Public Meetings - Washington, District Of Columbia

On April 27, 2026, the Committee on Facilities, chaired by Councilmember Janice Lewis George, held a budget oversight hearing for the Department of General Services (DGS) and the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR). The hearing featured public witnesses only; government witnesses will testify on May 7, 2026. Key topics included equitable funding for charter schools, facilities conditions (HVAC, security, ADA compliance), DGS overspending and Sustainable Energy Trust Fund (SETF) transfers, composting and zero waste, youth programming and parks maintenance, and specific capital projects at Langdon Park, Chevy Chase Civic Core, and Eastern Market. Public Comments & Testimony - Charter School Funding Inequity: Multiple witnesses (Joshua McComas, Kristen Yokum, Marita Fleming, Rachel Johnson, Dr. Marco Clark, Justin Semenez, Megan Fowler) opposed the mayor's proposal to move $59.4 million in DCPS fixed costs from the UPSFF to DGS, arguing it would create a $9,675 per-student gap between DCPS and charter schools. They urged restoring the 3.1% annual facilities allotment increase and rejecting the freeze through FY2030. - School Without Walls HVAC: Students Amira Bunn, Georgia Murphy, and Eleanor Westrum testified about persistent HVAC failures, black mold, and gas leaks, calling for a new system and an oversight mechanism. Chair Lewis George noted the school was not on the DGS HVAC watch list and committed to follow up. - Senior Center Needs: Teresa Ann Smith described broken security doors, ADA violations, and gym equipment issues at Congress Heights Senior Wellness Center. Chair Lewis George promised to involve the Office of Disability Rights and DGS. - DGS Overspending & SETF Sweeps: David Whitehead (Sierra Club) cited a DC Auditor report showing DGS overspent by $263 million and criticized the mayor's $10.5 million sweep from the SETF to pay DGS utility bills. Claire Mills and Laura Levinson warned that this jeopardizes $60 million in federal matching funds for energy programs (only $3 million spent so far) and delays net-zero compliance. - Composting: David Whitehead and Susan Shore highlighted that DGS provides composting in only 5–6 public schools, despite DC code requiring universal composting. They urged the committee to explore the $5.6 million increase in DGS waste management budget to expand school composting. - Land Bank & Public Bank: Leah Lake, Caroline Meyer, and Samuel Bonar (DC Community Wealth Builders) requested an FTE at DGS to update the 2019 land bank study and a BSA subtitle to remove legal barriers for a DC land bank and public bank, citing $1.5 billion in vacant city-owned land. - Youth Programming & Curfews: Scott Goldstein (EmpowerEd) and Peggy Raymond (ACLU-DC) argued that DPR budget cuts (8.1% reduction, 14.8% staff cut) undermine youth safety and called for expanded late-night programming, transportation, and a shift from curfews to investment. Johnna Crump (law student) advocated for restoring 158.5 staff positions and modernizing rec centers. - Langdon Park: Dolores Bushong, Lisa Brown, and Jeremiah Montague Jr. expressed frustration over DPR's plan to renovate rather than rebuild the community center, noting the loss of basketball and after-school spaces to a gymnastics program. They requested a new building with gym, computer lab, and senior space, and suggested redirecting funds from a proposed firehouse. - Chevy Chase Civic Core: Michelle Wolin, Randy Speck, Andrea Rosen, and Cheryl Court debated the Rift Valley proposal. Some opposed the high-density housing and loss of green space; others urged approval of the original proposal (206 units, 1/3 deeply affordable) to deliver a new recreation center and library. Chair Lewis George noted confusion over why DEMPED reduced affordable units from 137 to 54. - Mitchell Park & Gymnastics: Maya Kurumoto and Karen Gagliano requested resurfacing of the multi-purpose court at Mitchell Park, citing safety issues. Samantha Lubkin asked that the Langdon gymnastics program not be cut, as it serves competitive athletes. - Eastern Market: Monty Edwards (MCAC) requested $10.3 million over six years for critical capital projects (hot water system, bollards, boilers) and raised concerns about the market's enterprise fund being swept to the general fund. - Riggs LaSalle Rec Center: Tisha Cockrell listed numerous unmet maintenance needs: broken exercise equipment, senior room disarray, missing sunshade, and HVAC issues. Joy Taylor suggested cost savings by providing field maintenance equipment directly to schools rather than relying on DGS annual contracts. - Parks Maintenance & Small Parks: Rachel Clark and Kelly Collins Choi (Casey Trees) highlighted the drastic reduction in the small parks capital budget (from $2M to $75,000) and urged funding for a park planning team, community stewardship pilots, and forest conservation. Katrina Owens (DC Scores) requested multi-year grants and warned that cuts to DPR grant funding threaten out-of-school programs. Discussion Items - Equitable School Funding: Chair Lewis George acknowledged the charter funding gap and said she is working with Chairman Mendelssohn on a solution. She questioned witnesses about the impacts of the UPSFF shift and facilities allotment freeze. - HVAC Watch List: Chair Lewis George discovered School Without Walls was not on the public DGS HVAC watch list and committed to investigating systemic issues linking the old and new building systems. - ADA Compliance & Communication: Chair Lewis George discussed with Teresa Smith and Laura Fuchs the need for urgent ADA fixes and better communication between DGS, DCPS, and school staff. She noted that a new work order category for ADA violations should prioritize repairs. - SETF & Federal Match: Chair Lewis George pressed witnesses on the $60 million in federal matching funds expiring in 2029 and the need to restore SETF funding to avoid staff layoffs at DC SEU. - DC Archives Funding: Neil Flanagan warned that funding gaps for the new archives facility risk inflation-driven cost increases (74% since 2018) and urged advancing capital funds to avoid further delays. - Youth Programming & Curfew: Chair Lewis George asked Scott Goldstein and Peggy Raymond about permanent infrastructure for youth beyond one-time events; they emphasized multi-year grants, transportation, and youth input. - Langdon Park Design: Chair Lewis George and Councilmember Parker (by video) committed to ensuring the Langdon Recreation Center project reflects community input, potentially delaying the project if necessary. They questioned DPR's lack of a gym and programming for non-gymnastics youth. - Chevy Chase Civic Core: Chair Lewis George expressed confusion about the reduction in affordable housing units and said she would ask DEMPED for an explanation. Witnesses disagreed on the appropriate scale of development. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken during the public witness portion. The committee will hold a government witness hearing on May 7, 2026, where agency officials will answer questions. - Written testimony deadline: May 11, 2026, at 5 p.m., with a preference for submission by May 7 to inform government questions. - Chair Lewis George committed to: - Follow up on the HVAC watch list for School Without Walls. - Work with the Office of Disability Rights and DGS on ADA violations at Congress Heights Senior Center. - Explore restoring the 3.1% charter facilities allotment increase and returning the $59.4 million to the UPSFF. - Investigate DGS overspending and the SETF sweep with the Committee on the Whole. - Advocate for additional funding for the small parks capital budget and a park planning team. - Schedule a meeting with Joy Taylor and others to discuss field maintenance alternatives. - Coordinate with Councilmember Parker on Langdon Park and with Councilmember Allen on Eastern Market capital needs. - Ask DEMPED about the Chevy Chase affordable housing reduction. - Councilmember Parker (via video) stated he will not allow the Langdon project to move forward in its current form and will fight for community priorities.

On Monday, April 27, 2026, at 9:40 AM, Councilmember Charles Allen, chair of the Committee on Transportation and the Environment, convened a budget oversight hearing on the Mayor's proposed FY2027 budget for the District Department of Transportation (DDOT). The hearing was held in Room 500 of the John A. Wilson Building and via Zoom. The proposed operating budget is $151.1 million (a 14.3% decrease from FY2026) and the capital budget is $867.8 million (a 24.7% increase). The committee received public testimony from over 40 witnesses on a wide range of transportation issues, with the most prominent topic being the adult learner transit subsidy. Adult Learner Transit Subsidy Multiple panels of witnesses, including students, school staff, and advocates from adult charter schools (Carlos Rosario, Academy of Hope, BRIA, Next Step), testified in strong support of increasing the monthly transit subsidy from $70 to $100 per month. They argued that the current $70 has not been increased since 2019, while Metro fares have risen significantly. Witnesses presented data: 91% of surveyed students receive the subsidy, over 70% say $70 is insufficient, and nearly 90% said $100 would meet their needs. School leaders reported that students often exhaust funds by the third week of the month, forcing them to miss class or choose between transportation and basic needs. The estimated cost of the increase is about $1.5 million annually. Chair Allen expressed strong support for the increase and noted he would work to include it in the budget. He also highlighted the MetroLyft program (50% discount for SNAP recipients) as a short-term help, but acknowledged it doesn't cover all students. Urban Forestry and Tree Canopy Rob Schott (Casey Trees) and Brenda Richardson (APACC) praised DDOT's Urban Forestry Division and urged maintaining current funding levels. They emphasized the importance of making the Tree Fund a non-lapsing fund, so that fees collected for tree removals are used for planting and maintenance, not swept into the general fund. The Tree Fund supports private land tree planting, the RiverSmart Homes program, and the DC State Nursery. Chair Allen agreed on the non-lapsing priority and noted plans to fund the Tree Preservation Enhancement Amendment Act. Trail and Bike Lane Projects Dr. Nicole Rutland (DC Go-Go Trails Collective) advocated for prioritizing the acquisition of the Shepherd Branch Trail in Wards 7 and 8, a 3.1-mile corridor along an inactive CSX rail line that would connect to the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail. She requested specific funding in the capital budget. Seth Grimes (WABA) and Richard Wetzel (East-West Low Stress Biking Coalition) called for increased investment in protected bike lanes, noting DDOT installed only 3.4 miles in FY2025 against a 10-mile goal. They cited rising traffic fatalities (16 in 2026 through April 27) and urged funding for specific corridors like Q&R Streets, East Capitol Street, and the strategic bikeways plan. Chair Allen acknowledged the underperformance and said council often has to earmark specific projects due to lack of agency action. Sidewalk Safety and 311 Requests ANC Commissioner Chuck Elkins (ANC3D) presented data from DC Health showing 215-350 outdoor falls requiring ER visits annually, and over 1,000 hospital admissions for fall injuries. He criticized DDOT for not measuring trip hazard gaps and for closing 311 requests without inspection if the location is on the PAVE DC schedule (even if repair is years away). He requested $5 million in operating funds to enable rapid repair of all 311 trip hazards within 60 days, rather than the current 270+ business day standard. Chair Allen noted the proposed capital budget includes $11.5 million for sidewalks and discussed the potential of expanding Reimbursable Management Agreements (RMAs) with BIDs to expedite repairs. Curb Management and Revenue Gabe Klein (former DDOT Director) testified on the benefits of automated curb management, citing examples from other cities where compliance with loading zone payments jumped from 4% to 95% after automation, reducing double parking and generating significant revenue. He urged the committee to support full funding for DDOT's curb management initiatives as a way to generate new revenue without raising taxes. Chair Allen found the statistics impressive and expressed interest in further exploring the policy. Bus Priority and BRT Kai Hall (DC Transportation Equity Network) and Matt Girardi (Greater Greater Washington) supported the $92 million for bus priority and the $2 million crosstown BRT study, but urged that the BRT be ambitious from the start—connecting from Minnesota/Benning to Georgetown—rather than a short segment. They also called for an updated congestion pricing study based on the recently released 2021 report. Chair Allen agreed that a network approach is essential to avoid repeating the streetcar failures. DDOT Operations and Workforce Joey Davis (AFGE Local 1975) and Marcia Mayo (ASME Local 709) testified about budget impacts on employees. They opposed the mayor's proposals to delay cost-of-living adjustments, cut workers' compensation funding ($127 million), and reduce paid family leave from 8 to 2 weeks. They argued that these cuts harm retention and safety, particularly for school crossing guards (safety technicians) and inspection staff. Chair Allen acknowledged their concerns and said he would work to restore funding. Other Projects - NOMA Third Street Metro Entrance: Maura Brophy (NOMA BID) enthusiastically supported the $50 million ($5M in FY27, $45M in FY28) for a new entrance to relieve overcrowding at the NoMa-Gallaudet U station, which is now the sixth-busiest in the system. Chair Allen supported the project and noted its importance for transit-oriented development. - DuPont Circle Streetscape: Several business owners and the DuPont Circle BID requested $2 million in grants to help small businesses survive the disruption from the Connecticut Avenue streetscape project. Chair Allen expressed sympathy and said he would explore options. - H Street Bridge: Laura Miller Brooks (Federal City Council) urged restoration of funding for the H Street Bridge reconstruction, which is critical for unlocking the Union Station expansion. Chair Allen agreed and expressed frustration with the funding loss. - Taylor Street Bike Lane: Several witnesses (Neville Jones, Rosalind Grant, Silva Walker) opposed the project, arguing DDOT provided inaccurate parking counts and that the project would harm seniors and churches. Chair Allen noted their concerns and said he would ask DDOT about the budget line item. - Arizona Avenue Pedestrian Bridge: ANC Commissioner Trisha Duncan (ANC3D) urged keeping funding for the trolley trail improvements, noting the ANC unanimously approved the 90% plans. Chair Allen confirmed the project is funded and would work to protect it. Key Outcomes - Chair Allen committed to working to increase the adult learner transit subsidy to $100 per month and to ensure the Tree Fund is made non-lapsing. - He expressed support for maintaining bus priority funding, expanding RMAs with BIDs, and restoring funding for the H Street Bridge and workforce compensation. - The record will remain open until May 11, 2026, for written testimony. The committee will hold a government witness hearing on April 30, 2026.

Councilmember Christina Henderson chaired a budget oversight hearing on April 27, 2026, from 9:34 AM to 1:55 PM, to review the proposed FY27 budget for the Department of Health Care Finance (DHCF). Over 40 public witnesses testified, with the overwhelming majority expressing concern about recent cuts to the DC Healthcare Alliance program and urging the Council to restore eligibility, covered services, and enrollment. Public Comments & Testimony - Patricia Quinn (DC Primary Care Association) urged a thoughtful approach to Medicaid work requirements, lifting the moratorium on Alliance adult enrollment, restoring presumptive eligibility, and protecting coverage for childless adults. She noted that preliminary data shows declines in visit volume at health centers. - Chris Gamble (Children's Law Center) advocated for the carve-in of behavioral health services into managed care, citing data gaps and care coordination challenges. He proposed a phased funding approach starting July 1, 2027. - Alison Miles-Lee (Bread for the City) shared the story of Pablo, a DACA recipient who lost Alliance coverage and faced a life-threatening medical emergency without insurance. She urged removal of the age moratorium. - Dr. Omar Tawe (Union of Interns and Residents) described emergency department consequences of coverage loss, stating that uninsured adults are 25% more likely to die prematurely. He urged restoring income eligibility to 215% FPL and removing the age cap. - Multiple adult learners from Briya Public Charter School (including Sonia Cruz, Araceli Guillén Salinas, Jennifer Lopez, Gustavo Angulo, Mercedes Chami, Myrna Torres, and others) testified in Spanish and English, sharing personal stories of how Alliance coverage enabled them to work, study, and care for families. They unanimously requested removal of the age limit for adults over 21, restoration of income limits to 215% FPL, and restoration of services prior to October 1, 2025. - Chioma Rue (Advocates for Justice and Education) raised questions about care pathways for adults with disabilities, work requirements for caregivers, and coverage for immigrant families. - Nancy Bann (Mary Center), Nasima Shafi (Whitman-Walker), Dr. Benjamin Oldfield (Unity Healthcare), and Carlos Plazas (La Clinica del Pueblo) testified on behalf of FQHCs, emphasizing that value-based payment models and health center-led care management can reduce costs. Dr. Oldfield presented data showing that Alliance beneficiaries not connected to FQHCs have substantially higher costs. All urged lifting the enrollment moratorium. - Joshua Drumming (encampment resident) criticized DMHHS for a 355% increase in encampment removals (from 36 in FY24 to 128 in FY25) and called for suspending clearings, reinvesting in housing vouchers, and due process protections. - Commissioner Jamila White (ANC 8A) urged action on the Marion Barry–Minnesota Avenue corridor, calling for relocation of the BHG methadone clinic and an integrated public health plan. She noted that the clinic's staff are afraid to come to Ward 8. - Jackie Bowens (DC Hospital Association) expressed concern about a $48 million reduction in direct medical education funding, which would hit safety-net hospitals hard. She also noted $46 million in outpatient cuts in FY26. - Andrew Patterson (Legal Aid DC) urged codification of Alliance fixes, including dental/vision restoration, and full funding of the Medicaid buy-in program for people with disabilities. - Tripty Patel (ANC 2A) objected to encampment clearings without housing plans and supported lifting the cap on the Ashton bridge housing facility. - Eric Angel (DC Greens) supported the Produce RX program funding and opposed elimination of the Food Policy Council. - Kathy Hudson (Miriam's Kitchen) proposed a 24-bed medical respite program at the E Street Bridge Housing site, requesting funding from the community priorities pool. - Sheila Escamilla (Briya PCS) shared stories of families facing $10,000–$15,000 medical bills and urged continued Alliance funding. - Sophia Belleman Spencer (National Domestic Workers Alliance) noted that the Alliance is the primary health coverage for domestic workers, who are 92% women and 71% immigrants. She called for legislative restoration. - Rochelle Nieto (Ayuda) described clients harmed by cuts, including a woman who faced a $25,000 bill after a miscarriage and a man denied physical therapy after a leg fracture. - Kate Coventry (DC Fiscal Policy Institute) highlighted that 50% of Alliance recipients are Hispanic and 20% are Black, and that cuts will disproportionately harm these communities. - Jacqueline Verner (Disability Rights DC) opposed DHCF's proposed bundled payment structure for long-term care, warning it could lead to reductions in PCA hours. She also urged full funding of the CNA wage enhancement. - Ed Lazier (UPO) called the FY26–27 cuts the largest retrenchment in the safety net in a generation, affecting child care, TANF, and housing. - Felicia Nelson (Children's National) opposed the $3.6 million reduction in GME funding, which supports 300+ residents and fellows. - Mark Lavota (DC Behavioral Health Association) urged elimination of the Alliance enrollment moratorium and reversal of DBH service cuts. - Ian Paragall (DC Coalition of Disability Service Providers) opposed reducing ICF bed hold days from 60 to 18, which would save only $130,000 but harm vulnerable residents. - Dr. Dana Mueller (Mary Center) described the impact of generic-only drug coverage on diabetes patients and urged restoration of home health, skilled nursing, and non-emergency transport. - Maria Gomez (longtime advocate) recalled the Alliance's founding in 2001 and urged the Council to codify restorations in the Budget Support Act. Discussion Items - Councilmember Henderson questioned the DC Primary Care Association about conversations with DHCF on payment mechanisms for Alliance care management. Patricia Quinn noted that health centers can contain costs through provider-led care management but need a stable program. - Henderson asked about the Connected Care Network's contracts with MCOs; Nancy Bann reported that two of four MCOs have not provided adequate data to move forward with value-based arrangements. - Henderson discussed the Marion Barry corridor with Commissioner White, noting that the methadone clinic is a private entity and that she would follow up with DMHHS to coordinate a task force. She expressed frustration that agencies are not collaborating. - Henderson clarified that prenatal care is covered under the proposed budget for the full pregnancy and two months postpartum. - Henderson noted that a Budget Support Act subtitle for the Alliance was inadvertently missing and would be drafted. - Kathy Hudson detailed the medical respite proposal, requesting funding from the community priorities pool administered by the hospital association. - Henderson acknowledged the need to address long-term care workforce shortages and aging infrastructure. Key Outcomes - Councilmember Henderson committed to including a Budget Support Act subtitle to codify changes to the DC Healthcare Alliance, though specific details were not provided. - No votes were taken during the hearing; the record will remain open until Monday, May 11, 2026, for written testimony. - Henderson stated she would follow up with DMHHS regarding the Marion Barry corridor and encampment clearing protocols. - The hearing was recessed at 1:55 PM, with the next hearing scheduled for April 28, 2026, at noon for the Department of Health budget.

The Committee of the Whole of the Council of the District of Columbia held a public hearing on April 24, 2026, to receive testimony from City Administrator Kevin Donahue and Deputy City Administrator Jenny Reed regarding Bill 26-662 (Fiscal Year 2026 Revised Local Budget Emergency Act) and Bill 26-663 (temporary version). The hearing focused on the mayor's proposed revisions to the current FY26 budget, including a supplemental budget with $304 million in reductions and $191 million in additional local funds. Chairman Mendelssohn presided, joined by Councilmembers Bonds and Nindo. Discussion Items - Budget Principles and Priorities: City Administrator Donahue outlined four guideposts: enhancing education and public safety, preserving core services, protecting health care, and growing the economy. He noted that Moody's Analytics upgraded the District's outlook from negative to stable, citing prudent fiscal management. - Supplemental Budget Details: Deputy Reed explained the $304 million in reductions come primarily from $95 million in debt service savings, $70 million from workforce investments (affecting collective bargaining agreements), and $25 million from updated Alliance enrollment forecasts. The $191 million in additions include $49 million for snow removal costs, $103 million for mid-year needs (child care subsidy, rent supplement, overtime, Fair Elections), and $7.7 million for new expenses (DCPS maintenance, SNAP benefits replacement, EBT chip cards). Capital budget shifts of $132 million include $7.7 million for United Medical Center demolition, $25 million for a third bridge housing site, and $1 million for Children's Hospital site identification. - Workforce Investment Cuts: Councilmembers questioned the $70 million reduction. The administration noted it leaves about $175 million for FY26, covering existing collective bargaining agreements with WTU and FOP, but not new agreements. They agreed to provide a benchmark of replicating prior union agreements by early next week. - Child Care Subsidy: The supplemental adds $32.8 million, bringing the total to $135.2 million ($139.9 million available for subsidy). The FY27 budget proposes $114.2 million for 6,000 children. Current enrollment was about 7,500 at formulation; the administration assumes attrition and a waitlist will reduce to 6,000. Councilmember Bonds expressed concern that enrollment trends could reach 8,500 children, requiring $149 million. The administration will provide updated enrollment data. - LRSP Vouchers: $19.7 million added to true up costs for existing vouchers, not new vouchers. Breakdown provided: $1.4 million for targeted affordable housing for families, $1.2 million for tenant-based, $1.5 million for project-based, $9.7 million for sponsor-based, and $6 million for permanent supportive housing for families. - SNAP Error Rate: $790,833 added for automation, Equifax software, and internal controls to reduce error rate from over 15% to around 6%. The administration noted potential future penalties if rates remain high. - Fair Elections: $5 million added, bringing FY26 total to $28.6 million. Also $3 million in FY27 and $12 million in FY28. - Capital Projects: Discussion on H Street Bridge funding shift ($61 million moved to FY28), UMC demolition ($7.7 million), third bridge housing site ($25 million), and Children's Hospital feasibility ($1 million). Councilmember Nindo asked about snow removal costs and fleet planning; administration will provide itemized list. Councilmember Bonds raised concerns about UMC closeout costs and pipe burst. - Reserves and Cash Management: Councilmember Nindo and Chairman Mendelssohn discussed the CFO's requirement to budget $52 million for replenishing emergency/contingency reserves and school advance, which was previously handled through year-end surplus. The administration highlighted constraints from the decoupling lawsuit risk ($180 million in revenue not included) and the six days of cash above 60-day reserve requirement, representing a $350–400 million swing. The Chairman emphasized the need for transparency and options for managing cash risk. - Other Items: Reduction to early childhood educator pay equity fund ($3.4 million), ERAP funding ($8.6 million with $1.2 million paid as of February), CFSA reduction ($5 million replaced by federal grant), research practice partnership elimination ($400,000), and various agency reprogrammings. Key Outcomes - Information Requests: The administration agreed to provide: - Itemized list of snow removal costs by agency (DPW, DDOT, DGS) by early next week. - Benchmark costs of replicating prior collective bargaining agreements for unions under negotiation, by early next week. - Updated child care subsidy enrollment data. - Detailed breakdown of LRSP voucher costs and UMC closeout spending. - Status of after-action report on snow storm. - No Votes: The hearing was informational; no votes were taken. The council will continue budget hearings with committee hearings over three weeks, with first vote on the budget scheduled for June 9, 2026. - Next Steps: Public testimony on the budget will be held on May 13, 2026. The committee will reconvene for hearings on DCPS (May 1), CFO (May 6), and other agencies.

This was the third of eight Committee of the Whole hearings on the District's proposed FY2027 budget, chaired by Council Chairman Phil Mendelson. The hearing focused on the budget for D.C. Public Charter Schools and featured testimony from Dr. Michelle Walker Davis, Executive Director of the Public Charter School Board (PCSB), alongside Chief Operating Officer Will Henderson. No public witnesses testified at this session; approximately 80 public witnesses had testified two days earlier. The mayor transmitted the budget on April 14, with a first council vote on June 9 and a second vote on June 23. Discussion Items - Budget Equity Concerns: Dr. Walker Davis commended Mayor Bowser for a 2.55% increase in the Uniform Per Student Funding Formula (UPSFF) but raised three concerns: 1. Shift of DCPS Facility Costs: The mayor's budget proposes moving $60 million in DCPS facility costs to the Department of General Services (DGS), bringing total operating funds outside the UPSFF to $96 million (about $2,000 per student). Under this proposal, a DCPS school of 350 students would receive $700,000 more for staff and programming than a charter school of the same size. 2. Capital Funding Disparity: The budget allocates $556 million for DCPS capital improvements versus $187 million for charters, and freezes the charter school facility allotment inflation factor for four fiscal years, placing additional financial burdens on charter schools. 3. Unfunded Critical Needs: No funding is provided for St. Coletta Public Charter School (serving students with intensive disabilities) or for lead testing of drinking water in charter schools. Dr. Walker Davis urged the council to find sustainable revenue for these needs. - PCSB's Own Budget: PCSB is funded by an administrative fee of up to 1% of charter school budgets (currently at the maximum). The budget is based on projected enrollment multiplied by the fee. PCSB holds approximately $1 million in reserves after nearly $4 million was swept at the end of FY25; those funds were used to develop the Aspire accountability framework. - Teacher Retention: Chairman Mendelson asked whether teacher retention could be included in the Aspire accountability system. Dr. Walker Davis said it is not currently a measure but could be considered in future community engagement. Mendelson suggested a universal exit survey; Walker Davis indicated she would explore using existing data rather than starting with a survey, but agreed to consider it. - Board Governance Training: PCSB conducted pilot training sessions for charter school boards and secured a learning management system. Full implementation of the mandatory training is scheduled for the start of the FY27 school year. - Quarterly Allotments: Mendelson discussed smoothing the first-quarter payment (currently 30% on July 15) to address city cash flow needs. Dr. Walker Davis requested consultation with charter school leaders before any change, noting that schools rely on the early payment for start-of-year costs. - School Closure: Capitol Village Public Charter School relinquished its charter in December and will close at the end of the current school year. No other closures are expected. - Allegations at a Charter School: A parent and staff raised allegations of high staff turnover (125+ since 2023), a 94% no-confidence vote by non-supervisory staff, and physical abuse. PCSB is monitoring the school, engaging its board, and used its community complaint process to refer the parent to CFSA and the Attorney General. Chairman Mendelson questioned whether PCSB itself reported the abuse directly; Dr. Walker Davis said she would confirm the process. - Credit Transfer Issue: A parent reported difficulty transferring a child from a charter school to DCPS because course names did not match. Dr. Walker Davis was unfamiliar with the situation but noted that OSSE approves course credits and there is a process for cross-LEA recognition. - Facilities Numbers: PCSB identified 133 charter school campuses, though some buildings house multiple schools. Key Outcomes - No votes or formal decisions were taken; this was a hearing for testimony and discussion. - Chairman Mendelson requested follow-up information: data on the average additional cost to charter schools from the facilities allotment freeze, confirmation of PCSB's direct reporting of abuse allegations, and details on the credit transfer resolution. - The next education budget hearing (DCPS) is scheduled for May 1, 2026, at 11 a.m., featuring the Chancellor.

At-large Council Member Christina Henderson, chair of the Committee on Health, convened the second part of the FY27 budget hearings for the Department of Insurance, Securities, and Banking (DISB) and the Department of Behavioral Health (DBH) on Friday, April 24, 2026, at 9:02 AM in Room 120 of the John A. Wilson Building. The hearing focused on agency testimony and follow-up questions regarding the proposed budgets for fiscal year 2027. Discussion Items – DISB Commissioner Karima Woods presented DISB’s proposed FY27 budget of $35.2 million (a 0.03% decrease from FY26), supported by 157 full-time positions (three more than FY26). Highlights from the discussion include: - IT and Public Affairs Reductions: A $319,000 decrease in IT (equipment) and a $190,000 decrease in public affairs (marketing). Commissioner Woods noted sufficient funds remain for necessary marketing. - New FTEs: Three new revenue-generating positions: a securities licensing specialist, a financial examiner for risk finance, and a senior compliance specialist for the Compliance and Analysis Division (CAD). - Sweep from Securities and Banking Regulatory Trust Fund: An ongoing sweep since 2019 has impacted regulatory functions; the agency requested restoration of at least a portion to maintain licensing and examination capacity. - Office of Financial Empowerment and Education (OFEE): The FY27 budget includes a $712,000 decrease, primarily due to the closure of the Financial Empowerment Center (funded by ARPA). The center’s functions will be absorbed into other programs. The Opportunity Accounts program will see a $295,000 increase to $845,000, with additional match dollars from an FY26 supplemental. - OIG Risk Assessment: The Office of the Inspector General rated the securities and banking trust fund as moderate risk due to infrequent policy reviews. The agency is finalizing standard operating procedures and expects to address gaps by the end of FY26. - PrEP Coverage Mandate: DISB confirmed it has communicated the new insurance requirements for HIV prevention services (PrEP/PEP) to insurers and will review policy forms for compliance. - Medical Loss Ratio (MLR): DISB oversees rebates; carriers are paying required rebates, especially in the large-group market where the district has limited authority. - Captive Insurance: The agency licensed 21 new captive insurers in FY26 (total 230), contributing over $4 million annually to the general fund. Marketing efforts continue. - Audits and Classification: An internal audit of the Opportunity Accounts program covered only FY24; the agency may consider a full program audit. On position classification, 50 of 154 FTEs have been reclassified in the last three years; the process is collaborative with DCHR. - Public Bank Feasibility: No current plans to revisit the 2020 feasibility study; such an effort would require additional funding. Discussion Items – DBH Dr. Barbara Bazron, Director of DBH, presented the proposed FY27 gross operating budget of $360.5 million (including $270 million local funds) and a capital budget of $10.8 million for relocating the Comprehensive Psychiatric Emergency Program (CPEP). Key discussion points: - Medicaid Local Match: The FY27 budget proposes $63 million for local match (including $2 million for the co-magin contract). Spending declined from $70.5 million in FY25 to $42.1 million in FY26, with $18.2 million spent to date. The reduction is attributed to policy changes limiting community support services (CSS) and fraud controls. The budget increase is conservative, pending data from the prior authorization system. - Community Support Services (CSS): Changes include limiting CSS to 200 units (50 hours) per 180 days, restricting audio-only telemedicine, and requiring prior authorization. Monthly expenditures dropped from $27.2 million (Dec 2024) to $11.3 million (Jan 2026). - Overtime: The agency proposed $8.2 million for overtime (down $2.2 million), but actual FY26 spending so far is $7.1 million. Most overtime is at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital and crisis services. Vacancy savings are expected to offset some costs. - St. Elizabeth’s Hospital: The budget is $98.6 million (net reduction of $14 million, including $9 million in one-time funds replaced by $6.8 million recurring). Staffing vacancies dropped from 82 in January to approximately 40 currently, with many hires in progress. The electronic inventory management system (ServiceNow) is on track for implementation this fiscal year. - Crisis Services: DBH plans to consolidate crisis services in-house by phasing out contracts for crisis beds (16 community beds) and the children’s mobile crisis team (CHAMPS). CPEP (16 beds) will move to 35 K Street. Utilization of CPEP crisis beds is currently zero, but the agency expects to add crisis beds at the new site. The timeline for the new CPEP is June 2027; construction has not yet begun. The CHAMPS contract will be eliminated, with six new child-trained clinicians added to the Community Response Team (CRT) for 24/7 coverage. - School-Based Behavioral Health: The FY27 budget includes $18.5 million (the lowest since program inception). The implementation timeline is extended through SY 2028-29, and 5-6 CBO partners will be retained. DBH has hired 13 of 21 planned clinicians for FY26; for FY27, four more clinicians will be hired. The environmental scan and school engagement will continue through May. - Local Only MHRS: A new local benefit plan ($10.5 million) replaces the previous $8.5 million reduction in local only mental health rehabilitation services. The new plan covers clinically based services (therapy, assessments) and maintains ACT, while limiting CSS and recovery support services (RSS) not associated with residential treatment. - Federal Grants: DBH has underspent several SAMHSA grants (e.g., ARPA SABG lapse of $4.1 million, MHBG lapse of $1.1 million). The agency is coordinating with the opioid abatement fund and increasing financial monitoring to improve grant execution. - Opioid Abatement Fund: $10.6 million in new revenue is budgeted. The stabilization center in Ward 1 is under construction with a January opening; no funding is set aside for a second center. Grantees awarded last summer have not yet received funds due to budget approval delays. - Housing: DBH vouchers are significantly lower than DHS or DCHA rates (e.g., $1,230/month for a one-bedroom vs. $3,020 for DHS). The Community Connections program operates in nine apartment buildings. Two contract lines for housing case management were noted; the agency will clarify. - My Rides Transportation Program: Paused due to misuse; DBH plans to reinstate with a different vendor, funded by SOR grant. - Hoarding Disorder: DBH lacks a specialized provider; cases are referred to Core Service Agencies (CSAs) and coordinated with DACL and FEMS via a monthly task force. - Gambling Disorder: Services are available through Medicaid (19 providers billing), but utilization is low. A one-time training was provided; ongoing training is not funded. Key Outcomes - DISB: The Financial Empowerment Center will close; the agency will explore alternative service delivery. The Securities and Banking Regulatory Trust Fund sweep remains a concern. No formal votes were taken; the committee will follow up on classification audits and the OIG risk assessment. - DBH: Crisis bed contracts and CHAMPS will be phased out by September 30, 2026, with services brought in-house. The school-based behavioral health plan will continue with extended timelines and retained CBO partners. The agency will revise its grant management processes and seek to improve federal grant spending. The public record remains open until Friday, May 8, 2026. The next committee hearing is Monday, April 27, 2026, at 9:30 AM, for public witnesses on the Department of Health Care Finance and the Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services.

On April 24, 2026, the Committee on Human Services, chaired by Councilmember Matt Freuman (Ward 3), held a budget oversight hearing for the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development (DEMPED) for Fiscal Year 2027. The hearing reviewed DEMPED's proposed budget of $39.6 million in operating funds (down from $50.2 million in FY26) and $296.7 million in capital funds (an 11% reduction). The meeting featured public testimony from over 20 witnesses and extensive questioning of Deputy Mayor Nina Albert and her team. Public Comments & Testimony - Capital Pride Alliance: Representatives June Crenshaw, Benjamin Jesse, and Jessica Nyun testified that World Pride 2025 generated $310.7 million in economic impact ($245 million to DC alone). They urged the city to fully cover all fees (estimated at $1.6 million) and provide full in-kind support, warning that without it, the parade and festival may not be viable. They noted that only 20% of fees have been committed for FY27. - DC Community Wealth Builders: Multiple witnesses (Sam Banar, Kiara McGowan, Carla Yoder, Rachel Hugh, Ricardo Schiller, Sharnell Cheney) advocated for creating a land bank and public bank, and for a full-time employee at DEMPED to study and implement these. They also requested a technical assistance grant for cooperative conversions. They argued that current corporate incentives fail to retain local wealth and that these structures are needed to invest in affordable housing and small businesses east of the river. - Rift Valley Capital: Stefan Rodiger and Barricade Selassie discussed the Chevy Chase Community Center and Library redevelopment, which has a $40 million funding gap. They requested access to the proposed workforce housing tax abatement and additional capital funding to secure private financing. They expressed hope for a timely land disposition and development agreement (LDDA) package. - Ruth Hong (GIR Lynch Real Estate Partners): Testified on the Reservoir District (McMillan) tax exemption, urging a technical fix to align inclusionary zoning (IZ) rates with HUD fair market rents. The discrepancy threatens the project's financial feasibility. She asked the council to include the amendment in the Budget Support Act. - Derek Ford (Washington DC Economic Partnership): Highlighted the partnership's role in business attraction, retention, and marketing. He noted 273 active projects in the pipeline representing 17,000 jobs and 4.5 million square feet. He supported dedicated funding through hotel tax revenues. - Shira Markov (DC Fiscal Policy Institute): Criticized DEMPED's reliance on corporate tax breaks, arguing they total $191 million in foregone revenue. She urged redirecting funds from ineffective programs like "Office to Anything" to worker supports and safety net programs. She also noted that DC has the highest inequality rate in the country. - Liz DeBarros (DC Building Industry Association): Supported the mayor's budget, including changes to housing in downtown, office-to-anything, and new tax abatements for workforce housing, WMATA, and federal properties. She urged caution on expanding the mayor's land acquisition authority without a clear definition of "revitalization." - Robin Bederal (EYA): Testified on the WMATA joint development tax abatement for the Tacoma Metro project. She requested three modifications: allow properties sold by WMATA to remain eligible, limit first source and CBE requirements to private development only, and extend the abatement term from 20 to 25 years. - Kevin Clinton (Federal City Council): Emphasized the link between economic growth and fiscal health, supported the mayor's investments in economic development, and highlighted the opportunity in former federal buildings. He urged targeted workforce development tied to employer demand. - Elise Cohen (Long Shots): Proposed authorizing off-track betting (OTB) and historic horse racing (HHR) in DC, estimating $92-130 million in annual recurring revenue. She argued these are controlled, in-person alternatives to iGaming. - William Jordan: Criticized DEMPED's oversight of the Donatelli fraud at Highland Park, urging recovery of at least $30 million in public funds. He proposed redirecting funds from certain programs to youth inclusion and opportunity zones. - Justin Zheng (Save Chinatown Solidarity Network): Opposed the elimination of the Chinatown lease incentive grant, requesting an increase to $600,000 yearly and expansion into a legacy business support program. He cited the eviction of legacy businesses and neglect of seniors. - Cheryl Court (Coalition for Smarter Growth): Supported the Chevy Chase library redevelopment but urged inclusion of more affordable housing, restoring the original Rift Valley proposal with 70 deeply affordable units and 67 workforce units. - Ashley Ruff (ANC 7): Called for equitable investment east of the river, including funding for the Food Policy Council, grocery stores, and land banks that serve community needs. She questioned how tax abatements could incentivize healthy food retailers in underserved areas. - Jeremy Sherman and Shira Davidson (ANC 1A): Advocated for economic investment in Columbia Heights, including a lease incentive pilot program, corridor activation funds, and a neighborhood management authority. They noted over 20 years of decline and vacant storefronts. - Ryan Boss and Sahan Miramini (Capital Pride Alliance): Detailed that fees for city services have risen to over $1.6 million, and without 100% support, the Pride Parade and Festival are at risk. They emphasized that the city's support is foundational for safety and operations. - Eric Mulada (Dallian Development): Testified on the redevelopment of the former GSA Regional Office Building (ROB). He requested changing the qualification date for the federal property tax abatement from October 1, 2026 to January 1, 2026, and that funds generated be reinvested in the same business improvement district. - Max Broad: Urged restoring funding for the Food Policy Council, which he said has secured over $200 million in federal and philanthropic support. He argued the council is critical for food systems coordination, especially amid federal cuts to SNAP. Discussion Items - Deputy Mayor Nina Albert's Opening Testimony: She outlined DEMPED's FY27 budget, highlighting cuts due to expiring federal funds and one-time council enhancements. She emphasized the "Grow DC" agenda, including dedicated funding for the Washington DC Economic Partnership ($6M from hotel tax), $7M for Vitality and Tech Ecosystem funds, $6.5M for Great Streets and local business grants, and $2M for special events. She also detailed new tax abatements for workforce housing, WMATA joint development, and former federal properties. - Housing and Downtown Revitalization: Councilmember Freuman and others questioned the shift from HANTA (high area need tax abatement) to a new workforce housing program. Deputy Mayor Albert explained that HANTA is fully subscribed and that the new program targets workforce housing (60-100% AMI) to fill a gap. She noted that current affordable housing programs have sufficient capacity for demand due to high vacancy rates. - Office-to-Anything and Housing Downtown: The council discussed changes to the Office-to-Anything program, including removing first source requirements for tenant improvements and broadening eligibility to any commercial-to-commercial use. Deputy Mayor Albert stated that these changes are meant to remove barriers and attract tenants, citing examples where confusion over first source and CBE caused deals to fall through. - Federal Properties and Southwest DC: Deputy Mayor Albert outlined a vision for Southwest DC as a new mixed-use neighborhood, with plans to convert former federal buildings. The federal property tax fund would support abatements, infrastructure, and acquisitions. Councilmember Freuman raised concerns about the pace of federal dispositions and the need for a coordinated plan. - WMATA Joint Development: The council discussed the tax abatement for five Metro stations. Deputy Mayor Albert acknowledged that the high costs of maintaining transit operations require such incentives. She was open to technical modifications but noted that extending the term to 25 years is not typical. - Grocery Stores and Food Access: Councilmembers Henderson, Felder, and White questioned the effectiveness of the supermarket tax incentive and the elimination of the Food Policy Council. Deputy Mayor Albert defended the incentive as a conversation starter and noted that the district is exploring smaller-format grocers and mixed-use developments at sites like Capitol Gateway. She acknowledged that many grocers face financial challenges and theft. - Chinatown and Columbia Heights: Councilmembers Crawford and Nadeau raised concerns about the Chinatown lease incentive grant and the lack of investment in Columbia Heights. Deputy Mayor Albert noted that the grant has awarded three businesses and that the mayor's budget includes $5.4M for a Chinatown alleyway and other public realm improvements. She committed to working with ANC 1A on a Columbia Heights strategy. - Land Bank and Public Bank: Multiple witnesses and Councilmember Freuman explored the idea of a land bank and public bank. Deputy Mayor Albert was noncommittal but noted that the district has studied both and that a dedicated FTE could be considered. - Capital Pride Fees: The council pressed Deputy Mayor Albert on the 20% fee commitment for Pride. She acknowledged the economic impact but did not commit to full funding, citing budget constraints. Key Outcomes - No votes were taken; the hearing was informational for the committee's budget report. - Deputy Mayor Albert agreed to provide additional data on the supermarket tax incentive projections, the Commercial Property Acquisition Fund, and the specifics of software subscription increases. - She committed to working with the council on technical amendments to the WMATA joint development tax abatement (ownership, first source, term length) and the federal property tax abatement (qualification date, fund use boundaries). - The committee will consider restoring funding for the Food Policy Council and the lease incentive grant in Chinatown. - The council will review the proposed changes to the Vitality Fund, Office-to-Anything, and the extension of the Tourism Recovery District tax. - The committee expects a package for the Poplar Point redevelopment (including Therma and the land swap) to come to the council after recess in September. - Written testimony must be submitted by May 1, 2026 at 5:00 PM.

The Committee on Facilities, chaired by Ward 4 Councilmember Janice Lewis George, held a budget oversight hearing on April 23, 2026, from 10:45 a.m. to 2:34 p.m. The hearing examined the proposed FY27 budgets for the Office of Disability Rights (ODR) and the Department on Disability Services (DDS). Public witnesses and government officials testified on funding levels, service access, and pending challenges. Public Comments & Testimony - Tisha Cockrel (President, Friends of Riggs LaSalle Recreation Center): Urged ADA-compliant door repairs at Riggs LaSalle Rec Center, noting a door push bar is broken and the entrance is not compliant. She reported receiving a late email from DGS saying ADA doors are on order and installation is scheduled for spring, but questioned the specific timeline. - Matthew Gilbash (Vice President, DC Association of the Deaf): Was unable to testify due to illness; his testimony was submitted for the record. - Talib Kareem Muhammad (STEM for Us, mayoral candidate): Criticized the district's snow removal response during winter storms, stating that impassable sidewalks and blocked ADA ramps forced residents with disabilities into dangerous streets. He called for better use of technology and interagency coordination. - Robert Kennedy Jr. (Project Action): Emphasized the need for jobs for people with disabilities and the importance of Medicaid. He described challenges with doctor visits where providers addressed aides instead of him and urged that individuals be spoken to directly. - Carrie Flora (Senior Attorney, Quality Trust for Individuals with Disabilities): Expressed concern about DDS's plan to implement a waiting list for waiver services despite having open slots. She urged the council to require DDS to explain how many waiver slots the budget funds and how much additional funding would avoid a waiting list. - Ian Paragall (Executive Director, DC Coalition of Disability Service Providers): Identified three budget cuts harming providers: the 1.6 million reduction in the administrative fee, the freeze on the DSP Rate Payment Act funding, and the lack of increases for rental stipends and basic needs under the Human Care Agreement. He detailed a new HCA accounting initiative requiring tens of thousands of hours of additional work from providers. - Robin Shafford (Georgetown University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities): Testified that DDS has not provided transparent information about how many people can be served under the IDD and IFS waivers. She called on the council to demand specificity on how waiver slots would be funded at different budget levels and how a waiting list would be lifted. - Sandy Bernstein (Legal Director, Disability Rights DC at University Legal Services): Reported that DDS has terminated or reduced waiver services without adequate notice or legal justification, often forcing individuals to rely on community services that may not be comparable or available. She noted that DDS changes its reasoning during appeals, suggesting budget-driven decisions. - Ricardo Thornton (Co-President, Project Action): Asked the council to fully fund DDS's FY27 budget, emphasizing the importance of Medicaid and the need for increased funding as more people with disabilities require support. Discussion Items – Office of Disability Rights (ODR) - Budget Overview: Interim Director Peter Stefan presented ODR's proposed FY27 operating budget of $3,734,902, a 4% reduction from FY26. The budget includes $626,312 in federal funds for the Developmental Disabilities Council, $1,652,114 for the Division of Deaf, Deafblind, and Hard of Hearing, and $1,456,476 for core compliance work. - Cuts and Impacts: The committee questioned reductions in training (40%), supplies (48%), and equipment (100% zeroed out). Director Stefan said ODR would continue its core mission despite cuts, absorbing them through vacancy savings and adjusting internal budgeting (e.g., using its own budget team instead of the mayor's office). - ADA Compliance: Councilmember Lewis George asked about coordination with DCPS and DPR on accessibility surveys. ODR confirmed ongoing meetings with DCPS to streamline school accessibility surveys and expressed concern that DCPS's entire ADA capital budget ($1.5M) funds only one elevator for SUS Middle School. The councilmember asked ODR to review DPR's ADA capital projects and report if more funding is needed. - Election Accessibility: Director Cook reported robust coordination with the Board of Elections (BOE) despite a vacant ADA coordinator position. BOE provides ASL interpretation at workshops, and the division has hosted over 12 outreach events. Plans include in-person ASL interpreters at polling sites on Election Day. - Division Placement: The councilmember noted that the division for deaf, deafblind, and hard of hearing was moved from the Mayor's Office of Community Affairs to ODR. She sought assurance that the division can execute its mission independently; Director Stefan affirmed they are working collaboratively to set its own priorities. Discussion Items – Department on Disability Services (DDS) - DDS Budget: Director Andrew Reese presented a proposed total budget of $230.6 million (local funds $167.6 million, a 3% increase). The budget includes $173 million for the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA), $21.9 million for Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA), and $11.8 million for the Disability Determination Division (DDD). DDS has 58 vacancies. - Waiting List for IDD Waiver: DDS budget projections assumed a waiting list would be in place for the IDD waiver beginning October 1, 2026, even though current enrollment remains open. Director Reese explained that the waiver budget (appendix J) was developed with that assumption because cost-saving measures (e.g., revising supported living house rates, aligning services with assessed needs, expanding remote supports) are not yet fully implemented. He estimated a pause of 90–120 days, potentially lifted after the first quarterly FRP (January 2027). The councilmember pressed for a specific funding amount to eliminate the waiting list; Reese said it would require amending the waiver and could not be provided immediately. - Cost-Saving Measures: Reese detailed changes including moving from house rates (funding all residents at the highest-need person's level) to individual staffing, better alignment of services with assessed needs, and expanding assistive technology and remote supports. A pilot using ARPA funds will test remote supports for over 100 people. The councilmember expressed concerns about seniors' resistance to technology and stressed that participants must have the option to decline remote supports. - Administrative Fee: Providers lost $1.6 million in administrative fee funding. DDS argued that the fee is intended for administrative costs, not to subsidize waiver rate shortfalls, and that a new quarterly reporting requirement (under the Human Care Agreement) is not overly burdensome. The councilmember ordered DDS to meet with providers within two weeks to resolve the dispute. - DSP Wage Freeze: The budget freezes direct support professional wages at 117.6% of the living wage with no plan to increase to 120% as previously approved. Reese said the annual cost of the wage enhancement was $140 million over three years and that the freeze will gradually erode the wage differential, but noted DC's wages remain higher than surrounding jurisdictions. - Rental Caps: Current rental caps are 20–31% below market medians. Reese said caps are guidelines and can be exceeded case-by-case. Most supported persons live in Silver Spring, MD; integration is monitored to avoid clustering. - RSA Maintenance of Effort: DDS missed the federal maintenance of effort requirement in FY23–25 due to prior local funding reductions, resulting in a $2.3 million penalty. Reese said the requirement is now reduced and FY26 will be met. - Medicaid Due Process: Sandy Bernstein's concerns about termination notices were addressed. Reese noted only 3 out of 2,000 waiver participants had appealed to OAH in FY25, and most service terminations (e.g., fitness) involved transitions to other supports. He defended the new termination form and said training is ongoing. Key Outcomes - The committee will consider restoring the $1.6 million administrative fee for residential providers and may add funds to DDA to prevent a waiting list if clear cost data can be provided. - Councilmember Lewis George directed DDS to meet with provider coalitions within two weeks on the reporting burden issue and report back. - DDS was asked to provide a written explanation of the funding needed to avoid a waiting list, how waiver slots translate to actual service capacity, and how often the waiting list would be reassessed. - The committee will monitor DDS's cost-saving implementation to ensure reductions are not based solely on budget but on appropriate assessments, and that participants' due process rights are protected. - ODR will continue to push DCPS and DPR for more transparent ADA capital spending and will report on the sufficiency of their dedicated ADA budgets. - The record remains open until 5 p.m. on Thursday, May 7, 2026.

The Committee of the Whole, chaired by Council Chairman Phil Mendelson, held a public hearing on the Mayor's proposed FY2027 budget for education agencies. The hearing featured testimony from 63 non-government witnesses followed by government witnesses from the D.C. State Athletic Association (DCSAA), State Board of Education (SBOE), Office of the Ombudsman for Public Education, Office of the Student Advocate, University of the District of Columbia (UDC), and the Deputy Mayor for Education (DME). Key topics included out-of-school time (OST) funding, special education adequacy, high-impact tutoring, adult education cuts, equitable funding between DCPS and charter schools, school-based mental health, and UDC's workforce programs. Public Comments & Testimony - Eric Goulet (Ward 3 SBOE representative): Expressed appreciation for past funding but requested $35,000 to offset an IT assessment increase and $38,000 in the FY26 supplemental to restore hybrid public meetings at the old Council chambers. Also urged reallocation of capital funds to purchase the former Intelsat campus for UDC workforce development. - Tierra Stewart (DC Scores): Emphasized that stable, multi-year OST funding is critical for youth development and safety. Noted that DC Scores raises $4 for every $1 of government funding. - Chelsea Coffin (DC Policy Center): Supported investments in Advanced Technical Centers (ATCs) and the Education Through Employment Pathways (ETEP) data system, but expressed concern about a proposed $2.5 million reduction to adult and family education grants, which would limit access for 40,000 adults without a high school diploma. - Michael Rodriguez (St. Coletta of Greater Washington): Stated that the current UPSFF funding model does not cover students with the most intensive needs. Requested $2.7 million for FY27 to avoid cutting IEP-mandated services. Urged implementation of a Level 5 special education weight, saying partial funding creates a “vicious cycle.” - Leslie Lewis (PD Green program): Urged continued investment in OST programming for incarcerated youth, noting that her program is the only LEARN24 grantee providing educational services in D.C. correctional facilities. - Andrew Lee (Washington Conservatory of Music): Called for a 10% increase in OST grant funding to keep pace with inflation. Also recommended requiring DCPS to subgrant a portion of its $8.1 million in UPSFF OST funds to community-based organizations. - Gabriela Silva (PAVE): Highlighted the importance of high-impact tutoring (HIT) and expressed concern about a nearly 25% cut to school-based mental health (SBMH) funding, which would disrupt services and undermine academic achievement. - Scott Goldstein (Empower Ed): Noted that the budget fails to adequately fund special education (Level 5) and adult education. Called for a $700,000 post-secondary success hub and criticized the DME's dual language feasibility study as an “abdication of leadership.” - Laura Maestis (DC Prep CEO): Argued that charter students receive nearly $10,000 less per student than DCPS peers when factoring in funding outside the UPSFF, including facilities. Urged equitable funding and inclusion of charter schools in city emergency planning. - Celia Dartridge (special education school leader): Stressed that cuts to DBH grants for mental health partnerships force schools to pick and choose which students receive services, creating equity issues. - Multiple parents and advocates (e.g., Catrice Turner, Lashima Burnett, Tara Brown, Ty Andrews): Urged protecting the $3 million investment in HIT, citing personal success stories and noting that only 1 in 4 D.C. students is proficient in reading and math. - Asha Anthony (UDC Law student): Asked the Council to restore UDC funding to FY26 levels, noting that UDC Law provides nearly 100,000 hours of free legal services annually. - David Trugo (Washington Urban Debate League): Supported OST funding increases and requiring DCPS to subgrant to community partners. Noted that debate provides academic gains comparable to HIT at one-third the cost. - Jacqueline Lindsay (DC Scholars board chair): Requested equitable charter facilities funding, noting a $339 million gap between DCPS and charter schools in capital spending. Discussion Items - DCSAA Executive Director Kenneth Owens: Testified that a net reduction of $27,000 constrains expansion of middle school sports and girls' flag football. A Title IX equity report has not been produced since 2018 due to data collection challenges. - SBOE President Jacques Patterson: Noted that unexpected Octo assessments and aging audio-visual equipment forced the board to suspend hybrid meetings. Requested $35,000 for IT costs and $38,000 for hybrid meeting restoration. - Ombudsman Kimberly Humphrey: Reported 944 hotline contacts and over 300 families served in case management this school year, with 97% satisfaction. Encouraged funding to maintain operations. - Chief Student Advocate Dan Davis: Requested converting a part-time grad fellow to full-time to expand capacity. Noted that special education, student safety, and enrollment access are top concerns. - UDC President Maurice Eddington: Asked for restoration of $1.688 million for the Workforce Development and Lifelong Learning (WDLL) division, acknowledging that outcome data is incomplete but pledging to improve measurement. Discussed capital project funding shortfalls and the need for stable operating support. - Deputy Mayor Paul Kine: Defended the budget’s priorities, including a 2.55% UPSFF increase, $27 million in OST grants, and new UPSFF weight (.58) for ATCs. Explained that $96 million in funding outside the formula for DCPS was a difficult but necessary trade-off. Responded to questions about UDC workforce programs, school-based mental health cuts (stated reduction is $2.7 million, not $6 million), and attendance interventions. Key Outcomes - Chairman Mendelson requested follow-up data from DME on: multi-year plan for the truancy prevention pilot, itemization of all attendance programs and costs, and security cost policies for OST programs. - The DME committed to providing the requested information in the coming days. - The Council will hold additional budget hearings, including on the D.C. Public Charter School Board and the FY26 supplemental budget. - Several witnesses and the Chairman expressed concern about the lack of outcome data for UDC's WDLL programs and the need for a long-term solution (Level 5 weight) for special education schools like St. Coletta. - The Chairman noted that restoring the $1.688 million for UDC's WDLL would depend on improved data and accountability.