HomeMy WebLinkAbout06-18-26 Public Comment - B. Finegan - Comment on City Charter DraftFrom:Benjamin Finegan
To:Bozeman Goverment Study Commission
Subject:[EXTERNAL]Comment on City Charter Draft
Date:Thursday, June 18, 2026 11:41:35 AM
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Dear Study Commission,
I deeply appreciate the work you have done over the past year and half.
I support your choice to give voters the option to increase our number of commissioners,
and believe that a larger number of elected representatives will create a more responsive
local government. I support the choice to give voters the option for wards and the option to
elect ward representatives at-large, and I appreciate the inclusion of a compensation board
to ensure elected officials are paid adequately.
While I deeply believe in the role of public engagement in local government, I am
disappointed to see that Article VIII gives more power to neighborhood associations and an
inter-neighborhood council. There are high barriers to entry for poor and working class
Bozemanites to participate in local government. Disabled people, single parents, unhoused
people, and Bozemanites working multiple jobs are short on time and resources, but
deserve to have an equal voice in local government as those with the time, resources, and
energy to participate in their neighborhood associations. Section 8.04 gives
disproportionate access and influence over local government to wealthier Bozemanites
through their volunteer associations. I urge the study commission to consider an alternative
that would increase the role of public engagement for all Bozemanites, regardless of their
socio-economic class.
Thank you
Benjamin Finegan
Director, Bozeman Tenants United