This Week’s Highlights
Dear Neighbors,
Last week, the Council took our first vote on the FY26 DC budget, and next week will be our second and final vote. Ahead of that, I want to let neighbors know about where the budget stands and what changes are still needed. I’m also sharing details on next week’s hearings and first vote on the RFK campus development, updates on the DC Auditor’s report on the officers involved in the death of Karon Hylton-Brown, and actions taken by the Department of Buildings to hold negligent landlords accountable.
Council News/Legislative Updates
Final Budget Vote Next Week
Next week will be a busy week on the Council as we prepare to take our final vote on the FY26 budget. While the current budget contains many hard-fought wins for Ward 4 and DC as a whole, there are still several changes needed in order to deliver on our promises to residents. Here are a few I shared following first vote last week:
- Protecting tipped workers and Initiative 82 as approved by District voters
- $1.7 million is still needed for DGS’ school summer readiness efforts
- Proposed changes to health insurance would leave thousands of District residents without healthcare
- Lack of Permanent Supportive Housing vouchers for single adults means hundreds would continue sleeping outside and without shelter
- Funding gap for the Child and Adolescent Mobile Psychiatric Service must be addressed
In the days ahead, I’ll be working to close these gaps and ensure the final budget reflects the needs and priorities of Ward 4 residents. Every line of the budget is a reflection of our values, and I’m committed to passing a final budget that delivers on these core values.
Updates on RFK Campus Redevelopment
On Thursday, Chairman Mendelson shared details of a deal reached with the Commanders to redevelop the RFK Stadium site. This announcement coincided with several key reports examining financial, environmental, and operational impacts of the plan. While the Mayor and Chairman support moving forward with the plan as it stands, the reports indicate serious questions remain. Today, I shared a blog post with the community outlining my thoughts on the deal as it stands and what I believe is needed to make it fair for Ward 4 and District residents.
Next week, the Council will be hearing testimony from members of the public and representatives of the Commanders franchise on the proposed development. This will be neighbors’ opportunity to make their voices heard and will be integral feedback as we approach the first vote on August 1st. I encourage you to sign up to testify in-person or virtually by visiting the hearing page, or if you’re unable to testify live, submit written testimony here.
Community News
DC Auditor Report Outlines “Grossly Inadequate” Discipline of MPD Officers Convicted in Killing of Karon Hylton-Brown
This week, the Office of the DC Auditor released a report on MPD’s disciplinary handling of the two officers convicted in the killing of Karon Hylton-Brown. As many Ward 4 neighbors remember, Karon Hylton-Brown was killed in 2020 during a reckless police pursuit, resulting in his death and two officers responsible being convicted of second-degree murder, conspiracy, and obstruction of justice.
Despite these serious convictions, the DC Auditor’s report reveals that MPD’s internal response has fallen significantly short of what accountability should look like. Although MPD’s internal review board recommended firing both officers for their roles in Karon’s death, the report finds that Chief Smith rejected those recommendations, along with 11 other proposals to improve accountability around use of force and misconduct within MPD. Instead, Officer Sutton was given 25 days suspension and Lieutenant Zabavsky was allowed to retire after paying a $2,500 fine, with both receiving a check for back pay and lost job benefits dating back to December 2021.
This is not what justice must look like in our community. My heart breaks for Karon’s family and loved ones who continue to mourn his death while those who are responsible face few real consequences. MPD’s response also continues to dismiss the findings of a jury that, beyond a reasonable doubt, determined obstruction of justice occurred. Far from instilling trust, this signals a continued unwillingness to be transparent or accountable to the public.
Every year, MPD reports their most pressing challenge as recruiting and cultivating the best officers to serve the District. But we must be clear: MPD cannot expect to uphold a culture committed to policing with integrity when leadership refuses to hold officers accountable for putting the community in danger. Instead, this decision sets a destructive precedent for a culture where misconduct is tolerated and those who abuse their power are protected. It is a deliberate refusal to fix what is broken.
Our community and the District as a whole deserve a police department that holds itself to the highest standards of integrity – not one that shields officers from consequences and then wonders why trust has eroded. I am committed to continuing to push for answers and a process that puts the public’s safety and trust first.
Protecting Tenants and Strengthening Oversight for Petra Properties
Over the last few weeks, the Department of Buildings (DOB) has conducted a series of inspections of Petra Properties-owned buildings across the District, including ten buildings in Ward 4. Across many of its properties, Petra has shown a troubling pattern of allowing unsafe building conditions, lack of security, and harmful activity to take place. During its recent inspections, DOB found 476 violations across 182 units, including 273 classified as emergency violations. I’m grateful to DOB for taking action to protect tenants and neighbors and hold bad landlords accountable. These inspections highlight the urgent need for continued vigilance and stronger enforcement tools. That’s why in the FY26 budget, I funded two new full-time DOB investigators to support the agency’s proactive inspection program, improving the District’s ability to identify and respond to unsafe housing conditions and safeguard tenants from neglect.
Community Resources
Ward 4 Pop-Ups Continue Next Week!
Next week is our final week of Ward 4 pop-ups, which are designed to take up positive space, address community concerns, and build safer, stronger neighborhoods together. Our last pop-up will take place on Tuesday, July 29th from 3 to 5pm on Georgia Ave and Emerson St NW. See you there!
Host a Block Party This Summer and Spread the Word!
Summer is block party season in Ward 4! If you are planning a block party in your neighborhood and want to spread the word, or want me or a member of my office to attend, send the details to teamjaneese@dccouncil.gov so we can help everyone in the community stay connected. Plus, check out the recording from my workshop with DDOT on how to host a block party or read Petworth News’ guide here. I’m looking forward to seeing neighbors out on your blocks!
Share Details on Back-to-School Backpack Giveaways!
The start of the school year is just a few short weeks away, and I’m committed to helping every student start the year strong with the supplies they need to succeed. If you know of any upcoming backpack or school supply giveaways happening in Ward 4 or nearby, please share them with teamjaneese@dccouncil.gov, and we’ll help get the word out. Plus, save the date for the Lamond-Riggs Citizen’s Association giveaway, which I’m joining to support at the Riggs-LaSalle Rec Center!
MPD Commander’s Walk in Lamond-Riggs
On Wednesday, July 30th at 4pm, 4th District MPD and Commander Lavenhouse are organizing a public safety walk starting at the intersection of 8th St NE and Eastern Ave NE. Join to ask questions to MPD and learn about work to keep our communities safe.
Pepco Customer Relief Fund
This week, the Pepco Customer Relief fund launched with partner the Salvation Army. The Pepco Customer Relief Fund is a one-time relief fund that provides financial support for residents challenged by high energy costs. For additional information on the fund, eligibility and how to apply, click here.
DDOT Work Begins on Blair Road NW
As of Wednesday, July 23rd, DDOT has implemented a temporary roadway detour on Blair Road NW from Quackenbos St through to Van Buren St for the installation of the new Metropolitan Branch Trail. Work will continue for approximately five weeks every Monday – Saturday from 9am to 3pm, weather permitting. For more information about the project and to stay up to date on traffic-related impacts and construction progress, visit DDOT’s website.
AARP Ice Cream Party at Everyday Sundae
This year marks the 90th anniversary of Social Security—one of the most significant achievements in our history. To commemorate, AARP DC invites you to join for an ice cream party on August 6th at Everyday Sundae in Ward 4. There will be a DJ, prizes & free delicious ice cream! Register at the link or walk-up registration allowed!
Addressing Dangerous Roads and Intersections
As we continue to advocate for more traffic calming measures across Ward 4, I encourage neighbors to submit Traffic Safety Input through DC’s 311 website. The more community members report issues, the more likely they are to get DDOT’s attention and action. We’re also working closely with DDOT through oversight and community engagement to improve the TSI process, making it more efficient, transparent, and responsive to the needs of our neighborhoods.
Help ANC 4D Give Out Community Grants!
ANC 4D is forming a new pilot committee of residents and commissioners to solicit and evaluate their community grants to ensure they are marketed and distributed equitably and meet the needs and interests of the neighborhood. Interested in joining the committee? Fill out the interest form! (Must be a resident of ANC 4D).
SPACEs in Action Annual Health Fair
On Saturday, July 26th from 10am to 1pm, visit SPACEs in Action’s annual Health Fair at Emory Beacon of Light Church, with access to valuable health services, community programs, giveaways, family activities, and more—all in one welcoming space. Please fill out the form here to reserve your spot and let organizers know you’re coming!
DC Water Updates
DC Water has shared several updates on work taking place in Ward 4 neighborhoods. Keep in mind that construction activities are highly dependent upon favorable weather conditions. Here are some of this week’s updates:
- For the duration of next week, DC Water is scheduled to perform roadway restoration, line striping, and final walk-through activities on 7th St NW and Rittenhouse St NW.
- As part of the ongoing Piney Branch Sewer Rehabilitation Project, DC Water is scheduled to perform sewer main lining activities at the following locations for the duration of next week: Georgia Ave & Kennedy St NW, Delafield Pl and Georgia Ave NW, Emerson St and Illinois Ave NW, Decatur St and Illinois Ave NW, 9th St and Illinois Ave NW, Gallatin St and Georgia Ave NW, 5th St and Missouri Ave NW, 8th St and Peabody St NW, 7th Pl and Peabody St NW.
- As part of the ongoing Chevy Chase Sanitary Sewer Rehabilitation Project, DC Water is scheduled to perform sewer main lining activities at the following locations for the duration of next week: 4100 block of Livingston St NW, 5400 block of Livingston St NW, 5400 block of 41st St NW, 3900 block of Livingston St NW, 3700 block of Jenifer St NW, 5400 block of Connecticut Ave NW.
- For the duration of next week, DC Water is scheduled to perform final walk-through activities on 8th St NW and Quintana Pl NW
Neighborhood Events
Hand Dancing on The Plaza
On Sunday, July 27th from 3 to 7pm, join DJ Rick G for Hand Dancing on the Marketplace Plaza at The Parks at Walter Reed! DJ Rick G has been presenting Hand Dancing and Line Dancing events in DC for more than a decade. Join for an all ages, all abilities hand dancing event while Rick plays Motown classics and soul and R&B hits from the 60’s, 70’s, and 80’s. Come early and Rick will walk you through the steps!
Roving Leaders Movie Night at Upshur Rec Center
On Wednesday, July 30th at 7pm, visit Upshur Rec Center (4300 Arkansas Ave NW) for a movie night with DPR’s Roving Leaders! Grab your blankets and chairs and join for a showing of “ Mufasa: The Lion King”.
Free DC Ward 4 Meeting
This week the House Committee on Appropriations passed anti-home rule riders encroaching on DC’s ability to govern ourselves. At a recent Cabinet meeting, the president once again made it clear he wants to “take over” DC. The attacks on DC’s autonomy keep coming — and we need to organize to stop it. Free DC is the renewed campaign to protect our local communities here in DC from federal threats. If you want to learn about what Free DC is doing, join the upcoming Ward 4 meeting on Tuesday, July 29th from 6 to 8pm at Petworth Library.
Powell Padres Fundraiser
On Wednesday, July 30th from 5 to 9pm, Powell Padres is holding its first fundraiser of the 2025-26 school year in partnership with Fedwell, and are looking for neighbors’ support! Join for a fun-filled evening of quality food and good community vibes. 20% of all profits will be donated to Powell Padres to support school activities. Plus, enter for a chance to win a Fedwell gift card!
Eastern Avenue Community Clean-Up
On Saturday, August 2nd from 8 to 9am, join neighbors on Eastern Ave and Kennedy St NE for a community clean-up along Eastern Ave. All ages are welcome and community service hours will be offered. Thanks to ANC 4B09 Commissioner Danielle Geong and ANC 5A01 Commissioner Keith Sellars for organizing!
Register to Take Part in the 2025 DC State Fair!
The DC State Fair is a free annual event to celebrate the District’s homegrown agricultural, artistic, and culinary talents. This year’s fair will be on Saturday September 6th at Bryant Street NE, right off the Rhode Island Ave Metro. Registration for DC State Fair contests is now open, which include everything from best apple pie to funkiest looking vegetable. If you are interested in registering for any of the contests, please read more in the contest guide here: https://www.dcstatefair.org/2025-contests. Contest registration is free and closes August 15th. Winners will be announced at the fair. See you there!
For more local events, check out DPR, DC Public Library, and NPS.
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.
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
WUSA 9: Petworth store makes Yelp’s top 100 ice creams shops of 2025 list
Next Stop…Riggs Park: Save the Date – August 2: Eastern Avenue Clean Up
Chevy Chase News and Notes: July Edition
Ward 4 Dispatch: First Budget Vote, Citi Open Begins, and Ward 4 Pop-Ups Continue!
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.
Last Friday, I was grateful to get the chance to join so many neighbors at Nats Park for Ward 4 Night as the Nats faced off against the Padres. While the final score didn’t end our way, I’m thankful to everyone who came out for a night of community. Special thanks to LaSalle Backus Principal Shelly Gray for joining to rep our community on the field!
Have an awesome weekend, neighbors!
Yours in Community,
—Janeese
