The Town of Come By Chance is apologizing to four councillors who were dismissed over conflict of interest allegations, and welcoming them back into the fold.

Councillors Llewellyn Baker, Keith Best, Matthew Best and Ralph Slade were all removed in February following a decision by Councillor Kathy Paul.

Paul’s decision was made on the heels of a report that was prepared surrounding the matter.

The four councillors appealed Paul’s decision to the Supreme Court.

But rather than fight it in the courts, the town now says it will reinstate the councillors based on legal advice and to avoid costly litigation.

Contacted Saturday, Mayor Carol Molloy declined comment for now.

But in a statement, the town says “there was no justification for finding the four councillors in conflict and (we) sincerely apologize for the stress and hardship the decision caused them and their families.”

They also say the report into the matter is available from the municipal office.

While all four councillors are being welcomed back, only two of them, Slade and Matthew Best, have so far taken the town up on its offer.