Council approves emergency acquisition of six Georgia Avenue properties to avert foreclosure, urges local engagement

The Council of the District of Columbia unanimously approved emergency legislation authorizing the District to acquire six properties on Georgia Avenue NW to prevent foreclosures and allow coordinated redevelopment along the corridor.

Councilmember McDuffie moved the emergency declaration and the underlying bill (Bill 20‑6‑283), saying the six lots in Square 2937 were underutilized and at risk of foreclosure; the properties adjoin a District‑owned Engine 22 site at 5760 Georgia Avenue NW. The bill authorizes acquisition to promote cohesive redevelopment and to reduce the risk of blight.

Councilmember Parker said ward office notification and community engagement had been inadequate and urged better advance coordination when emergency acquisitions affect a local councilmember’s jurisdiction. Councilmember Louis George (Ward representative for the area) said his Georgia Avenue revitalization working group supports revitalization, noted the presence of small businesses on the properties (he cited Simple Bar and Grill and a local barbecue pit), and said he would support the emergency measure while asking the executive branch for continued engagement and protections for existing tenants and businesses.

The Council approved the emergency declaration and then the underlying acquisition authority bill unanimously. Councilmembers said they expect continued coordination between the Deputy Mayor’s office and ward staff on next steps and on engagement with small-business tenants and Advisory Neighborhood Commissioners.

Ending: Councilmembers recorded a unanimous vote approving emergency acquisition authority; executives and ward offices will continue discussions on community input and redevelopment planning.