Neighbors,

This week, the Committee on Business and Economic Development held two important Budget Oversight Hearings as part of our ongoing review of the District’s Fiscal Year 2026 budget. On Monday and Wednesday, we heard from agency leaders about their funding priorities, program goals, and the ways they are working to serve residents across the District. You can read more about those hearings later in this newsletter.

I also had the distinct honor of joining Ballou STAY High School to celebrate the Class of 2025 during their graduation ceremony at the University of the District of Columbia – Theater of the Arts. It was truly inspiring to watch these resilient and determined students walk the stage and take the next step in their journeys. Congratulations again to the graduates and the entire Ballou STAY community!

Looking ahead to next week, the Committee will host its fourth and final Budget Oversight Hearing on Monday, June 16th, featuring government witnesses from the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development (DMPED) and the Department of Small and Local Business Development (DSLBD), two agencies central to driving inclusive economic growth and opportunity in our city.

Also next week, the full Council will convene for a Committee of the Whole and Legislative Meeting on Tuesday, June 17th, as we continue our collective work to shape a fair, forward-looking budget for the District.

As always, thank you for staying informed and engaged.

In service,
Kenyan

Budget Oversight Hearings

On Monday, June 9th, the Committee on Business and Economic Development held a budget oversight hearing to review the Fiscal Year 2026 proposed budgets for key independent agencies under its purview. The Committee received testimony from government witnesses who detailed their agency priorities, challenges, and resource needs for the upcoming fiscal year.

We began the hearing with testimony from Emile C. Thompson, Chairman of the Public Service Commission (PSC), who discussed the agency’s regulatory responsibilities, including oversight of electric, natural gas, and telecommunications services in the District. Chairman Thompson highlighted PSC’s ongoing efforts to ensure reliable, affordable, and sustainable utility services for residents and businesses.

Next, we heard from Karima M. Woods, Commissioner of the Department of Insurance, Securities and Banking (DISB). Commissioner Woods outlined the agency’s commitment to promoting a fair and competitive financial services marketplace, strengthening consumer protections, and supporting economic growth through innovative financial inclusion strategies.

The Committee looks forward to continuing its review of agency budgets and ensuring that public investments are aligned with the District’s economic and consumer protection goals.

On Wednesday, June 11th, the Committee on Business and Economic Development held a budget oversight hearing to evaluate the Fiscal Year 2026 proposed budgets of four agencies under the Committee’s jurisdiction. Government witnesses provided testimony outlining their agency operations, funding priorities, and key initiatives for the upcoming fiscal year.

We heard first from the Office of the Chief Financial Officer (OCFO), represented by Glen Lee, Chief Financial Officer. The OCFO plays a central role in managing the District’s finances, from revenue forecasting and budget development to financial reporting and oversight. The discussion focused on the agency’s fiscal stewardship, operational efficiencies, and investments in financial systems modernization.

Next, Randy Burnside, Executive Director of the Office of Lottery and Gaming (OLG), presented the agency’s budget, highlighting changes in operations related to sports wagering, regulatory oversight of new gaming formats, and expected revenue impacts from the agency’s evolving structure.

The Committee then heard from Fred P. Moosally, Director of the Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Administration (ABCA), who provided updates on regulatory activities supporting the safe and lawful distribution of alcohol and cannabis products in the District. Director Moosally discussed ABCA’s efforts to balance business growth with public health and safety, and the agency’s planned investments in enforcement and licensing.

Lastly, we received testimony from Destination DC, represented by Elliott L. Ferguson, II, President & CEO, Meade Atkeson, Board Chairman, and Robin McClain, Chief Marketing Officer. Destination DC, the official marketing organization for the District, outlined its FY26 goals to boost tourism, expand market reach, and support hospitality recovery through strategic advertising campaigns and events.

The Committee remains focused on ensuring each agency is equipped to serve residents effectively and contribute to the District’s continued economic vitality.

Yesterday, I had the honor of joining the leadership of Ballou STAY High School to celebrate the incredible achievements of the Class of 2025 during their graduation ceremony at the University of the District of Columbia – Theater of the Arts.

This moment was more than just a ceremony, it was a testament to the resilience, determination, and brilliance of our students. Many of these graduates balanced school with work, family responsibilities, and other real-life challenges. Yet they persevered, and yesterday, they walked across that stage with pride.

To every graduate: You’ve earned this milestone. I’m inspired by your journey and excited for what’s ahead. Whether your next step is college, the workforce, or another path, know that your city is proud of you, and rooting for your continued success.

Congratulations, Ballou STAY Class of 2025!

On Monday, June 9th, I had the opportunity to tour the soon-to-open Wonder Food Hall at 1925 14th Street, NW, alongside Stephanie Brown, Head of Government Affairs and Community Impact at Wonder. Scheduled to open to the public on July 10th, Wonder brings an innovative dining experience to Ward 1, combining culinary excellence with convenience and variety.

Wonder operates modern food halls that offer over 30 cuisine options, all under one roof. From authentic Texas-style BBQ to Michelin-starred Lebanese dishes, the concept brings together beloved local and national brands in a single location that allows customers to mix and match meals from different kitchens in one order.

This exciting addition to the corridor is not only a destination for food lovers, but also a promising opportunity for economic activity and job creation in the District. I look forward to seeing Wonder become a vibrant part of our local dining scene when it opens next month.

Yesterday, I had the pleasure of meeting with members of the BEST Kids Youth Leadership Council, alumni, and CEO Dr. Stephania Herrera to learn more about the organization’s inspiring work and discuss opportunities for collaboration. Also pictured is Youth Ambassador Titus, whose passion and leadership truly reflect the mission of BEST Kids.

BEST Kids is committed to empowering foster and at-risk youth across the District to build healthy, successful futures. Through mentorship, leadership development, and enrichment programs, they currently support 140 youth throughout D.C., providing resources and guidance that create long-term impact.

Our conversation focused on how we can work together to uplift young people in care, expand access to mentorship, and ensure all youth in our city feel seen, supported, and equipped to lead. I’m grateful for their continued advocacy and proud to stand with organizations like BEST Kids that are investing in the next generation.

This week, Team McDuffie had the pleasure of visiting Mary’s House for Older Adults, a groundbreaking residential community located in Ward 7 that is dedicated to providing safe, affordable, and affirming housing for LGBTQ+ seniors.

Mary’s House is the first of its kind in the District, offering 15 single-occupancy units in a supportive, communal environment where older adults can age with dignity and pride. The facility features shared spaces for wellness, recreation, and connection, addressing the isolation and housing insecurity too often faced by LGBTQ+ seniors.

The positive impact of Mary’s House cannot be overstated. By centering equity and community, the organization is creating a model for inclusive elder care that we hope to see replicated throughout the District and beyond.

We’re grateful to Founder and CEO Dr. Imani Woody and her team for their leadership and hospitality. To learn more or support their work, visit maryshousedc.org.

Small Business Spotlight

Located at 851 Upshur Street NW in Petworth, Flowers by Alexes is a vibrant, family-owned floral shop led by Alexes Haggins, who proudly revived her father Bernard’s legacy nearly two decades after he first opened the original shop. With creativity, care, and community spirit, Alexes has reestablished the business as a neighborhood gem.

🌼 What They Do

• Fresh floral arrangements: From roses and carnations to eucalyptus and lavender, customers can create their own bouquets or choose from thoughtfully pre-arranged selections.

• Workshops and events: The shop hosts “Build a Bouquet” classes, centerpiece workshops, and floral design tutorials, both in-store and online.

• Community pop-ups: Through events like “Wine-Down Wednesdays” and “Mimosa Saturdays,” Flowers by Alexes highlights other local entrepreneurs and brings neighbors together.

• Welcoming space for all: With sidewalk chalk for kids and free balloons, the storefront is as inviting as it is inspiring.

🌱 Community Impact

• Revived a generational business and brought new energy to a beloved local brand.

• Offers hands-on, educational, and family-friendly experiences that strengthen community bonds.

• Provides same-day delivery and subscription services that support local sourcing and small business sustainability.

Flowers by Alexes is more than a floral shop, it’s a community cornerstone led by a passionate local entrepreneur giving back to her neighborhood with beauty, warmth, and purpose.

💡 Energy Relief Coming for D.C. Residents

Starting early July and August, Pepco customers in the District may be eligible for financial assistance through a new $50 million Customer Relief Fund launched by Exelon.

This one-time relief program is designed to help low- and middle-income residents manage rising summer energy supply costs. The fund will be administered in partnership with trusted local nonprofits, and eligible customers may receive several hundred dollars in assistance.

This initiative is part of a broader effort to ease the burden of high energy bills and ensure access to affordable, reliable electricity.

More details and application info will be available in July at pepco.com.

Please share with neighbors who may benefit!