June 20, 2006

The Arlington County Board

2100 Clarendon Boulevard, Suite 300

Arlington, VA 22201

Dear Board Members:

Last night at its monthly meeting, the Arlington Interfaith Council unanimously endorsed the general goals of the Save Buckingham Coalition in its efforts to preserve affordable housing at Buckingham Village. We know that Mr. Zimmerman announced at the June 10 County Board public hearing (intended to discuss the proposed ordinance to designate the buildings, open space, trees, landscaping, and other structures and features located within the property of Buckingham Villages 1, 2 and 3 as locally designated Historic Landmarks) that negotiations are underway with the County, the developer, and the residents to agree on the status of Buckingham Village. We praise the County for its leadership in encouraging this dialogue and seeking a mutual agreement. Whatever the terms agreed on before the July Board meeting, the Council endorses the following concepts for Buckingham Village:

1. Preserve Affordable Rental Housing

2. No Displacement

3. Community Process

4. Well-Maintained, Safe and Secure Housing

5. Homeownership

The County is at a critical moment in its affordable housing efforts. The supply of affordable housing in Arlington continues to decline, despite efforts to preserve existing affordable units and to construct new ones. Every effort needs to be made to prevent the loss of the three Buckingham villages to demolition and replacement with upscale, costly housing and preserve the urban village concept and community spirit that exist there now.