Breakfast links: New ways of thinking

Target willing to go without huge garage?

By thinking about opening a store in Georgetown, Target is breaking with its usual policy of requiring lots of parking, like the 1,000-space garage at DC USA which is never more than half used. (Housing Complex)

Wyman will update Metro map

WMATA has hired Lance Wyman, the original designer of the Metro map, to update his iconic work.  The new version will need to accommodate the Dulles rail extension as well as some new route modifications. (TBD)

Baker has plans for PG

Prince George’s County Executive Rushern Baker wants to quickly pass ethics reform measures in the county and Annapolis, so that he can move on attracting business investment in the county. He will freeze public salaries but funnel significant one-time money into the school system. (Post)

Where are the new MoCo residents?

Montgomery Planning Director Rollin Stanley looks deeper at Census data showing the county becoming majority-minority and where new residents are living. People moving to infill condos cost less in infrastructure and schoolchildren than single-family houses. (The Director’s Blog)

DC might withhold $50M in face of cuts

If Metro cuts weekend late-night service, the District may withhold its $50 million in capital matching funds. The funding compact is also threatened by Congress’ reluctance to contribute its $150 million. (WTOP)

Undisciplined school discipline

A Fairfax County middle school suspended a student for 7 weeks for taking a prescription acne medication at school. The student transferred to another school but has performed worse and still experiences taunting and rumors. (Post) … Meanwhile, an elementary school in King George is being accused of doing little to punish an 11-year-old who threatened another student with a knife. (WUSA)

Biddle wasting BOEE & opponent resources?

A hearing for Patrick Mara was postponed yesterday without notice. Sekou Biddle, who is challenging Mara’s candidacy, didn’t show up, perhaps because he never planned to seriously contest Mara. (Four26)

Gray’s hiring misses mark

A draft report from Council member Mary Cheh shows numerous Gray appointees are receiving salaries above the Council-mandated cap. David Catania called the report “white wash.” (City Paper) … Robert McCartney says the whole saga is an indication that Gray needs some new advisors. (Post)

Metro needs longer track work planning

A year ago, Metro only planned major track work a month or two in advance. They now plan 6 months ahead but Sarles recognizes the need to increase long-range planning of major maintenance work. (Post)