HomeMy WebLinkAbout04-05-21 Public Comment - M. Grey - Christopher CoburnFrom:Mike Grey
To:Agenda
Subject:Regarding the City Commissioner Vacancy
Date:Monday, April 5, 2021 9:43:38 PM
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Good evening Mayor and Commissioners,
Thank you for allowing the opportunity for public comment during the appointment of the
vacant commissioner seat. My name is Michael Grey, and I currently live in Gallatin Gateway.I have lived in Bozeman for the past 6 years, but was born and raised in Helena, Montana.
Living in Bozeman and seeing its drastic change has been exciting, but also incrediblyworrisome at times. In light of that, I wanted to take this opportunity to support the
appointment of Christopher Coburn to the City Commission. In the years I've lived here, Ihave never come across a candidate who's as engaged, experienced and well-versed in the
local issues as him. With the current issues presented to the Bozeman community, I believe itvital for a person of his caliber to be considered for this position.
I believe strongly that Bozeman is facing one of its worst crises in its history: income
inequality and the growing disparity between rich and poor. It seems as if only out-of-staterscan purchase homes or property, leaving the rest of us locals with the same low-wage jobs and
unable to afford either. Christopher has addressed this, along with many other critical issues,in his campaign already. A major reason I've taken the time to comment on this appointment
isn't just about Christopher's qualifications based on experience and willingness to addressthese issues, but also his lived experience with them. His voice would add a vital component
to local politics. A voice for the many of us worried about our ability to live here in theexplosive growth of Bozeman. Without that representation I worry that Bozeman won't be a
place for locals anymore, and without locals it won't be the Bozeman we love anymore.
The election of vacant seats is still months away, but with this opportunity to fill the vacancyChristopher is the best candidate I can imagine. He can get to work now, while also getting
ready to work for us for years down the road.
Thank you for your time,Michael Grey