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PR 26-0582

Friendship Public Charter School, Inc. Revenue Bonds Project Approval Resolution of 2026

26th Council Period (2025-2026) Introduced by Phil Mendelson

DC authorizes revenue bonds for Friendship Public Charter School facility projects, financed through school operating revenues rather than tax dollars.

Resolution R26-0410, Effective from Jun 02, 2026 Published in DC Register Vol 73 and Page 008388
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Bill Summary · PR 26-0582

Legislative bill overview

This resolution authorizes the District of Columbia to issue revenue bonds for Friendship Public Charter School, Inc. to finance the construction, renovation, or acquisition of educational facilities. The bonds would be repaid through the school's operating revenues rather than general tax dollars, following the established public finance mechanism for charter school infrastructure projects.

Why is this important

Charter schools serve approximately 45% of DC's public school students, making their facility funding critical to education access. Revenue bond issuance allows charter schools to secure capital for building improvements without competing for limited city appropriations, but creates long-term debt obligations tied to school financial performance. This mechanism directly affects whether charter schools can maintain and expand their physical infrastructure.

Potential points of contention

  • Debt risk: If Friendship Public Charter School's revenues decline, the school may struggle to service bond payments, potentially forcing service cuts or facility deterioration
  • Public oversight: Revenue bonds for private charter operators receive less direct public budgeting scrutiny than traditional school construction, raising accountability questions
  • Charter school priority: Some argue dedicated charter school financing diverts attention from traditional public school facility needs, which face significant backlog and funding shortages

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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