Braintree Council accepts $9,769 donation from Festival of Trees to support holiday event

The Town Council on March 18 unanimously authorized the Town of Braintree to accept a $9,769 donation from the Festival of Trees to help offset costs for the town's holiday lighting and related community programming.

The donation, presented by organizer Elizabeth "Biz" Inglis, was described at the meeting as the product of sponsorships and community fundraising. "Without them and the town of Braintree and their residents, I couldn't have done this without them," Inglis said, describing local business sponsors and turnout at the inaugural event.

Mayor Thomas Joyce and councilors praised the event's turnout and organization. A staff member identified as Meredith told the council the donation total was $9,769, and noted the Festival organizers hope to expand to about 90 trees next year. Councilors said the contribution will help sustain and grow the event and that the Recreation Department is the expected recipient of the funds. Councilor Bridal made the motion to accept the gift under Section 53A of Chapter 44 of the Massachusetts General Laws; the motion was seconded and approved unanimously.

Council President Ryan presided over the acceptance. The council discussed that the donation will be used to offset program costs so residents who cannot otherwise afford participation can be supported. No additional conditions or restrictions were reported at the council meeting.

The council also recognized the volunteer leadership and thanked business sponsors named at the meeting, including Clean Harbors, Norfolk Sheriff Department, Beld and Braintree Rug, and noted organizers are pursuing multi-year commitments from sponsors.

The town will record the gift in its accounts and allocate the funds to the Recreation Department as noted in the motion.