Bozeman Residents Voice Concerns Over City Representation
Bozeman, MT— A recent meeting of the Bozeman Local Government Study Commission revealed significant discontent among residents regarding representation and communication with local government. Convened in late 2024, the five-member commission gathered community feedback, identifying a common concern: many citizens feel unheard in municipal decision-making.
Carson Tayler, a former mayor and current member of the commission, noted a pervasive lack of trust among residents in local governance. “People felt that they were not consulted before decisions were made,” Tayler shared, indicating a clear demand for more robust public engagement.
The commission is charged with reviewing and possibly revising Bozeman’s city charter over a two-year period, with any proposed changes potentially appearing on the November 2026 ballot. Residents expressed a desire for increased two-way communication with officials and opportunities to engage meaningfully in discussions beyond the limited three-minute public comment slots currently offered at meetings.
Commission member Barb Cestero emphasized the public’s eagerness to participate, stating they often feel unsure about how to make their voices heard. Deputy Mayor Joey Morrison echoed these sentiments, advocating for informal town hall-style gatherings to foster open dialogue between the commission and the community.
Additional topics raised during discussions included the potential implementation of a ward system, balancing power among city governance structures, and reassessing the functionality of advisory boards, which were streamlined in 2021, leaving many feeling their input lacks impact.
As the Study Commission forges ahead, members plan to conduct surveys and analyze other local governments in Montana to enhance their understanding. Tayler concluded with an ambitious metaphor, likening their task to “eating an elephant,” emphasizing the importance of taking strategic, incremental steps toward reform.
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