HomeMy WebLinkAbout02-06-22 Public Comment - R. Craighead - Zoning Change N 3rdFrom:ron_c@bresnan.net
To:Agenda
Subject:Zoning Change N 3rd
Date:Sunday, February 6, 2022 1:43:06 PM
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To: Bozeman Zoning Commission
I write to voice my opposition to the proposed zoning change ZMA No. 21356, from R-4 to B-3.
This is a radical change in zoning that will forever change the character of a historic residential neighborhood. As
you know, the difference between high density residential [which we need more of] and a central business district is
dramatic. This essentially transforms an historic residential neighborhood into a central business district. There is no
going back. This dramatic change effects every adjacent block, opening the door for more multi-story mixed-use
development and the domino effect that destroys the historic legacy neighborhoods and defines the heart and soul of
the downtown residential community.
I want to know - What value does the City of Bozeman place on theses historic neighborhoods? And how will you
address the inherent value of these neighborhoods in the future? I ask that you find a way to do so. Long-term
residences in unique, historic neighborhoods are the glue that hold the downtown community together - not multi-
story, million dollar condos.
Other issues arise from this kind of drastic zoning change: Multi-story buildings towering above historic single-
family houses. Who wants to live next to that? Parking. Congestion. All negatively affect our neighborhoods in
permanent and dramatic ways.
What is your vision for protecting our historic downtown residential neighborhoods?
I ask that you value and protect our historic neighborhoods in very real and tangible terms. I propose that we
identify these historic neighborhoods, create a special district for them and provide real protection by creating a 1-
block buffer zone around them where future development limits height, density and use. This will prevent
unnecessary multi-story buildings towering right next to single-family residences.
The current development path the city is taking guarantees the eradication of these unique historic neighborhoods
and COB has not done a sufficient job addressing the importance of these neighborhoods. Once they are gone, they
will not be replaced.
Please consider the long-term effects of the decisions you make today.
Thank you,
Ron Craighead
410 N 3rd Ave
Bozeman, MT