Year End Accomplishments and Thanks

Every year, the holiday season seems to start a little earlier and glow a little brighter. This year was no different with holiday items in stores as early as September and more tree lightings and public holiday events this year than ever before. But, as we begin the holiday season in earnest, I think it’s important to reflect on the past year and to give thanks for all the blessings we enjoy.

Even though I’m elected to be a legislator, I always say half my job is working in the neighborhoods—perhaps the more important half and often the most rewarding. We were able to make some great improvements across the ward this year with renovations to Rose Park in Georgetown, Stead Park in Dupont Circle and Mitchell Park in Kalorama. We saw the beginning of renovations at Hyde-Addison School and the School Without Walls at Francis-Stevens, and the plan to renovate the Stevens School building for use by a school that helps students with developmental disabilities has finally been given approval by the Council. And just this week, we broke ground on Monday for the West End Library. I want to say thank you to all the committed community members who helped make these projects possible.

On the legislative side, we rewrote our tax code to lower taxes for nearly every resident and to expand the Earned Income Tax Credit to help those at the lower end of the income spectrum, and we increased the minimum wage in the District to $11.50 in three annual step increases. These two measures will help promote affordability, diversity and accessibility within the District. Also, of particular importance in Ward 2, my bill to incentivize businesses to buy trash compactors (and prevent rats) passed the Council earlier this month. It has been an honor to work with my colleagues on the Council and Mayor Gray to accomplish these efforts.

I say it often, but I really do have the best staff here at the Council. My office participated in the Council’s food drive again this year, and we appreciated the ability to give directly to families in need. Beyond this, throughout the year, my staff and I are out in the community at neighborhood civic associations, meetings with neighbors and agencies to address problems in the ward and attending community events. I have to say thank you to my dedicated staffers for making their support of our neighbors and residents a 24/7 commitment.

In closing, my family and I, as well as my staff, would like to wish you and yours a happy holiday season. This is always a wonderful time to spend with friends and family—and enjoy a little reflection. Happy New Year, and we will see you again in January!