HomeMy WebLinkAbout12-13-24 Public Comment - M. Osman - Guthrie, NCOD, 413 W Villard, AHO,From:Michelle Osman
To:Bozeman Public Comment
Subject:[EXTERNAL]Guthrie, NCOD, 413 W Villard, AHO,
Date:Thursday, December 12, 2024 2:57:42 PM
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Dear Cunningham, Madgic, Morrison, Fischer and Bode,
I hope everyone is holding up to the holidays. I’m writing again to express my concerns
regarding the Guthrie project and related matters, which I believe are critical to the future ofour community.
1. Guthrie Project Review
Please revisit the Guthrie project thoroughly. Allowing administrative approval without
addressing all findings from the final meeting—where the project was denied—risksappearing inconsistent and dismissive of prior discussions, as noted by Home Base. The
project does not align with the neighborhood’s character, and the parking situation unfairlyburdens the surrounding community. Additionally, the rental prices are unrealistic for most
residents. At least 50% of the units should be for sale to encourage greater community buy-in.
2. NCOD Concerns
It is surprising and concerning to see the Neighborhood Conservation Overlay District(NCOD) seemingly under threat, especially given that most survey responses strongly
supported it. The NCOD is vital for maintaining the sense of place in our neighborhoods. Weare not asking for stagnation; we’re advocating to preserve sound, affordable structures instead
of replacing them with increasingly expensive developments. Approving demolitions that leadto luxury townhomes within the NCOD undermines its purpose and displaces long-term
residents.
3. 314 W Villard St. Demolition Request
The request to demolish 314 W Villard must be denied. According to Ordinance 1920, thisstructure cannot be deemed to have “no economic life remaining” as it is currently occupied.
Approving this demolition would disregard the ordinance and the needs of the community.
4. Oversight of Demolition Processes
I am concerned about potential conflicts of interest. Sarah Rosenberg is tasked with ensuringcompliance with demolition criteria while also overseeing Historic Preservation. This dual role
may compromise impartiality. The city should allocate resources to hire an additionalemployee dedicated to COA reviews, ensuring that decisions align with Chapter 38 criteria.
5. Affordable Housing Overlay (AHO)
The AHO requires significant revision. Community members did not approve it as is—it was
adopted during COVID, and we have repeatedly asked for changes. The current frameworkprioritizes developer benefits, such as additional stories and reduced parking requirements,
while providing only token affordability. We need an AHO that genuinely addressescommunity needs, with affordable units (e.g., at 60% AMI for rent and 80% AMI for
ownership) and better integration into the existing neighborhood fabric.
6. Housing Equity
Divisive narratives pitting homeowners against renters only serve corporate interests. High-priced new units will not address our housing challenges. Expensive properties remain vacant
while affordable rentals are scarce. The city must take steps to promote equitable housingpolicies that benefit everyone—not just developers.
7. A Call for Creativity and Courage
Our city has the opportunity to lead the way in resisting corporate-driven housing policies.
Consider innovative solutions like prohibiting “cash in lieu” unless a significant percentage ofunits are designated affordable. Let’s pave the way for a more equitable future.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I understand that these issues are complex, but I
urge you to prioritize long-term community well-being over short-term gains. I am open tofurther discussions and would welcome the opportunity to collaborate on finding solutions that
work for everyone.
Sincerely,
Michelle Osman
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Michelle Osman 419 North 5th Ave
Bozeman Mt. 59715(406) 579 3992
www.michelleosman.com