HomeMy WebLinkAbout05-22-25 Public Comment - Z. Brown - Public comment on BHS Residential Parking DistrictFrom:Zachary Brown
To:Bozeman Public Comment
Subject:[EXTERNAL]Public comment on BHS Residential Parking District
Date:Wednesday, May 21, 2025 4:25:41 PM
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Dear Commissioners,
I am writing again to share my opinion on the BHS Residential Parking District. I have written
multiple comments over the years to the Commission, to my neighborhood council, and to thefolks overseeing parking reforms.
I still do not understand what the current community benefits are derived, perceived or real,
from this district today in its current form. I understand that it is a revenue source for the city,through tickets and permits. But otherwise, I don't think that it's existence affects public health
and safety, or quality of life of our neighborhoods, in any tangible way.
Can anyone who disagrees share your perception of the benefits of this district to the quality oflife of the district neighborhoods? I would sincerely appreciate learning about what I might be
missing or overlooking.
My understanding of the history of this district is that it was created to prevent or mitigateBHS students and staff from parking in residential neighborhoods. That was decades ago when
there was less parking and more staff and students at the BHS/CJMS property. Now that wehave two high schools, we have fewer people using the BHS site every day, in addition to
more parking capacity that has come with all of the site changes and remodels. CJMS is nowacross town and no longer at the BHS site. Etc etc. And yet, despite all those changes, the
parking district has remained unchanged.
A frustrating observation of mine is the fact that Co-op employees have to park on residentialneighborhood streets because their parking lot is only big enough for customers. Therefore,
the working class folks who staff the co-op have to buy annual passes or pay fines, which isanother regressive and irrational outcome of this parking district regulation. They are going to
park in front of my house one way or the other. Why should they have to pay the city to do so?
I would implore you to please consider eliminating this BHS Residential Parking District. Orat least explain to us who live within the district what it's purpose and benefits might be from
the city's perspective.
Thank you for your consideration and for your service!
Zach Brown
107 South 10th Ave
Cell: (406)579-5697