HomeMy WebLinkAbout11-19-24 Public Comment - E. Lucille - Formal Objection to Development Application 22306From:ella delger
To:Bozeman Public Comment
Subject:[EXTERNAL]Formal Objection to Development Application 22306
Date:Tuesday, November 19, 2024 11:13:44 AM
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Dear City of Bozeman,
I am writing to formally object to application 22306 in its current form. As someone with abackground in architecture and sustainable design, I believe in the importance of thoughtful
development that balances growth with the preservation of our natural and communityresources. While I fully support development and so does Four Daughters Farm, the current
plan does not adequately respond to the environment it will affect. Instead, it appears to be ageneric design that could be placed anywhere, without consideration of its unique context.
I urge the city to work with the applicant to revise this plan, ensuring it integrates with the
surrounding farmland and benefits all stakeholders. Designers have the responsibility toproblem-solve and create place-specific solutions. When that responsibility is overlooked, we
risk creating a sea of uniform developments focused on short-term economic gain at theexpense of long-term sustainability and community well-being.
Below, I have outlined key concerns that must be addressed to ensure this development meets
Bozeman’s sustainability goals and enhances its surroundings:
1. Protection of Natural Resources
The site in question is home to some of Gallatin Valley’s most fertile farmland. Convertingthis land to a built environment would result in permanent soil loss, undermining local
agriculture and food security. Additionally, the removal of a mature grove of trees willeliminate ecological benefits such as carbon sequestration, soil stability, and wildlife habitat.
These natural resources are irreplaceable and must be integrated into the design.
2. Environmental Impact and Agricultural Health
The current plan risks polluted runoff infiltrating the adjacent farmland, threatening soil andwater quality. The proposed structures would also block sunlight critical to Four Daughters
Farm’s crops, jeopardizing its agricultural output and economic sustainability. A revised planmust include strategies to mitigate runoff, preserve sunlight access, and ensure the
development works symbiotically with the farmland.
3. Traffic and Infrastructure Strain
Stucky Road is not equipped to handle the traffic increase this development would generate.Without significant investment in road infrastructure, this plan will create congestion, safety
concerns, and increased maintenance costs. Concentrating development closer to Bozeman’s
core would reduce vehicle miles traveled, improve access to public infrastructure, and supportsustainable growth patterns.
4. Community and Aesthetic Value
Four Daughters Farm provides more than agricultural products—it offers a unique visitor
experience rooted in the beauty of its surroundings. The removal of trees and the introductionof generic structures would degrade the scenic and cultural value of the area. Thoughtful
design can preserve and enhance the aesthetic and experiential qualities of the farm while stillaccommodating new development.
5. The Importance of Place-Specific Design
A thoughtful design process ensures that development aligns with its context and responds to
the needs of the environment and community. The current plan appears to prioritize short-termeconomic gain over long-term sustainability, with a design that could be replicated anywhere.
If the design does not consider its place, why involve designers at all? Bozeman must holddevelopers to a higher standard, requiring designs that benefit both the immediate environment
and the larger community.
Bozeman has an opportunity to set an example of how development can be done responsibly.By revising this plan to address these concerns, the city can encourage growth while
protecting its agricultural heritage, maintaining environmental health, and fosteringcommunity value. I urge you to deny application 22306 in its current form and work with the
applicant to create a revised plan that meets these goals.
Thank you for considering these concerns. I strongly encourage the city to hold a publiccomment period to allow community members to voice their input.
Sincerely,
Ella Lucille