May 8, 2025

Dear neighbors,

There can be no sugarcoating it, these are challenging times in the District of Columbia. 

All too many of our neighbors who have been dedicated public servants have seen their worlds turned upside down by layoffs of federal workers and contractors. Those reductions, in turn, are impacting the overall regional economy and revenue projections for the District.

Also, this week, there have been numerous confirmed reports of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) visits to local restaurants. There were also rumors of ICE action at other locations, but these rumors have not been confirmed. I hear and understand residents’ growing concerns about recent immigration enforcement activity, including the unlawful detention of Georgetown graduate student Bader Khan Suri, and an episode at H.D. Cooke Elementary School involving someone who worked at the school. While this pressure is a challenge, there is a lot to be proud of in the response from our institutions. Dr. Kahn’s employer, Georgetown University, has been firm in his defense and this week his lawyers had a tactical victory in court. At H.D. Cooke, school officials were knowledgeable of their rights under the law and responded appropriately. Residents can learn more about their rights by reviewing the guidance shared by the Office of the Attorney General.

Meanwhile, our budget remains in limbo as the House has not passed the Senate fix to the Continuing Resolution (CR). If the House does not pass the fix, it would require the District to cut more than $400 million from our current fiscal year budget between now and September 30, leaving those dollars sitting in the bank on October 1, and causing unnecessary pain to our residents. Such a drastic cut at this time would affect essential programs and services including police, fire, and emergency services, funding for our schools and teachers, housing assistance, and more. Many senior Republicans, including the president, have called for this fix to be implemented. I, like officials at every level of the District government, have been working to educate lawmakers in the House about this issue. Additionally, in every conversation I have with representatives of the Commanders, I have also urged them to add their voices to calls for the House to fix this budget issue. 

Unfortunately, there are other storm clouds on the horizon. As the House considers their budget plan, there are some concerning inclusions. One particularly egregious proposal is to change DC’s Medicaid reimbursement rate, known as known as the Federal Medical Assistance Percentage (FMAP), from 70 percent to 50 percent. DC’s Medicaid program provides health coverage to more than 285,000 people, including 95,000 infants and children, 28,000 seniors, and 27,000 people with disabilities. Such a reduction would create a $1.1 billion hole in local funds and ultimately result in a total loss of $2.1 billion in program funds to local hospitals, universities, and providers across DC. This equates to a 40 percent cut in funding directly impacting health care professionals.

DC is one of several jurisdictions with a reimbursement rate of 70 cents on the dollar, which was established by a Republican-led Congress in the 1990s in recognition of the District’s special circumstance: Washington, DC has municipal, county, and state responsibilities, but does not have the same tax and revenue options available to other jurisdictions. For example, unlike other places, DC is not allowed to tax people that work in DC but live elsewhere.

You might think if you do not benefit directly from Medicaid that the proposed change will not affect you, but if it is enacted, it would devastate the region’s medical sector to the detriment of every resident of the metropolitan area. Health care providers, including hospitals like Children’s National, will be severely hurt by these cuts. The destabilization of DC’s health care system would force closures, workforce reductions, and service cuts with long-term consequences for all residents and visitors. Advocacy to keep Congress from taking this step has begun in earnest, including a letter from the local Congressional Delegation and a petition by the DC Hospital Association. Last Friday, I joined fellow District leaders at Children’s National Hospital for a press conference to oppose potential reductions to DC’s FMAP. To learn more about DC Medicaid and FMAP, check out my Council colleague and Chair of the Committee on Health, At-Large Councilmember Christina Henderson’s helpful video on social media.

For me, as we navigate these times, and on the eve of Mother’s Day, I often think of my mother. I sometimes I am relieved that she is no longer with us, given the rage she would feel about what is happening now. But I am also inspired by the spirit of love and generosity she brought to the world. I also think of our grandchildren and the sacred goal of every generation to leave the world better for the ones that follow. 

Yes, these are trying times. We need to stay together and navigate them as best we can. I promise you, I and others in the District government are determined to do so. 

Sincerely,

Matt Frumin

Ward 3 Councilmember

It was a pleasure to join seniors from across the District for the 5th Annual Walk & Roll Event recognizing Older Americans Month, AKA "Old People Are Cool” Month. I was proud to introduce a Ceremonial Resolution again this year recognizing the Old People Are Cool project’s important work to confront ageism and support intergenerational collaboration. Following the walk and roll, I attended the opening of the “We Are Your Neighbors” exhibit at the Cleveland Park Library. The exhibit features stories of local senior citizens, highlighting their journeys and important contributions to our community. The exhibit is open to visitors through June 23.

According to the Office of Planning’s demographic data, more than one in every five Ward 3 residents is over 65 years of age, making Ward 3 home to the largest population of seniors in the District of Columbia. Community organizations have made Ward 3 a great place to age-in-place, and I am grateful for their work empowering older adults and connecting them to critical supportive resources.

In recognition of Old People Are Cool Month, my website now includes a digital resource that provides residents of Ward 3 with information about existing senior services and neighborhood organizations working directly with older adults, including aging and caregiving resources, programming, and activities. This resource includes District government agencies and nonprofit organizations but is not an endorsement or guarantee of any services listed. Residents are encouraged to reach out to the listed entities directly for more information.

The Committee on Human Services held a public roundtable on the Community Services Block Grant (CSGB) program on Tuesday, April 29. The CSBG program is a federally funded anti-poverty block grant operated through a state-administered network of community and faith-based, nonprofit organizations. The program seeks to address the causes of poverty by implementing programs and services that empower low-income families and individuals, revitalize low-income communities, and improve the economic self-sufficiency of low-income customers. The Committee received powerful oral and written testimony from community members about the positive impacts the programs made in their lives. One example I found particularly moving was from a young man who was a returning citizen and, through the program, had enrolled in job-training and was on his was to steady employment in a career earning $80,000 annually. Stories like this one show how these programs improve social mobility and the quality of life for beneficiaries. A recoding of the hearing is available at youtube.com/@cmfrumin.

At its Legislative Meeting on May 6, the Council passed the “Emergency Rental Assistance Program Reform Amendment Act of 2025”, which ensures that limited ERAP funds go to District residents most in need of assistance. It also makes eviction court processes fairer and more efficient, encouraging compromise between landlords and tenants, while reducing the backlog of cases that has slowed DC Superior Court to a crawl.

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.

Ward 3 Roll-Off Day

The Mayor’s Office of the Clean City is hosting a Roll-Off Day in Ward 3 this Saturday, May 10, at Turtle Park (45th and Van Ness streets NW) from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. A “roll-off day” is when residents can bring bulk trash to a central location and dispose of it in a city dumpster. 

Please be advised of these limitations on items for disposal:

• NO electronics, fire extinguishers, batteries, or oxygen tanks
• NO tires
• NO medications or medical needles
• NO documents for shredding
• NO unwrapped mattresses; wrap your mattresses in clear plastic or in a mattress bag.

See the full list of prohibited roll-off items to learn more.

Two PSAs: Headphone Theft; Social Security and Medicare Scams

The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) released an advisory this week noting MPD is observing an increase in robbery suspects targeting headphones. MPD reminds the community to remain aware of their surroundings, especially while running or jogging. For emergencies, call 911.

Additionally, the Department of Insurance, Securities, and Banking sent a release flagging that scammers are impersonating government agencies. especially Social Security and Medicare, to steal personal information and money. Don't be fooled, protect yourself, stay informed, guard your personal info, and spread the word. Fraudsters may:

• Pretend there's an issue with your Social Security number or account.
• Ask for personal details like banking info or Social Security numbers.
• Threaten fines or arrests or claim you’re eligible for new benefits.
• Send official-looking emails, letters, or even pictures of fake government badges.

Common Medicare scams include:

• Bogus Medicare Agents: no one should cold-call or show up at your door selling Medicare insurance.
• Fake Rebate Notices: scammers claim you’re owed money due to the "donut hole" coverage gap. Medicare will NEVER call you asking for personal information.
• Phone Scams: fraudsters offer free medical supplies or benefits in exchange for sensitive details. If in doubt, hang up and call Medicare directly using the number on your card.

In 2023, DC residents reported 62 cases of government impersonation scams, resulting in more than $3 million in losses. If you suspect a scam, report it to the DC Department of Insurance, Securities and Banking at 202-727-8000, the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at IC3.gov, or the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

Upcoming DC Government Career Hiring Event

Save the date for the DC government’s hiring event on May 15 at the UDC Student Center, located at 4200 Connecticut Ave NW. Register at the event page. To request DCHR participate in an event or to inquire about a current and/or future event, please contact DCHR Human Resource Solutions Administration via email at HRSA.Answers@dc.gov.

Residents who have recently lost employment can visit the resources page on my website to find more information about programs like unemployment and health insurance, as well as assistance for homeowners, students, and more. DC government has also created a website FedSupport.dc.gov, which also includes information and support for recently unemployed residents.

MOCRS Office Hours in Ward 3

Do you have topics you want to discuss with Mayor Bowser’s office? The Mayor’s Office of Community Relations and Services (MOCRS) will host office hours at Cleveland Park Library from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm on Saturday, May 17. Kendall Gibson, Ward 3 Manager, will be onsite to meet with Ward 3 residents.

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.

NFL Draft Coming to DC

On Monday, Roger Goodell, Commissioner of the National Football League, announced that the 2027 NFL Draft will be hosted in Washington, DC. This is exciting news for football fans and for DC residents. The 2025 NFL Draft in Green Bay, Wisconsin, drew a total attendance of 600,000 visitors over three days, and the 2024 draft in Detroit had more than 775,000 in attendance.

Van Ness Main Street Annual Meeting

This morning, I attended the Van Ness Main Street Annual meeting, where Michal Sands, the former owner of Calvert Woodley, received the Spirit of Van Ness Main Street award. Van Ness also celebrated the recent openings of MOM’s Organic Market and Whale Tea, and there are more exciting opportunities ahead thanks to the work of Van Ness Main Street alongside its partners in the local business and real estate community, as well as the University of the District of Columbia. That is why, in my FY26 budget letter to the mayor, I called for full support of the Main Streets programs, and will continue to advocate to the Committee on Business and Economic Development throughout the upcoming budget process.

Upcoming Advisory Neighborhood Commission Meetings

ANC3A: Tuesday, May 13, 7:00 pm, McLean Gardens Ballroom & Zoom 

ANC3B: Thursday, May 8, 7:00 pm, Zoom

ANC3C: Monday, May 19, 7:00 pm, Zoom 

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

ANC3E: Thursday, May 8, 7:30 pm, Zoom 

ANC3F: Tuesday, May 27, 7:00 pm, Zoom

ANC3/4G: Monday, May 12, 6:30 pm, Zoom

Healthy Homes Fair

Learn how to use your home to fight climate change at the Healthy Homes Fair, a consumer-facing, home electrification event on Saturday, May 10, at Catholic University. The event includes 100 exhibitors, 30 info sessions, an appliance “petting zoo,” e-bike test ride alley, induction cooking demonstrations, and all the incentives and programs for you to make your home cleaner, healthier, safer, and more comfortable. Plus attendees can enjoy bouncy castles, food trucks, scavenger hunts, and prizes for the family. Learn more and register for free.

Tenleytown Health and Wellness Day

On Saturday, May 10, from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm, Tenleytown Main Street will hold a Health and Wellness Day for the community at Janney Elementary School in coordination with Janney’s Beautification Day. Local health and wellness programs and small businesses will be there for a fun day of activities, education, and presentations. The event is free and intended for all ages. 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.

Councilmember Matt Frumin

1350 Pennsylvania Avenue NW

Suite 408

202-724-8062