HomeMy WebLinkAboutPRR26182 Emails1
From:Kacsinta, Madeline
Sent:Tuesday, April 7, 2026 1:56 PM
Cc:McDonald, Whitney; Collins, Scott; Floyd, Aaron; Nelson, Brian; Schwartz, Luke
Subject:Curb Restriping at 1234 San Luis Ranch Road
BCC: City Council ALL
Dear Mayor and Councilmembers,
I wanted to provide a brief update regarding curb restriping at 1234 San Luis Ranch Road near the roundabout, as the
resident has raised concerns that may come to your attention.
Staff received a request through AskSLO to evaluate curb restrictions at this location. After our initial review, red curb
was installed based on daylighting near the crosswalk and visibility at the roundabout to address what was understood
to be a safety concern.
Following the resident’s feedback, staff conducted a second site visit and re-verified field measurements. It was
determined that while daylighting requirements do apply, there is sufficient space to meet safety standards and retain
approximately 18 feet of on-street parking. Staff will adjust the curb striping accordingly. The property owner has been
contacted and is aware of the planned adjustment.
Moving forward, staff will provide advance notice when red curb changes are being considered directly in front of a
residence to improve communication and avoid unexpected impacts.
Please reach out with any questions or for additional information.
Bests,
Madeline Kacsinta
Assistant Director of Public Works
Public Works
919 Palm, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218
E MKacsint@slocity.org
T 805.781.7094
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
34
From:Schwartz, Luke
Sent:Tuesday, April 7, 2026 3:31 PM
To:Wheeler, Bryan
Subject:RE: Red Curb
Attachments:1986 San Luis Ranch Rd Grey Curb WO_20260407.pdf
Here you go, thanks.
Luke Schwartz
Transportation Manager
Public Works
Transportation Planning/Engineering
919 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218
E LSchwartz@slocity.org
T 805.781.7190
slocity.org
Report immediate concerns using the Ask SLO tool
From: Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>
Sent: Tuesday, April 7, 2026 3:18 PM
To: Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>
Cc: Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Nelson, Brian <BNelson@slocity.org>; Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: Red Curb
Luke,
See attached for approval.
Bryan Wheeler
Transportation Planner/ Engineer III
Public Works
Transportation Planning/Engineering
919 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218
E bwheeler@slocity.org
T 805.781.7178
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>
Sent: Tuesday, April 7, 2026 3:04 PM
To: Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>
35
Cc: Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Nelson, Brian <BNelson@slocity.org>; Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: Red Curb
You bet. I'll have it over shortly...
Get Outlook for Android
From: Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>
Sent: Tuesday, April 7, 2026 2:19:38 PM
To: Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>
Cc: Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Nelson, Brian <BNelson@slocity.org>; Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: Red Curb
Bryan – Can you please prepare an updated WO for my signature to grey over 18’ of red curb adjacent to the
driveway and submit to Streets Maintenance. Suggest giving Nemo and Greg a heads up on the situation and ask for
an ETA on when they can get to this, assuming the resident will request a schedule on this correction.
Thanks,
Luke Schwartz
Transportation Manager
Public Works
Transportation Planning/Engineering
919 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218
E LSchwartz@slocity.org
T 805.781.7190
slocity.org
Report immediate concerns using the Ask SLO tool
From: Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org>
Sent: Tuesday, April 7, 2026 1:58 PM
To: Michael Loew <
Cc: Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>; Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>;
Nelson, Brian <BNelson@slocity.org>; Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org>; Dietrick, Christine <cdietric@slocity.org>; Rice,
Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: Red Curb
Glad we could clear things up. We will get this scheduled quickly.
Madeline Kacsinta
Assistant Director of Public Works
Public Works
919 Palm, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218
E MKacsint@slocity.org
T 805.781.7094
slocity.org
36
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Michael Loew <
Sent: Tuesday, April 7, 2026 1:53 PM
To: Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org>
Cc: Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>; Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>;
Nelson, Brian <BNelson@slocity.org>; Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org>; Dietrick, Christine <cdietric@slocity.org>; Rice,
Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: Red Curb
Madeline,
Thank you
-Mike
On Tue, Apr 7, 2026 at 1:27 PM Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org> wrote:
Hi Mike,
I hope you’ve been doing well—it’s been a while. I’m sorry we’re reconnecting under these circumstances, but I
appreciate you reaching out and sharing your concerns. I understand why this situation is frustrating, and I want to be
clear that this was not targeted in any way.
This request came in through our standard service system, AskSLO, and was evaluated like any other. Staff did not
know who lived at the subject property, and the review by our transportation staff was based solely on location and
applicable safety standards. Based on the initial site visit, staff believed the location triggered requirements related to
daylighting (b – below) and visibility near the intersection (d – below) and were trying to address what they
understood to be a safety issue. In general, these requests are often driven by concerns about visibility when pulling
out of nearby driveways or approaching intersections.
For this location, the objective design/safety standards checked are:
(a) maintain minimum 15’ NO PARKING setback from the fire hydrant per the fire code
(b) maintain minimum 20’ NO PARKING setback from the adjacent crosswalk per state daylighting law
(c) confirm that on-street parking does not conflict with sufficient roadway clear width for two cars to pass safely (20’
min or 2x 10’ lanes)
(d) confirm that on-street parking or other vertical obstructions would not create a line-of-sight impediment for drivers
approaching the roundabout on San Luis Ranch Road from seeing a pedestrian entering the crosswalk at the
roundabout.
That said, after hearing your concern, we asked our team to re-verify the field measurements. Upon re-evaluation, we
found that while daylighting requirements (b) do apply, there is enough space to maintain those safety standards and
retain a minimum 18-foot parking space in front of your home. The original measurements were overly conservative,
and we apologize for that.
We will be correcting this by restoring the 18-foot parking space and adjusting the curb striping accordingly.
Separately, I’ve provided direction to our team that moving forward, we will notify adjacent property owners in
advance when we are considering red curb changes directly in front of a residence. We want to avoid situations like
this where it feels unexpected or disruptive.
Again, I’m sorry for the confusion and inconvenience this caused, and I appreciate your understanding. Please don’t
hesitate to reach out to me directly if you have any questions or concerns.
Best regards,
37
Madeline Kacsinta
Assistant Director of Public Works
Public Works
919 Palm, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218
E MKacsint@slocity.org
T 805.781.7094
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Michael Loew <
Sent: Wednesday, April 1, 2026 1:18 PM
To: Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>; E-mail Council Website <emailcouncil@slocity.org>
Cc: Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: Red Curb
Bryan,
I don't think an in person meeting on site will be necessary, can you please just provide me with your final
justification and determination, as well as what the options are moving forward in writing?
From my perspective, it feels like a council member targeted me because she didn't like my truck being parked
there. What I know is that she submitted a complaint on a Saturday, and you guys had a work order drawn up
by 11am on the very next Monday, while using inaccurate measurements to justify removing the space, and
had the curb painted red without any notice, ever talking to me, or doing any outreach first. I had no issues with
site lines coming out of my driveway when a car was parked there, I had been parking there for 3 years, and
the space was properly laid out and built in accordance with the plans approved by PW and consistent with
City Engineering Standards.
Factually, my public records request revealed that the space actually complied with all of the laws and
standards you cited to justify the initial creation of the work order. I am concerned about the evolution of the
narrative around this, especially now that there are new "design constraints" to consider.
I think that staff made a mistake by prematurely removing a space based on the position of Council Member
Marx, when you should have taken accurate measurements and explained to her that it met standards, and
that the community was purposefully designed with narrow roads. If people driving through there were
concerned about hitting the car parked there, it was probably because they were driving too fast coming into
the development. Now, cars have no reason to slow down as they drive by my house where I have a 10 year old
and 14 year old coming and going on their bikes everyday.
This is just not how our government should operate, nor the outcomes it should seek to achieve.
Thank you,
Mike
On Wed, Apr 1, 2026 at 11:06 AM Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org> wrote:
Michael,
38
Wanted to get back to you on the red curb at 1986 San Luis Ranch Rd. There are several design constraints that go into
the decision to remove parking. If you are open to it, could I meet you on-site at the location? I can go over our
determination and we can take a look to discuss options moving forward.
Let me know if meeting is an option for you and what time might work.
Thanks
Bryan Wheeler
Transportation Planner/ Engineer III
Public Works
Transportation Planning/Engineering
919 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218
E bwheeler@slocity.org
T 805.781.7178
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
BCC: City Council
From: Michael Loew <
Sent: Tuesday, March 31, 2026 5:15 PM
To: Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>; E-mail Council Website <emailcouncil@slocity.org>
Cc: Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: Red Curb
Hi Luke,
Just following up on this. I took the overall measurement from the fire hydrant to the joint in the curb where the
apron of my driveway begins. There is now 34'-4" of red curb beyond the fire hydrant. I confirmed that the
original red curb extended to exactly 15' beyond the fire hydrant, leaving a total of 19'-4" to the edge of my
driveway apron. It appears to me that the City removed a parking spot that previously complied with the 2025
Engineering Standards and current traffic laws.
Thanks,
-Mike
On Tue, Mar 31, 2026 at 9:26 AM Michael Loew < wrote:
Hi Luke,
Here's an image of it measured out. I believe this would have also been marked out on plans for the
development. I understand the laws have changed since the development was finalized, but the plans should
have the measurements on it, and I'm confident Trae would have checked it. Anyway we can check what it
was supposed to be on the plans also?
After reviewing the recently adopted street parking specifications in the 2025 Engineering Standards, Form
7410 - it appears that the space could be as short as 18 feet. I had been parking my truck there which is about
20 ft. long, and was not blocking my driveway. Based on the complaint, it seems like Council Member Marx's
concern was more about how parking in this location was affecting the flow of traffic, which my
39
understanding is precisely what the narrow streets are supposed to do. This is similar to the complaints the
City has received about new bike lanes and traffic designs for Chorro and downtown; however, I am
not aware of the City making any modifications to those areas based on these similar kinds of complaints.
Additionally, I received a parking ticket for parking in front of my own driveway over the weekend. This activity
is pretty regular and consistent throughout the medium density areas of the development, and very prevalent
when Cal Poly students are in town. There was even a morning a couple of weeks ago where a neighbor of
mine was ticketed for parking the wrong direction on the street, and I did not receive a citation for parking in
front of my driveway at that time. If the City thinks that there is a problem with this, then I recommend an
educational effort to notify residents that the City intends to begin enforcing that standard since many
residents have been parking in front of their own driveway for several years now with no consequence.
Thanks,
-Mike
On Tue, Mar 31, 2026 at 7:46 AM Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org> wrote:
Bcc: City Council
Michael,
Apologies for the delayed response.
Our team is not concerned with what type of vehicle is parked here or the duration/frequency of parking at
this location per se.
The primary concern was that there was inuficient curb space between the fire hydrant and nearest driveway
to fit both the 15' min stback from the hydrant per the Fire Code and a minimum length parking stall per City
Engineering Standards.
I can have Bryan from our team (cc'd) double check the measurement in the field to confirm.
Thanks,
Luke
From: Michael Loew <
Sent: Thursday, March 26, 2026 6:58:55 PM
To: Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>
Cc: E-mail Council Website <emailcouncil@slocity.org>
Subject: Red Curb
Hi Luke,
I live at 1986 San Luis Ranch Rd. and own the white pickup. I have been parking there for 3 years since
we moved in. It's just that I started working from home so it was out there more during the day.
I reviewed the complaints against the red curb and my truck, as well as the staff follow-up. It appears that
Council Member Marx and Bryan Wheeler did not measure the red curb accurately. The red curb was
painted exactly 15 feet from the fire hydrant and 20 feet from the crosswalk and you can still see where it
was painted.
40
Will you please put the parking space back? People are flying through the roundabout and are now coming
through in front of my house really fast. I know it was inconvenient for people to have to slow down coming
into the neighborhood, but that was supposed to be the point of narrow streets.
Thanks,
Mike Loew
41
From:Wheeler, Bryan
Sent:Tuesday, April 7, 2026 3:18 PM
To:Schwartz, Luke
Cc:Floyd, Aaron; Nelson, Brian; Kacsinta, Madeline
Subject:Re: Red Curb
Attachments:1986 Grey Curb WO.pdf
Luke,
See attached for approval.
Bryan Wheeler
Transportation Planner/ Engineer III
Public Works
Transportation Planning/Engineering
919 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218
E bwheeler@slocity.org
T 805.781.7178
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>
Sent: Tuesday, April 7, 2026 3:04 PM
To: Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>
Cc: Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Nelson, Brian <BNelson@slocity.org>; Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: Red Curb
You bet. I'll have it over shortly...
Get Outlook for Android
From: Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>
Sent: Tuesday, April 7, 2026 2:19:38 PM
To: Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>
Cc: Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Nelson, Brian <BNelson@slocity.org>; Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: Red Curb
Bryan – Can you please prepare an updated WO for my signature to grey over 18’ of red curb adjacent to the
driveway and submit to Streets Maintenance. Suggest giving Nemo and Greg a heads up on the situation and ask for
an ETA on when they can get to this, assuming the resident will request a schedule on this correction.
Thanks,
Luke Schwartz
Transportation Manager
42
Public Works
Transportation Planning/Engineering
919 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218
E LSchwartz@slocity.org
T 805.781.7190
slocity.org
Report immediate concerns using the Ask SLO tool
From: Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org>
Sent: Tuesday, April 7, 2026 1:58 PM
To: Michael Loew <
Cc: Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>; Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>;
Nelson, Brian <BNelson@slocity.org>; Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org>; Dietrick, Christine <cdietric@slocity.org>; Rice,
Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: Red Curb
Glad we could clear things up. We will get this scheduled quickly.
Madeline Kacsinta
Assistant Director of Public Works
Public Works
919 Palm, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218
E MKacsint@slocity.org
T 805.781.7094
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Michael Loew <
Sent: Tuesday, April 7, 2026 1:53 PM
To: Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org>
Cc: Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>; Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>;
Nelson, Brian <BNelson@slocity.org>; Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org>; Dietrick, Christine <cdietric@slocity.org>; Rice,
Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: Red Curb
Madeline,
Thank you
-Mike
On Tue, Apr 7, 2026 at 1:27 PM Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org> wrote:
Hi Mike,
43
I hope you’ve been doing well—it’s been a while. I’m sorry we’re reconnecting under these circumstances, but I
appreciate you reaching out and sharing your concerns. I understand why this situation is frustrating, and I want to be
clear that this was not targeted in any way.
This request came in through our standard service system, AskSLO, and was evaluated like any other. Staff did not
know who lived at the subject property, and the review by our transportation staff was based solely on location and
applicable safety standards. Based on the initial site visit, staff believed the location triggered requirements related to
daylighting (b – below) and visibility near the intersection (d – below) and were trying to address what they
understood to be a safety issue. In general, these requests are often driven by concerns about visibility when pulling
out of nearby driveways or approaching intersections.
For this location, the objective design/safety standards checked are:
(a) maintain minimum 15’ NO PARKING setback from the fire hydrant per the fire code
(b) maintain minimum 20’ NO PARKING setback from the adjacent crosswalk per state daylighting law
(c) confirm that on-street parking does not conflict with sufficient roadway clear width for two cars to pass safely (20’
min or 2x 10’ lanes)
(d) confirm that on-street parking or other vertical obstructions would not create a line-of-sight impediment for drivers
approaching the roundabout on San Luis Ranch Road from seeing a pedestrian entering the crosswalk at the
roundabout.
That said, after hearing your concern, we asked our team to re-verify the field measurements. Upon re-evaluation, we
found that while daylighting requirements (b) do apply, there is enough space to maintain those safety standards and
retain a minimum 18-foot parking space in front of your home. The original measurements were overly conservative,
and we apologize for that.
We will be correcting this by restoring the 18-foot parking space and adjusting the curb striping accordingly.
Separately, I’ve provided direction to our team that moving forward, we will notify adjacent property owners in
advance when we are considering red curb changes directly in front of a residence. We want to avoid situations like
this where it feels unexpected or disruptive.
Again, I’m sorry for the confusion and inconvenience this caused, and I appreciate your understanding. Please don’t
hesitate to reach out to me directly if you have any questions or concerns.
Best regards,
Madeline Kacsinta
Assistant Director of Public Works
Public Works
919 Palm, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218
E MKacsint@slocity.org
T 805.781.7094
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Michael Loew <
Sent: Wednesday, April 1, 2026 1:18 PM
To: Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>; E-mail Council Website <emailcouncil@slocity.org>
Cc: Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: Red Curb
44
Bryan,
I don't think an in person meeting on site will be necessary, can you please just provide me with your final
justification and determination, as well as what the options are moving forward in writing?
From my perspective, it feels like a council member targeted me because she didn't like my truck being parked
there. What I know is that she submitted a complaint on a Saturday, and you guys had a work order drawn up
by 11am on the very next Monday, while using inaccurate measurements to justify removing the space, and
had the curb painted red without any notice, ever talking to me, or doing any outreach first. I had no issues with
site lines coming out of my driveway when a car was parked there, I had been parking there for 3 years, and
the space was properly laid out and built in accordance with the plans approved by PW and consistent with
City Engineering Standards.
Factually, my public records request revealed that the space actually complied with all of the laws and
standards you cited to justify the initial creation of the work order. I am concerned about the evolution of the
narrative around this, especially now that there are new "design constraints" to consider.
I think that staff made a mistake by prematurely removing a space based on the position of Council Member
Marx, when you should have taken accurate measurements and explained to her that it met standards, and
that the community was purposefully designed with narrow roads. If people driving through there were
concerned about hitting the car parked there, it was probably because they were driving too fast coming into
the development. Now, cars have no reason to slow down as they drive by my house where I have a 10 year old
and 14 year old coming and going on their bikes everyday.
This is just not how our government should operate, nor the outcomes it should seek to achieve.
Thank you,
Mike
On Wed, Apr 1, 2026 at 11:06 AM Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org> wrote:
Michael,
Wanted to get back to you on the red curb at 1986 San Luis Ranch Rd. There are several design constraints that go into
the decision to remove parking. If you are open to it, could I meet you on-site at the location? I can go over our
determination and we can take a look to discuss options moving forward.
Let me know if meeting is an option for you and what time might work.
Thanks
Bryan Wheeler
Transportation Planner/ Engineer III
Public Works
Transportation Planning/Engineering
919 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218
E bwheeler@slocity.org
T 805.781.7178
slocity.org
45
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
BCC: City Council
From: Michael Loew <
Sent: Tuesday, March 31, 2026 5:15 PM
To: Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>; E-mail Council Website <emailcouncil@slocity.org>
Cc: Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: Red Curb
Hi Luke,
Just following up on this. I took the overall measurement from the fire hydrant to the joint in the curb where the
apron of my driveway begins. There is now 34'-4" of red curb beyond the fire hydrant. I confirmed that the
original red curb extended to exactly 15' beyond the fire hydrant, leaving a total of 19'-4" to the edge of my
driveway apron. It appears to me that the City removed a parking spot that previously complied with the 2025
Engineering Standards and current traffic laws.
Thanks,
-Mike
On Tue, Mar 31, 2026 at 9:26 AM Michael Loew < wrote:
Hi Luke,
Here's an image of it measured out. I believe this would have also been marked out on plans for the
development. I understand the laws have changed since the development was finalized, but the plans should
have the measurements on it, and I'm confident Trae would have checked it. Anyway we can check what it
was supposed to be on the plans also?
After reviewing the recently adopted street parking specifications in the 2025 Engineering Standards, Form
7410 - it appears that the space could be as short as 18 feet. I had been parking my truck there which is about
20 ft. long, and was not blocking my driveway. Based on the complaint, it seems like Council Member Marx's
concern was more about how parking in this location was affecting the flow of traffic, which my
understanding is precisely what the narrow streets are supposed to do. This is similar to the complaints the
City has received about new bike lanes and traffic designs for Chorro and downtown; however, I am
not aware of the City making any modifications to those areas based on these similar kinds of complaints.
Additionally, I received a parking ticket for parking in front of my own driveway over the weekend. This activity
is pretty regular and consistent throughout the medium density areas of the development, and very prevalent
when Cal Poly students are in town. There was even a morning a couple of weeks ago where a neighbor of
mine was ticketed for parking the wrong direction on the street, and I did not receive a citation for parking in
front of my driveway at that time. If the City thinks that there is a problem with this, then I recommend an
educational effort to notify residents that the City intends to begin enforcing that standard since many
residents have been parking in front of their own driveway for several years now with no consequence.
Thanks,
-Mike
On Tue, Mar 31, 2026 at 7:46 AM Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org> wrote:
Bcc: City Council
46
Michael,
Apologies for the delayed response.
Our team is not concerned with what type of vehicle is parked here or the duration/frequency of parking at
this location per se.
The primary concern was that there was inuficient curb space between the fire hydrant and nearest driveway
to fit both the 15' min stback from the hydrant per the Fire Code and a minimum length parking stall per City
Engineering Standards.
I can have Bryan from our team (cc'd) double check the measurement in the field to confirm.
Thanks,
Luke
From: Michael Loew <
Sent: Thursday, March 26, 2026 6:58:55 PM
To: Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>
Cc: E-mail Council Website <emailcouncil@slocity.org>
Subject: Red Curb
Hi Luke,
I live at 1986 San Luis Ranch Rd. and own the white pickup. I have been parking there for 3 years since
we moved in. It's just that I started working from home so it was out there more during the day.
I reviewed the complaints against the red curb and my truck, as well as the staff follow-up. It appears that
Council Member Marx and Bryan Wheeler did not measure the red curb accurately. The red curb was
painted exactly 15 feet from the fire hydrant and 20 feet from the crosswalk and you can still see where it
was painted.
Will you please put the parking space back? People are flying through the roundabout and are now coming
through in front of my house really fast. I know it was inconvenient for people to have to slow down coming
into the neighborhood, but that was supposed to be the point of narrow streets.
Thanks,
Mike Loew
49
From:Wooten, Eric
Sent:Tuesday, April 7, 2026 3:15 PM
To:Dietrick, Christine
Subject:FW: Request for Appeal/Review
From Mike Loew. Let me know how you want to proceed.
From: Michael Loew <
Sent: Tuesday, April 7, 2026 3:05 PM
To: Wooten, Eric <ewooten@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: Request for Appeal/Review
Eric,
My initial request was to understand the administrative processes regarding the stated action, and a final
determination of the matter so I could take the appropriate next steps to appeal the decision. We can consider
the matter moot once the space is restored.
Thank you,
Mike
On Tue, Apr 7, 2026 at 2:38 PM Wooten, Eric <ewooten@slocity.org> wrote:
Mike:
I spoke with Christine briefly about your issue and she suggested I contact you to see if this matter has been resolved
to your satisfaction and whether there is anything more you require from the City Attorney’s Office or if we can close
out your request.
Thank you,
Eric Wooten
Paralegal
City Attorney's Office
990 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3249
E ewooten@slocity.org
T 805.781.7139
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
50
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IMMEDIATELY BY TELEPHONING THE SENDER NAMED ABOVE AT (805) 781-7140. Thank you.
From: Michael Loew <
Sent: Friday, April 3, 2026 10:11 AM
To: City_Attorney <City_Attorney@slocity.org>
Cc: E-mail Council Website <emailcouncil@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; Schwartz, Luke
<LSchwart@slocity.org>; Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>
Subject: Request for Appeal/Review
Dear City Attorney's Office,
I am writing to ask what the proper process is to appeal or seek review of the City’s action to extend the red
curb and remove the parking space at 1986 San Luis Ranch Road.
After reviewing the public records, I have concerns that the action was arbitrary and capricious. Before taking
any further steps, I would like to know whether there is an administrative appeal or review process for this type
of action, and if so, who the final decision-maker is.
If there is no appeal or review process, can you please let me know what the City considers the appropriate
avenue for challenging or seeking reconsideration of this action and provide me with confirmation that the City
considers the matter final?
Thank you,
Mike
59
From:Michael Loew <
Sent:Tuesday, April 7, 2026 3:05 PM
To:Wooten, Eric
Subject:Re: Request for Appeal/Review
Eric,
My initial request was to understand the administrative processes regarding the stated action, and a final
determination of the matter so I could take the appropriate next steps to appeal the decision. We can consider
the matter moot once the space is restored.
Thank you,
Mike
On Tue, Apr 7, 2026 at 2:38 PM Wooten, Eric <ewooten@slocity.org> wrote:
Mike:
I spoke with Christine briefly about your issue and she suggested I contact you to see if this matter has been resolved
to your satisfaction and whether there is anything more you require from the City Attorney’s Office or if we can close
out your request.
Thank you,
Eric Wooten
Paralegal
City Attorney's Office
990 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3249
E ewooten@slocity.org
T 805.781.7139
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
The information contained in this e-mail message is intended only for the CONFIDENTIAL use of the
designated addressee named above. The information transmitted is subject to the attorney-client privilege
and/or represents confidential attorney work product. Recipients should not file copies of this email with
publicly accessible records. If you are not the designated addressee named above or the authorized agent
responsible for delivering it to the designated addressee, you received this document through inadvertent
60
error and any further review, dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication by you or anyone
else is strictly prohibited. IF YOU RECEIVED THIS COMMUNICATION IN ERROR, PLEASE NOTIFY US
IMMEDIATELY BY TELEPHONING THE SENDER NAMED ABOVE AT (805) 781-7140. Thank you.
From: Michael Loew <
Sent: Friday, April 3, 2026 10:11 AM
To: City_Attorney <City_Attorney@slocity.org>
Cc: E-mail Council Website <emailcouncil@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; Schwartz, Luke
<LSchwart@slocity.org>; Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>
Subject: Request for Appeal/Review
Dear City Attorney's Office,
I am writing to ask what the proper process is to appeal or seek review of the City’s action to extend the red
curb and remove the parking space at 1986 San Luis Ranch Road.
After reviewing the public records, I have concerns that the action was arbitrary and capricious. Before taking
any further steps, I would like to know whether there is an administrative appeal or review process for this type
of action, and if so, who the final decision-maker is.
If there is no appeal or review process, can you please let me know what the City considers the appropriate
avenue for challenging or seeking reconsideration of this action and provide me with confirmation that the City
considers the matter final?
Thank you,
Mike
63
From:Wheeler, Bryan
Sent:Tuesday, April 7, 2026 3:04 PM
To:Schwartz, Luke
Cc:Floyd, Aaron; Nelson, Brian; Kacsinta, Madeline
Subject:Re: Red Curb
You bet. I'll have it over shortly...
Get Outlook for Android
From: Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>
Sent: Tuesday, April 7, 2026 2:19:38 PM
To: Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>
Cc: Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Nelson, Brian <BNelson@slocity.org>; Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: Red Curb
Bryan – Can you please prepare an updated WO for my signature to grey over 18’ of red curb adjacent to the
driveway and submit to Streets Maintenance. Suggest giving Nemo and Greg a heads up on the situation and ask for
an ETA on when they can get to this, assuming the resident will request a schedule on this correction.
Thanks,
Luke Schwartz
Transportation Manager
Public Works
Transportation Planning/Engineering
919 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218
E LSchwartz@slocity.org
T 805.781.7190
slocity.org
Report immediate concerns using the Ask SLO tool
From: Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org>
Sent: Tuesday, April 7, 2026 1:58 PM
To: Michael Loew <
Cc: Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>; Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>;
Nelson, Brian <BNelson@slocity.org>; Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org>; Dietrick, Christine <cdietric@slocity.org>; Rice,
Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: Red Curb
Glad we could clear things up. We will get this scheduled quickly.
Madeline Kacsinta
Assistant Director of Public Works
64
Public Works
919 Palm, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218
E MKacsint@slocity.org
T 805.781.7094
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Michael Loew <
Sent: Tuesday, April 7, 2026 1:53 PM
To: Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org>
Cc: Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>; Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>;
Nelson, Brian <BNelson@slocity.org>; Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org>; Dietrick, Christine <cdietric@slocity.org>; Rice,
Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: Red Curb
Madeline,
Thank you
-Mike
On Tue, Apr 7, 2026 at 1:27 PM Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org> wrote:
Hi Mike,
I hope you’ve been doing well—it’s been a while. I’m sorry we’re reconnecting under these circumstances, but I
appreciate you reaching out and sharing your concerns. I understand why this situation is frustrating, and I want to be
clear that this was not targeted in any way.
This request came in through our standard service system, AskSLO, and was evaluated like any other. Staff did not
know who lived at the subject property, and the review by our transportation staff was based solely on location and
applicable safety standards. Based on the initial site visit, staff believed the location triggered requirements related to
daylighting (b – below) and visibility near the intersection (d – below) and were trying to address what they
understood to be a safety issue. In general, these requests are often driven by concerns about visibility when pulling
out of nearby driveways or approaching intersections.
For this location, the objective design/safety standards checked are:
(a) maintain minimum 15’ NO PARKING setback from the fire hydrant per the fire code
(b) maintain minimum 20’ NO PARKING setback from the adjacent crosswalk per state daylighting law
(c) confirm that on-street parking does not conflict with sufficient roadway clear width for two cars to pass safely (20’
min or 2x 10’ lanes)
(d) confirm that on-street parking or other vertical obstructions would not create a line-of-sight impediment for drivers
approaching the roundabout on San Luis Ranch Road from seeing a pedestrian entering the crosswalk at the
roundabout.
That said, after hearing your concern, we asked our team to re-verify the field measurements. Upon re-evaluation, we
found that while daylighting requirements (b) do apply, there is enough space to maintain those safety standards and
retain a minimum 18-foot parking space in front of your home. The original measurements were overly conservative,
and we apologize for that.
We will be correcting this by restoring the 18-foot parking space and adjusting the curb striping accordingly.
65
Separately, I’ve provided direction to our team that moving forward, we will notify adjacent property owners in
advance when we are considering red curb changes directly in front of a residence. We want to avoid situations like
this where it feels unexpected or disruptive.
Again, I’m sorry for the confusion and inconvenience this caused, and I appreciate your understanding. Please don’t
hesitate to reach out to me directly if you have any questions or concerns.
Best regards,
Madeline Kacsinta
Assistant Director of Public Works
Public Works
919 Palm, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218
E MKacsint@slocity.org
T 805.781.7094
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Michael Loew <
Sent: Wednesday, April 1, 2026 1:18 PM
To: Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>; E-mail Council Website <emailcouncil@slocity.org>
Cc: Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: Red Curb
Bryan,
I don't think an in person meeting on site will be necessary, can you please just provide me with your final
justification and determination, as well as what the options are moving forward in writing?
From my perspective, it feels like a council member targeted me because she didn't like my truck being parked
there. What I know is that she submitted a complaint on a Saturday, and you guys had a work order drawn up
by 11am on the very next Monday, while using inaccurate measurements to justify removing the space, and
had the curb painted red without any notice, ever talking to me, or doing any outreach first. I had no issues with
site lines coming out of my driveway when a car was parked there, I had been parking there for 3 years, and
the space was properly laid out and built in accordance with the plans approved by PW and consistent with
City Engineering Standards.
Factually, my public records request revealed that the space actually complied with all of the laws and
standards you cited to justify the initial creation of the work order. I am concerned about the evolution of the
narrative around this, especially now that there are new "design constraints" to consider.
I think that staff made a mistake by prematurely removing a space based on the position of Council Member
Marx, when you should have taken accurate measurements and explained to her that it met standards, and
that the community was purposefully designed with narrow roads. If people driving through there were
concerned about hitting the car parked there, it was probably because they were driving too fast coming into
the development. Now, cars have no reason to slow down as they drive by my house where I have a 10 year old
and 14 year old coming and going on their bikes everyday.
66
This is just not how our government should operate, nor the outcomes it should seek to achieve.
Thank you,
Mike
On Wed, Apr 1, 2026 at 11:06 AM Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org> wrote:
Michael,
Wanted to get back to you on the red curb at 1986 San Luis Ranch Rd. There are several design constraints that go into
the decision to remove parking. If you are open to it, could I meet you on-site at the location? I can go over our
determination and we can take a look to discuss options moving forward.
Let me know if meeting is an option for you and what time might work.
Thanks
Bryan Wheeler
Transportation Planner/ Engineer III
Public Works
Transportation Planning/Engineering
919 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218
E bwheeler@slocity.org
T 805.781.7178
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
BCC: City Council
From: Michael Loew <
Sent: Tuesday, March 31, 2026 5:15 PM
To: Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>; E-mail Council Website <emailcouncil@slocity.org>
Cc: Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: Red Curb
Hi Luke,
Just following up on this. I took the overall measurement from the fire hydrant to the joint in the curb where the
apron of my driveway begins. There is now 34'-4" of red curb beyond the fire hydrant. I confirmed that the
original red curb extended to exactly 15' beyond the fire hydrant, leaving a total of 19'-4" to the edge of my
driveway apron. It appears to me that the City removed a parking spot that previously complied with the 2025
Engineering Standards and current traffic laws.
Thanks,
-Mike
On Tue, Mar 31, 2026 at 9:26 AM Michael Loew < wrote:
Hi Luke,
Here's an image of it measured out. I believe this would have also been marked out on plans for the
67
development. I understand the laws have changed since the development was finalized, but the plans should
have the measurements on it, and I'm confident Trae would have checked it. Anyway we can check what it
was supposed to be on the plans also?
After reviewing the recently adopted street parking specifications in the 2025 Engineering Standards, Form
7410 - it appears that the space could be as short as 18 feet. I had been parking my truck there which is about
20 ft. long, and was not blocking my driveway. Based on the complaint, it seems like Council Member Marx's
concern was more about how parking in this location was affecting the flow of traffic, which my
understanding is precisely what the narrow streets are supposed to do. This is similar to the complaints the
City has received about new bike lanes and traffic designs for Chorro and downtown; however, I am
not aware of the City making any modifications to those areas based on these similar kinds of complaints.
Additionally, I received a parking ticket for parking in front of my own driveway over the weekend. This activity
is pretty regular and consistent throughout the medium density areas of the development, and very prevalent
when Cal Poly students are in town. There was even a morning a couple of weeks ago where a neighbor of
mine was ticketed for parking the wrong direction on the street, and I did not receive a citation for parking in
front of my driveway at that time. If the City thinks that there is a problem with this, then I recommend an
educational effort to notify residents that the City intends to begin enforcing that standard since many
residents have been parking in front of their own driveway for several years now with no consequence.
Thanks,
-Mike
On Tue, Mar 31, 2026 at 7:46 AM Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org> wrote:
Bcc: City Council
Michael,
Apologies for the delayed response.
Our team is not concerned with what type of vehicle is parked here or the duration/frequency of parking at
this location per se.
The primary concern was that there was inuficient curb space between the fire hydrant and nearest driveway
to fit both the 15' min stback from the hydrant per the Fire Code and a minimum length parking stall per City
Engineering Standards.
I can have Bryan from our team (cc'd) double check the measurement in the field to confirm.
Thanks,
Luke
From: Michael Loew <
Sent: Thursday, March 26, 2026 6:58:55 PM
To: Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>
Cc: E-mail Council Website <emailcouncil@slocity.org>
Subject: Red Curb
Hi Luke,
68
I live at 1986 San Luis Ranch Rd. and own the white pickup. I have been parking there for 3 years since
we moved in. It's just that I started working from home so it was out there more during the day.
I reviewed the complaints against the red curb and my truck, as well as the staff follow-up. It appears that
Council Member Marx and Bryan Wheeler did not measure the red curb accurately. The red curb was
painted exactly 15 feet from the fire hydrant and 20 feet from the crosswalk and you can still see where it
was painted.
Will you please put the parking space back? People are flying through the roundabout and are now coming
through in front of my house really fast. I know it was inconvenient for people to have to slow down coming
into the neighborhood, but that was supposed to be the point of narrow streets.
Thanks,
Mike Loew
71
From:Cruce, Greg
Sent:Tuesday, April 7, 2026 2:51 PM
To:Kacsinta, Madeline
Cc:Schwartz, Luke; Wheeler, Bryan; Gutierrez, Anthony; Stephenson, Nemo
Subject:RE: Red Curb
Follow Up Flag:Follow up
Flag Status:Flagged
Yes, we will prioritize this work order.
Bryan, please submit the work order with the information, and we will notify the group when the work is being
completed.
Greg Cruce
Deputy Director - Maintenance Operations
Public Works Department
805.781.7264
gcruce@slocity.org
From: Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org>
Sent: Tuesday, April 7, 2026 2:40 PM
To: Cruce, Greg <gcruce@slocity.org>
Cc: Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>; Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>
Subject: FW: Red Curb
Greg – Can you please give your team a heads-up? Can we please prioritize this one?
Madeline Kacsinta
Assistant Director of Public Works
Public Works
919 Palm, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218
E MKacsint@slocity.org
T 805.781.7094
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>
Sent: Tuesday, April 7, 2026 2:20 PM
To: Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>
Cc: Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Nelson, Brian <BNelson@slocity.org>; Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: Red Curb
Bryan – Can you please prepare an updated WO for my signature to grey over 18’ of red curb adjacent to the
driveway and submit to Streets Maintenance. Suggest giving Nemo and Greg a heads up on the situation and ask for
an ETA on when they can get to this, assuming the resident will request a schedule on this correction.
72
Thanks,
Luke Schwartz
Transportation Manager
Public Works
Transportation Planning/Engineering
919 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218
E LSchwartz@slocity.org
T 805.781.7190
slocity.org
Report immediate concerns using the Ask SLO tool
From: Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org>
Sent: Tuesday, April 7, 2026 1:58 PM
To: Michael Loew <
Cc: Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>; Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>;
Nelson, Brian <BNelson@slocity.org>; Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org>; Dietrick, Christine <cdietric@slocity.org>; Rice,
Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: Red Curb
Glad we could clear things up. We will get this scheduled quickly.
Madeline Kacsinta
Assistant Director of Public Works
Public Works
919 Palm, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218
E MKacsint@slocity.org
T 805.781.7094
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Michael Loew <
Sent: Tuesday, April 7, 2026 1:53 PM
To: Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org>
Cc: Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>; Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>;
Nelson, Brian <BNelson@slocity.org>; Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org>; Dietrick, Christine <cdietric@slocity.org>; Rice,
Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: Red Curb
Madeline,
Thank you
-Mike
On Tue, Apr 7, 2026 at 1:27 PM Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org> wrote:
73
Hi Mike,
I hope you’ve been doing well—it’s been a while. I’m sorry we’re reconnecting under these circumstances, but I
appreciate you reaching out and sharing your concerns. I understand why this situation is frustrating, and I want to be
clear that this was not targeted in any way.
This request came in through our standard service system, AskSLO, and was evaluated like any other. Staff did not
know who lived at the subject property, and the review by our transportation staff was based solely on location and
applicable safety standards. Based on the initial site visit, staff believed the location triggered requirements related to
daylighting (b – below) and visibility near the intersection (d – below) and were trying to address what they
understood to be a safety issue. In general, these requests are often driven by concerns about visibility when pulling
out of nearby driveways or approaching intersections.
For this location, the objective design/safety standards checked are:
(a) maintain minimum 15’ NO PARKING setback from the fire hydrant per the fire code
(b) maintain minimum 20’ NO PARKING setback from the adjacent crosswalk per state daylighting law
(c) confirm that on-street parking does not conflict with sufficient roadway clear width for two cars to pass safely (20’
min or 2x 10’ lanes)
(d) confirm that on-street parking or other vertical obstructions would not create a line-of-sight impediment for drivers
approaching the roundabout on San Luis Ranch Road from seeing a pedestrian entering the crosswalk at the
roundabout.
That said, after hearing your concern, we asked our team to re-verify the field measurements. Upon re-evaluation, we
found that while daylighting requirements (b) do apply, there is enough space to maintain those safety standards and
retain a minimum 18-foot parking space in front of your home. The original measurements were overly conservative,
and we apologize for that.
We will be correcting this by restoring the 18-foot parking space and adjusting the curb striping accordingly.
Separately, I’ve provided direction to our team that moving forward, we will notify adjacent property owners in
advance when we are considering red curb changes directly in front of a residence. We want to avoid situations like
this where it feels unexpected or disruptive.
Again, I’m sorry for the confusion and inconvenience this caused, and I appreciate your understanding. Please don’t
hesitate to reach out to me directly if you have any questions or concerns.
74
Best regards,
Madeline Kacsinta
Assistant Director of Public Works
Public Works
919 Palm, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218
E MKacsint@slocity.org
T 805.781.7094
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Michael Loew <
Sent: Wednesday, April 1, 2026 1:18 PM
To: Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>; E-mail Council Website <emailcouncil@slocity.org>
Cc: Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: Red Curb
Bryan,
I don't think an in person meeting on site will be necessary, can you please just provide me with your final
justification and determination, as well as what the options are moving forward in writing?
From my perspective, it feels like a council member targeted me because she didn't like my truck being parked
there. What I know is that she submitted a complaint on a Saturday, and you guys had a work order drawn up
by 11am on the very next Monday, while using inaccurate measurements to justify removing the space, and
had the curb painted red without any notice, ever talking to me, or doing any outreach first. I had no issues with
site lines coming out of my driveway when a car was parked there, I had been parking there for 3 years, and
the space was properly laid out and built in accordance with the plans approved by PW and consistent with
City Engineering Standards.
Factually, my public records request revealed that the space actually complied with all of the laws and
standards you cited to justify the initial creation of the work order. I am concerned about the evolution of the
narrative around this, especially now that there are new "design constraints" to consider.
I think that staff made a mistake by prematurely removing a space based on the position of Council Member
Marx, when you should have taken accurate measurements and explained to her that it met standards, and
that the community was purposefully designed with narrow roads. If people driving through there were
concerned about hitting the car parked there, it was probably because they were driving too fast coming into
the development. Now, cars have no reason to slow down as they drive by my house where I have a 10 year old
and 14 year old coming and going on their bikes everyday.
75
This is just not how our government should operate, nor the outcomes it should seek to achieve.
Thank you,
Mike
On Wed, Apr 1, 2026 at 11:06 AM Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org> wrote:
Michael,
Wanted to get back to you on the red curb at 1986 San Luis Ranch Rd. There are several design constraints that go into
the decision to remove parking. If you are open to it, could I meet you on-site at the location? I can go over our
determination and we can take a look to discuss options moving forward.
Let me know if meeting is an option for you and what time might work.
Thanks
Bryan Wheeler
Transportation Planner/ Engineer III
Public Works
Transportation Planning/Engineering
919 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218
E bwheeler@slocity.org
T 805.781.7178
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
BCC: City Council
From: Michael Loew <
Sent: Tuesday, March 31, 2026 5:15 PM
To: Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>; E-mail Council Website <emailcouncil@slocity.org>
Cc: Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: Red Curb
76
Hi Luke,
Just following up on this. I took the overall measurement from the fire hydrant to the joint in the curb where the
apron of my driveway begins. There is now 34'-4" of red curb beyond the fire hydrant. I confirmed that the
original red curb extended to exactly 15' beyond the fire hydrant, leaving a total of 19'-4" to the edge of my
driveway apron. It appears to me that the City removed a parking spot that previously complied with the 2025
Engineering Standards and current traffic laws.
Thanks,
-Mike
On Tue, Mar 31, 2026 at 9:26 AM Michael Loew < wrote:
Hi Luke,
Here's an image of it measured out. I believe this would have also been marked out on plans for the
development. I understand the laws have changed since the development was finalized, but the plans should
have the measurements on it, and I'm confident Trae would have checked it. Anyway we can check what it
was supposed to be on the plans also?
After reviewing the recently adopted street parking specifications in the 2025 Engineering Standards, Form
7410 - it appears that the space could be as short as 18 feet. I had been parking my truck there which is about
20 ft. long, and was not blocking my driveway. Based on the complaint, it seems like Council Member Marx's
concern was more about how parking in this location was affecting the flow of traffic, which my
understanding is precisely what the narrow streets are supposed to do. This is similar to the complaints the
City has received about new bike lanes and traffic designs for Chorro and downtown; however, I am
not aware of the City making any modifications to those areas based on these similar kinds of complaints.
Additionally, I received a parking ticket for parking in front of my own driveway over the weekend. This activity
is pretty regular and consistent throughout the medium density areas of the development, and very prevalent
when Cal Poly students are in town. There was even a morning a couple of weeks ago where a neighbor of
mine was ticketed for parking the wrong direction on the street, and I did not receive a citation for parking in
front of my driveway at that time. If the City thinks that there is a problem with this, then I recommend an
educational effort to notify residents that the City intends to begin enforcing that standard since many
residents have been parking in front of their own driveway for several years now with no consequence.
Thanks,
-Mike
On Tue, Mar 31, 2026 at 7:46 AM Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org> wrote:
Bcc: City Council
Michael,
77
Apologies for the delayed response.
Our team is not concerned with what type of vehicle is parked here or the duration/frequency of parking at
this location per se.
The primary concern was that there was inuficient curb space between the fire hydrant and nearest driveway
to fit both the 15' min stback from the hydrant per the Fire Code and a minimum length parking stall per City
Engineering Standards.
I can have Bryan from our team (cc'd) double check the measurement in the field to confirm.
Thanks,
Luke
From: Michael Loew <
Sent: Thursday, March 26, 2026 6:58:55 PM
To: Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>
Cc: E-mail Council Website <emailcouncil@slocity.org>
Subject: Red Curb
Hi Luke,
I live at 1986 San Luis Ranch Rd. and own the white pickup. I have been parking there for 3 years since
we moved in. It's just that I started working from home so it was out there more during the day.
I reviewed the complaints against the red curb and my truck, as well as the staff follow-up. It appears that
Council Member Marx and Bryan Wheeler did not measure the red curb accurately. The red curb was
painted exactly 15 feet from the fire hydrant and 20 feet from the crosswalk and you can still see where it
was painted.
Will you please put the parking space back? People are flying through the roundabout and are now coming
through in front of my house really fast. I know it was inconvenient for people to have to slow down coming
into the neighborhood, but that was supposed to be the point of narrow streets.
Thanks,
Mike Loew
78
From:Kacsinta, Madeline
Sent:Tuesday, April 7, 2026 2:40 PM
To:Cruce, Greg
Cc:Schwartz, Luke; Wheeler, Bryan
Subject:FW: Red Curb
Greg – Can you please give your team a heads-up? Can we please prioritize this one?
Madeline Kacsinta
Assistant Director of Public Works
Public Works
919 Palm, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218
E MKacsint@slocity.org
T 805.781.7094
slocity.org
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From: Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>
Sent: Tuesday, April 7, 2026 2:20 PM
To: Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>
Cc: Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Nelson, Brian <BNelson@slocity.org>; Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: Red Curb
Bryan – Can you please prepare an updated WO for my signature to grey over 18’ of red curb adjacent to the
driveway and submit to Streets Maintenance. Suggest giving Nemo and Greg a heads up on the situation and ask for
an ETA on when they can get to this, assuming the resident will request a schedule on this correction.
Thanks,
Luke Schwartz
Transportation Manager
Public Works
Transportation Planning/Engineering
919 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218
E LSchwartz@slocity.org
T 805.781.7190
slocity.org
Report immediate concerns using the Ask SLO tool
From: Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org>
Sent: Tuesday, April 7, 2026 1:58 PM
To: Michael Loew <
79
Cc: Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>; Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>;
Nelson, Brian <BNelson@slocity.org>; Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org>; Dietrick, Christine <cdietric@slocity.org>; Rice,
Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: Red Curb
Glad we could clear things up. We will get this scheduled quickly.
Madeline Kacsinta
Assistant Director of Public Works
Public Works
919 Palm, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218
E MKacsint@slocity.org
T 805.781.7094
slocity.org
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From: Michael Loew <
Sent: Tuesday, April 7, 2026 1:53 PM
To: Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org>
Cc: Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>; Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>;
Nelson, Brian <BNelson@slocity.org>; Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org>; Dietrick, Christine <cdietric@slocity.org>; Rice,
Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: Red Curb
Madeline,
Thank you
-Mike
On Tue, Apr 7, 2026 at 1:27 PM Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org> wrote:
Hi Mike,
I hope you’ve been doing well—it’s been a while. I’m sorry we’re reconnecting under these circumstances, but I
appreciate you reaching out and sharing your concerns. I understand why this situation is frustrating, and I want to be
clear that this was not targeted in any way.
This request came in through our standard service system, AskSLO, and was evaluated like any other. Staff did not
know who lived at the subject property, and the review by our transportation staff was based solely on location and
applicable safety standards. Based on the initial site visit, staff believed the location triggered requirements related to
daylighting (b – below) and visibility near the intersection (d – below) and were trying to address what they
understood to be a safety issue. In general, these requests are often driven by concerns about visibility when pulling
out of nearby driveways or approaching intersections.
80
For this location, the objective design/safety standards checked are:
(a) maintain minimum 15’ NO PARKING setback from the fire hydrant per the fire code
(b) maintain minimum 20’ NO PARKING setback from the adjacent crosswalk per state daylighting law
(c) confirm that on-street parking does not conflict with sufficient roadway clear width for two cars to pass safely (20’
min or 2x 10’ lanes)
(d) confirm that on-street parking or other vertical obstructions would not create a line-of-sight impediment for drivers
approaching the roundabout on San Luis Ranch Road from seeing a pedestrian entering the crosswalk at the
roundabout.
That said, after hearing your concern, we asked our team to re-verify the field measurements. Upon re-evaluation, we
found that while daylighting requirements (b) do apply, there is enough space to maintain those safety standards and
retain a minimum 18-foot parking space in front of your home. The original measurements were overly conservative,
and we apologize for that.
We will be correcting this by restoring the 18-foot parking space and adjusting the curb striping accordingly.
Separately, I’ve provided direction to our team that moving forward, we will notify adjacent property owners in
advance when we are considering red curb changes directly in front of a residence. We want to avoid situations like
this where it feels unexpected or disruptive.
Again, I’m sorry for the confusion and inconvenience this caused, and I appreciate your understanding. Please don’t
hesitate to reach out to me directly if you have any questions or concerns.
Best regards,
Madeline Kacsinta
Assistant Director of Public Works
Public Works
919 Palm, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218
E MKacsint@slocity.org
T 805.781.7094
slocity.org
81
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From: Michael Loew <
Sent: Wednesday, April 1, 2026 1:18 PM
To: Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>; E-mail Council Website <emailcouncil@slocity.org>
Cc: Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: Red Curb
Bryan,
I don't think an in person meeting on site will be necessary, can you please just provide me with your final
justification and determination, as well as what the options are moving forward in writing?
From my perspective, it feels like a council member targeted me because she didn't like my truck being parked
there. What I know is that she submitted a complaint on a Saturday, and you guys had a work order drawn up
by 11am on the very next Monday, while using inaccurate measurements to justify removing the space, and
had the curb painted red without any notice, ever talking to me, or doing any outreach first. I had no issues with
site lines coming out of my driveway when a car was parked there, I had been parking there for 3 years, and
the space was properly laid out and built in accordance with the plans approved by PW and consistent with
City Engineering Standards.
Factually, my public records request revealed that the space actually complied with all of the laws and
standards you cited to justify the initial creation of the work order. I am concerned about the evolution of the
narrative around this, especially now that there are new "design constraints" to consider.
I think that staff made a mistake by prematurely removing a space based on the position of Council Member
Marx, when you should have taken accurate measurements and explained to her that it met standards, and
that the community was purposefully designed with narrow roads. If people driving through there were
concerned about hitting the car parked there, it was probably because they were driving too fast coming into
the development. Now, cars have no reason to slow down as they drive by my house where I have a 10 year old
and 14 year old coming and going on their bikes everyday.
This is just not how our government should operate, nor the outcomes it should seek to achieve.
Thank you,
Mike
On Wed, Apr 1, 2026 at 11:06 AM Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org> wrote:
Michael,
Wanted to get back to you on the red curb at 1986 San Luis Ranch Rd. There are several design constraints that go into
the decision to remove parking. If you are open to it, could I meet you on-site at the location? I can go over our
determination and we can take a look to discuss options moving forward.
82
Let me know if meeting is an option for you and what time might work.
Thanks
Bryan Wheeler
Transportation Planner/ Engineer III
Public Works
Transportation Planning/Engineering
919 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218
E bwheeler@slocity.org
T 805.781.7178
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
BCC: City Council
From: Michael Loew <
Sent: Tuesday, March 31, 2026 5:15 PM
To: Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>; E-mail Council Website <emailcouncil@slocity.org>
Cc: Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: Red Curb
Hi Luke,
Just following up on this. I took the overall measurement from the fire hydrant to the joint in the curb where the
apron of my driveway begins. There is now 34'-4" of red curb beyond the fire hydrant. I confirmed that the
original red curb extended to exactly 15' beyond the fire hydrant, leaving a total of 19'-4" to the edge of my
driveway apron. It appears to me that the City removed a parking spot that previously complied with the 2025
Engineering Standards and current traffic laws.
Thanks,
-Mike
83
On Tue, Mar 31, 2026 at 9:26 AM Michael Loew < wrote:
Hi Luke,
Here's an image of it measured out. I believe this would have also been marked out on plans for the
development. I understand the laws have changed since the development was finalized, but the plans should
have the measurements on it, and I'm confident Trae would have checked it. Anyway we can check what it
was supposed to be on the plans also?
After reviewing the recently adopted street parking specifications in the 2025 Engineering Standards, Form
7410 - it appears that the space could be as short as 18 feet. I had been parking my truck there which is about
20 ft. long, and was not blocking my driveway. Based on the complaint, it seems like Council Member Marx's
concern was more about how parking in this location was affecting the flow of traffic, which my
understanding is precisely what the narrow streets are supposed to do. This is similar to the complaints the
City has received about new bike lanes and traffic designs for Chorro and downtown; however, I am
not aware of the City making any modifications to those areas based on these similar kinds of complaints.
Additionally, I received a parking ticket for parking in front of my own driveway over the weekend. This activity
is pretty regular and consistent throughout the medium density areas of the development, and very prevalent
when Cal Poly students are in town. There was even a morning a couple of weeks ago where a neighbor of
mine was ticketed for parking the wrong direction on the street, and I did not receive a citation for parking in
front of my driveway at that time. If the City thinks that there is a problem with this, then I recommend an
educational effort to notify residents that the City intends to begin enforcing that standard since many
residents have been parking in front of their own driveway for several years now with no consequence.
Thanks,
-Mike
On Tue, Mar 31, 2026 at 7:46 AM Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org> wrote:
Bcc: City Council
Michael,
Apologies for the delayed response.
Our team is not concerned with what type of vehicle is parked here or the duration/frequency of parking at
this location per se.
The primary concern was that there was inuficient curb space between the fire hydrant and nearest driveway
to fit both the 15' min stback from the hydrant per the Fire Code and a minimum length parking stall per City
Engineering Standards.
84
I can have Bryan from our team (cc'd) double check the measurement in the field to confirm.
Thanks,
Luke
From: Michael Loew <
Sent: Thursday, March 26, 2026 6:58:55 PM
To: Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>
Cc: E-mail Council Website <emailcouncil@slocity.org>
Subject: Red Curb
Hi Luke,
I live at 1986 San Luis Ranch Rd. and own the white pickup. I have been parking there for 3 years since
we moved in. It's just that I started working from home so it was out there more during the day.
I reviewed the complaints against the red curb and my truck, as well as the staff follow-up. It appears that
Council Member Marx and Bryan Wheeler did not measure the red curb accurately. The red curb was
painted exactly 15 feet from the fire hydrant and 20 feet from the crosswalk and you can still see where it
was painted.
Will you please put the parking space back? People are flying through the roundabout and are now coming
through in front of my house really fast. I know it was inconvenient for people to have to slow down coming
into the neighborhood, but that was supposed to be the point of narrow streets.
Thanks,
Mike Loew
85
From:Wooten, Eric
Sent:Tuesday, April 7, 2026 2:39 PM
To:Michael Loew
Subject:RE: Request for Appeal/Review
Mike:
I spoke with Christine briefly about your issue and she suggested I contact you to see if this matter has been resolved
to your satisfaction and whether there is anything more you require from the City Attorney’s Office or if we can close
out your request.
Thank you,
Eric Wooten
Paralegal
City Attorney's Office
990 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3249
E ewooten@slocity.org
T 805.781.7139
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
The information contained in this e-mail message is intended only for the CONFIDENTIAL use of the
designated addressee named above. The information transmitted is subject to the attorney-client privilege
and/or represents confidential attorney work product. Recipients should not file copies of this email with
publicly accessible records. If you are not the designated addressee named above or the authorized agent
responsible for delivering it to the designated addressee, you received this document through inadvertent
error and any further review, dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication by you or anyone
else is strictly prohibited. IF YOU RECEIVED THIS COMMUNICATION IN ERROR, PLEASE NOTIFY US
IMMEDIATELY BY TELEPHONING THE SENDER NAMED ABOVE AT (805) 781-7140. Thank you.
From: Michael Loew <
Sent: Friday, April 3, 2026 10:11 AM
To: City_Attorney <City_Attorney@slocity.org>
Cc: E-mail Council Website <emailcouncil@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; Schwartz, Luke
<LSchwart@slocity.org>; Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>
Subject: Request for Appeal/Review
Dear City Attorney's Office,
I am writing to ask what the proper process is to appeal or seek review of the City’s action to extend the red curb
and remove the parking space at 1986 San Luis Ranch Road.
86
After reviewing the public records, I have concerns that the action was arbitrary and capricious. Before taking
any further steps, I would like to know whether there is an administrative appeal or review process for this type
of action, and if so, who the final decision-maker is.
If there is no appeal or review process, can you please let me know what the City considers the appropriate
avenue for challenging or seeking reconsideration of this action and provide me with confirmation that the City
considers the matter final?
Thank you,
Mike
87
From:Dietrick, Christine
Sent:Tuesday, April 7, 2026 2:21 PM
To:Wooten, Eric
Subject:FW: Red Curb
From: Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org>
Sent: Tuesday, April 7, 2026 1:58 PM
To: Michael Loew <
Cc: Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>; Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>;
Nelson, Brian <BNelson@slocity.org>; Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org>; Dietrick, Christine <cdietric@slocity.org>; Rice,
Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: Red Curb
Glad we could clear things up. We will get this scheduled quickly.
Madeline Kacsinta
Assistant Director of Public Works
Public Works
919 Palm, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218
E MKacsint@slocity.org
T 805.781.7094
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Michael Loew <
Sent: Tuesday, April 7, 2026 1:53 PM
To: Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org>
Cc: Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>; Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>;
Nelson, Brian <BNelson@slocity.org>; Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org>; Dietrick, Christine <cdietric@slocity.org>; Rice,
Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: Red Curb
Madeline,
Thank you
-Mike
On Tue, Apr 7, 2026 at 1:27 PM Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org> wrote:
Hi Mike,
88
I hope you’ve been doing well—it’s been a while. I’m sorry we’re reconnecting under these circumstances, but I
appreciate you reaching out and sharing your concerns. I understand why this situation is frustrating, and I want to be
clear that this was not targeted in any way.
This request came in through our standard service system, AskSLO, and was evaluated like any other. Staff did not
know who lived at the subject property, and the review by our transportation staff was based solely on location and
applicable safety standards. Based on the initial site visit, staff believed the location triggered requirements related to
daylighting (b – below) and visibility near the intersection (d – below) and were trying to address what they
understood to be a safety issue. In general, these requests are often driven by concerns about visibility when pulling
out of nearby driveways or approaching intersections.
For this location, the objective design/safety standards checked are:
(a) maintain minimum 15’ NO PARKING setback from the fire hydrant per the fire code
(b) maintain minimum 20’ NO PARKING setback from the adjacent crosswalk per state daylighting law
(c) confirm that on-street parking does not conflict with sufficient roadway clear width for two cars to pass safely (20’
min or 2x 10’ lanes)
(d) confirm that on-street parking or other vertical obstructions would not create a line-of-sight impediment for drivers
approaching the roundabout on San Luis Ranch Road from seeing a pedestrian entering the crosswalk at the
roundabout.
That said, after hearing your concern, we asked our team to re-verify the field measurements. Upon re-evaluation, we
found that while daylighting requirements (b) do apply, there is enough space to maintain those safety standards and
retain a minimum 18-foot parking space in front of your home. The original measurements were overly conservative,
and we apologize for that.
We will be correcting this by restoring the 18-foot parking space and adjusting the curb striping accordingly.
Separately, I’ve provided direction to our team that moving forward, we will notify adjacent property owners in
advance when we are considering red curb changes directly in front of a residence. We want to avoid situations like
this where it feels unexpected or disruptive.
Again, I’m sorry for the confusion and inconvenience this caused, and I appreciate your understanding. Please don’t
hesitate to reach out to me directly if you have any questions or concerns.
Best regards,
89
Madeline Kacsinta
Assistant Director of Public Works
Public Works
919 Palm, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218
E MKacsint@slocity.org
T 805.781.7094
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Michael Loew <
Sent: Wednesday, April 1, 2026 1:18 PM
To: Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>; E-mail Council Website <emailcouncil@slocity.org>
Cc: Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: Red Curb
Bryan,
I don't think an in person meeting on site will be necessary, can you please just provide me with your final
justification and determination, as well as what the options are moving forward in writing?
From my perspective, it feels like a council member targeted me because she didn't like my truck being parked
there. What I know is that she submitted a complaint on a Saturday, and you guys had a work order drawn up
by 11am on the very next Monday, while using inaccurate measurements to justify removing the space, and
had the curb painted red without any notice, ever talking to me, or doing any outreach first. I had no issues with
site lines coming out of my driveway when a car was parked there, I had been parking there for 3 years, and
the space was properly laid out and built in accordance with the plans approved by PW and consistent with
City Engineering Standards.
Factually, my public records request revealed that the space actually complied with all of the laws and
standards you cited to justify the initial creation of the work order. I am concerned about the evolution of the
narrative around this, especially now that there are new "design constraints" to consider.
I think that staff made a mistake by prematurely removing a space based on the position of Council Member
Marx, when you should have taken accurate measurements and explained to her that it met standards, and
that the community was purposefully designed with narrow roads. If people driving through there were
concerned about hitting the car parked there, it was probably because they were driving too fast coming into
the development. Now, cars have no reason to slow down as they drive by my house where I have a 10 year old
and 14 year old coming and going on their bikes everyday.
This is just not how our government should operate, nor the outcomes it should seek to achieve.
90
Thank you,
Mike
On Wed, Apr 1, 2026 at 11:06 AM Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org> wrote:
Michael,
Wanted to get back to you on the red curb at 1986 San Luis Ranch Rd. There are several design constraints that go into
the decision to remove parking. If you are open to it, could I meet you on-site at the location? I can go over our
determination and we can take a look to discuss options moving forward.
Let me know if meeting is an option for you and what time might work.
Thanks
Bryan Wheeler
Transportation Planner/ Engineer III
Public Works
Transportation Planning/Engineering
919 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218
E bwheeler@slocity.org
T 805.781.7178
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
BCC: City Council
From: Michael Loew <
Sent: Tuesday, March 31, 2026 5:15 PM
To: Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>; E-mail Council Website <emailcouncil@slocity.org>
Cc: Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: Red Curb
91
Hi Luke,
Just following up on this. I took the overall measurement from the fire hydrant to the joint in the curb where the
apron of my driveway begins. There is now 34'-4" of red curb beyond the fire hydrant. I confirmed that the
original red curb extended to exactly 15' beyond the fire hydrant, leaving a total of 19'-4" to the edge of my
driveway apron. It appears to me that the City removed a parking spot that previously complied with the 2025
Engineering Standards and current traffic laws.
Thanks,
-Mike
On Tue, Mar 31, 2026 at 9:26 AM Michael Loew < wrote:
Hi Luke,
Here's an image of it measured out. I believe this would have also been marked out on plans for the
development. I understand the laws have changed since the development was finalized, but the plans should
have the measurements on it, and I'm confident Trae would have checked it. Anyway we can check what it
was supposed to be on the plans also?
After reviewing the recently adopted street parking specifications in the 2025 Engineering Standards, Form
7410 - it appears that the space could be as short as 18 feet. I had been parking my truck there which is about
20 ft. long, and was not blocking my driveway. Based on the complaint, it seems like Council Member Marx's
concern was more about how parking in this location was affecting the flow of traffic, which my
understanding is precisely what the narrow streets are supposed to do. This is similar to the complaints the
City has received about new bike lanes and traffic designs for Chorro and downtown; however, I am
not aware of the City making any modifications to those areas based on these similar kinds of complaints.
Additionally, I received a parking ticket for parking in front of my own driveway over the weekend. This activity
is pretty regular and consistent throughout the medium density areas of the development, and very prevalent
when Cal Poly students are in town. There was even a morning a couple of weeks ago where a neighbor of
mine was ticketed for parking the wrong direction on the street, and I did not receive a citation for parking in
front of my driveway at that time. If the City thinks that there is a problem with this, then I recommend an
educational effort to notify residents that the City intends to begin enforcing that standard since many
residents have been parking in front of their own driveway for several years now with no consequence.
Thanks,
-Mike
On Tue, Mar 31, 2026 at 7:46 AM Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org> wrote:
Bcc: City Council
Michael,
Apologies for the delayed response.
92
Our team is not concerned with what type of vehicle is parked here or the duration/frequency of parking at
this location per se.
The primary concern was that there was inuficient curb space between the fire hydrant and nearest driveway
to fit both the 15' min stback from the hydrant per the Fire Code and a minimum length parking stall per City
Engineering Standards.
I can have Bryan from our team (cc'd) double check the measurement in the field to confirm.
Thanks,
Luke
From: Michael Loew <
Sent: Thursday, March 26, 2026 6:58:55 PM
To: Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>
Cc: E-mail Council Website <emailcouncil@slocity.org>
Subject: Red Curb
Hi Luke,
I live at 1986 San Luis Ranch Rd. and own the white pickup. I have been parking there for 3 years since
we moved in. It's just that I started working from home so it was out there more during the day.
I reviewed the complaints against the red curb and my truck, as well as the staff follow-up. It appears that
Council Member Marx and Bryan Wheeler did not measure the red curb accurately. The red curb was
painted exactly 15 feet from the fire hydrant and 20 feet from the crosswalk and you can still see where it
was painted.
Will you please put the parking space back? People are flying through the roundabout and are now coming
through in front of my house really fast. I know it was inconvenient for people to have to slow down coming
into the neighborhood, but that was supposed to be the point of narrow streets.
Thanks,
Mike Loew
93
From:Schwartz, Luke
Sent:Tuesday, April 7, 2026 2:20 PM
To:Wheeler, Bryan
Cc:Floyd, Aaron; Nelson, Brian; Kacsinta, Madeline
Subject:RE: Red Curb
Bryan – Can you please prepare an updated WO for my signature to grey over 18’ of red curb adjacent to the
driveway and submit to Streets Maintenance. Suggest giving Nemo and Greg a heads up on the situation and ask for
an ETA on when they can get to this, assuming the resident will request a schedule on this correction.
Thanks,
Luke Schwartz
Transportation Manager
Public Works
Transportation Planning/Engineering
919 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218
E LSchwartz@slocity.org
T 805.781.7190
slocity.org
Report immediate concerns using the Ask SLO tool
From: Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org>
Sent: Tuesday, April 7, 2026 1:58 PM
To: Michael Loew <
Cc: Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>; Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>;
Nelson, Brian <BNelson@slocity.org>; Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org>; Dietrick, Christine <cdietric@slocity.org>; Rice,
Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: Red Curb
Glad we could clear things up. We will get this scheduled quickly.
Madeline Kacsinta
Assistant Director of Public Works
Public Works
919 Palm, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218
E MKacsint@slocity.org
T 805.781.7094
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
94
From: Michael Loew <
Sent: Tuesday, April 7, 2026 1:53 PM
To: Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org>
Cc: Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>; Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>;
Nelson, Brian <BNelson@slocity.org>; Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org>; Dietrick, Christine <cdietric@slocity.org>; Rice,
Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: Red Curb
Madeline,
Thank you
-Mike
On Tue, Apr 7, 2026 at 1:27 PM Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org> wrote:
Hi Mike,
I hope you’ve been doing well—it’s been a while. I’m sorry we’re reconnecting under these circumstances, but I
appreciate you reaching out and sharing your concerns. I understand why this situation is frustrating, and I want to be
clear that this was not targeted in any way.
This request came in through our standard service system, AskSLO, and was evaluated like any other. Staff did not
know who lived at the subject property, and the review by our transportation staff was based solely on location and
applicable safety standards. Based on the initial site visit, staff believed the location triggered requirements related to
daylighting (b – below) and visibility near the intersection (d – below) and were trying to address what they
understood to be a safety issue. In general, these requests are often driven by concerns about visibility when pulling
out of nearby driveways or approaching intersections.
For this location, the objective design/safety standards checked are:
(a) maintain minimum 15’ NO PARKING setback from the fire hydrant per the fire code
(b) maintain minimum 20’ NO PARKING setback from the adjacent crosswalk per state daylighting law
(c) confirm that on-street parking does not conflict with sufficient roadway clear width for two cars to pass safely (20’
min or 2x 10’ lanes)
(d) confirm that on-street parking or other vertical obstructions would not create a line-of-sight impediment for drivers
approaching the roundabout on San Luis Ranch Road from seeing a pedestrian entering the crosswalk at the
roundabout.
That said, after hearing your concern, we asked our team to re-verify the field measurements. Upon re-evaluation, we
found that while daylighting requirements (b) do apply, there is enough space to maintain those safety standards and
retain a minimum 18-foot parking space in front of your home. The original measurements were overly conservative,
and we apologize for that.
95
We will be correcting this by restoring the 18-foot parking space and adjusting the curb striping accordingly.
Separately, I’ve provided direction to our team that moving forward, we will notify adjacent property owners in
advance when we are considering red curb changes directly in front of a residence. We want to avoid situations like
this where it feels unexpected or disruptive.
Again, I’m sorry for the confusion and inconvenience this caused, and I appreciate your understanding. Please don’t
hesitate to reach out to me directly if you have any questions or concerns.
Best regards,
Madeline Kacsinta
Assistant Director of Public Works
Public Works
919 Palm, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218
E MKacsint@slocity.org
T 805.781.7094
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Michael Loew <
Sent: Wednesday, April 1, 2026 1:18 PM
To: Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>; E-mail Council Website <emailcouncil@slocity.org>
Cc: Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: Red Curb
Bryan,
I don't think an in person meeting on site will be necessary, can you please just provide me with your final
justification and determination, as well as what the options are moving forward in writing?
From my perspective, it feels like a council member targeted me because she didn't like my truck being parked
there. What I know is that she submitted a complaint on a Saturday, and you guys had a work order drawn up
by 11am on the very next Monday, while using inaccurate measurements to justify removing the space, and
had the curb painted red without any notice, ever talking to me, or doing any outreach first. I had no issues with
96
site lines coming out of my driveway when a car was parked there, I had been parking there for 3 years, and
the space was properly laid out and built in accordance with the plans approved by PW and consistent with
City Engineering Standards.
Factually, my public records request revealed that the space actually complied with all of the laws and
standards you cited to justify the initial creation of the work order. I am concerned about the evolution of the
narrative around this, especially now that there are new "design constraints" to consider.
I think that staff made a mistake by prematurely removing a space based on the position of Council Member
Marx, when you should have taken accurate measurements and explained to her that it met standards, and
that the community was purposefully designed with narrow roads. If people driving through there were
concerned about hitting the car parked there, it was probably because they were driving too fast coming into
the development. Now, cars have no reason to slow down as they drive by my house where I have a 10 year old
and 14 year old coming and going on their bikes everyday.
This is just not how our government should operate, nor the outcomes it should seek to achieve.
Thank you,
Mike
On Wed, Apr 1, 2026 at 11:06 AM Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org> wrote:
Michael,
Wanted to get back to you on the red curb at 1986 San Luis Ranch Rd. There are several design constraints that go into
the decision to remove parking. If you are open to it, could I meet you on-site at the location? I can go over our
determination and we can take a look to discuss options moving forward.
Let me know if meeting is an option for you and what time might work.
Thanks
Bryan Wheeler
Transportation Planner/ Engineer III
Public Works
Transportation Planning/Engineering
919 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218
E bwheeler@slocity.org
T 805.781.7178
slocity.org
97
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
BCC: City Council
From: Michael Loew <
Sent: Tuesday, March 31, 2026 5:15 PM
To: Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>; E-mail Council Website <emailcouncil@slocity.org>
Cc: Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: Red Curb
Hi Luke,
Just following up on this. I took the overall measurement from the fire hydrant to the joint in the curb where the
apron of my driveway begins. There is now 34'-4" of red curb beyond the fire hydrant. I confirmed that the
original red curb extended to exactly 15' beyond the fire hydrant, leaving a total of 19'-4" to the edge of my
driveway apron. It appears to me that the City removed a parking spot that previously complied with the 2025
Engineering Standards and current traffic laws.
Thanks,
-Mike
On Tue, Mar 31, 2026 at 9:26 AM Michael Loew <mloew15007@gmail.com> wrote:
Hi Luke,
Here's an image of it measured out. I believe this would have also been marked out on plans for the
development. I understand the laws have changed since the development was finalized, but the plans should
have the measurements on it, and I'm confident Trae would have checked it. Anyway we can check what it
was supposed to be on the plans also?
After reviewing the recently adopted street parking specifications in the 2025 Engineering Standards, Form
7410 - it appears that the space could be as short as 18 feet. I had been parking my truck there which is about
20 ft. long, and was not blocking my driveway. Based on the complaint, it seems like Council Member Marx's
concern was more about how parking in this location was affecting the flow of traffic, which my
understanding is precisely what the narrow streets are supposed to do. This is similar to the complaints the
City has received about new bike lanes and traffic designs for Chorro and downtown; however, I am
not aware of the City making any modifications to those areas based on these similar kinds of complaints.
Additionally, I received a parking ticket for parking in front of my own driveway over the weekend. This activity
is pretty regular and consistent throughout the medium density areas of the development, and very prevalent
when Cal Poly students are in town. There was even a morning a couple of weeks ago where a neighbor of
mine was ticketed for parking the wrong direction on the street, and I did not receive a citation for parking in
front of my driveway at that time. If the City thinks that there is a problem with this, then I recommend an
98
educational effort to notify residents that the City intends to begin enforcing that standard since many
residents have been parking in front of their own driveway for several years now with no consequence.
Thanks,
-Mike
On Tue, Mar 31, 2026 at 7:46 AM Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org> wrote:
Bcc: City Council
Michael,
Apologies for the delayed response.
Our team is not concerned with what type of vehicle is parked here or the duration/frequency of parking at
this location per se.
The primary concern was that there was inuficient curb space between the fire hydrant and nearest driveway
to fit both the 15' min stback from the hydrant per the Fire Code and a minimum length parking stall per City
Engineering Standards.
I can have Bryan from our team (cc'd) double check the measurement in the field to confirm.
Thanks,
Luke
From: Michael Loew <
Sent: Thursday, March 26, 2026 6:58:55 PM
To: Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>
Cc: E-mail Council Website <emailcouncil@slocity.org>
Subject: Red Curb
99
Hi Luke,
I live at 1986 San Luis Ranch Rd. and own the white pickup. I have been parking there for 3 years since
we moved in. It's just that I started working from home so it was out there more during the day.
I reviewed the complaints against the red curb and my truck, as well as the staff follow-up. It appears that
Council Member Marx and Bryan Wheeler did not measure the red curb accurately. The red curb was
painted exactly 15 feet from the fire hydrant and 20 feet from the crosswalk and you can still see where it
was painted.
Will you please put the parking space back? People are flying through the roundabout and are now coming
through in front of my house really fast. I know it was inconvenient for people to have to slow down coming
into the neighborhood, but that was supposed to be the point of narrow streets.
Thanks,
Mike Loew
102
From:Dietrick, Christine
Sent:Tuesday, April 7, 2026 2:15 PM
To:Kacsinta, Madeline; Michael Loew
Cc:Schwartz, Luke; Floyd, Aaron; Wheeler, Bryan; Nelson, Brian; Collins, Scott; Rice, Jennifer
Subject:RE: Red Curb
Thank you Madeline and Mike for working together to resolve this issue.
Mike, with the exchange below, I believe Madeline and her team have addressed any outstanding issues and I don’t
believe there is any need for the involvement of our office.
I hope you and your family are well.
Best,
Christine
Christine Dietrick
pronouns she/her/hers
City Attorney
City Attorney's Office
990 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3249
E cdietrick@slocity.org
T 805.781.7140
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
The information contained in this e-mail message is intended only for the CONFIDENTIAL use of the
designated addressee named above. The information transmitted is subject to the attorney-client privilege
and/or represents confidential attorney work product. Recipients should not file copies of this email with
publicly accessible records. If you are not the designated addressee named above or the authorized agent
responsible for delivering it to the designated addressee, you received this document through inadvertent
error and any further review, dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication by you or anyone
else is strictly prohibited. IF YOU RECEIVED THIS COMMUNICATION IN ERROR, PLEASE NOTIFY US
IMMEDIATELY BY TELEPHONING THE SENDER NAMED ABOVE AT (805) 781-7140. Thank you.
From: Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org>
Sent: Tuesday, April 7, 2026 1:58 PM
To: Michael Loew <
Cc: Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>; Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>;
Nelson, Brian <BNelson@slocity.org>; Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org>; Dietrick, Christine <cdietric@slocity.org>; Rice,
Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: Red Curb
103
Glad we could clear things up. We will get this scheduled quickly.
Madeline Kacsinta
Assistant Director of Public Works
Public Works
919 Palm, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218
E MKacsint@slocity.org
T 805.781.7094
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Michael Loew <
Sent: Tuesday, April 7, 2026 1:53 PM
To: Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org>
Cc: Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>; Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>;
Nelson, Brian <BNelson@slocity.org>; Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org>; Dietrick, Christine <cdietric@slocity.org>; Rice,
Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: Red Curb
Madeline,
Thank you
-Mike
On Tue, Apr 7, 2026 at 1:27 PM Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org> wrote:
Hi Mike,
I hope you’ve been doing well—it’s been a while. I’m sorry we’re reconnecting under these circumstances, but I
appreciate you reaching out and sharing your concerns. I understand why this situation is frustrating, and I want to be
clear that this was not targeted in any way.
This request came in through our standard service system, AskSLO, and was evaluated like any other. Staff did not
know who lived at the subject property, and the review by our transportation staff was based solely on location and
applicable safety standards. Based on the initial site visit, staff believed the location triggered requirements related to
daylighting (b – below) and visibility near the intersection (d – below) and were trying to address what they
understood to be a safety issue. In general, these requests are often driven by concerns about visibility when pulling
out of nearby driveways or approaching intersections.
For this location, the objective design/safety standards checked are:
(a) maintain minimum 15’ NO PARKING setback from the fire hydrant per the fire code
104
(b) maintain minimum 20’ NO PARKING setback from the adjacent crosswalk per state daylighting law
(c) confirm that on-street parking does not conflict with sufficient roadway clear width for two cars to pass safely (20’
min or 2x 10’ lanes)
(d) confirm that on-street parking or other vertical obstructions would not create a line-of-sight impediment for drivers
approaching the roundabout on San Luis Ranch Road from seeing a pedestrian entering the crosswalk at the
roundabout.
That said, after hearing your concern, we asked our team to re-verify the field measurements. Upon re-evaluation, we
found that while daylighting requirements (b) do apply, there is enough space to maintain those safety standards and
retain a minimum 18-foot parking space in front of your home. The original measurements were overly conservative,
and we apologize for that.
We will be correcting this by restoring the 18-foot parking space and adjusting the curb striping accordingly.
Separately, I’ve provided direction to our team that moving forward, we will notify adjacent property owners in
advance when we are considering red curb changes directly in front of a residence. We want to avoid situations like
this where it feels unexpected or disruptive.
Again, I’m sorry for the confusion and inconvenience this caused, and I appreciate your understanding. Please don’t
hesitate to reach out to me directly if you have any questions or concerns.
Best regards,
Madeline Kacsinta
Assistant Director of Public Works
Public Works
919 Palm, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218
E MKacsint@slocity.org
T 805.781.7094
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Michael Loew <
Sent: Wednesday, April 1, 2026 1:18 PM
105
To: Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>; E-mail Council Website <emailcouncil@slocity.org>
Cc: Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: Red Curb
Bryan,
I don't think an in person meeting on site will be necessary, can you please just provide me with your final
justification and determination, as well as what the options are moving forward in writing?
From my perspective, it feels like a council member targeted me because she didn't like my truck being parked
there. What I know is that she submitted a complaint on a Saturday, and you guys had a work order drawn up
by 11am on the very next Monday, while using inaccurate measurements to justify removing the space, and
had the curb painted red without any notice, ever talking to me, or doing any outreach first. I had no issues with
site lines coming out of my driveway when a car was parked there, I had been parking there for 3 years, and
the space was properly laid out and built in accordance with the plans approved by PW and consistent with
City Engineering Standards.
Factually, my public records request revealed that the space actually complied with all of the laws and
standards you cited to justify the initial creation of the work order. I am concerned about the evolution of the
narrative around this, especially now that there are new "design constraints" to consider.
I think that staff made a mistake by prematurely removing a space based on the position of Council Member
Marx, when you should have taken accurate measurements and explained to her that it met standards, and
that the community was purposefully designed with narrow roads. If people driving through there were
concerned about hitting the car parked there, it was probably because they were driving too fast coming into
the development. Now, cars have no reason to slow down as they drive by my house where I have a 10 year old
and 14 year old coming and going on their bikes everyday.
This is just not how our government should operate, nor the outcomes it should seek to achieve.
Thank you,
Mike
On Wed, Apr 1, 2026 at 11:06 AM Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org> wrote:
Michael,
Wanted to get back to you on the red curb at 1986 San Luis Ranch Rd. There are several design constraints that go into
the decision to remove parking. If you are open to it, could I meet you on-site at the location? I can go over our
determination and we can take a look to discuss options moving forward.
Let me know if meeting is an option for you and what time might work.
Thanks
106
Bryan Wheeler
Transportation Planner/ Engineer III
Public Works
Transportation Planning/Engineering
919 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218
E bwheeler@slocity.org
T 805.781.7178
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
BCC: City Council
From: Michael Loew <
Sent: Tuesday, March 31, 2026 5:15 PM
To: Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>; E-mail Council Website <emailcouncil@slocity.org>
Cc: Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: Red Curb
Hi Luke,
Just following up on this. I took the overall measurement from the fire hydrant to the joint in the curb where the
apron of my driveway begins. There is now 34'-4" of red curb beyond the fire hydrant. I confirmed that the
original red curb extended to exactly 15' beyond the fire hydrant, leaving a total of 19'-4" to the edge of my
driveway apron. It appears to me that the City removed a parking spot that previously complied with the 2025
Engineering Standards and current traffic laws.
Thanks,
-Mike
On Tue, Mar 31, 2026 at 9:26 AM Michael Loew < wrote:
Hi Luke,
Here's an image of it measured out. I believe this would have also been marked out on plans for the
development. I understand the laws have changed since the development was finalized, but the plans should
have the measurements on it, and I'm confident Trae would have checked it. Anyway we can check what it
was supposed to be on the plans also?
107
After reviewing the recently adopted street parking specifications in the 2025 Engineering Standards, Form
7410 - it appears that the space could be as short as 18 feet. I had been parking my truck there which is about
20 ft. long, and was not blocking my driveway. Based on the complaint, it seems like Council Member Marx's
concern was more about how parking in this location was affecting the flow of traffic, which my
understanding is precisely what the narrow streets are supposed to do. This is similar to the complaints the
City has received about new bike lanes and traffic designs for Chorro and downtown; however, I am
not aware of the City making any modifications to those areas based on these similar kinds of complaints.
Additionally, I received a parking ticket for parking in front of my own driveway over the weekend. This activity
is pretty regular and consistent throughout the medium density areas of the development, and very prevalent
when Cal Poly students are in town. There was even a morning a couple of weeks ago where a neighbor of
mine was ticketed for parking the wrong direction on the street, and I did not receive a citation for parking in
front of my driveway at that time. If the City thinks that there is a problem with this, then I recommend an
educational effort to notify residents that the City intends to begin enforcing that standard since many
residents have been parking in front of their own driveway for several years now with no consequence.
Thanks,
-Mike
On Tue, Mar 31, 2026 at 7:46 AM Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org> wrote:
Bcc: City Council
Michael,
Apologies for the delayed response.
Our team is not concerned with what type of vehicle is parked here or the duration/frequency of parking at
this location per se.
The primary concern was that there was inuficient curb space between the fire hydrant and nearest driveway
to fit both the 15' min stback from the hydrant per the Fire Code and a minimum length parking stall per City
Engineering Standards.
I can have Bryan from our team (cc'd) double check the measurement in the field to confirm.
Thanks,
108
Luke
From: Michael Loew <
Sent: Thursday, March 26, 2026 6:58:55 PM
To: Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>
Cc: E-mail Council Website <emailcouncil@slocity.org>
Subject: Red Curb
Hi Luke,
I live at 1986 San Luis Ranch Rd. and own the white pickup. I have been parking there for 3 years since
we moved in. It's just that I started working from home so it was out there more during the day.
I reviewed the complaints against the red curb and my truck, as well as the staff follow-up. It appears that
Council Member Marx and Bryan Wheeler did not measure the red curb accurately. The red curb was
painted exactly 15 feet from the fire hydrant and 20 feet from the crosswalk and you can still see where it
was painted.
Will you please put the parking space back? People are flying through the roundabout and are now coming
through in front of my house really fast. I know it was inconvenient for people to have to slow down coming
into the neighborhood, but that was supposed to be the point of narrow streets.
Thanks,
Mike Loew
110
From:Kacsinta, Madeline
Sent:Tuesday, April 7, 2026 1:58 PM
To:Michael Loew
Cc:Schwartz, Luke; Floyd, Aaron; Wheeler, Bryan; Nelson, Brian; Collins, Scott; Dietrick, Christine;
Rice, Jennifer
Subject:RE: Red Curb
Glad we could clear things up. We will get this scheduled quickly.
Madeline Kacsinta
Assistant Director of Public Works
Public Works
919 Palm, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218
E MKacsint@slocity.org
T 805.781.7094
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Michael Loew <
Sent: Tuesday, April 7, 2026 1:53 PM
To: Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org>
Cc: Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>; Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>;
Nelson, Brian <BNelson@slocity.org>; Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org>; Dietrick, Christine <cdietric@slocity.org>; Rice,
Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: Red Curb
Madeline,
Thank you
-Mike
On Tue, Apr 7, 2026 at 1:27 PM Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org> wrote:
Hi Mike,
I hope you’ve been doing well—it’s been a while. I’m sorry we’re reconnecting under these circumstances, but I
appreciate you reaching out and sharing your concerns. I understand why this situation is frustrating, and I want to be
clear that this was not targeted in any way.
This request came in through our standard service system, AskSLO, and was evaluated like any other. Staff did not
know who lived at the subject property, and the review by our transportation staff was based solely on location and
applicable safety standards. Based on the initial site visit, staff believed the location triggered requirements related to
111
daylighting (b – below) and visibility near the intersection (d – below) and were trying to address what they
understood to be a safety issue. In general, these requests are often driven by concerns about visibility when pulling
out of nearby driveways or approaching intersections.
For this location, the objective design/safety standards checked are:
(a) maintain minimum 15’ NO PARKING setback from the fire hydrant per the fire code
(b) maintain minimum 20’ NO PARKING setback from the adjacent crosswalk per state daylighting law
(c) confirm that on-street parking does not conflict with sufficient roadway clear width for two cars to pass safely (20’
min or 2x 10’ lanes)
(d) confirm that on-street parking or other vertical obstructions would not create a line-of-sight impediment for drivers
approaching the roundabout on San Luis Ranch Road from seeing a pedestrian entering the crosswalk at the
roundabout.
That said, after hearing your concern, we asked our team to re-verify the field measurements. Upon re-evaluation, we
found that while daylighting requirements (b) do apply, there is enough space to maintain those safety standards and
retain a minimum 18-foot parking space in front of your home. The original measurements were overly conservative,
and we apologize for that.
We will be correcting this by restoring the 18-foot parking space and adjusting the curb striping accordingly.
Separately, I’ve provided direction to our team that moving forward, we will notify adjacent property owners in
advance when we are considering red curb changes directly in front of a residence. We want to avoid situations like
this where it feels unexpected or disruptive.
Again, I’m sorry for the confusion and inconvenience this caused, and I appreciate your understanding. Please don’t
hesitate to reach out to me directly if you have any questions or concerns.
Best regards,
Madeline Kacsinta
Assistant Director of Public Works
112
Public Works
919 Palm, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218
E MKacsint@slocity.org
T 805.781.7094
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Michael Loew <
Sent: Wednesday, April 1, 2026 1:18 PM
To: Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>; E-mail Council Website <emailcouncil@slocity.org>
Cc: Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: Red Curb
Bryan,
I don't think an in person meeting on site will be necessary, can you please just provide me with your final
justification and determination, as well as what the options are moving forward in writing?
From my perspective, it feels like a council member targeted me because she didn't like my truck being parked
there. What I know is that she submitted a complaint on a Saturday, and you guys had a work order drawn up
by 11am on the very next Monday, while using inaccurate measurements to justify removing the space, and
had the curb painted red without any notice, ever talking to me, or doing any outreach first. I had no issues with
site lines coming out of my driveway when a car was parked there, I had been parking there for 3 years, and
the space was properly laid out and built in accordance with the plans approved by PW and consistent with
City Engineering Standards.
Factually, my public records request revealed that the space actually complied with all of the laws and
standards you cited to justify the initial creation of the work order. I am concerned about the evolution of the
narrative around this, especially now that there are new "design constraints" to consider.
I think that staff made a mistake by prematurely removing a space based on the position of Council Member
Marx, when you should have taken accurate measurements and explained to her that it met standards, and
that the community was purposefully designed with narrow roads. If people driving through there were
concerned about hitting the car parked there, it was probably because they were driving too fast coming into
the development. Now, cars have no reason to slow down as they drive by my house where I have a 10 year old
and 14 year old coming and going on their bikes everyday.
This is just not how our government should operate, nor the outcomes it should seek to achieve.
Thank you,
Mike
On Wed, Apr 1, 2026 at 11:06 AM Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org> wrote:
Michael,
113
Wanted to get back to you on the red curb at 1986 San Luis Ranch Rd. There are several design constraints that go into
the decision to remove parking. If you are open to it, could I meet you on-site at the location? I can go over our
determination and we can take a look to discuss options moving forward.
Let me know if meeting is an option for you and what time might work.
Thanks
Bryan Wheeler
Transportation Planner/ Engineer III
Public Works
Transportation Planning/Engineering
919 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218
E bwheeler@slocity.org
T 805.781.7178
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
BCC: City Council
From: Michael Loew <
Sent: Tuesday, March 31, 2026 5:15 PM
To: Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>; E-mail Council Website <emailcouncil@slocity.org>
Cc: Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: Red Curb
Hi Luke,
Just following up on this. I took the overall measurement from the fire hydrant to the joint in the curb where the
apron of my driveway begins. There is now 34'-4" of red curb beyond the fire hydrant. I confirmed that the
original red curb extended to exactly 15' beyond the fire hydrant, leaving a total of 19'-4" to the edge of my
driveway apron. It appears to me that the City removed a parking spot that previously complied with the 2025
Engineering Standards and current traffic laws.
114
Thanks,
-Mike
On Tue, Mar 31, 2026 at 9:26 AM Michael Loew < wrote:
Hi Luke,
Here's an image of it measured out. I believe this would have also been marked out on plans for the
development. I understand the laws have changed since the development was finalized, but the plans should
have the measurements on it, and I'm confident Trae would have checked it. Anyway we can check what it
was supposed to be on the plans also?
After reviewing the recently adopted street parking specifications in the 2025 Engineering Standards, Form
7410 - it appears that the space could be as short as 18 feet. I had been parking my truck there which is about
20 ft. long, and was not blocking my driveway. Based on the complaint, it seems like Council Member Marx's
concern was more about how parking in this location was affecting the flow of traffic, which my
understanding is precisely what the narrow streets are supposed to do. This is similar to the complaints the
City has received about new bike lanes and traffic designs for Chorro and downtown; however, I am
not aware of the City making any modifications to those areas based on these similar kinds of complaints.
Additionally, I received a parking ticket for parking in front of my own driveway over the weekend. This activity
is pretty regular and consistent throughout the medium density areas of the development, and very prevalent
when Cal Poly students are in town. There was even a morning a couple of weeks ago where a neighbor of
mine was ticketed for parking the wrong direction on the street, and I did not receive a citation for parking in
front of my driveway at that time. If the City thinks that there is a problem with this, then I recommend an
educational effort to notify residents that the City intends to begin enforcing that standard since many
residents have been parking in front of their own driveway for several years now with no consequence.
Thanks,
-Mike
On Tue, Mar 31, 2026 at 7:46 AM Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org> wrote:
Bcc: City Council
Michael,
Apologies for the delayed response.
Our team is not concerned with what type of vehicle is parked here or the duration/frequency of parking at
this location per se.
115
The primary concern was that there was inuficient curb space between the fire hydrant and nearest driveway
to fit both the 15' min stback from the hydrant per the Fire Code and a minimum length parking stall per City
Engineering Standards.
I can have Bryan from our team (cc'd) double check the measurement in the field to confirm.
Thanks,
Luke
From: Michael Loew <
Sent: Thursday, March 26, 2026 6:58:55 PM
To: Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>
Cc: E-mail Council Website <emailcouncil@slocity.org>
Subject: Red Curb
Hi Luke,
I live at 1986 San Luis Ranch Rd. and own the white pickup. I have been parking there for 3 years since
we moved in. It's just that I started working from home so it was out there more during the day.
I reviewed the complaints against the red curb and my truck, as well as the staff follow-up. It appears that
Council Member Marx and Bryan Wheeler did not measure the red curb accurately. The red curb was
painted exactly 15 feet from the fire hydrant and 20 feet from the crosswalk and you can still see where it
was painted.
Will you please put the parking space back? People are flying through the roundabout and are now coming
through in front of my house really fast. I know it was inconvenient for people to have to slow down coming
into the neighborhood, but that was supposed to be the point of narrow streets.
Thanks,
Mike Loew
116
From:Michael Loew <
Sent:Tuesday, April 7, 2026 1:53 PM
To:Kacsinta, Madeline
Cc:Schwartz, Luke; Floyd, Aaron; Wheeler, Bryan; Nelson, Brian; Collins, Scott; Dietrick, Christine;
Rice, Jennifer
Subject:Re: Red Curb
Follow Up Flag:Follow up
Flag Status:Completed
Madeline,
Thank you
-Mike
On Tue, Apr 7, 2026 at 1:27 PM Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org> wrote:
Hi Mike,
I hope you’ve been doing well—it’s been a while. I’m sorry we’re reconnecting under these circumstances, but I
appreciate you reaching out and sharing your concerns. I understand why this situation is frustrating, and I want to be
clear that this was not targeted in any way.
This request came in through our standard service system, AskSLO, and was evaluated like any other. Staff did not
know who lived at the subject property, and the review by our transportation staff was based solely on location and
applicable safety standards. Based on the initial site visit, staff believed the location triggered requirements related to
daylighting (b – below) and visibility near the intersection (d – below) and were trying to address what they
understood to be a safety issue. In general, these requests are often driven by concerns about visibility when pulling
out of nearby driveways or approaching intersections.
For this location, the objective design/safety standards checked are:
(a) maintain minimum 15’ NO PARKING setback from the fire hydrant per the fire code
(b) maintain minimum 20’ NO PARKING setback from the adjacent crosswalk per state daylighting law
(c) confirm that on-street parking does not conflict with sufficient roadway clear width for two cars to pass safely (20’
min or 2x 10’ lanes)
(d) confirm that on-street parking or other vertical obstructions would not create a line-of-sight impediment for drivers
approaching the roundabout on San Luis Ranch Road from seeing a pedestrian entering the crosswalk at the
roundabout.
117
That said, after hearing your concern, we asked our team to re-verify the field measurements. Upon re-evaluation, we
found that while daylighting requirements (b) do apply, there is enough space to maintain those safety standards and
retain a minimum 18-foot parking space in front of your home. The original measurements were overly conservative,
and we apologize for that.
We will be correcting this by restoring the 18-foot parking space and adjusting the curb striping accordingly.
Separately, I’ve provided direction to our team that moving forward, we will notify adjacent property owners in
advance when we are considering red curb changes directly in front of a residence. We want to avoid situations like
this where it feels unexpected or disruptive.
Again, I’m sorry for the confusion and inconvenience this caused, and I appreciate your understanding. Please don’t
hesitate to reach out to me directly if you have any questions or concerns.
Best regards,
Madeline Kacsinta
Assistant Director of Public Works
Public Works
919 Palm, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218
E MKacsint@slocity.org
T 805.781.7094
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Michael Loew <
Sent: Wednesday, April 1, 2026 1:18 PM
To: Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>; E-mail Council Website <emailcouncil@slocity.org>
Cc: Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: Red Curb
Bryan,
I don't think an in person meeting on site will be necessary, can you please just provide me with your final
118
justification and determination, as well as what the options are moving forward in writing?
From my perspective, it feels like a council member targeted me because she didn't like my truck being parked
there. What I know is that she submitted a complaint on a Saturday, and you guys had a work order drawn up
by 11am on the very next Monday, while using inaccurate measurements to justify removing the space, and
had the curb painted red without any notice, ever talking to me, or doing any outreach first. I had no issues with
site lines coming out of my driveway when a car was parked there, I had been parking there for 3 years, and
the space was properly laid out and built in accordance with the plans approved by PW and consistent with
City Engineering Standards.
Factually, my public records request revealed that the space actually complied with all of the laws and
standards you cited to justify the initial creation of the work order. I am concerned about the evolution of the
narrative around this, especially now that there are new "design constraints" to consider.
I think that staff made a mistake by prematurely removing a space based on the position of Council Member
Marx, when you should have taken accurate measurements and explained to her that it met standards, and
that the community was purposefully designed with narrow roads. If people driving through there were
concerned about hitting the car parked there, it was probably because they were driving too fast coming into
the development. Now, cars have no reason to slow down as they drive by my house where I have a 10 year old
and 14 year old coming and going on their bikes everyday.
This is just not how our government should operate, nor the outcomes it should seek to achieve.
Thank you,
Mike
On Wed, Apr 1, 2026 at 11:06 AM Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org> wrote:
Michael,
Wanted to get back to you on the red curb at 1986 San Luis Ranch Rd. There are several design constraints that go into
the decision to remove parking. If you are open to it, could I meet you on-site at the location? I can go over our
determination and we can take a look to discuss options moving forward.
Let me know if meeting is an option for you and what time might work.
Thanks
Bryan Wheeler
Transportation Planner/ Engineer III
119
Public Works
Transportation Planning/Engineering
919 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218
E bwheeler@slocity.org
T 805.781.7178
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
BCC: City Council
From: Michael Loew <
Sent: Tuesday, March 31, 2026 5:15 PM
To: Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>; E-mail Council Website <emailcouncil@slocity.org>
Cc: Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: Red Curb
Hi Luke,
Just following up on this. I took the overall measurement from the fire hydrant to the joint in the curb where the
apron of my driveway begins. There is now 34'-4" of red curb beyond the fire hydrant. I confirmed that the
original red curb extended to exactly 15' beyond the fire hydrant, leaving a total of 19'-4" to the edge of my
driveway apron. It appears to me that the City removed a parking spot that previously complied with the 2025
Engineering Standards and current traffic laws.
Thanks,
-Mike
On Tue, Mar 31, 2026 at 9:26 AM Michael Loew < wrote:
Hi Luke,
Here's an image of it measured out. I believe this would have also been marked out on plans for the
development. I understand the laws have changed since the development was finalized, but the plans should
have the measurements on it, and I'm confident Trae would have checked it. Anyway we can check what it
was supposed to be on the plans also?
After reviewing the recently adopted street parking specifications in the 2025 Engineering Standards, Form
7410 - it appears that the space could be as short as 18 feet. I had been parking my truck there which is about
20 ft. long, and was not blocking my driveway. Based on the complaint, it seems like Council Member Marx's
concern was more about how parking in this location was affecting the flow of traffic, which my
understanding is precisely what the narrow streets are supposed to do. This is similar to the complaints the
City has received about new bike lanes and traffic designs for Chorro and downtown; however, I am
not aware of the City making any modifications to those areas based on these similar kinds of complaints.
120
Additionally, I received a parking ticket for parking in front of my own driveway over the weekend. This activity
is pretty regular and consistent throughout the medium density areas of the development, and very prevalent
when Cal Poly students are in town. There was even a morning a couple of weeks ago where a neighbor of
mine was ticketed for parking the wrong direction on the street, and I did not receive a citation for parking in
front of my driveway at that time. If the City thinks that there is a problem with this, then I recommend an
educational effort to notify residents that the City intends to begin enforcing that standard since many
residents have been parking in front of their own driveway for several years now with no consequence.
Thanks,
-Mike
On Tue, Mar 31, 2026 at 7:46 AM Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org> wrote:
Bcc: City Council
Michael,
Apologies for the delayed response.
Our team is not concerned with what type of vehicle is parked here or the duration/frequency of parking at
this location per se.
The primary concern was that there was inuficient curb space between the fire hydrant and nearest driveway
to fit both the 15' min stback from the hydrant per the Fire Code and a minimum length parking stall per City
Engineering Standards.
I can have Bryan from our team (cc'd) double check the measurement in the field to confirm.
Thanks,
Luke
From: Michael Loew <
Sent: Thursday, March 26, 2026 6:58:55 PM
To: Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>
121
Cc: E-mail Council Website <emailcouncil@slocity.org>
Subject: Red Curb
Hi Luke,
I live at 1986 San Luis Ranch Rd. and own the white pickup. I have been parking there for 3 years since
we moved in. It's just that I started working from home so it was out there more during the day.
I reviewed the complaints against the red curb and my truck, as well as the staff follow-up. It appears that
Council Member Marx and Bryan Wheeler did not measure the red curb accurately. The red curb was
painted exactly 15 feet from the fire hydrant and 20 feet from the crosswalk and you can still see where it
was painted.
Will you please put the parking space back? People are flying through the roundabout and are now coming
through in front of my house really fast. I know it was inconvenient for people to have to slow down coming
into the neighborhood, but that was supposed to be the point of narrow streets.
Thanks,
Mike Loew
122
From:Collins, Scott
Sent:Tuesday, April 7, 2026 1:30 PM
To:McDonald, Whitney
Subject:FW: Red Curb
FYI. I’ve asked that she share this with Council as well.
-Scott
From: Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org>
Sent: Tuesday, April 7, 2026 1:27 PM
To:
Cc: Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>; Floyd, Aaron <afloyd@slocity.org>; Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>;
Nelson, Brian <BNelson@slocity.org>; Collins, Scott <SCollins@slocity.org>; Dietrick, Christine <cdietric@slocity.org>; Rice,
Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>
Subject: RE: Red Curb
Hi Mike,
I hope you’ve been doing well—it’s been a while. I’m sorry we’re reconnecting under these circumstances, but I
appreciate you reaching out and sharing your concerns. I understand why this situation is frustrating, and I want to be
clear that this was not targeted in any way.
This request came in through our standard service system, AskSLO, and was evaluated like any other. Staff did not
know who lived at the subject property, and the review by our transportation staff was based solely on location and
applicable safety standards. Based on the initial site visit, staff believed the location triggered requirements related to
daylighting (b – below) and visibility near the intersection (d – below) and were trying to address what they understood
to be a safety issue. In general, these requests are often driven by concerns about visibility when pulling out of nearby
driveways or approaching intersections.
For this location, the objective design/safety standards checked are:
(a) maintain minimum 15’ NO PARKING setback from the fire hydrant per the fire code
(b) maintain minimum 20’ NO PARKING setback from the adjacent crosswalk per state daylighting law
(c) confirm that on-street parking does not conflict with sufficient roadway clear width for two cars to pass safely (20’
min or 2x 10’ lanes)
(d) confirm that on-street parking or other vertical obstructions would not create a line-of-sight impediment for drivers
approaching the roundabout on San Luis Ranch Road from seeing a pedestrian entering the crosswalk at the
roundabout.
That said, after hearing your concern, we asked our team to re-verify the field measurements. Upon re-evaluation, we
found that while daylighting requirements (b) do apply, there is enough space to maintain those safety standards and
retain a minimum 18-foot parking space in front of your home. The original measurements were overly conservative,
and we apologize for that.
We will be correcting this by restoring the 18-foot parking space and adjusting the curb striping accordingly.
Separately, I’ve provided direction to our team that moving forward, we will notify adjacent property owners in advance
when we are considering red curb changes directly in front of a residence. We want to avoid situations like this where
it feels unexpected or disruptive.
Again, I’m sorry for the confusion and inconvenience this caused, and I appreciate your understanding. Please don’t
hesitate to reach out to me directly if you have any questions or concerns.
123
Best regards,
Madeline Kacsinta
Assistant Director of Public Works
Public Works
919 Palm, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218
E MKacsint@slocity.org
T 805.781.7094
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Michael Loew <
Sent: Wednesday, April 1, 2026 1:18 PM
To: Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>; E-mail Council Website <emailcouncil@slocity.org>
Cc: Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: Red Curb
Bryan,
I don't think an in person meeting on site will be necessary, can you please just provide me with your final
justification and determination, as well as what the options are moving forward in writing?
From my perspective, it feels like a council member targeted me because she didn't like my truck being parked
there. What I know is that she submitted a complaint on a Saturday, and you guys had a work order drawn up by
11am on the very next Monday, while using inaccurate measurements to justify removing the space, and had
the curb painted red without any notice, ever talking to me, or doing any outreach first. I had no issues with site
lines coming out of my driveway when a car was parked there, I had been parking there for 3 years, and
the space was properly laid out and built in accordance with the plans approved by PW and consistent with City
Engineering Standards.
Factually, my public records request revealed that the space actually complied with all of the laws and
standards you cited to justify the initial creation of the work order. I am concerned about the evolution of the
narrative around this, especially now that there are new "design constraints" to consider.
I think that staff made a mistake by prematurely removing a space based on the position of Council Member
Marx, when you should have taken accurate measurements and explained to her that it met standards, and that
the community was purposefully designed with narrow roads. If people driving through there were concerned
about hitting the car parked there, it was probably because they were driving too fast coming into the
development. Now, cars have no reason to slow down as they drive by my house where I have a 10 year old and
14 year old coming and going on their bikes everyday.
This is just not how our government should operate, nor the outcomes it should seek to achieve.
Thank you,
Mike
On Wed, Apr 1, 2026 at 11:06 AM Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org> wrote:
124
Michael,
Wanted to get back to you on the red curb at 1986 San Luis Ranch Rd. There are several design constraints that go into
the decision to remove parking. If you are open to it, could I meet you on-site at the location? I can go over our
determination and we can take a look to discuss options moving forward.
Let me know if meeting is an option for you and what time might work.
Thanks
Bryan Wheeler
Transportation Planner/ Engineer III
Public Works
Transportation Planning/Engineering
919 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218
E bwheeler@slocity.org
T 805.781.7178
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
BCC: City Council
From: Michael Loew <
Sent: Tuesday, March 31, 2026 5:15 PM
To: Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>; E-mail Council Website <emailcouncil@slocity.org>
Cc: Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: Red Curb
Hi Luke,
Just following up on this. I took the overall measurement from the fire hydrant to the joint in the curb where the
apron of my driveway begins. There is now 34'-4" of red curb beyond the fire hydrant. I confirmed that the
original red curb extended to exactly 15' beyond the fire hydrant, leaving a total of 19'-4" to the edge of my
driveway apron. It appears to me that the City removed a parking spot that previously complied with the 2025
Engineering Standards and current traffic laws.
Thanks,
-Mike
On Tue, Mar 31, 2026 at 9:26 AM Michael Loew < wrote:
Hi Luke,
Here's an image of it measured out. I believe this would have also been marked out on plans for the
development. I understand the laws have changed since the development was finalized, but the plans should
have the measurements on it, and I'm confident Trae would have checked it. Anyway we can check what it
was supposed to be on the plans also?
After reviewing the recently adopted street parking specifications in the 2025 Engineering Standards, Form
7410 - it appears that the space could be as short as 18 feet. I had been parking my truck there which is about
20 ft. long, and was not blocking my driveway. Based on the complaint, it seems like Council Member Marx's
125
concern was more about how parking in this location was affecting the flow of traffic, which my understanding
is precisely what the narrow streets are supposed to do. This is similar to the complaints the City has received
about new bike lanes and traffic designs for Chorro and downtown; however, I am not aware of the City
making any modifications to those areas based on these similar kinds of complaints.
Additionally, I received a parking ticket for parking in front of my own driveway over the weekend. This activity
is pretty regular and consistent throughout the medium density areas of the development, and very prevalent
when Cal Poly students are in town. There was even a morning a couple of weeks ago where a neighbor of
mine was ticketed for parking the wrong direction on the street, and I did not receive a citation for parking in
front of my driveway at that time. If the City thinks that there is a problem with this, then I recommend an
educational effort to notify residents that the City intends to begin enforcing that standard since many
residents have been parking in front of their own driveway for several years now with no consequence.
Thanks,
-Mike
On Tue, Mar 31, 2026 at 7:46 AM Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org> wrote:
Bcc: City Council
Michael,
Apologies for the delayed response.
Our team is not concerned with what type of vehicle is parked here or the duration/frequency of parking at
this location per se.
The primary concern was that there was inuficient curb space between the fire hydrant and nearest driveway
to fit both the 15' min stback from the hydrant per the Fire Code and a minimum length parking stall per City
Engineering Standards.
I can have Bryan from our team (cc'd) double check the measurement in the field to confirm.
Thanks,
Luke
From: Michael Loew <
Sent: Thursday, March 26, 2026 6:58:55 PM
To: Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>
Cc: E-mail Council Website <emailcouncil@slocity.org>
Subject: Red Curb
Hi Luke,
I live at 1986 San Luis Ranch Rd. and own the white pickup. I have been parking there for 3 years since
we moved in. It's just that I started working from home so it was out there more during the day.
I reviewed the complaints against the red curb and my truck, as well as the staff follow-up. It appears that
Council Member Marx and Bryan Wheeler did not measure the red curb accurately. The red curb was painted
exactly 15 feet from the fire hydrant and 20 feet from the crosswalk and you can still see where it was
painted.
126
Will you please put the parking space back? People are flying through the roundabout and are now coming
through in front of my house really fast. I know it was inconvenient for people to have to slow down coming
into the neighborhood, but that was supposed to be the point of narrow streets.
Thanks,
Mike Loew
127
From:Kacsinta, Madeline
Sent:Tuesday, April 7, 2026 1:27 PM
To:
Cc:Schwartz, Luke; Floyd, Aaron; Wheeler, Bryan; Nelson, Brian; Collins, Scott; Dietrick, Christine;
Rice, Jennifer
Subject:RE: Red Curb
Hi Mike,
I hope you’ve been doing well—it’s been a while. I’m sorry we’re reconnecting under these circumstances, but I
appreciate you reaching out and sharing your concerns. I understand why this situation is frustrating, and I want to be
clear that this was not targeted in any way.
This request came in through our standard service system, AskSLO, and was evaluated like any other. Staff did not
know who lived at the subject property, and the review by our transportation staff was based solely on location and
applicable safety standards. Based on the initial site visit, staff believed the location triggered requirements related to
daylighting (b – below) and visibility near the intersection (d – below) and were trying to address what they understood
to be a safety issue. In general, these requests are often driven by concerns about visibility when pulling out of nearby
driveways or approaching intersections.
For this location, the objective design/safety standards checked are:
(a) maintain minimum 15’ NO PARKING setback from the fire hydrant per the fire code
(b) maintain minimum 20’ NO PARKING setback from the adjacent crosswalk per state daylighting law
(c) confirm that on-street parking does not conflict with sufficient roadway clear width for two cars to pass safely (20’
min or 2x 10’ lanes)
(d) confirm that on-street parking or other vertical obstructions would not create a line-of-sight impediment for drivers
approaching the roundabout on San Luis Ranch Road from seeing a pedestrian entering the crosswalk at the
roundabout.
That said, after hearing your concern, we asked our team to re-verify the field measurements. Upon re-evaluation, we
found that while daylighting requirements (b) do apply, there is enough space to maintain those safety standards and
retain a minimum 18-foot parking space in front of your home. The original measurements were overly conservative,
and we apologize for that.
We will be correcting this by restoring the 18-foot parking space and adjusting the curb striping accordingly.
Separately, I’ve provided direction to our team that moving forward, we will notify adjacent property owners in advance
when we are considering red curb changes directly in front of a residence. We want to avoid situations like this where
it feels unexpected or disruptive.
Again, I’m sorry for the confusion and inconvenience this caused, and I appreciate your understanding. Please don’t
hesitate to reach out to me directly if you have any questions or concerns.
Best regards,
Madeline Kacsinta
Assistant Director of Public Works
Public Works
128
919 Palm, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218
E MKacsint@slocity.org
T 805.781.7094
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Michael Loew <
Sent: Wednesday, April 1, 2026 1:18 PM
To: Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>; E-mail Council Website <emailcouncil@slocity.org>
Cc: Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: Red Curb
Bryan,
I don't think an in person meeting on site will be necessary, can you please just provide me with your final
justification and determination, as well as what the options are moving forward in writing?
From my perspective, it feels like a council member targeted me because she didn't like my truck being parked
there. What I know is that she submitted a complaint on a Saturday, and you guys had a work order drawn up by
11am on the very next Monday, while using inaccurate measurements to justify removing the space, and had
the curb painted red without any notice, ever talking to me, or doing any outreach first. I had no issues with site
lines coming out of my driveway when a car was parked there, I had been parking there for 3 years, and
the space was properly laid out and built in accordance with the plans approved by PW and consistent with City
Engineering Standards.
Factually, my public records request revealed that the space actually complied with all of the laws and
standards you cited to justify the initial creation of the work order. I am concerned about the evolution of the
narrative around this, especially now that there are new "design constraints" to consider.
I think that staff made a mistake by prematurely removing a space based on the position of Council Member
Marx, when you should have taken accurate measurements and explained to her that it met standards, and that
the community was purposefully designed with narrow roads. If people driving through there were concerned
about hitting the car parked there, it was probably because they were driving too fast coming into the
development. Now, cars have no reason to slow down as they drive by my house where I have a 10 year old and
14 year old coming and going on their bikes everyday.
This is just not how our government should operate, nor the outcomes it should seek to achieve.
Thank you,
Mike
On Wed, Apr 1, 2026 at 11:06 AM Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org> wrote:
Michael,
Wanted to get back to you on the red curb at 1986 San Luis Ranch Rd. There are several design constraints that go into
the decision to remove parking. If you are open to it, could I meet you on-site at the location? I can go over our
determination and we can take a look to discuss options moving forward.
Let me know if meeting is an option for you and what time might work.
Thanks
129
Bryan Wheeler
Transportation Planner/ Engineer III
Public Works
Transportation Planning/Engineering
919 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218
E bwheeler@slocity.org
T 805.781.7178
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
BCC: City Council
From: Michael Loew <
Sent: Tuesday, March 31, 2026 5:15 PM
To: Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>; E-mail Council Website <emailcouncil@slocity.org>
Cc: Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; Wheeler, Bryan <bwheeler@slocity.org>
Subject: Re: Red Curb
Hi Luke,
Just following up on this. I took the overall measurement from the fire hydrant to the joint in the curb where the
apron of my driveway begins. There is now 34'-4" of red curb beyond the fire hydrant. I confirmed that the
original red curb extended to exactly 15' beyond the fire hydrant, leaving a total of 19'-4" to the edge of my
driveway apron. It appears to me that the City removed a parking spot that previously complied with the 2025
Engineering Standards and current traffic laws.
Thanks,
-Mike
On Tue, Mar 31, 2026 at 9:26 AM Michael Loew < wrote:
Hi Luke,
Here's an image of it measured out. I believe this would have also been marked out on plans for the
development. I understand the laws have changed since the development was finalized, but the plans should
have the measurements on it, and I'm confident Trae would have checked it. Anyway we can check what it
was supposed to be on the plans also?
After reviewing the recently adopted street parking specifications in the 2025 Engineering Standards, Form
7410 - it appears that the space could be as short as 18 feet. I had been parking my truck there which is about
20 ft. long, and was not blocking my driveway. Based on the complaint, it seems like Council Member Marx's
concern was more about how parking in this location was affecting the flow of traffic, which my understanding
is precisely what the narrow streets are supposed to do. This is similar to the complaints the City has received
about new bike lanes and traffic designs for Chorro and downtown; however, I am not aware of the City
making any modifications to those areas based on these similar kinds of complaints.
Additionally, I received a parking ticket for parking in front of my own driveway over the weekend. This activity
is pretty regular and consistent throughout the medium density areas of the development, and very prevalent
when Cal Poly students are in town. There was even a morning a couple of weeks ago where a neighbor of
130
mine was ticketed for parking the wrong direction on the street, and I did not receive a citation for parking in
front of my driveway at that time. If the City thinks that there is a problem with this, then I recommend an
educational effort to notify residents that the City intends to begin enforcing that standard since many
residents have been parking in front of their own driveway for several years now with no consequence.
Thanks,
-Mike
On Tue, Mar 31, 2026 at 7:46 AM Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org> wrote:
Bcc: City Council
Michael,
Apologies for the delayed response.
Our team is not concerned with what type of vehicle is parked here or the duration/frequency of parking at
this location per se.
The primary concern was that there was inuficient curb space between the fire hydrant and nearest driveway
to fit both the 15' min stback from the hydrant per the Fire Code and a minimum length parking stall per City
Engineering Standards.
I can have Bryan from our team (cc'd) double check the measurement in the field to confirm.
Thanks,
Luke
From: Michael Loew <
Sent: Thursday, March 26, 2026 6:58:55 PM
To: Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>
Cc: E-mail Council Website <emailcouncil@slocity.org>
Subject: Red Curb
Hi Luke,
I live at 1986 San Luis Ranch Rd. and own the white pickup. I have been parking there for 3 years since
we moved in. It's just that I started working from home so it was out there more during the day.
I reviewed the complaints against the red curb and my truck, as well as the staff follow-up. It appears that
Council Member Marx and Bryan Wheeler did not measure the red curb accurately. The red curb was painted
exactly 15 feet from the fire hydrant and 20 feet from the crosswalk and you can still see where it was
painted.
Will you please put the parking space back? People are flying through the roundabout and are now coming
through in front of my house really fast. I know it was inconvenient for people to have to slow down coming
into the neighborhood, but that was supposed to be the point of narrow streets.
Thanks,
Mike Loew
133
From:King, Donna
Sent:Tuesday, April 7, 2026 12:23 PM
To:Colunga-Lopez, Andrea; Paonessa, Kelly; Wooten, Eric
Cc:CityClerk; City_Attorney; Kacsinta, Madeline; Nelson, Brian; Rice, Jennifer; Schwartz, Luke; Kelley,
Angela; Kolin, Meghan; Wheeler, Bryan
Subject:RE: Public Records Request - PRR26179 Rajagopal - All records relating to curb & parking
between City & Michael Loew 2-1-26 to 4-6-26
Hello Andrea,
I do not use my personal device or personal email for City business and have nothing additional to provide outside of
standard City correspondence methods. Please let me know if you need anything else.
Donna King, PTMP
Parking Program Manager
Public Works
1260 Chorro St, Ste B, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401-3218
E DKing@slocity.org
T 805.781.7234
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
From: Colunga-Lopez, Andrea <AColunga@slocity.org>
Sent: Tuesday, April 7, 2026 10:01 AM
To: Paonessa, Kelly <KPaoness@slocity.org>; Wooten, Eric <ewooten@slocity.org>
Cc: CityClerk <CityClerk@slocity.org>; City_Attorney <City_Attorney@slocity.org>; Kacsinta, Madeline <MKacsint@slocity.org>;
Nelson, Brian <BNelson@slocity.org>; Rice, Jennifer <jrice@slocity.org>; Schwartz, Luke <LSchwart@slocity.org>; Kelley, Angela
<akelley@slocity.org>; King, Donna <DKing@slocity.org>; Kolin, Meghan <MKolin@slocity.org>; Wheeler, Bryan
<bwheeler@slocity.org>
Subject: Public Records Request - PRR26179 Rajagopal - All records relating to curb & parking between City & Michael Loew 2-1-
26 to 4-6-26
Hi all,
Attached is a Public Records request from Bulbul Rajagopal for All records relating to curb & parking between City &
Michael Loew 2-1-26 to 4-6-26, due by 4/17/26. If you are not able to meet that deadline, please advise. Otherwise,
please send the requested responsive documents to cityclerk@slocity.org.
Note that the Attorney’s Office will conduct a City email search for all correspondence-related portions of this request.
We ask that you search your personal email addresses, devices, etc. for non-City email
correspondence/communications.
Best,
Andrea Colunga-Lopez
pronouns she/her/hers
134
Deputy City Clerk I
City Administration
E AColunga@slocity.org
T 805.781.7105
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
135
From:Colunga-Lopez, Andrea
Sent:Tuesday, April 7, 2026 10:01 AM
To:Paonessa, Kelly; Wooten, Eric
Cc:CityClerk; City_Attorney; Kacsinta, Madeline; Nelson, Brian; Rice, Jennifer; Schwartz, Luke; Kelley,
Angela; King, Donna; Kolin, Meghan; Wheeler, Bryan
Subject:Public Records Request - PRR26179 Rajagopal - All records relating to curb & parking between
City & Michael Loew 2-1-26 to 4-6-26
Attachments:PRR26179 Rajagopal - All records relating to curb & parking between City & Michael Loew
2-1-26 to 4-6-26.pdf; Public Records Request: New Times SLO
Hi all,
Attached is a Public Records request from Bulbul Rajagopal for All records relating to curb & parking between City &
Michael Loew 2-1-26 to 4-6-26, due by 4/17/26. If you are not able to meet that deadline, please advise. Otherwise,
please send the requested responsive documents to cityclerk@slocity.org.
Note that the Attorney’s Office will conduct a City email search for all correspondence-related portions of this request.
We ask that you search your personal email addresses, devices, etc. for non-City email
correspondence/communications.
Best,
Andrea Colunga-Lopez
pronouns she/her/hers
Deputy City Clerk I
City Administration
E AColunga@slocity.org
T 805.781.7105
slocity.org
Stay connected with the City by signing up for e-notifications
pdated 05/2023
City of San Luis Obispo
Request for Public Records
The California Public Records Act (Government Code 7921. et set.) was enacted to ensure public
records are available for inspection by members of the public. Completion of this form will assist staff
in identifying related records to accurately complete your request.
Requested records will be distributed to the email address that is listed on this form, unless directed
otherwise by City staff. Requests for printed records will require payment subject to the City’s
Comprehensive Fee Schedule. Payment must be rendered prior to production of printed materials.
Name: _______________________________________________ Date: ______________________
Last First
Address: ________________________________________________________________________
Street & Unit # City State Zip
Email: _____________________________________________ Phone: _______________________
Release Forms
Requests for certain public records legally require release forms to be submitted for records to be
distributed to the requestor. To help expedite your request, please read below and ensure additional
information is submitted along with this public records request form.
Personal health information
Records containing personal health information require a HIPAA Release Form. Examples
include fire incident reports, worker’s compensation claims, etc.
o HIPAA Release Form
Printed residential and/or commercial building plans
The Public Records Act does not allow the release of printed copies of this material without the
permission of the architect/engineer copyright owner. The public records requestor is
responsible for obtaining said authorization by completing all three release forms listed
below. You may call the Community Development Department at (805) 781 - 7170 to find out
the name of the copyright owner. In-person viewing of plans do not require release forms.
o Copies of Plans Affidavit
o Plan Request Architect/Engineer Authorization
o Plan Request Owner Authorization
Continued
YOUR REQUEST WILL BE PROCESSED IN COMPLIANCE WITH THE PUBLIC RECORDS ACT (PRA). California
Government Code Section 7921. An Agency shall notify the requestor within 10 days from receipt of request with a
Determination which states if the Agency is in possession, in whole or in part, of the requested documents, and possible lega l
exemptions which prohibit the release of non-disclosable documents, as outlined per the PRA. In some instances, an Agency
may require an extension of up to 14 days to provide a Determination, as authorized by the PRA. A notice will be provided to the
requestor setting forth the reasons for the extension and the date on which a Determination is expected to be supplied.
Record Information: List the records you are requesting. Specify relevant information such as:
subject, title, incident number, location/address, person(s) involved, project name, etc.
Date and Time: Specify the incident date or date and time range of the requested records
Questions may be directed to the City Clerk’s Office at (805) 781-7100.
Submit Completed Forms To:
cityclerk@slocity.org
OR
City Clerk’s Office
990 Palm Street
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
1
From:Bulbul Rajagopal <brajagopal@newtimesslo.com>
Sent:Tuesday, April 7, 2026 9:14 AM
To:CityClerk
Subject:Public Records Request: New Times SLO
Attachments:Public Records Request Form-New Times SLO.pdf
Hi,
Please find the public records request below. I appreciate any time you can dedicate.
Best,
Bulbul
–––––
Bulbul Rajagopal (she/her)
Staff Writer
New Times Media Group
PRINT · DIGITAL · MOBILE · TICKETING
NEW TIMES San Luis Obispo County's News & Entertainment Weekly
San Luis Obispo | (805) 592-0412 | www.NewTimesSLO.com
SUN Northern Santa Barbara County's News & Entertainment Weekly
Santa Maria | (805) 347-1968 | www.SantaMariaSun.com
MY805TIX Your Local Ticketing Solution
Updated 05/2023
City of San Luis Obispo
Request for Public Records
The California Public Records Act (Government Code 7921. et set.) was enacted to ensure public
records are available for inspection by members of the public. Completion of this form will assist staff
in identifying related records to accurately complete your request.
Requested records will be distributed to the email address that is listed on this form, unless directed
otherwise by City staff. Requests for printed records will require payment subject to the City’s
Comprehensive Fee Schedule. Payment must be rendered prior to production of printed materials.
Name: _______________________________________________ Date: ______________________
Last First
Address: ________________________________________________________________________
Street & Unit # City State Zip
Email: _____________________________________________ Phone: _______________________
Release Forms
Requests for certain public records legally require release forms to be submitted for records to be
distributed to the requestor. To help expedite your request, please read below and ensure additional
information is submitted along with this public records request form.
•Personal health information
Records containing personal health information require a HIP AA Release Form. Examples
include fire incident reports, worker’s compensation claims, etc.
o HIPAA Release Form
•Printed residential and/or commercial building plans
The Public Records Act does not allow the release of printed copies of this material without the
permission of the architect/engineer copyright owner. The public records requestor is
responsible for obtaining said authorization by completing all three release forms listed
below. You may call the Community Development Department at (805) 781 - 7170 to find out
the name of the copyright owner. In-person viewing of plans do not require release forms.
o Copies of Plans Affidavit
o Plan Request Architect/Engineer Authorization
o Plan Request Owner Authorization
Continued
YOUR REQUEST WILL BE PROCESSED IN COMPLIANCE WITH THE PUBLIC RECORDS ACT (PRA). California
Government Code Section 7921. An Agency shall notify the requestor within 10 days from receipt of request with a
Determination which states if the Agency is in possession, in whole or in part, of the requested documents, and possible lega l
exemptions which prohibit the release of non-disclosable documents, as outlined per the PRA. In some instances, an Agency
may require an extension of up to 14 days to provide a Determination, as authorized by the PRA. A notice will be provided to the
requestor setting forth the reasons for the extension and the date on which a Determination is expected to be supplied.
Record Information: List the records you are requesting. Specify relevant information such as:
subject, title, incident number, location/address, person(s) involved, project name, etc.
Date and Time: Specify the incident date or date and time range of the requested records
Questions may be directed to the City Clerk’s Office at (805) 781-7100.
Submit Completed Forms To:
cityclerk@slocity.org
OR
City Clerk’s Office
990 Palm Street
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401