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IN THIS NEWSLETTER:  

• Tomorrow - Dunbar HS Homecoming Parade
• October 25 - North Capitol Sidewalk Expansion Survey Closes
• October 25 - MBT Trail or Treat with Ward 5 Family Biking
• October 25 - Brookland Halloween Parade + Party
• October 28 - Ward 5 Public Safety Call
• November 3 - General Election Day
• November 5 - Public Hearing on Federal Presence
• November 6 - Union Wesley Way Street Designation Ceremony
• ...and more!

The General Election is coming up on November 3, and early voting begins this Monday, October 26! Now is the time to make your plan to vote. By now, you should have received your mail-in ballot. You can turn that in at any Board of Elections drop box across the city, or you can make a plan to vote in-person during early voting, or vote on Election Day, November 3. Whatever method you choose, be sure to vote and play your part in our democracy. Not registered to vote? Same-day voter registration is available at the polls during Early Voting and Election Day voting. 

Earlier this week, DC Attorney General Brian Schwalb issued an advisory on Protecting District Residents' Right to Vote. In it, he reminds neighbors of their right to vote in a free and fair election without intimidation, coercion, or outside interference. If you witness or experience interference with our local elections, please report potential violations to the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) and the DC Board of Elections (BOE). 

I know concerns about election interference are especially heightened as the National Guard occupation and increased federal presence continue in the District. As the Attorney General states in his advisory, "An array of federal statutes bars federal employees, law enforcement, and the military from using their official power to interfere with an election." Again, please report any concerns to the OAG and BOE. 

I also continue to witness and hear from neighbors about increasing numbers of National Guard and other federal agents patrolling residential Ward 5 neighborhoods. I have been clear from the beginning of the occupation: it is unnecessary, unhelpful, and it is not making us any safer. Our National Guardsmen and women are heroes who are trained to respond to natural disasters and national emergencies, neither of which are occurring in the District. Not only this, but they are not trained to conduct the important work of community policing and relationship building necessary for true public safety. On November 5, the Council's Committee on the Judiciary and Public Safety is holding a public hearing on Heightened Federal Law Enforcement and National Guard Activities in the District. I will be there to raise the many concerns I've heard from neighbors, and hope you will also considering submitting written testimony or signing up to testify. 

In today's edition of the Ward 5 Weekly, you'll also find: 

public safety updates including the next Ward 5 Public Safety Call on October 28; traffic disruptions in the Edgewood/Brookland area this month and in Bloomingdale/Truxton Circle tomorrow for the Dunbar HS Homecoming Parade; Notices of Intent modifying traffic/parking requirements in Ward 5; the reopening of LIHEAP applications; Office of Planning Neighborhood Tours and Office Hours as part of DC2050 beginning tomorrow through December; an opportunity to weigh in on DC's 2030 Historic Preservation Plan (until November 6); the Union Wesley Way Street Designation Ceremony on November 6; legislative updates in Neferteria's Nook; programs to benefit from featuring the free vaccines for pets tomorrow; and community events including the Brookland Halloween Parade and Party on Sunday! Keep scrolling for more.

Last Saturday was a beautiful, busy fall day in Ward 5. From the adorable lambs at the Franciscan Monastery Garden Guild's Fall Festival, to the North Michigan Park clean-up, Brookland Manor Health Fair, and Eckington Day, my team and I had a great time getting outside and connecting with neighbors. 

On Monday, I convened a roundtable and site walk with MPD, DPR, ANC 5F01 Commissioner Jones, ANC 5F Chair Bishop-Henchman, ANC 5F Public Safety and Health Chair Daniel Ehrenpreis, and leaders from Beacon House to address public safety concerns in and around the Edgewood Recreation Center. This convening was in response to a recent shooting at the rec center that sent a juvenile to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, along with a number of other site concerns my team and I have documented over several months. The goal of this time was to come away with targeted next steps for agencies and leaders, and you can read a more thorough recap of those takeaways in the Public Safety Updates section of the newsletter below. 

Also on Monday, my team and I toured Hyacinth's Place in Trinidad. Hyacinth's Place is a permanent, affordable housing program that provides comprehensive therapeutic and social re-integration services for homeless women with a mental illness diagnosis. As we work to lower rates of homelessness and of mental illness in the District, programs like the one Hyacinth's Place provides are essential. 

Monday evening, my team joined seniors who gathered for the Edgewood Residents Council meeting at 635 Edgewood and introduced Kelley Cislo as my office's new Ward 5 seniors lead. Empower DC shared information about tenant supports, including the Eviction Defense Fund, Housing Conditions Action Hub, and Tenant Power Meeting. Residents were also treated to pizza and a fun night of bingo!

Tuesday, the Council held a lengthy Committee of the Whole meeting before an Additional Legislative Meeting. Key points of discussion included rat abatement efforts, housing conditions, and business noise complaints. As always, you can read a thorough recap of the bills, votes, and more in Neferteria's Nook below.

On Wednesday, I participated in the Committee of the Whole's public hearing on Career and Technical Education and Advanced Technical Centers. One of the things I hear most often from older Ward 5 neighbors is about the rich history of vocational schools in the District. As we seek to equip young people with opportunities for high-demand careers, our investment in the city's career and technical education entities is key to success. You can read a recap of the hearing in Neferteria's Nook below.

Yesterday and today, my team and I have been catching up on a number of constituent services requests, preparing for several upcoming hearings, and planning markups and votes for the end of the Council Period. 

Tomorrow, my office is excited to support the Dunbar Senior High School Homecoming Parade. We were proud to help bring planning for the parade across the finish line by securing an emergency meeting with the Mayor’s Special Events Task Group (MSETG), supporting coordination with the ANC to secure grant funding, and escalating a request to DMPED’s Special Event Relief Fund to help cover event costs. Neighbors who live near Dunbar should be mindful of street closures and traffic impacts during the parade tomorrow. You can find the full traffic advisory at this link, but here's a quick overview: 

• On Saturday, October 24, 2026, from 6:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., the following streets will be posted as Emergency No Parking:
  • O Street from First Street to New Jersey Avenue, NW
  • N Street from First Street, NW to 3rd Street, NW
  • First Street from Q Street to N Street, NW
  • Q Street from 3rd Street to First Street, NW
  • 3rd Street from O Street to Q Street, NW
• From 9:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., the following streets will be closed to vehicle traffic:
  • N Street from New York Avenue to New Jersey Avenue, NW
  • O Street from North Capitol Street to New Jersey Avenue, NW
  • P Street from North Capitol Street to New Jersey Avenue, NW
  • Bates Street from North Capitol Street to 3rd Street, NW
  • Q Street from 4th Street to Florida Avenue, NW
  • First Street from New York Avenue to Florida Avenue, NW
  • 3rd Street from New Jersey Avenue to R Street, NW
  • Kirby Street from New York Avenue to N Street, NW
  • Morgan Street from Kirby Street to New Jersey Avenue, NW

Edgewood Safety Roundtable

Earlier this week, my office convened a roundtable of key stakeholders at the Edgewood Recreation Center—MPD, DPR, ANC commissioners, and Beacon House leaders. We have witnessed firsthand the conditions in and around the rec center for months, with escalating concerns with regards to trash maintenance, parking and traffic flow, public safety, and building maintenance. The goal of the roundtable was to bring each stakeholder to the table to develop an action plan for addressing several areas of concern. Below is a summary of takeaways from the roundtable: 

• Event Planning and Public Safety Coordination: Organizations will now work to share calendar schedules of upcoming games and permitted events to allow MPD time to anticipate public safety needs and plan resources accordingly.
• MPD Patrols: MPD will work to increase its visibility around Edgewood Recreation Center by adjusting current dedicated patrol coverage in the area. This will especially align with periods of increased activity at the rec center.
• Parking and Traffic Enforcement: Parking enforcement efforts will be increased, with particular attention to illegal parking along Lincoln Road during sporting events and other activities.
• Clean-up and Grounds Maintenance: DPR will work to clarify exact timing of roving clean-up crews, scheduled to operate two shifts daily. DPR will also coordinate with other organizations utilizing the recreation center to strengthen clean-up efforts following sporting events and other activities.
• Streamlined Communication: We will be following up with all the agencies involved to ensure communication among agencies are better coordinated for event planning, addressing emerging concerns, and timely follow-up on new issues that arise.

We encourage neighbors to continue to share with us the issues they are seeing on the ground and to flag any additional concerns for our office so we can work with agencies to address them in a timely manner. We rely on your partnership to ensure community safety and will continue to tackle any challenges that arise as comprehensively as possible.

MPD Reports

• MPD is seeking the community's assistance in identifying a suspect in a burglary that occurred on August 10, 2026 at approximately 2:30 p.m. in the unit block of P St NW.
• MPD is seeking the community's assistance in identifying suspects in a series of armed robberies that occurred on October 20, 2026 between 1:00 a.m. and 3:00 a.m. in Northeast. 

Ward 5 Public Safety Call - October 28

The next Ward 5 Public Safety Call will be on October 28 at 3:00 p.m. via Zoom and livestream. Register to join us here! These recurring calls are a unique opportunity for residents to hear directly from public safety agencies and partners, get updates on recent incidents, and ask questions. This month's call will highlight the recent incidents in and around the Turkey Thicket area and Edgewood area, along with situational updates from all three police districts that touch Ward 5 (3D, 4D, and 5D).

Sometimes neighbors inquire about the 3:00 p.m. time given its inconvenience for the typical working hours. Unfortunately, when we are coordinating with several MPD commanders and assistant chiefs, along with leading representatives from other District agencies, we have to pick a daytime slot that works for everyone. If you're unable to join us live, you can catch the recording afterward on my YouTube channel here, and as always, we'll share the recording and slides in the subsequent Ward 5 Weekly Newsletter. 

The District Department of Transportation (DDOT) advises neighbors to expect delays due to sidewalk and lane closures for work related to the DC Power Line Undergrounding (DC PLUG) initiative. There are no full roadway closures; however, sidewalks and lanes will be restricted during work hours.

Traffic controls, including signage, will be in place to guide motorists safely through the work zones. All roadway users are advised to remain alert and observe signage and work zones while traveling in these areas.

Sidewalks, roads, and lane closures are listed below and will take place from October 1 to 31, 2026, from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

• Temporary northbound and southbound sidewalk, lane, and road closures for the installation of conduits, PCC restoration, and milling/paving from the 2700 to 3200 blocks of 13th Street NE from Kearney Street NE to Franklin Street NE
  
  
• Temporary eastbound and westbound sidewalk, lane, and road closure for installation of conduits, PCC restoration, and milling/paving from the 1200 - 1300 blocks of Jackson Street NE from 12th Street NE to 14th Street NE
  
  
• Temporary eastbound and westbound sidewalk, lane, and road closure for installation of conduits, PCC restoration, and milling/paving from the 1200 block of Irving Street NE from 12th Street NE to 13th Street NE
  
  
• Temporary southbound and westbound sidewalk, lane, and road closure for installation of conduits, PCC restoration, and milling/paving from the 1200 - 1300 blocks of Hamlin Street NE from 12th Street NE to 13th Street NE
  
  
• Temporary northbound and southbound sidewalk, lane, and road closure for installation of conduits, PCC restoration, and milling/paving from the 3000 block of 12th Street NE from Irving Street NE to Hamlin Street NE 
  
  
• Temporary eastbound and westbound sidewalk, lane, and road closure for installation of conduits, PCC restoration, and milling/paving from the 1200 - 1300 blocks of Girard Street NE from 12th Street NE to 14th Street NE 
  
  
• Temporary eastbound and westbound sidewalk, lane, and road closure for installation of conduits, PCC restoration, and milling/paving from the 1200 - 1300 blocks of Franklin Street NE from 12th Street NE to 14th Street NE

This work is necessary to complete the DC PLUG initiative’s Feeder 14093 project, which involves undergrounding power lines for a more resilient DC.

For more information about the DC PLUG Initiative and to stay up to date on traffic-related impacts and construction progress, please visit www.DCPLUGinfo.com, call the DC PLUGteam at 1-844-758-4146, or email DC PLUG at questions@DCPLUGinfo.com, or Ann Walters, awalters@dpconsultants.net, 202-549-9072, or 202-725-1365.

The Department of Energy and Environment opened applications for the FY27 Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) on October 20, 2026. Learn more here to apply. 

Join the DC Office of Planning (OP) for a tour and explore different neighborhoods through the lens of a planner or urban designer. This is an opportunity to hear OP thinks about guiding residential development, ask questions about projects in your area, and envision how your neighborhood could grow and change.

• October 24, 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.: Northeast Library (330 7th St. NE) – RSVP
• November 7, 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.: Turkey Thicket Rec Center (1100 Michigan Ave. NE) - RSVP
• November 14, 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.: Marshall Heights Community Development Org. (3939 Benning Rd. NE) - RSVP
• December 5, 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.: Cleveland Park Library (3310 Connecticut Ave. NW) - RSVP

Have any comments or questions about DC 2050? Stop by the Office of Planning's virtual office hours. These office hours aim to connect you directly with OP planners, ask questions, and share what matters most to you. Whether you’re curious about what's going on with DC 2050, have ideas for your neighborhood, or simply want to learn more about planning in the District, the Office of Planning would love to hear from you. 

• October 28, 12:00 - 1:00 p.m.: RSVP
• November 19, 6:00 - 7:00 p.m.: RSVP
• December 2, 12:00 - 1:00 p.m.: RSVP

The District Department of Transportation (DDOT) has extended the period for comments on the proposals for sidewalk expansion on North Capitol Street until October 25. You can see the presentation from DDOT here, and leave your feedback here.

The Department of Energy and Environment is excited to launch the Kingman and Heritage Islands Structures and Trails Design Project. They invite neighbors to provide feedback as they design new amenities, increase trail access, and support more learning and interaction with nature on Kingman and Heritage Islands. Learn more here, and consider joining one of the upcoming public engagement meetings: 

• October 26 @ 6:00 p.m.
  • Virtual Charrette on Place and Connection
• October 28 @ 10:00 a.m. - Southeast Neighborhood Library
  • Charrette on Place and Connection
• November 2 @ 6:00 p.m.
  • Virtual Charrette on Defining Characteristics
• November 10 @ 10:00 a.m. - Southeast Neighborhood Library
  • Charrette on Defining Characteristics
• November 14 @ 10:30 a.m. - Dorothy I. Height/Benning Neighborhood Library
  • Charrette on Defining Characteristics

The District Department of Transportation (DDOT) is required to give written notice of their intent to modify traffic and/or parking requirements to the Council and affected Advisory Neighborhood Commissioners (ANCs) to allow for a public comment period on the modifications. The following Notices of Intent (NOIs) for Ward 5 are open for comment: 

• Closes for comment on October 26: Installation of Truck Restriction Signage on the 2200 Block of 13th Street NE at Brentwood Road NE in Response to Reported Safety Issues - Read and comment here (NOI-26-282-TPA)
  
  
• Closes for comment on October 28: Installation of Residential Permit Parking Signs in ANC 5B (3500-3599 block of 20th Street NE) - Read and comment here (NOI-26-175-TPA)
  
  
• Closes for comment on November 20: Removal of No Parking Entrance Zone in Unit Block of Q St NW - Read and comment here (NOI-26-280-TPA)

Since 2023, I've introduced a series of street designation bills in honor of prominent Black figures and institutions with ties to Ward 5. I'm excited for the next street designation ceremony coming up on November 6, 2026 for Union Wesley Way in the Queens Chapel neighborhood. Join us from 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. at 1860 Michigan Ave NE as we celebrate the legacy of Union Wesley AME Zion Church. 

The draft of the 2030 Historic Preservation Plan is available for feedback and comments through November 6, 2026. You can provide comments by emailing historic.preservation@dc.gov. 

The Historic Preservation Plan helps to implement the Historic Features elements of the DC Comprehensive Plan. This includes both District Elements and Federal Elements addressing historic features. Other chapters, including the area elements and citywide topical elements also include some provisions related to historic preservation concerns.

The Department of Public Works is hosting the next Ward 5 Roll Off Day on November 7, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. at the Arboretum Community Center (2412 Rand Pl NE). Bring your bulk/large, non-hazardous items to the community center for disposal. Learn more here. 

This week, my team attended the Bloomingdale Civic Association, Gateway Civic Association, Queens Chapel Civic Association, ANC 5E, ANC 5F, Brookland Neighborhood Civic Association, Hanover Civic Association, and ANC 5B meetings. Here are some quick recaps:

• Bloomingdale Civic Association (October 19 at 7:00 p.m.):
  • My team provided updates on public safety, LIHEAP applications, and the forthcoming Dunbar Homecoming Parade. The meeting included a recap of the North Capitol Street Corridor project and neighbors were encouraged to submit their comments to the survey before the extended deadline of October 25. Additionally, there was a presentation from the nomination committee regarding the slate of association officer nominees ahead of officer elections. Bloomingdale also hosted an ANC 5E Commissioner Candidates and BCA Officer Candidates forum. 
    
    
• Gateway Civic Association (October 19 at 7:00 p.m.):
  • My team shared with neighbors about the next Ward 5 Public Safety Call on October 28, LIHEAP Applications opening on October 20, and WMATA putting a call out to artist to commission artwork for the Bladensburg Bus Garage Reconstruction Project. Dr. Grant, principal of Monumental Academy Public Charter School at 2100 New York Avenue, gave a presentation on his new middle/high school. Additionally, Dallas Thompson from WMATA gave a brief update on the Bladensburg Bus Garage Reconstruction Project.
    
    
• Queens Chapel Civic Association (October 19 at 7:00 p.m.): 
  • My team shared updates from my office including plans to host a street designation ceremony for Union Wesley Way and the upcoming Ward 5 Public Safety Call. Association members met with staff from the Growth and Resilience Across Development (GARD) Lab at the University of Maryland as they worked on an oral history project for the Queens Chapel community. This project was created in partnership with The GARD Lab, Greater Brookland Intergenerational Village, Commissioner Ra Amin (ANC 5B04), and HumanitiesDC. They will continue work on this project into November. 
    
    
• ANC 5E (October 20 at 7:00 p.m.):
  • My team shared updates about the next Ward 5 Public Safety Call, LIHEAP applications, and feedback on the Historic Preservation Plan. The commission voted in favor of the settlement agreement supporting the issuance of the stipulated license for Proper Café Shaw LLC. Additionally, the commission approved a grant for the Paul Laurence Dunbar Senior High School Homecoming Parade.  Commissioner Waks informed attendees that the Shaw Library will be closed until May of next year. He is working on alternative programming for the Bloomingdale neighborhood and has organized a series of story times at Reservoir Park, with the final session scheduled for next Monday. Neighbors received a presentation from Abree Peterson from GRID Alternatives, a non-profit organization that provides no-cost or low-cost renewable energy solutions to underserved communities. Their initiatives include installing solar panels for low-income families and affordable housing, developing community solar projects, and offering clean mobility and battery storage options.
    
    
• ANC 5F (October 20 at 7:00 p.m.):
  • My team provided neighbors with an update on the recent public safety roundtable that took place at Edgewood Recreation Center. Neighbors also heard a recap of Eckington Day. Commissioner Hedlund (5F07) shared details about the upcoming DPR project meeting regarding the renovation of the Harry Thomas Recreation Center. Additionally, neighbors were informed about the construction detour related on MBT and how our officer coordinanted with commissioners to address concerns regarding the traffic control plan. 
    
    
• Brookland Neighborhood Civic Association (October 20 at 7:00 p.m.):
  • My team joined association members for their monthly meeting at DCTV, and shared updates about public safety incidents in the Brookland area, the next Ward 5 Public Safety Call on October 28, traffic disruptions in the Brookland area due to Power Line Undergrounding (PLUG) projects, and fun community events including the Brookland Halloween Party and Parade. Association President Dawn Amore gave announcements about other community events and offerings. The main topic of the meeting was a presentation given by Charles Barnett, Interim Executive Director of Go Play DC, about his organization’s work expanding recreational opportunities in the District. Go Play DC is the non-profit organization behind The Fields at RFK, and they are considering opportunities to create recreational spaces in and around the Brookland area. 
    
    
• Hanover Civic Association (October 21 at 6:30 p.m.):
  • My team joined association members for their monthly meeting and shared important updates from our office regarding opportunities for public comment on recent developments and projects throughout the city by local agencies, including DDOT and the Department of Energy and the Environment. HACA received a report on local crime levels in the Hanover area from Lieutenant Rawls and heard updates from Commissioner Gardiner regarding ongoing rat abatement initiatives and partnership strategies in the neighborhood. The group also received a check-in from a representative from So Others May Eat (SOME), a local Hanover non-profit and neighbor, and a representative from North Capitol Main Street shared exciting information about its Chilli Crawl on October 24 that begins its route in Hanover. 
    
    
• ANC 5B (October 21 at 7:00 p.m.):
  • My team shared updates including the upcoming Ward 5 Public Safety Call, LIHEAP applications, and traffic disruptions in the area. The Office of Planning (OP) presented on the Comprehensive Plan 2050 and shared next steps as we enter Phase 3, where OP introduces the plan and gathers community feedback on the draft. Visit dc2050.dc.gov to see the complete list of neighborhood tours (Turkey Thicket is scheduled for November 7). The ANC voted unanimously for two new community members, Andrew Anbar-Shaheen and Daniella Gibbs Leger, to join the commission's education subcommittee. The commission also voted unanimously for Letter of Support for Right Proper Brewery's Streatery. Two BZA cases were reviewed and relief was granted (2214 Otis St NE sought relief on setback of accessory structure and lot occupancy requirement and 1300 Taylor sought relief for setback for wooden shed on the 13th St NE side of the property abutting the property line).  
    
    

Here are the ANC and civic association meetings my team will attend next week:

• Monday, October 26
  • 7:00 p.m.
    • Edgewood Civic Association
      
• Wednesday, October 28
  • 6:45 p.m.
    • ANC 5A

You can always view the schedule of upcoming ANC and civic association meetings that my team will attend on my website here. Not sure which ANC is yours? Use this tool to look it up. We're here to help, so email us anytime with questions - ward5contact@dccouncil.gov. Have a need, or want to share important information for ANC and civic association meetings? Get in touch with one of our Constituent Services team members:

• 5A & 5B: Kelley Cislo, kcislo@dccouncil.gov
• 5C & 5D: Andrianna Lovelace, alovelace@dccouncil.gov
• 5E & 5F: Oliver Stoute, ostoute@dccouncil.gov

On Tuesday, October 20, the Council held Committee of the Whole and Legislative Meetings.

During the Committee of the Whole meeting, the Council considered and had lengthy debates over a number of bills, including:

• Strengthening Tenant Receivership and Oversight for Neighborhood Growth (STRONG) Homes Amendment Act of 2026
  • This bill does a number of things, including the following:
    • Incorporates violations regarding mold, inadequate trash removal, and lack of electric, gas or water service in the definition of “serious threat to the health, safety, or security of the tenants” 
    • Requires the Superior Court to expeditiously schedule a hearing on a motion for a preliminary injunction filed with a petition or issue an order requiring an owner to show cause why a receiver should not be appointed
    • Creates a presumption in favor of the appointment of a receiver if an owner does not comply with a preliminary injunction or does not make progress meeting deadlines in a preliminary injunction
    • Enables the Superior Court to dissolve limited liability companies and limited partnerships if the entity’s certificate was obtained through fraud or the entity has exceeded or abused its legal authority.
  • This measure passed unanimously for consideration and a first vote at the Legislative Meeting.
    
    
• Rodent Education and Management Yields (REMY) Results Amendment Act of 2026
  • This bill does the following:
    • Requires DC Health to create a rodent abatement dashboard with specific updated information, and to implement a public education campaign on rodent prevention and control and rodenticide health risks.
    • Requires the Department of Public Works to provide notice to Advisory Neighborhood Commissions (ANCs) with a 30-day comment period before the removal of a public litter container, and to give the ANCs' input great weight.
    • Creates a pilot program to provide grants to Business Improvement Districts and Main Streets to subsidize or purchase rodent proof trash receptacles.
    • Prohibits the sale of anticoagulant rodenticide, and limits the distribution and use of anticoagulant rodenticides by persons not trained or licensed as pesticide applicators. 
  • Councilmember Parker spoke to how rodents are affecting residents' quality of life, and asked about coordination between the Department of Public Works and DC Health on rat abatement.
  • This measure passed unanimously for consideration and a first vote at the Legislative Meeting.
    
    
• Nightlife Noise Balance Amendment Act of 2026
  • This bill does the following:
    • Changes the definition of noise to include bass and similar sounds that are audible or generate vibrations or shaking even if not audible 
    • Updates the protest process
    • Clarifies the process for noise complaints
    • Increases enforcement mechanisms for noise violations
  • Councilmember Parker expressed his concerns with the noise standard and asked about the objectivity of the decibel reader. 
  • Due to concerns raised by Councilmembers, the bill will be moved for first reading and vote on December 10.

The Legislative Meeting was less eventful. The Council unanimously passed the STRONG and REMY bills on first reading. The following bills were also considered:

• Mayoral Transition Emergency Amendment Act of 2026
  • This bill adopts the definition of Mayor-elect provided in the Mayoral Transition Amendment Act of 2026, and clarifies that a transition committee may be organized on behalf of the Mayor-elect and that the Mayor-elect may mail materials as official mail.
  • This measure passed unanimously, with the recusal of Councilmember Lewis George.
    
    
• Parking and Traffic Ticket Penalty Reduction Emergency Amendment Act of 2026
  • This measure would eliminate the penalty fee if a parking or automated traffic ticket is not paid within 30 days.
  • This measure was withdrawn and a permanent bill will be introduced.

Here's a brief recap of some of the hearings and markups Councilmember Parker participated in this week.

On Wednesday, Councilmember Parker attended the Committee of the Whole's Public Hearing on Career and Technical Education and Advanced Technical Centers. The hearing was intended to be a discussion of whether, when, and how to expand education in skilled trades, and the strengths and weaknesses of Advanced Technical Centers. Councilmember Parker asked questions regarding Hire Local DC's partnerships with DC Public Schools, and the difficulties encountered by the Workforce Development and Lifelong Learning (WDLL) Program at the University of the District of Columbia in obtaining employer partnerships. If you would like to submit testimony through November 4 at 5:00 p.m., please click here.

The next Additional Committee of the Whole Meeting and Legislative Meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, November 10, 2026.

When a permanent bill is introduced by a Councilmember, a public hearing must be held. This gives the public a chance to weigh in on the bill, and the public gets to hear from government agencies who have some level of involvement with the bill. Once the hearing is held, the assigned Committee then looks at all of the testimony and can make changes to the bill as it goes through the mark-up process with that Committee.

Next week, the following hearings/meetings of note are scheduled:

• Monday, October 26
  • 9:30 a.m.
    • Committee on Housing (Public Hearing)
      • B26-0829 - Shared Housing Agreements and Resolution Effort Pilot Program Amendment Act of 2026
      • B26-0831 - Advisory Neighborhood Commissions Functions Modernization Amendment Act of 2026
      • B26-0832 - Advisory Neighborhood Commissions Payment Modernization Act of 2026
      • B26-0820 - Affordable Housing Tax Assessment Alignment Act of 2026
      • If you would like to watch the hearing and/or find the link to testify or submit testimony, please click here.
  • 10:00 a.m.
    • Committee of the Whole, Subcommittee on Local Business Development (Public Hearing) 
      • B26-0102 - Expanding Access to Public Restrooms Act of 2025
      • B26-0841 - Business Improvement District Modernization Amendment Act of 2026
      • If you would like to watch the hearing and/or find the link to testify or submit testimony, please click here. 
        
        
• Tuesday, October 27
  • 9:00 a.m.
    • Committee on the Judiciary and Public Safety (Public Hearing) 
      • Domestic violence and sexual assault in the District of Columbia
      • B26-0835 - Supporting Survivors of Domestic Violence and Abuse Amendment Act of 2026 (co-introduced)
      • B26-0671 - Protecting Victims Amendment Act of 2026
      • If you would like to watch the hearing and/or find the link to testify or submit testimony, please click here.
        
        
• Wednesday, October 28
  • 11:00 a.m.
    • Committee on Executive Administration and Labor (Public Hearing) 
      • B26-0110 - Government Recruitment and Retention Act of 2025
      • B26-0639 - Convention Center Dedicated Employee Amendment Act of 2026
      • B26-0842 - Salary Adjustment Amendment Act of 2026
      • B26-0843 - Events DC Excess Cash Calculation Clarification Amendment Act of 2026
      • If you would like to watch the hearing and/or find the link to testify or submit testimony, please click here.
  • 1:00 p.m.
    • Committee on Human Services (Public Hearing)
      • B26-0846 - Poplar Point Economic Development Anchor Disposition Act of 2026
      • B26-0845 - Poplar Point Acquisition and Disposition Approval Act of 2026
      • B26-0834 - Reeves Center Surplus Declaration and Disposition Approval Act of 2026
      • If you would like to watch the hearing and/or find the link to testify or submit testimony, please click here.
        
        
• Thursday, October 29
  • 10:00 a.m.
    • Committee of the Whole (Public Oversight Roundtable)
      • Budget Formulation, Execution, and Agency Overspending
      • If you would like to watch the hearing and/or find the link to submit testimony, please click here.
    • Committee on Health and Committee on Human Services (Joint Public Oversight Roundtable) 
      • The DC Access System and Implementing SNAP and Medicaid Work Requirements
      • If you would like to watch the hearing and/or find the link to submit testimony, please click here.
        
        
• Wednesday, November 4
  • 9:30 a.m.
    • Committee of the Whole (Public Roundtable)
      • OSSE Division of Student Transportation
      • If you would like to watch the hearing and/or find the link to submit testimony, please click here. 
  • 2:30 p.m.
    • Committee of the Whole (Public Oversight Hearing)
      • Special Education
      • If you would like to watch the hearing and/or find the link to testify or submit testimony, please click here.
  • 3:00 p.m.
    • Committee on Housing (Mark-Up)
      • B26-0495 - Condominium Insurance Amendment Act of 2025
      • B26-0597 - Housing Production Omnibus Amendment Act of 2026
      • If you would like to watch the Mark-up, please click here.
        
        
• Thursday, November 5
  • 9:00 a.m.
    • Committee on the Judiciary and Public Safety (Public Hearing) 
      • B26-0549 - Safe Community Places and Policing Amendment Act of 2025 (co-introduced) 
      • B26-0603 - Body-Worn Camera Transparency for Use of Force Amendment Act of 2026
      • B26-0618 - Full Accountability in Arrest Reporting Amendment Act of 2026 (co-introduced)
      • Heightened Federal Law Enforcement and National Guard Activities in the District
      • If you would like to watch the hearing and/or find the link to testify or submit testimony, please click here. 
  • 10:00 a.m.
    • Committee on Health (Public Hearing)
    • B26-0854 - Saint Elizabeths Hospital Independence and Governance Amendment Act of 2026 (co-introduced)
      • If you would like to watch the hearing and/or find the link to testify or submit testimony, please click here.

You can always access the full Council calendar by clicking here.

The committee's upcoming plans include a markup of Bill 26-0026, the Theatrical Wrestling Amendment Act of 2026, which creates a new category of combat sports events to be regulated differently from traditional professional wrestling. We held a public hearing on this bill in March and are incorporating feedback from the theatrical wrestling community, the Combat Sports Commission, and other advocates as we draft a final Committee Print to be considered by the Council. Stay tuned for a markup vote to be scheduled in mid-November.

Join Brandywine Valley SPCA for free pet vaccines including Rabies, FVRCP, and DA2PPV, plus free microchips. Events will take place on Saturday, October 10 from 9:00 - 11:00 a.m. at Anacostia Park (1900 Anacostia Dr SE) and October 24 from 9:00 - 11:00 a.m. at King Greenleaf Park (201 N St SW). 

The Solar For All (SFA) Community Solar Program currently has open subscriptions available. Residents who enroll can save up to $500 each year on their electricity bills. The Community Solar model does not require any equipment installation. Subscribers receive solar credits directly on their Pepco bill, making this option accessible to renters, residents of multi-family buildings, and homeowners. To qualify, applicants must live in DC, pay a Pepco bill and meet the income guidelines. Community solar applications can be completed online.  

The Department of Energy and Environment and Catalyst Mobility are now accepting applications for the Multifamily EV Charging Assistance Program. This program offers free technical assistance and rebates covering up to 80% of project costs, including planning, equipment, installation, and maintenance for Level 1 and Level 2 EV charging located at or within a short walk of multifamily properties. Applications are now open, with project selection expected by December 2026.

This September and October, Age-Friendly DC invites you to join them for Block-by-Block Walks. These walks will provide the opportunity to hear issues, record the need for repairs, and make DC's streets and sidewalks more useable and inclusive. Interested in leading or participating? Learn more and sign up here. 

DPR Communal Farms Weekly Veggie Giveaways have started back up at locations across the city. From now until November 25, 2026, stop by the below locations on select days each week to get free, locally grown fruits, veggies, and herbs. For more information, including how to volunteer, email joshua.singer@dc.gov.

• Ward 5: Edgewood Rooftop Farm (301 Franklin St NE)
  • Tuesdays, 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
• Ward 7: Lederer Garden (4801 Nannie Helen Burroughs Ave NE)
  • Wednesdays, 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
  • Saturdays, 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
• Ward 1: Powell Communal Farm (3149 16th St NW)
  • Thursdays, 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Brookland:

Halloween Block Party

October 24 - 3:00 - 6:00 p.m.

@ 4100 block of 13th Pl NE

Join my team for the fun block party planned in the 4100 block of 13th Pl NE featuring music, food, games, a costume parade, and more. 

Brookland:

Halloween Parade & Party

October 25 - 2:00 - 4:30 p.m.

@ Parade Start: St. Anthony's (3400 12th St NE) // Party Location: Noyes Park (1000 Franklin St NE)

Join my team at the Eighth Annual Brookland Halloween Parade and Party, coming Sunday, October 25, to bring together neighbors, children, and their families for an afternoon of spooky and silly fun! Children of all ages are encouraged to show up in costumes for a parade leaving at Saint Anthony of Padua Catholic Church on 12th Street, led by the Catholic University Pep Band down the sidewalk and into Noyes Park for a family-friendly party. Friends of Noyes Park will provide music, food, face painting, glitter tattoos, bounce houses, science experiments, and other activities for children through 4:30 p.m.

Eckington to Brookland:

Trail or Treat

October 25 - 1:45 p.m. (wheels up at 2:00 p.m.)

@ REI DC (201 M St NE), and bike to Noyes Park (1000 Franklin St NE)

Join my team for this fun Trail-or-Treat ride along the Metropolitan Branch Trail, collecting candy and other goodies as riders make their way to the Brookland Halloween Party at Noyes Park. 

Langdon:

Roving Leaders Drive-in Movie

'Beetlejuice'

October 30 - 6:00 p.m. activities, 7:00 p.m. movie

@ Langdon Park (2901 20th St NE)

Join DPR for a fun drive-in movie! Grab your blankets, load up the car, and join neighbors under the stars for a spooky movie during Halloween weekend. 

Woodridge:

Woodridge Warriors Community Day

October 31 - 12:00 - 4:00 p.m.

@ Taft Field (1917 Otis St NE)

Join my team at the Woodridge Warriors Community Day, with a tribute honoring the legacies of Mason L. Clark and Jim "Beanie" Howell. 

Penn Quarter:

Data Centers and DC

October 28 - 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.

What is all the talk about data centers, really? How does it impact residents' everyday life? Join this community discussion at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Library, facilitated by the DC Office of the People's Counsel and DC Public Service Commission. Learn more and here.

• The Collins DC Council Report: Life in the Big City, as Dictated by the Council (Washington Informer)
  
  
• DC Police Start Enforcement Campaign Targeting E-Scooters and Bikes (Washington Sun)
  
  
• Lime Bans Over 1,000 DC Accounts in Unsafe E-bike, E-scooter Safety Crackdown (WTOP)
  
  
• Rodents, Fire Risks, Filth: The DC Housing Kingdom with 1,600 Violations (City Cast)
  
  
• DC Tenants Say Buwa Binitie Runs an Empire of Neglect. Now, They're Fighting Back. (The 51st)
  
• Agency Defends Election Fine That Was Dropped (City Cast)
  
  
• Five Takeaways from the DC Council's Big Hearing on New Taxes (Washington Sun)

The highlight of my week was connecting with so many neighbors across Ward 5 last Saturday. With these beautiful stretches of sunny fall days, it's the perfect time to get outside, enjoy time with friends, and lend a hand to our efforts to build healthy communities.

As always, I invite you to use this form to provide feedback on how we're doing. We'd love to hear from you anytime. 

Yours in service and community, 

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