the benefits of using 311

See this additional comment from Ted, who suggested using 311:     
                            

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I probably should have also included the web-based service reporting tool as well, for those who don't use apps on their smart phones for everything. It's called "311 Online" at dc.gov.

        

Go to 311.dc.gov where you can report service issues. You will need to create a login for yourself to create a report.

  

Here's where it turns into a real community-based tool: You can see whatever other issues have been reported and "vote" for them to raise its profile in the list of reported issues. At the moment near my neighborhood (R St unit block) there are a handful of issues for graffiti/tagging, streetlight repair, sidewalk or alley repair, and traffic signal reports. 

    

It's not perfect--not every report is accurate, and some don't get addressed right away. But the city does use it, and over time it will only get stronger as we make use of it as citizens. 
        
As others have said, it shouldn't take a commissioner or council member to get a street light repaired.