Author Archives: ljjanezich

At Monday’s night’s meeting: (L-R) Commissioner Jennifer Samolyk; Martin Smith, BRMS; MPD 1st District Captain Mark Beach and Ulysses Fernandez.

Also at the meeting. (L-R) Ishan Heru and Mimi Scotchmer, Community Connections; Rev. Kelli Jareaux, Safety.net

Some members of the audience at Monday’s meeting. Standing at rear is Bobby Coffey, representing Aquila Recovery, a new substance abuse recovery program coming to the office space above the 8th and PA Starbucks. The private pay outpatient clinic treats clients referred by personal physicians.

Addressing the Ongoing “Quality of Life” Issues Around Eastern Market Metro Plaza

by Larry Janezich

ANC 6B’s Outreach and Constituent Services Task force, Co-chaired by Commissioners Diane Hoskins and Jennifer Samolyk, met with residents and community stakeholders on Monday night to address the issues of homelessness, vagrancy, pan handling, and drug abuse near Eastern Market Metro.

The goal of the task force was to provide a forum to discuss quality of life issues and to find ways to address concerns.  At the end of the meeting, it seemed clear that the approaches available, i.e., management and displacement, require committed on-going effort which provide limited short-term results, but do little to provide a long-term solution.

There are several reasons why those in need are attracted to the Eastern Market Metro Plaza area: the Metro Plaza transportation hub; available green space; public restrooms in Eastern Market and SE Library (and the library itself); and a well-off community, home to residents who sometimes give money to panhandlers.  In addition, there are many faith-based programs on Capitol Hill providing food and clothing to those in need.  Two neighborhood churches also provide meals:  Church of the Brethren at 337 North Carolina Avenue, SE, and Ebenezer United Methodist Church at 400 D Street.

As has been discussed before, clients of Community Connections, the nonprofit mental health agency located at 8^th and Pennsylvania Avenue, are blamed by many residents for some of the neighborhood’s most distressing quality of life issues.  On Monday night, Community Connection representatives Mimi Scotchmer and Ishan Heru said that the clinic had increased its security force to three persons, who rotate responsibility for touring the neighborhood hourly to identify clients who remain in the area and to determine how to address additional needs they might have.  In addition, the agency attempts to reach out to non-clients whose behavior may be problematic and to bring them into a program.

Although residents often turn to police to solve the quality of life problems, MPD First District’s Captain Mark Beach told attendees that “We can’t arrest our way out of this situation.”  Quality of life issues have a low priority from a police force that must address crimes of violence and property first.  Often, by the time police can respond to a nuisance crime, the problem is no longer an issue or the complainant is no longer on the scene.  Beach said the 25 calls per day the First District gets to deal with unconscious persons drain resources which could be better used elsewhere.  In addition, arrests for minor crimes result in only a few hours inconvenience for those arrested.

Barracks Row Main Street (BRMS), represented by Executive Director Martin Smith, is deeply concerned on behalf of Barracks Row businesses. Smith pointed out that persons perceived as problematic are afflicted by a number of overlapping issues:  mental illness, homelessness, income instability, and substance abuse.

Judging from Monday night’s meeting, his organization’s approach is to displace the problem, though many of the restaurants on Barracks Row are generous supporters of social service programs to help the city’s poorer residents.  BRMS has worked with owners of vacant buildings to board up fronts which are being used as overnight shelters by the homeless.  Smith said that landlords are sometimes reluctant to undertake architectural solutions to reduce the use of homeless persons using their business fronts for shelter, fearing pushback from the ANC.  He suggested the ANC be more proactive in reaching out to owners in an effort to coordinate solutions.

BRMS is also considering establishing collection boxes for people to make contributions to help the needy instead of giving money to pan handlers. In response to questioning, Smith also said BRMS had looked at hiring private security in the evenings for Barracks Row but so far had not been able to find a way to make it financially feasible.

A group of stakeholders who have a large investment in the community but who were not present at last night’s meeting were the representatives of the corporations who have outlets or franchises near the intersection.  Though invited, no one from 7-11, CVS, or Citibank showed up.  All three own or lease properties which are problematic, either because of uncaring landlords or indifferent management, or both.  Former ANC commissioner Ivan Frishberg expressed his frustration at the 7^th and Pennsylvania CVS’s unwillingness to address the problem posed by the group of men who gather daily on D Street behind the CVS and engage in alcohol and substance abuse.  Frishberg said, “There was human feces today on D Street by the CVS.  CVS refused to clean it up.  You guys (MPD and Community Connections) tell me all those things you’re doing. I’m surprised – I just don’t see it.”  Captain Beach pledged to do an assessment of the scene to see what MPD could do.

DC has a homeless population of about 12,000.  A 1996 analysis of data by the National Survey of Homeless Assistance Providers and Clients showed that over 60% of people who are chronically homelessness have experienced lifetime mental health problems.  According to the 2010 Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration report, over 80% have experienced lifetime alcohol and/or drug problems.

The major causes of homelessness in DC appear to be deinstitutionalization of the mentally ill under the Reagan administration, as well as redevelopment and gentrification and the resulting lack of affordable housing.

Commissioners and community problem-solvers at the meeting – as has been the case at others – gave little attention to the issue of drug dealing which takes place around Eastern Market Metro Plaza.  The matter remains of deep concern to the community, not only because of its clearly criminal nature, but also because it exacerbates the problems of those with behavioral issues who move in and through the Capitol Hill community.  The prevalence of so called “designer drug” designed to stay one step ahead of the law makes enforcement difficult.

Eastern Market, Sunday morning, circa 10am

The Week Ahead….

by Larry Janezich

Monday, May 9

1. ANC6D meets at 7:00pm, at DCRA, 1100 4th Street, SW, 2nd Floor.

Among items on the agenda:

Presentation:  Brenda Donald – Deputy Mayor of Health and Human Services

CG Overlay Review, 1900 Half Street, SW

Forest City PUD Modification, F1 Block Cinema

2. ANC 6B Outreach and Constituent Services Task Force meets at 7:00pm, Hill Center.

Discussions will focus on the status of and solutions for vagrancy and pan-handling in and around the Eastern Market Metro plaza area (8th Street SE and Pennsylvania Avenue SE).  Invited speakers include Captain Mark Beach of MPD’s First District and representatives of Barracks Row Main Street, Community Connections and 7-11.

Tuesday, May 10

1. ANC 6B meets at 7:00pm at Hill Center.

Among items on the agenda:

Presentation:  Acting Director Karima Holmes, Office of Unified Communications (dispatchers for 911 calls)

Renewal of Alcohol Beverage Licenses for the following:

Capitol Hill Tandoor and Grill, 419 8th Street, SE;  The Ugly Mug Dining Saloon, 723 8th Street, SE; Lincoln Park Kitchen/Wine Bar, 106 13th Street, SE; Senart’s Oyster & Chop House, 520 8th Street, SE; Pacifico Cantina, 514 8th Street, SE; Molly Malone’s, 713 8th Street, SE; Chesapeake Room, 501 8th Street, SE; Talay Thai Restaurant, 406 First Street, SE; Bullfeathers, 410 First Street, SE; District Taco, 656 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE, Radici; 301 7th Street, SE; Montmartre/7th Hill, 327 7th Street, SE; Beuchert’s Saloon, 623 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE; La Plaza Mexican Restaurant, 629 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE; Mr. Henry’s, 601 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE; Hanks Oyster Bar, 633 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE; Boxcar Tavern, 224 7th Street, SE; Sanphan Thai Cuisine, 653 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE; Tortilla Coast, 400 First Street SE; Ambar, 523 8th Street, SE; Medium Rare Barracks Row, 515 8th Street SE; Tunnicliffs Tavern, 222 7th Street SE.

Medium Rare Barracks Row, 515 8th Street SE, Revision to existing sidewalk cafe

2. Ward 6 meeting with Councilmember Charles Allen. The meeting will be hosted by the Washington Interfaith Network, at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church, 206 New York Avenue, NW, Liberty Baptist Church is organizing a delegation to attend. If interested in participating as part of the Church delegation, please call or text Pastor Anthony Owers:  543.7894 or email: libertybaptistchurchdc@verizon.net

3. The upcoming PSA 104 meeting scheduled for Tuesday, May 10 has been canceled to allow residents to attend the reception for the Channing Phillips, the United States Attorney for the District of Columbia, 6:00pm – 8:00pm, The Lobby Project, 1200 First Street, NE. Sponsored by NOMA BID and the First District Citizens Advisory Council.

Wednesday, May 11

1. ANC6C meets at 6:00pm (instead of 7:00pm) at the Heritage Foundation, 214 Massachusetts Avenue, NE.

Among items on the agenda:

Presentation:  Tamera Robinson – Board of Elections, new voting machines

Presentation:  Doug Klein, community prosecutor, First Police District

Presentation:  NoMa mural event

Presentation:  Council Member Charles Allen – update on the Councilmember’s initiatives and community input on priorities

Update on liquor license application for Wunder Garten, 131 M Street, NE

Liquor license renewals for Addis Ethiopian Restaurant, 707 H Street, NE; DC Harvest, 517 H Street, NE; Uni Bistro, 403 H Street, NE; JBG-Gallaudet 6th Street development project.

Skanska development project, NoMa meander

2nd and E Streets, NW, bus shelter safety issues

61 Pierce Street NE, public space application

816 6th Street, NE, application for a child care center

301-331 N Street, NE, PUD for a mixed-use project

2. Capitol Hill Village hosts CPR/First Aid Training. 11:00am, 760 6^th Street, SE.  All are welcome.  Please call or send email:  202 543-1778, or info@capitolhillvillage.org

Thursday, May 12

1. ANC6A meets at 7:00pm, Miner Elementary School, 601 Fifteenth Street, NE.

Among items on the agenda:

Presentation:  Courtney Snowden, Deputy Mayor for Greater Economic Opportunity

Presentation:  Lt. Seth Anderson, PSA 104

Presentation:  Emily Bloomfield – Monument Academy

Renewal liquor license for Ben’s Chili Bowl, 1001 H Street, NE

Protest of the request for a substantial change in the liquor license of Sol Mexican Grill, 1251 H Street, NE,  for an increase in occupancy from 60 to 155, increase weeknight closing time from 11:00 pm to 2:00 am, increase weekend closing time from 2:00 am to 3:00 am, add entertainment weeknights from 6:00 pm to 1:00 am (previously none), and extend entertainment hours on weekends from 1:00 am to 2:00 am, unless an agreement with the ANC is reached regarding trash management prior to the protest date.

Renewal of liquor licenses for the following venues: Atlas Performing Arts Center at 1333 H Street, NE; Granville Moore’s at 1238 H Street, NE; Imm on H at 1360 H Street, NE; Maketto at 1351 H Street, NE; Redrocks at 1348 H Street, NE;  Sally’s Middle Name at 1320 H Street, NE; H & Pizza at 1118 H Street, NE; Smith Commons at 1245 H Street, NE.

Request for a sidewalk café for BAB Korean Fusion’s Restaurant at 1387 H Street, NE

Request for support for special exceptions at 920–922 H Street,NE, based on the revised design.

2. Capitol Hill Restoration Society’s Zoning Committee meets at 7:30pm, Kirby House, 420 10^th Street, SE.

Editor’s Note:  RFK Redevelopment

Events DC has put up a website with the proposed RFK redevelopment that allows for public comment. http://www.rfkcampusfuture.com

Attorney Andrew Kline addresses ANC6B Alcohol Beverage Control Committee

One of Beuchert’s managers (rear) reacts to Kline’s presentation before the ANC.

ANC Commissioners “Shocked” & “Flabbergasted” by Alcohol License Attorney

by Larry Janezich

Attorney Andrew Kline has represented dozens of restaurants seeking or renewing alcohol licenses which have come before ANCs – many have come before ANC6B.  Last Thursday night, in an appearance before ANC6B’s Alcohol Beverage Control Committee, he bristled with indignation that the ANC would presume to attach conditions to their endorsement of the renewal of a liquor license for his client, Beuchert’s Saloon.  (Conditions written into a “Settlement Agreement” between a restaurant and the ANC on behalf of the neighborhood are routine in virtually every license application or renewal.)

Kline told the committee that his client would not sign an agreement and that he (Kline) did not recognize the ANC’s rule making authority.  Asked by committee Chair Chander Jayaraman if he had read the proposed agreement, Kline said he hadn’t had an opportunity to review it.

Challenged by Commissioner James Loots that the only person well served by Kline’s tack – which would lead to an ANC protesting renewal of the license – was Kline himself, the attorney indicated that he was prepared to suffer the protest of the license by the ANC and take the issue to the Alcohol Beverage Control Board.  He persisted with his objections, interrupting and speaking loudly over commissioners who were trying to speak (not only a mistake but a violation of decorum), until Jayaraman silenced him with a crescendos of “Thank yous”.

ANC6B has made a concerted effort to standardize the operating procedures for restaurants on Barracks Row and the Pennsylvania Avenue, SE, commercial corridor in the interests of addressing quality of life issues for nearby neighbors, including rodents, noise, odors and trash.  In recognition of those efforts which have been supported by a well-organized group of nearby residential neighbors, many restaurants have voluntarily become role models for best operating practices – La Vagna was singled out Thursday night – while others still have to be coerced.

Commissioner Loots told Kline that he was “flabbergasted” that Kline refused to participate in the process.  Commissioner Diane Hoskins, recounting amiable discussions with the the management of Beuchert’s Saloon, said she was “disappointed that this had spiraled into something that no one had intended”, and that she was “shocked how this has gone”.  Subsequently, the committee voted to protest the renewal of the license by a vote of 5 – 0 – 1.

At the end of the meeting, a late-arriving Brenden McMahon, one the the owners of Beuchert’s, expressed his apologies to the committee.

CHC reached out to McMahon for comment and received the following response:

“Last night was the first time I have ever met Mr. Kline and in no way had intended for him to represent us in the manner he did.  [We] have worked very well with the neighborhood and ANC for 4 years and intend to continue that.  His presence was a mistake and miscommunication that, apparently, got out of hand.  I was deeply embarrassed to hear we had been represented in that way and rushed over as soon as I heard.  I do believe everyone knows who we are though and don’t anticipate the incident sticking to us.  I apologized to all ANC members at the end of the meeting and they all seemed to genuinely understand it was a misrepresentation.”

One ANC commissioner close to the issue told CHC that it was likely a signed settlement agreement would be in place before the issue comes before the full ANC6B May meeting,

As it turned out, Kline rose several more times during Thursday night’s meeting representing other restaurants, all of whose license renewals are problematic, including: Hanks Oyster Bar, Ambar, and the three restaurants operated by celebrity chef Spike Mendelsohn:  Bearnaise; We, The Pizza; and Good Stuff Eatery.  Kline, perhaps realizing that his representation of Beuchert’s had crossed a line, indicated a willingness to work with the ANC on issues concerning these restaurants.

Issues with the Mendelsohn restaurants have been well documented on CHC, see here:  http://bit.ly/1SVuqMU

In addition, of particular concern to the committee was Ambar on Barrack Row.  Commissioner Loots cited complaints from residential and nonresidential neighbors regarding deliveries, noise from mechanicals, odors, open trash containers, rat feces, spilled food, and employees loitering and smoking in the alley.

ANC6B meets for its regular monthly meeting next Tuesday, May 10, at 7:00pm in Hill Center.  It’s going to be a long meeting.

Shakespeare Theater Company Rehearsal Space on Barracks Row

Barracks Row Shakespeare Site to Become Retail/Office/Residential

by Larry Janezich

According to sources, owners of the Shakespeare Theater Company’s rehearsal space at 507 8^th Street, SE, Barracks Row, plan to redevelop the building into a mixed use retail, office, and residential complex.  This building is separate and distinct from the large three story building where Shakespeare has its administrative offices at 516 8^th Street, across the street.

The owners of 507 8th recently met with nearby neighbors to solicit feedback on the proposal and expect to take a the project before the Historic Preservation Review Board in the near future.

The plan for the building includes 6,500 square feet of retail on the first floor – one of the largest spaces on Barracks Row.  A second floor would be dedicated to 6,500 square feet of office space.  Twelve studio apartments would occupy a new set-back third and fourth stories.  The building is currently unsuitable for retail or office space and would be totally gutted and given a new façade as well as the extra floors.

The Shakespeare Theater Company leases the site at bargain basement prices on a year-to-year basis.  The theater company plans to relocate their rehearsal space and administrative offices from Barracks Row to a new mixed use complex at 6^th and Eye Streets, SW, but the timing of the move is uncertain.  Erkiletian Construction Corporation in partnership with the Shakespeare Theatre Company has purchased the site in Southwest and filed a Planned Unit Development (PUD) application for a seven story building in February.  A coalition of nearby neighbors, fearing the community is facing overdevelopment, has mounted an organized campaign to oppose the project.

The 8^th Street property is held by a family who is heavily invested in Barracks Row, owning not only the building at 507 8^th Street, but also the building housing Ted’s Bulletin as well as the large parking lot across 8^th Street adjacent to Garrison’s.

This may not be the last of this type of project for Barracks Row.  CHC reported (see here: http://bit.ly/1Qt34ez) that Douglas Development recently purchased the building housing NaNa Thai Restaurant at 406 8^th Street.  The developer has a history of developing mixed use projects but is being mum on plans for the site.

Capitol Hill Literary Book Fest, Sunday, May 1, North Hall Eastern Market

The Week Ahead….

By Larry Janezich

Monday, May 2

1. ANC6B Alcohol Beverage Control Committee holds an unusual two part meeting this week because of the number of license renewals on the schedule. The first session meets at 7:00pm, in Hill Center on Monday, May 2.  Some of the more controversial items on the agenda will be considered on Thursday May 5, at 7:00pm, Hill Center.

The following renewal cases will be discussed on, Monday, May 2:

La Lomita Restaurant, Belga Café, Las Placitas, 1100 8th Street SE, Garrison, 524 8th Street SE, Banana Café, 500 8th Street SE, EatBar, 413-415 8th Street SE, Pineapple & Pearls, 715 8th Street SE, Capitol Hill Tandoor and Grill, 419 8th Street SE, Ugly Mug Dining Saloon, 723 8th Street SE, Lincoln Park Kitchen/Wine Bar, 106 13th Street SE, Senart’s Oyster & Chop House, 520 8th Street SE, 514 8th Street SE, Renewal of Class C Restaurant license. ABRA-086926, Hill Center, 921 Pennsylvania Avenue SE, Bayou Bakery on the Hill, 921 Pennsylvania Avenue SE, Molly Malone’s, 713 8th Street SE, Chesapeake Room, 501 8th Street SE,

2. ANC6C Alcohol Beverage Control Committee meets at 7:00pm Kaiser Permanente Capitol Hill Medical Center, 700 Second Street NE.

Among items on the agenda:

Wunder Garten, 131 M Street, NE, License Relocation Request and Other Related Items

Addis Ethiopian Restaurant, 707 H Street, NE, Settlement Restriction Reconsideration Request

Update – Bistro Italiano, 320 D Street NE

Summer Garden Request Withdrawn

3. The Capitol Hill Restoration Society Historic Preservation Committee meets at 6:30pm in Kirby House, 420 10th Street, SE.

Tuesday, May 3

1. ANC6B Planning and Zoning Committee meets at 7:00pm, at St. Coletta of Greater Washington 1901 Independence Avenue, SE

Among items on the agenda:

Medium Rare, 515 8th Street, SE.  Extension of sidewalk café.

Letter on lead in the water supply at Payne School

Presentation on DC Green Building Policies: Jay Wilson, Green Building Program Analyst, DOEE

2. ANC6C Parks and Events meets at Kaiser Permanente Capitol Hill Medical Center, 700 Second Street, NE.

Among items on the agenda:

Committee Updates – Committee updates concerning new and pending issues.

Discussion with the District Department of Parks and Recreation and KIPP DC concerning the development of the Brentwood Hamilton athletic facilities by KIPP DC.

NoMa Parks – Discussion concerning the Community Conversation 3.0 and other issues involving NoMa Parks.

3. DDOT meeting – 17th Street NE & 19th Street NE Redesign – 6:30 pm – Rosedale

Community Center, 1700 Gales Street, NE.

4. Eastern Market Potluck Dinner, 7:00pm, Eastern Market North Hall. Little Red and the Renegades, who played for the Al Fresco at Frager’s event a few years ago, will be there playing zydeco. The event will be both inside the North Hall and outside under the Farmer’s Line Shed. All are invited so please pass the word along to friends.  Please let organizers know (below) if you can make it and how many will be in your party and what dish you are bringing.  Regarding the dish you bring, please be sure to bring enough to feed 10-15 people.  Please bring:  Salad/bread/dips/etc., dinner dish, dessert, drinks.  Bring your dishes before 6:45pm if possible on the day of May 3.  Email Barry Margeson, Market Manager, at barry.margeson@dc.gov

Wednesday, May 4

1. ANC6C Planning and Zoning Committee meets at 7:00pm at Kaiser Permanente Capitol Hill Medical Center, 700 Second Street, NE.

Agenda not available at press time

Thursday, May 5

1. ANC6B Alcohol Beverage Control Committee meets for its second session this week at 7:00pm, in Hill Center.

Among items on the agenda:

Folger Theatre Group, 201 East Capitol Street SE, Folger Theatre Group, Substantial Change in hours of operations and alcoholic beverage sales, Kenneth H Nash Post 8 American Legion, Sushi Capitol, 325 Pennsylvania Avenue SE, ABRA-100610, Starbucks Coffee #7610, 237 Pennsylvania Avenue SE, Talay Thai Restaurant, 406 First Street SE, Le Pain Quotidien, 666 Pennsylvania Avenue SE, Sonoma, 223 Pennsylvania Avenue SE, Bullfeathers, 410 First Street SE, District Taco, 656 Pennsylvania Avenue SE, Radici, 301 7th Street SE, Montmartre/7th Hill, 327 7th Street SE, Sona Creamery & Wine Bar, Beuchert’s Saloon, 623 Pennsylvania Avenue SE, La Plaza Mexican Restaurant, 629 Pennsylvania Avenue SE, Mr. Henry’s, 601 Pennsylvania Avenue SE, Hanks Oyster Bar, 633 Pennsylvania Avenue SE, Boxcar Tavern, 224 7th Street SE, Sanphan Thai Cuisine, 653 Pennsylvania Avenue SE, Tortilla Coast, 400 First Street SE, Lavagna, 539 8th Street SE, Ambar, 523 8th Street SE, Medium Rare Barracks Row, 515 8th Street SE, Tunnicliffs Tavern, 222 7th Street SE, Bearnaise, 313-315 Pennsylvania Avenue SE, rescind or reaffirm April protest vote; We, The Pizza, 305 Pennsylvania Avenue SE, rescind or reaffirm April protest vote; Good Stuff Eatery, 303 Pennsylvania Avenue SE, rescind or reaffirm April protest vote.

2. PSA 107 meets at 7:00pm at Southeast Library, lower level.
3. Friends of Southeast Library (FOSEL) meet at 5:30pm at Southeast Library, lower level.  Anyone interested in joining will be welcome.

The three developments near Southeast Safeway. The Bowie site development is in red.

First Look at Concept for 3rd Development Near SE Safeway

by Larry Janezich

Insight Development met with ANC6B representatives Thursday night to give commissioners a first look at the initial design concepts for the 152 unit apartment complex planned for the 1300 block of E Street, SE, which the developer is – for now – calling the “Bowie Site.”  Insight is also the developer of the Buchanan School site adjacent to the SE Safeway.  OPaL LLC is developing the 3rd project – Watkins Alley –  adjacent to the Bowie Site, across E Street, south of Safeway.  The developer emphasized that the concepts are preliminary and do not reflect the level of detail which the project will feature upon completion.

The meeting on Thursday was with the ANC’s Subcommittee on Planned Unit Developments, (PUD) chaired by Commissioner Nick Burger.  The PUD process is a means by which a developer can request a change in zoning to permit greater density and mass for a site than would be permitted by current regulations.  To compensate the community for the impact of the larger development on the neighborhood the process provides for the developer to grant a package of “benefits and amenities” to the community.  Those benefits and amenities are negotiated for the community  by the ANC.  Insight filed a PUD application with the Zoning Commission on April 8.

Some of the benefits and amenities being considered by the developer related to the Bowie Site include an upgrade in landscaping and lighting for the Potomac Metro stop; expanding the alley adjacent to the project and providng paving, lighting and snow removal; expanding resources for Capitol Hill’s senior population; and including two and three bedroom apartments among the 13 or 14 affordable units required under the city’s Inclusionary Zoning regulations.  Those regulations require new residential projects on private land to dedicate 10% of the project’s square footage to affordable living space, at 80% to 50% of the Area Median Income.

Although Insight owns the land, a lease held by a business operating on the site runs until the end of 2018.  Insight is attempting to relocate the company, and if successful, construction could start in early 2018.  The project will take up to 2 years to complete.

Mayor Bowser announces “Rat-riddance” Initiative this morning

Local television turns out – as do (l-r) ANC 68B Commissioners Loots & Jayaraman, BRMS’s Sharon Bosworth, and ANC6B Chair Oldenburg.

The alley on the west side of the 500 block of Barracks Row seldom looks this clean, having been spruced up prior to the Mayor’s arrival

Mayor Bowser and entourage on alley inspection

Checking out Eat Bar’s indoor basement trash storage room

Mayor Bowser engages some of the neighbors who have been most active in bringing best operating practices to Barracks Row restaurants

Mayor Bowser Launches “Rat-Riddance” Initiative on Capitol Hill

by Larry Janezich

Mayor Bowser chose an alley on Barracks Row to announce the launch of a new multi-agency city initiative against rats.  Bowser said the city was going to “double down” on efforts to address the rat problem by providing free wire mesh to residents to restrict burrowing, using dry ice in rat burrows to humanely euthanize rodents, and revise city codes to require rat proof commercial dumpsters throughout the city.  In addition, the city will strengthen both education and enforcement programs and coordinated efforts with the National Park Service to control rodents on park land.

The 400 and 500 blocks of Barracks Row have been the special focus of a group of dedicated neighbor activists who are working with ANC6B to require “best operating practices” for the restaurants on those blocks in an effort to reduce the impact of odor, noise, trash, and rats on the nearby residences.

Following the press conference, Bowser and city officials – including Department of Energy and Environment head Tommy Wells, and Department of Health chief Dr. LaQuandra Nesbitt –  toured the alley in the 500 block of 8^th Street, SE.  (Neighbors said that the alley had been cleaned up earlier this morning by restaurants tipped off to the Mayor’s presence later in the day.)  The Mayor then checked out the indoor trash storage areas at Eat Bar and &pizza where neighbors had fought hard to make best operating practices a condition of ANC6B support for liquor licenses.

Liquor licenses can be an effective tool to require restaurants to address ways in which their operations have a negative impact on the community.  However, this approach only seems to work when there is an organized group of neighbors who are willing to press the local ANCs to require restaurants to clean up their collective act.  Restaurants which do not serve alcohol are more problematic since there are fewer opportunities to bring leverage against them.

ANC6B Chair Kirsten Oldenburg told Bowser that city regulations on trash control don’t work in areas where restaurants are highly concentrated, and said that a more systematic approach such as regulations requiring restaurants to meet best operating practices was needed.

After inspecting the indoor trash storage room in the basement of Eat Bar, Bowser engaged a number of the nearby neighbors active on these issues.  Bowser listed the ideas she said were her take-away from that exchange:  greater involvement by the Capitol Hill BID, taking trash management more seriously, standardize trash containers, require daily pickup of trash and organize businesses to coordinate pickups, require indoor trash storage, and review of best operating practices.  She said the Department of Health would take the lead here and coordinate with the Capitol Hill BID and report back to the ANC, adding, “I’m sorry we’re dealing with this but we’re going to get on top of it.”

The 400 and 500 blocks of Barracks Row are home to 28 venues which serve food:  Starbucks, the future &pizza, Popeye’s, Chipotle, Eat Bar, Pizza Boli, Capitol Hill Tandoor Grill, DC-3, 7-11, the Chesapeake Room, Ted’s Bulletin, Medium Rare, Matchbox, Ambar, Phase 1, Cava Mezze, and Lavagna, Dunkin’ Donuts, The Sweet Lobby, Café 8, Subway, Banana Café, Pacifico Cantina, Belga, Senart’s, Nooshi, and Garrison.

1501 Independence Avenue, SE, the site of a new 7-Eleven scheduled to open June 14.

7-Eleven Apparently Reneges on Pledge Not to Sell Alcohol at New Hill East Store

by Larry Janezich

Eat DC (‏@eat_dc) who covers DC’s food and drink venues, tweeted Monday afternoon that according to 7-Eleven’s website listing the sale of the franchises for its stores, the new Hill East store at 1501 Independence will sell beer.  (see here: http://bit.ly/1TtuFks)

Update:  Monday afternoon, CHC sent the following inquiry to Sembe Cole, Market Manager for 7-Eleven, Inc:

Mr. Cole –

Tuesday morning, CHC received a response from Me Cole, as follows:  “This was a mistake and put up in error”  

This directly contradicts what company reps told ANC6B Commissioners Krepps and Jayaraman and Hill East residents on February 19, 1916, at a community meeting at St. Coletta’s.  (see CHC post here:  http://bit.ly/23WSqK4)

The store is being opened as a matter or right, and nearby neighbors are concerned that it will create the same problems for their neighborhood that have plagued the 7-Elevens on Barracks Row and Maryland Avenue, NE.  In an attempt to allay concerns, one of the pledges company executives made to those attending the meeting was that the proposed 7-Eleven would not sell beer or wine.

Asked for reaction to the story, Jayaraman – who chairs of ANC6B’s Alcohol Beverage Control Committee – said, “…7-Eleven representatives told us that they did not plan to sell alcohol of any sort so I view this as a breach of trust and a reversal of what I understood to be their willingness to be sensitive to the surrounding community by not seeking such a license.  I will strongly object and protest any application to sell alcohol at that location. Such a move would also threaten the viability of SE Market, a small family-run small business.  As you know 7-Eleven has already put out of business 2 establishments that had been there for nearly 40 years. I am terribly disappointed to hear of this development.”

Commissioner Krepp, in whose Single Member District the new 7-Eleven resides, said yesterday, “Like Commissioner Jayaraman, I will oppose this application if it is true…this afternoon, I sought clarification from 7-Eleven.”

7-Eleven has become a bad neighbor in the eyes of many in the community, as the corporation has proven unresponsive to neighborhood concerns and the franchise holders are unable to deal with them.  The new store is scheduled to open on June 14.

1243 C Street, SE

The Week Ahead……

Monday, April 25

CANCELLED:  ANC6A Community Outreach Committee scheduled for today has been cancelled.

Tuesday, April 26

ANC6B Executive Committee meets at 7:00pm in Hill Center, to set the agenda for the May 10 meeting of ANC6B at Hill Center at 7:00pm.

Wednesday, April 27

Eastern Market Community Advisory Committee meets at 7:00pm in the North Hall of Eastern Market.

Thursday, April 26

ANC6B Planning and Planning and Zoning Planned Unit Development (PUD) Subcommittee meets at 7:00pm, at Hill Center.  The PUD Subcommittee will review the PUD process for the Bowies/Signature PUD by Insight Property Group.

Agenda:

Presentation on Bowies/Signature PUD

Draft benefits and amenities package discussion

Future meetings and Subcommittee next steps

Saturday, April 30

Miner Elementary Community Yard Sale Fundraiser, 9:00am until 12:00noon.  Miner Elementary Playground & Cafeteria, 601 15th Street, NE, (North Side of School).

Bring donations to the school between 4pm and 6pm on Friday, April 29, ask at the security desk for the yard sale collection team, or before 9am on Saturday, April 30!

Additionally, organizers will be set up to collect acceptable hazardous waste and e-waste that you want to dispose of.

HAZARDOUS WASTE and E-WASTE: time to clean out your storage area or garage of paint, chemicals, old electronics and other items not fit to go into a landfill.  We’ll have an area set aside to collect these items for transport up to the Fort Totten Transfer Station for proper disposal.

Information on accepted/prohibited hazardous waste is here: http://dpw.dc.gov/node/466802

Information on accepted e-waste is here: http://dpw.dc.gov/node/414902

Nana Thai Closing in June

Nana Thai Restaurant on Barracks Row to Close in June

New Owner Douglas Development Plans Substantial Renovation of Building

by Larry Janezich

Nana Thai, the popular Barracks Row family-owned restaurant, will close – likely the first week of June – according to restaurant employees.  The building’s second floor is occupied by Natural Kinks Hair and Braiding Salon, and it too will close within 90 days, according to owner Shannon Evans.

Douglas Development has purchased the building at 406 8th Street and the developer plans extensive renovations but the company’s plans for the site remain uncertain.  According to sources, the building was owned by the family who runs Nana Thai.

Technically both the restaurant and the salon have 90 days to vacate, but Nana Thai employees say the restaurant will close in early June.  Both operations are looking for new locations to reopen, possibly on Capitol Hill.  Long time Hill residents remember Mickey’s Pub and Patio which preceded the Old Siam, which last year gave way to Nana Thai.

Douglas Development has been aggressively developing properties on Capitol Hill, including the old Kentucky Fried Chicken site at 15^th and Pennsylvania, the retail building at the corner of 13^th and Pennsylvania, the building housing Pret a Manger at 3^rd and Pennsylvania, and the building occupied by District Doughnuts at 749 8^th Street on Barracks Row.

The purchase came on the heels of the announcement earlier this week that Metro Mutts, directly across the street at 407 8^th Street, SE, will close on June 12.  Employees say that the owner will consolidate operations in the H Street, NE, location, in response to a rent increase.  That building is owned by major Capitol Hill commercial property holder Maurice Kreidler.  This announced departure of retail follows the closing of City Bikes, the details of which were reported by CHC here:  http://bit.ly/1SBzTxA

Ed. Note.  An earlier version of this story reported that Capitol Hill Bikes was closing.  CHC regrets the error.