Braintree Year In Review: 2019's Defining Moments

BRAINTREE, MA — Between now and New Years, Patch will be taking a look back at 2019 and recalling some of the biggest news stories from the year. From politics to crime to jackpot winners, it was a busy year in Braintree. What follows is a list of some defining moments covered by Salem Patch in 2019.

Braintree Residents Protest Zoning Change Proposal

Dozens of residents picketed outside the town hall before a Planning Board meeting, many calling for Braintree's elected officials to slam the brakes on a new 160-page zoning ordinance the Town Council is considering. The plan, which costs the town over $300,000, was developed by the Horsley Whitten Group, an outside consulting firm. Representatives from the firm presented the plan to residents at a public forum. Read more here.

IHOP Opening In Braintree

Braintree is getting a new place to have breakfast. The town's licensing board voted to approve the opening of an International House of Pancakes. The IHOP will be at 755 Granite St., the former location of the Ground Round and Applebee's. Read more here.

Kokoros Wins Braintree Mayoral Race By 140 Votes

Town Councilor Charles Kokoros edged out Electric Light Board chair Thomas Reynolds by a 140-vote margin to win the Braintree mayoral race. The unofficial vote tally was 4,976-4,836. Kokoros is Braintree's second mayor following Joseph Sullivan, who retired. Read more here.

$10 Million Lottery Ticket Sold In Braintree

A local trust hit the jackpot on the Mass. Lottery's "$10,000,000 Mega Fortune" instant game after buying the winning ticket at the Stop & Shop in Braintree. Read more here.

Snapchat Recorded Assault In Braintree, 5 Teens Charged: Video

Five teens were arrested after police said the group assaulted a 13-year-old Braintree boy and recorded it on Snapchat. Read more here.