District of ColumbiaPR26-0474Council Period 26 (2025-2026)HouseWALLET

Cesar Chavez Public Charter Schools for Public Policy Revenue Bonds Project Emergency Approval Resolution of 2025

Sponsored By: Phil Mendelson (Democratic)

Became Law

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

5 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 1 costs, 1 mixed.

Flexible bond sales and legal checks

Bonds can be sold by negotiated or competitive sale, at, above, or below par. The Mayor must get an approving opinion from Bond Counsel before issuance, and a federal tax opinion if interest is tax‑exempt. The Council’s approval follows a public hearing and meets federal and Home Rule public‑approval rules. Final bond and closing documents are filed with the Secretary, and the Mayor sends the issuance transcript to the Council Secretary within three days of receipt.

Mayor controls bond terms and documents

The Mayor sets final bond terms, including interest rates, maturities, redemption rules, and reserves. The Mayor approves and signs all financing and closing documents for the District and can approve the form of documents the District does not sign. The Mayor may delegate these tasks to authorized officials, as allowed by law.

Bonds not backed by D.C. taxes

The bonds are special obligations, not general obligations of the District. They are paid only from bond proceeds, investment earnings, loan repayments from the school, and other pledged non‑District sources. The District’s full faith and credit and taxing power are not pledged. District officials have no personal liability unless they act willfully and fraudulently.

Program fee charged to charter school

The Mayor may charge the school a program fee. The fee covers District costs to issue the bonds, monitor proceeds and public benefits, keep records, and help with redemption or remarketing. This adds to the school’s financing costs.

Up to $25 million bonds for Cesar Chavez

The District issues up to $25 million in revenue bonds and loans the money to Cesar Chavez Public Charter Schools. Funds can refinance a 2020 term loan, build or renovate classrooms, labs, a gym, and other spaces at 3701 Hayes Street NE, and buy equipment and vehicles. Money can also cover certain working capital, interest during the project, reserves, credit enhancement, and issuance costs. If no bonds are issued and delivered within three years, the authorization ends on December 16, 2028.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Phil Mendelson
Democratic • House

Cosponsors

There are no cosponsors for this bill.

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 13 • No: 0

House vote • 12/16/2025

Final Reading