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Story and photos by Terry Duffy
Lewiston Police offered a brief look into the LPD shooting range Monday, where updates were discussed as well lessening the range's impact on neighbors.
"We're looking at ways to better secure the range," said LPD Chief Chris Salada, who along with Sgt. Frank Previte III, a certified range instructor, discussed the department's newest initiatives to address recent concerns by neighboring residents about the Harold Road facility.
Among the improvements:
Salada said the sessions would: ensure that agencies adhere to safety guidelines that are at least as stringent as those practiced by LPD; provide a framework for the agencies to enter and adhere to provisions of a liability contract now being developed by the town; maintain open communication with the agencies and LPD as to exactly what type of weapons and ammunition are being used at every qualification; and, ensure that participating agencies are insured to the standards that the town accepts.
Previte and Salada said that range improvements are moving ahead and LPD's new range standards and policies would be taking effect immediately. As reported last week, discussions are under way with the town and LPD on developing the Harold Road site for an enhanced fire/police training facility.
For now, LPD's focus remains on addressing range operations with respect to residents' concerns.
"We would like to resolve the range issues for the residents as soon as possible," said Salada. "The Lewiston Police Department would like to see the residents enjoying their properties again. Then we can get back to concentrating on our training, in order to better serve this community."