Press Release: Chairman Mendelson Statement on New Department of Buildings Director

News Release — DC Council Chair Phil Mendelson

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

September 30, 2022                                                                                                      

CONTACT: Lindsey Walton

WASHINGTON, DC — Chairman Phil Mendelson released the following statement regarding the announcement of the Director of the Department of Buildings:

“I’ve learned from the media that the Mayor intends to ask the Council to confirm Ernest Chrappah to be the first director of the new Department of Buildings.  While I’ve known few people more committed to public service than Ernest, and Ernest has gone out of his way to work with the Council, I am disappointed.

“The new Department of Buildings is a chance to be transformative. It’s an opportunity to bring in or promote a change agent.  Simply moving over the head of the Department’s dysfunctional predecessor-agency misses that chance.

“The Mayor has been neither supportive nor collaborative in this process.  She vetoed the legislation to create a Department of Buildings.  Then she underfunded the new agency. Indeed, the Council had to add 41 inspectors to the agency’s budget.  Now, without any collaboration, she’s announced keeping the old leadership. 

“Why does this matter? Because every tenant is harmed by the poor quality of housing code enforcement.  Every homeowner is harmed by the illegal construction rampant in our city.  And every developer, including non-profit affordable housing providers, is harmed by the cost of permit delays and mistakes.

“This agency is key to protecting quality of life and promoting economic activity.  It needs transformation.  I am disappointed.”

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