(COLORADO SPRINGS) — A petition to recall Colorado Springs City Councilmember Tom Bailey was submitted on Thursday, Oct. 16, by three community members from District 2 in northern Colorado Springs, which Bailey represents.
According to the petition, he repeatedly ignored the will of his constituents, “prioritizing out-of-state developer interests and city-wide agendas over the concerns of taxpaying residents.”
The petition listed examples, including Bailey’s vote in favor of the Karman Line annexation, despite over 80 percent voter opposition, and his support for the Ford Amphitheater project, despite what is described as immense community objections, and a personal conflict of interest. According to the petition, Bailey also advocated for city bonds for apartment complexes where the “vast majority of locals opposed the project’s inevitable negative consequences.”
The petition alleges that when constituents raised concerns through emails, letters, or other means, Bailey’s response was inadequate.
“When leaders dismiss public concerns and put outside interests first, we all pay the price in lost trust, wasted resources, and a diminished voice at City Hall,” stated the petition.
Bailey has been on City Council for six months after being elected in April 2025.
According to the City of Colorado Springs Code of Ordinances, the petition must be signed by 25% of the number of voters who cast ballots in the last election for the council member, and the signatures must be returned to the City Clerk within 60 days for the clerk to submit the petition to the council.
Bailey responded to the petition and to specific allegations. Bailey said he was not a part of the City Council when Royal Pines was approved in early 2024 or when the Karman Line annexation was approved by the council. Bailey said he supported the decision made by the previous council and agreed that it would have been a beneficial addition to the city.
Bailey said he supports the Ford Amphitheater and believes it to be a tremendous asset for the city and District 2, and claims of “immense” community opposition are not supported. According to Bailey, his personal investment in VENU and Ford is well documented, and no council action related to the project has happened since he took office.
“I understand the petitioners are unhappy with a housing project in their area, but I do not believe their views reflect the broader sentiment of District 2. I remain focused on working with my colleagues and the Mayor to pass a responsible budget, craft effective legislation, and find solutions to some of the real problems that affect the city of Colorado Springs,” said Bailey.
The full statement from Councilmember Bailey can be found attached below:
