The Committee of the Whole convened on April 27, 2023, to discuss significant budgetary issues impacting public safety and education in Washington, D.C. The meeting, chaired by Phil Mendelson, focused on proposed cuts to federal agencies and the implications for local services, as well as the budget allocations for D.C. Public Schools (DCPs).

The session began with a critical examination of a $9 million cut to the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) budget made three years ago. Chairman Mendelson highlighted the ongoing reliance on federal funding for public safety, noting that the U.S. Attorney's Office and the courts are federally funded entities. He expressed concern over recent budget proposals from House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, which could lead to a 22% cut to federal agencies, including a $45 million reduction to the Court Services and Offender Supervision Agency (CSOSA) and an $18 million cut to the Pretrial Services Agency. Mendelson pointed out the hypocrisy in the criticism directed at the D.C. Council for the earlier MPD budget cut, juxtaposing it with the proposed federal cuts that would significantly impact public safety resources.

The discussion then shifted to the budget for D.C. Public Schools. Mendelson expressed disappointment in Chancellor Farabee and the Mayor for proposing a budget that would cut funding for 80 out of 116 schools, despite an overall increase in the gross budget. He criticized the administration for not adhering to the Schools First and Budgeting Act, which aims to ensure equitable funding for schools with high concentrations of at-risk students. The Chairman emphasized that the proposed budget would supplant, rather than supplement, funding for at-risk students, undermining the mission of DCPs to support student potential.

In response to these concerns, the Committee proposed several recommendations aimed at restoring funding to schools and enhancing equity. Key proposals included restoring all funding cuts to schools, increasing the at-risk concentration weight, and doubling the funding for the Historic Homeowner Grant Program. The Committee also recommended adding positions to the Office of Planning and the State Board of Education to improve service delivery.

Council Member Robert White commended the collaborative efforts of the Council in addressing the budget challenges. He highlighted the importance of restoring funding for housing inspections, which are critical for ensuring safe living conditions for tenants. White also supported the additional funding for St. Coletta Special Education public charter school, which serves students with intensive special education needs.

The meeting concluded with a motion to move forward with the proposed budget recommendations, allowing for technical adjustments as necessary. The Committee plans to continue discussions on the budget at the next meeting scheduled for May 16, 2023.