HomeMy WebLinkAbout09-19-23 Public Comment - L. Calhoun - Bozeman Eagle's Club and Soroptimist Park Bozeman Eagles Club #326
316 E. Main St. Bozeman, MT 5971
406-587-9996 1fax 406-586-7862 1 foe326@hotmail.com
F E ``O� September 13, 2023
To whom it may concern,
As General Manager and an Aerie Officer, I am writing this on behalf of The Fraternal
Order of Eagles Aerie #326 Bozeman, Mt (Bozeman Eagles Club). We have some serious
concerns with the "homeless/transients" that frequent and/or stay at the City's Soroptimist
Park, located at the intersection of Main Street and Rouse Avenue, which is directly next to our
business. Given its proximity, the homeless/transients have begun to affect the vital safety of
our employees, customers, delivery drivers, and general public.
We have staff and customers who leave late at night with no chaperones and this is a
major safety concern. As a business, along with our customers, we have witnessed all of the
following incidents;
1. Using the park as a bathroom
2. Running around naked or near naked
3. Getting into our trash bins
4. Trying to steal from our delivery trucks
5. Violent threats against employees, delivery drivers and customers.
Although a few still try every day, all known "homeless/transients" have now been
permanently banned from entering our business. It also seems that there is concern regarding
Bozeman Creek as well. Washing themselves and/or clothing, leaving behind trash, clothes and
blankets. We are now at the point where we have to extend our expenses and costs which will
include; extra cameras, lights, and security to protect our business, staff, and customers.
I have talked with other business owners around Bozeman, and they seem to be having
similar issues, since they are not right next to the park, maybe not in the same extreme degree.
We believe as a business in the City of Bozeman, it is part of your job to help protect the
citizens and businesses within your jurisdiction. As a long-time running business in the City of
Bozeman, we would like this major issue addressed immediately.
Thank you for your time,
Gavo�� �
Lisa Calhoun
General Manager and Aerie Vice President