HomeMy WebLinkAbout09-14-23 Public Comment - R. Brey -UDC updateFrom:Ron Brey
To:Agenda
Subject:[EXTERNAL]UDC update
Date:Thursday, September 14, 2023 4:43:50 PM
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All over town old houses are being demolished and replaced with much larger houses. . To
allow 8 plexes will incentivize the destruction of even more housing to be replaced by large
buildings completely altering the character of existing neighborhoods, old and new.
Bozeman city government has tried several different approaches over the years to
increase the availability of affordable housing. The only effective measure, requiring the
actual provision of affordable housing or paying cash in lieu was banned by the legislature.
So the question becomes whether the 8 plex approach is going to accomplish its intended
purpose.
The April 2023 issue of Governing magazine cites a new study by the Urban Institute. This
study found that this type of zoning reform creates” more housing units, but there’s no
evidence it makes housing cheaper.” As we have seen in Bozeman, the dramatic increase
in housing is having no meaningful impact on housing affordability.
To take such a destructive path with no evidence that it will add to the affordable housing
stock is the most reckless endeavor I have seen in my nearly 40 years of involvement with
Montana local government. Give the duplex requirement a chance to demonstrate
effectiveness before doing irreparable damage with 8 plexes.
Thank you
Ron Brey
1106 South 3rd
Bozeman, MT. 59715
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