rancisco Fimbres is Ward 2’s Community Relations and Services Liaison who also happens to make FB his home. He moved to the District as an American University student in 1996 and has lived in a number of DC communities since then. But it was in thinking about his June 2010 wedding, a new job–and new life—that caused Francisco to contemplate the place he wanted to put down roots. It was Foggy Bottom. Says Fimbres.
I wanted a neighborhood where my fiancé would feel safe, shopping is accessible and is central to Georgetown and Dupont.. I often walk to work.”
Residents can call “311” to make non-legislative complaints. The hope is the complaint will be resolved within 48 hours. Fimbres acknowledges there are mixed reviews, which is where he comes into play. Fimbres and Christine Kidwell are both Ward 2 Community Relations and Services Liaisons. They serve as links between the mayor and Ward 2 residents. When agencies are too slow, or not responding for any reason, Fimbres intercedes.
Francisco deals directly with the agency, monitoring, interacting, and responding to community needs made known through the ANC, FBA, other local groups, neighborhood activists, and other concerned residents.
He and Kidwell are what Fimbres calls “residents’ first and last line of defense.” As Francisco points out, “One of the great benefits of having good relationships, is that you hear about potential problems and solve them.” He meets with the mayor weekly to inform him of community concerns. Francisco finds his job fun and very rewarding. He hears complaints and concerns and does his best to solve each. At times he gets chewed out and says, “Rightfully so.” He works it out.
Francisco says FB news is “all good… It’s a great area. I’m so happy I moved here and hope to stay here. This is where we want to put down our roots.”
To reach our Ward 2 District Community Services liaisons, email or call:
Francisco Fimbres, Mayor’s Liaison, Community Relations and Services
francisco.fimbres@dc.gov (202) 664.6119
Christine Kidwell, Mayor’s Liaison, Community Relations and Services
Christine.kidwell@dc.gov (202) 297.6566
