Black powder shoots inside CF city limits?

Columbia Falls is considering a change to its laws that would allow black powder weapons to be fired inside city limits.

At its Feb. 17 meeting the City Council asked for a change in the law to create a special permitting process for holding events where such weapons might be used.

The Council did not formally vote on the change, but directed City Manager Bill Shaw to draft language modifying the law.

The changes will return to the Council for a public hearing and vote. The item is expected March 2.

A group is considering holding a rendezvous event at a city park. Typically those events include firing black powder weapons.

Shaw said the First Best Place Task Force is working with a group that is interested in holding its event in Columbia Falls, possibly at River’s Edge Park.

Currently city law prohibits using any weapon that fires a projectile within city limits. Such use can result in fines and jail time.

Part of the permitting process will likely require groups to have liability insurance for the events.

Shaw said the city could be open to liability if the event’s host does not insure the event.

“As part of the permit we would hold groups to have insurance,” he said. “I don’t see any problems if we do that.”

Several Council members voiced cautious support of the change.

“I wouldn’t be concerned as long as they provide insurance,” said councilman Mike Shepard.

“With the economy what it is, if we can bring in another group, we should do it.”

Shepard said River’s Edge might not be the best location for the shooting event, unless shooting backstops are used.

Councilman Don Barnhart said he would like to see a public hearing held before a permit is granted.

“If neighbors are going to be subjected to the noise the public needs to be able to comment on it,” he said. “We need to be able to conduct a public hearing before we grant a permit.”

He noted it would be important to know the days and times the event would take place.