Annapolis, MD (August 15, 2006) - Anne Arundel County Executive Janet S. Owens wants residents who subscribe to Comcast to be aware of a rate increase. "I received a letter from Chris Comer, Director of Government Affairs - Comcast Chesapeake Bay Group, dated August 14, 2006, advising me of the increase," said County Executive Owens. " Since I was unaware of the hike, I wanted to be certain citizens were informed about the company’s plan to raise their rates." A $2.00 per month increase in the September/October billing cycle for County customers will take place as a result of a recent agreement between Comcast and Mid-Atlantic Sports Network (MASN). Negotiations were just completed and Comcast announced a long-term agreement for the cable company to provide the sports network to 1.6 million Comcast cable customers in the area. More than 98,000 subscribers are in Anne Arundel County. "I want all residents to understand, whether they enjoy sports or not, the rate hike is across the board," said Ms. Owens. "This isn’t something you can order, the two dollars will just be added to the bill." The Mid-Atlantic Sports Network will air the Washington Nationals and in 2007, become the exclusive television home of the Baltimore Orioles. MASN will televise local sports, including NCAA football, basketball, and lacrosse. Comcast is one of three cable companies that will offer service in Anne Arundel County. Millennium and Comcast currently service the County, with Verizon offering service beginning Sunday, August 20, 2006. | 
