HomeMy WebLinkAbout05-22-25 Public Comment - T. Paulson - Thoughts on Potential Development in the Bon Ton DistrictFrom:Tessa Paulson
To:Bozeman Public Comment
Subject:[EXTERNAL]Thoughts on Potential Development in the Bon Ton District
Date:Tuesday, May 20, 2025 4:20:13 PM
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Dear City Commissioners and Staff,
My name is Tessa Paulson, and I’m a resident of the Bon Ton District, currently living in an
ADU on one of the historic properties. I’m writing to share a personal perspective on therecent discussions surrounding the potential development of larger, multi-unit apartment
buildings in this neighborhood.
I feel incredibly fortunate to live in this part of Bozeman. I moved here several years ago tomanage Heyday downtown, and now serve as their Operations and Marketing Manager.
Though I work hard and am proud of my role in a beloved local business, I would not be ableto afford to live in this historic area without the opportunity to rent a small ADU. It's a unique
way to maintain some level of housing accessibility here without compromising the characterof the district.
The Bon Ton neighborhood is small, beautiful, and deeply tied to Bozeman’s history and
charm. I walk my dogs through these streets daily, admiring the architecture, chatting withneighbors, and appreciating the peacefulness of it all. It’s more than just housing, it’s a living
part of what makes Bozeman so special.
I understand the need for more housing in Bozeman and absolutely support thoughtful, well-planned growth. However, I believe there are places better suited to higher-density
development than this historically significant and spatially limited district. Beyond beingvisually out of step with the neighborhood, larger apartment complexes could also lead to
added congestion, parking strain, and a disruption to the unique character of this area.
As someone who came from a larger city, I’ve seen how quickly the spirit of a neighborhoodcan be altered by the wrong kind of development. While I know Bozeman isn’t on that scale, I
do think we have the chance to learn from those outcomes and avoid similar mistakes.
I hope you’ll consider alternative options, such as increasing the allowance for ADUs inexisting properties, that can help address housing needs while preserving the integrity and
history of this treasured neighborhood.
Thank you for your time and for the work you do for our city.
Warmly,Tessa