[0:16] >> calling to order this meeting. [0:18] this is the 35th legislative meeting of council period 26. [0:24] I'm phil mendelson chair of the council. [0:26] the chair of the council district of columbia. [0:28] today is tuesday july 14, 2026. It's 2:40. [0:34] we are in room 500 of the johnny wilson building. [0:39] this meeting is broadcast on cable channel 13 as well as on [0:44] the council's website www.dccouncil.gov. [0:48] this is an additional meeting. It's not a regularly scheduled [0:51] meeting of the council. With that, we always have a [1:00] moment of silence for reflec reflection. [1:28] please call the roll. [ roll call] [1:56] you have a quorum. >> thank you, madam secretary. [1:58] we have the consent agenda before us. [2:06] looking at the consent agenda on page 3, item 10 for initiatives [2:15] land transparency amendment act. Was agendized for [2:19] september 22nd. It is not on this agenda. [2:23] on page 4 at the bottom of the page number 5, board of trustees [2:28] university of district columbia resolution 2026, pr26-741 was [2:36] removed from consent committee as a whole on page 5, number 9 [2:40] at the top, approval resolution 2026, was put on nonconsent at [2:51] the committee of the whole. I believe those are only changes [2:56] that I know of. To the consent agenda. [2:58] are there any other changes? Hearing none. [3:05] we have the consent agenda as amended before us. [3:09] all those in favor say aye. >> aye. [3:11] >> are there any opposed? Hearing none, the ayes have it [3:16] unanimously. Turning to page 4, item 5. [3:20] at the bottom pr26-741. Board of trustees, district [3:29] columbia. So moved. [3:31] is there a discussion? >> mr. Chairman. [3:34] >> councilmember parker. >> I want to say it again for [3:37] the record. This is a no way to undermine or [3:40] question the qualifications of mr. Battle. [3:45] instead, a belief that district residents should be the ones [3:48] appointed to district boards and institutions. [3:52] I will be voting no. I believe mr. Battle is more [3:55] than qualified. Thank you. [3:58] >> thank you. If there's no further [4:00] discussion. The vote is on pr26-741. [4:04] all those in favor say aye. >> aye. [4:08] >> any opposed? Please record councilmember [4:13] parker voting no. The ayes have it. [4:16] on page 5, number 9. Pr26-736. [4:24] bundle disposition resolution for 2026. [4:28] councilmember frumin. >> I read the full statement at [4:34] the -- I asked that this so moved. [4:40] >> is there a discussion? Councilmember allen. [4:44] >> I had couple of questions I wanted to ask mr. Frumin. [4:50] with this deal, is there a date by which construction has been [4:56] established to begin? >> it's not a strict term. [5:03] there is a life of the district, would expire. [5:08] the target is to start in 2028 I believe. [5:14] be done by 2030. >> I guess, if we're accepting [5:22] now $5 million financial liability plus $30 million for [5:24] the streets, it doesn't come with a date that they have to [5:27] get the project started by. >> I don't believe there is -- [5:33] there's a date by which it needs to be done. [5:37] there's not -- I think the hope is it will get started much [5:43] sooner than requirements of the term sheet. [5:53] >> is there an agreement how much? [5:57] >> $325,000. >> is that in escrow or is that [6:03] what they say they will put in? >> I believe it's just what they [6:07] say. It's their commitment as opposed [6:10] going into a an escrow account. >> at one point they said they [6:16] were building a park. Now they are not, we are. [6:19] I'm anxious around a promise that they're going to do [6:22] something on this. It's an important project. [6:25] it needs to move forward. I'm aware that $35 million in [6:32] capital spending on streets and parks is $35 million that we're [6:36] not spending somewhere else for other very important projects. [6:45] the deal just one block away came with requirements around a [6:49] lot of money that we put in, requirements they have to [6:53] deliver housing or else. They have to deliver many [6:56] things. They put a lot of metrics around [6:59] that I know $35 million is not the scale hundreds of millions [7:04] but it adds up. As we continue to face limited amount of [7:09] finances, make sure we're safeguarding it is important to [7:12] me. I appreciate it. [7:13] I know you doing your level best here to how to get this project [7:19] moving. >> on the streets, the streets [7:22] has come up a different times in a number of different places. [7:29] at rfk at fletcher johnson an popular puff and other projects. [7:36] the city has borne the cost of streets and sidewalks. [7:40] it is not exceptional certainly in the recent projects for that [7:43] to be a part of the component. I hear you, dollars are limited. [7:47] if you used dollars in one place, they're not available in [7:52] another place. This is an important place. [7:54] our view is that this deal makes since as it is. [7:57] will deliver for the district. >> if there's no further [8:03] discussion, the vote will be on pr26-736. [8:08] all those in favor say aye. >> aye. [8:12] >> are there any opposed? Please record the meeting no. [8:19] >> please record me as present. >> the ayes have it with me [8:29] recorded as no and councilmember allen an present. [8:39] the measure is approved. Turning to non--consent agenda. [8:46] we have a final reading on the resale act. [8:51] bill 26-224. The technical name is [8:55] restricting egregious scalping against live entertainment [9:00] amendment act 2026. Councilmember nadeau. [9:12] councilmember pinto. >> thank you, mr. Chairman. [9:41] artists and promoters rely on when decide where to book [9:44] events. The fees go to our local venues. [9:48] many venues make contracts with their ticketing platforms that [9:52] are three years long. That allows them to get advance [9:54] of the money that will be made so they can continue to maintain [9:58] their venues which is so important to our entire economy [10:02] and our culture here in washington d.c. [10:05] adding this type of uncertainty about the mayoral ruling around [10:08] fees, will make it much more difficult for district venues to [10:13] finalize these type of contracts and receive the money that they [10:16] need to stay open. No other jurisdiction in the [10:20] nation regulates the primary market for tickets in this way. [10:25] if d.c. Is the only one, artists and promoters will root around [10:30] it and will see talent go elsewhere. [10:33] we must refocus this bill on the original intent which is to [10:36] ensure that consumers are protected from egregious price [10:40] gouging in the secondary market and instead the dollars are put [10:43] back into our local economy. I ask for my employee -- [10:53] colleagues to support this amendment. [10:56] >> councilmember parker. >> I will acknowledge, I'm going [10:59] to operate in the nuance of it. I, too, appreciate the [11:04] underlying bill and appreciate what I believe councilmember [11:08] pinto is attempted to do with this amendment. [11:10] I'm concerned, though that by the amendment removing the [11:15] authority to cap fees in the primary ticket market while [11:20] leaving restrictions on the secondary market, which we [11:23] should be doing, it creates an uneven regulatory framework that [11:29] only empowers the giants in the primary market. [11:32] who are often ticketmaster and live nation. [11:36] I would point out that those market dynamics are already the [11:41] subject of litigation brought by the u.s. Department of justice [11:51] and numerous state attorneys general. [11:52] many of our concert venues have expressed that by undermining [11:57] their ability to charge fees in a reasonable way, hurts their [12:01] bottom line. None was us want to do that. [12:04] I would remind us all that the department of justice domination [12:21] said live nation chargely up to ticket price. [12:31] we all agree that we shouldn't regulate the primary market. [12:35] we would turn a blind eye to ticketmaster, gouging and taking [12:40] advantage. My concern again by approving [12:45] this amendment by extension that's we're doing. [12:48] I will leave it there. I get what the underlying bill [12:52] is attempting to do. I support it. [12:54] I think we should regulate the secondary market in order to [12:57] support our artists and venues. We should also take on [13:05] ticketmaster and live nation which operate as unchecked [13:09] monopolies in many ways. The argument will be made, I'm [13:12] sure, let's let the legal system play out. [13:15] again, what is the harm of saying within reason you can [13:20] charge a service fee or a tax but just not 30%. [13:24] just not 40%. That seems reasonable to me and [13:28] to just say, let the courts handle it seems as though we're [13:33] missing an opportunity to protect our residents. [13:37] >> if there's no further discussion. [13:38] we have the amendment before us. All those in favor the amendment [13:41] say aye. >> aye. [13:43] >> are there any opposed? >> mr. Chairman, record me as [13:52] no. >> the ayes have it. [13:59] we have a second amendment. It was circulated by [14:02] councilmembers allen, henderson and nadeau. [14:05] not sure who to call on. Circulated by councilmember [14:12] allen office. >> I move this amendment [14:17] alongside my colleagues. On june 30th we approved an [14:20] amendment that among other provisions ban practice of [14:24] selling concert tickets here in the district. [14:26] for those who are unfamiliar with the practice, surveillance [14:31] pricing is using identifiable information usually required use [14:34] of data mining or purchase history with these specific [14:40] company to price a product. If all of us were global to be [14:44] purchasing the same ticket, to the same concert, we might all [14:47] get different prices. Surveillance pricing leads to [14:52] two different consumers getting two different prices for the [14:55] statement thing. It's fundamentally unfair. [14:58] I'm looking forward to the council taking up this issue [15:02] this fall and legislation councilmember henderson [15:04] introduced it will ban surveillance pricing. [15:24] this amendment was crafted to clarify that the broad [15:28] surveillance pricing for live events and the district does not [15:30] apply to reduction in prices or fees that are set based on [15:34] eligibility criteria that any consumer can satisfy on equal [15:37] terms to provide to member of broadly defined group such as [15:42] teachers, senior citizens, students, three provided to [15:47] recipients. This amendment clarifies any [15:50] reduction in the price or fees for our ticket must be specified [15:53] in terms in eligibility that disclose and provide consumer [15:58] based on use of surveillance pricing. [16:00] it clarifies use of location data to determine jurisdictions [16:04] within the requirements like calculating the taxes. [16:06] I want to thank the staff, office attorney general and [16:12] future of music coalition. Thank you mr. Chairman. [16:18] I move the amendment. I ask for my colleagues support. [16:22] >> is there a discussion? Vote will be on the amendment. [16:26] this is one circulated by councilmembers allen, henderson [16:29] and nadeau. A those in favor say aye. [16:32] >> aye. >> are there any opposed? [16:35] hearing none, the ayes have unanimously. [16:39] we have the bill as amended. Is there further discussion? [16:48] councilmember allen, councilmember pinto, you asked [16:50] to be recognized? >> thank you very much. [16:53] as we get set to vote on final passage of the resale act, I'm [16:57] very excited. We're about to put in place the [17:00] strongest consumer protections for our resident and our live [17:05] performance industry. This is without a doubt the most [17:09] pro-fan, pro consumer piece of legislation in the country. [17:12] there is so much money being made in scooping up ticket and [17:16] reselling them for a lot more. This is become so perv pe pervae [17:25] don't realize how badly we're being ripped off. [17:32] they are all resell egg tickets as we saw last week. [17:41] the whole system is rigged against our residents, artists [17:51] and venues. It does not and this it should [17:56] not be this way. This law does important thing. [18:01] it puts a 10% price cap. This is key. [18:05] we're taking significant profit from scalper and ensuring people [18:09] sell a ticket they can't use. It will soon be there'll sell a [18:13] ticket that you don't have. It requires high volume scalpers [18:17] to register with the city and carry significant bonds. [18:24] it requires fees, taxes and prices up front. [18:32] all of this levels the playing field for music and theater fan. [18:40] fans. I'm very grateful to my [18:44] colleagues for the collaboration to get to this point today. [18:48] especially councilmember nadeau and her staff for moving this [18:50] bill through the committee. Councilmember henderson and her [18:53] staff. I want to thank the hard work [18:55] for local venues, artists and theaters especially I&p who [19:03] called this out as a problem. I want to thank the staff and [19:07] off of attorney general for guidance and feedback. [19:10] I want to express gratitude to make sure it's perfectly [19:19] targeted. I'm excited for the vote. [19:22] >> thank you, councilmember allen. [19:24] if there's no further discussion, the vote is on bill [19:29] 26-224 as amended. All those in favor say aye. [19:33] are there any opposed? Hearing none. [19:37] the ayes have it. Unanimously. [19:40] we'll turn now -- [ applause ] [19:48] we will turn now to something more interesting. [19:51] council period 26 recess rules amendment resolution 2026. [20:02] we do rules resolution before every recess. [20:06] this one does three things. It permits grant modification [20:13] request for the university district of columbia, during [20:16] this recess. It makes some changes to our [20:20] rules with regard to the process for racial equity impact [20:26] assessments. It permits the committee on [20:28] executive administration and labor to hold up to three [20:31] roundtables during the recess on matters of elections or campaign [20:35] finance. So moved. [20:36] is there a discussion? The vote will be on pr26-784. [20:43] all those in favor say aye. Are there any opposed? [20:48] the ayes have it unanimously. We will turn to bill 26-711. [20:55] entertainment and establishment employee safety extension [20:58] temporary amendment act of 202006. [21:01] 2026. This is final reading. [21:04] is there a discussion? The vote will be on 26-711. [21:12] all those in favor say aye. Please record me as voting no. [21:18] the ayes have it. Turning to emergency bills. [21:22] private vehicle for higher operator clarification [21:28] resolution 2026. Councilmember nadeau. [21:34] >> thank you. This is a tremendous annual of [21:40] emergency and temporary legislation council passed last [21:43] year. The measure is clarify the dfhb [21:48] continues to be empower to address the threats for higher [21:52] vehicle operatorrers and companies and to enforce [21:57] registration. Renewals move in coordination [21:59] and office the attorney general as litigation against legal for [22:03] hire activity remains active. My committee held two day [22:07] roundtable on the state of the for hire industry which we plan [22:11] to transmit into permanent legislation that will include a [22:15] comprehensive update including various conflicting definitions. [22:18] with that, I move the resolution. [22:21] >> we have the declaration before us. [22:23] is there a discussion? The vote will be on the [22:31] declaration, pr-730. All those in favor say aye. [22:40] >> chairman, please mark me as present. [22:42] >> hearing no votes. The ayes have it unanimously. [22:48] councilmember white is present. The vote on bill 26-728. [23:09] >> ayes have it unanimously. Councilmember white is present. [23:20] next business license reform and emergency declaration resolution [23:27] pr-761. Councilmember nadeau. [23:28] >> the bill is identical to permanent measure. [23:33] bill 26-494. It does two main things that [23:36] should be put in place immediately. [23:40] first the bill makes slightly easier for people to practice [23:45] across state line and keeping with the national best [23:47] practices. The department of licensing and [23:49] consumer protection wants us to pass this on emergency basis [23:52] rather than waiting for congressional review so they can [23:55] extend licenses to recent batch of graduates from the county [23:58] program. It avoids lapse in some business [24:03] licensing laws. To address implementation [24:07] challenges. Keep the provisions in place and [24:09] not waiter if the permanent bill to complete congressional [24:11] review. I now move proposed resolution [24:18] 26-671. >> thank you, we have the [24:19] declaration before us. Is there a discussion? [24:23] the vote will be on p r26-761. Are there any opposed? [24:32] the ayes have it unanimously. Underlying bill, 26-730. [24:39] councilmember nadeau. >> so moved. [24:42] >> discussion? On the bill, all those in favor [24:48] say aye. Are there any opposed? [24:51] hearing none, the ayes have it unanimously. [24:57] medical cannabis license, clarification an emergency [25:02] declaration resolution 2026. Pr26-779, so moved. [25:10] the underlying bill does three things. [25:15] all of which are to continue emergency and temporary [25:20] legislation previously adopted. Related to medical cannabis. [25:24] the first extends the expiration date congressional licenses for [25:30] medical cannabis, retailers internet, manufactures, career [25:33] and testing laboratories by an additional year. [25:37] the second clarifies the law with regard to distance [25:42] requirements for retailers and internet retailers. [25:48] the third is a clarification with regard to unlicensed [25:56] establishment enforcement to clarify strengthen the authority [26:03] the alcohol, beverage and cannabis administration to [26:09] enforce unlicensed establishments. [26:12] so moved. Is there a discussion? [26:16] the vote will be on pr26-779. Are there any opposed? [26:27] aye have it unanimously. Bill 26-759. [26:33] medical cannabis license unlicensed establishment [26:36] clarification amendment act 2026. [26:39] so moved. Discussion? [26:41] all those in favor of the bill say aye. [26:46] are there any opposed? Hearing none. [26:50] the ayes have it unanimously. Getting little week as the hour [26:55] is passing. No more strengthon the votes. [26:59] next measure is real property tax emergency declaration. [27:05] this resolution and the underlying bill were circulated [27:12] by me because of a legal concern. [27:14] it was brought to my attention with regard to the current law [27:20] and tax sales and the district of columbia and how it relates [27:27] to recent decisions by the supreme court of the united [27:33] states. A tax sale has been scheduled [27:35] for tomorrow, I believe it was. Maybe it was today. [27:39] I believe the cfo said that he's already sent out notice that's [27:43] being delayed. I introduced a bill earlier this [27:49] week that deals with this issue and will thread -- will thre leo [27:57] a hearing. I believe the bill will need [28:00] refinement. I received a fiscal impact [28:02] statement from our budget office. [28:05] as a reminder, this is an emergency bill before us. [28:09] the fiscal impact statements funds not sufficient for this [28:14] emergency legislation. As a result, I will not be able [28:18] to move this. It is withdrawn. [28:25] next measure is pr26-781. Omnibus redevelopment [28:35] clarification resolution 2026. In 2022, the council approve the [28:45] omnibus redevelopment act whichh to facilitate nature of the [28:56] development project and mitigate the impacts of street and alley [29:00] closures on vehicular and pedestrian traffic flows. [29:04] the development and project has made significant progress, [29:07] including the completion of the berry farm. [29:13] and the ongoing construction of the edmonton. [29:15] the project has experienced delays and require amendment to [29:22] the redevelopment act of 2022. Accordingly, the emergency [29:36] legislation underlying legislation is necessary. [29:38] the declaration so moved. Is there a discussion? [29:45] the vote will be on pr26-781. All those in favor say aye. [29:52] are there any opposed? The aye have it unanimously. [29:57] the underlying bill, bill 26-763. [30:01] is there a discussion? On the bill, all those in favor [30:07] say aye. Are there any opposed? [30:14] hearing none, the ayes have it unanimously. [30:19] the next measure is roads and alley by the district government [30:25] emergency declaration resolution of 2026. [30:28] in 2024, the council departmedepartment-- adopted ree [30:40] district of columbia. The need of the law rose from [30:42] the outreach of several members of the hillcrest community. [31:01] council adopted legislation. There's similar situations [31:05] regarding alleys and other places around the city. [31:08] more recently, there's unpaid alley off morris road that is [31:14] badly need of repair. The alley is on the south or [31:17] west side of morris road. Residents have reported that the [31:22] department of public works, their trash trucks got stuck in [31:27] the snow and ice and tore up the alley and badly damaged the [31:34] surface. Just as it was the case in the [31:38] previous hillcrest situation. The ally away is -- alley is [31:43] only way residents can park or put out their trash or have [31:47] trash picked up. It is a covenanted alley way. [31:53] because of slight difference in the circumstances, the amounts [32:06] -- I should note that in drafting this legislation, we [32:11] worked with the executive. I move the declaration. [32:15] is there a discussion? The vote will be on pr26-782. [32:21] all those in favor say aye. Are there any optioned? [32:27] hearing none, the eyes have it unanimously. [32:36] on the bill, all those in favor say aye. [32:40] are there any opposed? Hearing none. [32:43] the ayes have it unanimously. The next measure is pr26-783, [32:58] net zero continuity emergency declaration resolution 2026. [33:03] councilmember lewis george. >> I move continuity declaration [33:09] resolution of 2026. These emergency measures are [33:13] necessary to avoid a clash among district laws and net zero [33:16] requirements that is set to occur due to previous two [33:22] legislation expiring several months apart. [33:25] on november 4, 2025, the council passed the most iteration of the [33:31] greenhouse amendment act which moved net zero and created [33:39] separate requirements for residents. [33:50] on february 3, 2026, council passed net zero modification act [33:58] introduced requirements including the definition and how [34:01] it applies to residential and nonresidential projects. [34:06] the temporary expires on januar. During the february 3rd 2026 [34:15] meeting the provisions related to the green government building [34:19] act were moved through amendment supported by the executive. [34:22] the council created a conflict among and a gap between the [34:27] expiration of the net zero standard defined in the net zero [34:32] modification and preservation legislation and the expiration [34:34] of the residential provision in the greenhousing core [34:37] legislation. When the greenhousing [34:39] residential provisions expired in september, residential [34:43] projects covered by the act will revert to the permanent [34:48] residential provisions in the green buildings act which are [34:52] tied to the net zero definition code amendment act. [34:56] as a result, the permanent residential requirements will [34:57] not correspond with the net zero standard which would remain [35:03] temporarily modified. In passing these measures the [35:09] council will provide continuity and advance for all greener [35:12] government building act and align these important technical [35:16] standards so they operate on a unified timeline. [35:18] with that, I move the declaration. [35:23] >> thank you, councilmember. We have the declaration before [35:24] us. Is there a discussion? [35:26] >> I have a question. >> councilmember, white. [35:32] >> councilmember janeese lewis george. [35:34] do you know this encompassing controversial developed in ward [35:42] eight. >> I'm not sure. [35:52] give me a second. >> I digress if you can get that [36:01] to me councilwoman. That will be helpful. [36:03] >> I will let you know. Your question does it impact it? [36:12] >> yes. Project was derailed and not [36:16] fully developed the way the community wanted because of this [36:19] new law that the council passed. The administrative said they [36:25] could not do because of this. I thought this particular -- [36:28] >> it did. We made the modification for [36:31] indoor pools. The executive, I believe chose [36:37] not to utilize the net zero exemptions and bring back the [36:41] pool at congress heights. The congress heights project [36:45] will be net zero just without a pool. [36:49] >> I don't know what that means. >> this legislation did actively [36:57] allow for what we were troubled with, which was can we make [37:03] pools net zero. Base on proveiling knowledge, we [37:06] realized this is one of the things we should be exempting. [37:11] the executive has decided to not make the congress heights [37:15] project -- has decided to still not have the pool, even though [37:18] they could meet it with net zero modification. [37:21] >> thank you for the clarification. [37:26] >> councilmember bonds. >> yes, thank you. [37:31] to councilwoman lewis george. Does this legislation deal [37:38] exclusively with the compliance of the district government on [37:43] district government projects as it relates to net zero energy [37:48] standards or does it also incorporate timelines that the [37:53] government must follow? Is it about the standards and [37:57] the timeline or is it about just the standards? [38:04] >> I understand the question. >> are there some timelines that [38:11] the government must follow in order to meet these net zero [38:16] energy standards? >> this is just about the [38:20] standards. Only reason -- the timeline is [38:22] only an issue because of the different expiring dates of the [38:27] temporary legislation. >> does this consolidate them [38:29] boo on -- into one package. You know if you're a staffer, [38:34] you know there's a certain date that you have to reach as [38:37] opposed to multiple dates that you have to reach. [38:39] which we tend to do a lot. >> yes, the objective is that so [38:44] there's continuity and understanding amongst everyone. [38:48] >> I thought I heard you use the word continuity. [38:50] I wanted to be sure. Thank you very much. [38:53] >> thank you, any further discussion on the declaration? [38:57] the vote will be on the declaration pr26-783. [39:00] all those in favor say aye. Are there any opposed? [39:05] hearing none. The ayes have it unanimously. [39:08] we have the underlying bill, 26-767. [39:15] councilmember lewis george. >> so moved. [39:18] >> you circulated an amendment. >> mr. Chairman, I move lewis [39:23] george amendment number one, circulated at 6:57 p.m. [39:28] yesterday. >> we have the amendment before [39:29] us. Suspect there a discussion -- is [39:31] there a discussion on the amendment? [39:35] a vote will be on the amendment. All those in favor say aye. [39:40] are there any opposed? Hearing none, the ayes have it [39:44] unanimously. We have the bill as amended [39:48] before us further discussion? On the bill. [39:52] all those in favor say aye. Are there any any opposed? [39:58] hearing none, the ayes have it unanimously. [40:03] special education for young adults and the custody [40:08] department of corrections. Pr26-764. [40:13] councilmember pinto. >> thank you, mr. Chairman. [40:16] under the federal disabilities education act, or I.d.e.a. And [40:22] district laws, student age residents in doc custody are [40:28] entitled to special education if they were identified student [40:32] with a disability. For school year 21-22, school [40:36] years 22-23, special education services for eligible [40:39] individuals and doc's custody were provided by maya angelo [40:44] public charter school under temporary charter operation. [40:47] the temporary charter authorization has expired but [40:50] the end of the school year 22-23. [40:55] we passed emergencies to ensure there's not a gap provided no [41:00] young adults. A permanent version of the [41:03] legislation is included in the leading education access for [41:07] reentry and necessary success or the learns amendment act of [41:12] 2026. Which was enacted this [41:15] july 2nd, 2026. It must undergo congressional [41:20] review. One more round of emergency [41:23] legislation is necessary to send legislation of doc as the [41:28] district agency responsible for providing a fape. [41:34] to ensure that doc continue its contract maya angelo public [41:40] charter schools. I move the emergency deck. [41:43] >> thank you, councilmember. Is there a discussion on the [41:48] declaration? The vote will be on pr26-764. [41:52] all those in favor say aye. Any opposed? [42:02] I believe that was a yes vote. I heard no, no votes. [42:11] aye have it unanimously. Councilmember pinto. [42:15] >> so moved. >> discussion? [42:18] the vote will be underlying bill. [42:21] all those in favor say aye. Are this any opposed? [42:29] the ayes have it unanimously. Pr26-763. [42:40] councilmember pinto. >> thank you, in secure d.c., we [42:46] established prearrest diversion task force to identify best [42:50] practices to implement prearrest diversion for certain categories [42:54] for persons identified by the task force as being appropriate [43:00] for diversion. Prearrest can be an effective [43:02] tool to improve public safety by preventing low level offenses [43:05] and we're providing appropriate mental health and substance [43:08] abuse treatment and support individuals in need. [43:11] the task force was required begin meeting after three months [43:15] of secure d.c. And issue initial recommendations. [43:21] cjcc experienced staffing restraint 8 task force was not [43:24] able to begin meeting until jun. We included the men pro-- we [43:32] included the provisions in the bill. [43:35] which of an enacted on july 2, 2026. [43:40] that bill is still undergoing congressional review. [43:43] therefore, another round of emergency legislation is [43:46] necessary to update the deadlines to accurately reflect [43:50] feasible timelines for the task force with relat relate -- [43:55] recommendations that due july 31, 2026. [43:58] it's preparing proprovide formal list of recommendations on the [44:03] 31st. I look forward to reviewing them [44:05] and will share them with colleague. [44:07] I move the emergency declaration. [44:11] >> thank you, councilmember. Is there a discussion? [44:16] the vote will be on pr26-763. All those in favor say aye. [44:22] are there any opposed? Hearing none. [44:25] the ayes have it unanimously. Bill 26-762. [44:37] councilmember pinto. >> so moved. [44:40] >> discussion? On the bill, all those in favor [44:48] say aye. Hearing none, the ayes have it [44:51] unanimously. Pr26-777. [44:54] health and human services programs and benefits [44:59] eligibility and delivery data sharing clarifications [45:04] resolution 2026. Councilmember frumin. [45:07] >> so moved. >> you can say what it's about? [45:16] >> I had done this last time. I will do it again. [45:21] >> what do you mean last time? >> at the breakfast. [45:26] [ laughter ] the supplemental nutrition [45:31] assistance program, or s.n.a.p., provide assistance to low income [45:36] resident. S.n.a.p. Is our best tool for [45:38] addressing food insecurity. However, recent changes in [45:42] federal law will make it harder for families to access s.n.a.p. [45:46] the district must implement work requirements for certain people [45:49] who receive s.n.a.p. Benefits known as abled bodied adults [45:53] without dependents or abog. When abaaouds apply for row knew [46:05] s.n.a.p. Eligibility they must be screened to establish they [46:08] are complying. For example, resident might be [46:11] exempt from work requirements if they have disability. [46:14] or enrolled in school or training program or pregnant. [46:18] if a resident believes they are exempt from the work [46:21] requirements, they must fill out several forms and receive [46:25] verification from third parties like medical professionals. [46:29] other jurisdictions implementing public benefit program work [46:33] requirements have found that these onerous administrative [46:36] requirement have caused adults to lose benefits even they are [46:40] eligible. The department of human [46:42] services can prevent the loss of s.n.a.p. Benefits by [46:45] automatically identifying people who qualify for exemptions and [46:49] reducing the needs for individuals to submit additional [46:55] documentation. This emergency legislation [46:56] preserves district residents access to public benefits by [47:02] allowing dhs's homeless services department to share data with [47:05] its public benefits department so d.h.s. Can help customers [47:10] automatically qualify from exemptions through s.n.a.p. Work [47:14] requirements. In the future, this change could [47:19] also help d.h.s. Exempt residents from medicaid work [47:20] requirements that go into effect in january 2027. [47:25] I'm grateful to the executive for moving this important [47:28] legislation. The committee on human services [47:31] oversight has identified the need for more robust and active [47:35] data sharing within d.h.s. And this legislation is an important [47:40] step toward making that happen. With that, I move the [47:47] declaration. >> thank you. [47:48] councilmember frumin. We have the declaration before [47:50] us. Is there a discussion? [47:54] the vote will be on pr26-777. All those in favor say aye. [48:00] are there any opposed? Hearing none the ayes have it [48:05] unanimous. Bill 26-751. [48:09] councilmember frumin. >> so moved. [48:11] >> discussion? On the bill, all those in favor [48:16] say aye. Opposed? [48:19] hearing none, the aye have it unanimously. [48:24] pr26-757. Language access rule making [48:29] authority emergency declaration resolution 2026. [48:32] councilmember nadeau. >> this measure would provide [48:35] the mayor authority rule it is the language access act of 2004. [48:45] by staff confirmed with the office of human rights they [48:48] would like to use this rule making authority in the coming [48:51] months. Emergency legislation is needed [48:53] to prevent a gap in rule makingd to create a gap between the [48:59] temporary measure in the committee of public works moving [49:02] permanent later this year. With that, I move the [49:05] resolution. Chair mendelson: we have the [49:08] declaration before us. Is there a discussion? [49:12] on the declaration of pr-26 757, all of those in favor? [49:18] >> aye. Chair mendelson: are there any [49:20] opposed? Hearing none, the ayes have it [49:23] unanimously. We have the underlying bill, [49:27] 26-721. Ms. Nadeau : so moved. [49:29] chair mendelson: is there a discussion? [49:34] on the bill, all of those in favor say aye. [49:38] >> aye. Chair mendelson: are there any [49:40] opposed? Hearing none, the ayes have it [49:41] unanimously. [49:47] schedule of fines rulemaking approval and authority emergency [49:52] declaration resolution emergency declaration resolution of 2026 [49:56] (pr 26-775) mr. Allen: amending the schedule [50:03] of fines at fourth and 1820 600 with the rulemaking requiring [50:08] council approval and emergency approval necessary to make sure [50:11] the district automated safety camera program complies with the [50:15] district of columbia court case as soon as possible to avoid a [50:18] gap in legal exposure and under current law cameras are [50:21] calibrated to within a plus or minus one mile per hour margin [50:24] of error in given that reason it was equally likely that the [50:27] driver was in fact traveling 10 to 12 miles for our over the [50:32] speed limit. 10 miles for our would be a [50:35] distinct offense and therefore determined that the work failed [50:38] to prove that the driver committed the offense of [50:42] speeding by the 11 to 15 mile per hour limit adjusting the [50:46] threshold for certain offenses by one mile to better account [50:48] for the margin of fire to make sure that the district to meet [50:52] its burden of proof under the declaration. [50:53] chair mendelson: we have the declaration before us. [50:57] is there a discussion? The vote will be on pr-776 75. [51:03] all of those in favor say aye. >> aye. [51:05] chair mendelson: are there any opposed? [51:06] hearing none, the ayes have it -- are there any opposed? [51:13] >> books no. Chair mendelson: the ayes have [51:25] it. Councilmember trayon white is [51:27] voted as no. Councilmember allen? [51:28] mr. Allen: so moved. Chair mendelson: discussion? [51:34] the voters on 26-747. All of those in favor? [51:39] say aye. >> aye. [51:42] chair mendelson: that was anemic. [51:43] all of those in favor say aye. >> aye. [51:45] chair mendelson: are there any opposed? [51:49] >> please record your vote of no. [51:52] chair mendelson: the ayes have it, councilmember white will be [51:57] recorded as voting no. Turning to first reading to vote [52:02] on temporary legislation if there is no objection. [52:06] I will move on all in a block. That's bill 26-seven to private [52:10] nine, vehicle-for-hire operator clarification temporary [52:14] amendment act. 26-760, medical cannabis [52:19] licensing and unlicensed establishment [52:20] enforcement clarification temporary amendment act. [52:28] 26-764, omnibus barry farm redevelopment clarification [52:30] temporary amendment act. [52:35] 26 7762, real property tax sale delay temporary amendment act of [52:44] .26. Bill 26-768, net zero continuity [52:50] emergency amendment act of 2026 . [52:56] bill 26-735, special education for young adults in the custody [52:59] of the department of corrections [53:01] temporary. Bill 26-733, prearrest diversion [53:06] task force recommendations temporary. [53:15] bill 26-752, health and human service programs and benefits [53:18] eligibility and delivery data-sharing [53:21] verifications temporary, and bill 26-722, language access [53:26] rulemaking authority temporary . [53:30] I believe that's nine measures. If so moved, is there a [53:34] discussion? The vote will be on all of them. [53:37] all of those in favor say aye. >> aye. [53:39] chair mendelson: are there any opposed? [53:42] the ayes have it unanimously. [53:48] mr. White: question for clarity. In that last group was pr 26-745 [53:55] and 747 included? 775. [54:07] chair mendelson: I'm not sure I understand your question. [54:11] mr. White: we just voted on block. [54:15] I wanted to see if pr 26-775 and a bill 26-747 were included. [54:25] chair mendelson: 775 was a pr declaration. [54:31] 747? [inaudible] [54:36] mr. Allen: I think he's asking about a temporary for ddot and [54:44] it's not a temporary. Just wanted to clarify that. [54:46] mr. White: yeah. Mr. Allen: thank you. [54:50] chair mendelson: our next legislative meeting is september [54:55] 22. There is a little piece of other [54:56] business. Sometimes I get a little choked [55:02] up when I don't want to. We all know that this is doni [55:16] crawford -- don't you get choked up, too. [55:17] [laughter] no, I should go first. [55:24] our last meeting. Unfortunately. [55:26] I have a few remarks, not to encourage everyone to give [55:31] remarks, but I just remember that -- let's see, doni crawford [55:36] came to us twice. First as a staff person, then as [55:42] a councilmember. When she came as a councilmember [55:46] it was because our former colleague, kevin mcduffie, had [55:49] stepped down, and their were 40 people who expressed an interest [55:53] . Some of those folks talked to [55:56] different members. I had a process where I was [56:00] listening to other members and getting a sense of who they [56:02] liked. Ultimately, as I recall, I asked [56:08] members to indicate who they thought were their top three [56:12] candidates, something like that. I think that some members in the [56:19] honorable tradition of this counsel when asked to name three [56:22] priorities they gave seven or 15 or 25. [56:26] in any event, donnie rose to the top. [56:29] compared to all of the other members, there was overwhelming [56:32] support. Bikes and we will miss her. [56:44] >> yes, we will miss her. I remember one of the agitators [56:49] that was expressed by a number of members was that donnie is [56:54] authentic. So, when it came to the council [56:59] voting, it was unanimous in terms of filling the vacancy. [57:03] I would say that in my own view, people are welcome to express [57:07] their disagreement. I think nobody will. [57:10] she's been an excellent councilmember. [57:14] participating. Not being shy, bashful, or [57:19] non-present. Being quite present in [57:21] participating. I remember when we were [57:25] struggling a few months ago with the issue of the curfew that [57:33] donnie came up with an amendment that enabled us to get the votes [57:36] to get that bill through. More recently, and many members [57:42] may not know this, but as we were working on the budget [57:47] support act and had a subtitle of dealing with the rfk stadium [57:50] that I relied heavily on donnie to work that out with the [57:54] commanders so that we could go forward with that subtitle to [57:57] solve some problems around that. I would add that donnie has once [58:06] again proved my theory, which is that former staff members on the [58:12] council make the best councilmembers. [58:16] >> you're in trouble now. [laughter] [58:19] chair mendelson: I'm hearing some people say it's true. [58:24] it is true. And I will miss you. [58:28] anyone else? Councilmember allen? [58:31] mr. Allen: thank you, mr. Chairman. [58:38] service looks and comes differently for all of us. [58:41] donnie, you had an unflinching ability to just jump right in [58:47] and we are better for it. I remember when at our very [58:52] first breakfast meeting you moved from the chair on the side [58:56] up to the table. I was watching to see how is [59:03] donnie going to handle this. Is she going to jump right in or [59:05] hang back a bit? You jumped right in. [59:11] everyone sat up, but you did it in such a wonderful way to new [59:15] you belonged at that table in that seat helping to make and [59:19] guide decisions. I am also biased and if you say [59:23] it from the microphone, it becomes fact. [59:25] staff to make the best councilmembers. [59:28] so, I think that you have continued to prove that point. [59:34] I know phil doesn't want us to go on for a long time but I've [59:36] just got to say that your call to service to this body, and [59:42] there were many more calls to service that will come, but the [59:45] call to service for this body you have led with distinction, [59:50] thought, collaboration, and a power to get things done for [59:53] your city. So, I am grateful for it. [59:55] thank you very much and I am proud to serve with you. [1:00:00] chair mendelson: councilmember parker, who will be brief? [1:00:06] mr. Parker: yes. [laughter] [1:00:08] councilmember crawford, it is bittersweet to see you go, [1:00:14] although I don't think you are going to go far in the sense of [1:00:19] leaving the policy making space. I have really enjoyed your [1:00:25] thoughtful partnership, your engagement, actually coming to [1:00:28] committees and leaning in, making changes in proposing [1:00:32] things. I was very proud, and I will say [1:00:36] , when we were engaging with the chairman's process of pushing [1:00:40] for you, I thought you had a lot to add. [1:00:46] and you proved me and so many others right. [1:00:49] I will leave it there and I look to see everything that you [1:00:53] accomplish and just know, as a fellow work five neighbor, if [1:00:59] there is anything you need, we are here your service, and thank [1:01:04] you, thank you. Chair mendelson: councilmember [1:01:07] frumin? Mr. Allen: -- mr. Frumin: thank [1:01:13] you, mr. Chairman. I echo almost everything you [1:01:18] said. I'm not buying that best [1:01:20] councilmembers situation, but councilmember crawford, it's [1:01:23] been such a pleasure to work with you in every different [1:01:26] dimension and I think this theme that you jumped in and did just [1:01:31] a great job, I do think that the juvenile curfew issue is one [1:01:36] where your signature of how you operated really came across. [1:01:41] we were on different sides of that issue and at one point I [1:01:46] had asked folks in the mayor's office where you stood and they [1:01:51] said "she was in a meeting for an hour and a half with the [1:01:56] mayor where the mayor pounded on her on this issue and she didn't [1:02:03] move jericho like, we were on different sides, but I did think [1:02:13] props to her. Brand-new in the position, you [1:02:14] held your ground, you took the time, you found a solution that [1:02:19] worked for everyone, or almost everyone, or enough of a [1:02:23] majority to get it through. What an accomplishment. [1:02:28] what a great way to have done it . [1:02:31] I am sure you are going to bring that same skill and tenacity and [1:02:36] grace to everything that you do next. [1:02:40] I am really excited to see what that would be. [1:02:43] congratulations and good luck. Chair mendelson: councilmember [1:02:48] pinto? Miss pinto: councilmember [1:02:56] crawford, thank you so much to everything you have offered to [1:02:59] this body, to our city. I have learned so much from you, [1:03:05] both in your time as a staffer and councilmember. [1:03:11] I won't disclose all the conversation itself as you were [1:03:15] seeking to join the council, but one of the things that really [1:03:19] set out to me was you were not shy about being honest in areas [1:03:25] of disagreement. Even though you were trying to [1:03:27] get everybody's votes. I think that that really speaks [1:03:31] to your character and your integrity, you know what your [1:03:35] principles are, you know what your values are, and you won't [1:03:39] let those be sidelined or undermined for a goal, ambitious [1:03:44] as it may be, and it ended up turning out in your favor, [1:03:49] because that exact way of operating led to your unanimous [1:03:54] support by this body, because we had all seen how you operated, [1:03:58] seen what a hard worker you were, and knew that you could [1:04:01] substantively do the job. I think that over the last seven [1:04:06] months in getting to work with you as a council colleague, it [1:04:10] has opened my eyes even further to your strengths, your [1:04:13] intellect. You have a really impressive [1:04:19] duality of being firm with what you know you are fighting for [1:04:24] and having so much grace in negotiation. [1:04:27] the public sees us debate things up here, but a lot of work [1:04:31] happens behind the scenes when we are all debating each other [1:04:36] and trying to get to a compromise and to the right [1:04:40] place. I have so appreciated the issues [1:04:42] that we have worked on together, whether it be the juvenile [1:04:47] curfew language, other business issues around rfk. [1:04:53] you have just been so thoughtful and such a joy to work with. [1:04:56] I love you. I am always in your corner. [1:05:00] thank you for your service to the district of columbia. [1:05:04] we have your back, whatever you do next. [1:05:07] thank you. Thank you, council number. [1:05:12] councilmember henderson? Miss henderson: you, mr. [1:05:16] chairman. Oh, donnie. [1:05:19] thank you so much for raising your hand and being willing to [1:05:22] serve. There are not a lot of people [1:05:25] who would have. There were a lot of people who [1:05:30] thought they were ready, but not a lot who were actually ready to [1:05:34] step into the task at hand. And then do it all so quickly? [1:05:40] also quickly. But we felt that you were ready [1:05:43] and you proved us correct in terms of being able to work [1:05:47] through the budget and do all those things. [1:05:52] I love that we sort of share a love of very nerdy things in the [1:05:56] details. Especially when I got funeral [1:06:01] directors and you didn't laugh. You were like -- offering [1:06:06] additional thoughts and advice around how we sort of navigate [1:06:10] some of these things, so I just appreciate that. [1:06:12] you have this insatiable love of learning that I share and [1:06:16] admire. I know that this isn't the end [1:06:18] of your public service. It might look different in the [1:06:21] future, but on behalf of district residents in all of us, [1:06:24] thank you. It would have been a rough mind, [1:06:30] but you did it smoothly. And with a lot of strong [1:06:35] dignity. Chair mendelson: thank you, [1:06:40] councilmember. Councilmember bonds? [1:06:43] miss manns: I guess I have to do this. [1:06:46] all right. -- ms. Bonds: I guess I have to [1:06:50] do this. All right. [1:06:52] donnie, it has been a wonderful experience having you at this [1:06:56] level on the dais. I recall when we were deciding [1:07:00] who might be best. There were thoughts that many [1:07:05] others would be best, I'm sure. But I was one of those that held [1:07:12] the line. Every time I was asked, it was [1:07:16] donnie, it was donnie, it was donnie. [1:07:22] I think that what impelled me to take that approach in not sort [1:07:27] of scatter my votes all over the place was the fact that you are [1:07:31] here, which many of my colleagues have already spoken [1:07:35] to. You knew the work. [1:07:38] and you had a history of delivering. [1:07:42] that's what was so important to us as we were going into the [1:07:47] budget process. What I have learned from you is [1:07:51] your humanity. The way in which you feel about [1:07:55] the community and about young people and their opportunity to [1:08:02] provide service to the community. [1:08:05] that is one of the big takeaways that I have. [1:08:09] there is no question about your skill set. [1:08:13] your intellect. Any of that. [1:08:15] we all know that you have it. The way in which you manage your [1:08:23] feelings and interests in your energy that you give to the [1:08:27] community has really been wonderful to see. [1:08:30] as one of the older people on the council, everyone else is so [1:08:34] young, you know, I know they are. [1:08:36] chair mendelson: thank you, thank you. [1:08:39] ms. Bonds: including the chair. [laughter] [1:08:43] seriously, thinking about that, it's a joy to see you in [1:08:48] operation and to know that our world is in a really good place [1:08:55] with younger people like you. Younger leaders like you. [1:09:00] and younger committed individuals and public servants [1:09:04] like you. I know you are not going very [1:09:06] far, I don't even have to venture to think about that. [1:09:11] we would be crazy to lose you entirely. [1:09:15] thank you very much for your service and for being here with [1:09:18] us on the dais. But we know we are going to see [1:09:21] you around and we know that you are going to continue to [1:09:24] contribute. And we will be sad, but as pinto [1:09:28] said, we love you. Can't get away from that. [1:09:32] chair mendelson: thank. Councilmember white? [1:09:37] mr. White: first, donnie, I want to say to you that we appreciate [1:09:42] your leadership. I have to admit, I didn't know [1:09:46] you very well before you came. After speaking to you several [1:09:50] times, you rose one of my top three. [1:09:53] that was important to me that you came in ready to do a great [1:09:57] job and represent the people of d.c. On short notice and we [1:10:00] appreciate that. I always say that you cannot [1:10:04] conquer anything you are not committed to. [1:10:07] so, this is something you really want to do, don't give up. [1:10:11] I say that because many of us sitting up here didn't give up. [1:10:15] I worked on robert white's first campaign and he lost and he's [1:10:19] here going to become a democratic nominee for congress. [1:10:22] I remember when miss louis george ran in 2016 and she lost [1:10:27] and now she's the democratic nominee for mayor. [1:10:31] phil mendelson, he meant a lot to talk about it, 1998, he lost. [1:10:33] [laughter] fruman, right beside you, you [1:10:47] can lean on you. Trayon white, you come back and [1:10:52] fight for whatever you were going to do. [1:10:55] thank you for you and your commitment to d.c., here not [1:10:58] just quiet but active on the council, we appreciate you and [1:11:02] thank you for your service. God bless. [1:11:04] chair mendelson: thank you, councilmember. [1:11:09] mr. Felder? >> thank. [1:11:14] I want to echo some of the sentiments are colleagues have [1:11:19] already expressed. Donnie, I feel privileged to sit [1:11:23] next to you. I remember just throughout this [1:11:28] entirety of this election process, the conversations that [1:11:31] we had in terms of -- well, I don't know, it's a lot of people [1:11:38] , how would I rise to the top? I remember telling you champions [1:11:44] adjust, trust the process, and regardless of your journey, it [1:11:49] makes no difference when you become one of the 13 members. [1:11:54] so, you should feel exceptionally proud of yourself. [1:11:58] to the councilmember's point, I also ran. [1:12:02] I ran 10 years ago, 12 years ago now. [1:12:06] I was unsuccessful. I learned from my mistakes. [1:12:09] I kept, you know, I kept the fight going. [1:12:12] I have no doubt that you will continue to be a leader for the [1:12:16] district of columbia. You made your city proud, major [1:12:21] family proud, made this counsel proud. [1:12:24] you know, this is a lesson and you can go wherever you choose [1:12:27] to go. I'm expecting good things and as [1:12:32] always, I've been one of your biggest supporters coming out [1:12:35] the gate. That will not change. [1:12:38] god bless. Chair mendelson: thank you, [1:12:47] councilmember. Councilmember lewis george? [1:12:48] ms. Lewis george: donnie, I think I just want to say that [1:12:54] you are so brilliant. You are incredibly smart, [1:12:58] incredibly gifted in negotiations. [1:13:02] as we deliberate things, you are so thoughtful. [1:13:05] just so caring. So, it is an honor to see you [1:13:12] work as a policy advocate and analyst and be a legislative [1:13:18] staffer and then a councilmember . [1:13:19] you did that. How many can say they have done [1:13:23] what you have done and what you have accomplished at your young [1:13:26] age, right? I want you to continue to stand [1:13:30] in that brilliance of who you are and to know that what god [1:13:35] has for you is for you and I am excited to see all that god is [1:13:39] going to do for you. Thank you. [1:13:44] chair mendelson: thank you, councilmember. [1:13:49] councilmember robert white? Mr. White: first, thank you for [1:13:52] your service to this city. There are only 13 of us in the [1:13:57] size of the budget, the magnitude of the government, its [1:14:03] massive, even for folks who have been here for years. [1:14:06] even for folks who start at the beginning of a term when things [1:14:09] are moderately slow. But you were able to jump in the [1:14:14] budget and get right to work. It is because of your brilliance [1:14:19] and talent. As colleagues have said, not [1:14:24] that I doubt that you have doubts about it, but it is [1:14:32] always important to remember it then to try to mount from, you [1:14:42] know, a full campaign in the middle of that. [1:14:47] it's just about as possible has something could be. [1:14:51] you stepped up to all of that. Unlike many of us, who have lost [1:14:56] races before we won races, you got, you got a time to serve in [1:15:03] the seat and to gain the respect of the people across the dais [1:15:11] and the city and I don't think you will take it for granted and [1:15:14] I would urge you not to. You have so much of my respect [1:15:21] and admiration for what you have done but also that of many [1:15:24] people in the city who got a glimpse of your talent and [1:15:27] ability and I guarantee you that it will not be lost on them or [1:15:32] on us. We love you, continue to support [1:15:34] you, and thank you again for your service. [1:15:41] chair mendelson: thank you, councilmember. [1:15:50] ms. Nadeau: I've been so impressed by the way it stepped [1:15:56] right into budget season and had such a huge impact. [1:15:59] one of my big worries when I was first here was that I wouldn't [1:16:04] impact the budget if you had a huge one in just a few short [1:16:07] months. You always stuck to your [1:16:11] convictions. You have spoken, you have given [1:16:16] tremendous input into all the things we have done during your [1:16:19] tenure and I want to thank you for your contributions to the [1:16:23] body and your service and I hope you will continue serving. [1:16:28] chair mendelson: thank you, councilmember. [1:16:36] >> we wanted you to walk away with something. [1:16:41] so, we got you some flowers. >> thank you. [1:16:43] [applause] thank you all. [1:17:10] I have experienced a lot of emotional growth, because I hate [1:17:15] frying. Usually in a year or I can count [1:17:20] on one hand how many times I cry and this year? [1:17:25] I have cried so many times, especially throughout the [1:17:29] campaign. And of course, tears of joy. [1:17:33] I have enjoyed this so much. First, I want to thank my team. [1:17:40] rene, matthew, hello, daniel, for holding me down. [1:17:44] we have done such a great job in this time at the council. [1:17:48] I'm never going to forget this. I want to thank all of you and [1:17:56] your teams. This has been a really long [1:17:57] budget season, but this was my first as a member and I truly [1:18:02] enjoyed every single moment of it. [1:18:05] I am going to miss this job. This has been my favorite job [1:18:10] thus far. I enjoyed it as a staffer and [1:18:12] now I have the pleasure of doing it as a member. [1:18:16] I don't want it to stop, but unfortunately it has to end this [1:18:20] week. I think you all for your words [1:18:21] and I will keep those words close to my heart when I reflect [1:18:24] on this time as a member in the district of columbia [1:18:28] representing 700,000 people. Let me see if there is anything [1:18:34] else I wanted to say. Honestly, again, this has been [1:18:37] the honor of my life, so thank you for this opportunity, each [1:18:41] of you. I treasure it and will continue [1:18:44] to do so. Thank you. [1:18:47] chair mendelson: thank you. [applause] [1:19:09] it is easy to say thank you when you are a class act. [1:19:12] thank you. That will conclude the business [1:19:15] of this meeting and the time is 3:59 p.m. [1:19:22] this meeting is adjourned. [gavel]