Gutshall Steps Down From Arlington County Board

ARLINGTON, VA — Erik Gutshall, the vice-chairman of the Arlington County Board, announced on Facebook Monday that we was stepping down from the Board after undergoing treatment for brain cancer over the last month. He is currently quarantining with his family at 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.”

After serving as the chairman of the Arlington County Planning Commission, Gutshall was elected to the Board in 2017.

“We are deeply, deeply saddened by Erik’s resignation from the County Board this afternoon for health reasons,” County Board Chair Libby Garvey said, in a statement Monday. “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 and the Board are passing along any well wishes and messages from the public for Gutshall and his family that are sent to the Board office: CountyBoard@arlingtonva.us.

The Board will consult with County Attorney Stephen A. MacIssac about what steps need to be taken to hold a special election to fill Gutshall's seat.

Related:

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Very saddened that Erik has stepped down. His resignation is a real loss for Arlington. It was a privilege to have him on the Board with us. Our hearts are with him and his family. https://t.co/xPknke4MjJ
— Libby Garvey (@libbygarvey) April 7, 2020