Public Meetings - Bozeman, Montana

The City Council convened on March 18, 2026, to address routine administrative matters and deliberate on pending development proposals. The meeting proceeded with standard procedural actions followed by public testimony regarding recent zoning changes. Consent Calendar - Approval of the minutes from the previous meeting held on February 15, 2026. - Authorization of utility payment vouchers totaling $45,200 for district infrastructure maintenance. Public Comments & Testimony - Elena Rodriguez (Resident, District 4): Expressed strong opposition to the proposed rezoning of the Westside Industrial lot, stating that "the traffic impact study fails to account for peak hour congestion" and arguing that the density increases without providing adequate green space. - Marcus Chen (Local Business Owner): Voiced support for the commercial expansion proposals, noting that the "new zoning allows for mixed-use development which the business community has requested for three years." Discussion Items - Westside Industrial Zoning Amendment: Council members debated the implications of the rezoning. Councilor Vance noted that the "current traffic projections show a 15% increase in vehicle volume during rush hours," while Councilor Gupta countered that the project sponsor provided "a revised traffic mitigation plan addressing 90% of the identified concerns." - Budget Reallocation Report: The Finance Director presented a proposal to reallocate $200,000 from the Parks Reserve to the Housing Authority, citing an "urgent need to fund emergency shelter operations." Key Outcomes - Zoning Vote: The Westside Industrial rezoning amendment was passed by a vote of 5-2. The motion required a two-thirds majority. - Budget Referral: The proposal to reallocate funds was referred to the Budget Committee for further review due to concerns regarding the "sustainability of the Parks Reserve." - Public Comment Record: All public testimonies were entered into the official record and will be reviewed during the next zoning hearing.

The Inter-Neighborhood Council (INC) of Bozeman held its regular meeting on March 12, 2026, at 11:15 AM. Key actions included delaying a bylaws update presentation due to text errors, approving the Valley West and Lakes Neighborhood Association as a city-recognized association, and voting to recommend that the City Commission adopt an interim zoning ordinance to temporarily pause projects in the Neighborhood Conservation Overlay District (NCOD) for one year while guidelines are updated. The meeting also featured public comments, liaison updates, and discussion of a communication tool. Consent Calendar - (No consent calendar items were noted; the meeting proceeded directly to agenda changes and action items.) Public Comments & Testimony - Amy Hoitzla (president, Northeast Neighborhood Association) expressed excitement about the upcoming NCOD update and the Lakota Group consultants, stressed the importance of preserving neighborhood character, and thanked INC members for their volunteer work. - Ann Vince Guerra (Valley West and Lakes Neighborhood Association) presented the application for recognition, noting 36 members on the email list and 12 attendees at the first meeting. She highlighted common goals of enjoying the outdoors and safe neighborhoods. - Ken Sinai (NCOD resident) commended INC for its work, urged protection of the historic core, and suggested expanding the core laterally rather than allowing 90-foot buildings. He questioned why Lakota Group is based outside Montana. - Daniel Cardi (Bozeman resident, midtown NCOD) supported an interim zoning ordinance, arguing that existing HOAs are protected by covenants, new developments require commission approval, and that B3 zoning already extends beyond Mendenhall. He stated a pause is “desperately needed.” - Linda Simonis (Bozeman resident) thanked Jim for bringing the item and for conducting a civil, multi-demographic survey. She expressed confidence that the NCOD issue can unite the city. - Natsuki Nakamura (Bozeman resident, Economic Vitality Board member speaking individually) supported the pause, citing the Guthrie project and the city’s current lack of enforceable NCOD guidelines. He emphasized the need to also halt demolitions and protect historic assets. - Amy Hoitzma (Northeast neighborhood, NCOD) fully supported the letter, stating the NCOD is out of date and the commission would appreciate the discussion. She saw no downside. - Jason Delmew (speaking individually, Community Development Board member) questioned the survey’s neutrality, noting it lacked educational context on development benefits and used large square-footage figures without examples. He asked what INC sees as its role. Discussion Items - Bylaws Update Delay – Paul Burns (subcommittee member) requested postponing the bylaws presentation due to erroneous text formatting in the circulated version. He explained that a final accurate version would be prepared, and noted that a bylaws amendment requires a two-thirds vote of all INC delegates (currently 10 out of 15 delegates). The request was accepted, and the update was moved to the next meeting. - Valley West and Lakes Neighborhood Association Approval – The association was approved by a unanimous representational vote (with Michelle and Zara online voting yes). This brought the total number of recognized neighborhood associations to 15. - Interim Zoning Discussion – Jim Webster presented survey results based on 428 responses (collected over less than a week). Key findings: 83% supported a one-year pause on large projects (most defined as over 20,000 sq ft); similar support for the INC writing a letter. He connected the urgency to the recent resignation of the city’s historic preservation officer and the ongoing NCOD update. Discussion included clarifying that the recommendation applies only to the NCOD, not the entire city. Some members expressed concern about lawsuits, but Commissioner Fisher noted that projects with approved permits would be grandfathered. The motion to write a letter was amended to recommend a one-year interim zoning ordinance within the NCOD, including survey data, and was passed. - City Liaison Update – Emily Kiley announced surveys on IWERP, MSU’s strategic plan, and downtown parking. She reminded members to submit summer update requests and noted that Takami will cover for her during maternity leave. - Commission Liaison Update – Deputy Mayor Douglas Fisher reported that the City Commission approved adding a non-voting MSU student to advisory boards (except INC, which is not appointed by the commission). He offered to facilitate an MSU student representative for INC if desired. He also noted that final community priorities were adopted. Zara Osman suggested adding this as an agenda item for next meeting. - Other Business – Beth Boyson (New Highlight View) raised concerns about misleading AI-generated surveys on Nextdoor and requested a future agenda item on neighborhood communication tools. Key Outcomes - Bylaws Update: Delayed until next month; subcommittee to provide correct version. - Valley West and Lakes Neighborhood Association: Approved unanimously, bringing total recognized associations to 15. - Interim Zoning Recommendation: Motion passed to send a recommendation (with survey data) to the City Commission asking them to adopt a one-year interim zoning ordinance for the NCOD while guidelines are updated. A formal letter will be drafted by Jim Webster and another member. - Next Meeting: Agenda will include discussion of an MSU student representative for INC and neighborhood communication systems.

The Transportation Technical Advisory Committee (TTAC) of the Gallatin Valley MPO held its quarterly in-person meeting on March 11, 2026, at the Belgrade Library. The meeting was hybrid with participants online. Nine of 11 members were present, establishing a quorum. The primary business was the annual pre-construction season partner updates, where agencies shared planned projects for 2026 and beyond. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the February 11, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously. A motion was made by John Howe and seconded; all members present voted in favor. Public Comments & Testimony - Marilee Brown (Safer Bozeman): Noted that remote participants could not see faces or identify speakers, requesting that in-person speakers state their names. Also noted the agenda did not indicate an in-person meeting location. - Darren Brugman (Executive Director, Big Sky Transportation District / Skyline Transit): Requested formal membership (even non-voting) with the MPO/TTAC. He explained the district is considering expanding its scope from public transit to include roads and streets (US 191 and MT 64 corridors). The district board will discuss bylaw changes, district boundary, and funding (mill levy, federal assistance) next week. He sought MPO involvement in the process. Jeff Butts, MPO manager, committed to follow up after the meeting. Discussion Items - Streamline Transit (Sunshine Ross): Celebrating 20 years in August 2026. Bozeman will host the Montana Legislative Transportation Interim Committee on May 11-12. The transit development plan is wrapping up, proposing future routes including an airport express, increased Belgrade-Bozeman frequency, microtransit zones in Belgrade, Four Corners, and South Bozeman, and new in-town routes. A new rider app is launched. Grants submitted for bus stop improvements (seats, solar lights). - City of Belgrade (Cameron Yule and Catherine King): - Cruiser intersection improvements (Dry Creek to Jackrabbit): Roundabout at Cruiser/Dry Creek, signalized intersection at Jackrabbit/Cruiser, widening. Likely phased: signalized intersection and corridor work in 2026, roundabout in 2027 due to right-of-way challenges. Funded by developer contributions and impact fees. - North Jackrabbit safety improvements: RRFRs at five school zone crossings, ADA upgrades (city funds). - East Madison Avenue water/sewer upgrades (TA grant and city funds), with roadway work targeted for late summer letting. - Old Belgrade Lounge demolition planned for 2026. - East side parking lot (along Main Street) in design. - Purchase of the old grain elevator ("Big Red") for potential future intersection improvements at Main/Oregon/Madison. - Working with HRDC to acquire portion of trailer park fronting Main Street for redevelopment. - City's new growth policy (Montana Land Use Planning Act) expected council adoption May 4, 2026. - City of Bozeman (Nicholas Ross – Engineering, Chris Saunders – Planning): - Planning: Transportation Master Plan update begins July 2026 (10-year update). Safe Streets for All action plan agreement finalized; RFP awards expected this week. Crash data platform and demonstration project (Curex Vision detection/collection) to improve safety analysis. - Construction 2026: North 27th Street connection (Baxter to Cattail) – bids $5.5 million, $2 million under estimate. Oak & Ferguson left-turn capacity and safety improvements (RRFRs). Macquahattan Road paving (gravel section, slope stability). College Street from 8th to 11th: mill/overlay, sidewalks, shared-use path, raised crosswalk (thanks to MSU easement). - Uncontrolled intersections project: adding stop control to 300 local street intersections, starting with 50 per year in university neighborhood. - Stucky Road design (Fowler to South 19th) planned for FY27, funding via impact fees and arterial collector funds. Intersection of South 11th and Stucky improvements may be phased. - Fowler Avenue connection (northern half) final design pending right-of-way acquisition. - Gallatin County (Seth Gardner – County Engineer, Sean O'Callaghan – Planning): - County engineering: Baxter (Jackrabbit to Love) overlay, Cottonwood overlay, Harper Puckett, Nelson, Bullshit Trail outside urban boundary. - County planning: Dissolution of city-county planning board effective July 1, 2026 due to Belgrade's MLUPA compliance; county adjust growth policy for extraterritorial area. County commission prioritizing growth area zoning reform; project boundary includes several existing districts and unzoned valley areas. Information at envisiongallatin.com. - MDT (Brandon Jones, Jeff Streeter): - 2026 construction: Bear Canyon interchange (bridge repair, deck replacement, finishing early April). Belgrade to Bozeman chip seal with Class A repair on Valley Center structure. Loose ends from 2025 (North 7th signal, Jackrabbit/Amsterdam signal upgrades). - Future projects (open house April 22, 2026 at Belgrade Library): Belgrade intersection improvements (mini roundabout at Main/Broadway) and Amsterdam Road reconstruction in 2027. Belgrade Urban (Jackrabbit/Main Street grade change of 25 feet) in 2028. Bridge replacement at LMC Supply Ditch (Four Corners) in 2027. Four Corners intersection minor rehabilitation in 2027. Katie Sourdough signal in 2027. Mill Street/191 signal with pedestrian improvements. - Bids trending lower than estimates for past 9 months. - MDT maintenance: overlay on Main Street from Kennedy to Signal (summer 2026). - City of Belgrade (Cameron Yule): Confirmed open house April 22, 3:30-7:30 pm at Belgrade Library for multiple projects. - MSU (John Howe): No major construction; College Street project will affect campus. Planning pedestrian improvements across 11th Street (raised crosswalks) for new buildings (Cheaver Hall, Plant Growth Center). Potential housing demolition on 15th/Lincoln late summer 2026. - MDT Planning (Jeff Streeter/Chris Saunders): Statewide functional classification review – first draft reviews expected fall 2026. MPO story map (website launch) being polished. I-90 corridor study (consultant RPA) with open houses in Belgrade, Bozeman, Three Forks. Key Outcomes - Minutes Approved: Unanimous approval of February 11, 2026 meeting minutes. - Next Steps for Big Sky Transit: Jeff Butts will follow up with Darren Brugman regarding formal membership and district expansion. - MPO Project Concepts Call: Public comment period open at gvmpo.org/ltp; online map for submitting ideas coming by March 16, 2026 afternoon. - Next Meeting: Scheduled for April 2026; no specific date announced.

The Bozeman Sustainability Advisory Board held its regular meeting on March 11, 2026, to review a water resources update, a new emissions modeling tool, and begin developing its 2026-2027 work plan. The board also heard public comments on Earth Day events, plastics reduction, and tree canopy initiatives. Consent Calendar - The board approved the minutes from the January 14, 2026 meeting, with an amendment to correct the vote tally from 5-0 to 6-0. The amended minutes passed unanimously (4-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Terry Quatrero (former beautification board member) expressed full support for the Bozeman Cleanup Week and Earth Day events, praising staff and volunteers. She requested the board help promote reusable bag use, support a poster contest for 4th-5th graders, allow volunteers to set up displays in city hall, and review expert information on microplastics health effects. She noted the single-use plastics ordinance passed with 63% support in 2024. - Marcia Cafe (Bozeman resident, Bozeman Tree Coalition co-founder) invited the board to the Bozeman Tree Coalition's second annual meeting on March 31, 2026 (6:30-7:30 p.m. at Bozeman Community Library). She urged the board to preserve mature trees during development, citing a recent loss of two large spruce trees on an affordable housing project on North Seventh Avenue. Discussion Items 1. Water Advisory Committee Update – Integrated Water Resources Plan (IWRP) Alternatives Board representative Brooke Loniman presented a universe of water supply alternatives being considered by the Water Advisory Committee (WAC). Key categories included: - Sourdough physical storage (new dams, naturalized storage) - Water reclamation facility effluent reuse (non-potable irrigation, potable reuse, groundwater recharge) - Non-potable irrigation utility and targeted retrofits - Water rights acquisition/leasing (Gallatin Water Trust) - Importing water from other basins (e.g., Missouri River, Yellowstone) - Groundwater development (wells, joint Bozeman-Belgrade supply) - Highlight reservoir optimization (purchase shares, raise dam, dredge, reduce conveyance loss) - Other: valley storage, canal company reservoirs, ditch improvements, rainwater capture, cloud seeding, drought reserve, emergency interconnection with Belgrade, watershed restoration, snow fencing/mounding. Board members expressed positions: - Support for maximizing existing infrastructure (Highlight maintenance, buying shares), non-potable irrigation to save potable water, and joint water supply with Belgrade. - Concern about new sourdough dams due to ecological impacts; cloud seeding due to unknown downstream effects; importing water from other basins as a last resort; privately held canal company reservoirs. - Commissioner Bodie noted previous public opposition to a Canyon Ferry pipeline. 2. ClearPath 2.0 Emissions Modeling Tool Introduction Kesley Carlson Handle demonstrated the ClearPath 2.0 online platform (by ICLEI and Climate View) for tracking community greenhouse gas emissions and modeling transition scenarios to achieve 2050 carbon neutrality. The tool shows 2024 reported emissions, business-as-usual projections, and sector-specific reduction pathways (e.g., transportation shifts to EVs, walking, cycling, electric buses). Key features: - Granular modeling: e.g., 27,000 battery electric vehicles needed by 2050 for a 7% emissions reduction from personal transportation. - Links city climate plan actions to transition elements. - Intended as a public-facing communication tool; not yet live. Board feedback: - Support for the tool as a boundary object for community engagement, inspiration, and monitoring. - Suggestions: monthly engagement updates (e.g., similar to water conservation emails), feature on Engage Bozeman with seasonal topics, ability for public to toggle scenarios (noted future capability by ICLEI), improved color contrast for accessibility, and linking to educational tools like En-ROADS. - Commissioner Bodie highlighted the tool's value for demonstrating leadership and potential joint presentations with county commission. 3. Work Session – 2026-2027 Sustainability Advisory Board Work Plan Natalie Meyer presented a draft work plan aligned with newly adopted Bozeman City Commission priorities (adopted March 3, 2026). Key items: - Board Governance: ethics training (completed), advisory board effectiveness review. - Planning Efforts: Neighborhood Conservation Overlay District (NCOD) updates (including deconstruction policies), Integrated Water Resources Plan engagement, Urban Forest Management Plan/Branch Out Bozeman, Bozeman Creek Vision Plan, electric mobility planning, green power program. - Engagement: town-gown relationship with MSU, sustainable development awards (new, from public comment), Cleanup Week. - City Facilities: high-performance building standard. Board discussion: - Members expressed interest in adding affordability and electrification topics. The intersection of sustainability and affordable housing was discussed extensively, particularly regarding long-term operating costs, solar orientation, and financing mechanisms. - Commissioner Bodie noted the Fowler Avenue affordable housing project could be a venue for sustainability input, and the commission will hold a work session to define affordability strategies. - Staff noted capacity constraints and that some items (e.g., electrification) are already embedded in other work plan items. - Public comment from Marcia Cafe urged protecting mature trees in NCOD updates as a low-hanging fruit for sustainability. Key Outcomes - The board provided initial feedback on IWRP alternatives (support for existing infrastructure and non-potable reuse; opposition to new dams, cloud seeding, and importing water). Brooke will relay these to the April 6 WAC meeting. - The board endorsed continued development of ClearPath 2.0 and offered suggestions for public engagement. Staff will consider feedback and aim to launch publicly when confident in data. - The work plan discussion set a direction to finalize a two-year plan, including potentially adding an affordability/sustainability discussion item. Natalie Meyer will incorporate board feedback and bring a refined plan for approval at a future meeting. - No formal votes were taken on the work plan or other agenda items beyond the minutes.

The Downtown Urban Renewal District (URD) Board met on March 10, 2026, to discuss budget priorities, ongoing projects, and future plans, including a potential expansion of the district to accommodate a parking garage. The board approved lengthy minutes covering the past year and received updates on parking, infrastructure grants, and community engagement. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The board approved the minutes of all URD board meetings from the past year (approximately 12 months) via roll call vote. Amy, Tony, Marley, Jake, Sky, and Nicholas voted aye; no opposition. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made in person or online. Discussion Items - City Commission Priorities & UDC Height: Board members discussed the City Commission's four priorities: (1) Bozeman as a safe and welcoming place for all, (2) meaningful community engagement, (3) bridging the affordability gap (jobs and housing), and (4) protecting heritage, neighborhoods, and the natural environment. Commissioner Sky noted that the Unified Development Code (UDC) two-year process included a last-minute debate on whether B3 zoning should allow 70 feet or 90 feet. The commission decided to let the code sit for now but plans to revisit “sticky points” later in spring (May/June). The board expressed a desire for expert community input (e.g., from the BID or URD boards) before the City Commission makes a final decision on B3 height, as commissioners are not qualified to decide alone. Staff will work with the board to schedule a discussion and possibly a decision in May or June. Current code sets B3 height at 90 feet. - Executive Director (Ellie) Report: - Budget Season: URD, BID, and DBA budgets will be reviewed through March and April, approved in April, and brought to the City Commission in May. - Branding Refresh: The “DTN BZN” brand will be refreshed with new colors and materials (banners, annual report, resource guide, newsletter, website). - MSU Strategic Plan: Ellie serves on the MSU Strategic Planning Committee, which is conducting listening sessions through summer; a final plan is expected in November during the Board of Regents/Cat Grids football game. - Downtown Conference: This year’s Montana Downtown Conference is in Glasgow, with a pre-stop in Lewistown. - Engaged Bozeman Projects: The Bozeman Creek vision plan hired consultant Port; meetings with adjacent property owners begin in early April. Mayor Cunningham’s new podcast, “Bozeman Beat,” is now available and will feature parking, Bozeman Creek, and MSU strategic plan. - TIFF Infrastructure Grant: The first formal application for a sewer replacement tied to a hotel project will be presented at the next board meeting. Ellie reported three additional informal requests. Grants over $50,000 require board review and approval; funds are for public infrastructure only, not developer-specific. - Special Improvement Lighting District (SILD): A preliminary process is underway to create a lighting district, with TDH mapping pedestrian lights. - Parking Vision Plan: The community survey is live through March 30th; 18 one-on-one interviews were completed. The City is updating parking dashboards. Regarding the federal building, the board discussed a request for a letter of support to prevent its sale on the open market, aiming instead for public use and potential parking garage development. The board is exploring expanding the URD to include the federal building and possibly other parcels, contingent on establishing blight under state statute. The process is estimated to take nine months. - Music on Main: DBA staff are announcing summer bands; new “Walk the Block Mondays” program meets at Baxter Hotel for 30-minute walks visiting local businesses. - Downtown Project Updates: Notable progress includes: Claire Building facade work on Babcock; Block B (Salvation Army site) underground electrical work; Baxter Hotel full restoration; new businesses (Trace Toutros in Shredmunt Monk space; Mocha moved; Lux Society moving to Mocha’s old space; Tarantino’s renamed “Pre-Shift” and moved). - Finance Report: Final cash balance (interest not yet separated) will be provided later. Minor expenses included Alpine lawn and oak gardens (fence, planters for EHO Park), street furniture, and lighting repairs ($2,000 for Langless – restitution expected for damaged street lamp). Lada Consultants received $24,000 for the parking vision plan. - Budget Review (FY27 & FY28): The draft budget assumes an 8% increase in operations and management fees. Key allocations: - Infrastructure improvements: $1 million projected (could increase if TIFF grants are encumbered). - Park improvements: $100,000 aspirational for Syroitimus Park (planning in FY27, work in FY28). - Wayfinding and parking signage: starting FY27, finishing FY28. - Alternative transportation: projects on Babcock/Bozeman Creek extension; planning in FY27, implementation in FY28. - Street furniture/streetscape: ongoing program with growth. - Street lamp project (SILD): planning and infrastructure funds. - Art Enhancement and SEPTED grants: slight increase. - Utility infrastructure planning: $1.6 million allocated in FY27 expected to be largely spent; FY28 sees $7 million after reallocation from fire station funds and other encumbrances. - Downtown Realm Plan: $100,000 aspirational in FY28, critical for planning infrastructure improvements before URD sunset in 2032. - Pedlet program: discussion to continue investing; funds may have been accidentally moved but support remains. - Daycare support: no formal request yet; Ellie will connect with Britt about potential funding needs. - Budget Formatting Discussion: Board members discussed the need to distinguish between encumbered funds, allocated funds, and unallocated cash balance (currently $3.3 million). The unallocated balance is seen as a reserve for projects beyond sunset. Key Outcomes - No Formal Action Taken on Budget: The board will refine the FY27 and FY28 budget for approval at the April meeting. Staff will clean up formatting to show encumbered, allocated, and unallocated amounts. - UDC Height Discussion Timeline: Staff will schedule an agenda item for May or June to discuss B3 height and other UDC issues, with input from expert boards. - Infrastructure Grant Process: The first TIFF infrastructure grant (sewer replacement for hotel) will be presented with legal review at the next board meeting; applicants may be invited for questions. - Federal Building/Urd Expansion: Ellie will circulate a letter of support for not selling the federal building on the open market. The board endorsed exploring URD expansion to include the federal building and possibly other parcels, contingent on consulting with tax increment professionals (David Fine, Janet Cornish, Brad Archibald) over a nine-month process. - Minutes Approved: All minutes from the past year were approved.

The Bozeman City Commission met on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the Commission Room at City Hall. Commissioners Jennifer Madgic, Douglas Fischer, Emma Bode, and Alison Sweeney were present; Mayor Joey Morrison was excused. The meeting covered the approval of a community engagement plan for the Neighborhood Conservation Overlay District (NCOD) Design Guidelines Update, a work session on the Fiscal Years 2027-31 Capital Improvements Plan (CIP), and public comments on non-agenda items. Consent Calendar - Unanimously approved Consent Items H1 through H7 (4-0), which included Accounts Payable Claims Review, cancellation of the March 17, 2026 regular meeting, grant application authorization, professional services agreements for the Climate Ready Landscape Academy and Bogert Pool renovation, an amendment for North 27th Avenue improvements, and a resolution for a Special Improvement Lighting District. Items H.8 (L Street Annexation Resolution) and I.1 (related zoning ordinance) were pulled from the agenda and will be rescheduled for a future meeting with a full commission. Public Comments & Testimony - Daniel Carty (Bozeman resident) opposed the December 16, 2025 decision allowing 90-foot buildings by right in B-3 zoning districts, arguing it would harm the downtown core and historic neighborhoods, exacerbate parking problems, and provide no community benefits like affordable housing. He urged the commission to revert the height limit to 70 or 60 feet to match B-3C zoning. - Jim Webster (Bozeman resident, BonTon neighborhood) reported that a survey by the Inter-Neighborhood Cooperation (INC) showed 83% of 428 respondents supported pausing development for one year through interim zoning, and 84% supported a letter to the city for a public hearing on the issue. He noted that 68% of respondents outside the NCOD also supported interim zoning. - Marcia Kaveney (Bozeman resident) thanked the commission for removing the L Street annexation item and raised concerns about the Guthrie 2 demolition application, which is under legal review, questioning the validity of allowing tree removal as part of a disputed site plan. She also urged consideration of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act regarding tree removals during nesting season. Discussion Items - Approval of the Community Engagement Plan for the NCOD Design Guidelines Update: Deputy Director of Community Development Rebecca Harbage and Senior Vice President of Lakota Group Siraj Asfahani presented the plan, which aims to update the 20-year-old design guidelines for the NCOD (covering several historic neighborhoods around downtown). Key goals include clearer language, objective standards, visual examples, and predictability. The plan outlines multiple engagement methods: neighborhood focus groups, online surveys, walking tours, pop-ups, and open houses. Commissioners discussed ensuring representative participation, especially from renters and younger residents, and the need for unbiased survey methodologies. Commissioner Sweeney unsuccessfully attempted to amend the project goals to include "natural environment" and to require Lakota Group members on all walking tours; both amendments failed (1-3 and 1-3, respectively). The main motion passed 4-0. - Fiscal Years 2027-31 Recommended Capital Improvements Plan (CIP): Finance Director Melissa Hodnett presented updates to the CIP, originally heard in December 2025. Key changes included updated cost estimates for the Bogert Pool renovation ($3.1 million) and Lindley Center ($2.5 million), a $700,000 scope increase for the Base Hydraulic Phase 1 project (which moved Phase 2 to 2040, saving $16 million), and new estimates for the enterprise data system replacement (Edge), totaling $6.5 million for core financials, HR, permitting, and utility billing software components. Transportation Engineering Director Nick Ross addressed safety concerns following a recent pedestrian fatality on Oak Street, noting that staff is maximizing current transportation funding and that no CIP projects could be deferred to add safety improvements without additional revenue. Commissioner Bode requested a future work session on pedestrian and bicycle safety infrastructure. Commissioner Madgic inquired about the unscheduled local street reconstruction program, which has been paused due to lack of funding from special improvement districts. Key Outcomes - Vote 1 (4-0): Authorized the absence of Mayor Joey Morrison. - Vote 2 (4-0): Approved the regular meeting minutes from January 27, February 3, 2026, and January 7, 2025. - Vote 3 (4-0): Approved Consent Items H1 through H7. - Vote 4 (1-3): Failed a motion to amend the NCOD community engagement plan goals to include "natural environment." - Vote 5 (1-3): Failed a motion to require Lakota Group members on all walking conversation tours. - Vote 6 (4-0): Approved the Community Engagement Plan for the NCOD Design Guidelines Update as presented. - Next Steps: The CIP will be brought back for final adoption on March 24, 2026. The commission will schedule a work session on pedestrian and bicycle safety. Commissioner Sweeney requested that an architectural inventory survey update be discussed at a future commission priority work session.

The Bozeman Board of Ethics convened on March 9, 2026, to approve the 2025 Annual Ethics Report, adopt meeting minutes, and advance its work plan for revising the City’s Code of Ethics. The board discussed the role of the City Charter, the structure and utility of standards of conduct, reviewed feedback on the city’s ethics training program, and divided research assignments among members. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The board unanimously approved the minutes from the October 14, 2025 and December 15, 2025 meetings. - 2025 Annual Ethics Report: The board unanimously approved the 2025 Annual Ethics Report, presented by City Attorney Greg Sullivan. The report summarizes the board’s activities in 2025, including code modifications and hearing procedures. The item was deemed ministerial and will be transmitted to the City Commission via their consent agenda. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public offered comment on the consent item or on any non-agenda items within the board’s jurisdiction. Discussion Items - FYI Discussion / Code of Ethics Revision Work Plan: The board spent the majority of the meeting on its work plan to revise the Code of Ethics. - Role of the City Charter: City Attorney Greg Sullivan explained that the City Charter (adopted by voters in 2006, effective 2008) establishes the Board of Ethics and conflict of interest standards, and amendments require a vote of the people. He noted the current Bozeman Study Commission formed after a 2024 vote is drafting an alternate charter, and the board can submit suggestions by May 2026. - Standards of Conduct: Board member Sarah questioned the utility of the current Standards of Conduct, citing overly vague terms like “act morally” and “with propriety.” Sullivan discussed their role as an umbrella standard. Jen, a staff trainer, noted the vagueness creates good discussion in training but is difficult for employees to apply concretely. Sarah suggested restructuring them into core tenets with clear explanatory guidelines. - Duty to Report: Sarah proposed adding a duty to report observed unethical conduct. Sullivan strongly advised against it, calling it a “pretty big lift” and a burden on employees, noting the existing complaint procedure is sufficient. - Organizational Structure: The board agreed to consider consolidating code sections 580 (board establishment) and 600 (powers/duties) for clarity. - Gift Provision: Sullivan provided an extensive history of the gift rules, including the 2012 overhaul and the $25 and $100 thresholds. Board member Jim will lead the review of the gift section. - Division of Assignments: The board finalized research assignments for the next meeting: Jim will review Handling of Gifts; Sarah will review Financial Disclosure, Post-Employment, and sections F, G, H; Mark will review Section E. - Social Media & AI Policies: The board noted these areas are governed by separate administrative orders and personnel policies, and existing confidentiality standards were deemed sufficiently broad to apply. - Ethics Training Program Feedback: Greg, Mike, and Jen reported on feedback from the 2025 training cycle. - The training has shifted from lectures to an employee-led “ethics team” model. - A significant gap in robust onboarding ethics training for newly appointed board members was identified. - The city is exploring an online training module through the Local Government Center as a stopgap. - A core team (HR, Clerk’s office, Legal) will meet in April 2026 to develop an improved curriculum that balances online onboarding with interactive, in-person annual sessions. Key Outcomes - Minutes Approved: Unanimously approved minutes from October 14, 2025 and December 15, 2025. - 2025 Annual Report Approved: Unanimously approved the 2025 Annual Ethics Report for transmittal to the City Commission. - Work Plan Division: Board members received specific assignments to review sections of the Code of Ethics (Gifts, Financial Disclosure, Post-Employment) for the next meeting. - Next Meeting Scheduled: The board agreed to reconvene in May 2026 to discuss the completed research and continue the code revision process. The meeting was adjourned following a successful motion.

Date: March 5, 2026 Time: 4:00 PM (approximately 4-hour duration) Location: Bozeman City Hall The Bozeman City Study Commission held a regular meeting to continue revising the city charter. Major agenda items included public comment on the process, approval of the consent agenda, updates on community outreach, review of draft charter language for sections 2.01, 2.03, and 2.06, and extensive discussion on the commissioner-city manager structure, including whether the mayor should be a full-time position. The commission also planned future education sessions on wards, districts, neighborhoods, and advisory boards. Consent Calendar - Motion to approve the consent agenda for the March 5 meeting was moved by Barb and seconded by Jan. Approved unanimously (5-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Abby Jones (Gallatin Valley Sentinel) criticized the agenda for treating decisions on the executive branch as foregone conclusions, urging more public discussion before deciding on the mayor's role and city manager requirements. She recommended: (1) eliminate the mayoral election process and instead have the elected commission select a mayor from among themselves for a two-year term with a limit of two consecutive terms; (2) keep pay as a monthly stipend to avoid excluding those with full-time careers; (3) opposed full-time salaried mayor positions. - Patty Steinmüller (Bozeman resident) expressed support for the commissioner-city manager structure but noted problems that have occurred. - Hillary Brown (Bozeman resident) highlighted concerns about large severance payouts to past city managers (approximately $500,000 total to two managers within four years) and urged more control in the charter to protect taxpayers. - Jennifer Areno (Bozeman resident) echoed concerns about severance and ethics violations, suggesting tightening the contract language. - Daniel Cardi (Bozeman resident) proposed term limits for mayor and commissioners (two four-year terms each) and raised questions about full-time pay and succession. Discussion Items Update on Outreach Efforts - Barb reported a well-attended presentation to the Valley Unit Neighborhood Association; residents generally favored the manager-commission approach and had questions about contract length. - Deanna and Becky reported a radio interview and an interview with the Gallatin Valley Sentinel. - Becky shared research from Hal Stanley on Bend, Oregon's charter review (2018): voters rejected wards; salary setting moved out of charter; increased citizen input through biannual goal-setting; city managers reviewed biannually; 13 neighborhood districts. - Jan reported ongoing outreach with League of Women Voters, a planned Pachaka Chaw event, and programs with Bozeman Professional Women. Unfinished Business: Draft Charter Language for Sections 2.01, 2.03, 2.06 - Barb presented draft language reflecting prior votes: - Mayor elected at-large every other city election for a four-year term (first election 2029, taking office 2030). - Vice mayor appointed by the commission to serve temporarily in mayor's absence. - Vacancies: Extended time for commission to appoint, requiring a public forum with applicants. The charter includes a recommendation for the commission to adopt a standard process and criteria for filling vacancies. - Debate over wording (e.g., "every other election" vs. completion of term) and whether the vice mayor serves a partial term if mayor leaves early. Agreement that next election after vacancy would fill the remainder of the mayoral term (two years if vacancy occurs early). - Deanna raised concerns about lacking public input on alternative mayor models (e.g., commission-elected mayor) and suggested the issue should be revisited after ward/district discussions. Chair clarified the agenda item was to review draft language based on prior votes, not reopen debate. The commission confirmed the language generally captures prior decisions, with minor wording adjustments to be finalized by legal counsel. Commissioner-City Manager Form of Government - Motion to maintain the commissioner-city manager structure under the charter form of government (Moved by Becky, seconded by Jan). Passed 5-0. - Discussion on Section 3.01 regarding the city manager: - Professional requirements: No change; current indefinite term/at-will contract is working and allows flexibility. Greg Sullivan (City Attorney) explained the removal process and contract negotiation. - Annual contract: No change; indefinite term with contract provisions has functioned well. - Annual 360-degree review: After debate, the commission decided to add a sentence to the charter requiring an annual comprehensive performance review, but not specifying 360-degree (as that term may change). - Commissioner norms: Discussed existing resolution (5124, 2019) and board amendment (5323) governing commissioner-staff relations. Decided to keep the charter language as is, but as a recommendation, the contract for the city manager should include a review of these resolutions during the hiring process. - Mayor's role and full-time status: - Motion: To add to Section 2.03(a) that "the mayor has been demonstrated to be a full-time position and shall be recognized as head of city government." Failed (2-3, with Jan and Carson supporting; Barb, Deanna, and Becky opposed). Opponents argued defining full-time in the charter is too prescriptive and may deter candidates. - Recommendation: The commission approved (4-1) a recommendation that the city commission create a document outlining roles, responsibilities, obligations, and expectations for both the mayor and city commissioners, reviewed every five years. - Compensation (Section 2.04): Tabled to the April 15 meeting, pending further research from the MSU Government Center on compensation options. A subcommittee (Carson and Deanna volunteered) will research and bring forward options. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved unanimously. - Maintained commissioner-city manager structure (5-0). - Draft charter language for Sections 2.01, 2.03, 2.06 affirmed as capturing prior decisions, with minor clarifications to be made by legal counsel. - Added to Section 3.01: "The city manager shall be provided with an annual comprehensive performance review." - Recommendation approved: City commission should develop a document for mayor and commissioner roles, responsibilities, obligations, and expectations (reviewed every five years). - Motion to declare mayor a full-time position failed (2-3). - Compensation discussion tabled to April 15, with research requested from MSU Government Center. - Future education sessions scheduled: March 25 (wards/districts), April 2 (neighborhoods), April 15 (advisory boards). Discussion on potential panels (Jeff Krauss, Jason DelMeo, Kola Rowley) and coordination with MSU Government Center. - Next meeting: March 25, 2026.

The Economic Vitality Board (EVB) of Bozeman, Montana, met on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, at 6:01 PM. The meeting included an action item to approve the 2026-2027 Belonging in Bozeman Workplan, a discussion on the board's involvement in the adopted economic development and housing workplans, and public comments on the innovation campus and the workplan's framing. Public Comments & Testimony - Skylar (MSU alum, Bozeman resident, representing Students Against Genocide) expressed opposition to the MSU Innovation Campus, stating that companies like Reveal Technology and Mitria have provided technology to the Israeli military. She urged the board to stop supporting the campus and called for an enforceable ethics policy. - Emma Shahabi (attorney, Bozeman resident) echoed concerns, noting that the city has approved $16,409 in planning funds and a planned development zone for the innovation campus. She argued that the board's public-private relationships enable war profiteering and asked the board to advise against ties with these companies. - Daniel Cardi (Bozeman resident, property owner since 1998) suggested that the economic development component of the EVB workplan be renamed "economic vitality" to align with the board's founding resolution (5329), and that public art and beautification awards be added to the 2026-2027 workplan. Discussion Items - E.1 – 2026-2027 Belonging in Bozeman Workplan: Takami Clark (Communications Manager) and Courtney Smith (new Belonging and Bozeman Coordinator) presented the workplan, which builds on the 2024-2025 priorities: implement the Belonging in Bozeman plan, provide training on city contracts, and develop an equity impacts decision-making tool. Progress had been slow due to the lack of a coordinator, but Courtney Smith is now prioritizing these tasks. Board members discussed the equity tool, the disability community liaison position, and vendor training. The board voted unanimously to approve the belonging Bozeman elements of the 2026-2027 EVB workplan. - F.1 – EVB Involvement in Economic Development and Housing Workplans: Staff presented the two-year workplan for economic development (traded sector business development, workforce development, child care, innovation campus, data gathering) and housing (CDBG, housing needs assessment, affordable housing for-sale provision). Board members expressed interest in: workforce development (especially for people with disabilities), the economic vitality strategy update to revisit traded sector definitions, child care (including providing childcare for city meetings), data gathering, and CDBG (Community Development Block Grant) structure. Brian Geyer (Community Housing Manager) detailed the CDBG program, noting that Bozeman became an entitlement community after the 2020 census, receiving about $350,000 annually. He explained that the first CDBG project is a water line to Family Promise transitional housing, with a deadline of August 1, 2026, to spend $150,000 to comply with timeliness rules. The board will help create a vision and structure for future CDBG allocations. Key Outcomes - Motion to approve the Belonging in Bozeman Workplan passed unanimously (8-0). - Board members volunteered to assist with specific workplan items, including child care, data gathering, and CDBG policy development. - Commissioner Fisher announced that the City Commission approved its 2026-2027 priorities, including advancing Bozeman as a safe and welcoming place, bridging the affordability gap (with a subpriority on child care), and working with the school board. Additionally, the commission invited ASMSU to nominate a non-voting MSU student to serve on advisory boards, including the EVB. - The board noted the absence of public art and beautification awards from the current workplan, with several members expressing hope they would be reinstated when staff capacity allows. - The meeting adjourned after the discussion.