Residents of a San Francisco neighborhood voiced their concerns during a recent government meeting regarding a proposed housing project that could significantly impact their living conditions. The discussion centered around a long-abandoned lower unit that has been unoccupied for 14 years due to severe flooding and sewage issues, which have plagued the property for years.

Local resident testimonies highlighted the deteriorating state of the property, which has been infested with pests and has suffered from mold and mildew. The previous occupant, Kate Waugh, reportedly lived in distress until her passing last year, enduring a lack of heat and constant sewage backups that affected neighboring yards.

The proposed project involves replacing a dilapidated garage with a new single-family home while renovating the existing two flats at the rear of the lot. However, residents expressed concerns about the new construction's proximity to their homes, fearing that a four-story building just 24 inches from their windows would block natural light and violate public policy priorities aimed at promoting affordable housing.

While the community supports the development of affordable housing, they are advocating for a project that aligns better with their neighborhood's character and living conditions. The meeting underscored the ongoing tension between development goals and community needs in San Francisco, as residents seek a balance between new housing and maintaining their quality of life.