HomeMy WebLinkAbout02-27-15 Hickman, Support Murphy, Public CommentMayor and Commissioners:
I am Mike Hickman, my address is 209 Westridge Drive in Bozeman. I’m writing to you
all in support of Mr. Murphy’s request for the City of Bozeman to pursue Eminent
Domain for utilities and emergency access.
Reading between the lines, my understanding of this request is the following, in a
nutshell: For Mr. Murphy’s preferred residential use of the property to be economically
feasible, he needs utility and emergency access to Boylan Road. Without it, he still has
access from the south but his development options would be limited. Under these
circumstances (utilities & emergency access from the south only), he plans to keep his
land in the County and pursue industrial zoning through the County planning and review
process; this seems to be a reasonable extension of the existing land use to the south.
Or, with the improved utility connections that an “eminent domain” easement could
bring, he would plan for annexation into the City and residential zoning; this seems to be
a reasonable extension of the existing land use to the east and north, and transitions
well with the existing, dedicated open space to the west.
So either way, it works. The choice appears to be plain: although Mr. Murphy’s
property is not currently within the City, the City Commissioners, with this decision, have
the power to decide whether the land is developed as residential (“yes” on use of
eminent domain), or industrial (“no” on use of eminent domain). The case for a “yes”
vote for eminent domain, and subsequent annexation:
1. Puts the land in the City’s tax base, and make progress toward eliminating
“islands” of County land surrounded by City land.
2. Provides better planning oversight; development under the more stringent City
standards.
3. Provides a connection point for gravity sewer, and eliminates the possibility of a
drainfield being built near the creek.
4. Provides a “through” connection for City water, improving water pressures and
water system reliability for all, including improved fire water supply.
5. Provides improved access for emergency vehicles and fire protection.
I feel that residential would be a better fit with surrounding land uses on all sides. You
would think this is a no-brainer with the residential neighbors! I can’t speak for them,
but If it were me, I’d much rather see homes and families than any of the potential
County uses (equipment storage, manufacturing, noise, towering overhead pole lights,
chicken farm, etc.). The neighbors need to realize that this land is NOT currently “Open
Space.” it is Undeveloped Land, and as such has value that is a property right that
cannot be taken away by calling it “open space” and expecting it to remain undeveloped
forever.
Don’t let side issues get in the way of a good decision on this property. The requested
easement is tiny and has no effect whatsoever on current use. Mr. Murphy’s land is
currently undeveloped land, not open space. Even with the requested easement,
development of this property would not sever the existing trail corridor along its border,
and would not allow personal/private vehicle access. There are protections in place for
existing wetlands no matter how the land is developed. High groundwater can be dealt
with. Unfortunately, Homeowners Associations sometimes speak for a select few due
to politics and personalities, and do not necessarily speak for all or even most homeowners.
Again, I voice my support of property rights, true City planning rather than County
planning within the City, and responsible infill development next to a stream. Please
approve the use of eminent domain for an easement to Boylan Road, to protect the
interests of City residents.
Thanks for listening -
Mike Hickman