PGDC Donates $5k to Sister City Fund

In a unanimous show of support at their weekly Board meeting Wednesday night, Plymouth Growth & Development Corporation voted to approve a $5,000 donation from parking revenues to the relief fund established at Northeast Community Bank for Plymouth‘s Sister City Shichigahama, Japan.  If endorsed by the Board of Selectmen, PGDC will classify the $5,000 donation as a onetime special circumstance under their Community Reinvestment Policy.

“Japan is recognized as one of the leading tourism groups to visit Plymouth and they have contributed to our revenue stream significantly,” PGDC Treasurer Christine Pratt said. “I think it is only appropriate we donate to the relief fund as a matter of reciprocation, and to show them compassion for what happened to their beautiful country and people.”  

“I have traveled to Japan three times, toured their country extensively, and even taught there.  I am definitely in support of this motion,” PGDC President, Leighton Price said. 

“The parking fund is the community’s money and some people, especially in these tough economic times, cannot afford to give," member Charlie Bletzer said. "Donating money from the parking program is a great way to help show their support for relief efforts currently underway.” 

PGDC’s Community Reinvestment Policy stipulates that any community reinvestment over $5,000 or outside of their scope of work must first meet with Board of Selectmen approval. PGDC plans to seek endorsement of the donation at the next Board of Selectmen meeting scheduled next Tuesday March 29.

Several people responded to the news sent in an emailed press release, including Selectman Matt Muratore: "All I can say is 'Wow!'" Muratore wrote.