bloomingdale: today's Ward 5 Report: DC's Clean Slate Law, Racial Equity in the Comp Plan, and a Statehood Hearing in Congress

Thursday, July 11, 2019

today's Ward 5 Report: DC's Clean Slate Law, Racial Equity in the Comp Plan, and a Statehood Hearing in Congress

From: Councilmember Kenyan R. McDuffie
Sent: Thursday, July 11, 2019 4:01 PM
Subject: Ward 5 Report: DC's Clean Slate Law, Racial Equity in the Comp Plan, and a Statehood Hearing in Congress

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Neighbors,

This week I introduced the District of Columbia Clean Slate Amendment Act of 2019. If passed, this bill will drastically expand the ability for people with criminal records to have them sealed. In addition to convictions, these records frequently include arrests and charges that did not result in a conviction. Criminal records contribute to generations of poverty and increase the likelihood of recidivism because when our brothers and sisters return home, they are often not met with the opportunities they need to reengage. By passing a clean slate law, DC can eliminate barriers to jobs, occupational licensing, housing, and higher education opportunities. This legislation is a necessary step towards correcting the damage caused by the failed policies of the past. Our city must be guided by the principles of racial equity and intentional in reforming the institutions which still result in disparate outcomes for people of color.

As Chair of the Committee on Business and Economic Development, I was proud to support the final vote for the Mypheduh Films DBA Sankofa Video and Books Real Property Tax Exemption Act of 2019 which will provide tax relief for Sankofa Video Books Café. This a small legacy local business has been an anchor along Georgia Avenue for many years yet was facing the prospect of closing due to increasing property taxes. Protecting Sankofa represents an important victory for small business in the District and to the many members of the community who treasure it.

In Service,

Kenyan

In this issue of the Ward 5 Report:

Legislative Update

On Tuesday, July 9 the Council held its final Legislative Meeting before the summer recess at which Councilmember McDuffie introduced two new bills, the District of Columbia Clean Slate Amendment Act of 2019 and the Marion S. Barry Summer Youth Employment Program Credible Service Benefit Amendment Act of 2019.

In exciting news for Ward 5, legislation to authorize the use of eminent domain to close the W Street Trash Transfer Station had a second and final vote on Tuesday. This vote is another major step toward closing the polluting site and providing cleaner air for the Brentwood neighborhood.

Councilmember McDuffie also successfully added robust language on racial equity to the District Comprehensive Plan Framework element, which received its first vote Tuesday and will have a second vote after recess.

Finally, Councilmember McDuffie, in his capacity as Chair of the Committee on Business and Economic Development, passed emergency legislation to ensure the MLK Gateway project in Historic Anacostia would remain on track. Among other benefits, the MLK Gateway project will bring a tech incubator and a real estate academy to the prominent intersection of Good Hope Road and Martin Luther King, Jr. Avenue, SE.

Now Open: The Ward 5 Community Office

The office is typically open from 11:00 am - 2:00 pm on Tuesday and Thursday. To make an appointment at the office, visit www.calendly.com/ward5, or call our main office number at (202) 724-8028. When entering the Ward 5 Community Office at Luke C. Moore, please use the Monroe Street, NE entrance.

Kenyan in the Community

Kenyan in the News

Washington Informer - "McDuffie Puts Racial Equity into City Plan"
Washington Business Journal - "DC is poised to shut down a busy trash management business — and maybe use eminent domain to buy it"
Curbed DC - "Family-sized housing remains out of reach for many in DC, report says"
Curbed DC - "DC Council approves development framework with emphasis on affordable housing"

Howard University East Campus Design Charrette - July 15

Beat the Streets - July 17 & August 7

The Metropolitan Police Department invites you to Beat the Streets! This community outreach event is a partnership between the Metropolitan Police Department, local social service agencies, and community vendors. From 2:30 - 8:30 pm community members (of all ages) enjoy musical performances from local bands and artists, as well as a street festival-like environment with local vendors and literature distributed by local social service agencies. This is an opportunity for members of the community to experience the lighter side of the police department while enjoying dancing, free food, and fun.

5th District Beat the Streets:
DATE/TIME: Wednesday, July 17, 2:30 - 8:30 pm
LOCATION: 21st Street and Maryland Avenue, NE

3rd District Beat the Streets:
DATE/TIME: Wednesday, August 7, 2:30 - 8:30 pm
LOCATION: Dunbar High School, 100 N Street, NW

Show Up For DC Statehood - July 24

The House of Representatives will hold a hearing on legislation to make the District of Columbia a state. Click the image above to visit www.ShowUp4DC.com and learn how to get involved.

Ward 5 Day at the National Building Museum - Aug 13

Ward 5 residents are invited to experience the National Building Museum summer exhibit, Lawn, on Tuesday, August 13, 2019. Those who RSVP with a Ward 5 zip code will receive complimentary admission to explore the newest summer exhibition, hear from and play with community partners, and enjoy story time with DC Public Library.

DATE/TIME: Tuesday, August 13, 9:00 - 11:00 am
LOCATION: National Building Museum, 401 F Street, NW
RSVP