HomeMy WebLinkAbout06-04-24 Public Comment - A. Nicholls - Commissioner AppointmentFrom:Ashlee Nicolls
To:Bozeman Public Comment
Subject:[EXTERNAL]Commissioner Appointment
Date:Tuesday, June 4, 2024 10:56:48 AM
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless
you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
To whom it may concern,
Since moving to Bozeman, I have noticed a steady increase in Community division and anger toward the City for
decisions that have been made that has had negative impacts on the Community as a whole. It is a common
complaint heard by both life-long residents as well as transplants and new community members.
The City has focused a great deal of resources and energy on diversity, equity and inclusion…except the City
leadership representing our diverse community does not mirror our community members’ in its diversity. In order
to best serve a community of diverse residents, its leaders must also have a group of diverse members in the
community of which they serve.
The lack of diverse leadership thus far has led to community backlash as many do not feel their voice is being heard
or their concerns taken into consideration. What this Community needs is a strong connection between City
leadership and community residents. This will not be accomplished by filling a vacant seat with someone who has
the same views as the other members of the Commission and does not positively add fresh/new ideas to continuing
issues.
I believe, with the addition of Roger Blank to the Commission, the disconnect between the City and Community
members can be bridged and we can close the gap. He offers fresh ideas; ones that support what the majority of
community residents are voicing. This City needs diverse leadership so they can work together and serve this
diverse Community in the best way possible.
I hope we will see a pivot this time around as we know that no positive change in leadership will result in no
positive outcomes by our City leaders. We need change and that will come with a diverse leadership.
Thank you,
Ashlee Nicolls