I hope this message finds you in good health and spirits. I wanted to share my perspective on the recent passing of the Secure DC legislation, particularly concerning the provision regarding drug-free zones.
I voted 'present' on the Secure DC bill, recognizing the importance of addressing public safety while advocating for a more holistic approach.
I proposed an amendment to involve various government agencies, such as the Department of Employment Services and the Department of Behavioral Health, in providing wrap-around services to individuals in drug-free zones. Unfortunately, this amendment was not accepted.
My concern lies in ensuring that we provide resources and support to those struggling with addiction and other issues, rather than solely relying on punitive measures. For the past seven years, I have hosted a summer initiative called "Resources to Block" in communities lacking adequate resources. I've seen firsthand the effectiveness of reaching out to those who may not traditionally seek help from government resources, and how beneficial this approach has been in addressing issues such as crime, poverty, addiction, and housing instability.
We need a comprehensive approach to public safety that involves all relevant government agencies, not just law enforcement, in crafting effective solutions.
Secure DC is just one piece of the puzzle in addressing public safety. We can no longer continue to overlook the root causes of crime and expect meaningful change. It's time to come together as a community and enact solutions that truly make a difference in people's lives.
I believe in holding individuals accountable but with a real plan to address public safety. Let's work together to create a safer and more supportive environment for all residents of Ward 8.
Peace & Love,
Trayon White, Sr.
Councilmember, Ward 8
March 5, 2024
Councilmember Trayon White celebrates the successful passage of two critical amendments to the Secure DC Omnibus bill, marking a significant stride toward transparency and community safety in the District.
Amendment #1: Enhancing Transparency in Adverse Action Hearings: Councilmember White's first amendment, part of B25-345, the Secure DC Omnibus Amendment Act of 2024, focuses on enhancing transparency in adverse action hearings. This amendment mandates the retention of an officer's name and badge number in adverse action hearing announcements.
Amendment #2: Development of Comprehensive Public Safety Plan: This additional provision to the Secure DC Omnibus Act requires the Executive Office of the Mayor to develop and publish a comprehensive public safety plan.
Recreation For All Community Grants
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Calling All DC-based non-profits, businesses, and community organizations!
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This week, the Dram Shop Clarification Amendment Act of 2023 (now known as "Restaurant Revitalization and Dram Shop Clarification Amendment Act of 2023") was voted on. One of the amendments presented was to speed up the timeline for updating the minimum wage change. The amendment was not passed, with Councilmember Trayon White voting no. The reasoning presented was the heavy concerns around the motivation behind the expedition of the wage change.
Many Councilmembers and advocates were concerned if this was used to undercut tip workers. Other advocates were concerned about small businesses and restaurants on whether they could handle such a steep change. Another amendment that was passed was to allow certain percentages of service fees not to be considered when restaurants are negotiating rent and lease with property owners.
Councilmember White and his Committee Staff Tour New Site for Crummell Recreation Center.
February 28, 2024
Councilmember White and three of his staff from the Committee on Recreation, Libraries and Youth Affairs visited the Alexander Crummell School, which is the site of the new Crummell Recreation Center, in the Ivy City neighborhood in Ward 5. Accompanied by DPR Director Thennie Freeman, ANC Commissioner Sebrena Rhodes, and fellow members of DPR and the community, Councilmember White and the Committee staff were able to tour the site and see the plans for the new construction.
They were alerted of issues with the current playground while going through the details of the new construction.
Crummell Recreation Center will be another state-of-the-art recreation center in DPR's portfolio and the Committee cannot wait for construction to begin and open for the public.
The Committee on Recreation, Libraries and Youth Affairs has completed its performance oversight season for FY24. We are now awaiting the release of the Mayor's FY25 Budget on March 20th. In preparation for the release of Mayor Bowser's budget, I sent a letter to her outlining the budget priorities for Ward 8. Click to read the letter in its entirety.
The Committee on Recreation, Libraries and Youth Affairs has completed its performance oversight season for FY24. We are now awaiting the release of the Mayor's FY25 Budget on March 20. Beginning on March 25, the Committee will begin its budget oversight season for FY25. Below is the prospective schedule for budget oversight hearings:
Chief of Staff attends the "City in Green" Dinner.
March 1, 2024
Wanda Lockridge, Chief of Staff, gathered with community leaders and various stakeholders for the Therme "City in Green" Dinner hosted at the Anacostia Busboys and Poets venue. During the event, Therme's leadership emphasized its dedication to urban well-being, arts, and culture, highlighting their initiatives in Ward 8.
The aspiration is to establish the Therme DC Wellness and Water Park at Poplar Point, contributing to the community's overall development.
Councilmember White Attends a Weekly Meeting at the DC Youth Center.
February 28, 2024
Councilmember White participated in the CREWS weekly meeting alongside Jenise "Mama Jo" Patterson. The gathering took place at the DC Youth Services Center and featured an extensive tour led by Assistant Director Edward Tate and Director Aaron Muhammed. CREWS aims to decrease youth incarceration rates and lower crime levels in the district.
Councilman Trayon White, the Assistant Director Edward Tate and Director Aaron Muhammed
Councilmember White Responds to a Shooting Incident in Navy Yard.
February 28, 2024
Councilmember White responded to a shooting incident in a senior building located in Navy Yard where a DC Housing Officer was shot in the torso. There was gunfire exchanged in the lobby area, and then the suspects fled. Two suspects were apprehended. The suspected shooter was charged with assault with intent to kill, assault on a police officer, felon in possession of a firearm, and unlawful entry.
Councilmember White Speaks On Panel At Ballou High School
February 29, 2024
During ManPower DC's Black History Month celebration, Councilmember Trayon White shared insights and inspiration on overcoming challenges as part of a "Beating the Odds" panel discussion at Ballou High School.
February 29, 2024
Councilmember Trayon White's Constituent Services team partnered with an array of agencies, including OSSE, MPD and MPD Cadets, OVSJG, the President of the Highland Civic Association, Commissioner Olivia Henderson, and community activists, to conduct a public safety walk. This initiative took place in the vicinity of Hendley Elementary School, aiming to spotlight the persistent safety concerns happening in the neighborhood.
February 29, 2024
Councilmember Trayon White's Constituent Services team supported youth at Center City Public Charter School with a Safe Passage Summit. During the event, youth shared ideas with educators and agency heads on how to improve programming and make students feel safe.
As many expected, the D.C. Council approved the Secure DC Omnibus Amendment Act on Tuesday during the second reading of the bill.
Subsequently, unanimous approval of accompanying emergency legislation paved the way for the Secure DC’s prompt implementation. Again, Ward 8 Councilmember White voted “present.”
“Most of my friends didn’t make it because of the absence of leadership in our community [that was caused by] incarceration,” White said on Tuesday.
“We haven’t done enough to address public safety in this city. I introduced [legislation] for returning citizens and it’s sitting on the shelf,” White continued. “I introduced record sealing and it’s sitting on the shelf. I introduced a 30-page public safety document and it’s sitting on the shelf. I introduced a number of measures, including new recreation centers, and we haven’t done enough.”
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