Results

November was a month of progress and community engagement in Alexandria! City Council focused on housing, budget planning, and community improvements, while the 2024 Resident Survey highlighted both successes and areas to grow. I enjoyed connecting with residents and celebrating local milestones. Stay involved in shaping our city, and join us January 2nd for the City Council Installation Ceremony—details at AlexandriaVA.gov!

In October, I met with over 30 groups and individuals across Alexandria to address key issues and share Council updates. Highlights included a civics lesson with George Mason Elementary third graders, welcoming guests at the African Impact Awards, celebrating creativity at Maker Faire NoVa, and hosting resident roundtables on housing, transportation, and safety. I also served as keynote at WEBA’s 20th Anniversary, judged pets at the Del Ray Halloween Parade, and celebrated the upcoming opening of the Inova Health Center - Oakville. Council actions included telecommunications franchises and grants for community health and flood preparedness. For more, watch our October meetings online—thank you for your engagement in Alexandria’s growth!

In this September Council Report, I recap key updates and actions from the month, including efforts to address litter issues with Clean Teams, improving signage and artist spotlights at the Torpedo Factory, and listening to parents' challenges with accessing early childhood services. I also cover important Council actions like the city’s bond rating, flood resilience planning, speeding near schools, and rising food insecurity rates. Lastly, I share updates on the Housing 2040 Master Plan, upcoming community health assessments, and insights from our Resident Roundtables.

In June, the Alexandria City Council made strides toward our climate goal of reducing emissions by 50% by 2030, approving a partnership for up to 27 electric vehicle charging stations and seeking federal funds for support. Collaborating with developers at the Hoffman Site in Eisenhower East, I ensured the inclusion of community spaces in an area lacking public facilities. Additionally, city staff released the draft AlexWest Small Area Plan, covering everything west of 395 and part of Seminary Road. Residents prioritized housing, tenants' rights, open space, and community spaces, prompting us to balance growth with preventing displacement and protecting diversity. Please review and share your thoughts on the AlexWest plan. The comment period is open through July at Alexandria West Planning | City of Alexandria, VA (alexandriava.gov).

Welcome to my June Council Report! Here are the highlights from May: (1) New Minnie Howard Campus, (2) Accelerated School Investments, (3) Expanded Elderly and Disabled Relief Program, (4) Vietnam War Tribute, and (5) Regulating Short-Term Rentals

First order of business: the approval of our Fiscal Year 2025 budget. This wasn't just about numbers; it was a testament to our collective commitment to building a city that works for everyone. The $926.4 million budget represents months of diligent planning, collaboration, and tough choices. From budget retreats to public hearings, we left no stone unturned, considering over 90 questions and 500 public comments. The result? A roadmap that prioritizes teacher pay, affordable housing, public transit, infrastructure, and elder care—all while being mindful of the burden on taxpayers.

March was an incredibly busy month for Council - so this may be one of the longest Council Report yet!

This month, we’re diving into four topics from February 2024: the African American Heritage Trail Signs Ribbon Cutting, the Virginia American Water Company’s proposed increase, the potential Potomac Yards Sports and Entertainment District and, the FY2025 budget.

In January, our city accomplished significant milestones thanks to the dedication and engagement of our community members. From advancing youth safety initiatives to approving crucial developments, there's much to celebrate and discuss.