Breakfast links: Up, up, and away
The height limit is popular
61% of DC residents want to keep the height limit. But people who want to relax the limit are actually 10 points less likely to support Mayor Gray, the only candidate who backs a change. (Post)
Minimum wage going up
DC’s minimum wage will gradually rise to $11.50 by July 2016 under a bill Mayor Gray signed yesterday. Beginning in 2017, the minimum wage will increase with inflation. (City Paper)
More parking for Huntington
A proposed residential building near Huntington Metro had 161 spaces for 141 units, but Fairfax County planning staff recommended rejecting the project for not having enough parking. It now will have 191 spaces. (WBJ)
Where do the kids go?
Evidence is mounting that cities are becoming a land of singles without children. Only 16.8 percent of DC’s total population is under 18. What are the implications after they begin families? (Urban Turf, Atlantic Cities)
Marijuana bill moves forward
A council committee approved a bill by Tommy Wells to decriminalize marijuana possession to just a fine. The Post poll finds 63% of DC residents favor outright legalizing marijunana. (DCist, Post)
Rep. Moran retiring
Congressman Jim Moran (D-VA) will not run for re-election. Frank Wolf (R-VA) previously announced his retirement as well. Of course, there’s already speculation about who could run for the Arlington, Alexandria, and Fairfax seat. (Post)
Express lanes fall short
A one-year review of the 495 Express Lanes showed fewer vehicles than predicted. Transurban predicted 66,000 daily trips, but only reached a maximum 47,303 in September. The average toll price was $2.32. (WTOP)
And…
A bill would route part of DC’s budget surplus for affordable housing. (City Paper) … Bethesda’s Purple Line station is in limbo over one building. (WAMU) … DC’s Taxi Commission will partially pay for 3,000 drivers to paint their vehicles. (DCist)