Charles Kokoros Sworn In As Braintree Mayor

BRAINTREE, MA — Charles Kokoros was sworn in as Braintree's second ever Mayor Thursday, and during his address, promised to fund a new master plan for the town during his first 100 days of office. Former Mayor Joseph Sullivan, who retired after 12 years at the helm, administered the swearing-in ceremony at Town Hall for Kokoros. The ceremony also saw Braintree's other elected officials sworn-in, including a Town Council with five of it's nine members being newly elected.

Kokoros campaigned on putting forth a new master plan before approving any new re-zoning proposals. Residents feared a zoning re-write proposed in early 2019 would have allowed for too much overcrowded housing and could have changed Braintree's "small town character." The re-write was withdrawn last month after more than a year of discussion, protests from residents and an entire election season that saw most candidates, including Kokoros, call for its dismissal.

“Your message has been heard and it will be done …," Kokoros told a packed crowd of residents and town officials. "As we begin this new decade the voices of our residents will be heard as they participate in the creation of a new master plan."

While in office, Kokoros said some of his other priorities will include addressing the school district's need for building improvements and investing in housing for seniors.

"The success of our town's future begins with our school system. I look forward to working with our school committee and superintendent."

With the schools, Kokoros said a new South Middle School needs to be built, and the high school and elementary schools also need a lot of attention.

"Let us make the '20s the years we make our schools vibrant and new," Kokoros said.

Another part of Kokoros' campaign was making sure there was affordable housing for seniors so they can afford to stay in Braintree as housing costs continue to rise. While in in office, Kokoros said this will be a priority.

"We will work with our housing authority and all elderly housing communities to make this a reality," Kokoros said. "As mayor, I will continue to fight to address these shortfalls and continue to be a strong advocate."