What do we need to do to reach our potential?

February 14, 2025
General

WARD 1 UPDATE

Hello Neighbors:

WARD 1 UPDATE

Hello Neighbors:

We’re in the middle of one of the busiest and most important times in the legislative calendar: performance oversight. This is the Council’s chance to ask the people who run the agencies and offices we oversee to answer key questions, such as: Are we meeting our goals? Where are we falling short? What do we need to do to reach our potential?

It’s also an opportunity for residents to express their concerns and share their stories. You know how these agencies work – and, at times, don’t work. You fill out their forms, such as applications for business licenses or a D.C. One Card. You interact with city government employees and request services, like snow removal or language assistance. You expect things to run smoothly, and when they don’t, you – and I – want to know why.

In short, your testimony matters. When we hear common themes from residents – about gaps in trash pickup or backlogs in human rights cases – we try to resolve these systemic challenges, rather than only addressing each individual request. Thank you to the many of you who have spoken to my committee, on DPW issues, inadequate access to language services, and more.

Residents should expect a government that delivers essential services, ensures a clean and safe environment, and supports a vibrant, diverse, and thriving city.

When the Mayor submits her budget proposal this spring, we’ll build on the lessons we gathered during performance oversight. We’ll analyze the budgets of the agencies we oversee, take public feedback and ask agencies to explain how they will use their resources in a second series of hearings. The Committee will then recommend changes to the full Council ahead of our vote on a final budget this summer.

Much of the work of the agencies we oversee on the Committee on Public Works and Operations does not typically grab headlines. But it is the city services people count on every day. I serve on other committees, too: Housing, Health, Facilities, and the Committee of the Whole. I participate in those meetings, too, questioning residents and agency representatives to prepare to make informed decisions on a budget that illustrates our values and brings us closer to being the District we want.

Thank you to everyone who has offered your thoughts and experiences during the process so far. I hope you’ll continue to stay engaged as budget season approaches and beyond.

In case you missed it, earlier this week I shared a message about the many federal actions being taken that impact D.C. residents, including unemployment for many who work for the federal government. I included a list of resources for those facing unemployment as a result. My team and I are on standby to help residents navigate the system to get the benefits they deserve. We are also working with colleagues and counterparts in D.C. government and Congress. As always, please be in touch (online or 202-724-8181) if my office can be help you as we navigate this challenging time.

COUNCIL UPDATES

How to reduce litter in D.C.’s neighborhoods & waterways

Councilmember Brianne K Nadeau, with her daughter Zoe, speaks to Ward 7 Faith Leaders

I’ve continued to speak with residents across D.C. about the need for a bottle bill that would drastically reduce litter in our streets, parks & rivers. Thank you to Ward 7 Faith Leaders for a great conversation! Together, we can meet our zero waste goals.

screenshot of X post Everywhere they are implemented, bottle bills work. The facts are clear and overwhelming: bottle bills increase recycling rates and reduce overall litter. Kudos to leaders in MD for introducing this legislation. with photo of MD bottle bill rally

Everywhere they are implemented, bottle bills work. The facts are clear and overwhelming: bottle bills increase recycling rates and reduce overall litter.

BRIANNE IN WARD 1

CM Brianne K Nadeau speaks into a microphone at a rally for restaurant workers.

It’s common knowledge I’m a huge supporter of unions and of restaurant workers. I was proud to join DC restaurant workers with UH Local 25 demanding a fair and safe workplace, dignity as workers and contributors – the backbone of the places they work.

Councilmember Brianne K Nadeau holds a Council resolution with the director of Christ House DC with a framed photo of Dr. Janelle Goetcheus

I had the honor of joining the community at Christ House to remember and recognize the legacy of Dr. Janelle Goetcheus, who dedicated herself to the fight for health equity and accessible healthcare, living her entire life as a champion for individuals experiencing homelessness and underserved populations. May her legacy live on through the thousands of lives she touched with her gentle spirit, compassion, and comprehensive care.

COMMUNITY UPDATES

Pre-K 3 – Grade 8 lottery application deadline

The Pre-K 3 – Grade 8 lottery application deadline is March 3. Learn if you need to apply and review FAQs.

The application is available in English and Spanish.

Mayor Marion S. Barry’s Summer Youth Employment Program

Applications for the Mayor Marion S. Barry’s Summer Youth Employment Program are open. This year’s theme, Banking on the Future, will expose young people to careers in finance and equip them with financial literary skills.

Apply