HomeMy WebLinkAbout08-20-24 Public Comment - R. Brey - Affordable housing ordinanceFrom:Ron Brey
To:Bozeman Public Comment
Subject:[EXTERNAL]Affordable housing ordinance
Date:Tuesday, August 20, 2024 8:52:28 AM
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As you review the ordinance and consider many complicated issues related to this topic, I would ask that you pay
special attention to the effects of drastic parking reductions. I don’t think you have been presented with any reliable
data showing that sub AMI income precludes auto ownership. The cars will still be there only without a place to
park.
When the residential parking districts were established we heard compelling testimony that residents weren’t
concerned about the parking to capacity on their blocks. Their chief concern was the continuous traffic circling the
block looking for non existent spaces. One resident described it as living inside Kmart’s parking lot. Aside from
busy traffic on otherwise quiet streets, there were serious safety concerns about kids coming out into heavy traffic
between closely parked cars.
I recommend that you revisit the testimony you heard from Mike Hope during the deliberations on the Guthrie
proposal. Mike referenced his experience as a developer in emphasizing that development costs were primarily
determined by the cost of the land. When no space is allocated for parking, the value, and therefore the price of the
land goes up increasing project costs. This surprised me and I would urge the Commission to consult with Mike and
others who have real rather than theoretical knowledge of this issue.
Thanks for all your hard work on this issue. The approaches you choose will say a lot about who we are as a
community.
Ron Brey
1106 S. 3rd
Bozeman
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