| HUD Awards $2.5 Million Choice Neighborhoods Supplemental Grant to Phoenix's Edison-Eastlake Neighborhood | https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/district-8/3203 | | City Council District 8 | 8/28/2024 8:00:00 PM | https://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/3203/D8-HUD-Grant-Award.jpg | | HUD Awards $2.5 Million Choice Neighborhoods Supplemental Grant to Phoenix's Edison-Eastlake Neighborhood | <div class="ExternalClassE38AC7A521EC409186CB5842013BF694"><html>
<p>On Tuesday, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) awarded a $2.5 million Choice Neighborhoods Supplemental Grant to the City of Phoenix, to continue the revitalization of the Edison-Eastlake neighborhood. The grant presentation took place in the heart of the neighborhood, at <a href="https://action.phoenix.gov/c1.pl?e0fc21d8ba9f1470b2e9a34c4abcdbf5f209a72ddf5ed9d199895e8ac9c2450d" target="_blank">Soluna</a>, where City officials, community leaders, residents and HUD officials gathered to celebrate the important investment.<br><br>Since being awarded a $30 million Choice Neighborhoods Implementation Grant in 2018, the City of Phoenix has made significant strides in transforming Edison-Eastlake into a vibrant, mixed-income community. This additional $2.5 million will support further developments, including new housing, expanded public spaces, and enhanced community services.<span style="background-color:window;color:windowtext;font-size:10pt;"></span></p>
<p>“We're proud of the progress we've made in the Edison-Eastlake neighborhood, and we're grateful for our partnership with HUD," said Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego. “This grant will allow us to continue our transformative momentum, create additional housing, and invest in public spaces that people of all backgrounds can enjoy."</p>
<p>“Edison-Eastlake is a diverse neighborhood with a rich history and is ripe for a successful redevelopment. Choice Neighborhoods grants have demonstrated that with the right support for attainable housing, the incomes of families increase. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's Acting Secretary Adrianne Todman's support means that this community, poised for redevelopment, has the tools it needs to move forward," District 8 Councilwoman Kesha Hodge Washington said. “But housing is just one piece of the puzzle. We are deeply committed to neighborhood revitalization and beautification, priorities that our Edison-Eastlake residents have passionately voiced. This is more than just a development, it is point of pride in our history as we continue to improve the quality of life for everyone who calls this neighborhood home."</p>
<p>Utilizing Choice Neighborhoods Grants awarded by HUD, the multi-year, comprehensive revitalization plan in Edison-Eastlake includes: </p>
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<li>Replacing 577 aged, obsolete public housing units with over 1,000 units of high-quality, mixed-income housing with modern amenities.</li>
<li>Neighborhood improvements such as new and expanded parks, open/green spaces and public art.</li>
<li>Additional supportive services programs at two new community centers in the neighborhood offering medical and behavioral health services, Head Start classes, and other important community resources.</li>
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<p>Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary (PDAS) Richard Monocchio highlighted the transformative impact of the Choice Neighborhoods program, saying, “This grant is not just about funding—it's about continuing a journey of renewal and hope for the Edison-Eastlake neighborhood. HUD is proud to partner with the City of Phoenix to ensure that every resident here has the opportunity to thrive in a safe, supportive, and vibrant community."</p>
<p>The revitalization efforts in Edison-Eastlake are currently expected to be completed in 2027.<br></p>
</html></div> | https://www.phoenix.gov/district8 | News | district-8 | District 8 | Kesha | Hodge Washington |
| Statement of Councilwoman Kesha Hodge Washington on SCOTUS 'Grants Pass v Johnson' Decision | https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/district-8/3148 | | City Council District 8 | 6/28/2024 9:00:00 PM | https://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/3148/Newsroom_Council_Statement_08.jpg | | Statement of Councilwoman Kesha Hodge Washington on SCOTUS 'Grants Pass v Johnson' Decision | <div class="ExternalClass4FAD3DBB876242B197FD0AFCED1E60A8"><html>
<div>Today’s ruling in City of <em>Grants Pass v. Johnso</em>n clarified a legal question on the extent of enforcement when it comes to those experiencing homelessness. The U.S. Supreme Court’s decision does not change the core challenges faced by those that are unsheltered or the complex issues that contribute to housing instability. Those two issues are chief among the concerns that I hear from constituents on a daily basis. The decision provides municipalities with an accountability tool, if and when appropriate. <br></div>
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<div>As your Councilmember, I will continue to ensure Phoenix leads with meaningful services, invests in necessary resources, and furthers a dignified and balanced approach when engaging with our unsheltered residents. Phoenix continues to increase the number of shelter beds to address the unprecedented need and we will continue to find ways to develop more attainable housing. Today’s decision is also a stark reminder that all levels of government in our region need to do more to collectively address the challenges we face with the most vulnerable among us. I hope that the focus remains on the need for collaborative and comprehensive solutions.<br></div>
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| Statement of Councilwoman Kesha Hodge Washington on Release of Department of Justice’s Report | https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/district-8/3131 | | City Council District 8 | 6/13/2024 7:00:00 AM | https://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/3131/Newsroom_Council_Statement_08.jpg | | Statement of Councilwoman Kesha Hodge Washington on Release of Department of Justice’s Report | <div class="ExternalClass243BBF05FA3B4D658C406CE0509DFDD5"><html>
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<strong>Phoenix, AZ - </strong>Phoenix has awaited this report since the investigation began in August of 2021. Today, we received the findings and the recommended remedial measures from the Department of Justice’s Investigation of the City of Phoenix and the Phoenix Police Department. I obtained the report today concurrently with the public, and I am examining it closely.<br></div>
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<div>The gravity of this 126-page report cannot be overstated and demands a comprehensive and thoughtful response. A thorough analysis and assessment of the report, in collaboration with key stakeholders, to determine the best path forward is my top priority. Given the complexity of the situation, we need adequate time to fully review the report before making decisions that will impact our city for years to come.<br></div>
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<div>The decision-making process must not be rushed, and any decision must be made collaboratively, with careful consideration of community input. I value transparency and will ensure the public has ample opportunity to review the findings and provide feedback. Unfortunately, the full report was not released in Spanish as requested, which prevents a significant portion of our residents from fully engaging in this crucial public commentary.<br></div>
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<div>This report undoubtedly recalls painful incidents affecting our community, but it also offers an opportunity to see what reforms the city and the Police Department can implement moving forward. Both the city and the Police Department have acknowledged the need for improvement and have made intentional strides toward reform, which were modeled after recommendations made in reports concerning other cities. Our officers are charged with carrying out an extremely difficult job, and I am optimistic that the city and the Police Department will continue to proactively make changes and transform our practices, underscoring our commitment to continuous improvement and accountability.</div>
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<div>The next steps will require difficult conversations, steadfast commitment, and a willingness to embrace innovative solutions. I am committed to collaboration with stakeholders throughout this process to ensure our measures are effective, sustainable, and in the best interest of Phoenix residents.</div>
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<strong>Media Contact: </strong>Cooper Payne, 602.329.2445, cooper.payne@phoenix.gov<br></div>
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</html></div> | https://www.phoenix.gov/district8 | News | district-8 | District 8 | Kesha | Hodge Washington |
| Councilwoman Kesha Hodge Washington Appointed to Serve on National League of Cities Community and Economic Development Federal Advocacy Committee | https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/district-8/3014 | | City Council District 8 | 2/6/2024 7:00:00 AM | https://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/3014/Newsroom_Council_News_08.jpg | | Councilwoman Kesha Hodge Washington Appointed to Serve on National League of Cities Community and Economic Development Federal Advocacy Committee | <div class="ExternalClassF52D6D1F4C81406EA2267DED7F30D7C3"><html>
<div><span style="font-size:14.6667px;">Councilwoman Kesha Hodge Washington has been appointed to the <a href="https://www.nlc.org/" target="_blank">National League of Cities </a>(NLC) 2024 Community and Economic Development Federal Advocacy Committe. <span style="background-color:window;color:windowtext;">Councilwoman Hodge Washington was elected to a one-year term and will provide strategic direction and guidance for NLC’s federal advocacy agenda and policy priorities on housing availability and attainability, community building, land use, local entrepre</span>
<span style="background-color:window;color:windowtext;">neurship, and economic development. The appointment was announced by NLC President Mayor David Sander of Rancho Cordova, California.</span>
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"It is an honor to be selected to serve on the Community and Economic Development Federal Advocacy Committee this year for the NLC representing the City of Phoenix. This platform allows me to shape national policies that directly impact our city's growth, economic vitality, and the well-being of our residents. I am committed to advocating for the needs of our community and ensuring a prosperous future for Phoenix and beyond,” said Councilwoman Hodge Washington.
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As a member of NLC’s 2024 Community and Economic Development Federal Advocacy Committee, Councilwoman Hodge Washington will play a key role in shaping NLC’s policy positions and advocate on behalf of America’s cities, towns, and villages before Congress, with the administration, and at home.
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“NLC’s federal advocacy committees play an important role in helping policymakers in Washington understand the issues and challenges facing America’s cities, towns, and villages at the local level,” said NLC President Mayor David Sander of Rancho Cordova, CA. “I’m thrilled to have Councilwoman Hodge Washington serve on NLC’s 2024 Community and Economic Development Federal Advocacy Committee this year and look forward to working with her to strengthen the federal-local partnership, and grow our common knowledge of the issues and opportunities facing our communities.”
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The leadership of this year’s committee will consist of Chair Kristopher Dahir, Councilmember, Sparks, Nevada; and three Vice-Chairs Angela Birney, Mayor, Redmond, WA; Jeffrey Boney, Councilmember, Missouri City, TX; and Cindy Silva, Mayor, Walnut Creek, CA.
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<strong style="">For more information on NLC’s federal advocacy committees, visit:</strong> <a href="https://www.nlc.org/advocacy/federal-advocacy-committees/" target="_blank">https://www.nlc.org/advocacy/federal-advocacy-committees/</a>
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<strong style="">Media Contact:</strong> Israel Kiyogera, 602.262.7493, israel.kiyogera@phoenix.gov
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</html></div> | https://www.phoenix.gov/district8 | News | district-8 | District 8 | Kesha | Hodge Washington |
| Community Connections, Kesha in 8 | Black History Month | https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/district-8/3011 | | City Council District 8 | 2/5/2024 7:00:00 AM | | https://youtu.be/Bw17R9TqmK0?si=Gnk-fZ6rWDak3w1I | Community Connections, Kesha in 8 | Black History Month | <div class="ExternalClassFAE78B50249745DFBD6EFE0ACCFFF48B"><html>
<p><span id="ms-rterangepaste-start"></span><span style="font-size:13.3333px;">In the first edition of Community Connections, Kesha in 8, Councilwoman Hodge Washington kicks off Black History Month by welcoming prominent black leaders in Phoenix including Phoenix City Manager Jeff Barton, Retired Judge Cecil B. Patterson Jr., and former Arizona State Senator Leah Landrum Taylor.</span><span id="ms-rterangepaste-end"></span><br></p>
</html></div> | https://www.phoenix.gov/district8 | Video | district-8 | District 8 | Kesha | Hodge Washington |
| The City of Phoenix Mourns the Loss of a Remarkable Leader, Thelda Williams | https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/district-8/2931 | | City Council District 8 | 11/16/2023 7:00:00 PM | https://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/2931/Newsroom_Council_News_08.jpg | | The City of Phoenix Mourns the Loss of a Remarkable Leader, Thelda Williams | <div class="ExternalClassC0D5390FF1A14197B900C9079DE3AA83"><html>
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</p><p>"The City of Phoenix has lost an incredible leader in Thelda Williams, a truly extraordinary individual who dedicated her career to public service. Thelda was not only a legendary figure in Phoenix but also a beloved leader who made an indelible impact on our city.</p><p>Thelda's legacy is unparalleled, as she holds the distinction of being the only individual to have served as Mayor of Phoenix three separate times. Her unwavering commitment to the betterment of our community and tireless efforts to improve the lives of its residents will forever be remembered.</p><p>Throughout her extensive tenure, Thelda Williams exhibited exceptional leadership, wisdom, and a genuine passion for serving the people of Phoenix. Her contributions to the city were immense, and her visionary guidance helped shape Phoenix into the thriving metropolis it is today.</p><p>While I did not have the privilege of serving directly with Thelda, I had the honor of receiving her counsel and advice early on in my time on the City Council. Her wisdom and experience were invaluable, and her dedication to mentoring the next generation of leaders was truly inspiring.</p><p>We mourn the loss of an exceptional leader, but we also celebrate Thelda Williams' achievements and the impact she had on our community. My thoughts and condolences go out to her family, friends, and all those who had the privilege of knowing and working with her."<br></p>
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