HomeMy WebLinkAbout08-10-23 Public Comment - C. Wescom - Urban CampersDear Members of the Bozeman City Commission,
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to express my profound disappointment and frustration with the recent events surrounding the city ordinance vote addressing homelessness and "urban campers." As a concerned resident who values the well-being and progress of our community, I feel compelled to voice my strong disapproval of the Commission's actions, or rather, lack thereof.
On August 8th, I, along with countless other concerned citizens, dedicated our time, effort, and patience to engage in the democratic process by attending the Commission meeting. We were eagerly anticipating the opportunity to witness a meaningful debate and a crucial decision on an issue that affects the lives of many vulnerable individuals in our city. Unfortunately, after waiting for an exhausting 4.5 hours, the Commission chose to cancel the vote due to the lateness of the hour.
This blatant disregard for the citizens' time and commitment is not only disrespectful but also a troubling sign of negligence toward an issue of paramount importance. Homelessness is a pressing concern that requires immediate attention, and it is deeply disheartening to witness our elected officials treating it with such indifference.
The Commission's decision to cancel the vote not only wasted the time of those in attendance but also undermined the credibility of the democratic process and our faith in your ability to address urgent matters. This incident raises questions about the Commission's commitment to transparent and accountable governance, as well as your willingness to prioritize the needs of the most vulnerable members of our community. It is also my understanding that Mayor Andrus, Deputy Mayor Cunningham, and Commissioner Madgic are coming to the end of their elected terms. I hope that does not imply, that this vote will be pushed back for any political gain for the three elected officials mentioned.
I implore you to take immediate action to rectify this situation. It is essential that you reschedule the vote on the city ordinance addressing homelessness and "urban campers" at the earliest possible opportunity. Furthermore, I urge you to ensure that future Commission meetings are conducted with the utmost respect for the public's time and engagement, reflecting a genuine commitment to fostering a democratic and inclusive decision-making process.
The residents of Bozeman deserve elected officials who are dedicated to addressing the critical challenges facing our community. It is my hope that you will take this matter
seriously, engage in meaningful dialogue, and make informed decisions that reflect the best interests of all citizens that are affected by "Urban Campers".
Sincerely,
Calvin Wescom