The Bozeman City Commission voted unanimously to annex a roughly 10-acre parcel near Durston Road known as the Hanson Lane property, but split 3-1 over its zoning designation. The property, currently an unincorporated island surrounded by city limits, will become part of Bozeman's municipal jurisdiction. After right-of-way carve-outs for planned roads and easements, approximately 2.65 acres remain for development.
The key dispute centered on zoning: the applicant and Community Development Board recommended RB (residential, higher density), while opponents including the Harvest Creek Owners Association advocated for RA (residential, lower density). RB allows a maximum of 8 dwelling units per building and 45-foot heights with a 33-foot wall plate, realistically limiting structures to three stories. RA caps buildings at 40 feet and requires a minimum density of 6 units per acre versus RB's 8. Commissioner Alison Sweeney cast the sole no vote on RB, citing concerns about building mass, scale, and the loss of potential for single-family starter homes. She emphasized the city should prioritize more affordable starter homes in RA-zoned areas. Commissioners Madgic, Fischer, and Mayor Morrison voted yes, with Fischer and Morrison arguing that the small parcel size makes high density impossible and that RB better advances city growth goals. The commission also appointed Beth Coria to the Police Commission and approved two traffic safety grants, including funding for a dedicated traffic enforcement officer.