HomeMy WebLinkAbout5/19/2026 Item 6A, RQN of SLO
RQN of SLO <
To:Stewart, Erica A; Marx, Jan; Francis, Emily; Shoresman, Michelle; Boswell, Mike
Cc:McDonald, Whitney; E-mail Council Website
Subject:Item #6a, Review of AEPi Appeal
Dear Mayor Stewart and Members of the Council,
Residents for Quality Neighborhoods (RQN) strongly supports staff’s recommendation to deny the appeal,
and uphold the Planning Commission’s 7-0 decision to revoke Alpha Epsilon Pi’s (AEPi) Conditional Use
Permit (CUP) for fraternity operations at 280 California Boulevard.
When AEPi provided comments before the Planning Commission they recommended replacements to
several conditions of their current CUP. Among their recommendations was one to “allow” two noise
citations each semester instead of “allowing” their current three noise citations in a 12-month period.
Apparently AEPi members think that noisy events are “allowed” in their R-4 residential
neighborhood. Also, it was the third citation in a 12-month period that triggered the CUP review. Thus
their recommendation would double the number of noise citations they could accrue from two to four
without jeopardizing their CUP, and while continuing to disturb their neighbors. This mind-set
demonstrates a lack of understanding that living in a residential neighborhood requires consideration of
your neighbors, including being cognizant of the effect that noisy parties/events have on neighbors’
health, safety and welfare.
The goal should not be “how many citations can we have.” The goal should be to not take those actions
that could lead to a citation - or even a complaint.
R-4 is a density category. Nowhere does it say that noisy parties/events are allowed in this, or any other,
residential zone. In fact the Land Use Element of the General Plan states as follows:
2.1 Neighborhood Focus
The City shall preserve, protect and enhance the City’s neighborhoods and strive to preserve and
enhance their identity and promote a higher quality of life within each neighborhood.
2.26 Neighborhood Characteristics
The City shall promote livability, quiet enjoyment and safety for all residents.
2.3.2 Separation and Buffering
The City shall seek to protect Residential areas from incompatible and detrimental non-residential
activities and facilities.
The parties/events that AEPi have held have brought them to this hearing. We hope that by upholding the
Planning Commission’s 7-0 decision and denying the appeal, fraternity members will take the time to look
for third-party venues for their parties/events and will respect their neighbors, giving them the ability for
the quiet enjoyment of their homes.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Sandra Rowley
Chairperson, RQN
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