The future of Councilman Curtis Beulah Guthrie’s position on the Harford County Council is uncertain as a decision by the Maryland Court of Appeals looms.
Guthrie, who represents District E, faces a challenge regarding his eligibility to hold office due to a legal technicality.
The case centers around Guthrie’s residency status at the time of his election in November 2018.
The Maryland Constitution requires elected officials to reside in the district they represent for at least one year prior to the election.
Guthrie had previously filed for bankruptcy in 2013 and lived in a rental property in District E, which was owned by his sister.
Opponents argue that Guthrie did not meet the residency requirement as he did not own the property where he resided, and the property was not in his name.
Guthrie has maintained that he meets the legal standards to hold office and has vehemently defended his position on the council.
The Court of Special Appeals ruled in favor of Guthrie earlier this year, but the case has now been appealed to the Maryland Court of Appeals, the state’s highest court.
A decision from the court is expected in the coming months and will ultimately determine whether Guthrie can continue to serve on the council or if he will be removed from office.
The outcome of the case could have significant implications for District E and the Harford County Council as a whole.
Guthrie’s supporters have voiced their support for him, while his detractors are eager for a resolution to the dispute.
As the situation unfolds, all eyes are on the Maryland Court of Appeals to provide clarity on Guthrie’s future on the council.
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Guthrie’s fate on Harford Council uncertain – Maryland Matters
