Commission directs staff to explore local sales tax advocacy, pre-approved building plans, and new revenue mechanisms to address $350,000 per-unit affordability gap
After a two-and-a-half-hour housing work session, commissioners outlined priorities ranging from state legislative advocacy for a local option sales tax to exploring pre-approved building plans and potential revenue bonds. Staff also presented data showing 394 people experiencing homelessness in Gallatin County—down from 523 the prior year—attributed to expanded shelter capacity, new affordable units, and coordinated services.
Advisory Board RoundupParks Board Grapples With Tree Canopy Goals, Budget Questions for Urban Forest Plan
The Urban Parks and Forestry Board spent its July 23 meeting reviewing a draft Urban Forest Management Plan that aims to guide the city's forest strategy over the next decade. Board members raised concerns about whether proposed canopy coverage targets are achievable without significant budget increases and questioned whether the plan adequately addresses tree protection in new developments.
Community Development Board
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Bozeman Creek Vision Plan outlines flood diversion and restoration concepts
The Community Development Board reviewed 11 emerging concepts for the Bozeman Creek corridor, ranging from flood bypass channels to new parks and daylighted creek areas. The project aims for City Commission adoption by December 15th.
Community Development Board approves code amendments for downtown parking and short-term rentals
The board unanimously advanced two changes to the Unified Development Code on June 15th, addressing parking standards in the B-3 downtown district and allowing Type 2 short-term rentals in the newly consolidated RA residential district. Both amendments now head to the City Commission for final approval on July 14th.
City updates wireless facilities code for first time in 30 years
The Community Development Board unanimously approved a comprehensive rewrite of the city's telecommunications regulations to comply with federal law. The new code establishes application review timelines and clearer standards for wireless facility types.
Community Development Board advances Urban Forest Master Plan update
The board held a work session on the plan, which will guide city forestry operations through 2036 and addresses community engagement, tree infrastructure, and disease preparedness. Public engagement continues through fall with plan adoption targeted for November or December.
Community Development Board backs RB zoning for Harvest Creek parcel despite opposition
The board voted unanimously on April 20 to recommend mixed-use residential zoning for a 9.979-acre parcel near Harvest Creek, overriding more than 60 public comments opposing the density. The land will be annexed and partially converted to public right-of-way for the Fowler Avenue connection project.