Planning Commission upholds director approval for Rachel Court duplexes despite neighbor objections

The San Luis Obispo City Planning Commission voted unanimously Jan. 29 to deny an appeal of the Community Development Director’s approval of a minor development review allowing two multi‑story duplexes at 920 and 930 Rachel Court, including a narrow exception to the city’s hillside retaining‑wall height limit.

Staff recommended upholding the director’s Jan. 15 approval, and Assistant Planner Ethan Estrada told commissioners the plan complies with the city’s standards except for five small portions of retaining walls that exceed a 4‑foot height limit by between 2 inches and 1 foot 4 inches. Estrada said the director made the findings required by the zoning code to grant an exception and that the proposed design includes standard measures — structural plans, grading and building plan check — to ensure safety.

The appeal was filed by Mike McCormack, who identified himself as vice president for facilities management…