Cabot council tables vote on returning funds tied to probate; asks administration for January report

The Cabot City Council tabled Resolution No. 15 of 2025 — the measure that would authorize returning funds to the Cabot Water and Wastewater Commission and amend the city general fund — until the council's second scheduled meeting in January 2026.

The motion to table followed a detailed discussion about whether the resolution as drafted referenced a trigger date that had already passed and how the city should proceed now that the related probate matter appears to be closed. Ben, the city's attorney, told the council that the probate case “appears to be finally closed” and that “October the 2nd was the last date I showed,” and he did not expect an appeal. The council noted that the resolution's current trigger date had passed and agreed it would be better to amend the measure or postpone action rather than pass a resolution that is already time-barred.

Councilmember Stephen Redd, who initially moved to amend the resolution with a December deadline, said he was willing to accept a later date if a written, executed contract is in place by that time. “If there's a contract in place by January the 30th, I'd be willing to withdraw,” Redd said, reflecting a compromise among members who wanted a firm end date while allowing time for negotiations. Other council members urged that any agreement or report from staff be presented to the full council for review before funds are returned.

Mayor Laura committed to placing a status report on the January agenda so the council could review any agreements and decide on next steps. The council voted on the motion to table Resolution No. 15 to the second scheduled January meeting (or the only January meeting if there is one) by roll call vote, 7-0.

The council directed staff to prepare a report on progress with the parties involved and any executed contracts so members can evaluate whether to amend, withdraw, or move forward with the resolution at the January meeting.