Utility bills are rising, and District residents deserve answers. I introduced the Public Trust in Utility Regulation Act to make utility companies show what they’re asking us to pay for.
Submit written testimony by Oct 15: lims.dccouncil.gov/Hearings/hea...
Transparency shouldn't be optional.
![GRAPHIC: Storm Recovery Resources
For your safety, do not bring power generators inside your home
Power outages: Call 877-737-2662 to report outages or text OUT via text to 48710
Downed trees: Call 311 or visit 311.dc.gov to report downed trees or debris blocking sidewalks and streets
Downed power lines: Call 911 to report downed power lines, then notify Pepco at 877-737-2662
[Small version of logo for Ward 4 Councilmember Janeese Lewis George is lower right in light purple on a white background]](https://cdn.bsky.app/img/feed_thumbnail/plain/did:plc:2lwv5jyabj66wqmmhqoar7mg/bafkreidx5jsrwnkzr3ykq6qsilo54dfjfa7diurtkutmz2dou3bk4dlcqa)
![GRAPHIC: Storm Recovery Resources
For your safety, do not bring power generators inside your home
Gas Leak: Call 911, then call Washington Gas at 844-927-4427
Verizon Outage: Call 800-837-4966 to report a residential outage
DC Alerts: Sign up to receive alerts at alert.dc.gov or follow on social media
X:@alertDC
Instagram: @dchsema
[Small version of logo for Ward 4 Councilmember Janeese Lewis George is lower right in light purple on a white background]](https://cdn.bsky.app/img/feed_thumbnail/plain/did:plc:2lwv5jyabj66wqmmhqoar7mg/bafkreifeniwx3723wzqlwcnj7hlmx4q22e2yphgel3aeabtrwwzfnb426u)
![DC Fire Fighters Ratify New Collective
Bargaining Agreement
Washington, D.C. - July 21, 2026—After nearly two years of negotiations, members of the DC Fire Fighters Association, IAFF Local 36, have voted to ratify a new collective bargaining agreement with the District of Columbia.
Members gathered on Monday and Tuesday to consider the tentative agreement, approving the contract by an overwhelming margin.
The agreement delivers a much needed wage increase for all members, establishes additional financial incentives for paramedics, and strengthens workplace safety protections. It also provides competitive pay and benefits that help address the rising cost of living while supporting the recruitment and retention of highly qualified firefighters.
"Our members have waited a long time for a fair contract," said David Hoagland, President of the DC Fire Fighters Association, IAFF Local 36. "This agreement is a testament to the solidarity of our membership, who remained united throughout a lengthy and challenging bargaining process. "We are especially grateful to the DC Council for its support, which helped move this agreement across the finish line," Hoagland added.
Throughout negotiations, Local 36 advocated for fair wages, enhanced benefits, and stronger protections for the men and women who serve the District every day. After negotiations reached an impasse, the parties were scheduled to enter arbitration later this summer before the Council voted to place funds into the Workforce Investment Account (the fund from which CBAs are paid). In the interests of DC Taxpayers, Local 36 moved quickly to avoid a costly arbitration process.
While celebrating the successful outcome, Hoagland emphasized the need for a more effective bargaining process in the future.
[Additional text truncated due to character limit; goes on to explain agreement now moved to DC Council for final approval.]](https://cdn.bsky.app/img/feed_thumbnail/plain/did:plc:2lwv5jyabj66wqmmhqoar7mg/bafkreicqxfpaw54yz2dwzanmnryk55enwdryeiq7qx5m4cacya3tykdzdy)
![[Teal border at top of graphic featuring DC Public Library]
DC Public Library
Petworth Library Renovation
MAINTAINING & IMPROVING OUR LIBRARIES
RE-OPENING
SUNDAY, AUG. 23
[Photos of modernized library]
Southeast Library
Modernization
PRESERVATION | RENOVATION | REHABILITATION
RE-OPENING
THURSDAY, SEPT. 10
[Photos of modernized library]](https://cdn.bsky.app/img/feed_thumbnail/plain/did:plc:2lwv5jyabj66wqmmhqoar7mg/bafkreibx77vzijff35si3wvmauozln4lw54fmj5tt2h7jxqfmtei3zrnte)
