Mayor Cunningham encourages open, respectful participation
EBS STAFF
Next Tuesday, Oct. 8, the Bozeman City Commission will continue its discussion on the future of camping in the public right of way.
Leaders last considered the topic in early August. According to an Oct. 2 press release from the City of Bozeman, the city commission will address two measures in October: Ordinance 2172, which prohibits camping on public property and the public right of way while establishing a limited permit system; and Resolution 5650 which proposes a fee for a camping permit.
The public meeting will be held at 5 p.m. at Bozeman’s City Hall, 121 N. Rouse Ave., and residents can submit comments beforehand to comments@bozeman.net. Public comments can also be submitted in person during the meeting or online via Zoom.
“This topic has caused considerable discussion within our community and understandably causes a lot of emotion on all ends of the debate,” Mayor Terry Cunningham stated in the release. “As we move forward in this discussion, we hope that everyone continues to share their thoughts with us and does so with respect for one another. These are hard discussions to have, but it is vital that we tackle this issue and provide additional clarity for the community.”
At the City’s work session on Aug. 6, city staff presented findings from a community survey, reviewed the implications of the Grants Pass v. Johnson Supreme Court ruling, and shared insights gained since the passage of Ordinance 2147 in October 2023, according to the release.
“Based on that session, the Commission directed staff to explore solutions that addressed the health and safety needs of all residents,” the release stated.
