October 3, 2024

Dear neighbors,

It is beginning to cool down, the leaves are changing, and the Council is diving into a busy legislative agenda – fall is here. October 1 marks the start of the new fiscal year, meaning all the bills, programs, and projects funded in the District’s FY25 budget are beginning to take effect.

This week, the Council acted on several important pieces of legislation. We unanimously passed an emergency measure to allocate any money the city receives from the sale of DC Circulator vehicles and assets to help workers who lost their jobs following the elimination of the Circulator. As I discussed in my previous newsletter, there have been numerous issues with the winding down of the Circulator. We must ensure comparable service in the next iteration of WMATA’s bus planning to address the lost Circulator routes. Moreover, while we may or may not have a technical legal obligation to take care of our Circulator employees, it is the right thing to do. The Council action this week will help ensure that we do.

The Council also passed a medical cannabis bill that strengthens prohibitions on packaging that could appeal to children, increases from 300 to 400 feet the minimum distance a licensed dispensary must be from a school or recreation center, and gives standing to daycare centers within 400 feet of a proposed dispensary to protest. Unsafe “gifting” shops that operate outside the regulated market put residents in danger and make it harder for licensed medical cannabis dispensaries to do business. The Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Administration (ABCA) and the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) have recently begun shutting down illegal cannabis businesses and arresting those who operate outside the law. We must continue to shutter gifting shops and allow regulated medical cannabis dispensaries to operate with proper oversight. The bill passed by the Council this week will help on both fronts.

We passed on first reading a bill to increase electric vehicle infrastructure across DC, which would make it easier for residents to choose sustainable vehicle options, and unanimously approved reforms to the Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) to protect the investments we have made in affordable housing. I discuss these ERAP changes and housing more below.

Thanks to students at Powell Elementary School, the Council moved legislation to designate the Red-Backed Salamander as the official state amphibian of the District of Columbia. As one Powell student testified, if we are going to be a state, we are going to need a state amphibian. I was pleased to join my colleagues in voting for the legislation. The deciding factor for me, and several other Councilmembers, was that the salamanders help to control our mosquito population by eating mosquito larvae.

Remember, you can see the full Council calendar at https://dccouncil.gov/events/ and you can watch hearings and roundtables on the DC Council Channel at https://entertainment.dc.gov/service/dc-council-channel-dcc. Stay tuned to my office’s channels including X, Instagram, and future newsletters for updates.

Sincerely,

Matt Frumin

Ward 3 Councilmember

Affordable housing providers in the District face unsustainable rent delinquencies, with more than $100 million in unpaid rent owed to them. Already operating on thin margins, the arrears impact their ability to meet essential costs of maintenance, security, and debt financing and jeopardize access to quality, affordable housing for District residents. A number of properties in our affordable housing stock are at risk of foreclosure, and if they do go into foreclosure, they lose affordability covenants and can be converted to housing that is financially out of reach for many residents. A pattern of foreclosures would also deter new housing investment, further exacerbating our housing and affordable housing challenges. This year, the entirety of the Housing Production Trust Fund is being used to stabilize existing affordable housing; this is a clear illustration of how the current crisis is choking off the creation of new projects. Money is mobile, and it follows the market, so it is critical that DC be an attractive location for investment if we want to maintain and increase housing and affordable housing to meet the needs of our residents. 

This week the Council unanimously passed the Emergency Rental Assistance Reform Emergency Amendment Act to address one facet of rent delinquencies. During the COVID pandemic, the District critically and necessarily instituted measures to help stay evictions during the unprecedented health emergency. Tenants who applied to the Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) were afforded an automatic stay while their application was pending and for every subsequent application, regardless of whether they were approved for assistance. This created a cycle in which it could take years to remove a tenant for non-payment of rent and all too often led to the accrual of tens of thousands of dollars in unpaid rent. With passage of the emergency bill, the judicial process reverts to the status quo before the pandemic and gives judges discretion in determining whether to stay eviction proceedings for ERAP applicants. It also removes self-certification of tenant income from the ERAP process, which was allowed during the pandemic. No one wants evictions and we must support our most vulnerable residents who are struggling to get by. But a market without accountability cannot work. 

The District’s affordability challenges are front and center for the Council this fall, and we need to get creative in how we tackle those challenges. The Urban Institute recently issued a report suggesting it could take $800 million a year to address our housing affordability needs. The need far outweighs the resources in the budget, and we must pull together to preserve and grow affordable housing. 

The emergency legislation is one fix the Council needed to pass urgently, but there is significantly more work to be done to support the entire housing ecosystem. As we do that work, I think it will be important to require maximum financial transparency from landlords. The Council is working to address the issues they face, but landlords must be open to transparency to allow us to accurately and independently assess the needs.

I am committed to being a clear-eyed part of the solution to the real challenges we face in the housing sector.

The Washington Teachers Union and District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS) reached a tentative contract agreement this week. This is exciting news for the thousands of dedicated educators who work hard each day to help our kids learn and grow. During more than a year of negotiations, I encouraged DCPS to come to the table and support teachers with healthy working conditions and fair compensation to recruit and retain the educators that are so critical to our public schools. Final details are still to come, but this tentative agreement is promising, and I am encouraged to see it is a 5-year agreement, which means teachers and DCPS can focus on educating our students and not on another contract negotiation process looming. My thanks to WTU President Jacqueline Pogue Lyons, Mayor Muriel Bowser, and DCPS Chancellor Lewis Ferebee for collaborating, compromising, and finding consensus.

On September 25, Councilmember Pinto, along with Councilmember Henderson and myself, introduced legislation that would exclude from taxation interest on out-of-state municipal bonds acquired prior to January 1, 2025. Income from municipal bonds was previously exempt from District taxes, but in the FY25 budget, the Council changed the law to require taxation on out-of-state municipal bonds in an attempt to bring the District in line with how many other states tax municipal bonds. Residents voiced serious concerns about the impact this would have on retirees living on fixed incomes reliant on municipal bond interest.

The proposed Fair Taxation of Municipal Bonds Amendment Act would maintain the tax exemption for bonds that were already held, since those had been purchased with the understanding that the bond interest would not be taxed, allowing retirees with fixed incomes to maintain their livelihood. Tax due on out-of-state bonds will not be paid by taxpayers until the spring of 2026, when 2025 taxes are filed. This introduction is an important first step, but there is more to do in a short window of time including holding a hearing and vote. We are making every effort to pass this protection into law and secure funding to protect a stable financial future for our seniors who are impacted.

Growing Concerns Regarding Mail Theft

According to data from the Government Accountability Office, communities across the country have seen a rise in postal crime. DC residents have voiced their concerns about this issue, including residents in a Ward 5 community who say their mail has been stolen and even burned. I have also heard from residents about lost mail and delivery delays. It is imperative that the postal service functions safely, reliably, and efficiently. The United States Postal Service (USPS) is a federal entity, and while the DC Council does not have oversight authority over USPS, my Council colleagues and I have raised our concerns with federal officials. DC Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton reached out to USPS in August and again on September 23 to request community meetings and USPS action on this issue. You can find her September letter on her website.

Constituents have conveyed to me their concerns about paying taxes through the mail given the issues with USPS. I understand those concerns, and I want to remind residents of additional options for paying their taxes. The Office of Tax and Revenue (OTR) allows the use of ACH debit (electronic check), credit/debit cards, and direct debit. For more information, visit OTR’s webpage regarding payment options for individual income tax.

To report stolen mail in Washington, DC, you can contact the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) by calling 1-877-876-2455 or visiting www.uspis.gov to find your local post office or postal inspector. You can also file a complaint about theft, fraud, or waste by a USPS employee or at a USPS facility by contacting the USPS Office of the Inspector General (OIG) online or calling 1-888-USPS-OIG (1-888-877-7644). You can also file a police report in the District of Columbia.

DC Water Updates

In my previous newsletter, I provided updates from DC Water regarding ongoing infrastructure maintenance projects, including the Soapstone Valley Park Sewer Rehabilitation project. On September 24, DC Water informed me, along with ANC 3F, that their team encountered an unexpected 72-inch storm drain, which has required a reassessment of their shoring strategy. The latest information I have received is that DC Water has narrowed down their shoring options and is nearing a final decision. Once the most suitable shoring system is selected, it will be submitted for approval.

DC Water stressed trench safety is a paramount concern in construction projects, emphasizing that choosing the appropriate shoring system is critical to worker safety. Federal safety regulations mandate specific standards for trench shoring to prevent cave-ins and other hazards. DC Water emphasized they are committed to adhering to these regulations and ensuring a safe working environment.

My office continues to engage with DC Water for the latest updates, and I appreciate residents’ understanding of this unforeseen challenge. I will provide more updates on the project timeline and shoring selection as soon as possible.

For more information, please contact DC Water Construction Project Manager Peter Tinubu at (202) 787-4337 or Peter.Tinubu@dcwater.com, or Director of Community Affairs at (202) 787-2003 or Emanuel.Briggs@dcwater.com.

DDOT Roadway Improvement Project on Western Ave

District Department of Transportation (DDOT) shared notice of three improvement projects in Ward 3. DC Water utility conflicts and weather have delayed DDOT’s Roadway Improvement project along Western Avenue NW, between Pinehurst Circle NW and Aberfoyle Place NW, but the department informed my office that DC Water is completing work on a trench and DDOT resurfacing will begin as soon as that is done. DDOT is also undertaking Sidewalk Improvement projects scheduled to start on October 9 along Cathedral Avenue NW, between New Mexico Avenue NW and Idaho Avenue NW as well as along New Mexico Avenue, NW, between 43rd Street NW and Cathedral Avenue NW. DDOT estimates these three projects will take approximately two weeks to complete once they have started, weather permitting.

The three projects include concrete repair of curbs, sidewalks, and gutters, and the roadway work also includes resurfacing of the asphalt pavement within the project limits. Due to the nature of the work, curbside parking will be restricted at these locations during construction. At least one lane of traffic will be maintained throughout the construction areas. The contractors for the projects are allowed to perform asphalt resurfacing work and concrete repair work between the hours of 9:30 am and 3:30 pm Monday through Friday and 7:00 am to 7:00 pm on Saturdays. Please note the temporary “EMERGENCY NO PARKING” signs displaying the date and time of the construction work and move your vehicle if necessary.

For more information, contact Mr. Delante Toyer at delante.toyer@dc.gov, or 202-673-6813.

Leaf Season Is Coming

Leaf collection season is almost here! Collection will begin on October 28, and DPW will update residents weekly about when crews will be in their neighborhood. Once collections begin, visit https://dpw.dc.gov/leaf to track leaf collection or download the MyDPW App for leaf collection updates.

Sidewalk Shoveling Exemption

DPW enforces the Winter Sidewalk Safety Act (WSSA), which requires District residents to remove snow and ice from the paved sidewalks, curb ramps, and curb cuts abutting their property after a snowstorm. The Sidewalk Shoveling Exemption Program (SSEP) exempts qualified residents who are disabled and/or 65 or older; the exemption is valid for two consecutive snow seasons. Once approved, residents must apply every other year to DPW to continue to receive the exemption.

All individuals who are accepted into the 2024-2025 exemption program will receive a certificate of acceptance from the Department of Public Works Solid Waste Education and Enforcement Program (SWEEP) for the Sidewalk Shoveling Exemption Program period November 1, 2024 – March 31, 2025. Any resident found to be ineligible for exemption last year must re-apply by October 31, 2024, to be considered for the current exemption period. Residents who fill out an application will be considered for the next exemption period. Click here to apply for the Sidewalk Shoveling Exemption.

DDOT Notices of Intent to Modify Traffic and/or Parking Requirements in Ward 3

• NOI-24-185-PSD: Installation of Two-way Protected Bike Lanes on Jenifer and 44th Streets NW
• NOI-24-267-TOA: Installation of Diplomatic Parking Zone along the 2800 Block of 36th PL NW

September Workday In The Ward

It was a pleasure to meet with neighbors at my recent Workday in the Ward at Dolan Uyghur Restaurant in Cleveland Park on September 26. I heard from residents about issues that matter to them including public safety, our 911 emergency response, and transportation. Residents also met with my constituent services and legislative staff and with our District agency partners. My thanks to DC Public Schools, Office of the Attorney General, Metropolitan Police Department, Department of Behavioral Health, Department of Aging and Community Living, Department of Public Works, Department of Transportation, Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection, and the Department of Buildings for their participation. My next Workday in the Ward is scheduled for October 24; stay tuned to my newsletter and social channels for more details to come. 

Burke School Voter Registration Drive

On September 26, I spoke to high schoolers at the Edmund Burke School ahead of their student-led voter registration drive. Young people will have a huge impact on this election, and more than 8 million will be eligible to vote for the first time. I encouraged Burke students to be engaged and not take our democracy and right to vote for granted. As the Greek leader Pericles said, “Just because you do not take an interest in politics, doesn't mean politics won't take an interest in you.” It was encouraging and invigorating to speak with young, passionate DC students who want to be informed and engaged in the issues that are important to them.

Art All Night in Ward 3

Art All Night 2024 was an amazing weekend showcasing the diverse visual and performing arts DC has to offer. Congratulations to the Glover Park, Cleveland Park, and Tenleytown Main Streets for their exciting events in Ward 3. It was wonderful to see so many people enjoying great food, live music, dancing, pottery, painting, and more!

UDC New Athletic Field Opening

US News recently ranked the University of the District of Columbia among the top 25 HBCUs, and on September 28, I had the privilege of cutting the ribbon for a new UDC athletic field. This field is just one example that reflects President Maurice Edington’s vision for a world-class flagship university for the nation’s capital. The $6.3 million field investment is part of the District’s commitment to campus improvements that also include a new library, research labs, student success center, and a new home for the DC Archives and the UDC Archives, which will include office, research, exhibit, meeting, archival storage, and document processing space.

Week Without Driving Challenge

I bike most days, and this week I even biked to work in the rain for the #WeekWithoutDriving challenge to spread awareness and show support for safe and accessible transit options. Visit http://weekwithoutdriving.org to learn more. Equitable access to multimodal transportation options will support improved health outcomes, a cleaner environment, and expanded economic opportunity across the District. With new investments in public transportation and infrastructure for pedestrians and cyclists, we can ensure neighbors can travel across Ward 3 and the city conveniently. This includes ensuring safe routes to school for students and accessible facilities for seniors and people with disabilities.

Upcoming Advisory Neighborhood Commission Meetings

ANC3A: Tuesday, October 15, 7 pm, at the McLean Gardens Ballroom & Zoom 

ANC3B: Thursday, October 10, 7 pm, Zoom

ANC3C: Monday, October 21, 7 pm, Zoom 

ANC3D: Wednesday, October 9, 7 pm, Zoom    

ANC3E: Monday, November 6, 7:30 pm, Zoom 

ANC3F: Tuesday, October 15, 7 pm, Zoom  

ANC3/4G: Monday, October 21, 7 pm, at Chevy Chase Community Center & Zoom

First Fridays on Chevy Chase Main Street

First Friday in Chevy Chase is October 4 from 3:00 to 7:00 pm. Attendees can enjoy business specials and family-friendly activities along the Chevy Chase corridor. This edition celebrates the beginning of fall with Howl-O-Ween, a pet costume show and competition. The costume show will take place in front of Child’s Play, 5536 Connecticut Avenue NW, followed by a pet parade to nearby businesses. Click here for more details.

UDC Van Ness Farmers Market

Shop fresh produce, prepared foods, and handmade goods at the UDC Van Ness farmers market, a partnership with National Latino Farmers and Ranchers, on Saturday October 5 from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm outside of the UDC Student Center at 4200 Connecticut Avenue NW.

Sidewalk Palooza Extravaganza

October 5, 2024, from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, ANC3C hosts their 2024 Sidewalk Palooza Extravaganza, featuring trash pickup, washable sidewalk chalking, and making 311 requests. Sidewalk Palooza is an effort to promote pedestrian safety and raise awareness of issues that impact our daily lives and accessibility for all. There are rally points in all eight Single Member Districts (SMDs) in ANC3C that you can view on the event flyer. You can also view a map of the route and sign up to attend here. Questions about both events can be directed to Janell Pagats via 3C03@anc.dc.gov. 

Councilmember Matt Frumin

1350 Pennsylvania Avenue NW

Suite 408

202-724-8062