HomeMy WebLinkAbout01-09-24 Public Comment - G. Thompson - Affordable housing, housing homelessFrom:George Thompson
To:Agenda
Subject:[EXTERNAL]Affordable housing, housing homeless
Date:Monday, January 8, 2024 12:02:00 PM
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A couple of thoughts to kick off the new year.
1) This project out of Aust in TX is interesting solution.
https://www.nytimes.com/2024/01/08/headway/homelessness-tiny-home-austin.html?smid=nytcore-android-share
However such a project should require some type of monthly cost, money from residents
social security disability checks, community maintenance,. For social engagement it isimportant that all residents make a contribution to their neighborhood. Also need to enforce
strict behavioral guidelines.
2) Regarding trailer parks. I don't understand the why the City can not simply allow trailerpark property owners to simply sub-divide all the trailer lots into individual parcels for sale to
existing residents. Restrictive covenant which requires a five year horizon to install permanentfoundation under the trailer, and only allows the existing sq ft of of the trailer for a
built/renovated structure. This would also provide property tax revenue for city servicescurrently being used at no cost to trailer residents
The beauty of this is creation of a idiosyncratic neighborhood, which is not for everyone. Butworks for someone.
This would require forming an HOA for community services. Please note that our City Planners will vehemently oppose any such "not normal" approach,
However, such a community will gradually take on its own personality.
Having owned a local trailer park downtown for 18 years I can assure you that there weremany residents who liked the low cost, convenience of parking right next to front door, and
proximity of neighbors with shared values. In fact the only trailer owned by the resident hadlived in 12 ft x 40ft trailer for over 40 years! He had his own rake and shovel for maintaining
his 8ft x 40 ft side yard parking space. This can work, if our City Commissioners simply direct our Planning dept to do so.
Note, that the only reason I retired and sold the trailer park was due to the large cost imposedby the Planning Dept to put in more affordable units. And frankly was also tired of the drug
usage and criminal element allowed by my property manager. .
Looking forward to seeing how the new year goes. thank you,
G. Thompson, Bozeman MT.
