HomeMy WebLinkAbout03-31-25 Public Comment - D. Strahn - Guthrie 2 Project (Planning Application number 24493).From:Derek Strahn
To:Bozeman Public Comment
Subject:[EXTERNAL]Guthrie 2 Project (Planning Application number 24493).
Date:Monday, March 31, 2025 7:34:07 AM
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
March 30, 2025
Attn: City Commission
PO Box 1230
Bozeman, MT 59771
Dear City Commission:
As former City Historic Preservation Officer and a resident of Bozeman’s historic core
since 1976, I am writing to express my concerns about the recent administrative
approval of the Guthrie 2 project (Planning Application number 24493).
Make no mistake, I am someone who believes that developing truly affordable housing in
Bozeman’s historic core is critically important. In this case, what concerns me, is that
the Guthrie 2 developers are claiming affordability, but it exists in name only. According
to some estimates, a one-bedroom, apartment with no kitchen and less than 450 square
feet would cost $1,745 a month in the Guthrie 2. Common sense should tell us that to
call such living space “affordable” is inaccurate and intentionally misleading.
As someone who has reviewed literally hundreds of development proposals within
Bozeman’s Conservation District, I respectfully ask the City Commission: Is it possible
that the “affordable” label is simply being floated in the case of the Guthrie 2 to sidestep
the goals, objectives, and requirements of the Neighborhood Conservation Overlay
District (NCOD)? According to section 38.340.010 of Bozeman’s Municipal Code, the
intent and purpose of the NCOD is to “stimulate the restoration and rehabilitation of
structures, and all other elements contributing to the character and fabric of established
residential neighborhoods . . . New construction will be invited and encouraged provided
primary emphasis is given to the preservation of existing buildings and further provided
the design of such new space enhances and contributes to the aesthetic character and
function of the property and the surrounding neighborhood or area.” Given that the
existing structure on the site of the proposed Guthrie 2 is designated
“eligible/contributing” to a potential historic district within the NCOD, the Municipal
Code also requires that its demolition be carefully scrutinized by criteria defined in
section 38.340.080. Sadly, the historic significance of the existing structure and the
overall architectural compatibility of the revised Guthrie 2 project have been largely
ignored in the name of something few local residents consider “affordable.”
Bozeman’s affordable housing and historic preservation goals are not mutually
exclusive. One need not be sacrificed for the other. At this critical juncture in our
developmental history, the city must pursue win-win solutions that simultaneously
advance its historic preservation and affordable housing goals. Only in this way can our
community continue to live up to its inspiring slogan, “The Most Livable Place.”
Sincerely,
B. Derek Strahn
412 West Harrison Street
Bozeman, MT 59715