HomeMy WebLinkAbout01-13-26 Public Comment - L. Semones - Priorities discussion on Tuesday 13From:Linda Semones
To:Bozeman Public Comment
Subject:[EXTERNAL]Priorities discussion on Tuesday 13
Date:Sunday, January 11, 2026 5:00:24 PM
Attachments:Priorities. 2026.docx
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.
Please distribute my public comment to Mayor Morrison, Deputy Mayor Fischer, andCommissioners Bode, Madgic and Sweeney.Thank you.
Linda Semones
Dear Mayor Morrison, Deputy Mayor Fischer, and Commissioners Bode, Madgic and
Sweeney,
As you enter 2026 and are setting priorities, I would like to comment on the topics that
are important to many residents of the city. The past two years have been dedicated to the
update of the UDC. It is now time to broaden our perspective.
1.The Bozeman Creek Plan is of utmost importance. This waterway is essential for
wildlife and native plants. This heritage waterway is a lasting natural asset for
everyone to enjoy if cared for properly. I ask that you work assiduously for its
restoration and preservation. Please do not give away the Bozeman Creek right of
way to private interests. It belongs to the world.
2.The Landmark Program is of utmost importance. Our historical resources, from the
east side of town to the west side of town, need to be recorded and conserved. The
City has been intent on densification and urbanization. It is time to balance that
goal with historical preservation of the built environment as well as the natural
environment. This would include a Heritage Tree Program, as supported by Parks
and Urban Forestry.
3.It is essential to update the Community Plan/Growth Policy to become more
inclusive. A dedicated chapter promoting historical preservation is needed. Edits to
include the term “gentle density” are needed to support the construction of
duplexes, tri-plexes, ADU’s and starter homes.
4.Our goals should include strengthening the UDC protection of trees and native
plants. This would include on public and private property. These protections can be
sensitive to the needs of the public, to the needs of property owners, and to the
needs of developers. The word of importance is BALANCE.
5.Truly affordable housing is the final goal I will mention. This would involve the
creation of a municipal housing authority that could invest the money raised by the
in-lieu provision of the Affordable Housing Ordinance in appropriate projects. The
in-lieu provision is effective only if the B3 height limit remains at 70 feet.
These are the 5 priorities that come to mind first. I also know that there are many other
ideas competing to get on the list.
I wish you wisdom and joy in your deliberations. This is a time to look to the future with
anticipation.
Sincerely,
Linda Semones. City Resident