HomeMy WebLinkAbout10-06-20 Public Comment - M. Gaillard - Christopher Coburn for City Commission VacancyFrom:Marguerite Gaillard
To:Agenda
Subject:City Commission Meeting 10/7 Public Comment
Date:Tuesday, October 6, 2020 4:55:21 PM
Hello Bozeman City Commissioners,
I am a 19 year old born and raised here in Bozeman. I have felt empowered by
attending and commenting during City Commission meetings, and am excited about the
opportunity to appoint a new board member.
In light of the COVID-19 pandemic and increased awareness of racial inequity, I
believe that Chrisopher Coburn would be a strong addition to our City Commission. Recently,
the City Commission evaluated Bozeman for its level of racial equity within its staff and
personnel. Even though no black, indidgenous, or other people of color were consulted, it is
clear that Bozeman’s representatives are not reflecting all the diversity present in Bozeman.
By choosing Christopher as a city commission, Bozeman would be living up to its promise of
representing its citizens. Young black kids will be able to see themselves in their leadership,
and racial inequalities in Bozeman will be addressed head-on. Christopher would bring many
unrepresented identities to the City Commission, as the only Montana-raised commissioner,
the only commissioner who was raised by a single parent, the only commissioner who rents
his home, and the only queer commissioner. If our representatives do not reflect the diversity
of our citizens, we cannot promote the well-being of all our citizens. Additionally, Christopher
is involved in a variety of organizations within Bozeman, and as such is actually engaging
with, and listening to, Bozeman citizens. Additionally, Christopher’s expertise in the Public
Health field is very much needed as our cases of COVID-19 continue to rise. Christopher
Coburn would be the best commissioner to expand the representativeness and effectiveness of
the city commission.
On behalf of many young people in Bozeman who want to see our city become more
equitable and safe, I would like to ask the board to appoint Christopher Coburn a seat on the
City Commission.
Sincerely,
Marguerite Gaillard, 19
610 Dell Pl. #8
Bozeman MT
59715
(406)551-0375
gaillardmargot@gmail.com