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NEWS RELEASE

July 15, 2008

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Free Informational Workshop Scheduled July 22

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 July 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 with moderate incomes. The program offers quality new homes at reduced prices and rents to eligible families. The application deadline is July 31, 2008.

“We know that many of the people who grew up or now work in Howard County cannot afford to live here,” said County Executive Ken Ulman. “That is why the MIHU program is so important. In 2007 alone, the program gave 32 eligible applicants the chance to buy affordable new homes, and we also made 52 rental units available. Each time we open a new enrollment period, the interest grows, and we give individuals and families the opportunity to make their housing dreams a reality.”

The County will also hold an “MIHU Buyers and Renters Workshop” on July 22 in Room 6 of the Gateway Building, 6751 Columbia Gateway Drive in Columbia from 7 p.m. to 9 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, affordable housing options,” said Stacy L. Spann, Director of Housing & Community Development. Three-bedroom townhome MIHUs, as well as one, two and three-bedroom apartments are again 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 income

– 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 County median income, 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 expected to be held in mid-August. 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.