HomeMy WebLinkAbout11-14-23 Public Comment - K. Erbe - Library Board - proposed parking MOUFrom:Kareen Erbe
To:Agenda; Terry Cunningham
Subject:[EXTERNAL]Library Board - proposed parking MOU
Date:Monday, November 13, 2023 1:23:20 PM
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Dear Library Board of Trustees and Bozeman City Commission,
I am writing to express my concern about the proposed parking lot MOU between the Library
and the Bozeman Hotel proposed development.
First and foremost, I am appalled that a public space like the library and the surroundinggrounds, is even being impacted by a private company. This is a debate between preserving
civic space and the commons versus having yet more private entities dictate what ourcommunity looks like.
As a long-time resident who watched the destruction of over 100 hundred mature trees in the
Canyon Gate area this summer, and the leveling of that wildlife habitat for yet moreUNAFFORDABLE housing, I am disappointed that the city of Bozeman continues to make
concessions to developers for projects that are ultimately not in the best interests of themajority of community members, not to mention the wildlife.
There are several issues of concerns with this development and, in particular, the MOU:
1. It seems like all trees (75) may have to be removed for this parking lot development. As I
mentioned above, the city seems to continue to let developers take down mature forest areas inthe city. In this case, these trees are owned by all residents and the city (library) should be
doing all they can to preserve them as directed by the BCP2020.2. The greenspace, art, roundabout and trees at the south end will be removed.
3. Of real concern is the fact that the library/city would be ceding control of a public space to aprivate entity for a ridiculously low lease fee. The fact that there would be no guarantee of
parking spaces for library patrons is reason enough alone, to reject the proposal. As a long-time library user for the past 15 years, that parking lot is very often full, or close to full with
library patrons. 4. Even though a rooftop outdoor space is being proposed, that space is for condo residents
and hotel patrons mostly, only accessible to the public if library patrons are accompanied.How is this a replacement for all of the trees/open space that is being lost?
5. The rooftop garden component is also an irresponsible use of water and promotes furtherdivision of wealth in our community. It goes against Bozeman's growth policy of inclusion
and equity.
Once again, I am asking the city of Bozeman to display more courage in confronting andholding developers accountable to a much higher standard of development, especially since
part of this development is going to be a hotel and not actual housing. I urge the city/library totake more time to consider this proposal, to not be rushed by the developer and to focus on
what's best for the library and its patrons in the long-term.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely, Kareen Erbe