January 17, 2025

Yesterday, I attended “The Moment for Housing is Now” Summit at Georgetown University’s McCourt School of Public Policy, hosted by the National League of Cities and DC Mayor Muriel Bowser. This powerful gathering brought together policymakers, thought leaders, and housing advocates to address one of the most pressing challenges in our communities: access to affordable, quality housing.

The summit offered valuable insights, particularly on how housing policies of the past—especially in Black communities—created barriers to homeownership and generational wealth. These policies excluded many families from the benefits of equity and economic opportunity, leaving a legacy we must now work to undo.

Homeownership and Equity

Housing is more than just shelter—it’s the cornerstone of stability, economic mobility, and generational wealth. For Dumfries, the goal is not just to build rental units but to create pathways for first-time homeownership, especially at price points that match the income levels of our residents. This is no small challenge, but it’s one we must tackle if we want to create opportunities for families to thrive.

Creating Mixed-Income Communities

As we grow, we must intentionally build mixed-income communities that avoid the segregation of income sectors. Mixed-income developments promote inclusion, equity, and stronger neighborhoods, ensuring all residents can share in the benefits of living in Dumfries.

The Role of Land in Building the Ideal Dumfries

One of the most important takeaways from the summit is that the only way we can truly incentivize developers is if we have control over the land. By owning land, we can establish policies that reflect our community’s values and needs—policies that prioritize homeownership, affordable housing, and mixed-income communities.

To achieve this, we need to take bold action. In the coming months, I will work with our Town Council and staff to explore the establishment of an Economic Development Authority (EDA). An EDA would allow Dumfries to acquire and control land strategically, empowering us to shape development and ensure it aligns with our vision of equity, sustainability, and community prosperity.

A Shared Vision for Dumfries

This is about more than housing—it’s about creating a Dumfries that reflects our values, supports our residents, and provides opportunities for all. By controlling the land and leveraging thoughtful policies, we can partner with developers to build the Dumfries we all envision: a community where families can afford to live, grow, and thrive.

I believe our Town Council is up to the challenge, and I look forward to collaborating with them, our staff, and our community to move these plans forward. The work ahead will require bold decisions and strong partnerships, but together, we can build a brighter, more inclusive future for Dumfries.

Let’s ensure every resident has a place to call home and a stake in the future of our town.

#AffordableHousing #GenerationalWealth #MixedIncomeCommunities #DumfriesLeadership #EconomicDevelopment #HousingEquity