Bozeman updates Unified Development Code to enhance housing and community engagement

The City of Bozeman's Sustainability Board meeting on April 9, 2025, focused on the ongoing update of the Unified Development Code (UDC), a crucial tool for implementing the city’s community plan and addressing pressing issues like housing and environmental sustainability.

During the meeting, city officials provided a comprehensive overview of the UDC update process, emphasizing its importance in managing Bozeman's rapid growth and ensuring compliance with state regulations. The UDC serves as a framework for zoning and development, directly impacting the community's ability to meet its sustainability goals.

Key points highlighted included the need for improved organization and usability of the zoning code, which has historically been complex and challenging for residents to navigate. The officials noted that the UDC update is not just a bureaucratic necessity but a response to community feedback gathered through extensive public engagement efforts over the past few years.

The timeline for the UDC update was also discussed, with officials indicating that they are currently in the second phase of public engagement. This phase includes workshops aimed at diving deeper into specific content areas of the code, ensuring that community voices are heard and integrated into the final draft. The goal is to finalize the updated code by a state-mandated deadline, which is critical for aligning local regulations with new state laws.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the city’s commitment to transparency and community involvement in shaping Bozeman's future. As the UDC update progresses, officials plan to continue engaging with residents to refine the code and ensure it meets the needs of a growing population while promoting sustainability.