HomeMy WebLinkAbout01-29-25 Public Comment - AHO revisions_City CommissionFrom:Carie Omland
To:Bozeman Public Comment
Subject:[EXTERNAL]AHO revisions/City Commission
Date:Wednesday, January 29, 2025 6:45:11 AM
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Dear Bozeman City Commission,
I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the proposed updates to the Affordable
Housing Ordinance (AHO) and the Unified Development Code (UDC), which was scheduledfor a discussion on Tuesday, January 28, 2025. As a resident of The Legends neighborhood, I
am particularly alarmed by the potential impacts these changes could have on our community,especially the proposed increases in building heights.
The current zoning, which was already met with significant public disapproval, is now being
overshadowed by even more permissive regulations.
These heights are not only unprecedented for our area but would dramatically alter thecharacter of our neighborhoods. For The Legends, the implications are stark:
- Canyon Gate Subdivision:
- With 9.70 acres zoned R-3, buildings could reach 65 feet, directly impacting the skyline andprivacy of neighboring properties.
- The 4.90 acres zoned R-5 could see structures up to 110 feet tall, which is taller than anycurrent structure in downtown Bozeman, including the Armory Hotel at 110 feet.
- The 9.69 acres zoned B-2M could potentially host buildings soaring to 158 feet, creating animposing presence along Story Mill Road.
Such drastic changes would not only overshadow existing single-family homes but would also
likely lead to a decrease in property values, increased traffic, and a significant alteration of ourcommunity's identity without adequate public consultation or consideration of residents'
feedback.
I urge the Commission to reconsider these zoning changes for the following reasons:
1. Community Impact: The scale of development proposed does not align with the currentresidential nature of our neighborhoods, potentially leading to significant quality of life
degradation.
2. Lack of Community Consent: There has been a lack of meaningful engagement withresidents, particularly those directly affected, before these sweeping changes were proposed.
3. Precedent and Future Growth: Allowing such heights sets a precedent that could lead to
unchecked vertical expansion across the city, potentially transforming Bozeman into a placeunrecognizable to its current residents.
4. Alternative Solutions: There must be more balanced approaches to addressing housing
affordability that do not compromise the integrity and livability of established neighborhoods.
I request that the City Commission:
- Consider this email and allow for more community input and discussion.- Conduct a thorough impact study on how these zoning changes will affect neighborhood
aesthetics, property values, and overall resident well-being.- Explore alternative, less invasive methods for promoting affordable housing that respect
existing community structures and values.
Please consider the long-term implications of these zoning changes on our community. I amwilling to engage further in discussions on this matter and hope that the City Commission will
listen to the voices of those who will be most directly affected by these decisions.
Thank you for your attention to this critical issue.
Sincerely,
Carie Omland 1593 Maiden Spirit St
Bozeman, MT