Attainable Housing Public Comment from Rhiannon EileenMembers of Kalispell City Council,
Ever since I was a little girl I’ve dreamt of my life here,in the Flathead Valley.I’ve
always wanted to raise my kids where I grew up,sharing with them and my spouse all of
the wonderful things and places that make this town home,the things that have always
kept me coming back.
I’ve been lucky enough to travel Europe,to find my Husband there,and to live in
Switzerland for the last four years.All the while I longed to come home.When we
started our family I knew it was the right time to say goodbye to Europe and to come
back to Kalispell,but I’d been watching the housing market for years and I knew my
childhood dreams of a little East Side house would have to wait a while.
Things have changed here since I was a little girl,especially in the last few years.
There were moments when we considered moving to the East coast instead,for
affordability’s sake.We also considered staying abroad so my husband could make
enough money to save for a down payment.When it came down to decision time it was
obvious to us that our family and this valley were the most important things to us.
Thankfully,my parents have been generous enough to take us in since last September;
while we’re endlessly grateful,it’s not a permanent solution for our family.There are
five adults and a one year old in a two bedroom house,and my husband and I would like
to keep growing our family.
The housing market is discouraging,to say the least;even homes that are in
desperate need of attention are flying off the market at astronomical prices.We know it
will never be what it was but it can’t remain how it is either.My dreams from childhood
still cling to a home on the east side of downtown,but my adult dreams have settled for
a home,period.
We’re far from being the only family in this situation,far from being the only
family living with their parents or roommates.Without some change and attainable
housing options like Tronstad meadows,people like us will remain nowhere near
finding their homes.We deserve to be here,to stay in this place that we love and to
participate in keeping Kalispell what it has always been:a place for families and
neighbors and community.Not just a vacation or retirement town.
I urge you to zone these communities in favor of middle income families,
essential workers,and first time buyers that this Valley depends on,and to work to
remedy the housing crisis we are facing.
Thank you for your time,
Rhiannon Sandoz