The Committee on Transportation and the Environment held a public roundtable on May 8, 2025, chaired by Charles Allen, focusing on critical issues surrounding water management and environmental resilience in the District of Columbia. The meeting addressed the importance of community engagement and the pressing need for a secondary water source.

The discussion began with an emphasis on the necessity of raising awareness about existing water programs. Participants highlighted that effective communication with residents is vital. It was suggested that DC Water should enhance its presence in neighborhoods, advocating for face-to-face interactions over digital communications to build trust and inform residents about available resources.

A significant concern raised during the meeting was the lack of a secondary water source for the district. The vulnerability of the current water supply system, particularly in light of recent pollution incidents, was underscored. The committee discussed the potential for treated wastewater to serve as an alternative source, acknowledging the challenges and costs associated with such a transition. The need for a comprehensive plan to address this issue was deemed urgent, with calls for immediate action to evaluate and select viable solutions.

Participants also connected the water supply challenges to broader climate change impacts, noting recent incidents like algae blooms that threaten water quality. The consensus was that proactive planning for a reliable and clean water source is essential for public health and economic stability.

The meeting concluded with a call for decisive action and collaboration with federal authorities to secure funding and support for developing a secondary water source. The committee recognized the complexity of the issue but stressed the importance of moving forward with concrete plans to ensure the district's water security.