HomeMy WebLinkAbout04-19-23 Public Comment - A. Musial - Housing Affordability Augustus Musial
4050 West Babcock#54
12.1 N Rouse Ave. Bozeman, MT 59715
406.581.9187
City of Bozeman
20 East Olive
Bozeman, MT. 59715
To Bozeman City Commissioners,
As you are well aware, the cost of housing is too high in Bozeman and there are not enough
affordable housing options for those of us who have lived here our entire lives. (Those of us who
have family and friends for decades.) I'm concerned that the City is not doing enough to help
this problem and that the city is happier to help developers that have lot of money to spend
rather than those who have a history here and were part of the city before it became a hot spot
for "Outside Magazine" and "Conde Nast Travel" lovers.
The cost of housing in Bozeman is equal to that of many big cities but yet the pay scale does
not match what the cost of living equals. Even professional jobs do not pay the same amount.
According to payscale.com the cost of living in MT is 22% higher than the national average. Yet,
the average salary is 14% lower than the national average. This makes for a big difference in
ability to live and work in our beautiful town.
As a local resident and native of Bozeman I would one day like to be able to afford a home here
close to my parents and where I was raised but at these rates it doesn't seem realistic. That
seems unfair to those that have a legacy here. I ask you to consider more affordable housing
options and not just what the greedy developers want. They have the means to take everything
but where will that leave this community? With lots of rich people and no one to actually work or
provide services for our locals.
Sincerely,
Gus Musial
GHS Class of 2024