Grassroots group says it is stopping recall initiative against this North Texas mayor

A citizens group that began a recall effort against the mayor announced Monday that plans to go forward with the initiative are on hold.

Tom Burnett, a spokesman for Save Bedford, TX, a grassroots citizens group that formed in opposition to a developer’s plans to build more apartments in Bedford, said the group made the decision after mayor Jim Griffin announced that he would meet with the residents.

When asked about the decision to suspend the recall effort, Griffin said, “I try to look for the best solution for Bedford. I’m happy to sit down with these folks and share with them where I think we are going in terms of a vision for Bedford.

Save Bedford TX opposes a proposal from developer Realty Capital to build 240 apartments in Bedford Commons. On Friday Realty Capital announced that it bought land from Total EP USA Real Estate. The land is zoned for multi-family housing.

Last year, the developer faced stiff opposition to a plan to build apartments. Now, Realty Capital is submitting plans to the Planning and Zoning Commission.

Burnett said Griffin has not yet contacted the group about a meeting, but out of fairness, the decision was made to stop the recall. But, he said, it could “restart” depending on how Griffin handles the issue of apartments in Bedford Commons.

“The ball is in his court until the apartment issue is resolved. Is he going to be mayor for the citizens of Bedford or for the developer,” Burnett said.