October 2024

A Note from Your

People's Counsel

Sandra Mattavous-Frye

Advocacy 101:

A Crash Course for Students

OPC was pleased to host DC high school students at a two-day "Youth Environmental Justice & Advocacy Workshop," October 23 and 24. The goal was to teach them how to engage with DC Government agencies and partners to address justice-related utility issues and develop skills to effect change in their communities. Students from Jackson-Reed, Banneker, Coolidge, and the School Without Walls participated in discussions about utility services, climate change, government operations, and media and community outreach tactics.

Zoe Fisher and Anna Mayer, seniors at the School Without Walls, shared their efforts to create a "Green New Deal 4 Schools" in DC Public Schools. The students discussed how they identified a set of problems, developed allies, conducted research, engaged in media outreach, and then developed legislation targeting school meals, comprehensive climate curricula, pathways to green jobs, sustainable infrastructure, and climate disaster planning.

DC Public Service Commissioner Ted Trabue gave an overview of the PSC’s regulatory authority. He also highlighted how changes brought on by technology and the desire to respond to environmental issues are significantly changing the utility future that students today will soon inherit as young adult ratepayers. OPC Litigation Director Laurence Daniels briefed the students on how OPC legally advocates for DC residents at the PSC.  

Jen Dickman, Legislative and Policy Analyst with the Department of Energy and Environment; Sheila Bunn, Chief of Staff for Ward 7 Councilmember Vincent C. Gray; and Kelley Cislo, Constituent Services Director for At-Large Councilmember Kenyan McDuffie, respectively, covered lessons in conducting research on legislation, the Council's legislative process, developing regulations for the agencies of which they have oversight, and communicating with councilmembers. 

Sean Davis, Attorney/Policy Manager with Empower DC, instructed students on the mechanics of developing and delivering testimony, imploring students to keep it "short, sweet and to the point." OPC Attorney Stephen Marencic schooled students on practices to avoid when appearing before legislators. 

The workshop was part of my continuing efforts to develop the next generation of leaders, who can particularly improve their environment, their communities, and the District citywide. OPC looks forward to expanding our youth education programs even further.

Students, educators, and OPC staff at the Youth Environmental Justice and Advocacy Workshop. See more photos of the event in the gallery below.

OPC Honors 2024 Consumer Advocates

OPC proudly awarded its annual Consumer Advocacy Award on October 26 and recognized two recipients for their unwavering support for fellow residents and service in prominent organizations. The setting was the 91st Annual Awards Luncheon and Scholarship Celebration of the DC Federation of Civic Associations. The recipients, Robert Vinson Brannum and Victoria A. Leonard, have demonstrated exemplary dedication to empowering DC communities.

Mr. Brannum, a retired U.S. Air Force veteran, President Emeritus of the Federation, and former District Government employee, has been a strong voice for consumers for more than 30 years. He has testified on a variety of legislation on numerous occasions before the Council of the District of Columbia. He has spoken firmly in support of initiatives not only proposed by the Office of the People’s Counsel but also legal action undertaken by the Office of the Attorney General to protect the environment. 

Ms. Leonard is a retired labor union government relations and political director who has championed policies and initiatives aimed at protecting the rank-and-file. She has served as an ANC commissioner, former member of the Board of Industrial Trades, and a founding member of OPC’s Utility Consumer Advocacy Network (UCAN).

The luncheon brought together government officials, community leaders, and activists to celebrate the achievements of those who advocate for the rights of residents across the city. The Federation also announced its annual scholarships to local college students.

On behalf of People’s Counsel Sandra Mattavous-Frye, as pictured below, Consumer Services Director Linda Jefferson presented the OPC award to Mr. Brannum and External Affairs Officer Alya Solomon did the honors for Ms. Leonard.

As OPC recognizes these community partners, and thanks the DC Federation of Civic Associations for its decades of service, we are reminded of the vital role that grassroots advocates play in advocating, educating, and protecting our communities.

ICYMI: OPC's Citywide Clean Energy Forum

OPC hosted a "Virtual Citywide Clean Energy Forum: Programs and Funding,” on September 25. We featured experts from the DC Department of Energy and Environment, DC Sustainable Energy Utility, and the DC Green Bank who shared a wealth of information about the federal dollars available through the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA).

DC residents, small businesses, nonprofits, and community stakeholders learned how they could take advantage of the multi-million-dollar federal programs aimed at reducing emissions, modernizing infrastructure, and addressing climate change. In case you missed it, we encourage you to view the recording on this link: OPC CWCEF.

The DC Council Connection

OPC is Following These Developments at City Hall

DC Council Strengthens DC Water's CRIAC Authority: In response to property owners questioning DC Water's authority to levy the Clean Rivers Impervious Area Charge (CRIAC) on properties not directly connected to the sewer system, the Council passed a bill authorizing DC Water to collect the CRIAC from all property owners. CRIAC fees are based on a property's impervious surface area, such as rooftops, parking lots, and driveways. These surfaces contribute to stormwater runoff and can overwhelm the sewer system. By requiring all property owners to pay the charge, the Council ensured that everyone fairly shares the costs of upgrading the sewer system and reducing flood risk from overflows.

Bill to Protect Tenants from Unfair Utility Charges:

To protect tenants from unfair utility charges and other deceptive practices, Ward 6 Councilmember Charles Allen introduced the Fair Housing Practices Amendment Act of 2024. The bill addresses concerns consumers raised about multi-unit residential buildings charging tenants for electricity, water, or gas usage in common spaces. Tenants complain these charges have significantly increased their rent and are often imposed without clear notice or justification. The legislation would prohibit landlords from separately charging tenants for usage in common areas and require them to notify tenants of any unpaid utility charges within 45 days of vacating a rental unit. This is designed to prevent damage to tenants' credit histories due to unexpected or excessive charges.

Promoting Sustainability in Historic Districts:

The Resilient and Energy Efficient Historic Properties Amendment Act of 2024 aims to promote sustainable practices in historic districts while preserving their character. The act was recently discussed at a public hearing. It requires the Historic Preservation Review Board to consider energy-efficient upgrades like solar panels and electric vehicle charging stations aligned with the character of historic districts. 

District Moves Toward Electric Vehicle Future:

The Comprehensive Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Access, Readiness, and Sustainability Amendment Act of 2023, recently approved by the Council, requires the Department of Energy and Environment to develop a comprehensive plan to increase the availability of charging stations and ensure the power grid can handle the increased use of electric vehicles. The bill expands charging infrastructure in new gas stations and commercial buildings, establishes an incentive program to provide subsidies for the installation of charging stations, launches a public awareness campaign about electric vehicles, and requires the DC Department of Transportation to launch a pilot program to install publicly accessible charging stations in residential areas. The bill's implementation is subject to available funding.

The Solar Connection

Taking the Right Path to Solar

As residential solar installation ramps up in the District and beyond, consumers who want to “go solar” must consider the many ways to deploy this alternative energy option, including direct ownership, leasing, and community solar subscription. Unfortunately, some bad actors have entered this vital sustainable space to sway you with unscrupulous and confusing offers and practices. OPC advises consumers to do your research and be your number one protector. For example, get more than one estimate for installation, ask questions and demand explanations for information that is not clearly understood. Do not be afraid to ask for credentials, and always get copies of any paperwork you are asked to sign.

Seek information from trusted District government sources like OPC, the Office of the Attorney General, or the Department of Buildings. Federal agencies also have stepped up to provide valuable information addressing increased complaints about unscrupulous practices. Here’s a link to a residential solar consumer guide to help you become an informed consumer and make the best decisions for your household.  

OPC stands ready to help guide your solar journey at (202) 727-3071. Also see OPC’s Consumer Guide to Going Solar on opc-dc.gov ,

The Water Connection



Help Protect Our Waterways

OPC's Water Services Division wants you to know how you can protect our waterways. "Source Water Protection Week" occurred from September 29 to October 5 and highlighted the critical need to safeguard drinking water sources like rivers to ensure clean water. Recent boil water advisories in the District, which relies solely on the Potomac River, underscore this urgency.

A recent report by the Interstate Commission on the Potomac River Basin revealed that a significant disruption to DC's water supply could lead to economic losses of up to $15 billion in the first month, with even a one-day disruption costing $146.9 million. This vulnerability was highlighted in 2023 when an algae bloom in the Potomac led to a DC Water boil water advisory, exposing the risks of relying on a single water source.

Although Source Water Protection Week has passed, we all can daily contribute to water protection through the following actions:

• Join local cleanup efforts: Participate in projects like tree planting and creating buffer zones, which help filter pollutants and protect water sources.
• Educate yourself: Stay informed about water protection by learning about local initiatives, attending events, and joining water protection groups.
• Plant native vegetation: Native plants help filter pollutants, reduce erosion, and require less maintenance, making them ideal for protecting water sources.
• Dispose of hazardous waste properly: Follow US Environmental Protection Agency guidelines to safely dispose of items like paint, oil, and batteries to prevent water contamination.
• Use appropriate fertilizer: Select the right type and amount of fertilizer to avoid runoff and ensure it's safe for our water supply.

Employee Spotlight: Isis Green

Isis Green came on board eight months ago as an Intake Specialist. Her responsibilities include listening to consumers who call OPC seeking assistance with their utilities and entering essential details into the constituent database. This critical task supports the work of OPC’s community outreach specialists. Relying on her strong organizational skills, Isis also handles various administrative and front desk duties.

Before joining OPC, Isis was a Program Support Assistant at the DC Department of Housing and Community Development. There, she combined her passion for helping fellow residents with her expertise in leveraging government resources. Her resume also includes being an orthodontic and general dentistry assistant. Isis is now working toward a bachelor's degree in criminal justice at Strayer University, with a focus on juvenile probation and parole. Consistent her concern for youth, Isis volunteers at her neighborhood Boys and Girls Club.

In her free time, Isis enjoys binge-watching crime series, reading with her daughter, and ice skating. OPC is glad to have Isis on board!  



OPC is Advocating for Consumers in the

Following Cases:



Formal Case No. GD-2024-02: Investigation into the Impact of the PJM Capacity Auction

On October 15, OPC filed a petition with the PSC seeking an investigation into the impact of the PJM Capacity Auction and a task force to look at possible solutions. The request for an investigation is tied to the potential negative impact of the market auction of wholesale electricity resources, which could raise electric bills as much as $15 per month.

Formal Case No. 1156: Pepco's Application for Authority to Implement a Multiyear Rate Plan  

On October 15, OPC filed a Reply to Order No. 22292. OPC asked the PSC to accept and consider the recovery of the cost of the Remedial Investigation & Feasibility Study in the next Pepco rate case.   

OPC In Your Neighborhood!

OPC welcomes opportunities to speak at your Advisory Neighborhood Commission, civic association, community group activity, or meeting, either onsite or virtually. We can give updates on utility issues and trends and highlight how we serve DC consumers. Call (202) 727-3071 if your group would like our staff to make an onsite or virtual presentation. Currently scheduled appearances are below. Contact the organizations directly if you would like links to attend any of the listed virtual meetings OPC will be attending. 

Ward 4 Utility Resources Pop-Up

Emery Heights Community Center

5701 Georgia Avenue NW 

Wednesday, October 30

6:00 pm- 8:00 pm

ANC 8E Public Monthly Meeting

Monday, November 4

6:30 pm - 8:00 pm

Virtual



Carlos Rosario International Public Charter School  

Harvard Substation Ribbon Cutting 

1100 Harvard Street NW Saturday, November 9

12:00 pm – 3:00 pm 

US Department of Housing & Urban Development Post-Purchase Presentation

3939 Benning Road NE

Saturday, November 9

10:00 am - 3:00 pm

We look forward to seeing you!

Photo Gallery

All students received certificates and service credit for attending the OPC youth workshop, including these high schoolers from Jackson-Reed.

Zoe Fisher and Anna Mayer of the School Without Walls outline their Green New Deal 4 Schools campaign.

Sheila Bunn, Chief of Staff for Ward 7 Councilmember Vincent C. Gray, discusses how proposed legislation becomes law.

DC Public Service Commissioner Ted Trabue speaks about the Commission's responsibilities.

OPC's CharQuia Barringtine (seated at corner table) and Jason Starks (standing) give a presentation at the North Capitol at Plymouth Senior Apartments in Ward 5.  

OPC was out in full force as the People's Counsel hosted Staff Appreciation Day to close out a productive 2024 fiscal year and gear up for the work ahead.

Connect With OPC!

Do you have feedback or an idea for an article that could be featured in an upcoming edition of the OPC Connection? We want to hear from you! Just drop our editorial team an email @ info@opc-dc.gov or X/tweet us @DCOPC.

OPC Connection Editorial Team:

Doxie McCoy, Phillip Harmon, Quaneisha Glover,

Chawndise Battle, Claire Shibelski, Dwayne Houston,

Alya Solomon, Valca Valentine



Contributors:



Sandra Mattavous-Frye, Karen Sistrunk, Laurence Daniels,

Antaeus Hayes, Linda Jefferson, CharQuia Barringtine,

Jean Gross-Bethel, Cheryl Morse, Pamela Nelson, Bryan Rhoades



The Office of the People's Counsel, 655 15th Street NW, Suite 200 Washington, DC 20005 | Tel: (202) 727-3071 | Fax: (202) 727-1014 | TTY-TTD: (202) 727-2876

www.opc-dc.gov | info@opc-dc.gov