State Election Coordinator Brook Thompson said, based on an opinion from City Attorney Randy Nelson, that Rob Healy is not eligible to run for mayor of Chattanooga in the election next March.
However, Jerry Summers, attorney for the election office, said the ultimate decision would be made by a court.
He said his opinion, as well as those of attorney Nelson and Mr. Thompson, "are only opinions."
Attorney Summers said there is "some ambiguity" on whether Mr. Healy would qualify to run.
He has lived in the city long enough if the criterion is by election time, but not long enough if the standard is by the qualifying deadline.
Attorney Summers said Mr. Healy apparently is still interested in the race.
He said Mr. Healy, a former city parks and recreation director, called his office to get a copy of the Thompson opinion.
He also said that Mr. Healy discussed with the election office the appointment of a campaign treasurer.
Officials said the standard as outlined in a federal court ruling that changed the makeup of city government is by the qualifying deadline.
However, that wording did not get transcribed into the charter and the city website still lists it as by the election, officials said.