THOMASVILLE — Thomas County commissioners agreed Tuesday night to ratify an intergovernmental agreement with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to establish a public shooting range.

Following a motion by Commissioner Elaine Mays, a second by Commissioner Merrill Baker and the absence of discussion, the vote was unanimous.

DNR will reimburse county government for up to $800,000 of approved construction costs with federal grant funds. Thomas County will contribute $600,000 in matching funds through direct funding and in-kind services, according to the agreement.

County government will provide land for the range off County Farm and Woodruff roads.

Construction is to begin within 180 days and be complete within 730 days of when the agreement is signed.

The agreement calls for authorized representatives appointed by DNR and the county to serve on a joint committee to make construction and long-term management recommendations regarding the range, including public access, fee structure and operating schedules.

County government must maintain insurance on the facility, which Thomas County will own and be responsible for operations and maintenance.

The agreement shows Thomas County also will pay range utilities and refuse-disposal costs.

The range must be kept open year-round, and county government is responsible for the facility’s police and fire protection.

The agreement is binding for 25 years.

Thomasville resident Sandi Shaw presented commissioners with a list of suggested people to serve on a committee to establish shooting range safety standards.

Shaw told commissioners she is not opposed to the range and is a supporter of the Second Amendment and the U.S. Constitution.

The facility also will provide archery opportunities.

“The standard of safety on an archery range requires an adult at the range at all times,” she said.

Commission Chairman Ken Hickey, noting signing of the agreement, said it is time to address Shaw’s concerns.

“It’s time to go through (it) now and take care of policies,” the chairman said.

Senior reporter Patti Dozier can be reached at (229) 226-2400, ext. 1820