HomeMy WebLinkAbout10-04-22 Public Comment - B. Bear - Public Comment COB Commission meeting October 4, 2022From:Bobby Bear
To:Agenda
Cc:Ellie Staley; Emily; angie.c.rutherford@gmail.com; coryl@offthebeatenpath.com;
marleymckenna1385@gmail.com; nicholas@checkthisout.io; nickzelver@gmail.com; tony@therenslowgroup.com;
Babs Noelle; Coco Douma; Eric Bowman; eric@360commercialmanagement.com
Subject:Public comment COB Commission meeting October 4, 2022
Date:Tuesday, October 4, 2022 8:53:34 AM
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Commissioners: – My name is Bobby Bear and I live at 318 N Bozeman Ave. I met with some
neighbors
last night who attended one of the public forums on paid parking downtown (we live on North
Bozeman Ave). They are not in favor of it at all and commented that the majority of those attending
the meeting with them were not in favor either. I don’t necessarily agree with them and find that
when it is explained that there could be a period of “free” parking and that having to pay for parking
will generally open up more spots available to park in, there is less resistance to the idea.
However, I am much more concerned with the process with which this proposal is taking place. We,
the URD board, have many questions regarding the funding and allocation of funds for this project.
While we do not have control over use of TIF funds for infrastructure projects (new parking garage,
fire house work force housing, etc.) the use of these funds does directly affect our ability to carry out
approved work plans and proposed projects for the downtown. And because our work is so visible to
the downtown community, we are often the “go-to” ones when there are questions or more
information needed.
In the past we have requested that city staff present to our board its paid parking proposal and give
us an opportunity to get our questions answered. After which time we would have gladly shared our
thoughts and recommendations with the commission. This has not happened and as a result you will
have to make a determination without our input.
Bobby Bear
406-570-3971
Bobbybear406@outlook.com