At Northampton Borough Council’s Feb. 6 meeting, council members and Mayor Anthony Pristash heard from several residents, speaking on behalf of their Frank Drive and Jeffery Lane neighbors, regarding bullets that had reportedly been flying through their community for years.

They allege the bullets are coming from the Tri-Boro Sportsmen Club’s shooting range, 2110 Canal St.

They reported bullets have struck cars and houses, whizzed overhead when a resident was outside and were located on their property. One resident noted this has been going on for 10 years and a car was just hit Feb. 1. A resident said he heard what appeared to be an automatic weapon, with a number of shots in rapid succession.

At least two of the residents making statements are members of Tri-Boro Sportsmen Club. They said safety should be council’s No. 1 concern.

The police have been notified but are not able to determine when a shooter commits an unwarranted act like just shooting in the air.

Pristash said Tri-Boro has been receptive to his and police Chief Bryan Kadingo’s suggestions. Pristash added there are also reports of people illegally shooting in the woods around the gun range. Pristash said the state can come in if a deeper investigation is needed.

“Tri-Boro is working hand in hand with the Northampton police,” Pristash said.

Council President Julia Kutzler asked who approved the gun range.

Another resident pointed out there are kids and a school bus stop in the development close to the shooting range. He also alleged the range is not monitored and requested council follow up on this.

Another resident questioned why the gun range, which is more than 40 years old, is not inspected by the state every five years. Another resident, who said he has a military background, suggested Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms can be called to assist if local authorities cannot solve the issue before someone gets injured or killed.

Chris Bodner, vice president of Tri-Boro, noted the club is aware of the issue but said he has little control if some bad actors choose to shoot their guns in the air in an irresponsible manner. He added Tri-Boro had Pennsylvania State Police out to evaluate the range, and they determined it is safe.

Bodner added if he could put a roof over the range, “I would do it tomorrow.”

Council members and the mayor thanked the residents for attending the meeting and speaking out.