HomeMy WebLinkAbout11-06-25 Study Commission Agenda and Packet MaterialsA. Call to Order with Pledge of Allegiance and Moment of Silence - 4:00 PM, Commission Room,
City Hall, 121 North Rouse
B. Changes to the Agenda
C. Public Comment on Anything within the Jurisdiction of the Study Commission
THE STUDY COMMISSION OF BOZEMAN, MONTANA
SC AGENDA
Thursday, November 6, 2025
How to Participate:
If you are interested in commenting in writing on items on the agenda please send an email
to govreview@bozeman.net prior to 12:00 p.m. on the day of the meeting. At the direction of the
Study Commission, anonymous public comments are not distributed to the Study Commission.
Public comments will also be accepted in-person and through video conference during the appropriate
agenda items but you may only comment once per item.
As always, the meeting will be recorded and streamed through the Meeting Videos and available in the
City on cable channel 190.
For more information please contact Ex Officio, Mike Maas, 406.582.2321, or visit bozemanstudy.com.
This meeting will be held both in-person and also using an online video conferencing system. You
can join this meeting:
Via Video Conference:
Click the Register link, enter the required information, and click submit.
Click Join Now to enter the meeting.
Via Phone: This is for listening only if you cannot watch the stream, channel 190, or attend in-
person
United States Toll
+1 669 900 9128
Access code: 951 6442 0347
This is the time to comment on any matter falling within the scope of the Bozeman Study
Commission. There will also be time in conjunction with each agenda item for public comment
relating to that item but you may only speak once per topic. Please note, the Study Commission
cannot take action on any item which does not appear on the agenda. All persons addressing the
Study Commission shall speak in a civil and courteous manner and members of the audience shall
be respectful of others. Please state your name, and state whether you are a resident of the city
or a property owner within the city in an audible tone of voice for the record and limit your
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D. Consent Agenda
D.1 Approval of Study Commission Minutes(Heinen)
E. Correspondence or Study Commission Update
E.1 Outreach Reports(Heinen)
F. Unfinished Business
F.1 Report by Working Ventures (Franks/Working Ventures)
G. New Business
G.1 Amend the Bylaws of the Bozeman City Study Commission (Franks)
G.2 Presentation on City Values, Human Rights, and Quality of Life (Wilmer/Taylor)
H. Future Agenda Items
H.1 Potential Meeting topics(Heinen)
I. Public Comment on Anything within the Jurisdiction of the Study Commission
J. Announcements
K. Adjournment
comments to three minutes.
Written comments can be located in the Public Comment Repository.
Consider the Motion: I move to approve the Study Commission meeting minutes from October 15th,
2025.
Consider the Motion: Approve the Research Proposal and additional budget expense for Working
Ventures as presented.
Consider the Motion: I move to approve the amended bylaws as presented
This item is a living list of potential future meeting topics.
Reference Materials
Study Commission Bylaws
Study Commission Resources
Study Commission meetings are open to all members of the public. If you have a disability that
requires assistance, please contact the City of Bozeman's ADA Coordinator, David Arnado, at
406.582.3232.
Study Commission meetings are televised live on cable channel 190 and streamed live on our
Meeting Videos Page.
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Memorandum
REPORT TO:Study Commission
FROM:Caeleb Heinen, Recording Secretary
Mike Maas, Ex Officio
SUBJECT:Approval of Study Commission Minutes
MEETING DATE:November 6, 2025
AGENDA ITEM TYPE:Citizen Advisory Board/Commission
RECOMMENDATION:Consider the Motion: I move to approve the Study Commission meeting
minutes from October 15th, 2025.
STRATEGIC PLAN:1.1 Outreach: Continue to strengthen and innovate in how we deliver
information to the community and our partners.
BACKGROUND:Attached are the written minute summaries from the previous two
meetings. Future meeting minutes ought to be approved at the next
schedule Study Commission meeting.
All past meeting recordings are available for review on the City's Meeting
Videos page.
UNRESOLVED ISSUES:None identified
ALTERNATIVES:As per the Study Commission
FISCAL EFFECTS:None
Attachments:
10-15-25 Study Commission Meeting Minutes.docx
Report compiled on: October 23, 2025
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Bozeman City Commission Meeting Minutes, [DATE]
Page 1 of 4
THE CITY COMMMISSION MEETING OF BOZEMAN, MONTANA
MINUTES
October 15, 2025
A) 00:04:16 Call to Order with Pledge of Allegiance and Moment of Silence - 4:00 PM,
Commission Room, City Hall, 121 North Rouse
Present: Carson Taylor, Becky Franks, Barb Cestero, Jan Strout
Absent: None
Excused: Deanna Campbell, Mike Maas
B) 00:05:50 Changes to the Agenda
00:06:09 Commissioner Jan Strout to participate through zoom
C) 00:06:32 Public Comment on Anything within the Jurisdiction of the Study Commission
D) 00:07:51 Consent Agenda
D.1 Approval of Study Commission Minutes
10-02-25 Study Commission Meeting Minutes.docx
D.2 Study Commission Claims Review and Approval
20251007123654863.pdf
BCSC Invoice #1 (August and September 2025) - Invoice.pdf
00:08:54 Motion to approve I make a motion to approve the Consent Agenda as presented.
Becky Franks: Motion
Barb Cestero: 2nd
00:09:02 Vote on the Motion to approve I make a motion to approve the Consent Agenda as presented.
The Motion carried 4 - 0.
Approve:
Carson Taylor
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Bozeman City Commission Meeting Minutes, [DATE]
Page 2 of 4
Becky Franks
Barb Cestero
Jan Strout
Disapprove:
None
Present: Carson Taylor, Becky Franks, Barb Cestero, Deanna Campbell, Jan Strout
Absent: None
Excused: Mike Maas
E) 00:09:39 Correspondence or Study Commission Update
E.1 00:09:46 Outreach Reports
Local_Government_Study_Snapshot_(GA4).pdf
00:09:48 Commissioner Barb Cestero discussed submitting letter to NENA and her
correspondence with Dan Kaveney on being part of Bridger Creekland's Neighborhood Associations
meeting on November 6, 6:30 to 8 at Bozeman Safety Center.
00:11:58 Commissioner Deanna Campbell discussed her outreach with the Senior Center and a
potential meeting next Tuesday or Wednesday and her contact with Jeremy Johnson, Chairman of
Political Science Department at Carroll College in Helena for November 6.
00:13:45 Commissioner Carson Taylor discussed his correspondence with GVSC Steve White and
with Sam Wilson from PBS on a story of the Study Commissions across Montana.
F) 00:16:12 Unfinished Business
F.1 00:16:19 Finalize attendance and Study Focus for October 21 meeting with the
Bozeman City Commission
Questions for City Commissioners on 10.21.25- fin.docx
00:17:20 Commissioner Becky Franks discussed taking lead at the October 21 meeting.
G) 00:21:58 New Business
G.1 00:22:49 Presentation on City of Bozeman's Growth, Sustainability, Land Use,
Zoning and Housing
00:22:53 Chris Saunders presented:
Community Development Department
Sec. 4.04. Land Use, Development, and Environmental Planning.
7-1-114 Mandatory provisions.
Title 76 Chapter 25
Montana Land Use Planning Act
Other state laws - 2025
Title 76. Land Resources
State Required Plan Contents
Figure 7.
Issue Plans Graphics
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Bozeman City Commission Meeting Minutes, [DATE]
Page 3 of 4
Annexations Image
Urban Density Image
By the Numbers, part 1
By the Numbers, part 2
What is the Unified Development Code (UDC)?
Chpt. 38 Unified Dev. Code Elements
Proposed Zoning Map
Community Development Board
Impact Fee System
What is working, what is missing, what can be improved?
What are possible structural solutions to be considered for the City Charter?
00:42:04 Commissioner questions for Chris Saunders
00:45:48 Natalie Meyer presented:
Growth, Sustainability, Land Use, Zoning, and Housing
Sustainability Division Background
Sustainability Approach
Emissions Inventory Graphic
Sustainability Focus Areas
Building Highlights and Solar Energy Produced by Location
Organics Collections and Vehicles
Energy Efficiency graphic
Water Conservation graphic
City of Bozeman Charter
Montana Code Annotated
Sustainability Advisory Board
Bozeman Climate Plan
01:01:20 Commissioner questions for Chris Saunders, Erin George and Natalie Meyer
G.2 01:35:53 Status of Community Outreach and Engagement
BCSC - October 15th Meeting Slides.pdf
01:37:27 Stan Odenthal presented:
Status Update:
Status Update: Project Timeline & Approach
Community Collaboration
Setting Priorities for Deeper Research
Survey -
Preparation for City Commission Meeting
01:45:50 Discussion on future Advisory Board Survey
01:52:47 Clarification from Commissioner Becky Franks on future Research and details for
Commissioners
01:53:57 Discussion on the paper survey process
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Bozeman City Commission Meeting Minutes, [DATE]
Page 4 of 4
01:55:35 Questions on security of the survey
01:57:00 Questions on security for the paper surveys
01:59:45 Discussion on the survey advertisements
H) Future Agenda Items
H.1 Potential Meeting topics
I) 02:06:02 Public Comment on Anything within the Jurisdiction of the Study Commission
J) Announcements
K) 02:06:27 Adjournment
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Memorandum
REPORT TO:Study Commission
FROM:Caeleb Heinen, Recording Secretary
Mike Maas, Ex Officio
SUBJECT:Outreach Reports
MEETING DATE:November 6, 2025
AGENDA ITEM TYPE:Citizen Advisory Board/Commission
RECOMMENDATION:This is the time for Study Commissioners to report personal outreach since
the last meeting.
STRATEGIC PLAN:1.1 Outreach: Continue to strengthen and innovate in how we deliver
information to the community and our partners.
BACKGROUND:This is the time for Study Commissioners to report personal outreach since
the last meeting.
UNRESOLVED ISSUES:None identified
ALTERNATIVES:As per the Study Commission
FISCAL EFFECTS:TBD
Report compiled on: October 22, 2025
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Memorandum
REPORT TO:Study Commission
FROM:Caeleb Heinen, Recording Secretary
Mike Maas, Ex Officio
Becky Franks, Vice-chair City Study Commission
Working Ventures, Communication Strategist Firm
SUBJECT:Report by Working Ventures
MEETING DATE:November 6, 2025
AGENDA ITEM TYPE:Citizen Advisory Board/Commission
RECOMMENDATION:Consider the Motion: Approve the Research Proposal and additional budget
expense for Working Ventures as presented.
STRATEGIC PLAN:1.2 Community Engagement: Broaden and deepen engagement of the
community in city government, innovating methods for inviting input from
the community and stakeholders.
BACKGROUND:1. Report and input from Working Ventures on community survey,
Community Engagement Report from October 2-4 meetings.
2. Report and input for Community Engagement Meetings December 4-6,
2025
3. Input on Research Proposal with approval of funds.
UNRESOLVED ISSUES:None identified
ALTERNATIVES:As per the City Study Commission
FISCAL EFFECTS:TBD
Attachments:
BSC - November Meeting.pdf
Report compiled on: October 30, 2025
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Main GoalsEstablish shared
understanding of
the project’sgoals, scope, andtimeline
Communication
planning
Main GoalsCo-develop
custom public
stakeholdersurvey Launch, collect,
and analyze
survey data
Main Goals Plan & conduct a
variety of input-
gatheringsessions (e.g.,open houses,
community
workshops)
Main GoalsDevelop initial
findings
Gather publicfeedback toreflect, validate,
and finalize key
themes
Main Goals
Create a final
report based onpublic input Transfer report to
Study
Commission tolead next steps
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Strongly Disagree
Strongly Agree
City Residents Outside City in Gallatin Valley
1 2 3 4 5
I stay informed about local government issues in Bozeman.
I understand who leads and makes decisions for our city.
dent in the current structure of city government in Bozeman.
I stay informed about local governmentissues in Bozeman.
I understand who leads and makesdecisions for our city.
I am confident in the current structure ofcity government in Bozeman.
428 community members have participated in the public survey as of October 22. Initial awareness and
attitude ratings are shown below by City Residents (n=382) and those Outside City in Gallatin Valley (n=46).
NEXT STEPS
Continue gathering survey responses into November, especially from SW & NE quadrantsAnalyze full data and present initial structure topic area benchmarks (e.g., Mayor/City Manager)1
PHASE 1: PROJECT
KICKOFF AND
COMMUNICATIONS
Fall 2025
PHASE 2: PUBLIC
SURVEY AND
ANALYSIS
Fall 2025
PHASE 3:
STAKEHOLDER
MEETINGS
Fall/Winter 2025
PHASE 4: INITIAL
FINDINGS AND
VALIDATION
Spring 2026
PHASE 5: FINAL
REPORT AND
TRANSFER
Summer 2026
COMPLETE UPCOMING UPCOMINGIN PROGRESSIN PROGRESS
The City of Bozeman Study Commission has partnered with Working Ventures through thefive main stages below. The goal of this partnership is to:
ENGAGE THE PUBLIC & EXPLORE THE STRUCTURE OF OUR LOCAL GOVERNMENT
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT UPDATE
PROCESS OVERVIEW
PHASE 2 UPDATE: PUBLIC SURVEY AND ANALYSIS
SURVEY RESPONDENTS FEEL INFORMED ABOUT THE CITY AND DECISION MAKING,
BUT HAVE LOWER CONFIDENCE IN THE CURRENT STRUCTURE OF CITY GOVERNMENT.
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WV held 3 public stakeholder meetings October 2-4 at City Hall and Gallatin High. 17 constituents and 5 study
commission members attended across three sessions. Notes and ratings from participants are summarized below.
PHASE 3 UPDATE: STAKEHOLDER MEETINGS
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MAYOR & CITY MANAGER
HOW SHOULD LOCAL LEADERS WORK TOGETHER?
CONVERSATION THEMES
General support for more power to Mayoras the elected chief executive of the cityExecutive Mayor could still hireadministrators as neededInterest in sunsetting policy to serve thefirst 2 years as Deputy Mayor
CONSIDERATIONS
City manager is powerful position withpotentially high cost of removalExpansion of mayor role would alsorequire expanded hours and pay
I think formal changes to the roles of Mayor
and City Manager would benefit Bozeman.
1 2 3 4 5
STRONGLY
DISAGREE
STRONGLY
AGREE
CONVERSATION THEMES
Broad support for geographic boundariesand commissioners elected by wardsInterest in a hybrid model with both ward-based and at-large commissioner electionsGeneral support for term limits, potentially~8-12 years
CITY COMMISSION
DOES THE CITY COMMISSION STRUCTURE NEED UPDATES?
CONSIDERATIONS
No consensus on “ideal” number ofcommissionersWould need process to create wardsfairly and position for growth
I think formal changes to the City Commission
structure would benefit Bozeman.
1 2 3 4 5
STRONGLY
DISAGREE
STRONGLY
AGREE
CONVERSATION THEMES
Public would like to see the city be more
responsive to constituents
Hybrid model could help representation
from more audiences (e.g., other areas of
Bozeman, renters, students)
REPRESENTING BOZEMAN
WHAT WOULD MAKE YOU FEEL WELLREPRESENTED BY LOCAL GOVERNMENT?
CONSIDERATIONS
Clearer communication channels to/from neighborhood councils would helpFilling spots on boards, neighborhoodcouncils can be challenging
I think City Boards and Neighborhood Councilsshould have greater influence on City decisions.
1 2 3 4 5
STRONGLY
DISAGREE
STRONGLY
AGREE
NEXT STEPS
Hold additional public open houses and workshops over the winterNarrow focal issues for additional research, planning, and charter updates
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Chamber of Commerce
Nonprofit Leaders
Downtown Business Association
Bozeman Business and Professional Women
Forward MT (2)
League of Women Voters
ASMSU
MSU Staff/Faculty
BSD7
Bozeman Sunrise Rotary
Northeast Neighborhood Association
One Valley Community Foundation
NEXT STEPS
Identify the content, duration, and structure of the sessionsShare a schedule to immediate start booking these events
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Listed Priorities include:
City Commission elections/representation structure (5)Neighborhood councils and resident representation (4)City Manager’s authority and accountability (3)Methods of filling vacancies of elected positionsCity Advisory Boards (3)City Commission Size (3)Public participation and transparency mechanisms (2)Mayor’s role and power (2)Ethics, Conflicts of Interest, Campaign Finance Deputy Mayor’s role
Number of votes is in parenthesis
Other priorities identified in short text: Advisory Board involvementRepresentation is more than geography. How will Representation in decision-making structures of elected and appointedmembers reflect the demographic make-up of the Bozeman community residentsWhat are the best City structures that protect and defend the Human Rights of allresidents?Community Education Pay and time commitments
COMMISSIONER SURVEY AND SCHEDULE
COMMISSIONER PRIORITIES IDENTIFIED IN THE COMMISSIONER SURVEY
COMMUNITY PARTNERS IDENTIFIED FOR DECEMBER 4-6TH
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How does this look? Should we start booking?
SAMPLE SCHEDULE (DECEMBER 4TH-6TH)
|
Thursday December 4th
12:00 p.m. - Group 1
2:00 p.m. - Group 2
4:00 p.m. - Commission Meeting
7:00 p.m. - Group 3
Friday December 5th
Saturday December 6th
9:00 a.m. - Group 1
11:00 a.m. - Group 2
2:00 p.m. - Group 3
6:00 p.m. - Group 4
9:00 a.m. - Group 1
11:00 a.m. - Group 2
2:00 p.m. - Group 3
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Purpose: This research will explore key areas of municipal governance to inform potentialupdates to the City Charter and ensure alignment with best practices, state law, andcommunity needs.
1. Geographic Representation and Regional StructureEvaluate options for commission representation: all district-based, all at-large, or a hybrid model.Assess how geographic regions should be defined, who determines the boundaries, and howfrequently redistricting should occur.Examine best practices from comparable municipalities for equitable representation.
2. Oversight and Authority of the City Manager and StaffDefine the scope of oversight: Should administrative control rest solely with the Mayor or with thefull Commission?Identify appropriate Charter provisions to ensure accountability and performance without unduepolitical interference.Review mechanisms for performance evaluation and transparency.
3. Commission Composition and GovernanceReview the optimal number of commissioners relative to population size.Assess term limits, compensation, and qualifications, particularly for roles requiring significant timecommitments.Analyze procedures for filling vacancies in compliance with state law and local precedent.
4. Neighborhood Associations and Community EngagementClarify the formal relationship between Neighborhood Associations (NAs) and the Commission.Define the role, purpose, and potential authority of NAs in policy input and community advocacy.Evaluate whether financial or staff support should be allocated to strengthen communityengagement.Recommend an effective structure for interaction between NAs and the Commission.
5. Advisory Boards and CommitteesIdentify which advisory boards are required by state law versus those established locally.Determine the appropriate scope of authority and responsibility for each.Review processes for selection, appointment, and reappointment of members.Consider implementing term limits and standardized term lengths to promote diverseparticipation.
Current Hours Dedicated to this project: 450 total hours over the entirety of the contract
Estimated additional hours needed for research and presentation of materials: 50-100 hoursto be completed by January 15th.
Option 1: 50 hours at $90 per hour ($4,500 total) to include smallerreports/presentations on the 5 topic areas.
Option 2: 100 hours at $90 per hour $9,000 (total) to include more in-depth reports andpresentation on the 5 topic areas.
ADDITITIONAL RESEARCH NEEDS
PROPOSAL FOR ADDITIONAL RESEARCH: GOVERNANCE STRUCTURE AND OPERATIONAL FRAMEWORK
NEXT STEPS
Approval of additional project research hours. Identify Commission Meetings to present researched materials.
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Memorandum
REPORT TO:Study Commission
FROM:Caeleb Heinen, Recording Secretary
Mike Maas, Ex Officio
Becky Franks, Vice-chair Bozeman City Study Commission
SUBJECT:Amend the Bylaws of the Bozeman City Study Commission
MEETING DATE:November 6, 2025
AGENDA ITEM TYPE:Citizen Advisory Board/Commission
RECOMMENDATION:Consider the Motion: I move to approve the amended bylaws as presented
STRATEGIC PLAN:1.1 Outreach: Continue to strengthen and innovate in how we deliver
information to the community and our partners.
BACKGROUND:Vice-chair Becky Franks provided suggest amendments to the City Study
Commission bylaws for review.
UNRESOLVED ISSUES:None Identified
ALTERNATIVES:As per the City Study Commission
FISCAL EFFECTS:None
Attachments:
Bylaws City of Bozeman Study Commission Suggested Edits
11 6 25.pdf
Report compiled on: October 30, 2025
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Bylaws of Governing Voter Review Study Commission
PART I. General Provisions
Section 1.01 Purpose. The purpose of this document is to establish the rules of procedure for the conduct
of meetings and the transaction of business by the 2024-2026 Study Commission of the City of Bozeman.
These rules of procedure are intended to ensure that the Study Commission can accomplish its work
efficiently, in full view of the public, and with reasonable opportunity for the public to participate in the
deliberations and decisions of its city government.
Section 1.02 Authority. These rules of procedure are promulgated pursuant to and supplement Title 2,
Chapter 3 and Title 7, Chapter 3, Part 1 of the Montana Code Annotated.
Section 1.03 Fiscal Term. The fiscal term of the City of Bozeman Study Commission shall begin
November 2024 and end at the completion of the designated work and no later than November 2026. Any
unspent budgetary funds at the time of completion shall be added to the general fund of the City of
Bozeman.
Section 1.04 Membership. Membership is designated by residents voting in the general election in
November 2024 and service continues through the completion of the work. The Study Commission is
made up of five Members (each a “Member”) who receive the most votes. Members shall serve on the
Study Commission without compensation for their services. Norms for Study Commission Members will
follow the Rules of Procedure as stated in Chapter 2, Article 2, Section 2.02.200, 120, 140, and Division
4: Code of Ethics BMC.
Participation by Electronic Means. Study Commission Members are expected to contribute the time
necessary to fulfill their obligations to the outcomes of the Study Commission, make every effort to attend
all scheduled meetings and make every effort to do so in person. All Members are required to contact the
Chair and Recording Secretary prior to the meeting if they are to be absent from a meeting. Any one or
more Members may participate in, and shall be deemed present at, any meeting conducted by video
conference by which all persons participating in the meeting can hear each other at the same time. A
minimum of two people must be present in the room for a meeting to occur.
Officers of the Commission. The officers are the Presiding Officer and Presiding Vice-Officer (here
forward “Chair and Vice Chair”) and shall be elected by the Members. The Chair shall preside over all
meetings of the Commission and set the final draft of the agenda after receiving input from the full Study
Commission during the prior meeting. The Vice Chair shall preside over the meetings in the absence of
the Chair or if the Chair is participating via electronic means. A Recording Secretary will be selected by
the Study Commission and in conjunction with the City of Bozeman Ex-Officio member will be
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responsible for preparing meeting documents, posting the meeting as required, recording the meeting
minutes and following all requirements that ensure public participation outlined by law.
Compliance with the City Code of Ethics. All Members are required to follow State ethics laws regarding
appointed officials and the City of Bozeman Code of Ethics. Members are also required to attend City
sponsored Ethics Training on an annual basis.
Inability to complete term. If a Member is not able to complete the term, the vacancy will be filled by
appointment by the Bozeman City Commissioners within 30 days of the vacancy date. MCA 7-4-4111
and 7-4-4112.
PART II. Public Participation
Section 2.01 Policy. It is the policy of Bozeman City Commission that the public shall be afforded
reasonable opportunity to participate in the operations of the Study Commission prior to the final decision
of the Study Commission concerning any matter of significant interest to the public. A matter of significant
interest to the public includes but is not limited to any matter:
1. Requiring two public hearings.
2. Hearing, discussion, or deciding on a proposal to alter the current form of government for the
City of Bozeman.
3. Relating to the budgetary and financial affairs of the Study Commission.
Section 2.02 Open Meetings. A meeting of the Bozeman Study Commission is convened whenever a
quorum of Study Commission Members hear, discuss, or act upon any matter over which they have
jurisdiction, whether corporal or by means of electronic equipment. All meetings of the Bozeman Study
Commission shall be open to the public, unless otherwise provided by law after consultation with qualified
legal counsel.
Section 2.03 Notice. The Bozeman Study Commission will meet as scheduled as decided by the Members
and shall give timely notice of any public hearing or any meeting to discuss or act upon any matter of
significant interest to the public, as prescribed by law. Additionally, the agenda of all scheduled meetings
of the Bozeman Study Commission shall be posted on the designated public posting location(s) at best
seven calendar days but not later than 48 hours prior to the meeting.
Special Meetings. If a meeting is needed in addition to the regularly scheduled monthly meeting, the Chair
or two or more Members can call a special meeting. The only difference between a regular meeting and a
special meeting is that a special meeting can only address the topic for which it was called. Otherwise, it
must follow all procedural and noticing requirements.
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Section 2.03 Public Posting. The Bozeman Study Commission will post official notices in compliance
with 2-3-103, MCA and utilizing the City of Bozeman’s designated official posting procedures.
PART III. Procedures.
Section 3.01 Quorum. A quorum of the Bozeman Study Commission shall consist of three Study
Commission Members. No meeting of the Study Commission shall be convened without a quorum. Action
of the Study Commission shall be based on the affirmative vote of a majority of those Members who are
present at the meeting at which a quorum exists. Voting by proxy will not be permitted.
Vote on Formal Recommendations. Any final recommendations or adoption of the final report made by
the Study Commission does not have legal effect unless adopted by a majority of the whole number of
members of the study commission. MCA 7-3-181
Section 3.02 Agenda Preparation. Proposed agenda matters requiring consideration, discussion, or
decision by the Study Commission shall be discussed and organized during the prior meeting. The
following meeting agendas will be set on each meeting agenda that includes discussion by the Members
followed by public comment. A formal vote on the upcoming agenda will be taken. Additional agenda
items may be added or amended by the Chair if deemed necessary and appropriate.
The agenda will then be submitted in writing to the Chair of the Study Commission or to the designated
point of contact of the Study Commission by 12:00pm, two calendar days preceding formal notice to the
public. The Chair or the designated representative shall arrange the matters requiring discussion or action
into an agenda according to the order of business specified herein. Electronic or printed copies of the
agenda shall be provided to each Member of the Study Commission and made available to the public at
best seven calendar days but not later than 48 hours prior to the scheduled meeting.
Section 3.03 Order of Business. The presiding officer shall present the agenda in substantially the
following form which may be altered by consent of the Study Commission. The order of public comment
may be adjusted to enhance the value of public participation in the discussion.
1. Call the meeting to order with Pledge of Allegiance and moment of silence
2. Changes to the agenda
3. Public Comment on anything within the jurisdiction of the Study Commission
4. Approval of consent agenda which includes the Minutes of the Previous Meeting
5. Correspondence or Study Commission Update
6. Unfinished Business
a. Matters that have previously been heard or considered but no final action has been taken.
7. New Business
a. Public Hearing (required by law for specific actions of study commission)
8. Future Agenda Items
9. Public Comment on anything within the jurisdiction of the Study Commission
a. An item that is not scheduled on the agenda for the current meeting may be commented on
by the public and may be briefly discussed by the study commission at the body’s
discretion. However, the purpose of such discussion shall be to decide whether or not to
schedule the item for discussion and/or vote on a subsequent agenda. As a general rule no
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matter of significant interest to the public should be decided upon without prior notice to
the public as a scheduled Study Commission agenda item.
10. Announcements (such as schedule time, date, and location of next meeting)
11. Adjournment
Section 3.04 External Communications. There will be several opportunities for Study Commission
members to speak to the public through presentations, online, written and spoken media. Study
Commission members must act in accordance with the following rules:
1. Matters of external communication must align with the Bozeman City Code of Conduct and
Decorum as stated in Bozeman City Ordinance 2157.
2. All external communication should be provided by at least 2 Study Commissioners if at all
possible.
3. Writing, presenting or electronic posting as an individual person must not include any reference to
being a member of the Study Commission. During the term of service, this type of communication
by an individual must include, “The views expressed here are mine only.”
4. Any external communication must be reported during the Study Commission meeting during the
Outreach agenda Item. If timing allows, this should be done prior to external communication, and
then the Study Commissioner must also share the results following the external communication
event.
PART IV. Rules of Study Commission Participation.
Section 4.01 Policy. To provide for the effective participation by all Members of the Bozeman Study
Commission and to protect the right of participation by members of the public appearing before the Study
Commission, all meetings of the Study Commission shall be conducted in general conformance with the
provisions of the current edition of Robert's Rules of Order Simplified Version, except when inconsistent
with the law or this policy.
Section 4.02 Rules. Study Commission debate shall proceed in accordance with the following rules:
1. A Study Commission Member desiring to speak shall address the presiding officer, and upon
recognition, shall confine him or herself to the question under debate, avoiding abusive and
indecorous language.
2. A Study Commission Member once recognized, shall not be interrupted when speaking unless it
is to call him or her to order, or as herein otherwise provided. If a Study Commission Member
while speaking is called to order, the person shall cease speaking until the question of order is
determined, and, if in order, the person shall be permitted to proceed.
3. Order of rotation in matters of debate or discussion shall be at the discretion of the presiding
officer.
4. A motion may be made by any member of the Study Commission but must be seconded prior to
discussion and vote. If the motion is not seconded, it shall be declared failed for lack of a second
by the presiding officer.
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5. A motion to reconsider any action taken by the Study Commission may be made only on the day
such action was taken. It may be made either immediately during the same session, or at a recessed
and reconvened session thereof. Such a motion may only be made by a Study Commission Member
of the prevailing side but may be seconded by any Study Commission Member and it shall be
debatable.
6. Nothing herein shall be construed to prevent any Member of the Study Commission from making
or remaking the same or any other proper motion at a subsequent meeting of the Study
Commission, but the matter must be a scheduled agenda item.
Section 4.03 Suspension of the Rules of Debate. The rules of debate may be suspended temporarily by
the unanimous vote of the entire Study Commission.
Section 4.04 Duty to Vote. It shall be the duty of each Study Commission Member to vote in the
affirmative or negative on each motion duly placed before the Study Commission by the presiding officer.
A Study Commission Member may make a brief explanation of the reason why they voted in a particular
way.
Section 4.05 Conflict of Interest. Any Member of the Study Commission who has a private interest, as
defined by law or as so advised by the City Attorney, in any matter pending before the Bozeman Study
Commission shall not participate in the debate nor vote in that matter nor seek to influence the vote of
Members of the Study Commission, except as otherwise provided by 2-2-201, MCA. The Member with a
conflict of interest may stay present at the table but may not participate in the discussion or the vote. If
the presiding officer has a private interest in a matter pending before the Study Commission, they shall
yield the chair to the Vice Chair during the course of debate and decision concerning the matter in which
they have a private interest.
PART V. Presentation to the Study Commission.
Section 5.01 Procedures. The general procedure by which items are handled by the Study Commission
Members at other than public hearings shall be as follows:
1. The presiding officer or staff member presents the item to the Study Commission along with a
brief summary of the matter for discussion, with or without the presiding officer's
recommendation.
2. For the purpose of clarification and after recognition by the presiding officer, Study Commission
Members may direct questions about the item to the presiding officer or staff member.
3. The presiding officer will then invite members of the audience to present or submit comments.
4. All comments shall be directed to the presiding officer.
5. The Study Commission may, upon a proper motion and second, vote on the matter or table the
matter until a date certain.
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PART VI. Public Hearings
Section 6.01 Procedures. The Study Commission shall conduct at least two public hearings as required
by law. MCA 7-3-186 Additionally, the following the presentation of any comments or information, the
Members may ask questions of any person presenting to the Commission.
PART VII. Guide for Public Participation
Section 7.01 Guidelines for Public Participation. The following guidelines shall serve to assure
reasonable and fair public participation in the decisions of the Bozeman Study Commission.
1. The public shall be invited to speak on any item under consideration by the Study Commission
after and only after recognition by the presiding officer.
2. The speaker should step to the front of the room, and for the record, give their name and state
whether they are residents of the city or property owners within the city for the record and, if
applicable, the person, or organization they represent.
3. Prepared statements are welcomed and should be given to the presiding officer and noted in the
minutes of the meeting. Prepared statements that are also read, however, shall be deemed unduly
repetitious. All prepared statements shall become a part of the permanent record.
4. While the Study Commission is in session, members of the public must preserve order and
decorum. No person shall delay or interrupt the proceedings or the peace of the Study Commission
nor disturb any member of the public or of the Study Commission while speaking or refuse to obey
the orders of the presiding officer of the Study Commission, and adopts Bozeman Municipal Code
Ordinance 2157. Threats of violence will not be tolerated.
5. As the public has an opportunity to provide written comment on agenda items prior to a Study
Commission meeting, and to ensure an orderly and efficient meeting, the presiding officer may
establish time limits for speakers providing oral comment at study commission meetings. Absent
the presiding officer establishing an alternative time limit for public comment, the time limit for
oral comment is three minutes per person on each agenda item.
PART VIII. Resolutions
Section 8.01 Resolutions. Except as provided by law, proposed resolutions may be introduced at any time
by a member of the Study Commission and if adopted shall be effective on the date specified therein.
PASSED, ADOPTED, AND APPROVED by the Bozeman Study Commission of Bozeman, Montana,
at a regular session thereof held on the 8th of January 2025.
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_____________________________________
Carson Taylor
Chair
ATTEST:
_____________________________________
Mike Maas
City Clerk
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Memorandum
REPORT TO:Study Commission
FROM:Caeleb Heinen, Recording Secretary
Mike Maas, Ex Officio
SUBJECT:Presentation on City Values, Human Rights, and Quality of Life
MEETING DATE:November 6, 2025
AGENDA ITEM TYPE:Citizen Advisory Board/Commission
RECOMMENDATION:Receive a presentation on the Human Rights in the Montana Constitution
and how they apply to Local Municipalities and Bozeman City Charter by
Professor Franke Wilmer, MSU Political Science Department. Discuss the City
of Bozeman's City Value and Quality of Life in regards to the Bozeman City
Charter and the Bozeman 2018 Strategic Plan.
STRATEGIC PLAN:1.1 Outreach: Continue to strengthen and innovate in how we deliver
information to the community and our partners.
BACKGROUND:· City Values: What are the values currently in the City Charter? Discussion of
City of Bozeman 2018 Strategic Plan resource: provide the Summary with full
Report in advance with the Agenda - Carson Taylor (45 minutes)
· Human Rights: Professor Franke Wilmer, MSU Political Science Dept retired
(emeritus): invited to present on Human Rights in our Montana Constitution
and how they apply to Local Municipalities and Bozeman City Charter (1
hour)
· Quality of Life: what is working to uphold our City Values and Human Rights
and enhance the quality of life for all residents? What is not working or
missing? What areas should be included in the City Charter?
UNRESOLVED ISSUES:None Identified
ALTERNATIVES:As per the Study Commission
FISCAL EFFECTS:None
Attachments:
Bozeman Strategic Plan Vision and Vision Statements.pdf
Report compiled on: October 22, 2025
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Page 1 of 11
Adopted April 16, 2018
Vision and Vision Statements
Vision
Bozeman remains a safe, inclusive community, fostering civic engagement and
creativity, with a thriving diversified economy, a strong environmental ethic, and a
high quality of life as our community grows and changes.
Vision Statements
1. An Engaged Community. We foster a culture of engagement and civic leadership based
on innovation and best practices involving community members of all backgrounds and
perspectives.
2. An Innovative Economy. We grow a diversified and innovative economy leveraging our
natural amenities, skilled and creative people, and educational resources to generate
economic opportunities.
3. A Safe, Welcoming Community. We embrace a safe, healthy, welcoming and inclusive
community.
4. A Well-Planned City. We consistently improve our community’s quality of life as it
grows and changes, honoring our sense of place and the ‘Bozeman feel’ as we plan for a
livable, affordable, more connected city.
5. A Creative, Learning Culture. We expand learning, education, arts, expression and
creativity for all ages.
6. A Sustainable Environment. We cultivate a strong environmental ethic, protecting our
clean air, water, open spaces and climate, and promote environmentally sustainable
businesses and lifestyles.
7. A High Performance Organization. We operate as an ethical, high performance
organization anticipating future needs, utilizing best practices, and striving for
continuous improvement.
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Memorandum
REPORT TO:Study Commission
FROM:Caeleb Heinen, Recording Secretary
Mike Maas, Ex Officio
SUBJECT:Potential Meeting topics
MEETING DATE:November 6, 2025
AGENDA ITEM TYPE:Citizen Advisory Board/Commission
RECOMMENDATION:This item is a living list of potential future meeting topics.
STRATEGIC PLAN:1.1 Outreach: Continue to strengthen and innovate in how we deliver
information to the community and our partners.
BACKGROUND:Study Commission Purview and Charge
Charter Crises and City Attorney notes of issues in current Charter
Staff identified "pinch points"
Develop and adopt a discovery plan for best practices to be learned
from other communities.
Following deliberation and public input, decide the Power structure
desired for the City of Bozeman
Following deliberation and public input, decide the Form of
government for the City of Bozeman
Following deliberation and public input, decide the Plan sub-options
that will be under consideration
Following deliberation and public input, decide the Recommendations
that will be under consideration
Draft a Tentative Report and submit for legal review
Second Public Hearing—to gather citizen response to Tentative Report
Adopt the Final Report from Second Public Hearing
UNRESOLVED ISSUES:None identified.
ALTERNATIVES:As per the Study Commission.
FISCAL EFFECTS:TBD
Report compiled on: October 22, 2025
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