January 3, 2019 | Vol. 5, Issue 1
Dear Washingtonians,
Happy New Year, DC.
Yesterday, I followed in the footsteps of Marion Barry and Anthony Williams and took the oath of office for a second time. Like them, I do not view a second term as a chance to warm the seat, but to think and act boldly as we work together to take on our toughest challenges.
My favorite part of the oath is that each of us swears to represent the District of Columbia—as a whole—without fear or favor. When I take that oath and when I administer it, I always say these words—as a whole—very slowly. To me, these words represent the idea that we are only as strong as a city as the ward that struggles the most; that we are only as vibrant as our system of values that works to protect all of us and our rich diversity; and that our political decisions are only sound when all voices are heard—liberals and conservatives, progressives and moderates, fiscal hawks and big government thinkers.
The last four years have been memorable and we have many triumphant moments to look back on. But our work is not done. We must also look to within to realize our greatest challenges. Inequality manifests itself in too many ways in our city. We have charged the Chancellor with closing the achievement gap—but it exists side by side with the income gap and the opportunity gaps across our city.
When I was exploring my first mayoral run in 2013, I called a former member of the Council to get her advice and ask for her support. She pressed me hard to make sure I really knew the unique challenges we would face. She said, “I’m worried that people will blame you for how fast the city is changing and their place in it. You know that right?”
I said that I did know it, and that’s exactly why I wanted to run. I knew then and now that I would take a relentless approach to attracting opportunity, focusing on residents new and generational, and sometimes pushing hard for programs and initiatives that left one side or the other feeling less than whole.
When people ask me what I want to be remembered for, it comes down to this: a relentless commitment to a fair shot for every single DC resident. Period.
When people on the street meet me and tell me about their hopes and dreams for our city, their interactions with government, or the job they think I’m doing, I usually end the conversation with this question: Can I count on you to stick with me? Inherent in the question is the promise that I will wake up every day committed to working on the tough issues and making the best decisions for the District of Columbia as a whole.
I need you to keep pushing because we are counting on you to lead, to speak for us, to represent us, and to make us proud.
Once again: Thank you for sticking with us, for trusting us, and for pushing us. We will continue to make you proud.
Sincerely,
 On Wednesday, January 2, 2019, Mayor Muriel Bowser was sworn in as the first woman re-elected to a second term as the Mayor of the District of Columbia. Watch her inaugural address above and read her remarks HERE.
 Today, Mayor Bowser kicked off her second term by breaking ground on Good Food Markets, delivering job opportunities and fresh food options to the Bellevue community in Ward 8.
Through the Neighborhood Prosperity Fund, an initiative launched by Mayor Bowser, South Capitol Improvement LLC received an $880,000 grant to support the buildout for a grocer tenant as part of a 225,000 square-foot development that will also include 195 units of affordable housing. Good Food Markets is a mission-driven grocer redefining what is possible in food deserts, creating full-service grocery selections in a fraction of the space while also paying a living wage and offering educational opportunities in the community.
Learn more about this project HERE.
Back to Top
 As the partial federal government shutdown continues, Mayor Bowser and Destination DC, the official tourism organization for Washington, DC, are reminding residents and visitors that “DC is Open” and encouraging those in the area to continue enjoying local events and attractions.
Government services, Metro, and a multitude of events and attractions are continuing as scheduled across the District. Learn more about local attractions and events HERE.
Back to Top
 The District offers two environmentally-friendly ways for residents to recycle Christmas trees and greenery.
Between January 14 and February 2, residents can put their trees and greenery out with trash and recycling. Trees placed out after February 2 will be picked up as space in trucks permits, but will not be composted. (This collection service is only available to residents who are serviced by DPW.)
Residents can also bring their trees and greenery to either of the District’s transfer stations - the Fort Totten Transfer Station (4900 John F. McCormack Drive, NE) or the Benning Road Transfer Station (3200 Benning Road, NE).
Before disposing of a tree or greenery, all ornaments and lights should be removed. Residents are also asked not to bag their trees or greenery. Learn more HERE.
Back to Top
 This week’s District Minute features stories about Mayor Bowser's Fifth Annual FitDC Fresh Start 5K and the Mayor's Inauguration.
Back to Top
 The Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) is the leading authority on energy and environmental issues affecting Washington, DC. DOEE works collaboratively with other government agencies, residents, businesses, and institutions to promote environmentally responsible behavior that will lead to a more sustainable urban environment.
DOEE has an opening for an Energy Program Specialist. This position is responsible for preparing, reviewing, and analyzing correspondence, statistical data, special reports, and other materials pertaining to energy assistance programs. All details regarding this vacancy, including qualifications, can be found by visiting the job announcement.
Back to Top
|
