This Week’s Highlights
Dear Neighbors,
Now that the budget has been sent to the Council, we’re in the thick of budget oversight and hearing from agency leadership and members of the public. If you haven’t already, make sure to check the list of upcoming hearings and sign up to testify to make your voice heard! This week, I also want to update neighbors on significant action taken by the Council impacting tipped workers in the District and their right to earn a living wage. Lastly, make sure to check out the full list of Pride Month events taking place across DC, including the WorldPride parade happening tomorrow!
Council News/Legislative Updates
Standing Up for Initiative 82
On Tuesday, I joined my colleagues Councilmembers Nadeau, Frumin, and Parker in voting against a proposal to delay implementation of the next scheduled wage increase for tipped workers, which was mandated by over 70% of DC voters through Initiative 82 in 2022. Despite the rhetoric coming from restaurant interest groups, the facts paint a clear picture: restaurants are experiencing record growth, reflecting the industry’s overall confidence that restaurants can be successful in DC while also paying workers a fair wage. Since 2022, DC has seen over 100 full-service restaurants open, with 2024 marking the highest number of restaurant openings in over a decade. At the same time, tipped workers have seen their wages double, while the District’s food service employment has outpaced both Maryland and Virginia. I am grateful to every worker and DC resident who continues to organize, raise their voices, and keep pushing for real solutions that support our restaurants without compromising workers’ rights to dignity and a living wage.
Progress on Legislation Addressing Vacant and Blighted Properties
During Tuesday’s legislative meeting, I was proud to vote in support of the Vacant to Vibrant Amendment Act of 2025, a bill that takes meaningful steps to address long-standing vacant and blighted properties across the District, which have been a particular concern in our community, especially along the Georgia Ave corridor. Thank you to the Ward 4 community members and ANC Commissioners who helped to develop this legislation. The bill makes several substantive changes to the District’s vacant property registration laws and gives the District new tools to prevent and resolve vacancy, including requiring information sheets to address tangled titles, expanding access to property tax payment plans, and creating a clear path for establishing vacant property receiverships.
The bill also revises the tax sale process for vacant or blighted properties and offers new incentives for redeveloping vacant residential and commercial properties into affordable homes and community-serving spaces. By prioritizing housing access and community benefit, this bill moves us toward more vibrant and inclusive neighborhoods, especially for Black and brown residents who have long faced barriers to stable housing, estate planning resources, and home rehabilitation support.
DPR and More Oversight Updates
Oversight over the District’s agencies is one of the central functions of the Council, and it’s a responsibility that I take seriously. Budget oversight hearings are a forum for the Council and the public to raise questions and concerns about how our local government is run, and they serve as an opportunity to ensure that our District is serving the needs of residents in a transparent, effective, and responsive manner.
On Thursday, as Chair of the Committee on Facilities, I held the budget oversight hearing for the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR). During the hearing, we heard from District residents about their positive experiences with DPR and areas they would like to see DPR improve. Generally, residents were supportive of more funding for programming, especially Out of School Time, and asked for better maintenance of indoor and outdoor spaces, including more functioning lighting on courts and fields.
I also spoke with DPR about the Mayor’s Fiscal Year 2026 proposed budget, which includes operating budget of $83.3 million and a capital budget of $151.4 million. We discussed how increases and decreases to DPR’s budget will impact the services and spaces thousands of District residents use every day. Overall, it was a productive hearing that will inform my decisions in making improvements to the budget to help DPR serve residents in Ward 4 and across the District.
This week, I also asked questions at several other budget oversight hearings, including questions directed to leadership of the Office of the State Superintendent for Education (OSSE). OSSE’s responsibilities include operating transportation services for students with disabilities, responding to changes in enrollment, and administering the Early Childhood Educator Pay Equity Fund. During Wednesday’s hearing, I asked how OSSE is ensuring its FY26 budget addresses the critical needs for on-time performance from OSSE’s student transportation, real-time tracking for families, increased accessibility, bus replacements, and driver shortages. I also asked how OSSE is responding to the significant growth in student enrollment we have seen in Ward 4 to make sure every school has the resources and support their need to help students thrive. Lastly, I asked how OSSE is working to ensure the Early Childhood Educator Pay Equity Fund remains sustainable to make sure childcare providers can continue their crucial work without worrying about funding being cut off.
Reminder to Testify at Budget Oversight Hearings!
Public safety, facilities maintenance, housing, senior services, and libraries are just some of the issues you can weigh in on in next week at the Council. Check out the full budget oversight hearing schedule for June and sign up to speak at the hearing that matters most to you. Even if you cannot make it to a live hearing, you can still submit written comments by selecting “Submit Testimony” and then choosing “Record Testimony.” Key upcoming hearings include:
- Monday, 6/9 at 9am: Rental Housing Commission, DC Housing Finance Agency, and Department of Housing and Community Development; Housing Production Trust Fund
- Monday, 6/9 at 12pm: Office of Unified Communications
- Tuesday, 6/10 at 11am: Metropolitan Police Department and Deputy Mayor for Public Safety and Justice
- Tuesday, 6/10 at 11am: District of Columbia Public Library System
- Wednesday, 6/11 at 9am: Department of Aging and Community Living
- Thursday, 6/12 at 10am: Department of General Services
- Friday, 6/13 at 9am: Department of Energy and Environment
Community News
Public Safety Updates
On Thursday, I joined ANC 4E Commissioner Nikki Jones, 4th District MPD, and neighbors for a public safety walk on 13th and Madison St NW. During the walk, we discussed our ongoing legislative efforts to give MPD the resources they need to close cases, partnering with agencies to address neighborhood disturbances, and the work MPD and our agency partners are doing to bring down violence in our communities. I am grateful to ANC 4E and every neighbor who joined, and to 4th District MPD and all our agency partners for working to keep our community safe.
Progress Towards a Safer Grant Circle
Last week, the DC Department of Transportation (DDOT) issued a notice of intent to begin construction on the final traffic safety plan for Grant Circle. These improvements have been years in the making and would not have been possible without the dedicated efforts of countless community members, especially our ANC 4C commissioners. On Wednesday, I met with DDOT Director Kershbaum and was grateful to hear DDOT’s work is progressing on schedule, with construction expected to begin this summer. Stay tuned for more updates on our progress!
Show Your Pride in Ward 4 and Districtwide!
Pride Month kicked off on Sunday with Takoma Pride, and festivities are continuing this weekend with the Capital Pride and WorldPride parade on Saturday afternoon, starting on 14th and T St NW. As a reminder, WMATA will be running increased rail service for World Pride from June 6th-8th, with Metrorail running until 2am tonight, from 6am to 2am on Saturday, and from 6am to midnight on Sunday, with Yellow Line service extending to Greenbelt on Saturday and Sunday. Then next weekend, join for Petworth Pride in the Park in Sherman Circle from 10am to 12pm, sponsored by Petworth Peanuts with an appearance by Ward 4’s own Tara Hoot!
Community Resources
WMATA Bus Network Changes Coming June 29th!
After more than two years of planning and feedback from the community, WMATA’s Better Bus Network plan will begin its implementation phase starting on June 29th. Ahead of these changes going into effect, I’m committed to making sure neighbors are informed and know what to expect starting on June 29th. For a full rundown of the Better Bus Network design, I encourage you to visit the plan’s website. WMATA also has several tools allowing neighbors to see how their commutes will be impacted, including a trip planner tool. For example, if you normally take the 63 from Takoma to Petworth and downtown, you’ll now take the C75 or D44. Take a look!
OAG Community Forums
Attorney General Brian Schwalb and the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) will be hosting a series of community forums in June and July. District residents will have the opportunity to learn more about the work of the office. Topics to be discussed include public safety, worker’s rights and OAG’s housing and policy initiatives. Mark your calendars for the following dates:
- Northeast DC – Tuesday, June 10, 2025: Lamond-Riggs/Lillian J. Huff Neighborhood Library (5401 South Dakota Avenue NE)
- Southwest DC – Tuesday, June 17, 2025: Southwest Neighborhood Library (900 Wesley Place SW)
- Northwest DC – Wednesday, July 9, 2025: Cleveland Park Neighborhood Library (3310 Connecticut Avenue NW)
- Southeast DC – Thursday, July 17, 2025: Anacostia Neighborhood Library (1800 Marion Barry Avenue SE)
All forums take place from 6pm to 7:30pm. District residents can RSVP to their meeting of choice by visiting https://oag.dc.gov/forums.
Health Insurance for Impacted Federal Workers
Over the next few weeks, DC Health Link is holding a series of events citywide to help people who are losing access to health insurance, especially federal workers and contractors. Free expert help will be available, including information on 27 private health insurance plans to meet every need and budget. Learn more at www.DCHealthLink.com/DCOneTouch.
Ward 4 Mutual Aid Volunteer Opportunity
Ward 4 Mutual Aid looking to source volunteers for their grocery distribution preparation on Friday mornings this June and July. If you’re interested in participating, please fill out this brief Google form to indicate your availability as well as any questions/comments you may have, and organizers will reach out with additional information.
“Tap, Ride, Go” Now Operating on Metro!
In case you missed it, last week, Metro launched a new faster, easier way to pay fares called “Tap. Ride. Go.,” allowing customers to simply tap a contactless credit or debit card to pay for fares. SmarTrip cards, both physical and mobile will continue to be an option to pay for fares and parking. Thanks to Metro for launching this feature to expand access to public transportation across the region!
Ward 4 Drug Free Zones in Effect
MPD has announced several drug free zones in Ward 4, which are now in effect until Monday, June 9th at 8am. The creation of these drug free zones was authorized by the Secure DC omnibus bill last year and allows MPD to order individuals to disperse from the zone if an officer “reasonably believes” the person is there to commit a drug offense. The boundaries of the drug free zone will be:
- 13th ST from Kennedy Street to the rear east alley entrance of 5701 13th Street NW
- Rear alley of 5701 13th Street NW going east bound to the rear alley of 1227 Madison Street NW
- Rear alley of 1227 Madison Street NW going southbound to entrance of the alley between 1227 Madison Street NW and 5702 Georgia Avenue NW
- Rear alley entrance between 1227 Madison Street NW and 5702 Georgia Avenue NW and going eastbound on Madison Street to the south entrance of the alley between 936 Madison and 930 Madison Street NW
- Rear alley of 950 Longfellow and going east to the rear alley behind 927 Kennedy Street NW
- Rear alley of 5512 9th Street NW going south to 908 Kennedy Street NW
- 908 Kennedy Street NW to 1299 Kennedy Street NW
- 5500 13th Street NW north to 5711 13th Street NW
DDOT Notice of Intent for Webster St from Kansas Ave to Illinois Ave
This week, theDC Department of Transportation (DDOT) shared a notice of intent (NOI) to initiate safety improvements on Webster St NW from Kansas Ave NW to Illinois NW in response to traffic safety input submitted by neighbors. Based on its evaluation, DDOT will remove 25 feet of parking from the south side and east leg of Webster St at Kansas Ave. DDOT is also proposing other safety improvements, including intersection daylighting, installation of speed humps, and signage improvements. Neighbors can read more about the NOI here and share comments in writing by Thursday, June 26th.
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, particularly for Brightwood Park, Chevy Chase, and Manor Park neighbors:
- For the duration of next week, DC Water is scheduled to perform line stripping activities on the 300 & 400 Blocks of Kennedy Street NW.
- As part of the ongoing Chevy Chase Sanitary Sewer Rehabilitation Project, DC Water is scheduled to perform sewer cleaning and lining activities at the following locations for the duration of next week: 3800 – 3900 blocks of Jocelyn St NW, 5500 blocks of Chevy Chase Pkwy NW, 4100 block of Legation Rd NW, 3700 – 3900 blocks of Huntington St NW, 5400 block of 41st St NW, 5200 block of Reno Rd NW, 5300 – 5400 blocks of Huntington St NW.
- For the duration of next week, DC Water is scheduled to perform roadway restoration work and final walk-through activities on 8th St and Quintana Pl NW.
Neighborhood Events
Summertime Jazz Concerts in Ward 4
Wednesday Jazz Series on Kennedy Street: Uptown Main Street hosts a free weekly jazz concert on Wednesdays on the 700 block of Kennedy St NW. Listen to jazz while you grab a bite from a local spot, and let the music carry you into the evening.
East Rock Creek Village Hosts Jazz at Walter Reed on June 8th: Swing into June with the East Rock Creek Village’s free June Jazz concert featuring James Keith Zimmerman and his 5-piece band performing swing, bossa nova, and more. The afternoon of live music takes place on Sunday, June 8th from 4 to 6pm in the Marketplace Plaza at The Parks at Walter Reed. Seating is available for seniors and light refreshments will be provided. Click here to RSVP.
Jazz in The Parks at Walter Reed Returns on June 14th: The region’s most acclaimed jazz musicians are returning to the ever-popular Jazz in The Parks on the Great Lawn this summer! The next free performance on June 14th features The Blues Alley Youth Quartet followed by Herm Hopkins Soul Quartet with opener Baba Ras D. The fun starts at 5pm with a children’s performance, with headliners starting at 6pm. Click here to RSVP.
Takoma House and Garden Tour
On Sunday, June 8th from 1 to 5pm, join Historic Takoma for a self-guided tour and spend the afternoon exploring ten houses in the North Takoma neighborhood. Tickets are $30 and can be purchased online at www.historictakoma.org. Members of the Pollinators Group and the Takoma Horticulture Club will be on hand to share information about native plants and serve refreshments. Rain or shine!
Bubble Your Fun at the School’s Out Foam Bash
Kick off summer with a splash at the School’s Out Foam Bash on Friday, June 13th from 5 to 7pm in the lot at 716 Kennedy Street. The fun is free and will include loads of bubbles, music, ice cream, balloon animals, giveaways and more.
Strawberries Galore at the 157th Annual Strawberry Festival
The 157th Annual Strawberry Festival is a sweet celebration of summer, featuring free moonbounce, pony rides, crafts, games and more on the grassy lawn of St. Paul’s Rock Creek Episcopal Church on Saturday, June 14th from 4 to 8pm. Delicious food and strawberry treats – including strawberry shortcake! – are available for purchase. Your donation of a non-perishable food item for the National Capital Food Bank is welcome!
Charles B. Walker Culture Club Juneteenth Bazaar and Celebration
On Saturday, June 21st from 11am to 3pm, join the festivities and shopping experience at the Charles B. Walker Culture Club’s Annual Juneteenth Bazaar & Celebration on the grounds of Zion Main Campus, 4850 Blagden Ave., NW. Support a variety of local vendors and the community for a family-friendly fun afternoon. This event is free to attend and open to the public.
Home Rule Festival Returns to the Parks at Walter Reed
The 4th annual Home Rule Music Festival honors the legacy of Black music by uniting legendary performers, local talent, and community-driven programming across multiple events throughout the city. On the June 21st, the festival comes to Ward 4 for a family-friendly event at The Parks at Walter Reed celebrating the vibrant sounds of Washington, D.C. – from jazz to go-go. RSVP for free and VIP tickets here.
New Exhibit Open at Zenith Gallery
Be sure to check out Zenith Gallery‘s, latest exhibit, “We Are Proud,” a celebration of LGBTQ+ artists Ram Brisueno, Chris Malone, and Tom Noll running through June 28th.
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
Next Stop…Riggs Park: Riggs Park Missing Person (Persona Desaparecida)
Petworth News: DDOT releases Grant Circle safety changes with final NOI — share your input by June 12th
Petworth News: Enjoy more than 100 community events at The Parks at Walter Reed this summer!
Washington Business Journal: D.C. craft store Merry Pin knits a community together
ABC 7: PHOTOS: Takoma Park kicks off Pride Month celebrations with street fair and parade
The Washington Post: Is Branden Jacobs-Jenkins the best playwright in America?
WAMU: How D.C.’s history leaves Home Rule vulnerable to federal interference
Ward 4 Dispatch: Budget Highlights, Public Safety Walk & World Pride Begins
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.
One of the biggest joys of serving as Ward 4 Councilmember is getting to celebrate the incredible milestones of our Ward 4 neighbors, and last week, we celebrated two of these milestones with the 108th birthday of Ms. Dorothy Boggess and the 100th birthday of Ms. Julia Edwards.
I also want to extend congratulations to two other Ward 4 community members celebrating momentous achievements: Takoma ES dance teacher Charity Metzger for being named DCPS Performing Arts Educator of the year, and MPD Officer Jason Marker who won Reserve Officer of the Year!
Lastly, on Monday evening, I had the honor of swearing in the new officers of the Lamond-Riggs Citizens Association and thanking the outgoing officers for their dedicated service to the people of Ward 4. A special moment was congratulating a member of my team, Barbara Rogers, on her service as LRCA’s President, where she has shown a steadfast commitment to Ward 4 seniors and families and being a tireless voice for the community.
Have an amazing weekend, Ward 4!
Yours in Community,
—Janeese
