HomeMy WebLinkAbout04-28-21 Public Comment - C. Birch - Four Points ZMAFrom:Cassie .Birch
To:Agenda
Subject:Comment on Zone Map Amendment Application 21005
Date:Wednesday, April 28, 2021 7:45:06 PM
Attachments:PublicComment21005.docx
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Hello,
Please find my attached comment on Zone Map Amendment Application 21005.
Thank you for your attention and consideration.
Sincerely,
Cassie Birch
City Of Bozeman Department of Community Development
RE: Application 21005
Dear Tim Rogers,
Thank you for the opportunity to comment on Application 21005, The Four Points Zoning Modification
Application. I am a resident of the nearby community located along Cattail street.
I would like to voice my support for rezoning this area as a R-5 (Residential mixed-use high density
district) The citizens of Bozeman are painfully aware of the challenging housing situation yet it seems
there is a lot of public opposition to any proposed high-density development projects. I understand the
concerns which seem to be centered on factors including: increased congestion, disruption of the peace
and quiet of existing neighborhoods, and (although less publicly voiced) potentially decreased property
value. Avoiding the development of high-density housing unfairly favors homeowners over those who
need a home. This can be framed as a Bozeman-local versus newcomer conflict, but it is not that simple.
Yes, many who own homes in Bozeman are locals, but an increasing number are simply those who can
afford it.
In January, we decided to rent out a bedroom in our house to help with expenses while I am attending
Montana State University to obtain a second bachelor’s degree in environmental science. Within an
hour of posting an ad on a housing-oriented Facebook page, we had around 10 messages from
Bozemanites desperate to rent it out. Many were students or young professionals, and a few were single
mothers looking for a place for themselves and their kid. I also had a local realtor reach out via Facebook
messenger and advise that we should raise the price. We didn’t and we ended up renting to the first
person we interviewed. Selfishly, I am hoping he stays with us for a long time because finding
housemate is such an emotionally trying process. So many people are in such bad situations in the
current Bozeman housing environment, and they are very forthcoming with how much it sucks.
We desperately need more housing and I do not think focusing on large, expensive, single family homes
is the solution. Density may seem dauting but opposers need to consider the benefits. Higher density
leads to less urban sprawl and thereby less environmental impact. It can also reduce commute distances
which means less driving and emissions.
Additionally, an R-5 designation is favorable as it allows opportunity for small-scale retail and
restaurants. I believe this would be a benefit to our community as we really do not have much in the
way of walking distance restaurants or other community amenities. I am not sure if any such uses are
being considered by Four Points Village II LLC and their representatives, but I see no harm in allowing
the flexibility as long as the primary purpose remains to be high-density housing.
Thank you very much for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Cassie Birch