Monday, December 31, 2012

Annual Report 2012: Health Department


Mission Statement
The Franklin Health Department is charged with protecting the public health and well being of the community, in accordance with federal, state and local public health laws and regulations. To fulfill this responsibility, the Franklin Health Department enforces a multitude of public health laws and regulations, and administers a comprehensive inspection program.

Inspections
The following list identifies the primary components of the department’s inspection program, and the total number of inspections and re-inspections conducted for each component.

* Food Service/Retail Food Inspection .......... 345

* Title V Septic System Plan Review and Installation/Repair,
Total Applications ......................................... 30
17 New, 13 Repairs, 12 Minor Repairs and

Approximately 125 Field Inspections Conducted.

* Chapter II Housing Code Inspection/
Re-inspections .............................................. 25

* Public Health Nuisance/Odor/Noise/Animal
Complaint Investigation................................. 55

* Semi-Public Pool/Spa Testing/Inspection
and Public Beach Testing ............................. 30

* Inspection and Licensing of Children’s
Recreational Camps ..................................... 10

* Tanning Salon Inspection ............................... 3

* Manicure/Pedicure Establishment .................. 6

Communicable Disease
As mandated by the State Department of Public Health, local health departments must report, investigate and track all communicable disease occurrences in their jurisdictions. The Franklin Health Department has had a long-term contract with the Milford Area Visiting Nurses to investigate and follow up reportable communicable diseases that occur in the community.

The following list depicts the reportable illness activity for fiscal year 2011-2012 in number of official cases:
Malaria ................................................................ 1
Human Granulocytic Anaplasmosis ................... 1
Calicvirus/Norovirus ........................................... 2
Babesiosis .......................................................... 0
Campylobacter ................................................... 5
Hepatitis A .......................................................... 1
Hepatitis B .......................................................... 0
Hepatitis C ........................................................ 12
Lyme Disease, Confirmed ................................. 4
Meningitis ........................................................... 0
Streptococcus, Group A/B ................................. 2
E. Coli ................................................................ 0
Ehrlichiosis ......................................................... 0
Giardiasis ........................................................... 2
Salmonella Enteritis ......................................... 11
Bacterial Infection, Avium, Vibrio ....................... 0
Encephalitis ........................................................ 0
Cryptosporidiosis ............................................... 1
Legionellosis ...................................................... 2
Pulmonary TB .................................................... 0
Chicken Pox ....................................................... 6
Pertussis ............................................................ 4
Influenza A ......................................................... 0
Influenza B ......................................................... 0
Dog Bites ......................................................... 12
Cat Bites ............................................................ 4
Shigellosis .......................................................... 0
TB related .......................................................... 0
Streptococcus Pneumoniae ............................... 3
Yersinia .............................................................. 1
Dengue Fever .................................................... 0

Flu Clinics
In fiscal year 2011-2012, the Milford VNA held three seasonal flu clinics immunizing 117 residents. In addition, the VNA provided TB screening/ testing and case follow-up for a number of residents.

Licenses and Permits
The following is a comprehensive list of all permits/licenses issued by the Franklin Health Department during fiscal year 2011-2012. Most licensed/permitted activities require at least annual inspections as part of the permitting process.

Beaver Permits .................................................. 5
Burial Permits ................................................... 54
Bakery ................................................................ 4
Bottling ............................................................... 1
Catering ............................................................. 1
Cleaners/Laundromats ...................................... 1
Recreational Camps .......................................... 9
Demolition ........................................................ 10
Septic Installers ................................................ 47
Disposal of Offal ............................................... 33
Food Establishment ....................................... 105
Funeral Directors ............................................... 3
Infectious Waste ................................................ 1
Keeping of Animals .......................................... 15
Frozen Desserts/Ice Cream ............................... 7
Milk and Cream ................................................ 39
Milk and Cream Vehicles ................................... 5
Mobile Food ....................................................... 4
137
Pasteurization .................................................... 1
Private Wells (potable) ...................................... 3
Irrigation Wells ................................................... 2
Recycling ............................................................ 1
Retail Food ....................................................... 33
Stables ............................................................. 19
Manicure Establishment ................................... 16
Tanning Establishment ....................................... 4
Temporary Food ............................................... 15
Trench Permits ................................................. 23
Semi-Public Pools/Spas ................................... 27

Staff
The current Health Department staff is as follows:
David E. McKearney, R.S. Public Health Director
Virginia M. McNeil, Health Agent.

The Franklin Health Department wishes to thank all department heads and staff for their efforts in supporting and assisting the Health Department throughout the year.

Board of Health
The three-member elected Board of Health is the policy making arm for the Health Department. The board members assist in the drafting of public health bylaws, and review all site plans for compliance with local and state public health regulations. The board presides over administrative hearings in all matters concerning Health Department licensed and permitted activities. Board members are available for consultation on issues relative to the public health as well.

Bruce Hunchard, Board of Health Chairman
Donald Ranieri, Jr. Vice Chairman
Philip Brunelli, Board Clerk.

Hours of Operation
The Franklin Health Department office is open Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 8:00am to 4:00pm, Wednesday from 8:00am to 6:00pm and Friday from 8:00 to 1:00pm. Health Department personnel are available to meet with customers from 8-9:15AM and again from 3:15-4PM each day, or by appointment as
necessary.

Respectfully submitted,

David E. McKearney, R.S.
Public Health Director
Franklin Health Department


from the Town Clerk Annual Report page, this comes from the 2012 Annual Report
http://franklinma.virtualtownhall.net/Pages/FranklinMA_Clerk/annual/


"The $10.5 million effort will begin in 2016"

I find it interesting that the Milford Daily News has an article on road work for the i495 section in Franklin. The work planned will include the bridges, road surfaces as well as the on/off ramps. The interesting part is that the work is not scheduled to begin until 2016! It is good that MassDOT is planning ahead. What the road conditions will be like when they finally get started remains to be seen.
Any work done to I-495 benefits the town, said Department of Public Works Director Robert Cantoreggi. 
Cantoreggi believes that the state rarely does this level of work, saying it’s high time the town's section of I-495 — going from the Wrentham town line to Beaver Street — received improvements. 
"A lot of times, we get calls about the conditions of the ramps because people think they’re under the control of the town," he said. "The ramps have been in awful condition and I’ve called the state about it many times."

Read more: http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/x1783189586/Big-changes-to-be-made-on-I-495-in-Franklin#ixzz2GdR14fjr

Meeting notes archive for 2012



2012



Election results - 11/06/12

Master Plan Public Meeting - May 19, 2012

Finance Committee - Budget hearings FY 2013

High School Building Project collection


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


 

Sunday, December 30, 2012

Snow places to go

The family has been to Oak St School to sled. I have heard of Dacey Field on Lincoln St. Are there other good sledding spots in Franklin?

Please email or add your suggestion in the comments.


"reimagining their senior centers"

The MetroWest Daily News has an article on the growing senior population and the attempts of the local senior centers to serve this community.
Directors have found that to reach new seniors, they’ll need new marketing techniques, ones incorporating social media and the Internet. 
Inside their senior centers, they are taking pains to stay fresh and appealing, setting up cafés and computer classrooms. 
"We expect that they (baby boomers) want much more high-tech resources than we currently offer," said Karen Alves, director of the Franklin Senior Center. 
Outside, they’re offering trips beyond doctor’s visits, to cultural or educational hot spots.

Read more: A senior dilemma - Franklin, MA - Wicked Local Franklin http://www.metrowestdailynews.com/features/x1631898497/A-senior-dilemma#ixzz2GXVbupmG


Information about the Franklin Senior Center can be found here
http://franklinma.virtualtownhall.net/Pages/FranklinMA_Senior/index

You can find their current Newsletter here
http://franklinma.virtualtownhall.net/Pages/FranklinMA_Senior/Jan13connection.pdf

Annual Report 2012: Building Inspection


The Building Inspection Department is a multi-function office responsible for the construction, demolition, alteration, repair and occupancy of all residential, commercial, business and industrial uses for both existing and new construction in accordance with the Massachusetts Building Code. The department is responsible for the administration, interpretation and enforcement of the following codes:
Massachusetts State Building Code - 780CMR
Town of Franklin Code - Zoning – CH 185
Mass. Electrical Code – 527 CMR
Mass. Plumbing & Gas Code – 248 CMR
National Fuel Gas Code – NFPA 54-2002
Sealer of Weights and Measure – G.L. CH 98
Architectural Access Board – 521 CMR

Hours of Operation
The Building Inspection Department’s hours are Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday 8:00a.m.-4:00p.m., Wednesday 8:00a.m.-6:00p.m. and Friday 8:00a.m.- 1:00p.m. For your convenience, you may visit our website: at www.franklin.ma.us/inspections. This site contains a series of forms easily accessible and available to download. The website provides permit applications, sample plot plans, sign regulations, swimming pool instruction manuals. Shed/barn instruction manuals, complaint forms, zoning criteria and other information necessary to process a permit or to simply provide information to the public.

Building Department Staff
Building Commissioner/Zoning Officer: Lloyd Brown
Inspectors:
Inspector of Wires: Bernard Mullaney
Asst Wiring Inspector: James Laughlin
Plumbing/Gas Inspector: Richard Cornetta
Asst Plumb/Gas Inspector: Richard McCormick
Sealer of Weights & Measurers: Comm. of Mass. /Div. of Standards

Staff Assistants
Barbara J. Curran/Zoning
Eileen A. DiGiacomo
Judy Demers

Lloyd Brown, Commissioner of Buildings, is responsible for all construction trade inspectors, municipal maintenance and supervision of all construction, zoning interpretation and determination, pre-planning and review of all subdivisions and proposed construction and improvements and general input for all other municipal departments and construction-related inquiries. Inspectors and staff continue to be trained on the changes with the new codes. David Roche has left the Department and is now working for the Town of Needham. We thanked David for his 14 years of service and all that he did for the town. The remainder of the staff continues to take on additional work load and responsibilities while still maintaining normal business hours open to the public. I also thank all of them for the continued excellent work they perform every day for the Department and the Town of Franklin.

Building Permits
Remodeling construction remained steady for the year with new home starts closer to normal, and subdivisions continue to be constructed. Commercial construction and tenant fit-up of existing buildings remain strong. This year the Building Department issued a total of 1185 building permits and the revenues
collected were $471,395.96

The following is a breakdown of the past years building permit activity:
Single Family Residence(s) 25
Attached Town House(s) 9
Apts. Or Stacked Condo(s) 2
New Building Commercial 6
Building Misc. 6
Accessory Dwelling Unit(s) 5
Addition(s) 42
Alteration(s) 463
Amended Permit(s) 1
Deck 48
Swimming Pool(s) 35
Garage(s) 3
Shed(s) 7
Foundation(s) Only 9
Demolition(s) 17
Tent(s) 13
Sign(s) 31
Woodstove(s) 24
Carnival(s) 1
Fence 0
Earth Removal 2
Repair(s) Rehab 384

Certificates of Inspection
Inspection and certification of specified use groups shall be inspected annually in accordance with Table 106 of the Massachusetts State Building Code. This year the staff issued 82 certificates of inspection and the fees collected for the certifications amounted to $18,240.00. Certificates are issued for all public and private schools, churches, day care centers, nursing homes, funeral homes, bleachers, restaurants, alcoholic beverage establishments, multi-family dwellings (3or more units), movie theaters and other places of
assembly. The Fire Department has assisted our department in assuring compliance with the Fire Prevention Code. The purpose of these inspections is to ensure the public safety and well being of the general public.

Certificates of Occupancy 
The Building Inspection Department issues a certificate of occupancy in accordance with the Massachusetts State Building Code. All buildings/structures shall not be used or occupied in whole or part until a certificate of occupancy is issued. This department has issued a total of 76 certificates of occupancy and the total fees collected amounted to $5,500.00.

Electrical Permits
The total number of electrical permits issued was 998 and the total fees collected and deposited amounted to $94,224.00

Plumbing Permits
The total number of plumbing permits issued was 589 and the total fees collected and deposited Amounted to $61,529.00

Gas Permits
The total number of gas permits issued was 600 and the total fees collected and deposited amounted to
$28,004.00

Division of Weights and Standards
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulations, Division of Standards provides this service on behalf of the Town of Franklin. The Department of Weights and Measures is responsible for providing the services of testing, adjusting, sealing and handling all complaints regarding commercial weighing and measuring devices within the Town of Franklin. The department investigates consumer complaints regarding unit pricing laws; spot-checking prepackaged items for compliance with all weights and measures laws. Inspections were conducted by the State and the total fees collected and deposited amounted to $12,023.50

Total Revenues Collected: $655,152.96

The Building Commissioner would like to thank his staff, the various town departments, boards
and officials for their support and assistance throughout the year.

Respectfully,

Lloyd Brown
Commissioner of Buildings


From the Town clerk page on annual reports. This comes from the 2012 report
http://franklinma.virtualtownhall.net/Pages/FranklinMA_Clerk/annual/

Franklin Art Center: January 2013 updates

We hope everyone is enjoying the holidays

We have new classes and workshops coming in January.
Franklin Art Center

Preschool art classes and After school art classes have some openings ..check the website and give us a call if you are interested.

NEW  Watercolor for teens- Adults   begins Jan 7
          Mondays 7-9  6 weeks   $180  supply list will be distributed

New Saturday morning painting for teens- adults
          11-12:30   6 weeks        $180  starts Jan 5

Drawing for teens -adults  
          Wednesdays 6:30-8      $180 begins Jan 9

DSLR workshop Saturday Jan 26  1:30-5   $45

Kids cupcake workshops  Jan 12 & 19       $60
        2-4 pm   for both days includes matted painting and clay cupcake to be displayed at the cake bar

We look forward to a new year and new classes and workshops
If you are interested in a new class ...let us know!

Have a Happy New Year!
Ian and Linda Kabat

Franklin Art Center


In the News: more staff, lab problems, drunk driving


Franklin Fire Chief wants more staff




Review finds problems at other Mass. labs



State police urge drivers not to drive drunk

Saturday, December 29, 2012

Annual Report 2012: Zoning Board of Appeals


The Zoning Board of Appeals currently consists of three (3) members and one (1) associate member appointed by the Town Administrator, subject to the confirmation by the Town Council, for terms of such length and so arranged that the term of one member shall expire each year. There are currently two (2) openings for an associate member.

The Board of Appeals holds Public Hearings, as advertised, for Variance(s), Special Permits (including gravel removal), Findings and Chapter 40B applications. The Board also renders determinations on land use and zoning issues. All necessary forms and applications may be obtained through the Building Inspection Department and via Board of Appeals website at http://www.franklin.ma.us.

The Zoning Board of Appeals meets in Town Council Chambers at the Franklin Municipal Building on Thursday evenings usually twice a month, at 7:30pm. The calendar may be viewed via website at http://www.franklin.ma.us. All meetings are open to the public.

The Board has been very active this fiscal year and the following agenda is a list of all applications filed, indexed and recorded with the Town Clerk.


Respectfully submitted,

Franklin Zoning Board of Appeals (Member Since)

Bruce Hunchard, Chairman (1991)
Robert Acevedo, Vice Chairman (2003)
Timothy Twardowski, Clerk (2010)
Philip Brunelli, Associate Member (2009)
Barbara Curran Administrative Secretary


From the Town clerk page on annual reports. This comes from the 2012 report
http://franklinma.virtualtownhall.net/Pages/FranklinMA_Clerk/annual/

Registration: Y World of Tots Preschool


Registration for the Hockomock Area YMCA’s Y World of Tots Preschool at the Bernon Family Branch in Franklin begins Wednesday, Jan. 16 at 1 p.m.

The preschool is designed to provide a positive learning environment for children aged 2.9 to 5 years. The school is holding an open house for parents on Jan. 16 from 1-2:30 p.m. and provides an opportunity to view the classroom environment, meet the staff, and learn about the program’s philosophy.

“Our program offers a preschool experience where children learn, thrive, and explore. We look forward to meeting and welcoming new students for the 2013-2014 school year. Preschool is a great opportunity to introduce young children to a lifetime of learning,” said teacher Lisa Peters. The preschool program offers two, three, and five-day options for both morning or extended day options. The Y World of Tots is accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children.

Social, motor, and academic development is promoted through fun hands-on learning activities in science, math, language, listening and verbal skills. Enrichment activities are included in the curriculum and is an added benefit as the school is located inside a full facility YMCA. Activities include gymnastics, swimming & sports classes. Nutrition education is also included.

The program is run by intensively screened and trained caring, licensed staff.

For more information contact Deborah Ela or Lisa Peters at 774-235-2725 or yworldoftots@hockymca.org.

Friday, December 28, 2012

Annual Report 2012: Town Attorney


The Town has an in-house attorney, Mark G. Cerel. Attorney Cerel has an office in the Town Administration offices and works three days a week. In addition, he attends regular Council sessions and meetings of town boards and commissions on an as-needed basis. His responsibilities include providing legal advice to
the Town Administrator and other town officials, review and drafting of legal documents, and representation of the town in negotiations and litigation other than labor-related matters. Having an in-house attorney has enabled town officials to obtain prompt legal review and advice; it has also expedited various town projects which require legal input.

During the past year, Attorney Cerel has continued to be successful not only in resolving actual litigation but also in resolving disputes prior to litigation on terms favorable to the Town; he has also continued to draft proposed legislation and to be involved in contract and real estate negotiations. In addition, he has continued to work with the staff to review and update the Town's zoning and general bylaws.

An in-house attorney plays an essential role in limiting the town’s legal exposure. He assists in resolving matters before they result in legal action and he provides the town with a strong legal presence that  discourages people from filing frivolous lawsuits.

The Town Attorney represents the town and is only available to consult with individual residents if the Town Administrator’s prior approval is obtained.

Respectfully submitted,

Mark Cerel
Town Attorney


From the Town clerk page on annual reports. This comes from the 2012 report
http://franklinma.virtualtownhall.net/Pages/FranklinMA_Clerk/annual/

Congressman McGovern: Office Closings due to redistricting

If you are having trouble viewing this message or would like to share it on a social network, you can view the message online.



December 27, 2012

US Congressman Jim McGovern, Representing the Massachusetts   Third Congressional District
Dear friends,
I have thoroughly enjoyed representing the 3rd Congressional District, and am sad to be saying goodbye to many longtime friends and constituents due to redistricting that will now have me representing the "new" 2nd Congressional District.

I know that Representatives Keating, Kennedy, Markey, and Tsongas will do a superb job, and I look forward to working with them closely on the local issues that have mattered so much to me for the past 16 years.

My Attleboro, Fall River, and Marlborough offices stopped accepting new casework as of December 21, 2012, and will officially close as of December 31, 2012, due to redistricting.

In an effort to assure continuity of representation, relevant casework and information will be transferred to the new Congressional offices representing each affected community as of January 3, 2012.

Residents in Clinton and Marlborough will now be in the 3rd Congressional District. Inquiries should be directed to Congresswoman Niki Tsongas.

tsongas.house.gov
Lowell, MA Office
11 Kearney Square, 3rd Floor
Lowell, MA 01852
Phone: (978) 459-0101]

Residents in Attleboro, Fall River*, Franklin, Hopkinton, Medway, North Attleboro, Plainville, Rehoboth, Seekonk, Somerset, Swansea, Wrentham will now be in the 4th Congressional District, and will be able to contact Congressman Joe Kennedy III after January 3rd. In the meantime, inquiries should be directed to Senator John Kerry.

Kerry.senate.gov
Boston, MA Office
One Bowdoin Square, 10th Floor
Boston, MA 02114
Phone: 617.565.8519

Some residents of Fall River will now be in the 9th Congressional District. Inquiries should be directed to Congressman William Keating.

Keating.house.gov
Quincy, MA Office
1250 Hancock Street, Suite 802N
Quincy, MA 02169
Phone: 617.770.3700

Residents in Ashland, Holliston, and Southborough will now be in the 5th Congressional District. Inquiries should be directed to Congressman Ed Markey.

Markey.house.gov
Framingham, MA Office
188 Concord Street, Suite 102
Framingham, MA 01702
Phone: 508-875-2900

Thank you for all of your friendship and support over the years,

Congressman Jim McGovern
Contact Information
Washington D.C. Office
438 Cannon HOB | Washington, DC 20515 | Phone: (202) 225-6101 | Fax: (202) 225-5759
District Offices:
34 Mechanic Street
Worcester, MA 01608
Phone: (508) 831-7356
Fax: (508) 754-0982
255 Main Street
Room 104
Marlborough, MA 01752
Phone: (508) 460-9292
Fax: (508) 460-6869
8 North Main Street
Suite 200
Attleboro, MA 02703
Phone: (508) 431-8025
Fax: (508) 431-8017
371 S. Main Street
Suite 102
Fall River, MA 02721
Phone: (508) 677-0140
Fax: (508) 677-0992




Ring in the New Year at 3



Having trouble viewing this email? Click here


3header   

Great Specials All Weekend Long!

Ring in 2013 (Fri. Dec 28- Mon. Dec. 31) with New Year's Eve dinner at 3. We will feature our regular dinner menu as well as some delicious specials from Chef Chad including slow roasted prime rib, striped bass and a Land and Sea special with grilled filet mignon and crab stuffed shrimp! Plus, enjoy a complimentary champagne toast at midnight!
 
3 is the place to be this New Year's Eve!
Join us for an unforgettable evening of great food,
comedy and music! Our comic headliner for the evening is the hilarious
Rick Beretta.  He will be joined by two other comedians for a hysterical
night as we ring in 2013!

Then, join us downstairs for live music, favors and a complimentary
champagne toast at midnight!

December 31st at 8pm. Cost is $75 per person and includes
appetizers, dinner buffet, dessert, comedy, tax and gratuity (cash bar).
Reservations are limited so call today - 508.528.6333.
 *********************************
3 logo new 
3, 461 W. Central Street Franklin, MA 02038 508.528.6333  3-restaurant.com

Visit our other Let's Eat, Inc. restaurant in Norwood: SKY

This email was sent to  by hrc@sky-restaurant.com |  
Let's Eat, Inc. | 461 Central Street | Franklin | MA | 02038

Franklin police: Man stole jewelry, clothes from parents' house

Sent to you by Steve Sherlock via Google Reader:

via The Milford Daily News News RSS by Matt Tota/Daily News Staff on 12/27/12

After ascending a ladder, a Franklin man on Wednesday broke into his parents' Oak Street home and then stole jewelry and clothing, authorities allege.

Things you can do from here:

Thursday, December 27, 2012

Annual Report 2012: Town Administrator


Each year we try to improve the quality of life for our citizens. During tough economic times we have to scale back our goals but we all remain committed to customer service and high ethical standards.

We continue to live within our means. This year we passed a budget with no layoffs for the first time in several years. There will be challenges in coming years, but we will continue to meet those challenges the only way we know how, head on and with our goal of providing the best service we can.

So, what have we done this year?

Downtown Improvements to Emmons, Ray, Dean, and Depot Street Parking Lot, funded by a $1,000,000 PWED Grant, were completed this past fall.

Franklin has its own dog park thanks to the ingenuity of 13 year old Hayley Goulet and her Cap Stone Project for school. Hayley had help from the Franklin DPW, Random Smile Projects, friends and relatives and many donors to get the project done but the final home is at Dacey field on Lincoln street and is a great asset to the Town of Franklin and a very busy place.

The Solid Waste and Single Stream Recycling System continues to be a huge success. In fact this year we reduced the curbside collection fee from $220 to $204 for a 65 gallon container and added the option of using a smaller 35 gallon container and paid off the Totters three years ahead of schedule.

I was proud to appoint Stephan H. Semerjian to serve as Police Chief of the Town of Franklin. Stephan was the Town’s former Deputy Chief and a lifelong resident of Franklin.

On the economic development front, our Planning and Community Development Department held its 2nd Economic Development Summit titled “Business Expansion and Retention through Workforce Development”
Hosted by Tegra Medical.

We also sought to spur economic activity by declaring “Biotechnology Uses Overlay Zoning Districts” in the Pond St. Grove Street and Financial Way Areas. These are areas where certain businesses will be encouraged and will be allowed “by right” and therefore entitled to a speedier permitting process.

We continue to review our Town Bylaws to ensure they are fair and reasonable while protecting the interest of all of our citizens.

The Town Council voted funds to make repairs to Dams 3 and 4 at the DelCarte Property. Staff is working on submitting a grant application for the property that the house sat on for a recreation park.

With help from our citizens we formed a Master Plan Committee to explore the current Master Plan last adopted in 1997 and to develop an action plan for future development and to come up with goals and objectives for the Town Council and the Planning Board as we face a different future in 2013 and beyond and to identify the key issues that the Town will be facing.

The Town Council voted to transfer the responsibility of Public Access Cable TV to a Cable Access Corporations formed by a group of volunteers. We can look forward to expanded services in the near future.

Probably most important of all, the citizens voted to approve a Debt Exclusion for a new model high school in March of 2012. This came after hours and hours, months, and months of work from the School Building Committee, the School Committee, the Town Council and many, many volunteers who took the time to get the word out to educate the public and anyone who would listen on the merits of the project. Congratulations to all involved.

As always I want to thank the employees of the Town of Franklin, it is my pleasure to come to work every day with such dedicated and hard working people who do their best for the citizens of Franklin.

It is my pleasure to submit my annual report for your review, and please feel free to write, e-mail, or stop by with any questions, concerns, or comments.

Respectfully submitted,

Jeff Nutting
Town Administrator


from the Town Clerk Annual Report page, this comes from the 2012 Annual Report
http://franklinma.virtualtownhall.net/Pages/FranklinMA_Clerk/annual/

"I made a commitment to serve the town"

The question on whether Jeff Roy would continue on the Town Council once he is sworn in for the 10th Norfolk seat has been answered. He will remain to serve in both positions at least to finish out his Town Council term. The Council term expires in November 2013.
A resignation from Roy would have triggered a special election. 
"I think it will give me greater insight into what the community needs," he said, adding that he intends to develop an equally close relationship with officials in Medway, the other town in the 10th Norfolk District. 
Council Chairman Robert Vallee said Wednesday that Roy made the right decision because "having a new election would cost the town money, and there’s no need for it." 
"(Roy) can bring the problems that we might have locally to the House," Vallee said. "It’s a plus-plus."

Read more: http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/x1084477886/Roy-to-finish-out-Franklin-Town-Council-term#ixzz2GG0ndvHc

Franklin Library: Family Story Time & Craft

Sent to you by Steve Sherlock via Google Reader:

via Franklin Public Library by Franklin Public Library on 12/26/12



Things you can do from here:

10 Tax Gifts from the DOR

Sent to you by Steve Sherlock via Google Reader:

via Commonwealth Conversations: Revenue by Ann Dufresne-DOR Communications Director on 12/26/12

1.     Unclaimed Refund List
The DOR has millions of dollars in refunds that have been returned to the agency and are waiting to be claimed. See if your name is on the list at DOR's Unclaimed Refund List.
 2.     Veterans and Surviving Spouses Exemption
Qualified veterans and surviving spouses may be eligible for a property tax exemption up to the full tax bill from their local Board of Assessors. Check the Veterans Property Tax Brochure to see if you qualify.
 3.     Senior Circuit Breaker Tax Credit
Residents who are 65 and over before January 1, 2013 may be eligible to claim a refundable senior "Circuit Breaker" tax credit up to $1,000 against their personal income taxes for the rent or real estate taxes they paid on their principal residence. See Circuit Breaker Information for eligibility criteria. There are also provisions for claiming the credit for prior years.
 4.     Turnpike Fuel Excise Refund
Any motorist or commercial motor carrier who buys gasoline or special fuels in Massachusetts and travels on the MassPike can apply for a refund of the 21-cent a gallon excise tax. Now that gas prices are dropping, more commuters might benefit from this program. For details and forms go to Turnpike Refund Guide.
 5.     Credit for Taxes Paid to Rhode Island
Massachusetts residents working in Rhode Island can claim a credit against their Massachusetts personal income tax for mandatory payments to Rhode Island under that state's Temporary Disability Insurance Act. See DOR Directive 12-1 for more information.
 6.     Rental Deduction
You may be entitled to a rental deduction equal to one half of the rent you paid during the calendar year up to $3,000 for your principal residence in MA. See the Rent Deduction  for details.
 7.     Commuter Deduction
Commuting costs such as tolls paid through an EZPass account or for weekly or monthly transit commuter passes for MBTA transit, bus commuter rail and commuter boat may be deductible. See the Commuter Deduction  for details.
 8.     Deduction for FICA and Government Retirement System Contributions
Contributions up to $2,000 paid to Social Security (FICA), Medicare, Railroad and U.S. or MA Retirement Systems may be claimed as a deduction on your state income tax return.  Government employees who are not covered by the Social Security system often forget to add the amount contributed to U.S. or MA Retirement Systems to their Medicare contributions in calculating this deduction.
 9.     Child and Dependent Care  Expenses
Massachusetts law allows taxpayers to exceed the federal limit on employment-related expenses for the care of a qualified child under the age of 13, a disabled dependent or a disabled spouse.
The maximum deduction is $4,800 for one qualifying individual and $9,600 for two or more.
10.  Earned Income Credit
Massachusetts taxpayers who qualify for and claim the federal earned income credit are allowed a state refundable credit equal to 15% of the federal amount.
 There are a number of other exemptions and credits Massachusetts taxpayers may be able to claim on their state tax return. Why not join 96% of Massachusetts taxpayers and file electronically?  Try DOR's WebFile for Income.  It's free and fool-proof. The software program won't let you make a mistake like forgetting to sign your name or attach a schedule and you get your refund quicker than filing paper forms.  If you choose direct deposit, your refund will be even faster. 
 And after you file, you can download DOR's Mobile App on your iPhone or Android smartphone to track your refund.

Things you can do from here:

"the fire inside was not fully extinguished"

Having the proper tool often makes the job much easier. In this case, having the proper tool allowed the firefighters to get at the fire without taking down the whole wall.
McCarraher said that when firefighters arrived, they could only see smoke because the fire itself was fragmented and hidden inside the wall. So they used a thermal imaging camera to locate any hot spots. 
Such cameras allow firefighters to see clumps of heat through darkness and smoke by capturing infrared radiation. 
Once the firefighters pinpointed the pockets of heat, they broke through the wall to put the flames out, McCarraher said.

Read more: http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/x1084477878/Franklin-firefighters-put-out-chimney-fire-on-Christmas-Eve#ixzz2GG2WpUEq

Wednesday, December 26, 2012

Annual Report 2012: Franklin Town Council


On behalf of the Franklin Town Council, it is my pleasure to submit our annual report to the Citizens of Franklin for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2012.

We ended the year on a positive note and passed a balanced budget that included no layoffs for the first time in several years. In March the Citizens approved a Debt Exclusion vote for a new model High School.

We have had a busy year and accomplished a lot with help from you, the citizens.

The Long Range Financial Planning Committee has submitted their final report that was accepted by the Council. The Recycling Committee gave their final report to the Council in June and gave the Town good marks for their recycling efforts. The Council thanks both of these hard working committees for their volunteer efforts.

The Franklin Garden Club works hard to keep the Common and the downtown looking spectacular and the Concerts on the Common Committee brings you phenomenal entertainment on Wednesday nights during the summer months. These two committees work tirelessly for no recognition. The Council thanks them for their efforts.

This year the Council created the Master Plan Committee to look at the Master Plan that was last adopted in 1997. This new Master Plan Committee has been given 18 months to develop an action plan of goals and objectives for the Planning Board and Town Council and identify key issues with an eye towards Franklin’s future.

Also created was the Citizens Committee to provide valuable input to the Council on issues such as improving the quality of life of Franklin’s citizens, improving citizen participation, evaluating the permitting process and business development as a revenue stream.

The Council adopted Remote Participation as they explored ways to remain ever vigilant to represent the citizens while individuals were out of town. Remote Participation allows a Councilor who is out of town to phone into a council meeting and participate via a dedicated line. The Councilor can speak and be heard and
hear as if they were in the room. It is limited to one member per meeting. It has been used a number of times and has worked well.

As you can see, Franklin’s government relies heavily on its volunteers. Franklin is your town and this is your government, it needs your input whether serving on a committee, weeding a garden, planning a concert, or serving in an elected position.

In closing, you can be assured that you have dedicated, competent, and professional individuals working and volunteering their time on your behalf.

I want to thank our Town Administrator, Jeff Nutting, for his dedication and service and all of the Town employees who go to work every day and help to make this community a great place to live and work.

On behalf of my fellow councilors, Andy Bissanti, Bob Dellorco, Glenn Jones, Matt Kelly, Tom Mercer, Judy Pfeffer, Tina Powderly, and Jeff Roy, I want to thank you for the opportunity you have given us to serve this great community.

Respectfully Submitted,

Robert Vallee
Chairman, Franklin Town Council



From the Town clerk page on annual reports. This comes from the 2012 report
http://franklinma.virtualtownhall.net/Pages/FranklinMA_Clerk/annual/

Voice of Franklin: Where is the Presumption of Innocence for Annie Dookhan?


Inquiring minds are asking: Why is a longtime civil libertarian like myself defending Annie Dookhan, a state chemist accused by the Boston Globe of cavorting with state prosecutors who build their careers on the backs of nonviolent drug defendants in the racist war on drugs? Answer: I am not defending anyone. Rather, I am defending things; namely western jurisprudence and its central pillar, the presumption of innocence.

The recent furor over Dookhan's loosened curfew demonstrates that she has already been found guilty in the media, long before her side of the story has been aired in a public trial. Too many observers seem eager to jump ahead in this case to the punishment phase. But let us remember that everything we have been told so far about Annie Dookhan, including the idea that she "admitted to the allegations," has been the product of her government accusers and of shockingly biased media coverage. There is a major difference between an accused person admitting to a set of allegations and her state accusers claiming she's admitted to them -- particularly when, as in this case, several of those accusing Dookhan stand to benefit personally if their version of events is to be believed.

It is ironic that those condemning Dookhan are essentially doing to her what so many are claiming she did to drug defendants: presume guilt and unjustly convict. Perhaps Annie's pre-judgers would prefer she be shipped off to G'tmo for a quick waterboarded confession so we can get this case over with already. But that is not how true justice works.

If by some miracle it is still possible for Annie Dookhan to receive a fair trial, and if she is legitimately found guilty, then she will of course deserve to be punished. For now let us be careful to remember that she is entitled to the same presumption of innocence that we all would hope for ourselves or our loved ones if we are ever accused of a crime.

Rich Aucoin
Franklin