An Eastern Shore hospital scheduled for closure next month is seeking a preliminary injunction to remain open, according to court papers filed this week. Upper Shore Hospital in Chestertown is to close Feb. 28 as part of a series of cuts proposed by state officials in light of revenue shortfalls, according to court papers. The closing would save the state about $2.7 million. The petition for an injunction, filed in Kent County Circuit Court, alleges that the closing of the hospital would be an improper exercise of gubernatorial power by Gov. Martin O'Malley. The court papers say about 90 employees would lose their jobs and 40 patients would have to be discharged or transferred.

- Brent Jones