A local governmental unit qualifies as a local administering agency for the Program without participating in the selection process. Under 10 CFR §440.15, an administering agency shall be a private or public nonprofit entity as recognized by federal and State laws. A nonprofit entity shall have an active Board of Directors organized in accordance with the laws governing the corporate structure under which the organization was founded. Rating and Ranking. The Department shall rate and rank an agency that is not a local governmental unit based on the: Agency's experience in the administration of weatherization or similar programs in the area to be served; Agency's plan for managing the Program including production oversight, inventory, outreach, and other sources of funds leveraged; Education, background, and experience of Agency personnel assigned to the Program; Agency's knowledge and understanding of the nature and scope of the work to be performed; and Economic benefit to the State of Maryland from the use of the agency. In the agency rating and ranking process, the Department may give preference to an agency that has, or is currently administering, a weatherization assistance program. A hearing may be held to receive public comment on any agency new to the Program.