OCTOBER 2, 2026 NEWSLETTER
Dear Ward 7 Neighbors,
It’s been a very busy couple of weeks at the Council! We had our first Committee of the Whole legislative meeting since summer recess ended, I hosted two hearings on topics around the RFK redevelopment project, and introduced four pieces of legislation! Let’s get into the legislation that I have put forward.
Firstly, I have introduced the ‘Business Improvement District Modernization Amendment Act of 2026,’ which would modernize the District’s framework governing Business Improvement Districts (BIDs). The legislation would:
- Extend renewal terms from five to ten years after an initial extension.
- Standardize rate adjustments, allowing annual increases of up to five percent.
- Create a public performance dashboard tracking safety, cleanliness, business vitality, and small business support.
- Expand residential property collection while providing reduced rates for properties with affordable housing.
- Broaden BID board participation by requiring representation from a District resident and a Certified Business Enterprise.
Secondly, I have introduced the ‘Park 7 Affordable Housing Preservation Tax Abatement Amendment Act of 2026.’ This legislation would provide an annual tax abatement to the Park 7 Apartments. The tax abatement is conditioned upon the owner making improvements to the property in an amount at least equal to the value of the tax abatement and maintaining the affordability of the residential units.
And, lastly, I have introduced symbolic street renaming bills that will commemorate two individuals from Ward 7.
- Johnny Gant Way Designation Act of 2026: would designate the 20 block of 50th Street NE, between East Capitol Street NE and Ames Street NE in Ward 7, as “Johnny Gant Way.” Born and raised in Ward 7’s Lincoln Heights, John Lestant “Johnny” Gant Sr. was a proud, lifelong native Washingtonian. He was a world-ranked welterweight boxing contender in the 1970s, compiling 45 professional victories and headlining historic local bouts against legends and dedicated his later life to mentorship, establishing the Johnny Gant Foundation to provide sports, tutoring, and discipline to youth.
- Kentrell Devaughn Way Designation Act of 2026: would designate the 1500 block of 45th Street NE, between Douglass Street NE and Quarles Street NE in Ward 7, as “Kentrell Devaughn Way.” Kentrell was a son, brother, coach, and mentor whose work touched young people throughout the Kenilworth community. He was tragically killed by gun violence on April 20, 2021, on the same block where he was born and raised. Honoring his memory recognizes both the loss the community carries and the investment he made in youth.
There are also some upcoming Council hearings that I want Ward 7 neighbors to be aware of. On Wednesday, October 14th, the Committee on Human Services will hold a hearing on the ‘Fletcher-Johnson Surplus Declaration and Disposition Approval Act of 2026.’ This legislation will authorize the selected development teams to move forward on the site and allow the development of a mixed-use community.
And, on October 16th, the Committee of the Whole will hold a hearing on ‘Revenue Proposals for the Fiscal Year 2028 Budget.’ The purpose of this hearing is to examine and hear from experts on the various revenue proposals that have been put forward. As the economy continues to shift, we need to look at ways we can continue to raise revenue in order to sustain the city services and programs that are available to District residents.
As this busy legislative season continues, I encourage residents to take a look at the Council hearing calendar and sign up to testify.
