What To Expect From New Braintree Mayor Charles Kokoros

BRAINTREE, MA — It was a close race, with only 140 votes separating the candidates, but Town Councilor Charles Kokoros ultimately prevailed over Electric Light Board chair Thomas Reynolds in election to become Braintree's second-ever mayor. Kokoros grew up in Braintree and has worked in a number of elected positions, including Board of Selectmen and the Planning Board, so being able to take that next step was something he was excited about.

"It's a very exciting moment having grown up in Braintree and having spent the majority of my adult life in town government," Kokoros said. "For me, it's a really exciting time. My mind started already started looking towards governing Braintree. For me, it was truly a great moment in my life."

Kokoros said he knew the race was going to be close because, like himself, Reynolds grew up in Braintree and has served the town for a number of years.

"I have a lot of respect for Mr. Reynolds," Kokoros told Patch. "We knew each other a long time, and we had a lot of great conversations. He's dedicated his life to Braintree. I thank him for running a very professional campaign."

After taking Tuesday night to celebrate the narrow victory, the mayor-elect has shifted his focus on transitioning to the new role so he can hit the ground running in January when he's sworn in.

Kokoros said that on his first day in office, his focus will be making sure Braintree has a plan for the future to keep its small-town character.

"Having been part of the government for so long and understanding the issues as they come up, the people of Braintree enjoy the community and enjoy it because of the community we have," Kokoros told Patch. "We recognize ourselves as a town and like to have that small town character."

This desire from Braintree residents became even more evident when earlier this year hundreds protested a proposed re-zoning ordinance, arguing it would allow too much overcrowded housing and fundamentally change Braintree's quaint character. Kokoros became an advocate for not allowing a new re-zoning ordinance without first updating the master plan, an issue he said he intends to work on right away.

"The first thing for me personally is I will be listening to all the residents. I'll be available," Kokoros said. "I think the first thing we're going to get done is fund a master plan and get that started."

He said he met with outgoing Mayor Joseph Sullivan, who's retiring. Kokoros also said he plans to visit all schools in town and meet with municipal department heads.