Long-time advocate for, and champion behind, the creation of the $50 Million World Shooting and Recreational Complex in Sparta, State Senator Dave Luechtefeld, is urging caution after media reports surfaced recently about privatizing the popular facility. In a September 8, 2014 article, the Bloomington Pantagraph reported on the possibility of the state turning over operation of the Complex to a private contractor.  According to the newspaper, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, which operates the 1,600 acre development, is actively seeking input from potential operators. The newspaper reported, ‘IDNR chief Marc Miller said the agency wants to determine if there could be a cost savings to the state in terms of operating the complex, while at the same time trying to determine if such a change could boost economic development in the region.  “Allowing a private vendor or contractor to come in to run the Complex might be a good thing if we’re talking about increasing the potential for greater use by sports enthusiasts and bringing more tourism to the area,” said Luechtefeld.  “It is a nationally-known and popular destination for a number of national shooting tournaments.  There is great potential, but Illinois taxpayers have made a huge financial investment that cannot be taken lightly.  Caution is required.”