May 22, 2025

Dear neighbors,

DC residents have fought and died in every war since the American Revolution, including more than: 600 in World War I; 3,500 in World War II; 540 in the Korean War; and 240 in the Vietnam War. As we head into Memorial Day weekend, I acknowledge and honor those who sacrificed their lives to serve our country in the Armed Forces. If you get a chance this weekend, I recommend visiting one of our city’s many powerful memorials, and for a DC-specific one, the District of Columbia War Memorial on the National Mall is a peaceful spot to reflect. It includes the names of the men and women from the District of Columbia who gave their lives in World War I inscribed to remember their patriotic service to their country.

DC War Memorial - Photo Courtesy of the National Park Service.

This year’s Memorial Day comes in the wake of a series of painful reminders of the persistence of violence. The murder of two Israeli embassy employees on our streets Wednesday evening is shocking and outrageous. Gunshots near a middle school track meet, plus other recent shootings including one at 13th and Longfellow Street NW, are all deeply unsettling. Similarly, the melee by the Navy Yard and the escape from a youth detention facility in Pennsylvania remind us that while crime in the District is down, we continue to have too many incidents that shake the sense of security of our residents. Meanwhile, around the world we continue to see intolerable levels of death and destruction in the Middle East and Ukraine among other locations. The true message of Memorial Day is to remember those who have sacrificed and strive always to ensure others do not have to. It is critical that we all take that message to heart and look for ways to make it a reality, in particular underscoring that hate in all its forms will not be tolerated in the District of Columbia. We have a long way to go but we can give credit to the city for its response to these recent terrible events.   

This year, Memorial Day also happens to signal at long last the start of the Council’s work on the Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) budget. It has been a year like no other, as the uncertainty around the District’s budget delayed the mayor in delivering her FY26 budget proposal to the Council, which was originally anticipated on April 2. To recap, in March, the House of Representatives included a provision in the federal budget continuing resolution (CR) that treats the District of Columbia like a federal agency, freezing spending in our current, congressionally approved FY25 budget at FY24 levels. The Senate, while it could not fix this error in the CR, unanimously passed a parallel fix, thanks in part to unified advocacy from District officials and residents. The House, unfortunately, has yet to pass a commensurate measure, despite the urging of the president and congressional leaders.

Adding to the uncertainty, the District’s Chief Financial Officer (CFO)’s February revenue estimate, to which we must balance our budget, showed decreasing revenues of around $350 million a year for the next three years, signaling the need for even more acute belt-tightening. Even before recent events, this was going to be a very challenging budget year filled with difficult choices, and the current environment will make crafting the FY26 budget even tougher.

The mayor has now submitted her budget to the CFO, who must certify it before it comes to the Council. The Council expects to receive the budget on Tuesday, May 27. Pursuant to the Home Rule Act, the Council must approve the next fiscal year budget within 70 days of receiving it from the mayor. With that, the general schedule of key dates will be:

• May 29 to June 17: Committee Public Hearings on the budget
• June 18: Committee of the Whole Public Hearing
• June 23 to June 25: Committee mark-ups 
• July 14: First vote on the budget
• July 28: Second vote on the budget

The full budget schedule is now available on the Council website. For more info on the budget process, residents can review the Council’s step-by-step budget process guide on the Council website. The best way to stay updated is by following my social channels @CMFumin on Instagram, Bluesky, and X, and receiving this biweekly email newsletter every other Thursday directly to your inbox. If residents did not get this newsletter to your email, they can sign up to receive it at mattfruminward3.com. 

Memorial Day also brings with it the symbolic beginning of summer. School terms will be wrapping up over the next few weeks as students look forward to their break. I was excited to see one tell-tale sign of summer’s approach in Ward 3: there is water in the swimming pool at Hearst Park. For a complete list and information on pool locations and hours, visit dpr.dc.gov/page/outdoor-pools. Residents can find a complete list of DPR’s summer programming on their registration page.

It is heartening to know that while this summer will be an unusually busy time for the Council, it will also be an active and full time for activities for kids and families. May you and your loved ones stay cool, find time for some recreation and relaxation, and have an all-around great summer. 

Sincerely,

Matt Frumin

Ward 3 Councilmember

As chair of the Human Services Committee, I am responsible for leading oversight of the Department of Human Services and the District of Columbia Public Library, as well as community commissions and government communications services. The committee has yet to see the mayor’s budget, but I expect there will be significant cuts proposed for these agencies and programs given the District’s fiscal outlook. At the same time, there remains the existential threat of congressional action to cut programs and services under the committee’s purview, such as TANF, SNAP, child care assistance, family crisis support, and refugee assistance.

My goal as committee chair is to work with all the agencies under the committee to increase their effectiveness in meeting some of the city’s greatest challenges. I am focused on how existing programs and services are working and what can be improved, while also thinking about what opportunities and strategies are out there that we aren’t currently implementing that could be effective. Many residents need additional supports, and it is my goal to balance compassion and care with accountability. I am concerned for those who are not getting the help they need and those who want to increase their income but fear losing benefits they cannot survive without. We must provide hope and help for those who need it, and opportunities for independence and financial self-sufficiency by partnering with agencies, community organizations, and businesses to empower residents, including through job and career training.



The committee will conduct its agency budget oversight hearings on May 29 through June 12:

• May 29: Department of Human Services (Public Witnesses)
• June 5: Department of Human Services (Government Witnesses)
• June 6: Office of Cable Television Film Music and Entertainment
•  June 10: District of Columbia Public Library
• June 12: Mayor Office on Latino Affairs; Mayor’s Office on Asian and Pacific Islander Affairs

The committee will also hold its budget markup session on June 24. The full calendar of hearings for the committee is posted on my website at mattfruminward3.com/committee, and is also available on the Council website.

One of the main focus areas for DHS is services and programs to assist those facing homelessness. In the news last week, the results of DC’s “Point In Time Count” showed the number of people experiencing homelessness in DC has decreased by 9% over the past year. Although this is promising news, the count is an imperfect tool for collecting data over time. On Thursday last week, I spoke at a community town hall on housing hosted in Ward 8 by the Coalition for a Fair Budget. At the event, I echoed DHS Interim Director A.D. Rachel Pierre when she noted this year’s PIT count is a clear indicator that the District’s investments are moving the needle in the right direction, but there is more work to be done. I will continue working with Director Pierre and housing stakeholders to make further progress in our efforts to find stable housing for our most vulnerable neighbors.

More information about the committee can be found on my website at mattfruminward3.com/committee.

I invite residents to join me and my team, along with Councilmember Brooke Pinto, Chairwoman of the Committee on the Judiciary and Public Safety, for a community public safety walk in Ward 3 on Friday, May 30. The group will convene outside of 3003 Van Ness St NW at 11:00 am and will walk along Connecticut Avenue northbound to Forest Hills Park, wrapping up around noon. The walk is open to the public, and I encourage residents with concerns and questions about crime and recent trends to attend. Sign up to attend on the event registration page. If you have questions, please reach out to my office at fruminoffice@dccouncil.gov or 202-724-8062.

On May 12, the Council Committee of the Whole held a hearing on the John R. Thompson Jr. High School Designation Act of 2025. In 2023, the District welcomed the city’s newest high school to the Palisades neighborhood in Ward 3. Since its founding, the school community, including students, parents, teachers, non-instructional school staff, nearby residents, and Advisory Neighborhood Commission 3D, have discussed a permanent name for the school. The community recently agreed former Georgetown coach John R. Thompson Jr., a native Washingtonian and renowned basketball player, coach, teacher, and advocate, is an appropriate representative of the school’s mission. I was honored to introduce Bill 26-223 to name the school after him. The bill was co-introduced by Ward 4 Councilmember Janeese Lewis George, Ward 7 Councilmember Wendell Felder, as well as At-Large Councilmembers Christina Henderson, Kenyan McDuffie, Robert White, and Chairman Phil Mendelson.

I want to also credit Advisory Neighborhood Commission 3D and Commissioner J.P. Szymkowicz, for passing resolutions in support of naming the school after Thompson. All testimony received at the hearing was in support of the bill, and included some moving tributes to the life and work of Thompson from Commissioner Szymkowicz's niece who is a high school student and neighborhood resident, from Thompson's former colleagues and representatives from Georgetown, as well as from the school's principal, Dr. Harold McCray.

As I said in my remarks from the dais, John Thompson’s achievements on the court are too many in number to list here, but even more importantly, he always envisioned himself as a teacher first and sought to use basketball as an instrument to broaden his players’ perspective of the world and of themselves. He was focused on developing young people psychologically, what he called “the game behind the game.” Thompson titled his autobiography “I Came As A Shadow” in reference to the Lewis Alexander poem, Nocturne Varial, that begins: “I came as a shadow, I stand now a light.” I hope John Thompson’s name can stand as a light that provides hope and motivation to the students of this emerging public high school in his hometown of the District of Columbia.

A recording of the hearing is available to watch on YouTube. Residents can learn more about Thompson and the bill, including the full text of the bill introduction and tracking of the bill's status, on the Council's legislative information website. Residents can also view testimony from the hearing at the event page on the Council website. If you have questions about the bill, you can reach out to Nora Charles, legislative assistant, at ncharles@dccouncil.gov.

My website now includes a dedicated events calendar. Residents can find dates and information including the Committee on Human Services’ schedule and events hosted by my office. Residents can access the calendar from the home page, or by clicking “Events” in the menu at the top, or by going directly to mattfruminward3.com/event.

Pepco Preparing for Summer

Pepco is informing customers that they will see an increase on their monthly bills starting in June as crews are working to inspect and monitor the energy grid so customers stay connected throughout any challenges summer may bring, including heat and storms.

Customers will see an increase of about $20 per month on their bill starting in June because of the higher demand for energy in our region compared to the available supply. The regional grid serves not just DC, but more than 10 other nearby jurisdictions with power. Pepco attributes the rise to the heat of summer months along with the company that operates the region’s electricity grid, PJM Interconnection, which increased prices after increased electricity demand and delayed starts on new sources of energy generation last August.

Residents can get more info and assistance on Pepco’s bill support page on their website. Also, DOEE operates a utility discount program and programs that help improve your home to reduce your energy consumption. Residents can find the full list on DOEE's website. Community solar programs can also reduce your bill by using renewable energy. More here on the options.

Implementation of new technology has fortified the local energy grid, leading to a 57 percent reduction in the frequency of outages over the last 10 years. While Pepco works to prevent as many outages as possible, severe storms can cause damage and power outages. Visit pepco.com/StormPrep for important storm readiness resources, including how to prepare for an approaching storm, how to properly use generators if power is lost, what to expect after storms, and how to stay safe.

Find tips and explore energy savings and assistance programs at pepco.com/BillSupport, and get updates by visiting the company’s online newsroom.

Better Bus Network Updates

Metro is redesigning the entire Metrobus system for the first time in 50 years to provide more frequent, consistent bus service. According to WMATA’s latest Better Bus Dispatch newsletter, the new Better Bus Network will launch on June 29, 2025. The extent of the changes varies by route.

To help customers prepare, Metro’s Trip Planner can now show users what trips will look like with the new bus network. Residents can sign up for the Better Bus Dispatch to get newsletters with bus system information directly to their email for updates. Residents can also view previous issues of the Better Bus Dispatch for more information.

Metro is also seeking participants for its “Better Bus Partner” program, a new outreach initiative in support of upcoming Metrobus service changes. Metro is enlisting local organizations, businesses, schools, government agencies, senior centers, recreation centers and more to become Better Bus Partners. Better Bus Partners will help prepare their communities for launch day, distribute materials about the new bus network (route maps, schedules), and monitor and report missing or outdated bus stop signage. If your organization has a publicly accessible space, you're eligible to sign up. Complete the Better Bus Partner Registration Form or email BetterBus@wmata.com with any questions. For full program details, visit wmata.com/BetterBusPartner.

Weigh In On DC 2050 Plan

The DC Office of Planning is working alongside DC residents, community organizations, businesses, and elected officials to develop DC 2050, the District's next Comprehensive Plan.

DC 2050 will guide where and how we build new housing, grow job opportunities, connect neighborhoods, preserve our rich history, and invest in important services. As our city evolves, DC 2050 will align land use policies and investments to make the District more equitable, affordable, and resilient.

Residents can complete the Vision Survey at DC2050.com, and share ideas at community events. For more information, contact the DC Office of Planning at DC2050@dc.gov, 202-442-7600.

It was great to visit Lederer Gardens in Ward 7 with Allister Chang, member of the District of Columbia State Board of Education representing Ward 2, along with Fabric Health, and the Capital Area Food Bank. The site distributes nutritious foods to residents every Wednesday, and hosts connections to helpful programs and services for residents. Thanks to all the supporters who make it possible!

Porchfests Around DC

I had a wonderful time seeing so many local artists perform in front of huge crowds lining our neighborhood streets at Porchfests in Petworth, Adams Morgan, and Takoma Park. DC has always had a thriving music culture and has been home to many music icons like Duke Ellington and Marvin Gaye, plus innovative genres like Go-Go or hardcore punk rock. Thanks to all the organizers who help make these shows that bring residents together to celebrate and continue that thriving culture. And thanks to the artists, I’m sure I saw some talented future DC legends getting their start at Porchfest.

Tenleytown Health and Wellness Fair at Janney

Thanks to the organizers at Tenleytown Main Street and the hosts at Janney Elementary for putting on a wonderful community Health and Wellness Fair. The day featured activities for all ages like yoga, dance, a bootcamp workout, as well as educational presentations and resources.

On May 15, I joined residents for Bike To Work Day at the Cleveland Park pit stop in Ward 3 and downtown at Franklin Park. Thanks to all the participants, organizers, and sponsors for supporting safe and sustainable transit options and making the event happen.

Bioretention Site Ribbon Cutting

I had the pleasure of attending the ribbon cutting at the new bioretention site at the 4200 Wisconsin Ave, in front of the old bank. This project is a Tenleytown Main Street voluntary stormwater management project funded by DOEE to add green infrastructure to the city, working with DC business improvement districts and Main Street organizations. The project includes two stormwater retrofits in the area, with this bioretention with a permeable pavement sidewalk running through it. This is the second stormwater project by Tenleytown Main Street, and it is a great example of collaboration between key stakeholders in support of environmentally friendly building solutions.

Saint Sophia Greek Festival

The Saint Sophia Greek Festival was a great event for the community, featuring music, culture, and especially delicious food. I was all too happy to get my gyro. The festival is held annually and is free to all ages. I am already looking forward to next year’s celebrations.

Palisades Pride Celebration

Thanks to the Palisades Community Association and Palisades Village for cohosting a fun street party to celebrate Pride in Ward 3. This was the first edition of the event featured food trucks, music, family activities, and rainbow popsicles. Hopefully this can be an annual tradition going forward for the neighborhood.

Upcoming Advisory Neighborhood Commission Meetings

ANC3A: Tuesday, June 17, 7:00 pm, McLean Gardens Ballroom & Zoom 

ANC3B: Thursday, June 12, 7:00 pm, Zoom

ANC3C: Monday, June 16, 7:00 pm, Zoom 

ANC3D: Wednesday, June 4, 7:00 pm, Zoom 

ANC3E: Thursday, June 12, 7:30 pm, Zoom 

ANC3F: Tuesday, June 17, 7:00 pm, Zoom

ANC3/4G: Monday, June 9, 6:30 pm, Zoom

Cleveland Park Night Market

The next Cleveland Park Night Market is tonight from 5:00 to 9:00 pm along Connecticut Ave. The outdoor market features local vendors every forth Thursday. Walk the Cleveland Park promenade and explore than many artisans, retailers, restaurants, and more. Visit the event page for more information.

Upcoming Neighborhood Celebrations

TenleyFest

TenleyFest will be held on Saturday, May 31, from 3-5 pm featuring music and art in small businesses throughout the Tenleytown corridor. More information will be posted to tenleytownmainstreet.org.

Glover Park Day

Glover Park Day will also be held on Saturday, May 31, throughout the day. Shop the wares of local artists and crafters, listen to live music, enjoy great food, learn about community service groups, and more. See more details on the event page.

Cleveland Park Day

Save the date for Cleveland Park Day on Sunday, June 8, from 12:00 to 5:00 pm along Connecticut Avenue NW. The event is free and open to all, and includes live music, performances, features and specials at local businesses, and more. Find more information here.

WorldPride 2025

WorldPride 2025 has officially begun in Washington, DC. Through June 8, we’ll be welcoming visitors from across the country and around the world for the celebrations. This year marks 50 years of annual pride celebrations in DC. WorldPride 2025 is packed with events happening across all eight wards, including festivals, music, dancing, film screenings, and more. On May 29 at 4:00 pm, we will raise the Pride flag at the Wilson Building. The weekend of June 6 is filled with events, including the WorldPride Parade on Saturday, June 7. Residents can check out the full list of events at worldpridedc.org and sign up for alerts by texting WorldPrideDC to 888-777.

Councilmember Matt Frumin

1350 Pennsylvania Avenue NW

Suite 408

202-724-8062