HomeMy WebLinkAbout008_parkland cash in lieu
190 NORTHSTAR LANE
BOZEMAN, MT 59718
406-581-5730
www.headwatersmt.net
Page 1 of 2
May 3, 2023
Warbler Condos
Cash in Lieu of Parkland Narrative
Per Resolution 4784, the City of Bozeman has set criteria for the evaluation of cash in lieu of parkland.
Factors to consider in review of cash in lieu of parkland:
1. The City’s preference for acquisition of real property for parks.
The low number of proposed residential units and the previously dedicated park land would only result
in 0.09 acres of additionally required park land. This small area would likely create a small, neglected
pocket-park. The large Cattail Creek Park network extends to the west side of Warbler Way, adjacent to
the property. The existing sidewalk and trail system provides great access to the existing park.
2. The desirability and suitability of land within or proposed by the development for parks and
playgrounds based on size, topography, shape, water supply, location or other circumstances.
The subject property is Zoned R-3 and is surrounded by multifamily dwelling units. Using roughly 20% of
this site for parkland seems like an underutilization of the property.
3. Proximity of the development to existing parks and recreational facilities.
As mentioned above, the Cattail Creek Park is nearby and can be accesses using existing trails, sidewalks
and crosswalks.
4. Type, function of, and facilities included within nearby park(s).
The Cattail Creek Park network includes many trails, ponds, bridges, a pavilion, playground, swing set,
and a creek corridor. The park is well maintained.
5. The level of service (as defined in the adopted city-wide park master plan) provided by nearby
park(s).
Chapter 7 of the Bozeman Park Master Plan describes this area a “well-served” by neighborhood parks.
6. Correspondence with the City’s adopted city-wide master plan.
One goal of the park plan is the collect cash in lieu of parkland to allow the funds to be amassed to fund
park acquisition and development. Another goal is to create bigger parks. Not creating a small pocket
park when a large regional park is nearby seems to align with the goals of the park plan. The great
connectivity to the Cattail Creek Parks and existing trail system around the park also aligns with the park
plan.
190 Northstar Lane, Bozeman, MT 59718 (406) 581-5730 www.headwatersmt.net Page 2 of 2
7. Whether the proposal provides an opportunity for partnerships, or whether grant funds are
currently available.
The collection of cash in lieu of parkland funds for small projects like this will help fund larger projects
and money to help foster partnerships to help the money go farther.
8. Whether the developer or future property owners are required to participate in the costs of the
maintenance of nearby parks or recreational facilities.
The park tax within the City of Bozeman ensures that all property owners within the City help to share in
the cost of park maintenance.
9. Long term availability of city funds for maintenance of the proposed facilities.
The new park tax that was passed in the City of Bozeman helps to ensure that there is long term
availability of funds for facility maintenance.
10. Requirements established pursuant to 38.27.020 and 38.27.030, BMC regarding residential
density.
The residential density of the project is 14.4 units per acre.
11. The expresses preference of the developer.
Due to the small nature of the site, the developer desires to utilize cash in lieu of parkland. The addition
of parkland to this side would reduce the number of residential units below what is efficient and
profitable.
If you should have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at 581-5730.
Sincerely,
_________________
Jeremy May, P.E.
Headwaters Engineering, Inc.
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