Petworth News offered the three Democratic candidates for the Ward 4 Council seat a questionnaire. Two responded. Below are the answers from Lisa Gore.

Name: Lisa Gore

Where is your home located? Hawthorne

How long have you lived in Ward 4? 25 years

What is your current profession? Retired Federal Special Agent

Website: http://www.gorefordc.com
Facebook Page: @Gorefordc
Twitter: @Gorefordc

Why you are running for Ward 4 Councilmember?
I am running for Ward 4 Councilmember to address the unique and pressing needs of our community. With over 27 years of experience in law enforcement and community service, I am committed to making our neighborhood safer, supporting local businesses, and ensuring that our children and seniors receive the care and opportunities they need to thrive. Our community deserves leadership that prioritizes local concerns and works tirelessly to improve the quality of life for all residents.

What is your professional and/or personal background and experience?
I bring 27 years of experience in federal law enforcement, where I worked as a juvenile probation officer, federal Special Agent, and senior federal law enforcement manager. My career has been dedicated to public safety, community engagement, and oversight of criminal justice agencies. As a mother of a DCPS graduate, I understand the challenges faced by our schools and families. My extensive volunteer work includes collaborating with community organizations to support at-risk youth and advocating for victims’ rights. This blend of professional expertise and personal commitment to our community uniquely qualifies me to serve as your Ward 4 Councilmember.

Do you believe a DC Councilmember should focus on legislative issues or Ward community quality of life issues?
A DC Councilmember should focus on both legislative issues and Ward community quality of life issues. Effective legislation directly impacts the quality of life in our community by addressing public safety, economic development, education, and housing. Balancing these responsibilities ensures that the policies we create are responsive to the immediate and long-term needs of Ward 4 residents.

In brief, what are your Legislative Priorities?
My legislative priorities include enhancing public safety through accountable community policing, increasing access to affordable housing, supporting local businesses, and improving education outcomes. I also prioritize addressing health disparities and ensuring that our seniors and vulnerable populations receive the support and services they need. These priorities are designed to create a safer, more prosperous, and inclusive community for all residents.

Share your position on Education issues in Ward 4, especially in light of the cuts to DCPS in the latest budget.
Education is a cornerstone of our community’s future. I am deeply concerned about the recent cuts to DCPS, which threaten the quality of education for our children. I support reinstating the Council’s Education Committee to provide dedicated oversight and championing increased funding for tutoring, academic support, and essential services like school psychologists and counselors. We must ensure that every child has access to a robust and supportive educational environment.

Share your position on Transportation issues in Ward 4, specifically bike lanes and impacts on parking and safety.
Transportation policies must balance the needs of all residents, ensuring safety and accessibility for everyone. I support the development of bike lanes to promote sustainable transportation options, but it is crucial to consider the impact on parking and overall traffic safety. Community input is vital in designing solutions that work for everyone. My goal is to create a transportation system that enhances mobility while ensuring safety for cyclists, pedestrians, and drivers alike.

What do you think are the biggest issues facing Ward 4 regarding Crime and Public Safety? What are you solutions to help fix these issues?
The biggest issues facing Ward 4 regarding crime and public safety include rising violent crime and gun violence. My solutions involve equipping MPD with the necessary tools and training for effective community policing, focusing on targeted enforcement in crime hotspots, and improving investigations. I also advocate for robust re-entry programs, increased transparency in crime data, and better oversight of criminal justice agencies. By addressing the root causes of crime and supporting both immediate and long-term strategies, we can create a safer Ward 4.

Do you think affordable housing in Ward 4 is improving? What would you do to ensure access to affordable housing?
Affordable housing in Ward 4 remains a significant challenge. While there have been efforts to improve access, much more needs to be done. I would propose increasing the availability of affordable units through mixed-use developments and incentivizing the construction of affordable housing. Additionally, I support measures to protect current residents from displacement and provide resources for first-time homebuyers. Ensuring that affordable housing is integrated into all new development projects will help maintain the diverse fabric of our community and provide stability for our residents.

Do you believe DC government and existing Zoning regulations favor homeowners / residents more, less or equal to for-profit developers? Why or why not?
I believe that current DC government and zoning regulations often favor for-profit developers over homeowners and residents. This imbalance is evident in the rapid pace of development that sometimes overlooks the needs and concerns of long-term residents. To ensure a more equitable approach, we need to revise zoning policies to prioritize community input, protect affordable housing, and balance development with the preservation of neighborhood character.

How would you define gentrification? Do you believe areas of Ward 4 has and is still experiencing gentrification? Why or why not?
Gentrification is the process of neighborhood transformation driven by increased property values and the influx of higher-income residents, often leading to the displacement of long-term, lower-income residents. Areas of Ward 4 have experienced and continue to experience gentrification, as evidenced by rising housing costs and demographic shifts. This trend is driven by new developments and market pressures that prioritize profitability over community stability. To address this, we must implement policies that protect affordable housing, support local businesses, and ensure that development benefits all residents equitably.

Any additional thoughts you'd like to share?
Thank you for the opportunity to share my vision for Ward 4!we can walk to wonderful local businesses, where we know our neighbors, and always feel at home.