This Week’s Highlights
Dear Neighbors,
As summer kicks into gear and temperatures rise, I’m sharing the latest news on legislation I introduced to increase transparency and accountability for utility providers in DC. We also received updates recently about progress on the Georgia Ave Bus Priority Project, as well as important information for residents who need to apply for or recertify SNAP benefits, which I want to make sure neighbors are aware of. Lastly, make sure to read up on events happening this weekend, including the Home Rule Music Festival tomorrow!
Council News/Legislative Updates
Building Public Trust in Utility Regulation
As we continue our work to bring down utility costs for District residents, this week, I was proud to introduce the Public Trust in Utility Regulation Act. This legislation would bring more transparency and accountability to the utility ratemaking process by requiring regular audits and strengthening oversight of how utility rates are reviewed and approved.
When residents are asked to pay more, they deserve to know where those dollars are going and have confidence that decisions are being made in the public interest. This bill is about building trust, increasing transparency, and making sure District residents have a clearer picture of what they’re paying for.
Important Update on SNAP Work Requirements
For residents who receive SNAP benefits, I want to make sure you are aware of an important federal policy change that recently took effect. Beginning this month, the District is once again required to implement work requirements for some SNAP recipients known as Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs). These requirements are the result of changes in federal law, and the District no longer has the waiver that previously allowed us to suspend them.
If you receive SNAP, you will not lose your benefits immediately because of this change. The Department of Human Services (DHS) will review whether these requirements apply to you the next time you apply for or recertify your benefits. If DHS determines that you are subject to the requirements, they will notify you and explain the different ways you can meet them, as well as any exemptions that may apply.
I know many residents rely on SNAP to help put food on the table, and I want to ensure neighbors have the information and support they need to maintain access to benefits. DHS has resources available to help residents understand these changes, determine whether they qualify for an exemption, and connect with employment, training, education, or volunteer opportunities when needed. If you have questions about how these changes may affect you or your family, I encourage you to contact DHS or reach out to my office for assistance.
Community News
Home Rule Music Festival This Weekend!
The Home Rule Music Festival is this Saturday at The Parks at Walter Reed, celebrating five years of music, culture, and community! Bring friends and family for this free celebration featuring go-go, jazz music, food, drink and merch vendors, record fair and live art. You can see the map and details on the festival website.
As a reminder to neighbors, Main Drive will be closed on Saturday from 10am to 10pm, while Abrams Hall and SOME residents and visitors will only have vehicular access from 16th Street during this time. Festival attendees should park in the Marketplace Garage or walk/bike into the site. No parking will be allowed on Main Drive.
Progress on Georgia Ave Bus Priority Project
This week, we got some exciting news from the District Department of Transportation: DDOT has reached the 65% design milestone for the Georgia Avenue NW Bus Priority Project! This is a crucial project for neighbors living on and around the Georgia Ave corridor, bringing safer travel, faster and more reliable bus service, and a better overall experience for all travelers.
DDOT is now reviewing the plans internally, and will then share more information with the public about the specific changes proposed for Georgia Avenue NW. After this, we will get a clearer picture of proposed improvements along the corridor, including bus priority treatments, safety upgrades, roadway changes, intersection improvements, bus stop changes, and curbside adjustments. As always, I’ll keep neighbors posted as we get new updates from DDOT. If you’d like to get updates directly, you can fill out DDOT’s survey (select “Specific Project Feedback”) and add your contact information.
Community Resources
Metro Service Information for Juneteenth Weekend
This weekend will include several bus and rail changes due to the Juneteenth holiday on Friday, June 19th, and the Capital Pride Parade on Saturday, June 20th. Make sure to check the rail and bus line schedules for updated information. Additionally, on Sunday, new Metro Bus service changes will go into effect on nearly 50 bus routes. See the full list of changes here.
Upshur Recreation Center Construction Update
This week, the Department of Parks and Recreation and Department of General Services shared a construction update for the Upshur Recreation Center project. For complete information about the project, visit DGS’s website, and visit DPR’s website to be added to the list to receive updates.
Share Your Feedback on Petworth Porchfest!
After a successful Petworth Porchfest, event organizers are asking for feedback from the community on how the event can be made even better in the coming years. Make sure to fill out the short survey to share your thoughts and ideas for future Porchfests!
Tech 101 at Lamond Riggs Library
On Tuesday, June 23rd from 4 to 6pm, join DC’s Office of the Chief Technology Officer at the Lamond Riggs-Lillian J. Huff Library for a free Tech 101 workshop in the conference room, where you’ll learn basic tech skills such as creating an email or changing your password, navigating online applications, email and cloud management, managing storage on your smart devices, and more. Come with your questions and call 202-266-6328 to sign up or learn more!
Brandywine Valley SPCA Free Spay/Neuter Surgeries
The District’s partners at the Brandywine Valley SPCA are offering a limited number of free spay/neuter surgeries for dogs. This service is intended for owned pets living in the District. Each pet will receive spay/neuter surgery, a microchip, DHPP vaccine, and Rabies vaccine (if 12 weeks or older). Register today for surgery at their DC Village Campus.
Greater St. Paul’s Baptist Church Grocery Giveaway
On Saturday, June 20th from 10am to 2pm, Greater St. Paul Baptist Church is hosting a grocery giveaway at 5720 New Hampshire Ave NE. Please help spread the word to neighbors who could benefit from this effort.
Neighborhood Events
June 18th: Wards 3 & 4 Construction Update
On Thursday, June 18th, the Department of Parks and Recreation is hosting an update on capital projects in Wards 3 and 4. This virtual meeting is an opportunity for residents to engage with DPR and gain insight into construction projects coming to our ward. Visit DPR’s website to learn more and receive the Zoom link.
New Exhibit Open at Zenith Gallery
Zenith Gallery in Shepherd Park is currently showing a new exhibit entitled “An Art Filled Life,” with new by artists Ram Brisueño and Ashley Joi. The exhibit is open until July 4th, with an artist talk and book signing on Saturday June 20th, 2 to 6pm at 1429 Iris Street NW.
Family Cooldown Day at Petworth Recreation Center
On Friday, June 26th from 1 to 4pm, my office is joining the Brightwood Family Success Center, 4D MPD, the Wards 3 and 4 Prevention Center, and other community partners for a Family Cooldown Day at Petworth Rec Center (801 Taylor St NW). Join for exciting games, food and refreshments, sprinklers, and plenty of DC resources and services. RSVP here.
Wellness Fair and Open House on Kennedy Street
The Wellness Oasis on Kennedy Street is a new wellness-centered community hub located at 5427 8th Street NW (730–732 Kennedy Street NW). This 118-year-old building that has been vacant for over seven years is now a unique community destination bringing together small wellness-centered businesses and practitioners focused on healing, movement, nourishment, beauty, and self-care. Mark your calendars for Saturday, June 27th when there will be a Wellness Fair and Open House from 11am to 6pm, featuring free mini wellness sessions, free stretch and bodywork sessions, free Healthy skin consultations, local wellness vendors, healthy food, refreshments, live music and more. Bring a Friend and stop by!
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 Parks DC: Home Rule Music Festival
The 51st: What Juneteenth means to D.C. artists and cultural organizers
The 51st: How to mark Juneteenth around D.C.
Next Stop…Riggs Park: June 23: DC Water Public Hearing on Proposed Rate Increases – Sign Up to Testify by June 19
Ward 4 Dispatch: Budget Wins, Raymond Traffic Safety, and Congratulations Graduates!
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.
Today, we celebrate Juneteenth in the District and beyond, a day that commemorates the end of slavery in the United States and honors the resilience, joy, and contributions of Black communities across generations.
Juneteenth is both a celebration and a reminder that freedom, justice, and opportunity have never been guaranteed—they have always been won and sustained through community. As we gather with family, friends, and neighbors, I hope we take time to reflect on our shared history and recommit ourselves to building a more just future for all District residents.
Wishing you a joyful and meaningful Juneteenth!
Yours in Community,
—Janeese
