastern and southern mid-
section lines (requires 40-feet to be preserved for the future right of way as required by Section
805 of the Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance) in addition to the original application request. A
review of this additional request was held on June 4, 2026, to evaluate the eastern and southern
mid-section lines. Based on the drainage and geographic constraints , it is recommended that the
requirements for future half street right-of-way be measured as follows:
x 0-feet for the southern alignment.
x 0-feet for the eastern alignment.
This recommendation pertains only to future right-of-way needs for a public roadway on the
identified alignment and does not consider legal access requirements, easements, drainage,
utilities, etc. which still apply to the subject property.
If you have any questions on this recommendation, the MCDOT Systems Planning Branch can be
contacted at 602-506-7223 or MCDOTPlanning@maricopa.gov.
Sincerely,
(see next page)
Engineering Division P: 602.506.4889
2901 W. Durango Street F: 602.506.5969
Phoenix, Arizona 85009
RECEIVED 17. JUN 26 -- SU250043 -- 2. SUB

Traffic Engineering Review Comment Sheet
Project Name TIS Waiver |Sniper Range Discipline Traffic Study Waiver Request
Location APN 300-34-018-G Consultant mike@preflingeng.com
MCDOT File No. NA Plans Sealed By Not Applicable
Reviewer/Phone No. Laxmikanth Narwa, P.E./602.506.8677 Signature
Date
Consultant: Please use the code and respond to each comment in the Consultant Reply Column. This sheet is for our records, please answer every question and sign and date your acknowledgment or the plans will be sent back
to complete the process. Send back the marked-up plans and a new set of plans along with this sheet. Thank you for your cooperation.
Consultant Code: A=Will Comply B=Deleted C=Consultant to Evaluate
The developer is seeking for traffic study waiver for the property located at east of Vekol Valley Road south of Interstate I-8. The site is within unicorporated Maricopa
County with parcel number APN# 300-34-018-G. As per the applicant, the proposed project is the vacant lot to use it as a private rifle shooting range facility. The site and
General Project Summary: surroundings are undeveloped desert land. The applicant states that there are no businesses, residences, or developments within several square miles. No new access
points or modifications to the existing facilities surrounding the project site are requested. Based on the nature of the development and remote location of the site, it is
estimated that the proposed use would generate fewer than 100 peak hour trips
Int. Review No. Date Item No. Page No. Review Comment Code Consultant Comment
The below comments are limited to traffic study impacts for the proposed development based
on the land use described in the Project Summary of this comment review sheet. Any additions
to the subject parcel that will meet MCDOT criteria for a Traffic Statement (TS) or Traffic
Impact Study (TIS), will require the developer to submit a TS or TIS for review and approval by
LN 1 12/2/2025 1 General MCDOT.
As per the information provided by the applicant for the traffic study waiver request, MCDOT
anticipates no impacts on to the surrounding MCDOT roadway network as the site average trip
generation is estimated to be less than 100 trips during peak hours. Therefore, MCDOT has no
LN 1 12/2/2025 2 General traffic concerns on proposed usage of this property.
Approval of Traffic Study Waiver for this project site does not constitute approval of R/W
limits or dedication requirements, geometric layout of Site Plan details, and any other permit
LN 1 12/2/2025 3 General related requirements applicable for this development.
The Traffic Study Waiver Is Approved
Page 1 of 1

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<Patrick.Dongarra@maricopa.gov>; lmalloque@dot.state.az.us; swilken@azmag.gov;
kcotner@azmag.gov; redletter@azdot.gov; 56 FW/CIT Community Initiative
<56FW.CIT.CommunityInitiative@us.af.mil>; planningdivision@pinal.gov; Gerardo Ramirez
<gramirez@azdot.gov>; Tyler Williford <twilliford@azgfd.gov>; pe@azland.gov; Frank McWilliams
(MCSO) <frankmcwilliams@mcso.maricopa.gov>; pep@azfgd.gov; p_hilliker@mczo.maricopa.gov
Subject: [Non-DoD Source] RE: Maricopa County Technical Advisory Committee Meeting
Announcement
Good afternoon,
The Maricopa County Technical Advisory Committee will be holding a virtual meeting on
Tuesday, January 20th at 10.30 am (AZ time – MST).
The meeting will discuss the first technical review of SU250043 – Shadow Country Police
Sniper Range, a Special Use Permit for an outdoor shooting range in the Rural-190 zoning
district.
The 0.48 acre site is located one mile SE of the SEC of Velko Valley Road and Interstate
Highway 8 in the Velko Valley area.
Attached is a copy of the application, narrative, and site plan.
If you wish to attend please respond to this email and invitation will be sent your way.
Best regards,
Martin Martell
Planner
PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT
PLANNING
Office: 602-506-6533
Martin.Martell@maricopa.gov

United States Department of the Interior
BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT
Santa Fe Resident Ranger
Farmington District Office
301 Dinosaur Trail
Santa Fe, New Mexico 87508
To whom it may concern,
I have worked with Nate Hahn many times over the years and know him to be a professional,
responsible, respectful person in every way. His company, Shadow Country Sniper School is
located on property adjacent to land administered by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), in
an area known as Vekol Valley. Vekol Valley has historically been an area frequently used by
smugglers and other criminals to traffic drugs and other smuggling activities. I have worked
many law enforcement operations along the southern border and in Vekol Valley. Over the years
there have been hundreds of smugglers arrested and thousands of pounds of drugs seized in the
area. These unlawful activities create a dangerous environment for the public and result in
significant resource damage to public lands.
Allowing Shadow Country Sniper School to run law enforcement sniper training at their property
off Vekol Valley Road would be a benefit to the BLM because it would bring in increased traffic
of lawful users, many in marked law enforcement vehicles, to the area which would be a net
positive for law enforcement agencies working in the area. It would also result in an increase of
the number of law enforcement officers and other responsible shooters who have an awareness of
the issues and challenges in the area.
Please contact me with any questions on the matter.
Respectfully,
Steve Cunningham
Santa Fe Resident Ranger
Farmington District Office
505-614-4613

To Whom It May Concern,
I have had the privilege of working alongside Mr. Nathan Hahn throughout my law
enforcement career in Arizona. Mr. Hahn’s company, Shadow Country Sniper School,
is located in Vekol Valley, south of Interstate 8 (I-8), between Casa Grande and Gila
Bend. This area is notorious for active illicit narcotics and human smuggling
operations.
During my career, I have led high-risk multi-agency operations in Vekol Valley that
involved the apprehension of human smugglers, the seizure of firearms used in
criminal activities, and significant pounds of narcotics seized. Members of the law
enforcement community understand that this corridor poses substantial risks to
public safety, given the presence of armed cartel operatives within the desert.
Mr. Hahn’s company will ensure a consistent law enforcement presence who will
conduct law enforcement training, marked by high-visibility government vehicles,
which will be observed by smugglers monitoring the area. This increased presence
is essential for disrupting and dismantling illicit operations, ultimately creating a
safer environment for the public who visit or hunt in Vekol Valley throughout the
year.
Please feel free to reach out to me regarding this matter.
Thank you,
Jonathan Garcia
Supervisory Border Patrol Agent
U.S. Border Patrol Tactical Unit (BORTAC)
619-399-9295

March 8, 2026
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to formally request that Shadow Country conduct law enforcement sniper
training at their property located off Vekol Valley Rd. This training is critical for today’s
environment and is essential for maintaining the readiness of SWAT snipers in Maricopa
County and across the state of Arizona.
Shadow Country has already provided invaluable training to over 20 agencies within the
valley, significantly enhancing our collective operational capabilities. The depth of
knowledge and expertise offered by their team is vital for ensuring the safety of our citizens
and the public at large.
We greatly appreciate your consideration of this request and look forward to the possibility
of collaborating on this important training initiative.
Sincerely, Sgt. K. Peterson, SWAT Team Leader
Kyle.peterson@gilbertaz.gov
480-404-4411

MESA POLICE DEPARTMENT
To whom it may concern,
This letter is being written to emphasize the critical need for training venue
access for Police SWAT Sniper Teams in the Phoenix metropolitan areas and
surrounding state. As you may be aware, venues providing the capability to train
shooting safely from extended distances are limited for Phoenix metropolitan police
departments. Adding to the short list of venues would be critical not only for the Mesa
Police SWAT Sniper Team but also to the surrounding agencies. Our agency routinely
deploys in Sniper overwatch positions to provide a critical safety element to large
venues and events across the state. Allowing Shadow Country Training to run Law
Enforcement training at their property off Vekol Valley Rd would be critical to ongoing
readiness for Law Enforcement in the state of Arizona.
If there are any questions as to specific training needs/agendas for the Mesa
Police SWAT Sniper Team, Operators are readily available to speak on this matter.
Respectfully,
Mesa Police SWAT Sniper Team


TAOS COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
SHERIFF Steve Miera UNDERSHERIFF Gabe Ortiz
226 Cruz Alta Rd. TELEPHONE: (575)737-6480
TAOS, NM 87571 FAX: (575)751-3809
steve.miera@taoscountynm.gov gabe.ortiz@taoscountynm.gov
To Whom It May Concern:
I am writing on behalf of the Taos County Sheriff's Office to recognize the outstanding training provided by
Nate Hahn and Shadow Country Sniper School.
Two of my deputies attended the Basic Sniper Course instructed by Mr. Hahn, and the value they brought
back to this office was significant. The instruction was, without reservation, top-tier and professionally
delivered. The curriculum was demanding, well structured, and directly applicable to the real-world
responsibilities our personnel carry. Mr. Hahn demonstrated exceptional command of both the technical
and tactical fundamentals of precision marksmanship, and he maintained the highest standards of range
safety and professionalism throughout the course. Our deputies came away with measurably improved
capability and confidence in their craft. Training of this caliber is difficult to source, particularly for a rural
agency, and the foundation Mr. Hahn provided to our personnel has served this office well. He is a first-
rate instructor and a valuable asset to the profession.
We consider Shadow Country Sniper School a valued training partner, and we fully support its continued
operation. A dedicated, professionally operated precision rifle training facility of this kind is a genuine
asset to the law enforcement community, and we look forward to sending personnel to the Shadow
Country facility in Arizona for future training and sustainment.
I recommend Nate Hahn and Shadow Country Sniper School without hesitation. Please feel free to contact
me directly with any questions.
Respectfully,
Sheriff Steve Miera
Taos County Sheriff’s Office
Taos, NM, 87571
LIEUTENANT RICK ROMERO LIEUTENANT MARVIN ARMIJO
rick.romero@taoscountynm.gov marvin.armijo@taoscountynm.gov

Case Number & Project SU250043
Name
Comment I received a mailer informing me of a proposed police
shooting range (Shadow Country).
I own a 20 and a 10 acre lot that “t-bones” into your proposed
site (my parcel # is 300-34-018W). I am out on my property
regularly and shoot a variety of firearms including handguns,
rifles m, AKs and ARs.
This means that I will be shooting directly towards your
proposed site.
I am writing to inform you of this and to propose that you
build a berm between our properties in order to protect your
customers.
Thank you. Please contact me if you have any questions.
Name Michael D Carbonara
Address 16432 South 3rd Street
City Phoenix
State AZ
Zip Code 85048
Email Address mikedcarbonara@aol.com
Phone Number 3129253804