Good morning, Washington, and happy St. Patrick’s Day. One day into the tournament, we hope your NCAA bracket is shaping up well. We know it is for the GW Colonials — they eked out a three-point win over UNC Wilmington in overtime last night. Their next game will be against Duke at 1:10 on Saturday.
Maryland Mulls Response To Utility Rate Hikes: Last week we discussed the steep electricity rate increase that will likely face Maryland residents this summer. The Post brings word of how the state legislature plans to deal with it. The specifics have yet to be worked out, but the message seems to be clear: Annapolis expects the utilities to soften the blow to consumers. If the energy suppliers fail to play ball, legislators are threatening to block a planned merger with a Florida company — or perhaps even reregulate the state’s electric industry altogether. Additionally, WTOP reports this morning that Governor Ehrlich has pledged $25 million in aid to help low-income Maryland residents deal with the rate increases.
Wildfire Contained: Well, that was quick. Yesterday we mentioned that the region was in an unusually fire-prone state. Sure enough, WTOP is now reporting that a five-alarm fire broke out in Anne Arundel County yesterday afternoon and was subsequently contained. The flames tore through nearly 100 acres and were fought by about 150 fire personnel.
District Considers More Surveillance Cams: The Washington Times reports that Deputy Mayor Edward Reiskin intends to introduce legislation later this month that would expand the quantity and use of the city’s surveillance cameras. The city currently has nineteen closed-circuit cameras, but they are only turned on during special events. Reisken’s legislation would provide for more cameras and a pilot program allowing police less restricted access to three of them. Opponents of the proposal have already made themselves known, citing privacy and efficacy concerns.
Briefly Noted: MetroWest proposal to face vote on Mar. 27… Archbishop grants area Catholics special permission to eat meat today… DCA security snafu forces widespread rescreening… Authorities raid Md. homes, reportedly over credit card fraud… Ehrlich asks for money for paper ballots… National Aquarium may move to face National Mall… Jury deadlocks in Hunters Brooke arson trial…
Images posted to DCist Photos by Flickr users ohad* and xaosDC
