HomeMy WebLinkAbout02-25-2020 Public Comment - R. Horne - Armory Hotel Project Application 19410February 24, 2020
City of Bozeman
Department of Community Development
20 E. Olive Street
Bozeman, MT 59715
Re: Etha Hotel Design Change Concerns
To Whom it May Concern:
I am writing to express my concerns about the design changes to the Etha Hotel that were
made without receiving approval from the Planning Department or a proper public approval
process.
From reading the article in the Bozeman Chronicle on 2/21/20, it is clear that the Etha
developer did not understand the steps required to make design changes to the project. It is the
responsibility of the developer and its team of consultants to know the code and processes. The process
is very clear that design changes are to be made through the Planning Department with public input, not
the Building Department. This is not a “complex issue”. This was not a “breakdown of process”. This is
misunderstanding of the Developer of the process and the rules governing development in Bozeman
(and most all other cities in our country). The City is not at fault for this misunderstanding.
From reading the many letters submitted, it is clear that the letter writers also do not understand the
process. Plan approval from the Building Department does not mean that the City gave design approval.
We all want the Etha project to be successful, but you also have to follow the rules.
If the City allows these changes to be acceptable after the fact, it is letting the barn gate open
for all other developers to follow suit. Ask for forgiveness, not permission. It would set a
terrible legal precedent for Bozeman.
Thank you for your consideration on this matter.
Sincerely,
Robert D. Horne
Property Owner – Bozeman, MT