Opposition to #KGPA-24-01 Public Comment from Daniel Munzing (2)
To the Honorable Mayor Mark Johnson and the City Counsel Members of Kalispell,
In response to the upcoming vote on annexation of 110 acres north of Tronstad Road this coming June 3, I am asking you to come visit the site of future development and assess the appropriateness
and wisdom regarding annexation at this time.
I strongly believe that it is important for you to see first hand the current state of Tronstad Road and the ability of it to handle a 380 house development using it as its only egress
prior to your vote. I invite you to walk and drive on Tronstad Road and to appreciate the safety challenges presented by its 3 blind hills, the steep shoulders and the narrow 22
½ feet width.
Please also take a quick look at the Silverbrook development roads. You may see a stark difference in comparison. I would be willing to walk Tronstad Road with you if that is permissible.
You also may park in my driveway on 213 Tronstad Road if you need a place to park.
Haste—you have been encouraged to vote for the annexation and approval of annexation and plat approval for Tronstad Meadows and Whitetail Crossing in “haste.” Interestingly, there is
nothing hasteful about this development. Even if approved, it would likely be 18 months to 2 years before we see the first house built. And haste seems unwise when this development
is so controversial that almost 600 persons have signed a petition opposing annexation.
Haste is never appropriate when we are concerned about safety and for pedestrian and bicycle use but also for vehicle traffic. Haste is also not wise when we are talking about water
usage and impact. The vote for annexation will impact the development of this region for the rest of our lives. We are asking that haste not be your response, but appropriate planning
to ensure safe and wise growth and development.
Housing, Housing, Housing. The developer has repeated that if it provides housing then it is good. They have asked you to ignore any legitimate concerns if it provides housing. Housing
is the trump word to encourage you to ignore common sense.
Our request is that you will consider all the ramifications of each housing project and development to help solve our problems as a community. Problems of affordable and available housing
needs. Problems of congestion, functionality and safety of our roads. Problems of providing city services to new developments including police, fire, emergency services, sewer and
water and usable sideways and pathways for pedestrians and bicycles.
Your decisions regarding the future growth and development of kalispell are far reaching and impacting.
We thank you for your service in bringing guidance and management in the complex issues facing Kalispell on a daily basis.
Please give a comprehensive review of the implications of changing the Kalispell annexation plan prior to voting.
Sincerely
Daniel Munzing
213 Tronstad Road
Kalispell, MT
406-253-1314 <tel:406-253-1314>