This Week’s Highlights
Dear Neighbors,
If the forecasts hold, this weekend is set to be a snowy one in DC! With up to a foot or more of snow projected and below-freezing temperatures continuing into next week, I’m sharing resources for neighbors to stay safe and look out for each other during the incoming weather.
This week, I introduced new legislation creating paid service opportunities for young adults in DC and announced my Ward 4 Budget Forum taking place next month. Also, with performance oversight hearings beginning next week, make sure to sign up to testify at a hearing to make our community’s voice heard!
Community News
Preparing for Snow This Weekend
We’re in for some major snowfall this weekend! Ahead of the storm, Department of Public Works (DPW) crews are already out and preparing and will be working behind the scenes to make sure streets are navigable. Keep in mind that during or after the storm, other DPW services like trash, recycling, food waste, and leaf collection may be delayed, but crews will continue working as conditions allow.Here are some important resources to have on hand ahead of this weekend:
- Call the Shelter Hotline at 202-399-7093 or dial 311
- Renters without heat can call OAG’s consumer protection line at 202-442-9828
- Refer to the District Snow Team website at snow.dc.gov, and find resources for support during the snowstorm from the Red Cross
- Find extreme cold weather resources at cold.dc.gov
- DPW will deploy snowplows and salt roads to clear streets of snow and ice. Visit snow.dc.gov to move your car if it’s parked along DC’s emergency snow routes
- For safety, try to avoid driving in snowy conditions. If you must drive, take it extra slow and clear all snow and ice from your car
If you’re looking for more ways to support neighbors during the snowstorm, I’m inviting residents to join our Ward 4 Volunteer Corps! As we continue through the snowy season, one of the biggest needs is helping our seniors make sure their sidewalks are shoveled. If you want to lend a hand, email ward4volunteercorps+subscribe@groups.io.
Update on Shooting on 16th and Military Rd
On Thursday night, my team responded to the site of a shooting on 16th and Military Rd, where four individuals were injured and taken to the hospital for treatment. I’m grateful to our first responders for their quick action and have been in contact with 4th District MPD as we await additional information. If anyone has tips or footage that can aid MPD’s investigation, please share it with the tip line at 50411.
HVAC Issues at Whittier Elementary
On Wednesday, I was at Whittier Elementary School after heating issues caused five classrooms and the cafeteria to face temperatures as low as 53 degrees. After speaking with custodial staff and requesting DGS quickly identify repairs, students and staff were able to return to learning spaces. Students’ success depends on having safe and comfortable learning environments, and as Chair of the Committee on Facilities, I will be prioritizing this issue at upcoming performance oversight hearings.
Updates on Chevy Chase Civic Core
Last week, the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development (DMPED) released its development plans for the Chevy Chase Civic Core. As we work to make sure this project meets the needs of our community, I encourage neighbors to submit feedback on the current plan. All comments can be submitting in writing via email to Vinita.Phonseya@dc.gov by February 6th, 2026.
Council News/Legislative Updates
DC Young Adult Corps Act of 2026
In honor of MLK Day on Monday—a day of service—I was proud to introduce the DC Young Adult Corps Act of 2026. My bill creates paid service pathways for DC residents ages 17-24 in education, health, environment, and public safety while earning wages, mentorship, job training, and up to $3,000 as a bonus upon completion. By creating a new pathway for young adults to enter the workforce and serve our communities, the bill would support District agencies, nonprofits and schools while creating opportunity for recent high school graduates.
One of the most meaningful experiences of my life was performing a service year under AmeriCorps, setting me on a lifetime path of service and civic engagement. I’m introducing this bill to provide DC youth the same opportunity while giving them a jump start for their futures. I’m grateful to Councilmembers Brianne Nadeau and Brooke Pinto for co-introducing this bill and look forward to taking important steps toward keeping talent in DC, strengthening our workforce, and growing the next generation of civic leaders.
Performance Oversight Hearings Begin Next Week!
On Wednesday, the Council will hold our first performance oversight hearings of the year! Over the next few weeks, I’ll be joining hearings for agencies across District government, and discussing the issues I’ve heard from speaking with Ward 4 neighbors over the past year. If you can, please sign up to testify at a hearing on the issues that matter most to you and help guide oversight priorities for the year to come. All you need to do is visit dccouncil.gov/hearings and register to testify in person or virtually.
Ward 4 Budget Forum Set for February 10th
On Tuesday, February 10th at 2pm and 7pm, I am hosting virtual budget forums to hear neighbors’ priorities for the upcoming FY27 budget process. This is your opportunity to speak about programs and projects that need funding and help guide my work advocating for Ward 4. Stay tuned for next week’s newsletter for more details and how to sign up!
Community Resources
ANC 4D Community Grants Program
The ANC 4D Grants Committee is preparing to open its solicitation on March 1st and is looking for small businesses to apply for grants ranging from $100-$2,000. ANC 4D is offering two webinars on February 3rd to discuss the solicitation and answer any questions. For any questions, email 4Dgrants@anc.dc.gov.
9th and Illinois Triangle Park Project Meeting
On Tuesday, January 27th from 6 to 7:30pm, join the DC Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) and the DC Department of General Services (DGS) for a community meeting to discuss upcoming renovations to the triangle park at 9th Street NW, Illinois Avenue NW and Ingraham Street NW. The meeting will take place at Emery Heights Community Center (5701 Georgia Ave NW). For more information on the project and to RSVP, visit DPR’s website.
Lamond Rec Center Playground Improvements Meeting
On Wednesday, January 28th at 6pm, DPR and DGS are hosting a community meeting via Zoom to discuss upcoming improvements to the Lamond Rec Center playground. To RSVP to attend, visit DPR’s website.
Plymouth Congregational & New Hope Baptist Food Pantry
On Saturday, January 24th from 10am to noon, Plymouth Congregational and New Hope Baptist United Church of Christ are joining to host a food pantry at 5301 North Capitol Street NE. Please share with a neighbor!
Second Round of Leaf Collection Continues in Section 4B
This week, the Department of Public Works (DPW) began its second round of leaf collection in Section 4B, which includes parts of Sixteenth Street Heights, Crestwood, Brightwood, and Petworth west of Georgia Ave. As this process continues, I want to make sure neighbors are aware of a few important highlights:
- To report a missed collection, call 202-737-4404 or submit a 311 request.
- Locate your section and keep up to date on DPW’s progress via the leaf collection tracker at dpw.dc.gov/leaf.
- To ensure proper collection, make sure to have your leaves raked to your curbside or tree box at least 24 hours before collection is scheduled to begin in your section.
Justice Access at Shepherd Park Library
On Sunday, February 1st from 1:30 to 3:30pm, community members are invited to Juanita E. Thornton-Shepherd Park Library to speak to a law librarian with Justice Access. Justice Access is a nonprofit mobile law library providing print and online legal information resources. Join to get help finding the right answers to your questions, understand possible steps to resolve your issue, and receive information and referrals. Be advised that Justice Access librarians provide legal information only, never legal advice.
Neighborhood Events
Melt ICE Cookie Crawl
This Saturday and Sunday, three of our amazing Petworth small businesses—Loyalty Books, Lulabelle’s Sweet Shop, and Fia’s Fabulous Finds—are organizing a special Melt ICE Fundraiser and Cookie Crawl. Make a purchase at any of the stores and get a free cookie while supporting Migrant Solidarity Mutual Aid Network.
Petworth Peanuts Book Exchange and Winter Carnival
Due to incoming snow, Petworth Peanuts’ Book Exchange and Winter Carnival has been postponed to Sunday, February 15th from 2 to 6pm at Hook Hall. This fun event will include over a thousand donated kids’ books available for free, plus, tons of free kids’ entertainment, giveaways, and more. Check out the full map of porch locations where book donations can be dropped off, and the event page for more details for attendees.
Bingo at Brightwood Family Success Center
On Wednesday, January 28th from 1 to 3pm, join the Brightwood Family Success Center at 6203 12th St NW for an afternoon of excitement, camaraderie, and the thrill of winning at Bingo Games! There will be prizes, snacks, and opportunities to learn about BFSC’s amazing work supporting families across Ward 4. RSVP is required to attend.
Gethsemane Baptist Church Clothing & School Supply Giveaway
On Saturday, January 31st from 11am to 2pm, Gethsemane Baptist Church (5119 4th St NW) is hosting a Winter Clothing and School Supply Giveaway. There will be women’s, men’s, and children’s clothing, coats and jackets, career wear, backpacks, and school supplies for Ward 4 residents in need. Please share with a neighbor!
Important Reminders
Office Hours in the Community
Ward 4 office hours are happening every Wednesday afternoon at Fort Stevens Rec Center from 12 to 1pm, followed by office hours at Hattie Holmes Senior Wellness Center from 1:30 to 2:30pm. Community members can stop by and speak one-on-one with a member of our team about DC government services or our work in the Ward 4 community.
Share Reports of Federal Law Enforcement Incidents
In August, my office launched an online reporting form for neighbors to report and document any concerning incidents involving federal agents. This information will be critical as we build our case, ensure organizations working on the ground are informed, and continue to hold this administration accountable. Please share the image with your social networks and neighbors to let others in the community know about this resource.
As our DC government works to keep our community safe, supported, and informed during this time, I also encourage neighbors to fill out my survey seeking input from residents to help shape how our office communicates around new federal developments.
Support for Federal Workers
As many in our community face unprecedented challenges, I’m grateful to everyone who is stepping up to support neighbors. The Office of the Mayor has rolled out fedsupport.dc.gov, sharing resources for federal workers who have been laid off or impacted by recent cuts. I also want to remind neighbors of resources on my website for federal workers impacted by recent actions and neighbors facing the threat of immigration enforcement, compiled with the help of Councilmember Nadeau. DC government and the DC Council are also hiring for a range of positions, and I encourage community members to take a look at the open positions and share with a neighbor.
Ward 4 in the News
NBC 4: Need snow gear for your kids? DC-area parents, nonprofit can help
Washington Business Journal: Timber Pizza Co. seeks franchise partners for Southern expansion
Petworth News: Apply for a Community Grant with ANC 4D and help make a local difference!
Next Stop…Riggs Park: Complete the DC Comprehensive Plan Self-Guided Virtual Workshop by January 31
The 51st: 13 things to do around D.C. this weekend
Ward 4 Dispatch: Reimagining the Future of Georgia Ave
These are news articles that mention Ward 4 or pertain to events in our community. Councilmember Lewis George does not write or endorse their content but shares them for community awareness.
A highlight of my week came on Wednesday, when I got to participate in a mini-career day with Ms. Gibian’s 7th grade debate class at MacFarland Middle School. It was amazing to see our students’ passion for public service and all the ways they are using their debate skills to advocate for their communities.
Have an amazing weekend and stay warm!
Yours in Community,
—Janeese
