HomeMy WebLinkAbout11-15-23 Public Comment - K. Davis - Bozeman Public Library Parking Lot VoteFrom:Kendra Dennis
To:Agenda
Subject:[EXTERNAL]Bozeman Public Library Parking Lot Vote
Date:Wednesday, November 15, 2023 11:16:34 AM
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To Whom This May Concern,
As a voter and long-time resident of Bozeman, I would like to voice my concern for the
potential of development in the Bozeman Public Library parking lot.
It was inevitable for Bozeman and surrounding areas to grow and develop dramatically.Seemed like a ticking time-bomb with the university increasing enrollment numbers every fall
and spring semester, national news articles being written about our town, Big Sky growth, etc.While each town has its 'growing pains' there should be some regulation on the change and
development, yet none seem to occur.
Large developers are changing the future of our community and landscape for generations. Forexample, we have some of the best soil in the state for growing a variety of crops. The
beautiful, rich soil is being torn over for new housing and business developments. Many ofthese development companies are owned/operated outside of Montana. Therefore, the money
doesn't directly return to our state or local individuals for any long-term profit. The proposeddeveloper, for this project, is from New York. And again, another project being bought by an
out-of-state member.
Not only does this project profit an out-of-state business, it will drastically change homeowners and residents on the southeast side of downtown. One of the numerous spaces with
narrow streets and limited parking. Has no one asked those who will truly be influenced bythis change? Where will individuals park for the farmer's market on Tuesday's in the summer?
How will the local artists and farmers see the changes in profit from limited availability forcustomers to park? Any concerns from the local businesses in the area who rely on the parking
lot? Or those who park there to utilize the Gallagator Trail and Peet's Hill? What about thoseof us who often use the public library for its space and services? The questions to be
addressed, with the proposal, are endless and thus necessary to fully comprehend the weight ofthis decision.
I'm truly concerned for the future of our community if spaces like the parking lot at the
Bozeman Public Library continue to develop. Please consider your neighbors and communitywhen voting.
Thank you for your time,
Kendra Dennis