FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 7, 2006

Columbus, OH -- Lieutenant Governor Bruce Johnson today announced that Brown County will receive a $15,000 grant to assist with fair housing efforts. The funds will be awarded through the Ohio Small Cities Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) New Horizons Fair Housing Assistance Program, administered by the Ohio Department of Development.

"I'm confident that this funding will have a positive impact on the people of Brown County and the local economy," said Lt. Governor Johnson, who also serves as state development director. "By ensuring that all Ohioans have fair and affordable housing, we are investing in the community and raising its potential in attracting new investment that will result in the creation of new jobs."

Brown County will use the funds to purchase and distribute fair housing information, promotional items and advertising materials; and to purchase computer equipment to improve record keeping, reporting and fair housing presentations.

The CDBG New Horizons Fair Housing Assistance Program provides local governments with funds to affirmatively advance fair housing opportunities. Affirmative fair housing strategies are designed to address locally assessed needs and commitments, while advancing the state's fair housing and economic development goals.