In a tense meeting at San Francisco City Hall, community members voiced their concerns over a proposed housing project at 2550 Irving Street, highlighting the potential health risks associated with toxic substances in the area. The discussion centered around the presence of perchloroethylene (PCE), a chemical linked to serious health issues, and whether the site management plan adequately addressed these risks.

Audrey Liu, a resident, argued against the appeal to deny the project, stating that the site is not the source of the toxins and emphasizing the urgent need for affordable housing. "Continual focus on the site is just gonna delay housing," she asserted, urging the board to prioritize the construction of homes for those in need.

Conversely, several residents expressed deep concerns about the safety of the site. Tiffany, a local resident, called for stricter enforcement of cleanup measures, citing the presence of vulnerable populations, including children and the elderly, in the vicinity. "We have to live in our homes with this contamination, hoping that we and our kids don't get cancer," she lamented.

The meeting revealed a divide among community members, with some advocating for immediate housing development while others demanded thorough environmental assessments and remediation before any construction begins. Many residents voiced distrust in the Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC), claiming that their concerns had been overlooked and that the agency had not adequately consulted with the community.

As the clock ticked late into the evening, the urgency of the housing crisis in San Francisco loomed large. Supporters of the project argued that the city must act decisively to address its housing shortage, while opponents insisted that public health must come first. The board's decision on the appeal will not only impact the future of the housing project but also reflect the city's commitment to balancing development with community safety.