November 16, 2017 | Vol. 3, Issue 46
Dear Washingtonians,
Earlier this year, my team and I launched Back to Basics DC, an initiative to highlight some of the many ways residents and businesses can work hand-in-hand with DC Government to keep our city moving forward. Since launching the initiative, one issue has kept our constant attention: rats.
Like many cities across the country, in recent years, Washington, DC has seen an increase in rodent activity. This increase is believed to be a result of warmer winters. Last year, the number of 311 requests for rodent abatement increased by 65 percent from 2,300 in 2015 to more than 3,500 in 2016. As we do with any issue that has an impact of the health and well-being of DC residents, the District takes rat abatement very seriously. Over the years, we have taken a comprehensive approach to rodent control that includes: community outreach, surveys, abatement, enforcement, and cooperation between multiple DC agencies.
This year, we added a few new tools to our toolbox. In June, we launched the Commercial Waste Compactor Grant which will make it easier for DC businesses to purchase or lease a commercial compactor for their trash, recyclables, or compost. We also strategically deployed 25 solar trash cans and 400 smart litter bins at rat hotspots around the city. Both the solar trash cans and the smart litter bins are helping us use technology to more effectively manage trash throughout the city. Additionally, through a new collaboration between the Office of the Chief Technology Officer and the Lab @ DC, we are developing models that will help the Department of Health more proactively inspect and manage infestations before they worsen.
In the coming months, we will continue to expand and improve upon the policies and programs we have in place while rolling out several new abatement strategies. As we continue to meet this challenge through better analytics, smart technology, and broader community outreach, we are asking residents to continue reporting rodent issues in your neighborhood by calling or texting 311.
Sincerely,
Mayor Bowser tours the Dupont Circle neighborhood with residents and government officials during this week's "Rat Walk."
This week, at the November 2017 United States District Court Immigration and Naturalization Ceremony, Mayor Bowser announced a new, first-ever partnership between DC Government and the non-profit group, National Immigration Forum. The New American Workforce Partnership will make citizenship services more readily available for DC Government employees, their families, and hundreds of others who live or work in Washington, DC. By both engaging private businesses and DC Government employees and family members, the goal is that within one year, the partnership will help 2,000 District residents become American citizens.
Learn more about the New American Workforce Partnership HERE.
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Looking for the perfect way to jump start your weekend or maybe just a fun reason to check out The Wharf? Tomorrow morning, the Bowser Administration is joining the November Project for an outdoor, boot camp style workout designed for people of all fitness levels. Learn more HERE.
Can't make it at 6:30 in the morning? Later in the day, Funky #FitDC Friday returns for a special "New Edition" themed fitness event at the Future of Sports—the popular, new art installation museum on H Street. Learn more HERE.
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This Saturday, as part of National Adoption Month, the DC Child and Family Services Agency, in partnership with the DC Superior Court, will celebrate the 31st Annual Adoption Day in Court. During this special event, family court judges will officially finalize the adoptions of nearly 30 families. Members of the public are welcome to join and help celebrate these new forever families and learn more about becoming an adoptive or foster parent in Washington, DC. The event will be held in the 3rd floor atrium of the Moultrie Courthouse (500 Indiana Avenue, NW) from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Learn more about adoption in the District HERE.
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Take a step toward better health in the New Year! On January 1, 2018, join us at Mayor Bowser's 4th Annual Fit DC Fresh Start 5K Walk/Run.
Register HERE.
This week’s District Minute features stories about Veterans Day, the Mayor's press conference on federal tax reform, the Administration's new program to help thousands of District residents go through the naturalization process and become American citizens, and this week's Rat Walk.
The District Department of Transportation (DDOT) is committed to achieving an exceptional quality of life in the nation’s capital through sustainable travel practices, safe streets, and outstanding access to goods and services.
DDOT has an opening for a Bicycle Program Specialist. This position is responsible for performing a wide variety of assignments related to the development, management, and implementation of policies, and strategies to ensure an effective District-wide Bicycle Program. All details regarding this vacancy, including qualifications, can be found by visiting the job announcement.
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