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Houston City Council Candidates Discuss Union Pacific and Fifth Ward Cancer Cluster

Summary

During a City Council candidate forum held on September 15, 2023, in Houston, the Union Pacific rail yard's contamination and its impact on the Fifth Ward became a point of contention. Fifth Ward activist Kendra London, a candidate for the District B seat, criticized City Council member Tarsha Jackson, who has partnered with Union Pacific for community initiatives, including taking Fifth Ward children to a Houston Astros game. London emphasized that such efforts didn't suffice in addressing the contamination-related health issues in the area. Jackson defended her work with Union Pacific and stated that the company should contribute to such activities for the community's benefit. The rail yard has been linked to cancer clusters, and Mayor Sylvester Turner has announced plans to relocate affected residents. Additionally, controller candidates discussed city finances and transparency during the forum.

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