During a recent San Francisco County government meeting, community members voiced their support for Lydia So's nomination to the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) commission, highlighting the need for greater representation and responsiveness to public concerns.

Forrest, an activist against anti-Asian violence, emphasized that increasing Asian representation in city commissions is crucial, given that nearly a third of San Francisco's population identifies as Asian. He argued that Lydia So, a proven community leader, would bring valuable perspectives to the MTA commission, particularly for the many Asian residents who rely on public transportation.

Flo Kelly, a volunteer with the Coalition on Homelessness, raised concerns about the impact of vehicle towing on individuals living in their cars. She urged that Lydia So be aware of the challenges faced by these residents, as increased parking restrictions can exacerbate their struggles to maintain stability in their lives.

Barry Toronto from the Samsung Taxi Workers Alliance welcomed So's potential appointment but called for more inquiry into her familiarity with SFMTA services, including public transit and taxi operations. He stressed the importance of understanding the taxi industry's challenges, particularly in areas with high demand for transportation services, such as District 6.

David Pilfeld expressed the need for So to be an independent voice on the commission, urging her to prioritize public input over management directives. He highlighted the critical decisions facing the MTA in the near future, including transit routes and service planning, and called for a board that listens to community feedback.

The discussions reflect a growing demand for accountability and representation within San Francisco's transportation governance, as residents seek leaders who understand and advocate for their diverse needs. As the nomination process continues, the community remains hopeful that Lydia So will bring a fresh perspective to the SFMTA commission, addressing both transportation equity and the pressing issues faced by vulnerable populations in the city.