Dear Friends,

Last night I spoke before the Zoning Commission in strong support of the proposed Adams Morgan Historic Hotel development.  As I said in my prepared remarks, I believe that this is the right project, at the right time, and in the best interest of the community.

The Adams Morgan Hotel project means job growth, historic preservation and enhanced opportunities for community based\ organizations.  It will also mean enhanced day time commerce, and that, in turn, will encourage greater business diversity.

Throughout the evolution of this project, I engaged with all stakeholders to best ensure the greatest benefit to the greatest number.

I authored the Adams Morgan Hotel Real Property Tax Abatement Act of 2010, which the Council passed.  This reserves 51% of employment opportunities in both the hotel’s construction and operation phases for District residents.  It also provides that 51% of those positions are filled by Ward One residents. The law's  $46 million property tax abatement over 20 years will only occur when the hotel is open for business.

I am very proud of the constructive and effective way in which Advisory Neighborhood Commission 1C and the Reed Cooke Neighborhood Association each came together with the developers to achieve height restrictions and other conditions that are in the neighborhood's interest.  Thanks also to the Adams Morgan MainStreet and the AM Business Improvement District for their very hard talented work on behalf of this project. And to all of our residents who attended and participated in many meetings.

I hope that the Zoning Commission agrees with all of us, and that this important project moves forward.

Bests, Councilmember Jim Graham