Arlington Heights Citizen Calls for Mayoral Election Reevaluation Over Stadium Proposals
A local resident, Tom Svoboda, has launched a petition to recall Arlington Heights Mayor, Tom Hayes, and village trustee, Jim Bertucci. This dramatic action follows Svoboda's grievances over what he terms a lack of focus on the "welfare and interests" of the community, as reported by the Daily Herald.
Svoboda now faces a four-month deadline to rally the signatures of around 6,500 voters, representing 12% of the village's registered voter population. If he achieves this goal, a recall election could be scheduled for November.
Svoboda's main bone of contention is the Bears' proposed $5 billion redevelopment plan, which he objects to due to anticipated traffic issues and infrastructure constraints. His discussions with both Hayes and Bertucci on these matters have culminated in his push for a recall.
His concerns extend to Arlington Heights' absence of comprehensive studies on the impact of the project, and the green light given to the Bears for demolishing the Arlington Park site.
Arguing his case to the Daily Herald, Svoboda declared, "If you're going to transform the town on such a scale, you must do your homework. They've failed to do their research, and that's the real issue here. That's why I've initiated the recall."
Responding to Svoboda's allegations, Hayes defended his stance and the extensive coverage and transparency regarding the Arlington Park redevelopment issue. "I can't understand how Mr. Svoboda fails to grasp the complexity of the proposed Arlington Park redevelopment, considering the ample press coverage over the last two years and continually updated village website," Hayes countered in a written statement.
While Hayes remains doubtful of Svoboda's ability to gather the necessary support for a recall election, he's ready to face a reelection challenge, if it comes to it.
"I'm skeptical he'll garner the needed signatures, but if he does, then absolutely, let's let the voters decide," Hayes told the Herald, standing firmly on his three-decade record of elected service and commitment to the best interests of the community.
