A ballot initiative proposed by a group of Bozeman residents promises to rewire the way developers can build housing in the city in the name of conserving its finite water supply.

The Water Adequacy for Residential Development, or WARD, initiative has been the subject of controversy since supporters started collecting signatures earlier this year. As the group worked to meet the required number to get on the ballot, it has been criticized by a range of development industry groups and officials, including the Gallatin County commissioners and Bozeman Tenants United.

Supporters of the idea say it will induce developers to build more affordable housing. Opponents say it is a flawed policy that could shut down new development in the city or increase housing costs.

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