Ben Johnson Public comment for 9_28 RE_ ADU discussionDear City Council,
I would like to provide support of Councilman Hunter's proposal to support the ease of ADU development in the city of Kalispell.
As a wage earner in Kalispell who is currently exploring options of purchasing a home for the first time, the attractiveness of having an opportunity such as an ADU to ease the burden
of a mortgage is something I and many peers in similar situations are searching for in a property. The reality of quickly increasing home costs (far outpacing any increase in local
wages) is that having the opportunity of having or developing an ADU is the most viable way for me as a future homeowner to offset the significant (and increasing) burden of a mortgage.
I currently reside in an ADU (outside of city limits, North of Kalispell). It has been an opportunity for me as a renter to live in an affordably-priced and autonomous unit, while also
supporting the mortgage payment of my friends and landlords, who have an easier time making their monthly payment. It's a win-win situation - for both them as homeowners and me as a
tenant.
I appreciate your consideration of creative ways to ease the cost of living in this community, and appreciate the work you all do!
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Ben Johnson
(406) 381-1794