November 20, 2025

Dear neighbors,

As we look ahead to Thanksgiving, I am grateful to serve as your Councilmember and proud of the progress we are making together in a hard year:

• The Council restored the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) expansion and brought back the District Child Tax Credit (CTC). These changes put real money into the pockets of working families. They also help children grow up with more stability. I wrote more about this in my last newsletter, but it remains a major step toward fairness and long-term fiscal health. I worked closely with Ward 5 Councilmember Zachary Parker to help secure these outcomes and will continue to champion tax policies that support working families.

• The federal shutdown is behind us, and key nutrition programs are safe for now. When Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) benefits were at risk, the District stepped in to ensure benefits were covered and distributed. Throughout the shutdown, I worked closely with DHS to ensure they were prepared for every scenario and prioritized uninterrupted benefits, which mean food on the table for families across DC. Last Friday, I joined volunteers with DC Food Project at Guy Mason to distribute food to schools around the city to support vulnerable families. It was a simple reminder that small acts matter when we do them together. My office has also added new food resources to our website to help residents find meals, food pantries, and other support.

• The Department of Human Services (DHS) and the Department of Behavioral Health (DBH) announced new help for several buildings along Connecticut Avenue. This includes a hotline and on-site case managers. This support comes after years of advocacy by residents, Advisory Neighborhood Commissions (ANCs), community groups, and my office. I am grateful to everyone who pushed for these improvements.

• Residents can now use 311 to report problems with downed cable wires. Those requests then go straight to the Office of Cable, Television, Film, Music, and Entertainment (OCTFME). This change grew from repeated complaints from Glover Park residents who did not know where to turn when wires sagged or cluttered the street. It is a small fix, but it supports a larger goal: clear, responsive, and accountable government. My committee pushed to simplify this reporting process, and I am pleased we were able to make it happen.

• I am also grateful that the long-running DC Water Soapstone project is nearing completion. This work has tested everyone’s patience. It is worth recalling that controversy around this project started with concern about the proposed technology, and advocates were able to get DC Water to pivot. The project went on to be dogged by delays, as new challenges were found around every corner. The ANC and my office have stayed on the task for years, and now we are close to the finish line. The remaking of our century old water infrastructure has literally been a source of many headaches. But it is also important, necessary work to make our systems safer and stronger. It will be a great day when this particular chapter is completed, and that day appears to be very near. 

In this newsletter, you will find updates on housing including the ERAP application process, parks and recreation, public safety, access to e-books and audiobooks at DC Public Library (DCPL), and more. Thank you for the chance to do this work on your behalf.

I wish you and your loved ones a peaceful Thanksgiving.

Sincerely,

Matt Frumin

Ward 3 Councilmember

Joint Hearing on Housing Vouchers – November 13

On November 13, I co-chaired with Councilmember Robert White a hearing on our local housing voucher programs. Just a few years ago, it took an average of 484 days for a resident to move into a home after being matched with a voucher. Focused work by DHS, the DC Housing Authority, and nonprofit partners has cut that number to about 200 days. This is real progress and reflects real lives changed.

However, 200 days is still too long, and DHS is working to cut in half the time from match to move-in. At the hearing, we talked about the process changes now underway and how agencies are working together to remove bottlenecks and simplify steps. One important update was the rollout of the Yardi RentCafe portal, which now allows voucher holders to track their lease-up progress, see key documents in one place, and know exactly whom to contact with questions. This is a meaningful step toward greater transparency and efficiency, helping residents navigate the process with more clarity and confidence.

I stressed two points. First, we must speed up move-ins while keeping strong oversight of public dollars. Second, we must listen closely to residents going through this process and to neighbors in buildings with many voucher holders. Safety, stability, and fairness all matter. We can meet all three if we stay focused on what works.

Adult Workforce Education Hearing – November 20

The Committee of the Whole held a hearing on adult workforce education today. Most jobs in DC require at least a high school diploma or another credential, yet many adults still lack a diploma or face challenges with reading and writing. This makes it harder to find steady work, support a family, or take part in civic life.

Adult charter schools, workforce programs, and UDC’s Community College help close these gaps. They support residents who want to earn diplomas, learn English, or build skills for real jobs. Workforce education is not only about the economy. It is also a human services issue. When adults can secure better jobs, they rely less on the safety net. That helps families and strengthens the District’s long-term finances. I will remain intently focused on this topic. Connecting residents to work and a path to independence will become increasingly important as the federal government aims to limit eligibility for public assistance.

DPR Pools and Staffing Roundtable – November 20

Also earlier today, the Committee on Facilities held a roundtable on DPR aquatics facilities. At the hearing, I asked DPR Director Freeman about addressing pool closures, long lines, and staffing challenges. Public pools support youth programs, public safety, and community health. For many families, especially those without access to private clubs or camps, our DPR pools are the only place where kids learn to swim or stay active in summer.

Since taking office, I have worked closely with DPR and the Department of General Services (DGS) to maintain and improve our aquatics facilities and programs. This includes monitoring long-needed renovations at Wilson Pool to ensure they were completed, advocating for extended dates and hours at Hearst Pool, and coordinating with DCPS to help accommodate adult swim classes along with school swimming lessons and practices.

The District must provide consistent staffing, reliable maintenance, and timely communication so residents can count on well-maintained public recreation spaces. When pools are open, staffed, and well run, they offer safe and positive spaces for young people and strengthen the fabric of our neighborhoods. I will continue to work with DPR to meet those expectations.

December 2 Legislative Meeting

The Council’s next Legislative Meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, December 2. The agenda for the meeting will be posted ahead of the date. Residents can watch live on the Council’s website.

December 3: OSSE DOT and Parks Hearings

On Wednesday, December 3, the Council will hold two important hearings. First, the Committee of the Whole will hold a roundtable on the Office of the State Superintendent of Education’s Division of Student Transportation (OSSE DOT). Families and school leaders have made it clear that our current student transportation system is not reliable enough. Students with disabilities need safe, on-time transportation to access their education. I will focus on the GPS and routing timeline, performance accountability, and clearer communication with parents.

Later that day, the Committee on Facilities will hold a hearing on several parks-related bills. Topics include field permits, balancing open community use with organized sports, and expanding evening and weekend hours at recreation centers, fields, and restrooms. We will also discuss programming for youth and seniors, language access, and accommodations for residents with disabilities.

December 4: Judiciary and Public Safety Committee Hearing

On Thursday, December 4, the Committee on the Judiciary and Public Safety will hear testimony on several public safety bills. These proposals address first responder retention, gun violence reduction, roadway barriers during events, improvements to the Child Fatality Review process, and changes to the juvenile curfew.

Confirmation of DHS Director Rachel Pierre

On November 18, the Council confirmed Rachel Pierre as Director of DHS. Director Pierre has shown that she is willing to study DHS processes closely, share data, and make changes when needed. I look forward to working with her to reduce homelessness, improve program integrity, and connect residents to meaningful work.

New Supports and Hotline on Connecticut Avenue

DBH and DHS have launched a hotline and placed more case managers in eight buildings along Connecticut Avenue. These buildings have high numbers of voucher holders. They have also seen increased calls to 911 and repeated incidents of tenant conduct that jeopardizes safety and quality of life. The hotline gives residents and property managers a resource for help before problems grow. On-site case managers can connect residents to services, coordinate with building staff, and identify when someone needs a higher level of care.

Throughout my time in office, I have advocated for additional resources to support voucher tenants with behavioral health and substance use challenges. These recent initiatives also respond directly to concerns expressed by residents, ANC 3F, and community advocates. More work remains, but this is progress.

311 Can Now Take Cable Wire Requests

Many residents have expressed concern about loose or bundled cable wires along our streets, but did not have an effective process for reporting issues. They can now call 311 or submit a form on the 311 website to report cable wire issues. Safety concerns, such as wires that hang very low or fall, will be addressed first. This change resulted from collaboration between the Committee on Human Services and OCTFME and reflects a larger goal of making government more responsive to residents.

Expanding Fair Access to E-Books and Audiobooks

Residents increasingly rely on digital materials, but publishers often charge libraries far more for e-books and audiobooks than for print. They also limit how many times a library can lend a title. These practices raise costs and lengthen wait times. Library systems around the country have complained about these practices and there is a growing movement to band together to push back. This week, I introduced the “Library E-book Pricing Fairness Amendment Act of 2025” to have the District join that movement. Like bills in other states, the bill would prevent DCPL from signing contracts that sharply restrict access or disproportionately raise costs of e-books and audiobooks. If passed, the bill would take effect only after enough states pass similar laws. This creates a national approach rather than leaving DC to act alone on a national problem. I was pleased that eight of my colleagues joined as co-introducers on this legislation. Access to information is a basic right and it should not be cost-prohibitive for libraries to meet demand. There is growing demand for e-books and audiobooks. This bill, and the movement it is a part of, can ensure such materials are increasingly accessible through DCPL.

Upcoming December 10 Markup: EBT Security and DC Flex

On December 10, the Committee on Human Services will mark up two bills I introduced earlier this year:

• The Public Benefits Security Amendment Act would require DHS to use more secure, microchipped EBT cards and reimburse residents when benefits are stolen through skimming or similar fraud. No one should lose food or cash assistance because of weak technology.

• The Flexible Rent Subsidy Program Amendment Act would make the pilot DC Flex program permanent. DC Flex offers stable and predictable rental help that keeps families in their homes and prevents homelessness. It is a promising model that rewards stability and lets families plan ahead.

Both bills reflect a core principle of my work: programs should meet real needs, use proven tools, and treat residents with dignity while using public dollars wisely. Stay tuned to the DC Council calendar for hearing information.

ERAP Application Process Issues

Today the new Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) appointment-based application process opened. The Department of Human Services (DHS)’s goals for the new system are laudable: improve transparency, reduce appeals, and ensure residents know whether funding is available when they apply. Unfortunately, the rollout had significant flaws, creating frustrations for many residents.

This morning, the appointment phone line experienced technical difficulties and was offline for several hours. More than 600 people lined up at the Virginia Williams Family Resource Center for in-person appointment scheduling, with some waiting since before 7 a.m. By 1:00 p.m., DHS began telling new arrivals that the line was closed so staff could focus on the hundreds of residents already waiting. At the same time, DHS stopped scheduling appointments over the phone. Instead, residents were asked to fill out a very brief form on-site at the Virginia Williams Center that was sent to provider partners off-site to get those initial appointments scheduled. Providers were working their way through scheduling these appointments through the afternoon.

I appreciate DHS’s intent to process as many appointment requests as possible today; however, the situation was disruptive and, to a degree, foreseeable. DHS could have created a simple online form for residents to submit the basic information needed to schedule an appointment rather than have them stand in line at Virginia Williams. That step alone may have prevented a significant amount of confusion and hardship.

Today made clear that there is a tidal wave of demand, far more than the available resources. Through the most recent budget process, my committee sought to increase ERAP funding, and the Council approved allocating nearly $3 million more to ERAP should there be more FY25 revenue than previously projected.

Protecting residents from housing instability requires both good policy and competent execution. My committee will continue to monitor the implementation of ERAP and urging DHS to take lessons from today’s rollout. If the District continues with this appointment-based approach, it must be made far more efficient and far less disruptive to the lives of residents who are already under enormous strain. Residents with questions or concerns should reach out to my office at 202-727-7905.

Soapstone Valley Sewer Project Nears Completion

I know many Ward 3 residents have been following the Soapstone Valley sewer rehabilitation project closely and have been patient through years of work and disruption. DC Water recently shared that the project has reached a major milestone with the successful installation of a manhole at the intersection of Albemarle Street and 32nd Street NW. Bypass pipe removal began this week and will continue through the end of the week.

Several important steps remain. Pepco will need to restore power to the overhead streetlight in the project area. DC Water will reconnect the 8-inch water main at 32nd and Albemarle Streets NW, and crews will replace 19 dead red oak trees in the park in coordination with the National Park Service. Contractors will also install fencing over the imbricated rock wall at Site 1 and complete final site restoration. That final work will include cleaning, milling, pavement overlay, striping, and landscaping.

DC Water’s goal is to reopen the impacted stretch of Albemarle Street east of Connecticut Avenue by Thanksgiving, which will be welcome news for nearby residents and drivers. I appreciate the community’s patience and advocacy throughout this project.

Fall Leaf Collection Is Underway

DPW’s fall leaf collection is now underway and will continue through mid-January. Residents can find the collection schedule and guidelines on dpw.dc.gov or by calling 311. A reminder that on the Sunday before your scheduled collection week, leaves should be raked into the tree box area for pickup, not left in the street. If your property does not have a treebox, place the leaves at the curb directly in front of your home. Leaves placed in paper bags and set at the curb or treebox will be picked up during the collection pass. Only leaves in paper bags will be accepted. Please note plastic bags cannot be composted and will not be collected.

Snow Shoveling Exemption for Seniors and Residents with Disabilities

Winter weather is around the corner, and I want to remind residents who need help about the District’s Snow Sidewalk Shoveling Enforcement Exemption program. The exemption protects eligible residents from potential fines if they cannot clear their sidewalks due to age or disability. The application period is open through December 2, 2025, and once approved, exemptions remain valid for two years. Please note that this program does not provide snow removal services, it simply ensures that those physically unable to shovel are not penalized for noncompliance.

Residents can learn more and apply online or by contacting the Department of Public Works (DPW) through 311. This is one of the many small but important ways we can make government work better for everyone, especially seniors and residents with different abilities.

EdFEST 2025: Explore School Options Across the District

Registration for EdFEST 2025, the District’s annual public education fair, is now open at the My School DC website. EdFEST is a chance for families to meet with DCPS and public charter schools in one place, ask questions, and prepare for the school lottery. This year there will be two in-person events:

• EdFEST for Grades 9–12 at Eastern High School in Ward 7 on Saturday, December 6, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• EdFEST for PK3–Grade 8 at Kraken Kourts & Skates: Bryant Street in Ward 5 on Saturday, December 13, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The PK3–8 event will feature a family-friendly space with room for all participating schools, the popular DPR kids’ play zone, free vaccinations by appointment, free meals for youth, and nearby Metro access.

Supporting Small Businesses: Great Streets and Emerging Retail Grants

The Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development (DMPED) is now hosting Great Streets Retail and Emerging Retail Grants information sessions for FY26. Small business owners and entrepreneurs can learn more about three grant programs: Great Streets Retail, Emerging Retail, and Locally Made Manufacturing. I encourage Ward 3 business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs to attend to see if these tools can help you grow. RSVP for an upcoming session.

DOES Webinars for Workers Affected by Federal Workforce Changes

Many District residents work for the federal government, and recent layoffs have created real stress and uncertainty for some households. To help, the Department of Employment Services (DOES) is hosting biweekly webinars for affected federal employees. The virtual sessions run from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. and will take place on December 5 and December 12.

During these webinars, DOES staff will explain how to apply for unemployment insurance (UI) benefits, share information about job training and career counseling, and highlight workforce re-entry programs. Residents can register online. Impacted federal employees can visit dcnetworks.org to file UI claims, fedsupport.dc.gov for broader District resources, and the Federal Government Shutdown FAQ page for more information.

Help Shape the Region’s Transportation Future

I am currently serving as 2nd Vice Chair of The National Capital Region Transportation Planning Board (TPB). TPB has opened the public comment period for its Visualize 2050 National Capital Region Transportation Plan, and I encourage Ward 3 residents to share their feedback.

The Visualize 2050 Plan outlines long-term investments to improve how people move throughout DC, suburban Maryland, and Northern Virginia, covering everything from roadway maintenance and transit improvements to new mobility options and climate-focused infrastructure. The plan works hand in hand with the FY 2026–2029 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP), which details the specific projects set to receive funding in the near term, and with the Air Quality Conformity Analysis, which measures how those projects align with regional clean air goals.

Transportation planning affects every part of our daily lives, from how easily students get to school, to how safely cyclists and pedestrians navigate our streets, to how quickly buses move through traffic. Visit Visualize2050.org to review the materials, watch the overview video, and share your thoughts before the comment period closes on November 21.

Participate in DC 2050 This Fall

The DC Office of Planning is offering many options for residents to raise their voice for the District’s future this fall. You can attend a November workshop, stop by the agency’s table at events, explore Storymaps on the project website on your own time, or reserve time to chat one-on-one. Fall workshops (register for either event at DC2050.com:

• Thursday, November 6, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Office of Planning (899 N. Capitol St NE)
• Saturday, November 15, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Office of Planning (899 N. Capitol St NE)

DC 2050 will guide where and how we build new housing, grow job opportunities, connect neighborhoods, preserve our history, and invest in services. To learn more, visit DC2050.com or follow OP on Instagram, Bluesky, and X.

Troop 100 Pancake Breakfast at St. Ann’s

Earlier this month, I stopped by the 34th Annual Boy Scouts of America Troop 100 Pancake Breakfast at St. Ann’s Catholic Church. It was a joy to see scouts, families, and neighbors come together to share a meal and support youth leadership and service. Events like this remind me how much quiet good work happens every weekend in Ward 3, often led by volunteers and our youth.

DCPS Principals at MacArthur High School

On Saturday, November 8, I joined current and former DCPS principals at MacArthur High School. We talked about what is working in our schools, where we are falling short, and how the Council can support school leaders. I always learn a great deal from educators who are on the front lines working to make sure our students are safe, challenged, and supported. It was great to see former Deal principal Mr. Reggie Moss, who was principal when my children attended middle school there.

Janney Elementary 5K

Last Saturday, I had the pleasure of joining the 15^th annual Janney Elementary School 5K and Fun Run. The race brings together students, families, teachers, and neighbors. The energy was high, the cheering was loud, and the commitment to supporting Janney’s teachers and students was clear.

Northwest Neighbors Senior Village Concert

I also attended a recent concert hosted by Northwest Neighbors Village. The music was excellent, but what struck me most was the sense of community among older residents and volunteers. Senior villages play a vital role in helping people age in place with dignity and connection. I am committed to supporting their work at the Council and making sure our policies reflect the needs and contributions of older residents.

Upcoming Advisory Neighborhood Commission Meetings 

ANC3A: Tuesday, December 16, 7:00 p.m., McLean Gardens Ballroom & Zoom 

ANC3B: Thursday, December 13, 7:00 p.m., Zoom 

ANC3C: Monday, December 17, 7:00 p.m., Zoom 

ANC3D: Tuesday, December 3, 7:00 p.m., Zoom   

ANC3E: Thursday, December 4, 7:30 p.m., Zoom  

ANC3F: No Meeting in December 2025

ANC3/4G: Monday, November 24, 6:30 p.m., Zoom  

Upcoming Main Street Holiday Events and Small Business Support

From November 23 to January 3, residents can take part in the DC Holiday Hunt, a citywide scavenger hunt designed to highlight small businesses and encourage people to shop local. As you complete missions across the District, you will discover new stores, revisit old favorites, and help keep holiday spending in our neighborhoods. Ward 3 participants include Cleveland Park Main Street, Chevy Chase Main Street, and the Friendship Heights Alliance.

Van Ness Main Street's Holiday Pop-Up Market on Saturday, December 13, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. There will be more than 20 local artisans and makers along Connecticut Avenue. See the event page for more details.

Also on Saturday, December 13, from noon to 5 p.m., Cleveland Park will host its Winter Market and Festival. The market will feature gifts from local businesses and vendors, along with a full afternoon of activities. There will be yoga in the morning, families can take photos with the Grinch from noon to 3 p.m. and Santa from 2:30 to 5 p.m., and then decorate ornaments or cookies, play games, browse used books, and enjoy a hot chocolate.

Councilmember Matt Frumin

1350 Pennsylvania Avenue NW

Suite 408

202-724-8062