Mixed-use project approved in downtown SLO 

The San Luis Obispo City Council approved a mixed-use development in the downtown core, despite some residents’ concerns that the project is too big.

On a 4-1 vote at the Feb. 4 City Council meeting, the city granted final approval to Michael Hodge of Shear Edge Development to build a mix of commercial space and 23 residential units in addition to a bed and breakfast. Councilwoman Kathy Smith voted against the project, saying that she felt it was too tall, aligning with resident protests and objections from the group Save Our Downtown.

With five floors accommodating commercial, retail, a restaurant, and residential units, some residents complained that the building will dominate the landscape, block views of nearby hills, and create strains on available parking.

However, the majority of city councilmembers disagreed, saying the project complied with the area’s zoning regulations and aesthetics. They did add a few small stipulations to their approval, such as a requirement that the project’s affordable unit go in first, and a prohibition on the possibility that a “night club” could open in the future.

“I believe the positives far outweigh the perceived negatives of this project,” Councilman Dan Carpenter said.