BURLINGTON, Vt. (WCAX) – A “mayor” adored in the Vermont town of Wolcott could be in the crosshairs, and town officials are wondering who would put the not-so-typical city leader in jeopardy.
Wolcott — population 1,669 — is trying to rise above this divisive time in politics, uniting behind their mayor.
“We are a thriving community that is wanting to embrace the future and I think Jax is a part of that,” said Wolcott Town Clerk Belinda Harris Clegg. Jax is the town’s appointed mayor and Clegg works closely with him. “Everyone in this town loves him.”
But after November’s election season, the mayor got sick. Clegg brought him to get checked on and they learned some shocking news. “After taking the X-ray he said, your boy is filled with lead, which was a very big surprise to me,” she said.
Tests revealed a BB pellet lodged in Jax’s body. If the X-ray looks odd, you’re right. You see, Jax is a cat.
“I was like, I didn’t know anyone was shooting at our cat — or our mayor– I should say,” Clegg said.
Reporter Ike Bendavid: Do you think someone shot the mayor?
Town Clerk Belinda Harris Clegg: I think they might have accidentally.
Reporter Ike Bendavid: Does he have any political enemies?
Town Clerk Belinda Harris Clegg: Not that I know of.
Jax was named the town’s ceremonial mayor several years ago on Town Meeting Day. It was the case of a neighbor’s cat that hung around a little too much so the town adopted him when his original owners moved. His food and treats are paid through donations, but taxpayers pick up health care costs that don’t get covered by gifts. Most don’t mind.
“I pick him up and love him. He’s just a wonderful cat, ” said local resident Diane Earl.
Jax, like any good politician, has a say at selectboard meetings. “He makes himself known and gets attention,” Clegg said.
Despite the health scare, the mayor is in good health and had no comment when we asked.
Clegg says there are no plans to investigate.
Reporter Ike Bendavid: Do you think this was an assassination attempt?
Town Clerk Belinda Harris Clegg: No, no. I think this was a mistake.
She’s just happy he is back at work because he’s a treat to have around. “He just gives us joy every day,” she said.