HomeMy WebLinkAbout10-14-23 Public Comment - S. Mercer - Proposed UDC Zoning ChangesFrom:sblissmercer@gmail.com
To:Agenda
Subject:[EXTERNAL]Proposed UDC Zoning Changes
Date:Saturday, October 14, 2023 3:04:39 PM
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October 14, 2023
To: The Bozeman City Commissioners
From: Serena Mercer – S. 3rd Ave. Bozeman
RE: Proposed UDC Changes
As a year ‘round resident with no vacation home, a property taxpayer living in an R-1
residential zone and paying your salaries, I ask that you halt any decision on the proposed UDC
re-zone of the historic neighborhoods.
Instead of forcing these dramatic changes on these neighborhoods, get brave and stop.
Realign yourselves with the neighborhoods, the residents (the voters) and get honest about
the impact of essentially ditching zoning regulations in favor of high-end infill. Even the
compromised 4-unit dwelling will have a negative effect (witness the high rise 4-unit on S. 8th)
on the future and sustainability of Bozeman. By putting a stop to any vote, Bozeman will
remain in compliance with the Legislature’s dictate requiring 2-unit dwellings in single family
neighborhoods. Bozeman does not need more high-end vacation complexes. It needs
affordable housing for the young, the service people and for those that make Bozeman life roll
(teachers, nurses, carpenters, plumbers, electricians, etc.).
Instead, prioritize the voters and not the real estate industry (developers, architects,
designers, etc.). Arrange workshops within each neighborhood to get constructive feedback
from those who live here. Residents understand the issues and want to be part of the solution.
Our kids hope to return or are here but are so “rent poor” that they must look elsewhere to
live. No doubt, residents will volunteer to get these forums going. Our services will be free. No
Austin, TX consultant fees necessary.
The process in which this UDC re-write was conducted basically excluded residents. It is no
wonder that many believe the city commissioners are in bed with in-state and out of state
developers at the expense of those who voted for them and pay their wages.