The San Francisco Board of Appeals convened on July 4, 2025, to discuss a contentious housing development project at 2550 Irving Street, amid concerns over potential toxic contamination in the area. The meeting highlighted a clash between community members advocating for health and safety and developers seeking to advance affordable housing initiatives.

Key discussions centered around the presence of PCE (perchloroethylene), a toxic chemical linked to health risks, in the vicinity of the proposed site. Community members expressed deep concerns regarding the safety of future residents, citing past evacuations due to contamination and demanding thorough testing and remediation before any construction proceeds. John Barkan, a long-time San Francisco resident, emphasized the government's responsibility to protect public health, questioning the integrity of the agencies involved in the approval process.

In contrast, representatives from the NorCal Carpenters Union voiced support for the development, arguing that extensive testing has shown the site is not the source of contamination. They urged the board to trust the findings of experts and proceed with the project, which aims to address the city's pressing need for affordable housing.

Several speakers criticized the Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) for allegedly failing to conduct comprehensive testing and for prematurely signing agreements with developers. They called for more rigorous investigations into the contamination levels across the neighborhood, asserting that the health of current and future residents should not be compromised for the sake of development.

The meeting concluded with a mix of support and opposition, reflecting the ongoing debate over balancing the need for affordable housing with the imperative of ensuring community safety. The board's decision on the appeal remains pending, with significant implications for both the development project and the health of the surrounding community.