The Bay Oakland’s Lead Funding Sits Untouched As Residents Face Exposure
5 snips
Dec 2, 2024 Cassandra Garibay, a senior housing reporter for El Timpano, and Jasmine Aguilera, a senior health equity reporter, tackle the pressing issue of lead exposure in Oakland's rental housing. They reveal that 83% of these homes may contain lead, despite millions in settlement funds sitting unused. The discussion includes personal stories, such as a mother facing kidney failure, and highlights the bureaucratic challenges in deploying these funds effectively. The conversation underscores the urgent need for action to protect vulnerable communities from severe health risks.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Yasmeen's Story
- Yasmeen Alvarez, a 30-year-old Oakland resident, suffers from kidney failure and elevated blood lead levels.
- She lives in Bancroft Havens Court, a neighborhood with high lead risk, and is concerned about her daughter's potential exposure.
Unused Funds
- Oakland received $4.8 million in a lead paint settlement, but the funds remain unused due to government dysfunction.
- This inaction leaves vulnerable residents at risk.
Reasons for Delay
- Oakland's plan to use the settlement funds involves developing a lead hazard abatement program and a proactive rental inspection program.
- Delays were caused by staff turnover and lack of urgency.