We all deserve to feel safe in our communities, and our FY 24 budget demonstrates that public safety is a top priority for the District government. I’m proud that the Council funded the Metropolitan Police Department's full hiring and retention request. This investment will enable MPD to expand its recruitment efforts and promote community-based policing goals. While law enforcement is a critical component of public safety, the FY 24 budget also addresses underlying drivers of crime by funding productive programming and employment opportunities for our youth.
READ MOREWe can make our neighborhoods safer with a strategy that promotes an adequately resourced police department, comprehensive wraparound services, and community-centered professional policing. The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) should be adequately resourced to prevent and respond to crime effectively. While recent budgets included funds to increase MPD personnel, recruitment and retention of officers remain a struggle. I am reviewing existing incentive structures and exploring innovative ways to recruit qualified officers who reflect the communities they serve and the racial, economic, and gender diversity of our city. Training efforts should prioritize building meaningful connections between officers and communities that increase accountability and strengthen the department’s ability to work with residents and local leaders to prevent crime. In tandem with personnel investments, I support data-driven responses to crime that enable MPD to be nimble in allocating resources to address increases in violent and property crimes where they occur. Expanded use of proven tools like Crime Suppression Teams, which respond to incidents with additional police presence, allow MPD to address safety concerns. I expect the mayor’s proposed budget will…
READ MOREMEDIA CONTACT: Christian Damiana 202.258.9532 | cdamiana@dccouncil.gov Councilmember Matt Frumin Announces His FY 2024 Budget Priorities to Advance a “Ward 3 for All” Frumin will leverage the budget process to fund future-focused solutions to challenges facing Ward 3 and the District. WASHINGTON, DC –– Councilmember Matt Frumin announced his budget priorities for Fiscal Year 2024 today, which he transmitted in a letter to Mayor Muriel Bowser. The ambitious priorities seek to realize a “Ward 3 for All” by expanding opportunity and growing inclusive neighborhoods. His budget priorities highlight seven critical strategies: Fully Fund Neighborhood Schools Promote Affordable, Abundant Housing Options Expand Economic Opportunity Invest in Safer Streets and Accessible Transit Foster Safe, Healthy Neighborhoods Support our Seniors Celebrate Local Arts, Culture, and Recreation “I will use the FY 24 budget process to press for additional funds for public schools in Ward 3 and across the District,” said Councilmember Frumin. “A critical first step will be to reverse the destructive proposed cuts to more than 60 DCPS schools. We must restore crucial school services citywide.” Councilmember…
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