HomeMy WebLinkAboutStory Mill Community Park Public Comment from Karen and KC Walsh with Simms 3-10-14 Simms.
Dear Mayor and Commissioners,
We would like to express our support for the Story Mill Community Park proposal brought forth by
the Trust for Public Land. This park represents a unique opportunity to develop our largest and most
diverse offering for a community park and recreation area. It is a far-sighted effort to develop a park
system on what is now an eye-sore, and will provide close-to-home recreation for youth and families.
This property will be revitalized for area citizens, and will protect over a half mile of the East Gallatin.
As long-time residents of Bozeman and owners of Simms Fishing Products, we recognize how access
to healthy and diverse outdoor resources improves our quality of life and encourages economic
vibrancy. We've all seen the studies that demonstrate that cities that invest wisely in parks continue
to grow as prosperous and diverse communities. A quality environment and lifestyle is a determining
factor in our ability to attract prospective employees and their families.
The Story Mill property is a unique piece of open land given its proximity to downtown and at the
base of Bridger Canyon. Its extraordinary habitat, wetlands and wildlife features create an ideal
location for an active park and trail nexus. It is opportunities like this that we envisioned when we
voted in favor of the Parks and Trails Bond Issue.
In addition to the quality of life advantages offered,the Story Mill project makes fiscal sense. $4.5
million are required in TOP funding ($2.65 million for land acquisition and 1.85 million for park
development). An additional $3.75 million will be raised from private donations and partnerships.
There will be a diverse mixture of parties with "skin in the game." This is a 2:1 (city:private)match
that will result in a premiere outdoor recreation area for Bozeman.
Join us in supporting a rare opportunity to improve our community.
With Respect,
Karen and K.C.Walsh
PO Box 3645 1 Bozeman, Montana 59772
101 Evergreen Drive I Bozeman,Montana 59715
telephone 406 585 3557 1 Facsimile 406 585 3562
F mail info(«simmsfishing.com 1 www.simmsfishing.com