Residents of Algarve voiced strong opposition to the proposed Coral Blossom project during a recent city council meeting, raising concerns about safety, community impact, and transparency in the planning process.

One speaker, Liz Marshall, highlighted her apprehensions regarding the project's proximity to a preschool and community park, emphasizing the lack of nearby medical facilities and the potential risks to children and staff. She expressed her belief that the project would not be sustainable in the rural area, which currently lacks essential services.

Another resident, Lily, echoed these sentiments, noting the ongoing issues with homelessness in the community and the inadequate response times from local law enforcement. She warned that establishing a housing project for the unhoused near residential areas could lead to increased crime rates and negatively affect property values, thereby impacting the financial security of current residents.

Jasvi, another speaker, called for greater transparency from the city council regarding a settlement made with the state concerning the Coral Blossom project. She criticized the council for previously rejecting housing projects and urged them to reconsider the location of the proposed facility, suggesting that it should be situated closer to essential services.

Lynn Wheaton, a long-time advocate for better urban planning, lamented the lack of community involvement in the decision-making process. She stressed the importance of creating economically diverse neighborhoods and criticized the city for failing to adequately address the needs of both the unhoused and the existing community.

The meeting underscored a growing tension between the need for housing solutions for the unhoused and the concerns of residents about safety and property values. As discussions continue, community members are calling for a reevaluation of the Coral Blossom project's location and a more inclusive planning process that considers the needs of all stakeholders.