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Dear Neighbor,
As we approach this year's pivotal budget process, it's imperative that we address the issues closest to the hearts of our community: public safety, quality education, accessible government services, and affordable housing. While budget accountability is vital, it must serve as a means to achieve our shared goals of a safer, more prosperous city for all.
At kitchen tables across our city, families grapple with concerns about their children's education, the safety of their neighborhoods, accessing essential government services, and finding affordable housing. These are the pillars upon which we build our community, and they must remain at the forefront of our budget discussions.
We're facing a somber reality with our budget. But it's equally crucial to acknowledge that this year presents us with the largest budget in DC's history. This contrast is stark, and it demands our attention and action.
Over the past twenty-four years, our budget has grown every single year, including a staggering 55% budget increase during Mayor Bowser's tenure. With a budget growth of $7 billion and adding 10,000 employees over the last 10 years, it's perplexing that we're still grappling with many of the same challenges we faced 10 years ago. I want to see more progress.
When we scrutinize our spending and the expansion of government, it's evident that the problem isn't a lack of funds. Instead, it's a breakdown in effectiveness.
Consider the story of Cafini, a single mother who recently faced eviction. Despite reaching out to the city for assistance, she was told help wasn't available until she was homeless. This resulted in Cafini and her child ending up in a shelter, costing the city approximately $80,000 a year. This isn't just financial waste; it's a human tragedy.
Our education system presents a similar tale of inefficiency. Despite DC spending an average of $24,000 per student, neighboring Montgomery County, MD, achieves a 15% higher graduation rate while spending $6,500 less per student. This translates to a staggering $345 million that could be redirected to crucial areas like teacher recruitment and after-school programs.
These examples underscore deep inefficiencies that mere oversight hearings won't rectify. We need fundamental reforms embedded in our budgeting process to identify wasteful spending and get that money working for residents.
The mayor's proposal for four regressive tax increases raises a fundamental question: How can we ask residents for more without demonstrating concrete plans to eliminate wasteful spending and deliver tangible improvements?
In this budget cycle, our focus must be on results, ensuring that every dollar spent yields maximum value for our community. To achieve this, I’m fighting for Budget Accountability Reforms, including:
- A comprehensive review of spending across the entire government to root out waste and inefficiencies.
- Accountability-based budgeting to ensure agencies are laser focused on clear, specific goals that directly impact residents' lives.
- Transparent budgeting to provide the public and the Council with a clear view of how all tax dollars are utilized.
These reforms are essential, and the Council must prioritize them in the budget.
Historic revenues have not solved problems. It's time for bold and decisive action. We must envision a city where every child receives a quality education, every family has a safe and affordable place to call home, and every resident feels supported.
Your role in this process is crucial. I urge you to attend budget hearings and share your insights on programs that are or are not working. The time for transformative change is now, and together, we can build a brighter future for our city and its residents.
You can sign up to testify in any budget hearing here, and I'll include a list of upcoming Housing Committee budget hearings where you can testify, below.
Sincerely,
Robert
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