HomeMy WebLinkAbout04-17-23 Public Comment - K. Smith - Short Term Rentals Christopher Coburn
121 N Rouse Ave.
Bozeman, MT 59715
Kalin Smith
Gallatin High School
% Ms. Warn
4455 Annie St.
Bozeman MT, 59718
Dear Mr. Coburn,
I am a high school student and a resident of Bozeman. I was born and raised here, and I've
witnessed Bozeman's growth over the years. It's a well-known fact that the housing market is,
and has been, one of the most concerning issues for Bozeman. The issue has developed from
many different matters, such as affordability, lot sizes, and a shortage of available housing.
However, one lesser-viewed but still significant factor is the number of short-term rentals in
Gallatin Valley.
There are around 2524 short-term rentals within Gallatin Country, and according to Renata
Munfrada, Bozeman's community housing program coordinator, there are currently 163
registered short-term rentals in Bozeman's City Limits. The short-term rental market in Bozeman
has risen in popularity, as the town is a popular tourist destination. Of course, tourists are
important to the economy of Bozeman, but having homes sit empty for certain parts of the year
is a problem for the locals. With houses specifically for tourists to stay temporarily, it leaves a
potential home for locals vacant and unused. With some regulations placed, Bozeman could
balance the vacancy, while still holding onto our tourism market. One idea is regulation around
how often a short-term rental can be vacant. By enforcing a law where short-term rentals can
only sit empty for a certain period of time before being unregistered, the number of empty
rentals may decrease and overall help the lack of available homes for locals. I do not believe
short-term rentals should be completely banned within city limits, but I believe that restrictions
should be enforced to keep them under control.
Of course, short-term rentals are not the major factor contributing to Bozeman's housing crisis,
but I believe that it is often overlooked. While addressing it will not solve the crisis directly, it may
have a slight effect, and help Bozeman's housing move in a more reasonable and efficient
direction.
Sincerely,
V�
Kalin