HomeMy WebLinkAboutRaffensberger, TOP application, 4-13AdvisoryBoardApplicationID: 39
Form inserted: 3/31/2013 8:24:17 AM
Name: Dennis Raffensperger
Physical Address: 720 S. Tracy Ave., Bozeman, Montana 59715
Primary Phone: (406) 624-6482
Additional Phone: (406) 581-8759
Email: denraf@gmail.com
Your current occupation: University Architect
Employer: Montana State University
How long have you lived in the Bozeman Area?: 1-5 yr
Which position are you applying for?: TOP
City Limits: yes
Have you ever served on a City or County Board or Commission?: yes
If so, how long?: 7 years each
If so, where ?: Evanston, IL and Mendham, NJ
Please explain your relevant qualifications, interests and experiences.: I am a passionate,
intelligent user of open space in and around Bozeman, bringing to my use and appreciation of
parks and open space the esthetic appreciation as well as a nuts and bolts understanding
developed in my 35 years as an architect. I live on the south side, 200 feet from Longfellow
school yard. I see every day the effect of that open space on an established city neighborhood. I
frequent the linear trail and Peets Hill, understanding and appreciating these spaces and the roles
they play for a wide spectrum of users as well as the role they play in bringing both nature and
community to the parts of the city they traverse. I am an avid hiker, cyclist, and skier. I cycle to
work and around town every day. I walk my dog through the south side every day. I ski in Linley
Park. I feel involved with city open space every day. I bring a critical perception to open space
cultivated in my many years as a design professional. Through my professional training I see and
understand city parks and open space in their larger urban context. I have served on a City Plan
Commission, a Zoning Board, an Historic Preservation Commission. I was a board member for a
500 acre Natural Land Trust. I understand and appreciate the process of working collaboratively
toward shared goals in the public interest. My five years in Bozeman have created in me a love
for this community and a tremendous desire to both enhance and protect this unique place to live,
work and recreate.
Reference 1: Steve Schnee 108 Silverwood Dr Bozeman (406) 586-8961
schnee59715@msn.com Friend and Board member GVLT
Reference 2: Rob Pertzborn 433 N. Black Bozeman (406) 587-2425
rpertzborn@intrinsikarchitecture.com Friend and local architect
Ethics: yes
Other Info: I discussed this issue with both Steve Schnee in his role as a board member of GVLT
and Carson Taylor, a neighbor, friend, and city commissioner, when the initiative was placed on
the ballot and have followed it since. I had a sign for passage of the initiative in my front yard
during the last election. I am excited about bringing both my recreational passions and my
professional experience to bear on this pivotal issue for the growth of our city and the quality of
life that we all cherish.
How did you hear about us?: Through local press and suggestion by friends