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NEWS RELEASE

October 1, 2007

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Ulman Announces Howard County’s Purchase of Historic Ellicott City Post Office

ELLICOTT CITY, MD – County Executive Ken Ulman announced today that Howard County Government has signed a letter of intent to purchase the U.S. Post Office building in Historic Ellicott City. The Post Office building is on the Maryland Inventory of Historic Properties and is one of Preservation Howard County’s Top Ten Endangered Sites. “I couldn’t be more pleased to be able to call this beautiful, historic building ‘county property,’” said County Executive Ulman. “So many people wanted this to happen, and then worked hard to make it happen--this was the epitome of a collaborative effort.”

Currently, Howard County Tourism operates the 2,000 square foot Visitor Information Center in the U.S. Post Office basement. United States Congressman Elijah Cummings also operates a field office on the first floor. "I am excited about entering a new partnership with Howard County and anticipate a smooth transition as we both serve our constituency out of this wonderful building," said Congressman Cummings who attended today’s announcement. County Councilperson Courtney Watson, who represents this district added, “The preservation of the Ellicott City Post Office is essential to maintaining the historic character of Main Street as a tourist destination.”

The County’s purchase of the Post Office, for $640,000, will be made final on April 1, 2008, pending an inspection period during which the viability of the building and the County’s ability to make the necessary improvements to ensure its long term preservation will be assessed.

The purchase of this building will allow the Visitor Information Center to house larger historical interpretation displays, showcase special event information, provide ample space for brochures, books, maps and best reflect the community it serves. Additionally, expanded meeting space can be offered to local groups, travelers could access the internet, watch informational videos about the county and purchase souvenir items by local authors and artists.

Open seven days a week, the Howard County Tourism Office welcomes over 20,000 guests annually and gives expert advice on what to see and do, where to stay and where to shop while in Howard County. In addition, Howard County Tourism is a resource for residents, businesses, visitors and the media answering hundreds of e-mail, telephone and mail requests for information daily.