HomeMy WebLinkAbout07-07-25 Public Comment - M. Bergevin - Opposition to Annexation and R‑4_R‑5 Zoning at 5211 Baxter LaneFrom:Mike Bergevin
To:Bozeman Public Comment
Subject:[EXTERNAL]Opposition to Annexation and R‑4/R‑5 Zoning at 5211 Baxter Lane
Date:Friday, July 4, 2025 12:09:09 PM
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Dear Mayor Cunningham and City Commissioners,
I’m writing as a concerned Bozeman resident to oppose the proposed annexation and rezoningof the “Baxter 80” property at 5211 Baxter Lane into R‑4 and R‑5 zoning districts.
This proposal raises serious concerns on multiple fronts:
1. Incompatible Density:
Allowing R‑4 and R‑5 zoning—permitting 5–6 story apartment buildings—adjacent toexisting R‑1 and R‑3 neighborhoods would create a jarring and inappropriate transition. It
risks fundamentally changing the west side’s character without regard for the surroundingcommunity.
2. Environmental Risk:The site includes nearly 19 acres of wetlands that support wildlife, mitigate flooding, and
protect groundwater. High-density development in or near these areas could cause permanentenvironmental harm.
3. Infrastructure Pressure:Baxter Lane is already under strain. Adding hundreds of new housing units without guaranteed
road, sewer, and school upgrades risks overwhelming public infrastructure and reducingquality of life for existing residents.
4. Lack of Transparency and Accountability:Zoning approvals of this scale should not be granted in the absence of a submitted and
reviewed site plan. Doing so creates uncertainty for residents and limits the Commission’sability to ensure responsible development.
Bozeman needs new housing, but it must be integrated thoughtfully. I urge you to reject thisannexation and rezoning—or, at a minimum, require phased approvals tied to a detailed site
plan, traffic and infrastructure assessments, and protections for natural resources.
Thank you for your service and for carefully considering the long-term impacts of this
decision.
Sincerely,Mike Bergevin4559 Danube Lane
Bozeman, MT 59718