Franconia District Supervisor Rodney Lusk wrapped up a year as chair of the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (COG) with a call for continued regional collaboration.
“Regionalism isn’t something that’s easy,” Lusk said in valedictory remarks at COG’s meeting on Wednesday (Jan. 14). During the meeting, he passed the gavel to Reuben Collins II of the Charles County Board of Commissioners, who will chair the body for 2026.
Arlington County Board member Takis Karantonis, who serves on the COG board, praised Lusk’s “hard work in absolutely unprecedented times.”
Lusk referenced three major events of 2025 that tested the region in unique ways:
- The Jan. 29 collision between a U.S. Army helicopter and regional passenger jet near Reagan National Airport that killed 67 people
- The Trump administration’s efforts to downsize the federal workforce and cut spending on social services, and the local region’s efforts in response to strengthen workforce development
- The regional effort with the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority, dubbed DMV Moves, to create a framework for sustained transit funding
DMV Moves was “an initiative we should all be very proud of,” Lusk said during remarks opening the meeting.
Serving as chair provided Lusk the opportunity to “see how other jurisdictions and other leaders work on issues,” he said, voicing appreciation for his colleagues and the COG staff, led by executive director Clark Mercer.
The chair’s position typically rotates annually between representatives of Virginia, Maryland and the District. In taking over for 2026, Collins said “we have a big year ahead of us.”
“We must remain flexible, nimble and ready to pivot,” he said.
Elected to serve as vice chairs for 2026 were D.C. City Council member Charles Allen and Alexandria Mayor Alyia Gaskins.
The COG board consists of 34 members, most of them elected officials. Among other issues, the organization coordinates regional efforts to plan transportation projects, address homelessness and economic challenges, advance environmental goals and support public safety.
