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DFHV says FY27 cut driven by end of SchoolConnect pilot; 13 positions tied to program at risk
Summary
Department of For Hire Vehicles Director Jonathan Rogers told the Committee on Public Works that the mayor's FY27 proposal reduces DFHV operating funds largely because one‑time federal funding for the SchoolConnect pilot is not continued. Rogers said 13 filled FTEs are tied to the program and DFHV plans outreach and a phased wind‑down.
Chair Ward 1 Councilmember Brianne Nadeau opened the hearing by noting the mayor's FY27 proposal shows more than $6 million less in DFHV operating funding compared with the current year; the chair asked whether that shortfall was driven by the DC SchoolConnect pilot.
"Yep, that's correct," said Jonathan Rogers, director of the Department of For Hire Vehicles, confirming the primary driver of the reduction is the elimination of one‑time federal ARPA funds used for SchoolConnect. Rogers explained the agency historically treated that funding as a recurring enhancement in practice, so its absence appears as a budget reduction in FY27 rather than a programmatic cut under OCFO terminology.
Rogers told the committee the FY27 mark includes the elimination of about 13 FTEs tied to SchoolConnect and that those positions are currently filled. "Those 13 positions are filled today," he said, and DFHV is working with DCHR, DOES and sister agencies to identify redeployment or placement options. He said the program remains funded through the current fiscal year (through Sept. 30) and that the agency will do coordinated outreach to families and schools as it phases the pilot out.
On program assets, Rogers said DFHV owns the SchoolConnect vehicles and that the fleet — roughly in the low 30s ("I think 37") — is in serviceable condition; other agencies such as DPR or DCPS could take on the vehicles if needed. He also emphasized the decision to end SchoolConnect was budgetary and not a reflection of staff or program performance and said DFHV will seek to mitigate staff displacement where possible.
The committee asked to be updated later this summer on long‑term placements for affected staff and on outreach plans for families; Rogers said summer would be an appropriate time for a follow‑up. The hearing record remains open for written testimony through 05/08/2026 at 5:30 p.m.
