Arlington County Board Member Erik Gutshall Resigns

Press release from the Arlington County Government:

April 6, 2020

Arlington County Board Vice-Chair Erik Gutshall today announced on Facebook that he is resigning from the Board, after undergoing treatment for brain cancer for the past month. Gutshall said he will be quarantining with his family at their home.

“Thank you for all the support that you’ve given me over the past month as I undergo treatment for brain cancer,” Gutshall posted. “My family and I really appreciate all the kind words and encouragement while I’ve been dealing with this sudden, difficult diagnosis. As a result of this health issue, it saddens me deeply to announce my resignation from the Arlington County Board. I decided to run for elected office because I believe in the power of community voices to make a difference in our County. Serving Arlington for the past 2+ years as a Board Member and many years before that as a Planning Commissioner has been an incredibly rewarding experience. I’ve had the honor of working side-by-side with many Arlingtonians who always inspired me to work harder and to do more. I will miss working with my County Board colleagues, whom I hold in the highest regard. Even though this is a particularly difficult time for our County and country, I know that I’m leaving this position in very capable hands.

“For now, I’m looking forward to quarantining at home with my wife Renee and our children. I thank you all for putting your trust in me. It has truly been an honor to serve you. With highest regards, Erik Gutshall.”

Gutshall was elected to the County Board in 2017, after Chairing the Planning Commission. He represents Arlington on several regional bodies.

“We are deeply, deeply saddened by Erik’s resignation from the County Board this afternoon for health reasons,” County Board Chair Libby Garvey said. “As they have been for the past weeks, our hearts continue to be with Erik and his family. Erik’s statement reflects who he is, identifying his belief in the power of our community and focusing on the critically difficult time we are in as a County and as a country. We have missed Erik’s presence with us at this critical moment in Arlington’s history, and we will continue to miss him. We ask that you join us in continuing to support Erik and his family during this difficult time and send messages of love and appreciation for his work and friendship.”

Garvey said the Board would welcome well wishes from the community for Gutshall and his family and will pass along any messages sent to the Board office: CountyBoard@arlingtonva.us

The Board will consult with the County Attorney about the next steps, as required under Virginia law, for holding a special election to replace Gutshall on the County Board.

This press release was produced by the Arlington County Government. The views expressed here are the author’s own.