NewsChannel5.com | Nashville News, Weather & SportsFranklin Celebrates Christmas, Saves Taxpayers Money

Franklin Celebrates Christmas, Saves Taxpayers Money

By Jeff Tang

FRANKLIN, Tenn. - Franklin city leaders have made a change to their Christmas decorations, and it will save the town thousands.

For the first time, the city will use an artificial Christmas tree. In previous years donors gave real trees to the city free of charge, but it cost thousands to set up and dispose of them.

On Wednesday, crews put the final decorating touches on the 20 foot artificial spruce. The city also held a lighting ceremony in Wednesday evening.

City administrator Eric Stuckey said the artificial tree could save Franklin $50,000 over the next 10 years. The city purchased the tree, which retails at $10,000 for $1,500.

"If it saves money then it's the right thing to do. I didn't realize it was fake at all," said Jeff Holstein, who watched workers decorate the tree.

City officials believe the switch will save money without sacrificing the quality of their holiday decorations.

"It's a pretty good example of rethinking everything, seeing where you can save money while still providing benefit to the citizens," said Stuckey.

The tree will be a featured part of the Franklin Christmas Parade which will take place Saturday at 2 p.m.

email: jtang@newschannel5.com