HomeMy WebLinkAbout04-21-26 Public Comment - R. Walsh - Public Comment_ UDC & STR ImpactFrom:reno walsh
To:Bozeman Public Comment
Subject:[EXTERNAL]Public Comment: UDC & STR Impact
Date:Tuesday, April 21, 2026 8:12:36 AM
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Public Comment: Unified Development Code (UDC) Update & STR Impact
Distinguished Bozeman City Commission,
I am writing to formally express my concern regarding the recent UDC Code Update and its
sudden, adverse impact on Type I & Type II Short Term Rental (STR) registrations in RAZoning.
The current situation has placed responsible local owners in an untenable position due to
conflicting directives from the City. Owners were initially assured that the UDC Update wouldnot affect their existing STR registrations. Recent communications from the City contradict
those prior assurances.
This policy shift presents several critical issues that the Commission must consider:
Financial Stability & Housing Retention: For many residents, the income generated from aType I or Type II STR is not discretionary; it is a primary means of offsetting the high cost of
living in Bozeman. Terminating these registrations threatens the ability of some owners toremain in their homes.
Contractual Obligations: Most owners have confirmed reservations throughout the
remainder of 2026. Forcing the cancellation of these stays may impose significant financialpenalties on owners.
Affordable Housing: Eliminating approximately 72 STRs does not fix affordability. A recent
Bozeman Chronicle piece suggests that there are plenty of market-rate apartments available.Bozeman's rental vacancy rate is around 12% right now.
Administrative Consistency: While the City’s acknowledgment of its errors and the resulting
frustration is appreciated, an apology does not mitigate the financial or legal jeopardycurrently facing owners who acted in good faith based on the City's initial guidance.
Requested Action: In the interest of fairness and administrative consistency, I urge the
Commission to honor its original commitment to Type I and Type II STR owners. Irecommend the City grandfather existing Type I and Type II registrations in the RA Zoning.
Thank you for your dedication to finding a balance that supports all Bozeman residents.
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Reno Walsh724 N. Bozeman Ave.