HomeMy WebLinkAbout09-11-23 Public Comment - S. Penner - Do Not Combine R-1, R-2 and R-3From:Susan Penner
To:Agenda
Subject:[EXTERNAL]Do Not Combine R-1, R-2 and R-3
Date:Monday, September 11, 2023 8:10:50 AM
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To Whom It May Concern:
We are concerned that combining zoning designations R-1, R-2 and R-3 into one category, R-A, is an oversimplification of the code that governs future development in the city and
specifically in neighborhoods. We would urge the Planning Commission and the CityCommission to reconsider this aspect of the proposed changes to meet its own goals, including
Sec 38.100.040 (page 7 of the draft plan) that is: "enhancing an existing neighborhood's senseof place." Expanding R-1 and R-2 existing neighborhoods to allow up to 8 dwelling units on a
single lot does not guarantee that the "sense of place" will be protected, nor will it solve thehousing crisis. In fact, it pretty much guarantees that it will not be protected and that the
character that the city and individual neighborhoods have been nurturing and required tomaintain will be abandoned in one fell swoop. Builders interested in multi-plexes will likely
compete with single families in bidding for older homes that might have been more"affordable."
There is a reason for and benefit in having zoning; just look at the County and the struggle to
combat gravel pits being built next to homes and ranches. In the City, we pay extra taxes forthe organization and predictability of our zoning and services. People know that the significant
investment they make in their homes in a residential neighborhood will not be disregardedwilly-nilly. Bozeman is an attractive place to live for many because of its residential
neighborhoods, new and old, modern and historic. No one in any of these residentialneighborhoods wants to see that abandoned. Require that the new zoning document respects
existing neighborhoods -- retain the R-1, R-2 and R-3 designations or at least only combine R-1 and R-2.
Respectfully,Susan Penner