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Millis establishes gift funds for Santa parade and Lansing Millis train station renovations
Summary
The select board authorized two gift funds under Massachusetts law to accept donations: one to cover costs of the Recreation Department’s annual Santa parade and one to support repairs and interior renovation of the Lansing Millis train station at 64 Exchange Street.
The Millis Select Board voted unanimously on Sept. 8 to establish two dedicated gift funds to accept private donations for town projects.
One fund will support the Recreation Department’s annual Santa parade, allowing local businesses and banks to sponsor the event and offset costs for activities such as s'mores and decorations. The board moved to establish the account under state law to ensure donations are used solely for the parade.
The second fund will accept donations for repairs and interior renovation of the Lansing Millis train station at 64 Exchange Street. Select Board member Ellen Rosenfeld described the exterior work as “almost 100% done” and said the remaining interior work includes plaster, painting and new flooring. She proposed the fund to allow residents to donate amounts large and small; Rosenfeld said she would make an initial $5 donation to open the account and described a plan to track progress publicly.
Legal basis and procedure: Both gift funds were established under General Law Part I, Title VII, Chapter 44, Section 53A, the statute cited by town staff during the motion. The motion to create each fund was moved, seconded and approved by unanimous voice vote.
Why it matters: The Lansing Millis train station contains historical materials and town memorabilia; Rosenfeld suggested developing the interior as a display space for Millis history and cataloging donations. The Santa parade fund will create a transparent mechanism for sponsors to support an event that is offered free to residents.
Ending: The board asked the town clerk and finance officials to set up account memos and to provide donors clear instructions for specifying the fund on checks. Officials said they will publicize donation options through the town website and may add an online giving option.
