Plans for gun range next to elementary school stir controversy in Lyon Twp.

(WJBK) - The possibility of a gun range next to an elementary school has stirred controversy in Lyon Township.

"I definitely support it. I think it's a good idea. Especially with the way the community is growing here," said Joe Pytel.

Some of the locals say they've been asking for a gun range for a long time.

"I think it would fit in good because of the hunting and fishing and woods and everything that everyone's grew up around. It would be good. A lot of people would learn more about gun safety," said Ciarra Tytschkowski.

"Everybody worries about the school, but they also have to worry about, just people anywhere. They have this under control. They've spent a lot of time and money to research it," said Ken Davis.

But the issue is in the location for some, who believe an indoor gun range and recreational center should not be built next to Dolsen Elementary School, only about 750 feet from the playground. It was supposed to be built in Milford but plans fell through. Now the Huron Valley Guns shop, range and recreational center is looking to build a 39,500 square foot facility on 18 acres of property next to the school.

"It's just too close -- 750 feet away from innocent children when schools have become targets these days is not OK with me," said Andrea Serney.

These Concerned Dolsen elementary school parents have organized a group to speak out against the gun range at Monday's Board of Trustees meeting.

"Our main concern is the safety issues with the guns, the lead, a lot of gun ranges have a big issue with lead, and then the noise, and the archery that they're going to possible going to have outside, next to the playground where the kids are playing," Stacy Kempski said.

"If it could be put just somewhere else in the township ... just not so close to a school," Shanna Samples said.

FOX 2 has reached out for comment from the owner of this proposed gun range, but have not had a response. For anyone wanting to attend the meeting, it will be at the Lyon township offices tonight at 7 p.m.