Plumas Street Townhomes: Ethics, Oversight, or Just Business as Usual?

Former City of Reno Planning Commissioner voted to approve but didn’t disclose he had family members with property abutting the proposed project.

Ah, 1565 Plumas Street. A quaint little address with a not-so-quaint backstory.

Let’s rewind to June 8, 2023, when the City of Reno Planning Commission heard Case No. LDC23-00058—better known in some circles as “How Many Units Can We Squeeze Into One Parcel Before Anyone Notices?”

Property J.D.’S relatives own next to 1565 Plumas Street

At the time, Planning Commissioner J.D. Drakulich voted in favor of the 17-unit development, a slight stretch from the 14 units allowed by right. What he didn’t mention? That his uncle and aunt own two parcels directly abutting the proposed project. Convenient.

Second Parcel J.D.’s relatives own next door to 1565 Plumas.

 J.D. has been a licensed realtor for sixteen years and no disclosure. No recusal. Just a quiet vote to support more units—and, potentially, more value to the neighboring parcels owned by close (we’re assuming close) family members. And here’s the kicker: those family members aren’t your average property owners. They’re judges—one on the Washoe County District Court, the other on the Reno Municipal Court. Judges who, like J.D., surely know a thing or two about conflict of interest. Or, at least, should.

During the June 8, 2023 meeting J.D. Drakulich deliberated and voted in favor of the project.

Fast forward to today: the developer now wants to triple down with a proposal for over 35 units on the same land. No secondary access, increased traffic, and yes—still those adjacent parcels that could benefit. Sounds like someone’s been busy with the density dial and not the due diligence.

Is this about smart growth? Or just smart maneuvering?

From the start, this project has had more red flags than a clearance rack at a Fourth of July sale. And in a city supposedly committed to transparency and neighborhood preservation, it raises the obvious question:

Who’s protecting the public, and who’s protecting their property values?

Back in the day, we used to call it doing the right thing. Today, it might just be called doing business.

One thing’s for sure—1565 Plumas deserves a second look. Preferably from someone with no skin in the game. Or relatives on the deed.

It is all about kinship; and in his role as a City of Reno Planning Commissioner Drakulich should have disclosed the two properties his aunt and uncle own next door.