Problem:

In preparing for their spring dance, the Student Council purchased

five tropical trees to create a backdrop for the DJ.

The total bill for the trees was $251.24, including $16.99 sales tax.

The Student Council Sponsor wants to know the cost of one tropical tree. 

To find the cost of one tree, solve the equation 5t + 16.99 = 251.24, where t represents the number of tropical trees.

Provide the work that shows how you arrived at your answer.