Ward 7 Council Member critiques DC Housing Authority's proposed budget cuts
May 30, 2025 | Committee on Housing, Committees, Legislative, District of Columbia
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The Committee on Housing in the District of Columbia held an oversight hearing on May 30, 2025, focusing on the proposed budget for the DC Housing Authority (DCHA) for fiscal year 2026. Chairperson Robert White led the discussion, emphasizing the critical issues surrounding public housing funding and its implications for vulnerable residents.
During the hearing, Council Member White expressed deep concerns regarding significant cuts in the proposed budget, particularly a 34% reduction in funding for DCHA security operations. He highlighted that this reduction poses a direct threat to safety in public housing areas in Ward 7, which have long faced challenges related to crime and public safety. Notable sites mentioned included Kenilworth Courts, Richardson Dwellings, and Lincoln Heights, where residents have reported persistent safety issues.
Additionally, the proposed budget includes nearly a 50% cut in capital funds, raising alarms about DCHA's ability to maintain aging infrastructure and address urgent repairs. White stressed that families living in public housing deserve not only affordable housing but also safe and well-maintained living conditions. He pointed out that the cuts could severely impact the quality of life for many constituents in his ward.
The hearing also featured testimonies from Ward 7 residents, including Patricia Malloy, Karen Settles, and Beatrice Evans, who shared their experiences living in or around DCHA properties. Their insights underscored the importance of adequate funding for public safety and housing maintenance.
As the meeting progressed, White sought clarity on how the budget cuts would affect security measures, including the number of officers and patrols in the affected areas. He acknowledged the efforts of DCHA's Executive Director, Keith Pettigrew, and the police department in community engagement initiatives but reiterated the need for a budget that adequately supports the safety and well-being of low-income families.
The hearing concluded with a commitment to further discussions on how to adjust the budget to better meet the needs of Ward 7 residents, ensuring that the most vulnerable populations are protected in the face of fiscal challenges.
During the hearing, Council Member White expressed deep concerns regarding significant cuts in the proposed budget, particularly a 34% reduction in funding for DCHA security operations. He highlighted that this reduction poses a direct threat to safety in public housing areas in Ward 7, which have long faced challenges related to crime and public safety. Notable sites mentioned included Kenilworth Courts, Richardson Dwellings, and Lincoln Heights, where residents have reported persistent safety issues.
Additionally, the proposed budget includes nearly a 50% cut in capital funds, raising alarms about DCHA's ability to maintain aging infrastructure and address urgent repairs. White stressed that families living in public housing deserve not only affordable housing but also safe and well-maintained living conditions. He pointed out that the cuts could severely impact the quality of life for many constituents in his ward.
The hearing also featured testimonies from Ward 7 residents, including Patricia Malloy, Karen Settles, and Beatrice Evans, who shared their experiences living in or around DCHA properties. Their insights underscored the importance of adequate funding for public safety and housing maintenance.
As the meeting progressed, White sought clarity on how the budget cuts would affect security measures, including the number of officers and patrols in the affected areas. He acknowledged the efforts of DCHA's Executive Director, Keith Pettigrew, and the police department in community engagement initiatives but reiterated the need for a budget that adequately supports the safety and well-being of low-income families.
The hearing concluded with a commitment to further discussions on how to adjust the budget to better meet the needs of Ward 7 residents, ensuring that the most vulnerable populations are protected in the face of fiscal challenges.
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