1. No category

Council of the District of Columbia
Committee on Finance and Revenue
Committee Report
OFFICE OF THE
SECRETARY
2015 APR - I PM 5: 33
1350 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20004
To:
All Counci lmembers
From:
Jack Evans, Chairman
Committee on Finance and Revenue
Date:
April 1, 2015
Subject:
Report on Bill 2 1-76, the "Events DC Technical Clarification Act of 2015
The Committee on Finance and Revenue reports favorably on Bill 21-76, the "Events
DC Technical Clarification Act of 2015", and recommends its approval by the Council of the
District of Columbia.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
I.
Il.
III.
IV.
V.
VI.
VII.
VIII.
IX.
X.
Background, Purpose and Effect
Legislative History
Position of the Executive
Advisor; Neighborhood Commis. ion
Summary of Testimony
Impact on Existing Law
Fiscal Impact Statement
Section by Section Analysis
Committee Action
Attachments
I.
BACKGROUND, PURPOSE AND EFFECT
On February 19, 2015, Counci lmember Jack Evans introduced Bill 21-76, the "Events
DC Technical Clarification Act of 2015," which would amend the Washington Convention
Center Authority Act of 1994 to delete ob. olete provisions. Several subsections of the act refer to
various past years and were intended to have one-t ime effect, focusing on the merger of the
Washington Convention Center Authority and the Sports and Entertainment Comm ission. The
committee print clarifies that the President of the I lotel Association of Washington, D.C. shall
serve as an ex-officio voting member of the Board, making three ex-officio voting members,
nine public board members, and a grand total of 12 board members. Finally, the bill would repeal
the provision establishing the Washington Convention Center Advisory Committee. The
Washington Convention Center Authority and the District of Columbia Sports and Entertainment
Commission, were both established in 1994, and merged as a part of the Fiscal Year 2009
1
Budget , to fonn the Washington Convention and Sports Authority, also known as EventsDC, an
independent authority of the District government.
The Washington Convention Center Advisory Committee (WCCAC) was established via
§ 10-1202.18 in 1994 to advise the authority on a variety of items, including the needs of the
surrounding community, parking issues, transportation issues, economic development spin-off
opportunities for surrounding neighborhoods, participation by local, small, and disadvantaged
business enterprises in the operations, the development of environmental guidelines, and other
issues directly related to the operation of the Convention Center that were likely to have an
impact on the community. The WCCAC extended its existence to also serve as a neighborhood
liaison during the construction of the Marriott Marquis convention center hotel, located adjacent
2
to the convention center, with a sunset provision of one year after a certificate of occupancy was
issued for the new convention center hotel.
II.
LEGISLATIVE HISTORY
February 19, 2015
Bill 21-76, the "Events DC Technical Clarification Act of 2015" was
introduced by Councilmembcr Jack Evans.
February 24, 2015
Bill 21-76 was referred to the Committee on Finance and Revenue.
February 27, 2015
Notice of intent to act on Bill 21-76 was published in the D.C. Register'.
February 27, 2015
Notice of public hearing on Bill 21-76, the "Events DC Technical
Clarification Act of 2015" was published in the D.C. Register•.
March 16, 2015
The Committee on Finance and Revenue held a public hearing on Bill 2176.
April l, 2015
Consideration and vote on Bill 21-76 by the Committee on Finance and
Revenue.
III.
POSITION OF THE EXECUTIVE
The Committee did not receive any additional comments from the Executive.
IV.
ADVISORY NEIGHBORHOOD COMMISSION
The Committee did not receive comments from any Advisory Neighborhood
Commission.
V.
SUMMARY OF TESTIMONY
I Law 18-1l1.
'The Marrioll Marquis hole! opened in May, 2014.
1
· Page 002516 of !he February 27, 2015 D.C. Register.
'Page 002525 of !he February 27, 2015 D.C. Register.
2
The Committee on Finance and Revenue held a public hearing on Bill 21-76 on Monday
March 16, 2015, at 10:15 a.m. Committee Chair Jack Evans made an opening statement:
We have Bill 21-76, the "Events DC Technical Clarification Act of 2015" would update
tlze Washington Convention Center Authority Act of 1994 to remove one-time items from 2003
and 2010 that are no longer applicable; and to repeal the section relating to the Convention
Center Advisory Committee.
A video recording of the hearing can be viewed at act.de.gov. The following witnesses
testified before the Committee, and copies of written testimony can be found in Attachment C:
Ibrahim Mumin, President, Mumin & Associates, As a 40-year resident of the Shaw
community, Mr. Mum in spoke in support of the technical clarification that would sunset the
Washington Convention Center Advisory Committee. His testimony highlighted two points for
the record: That the WCCA model should serve as an archetype for community/developer
relations; and the success of the pre-employment and apprenticeship program would not have
been possible without the support of the WCCA.
Michael Dickens, Principle-Hospitality Partners and Chair, Destination DC, spoke in
support of the technical clarification that would sunset the Washington Convention Center
Advisory Committee. Mr. Dickens offered historical recollections and accomplishments of the
WCCA.
Paul Cohn, spoke in support of the technical clarification that would sunset the
Washington Convention Center Advisory Committee. Mr. Cohn attended to offer support on
behalf of Carmen Kinsey.
Apostle Green. United House of Prayer, spoke in support of the technical clarification
that would sunset the Washington Convention Center Advisory Committee. Along with Brenda
Hall, offered support on behalf of Rev. C.M. Bailey of the United House of Prayer. Green
thanked the efforts of the WCCA in securing and helping to preserve affordable housing around
the Convention Center.
Ed Horvath, ANC 2F and former President of Blagden Alley Association, spoke in
support of the technical clarification that would sunset the Washington Convention Center
Advisory Committee. As a 16 year participant in the WCCA, Horvath emphasized the necessity
for increased communication between District agencies and the community. Horvath spoke to
the desire for adequate and usable retail space at the Convention Center site. He also discussed
issues of cleanliness, lighting and ADA bus/parking concerns at the Metro station.
Allen Lew, spoke in support of the technical clarification that would sunset the
Washington Convention Center Advisory Committee. Lew recalled his experiences with the
WCCA as former Manager of Economic Development and General Manager.
Tony Robinson, spoke in support of the technical clarification that would sunset the
Washington Convention Center Advisory Committee. As former Director of Communications
3
for the WCCA, Robinson offered his praise for the work of the advisory committee. Speaking to
the accomplishments of the advisory committee, Robinson said, "It's hard to be humble when
you're so damn good."
Carmen Kinsey, Chair, Washington Convention Center Advisory Committee, took time
to thank those who offered words of support and labored to make the advisory committee a
success over the years. She noted the privilege she has had in serving the District of Columbia
and the Shaw community. She spoke in support of the technical clarification that would sunset
the Washington Convention Center Advisory Committee.
Anthony Giancola, spoke in support of the technical clarification that would sunset the
Washington Convention Center Advisory Committee. Mr. Giancola attended to offer support on
behalf of Carmen Kinsey. Also provided recommendations for addressing concerns for the
Convention Center metro station.
Theresa DuBois. Manager of External Affairs. Events DC, spoke in support of the
technical clarification that would sunset the Washington Convention Center Advisory
Committee. Ms. DuBois spoke of the continued outreach to the community, and also discussed
the 24-hour hotline service that will remain in operation.
The public hearing adjourned at 11 :22 a.m.
VI,
IMPACT ON EXISTING LAW
Bill 21-76 makes several clarifying changes to amendments to § 10-1202.05
Establishment of Board of Directors, including that the Authority shall be governed by a 12
member Board of Directors. The Chief Financial Officer, the President of the Hotel Association
of Washington, DC and an individual designated by the Mayor all serve as ex-officio voting
members. The remaining 9 members serve 4 year terms. Seven board members shall constitute a
quorum. Also repeals § 10-1202.18. Establishment of Advisory Committee.
VII.
FISCAL IMPACT STATEMENT
The Chief Financial Officer's March 29, 2015 Fiscal Impact Statement indicates funds
are sufficient in the FY 2015 through FY 2018 budget and financial plan to implement the bill.
VIII. SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS
Section 1 contains the long and short titles of the legislation.
Section 2 states the Authority shall be governed by a 12 member Board of Directors. The
Chief Financial Officer, the President of the Hotel Association of Washington, DC and an
individual designated by the Mayor all serve as ex-officio voting members. The remaining 9
members serve 4 year terms. Seven board members shall constitute a quorum. Repeals the
establishment of the Washington Convention Center Advisory Committee.
4
Section 3 contains the fiscal impact statement.
Section 4 contains the effective date.
IX.
COMMITTEE ACTION
The Committee on Finance and Revenue convened at 10:00 a.m., on Wednesday, April 1,
2015, to consider and vote on Bill 21-76, and other matters. Chairman Evans recognized the
presence of a quorum, consisting of himself and Councilmembers Grosso and McDuffie.
Councilmember Evans made brief remarks, moved Bill 21-76, and opened the floor for
discussion.
Discussion having ended, Chairman Evans then moved the proposed committee print and
report for Bill 21-76 with leave for the Committee staff to make technical and conforming
amendments.
The members voted as follows:
Report on Bill 21-76
Chairman Evans
Councilmember Grosso
Councilmember McDuffie
Councilmember Orange
Councilmember Silverman
YES
YES
YES
ABSENT
ABSENT
Committee Print on Bill 21-76
YES
YES
YES
ABSENT
ABSENT
Thus, the committee print and accompanying report were passed, with a majority of
Members present voting in the affirmative, with 3 votes in support, 0 votes against, 2 Members
absent.
The committee meeting adjourned at 10:05 a.m.
X.
ATTACHMENTS
A.
B.
Bill 21-76 as introduced.
Public hearing notice for Bill 21-76.
Witness list and copies of testimony from the March 16, 2015 public hearing on
Bill 21-76.
Fiscal impact statement.
Legal sufficiency determination.
Comparative Print of Bill 21-76.
Committee Print of Bill 21-76.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
5
COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
1350 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W.
Washington D.C. 20004
Memorandum
To:
Members of the Council
From:
Nyasha mith, Secretary to the Council
Date:
February 23, 2015
<
g;& 'i§'=\..
-
Subject : Refenal of Proposed Legislation
Notice is given that the attached proposed legislation was introduced in the Office
of the Secretary on Thursday, February 19, 2015. Copies are available in Room I 0,
the Legislative Services Division.
TITLE: "Events DC Technical Clarification Act of2015", B21-0076
fNTRODUCED BY: Councilmember Evans
The Chainnan is referring this legislation to the Committee on Finance and
Revenue.
Attachment
cc: General Counsel
Budget Director
Legislative Services
1
ABILL
2
3
4
5
6
IN THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
7
8
9
10
11
12
To update the Washington Convention Center Authority Act of 1994 to remove one-time
items from 2003 and 2010 that are no longer applicable; and to repeal the section relating to the
Convention Center Advisory Committee.
13
14
15
16
17
BE IT ENACTED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, That this
act be cited as the "Events DC Technical Clarification Act of 2015".
Sec. 2. The Washington Convention Center Authority Act of 1994, effective September
28, 1994 (D.C. Law 10-188; D.C. Official Code§ 10-1201.01 et seq.), is amended as follows:
18
(a) Section 205(f)(5)(A) is repealed.
19
(b) Section 205(f)(B)(l) is amended to read as follows:
20
"(B)(l) All Board terms shall be 4-year terms."
21
(c) Section 218 is repealed.
22
Sec. 3. Fiscal impact statement.
23
The Council adopts the fiscal impact statement of the Chief Financial Officer as the fiscal
24
impact statement required by section 602(c)(3) of the District of Columbia Home Rule Act,
25
approved December 24, 1973 (87 Stat. 813; D.C. Official Code§ 1-206.02(c)(3)).
26
Sec. 4. Effective date.
1
1
This act shall take effect following approval by the Mayor (or in the event of veto by the
2
Mayor, action by the Council to override the veto), a 30-day period of Congressional review as
3
provided in section 602( c)(1) of the District of Columbia Home Rule Act, approved December
4
24, 1973 (87 Stat. 813; D.C. Official Code§ 1-206.02(c)(l)), and publication in the District of
s
Columbia Register.
2
---c-=-:==:--=-=---------------------------------~
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA REGISTER
VOL. 62 - NO. 9
FEBRUARY 27, 2015
@
Council of the District of Columbia
Committee on Finance and Revenue
Notice of Public Hearing
John A. Wilson Building, 1350 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W. Washington, D.C. 20004
---·--·-·----~-
COUNCILMEMBER JACK EVANS, CHAIR
COMMITIEE ON FINANCE AND REVENUE
ANNOUNCES A PUBLIC HEARING ON:
Bill 21-76, the "Events DC Technical Clarification Act of2015"
PR 21-55, the "Euphemia L. Haynes Public Charter School, Inc. Revenue Bonds Project
Approval Resolution of2015"
Monday, March 16, 2015
10:00 a.m.
Room 120 - John A. Wilson Building
1350 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Washington, D.C. 20004
Councilmember Jack Evans, Chairman of the Committee on finance and Revenue, announces a
public hearing to be held on Monday, March 16, 2015 at 10:00 a.m. in Room 120 of the John A.
Wilson Building, 1350 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20004.
Bill 21-26, the "Events DC Technical Clarification Act of2015" would update the Washington
Convention Center Authority Act of 1994 lo remove one-time items from 2003 and 2010 that arc
no longer applicable; and to repeal the section relating to the Convention Center Advisory
Committee.
PR 21-55, the "Euphemia L. Haynes Public Charter School, Inc. Revenue Bonds Project Approval
Resolution of 2015" would authorize and provide for the issuance, sale, and delivery in an
aggregate principal amount not to exceed $22 million of District of Columbia revenue bonds in
one or more series and would authorize and provide for the loan of the proceeds of the bonds to
assist Euphemia L. Haynes Public Charter School, Inc. in the financing, refinancing, or
reimbursing of costs associated with an authorized project pursuant to section 490 of the District
of Columbia Home Rule Act. The project is located at 3600 Georgia Avenue, N.Wand at4501
Kansas Avenue, N.W.
The Committee invites the public to testify at the hearing. Those who wish to testify should
contact Sarina Loy, Committee Aide at (202) 724-8058 or [email protected], and provide your
name, organizational affiliation (if any), and title with the organization by 10:00 a.m. on Friday,
March 13, 2015. Witnesses should bring 15 copies of their written testimony to the roundtable.
The Committee allows individuals 3 minutes to provide oral testimony in order to permit each
witness an opportunity to be heard. Additional written statements arc encouraged and will be
made part of the official record. Written statements may be submitted by e-mail to
[email protected] or mailed to: Council of the District of Columbia, 1350 Pennsylvania Ave.,
N.W., Suite 114, Washington D.C. 20004.
002525
Council of the District of Columbia
Committee on Finance and Revenue
Public Hearing/Roundtable Agenda
John A. Wilson Building, 1350 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W. Washington, D.C. 20004
COUNCILMEMBER JACK EVANS, CHAIR
COMMIITEE ON FINANCE AND REVENUE
PUBLIC HEARING ON:
Bill 21-76, the "Events DC Technical Clarification Act of2015"
PR 21-55, the "Euphemia L. Hayne Public Charter School, Inc. Revenue Bonds Project Approval
Resolution of 2015"
PUBLIC ROUNDTABLE ON:
PR 21-68, the "Friendship Public Charter School, Inc. Revenue Bonds Project Approval Re olution of 2015"
Monday, March 16, 2015
10:00 a.m.
Room 120 - John A. Wilson Building
1350 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Washington, O.C. 2000"
I. Opening Remarks
II. Witness List
•
Bill 21-76, the "Events DC Technical Clarification Act of 2015"
1. Ibrahim Mumin, President, Mumin & Associates
2. Michael Dickens, Principle-Hospitality Partners and Chair, Destination DC
3. Paul Cohn
4. Apostle Green, Un ited Ilouse of Prayer
5. Brenda Hall, United I louse of Prayer
6. Josh William , President, Metropolitan Washington Councils, AFL-CIO
7. Ed I Iorvath, ANC 2F and former President of Blagden Alley Association
8. Allen Lew
9. Tony Robinson
10. Carmen Kinsey, Chair, Washington Convention Center Advisory Committee
11. Theresa DuBois, Manager of External Affairs, Events DC
• PR 21-55, the "Euphemia L. Haynes Public Charter School, Inc. Revenue Bonds Project
Approval Resolution of 2015"
I. Anthony Headen, Project Manager, DC Revenue Bond Program
2. Vanessa Carlo-Miranda, Chief Financial Officer, EL Haynes Public Charter School
• PR 21-68, the "Friendship Public Charter School, Inc. Revenue Bonds Project Approval
Resolution of 2015"
I. Jasmine Brown - Program Analyst -DC Revenue Bond Program
2. Donald Hense - Chief Executive Director, Friendship Public Charter School
fll . Announcements
IV. Adjournment
Testimony of Ibrahim Mumin before the Finance and Revenue Committee of the
Council of the District of Columbia regarding Bill 21-76, March 16, 2015
Good morning Chairman Evans and members of the Committee. My name is Ibrahim
Mumin and I am a 40-year resident of the Shaw neighborhood, and a 20-year small
business owner (CBE) in Shaw. I was part of the progressive coalition of residents that
supported the construction of the Washington Convention Center being built in Shaw
which began in 1998.
I am here this morning to support Bill 21-76, Events D.C. Technical Clarification Act or
2015. I support this Bill for a number of reasons. First, the major work of the Advisory
Committee has been completed. The Committee served as the liaison for Shaw residents
with the Authority through the planning and construction of the Center. After
construction, this month marks 12 years of successful post-construction operation of the
Center, and nearly one year (May) since the Convention Center Hotel, The Marriott
Marquis opened to the public.
Many Shaw residents obtained employment from the Convention Center and small
business owners in Shaw secured contracts for work with the Center, including my
company Mumin and Associates, LLC. I am very proud to have worked with Clark
Construction and the Convention Center on the design and implementation of the Step-up
Pre-Apprenticeship Program that was used for the first time in D.C. on a commercial
project during the construction of the Convention Center.-Fast forward to 20 I 0, I am
equally as proud to have worked with Hensel Phelps, the General Contractor for the
Marriott Marquis Hotel, who met all the employment and contracting goals assigned to
them by the Council and the Mayor. I was also part of the collaborative team that
included Goodwill, Progressive Partners and the Community College of UDC that trained
and placed about 200 D.C. residents at the Marquis Hotel. Many of these placements
were returning citizens or ex-offenders, and some had been homeless.-All of this took
place through the strategic guidance of the hardworking volunteers who comprised the
Washington Convention Center Authority Advisory Committee, led by Carmen Kinsey.
Second, the work of the Advisory Committee established examples of '"Best Practices"
that can be used by ANC's and other community-based organizations seeking to be
responsive in neighborhoods where major projects are being built. In 2000, while serving
as a consultant for the National League of Cities (NLC), I brought a delegation of
Community Leaders and elected officials from Flint, Michigan to tour the Convention
Center site. At the conclusion of the tour they had an opportunity to meet with the
leadership of the Advisory Committee and the Center Staff, which included Theresa
DuBois, the Director of External Affairs. My managers at NLC saw the Convention
Center and the Advisory Committee as a national example of "Best Practices."
Lastly, I believe with the Board assuming responsibility for the Center's relationship with
the community, and the staff staff and infra structure remaining in place at the
Convention Center, and a liaison from ANC's 2F and 6E, we will make sure residents
and other stakeholders have an on-going mechanism of communicating with the Center.
Going forward, I would like to recommend the Community Advisory Committee model
be used for ALL major development projects in the city, like the Southwest Waterfront.
the soccer stadium, McMillan Reservoir and Walter Reed. This model provides an
organized and structured way to ensure quality citizen participation.
We all owe a debt of gratitude to those volunteers who served on the Advisory
Commillee. Thank you for allowing me to provide these comments and I' II be happy to
answer any questions you may have.
B21-76
"Events DC Technical Clarification Act of 20I5"
March I6, 2015
TESTIMONY OF
Michael M. Dickens
Chairman
Destination DC
GOOD MORNING, CHAJRMAN EV ANS, MEMBERS OF THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE AND
REVENUE AND COMMITTEE STAFF. I AM MIKE DICKENS, CHAIRMAN OF DESTINATION
DC. I APPEAR BEFORE YOU TODAY IN SUPPORT OF BILL 2I-76, THE "EVENTS DC
TECHNICAL CLARIFICATION ACT OF 20I5"'.
FIRST I WANT TO CONGRATULATE THE wee ADVISORY COMMITTEE AND ITS MEMBERS
FOR THEIR SERVICE TO THE CITY, THE RESIDENTS OF THE SHAW COMMUNITY AND THE
HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY SINCE THE COMMITTEE WAS CREATED IN I995.
AS CHAIRMAN EVANS KNOWS I WAS ONE OF THE NINE ORIGINAL BOARD MEMBERS OF
THE THEN NAMED WASHINGTON CONVENTION CENTER AUTHORITY (WCCA). I SERVED
AS VICE CHAIR ON THE THAT BOARD FROM MAY OF 1995 TILL NOVEMBER OF 2006. I
THOUGHT I HAD SPENT A LONG TIME IN HARNESS FOR THE CITY BUT THE wee
ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEMBERS SERVED ALMOST 10 YEARS LONGER THAN PAUL
COHN AND I SERVED.
DURING MY TIME ON THE WCCA BOARD I SPENT MANY HOURS WITH CARMEN KINSEY
AND HER ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEMBERS. MANY PEOPLE SEEING THE CONVENTION
CENTER TODAY WOULD BE SURPRISED TO HEAR HOW CONTENTIOUS THE POLITICAL
BATTLES WERE TO GET THE CENTER FINANCED AND CONSTRUCTED. THERE WERE
MANY DIFFICULT ISSUES THAT HAD TO BE RESOLVED. THE wee ADVISORY
COMMITTEE AND ITS MEMBERS WERE ALWAYS THERE WITH WISE ADVICE TO THE
BOARD AND THE CONVENTION CENTER STAFF TO HELP FIND THE BEST WAY TO GET
THAT WONDERFUL BUILDING BUILT.
NOW THATTHE WALTER WASHINGTON CONVENTION CENTER IS GOING INTO ITS
SECOND DECADE OF SERVICE AND THE MARRIOTT MARQUIS HAS OPENED ITS DOORS I
DO BELIEVE THAT IT IS TIME THAT THE AUTHORIZATION FOR THE wee ADVISORY
COMMITTEE BE ALLOWED TO SUNSET WITH THANKS FROM ALL OF CS FOR A JOB
EXCEEDINGLY WELL DONE.
MR. CHAIRMAN, T!-llS CONCLUDES MY TESTIMONY. I AM HAPPY TO ANSWER ANY
QUESTIONS THAT YOU MAY HAVE FOR ME AT THIS TIME.
1665 North Portal Drive, N.W. • Washington, DC 20012 • (202) 882-3956 o Fax (202) 829-4717
HONORABLE C. M. BAILEY, BISHOP
TESTIMONY
AT THE PUBLIC HEARING ON:
Bill 21-76, the "Events DC Technical Clarification Act of 2015",
which would, among other things, "repeal the section relating
to the Convention Center Advisory Committee •..•. "
Monday, March 16, 2015
At 10:00 a.m.
In Room 120 of the
John A. Wison Building
1350 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20004
Before the
Committee on Finance and Revenue
Councilmember Jack Evans, Chair
llPage
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Joint Testimony of
Apostle S. Green, Director of Special Projects, and Ms. Brenda J. Hall, Appointed by the
United House of Prayer as Its Liaison with the Washington Convention Center Authority
On Behalf of the Honorable C. M. Bailey, Bishop & Chief Executive Officer
Of
The United House of Prayer,
Immediately Adjoining Community Stakeholder to the Washington Convention Center
Good Morning Mr. Chairman, other distinguished Members of the Committee
on Finance and Revenue, and Members of the DC City Council. My name is
Apostle S. Green, Director of Special Projects for Bishop C.M. Bailey, CEO &
Trustee of the national body of the United House of Prayer. I am honored,
today, to be joined in this testimony, by Ms. Brenda J. Hall, seated next to me,
and appointed by the United House of Prayer as its Liaison in all matters relating
to the Washington Convention Center Authority, dating back to around 1994.
Mr. Chairman, it is only after being firmly convinced by Mrs. Carmen Kinsey, the
exemplary Chair of the Washington Convention Center Advisory Committee,
that she and her colleagues support the action being considered by your
distinguished City Council Committee, today, to proceed with the sunset of the
Washington Convention Center Advisory Committee, that Bishop C.M. Bailey
has directed that Ms. Brenda J. Hall and I appear before you, today, in support
of this action, while he is on travel through the Southern region of the United
House of Prayer.
21Page
Please know that Bishop C.M. Bailey extends his high commendation to Mrs.
Carmen Kinsey, as Chair of the Advisory Committee, on the eve of your Council
Committee's actions to move to sunset this very important body. As an
adjoining community stakeholder to the Washington Convention Center, the
United House of Prayer fondly remembers in 1994 that a critically important
and much needed affordable housing development of 108 families and
individuals, owned by the United House of Prayer, was situated then, and is
situated even now, within 15 feet of this colossal 6-square block Convention
Center. Mr. Chairman, it is without question that the memories of the United
House of Prayer, dating back almost 19 years now, would not be fond ones
without the warm and effective community relationship that Mrs. Carmen
Kinsey, and her colleagues on the Advisory Committee successfully forged with
the United House of Prayer, and the surrounding community. Of course, Mrs.
Carmen Kinsey, as Chair, was ably and quite capably assisted - even then - by
Mrs. Theresa DuBois, now External Affairs Manager at the Washington
Convention Center. It is, indeed, a testament to the successful and very
beneficial community relationship that Chair Carmen Kinsey formed with the
United House of Prayer and the surrounding community, that hundreds of
residential housing units, then, and even many more, today, exist in the
periphery of this enormously beneficial Center, that is a significant boost to the
economy of the District of Columbia. This co-existence between the Center,
today, and the SHAW residential community that remains around it, gives
dramatic and very visual proof that the revitalization and rebuilding of the
historic SHAW community did not have to occur at the expense of destroying
3IPage
the longstanding residential history of SHAW! That one of the most important
development efforts in the District of Columbia, in our lifetime, was able to be
accomplished under the responsibility, and under the community mandate
assigned to the Advisory Committee, is a compelling testament to the valuable
contributions of Chair Carmen Kinsey and her colleagues on the Advisory
Committee, and Mrs. Theresa DuBois, External Affairs Manager of the Center.
Mr. Chairman, Bishop C.M. Bailey has asked that we extend his unbounding
gratitude, his prayers and his best wishes in their future endeavors, on behalf of
the United House of Prayer, and the surrounding community, to Chair Carmen
Kinsey, and her colleagues, and to the wonderful staff of the Washington
Convention Center, and especially to Mrs. Theresa DuBois, External Affairs
Manager of the Center, working right at the Advisory Committee's side.
Mr. Chairman, should you or your Committee have any questions, Ms. Brenda J.
Hall and I would be pleased to respond. Thank you.
4(Page
Testimony
Edward G. Horvath, resident and homeowner, 900 block of M Street NW
March 16, 2015
Sunset of Advisory Committee
Councilmember Evans and Members of the Committee,
I am here today to speak in support of legislation to sunset the Washington Convention Center
Advisory Committee (WCCAC).
During my 16 years involvement as a member of the immediate surrounding community I
believe the WCCAC served community and DC area well during active planning, construction,
opening, and initial operations of the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. As a DC
resident and property owner within 200 feet of the 6 city-block facility public access and
opportunities for groups and individuals to address the Advisory Committee as a venue for
raising and sharing concerns and being briefed by management and staff of the convention
center on changes to facilities and operations. Relationships between the convention center
and community have evolved substantially with the current staff and executive management
being quite aware of operations and activities which have potential adverse or disruptive
impacts on neighboring residents and locally-situated businesses.
Prior to and following the opening of the CC in the Spring of 2004 dozens of meetings and
briefings contributed to the development of an AC led effort to design and implement a Traffic
Operations and Parking Plan (TOPP) that was a stipulated requirement imposed by and
required to be approved by the National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC) prior to the
issuance of a certificate of occupancy allowing for the public use and operations of the CC.
NCPC actively supported neighborhood-based interests to protect and preserve the residential
populations in blocks immediately adjacent to about 70 percent of the perimeter of the CC.
Testimony- Ed Horvath - Sunset WCCAC
Page 1
Looking back that effort probably provided the most significant protection to the residential
character of this area of any activities of the AC.
In more recent years the most significant problems and dismissal of neighborhood impacts
and inconvenience have been by activities of District of Columbia departments and agencies
either by neglect, non-responsiveness, or catering directly to the interests of vendors or
promotors of trade shows or other events at the CC. In a few cases, several of the most
disruptive activities to the neighborhood were approved by the office of the prior Mayor or
other very high level officials who did not consult with or inform the heads of several
departments of their waivers of the enforcement of requirements or regulations. In at least
several of those situations staff and executive leadership of the WWCC claimed to have been
unaware of special favors and considerations until after or during operations when concerns
were raised by members of the community, including me.
As neighbors we understand and don't have a problem with situations where the security and
safety associated with visits by the President of the United States to the WWCC justifies
restricting parking and the temporary closing of streets for a few hours. However, depriving
this parking-starved area of dozens of the very limited public parking spaces available for
privately owned vehicles of special guests for an entire five-day period during a convention of
the cable industry despite a DDOT restriction on that practice isn't something the WWCC staff
or management could control or cause to be terminated.
While I personally acknowledge fairly strong willingness to listen to and support community
interests three significant matters have eluded resolution by WCCA management, the WWCC
Advisory Committee, and other Departments and agencies of the District of Columbia
Government from my perspective.
With a few limited and temporary exceptions, the retail spaces primarily located in the most
northern third of the multi-acre building have been vacant for 11 years. During the first few
years of operation of the CC costs and complications associated with the build-out of these
extremely pedestrian accessible spaces was an impediment for potential businesses to
Testimony- Ed Horvath - Sunset WCCAC
Page 2
establish viable and profitable operations. While only serving in an advisory capacity the
WWCCAC did establish and continue, at least in name, to have a subcommittee associated
with attracting and identifying retail businesses that could serve both the residents and
convention center visitors. While I have not attended all meetings of the advisory committee,
I do not recall having even heard of any activities or reports of action by that subcommittee to
the advisory committee for around 8 years.
Several other subcommittees did conduct and contribute to welcoming input and keeping
parties informed about impacts on the community and guests. A Transportation Subcommittee continued to meet several times a year and on a less regular basis a Public Safety
Sub-Committee met when special events were anticipated to have greater or significantly
different impacts on residences and businesses. Almost all of the issues involving those
subcommittees involved aspects or activities involving public space. Successful outcomes
were directly associated with the extent and engagement other DC Government officials and
representatives, and at times Federal representatives acted in support of the community.
An issue I identified and raised repeatedly during the 16 years I joined meetings of the
WWCCA was an extreme shortage of parking for persons with disabilities. While street
parking is limited to fewer than 100 spaces around the perimeter of the WWCC only a few of
those are designated for persons with disabilities and during many events those few spaces
have been used as bus loading areas. At times there have been no designated parking spaces
for persons with disabilities within one block of the WWCC. On several occasions over these
years I asked about the use of some of the limited POV parking spaces within the WWCC for
persons with disabilities. The response was that only WCCA staff could park in those spaces.
However, since the opening of the Marriott Marquis Hotel one of the briefings at one of the
CCAC meetings described the pleasure of "high value" customers at being able to have their
vehicles driven through the CC to provide them access the hotel through the connecting
tunnel between the CC and the hotel.
The most popular transportation portal for bringing guests to the CC is via METRO. While the
CC is extremely well maintained, monitored, and cleaned the adjoining
7th
Street, Mount
Vernon Square, Convention Center station on the Yellow and Green lines is a filthy, poorly
Testimony- Ed Horvath -SunsetWCCAC
Page 3
maintained, and miserable representative of Washington, D.C. The Washington Metropolitan
Transit Authority has been an absent, and pretty much non-communicating, and nonresponsive neighbor. While floor washing machines are run across the red-tile floors there
remain almost constant accumulations of trash and debris on the floors and particularly in the
three elevators. Those elevators and the granite walls surrounding the elevator and escalator
banks frequently reek of urine and other body excrements. It is common to see men urinating
on the walls as a de facto pissoir. The METRO public areas including the elevators have
cameras mounted that could be used to monitor unwelcome behavior, but I have never seen
anyone stopped or even approached by any representative of METRO. While not under the
control of the CCAC or the WWCC management the Government of the District of Columbia
should insist that this facility be clean, well maintained, and secure.
Perhaps the most important basis for no longer feeling that the CCAC can be dissolved is that I
have relatively high confidence in the competence, integrity, and ethical business operations
of the current executive leadership of the WWCC and subordinate directors and organizations.
They see it as being in their interest to provide timely notice and updates to the community
a'!'1e
;8i:€ effectively and quickly reach impacted parties through their public outreach staff
and application of technology.
Thank you for the opportunity to meet with you today.
Ed Horvath
Testimony - Ed Horvath - Sunset WCCAC
Page 4
Testimony of
Allen Y. Lew
Public Hearing on Bill 21-76, the
"Events DC Technical Clarification Act of 2015"
Before the
Council of the District of Columbia
Committee on Finance and Revenue
Monday, March 16, 2015
10:00 a.m.
Room 120
John A. Wilson Building
1350 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20004
Good morning Chairman Evans and members of the Committee
on Finance and Revenue. For the record, my name is Allen Y. Lew.
I am glad to address the Committee today on aspects of Bill 21-76,
the "Events DC Technical Clarification Act of 2015." Specifically, the
"sun-setting" of the Convention Center Advi6ory Committee.
As you know, for nearly 20 years I have had the distinct pleasure
and honor of serving the District of Columbia in a variety of senior-level
positions, most recently as the City Administrator from 2011 to 2015.
However, for the purpose of today's hearing, I am testifying about my
experience from 1996 to 2004 as the Managing Director of
Development, and then in 2003 as the Acting Chief Executive Officer
and General Manager of the Washington Convention Center Authority
(WCCA), now the Washington Convention & Sports Authority (WCSA) or
Events DC.
Due to the foresight of the Council, particularly Councilmember
Jack Evans and then Mayor Marion Barry, the Washington Convention
Center Advisory Committee was established to serve as a conduit
between WCCA and the Community. They also allowed community and
subject matter experts the opportunity to provide advice and counsel
on the design and amenities of the planned new facility.
The Advisory Committee was vitally important in the early stages
of development of the new convention center to ensure that the facility
did not block off or divide the community. In many ways, through this
collaboration, the new convention center helped unite communities
that were often at odds. The Advisory Committee brokered
innumerable meetings on the design that resulted in a facility that
contextually respected the scale of neighborhood townhouses to the
north and the downtown office core to the south.
Equally important, they helped lead us to design the building in
such a way as to keep Land M Streets open to pedestrian and vehicular
traffic. The Advisory Committee also played a significant role in
retaining businesses adjacent to the facility. They also had a major role
---------
in the convention center art program and ensuring that the Shaw
community was represented and that local and District artists are a part
of one of the finest public art collections in the nation's capital. (The
artists and the works of art were selected with the invaluable assistance
of many of the curators of the most prominent art institutions in the
District of Columbia)
The Advisory Committee model has been replicated here in the
District and elsewhere as case study for comprehensive community
engagement. This is due in large part to the leadership and
membership of the Advisory Committee over the years.
They have benefited from the strong, ongoing leadership of
Carmen Kinsey, Linda Lee, Tony Giancola, John Boardman, Stuart Long,
Elizabeth Blakeslee and so many others. The decision to make Advisory
Neighborhood Commissioners statutory members allowed for direct
feedback to and from the communities and neighborhoods directly
impacted by development of the convention center.
Long-time community leaders like Lawrence Thomas and Norma
Davis provided invaluable input from Shaw and Percy Battle from
Anacostia provided a citywide view of the development. These folks
are no longer with us, but I would be remiss if I did not mention and
honor their service and contributions to the development of the
project.
Other community leaders such as Doris Brooks, Ed Horvath and so
many others made the Advisory Committee work as intended. More
importantly, they held the WCCA Board of Directors and the
development team accountable for delivering the convention center in
the most responsible way possible.
No doubt development of the convention center was an arduous
process for the community. Now that the Center has been in operation
for a decade, the fruits of the planning and community engagement can
be clearly seen. At this point I believe we can all say that the
Washington Convention Center Advisory Committee has done its job in
the most exemplary way.
The Advisory Committee provided the same insight and liaison
function for the new Marriott Marquis hotel and related developments.
The time has come to allow the Advisory Committee to "sunset"
and I support the technical amendments proposed in Bill 21-76 to
repeal the sections relating to the Convention Center Advisory
Committee.
Chairman Evans, you served a vital leadership role in the planning
and development of the convention center and participated in many of
the battles for the project. I think you would agree that the end result
has been a resounding success for the District and that the Advisory
Committee played a huge part in that success.
I think you will also agree that we are now at a point where the
leadership and staff of Events DC has established a solid relationship
with the community and is now able to work with and through the
ANCs and civic associations to resolve any possible issues.
That concludes my testimony and I am available to answer any
questions.
Thank you.
###
COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
Committee on Finance and Revenue
Joint Public Hearing
821-76
"Events DC Technical Clarification Act of 2015"
March 16, 2015
TESTIMONY OF
Carmencita R. Kinsey, Chairman
Washington Convention Center Advisory Committee
GOOD MORNING, CHAIRMAN EVANS, MEMBERS OF THE COMMITIEE ON FINANCE AND REVENUE AND
COMMITIEE STAFF. I AM CARMENCITA KINSEY, CHAIRMAN OF THE WASHINGTON CONVENTION
CENTER ADVISORY COMMITIEE AND I APPEAR BEFORE YOU TODAY IN SUPPORT OF BILL 21-76, THE
"EVENTS DC TECHNICAL CLARIFICATION ACT OF 2015". MY FULL TESTIMONY HAS BEEN PROVIDED TO
YOUR STAFF.
FIRST OF ALL, IT IS AN HONOR TO HEAR THESE WONDERFUL REMARKS ABOUT THE SUCCESS OF THE
wee ADVISORY COMMITIEE OVER THE LAST NEARLY 20 YEARS. ON BEHALF OF OUR MEMBERS, THANK
YOU FOR TAKING THE TIME TO BE WITH US TODAY.
IT IS WITH TREMENDOUS GRATITUDE THAT THE wee ADVISORY COMMITIEE MEMBERS HAVE HAD THE
PRIVILEGE TO SERVE THE CITIZENS OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA-MOST IMPORTANTLY, THE
RESIDENTS OF THE SHAW COMMUNITY WHERE THE WALTER E. WASHINGTON CONVENTION CENTER IS
LOCATED. DEVELOPMENT OF THE LARGEST CONSTRUCTION PROJECT IN THE HISTORY OF THE DISTRICT
OF COLUMBIA WAS NO SMALL FEAT. SO WHILE I AM THE APPOINTED CHAIR OF THE ADVISORY
COMMITIEE, OUR SUCCESS IS DUE TO THE COLLECTIVE EFFORTS OF ALL OF THE wee ADVISORY
COMMITIEE MEMBERS.
IF YOU WOULD KINDLY INDULGE ME, MR. CHAIRMAN, I WOULD LIKE TO ACKNOWLEDGE THREE OF OUR
ORIGINAL COMMITIEE MEMBERS WHO ARE NOW DECEASED - NORMA DAVIS, PERCY BATILE AND
LAWRENCE THOMAS. A PLAQUE LOCATED AT THE MAIN ENTRANCE OF THE CONVENTION CENTER
RECOGNIZES THESE MEMBERS AS WELL AS THE OTHER 16 WHO WERE IN PLACE WHEN THE CENTER
OPENED ITS DOORS IN 2003.
I OWE A DEBT OF APPRECIATION FOR THEIR TWO DECADES OF SUPPORT TO MY EXECUTIVE COMMITIEE
WHICH IS COMPRISED OF ELIZABETH BLAKESLEE, FIRST VICE CHAIR AND SECRETARY; ANTHONY
GIANCOLA, SECOND VICE CHAIR; AND JOSEPH HAIRSTON, PARLIMENTARIAN. THE WORK OF THE
ADVISORY COMMITIEE WAS DONE AT THE SUBCOMMITEE LEVEL AND INCLUDED MANY COMMUNITY
REPRESENTATIVES. A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO THE SEVEN SUBCOMMITIEE CHAIRMAN -- STEPHEN
COCHRAN, DEVELOPMENT AND URBAN PLANNING SUBCOMMITIEES; ALEXANDER PADRO, COMMUNITY
RELATIONS; GREGORY MELCHER, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT; ELIZABETH BLAKESLEE, PUBLIC SAFETY;
LINDA LEE, TRANSPORTATION; JOSEPH HAIRSTON, RULES; AND ANTHONY GIANCOLA, HEADQUARTERS
Page 1of3
HOTEL AD HOC SUBCOMMITIEE. THE PASSION, RESILIENCE AND COMMITMENT OF ALL OF OUR
MEMBERS MADE MY JOB AS CHAIRMAN FAIRLY EASY.
MOST OF ALL, THANK YOU TO THE SHAW COMMUNITY FOR WORKING WITH US SINCE OUR FIRST
PUBLIC MEETING IN NOVEMBER 1995. EVEN THOSE WITH OPPOSING VIEWS SUCH AS BETH SOLOMON
AND "MAHDI" LEROY THORPE, JR HELPED TO SHAPE THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE CONVENTION CENTER
BY PROVIDING THEIR PERSPECTIVES.
DUE TO THE VISION OF THE LATE HONORABLE MAYOR MARION BARRY AND DR. CHARLENE DREW
JARVIS, FORMER CHAIR OF THE COUNCIL COMMITIEE ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, IN 1994
THROUGH THE AUTHORITY'S LEGISLATION, THE COMMUNITY WAS PROVIDED A FORUM FOR INPUT ON
DEVELOPMENT OF A CONVENTION CENTER NEARLY THREE TIMES THE SIZE OF THE FORMER FACILITY.
THE IMPORTANCE OF THIS PROJECT WAS EVIDENT FROM THE START, BUT ITS SUCCESS REQUIRED
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND ULTIMATELY COMMUNITY SUPPORT. THEN, IN 2008, MR. CHAIRMAN
YOU INTRODUCED A BILL WHEREBY THE ADVISORY COMMITTEE WOULD ALSO SERVE AS THE LIAISON TO
THE COMMUNITY ON MATTERS PERTAINING TO THE HEADQUARTERS HOTEL-THE MARRIOTI
MARQUIS WASHINGTON, DC WHICH OPENED MAY 1, 2014.
THINK BACK TO 1995- BEFORE THE INTERNET WAS A HOUSEHOLD NECESSITY, BEFORE SMARTPHONES
AND BEFORE EMAILS WITH SOPHISTICATED ATTACHMENTS. OUR COMMITTEE GENERATED VOLUMES
OF PAPER, CONDUCTED NUMEROUS FACE-TO-FACE MEETINGS AND COULD HAVE CREATED OUR OWN
COURIER SERVICE WITH THE NUMBER OF DOCUMENTS HAND-DEVELIERED TO EACH OF OUR 19
MEMBERS DURING THE PRE-CONSTRUCTION AND CONSTRUCTION PHASES OF THE CENTER. OUR
COMMITIEE WAS WELL-VERSED ON ALL FACETS OF THE CONVENTION CENTER DEVELOPMENT AND WE
WORKED TO PROVIDE THE IMPACTED COMMUNITY WITH EVERY OPPORTUNITY TO BE EQUALLY
KNOWLEDGEABLE ABOUT THE NEW CENTER. WE WEATHERED THE PRE-TECHNOLOGY ERA WHILE
WORKING ON THIS HISTORIC PROJECT, BY PRINTING NEWSLETTERS, BULLETINS AND MEETING NOTICES
DELIVERED TO COMMUNITY STAKEHOLDERS EITHER DOOR-TO-DOOR OR BY U.S. POSTAL. MEETING
RSVPs WERE OBTAINED VIA TELEPHONE AND AUTHORITY STAFF WERE TASKED WITH MAKING CALLS TO
RESIDENTS TO INFORM THEM OF IMPORTANT PRESENTATIONS.
NEEDLESS TO SAY, OUR GROUP QUICKLY ADAPTED TO THE USE OF TECHNOLOGY AND THE NUMEROUS
MEANS OF PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT INCLUDING EMAIL NOTICES, TELECONFERENCE MEETINGS AND
SOCIAL MEDIA CONNECTIONS. NOW THAT THE "NEW" CONVENTION CENTER HAS BEEN OPERATING
FOR NEARLY 12 YEARS, THE ADVISORY COMMITTEE IS CONFIDENT THAT THE AUTHORITY WILL
CONTINUE ITS COMMITMENT TO BE A GOOD NEIGHBOR BY PROVIDING EVENT-RELATED UPDATES AND
TRAFFIC ADVISORIES TO THE SURROUNDING COMMUNITY WHILE CONTINUING TO BE A CATALYST FOR
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT THROUGHOUT THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA.
I WOULD BE REMISS NOTTO ACKNOWLEDGE THE EXTRAORDINARY PARTNERSHIP THE ADVISORY
COMMITIEE HAS HAD WITH THE AUTHORITY'S BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND STAFF. OUR GROUP OF
SEASONED CIVIC LEADERS AND BUSINESS PROFESSIONALS WAS UNACCUSTOMED TO "ADVISING"
RATHER THAN "DIRECTING", BUT WORKED ENTHUSIASTICALLY WITH EACH OF THE SEVEN BOARD
CHAIRMEN AND AN EQUAL NUMBER OF GENERAL MANAGERS OR CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICERS DURING
THE PAST 20 YEARS. OUR RECOMMENDATIONS WERE GIVEN GREAT CONSIDERATION AND IN MOST
CASES WERE ADOPTED BY THE AUTHORITY. EVEN DURING DEVELOPMENT AND CONSTRUCTION OF THE
MARRIOTT MARQUIS, THE AUTHORITY FACILITATED PUBLIC BRIEFINGS AND COMMUNITY HOTEL AD
HOC SUBCOMMITTEE MEETINGS ON OUR BEHALF.
Page 2 of 3
THOUGHOUT OUR LENGTHY TENURE, OUR COMMITIEE SERVED UNDER FIVE MAYORAL
ADMINISTRATIONS. SENIOR LEVEL REPRESENTATIVES FROM THE EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF THE MAYOR,
METROPOLITAN POLICE DEPARTMENT'S THIRD DISTRICT COMMANDER, THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC
WORKS, AND THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION WERE PARTICIPANTS AT ALL OF OUR REGULAR
MEETINGS. THE RELATIONSHIPS ESTABLISHED WITH THESE AGENCIES AND AUTHORITY STAFF HAVE
BEEN KEY TO MINIMIZING THE NEGATIVE IMPACTS OF LARGE EVENTS ON THE COMMUNITY
SURROUNDING THE CONVENTION CENTER.
ALL OF THE ABOVE-MENTIONED ACCOMPLISHMENTS WERE DONE WITH THE PROFESSIONAL
ASSISTANCE AND SUPPORT OF TWO PERSONS WHO SERVED AS GREAT LIAISIONS TO OUR wee
ADVISORY COMMITTEE-TONY ROBINSON AND THERESA DUBOIS. IF YOU EVER NEED SOMEONE TO
DELIVER UNDER PRESSURE-NO SLIP-UPS, JUST RESULTS-TONY AND THERESA ARE THE ONES. THEY
HAVE ALREADY BEEN GREAT IN DEALING WITH DIFFICULT COMMUNITY SITUATIONS AND THEY HAVE
PROVEN TO BE FANTASTIC PROBLEM-SOLVERS. THANK YOU TONY AND THERESA.
LASTLY, CHAIRMAN EVANS, WE APPRECIATE YOUR STEADFAST SUPPORT OF THE ADVISORY COMMITTEE
SINCE THE VERY BEGINNING. MANY THANKS TO YOU, YOUR COUNCIL COLLEAGUES, AND COUNCIL
STAFF, FOR WORKING TO ENSURE THAT THE COMMUNITY'S VOICE WAS HEARD DURING EVERY PHASE
OF THE CONVENTION CENTER AND MARRIOT MARQUIS DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS.
MR. CHAIRMAN, THIS CONCLUDES MY TESTIMONY. THANK YOU FOR ALLOWING ME THE OPPORTUNITY
TO SPEAK. I AM HAPPY TO ANSWER ANY QUESTIONS THAT YOU MAY HAVE FOR ME AT THIS TIME.
Page 3 of 3
COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
Committee on Finance and Revenue
Joint Public Hearing
B21-76
"Events DC Technical Clarification Act of 2015"
March 16, 2015
TESTIMONY OF
Theresa DuBois, External Affairs Manager
Events DC
Good morning, Chairman Evans, members of the Committee on Finance and Revenue and Council staff.
My name is Theresa DuBois and I am the External Affairs Manager for the Washington Convention and
Sports Authority (trading as Events DC). Our President and CEO Gregory O'Dell is away on business travel
and unable to be here today. This testimony is in my capacity as the liaison to the Washington
Convention Center Advisory Committee and in support of Bill 21-76, the "Events DC Technical
Clarification Act of 2015".
The WCC Advisory Committee has been an exemplary partner since its inception in 1995. Immediately
after their first meeting, the 19 members began the work of understanding every facet of the "new"
Washington Convention Center development as they were tasked to provide recommendations to the
Authority on several elements of the project including design and construction, transportation, traffic
circulation, parking, and economic development. Several subcommittees were established and
expanded to include community participants in order to obtain a wide range of input focusing on these
areas.
The Committee took its role very seriously and was committed to using the expertise of its members to
provide sound advice to the Authority. Some of the Committee's recommendations included utilizing a
Construction Manager for the project, using the former Convention Center site as a public parking lot,
developing a community stakeholder database, establishing the Shaw Comprehensive Job Training
Academy, and creating the Shaw Wall at the Convention Center - a 72-foot artistic display of the historic
neighborhood which existed where our new building is today. As result of adopting many of the
Advisory Committee recommendations, the Authority was awarded the Urban Land lnstitute's 2006
Award of Excellence because of the Convention Center project's sensitivity to the surrounding
neighborhood and the environment.
On behalf of the Authority's Board of Directors and staff, we are extremely grateful for the extraordinary
work of the Advisory Committee over the past 20 years. They have laid the groundwork for continued
effective outreach to Convention Center stakeholders. We hope that the Committee members are
looking forward to enjoying more free time with their family and loved ones, but it's great to know that
they are only a telephone call away should we need their guidance with any community issues.
This concludes my testimony, Chairman Evans. Thank you for the opportunity to testify and I am happy
to take any questions that you may have for me at this time.
Page 1of1
December 4, 2014
The Honorable Jack Evans
Council of the District of Columbia
1350 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20004
Dear Councilmcmber Evans:
During our recent discussion at your office, you indicated that you were in agreement that the
Washington Convention Center Advisory Committee could sunset if Greg O'Dell was in also
agreement. A subsequent conversation with Mr. O'Dell resulted in his concurrence.
In both conversations the concerns centered on how community issues would be handled without
the conduit of the Advisory Committee. Advisory Committee members and Mr. O'Dell felt that
community issues could be handled by his staff and members of the Board of Directors. The
question arises as to how community issues would be brought to the attention of the Center staff
and Board of Directors.
There are two very strong Advisory Neighborhood Commission's (ANC's) Hanking the
center. They arc quite capable of working with the Convention Center on any ndghborhood
issues. Indeed such activities arc well within the duties of ANC's as spelled out in the Home
Rule Charter. ANC's arc intended to be the voice of the community and would be fitting
and appropriate successors to the Advisory Committee. Each ANC could designate a member
to be the liaison with Theresa DuBois, Community Relations Manager at the Center. Frankly,
this new channel might streamline communications between the Center and the neighboring
communities.
The two major areas of concern would be traffic and retail, which arc well known to Convention
Center management and staff. James Checks of the District of Columbia Department of
Transportation works well with Ron Branch and John Collins at the Center. Ms. DuBois is
extraordinarily diligent about informing the community of upcoming events, particularly those
that involve major traffic problems or restricted parking. The Advisory Committee has made
clear its desire that the retail spaces should be rented or enlivened (with art and other window
displays) until rented. It is up to the Convention Center to follow through. The Center has a
contract with a commercial real estate broker and Mr. O'Dell indicated that there is interest in
some of the spaces. No doubt there will be more interest as Seventh and Ninth Streets develop
as more vibrant commercial corridors.
Finally, the new hotels on Ninth Street will be part of a Planned Unit Development (PUD) and as
such will be dealt with by the ANC in its regular role. All the interested parties will have ample
opportunity to comment at ANC meetings and at zoning meetings at which the PUD is
discussed.
After 19 years, we feel that what we were assembled to do has largely been accomplished. A
new way of operating, via the AN C's and the Center Board and staff, will significant! y simplify
communication of problems, issues and ideas and will lead to a more efficient model as the
Center moves ahead in its very important role in the economy and life of the District of
Columbia.
Yours very truly,
Carmencita R. Kinsey
Chair
Washington Convention Center Advisory Committee
CC: Greg O'Dell
Government of the District of Columbia
Office of the Chief Financial Officer
* * *
Jeffrey S. DeWitt
Chief Financial Officer
MEMORANDUM
TO:
The Honorable Phil Mendelson
Chairman, Council oft e District of Columbia
FROM:
Jeffreys. Dewitt
(
Chief Financial Officer
~~(e(}· J/il';i!l!J
i
DATE:
March 29, 2015
SUBJECT:
Fiscal Impact Statement - "Events DC Technical Clarification
Amendment Act of 2015"
REFERENCE:
Bill 21-76, Draft Committee Print provided to the Office of Revenue
Analysis on March 23, 2015
Conclusion
Funds are sufficient in the FY 2015 through FY 2018 budget and financial plan to implement the
bill.
Background
The bill adds one member to the existing 11-member Events DC Board of Directors' ("Board"). and
requires that the President of the Hotel Association of Washington, D.C. serve as one of the Board
members.
The bill also abolishes the Washington Convention Center Advisory Committee, which was
established in 1995 to serve until one year after the new convention center hotel received approval
for occupancy. 2 The Washington Marriott Marquis hotel opened next to the convention center in
May 2014. 3
Financial Plan Impact
Funds are sufficient in the FY 2015 through FY 2018 budget and financial plan to implement the
bill. Board members serve without compensation'. so there is no fiscal impact in changing the
Board makeup.
D.C. Official Code§ 10-1202.05, et seq.
D.C. Official Code§ 10-1202.18 (i).
·i For more inforn1ation http· //www dcconyention con1 /AboutlJs /Capitallmproyen1ents aspx
1 D.C. Official Code§ 10-1202.05(k).
1
2
1350 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Suite 203, Washington, DC 20004 (202)727-2476
www.cfo.dc.gov
OFFICE OF
THI~
crnNJ<:l{AL COCNSl'L
Coun;:i! of thl' flll<t rH'{ of t,'nl11:.nb ia
1:1:,n
l\·nir~~·h"ama An•nuc ~\\',
\r;1~lun11t"11 llC :!OIJU l
SH1t" ·l
1:20:.!'1 72 l·H!l:!li
MEMORANDUM
TO:
Councilmcmbcr ,Jack Evans
.FROM:
.John Hoellen, Acting General Counsel?*
DATE:
March 30, 2015
RE:
Legal Sufficim1cy Determination for Bill 20-76, the
Events DC Technical Clarification Amendment Act of
2015
'!'he' measure is legally and technically Hufficient for Council co1rnidcrntion.
Bill 21·16 amends the Washini.:ton Convention Ccntcl' Authority Act of l!J!>.p
to repeal an obsolete provision and to increase the membership on the Board
of Directors for the \V·ashington Convention and Sports Authority from elt•vcn
to twelve members. Bill 21·7G clnrifies that three of the twelve members
shall be ex-officio members and that they are t:Jie Chief Financial Olliecr of
tlw District of Columbia, tlw president of tlw Hotel Aosociation of
Wnshington, D.C. and an individual designated by the Mayor.
I nm 11vailablc if you have any questions.
'effective, September
seq.).
~8.
IHH·l lD.C. Lnw 10-l8S: D.C. Officiul Code§ 10-1202.01 i:I
BILL21-76
COMPARATIVE PRINT
COMMITTEE ON FINANCE AND REVENUE
§ 10-1202.05. Establishment of Board of Directors.
(a) (l) The Authority shall be governed by a Board of Directors ("Board") which shall be comprised of
-l-l-12_members, including the 9 members appointed pursuant to paragraph (2) of this subsection ("public
Board members") and the following individuals, !ttle each of whom shall be the Chief FiAnneial Offieer
sf the District sf Celumbia aAd eAe sf whom shall be desigAaled by the Mayer, eeth sf whem shall serve
as illl_ex-officio voting membern of the Board.;
"(A) The Chief Financial Officer of the District of Columbia:
"CB) The President of the Hotel Association of Washington. D.C.; and
"(C) An individual designated by the Mayor.".
(2) The 9 public Board members shall be appointed by the Mayor with the advice and consent of
the Council by resolution, in accordance with§ 1-523.01.
(3) Of the 9 public Board members, I shall be from the hotel industry, 1 shall be from the
restaurant industry, 1 shall be from organized labor, and the remaining 6 shall have proven expertise in
municipal finance, business finance, economic development, construction, sports, entertainment, or
tourism.
(4) The members of the Board of Directors of the Washington Convention Center Authority
serving on March 3, 2010, shall become members of the Board of Directors of the Washington
Convention and Sports Authority and shall serve the remainder of their terms and may be reappointed to
full terms as members of the Board of Directors of the Washington Convention and Sports Authority.
(S) (A) IA additioA ts the members er the Be1ml of Directors of the WashiAgteA CmweAtioA and
SIJorts Autherity serviAg IJUrsuaat to IJaragrnIJh (4) of this subseetieA, the following 2 IJersoAs shall llegiA
sep,·ing as public members en the Bourd of Directers sf the 'Nushington Conventisn aAd Sperts Authority
on Murei'l 3, 20 IO:
(i) Ti'le perseA whe wu,; sep,·ing as vice chairmun sf the District sf Celumbia Sports aAd
Entertai1m1ettt Commission Board sf Direelsrs on Muy 12, 2009; 1tAd
(ii) The Pm;ident of the Hotel Association.
(8) The 2 public membe"; appointed pursuunt to tl'li·; puragraph shall serve
may Ile reappointed.
~
yeur terms unEI
(C) The "vard,; of residence of the 2 public members uppointed pursuunt lo tl'lis purugraph shall
not be coAsidered fer the flUrposes of the restriction impesed by subseetien (f) of this sectien.
1
(b) (1) All public Board member terms shall be 4-year terms,; flTBVided, the term sf a flHBlie Beard
member ·.vile is servi11g iR his sr her seesRd eeAseeHtive term BA May 15, 2001, shall termiAate BA
Deeemller 31, 2003.
(2) Repealed.
(c) Repealed.
(d) Any person appointed to fill a vacancy on the Board shall be appointed only for the unexpired
term of the Board member whose vacancy is being filled. If any Board member is appointed to fill an
unexpired term with more than 2 years remaining in the term, upon expiration of the term, that Board
member shall be deemed to have served a full 4-year term.
(e) The Mayor shall appoint a chairperson of the Board from among the 9 public Board members with
the advice and consent of the Council by resolution.
(I) Repealed.
(g) Each public Board member shall be a resident of the District or establish residency not later than 6
months after appointment to the Board. The Mayor shall remove any Board member for failure to
establish or maintain residency or for misconduct or neglect of duty (as defined by the Board in its bylaws) after notice to the Board member.
(h) Should a Board member be indicted for the commission of a felony, the Board member shall be
automatically suspended from serving on the Board. Upon a final determination of guilt or innocence, the
term of the Board member shall, respectively, be automatically terminated or reinstated.
(i) The Board shall meet no less than once every 60 days and shall be subject to the provisions of§ 1-
207.42.
GJ SB< Seven Board members shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business, and an
affirmative vote of a majority shall be necessary for any valid Board action. For purposes of issuing
bonds, and adopting budgets and financial plans, the Chief Financial Officer of the District with respect to
the issuance of bonds and the adoption of budgets and financial plans, shall be a member of the majority.
No vacancy in membership, except a vacancy of the Chief Financial Officer of the District, shall impair
the right of a quorum to exercise all rights and perform all duties of the Board.
(k) Board members shall serve without compensation, except that Board members may be reimbursed
for all reasonable and necessary expenses incurred while engaged in official duties of the Board.
(I) The powers of the Board shall not be limited by any articles of incorporation or by-laws adopted
by the Interim Board established pursuant to§ 10-1202.17.
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BILL 21-76
COMMITTEE ON FINANCE AND REVENUE
COMMITTEE PRINT
APRIL 1, 2015
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ABill
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21-76
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To amend the Washington Convention Center Authority Act of 1994 to delete obsolete
provisions, to clarify that the President of the Hotel Association of Washington, D.C.
shall serve as an ex-officio voting member of the Board, and to repeal the establishment
of the Washington Convention Center Advisory Committee.
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act may be cited as the "Events DC Technical Clarification Amendment Act of 2015".
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IN THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
BE IT ENACTED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, That this
Sec. 2. Title II of the Washington Convention Center Authority Act of 1994, effective
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September 28, 1994 (D.C. Law 10-188; D.C. Official Code§ 10-1202.01 et seq.), is amended as
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follows:
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(a) Section 205 (D.C. Official Code§ 10-1202.05) is amended as follows:
(1) Subsection (a) is amended as follows:
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(A) Paragraph (1) is amended to read as follows:
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"(1) "The Authority shall be governed by a Board of Directors ("Board"),
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which shall be comprised of 12 members, including the 9 members appointed pursuant to
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paragraph (2) of this subsection ("public Board members") and the following individuals, each of
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whom shall serve as an ex-officio voting member:
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"(A) The Chief Financial Officer of the District of Columbia;
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"(B) The President of the Hotel Association of Washington, D.C.;
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and
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"(C) An individual designated by the Mayor.".
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(2) Subsection (b )(1) is amended to read as follows:
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"(b )(1) All public Board member terms shall be 4-ycar terms.".
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(3) Subjection (g) is amended by striking the phrase "Each Board member" and
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(B) Paragraph (5) is repealed.
inserting the phrase "Each public Board member" in its place.
(4) Subsection (j) is amended by striking the word "Six" and inserting the word
"Seven" in ils place.
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(b) Section 218 (D.C. Official Code§ 10-1202.18) is repealed.
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Sec. 3. Fiscal impact statement.
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The Council adopts the fiscal impact statement in the committee report as the fiscal
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impacl statement required by section 602(c)(3) of the District of Columbia Home Rule Act,
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approved December 24, 1973 (87 Stat. 813; D.C. Official Code§ l-206.02(c)(3)).
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Sec. 4. Effective date.
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This act shall 1<1ke effect following approval by the Mayor (or in the event of veto by the
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Mayor, action by the Council to override the veto), a 30-day period of congressional review as
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provided in section 602(c)(I) of the District of Columbia Home Rule Act, approve December 24,
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1973 (87 Stat. 813; D.C. Official Code
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Columbia Register.
~1-206.02(c)(l)),
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and publication in the District of