City Council member Shyquan Davis is vindicated to support the voices of Chester’s residents on pressing environmental and community issues. Davis recently spoke with P.O.C. on ecoWURD to talk about local environmental challenges and city improvements from reduced illegal dumping and the construction of a hydrogen hub just three miles from Chester.

Davis shed light on how his community was erected through the promise and lack of jobs and the majority of people who make 45,000 or less in the area.

“There’s no better time than Black History Month to celebrate our people, and I’m here to raise the voices of Chester’s residents,” Davis said. “Our community faces a lot of challenges – from hazardous waste and air pollution to an incinerator nearby. It’s vital we continue these conversations to push for solutions.”

Davis highlighted efforts to combat residents’ concerns of illegal dumping, which has run rampant in the city. He began noting improvements in waste management due to collaboration between the city’s street department and the local community. 

“I’ve seen real progress in how we engage with residents, ensuring their specific needs are heard. We’ve been cleaning up illegal dumping sites and asking the community where we can focus next,” Davis said.

Despite improvements in waste management, residents are still feeling the effects of economic hardship. Chester, a city of around 33,000 people, has long struggled with limited access to fresh food and has consequently become a food desert. The city has proliferated their commercial real estate with convenience and dollar stores with freezer sections to replace the access to fresh produce and vegetables. Many of the city’s elderly residents feel particularly worn out by the lack of cheap, accessible and healthy food. 

“They’re tired. They’ve been cleaning up their neighborhoods, raising families, and now they just want better opportunities, like access to a grocery store,” Davis said.

Davis then discussed another charged topic for Chester residents: the proposed hydrogen hub. The hub is a short-drive for residents that lures support by the promise of jobs that residents need. However, Davis voiced concerns over the environmental risks. 

“My first thought is that it’s going to add to the hazardous waste we already deal with,” he said. “We have to make sure that everyone’s voices are heard, especially when it comes to the health of our children and elderly.”

One solution that Davis sees as vital is youth mentorship. He emphasized the importance of educating children about sustainability, community-driven solutions and education on the environmental risks of industrial pollution.

“We’re focused on getting kids involved early in agriculture and community gardens,” Davis said. “When children see the benefits, they bring their families along. That’s how we’ll create lasting change in Chester…I’m here to serve my people. My job is not to impose my opinion but to amplify the voices of those who deserve to be heard.”Listen to Davis’ mission and proposed resolutions for his community in full interview on SoundCloud below.