Bill > PR26-0338

This emergency resolution addresses several key adjustments to the Office of District Waterways Management (ODWM) Establishment Act of 2022, aimed at improving the functionality of the District Waterways Advisory Commission and its operational processes. The resolution seeks to modify the Commission's meeting frequency from monthly to bi-monthly, extend the timeline for developing and updating the Advisory Plan from 2 to 3 years, and adjust the Council approval process for mayoral appointees to a 45-day passive approval period instead of the current 90-day active approval requirement. Additionally, the resolution proposes adding the Department of Parks and Recreation as an ex-officio non-voting member of the Commission and provides more flexibility for ODWM to engage a consultant to help facilitate Commission meetings and develop the Advisory Plan. The changes are motivated by practical considerations, including the complex nature of waterways management, the need for extensive stakeholder engagement, and the challenges of coordinating meetings among working professionals. The emergency declaration allows these modifications to be implemented quickly to streamline the ODWM's operations and enable more effective management of District waterways, including the Anacostia and Potomac Rivers and the Washington Channel.

https://lims.dccouncil.gov/Legislation/PR26-0338