My plans

On this page, you can find some details on how I plan to achieve results as your Commissioner.

How I’ll support Vision Zero

To support Vision Zero, I’ll propose setting up a Vision Zero working group on ANC 1B. The working group will determine the best way to work with DDOT and other agencies to achieve vision zero goals. At a minimum, we’ll document conditions by each SMD, and create recommendations to address the problems we identify. Solutions will vary by location, but I expect to recommend more crosswalks, wider sidewalks, signage and wider bike lanes. I will define a timeline for the group, including a deadline for its recommendations — we can’t afford to wait through endless studies.

And I’ll also coordinate with Commissioners in other ANCs to create similar groups. People are dying on our streets. We must take action to achieve our city’s Vision Zero goals.

How I’ll increase engagement and transparency

For the ANC

Advisory Neighborhood Commissions are the most direct way that DC residents can interact with their government. After hundreds of conversations, it came up again and again. People don’t know what the ANC is up to. They don’t know how to contact their commissioners.

This has to change. ANC meetings should be attended by a larger and more representative group of people.

That’s why I’m proposing the creation of a formal working group, led by a sitting commissioner, to increase attendance at ANC and Committee meetings. Currently, community engagement is part of responsibility of the Public Safety committee. I think Public Safety is important enough to merit its own committee. Community engagement, a distinct issue, should be the focus of a dedicated group.

We will create strategies to increase meeting attendance and help residents understand the role of the ANC. To start, ANC meeting agendas should be available on multiple platforms, electronic and otherwise. Our ANC should have an active presence on social media, and an up-to-date website. 1B currently does a better job than some other ANCs — but we should aim to be the best in the city.

For 1B12

As Commissioner, I’ll hold monthly office hours at a rotating location throughout the ANC. You’ll be able to find the times and locations on Twitter, Facebook or at this site.

I’ll continue be accessible at all times by phone, e-mail, Facebook or Twitter. I’ll also use these channels to communicate ANC business. In some cases, I’ll also use them to communicate about the reasoning behind votes I’ve made.

How I’ll address development at Reeves and elsewhere

The Reeves Center at 14th and U and the DPR lot at 14th and S will be redeveloped in some way. Some might oppose developments as a potential disruptions. I see them as a huge opportunity to strengthen our community.

I’ve spoken with current elected officials at multiple levels, business owners, and neighbors. Nobody seems to know what’s going to happen with either of these parcels of land.

As Commissioner, I’ll find out. And then I’ll organize a public engagement process so that residents of 1B12 and surrounding areas can give their input. 14th and U is a historic intersection. Let’s make sure that upcoming changes strengthen our community — and create better outcomes for all stakeholders.

How I’ll address the trash problem

In the near term, I’ll advocate for more receptacles on the side streets, like T Street, and for more high-capacity cans on U Street and 14th Street. I’ll make sure businesses are upholding their responsibility to keep the streets clean. I support efforts like Clean City DC, and will help make sure the right amount of city-wide resources are allocated to 1B12.

If we still don’t see an improvement, I’ll work with the city agencies to come up with creative solutions. There’s a range of options to consider, from modified collection schedules to enhanced enforcement. I’ll gather community input, evaluate practices from other cities, and then persistently advocate for a solution that works for everyone.

How I’ll provide great constituent services

Informally, ANC Commissioners are important liaisons between their constituents and city agencies. As a businessperson, I’m used to addressing multiple customer or employee requests, often simultaneously. There are many parallels between good customer service and good constituent service.

You’ll always know how to contact me. I’ll maintain multiple channels of communication, including my regular office hours. A few times a year, I’ll hold events in large apartment buildings and community centers.

You’ll always know when to expect a response. If I can’t immediately respond, I’ll promptly give you an estimate of when to expect to hear from me. That way, you won’t have to worry about whether you’re being heard. I can’t promise to solve every problem, but I can promise to be responsive.