HomeMy WebLinkAbout06-17-24 Public Comment - B. & C. Beamer - Harper's Corner ZMA a r a( ;1Elier
Brandon &. Christy Beamer 0(0_ 14_
2320 WATTS LANE, BOZEMAN, MT 5971.8
June 13, 2.024
City of Bozeman Zoning Commission
121 North Rouse Ave
Bozeman, MT 59771-1230
Re:Written protest to Harper's Corner Zone Map Amendment,Application 23127,for R3/R4 zoning
Dear City Commissioners:
We (Brandon and Christine Beamer) are grantors of the Beamer Living Trust, which includes the
residential home located at 2320 Watts Lane, Bozeman, MT. Our property is directly across the street,
and within 150 feet of the proposed development, Harper's Corner(application 23127), and we are
directly impacted by this development. We are exercising our right to protest this annexation and
development.
We protest the application for R3/R4 zoning for the numerous reasons outlined by the attorney, Erin
Arnold, we concerned neighbors retained in this matter. I would encourage you to read her thoughtful
letter outlining the numerous concerns and impacts raised by this proposition. This development is
completely out of character for the surrounding area, exemplified by the complete lack of infrastructure
to support high density housing in this corridor. There are hundreds of acres of farm land surrounding
this proposed annexation, a year-round creek and wildlife habitat, and no four-story high-density
structures anywhere near the proposed project. While the developer has stepped back the original plan
of R4 to a split of R3 and R4,the difference between the two are so miniscule that the application
essentially remains unchanged. The proposed development is grossly out of character with the
surround area. Furthermore, the traffic alone on these somewhat maintained two laned county roads
would pose a significantly dangerous situation for the residents of this area and the residents that would
occupy this development. The environmental impacts are also numerous. Ground water, noise
pollution, habitat destruction, and creek pollution are but a few. Furthermore,this development does
not create an efficient transportation environment for individuals occupying high density housing.
There is no community infrastructure (shopping,grocery, dining,gas stations, public transit) anywhere
near this development. Its creation will equal more traffic, more pollution, more environmental impact,
and a larger carbon footprint, which is out of line with the city of Bozeman's environmental plan and
brings to question the sincerity of that plan if a project like this were to be approved.
We neighbors have met with the developer on numerous occasions in hopes of coming to an amicable
compromise that would preserve the quality and character of this outlying area of Bozeman,while
recognizing the need for more affordable housing options. No reasonable compromise was reached
and no concessions of tapering zoning to nor putting hard set setbacks in place were made. It is my
opinion that the developer clearly wants to get the highest zoning possible simply to increase the value
of their acquisition in order to flip this property to a larger developer who has no interest in preserving
the character and nature of the outlying areas of Bozeman. This is a land grab and profit scheme.
Brandon & Christy Beamer
2320 WATTS LANE, BOZEMAN, M-T 59718
Now is the time for the commission to show that you all are with the people of Bozeman rather than the
deep pockets and out-of-Mate interests that want to come make a profit in this beautiful valley, only to
move on to the next land grab, all while leaving the hard-working folks of this town priced out of living
where they work. This annexation and proposed development are out of place, poorly thought through,
and doesn't create a sense of a cohesive development plan in Bozeman that creates affordable housing,
get cars off the streets, and decreases our environmental footprint.
Please consider all of our protest letters and the summary letter by Erin Arnold as you consider how this
haphazardly placed annexation changes the character and nature of a beautiful area outside of city
limits. Thoughtful development within the city is needed and supported. This is just a land grab and
quick flip scheme.
Sincerely,
Brandon Beamer Christine Beamer