Seven members of the D.C. Council, including Chairman Vincent Gray, were sworn in at the Washington Convention Center on Wednesday, a day after taking the oath of office in a quick, quiet ceremony. The newest members referred to the 17th legislative session of the District of Columbia’s Councilas more energized and committed to progressive causes than ever before. It will also try to build on the successes of the former council and of former Mayor Anthony Williams, including recovery from financial ruin and a boom in the local economy.
“We do not need to dismantle the successes; rather, we need to build on them,” Council Member Phil Mendelson, D-at large, said after being sworn in for his third four-year term.
Council Member Mary Cheh, D-Ward 3, spoke of a city whose infrastructure has grown “sad under the weight of neglect” even as construction cranes and new private buildings continue to dot the landscape.
“Our school system handicaps half the students that begin in it,” Cheh said.
Cheh also got a loud round of applause and cheers after affirming her commitment to D.C. voting rights, asking out-of-towners in the audience to “please go home — we deserve a right to vote — tell your representatives.”
Council Member David Catania, I-at large, described a council that must be willing to take risks. Catania, who has been reappointed to serve as chairman of the health committee and will serve a third four-year term, promised easier access to health care as well as legislation that would raise the income bar for single mothers who need health care from about $26,000 annually to $39,000.
For too long “we have settled for mediocrity instead of striv[ing] for excellence,” Catania said.
Other council members who were sworn in include Jim Graham, D-Ward 1; Tommy Wells, D-Ward 6; and Harry “Tommy” Thomas Jr., D-Ward 5.
