This Week’s Highlights
Dear Neighbors,
Happy first week of March! This week was packed full of oversight hearings, budget preparation, and lots of Council and community news impacting Ward 4 residents. I’m sharing answers to ongoing community concerns about DC tax filing, takeaways from a busy legislative meeting on Tuesday, and much more.
Council News/Legislative Updates
Important Updates on Tax Filing and Federal Interference
After weeks of uncertainty, I was glad to see the District’s Chief Financial Officer announce that tax filing season will continue uninterrupted despite Congress’ attempts to overturn District decoupling legislation. Even so, I’ve been hearing from many Ward 4 residents who still feel confusion when it comes to the state of DC taxes and Congress’ efforts to overturn our laws. Below, I hope to answer some of the most common questions I’ve heard:
- What is decoupling? Instead of copying the federal government’s recent tax cuts for the ultra-wealthy, the District passed emergency and temporary bills so we are not replicating the same regressive policies as the federal government.
- Why was Congress involved in our local taxes? Congressional Republicans introduced a disapproval resolution seeking to overturn our temporary decoupling bill, which would require us to replicate fiscally irresponsible tax giveaways for the wealthy in an already tough budget year. It’s yet another example of federal interference in the District’s right to self-govern.
- What is happening with our 2025 taxes? DC tax filers can continue to file their taxes as usual. CFO Glen Lee confirmed that the District will process tax filings for 2025 based on the decoupling law the Council passed this fall.
- Will this still impact the District’s upcoming budget? The CFO Glen Lee has said that while the District can collect taxes based on our decoupling law, he will not include the estimated $600M revenue from those tax payments in our revenue estimates. DC’s social safety net is strained to its breaking point and we know we’re facing a bleak budget for the next fiscal year, so a $600M cut to our budget would jeopardize District services and hurt local families.
Our legal standing is on this matter is strong, and we shouldn’t cower to federal interference. I’m urging the CFO to include this revenue in his projections so we can utilize all of our revenue to serve the people of the District.
Council Acts on Law Enforcement Transparency
At Tuesday’s legislative meeting, the Council unanimously passed legislation I co-introduced, the Full Accountability in Arrest Reporting (FAAR) Emergency Amendment Act. For months, federal agencies have been keeping residents in the dark about their operations in the District, and that lack of transparency and accountability has led to deeply troubling violations of our civil liberties and the law. The FAAR Act requires MPD to share body camera footage from incidents of federal use of force or arrests, when MPD is present. We have a moral obligation to ensure transparency about federal presence, and this is an important step toward that goal. Now, the Council must pass my Safe Community Places and Policing Act, prohibiting local law enforcement from engaging in immigration enforcement without a court order.
Takeaways from the Final Week of Performance Oversight
The final week of performance oversight hearings was a busy one. On Wednesday, I joined the Department of Public Works’ (DPW) oversight hearing, asking agency leaders about continued concerns about missed trash and recycling pickup, leaf collection, snow removal, and other basic services. Then yesterday, I chaired the performance oversight hearing for the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) and the Department of General Services (DGS), asking questions about facility maintenance in schools, parks, and rec centers, access to aquatics, environmental stewardship, and overall communication with residents. Now that we’ve completed performance oversight, budget season is just around the corner. Stay tuned for more details on budget oversight hearings and opportunities to make your voice heard!
Eric’s ID Act of 2026
This week, I was proud to introduce a new bill reflecting our community’s values of safety, dignity, and inclusion: Eric’s ID Act of 2026. Many of our neighbors live with challenges that aren’t immediately visible—developmental, intellectual, sensory, or other non-apparent disabilities. In moments of stress—during a traffic stop, an emergency, or any unexpected interaction—communication can become more complex. What should be a routine encounter can quickly escalate into confusion or misunderstanding. Eric’s ID Act would allow District residents to voluntarily add a symbol to their driver’s license or identification card—a simple, discreet tool that lets first responders and service professionals know that a thoughtful, informed approach may be needed.
Eric’s ID Act was created and inspired by Eric Carpenter-Grantham and his Mother Linda, who I heard speak at the NAN MLK Breakfast and was blown away. Eric lives with a disability that isn’t always visible, and he shared how stressful everyday encounters can be when communication barriers aren’t understood by others. Because of his advocacy, similar legislation has passed in Maryland and is gaining support nationwide. I’m grateful to Eric and everyone who helped shape this proposal and look forward to making sure every member of our community can feel seen, understood, and safe.
Community News
Responding to House Fire in Petworth
On Tuesday night, DC Fire and EMS responded to a house fire on the 3800 block of Kansas Ave in Petworth. Thankfully, FEMS was able to control the fire and prevent it from spreading, while evacuating all inside, although 9 individuals were displaced as a result. I’m sending prayers to those who were impacted, and I’m grateful to our brave first responders for their heroic work on the scene.
Updates on Potomac Sewage Spill
As DC Water continues responding to the collapse of the Potomac Interceptor and the subsequent sewage spill, the agency has been sharing updates on the status of their repair and remediation work. Here’s the latest:
- Crews are also making progress on debris removal downstream of the collapse. The emergency repair project remains on schedule, with completion anticipated in mid-March.
- DC Water and its contractor have taken significant steps toward repairing the Potomac Interceptor. The repair process currently underway involves reinforcing the damaged section of the pipe using geopolymer.
- Yesterday marked the 24th consecutive day with no overflows entering the Potomac River. In addition, enhanced stormwater management measures have been implemented to prevent runoff from the surrounding community from introducing contaminants into the river.
- DC Water and the Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) continue water quality sampling and sharing results in daily water quality reports. The latest testing data can be found on DOEEs’ website.
Community Resources
New Ward 4 Small Businesses!
Ward 4 has two new members of our small business community! Three Whistles at 5832 Georgia Ave NW is a new coffeehouse in Brightwood, offering a warm, welcoming spot for neighbors to meet, connect, and enjoy food and drinks. I was also grateful to visit Sabina’s Cafe in Takoma (6902 4th St NW), which is offering authentic Ethiopian coffee and plenty of signature beverages and menu items. Small businesses are the heart of our communities, and every new storefront represents jobs, local investment, and a new space for neighbors to gather and connect. Be sure to stop by both locations to grab a cup of coffee and continue supporting the local businesses that make our community strong.
Support Takoma ES PTO’s Book Drive
From now until March 24th, the Takoma Elementary School PTO is organizing a book drive with the goal of getting every student a book for Takoma’s March Madness of Reading program. Books can be dropped off in the school lobby (7010 Piney Branch) between 8am and 6pm on school days. Questions? Email pto.takomaec@gmail.com.
Support Turning the Page with a Spring Book Drive
Getting started on spring cleaning? If you have a pile of gently used books, movies, or music, Carpe Librum will come pick up from your porch! Simply email books@turningthepage.org with your address and the total number of bags or boxes you’ll have, and they’ll confirm the pick-up with you. Proceeds support Turning the Page, an education non-profit engaging DC public school families for student success. Then come shop for a cause with the pop-up book sale on March 21st from 10am to 5pm! Shop thousands of used books, CDs, DVDs, and vinyl records, all for $7 or less!
Free Tax Preparation Services for Eligible DC Residents
Catholic Charities is organizing a free tax preparation clinic now through April 15th at 924 G Street NW. If your income is under $70,000, come have IRS-certified volunteers prepare and review your tax return for free. Click here or email fsn@cc-dc.org to request an appointment.
14th Annual Toiletries Drive at Shepherd ES
From now until the end of March, the Shepherd Elementary School community is organizing its annual toiletries drive to help women and children in need during Women’s History Month. Items can be dropped off at the toiletry drive bin at the main entrance of Shepherd ES (7800 14th St NW). The following items are most needed: Body soap, lotion, toothpaste, toothbrushes, band-aids, deodorant, dental floss, feminine hygiene products, hair combs & brushes, cotton balls, baby powder, baby oil, and travel size mouthwash.
Traffic Safety Improvements at Roots PCS
This week, the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) issues a notice of intent to implement targeted infrastructure improvements around Roots PCS. These changes are aimed at improving visibility, reducing congestion, and creating safer spaces for the student population. Neighbors can download the full notice of intent and submit comments on DDOT’s website.
Help DPR Plan for the Future by Sharing Feedback!
The DC Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) is updating its Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan, and we would like to hear from you! This plan is used to prioritize and select outdoor recreation projects in the District to receive funding from the Land and Water Conservation Fund in the National Park Service. DPR wants to know more about how you enjoy the outdoors, what outdoor activities you do, and what activities you wish you could do through DPR. You can complete the survey online or call and leave DPR a voicemail at 202-673-7065 with your suggestions.
Learn Ranked-Choice Voting with “Rank the Donut!”
On Saturday, March 14th from 10:30 to 11:30am, Takoma neighbors Erin Palmer and Paul Schwartz are joining Kenyatta M. Smith of Rank the District for a fun, hands-on way to flex your Ranked Choice Voting muscle by ranking donuts from Ward 4’s own Donut Run. Neighbors will walk through how RCV works and have questions answered, with donuts and coffee/hot chocolate provided. RSVP for the exact location.
Neighborhood Events
Open Studios at Crestworth Artist Studios
Crestworth Artist Studios (4602 14th St NW, above Zeke’s Coffee) is excited to welcome the public to its upcoming Open Studios event on Saturday March 7th, from 1 to 4pm. The Open Studios provides an opportunity to engage directly with the artists who shape the studio’s creative community. Guests are invited to meet the artists and explore the studio spaces, observing works-in-progress and gaining insight into the methods and materials that inform each artist’s practice.
Takoma Adopt-a-Block Community Clean-Up
On Saturday, March 7th at 10am, join neighbors for a monthly Takoma Adopt-a-Block Community Clean-Up! Meet at Van Buren Street and Piney Branch Road NW (by the Safeway) to clean the surrounding area. In addition to picking up litter, there will be information on how to submit 311 requests for city services and connect neighbors to block-level resources. Plus, details about the upcoming Spring Cleanup Week and ways to get involved. Supplies and snacks will be provided, all ages are welcome, and community service hours are offered. Rain or shine. Thank you to Erin Palmer and Takoma neighbors for organizing!
Crafting Better Futures at with Free DC
On Tuesday, March 10th from 6:30 to 8:30pm, join Free DC at Merry Pin (7350 Georgia Ave NW) from an evening of art and writing as we attempt to put into pictures and words the kind of city, and kind of world, we want to live in. This two-hour workshop, led by Free DC artists and authors, will provide prompts, materials, and reference examples for participants to work with as they express their hopes for the future. Register here.
Petworth Porchfest Set for May 30th!
It’s official: 2026 Petworth Porchfest is scheduled for Saturday, May 30th! There will be music on porches from 2 to 7pm and on the main stage from 5 to 8pm. The rain date will May 31st. As neighbors gear up to take part in the festivities and enjoy all our local artists and businesses have to offer, I encourage you to read this article from Petworth News highlighting how neighbors can volunteer and take part in Porchfest. The article also highlights my Porchfest Permitting Act, which the Council recently enacted to make sure neighbors can host Porchfest events without unnecessary bureaucratic barriers. Can’t wait to see you all at Porchfest!
Zenith Gallery 48th Anniversary Exhibition
Ward 4’s own Zenith Gallery is celebrating its 48th anniversary this month! Tonight until 8pm and tomorrow from 2 to 6pm, visit Zenith (1429 Iris St NW) for Meet the Artist receptions for the 48th Anniversary Exhibition, featuring works from more than three dozen acclaimed artists.
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
The 51st: What can be done about your expensive Pepco bill?
Next Stop…Riggs Park: Traffic/Parking Changes Proposed Near Roots Public Charter School – Comments due April 10, 2026
Source of the Spring: Owner Lidya Demissie Brings Ethiopian Coffee Culture to Takoma at Sabina’s Cafe
Washingtonian: A Cafe With Office Amenities and Live Music Nights Opens in DC
Chevy Chase News & Notes: March Issue
Next Stop…Riggs Park: Happy Violet DC Nail Salon is Open
The Washington Post: Think happy hour ends too early? It doesn’t at these D.C. bars.
Ward 4 Dispatch: Roosevelt Pool, Local Business Spotlight, and Final Week of Performance Oversight
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.
March is Women’s History Month, a time to honor the brave and brilliant women who have affected change in our communities. This month and all months, let’s continue to share their stories and ready the next generation of history-makers.
Wishing you an amazing weekend, neighbors.
Yours in Community,
—Janeese
