HomeMy WebLinkAbout11-07-24 Public Comment - A. Sweeney - Why not celebrate this tree!From:Alison Sweeney
To:kbrown@bennetthospitality.com; Bozeman Public Comment; Sarah Rosenberg
Subject:[EXTERNAL]Why not celebrate this tree!
Date:Monday, November 4, 2024 8:55:23 AM
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Hello Kim Brown of Bozeman Exchange Associates,
I'm writing today to urge you to improve the site conditions for the ponderosa pine tree at your
property at 5th and Main in Bozeman rather than cutting down this impressive asset.
By now I'm sure you are well aware of the history of this tree, and how it is valued by thecommunity. It's a truly remarkable specimen that has managed to survive in what I will
generously call difficult conditions.
Why not celebrate this tree?
Why not peel back the asphalt, aerate the surrounding soil, and give this green asset betterconditions to see if it can indeed thrive?
Make a feature out of it!
As I understand it, the tree is not in the footprint of any proposed building. By removing
asphalt around the base to at least the drip line perhaps you could meet snow storagerequirements for your parking lot? The tree would surely benefit from a more permeable
surface at its base. Or you could use that area to satisfy open space requirements? I realizeyour site plan has already been approved, but please do the right thing here; preserve this
asset, and improve its living conditions.
I hate to suggest this, but apparently developers need incentives to preserve mature trees. CityCommissioners and the planning department should consider code concessions or "incentives"
in the new UDC that will help property owners make the right decisions to preserve existingmature trees.
Perhaps a reduction in required parking spots, Perhaps a reduction in open space requirements in exchange for saving particularly
valuable mature trees.Perhaps site plan flexibility concessions in exchange for mature landscaping
preservation.
We have to start doing better!
Thank you,
Alison B. Sweeney
Bernadette's Handmade JewelryBozeman MT
406-404-5740alison-bernadettes.com