On Zoning Case 25-09

I am disappointed by today’s decision from the Zoning Commission to delay consideration of case 25-09. Ward 3 residents have already spent years participating in community meetings, public discussions, and the formal zoning process related to this proposal. Neighbors, civic groups, and stakeholders across the community have invested significant time sharing their perspectives and helping shape the conversation about the future of these neighborhoods. 

Processes like this are designed to gather input and carefully evaluate proposals, but they must also lead to decisions. After years of engagement, it is important that the process move forward.

Nothing submitted by the Office of Planning warrants reopening the record or changing the map and text amendments currently before the Commission. The IZ Plus program, which the OP confirmed would apply to the new zones, will undergo further study under a new grant the agency recently received. Any potential changes to that program would occur through a separate process and apply District-wide, not through this case.

OP also reiterated the position of the Historic Preservation Office that front setback issues should remain under the authority of the Historic Preservation Review Board. Those matters can and should continue to be addressed through the existing preservation process.

The suggestion to reopen the record, raised in Councilmember Matt Frumin’s recent letter, risks prolonging uncertainty and undermining the extensive work that residents and community organizations have already put into this process.

Ward 3 deserves clear leadership about how we grow as a community. After years of public engagement, it’s time to move this forward so our neighborhood can finally plan for the future