From Ward 4 Councilmember Janeese Lewis George

Dear Neighbors,

As we head into budget season at the Council I want to invite you to my virtual Ward 4 Community Meeting on the DC Budget this Saturday, March 6 at 1pm – 2:30pm to discuss Ward 4 budget priorities. At the event we will explain DC’s budget process, share how you can plug in, and gather your ideas on what should be included in the budget.

DC is in the midst of a pandemic that has been devastating to our communities and continues to pose big risks, particularly to our most vulnerable residents. At the same time, our fiscal forecast is improving and we could receive nearly $2 billion in federal aid from the next stimulus bill. We can also consider new targeted, responsible taxes to provide greater equity and support to our most impacted residents and small businesses. The budget gives us an opportunity to address the profound impact that COVID has had on public health, housing, health, education, jobs, businesses, community safety, and social services in Ward 4 and across DC.

Last month I shared my budget priorities letter outlining some key investments I believe we need to ensure a just recovery in the District and lift up working families in our Ward. This is just the start of our budget engagement. I want to build on and expand these recommendations with your input. The DC Council will receive the Mayor’s proposed budget on April 22, when we will officially begin our budget hearing, markup and vote process.

DC has a nearly $17 billion budget that impacts so many aspects of our lives. My team and I will work to ensure these funds address the needs of our communities, but I’m also encouraging all of you to get involved directly with the budget process by testifying at a budget hearing, submitting public comment, or sharing your budget input directly with us and other Councilmembers.

So join us this Saturday at 1pm – 2:30pm to share what you want to see in next year’s budget. Please RSVP at this link to receive the Zoom link and dial-in information: bit.ly/Ward4BudgetMeeting

See you there, Ward 4!