Bozeman community demands right to counsel for tenants facing eviction crises

Under the soft glow of city hall lights, the Bozeman City Commission meeting on June 3, 2025, became a platform for residents to voice pressing concerns about housing and community engagement. As the evening unfolded, the air was thick with urgency and a shared desire for change.

One of the most poignant moments came from a representative of the Bridger View community, who expressed frustration over a lack of engagement from city officials. "We would love it if the city of Bozeman would engage the adjacent community of Bridger View," they stated, highlighting the community's design as a sustainable area that has not been consulted on important matters affecting their lives.

The issue of tenant rights took center stage as Jacob Burgo, a leader in Bozeman Tenants United, shared his harrowing experience with eviction threats. He emphasized that the right to legal counsel for tenants facing eviction is crucial, not just for those currently at risk but for all tenants who have felt the weight of such threats. "The longer we wait, the longer the tenants who keep this city running will continue to suffer these abuses," he warned, urging the commission to act decisively.

Mark Geyer, another resident, echoed this sentiment, linking eviction to the rising homelessness in Bozeman. He called for the city to fully fund a right to counsel program, arguing that providing legal representation during eviction proceedings could save taxpayer money by reducing costs associated with homelessness services.

Fran Hanson, also from Bozeman Tenants United, shared her own struggles with a corporate landlord, detailing how eviction threats have become a part of the business model. "We need a fair shot," she implored, reinforcing the need for immediate action on tenant rights.

As the meeting progressed, Lisonbee Sweetie, chair of the Better Bozeman Coalition, raised concerns about the city's growth policy. She criticized the limited updates planned for the policy, arguing that it fails to protect the community's values amid rapid development. Sweetie proposed the addition of a chapter on heritage conservation to the growth policy, emphasizing the importance of preserving the city's unique resources and character.

The evening concluded with a sense of urgency and a call for action. Residents left the meeting with hopes that their voices would lead to meaningful changes in housing policies and community engagement, reflecting a collective commitment to shaping a more equitable Bozeman. As the city grapples with growth and change, the discussions from this meeting may serve as a catalyst for the reforms many residents desperately seek.