DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

OFFICE OF SECRETARY

100 Community Place, Crownsville, Maryland, January 2001. Photo by Diane F. Evartt.

The Secretary is assisted by the Deputy Secretary. The Deputy Secretary is appointed by the Secretary with the approval of the Governor.

COMMUNITY LEGACY BOARD
Established in July 2001, the Community Legacy Board administers the Community Legacy Program (Chapter 567, Acts of 2001). Meant to complement existing programs, the Program funds comprehensive revitalization projects in communities that can demonstrate both evidence of decline and signs of strength. Sponsors, such as a local government, a group of local governments, or a community development organization, apply to the Board for financial assistance. Applications include a comprehensive revitalization plan designed to meet the needs and resources of the community to be revitalized.

The Board consists of six ex officio members and is chaired by the Secretary of Housing and Community Development (Code 1957, Art. 83B, secs. 4-801 through 4-811).

ADVISORY COMMITTEE TO COMMUNITY LEGACY BOARD
The Community Legacy Board is assisted by an advisory committee in deciding which projects to fund. The Committee's eleven members are appointed by the Governor, who names the chair (Code 1957, Art. 83B, sec. 4-810).

RESEARCH & STATISTICS
Research and Statistics began as the Office of Research when the Department of Economic and Community Development formed in 1970. The Office joined the Department of Housing and Community Development in 1987. In 1995, it became the Office of Policy Analysis and Commission Support; in 1996, the Office of Research; and in 1997, Research and Statistics.

This office analyzes policy issues and develops legislative initiatives. It helps develop Department databases and geographic information systems for policy reporting. The office also prepares the Consolidated Plan (for housing and economic and community development) required by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the Plan's annual updates, performance reports, and fair housing strategy.

DIVISION OF CREDIT ASSURANCE

The Division of Credit Assurance started as the Division of Housing Insurance in 1987. Renamed the Division of Housing Credit Assurance in 1990 (Chapter 321, Acts of 1990), it received its present name in 1996. The Division is responsible for the Maryland Housing Fund and asset management for the multi-family loan portfolio of the Department.

MARYLAND HOUSING FUND

CREDIT ASSURANCE REVIEW COMMITTEE
The Governor formed the Credit Assurance Review Committee in December 1993 (COMAR 05.06.05). The Committee advises the Division of Credit Assurance on the credit assurance programs of the Maryland Housing Fund. The Committee alerts the Fund to new programs for housing insurance or credit assurance or to innovative uses for current programs. The Committee also recommends how to use Fund resources for the benefit of State residents and for raising capital to support insurance reserves or programs through public or private sources.

For underwriting insurance of mortgage loans and managing the insured loan portfolio, the Committee advises the Fund on what policies and criteria should be used. The Committee also counsels the Fund on the structuring of its credit assurance programs to maintain the fiscal integrity of the Fund and of the reserve backing for each program.

BUILDING CODES ADMINISTRATION
Functions of the Building Codes Administration began with the Code Enforcement Certification Board in 1971. Within the Department of Economic and Community Development, the Board became the Division of Building Codes Administration by 1975. Two years later, the Division was renamed the Codes Administration. When the Department of Housing and Community Development formed in 1987, the Administration reorganized as the Building Codes Administration under the Division of Community Assistance. In 1996, the Administration transferred to the Division of Credit Assurance.

The Administration works with local governments, design professionals, and code inspectors to guarantee that the highest performance standards are met in building construction. Enforcement of the Industrialized Buildings and Mobile Home Regulations, the Model Performance Building Code, the Maryland Accessibility Code, the Maryland Safety Glazing Law, and Maryland Energy Conservation Building Standards are the responsiblity of the Administration.

Industrialized Building Program. Established in 1971, the Program offers certification standards for any building, building subsystem, or component that is manufactured and assembled off-site (Chapter 662, Acts of 1971). The Program encourages the growth of industrialized building construction by using preemptive uniform statewide codes and standards. Building systems that are certified by the State can be used or erected anywhere in Maryland without having to comply with different local building codes, as long as they comply with local zoning laws. The Building Codes Administration also inspects mobile homes to resolve consumer complaints and enforces the standard of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (Code 1957, Art. 83B, secs. 6-201 through 6-208).

The Model Performance Building Code was adopted in 1971 (Chapter 663, Acts of 1971). Based on the National Building Code of the Building Officials and Code Administrators International, Inc. (BOCA), the State's Model Performance Building Code was intended by the General Assembly eventually to be adopted statewide so builders might adapt their construction practices to a single set of modern, performance-oriented standards. Compliance with that code was voluntary.

In 1993, mandatory standards - the Maryland Building Performance Standards - were enacted by the General Assembly (Chapter 200, Acts of 1993). Also based on the most recent edition of the National Building Code issued by BOCA, these standards apply to all construction permits issued on or after August 1, 1995, with two exceptions. Counties or municipalities lacking any building code had to comply by 1997; those that adopted the Standard Building Code of the Southern Building Code Congress, Inc., by 1999. Local jurisdictions may amend the Maryland Building Performance Standards to meet local needs. A central, automated database that includes the Maryland Building Performance Standards, local amendments, the State Fire Prevention Code, local fire codes, all fire code amendments, and proposed State or federal legislation that directly affects the building industry is maintained by the Department of Housing and Community Development.

Provisions to promote energy conservation in building construction were established by the Maryland Energy Conservation Building Standards Act in 1981 (Code 1957, Art. 78, sec. 54J).

The Building Codes Administration administers the Safety Glazing Law (Chapter 116, Acts of 1973). The law requires the use of safety glazing in certain locations for new buildings (Code 1957, Art. 83B, secs. 6-301 through 6-306).

MULTIFAMILY ASSET MANAGEMENT
Multifamily Asset Management began as Multifamily Programs and received its present name in 1998. Multifamily insurance programs provide longer mortgage terms than are generally available; reduce monthly payments for the tenant; and enable higher loan-to-value ratio mortgages for borrowers. Multifamily insurance programs include construction loans and permanent loans.

Asset Management began as Housing Management in the Community Development Administration. Renamed Asset Management, it transferred to the Division of Housing Credit Assurance in May 1994 and to the Division of Credit Assurance in 1996. Its functions were reorganized under Multifamily Asset Management in 1998.

Asset Management monitors and manages the Department's multifamily portfolio, including State-funded loans and bond loans insured by the Maryland Housing Fund, the Federal Housing Authority, and others. To oversee the portfolio, the unit uses automated databases, standardized procedures, and early warning indicators. The database also provides a means of monitoring performance trends of the portfolio as a whole.

Construction Loans insure mortgages to nonprofit and qualified private developers of new or rehabilitated housing for families and individuals, the elderly and the disabled. Only in combination with permanent mortgage financing are construction loans insured. The Maryland Housing Fund is the only insurer of construction loans in the State, other than the Federal Housing Administration.

Permanent Loans insure permanent mortgages to nonprofit and qualified private developers of new or rehabilitated housing. Permanent mortgage insurance is provided to multifamily projects for new construction and rehabilitation, projects receiving federal subsidies, and market-rate projects financed by eligible issuers of revenue bonds.

Portfolio Management began in 1994 under the Maryland Housing Fund and became part of the Division of Information Technology and Portfolio Management in 1996. Functions of the office were returned to the Maryland Housing Fund in 1998. For the Maryland Housing Fund, the office focuses on risk management, and analysis and planning to better position the Fund's portfolio for the future. The office has helped increase reserve funds through loan and mortgage insurance initiatives.

Special Housing Opportunities Program (SHOP) Loans provide mortgage insurance to encourage the availability of financing to nonprofit agencies for group homes to house those with special needs, including the elderly, and the developmentally and mentally challenged. Mortgage loans finance acquisition, rehabilitation, or new construction; or refinance existing private mortgages. The Community Development Administration is the lender for these programs.

SINGLE-FAMILY OPERATIONS
Single-Family Operations began as Single-Family Programs, and received its present name in 1998. This office oversees four programs: the Pool Insurance Program, the Public Mortgage Single-Family Program, the Regular Mortgage Insurance Program, and the Revitalization Program.

Pool Insurance Program. This program offers insurance covering up to 100 percent of the loss on mortgages where there is primary coverage. The aggregate amount payable under this coverage is an agreed percentage (usually 5 to 10 percent) of the initial principal amount of mortgages financed through a revenue bond series. The Maryland Housing Fund provides pool insurance for revenue bonds issued by the Community Development Administration and other housing agencies.

Public Mortgage Single-Family Program. The Program offers primary insurance coverage on mortgages of up to 100 percent loan-to-value ratios financed by revenue bond-funded direct mortgages or mortgage purchase programs of a public agency mortgagee. The insurance is governed by the Regular Mortgage Insurance Program regulations, with modifications.

Regular Mortgage Insurance Program. Primary insurance coverage on mortgages of up to 100 percent loan-to-value ratios is offered by this program on terms provided by major financial institutions. Mortgage insurance premiums are comparable to those charged by private mortgage insurers. This program is approved by the Federal National Mortgage Association.

Revitalization Program. The Program provides opportunities to lower the risk of lending by using Maryland Housing Fund insurance to stimulate the flow of private mortgage capital into areas where home ownership has declined. In addition, the Program makes home ownership possible for those without the resources for property repairs and closing costs, which otherwise would be required. The borrower must make a minimum cash contribution (at least $500) based on household income. Currently, there is a risk-sharing requirement for lenders participating in this program.

DIVISION OF DEVELOPMENT FINANCE

The Division of Development Finance began in 1987 as the Division of Housing Finance (Chapter 311, Acts of 1987). In 1995, it received its present name (Chapter 115, Acts of 1995). The Division consists of the Community Development Administration, which operates finance programs for single- and multi-family housing with the proceeds of revenue bonds issued by the Administration. The Division runs other State housing programs as well.

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ADMINISTRATION

The Administration works to increase the supply of housing for families of limited income, the elderly, and the disabled. It also fosters sound community development and stimulates the construction industry statewide. Programs that increase home ownership, improve rental housing, build group homes, and assist owners with rehabilitated housing are overseen by the Administration. Programs are funded by the sale of tax-exempt revenue bonds; taxable bonds; State general obligation bonds; general funds; special funds generated through loan repayments, fees, and charges; and federal housing subsidies. The Administration also issues essential function bonds for the Local Government Infrastructure Program.

Projects proposed for financial assistance must comply with local priorities and complement and supplement local community development programs and initiatives. Projects also must meet eligibility criteria and financing requirements (Code 1957, Art. 83B, secs. 2-203 through 2-208).

HOUSING FINANCE REVIEW COMMITTEE
In 1983, the Housing Finance Review Committee was created (Chapter 668, Acts of 1983). The Committee reviews specific loan requests or categories of loan requests, and the investment and project financing policies of the Division of Development Finance. After review, the Committee makes recommendations to the Secretary of Housing and Community Development.

Appointed by the Governor upon recommendation of the Secretary of Housing and Community Development, the Committee is composed of seven members (Code 1957, Art. 83B, sec. 2-202).

MARYLAND AFFORDABLE HOUSING TRUST
The Maryland Affordable Housing Trust was constituted in 1992 to enhance the availability of affordable housing throughout the State (Chapter 265, Acts of 1992). A public instrumentality of the State, the Trust may receive monies for investment in the Maryland Affordable Housing Trust Fund. From this Fund, the Trust may make awards to support acquisition, construction, rehabilitation, or preservation of affordable housing; efforts of nonprofit organizations to develop affordable housing; and operating costs of housing developments in the promotion of affordable housing.

The Trust consists of fourteen members. Eleven voting members are appointed to four-year terms by the Governor with Senate advice and consent. Three nonvoting members include the Secretary of Housing and Community Development; a senator appointed by the Senate President; and a delegate chosen by the House Speaker (Code 1957, Art. 83B, secs. 11-101 through 11-107).

BOND FINANCE

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

HOME OWNERSHIP PROGRAMS
Home Ownership Programs include five programs: the Maryland Mortgage Program, the Maryland Home Financing Program, the Live Near Your Work Program, the Reverse Equity Mortgage Program, and the Settlement Expense Loan Program.

Maryland Mortgage Program. This program originated in 1980 as the Mortgage Purchase Program and received its present name in July 1987. The Program was implemented when mortgage funds available through private lending institutions dwindled and mortgage rates rose. Designed primarily for first-time home buyers, the Program provides reduced-interest mortgage loans to eligible home buyers through participating lending institutions. In this program, the Administration provides mortgage loans directly to eligible low- and moderate-income persons, or purchases loans made for them by participating lending institutions. Both newly constructed and existing homes are eligible under the Maryland Mortgage Program. Federal law designates certain low-income areas as target areas for which 20 percent of the funds from bond issues must be set aside. In these areas, purchase price limits are slightly higher and buyers are not required to be first-time home buyers.

Using Maryland Mortgage Program funds, the Administration also provides commitments to developers of newly constructed or substantially rehabilitated units for set-asides of mortgage funds for eligible buyers. Projects must have approval from the local government entity. To be eligible, project units must meet the acquisition cost limit for the region.

The Maryland Mortgage Program is funded by the sale of tax-exempt revenue bonds. Both the acquisition cost and income limits are set by the Administration within federal tax law guidelines. Acquisition costs vary by region.

Maryland Home Financing Program. Authorized by the General Assembly in 1972, this program was first funded with the sale of State general obligation bonds in 1973. This direct-loan program expands home ownership opportunities for low-income Marylanders. By virtue of its funding source - General Fund appropriations, and a revolving fund from prior loans under the Program - it differs from the other single-family programs. Loans have been made in every county and Baltimore City (Code 1957, Art. 83B, secs. 2-401 through 2-409; Code Financial Institutions Article, sec. 13-310).

By providing below market loans targeted at households with annual income under $27,650, the Maryland Home Financing Program also stimulates the production and rehabilitation of owner-occupied housing. The Administration encourages local governments and nonprofit organizations to contribute local resources for developments funded through this program.

Live Near Your Work Program. In July 1997, the Program was instituted. A partnership between the Department of Housing and Community Development, local governments, and Maryland's business community, the Program provides a cash incentive for employees to buy homes near their work in neighborhoods designated for revitalization.

Reverse Equity Mortgage Program. Started by the General Assembly in 1986, this program was first funded in 1988 through reserve funds of the Community Development Administration. The Program enables older Maryland home owners to gain access to the accumulated equity in their homes without having to sell or move. No repayment of the loan is required until the eligible borrower dies, sells the house, or permanently moves out of the home.

Settlement Expense Loan Program. Begun by the General Assembly in 1988, the Program provides low interest loans for settlement expenses to eligible low- and moderate-income home buyers who do not have sufficient resources to purchase an affordable home.

HOUSING DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS
Eleven programs come under Housing Development Programs. They include the Elderly Rental Housing Program, the HOME Program, the Local Government Infrastructure Program, the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit Program, the Maryland Housing Rehabilitation Program - Multi-Family, the Multi-Family Bond Program, the Nonprofit Rehabilitation Program, the Partnership Rental Housing Program, the Rental Housing Production Program, the Shelter I Program, and the Transitional Housing and Emergency Shelter Program.

Elderly Rental Housing Program. This program was created by the Legislature in 1984. The Program provides below-market-rate or deferred payment loans to developers who agree to construct or rehabilitate rental housing for occupancy by low-income elderly households. Priority is given to developments that serve the lowest income households.

HOME Program. The Program finances construction, acquisition, and rehabilitation of rental housing, owner-occupied housing, and special needs housing, such as group homes. The Program was designated by the Governor to allocate funds from the HOME Investment Partnership Program established by the federal National Affordable Housing Act of 1990 (Title II). HOME funds are used in conjunction with the Homeownership, Housing Development and Special Loan Programs of the Community Development Administration. Projects funded must meet federal HOME regulations. For HOME funds used in conjunction with the Community Development Administration, projects must qualify for the Community Development Administration program. Some funds are allocated to an Opportunities Fund awarded competitively to initiate pilot programs, and support promising projects. Monies from the Opportunities Fund are awarded to projects that neither qualify for nor need funds from other programs of the Community Development Administration, or to those which the Administration, as a matter of policy, has elected not to fund under its existing program.

Local Government Infrastructure Program. This program began as the Local Government Infrastructure Financing Program under the Division of Community Assistance. In 1994, the Program became the Office of Community Assistance and received its present name in 1996. The Program helps local governments access capital markets to finance or refinance improvements to infrastructure. On behalf of local government agencies, bonds are issued to fund projects which provide or improve the physical elements of the public service system. Projects may include improvements to roads, water and sewer systems, parks, public buildings, and other local priorities. The State does not guarantee the bonds.

Low-Income Housing Tax Credit Program. The Governor designated this program to allocate tax credits in Maryland under the federal Tax Reform Act of 1986 and Revenue Reconciliation Act of 1989. Tax credits are awarded through a competitive allocation to both nonprofit and for-profit sponsors of low-income housing.

Maryland Housing Rehabilitation Program - Multi-Family. The Program is designed to preserve housing by making direct, low-interest loans for repair and renovation to the owners of apartment buildings with five or more units and commercial properties. Recipients of loans for the renovation of rental properties must make units available to low-income tenants in the same proportion as Program financing to total project costs. Authorized by the General Assembly in 1975, the Program is funded by State general obligation bonds, general funds, and by repayments of principal and interest on outstanding loans.

Multi-Family Bond Program. Below-market-rate construction and permanent financing using taxable and tax-exempt bonds and notes are provided by this program. To be eligible, developments must set aside a portion of the units for limited-income households.

Nonprofit Rehabilitation Program. Formed by the General Assembly in 1986, the Program makes loans to nonprofit organizations and local governments. Its purpose is to rehabilitate buildings for rental housing, congregate housing, group homes, shelters, and other housing facilities that serve low-income households.

Partnership Rental Housing Program. Authorized by the General Assembly in 1988, the Program started as a two-year pilot project to expand the supply of affordable housing for the working poor. The Program was established by statute in 1990 (Chapter 343, Acts of 1990). In a partnership, local governments provide the finished site, including roads, water, sewer, and other infrastructure, while the Division of Development Finance provides construction and permanent financing for rental housing units.

Rental Housing Production Program. The Legislature created this program in 1986 to stimulate production of rental housing for lower-income households. Funds can be used for capital assistance to cover costs of construction, rehabilitation, or acquisition of rental housing; or for mortgage assistance to reduce the operating costs of rental housing. Local governments must make a contribution to reduce costs or otherwise support developments financed through the Program. Priority is given to developments that serve households at 30 percent or less of area median income. The Program is funded with general funds and repayments of principal and interest on outstanding loans.

Shelter I Program. Established in January 1990, the Program encourages nonprofit organizations, such as churches and community groups, to take the initiative in sponsoring their initial small housing project for low-income families or individuals. The Program supplies technical assistance and preferred interest rate loans from the programs listed above.

Transitional Housing and Emergency Shelter Program. This program provides grants to improve or create transitional housing and emergency shelters which include supportive services for their tenants. Its purpose is to reduce homelessness in the State. New construction, acquisitions, rehabilitation of housing, and purchase of capital equipment are eligible for grants. Grants may be provided to local governments and nonprofit organizations (Internal Revenue Code, sec. 501(c)(3)). Sponsors must agree to maintain the project as transitional housing or an emergency shelter for a term of 15 years. Local government letters of support are required for all projects.

RENTAL SERVICE PROGRAMS
Under the Community Development Administration, Rental Service Programs provide rental assistance with federal and State funds to low-income families for decent, safe and sanitary housing. Federal rental assistance comes to the State through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development under the Federal Housing Act of 1937 (42 USC 1437, as amended). The office monitors compliance with legal mandates of all rental developments financed with Community Development Administration loans and federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credits. Rental Service Programs includes the Rental Allowance Program, and the Section-8 Housing Choice Voucher Program.

Rental Allowance Program. Created by the General Assembly in 1986, this program was first funded in 1987. For low-income homeless households or those with critical or emergency housing needs, the Program subsidizes rent for short terms. The Program is administered through grants to local governments for monthly payments to eligible households. Funding is provided through State general funds.

Section-8 Housing Choice Voucher Program. Under the Program, participating landlords make available to low-income families rental housing that meets occupancy standards. To qualify, total family income must be 50 percent or less of the median income for the area in which the housing is located. Through local administering agencies, the Community Development Administration accepts and reviews applications from prospective tenants for participation in the program. Families that qualify are issued Certificates of Family Participation.

The Community Development Administration or the local administering agency guarantees payments to owners who agree to rent to qualifying families. The housing and lease must adhere to federal standards. Through the Community Development Administration, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development subsidizes a portion of the rent. Families may seek rental housing in neighborhoods that best suit their needs.

Under the Voucher Program, rent is established according to a local payment standard. If the rent exceeds the standard rate for that area, tenants may pay no more than 40 percent of their adjusted monthly income.

SPECIAL LOAN PROGRAMS
In 1986, the General Assembly created special rehabilitation programs to address the housing needs of low-income households. With State general funds, these programs provide low-interest, no-interest or deferred loans for 20-year terms.

Accessory, Shared, and Sheltered Housing Program. This program provides loans to limited-income home owners for housing modifications that create accessory dwelling units or provide for shared housing. Home owners also may receive loans to modify housing as sheltered housing for up to fifteen senior citizens or persons with disabilities who meet income-eligibility requirements.

Group Home Financing Program. Authorized by the General Assembly in 1986 as the Group Home Acquisition Program, the Program received its present name in 1995. With special funds, the Program finances nonprofit organizations to acquire and modify housing for group homes and temporary and emergency shelters serving low-income persons.

Limited-income home owners and landlords of rental properties who rent to limited-income households may qualify for loans or grants under two programs. Loans and grants through the Lead Hazard Reduction Loan and Grant Program finance hazard reduction in residential buildings and buildings that provide services to children. The Indoor Plumbing Program provides loans to finance indoor plumbing and related systems in buildings that lack indoor plumbing or have failing plumbing systems.

Maryland Housing Rehabilitation Program - Single Family. This program preserves owner-occupied one- to four-unit dwellings by making low-interest loans for repair and renovation. Owner-occupants and tenants of rental properties must meet income guidelines set by the Secretary of Housing and Community Development. The Program is administered under the same funding as the Maryland Housing Rehabilitation Programs - Multi-Family.

Operating Assistance Grant Demonstration Projects. Started in April 1991, these projects promote the development and improvement of low-income housing and, through operating assistance grants, enable nonprofit organizations to provide it (COMAR Title 5, subtitle 11).

Weatherization Assistance Program. Formerly under the Department of Human Resources, this program became part of the Department of Housing and Community Development in 1987 (Chapter 311, Acts of 1987). The Program funds local, community service organizations to help low-income, elderly, and persons with disabilities conserve energy by weatherizing their houses. The Program contracts with seventeen local administering agencies (county governments, community action agencies, offices on aging, and nonprofit organizations) to provide weatherization assistance statewide.

Since 1991, Weatherization Assistance has entered into agreements with major utility companies in Maryland to promote energy conservation through weatherization in low-income households. By joining these private funds with federal funds, more low-income households can be served.

DIVISION OF FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION

The Division of Finance and Administration began as the Division of Finance and received its present name in 1992. The Community Development Administration, the Maryland Housing Fund, and the Office of the Chief Financial Officer of the Department transferred to the Division in 1994.

Advice and technical support in fiscal matters is provided by the Division to the Department's senior program directors and managers. The Division accounts for Department expenditures and revenues; manages the capital and operating budgets; processes contracts, purchasing and procurement requests; and provides financial analytical review and reporting services. For the Department, the Division oversees financial management and central support services, including telecommunication systems, and facilities and fleet management.

DIVISION OF HISTORICAL & CULTURAL PROGRAMS

In 1985, the Division of Historical and Cultural Programs started as the Division of Cultural Affairs within the Department of Economic and Community Development. When the Department of Housing and Community Development formed in 1987, the Division transferred to the new department as the Division of Cultural Activities. In 1988, it was renamed the Division of Historical and Cultural Programs.

The Division directs programs through the Office of Management, Planning, and Educational Outreach which oversees four offices: Archaeology; Museum Services; Preservation Services; and Research, Survey, and Registration. The Division Director serves as the designee of the Secretary of Housing and Community Development in all aspects of State cultural programs. The Division also is responsible for the Maryland Heritage Areas Authority, and the Maryland Historical Trust.

MARYLAND HERITAGE AREAS AUTHORITY
Within the Department of Housing and Community Development, the Maryland Heritage Areas Authority was created in 1996 as an independent unit (Chapter 601, Acts of 1996). The General Assembly defined heritage areas as those that reflect the cultural themes of Maryland's development and provide educational, inspirational, economic and recreational benefits for present and future generations. The Authority may recognize and certify such heritage areas. It may approve or reject management plans for certified heritage areas as well.

The Authority consists of seventeen members. Nine are appointed to four-year terms by the Governor with Senate advice and consent. Eight serve ex officio. The Secretary of Housing and Community Development serves as chair (Financial Institutions Article, secs. 13-1101 though 13-1124).

MARYLAND HISTORICAL TRUST
The Maryland Historical Trust formed in 1961 to preserve, protect, and enhance districts, sites, buildings, structures, and objects significant in the prehistory, history, upland and underwater archaeology, architecture, engineering, and culture of the State (Chapter 620, Acts of 1961). The Trust also encourages others in the field and promotes interest in and study of such matters. In 1970, the Trust became an agency of the Department of Economic and Community Development and in 1987 joined the Department of Housing and Community Development (Chapter 311, Acts of 1987).

The Trust acquires and maintains properties of historic or architectural merit by gift, grant, or purchase. Through an easement program, it holds partial interest in such properties in order to monitor their condition and appearance without the necessity of public ownership.

Through State grants and a revolving-fund loan program, the Trust helps organizations, local governments, businesses, and individuals restore and acquire historic properties. Matching grants from the National Park Service of the U.S. Department of the Interior are made through the Trust. They support programs, such as historic resource identification (i.e., survey); evaluation (i.e., registration); preservation planning and education; and "Certified Local Government" programs.

To local jurisdictions, the Trust makes grants for surveying Maryland historic sites. Results of these surveys are published. The most significant sites are eligible for nomination to the National Register of Historic Places through the Trust. Properties listed on the National Register receive a degree of protection from federal and State licensed or funded projects that might adversely affect them.

Through its community education program, the Trust administers a local volunteer network, represented by advisory organizations (one in each county, in Baltimore City and Annapolis). These organizations, besides carrying out their own local preservation programs, assist the Trust by promoting its programs, grants, and loans; sponsoring Preservation Week activities; and advising on preservation needs and interests. The Trust sponsors an annual conference and regional workshops.

A library of archival and photographic material relating to Maryland archaeological and architectural history is maintained by the Trust.

The Trust's Board of Trustees is composed of fifteen members. Twelve are appointed to four-year terms by the Governor with Senate advice and consent. Three serve ex officio. Trustees appoint eight area representatives to serve one-year terms. The Board appoints the Director.

Appointed by the Governor pursuant to the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the State Historic Preservation Officer is a member of the Trust staff. Preservation activities as required by the federal government are carried out by the State Historic Preservation Officer in concert with the Trust (Code 1957, Art. 83B, secs. 5-601 through 5-630).

OFFICE OF MANAGEMENT, PLANNING, & EDUCATIONAL OUTREACH

The Office of Management, Planning, and Educational Outreach oversees the Commission on Indian Affairs and four main offices: Archaeology; Museum Services; Preservation Services; and Research, Survey, and Registration. It also is aided by Heritage Planning and Outreach.

COMMISSION ON INDIAN AFFAIRS
100 Community Place
Crownsville, MD 21032

The Commission began in 1974 as part of the Commission on Afro-American and Indian History and Culture. Within the Department of Economic and Community Development, it became a separate agency in 1976 (Chapter 148, Acts of 1976). In 1987, the Commission on Indian Affairs was made part of the Department of Housing and Community Development (Chapter 311, Acts of 1987). Formerly under the Division's Office of Cultural and Educational Services, the Commission in 1992 was placed under the Office of Research, Survey, and Registration. In October 2001, the Commission moved to the Office of Management, Planning, and Educational Outreach.

Programs and projects to further the cultural, educational, economic and social development of Maryland's diverse Indian communities are coordinated by the Commission. The Commission also works to promote public awareness and appreciation of the rich contributions that Indians have made to life in the State. Petitions from Native-American groups are reviewed by the Commission for recognition by the Governor as Maryland Indian tribes. The Commission also reviews requests to the Maryland Historical Trust for transfer to Native Americans of human remains and associated funerary objects in the custody of the Trust.

The Commission consists of nine members, a majority of whom must be members of the Native American communities of Maryland. Appointed by the Governor with Senate advice and consent, members serve three-year terms. Subject to the approval of the Secretary of Housing and Community Development, the Commission appoints the Director (Code 1957, Art. 83B, secs. 5-401 through 5-406).

HERITAGE PLANNING & OUTREACH
Under the Office of Management, Planning, and Educational Outreach, Heritage Planning and Outreach originated in 1996 as the Office of Planning and Educational Outreach. In 1997, it reorganized under its present name.

Heritage Planning and Outreach provides staff support to the Maryland Heritage Areas Authority, and offers technical preservation assistance to local governments and the general public. It administers the Certified Local Government Program, and oversees the production and sale of Maryland Historical Trust Press publications. This unit also coordinates the Noncapital Historic Preservation Grant Program, tracks preservation-related State legislation, and prepares the annual Maryland Historic Preservation Awards program.

OFFICE OF ARCHAEOLOGY
The Office of Archaeology began in 1968 as the Division of Archaeology under the Maryland Geological Survey (Chapter 541, Acts of 1968). In 1990, archaeological functions of the Survey were combined with the archaeology staff of the Maryland Historical Trust, and the Division reformed as the Office of Archaeology within the Maryland Historical Trust (Chapter 57, Acts of 1990). In 1992, the Office was placed under the Office of Management, Planning, and Educational Outreach.

The Office of Archaeology directs Maryland archaeological research, synthesizes research data, and promotes further research. The Office participates in the excavation of significant historical or archaeological sites that are in the custody or control of a State agency. It coordinates the retrieval and preservation of objects of archaeological significance discovered during the course of any public construction in the State. The Office also encourages preservation of prehistoric or historic sites located on private property.

Publishing reports of its research and investigations, the Office makes educational materials available to schools to teach students about how natives and early settlers of Maryland lived. For museums, institutions of higher education, and scientific or historical institutions, the Office makes available objects and materials that show the archaeological history of the State and helps these institutions preserve and protect archaeological items in their custody. In addition, the Office trains interested citizens to identify, investigate, and register terrestrial and submerged archaeological historic property.

The head of the Office is the Chief Archaeologist (Code 1957, Art. 83B, secs. 5-611.1, 5-620 through 5-630).

Within the Office of Archaeology are the Terrestrial Archaeology Program, and the Underwater Archaeology Program. The Office also is assisted by the Advisory Committee on Archaeology.

ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON ARCHAEOLOGY
Formerly under the Maryland Geological Survey, the Advisory Committee on Archaeology transferred to the Maryland Historical Trust in 1990 (Chapter 57, Acts of 1990). The Committee advises and assists the Archaeology Office on archaeological matters and reviews policies, plans, rules, and regulations concerned with archaeological matters.

The Committee's seven members are appointed to three-year terms by the Governor upon recommendation of the Secretary of Housing and Community Development and with Senate advice and consent (Code 1957, Art. 83B, sec. 5-624).

OFFICE OF MUSEUM SERVICES
Created in 1989, the Office of Museum Services is responsible for the Historical and Cultural Museum Assistance Program.

Historical and Cultural Museum Assistance Program. To local jurisdictions and private, nonprofit organizations, the Program provides financial and technical assistance for museums (Code 1957, Art. 83B, secs. 5-701 through 5-705).

The Office also oversees and coordinates two museum properties: the Banneker-Douglass Museum of African-American History and Culture, and the Jefferson Patterson Historical Park and Museum. In addition, the Office is aided by the Commission on African-American History and Culture, and the Museum Assistance Review Panel.

MUSEUM ASSISTANCE REVIEW PANEL
The Museum Assistance Review Panel organized in 1990 (Chapter 322, Acts of 1990). The Panel reviews and recommends to the Secretary of Housing and Community Development the approval of grants under the Historical and Cultural Museum Assistance Program. In reviewing grant applications that relate to the care and preservation of, or access to archival material, the Panel seeks the advice and recommendations of the State Archivist.

The Panel includes members appointed by the Secretary of Housing and Community Development and three ex officio members (Code 1957, Art. 83B, secs. 5-701 through 5-705).

COMMISSION ON AFRICAN-AMERICAN HISTORY & CULTURE
c/o Banneker-Douglass Museum of African-American History & Culture
84 Franklin St.
Annapolis, MD 21401

The Commission on African-American History and Culture originated in 1969 as the Maryland Commission on Negro History and Culture (Chapter 435, Acts of 1969). In 1971, it was assigned to Morgan State College by Executive Order. Under the Department of Economic and Community Development, the Commission was renamed in 1974 as the Commission on Afro-American and Indian History and Culture (Chapter 386, Acts of 1974). The Commission was renamed the Commission on Afro-American History and Culture in 1976 (Chapter 120, Acts of 1976). It became part of the Department of Housing and Community Development in 1987 (Chapter 311, Acts of 1987). In 1992, the Commission was redesignated as the Commission on African-American History and Culture (Chapter 290, Acts of 1992). Formerly under the Division's Office of Cultural and Educational Services, the Commission became part of the Office of Research, Survey, and Registration in 1992. In September 1995, the Commission moved to the Office of Museum Services.

The Commission serves as the statewide clearinghouse for preserving evidence of and documenting the African-American experience in Maryland. It specializes in research assistance and collection of historical materials - art objects, memorabilia, manuscripts, photographs, and other articles of significance to African-American history and culture. For the community at large and the educational systems and institutions within the State, the Commission provides exhibits, programs, and resource materials. The Commission also participates in a continuing statewide survey to locate and identify sites and buildings of historical and cultural importance to the African-American experience in Maryland.

The State's annual observance of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s birthday (January 15) is planned and coordinated by the Commission. Any available federal or private funds for the planning and execution of commemorative and educational activities in connection with that observance are received and administered by the Commission.

The Commission's nine members are appointed to four-year terms by the Governor with Senate advice and consent. Subject to the approval of the Secretary of Housing and Community Development, the Commission appoints the Director (Code 1957, Art. 83B, secs. 5-301 through 5-306). The Commission is aided by an Advisory Committee.

BANNEKER - DOUGLASS MUSEUM OF AFRICAN-AMERICAN HISTORY & CULTURE
84 Franklin St.
Annapolis, MD 21401