Transformer statues in front of Dr. Newtown Howard’s home on Prospect St. NW in 2021 by Victoria Pickering licensed under Creative Commons.

DC Public Space Committee not swayed by the testimony of Optimus Prime and Bumblebee in Transformers statue meeting

“Now, I understand some people think that these statues don’t fit the character of the neighborhood, that they stand out like a sore thumb. Well, first, I resent being compared to a sore thumb,” said Bumblebee, as voiced by actor Peter Cullen, in the most recent DC Public Space Committee meeting. In the latest chapter of the fight to protect the Autobot statues in front of a Georgetown home, the actors behind Optimus Prime, Bumblebee, and even the Armorer in The Mandalorian turned out to voice support for a public space permit and criticize the complaints of historic preservationists. Despite the arguments of lawyer (and DC shadow senator) Paul Strauss and these famous supporters, the DC Public Space Committee denied the permit application. Strauss vows they will continue the fight.  (Martin Austermuhle / DCist)  

Old Town Alexandria’s waterfront expected to rise two feet by 2050

During a recent city council meeting in Alexandria, the division chief for project implementation announced that current projections estimate sea levels — including the Potomac River — will rise up to two feet by 2050. It’s a problem for the already often-flooded Old Town waterfront, which would need a new (and expensive) flood mitigation system.  (Vernon Miles / ALXNow)  

Arlington is now one of the country’s most expensive rental markets

According to a recent survey, Arlington is now the tenth most expensive market for rental apartments in the United States, with a median price for a one-bedroom apartment coming at $2300. It’s just one place below Washington, DC, which has a median price for a one-bedroom apartment of $2370.  (ARLNow)  

Historic Downtown DC church latest to release housing plans for property

The Church of the Ascension and Saint Agnes, located on Massachusetts Avenue in Downtown DC, is looking to begin the process of building multifamily housing on the property it owns next to the church. The project, which will also incorporate existing townhomes, will consist of eight stories and units ranging in size. However, the church has not indicated whether the housing will be affordable.  (Emily Wishingrad / Bisnow)  

Biden vetoes GOP effort to block DC’s police reform law

On Thursday, May 25 — the third anniversary of George Floyd’s murder — Biden formally vetoed Republican-led efforts to block DC’s police reform law. It serves as a victory for DC’s right to self-govern, though Biden had previously upheld the effort to nullify changes to DC’s criminal code.  (Colleen Long / NBC4)  

Montgomery County approves $6.7 billion budget, despite concerns

The Montgomery County Council has approved an operating budget of $6.7 billion, which will see a 4.7% increase in property taxes. It reflects County Executive Marc Elrich’s desire to increase spending, though members have raised concerns regarding the decision process’ transparency, as well as the implications an imminent recession might have on future budgets.  (Katie Shepherd / Post)  

Have a tip for the links? Submit it here.