Wednesday, November 7, 2012

Real time reporting - closing


L. TOWN ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT
Kudos to the Police, Fire, DPW for the storm preparedness
not so much for the NationalGrid

Tax rate hearing on Nov 28th

Town Planner worked with the YMCA to develop a walking map which is now available

trees are being removed on the Town Common, electrical work also being done this week so the lights will be up in time

M.OLD BUSINESS
Roy - would like some additional pressure on nationalgrid
level of communication regarding the storm was unacceptable
certain communities within Franklin are getting hit on a consistent basis and it is unacceptable
we should have nationalgrid come back and address their structural issues
we need to hold them accountable

Bissanti - I want to echo Councilor Roy's comments

Nutting - we'll give them credit for what they did do, they did the trees, they did put someone at the Fire Station but they have a long way to go. They do need to address the equipment issue (Union loop)

Jones - I would like to see them back with real answers and a real plan!

Pfeffer - how is the roof?
Nutting - the rain came from the other direction, it will be for the capital improvement committee; it is worse in the winter and when the snow melts
Pfeffer - am I the only one worried about the Jefferson school leak?
Nutting- vote to put up the money when the time comes

Kelly - if the trucks have GPS, someone out there knows where the trucks are. Foxboro was the squeaky wheel  last time and we did not hear about Foxboro this time. This time Chelmsford was on, maybe we should be

N. NEW BUSINESS
Kelly - train whistle at 4:00 AM, is there someone the Town can call?
Nutting - the whistles are set for standard per Federal law

Pfeffer - capital budget meeting?
Nutting - perhaps before next weekend

O. COUNCIL COMMENTS
Roy - thanks to the community for carrying the day. I'll get sworn in January

Bissanti - thanks, congratulations

Pfeffer - kudos to all who ran

Powderly - this meeting showed Franklin at its best, everyone stepped up and we were able to recognize them tonight. I am hearing about cross walk issues at King St and the cross walk for Parmenter. The traffic has been increasing up there

Kelly - thanks to the election staff, great work
thanks to the pole workers at nationalgrid, great work once you get the ticket

Mercer - reminder Nov 14th public hearing on the new high school to discuss the phases of the construction, architect, contractor and project manager will be there

Nutting - we have no legal control to the site, the contractor has control at this point


P. EXECUTIVE SESSION
Negotiations, Litigation, Real Property, as May Be Required

motion to go to executive session, for real estate
not to return to open meeting
passed 9-0, via roll call


Q. ADJOURN

Real time reporting - legislation


K. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
1. Resolution 12-72: Establishment of an Operating Budget Stabilization Fund
explanation by Jeff Nutting as outlined from the FinCom meeting last night
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2012/11/live-reporting-finance-committee-nov-6.html

if we don't use it in FY 2014, ok but we should need it sometime

Powderly - I support this, it is forward looking, fiscally conservative, the residents would expect us to do this, allows us to deal with variations in our budget without touching the Stabilization Fund

Motion to approve, passed 9-0

2. Resolution 12-73: Appropriation: Operating Budget Stabilization Fund
also as covered during the FinCom meeting on Tuesday night (see link above)
Motion to approve, passed 9-0

3. Resolution 12-74: Appropriation: Interest – Property Tax
also as covered during the FinCom meeting on Tuesday night (see link above)
Motion to approve, passed 9-0

4. Resolution 12-75: Town of Franklin Net Metering Power Purchase Agreement
Authorization
6 megawatt facility being proposed for the Cistercian Nuns property up on Union St
this is part one of two, the second will come later
will allow for purchase of power at a reduced cost and a source of new revenue for with the property tax on the solar panels

Roy - this is a fantastic idea, it has win-win written all over it

Motion to approve, passed 9-0

5. Bylaw Amendment 12-694: Amendment to Chapter 82, Appendix A, List of Service Fee
Rates – 2nd Reading
Motion to approve, passed 9-0 via roll call


6. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 12-695: Amendment to Chapter 185 §31. Site Plan and Design
Review – Referral to Planning Board
Motion to refer, passed 9-0

Brian Taberner, Dir Planning and Development
Beth Dahlstrom, Town Planner

being talking of the site plan review process for sometime
will make it easier to understand requirements for a site plan review
streamlines the permitting process so it should be a win-win

Beth - complete rewrite of bylaw
clearly identifies process, exemptions, etc.
where special permit is required, can be submitted at the same time
can not have an approved plan without a special permit

signs moved to a different section for coverage, so all signs are covered in one section

administration enforcement under the site plan rather than

Pfeffer - has someone calculated the cost for all the copies
Taberner - this is what is already done, nothing new in the number of the copies, clarifies the information required and streamlines the process

Nutting - discretion currently with the Planning Board is taken away and made easier to understand
Pfeffer - this is extremely onerous

Bissanti - does this mean that
Taberner - if the internal use was not going to change the use, then it would be a limited site plan

Bissanti - parking plays a use role in this, and use same use also plays a role


7. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 12-696: Amendment to Chapter 185 §20 Signs. Sign Approvals
– Referral to Planning Board
Motion to waive reading, passed 9-0
Motion to refer, passed 9-0

Dahlstrom - all this does is put all the signs in one place, it does not change any of the actual language itself
Cerel - not a substantive change

Pfeffer - no wonder we don't have people knocking on the doors to come to Franklin


8. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 12-697: Amendment to Chapter 185 §45 Administration &
Enforcement. Design Review Commission – Referral to Planning Board
Motion to refer, passed 9-0

Real time reporting - Franklin TV

I. PRESENTATIONS/DISCUSSIONS 
Franklin TV, Ken Norman

incorporated in Nov 2011
original charter called for 7 directors
Ken now president of Corporation, got funding in March 2012
found and hired Peter Fasciano as Executive Director

using small room downtown, explored other spaces within Franklin
looked at Huchinson St property
over Labor Day weekend, explored the property purchase options and have a signed purchase and sale agreement
have filed or will be filing notices to assume occupancy and build a 30,000 900 - 1200 sq ft studio

Thursday, Nov 8th first annual meeting
At the Senior Center, starting at 6:00 PM

handed business plan to Jeff Nutting, completing the requirements

Peter worked in broadcast all his life, TV and video production 
built the original Channel 7 studio
had staff of 50 people with a 20,000 sq ft studio for video commercials
worked for Avid technology, an editor software ran the advanced development group
has 24 patents for TV, much that is shown on TV goes through software and features I had part in

rebuilt Medfield facility two years ago, and when the opportunity arose here, I applied for it

received initial funding of $400,000 of the cable funds, expecting to get the remainder of the funding sometime

documented the requirements of a video production studio
size average, 900 to 1,000 sq ft for a town of our size
drive in access, piano or van for equipment moves
one of the difficulties is finding suitable space

did look at the Emmons St, would need to be on the second floor, accessible via the elevator
would be workable but not desirable

there is a stream along the back so the property is designated as river front



Real time reporting - Senior Center update


J. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS 

Economic development worked to rezone parcels off Exit 16
continuing to identify opportunities, pay attention to our next agenda


I. PRESENTATIONS/DISCUSSIONS 
Karen Alves, Director, Senior Center
5th anniversary on Nov 11th

Council on Aging working on strategy for the next decade
project increase in seniors for the next decade
elderly population 7,624 in 2020, up 58%

65 and over, 20% of the population by 2030
Senior Center becomes much more relevant
Senior Center participants have better health stats than non-participants

put forward an increase in facilities, staff and services in light of the projections
the challenge comes with our operating budget for expansion

majority of funding does come from the Town
178,681 of this the Town funds 71%
$31,000 grant (17%)
Friends of Franklin Elderly funds 19,000 (11%)
30% of the total operations is from non-Town resources
funded the grill cook, partially fund the health and wellness nurse

increased funding from private foundation and corporations

affordability of the Senior Center, it is a great resource for the seniors
we do everything on the cheap, reasonably priced meals, volunteers in kitchen
in passed year 23% increase in cafe

health and wellness nurse does fitness programs and performs screenings, all free!

exercise activities, aerobics, zumba, $2 per session
offer recreational activities, computer classes, etc. majority free

opportunities for socialization which may be as critical as the health and well being

offering assistance with tax preparation, did about 200 returns
if you are home alone, come on down to the center

Franklin age is 50 years and older, a couple 60 and older but for the most part 50 and up
out of towners are welcome

about 1,000 unique clients serviced across all the programs during a year

Veterans Breakfast this Friday, 9:00 AM
Bronze and Silver Star will be recognized

Friends of Franklin Elderly a 501(c)3 entity funds the free coffee and entertainment

Expansion of the second floor is planned for sometime in the future
expansion of the parking lot would need to happen first

use of the new high school is planned for as the emergency shelter (instead of using Remington/Jefferson)



Real time reporting - Appointments


F. APPOINTMENTS
Franklin Community Cable Access Corp. – Board of Directors
(three candidates for two positions: Ken Norman, Rose Turco, Frank Falvey)

Motion to appoint Norman, Turco, Falvey

Turco, Norman were voted in
Motion to approve, passed 9-0

Finance Committee - Paul Aparo
motion to appoint, seconded,
Motion to approve, passed 9-0

Powederly - Jim Roche and I interviewed four candidates, all were highly qualified, this one is what we have decided to go forward with

G. HEARINGS
none

H. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS
none

Real time reporting: Town Council - Nov 7, 2012

Present:  Mercer, Dellorco, Kelly, Powderly, Vallee, Pfeffer, Jones, Bissanti, Roy
Absent: none


A. ELECTION OF OFFICERS

B. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
October 3, 2012 Regular Session, October 17 Executive Session
(joined meeting after this occurred)

C. ANNOUNCEMENTS
This meeting is being recorded by Franklin TV and shown on Comcast channel 11 and Verizon channel 29. This meeting is also being recorded by Franklin Matters.

D. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS
none

I joined the meeting just in time to hear Debbie

E. CITIZEN COMMENTS
Debbie Pellegri, Town Clerk, reporting on the results of the election
83% turnout
Problems with machine for Precinct 7 sometimes not reading the ballot on the first try

Robert Cantoreggi, DPW Director
working with three visitors from Pakistan
took them to Millis to see a town meeting in operation
they saw the national election last night, and they see and appreciate how interactive folks are with the government on a daily basis

Aruk, civil service from Pakistan, manages the highway department on the national level
"it is an enriching experience to see government in action"
"We are very grateful for the State Dept to bring us here and grateful to the Town for this experience"

Wayland, Hamilton and now Franklin. They have other locations to visit during their six weeks here

very impressed by democracy at the grass roots level, how the city and towns are govern, a true democracy
they would like to replicate, the people are the most impressive, all the people

They are impressed with how friendly we are, it is not conveyed that way back in Pakinstan


Holiday Stroll - Nov 29th 4:00 to 7:00 PM

Sent to you by Steve Sherlock via Google Reader:

via Franklin Downtown Partnership by noreply@blogger.com (Franklin Downtown Partnership) on 10/31/12


Ring In the Season at the Franklin Holiday Stroll

The Franklin Downtown Partnership plans a jolly evening for its fourth annual Holiday Stroll on Thursday, November 29, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Santa, Mrs. Claus, and several elves will make appearances around town, and there will be tree lightings, carolers, refreshments, entertainment and more for visitors this year.

The Stroll will begin with a tree lighting ceremony at 4 p.m. in front of Dean Hall on the Dean College campus. Carolers in period costume will lead holiday songs and refreshments will be served. 

Holiday revelers are invited to bring a donation for the Franklin Food Pantry to the event. The FDP and the Franklin Food Elves will be kicking off the "12 Days of Donating" campaign to benefit the Food Pantry with drop-off bins located at the tree lighting ceremony and throughout the downtown. 

"We are happy to work with the Franklin Food Elves again this year," says Roberta Trahan, Stroll co-chair. "The Food Elves hope to beat last year's collection of more than 2,000 pounds of food and $4,000. In total that provided the Food Pantry with approximately 17,000 meals last winter and was a tremendous help during a critical time."  This year the Food Elves' sponsors and drop off locations will include Berry Insurance, DCU, Dean Bank, Dean College, Emma's Quilt Cupboard, the Franklin Downtown Partnership and Jane's Frames. 

After the tree-lighting festivities, visitors can stroll through downtown to admire the festive window decorations and stop in at more than 25 participating businesses for special treats, entertainment, demonstrations, crafts and shopping discounts. A complete listing of businesses' special offers will be available at each participating location. 

Dean Bank will have a tree lighting ceremony of its own at 4:45 p.m. followed by a unique performance by the students of the Mount St. Charles Hand Bell Choir. The bank will also be bringing back last year's popular Gingerbread Man Decorating activity.

Santa will hear children's wish lists at Simon's Furniture from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Meanwhile, Santa's Workshop, complete with letters to Santa and crafts, will be set up at Rockland Trust, and Mrs. Claus will be sharing cookies and stories with children at the Historical Museum. 

Milford radio station WMRC 1490-AM will play holiday music and broadcast live from the Berry Insurance lot, and local singer/songwriter Jamie Barrett will entertain crowds at Jane's Frames from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. The Fire Station will have a fire engine ready for kids to climb on and offer holiday safety tips for the adults.

"The Holiday Stroll is nice family entertainment," says Cindy Kozil, event co-chair.  "It happens early enough that families can come to the tree lighting, the kids can see Santa and make some crafts, and everyone can do some shopping and have dinner, all within a couple of blocks and without ever having to leave Franklin." 

DCU and Dean Bank are the Gold Sponsors of this year's Holiday Stroll. D.G. Ranieri Real Estate, Franklin Local Town Pages and Middlesex Savings Bank are Silver Sponsors, and the Franklin Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts and Simon's Furniture are Bronze Sponsors. 

For more information about the Holiday Stroll or if you would like to be a sponsor contact co-chairs Cindy Kozil, ckozil@dean.edu, or Roberta Trahan, roberta_icu1@verizon.net.

The Franklin Downtown Partnership is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization made up of business owners, community leaders and residents working to revitalize Downtown Franklin. For more information about the Partnership or this event please go to our website, www.franklindowntownpartnership.org/, or contact Executive Director 
Lisa Piana at (774)571-3109 or downtown.franklin@yahoo.com.  




Things you can do from here:

Will Anya represent the Patriots?


I wanted to share a story about my daughter, Anya Zub, and her participation in the NFL Punt, Pass, and Kick Competition.

"NFL Punt, Pass & Kick is the oldest grassroots initiative at the NFL.  With last year's age-group expansion to include the 6-7 division, the program will continue to reach children of a younger age and allow them to experience the fun of learning football fundamentals in an engaging and supportive non-contact environment. PPK is about kids, the parents who support their kids to come out and play and about the volunteers who give their time to organize events.   Every NFL team will host the Team Championship level of the NFL Punt, Pass and Kick.  Team Championship will have 4 Participants in each age group. Participants are determined by the top 4 scores from the qualifying Sectional Competitions "

Anya participated in the local PPK competition through our Franklin NFL Flag Football program and came in 1st for girls aged 6-7.  From there, she went to RI to compete in a local Sectional Competition and came in 1st for girls aged 6-7.  They then look at all the Sectionals that fall under the New England Patriots...and Anya was one of the top 4 results.  So, she now gets to compete in the Team Championship.

She will be going to Gillette on Saturday November 11th to participate in the competition.  It happens prior to the game and Anya will be able to stay for the game.  If she were to come in 1st in her group, she would be announced to the crowd during the game.

As you can imagine, we are very excited and proud of our daughter and would love to share this story through Franklin Matters and local papers.

Let me know if you'd like any further information or have any questions.

Thank you,
Gigi Zub



photo credit = "official PPK photo"
http://www.nflppk.com/media/media/gallery/official_ppk_photos/T2ZmaWNpYWwgUFBLIFBob3Rvcw==

Roy takes 10th Norfolk

With a total vote of 11,835 Jeff Roy won the 10th Norfolk District over Rich Eustis who gathered 9,961 votes.

“I can tell you that I never thought I would be standing here in this position,” he said. “I put my heart and soul into this race.” 
“This is a dream I’ve had for a long time,” Roy added, “and to be able to say that the dream has come true is hard to put into words.” 
Roy takes over a seat that Vallee had held since 1994. In order to get there, he had to best fellow Democrat Peter Padula in the September primary. 
Vallee, who stepped down from his seat in June, endorsed Roy on Sept. 18. An 18-year veteran of the State House, he said he felt Roy was the candidate better prepared to serve the district.

Read more: http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/x1890073731/Roy-downs-Eustis-to-take-10th-Norfolk-District#ixzz2BWyfOicV

In the News: concert, ballot questions, nor'easter



Franklin High winter concert, silent auction set

Tuesday, November 6, 2012

Election results - quick totals

Quick totals from Franklin, MA voters

Obama - 8,589
Romney - 8,549

Brown - 10,721
Warren - 6,683

Bielat - 7,626
Kennedy - 8,937




Eustis - 6,832 + Medway 3,029 =   9,961
Roy - 9,751 + Medway 2,084 =  11,835

Ballot Questions

Q1 =  yes - 13,576    no - 1,901

Q2 =  yes - 7,958     no - 8,912

Q3 =  yes - 10,418   no - 6,319

nonbinding Q4  =  yes - 6,524   no - 2,079

nonbinding Q5 =  yes - 6,053   no - 2,544


The full precinct totals can be found here:
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2012/11/election-2012-results-by-precinct.html



Election 2012 - Results by Precinct

Here are the official results from Franklin, MA for November 6, 2012.

17,500 voters cast their ballot for an 85% turnout!





Live reporting - Finance Committee - Nov 6, 2012

Present: Feldman, Goldsmith, Dufour, Quinn, Roche, Dewsnap, Smith
Absent: none

Motion to approve minutes for June meeting, tabled for next time

Leadership selection for new session
Nomination of Jim Roche by Chris Quinn, seconded
Passed unanimously

Nomination of Chris Quinn for Vice Chair, seconded
Passed unanimously

Nomination of Susan Dewsnap for Clerk, seconded
Passed unanimously

Jeff Nutting updates:
In middle of annual audit, should wrap up by end of yer

Dept heads working on budgets, lots of uncertainty
looking to keep flt as much as possible
(lost the use of my "a" key for some reason

tax rate hearing on Nov 28th to set the tax rate for next year

school building bids came in under estimates
public hearing next Weds, Nov 4th 7:00 PM

Library waiver request submitted, last year library budget discussion was different from other budgets
this year the budget increased but we still need a waiver, no decision until Feb 203
hopefully lots of discussions last year with the Commissioners will help this time round
still need to figure out what will efficiently and effectively operate the Library

given the uncertainty in the fiscal view, we do have about 800,000 in excess
state aid brought in about 300,000 more
new growth about 200,000 higher
local receipts coming in higher than anticipated
given the uncertainty, lets' create another stabilization account

60 folks in the School Dept turned over this year, usually around 25-30 could provide some relief but even so they'll have continued pressures

only limitation would be the 2/3 vote to take money via roll call as opposed to majority vote

stabilization account was at one point about 10M with about 6M from a legal settlement
2.5M was used when an override failed
had used a debt stabilization account to manage debt
used a debt overlay account to help balance, no longer available
did have an override of 2.7M but cut 20% of workforce between Town and Schools
reductions in service, 304 municipal now about 240
schools lost about 100 teachers, class sizes rose
can not balance increases on tax revenues, 2.5% increase does not provide enough leeway
no raises also helped saved money, along with increases in co-pay on health insurance

new homes are a loss leader, $5,000 in taxes does not cover the $20,000 expense to educate the two children

Nutting: "I don't ever not see us having a challenging budget"
"all came together for the first time in 5 years to not have to cut jobs"

Gagner: Free cash is a close out from last fiscal year

Roche: part of the urgency is to set the money aside legally or we don't get to touch it for another year.

Quinn: the general stabilization fund is good at about 4.5 to 5% of the operating budget?
Nutting: everyone wants to have some savings but can't have too much as it is the taxpayers money

Nutting: used $00K to repair the cornice that fell off Davis Thayer

Nutting: the addition of this account would modify our policies, we have just started talking about it so it is not set yet

Roche: it doesn't violate any of our fiscal policies but does help us set up for the future

Nutting: this is geared to avoiding having the taxpayer paying more
trust me, there is enough coming down the road for capital needs we will have some need of it

Quinn: we could use some of the extra for a snow budget
Nutting: that is why we keep back some of the free cash to help cover, you're never going to budget for the high, can budget for the average
Quinn: yes, budget for the average, and have something aside for the high

motion to raise and appropriate for the new budget stabilization fund, seconded
Passed unanimously

Nutting: lawsuit between Newton and utilities for how to tax the utility poles, law was changed to determine how to tax, the courts finally decided the suit, need to raise and appropriate the interest to pay the bill, money was set aside but the interest was not collected or set for this

interest rate set at 8% but set forever ago

discussion on overlay versus surplus, not released yet

motion to raise and appropriate $38,000 to pay the utilities
Passed unanimously


Dacey: when we borrowed money last April towards the high school project, received a premium, since this is a debt excluded project, whatever costs and interest are added to the tax levy but the premium is deducted, so this premium needs to be applied against an existing account to properly offset it

Gagner: this is housekeeping financially

motion to transfer from free cash, $1,405 to pay for the high school bands (bonds) (not musical instruments)
Passed unanimously

Deswnap - picked up good point from conference, points we can take offline and review what they mentioned versus what we do, always room to improve

Roche: held in Franklin, good breakout session, good info help every October

Nutting: spoke this year on merging facilities along with Lexington, interesting to see how some are having trouble doing something like what we did with facilities here switching from School to Town support

Nutting: Technology lost a staff person, might need some help sooner than later
Fire Dept with 5 folks out on injury, some new hires haven't been fully trained yet and class is not until next year, so overtime is going up; with reduction in staff, injuries hit you
2 firefighters are down in NJ called up by the federal government

Roche: mentioned to Jeff about getting a recording secretary, we don't have someone but it would be good to have; pretty hard to effectively do so and conduct the meeting; will try to advertise a 2 hour a month job once a month with summers off

A project, to develop a new member packet, what are the policies, phone number listing, mission statement, goals, etc. and a current budget

A project to review all the cash accounts, Jim remiss in sitting with Susan to review
Long range issues need to be picked up from the Long Range Planning Committee
it does happen but it is not formalized in Franklin, roads, sustainability of employment, etc.

Encourage the Chairman to appoint subcommittees to meet with the departments, Police, Fire, DPW and Schools makes a difference when it comes to the budget and decision making

motion to adjourn
Passed unanimously

Franklin votes at the high school


Voting for all of Franklin is at Franklin High School, 218 Oak St, Franklin, MA 02038.


View Larger Map

The polls will open at 6:00 AM and close at 8:00 PM.


-------------


To help summarize the information available to us on the candidates and their positions, I have the following to offer:








Another stabilization fund?

In the normal course of events, Town Council agenda items regarding money usually get to go before the Finance Committee (FinCom) for a vote. The vote becomes part of the record for the Town Council to consider the matter. How the FinCom votes can help determine what the Town Council will do.

Aside from the election as being the major event of today, the FinCom meeting tonight will get to decide on the possible creation of another stabilization account. We already have several accounts in this space. Per the FinCom agenda these are the accounts and current amounts held:
General stabilization:  $4,806,571
Public Works: $275,494
Traffic: $4,565
OPEB: $170,253
Senior Center: $150,579
Recreation fields:  $150,579
Fire Truck: $75,290
Free cash : $3,580,481

The General Stabilization is supposed to be around 5% of the Town budget as a good fiscal practice as well as Town Council policy.

The OPEB, Senior Center, Recreation Fields, and Fire Truck accounts are all holding money being put aside to accumulate for the time when we will need it. OPEB for the outstanding funding required. The Senior Center for the build out of the 2nd floor. The Recreation fields to re-do the artificial turf fields in a couple of years. The fire truck to purchase a replacement in a few years.

With some extra money over and above what was budgeted for FY 2013, there is now a proposal for an "Operating Budget Stabilization Fund".
The Town Council will vote on Wednesday these two items (among other actions on the agenda)
1. Resolution 12-72: Establishment of an Operating Budget Stabilization Fund
2. Resolution 12-73: Appropriation: Operating Budget Stabilization Fund

Money put aside in this new account would help to offset a future need for an operational override. Yet money from the general stabilization fund had been previously used for this purpose. Why create a separate account? Why not use the one that has been used?


The full FinCom agenda can be found here
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2012/11/finance-committee-agenda-nov-6-2012.html

The full Town Council agenda for Wednesday's meeting can be found here
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2012/11/franklin-ma-town-council-agenda-nov-7.html


Music Boosters Fund Raiser - Thu Nov 8

The Franklin Music Boosters will be holding a fund raiser on Thursday evening from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM at Five Guys. Five Guys will donate a percentage of the purchases during this time to the Music Boosters.


Have a burger and help the Music Boosters!


Additional information on the Franklin Music Boosters can be found on their webpage:
http://www.franklinmusic.org/


In the News: hurricane, ballot questions, election letters



Franklin, Mendon collecting items for hurricane victims



Many communities will see more than 3 ballot questions

Monday, November 5, 2012

FHS Girls Varsity game - Tues 6pm @ FHS


Ok Soccer Fans! 
Let's keep the momentum going...Franklin HS Girls Varsity game vs. Dartmouth - 6pm - Tues 11/6 at FHS.  Each game is getting tougher and this one will be no exception.  It's the quarterfinals as there are just 8 teams left in the tournament. 
Please come out to support the team...bring blankets, hot cocoa, mittens, and more to keep warm and cheer on the girls!  They GREATLY appreciate all the support over the last few games...it has really given them an extra boost during the games to hear and see all the fans!!

GO FRANKLIN!!

November is busy!

Why is it so busy in November? It helps that there are 'short' school weeks.

This week: 
No school on Tuesday Nov 6th to reduce traffic on Election Day. Teachers and staff have a professional day.


Next week:
No school on Monday, Nov 12th, Veterans Day.

The following week
Thanksgiving comes with no school Wed/Thu/Fri hence only three two days of school!


Election 2012: What's on the ballot?

While this article leaves out the two non-binding ballot questions, you can get ALL the candidate and ballot question information you need here
http://franklinmattersweekly.blogspot.com/2012/11/its-time-to-vote-nov-6th.html


Sent to you by Steve Sherlock via Google Reader:

via The Milford Daily News News RSS by Derek McLean/Daily News staff on 11/4/12

When local residents hit the ballot box on Tuesday, they will all be asked to vote for their choice of president and U.S. senator. Voters in the Massachusetts 4th Middlesex Congressional District will be asked to choose between Democrat Joe Kennedy, Republican Sean Bielat and independent David Rosa to take the U.S. representative seat that is currently being held by Barney Frank.

Things you can do from here:

"It’s been a great race"

The position statements have been touted frequently, now it is time to get out the vote. The Milford Daily News reports on a reflection of the campaigns for the 10th Norfolk District by the candidates:
Roy, of Franklin, and Eustis, of Medway, know the district well. Yet both acknowledged that because of the microscope put on it by campaigning, they have learned so much more about the towns and their residents. 
"I’ve been to neighborhoods I never knew existed," Roy said. "I’ve made new friends." 
This hyper-local election, they say, has been all about going door-to-door. The candidates each boast about having visited with thousands of their would-be constituents. And they have been humbled by the kindness and openness shown to them on the campaign trail. 
"It was amazing to me how freely people would share their personal stories and details of struggles they have had — me coming to their door as a stranger," Eustis said. "They were so welcoming and candid in our discussions. They left me more committed than ever to fight to help make their lives better, day to day."

Read more: http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/x1890071984/Roy-Eustis-look-back-on-months-of-campaigning#ixzz2BLLkuhGy

Democracy Amendment Massachusetts (Common Cause Ballot Initiative to overturn Citizens United)

A regular reader sent along this additional information on Ballot Question 4


The Democracy Amendment Ballot Question

Shall the state [senator or representative] from this district be instructed to vote in favor of a resolution calling upon Congress to propose an amendment to the US Constitution affirming that 1) corporations are not entitled to the constitutional rights of human beings, and 2) both Congress and the states may place limits on political contributions and political spending?


Frequently Asked Questions

Who supports a constitutional amendment?

83% of Democrats, 73% of Republicans, and 81% of Independents oppose Citizens United.

9 states – Massachusetts, New Jersey, Connecticut, California, Hawaii, Maryland, New Mexico, Rhode Island, and Vermont – have called for Congress to propose a constitutional amendment.

Over 300 US municipalities have passed resolutions in favor of an amendment, including at least 70 in Massachusetts.

11 state attorneys general, led by Massachusetts's Martha Coakley, have written to Congress urging the passage of an amendment.

22 state attorneys general urged the Court to uphold a Montana law challenging Citizens United.

A dozen versions of an amendment have been introduced by US representatives and senators.

115+ citizens' organizations support a constitutional amendment.

More than 2 million people have signed petitions in support of an amendment.

Is a constitutional amendment really necessary?

Yes. Because Citizens United and other decisions are based on the Supreme Court's interpretation of the Constitution, only a constitutional amendment can undo them and ensure that government works for us—not just for corporations and wealthy interests that pay for political campaigns. Read more »

Isn't a corporation an association of people? Why shouldn't it have constitutional rights?

To claim that the Bill of Rights applies to "we the corporations" as well as "we the people" is contrary to its original intent and just plain wrong. Read more »

Unions, nonprofits, and news organizations are corporations too. Won't a constitutional amendment weaken their voice?

Absolutely not. Non-profit organizations could advocate for the rights of their members long before the courts gave corporations constitutional rights. The Supreme Court has recognized this repeatedly. If a constitutional amendment were passed, we would merely go back to this method of analyzing rights. Read more »

Didn't the Massachusetts state legislature already pass a resolution calling for a constitutional amendment?

Yes, in an overwhelming bipartisan victory, both chambers of the Massachusetts legislature passed resolutions calling on Congress for a constitutional amendment. This ballot question is an opportunity for the voters of Massachusetts to reinforce the state legislature's action. Read more »

What is the point if the ballot question is non-binding?

Using ballot questions, "We the People" can send a strong message to Congress and other elected officials that we want a constitutional amendment. Even though voter instructions are not legally binding, they have historically carried great force. Read more »

What is the process to pass a constitutional amendment?

All 27 amendments to today's US constitution were proposed by a 2/3 vote of both houses of Congress and then ratified by 3/4 of the state legislatures. Alternatively, amendments can be proposed and ratified by a combination of national and state constitutional conventions.

What did the Court decide in the Citizens United ruling? How did the Court arrive at Citizens United?

In its 5-4 decision in Citizens United v. Federal Elections Commission (2010), the Supreme Court decided that corporate expenditures in elections constitute constitutionally protected free speech. Read more »

What are independent expenditures? How are they different from contributions?

An independent expenditure is spending on behalf of a candidate. A contribution is given directly to a candidate or a candidate's affiliates. Read more »

What are SuperPACs?

SuperPACs are political action committees that only make independent expenditures. They can legally accept and spend unlimited donations from individuals, corporations, and unions. Read more »

How has Citizens United affected political spending in elections?

The unprecedented special interest funds pumped into the 2010 elections revealed only the tip of the iceberg of campaign finance post-Citizens United. The 2012 election cycle is sure to break all spending records: overall spending in the 2012 election is predicted to reach new heights – more than $8 billion! Read more »

Who will be voting on the Democracy Amendment question?

About one-third of Massachusetts voters have a chance to vote on the question in November. Read more »

Why does the Democracy Amendment question have different numbers depending on where you vote?

Ballot questions are numbered in the order in which petition signatures were submitted to the Secretary of State. Also, all statewide binding questions, of which there are three in 2012, are numbered first. Read more »

Aside from voting "YES," how can I help and where can I get more information?

Tell your friends, family, neighbors, and coworkers about the ballot question. Make sure they are registered to vote by Wednesday October 17 and vote "YES" on Tuesday November 6! Read more »

Want to know more? Check out our suggestions for reading and other resources »

Sunday, November 4, 2012

Franklin, MA: Town Council - Agenda - Nov 7, 2012


A. ELECTION OF OFFICERS

B. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
October 3, 2012 Regular Session, October 17 Executive Session

C. ANNOUNCEMENTS
This meeting is being recorded by Franklin TV and shown on Comcast channel 11 and Verizon channel 29. This meeting is also being recorded by Franklin Matters.

D. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS
Citizenship Award

E. CITIZEN COMMENTS

F. APPOINTMENTS
Franklin Community Cable Access Corp. – Board of Directors
(three candidates for two positions: Ken Norman, Rose Turco, Frank Falvey)

Finance Committee - Paul Aparo

G. HEARINGS

H. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS

I. PRESENTATIONS/DISCUSSIONS
Karen Alves, Director, Senior Center
Franklin TV, Ken Norman

J. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS

K. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
1. Resolution 12-72: Establishment of an Operating Budget Stabilization Fund
2. Resolution 12-73: Appropriation: Operating Budget Stabilization Fund
3. Resolution 12-74: Appropriation: Interest – Property Tax
4. Resolution 12-75: Town of Franklin Net Metering Power Purchase Agreement
Authorization
5. Bylaw Amendment 12-694:Amendment to Chapter 82, Appendix A, List of Service Fee
Rates – 2nd Reading
6. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 12-695: Amendment to Chapter 185 §31. Site Plan and Design
Review – Referral to Planning Board
7. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 12-696: Amendment to Chapter 185 §20 Signs. Sign Approvals
– Referral to Planning Board
8. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 12-697: Amendment to Chapter 185 §45 Administration &
Enforcement. Design Review Commission – Referral to Planning Board

L. TOWN ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT

M.OLD BUSINESS

N. NEW BUSINESS

O. COUNCIL COMMENTS

P. EXECUTIVE SESSION
Negotiations, Litigation, Real Property, as May Be Required

Q. ADJOURN


The full set of documents released for this meeting can be found here
http://franklinma.virtualtownhall.net/Pages/FranklinMA_CouncilAgendas/2012%20docs/110712.pdf


Hurricane Relief collection underway


A message from FRANKLIN PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT

Hello

The Town of Franklin Police, Fire and Schools are attempting to organize a disaster relief project to help our Fellow Americans impacted  by Hurricane Sandy.

Items needed include:

  • Bottled water
  • Nonperishable food- note expiration date
  • New Clothing- adults, children and babies
  • New Blankets
  • Personal hygiene items including baby items (diapers, baby wipes)
  • New household items

Please drop off items at one of our two fire stations (King Street or Downtown) between 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.

Thank you for your support,

The Franklin School Department, 
the Franklin Police Department and 
the Franklin Fire Department.
This e-mail has been sent to you by FRANKLIN PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT. To maximize their communication with you, you may be receiving this e-mail in addition to a phone call with the same message. If you wish to discontinue this service, please inform FRANKLIN PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT IN PERSON, by US MAIL, or by TELEPHONE at (508) 613-1777.