TOWSON, Md. — A Baltimore County Councilwoman is under scrutiny for buying and allegedly living in a home outside the district they represent.
The Inspector General on Tuesday released a detailed investigative report into the matter.
During an interview with the Inspector General's Office, Councilwoman Cathy Bevins reportedly admitted to moving to a property 0.04 miles outside of her district in August 2021.
She told the Inspector General that the council attorney said it was okay as long as she had resided in the district for two years prior to running for office.
The county charter however does not suggest that, here is what it says according to the Inspector General.
“At the time of his election and for two years prior thereto and during his full term of office, reside in a different one of the seven councilmanic districts.” [Baltimore County Charter Article II Section 201(a) Residence Requirement]
“If any member of the county council during his term of office shall move his residence from the councilmanic district in which he resided at the time of his election, his office shall be forthwith vacated." [Baltimore County Charter Article II Section 202(c) Change of Residence]
Upon learning more about the law, Bevins claims to now stay in a one-bedroom apartment with a family member who lives in the 6th district.
When asked for proof, Bevins told the Inspector General she paid $600 for this month’s rent and $200 last month, in addition to a BGE bill.
Bevins in October also signed an Amendment to Residential Lease Agreement, adding herself as a resident or occupant of the apartment, where she claims to stay at on average four nights a week.
The Inspector General concluded Bevins violated Article II, Section 202(c) of the Charter, but didn't intend to cover up the move from other members of the Council or the public.
Because the Charter does not contain any enforcement provisions pertaining to technical or substantive violations of County Council residency requirements, the Inspector General has referred the matter to the County Office of Law to determine any ramifications.
