D.C. Code § 1-301.04: Settlement for real estate acquired by purchase or condemnation.

The Mayor of the District of Columbia may, in his discretion and when he deems such action to be in the public interest, effect settlement with owners of real estate authorized to be acquired by purchase or condemnation for District of Columbia purposes, through such title company or companies in the District of Columbia as may be designated by the Mayor, and to pay from appropriations available for the acquisition of such real estate reasonable fees to cover the cost of the services rendered by such title company or companies.