It’s 56 days until election day and most of you have probably made up your minds about whom you will vote in the general election. However, when it comes to local elections, most people have no idea how their District, Ward or advisory neighborhood commissions are divided or affect them. Local outlets such as Greater Greater Washington do a good job of bringing hyperlocal politics news, and reasons why you should run for these nonpartisan offices. OpenANC allows you to learn more about your own single-member district, so you know the names of the people in the race. As is now a tradition, The Hill is Home is publishing candidate statements in the order in which we’ve received them, so you know a little more about the people running and don’t go into the voting booth (or mail-in ballot) blind. –Maria Helena Carey
Statement by Laura Gentile, ANC 6A05
I’m running as a candidate for the Advisory Neighborhood Commission, District 6A05, because I want to serve as a resource and advocate for my neighbors with city government to ensure community voices are heard regarding issues that impact our neighborhoods. District 6A05 covers the northeast section of Capitol Hill which stretches east to west from 15th to 10th Streets and north to south from E to C Streets.
I have the experience and local knowledge to address the issues that matter to the neighborhood — I’ve lived in this community since 2007, have been an active member of the ANC, and have over 25 years of experience working with businesses, communities, and local governments as a public servant for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. And as a former Peace Corps Volunteer, I value the experience gained through working within a different culture to collaborate with and train high school science teachers in the Philippines.
In my community, I have helped to build a neighborhood block association and have worked with the ANC to address concerns regarding street safety and illegal dumping. As a member of two ANC committees, I have had the opportunity to work closely with neighbors, city agencies, and businesses on proposed projects and actions that affect our community. On the Economic Development and Zoning Committee (2011–16), I advised on proposed development projects ranging from residential modifications to mixed use buildings, including the redevelopment of the former Murry’s storage facility on H Street (current site of Whole Foods). As a current member of the Alcohol Beverage Licensing Committee, I review and recommend action on all issues affecting liquor licenses for businesses in our area.
As Commissioner, I would leverage my work and volunteer experience to serve as a dependable resource and dedicated advocate for my neighbors with city government. If elected, I will also work to strengthen our community by advocating for the following:
Smart Development — I will work with the ANC in the interest of ensuring that planning for major projects considers potential impacts to residents. I will also push to encourage the inclusion of affordable housing in development plans to help preserve the diversity of our community.
Street Safety — I will work to improve street lighting, facilitate thoughtful police engagement in our community, and push for traffic calming measures on streets where residents have identified concerns. I recently received ANC approval for a traffic study for the 1400 block of Duncan St., NE.
Clean & Healthy Environment — I will work with the Department of Public Works to address illegal dumping, explore ways to reduce litter, and provide more options for safe disposal of household hazardous waste.
In light of the pandemic, I’m interested in connecting with my neighbors virtually or through social distancing to learn about the issues that are important to them. Please feel free to contact me through my website at lauragentile4anc6a05.com.
Thank you for your consideration. I hope to earn your support on November 3rd .