September 17, 2026

Dear Neighbors,

This past week, I was honored to participate in the District’s commemoration of September 11, 2001, marking 25 years since the tragic attacks here in DC, New York, and on United Flight 93 in Pennsylvania. Continuing a meaningful tradition started by my predecessor Mary Cheh, I visited firehouses across Ward 3 and attended the District’s official ceremony downtown. It is always a humbling reminder of the bravery and sacrifice of our first responders.

Fall often feels like a new year in the District. With students back in school, the Jewish High Holidays, and the Council returning for our fall work period, there is a fresh sense of energy. To all observing the holidays, I wish you a very happy and sweet new year.

Our return to the Council marks both a beginning and a coming end. The return from recess marks the start of the final months of the current two-year Council Period. This is always a busy time as the Council makes a final push to bring pending legislation to closure, while also framing ideas for future deliberation in the next Council Period that begins in January.

We have a lot on our plate for the next three months. Two immediate items I am working on right now include the Chevy Chase Civic Core and the introduction of legislation to tax pieds-à-terre. You can learn more about both of these efforts in the articles below.

I am also thrilled to share some wonderful news about our local parks. After months of advocacy, the Chevy Chase Playground slide has been repaired, the ground surface is fixed, and the loose rocks have been removed. Also, the basketball court lights at the Chevy Chase Recreation Center have been upgraded and the courts will reopen tomorrow, weather permitting. I am deeply grateful to Ashlee Mercer and my entire Constituent Services team for their hard work and dedication to help get these projects across the finish line. Come check out the improvements at Chevy Chase Day on Saturday (more event details below).

In This Newsletter

In addition to more information about the Chevy Chase Civic Core and pied-à-terre legislation, this edition of my newsletter includes the Committee on Human Services’ recent tour of the Golden Triangle Business Improvement District, yesterday’s mark-up of resolutions confirming Board of Library Trustees nominees, next week’s Workday in the Ward in Glover Park, transportation work notices and opportunities for comment, guidance from the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) to prevent theft, DC Water repair work, National Library Card Sign-Up Month, as well as District Government and community events.  

Sincerely,

Matt Frumin

Ward 3 Councilmember

The District faces a difficult combination of macroeconomic forces that are driving the need for additional tax revenue. According to the most recent estimate by the Chief Financial Officer, the District has lost 47,000 jobs year over year, while federal employment in the District has declined by 28,000 jobs since January 2025. The unemployment rate and the office vacancy rate sit at 6.1 percent and 18.5 percent, respectively. The 12-month average number of building permits, which serves as a rough gauge of overall economic activity, was down 23 percent from a year earlier. At the same time, rising prices are increasing the District’s cost of delivering services and repairing and expanding infrastructure. Most recently, the Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) price index, which is a key inflation measure, was 4.1 percent—substantially outpacing tax receipts.

To help address this, yesterday I introduced the “Pied-à-Terre Property Tax Amendment Act of 2026.” Across the District, there are homeowners who are careful to live in the District for one day less than the 183-day statutory residency test and instead establish residency in a low- or no-tax state. This bill is targeted at these wealthy homeowners who benefit from District infrastructure, services, and amenities but do not pay District income taxes. This tax avoidance strategy increases the burden on District residents.

The bill creates a new property tax category for homes valued at $2.558 million or greater that are maintained as second homes  (i.e., the owner is not taking homestead deduction) and taxes them at a rate of $2.50 per $100 of assessed value. This tax rate equates to half the vacant property tax rate, reflecting the reality that these homes are effectively vacant at least half the year. It exempts properties that are undergoing construction, have a long-term tenant paying market rent, are owned by federal appointees or members of Congress, or are actively for sale or rent at market rates for a period of not more than nine months. The idea is to target only those homes held for part-time residency as a pied-à-terre and to thereby avoid income tax in the District.

Over the four-year financial plan, this legislation is expected to raise more than $130 million to support District priorities, including homeless services, education, health care, and public safety, to name only a few.

On Friday, October 16, the Committee of the Whole will hold a hearing on tax policy. I have been working on this legislation for several years and have now introduced the bill to ensure it is appropriately included in this important conversation.

Chevy Chase Civic Core Surplus Disposition

Yesterday, the mayor submitted the “Chevy Chase Surplus Declaration and Disposition Approval Act of 2026” for Council consideration. The proposed legislation will be available on the DC Legislative Information Management System (LIMS) in the next few days, and I anticipate it will be referred to the Committee on Facilities and the Committee on Human Services.

I look forward to working closely with Councilmember Janeese Lewis George, who chairs the Committee on Facilities, and collaborating to initiate the hearing process likely in mid-October to allow time for stakeholder review and community feedback. 

As a reminder, the development team, Rift Valley Partners, has proposed to redevelop the Civic Core into a modern, mixed-use civic and residential hub. They will modernize our library and community center, while doubling the open green space and adding much needed affordable and market rate housing to the site.

The latest proposal represents a thoughtful effort to respond to the issues raised during our community process. I am very encouraged that, of the 177 housing units, the number of affordable units has increased to 90, which means the project is now more than 50 percent affordable. Crucially, this includes both deeply affordable and workforce housing. At the same time, the overall scale of the building has been reduced from the original proposal in an effort to address concerns about how it will transition into the surrounding neighborhood. This revised plan shows a clear effort to balance community feedback from all sides.

That feedback has been gathered through multiple community meetings, surveys, and comment opportunities offered by the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development (DMPED), the DC Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR), and the DC Public Library (DCPL). I want to thank the many neighbors who have shared their priorities for this space. In addition to the upcoming hearing process, there will continue to be an ongoing engagement and information sharing process. Most immediately, DCPL will be holding community meetings in the coming months. I will share any dates and meeting details once they are finalized. 

My goal remains to ensure the Civic Core and its library and community center continue to fully serve the community for decades to come.

Board of Library Trustees Confirmations

Yesterday, the committee advanced confirmations for Denise Rolark Barnes and Mary Early to serve on the Board of Library Trustees. The full Council will vote on their nominations at the September 22, 2026, legislative meeting. We are grateful for their willingness to serve the District. You can find more information about the committee meeting on the Council website.

Golden Triangle Business Improvement District Tour

On September 8, my staff and I toured the Golden Triangle Business Improvement District (BID) and discussed challenges and opportunities for both development and human services within the BID. BIDs are incredible partners for the District. They do essential work to keep our commercial corridors clean, safe, and welcoming. By bringing local stakeholders together, BIDs support small businesses, enhance our public spaces, and help foster the vibrant neighborhoods we all enjoy. Moving forward, we are committed to supporting the BID's work connecting high-needs unhoused residents with critical services, while collaborating on economic development strategies to address office vacancies and transform underutilized spaces into residential homes.

Save the date for my next Workday in the Ward on Thursday, September 24, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. in Glover Park at Point Chaud Café and Crepes (2300 Wisconsin Ave NW).

• Open Office Hours: I will be present in the morning from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. for drop-in visits to share your questions, ideas, or concerns.
• Agency Support: My staff and District agency representatives will also be present at scheduled times throughout the day.

Whether you need help navigating a city service issue, want to discuss policy, or just want to say hello, please stop by.

To help accommodate attendees, residents are asked to complete this form to reserve a spot to meet with staff and agency representatives at Workday in the Ward. Reservations are not required and walk-ins will still be accepted.

Schedule for the Day:

• 8:00 to 10:00 a.m.: Coffee with Councilmember Frumin.
• 8:00 to 11:00 a.m.: Ashlee Mercer (Constituent Services Director), Kevin DeGood (Legislative Director), and Kevin Caudill (Communications Director).
• 9:00 to 10:00 a.m.: DC Prevention Center; Public Service Commission (PSC)
• 10:00 to 11:00 a.m.: Metropolitan Police Department (MPD)
• 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.: Trisha Kondabala (Legislative Assistant) and Shantise Wynn-Brown (Constituent Services Specialist & Scheduler).
• 12:00 to 1:00 p.m.: Department of Buildings (DOB)
• 1:00 to 2:00 p.m.: Department of Transportation (DDOT)
• 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.: Nora Charles (Legislative Assistant), Ricardo Garcia (Constituent Services Coordinator)

Transportation Work Notices & Public Comments

The District Department of Transportation (DDOT) has issued several updates regarding upcoming infrastructure work and safety improvements across Ward 3:

• V Street & 49th Street NW Safety Improvements (NOI #26-254-PSD): As part of the Sidewalk Gap Program, DDOT plans to install a new marked crosswalk on V Street NW at 49th Street NW, along with ADA ramps and daylighting measures. Daylighting restricts parking near the intersection to improve visibility for pedestrians and drivers alike. A 30-day public comment period is open through October 27, 2026. Residents can review the proposal on the DDOT NOI Portal and submit written feedback to Transportation Specialist Misgana Lemecha at misgana.lemecha@dc.gov.

• McKinley Street NW Roadway Resurfacing: DDOT will conduct manhole, curb, gutter, and roadway resurfacing work on McKinley Street NW from 39th Street NW to Belt Road NW. Work is scheduled from September 23 to October 9, 2026, between 9:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. on weekdays, and 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Saturdays. Emergency No Parking signs will be posted 72 hours in advance. For questions, contact Project Manager Ebenezer Acheampong at 202-369-2299 or Ebenezer.Acheampong@dc.gov.

• Tennyson Street NW Sidewalk Spot Repairs: Sidewalk, curb, gutter, and wheelchair ramp repairs are underway on Tennyson Street NW from 33rd Street NW to Western Avenue through September 30, 2026. Authorized work hours are Monday through Saturday, 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Note for nearby neighbors: Please do not apply salt to the newly poured concrete for one year to prevent damage during the curing process; use sand or sawdust instead for winter safety. For questions, contact Project Manager Victor Nwabueze at 202-369-9851 or victor.nwabueze@dc.gov.

MPD Guidance: Preventing Vehicle & Catalytic Converter Theft

The Metropolitan Police Department’s (MPD) Second District has issued a safety advisory regarding recent vehicle-related crimes in our community. MPD reports a pattern of catalytic converter thefts, with Toyota Prius models being targeted most frequently. Additionally, high-end vehicles continue to account for a significant portion of recent auto thefts across the area.

MPD offers the following key prevention tips to help protect your vehicle:

• Park safely: Choose well-lit, high-visibility areas whenever possible.
• Lock up and turn off: Always lock your vehicle and take your keys or key fob with you. Never leave your car running unattended, even for a quick moment.
• Secure valuables: Keep all personal belongings out of sight.
• Use visible anti-theft devices: Consider using a steering wheel lock or installing an immobilizer or tracking system.
• Protect your catalytic converter: Installing a catalytic converter shield can serve as an effective deterrent against theft.

For more updates and safety resources, you can connect directly with the MPD Second District Community Outreach team.

DC Water Potomac Interceptor Sewer Repairs

DC Water recently announced the completion of critical repairs on a 490-foot section of the Potomac Interceptor sewer line at Broad Run in Loudoun County. This marks the second of four high-priority repair projects finished along the 54-mile sewer system after inspections earlier this year identified serious corrosion and structural wear. Crews restored the pipe to like-new condition by installing a new concrete-like lining and a hardened-in-place flexible liner. Repairs to a 600-foot section near Dulles International Airport were completed last month.

Work continues at the two remaining high-priority locations:

• Pennyfield Lock (Potomac, MD): Crews repaired the most critical 175-foot section in late July and are currently managing groundwater while preparing two large pits to install new pipe along the remainder of the 1,700-foot project site.
• Clara Barton Parkway (MD-DC Line): A temporary bypass pumping system is actively maintaining wastewater flow while crews install a protective lining and prepare to insert a new corrosion-resistant pipe. Neighbors in the immediate area around the site may notice temporary sewer odors; DC Water emphasizes these do not pose a health risk and is deploying odor control measures.

For full project updates, visit DC Water’s release or learn more at dcwater.com/potomacinterceptor.

September is National Library Card Sign-Up Month!

A DC Public Library card is your ticket to endless possibilities. It’s a great way to get a good book, but today’s library offers so much more: hands-on experiences that spark curiosity, encourage creativity, and bring neighbors together. With a library card, you can access welcoming spaces built for learning and connection, places to build new skills, advance your career, preserve family memories, meet fellow residents, and enjoy moments that strengthen the fabric of our city.

During National Library Card Sign-Up Month, I encourage you to sign up for a library card—or renew yours—and explore everything your neighborhood library provides. Click here to see how DC Public Library helps residents grow, connect, and thrive.

District Services & Citywide Events Calendars

Looking for upcoming dates for District services such as document shredding, household hazardous waste collection, or electronics recycling? Residents can view updated listings and track upcoming services directly through these official District resources:

• Department of Public Works (DPW) Events Calendar: Visit the DPW Events Page for dates and locations regarding household hazardous waste collection, paper shredding, and electronics recycling.
• Comprehensive District Calendar: Bookmark the DC.gov Citywide Calendar to explore public hearings, agency workshops, and community events across the District.

Residents can also subscribe to agency-specific communications, such as DPW newsletter and other agencies, through the District of Columbia GovDelivery subscription page. Enter your email address (and phone number if you want SMS updates) and select what agencies you want to hear from and the topics you want to hear about.

Art All Night in Ward 3

Art All Night returned to Ward 3 this year, with activations in Chevy Chase, Cleveland Park, Glover Park, Tenleytown, Van Ness, Forest Hills, and Wakefield. It was great to spend time with neighbors enjoying local artists, creators, and performances. It is always special to see the tremendous talent on display every year. Thank you to all who helped make the event possible.

Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) Meetings

ANC3A: Tuesday, October 20, 7:00 p.m., Zoom

ANC3B: Thursday, October 8, 7:00 p.m., Zoom

ANC3C: Tuesday, September 22, 7:00 p.m., Zoom 

ANC3D: Wednesday, October 7, 7:00 p.m., Zoom  

ANC3E: Thursday, October 8, 7:30 p.m., Zoom

ANC3F: Tuesday, October 20, 7:00 p.m., Zoom

ANC3/4G: Monday, September 28, 7:00 p.m., Zoom

Chevy Chase DC Day and Woodley Park Day - September 19: Join me, local Advisory Neighborhood Commissioners, and other Councilmembers on Saturday, September 19, for an afternoon dedicated to celebrating community, local art, and neighborhood spirit. Both Chevy Chase DC Day and Woodley Park Day will take place that afternoon. These events are completely free, family-friendly, and open to all residents.

Chevy Chase DC Day

• Time: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
• Location: Chevy Commons (surrounding the Chevy Chase Library and Community Center at 5601 Connecticut Ave NW)

Woodley Park Day

• Time: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
• Location: Along the Connecticut Avenue corridor in Woodley Park

Cleveland Park Night Market – Thursday, September 24, from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m.: Mark your calendars for the final Night Market of the season, featuring live music, local food vendors, and family-friendly fun on the Promenade along the 3300 block of Connecticut Avenue NW.

Please welcome Ricardo Garcia, Constituent Services Coordinator, to my team. Ricardo brings several years of direct experience working with District residents through his roles in community schools, affordable housing programs, and community organizing across the DMV. In these positions, he supported families navigating education systems, housing challenges, and public sector resources. Ricardo graduated from Carleton College in 2021 with a bachelor’s degree in sociology and anthropology. He then earned his master’s degree in education policy and leadership from American University in 2025. To reach Ricardo and my Constituent Services team, residents can go to the Constituent Services page on my website.

Councilmember Matt Frumin

1350 Pennsylvania Avenue NW

Suite 408

202-724-8062