Charles C. “Sandy” Wilkes Ceremonial Recognition Resolution of 2025

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A CEREMONIAL RESOLUTION

26-13

IN THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

March 4, 2025

To recognize and acknowledge Charles C. “Sandy” Wilkes for his work as the founding
Chairman of the Board of the D.C. Policy Center, and his many other notable
professional achievements.

WHEREAS, Charles C. “Sandy” Wilkes has devoted a lifetime of leadership and service
to the Washington, D.C. community through his pioneering work in law, business, civic
engagement, and urban development;

WHEREAS, As Chairman of The Wilkes Company, Mr. Wilkes has demonstrated a
commitment to shaping a better future for the District through innovative vision;

WHEREAS, Mr. Wilkes’ leadership extends beyond the D.C. Policy Center as evidenced
by his many distinguished roles—including Chairman of the Washington Children’s Foundation,
Chairman of Board of Directors of t he National Theatre Foundation, Trustee and Leadership
Council Member of the Federal City Council, founding member of The Developer Roundtable,
and founding Director of both the Mount Vernon Triangle Community Improvement District and
the NoMa Business Improvement District—and further enriched by his service as Chairman of the
NoMa Parks Foundation;

WHEREAS, Mr. Wilkes’ commitment to community development, education, and the arts
is further exemplified by his appointment to the Board of Trustees of St. Mary’s College of
Maryland by Governor Parris Glendening and his membership in the James Madison Council at
The Library of Congress;

WHEREAS, Mr. Wilkes’ many contributions have not only fostered significant progress
in urban planning and policy but also set a benchmark for civic responsibility and visionary
leadership within the broader D.C. community , enriching both individual lives and shared
communities;

WHEREAS, under Mr. Wilkes leadership, the D.C. Policy Center expanded its research
areas to include the city’s economy, housing, workforce, and public education, contributing
reliable and timely research that informed many policies adopted by the Council and the Mayor.

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Deliverables include in-depth analyses of the city’s budget and financial position, elements that
make the District more competitive, initiatives that make housing more plentiful, and programs
designed to improve equitable access to education and the success of the District’s public school
students;

WHEREAS, the D.C. Policy Center ’s expanded research efforts have resulted in the
implementation of important legislation, including proposals that: bolstered housing preservation
programs, created the Equitable Access option in the District’s Common Lottery and the Education
to Employment data system , formed the Research Practice Partnership in education, and helped
reduce costs for thousands of small businesses;

WHEREAS, Mr. Wilkes stepped down as Chairman of the Board of the D.C. Policy Center
on October 15, 2024, but continues to provide leadership and guidance to the organization as its
Chairman Emeritus; and

WHEREAS, Charles C. “Sandy” Wilkes has created an enduring legacy of public service
and dedication to the improvement of residential life and business in District of Columbia.

RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, That this
resolution may be cited as the “Charles C. “Sandy” Wilkes Ceremonial Recognition Resolution of
2025”.
Sec. 2. The Council recognizes and commends Charles C. “Sandy” Wilkes for his steadfast
service, guidance, and contributions as the founding Chairman of the Board of the D.C. Policy
Center and celebrates the significant benefits that his rich professional legacy has provided to the
District of Columbia.
Sec. 3. This resolution shall take effect immediately.