HomeMy WebLinkAbout12-07-16, Public Comment, K.Teson ,Tap RoomHello,
I'm sending this email to share my support for the Bozeman Taproom. I strongly believe that the
Taproom should have an All Beverage Licence and that the city should vote YES and allow this local
business to increase their services to our residents and visitors.
Since it opened, I've visited both during the day and at night. At lunch time, I've met there for business
or met up with colleagues to enjoy a quiet lunch in a nice atmosphere and accessible location. In the
evening, I've gone to hang out with friends, often surrounded by other 30-40 somethings, sometimes
with their kids, enjoying a break after work. Regardless of the time of day, I've enjoyed the company of
families as well as professionals, college students, retirees, and tourists. I can't see how the addition of
spirits will alter this welcoming and friendly atmosphere, where people already enjoy alcohol without
negative impacts to the surrounding area.
I am very much concerned that a small group of residents and non-locals that oppose the new license
will influence the success and economic contributions of downtown businesses like the Bozeman
Taproom, which hires locally, participates in community events and sells products from right here in
Montana. Isn't that what we should want and encourage? Downtown is experiencing much-needed and
beneficial in-fill development, and I don't think it's right to sacrifice vibrant businesses and infrastructure
improvements because of personal feelings and emotions about change in our community that don't
actually harm anyone. And frankly, it doesn't take much for a downtown to be seen as too risky in the
eyes of potential investors.
Lastly, I don't believe that adding different alcoholic drinks to the Taproom's existing drink menu will
have any negative effects -- and I'm shocked that anyone could think that responsibly restoring a historic
building and creating a well-lit, sidewalk-friendly business in this location is a problem. As a woman, I
completely avoided that block of downtown for many years, despite the school being there, because the
dilapidated building/warehouse was scary and seemingly posed a significant safety concern. I'm so glad
that that little corner of downtown has become such an inviting part of my Bozeman lifestyle thanks to
the efforts and investment by the Bozeman Taproom.
Thank you,
Katy Teson
4275 Benepe St
Bozeman, MT
Cell: 307-231-3694