Erin Joyce Delivers 1st Remarks As New Mayor Of Braintree

BRAINTREE, MA — Erin Joyce is officially the new mayor of Braintree. The fact permanently marks Joyce down in the history of Braintree, as she is the first woman to serve as mayor.

Joyce, during an swearing-in ceremony on Tuesday, spoke about that honor and laid out her vision for the future.

"To say that I am honored to be standing here this evening as Braintree's third mayor, and first female mayor, is certainly an understatement," she began. "It's a huge honor for me and for my family, and I'm eager to get to work on behalf of our residents."

Joyce was offered her oath of office by Massachusetts Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll.

"Being a former mayor herself, hailing from Salem, knows just how impactful the office of mayor can be, and I feel very fortunate to have her here this evening and alongside Braintree in this journey," Joyce said of Driscoll.

She said she looks forward to working with Driscoll and other state officials in finding opportunities to bring increased resources for schools, young families and the aging population to Braintree.

As mayor, she promised to be actively engaged in regional discussions around housing issues.

"Especially as they relate to filling the housing needs of our residents, and supporting businesses and their workers looking to make investments in our town," Joyce said.

She noted that affordable and senior housing has been a major topic of her constituents, and said "we want that housing to be the right fit for Braintree." There's more work to do on that front, Joyce said, "and we're ready to get to it."

Joyce also explained what her decision-making process will be as mayor.

"Decisions made by my administration will be rooted in seeking to help our residents and their immediate struggles in our community," she said. "Starting with small improvements and focusing on ideas and projects to make our neighborhoods thrive."

Joyce's full remarks, and the entire swearing-in ceremony, can be viewed in the video below: