Council Takes Another Stab at Replacing Jones

The Anne Arundel County Council is scheduled to make its fourth attempt Monday at filling the District 1 seat left vacant by Daryl Jones. Jones, who reported to federal prison in January, was convicted in November for his .

Since February, the six remaining councilmen have been between two replacement candidates— and .

Patch’s look at the two candidates, and the council’s failure to choose between them:

Some of Smith's supporters have accused three Republican councilmen of , just weeks away from the beginning of a crucial budget season.

It’s now been more than 50 days since District 1 has had a representative. Some residents of the area, which includes parts of Glen Burnie and Severn, have said they felt cheated by the council's failure to agree on a representative and  

The council’s charter does not provide alternatives to break the tie. The is a roll-call vote from the remaining council members within 30 days of it becoming vacant. Despite missing the deadline by weeks, there are no consequences. A council committee is reviewing this and other issues in the charter.

Jones filed a lawsuit against the County Council in Anne Arundel County Circuit Court . If Jones succeeds, it’s possible the seat could be left open for him while he serves his five-month sentence.

On Wednesday, Judge Arthur Ahalt took the decision under advisement, but gave no timeline for providing an answer.

The County Council is scheduled to meet at 7 p.m. Monday in their chambers at 44 Calvert St. in Annapolis.