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NEWS RELEASE

April 15, 2008

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Free Informational Workshop Scheduled April 23

Howard County Accepting Applications for Moderate Income Housing Unit Program

ELLICOTT CITY, MD – Howard County’s Department of Housing and Community Development is now taking applications for the April enrollment period for the County’s moderate income housing unit (MIHU) program. The MIHU program is an inclusionary zoning program that requires developers of new housing in certain zoning districts to sell or rent some of the new dwelling units to households of moderate income. The program offers quality new homes at reduced prices and rents to eligible families. The application deadline is April 30, 2008.

“Many of the people who grew up or work in Howard County cannot afford to live here. They can only dream of living near their work, shortening their commutes, and enjoying the many benefits and amenities of Howard County. The MIHU program is designed to help bridge the ‘affordability gap’ and make their dream a reality,” said County Executive Ken Ulman.

In addition, County Executive Ulman announced that the County will hold an “MIHU Buyers and Renters Workshop” on April 23 in the Banneker Room of the George Howard Building in Ellicott City from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. The workshop is open to the public and will assist potential MIHU homebuyers and renters by explaining the program’s eligibility and application process. The workshop will include representatives from some of the current MIHU builders.

“We are pleased that we have many high-quality, yet affordable housing options coming on line soon,” said Stacy L. Spann, Director of Housing & Community Development. Three-bedroom townhome MIHUs, as well as one, two and three-bedroom apartments are now available in Belmont Station, near Route 1 in Elkridge. In addition, the Elkridge Crossing and Village Towns subdivisions, also near Route 1, are offering three-bedroom townhomes and two-bedroom condominium apartments. Near Laurel, Ashbury Courts is offering luxurious one and two-bedroom apartments.

To buy an MIHU, individuals must first apply to the County’s Department of Housing and Community Development to be placed on a waiting list. To be eligible to purchase, an applicant’s household income may not exceed 80% of the Howard County median – currently $75,408 for a family of four. Base sales prices for MIHUs range from about $100,000 for a condominium to about $240,000 for a single-family home. Prices vary depending on the size and amenities of the units. Rents range from about $1,060 to $1,640, including utilities. MIHUs are interspersed throughout each development and enjoy all of the amenities of each community.

To rent, the applicant’s household income may not exceed 60% of the Howard Count median, which is currently $56,556 for a family of four. Prospective renters may apply any time directly to the participating rental community. MIHUs are rented on a first-come, first-serve basis.

MIHU enrollment periods for purchase opportunities are held quarterly. The next MIHU lottery is anticipated to be held in mid-May. Interested persons should visit the County website for information about the program at www.howardcountymd.gov, or call the Department of Housing & Community Development at 410-313-6318.