Breakfast links: Help wanted
Help wanted at Metro
Even in a tough economy, Metro is having trouble finding qualified people to hire, leading to large amounts of overtime. The problem will likely get worse as Metro ramps up for the Silver Line. (Washington Times)
Help wanted on ethics board
Mayor Gray can’t seem to find people to serve on the city’s new Board of Ethics and Government Accountability. Several people turned down a post. (Post)
A blanket of traffic cameras
Mayor Gray would ultimately like to cover the entire city with traffic cameras, including ones that ticket drivers who do not yield to pedestrians at crosswalks. (Post, Falls Church) (Tip: Falls Church)
Henderson is chancellor, not Kwame Brown
The DC Council’s recent education bill could be the start of a lot of meddling by the Council. Getting rid of this is why DC abolished the school board, and DC “does not need 13 chancellors.” (Post editorial)
No Bethesda vs. Wheaton
The redevelopment of Wheaton and the second Bethesda Metro entrance were never really at odds, says Roger Berliner. Instead, the council sees a transit-based future while County Executive Leggett prioritizes roads. (Gazette)
Cars over veggies
Bethesda’s farmers’ market is moving away from the center of Bethesda because the county wants to keep Elm Street open Sundays during construction. ACT says it’s not necessary and will hurt street life.
Affordable housing needed
Experts say Montgomery County will need financial incentives to encourage affordable housing. Otherwise it will just get more traffic, as workers who can’t afford to live in the county commute from elsewhere. (Examiner)
Garvey wins
Democrat Libby Garvey won the open Arlington County Board seat in a special election that saw historically low turnout. She defeated Republican candidate Mark Kelly by less than 900 votes. (Post)
And…
As Metro celebrates its 36th birthday, the Post finds a story from its first. … PETA jumps on Virginia’s street naming program, suggests Spay Today Way. (Examiner) … A petition seeks a referendum on Maryland’s congressional districts. (Examiner)