January 21, 2025

The Honorable Liz Walsh, Chairperson The Howard County Council

3430 Court House Drive,

Ellicott City, Maryland 21043

Dear Ms. Walsh and members of the Council: 

On behalf of the League of Women Voters of Howard County, I appreciate the opportunity to convey strong support for Council bills CR161-2024 and CR162-2024. 

These bills both move the Long Reach Redevelopment and Reinvigoration project forward. The inclusion of affordable housing is in line with county goals as expressed in the General Plan and in the League’s long-standing support for affordable housing. This Columbia village needs affordable housing and amenities within walking distance and the League supports the project and the land sale.

The League would also like to express strong support for CB3-2025 which approves Enterprise Community Development’s request for approval of the Section 108 Loan guarantee allowing both the Ranleigh Place and Waverly woods redevelopment housing projects to proceed. For more than 50 years, these communities offered a significant number of affordable houses to low-income county residents. The properties have deteriorated significantly over time. Preservation and expansion of these properties is consistent with the General Plan that calls for existing affordable housing preservation.

There will be homes for households making 60% and below of Howard County median income and some even below 40% of median income. In addition, these projects will expand the number of accessible units for disabled county residents. Enterprise’s commitment to serving the needs of  this population is very welcome.

Thank you for the opportunity to speak to these issues with you.

Sincerely, 

Laura Mettle, President

The League of Women Voters of Howard County