Tuesday, August 11, 2009

Morning News Round-Up -- 8.11.09: The economy is bad... seriously

When people can’t find jobs, they usually go back to school. If that’s what you are planning, then you can get in line. Colleges across the state are having a hard time keeping pace with the increasing demand for more schooling. San Mateo County Community College District’s enrollment increased 14 percent this summer with fall enrollment on track to grow 20 percent. More than 12,000 people are on the wait list at this time.

Another telling sign that the economy is still bad (in case you hadn’t noticed). San Mateo day labors are lingering on the streets, because well, they can’t get work. And once again, it’s pissing off the neighbors, many of whom don’t like the fact that their tax dollars are going toward a Day Labor Resource Center, a drop in center where day labors can try to find work. Councilman John Lee assured residents there was nothing more that the City can do about lingering day labors: “We can’t run them out. If anyone has better ideas bring them forward...” he said. Watch Dog's guess is that his offer to bring ideas forward will encourage many to do just that... get ready Councilmember Lee.

BART union members nixed a contract settlement Monday night. BART Managers and Board members are graciously threatening to shove a contract down the throats of any union that didn’t accept the deal. Surely, that won’t lead to a strike?

Apparently, Foster City has the best roads in San Mateo County, according to the Metropolitan Transportation Commission.

Crews have started renovating the 124-year-old Emmett House in Belmont into two low-income housing units.

Another clear sign the economy is bad: The CHP writes more tickets. Tomorrow, the CHP will be cracking down on anyone gabbing on the phone while driving without a hands-free device. Thank you for the hands-free heads-up...

Portola Valley’s Town Council was hoping residents would read between the lines when it recently sent out postcard to residents, reminding them of the Town’s serious budget woes. The postcard went out three months before voters are set to decide on renewing the Town’s utility tax, which bring in 10 percent of Portola Valley’s revenue.

The long-awaited Palo Alto groundbreaking of the renovated Lytton Plaza was scheduled for Monday but then canceled, thanks to a local resident who pointed out that it would have violated City Charter. City leaders are scrambling to schedule a special meeting while downtown merchants are lamenting the setback. Only in Palo Alto...

Coastsiders say Route 17 isn’t just a scenic route that’s “nice to have.” Residents who packed the community hearing last week pointed out that Route 17 is a necessity: it is the only line serving both the Moonridge low-income community, and stops in the upper section of Montara.

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