Saturday, June 6, 2020

Franklin, MA: Temporary Outdoor Dining Guidance and Application

In anticipation of Governor Baker's announcement to allow outdoor dining in the State, the Town of Franklin has compiled a list of temporary guidance and application process information for our local establishments. 

Please find it here, https://www.franklinma.gov/administrator/webforms/temporary-outdoor-dining-guidance-and-application

We will continue to update the community on reopening procedures and guidelines as information becomes available. You can visit the Reopening Resources portal on our website here https://www.franklinma.gov/home/pages/reopening-resources

 
Franklin, MA: Temporary Outdoor Dining Guidance and Application
Franklin, MA: Temporary Outdoor Dining Guidance and Application

Franklin, MA: Finance Committee - Budget Hearing #4 6/04/20 (audio)

FM #288 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 288 in the series.

This session shares the Franklin, MA Finance Committee meeting held on Thursday, June 4, 2020. The meeting was conducted via conference bridge to adhere to the ‘social distancing’ requirements of this pandemic period.

This is the fourth and final budget hearing for the Fiscal Year 2021 (FY 21).

The Finance Committee Chair Micheal Dufour opens the meeting. Each person who speaks is announced. The show notes contain links to the meeting packet and to the individual documents referenced.

The departmental budgets for Human Services, Culture and Recreation, along with that of General Government categories are reviewed.

The budget proposal is voted on to recommend for the Town Council. Capital Program Adjustments along with Municipal Borrowing Authorization are reviewed and voted upon

The recording runs about two hours (2:00) , so let’s listen to the Finance Committee budget hearing of June 4.

Audio file = https://www.hipcast.com/podcast/HrVqr9B7



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

Agenda document
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/06/franklin-ma-finance-committee-budget.html

Additional info
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/uploads/fincomm_additional_info_updated.pdf

Budget doc and Overview memo
https://www.franklinma.gov/town-budget/files/fy21-town-administrator-budget-message

FY 2021 budget documents
https://www.franklinma.gov/town-budget/pages/fy2021-budget-materials

School budget summary
https://www.franklinps.net/sites/franklinmaps/files/uploads/02._executive_summaryrevised.pdf

Schools FY 21 recommended budget
https://www.franklinps.net/sites/franklinmaps/files/uploads/fy21_sc_approved_budget_overview.pdf

School Budget page https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-district-budget/pages/fy-2021-budget

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

We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) or 102.9 on the Franklin area radio dial.

This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but we can't do it alone. We can always use your help.

How can you help?
  • If you can use the information that you find here, please tell your friends and neighbors
  • If you don't like something here, please let me know
Through this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.

For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/
If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com

The music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana" c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.

I hope you enjoy!

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

You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"

the capital items as discussed for the Municipal Borrowing Authorization
the capital items as discussed for the Municipal Borrowing Authorization

Franklin, MA: Finance Committee - Budget Hearing #3 6/02/20 (audio)

FM #287 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 287 in the series.

This session shares the Franklin, MA Finance Committee meeting held on Tuesday, June 2, 2020. The meeting was conducted via conference bridge to adhere to the ‘social distancing’ requirements of this pandemic period.

This is the third of four budget hearings for the Fiscal Year 2021 (FY 21).

The Finance Committee Chair Micheal Dufour opens the meeting. Each person who speaks is announced. The show notes contain links to the meeting packet and to the individual documents referenced.

This is an all DPW night. The enterprise funds for Water, Sewer, Trash/Recycling are reviewed as well as the proposal for a stormwater utility fee.

The recording runs about one hour and fifty minutes (1:50) , so let’s listen to the Finance Committee budget hearing of June 2.  

Audio file: https://www.hipcast.com/podcast/HyNpjYJ7




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

FinComm agenda for June 2
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/agendas/2020-06-02_finance_committee_agenda.pdf

FY 2021 budget documents
https://www.franklinma.gov/town-budget/pages/fy2021-budget-materials

School budget summary
https://www.franklinps.net/sites/franklinmaps/files/uploads/02._executive_summaryrevised.pdf

Schools FY 21 recommended budget
https://www.franklinps.net/sites/franklinmaps/files/uploads/fy21_sc_approved_budget_overview.pdf


School Budget page https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-district-budget/pages/fy-2021-budget


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

We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) or 102.9 on the Franklin area radio dial.

This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but we can't do it alone. We can always use your help.

How can you help?
  • If you can use the information that you find here, please tell your friends and neighbors
  • If you don't like something here, please let me know

Through this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.

For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/
If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com

The music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana" c. Michael Clark &

Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.

I hope you enjoy!
------------------

You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"

the Triadic approach to water management
the Triadic approach to water management

FHS "Keeping Music Alive" #12

Congratulations to the class of 2020! We are all sorry that your year ended this way, but I am looking forward to seeing you all at the parade today. Today's FHS Music Alive is dedicated to you all.

We will be featuring John Fitzhenry, 8th grader from Horace Mann Middle School Chorus, who will be singing the National Anthem. I have also included a recording of the FHS Band, Orchestra and Chorus performing "America the Beautiful" at the 2019 graduation.

We are here with you to celebrate and we wish you all the best! We will miss you!

Love,
Mrs. Plouffe

  • John Fitzhenry - National Anthem - 8th Grade Horace Mann Middle School Chorus
https://assets.adobe.com/public/21b0361d-ad28-4471-5c88-77006f34a936

  • FHS Band, Orchestra and Chorus = America the Beautiful
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1t-H18i97C5coMxHXcCy2U7GLYWn9f20L/view



Confronting the Challenges of Covid-19


"This Milford TV programming event, Confronting the Challenges of COVID-19 at Milford Regional Medical Center: Honoring Our Healthcare Heroes, will include a diverse cast of over twenty guests, each one presenting his or her own experience in helping to manage the pandemic in the greater Milford community and sharing personal stories of the challenges entailed in offering the best possible care for patients and their families coping with COVID-19.

This special program, created as a tribute to our community’s healthcare professionals and others working on the front lines, will air live on Tuesday, June 9 beginning at 6:00 p.m. on Milford TV (Comcast 8 and Verizon 38), MyFM 101.3, and other community access channels including Bellingham, Douglas, Franklin, Hopedale, Hopkinton, and Norfolk.

State Representatives Brian W. Murray and Jeffrey N. Roy will be your co-hosts. As Rep. Roy stated, “Extraordinary moments call for extraordinary measures, and our healthcare heroes at Milford Regional have answered the call. I’m thrilled to be a part of the effort to honor those who have stepped up, confronted the challenge, and saved lives in this process.”

Tuesday, June 9, 2020 at 6 PM

Follow the Facebook event for updates
https://www.facebook.com/events/2973255016091817/


“We saw a lot of happy tears out there”

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"Waving from a truck through town wasn’t how Chorrkin Chin envisioned celebrating his high school graduation, but it was also one car ride he’ll ever forget.

“It was crazy – I don’t even know where to start,” said Chin, vice president of the Franklin High School Class of 2020 after the high school’s first-ever car parade graduation on Friday afternoon. Wearing his blue gown with a gold graduation stole and honor cords, the 18-year-old graduate decked out his ride with silver streamers and banners for the ceremony. He saw many teachers along the 3-4 mile route, which included circling the Town Common then ending up at the high school where graduates received their diplomas from Principal Paul Peri and roaring cheers from teachers and the administration.

He even saw his kindergarten teacher.

“There was so much support for us in this community – it’s unbelievable,” he said. “Definitely one of the best times (of my life that) I’ve ever had.”

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200606/over-400-franklin-high-school-seniors-graduate-in-townwide-car-parade

The graduates received their diplomas over Mon-Tue-Wed as the walk across the stage was recorded and then broadcast on Friday night. Many families took the opportunity to record an audio shout-out their the class and their individual graduate. Those shout-outs were played on the wfpr.fm broadcast of the parade along with a playlist of music provided by the senior class. The recorded shout-outs will be available in a podcast in the next couple of days.

The YouTube replay of the diplomas and the graduation speeches:


Franklin, MA: School Committee - Budget SubCommittee 6/05/20 (audio)

FM #289 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 289 in the series.

This session shares the Franklin, MA School Committee Budget SubCommittee meeting held on Friday, June 5, 2020. The meeting was conducted via conference bridge to adhere to the ‘social distancing’ requirements of this pandemic period.

School Superintendent Sara Ahern and Subcommittee Chair Ann Bergen open the meeting (late due to some technical difficulties). Each person who speaks is announced. The show notes contain links to the meeting packet and to the individual documents referenced.

There is audio distortion as a number of folks who connected did not properly mute their connection. There were about 40 or so participants initially and then another 20 or so joined the meeting so the muting advice needed to be re-done. Eventually the meeting ‘sounded’ good.

The recording runs just under an hour (58 mins) , so let’s listen to the budget SubCommittee meeting of June 5.  Audio file = https://www.hipcast.com/podcast/HZDDzsw7





--------------
SubCommittee agenda
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/06/school-committee-budget-sub-committee.html

School budget summary
https://www.franklinps.net/sites/franklinmaps/files/uploads/02._executive_summaryrevised.pdf

Schools FY 21 recommended budget
https://www.franklinps.net/sites/franklinmaps/files/uploads/fy21_sc_approved_budget_overview.pdf

School Budget page https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-district-budget/pages/fy-2021-budget

--------------
We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) or 102.9 on the Franklin area radio dial.

This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but we can't do it alone. We can always use your help.

How can you help?
  • If you can use the information that you find here, please tell your friends and neighbors
  • If you don't like something here, please let me know

Through this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.

For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/
If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com

The music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana" c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.

I hope you enjoy!
------------------

You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"

Franklin, MA: School Committee - Budget SubCommittee 6/05/20 (audio)
Franklin, MA: School Committee - Budget SubCommittee 6/05/20 (audio)

MBTA: Commuter Rail - shuttles service to Walpole; Traffic alert: Unions St closed at crossing

#1 - Walpole – Forge Park/495 - June 6-7, weekend

Shuttle buses replace trains between Walpole and Forge Park/495 to allow for work to continue on the Franklin Line Double Track project.

Learn more about the Franklin Line Double Track project
https://www.mbta.com//projects/franklin-line-double-track?

See all Franklin Line service changes  https://www.mbta.com//diversions/franklin-line?

#2 - Union St closed at the railroad crossing

The track section crossing Union St will be replaced this weekend. Union St will be closed with detours marked

MBTA: Commuter Rail - shuttles service to Walpole
MBTA: Commuter Rail - shuttles service to Walpole

track section prepared to be replace at the Union St crossing
track section prepared to be replace at the Union St crossing

In the News: "For area police departments, there’s never enough training"

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:
“It’s like an insurance policy,” said Franklin Police Chief Thomas Lynch, whose department belongs to the Metropolitan Law Enforcement Council, which includes nearly 50 cities and towns.

Lynch acknowledged the average police officer lacks full training in areas like crowd control, formation and keeping cool under pressure.

“You try to keep as cool as you can,” he said. “It’s very difficult.”

To achieve a level of calm, Lynch said his officers participate in training exercises that simulate interaction with what Lynch called “agitators.” Franklin officers are also trained in use-of-force and de-escalation tactics, although the chief acknowledged that training is unlike real situations."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200605/for-area-police-departments-theres-never-enough-training

Chief Lynch talked about training and the use of force policy at the Town Council meeting June 3
Policy page and data as referenced https://franklinma.gov/police-department/pages/use-force-data

creen capture of Chief Lynch during the budget hearing on May 27
screen capture of Chief Lynch during the budget hearing on May 27

Senate-House Pass Bill to Preserve Municipal Governance During Ongoing COVID-19 Crisis

The Massachusetts State Senate and Massachusetts House of Representatives passed a bill Thursday, June 4, 2020, to provide governance and fiscal flexibility for many municipalities grappling with public health challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic.

"COVID-19 has disrupted so many aspects of our life, and I'm proud of this latest bipartisan effort to give our towns the flexibility they need to continue serving their residents without delay," stated Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). "I want to thank my legislative colleagues for their hard work and collaboration on this latest effort to address the ongoing public health pandemic. I look forward to it being swiftly signed into law."

"In the face of unprecedented challenges it is vital that we empower local communities to effectively govern during this time, and this bill builds on the legislature's commitment to do just that," said Senator Michael J. Rodrigues (D-Westport), Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. "I applaud my colleagues in the House and Senate for working collaboratively to meet the urgent needs of the Commonwealth during the COVID-19 pandemic."

"We appreciate our ongoing collaboration with municipal leaders to keep local government working safely during the time of COVID," said President Pro Tempore Senator William Brownsberger (D-Belmont).

"I am very proud that the Legislature continues to deliver results for our partners in local government in this time of crisis," stated Senator Becca Rausch, Co-chair of Joint Committee on Municipalities and Regional Government (D-Needham). "This bill provides a number of vital components, such as virtual representative town meeting, quorum reduction for open town meeting, and additional budget flexibility. The bill also lifts up Bay Staters directly by extending the previously passed no-shutoffs provision to district governments and allowing expanded mail-in voting options for more local elections. I remain deeply committed to collaborating with colleagues in order to address the needs of our residents and our municipalities as we manage through this pandemic."

"Among the most important priorities that the legislature can address during this state of emergency is preparing the way for cities and towns to conduct the needed and necessary business of budgeting and governing for each community," said Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr (R- Gloucester). "This multi-faceted bill, a product of collaboration and bipartisanship, gives the tools and flexibility that are needed across the Commonwealth now."

Building off of other legislation that gave municipalities operating flexibility during the ongoing COVID-19 public health crisis, the bill further protects public health and preserves the town meeting structure from continued disruptions caused by the state of emergency.

The bill includes the following provisions:
  • Permits representative town meeting to take place virtually;
  • Permits quorum reduction for open town meeting to no less than 10% and extends the quorum reduction to representative town meeting;
  • Allows town meeting to be held outside the geographic limits of the town; and
  • Permits a municipal election scheduled through June 31 to be extended to August 1 at the latest.

By providing our municipalities with this much-needed flexibility, the bill preserves public access to the proceedings of town governance and protects the public from the continued health risks associated with the COVID-19 outbreak.

The bill also provides our city governments with fiscal relief by allowing mayors to delay their normal budget submission deadline for FY 2021 in light of the state of emergency.

Finally, among other provisions, the bill strengthens the prohibition on terminating essential services for residents during the COVID-19 emergency and provides municipalities and regional school districts flexibility in paying school bus and other vendor contracts.

The compromise bill now heads to the Governor's desk.

Senate-House Pass Bill to Preserve Municipal Governance During Ongoing COVID-19 Crisis
Senate-House Pass Bill to Preserve Municipal Governance During Ongoing COVID-19 Crisis

Friday, June 5, 2020

Town Council - June 3, 2020 Meeting Recap

As with most meetings in this pandemic period, I took my notes via Twitter during the meeting reporting in real-time via the virtual session.

The Twitter hashtag can be found online #tc0603
https://twitter.com/search?q=%23tc0603&src=typeahead_click

Chair Tom Mercer opens meeting
Chair Tom Mercer opens meeting




State Delegation

  • Senate President Karen Spilka present to provide some insights on State house across multiple topics, acknowledges Rupert Dubler for his fine work, happens to be a Franklin resident! #tc0603 state unemployment has not been as high since 1976
  • FY20 estimate 700m to $1b short for this fiscal year, looking at alternative ways to fill gap for this fiscal year. FY21 is not good, still uncertainty about how the pandemic will play out. Estimates on revenue will be done but currently all over. #tc0603
  • Strict rules around use of the Cares act money, hopeful of it being relaxed but uncertain. #tc0603 only $200m for schools this time around can $1b from Feds during 2009-2010 period. Don't use the gov's numbers for use in budgets (great! We did, and vote on it Thursday)
  • Hamblen C thanks for being here, doing the best we can. Food sourcing a legit issue, MA does not have an FDA approved chicken processing plant, important for Farmers and local options. Spilka will look at this, thanks for raising it. #tc0603 pick your own will be important
  • Hamblen - MA makes it mandatory about taking cash, can there be an option for business to go digital. Spilka that should be addressed, I will raise the pick your own with the Governor tomorrow. #tc0603
  • Chandler - Q on early retirement option vs layoffs, Spilka hasn't been looked at currently, it can be effective but is also costly as it adds to the long term pension benefits. #tc0603 Dellorco C - on long recovery, people are fearful and issue with opioid again
  • Rep Roy up next to provide his update; thanks for peaceful and safe event on the Common on Tuesday. #tc0603 SNETT tunnel under construction, will be done this summer; state forest parking lot construction also under way along Grove St. Contollo MA Mfg was awarded a grant
  • Approx 20% of the state money set aside was part of the grant funding. Dealing with constitute issues, particularly around unemployment claims #tc0603 Legislation passed house today on restaurants with outdoor seating to ease way. Vote by mail option and early voting on docket
  • Program on confronting COVID-19 to be broadcast next Tuesday via Franklin TV. 6/9 6 PM
  • #tc0603
  • Senator Rausch acknowledged Tuesday event on Town Common as well, in particular during the 9 minutes the group was silent, amazing! #tc0603 updates on 2 of her Subcommittee work on municipal budget and town meetings, also on election/voting
  • Open for questions to the state delegation: (participation up to 93 - note limit via Zoom is 100) #tc0603 there are other options for viewing meeting via cable Comcast/Verizon and streaming from Town web page https://www.franklinma.gov/home/pages/live-meetings-stream
  • Town admin Jamie Hellen makes the case for local aid, and it's impact, re-opening will be critical to enhancing the revenue forecast and actuals #tc0603 Bissanti - Q to Rausch on homeless issue and her vote on a particular bill
  • Brianna T - Q on fast track vaccine and whether it should be mandatory? Rausch - I would defer to public health experts on matters of public health. #tc0603
  • Shawn - raising question on permit process for meeting in the common. Hellen - turn around of permit request is generally quick, police would review, depending upon nature of the event, key elements to not block the public way, like at the triangle downtown for safety #tc0603
  • Dashe Videira also raising question on vaccination due to the language removing doctor for liability and making the parents #tc0603 Rausch happy to take conversation offline, did have public hearing in December
  • Monica - Q as a local physician, question on language of immunization bill. Rausch - bill does address the concern for addressing unique circumstances for a patient, that option does not exist now #tc0603
  • John back with a question for Melanie about the possible exposure at the common, Melanie replied that she wore a mask and was in a group that did and socially distanced. The cash issue is relative to the safety of her workers. #tc0603
  • Jess Q on Community immunization act, public hearing held in Dec, more awareness now, vaccine safety for kids, are you planning on holding another hearing? Rausch - legislative process is continuing to unfold, comments are best directed to their legislative delegate #tc0603
  • Joe Evans resident and business owner, feel it is appropriate, wants to protest but meeting over ten is not allowed per governor, town allowed the gathering last night complaint about double standard, claims already reports of transmission due to the gathering #tc0603
  • Stephen R concerned about the gathering and social distance not observed, shouldn't be at the Town Common again. Hellen - thanks for the feedback, indoor options are not available now. #tc0603
  • Whitney also a Q for Rausch how does the community immunization act be funded? Rausch data is incomplete, components are incomplete, some schools haven't reported, there is a trust fund and money available. #tc0603 bill will complete the data collection
  • Abraham Q on whether there is a plan to extend legislative session. Spilka - at this time not yet, early still as it needs to be joint between house and Senate #tc0603 2nd Q on bill with public program and claim of leaving some students out in private placements

Police Statement on Excessive Force
  • Chief TJ Lynch addresses inquiry on police operations to uphold rights. Reads statement on position in support of the department and the community. Steps to reduce excessive forces, trust with Community is required, per President Obama executive order in 2014. #tc0603
  • Pillar 1 - use of force incidents published since 2014, transparency. 16000 incidents with public and only 9 required use of force in 2019. Bias and training related, profiling, officers trained over the years. Policy page and data as referenced https://franklinma.gov/police-department/pages/use-force-data #tc0603
  • Chief Lynch talks of the Halloween party, work with the Senior center, etc. Have full time social worker are part of the department, splits time with Medway to work cases; police career incentive pay bill creates an educated force #tc0603
  • Chandler an officer can stay out of trouble if he/she ask themselves is it right, is it necessary, is it done with respect? #tc0603
  • Minimal police presence last night, two of the officers requested and did kneel in solidarity with the group, Ben Franklin the therapy dog is a good program gaining kudos regularly, do not have a body camera due to the costs of the program #tc0603 pillar 4 Community policing
  • Earls Q on mutual support with local community neighbors as well as the MECC? Yes, not out today but have participated when requested. Hamblen - thanks for the response, hadn't realized all the info that was on the police page #tc0603 Dellorco thanks 4 the coaches of the sports
  • Joanie Q on the outdoor seating with restaurants, what is your thoughts? Chief - I have been working closely with Cathleen at the Health Dept, I do have concerns as not totally prepared just yet. Education will be important #tc0603


Community Preservation Act
  • Next up - Community Preservation act up for discussion, no vote tonight, regrouping per discussion at prior meeting to our it out (Councilor Pellegri was absent at prior meeting, hence this discussion) #tc0603 plugged in 3% due to eligibility for matching rounds
  • Kelly - concern about the high unemployment and possible opposition. For CPA, not sure of 3%, let's get it in with a smaller amount first. Bissanti - looking for additional info for why and how, education needed. #tc0603 Dellorco 3% is high, got to start the ball rolling
  • Jones do need to educate what the CPA is and does for us, money we have lost for many years. #tc0603 3 might be high, 1.5 might be better. Hellen - Council can not form an ad-hoc subcommittee to advocate for it, a 3rd party needs to do that, could do a forum.
  • Chandler was in favor of the 2 to 3 % but if folks want to start lower, I am ok with it. Pellegri suggests a special meeting for discussion on the percent, not good timing, shouldn't give it up this year. #tc0603 CPA will help the community
  • Hellen - could also borrow against the CPA, the largest vote turn out is expected in November, voter education will be key. Forum and citizen input sounds good, concern about schedule with other budget hearings and time to get decision on ballot #tc0603


Internal Audit Results - Melanson-Heath
  • Moving to internal audit update, they have been patient, a little different in that a rotation of the staff was involved per Melanson-Heath. Next year will complete the rotation of the team. #tc0603 town received a green opinion best could get
  • To follow along the doc used is at https://franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/mai/files/8c._annual_financial_audit_presentation.pdf #tc0603 Norfolk liability increased, OPEB decreased due to health costs increasing less than had been forecast
  • $11m in unassigned fund balance, about 9% and fund agencies like to see about 10% of total revenues, so you are in a good position. #tc0603 slight decrease in free cash due to use of stabilization funds to balance last budget. No management letter, hence good controls!


Legislation for Action



To Closing


  • Motion made to allow Town Admin Hellen authority for temporary extension of liquor license extension for outdoor service for existing restaurants #tc0603 motion made, passed 9-0 via roll call
  • No future items, Councilors comments Pellegri thanks to Jamie for good job keeping residents informed. Kelly thanks to Chris Flynn for memorial day video. Quotes MLK Jr #tc0603 Hamblen thanks to board of health for all their work, amazing
  • Earls, nothing at this time. Chandler thanks to the residents for participating tonight. Bissanti saw so much democracy in action recently. #tc0603 Jones - great democracy in action tonight, thanks to FPD officers who knelt last night. 1st manned flight after 9 years
  • Dellorco thanks for everything going off peaceful last night. #tc0603 congratulations to the FHS class of 2020. Mercer thanks to my fellow Councilors, difficult times, I applaud your efforts, long meetings and there will be more. Motion to adjourn, passed 9-0 via roll call


The agenda and documents released for this meeting
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/05/franklin-ma-town-council-agenda-remote.html

Franklin Public Schools: FY 21 Budget Development and Personnel

To: Franklin Public Schools Families
From: Sara Ahern, Superintendent of Schools 
Date: June 5, 2020
Re: FY 21 Budget Development and Personnel


In my recent memo to the School Committee, which was forwarded to the community, I framed the financial situation facing the Franklin Public Schools. At this time, we are very uncertain about what our school budget will be but we do know that under the current Town Budget Blueprint, using the Governor’s Budget figures from January, that we are facing $3.4 million in reductions including about 25 positions.

We anticipate that the budget gap will widen when we learn more about likely reductions to state aid, due to state revenue forecasts falling short of projections by about $6 billion. Unfortunately, we do not anticipate knowing this until further along in the summer. If state aid were to be cut by 10%, we would estimate a shortfall of $5.4 million from the School Committee’s adopted budget. State aid cuts could be greater.

We are striving to be creative wherever possible to mitigate the loss of positions, however we do expect personnel to be impacted. Yesterday afternoon, we held a virtual meeting with all non-Professional Teaching Status (non-PTS) faculty in FEA Unit A. (These are our professional educators who are in their first three years in the district). At this meeting, I shared that we are issuing all non-PTS faculty members non-renewal notices in advance of the June 15 statutory deadline. By following this process, we will gain time to further develop the budget and have the needed flexibility when additional information is known from the state about state aid to Franklin.

I did not share this information immediately with the community out of respect for our staff members and the intention of giving them space to process and absorb this information.

We are deeply saddened to have to take such a dramatic approach in developing our budget this year. The recruitment and development of talented educators is something that we take very seriously and we are very proud of the work our non-PTS educators accomplish each and every day. We are hopeful that some of our non-PTS faculty will be able to be reappointed in the future and we will do so as soon as we are able.

For more information about the budget, we encourage families to view the Livestream of or attend the June 9 School Committee meeting when another budget discussion will take place. If you have questions, we encourage you to reach out to the Superintendent’s Office at 508-553-4819. Although we are working remotely, your voicemail will be directed to e-mail and you will receive a timely response.

Franklin Public Schools: FY 21 Budget Development and Personnel
Franklin Public Schools: FY 21 Budget Development and Personnel

Franklin Public Schools: Graduation Parade and Video - June 5




June 2020

Graduation information page 
https://www.franklinps.net/fhs/pages/graduation-class-2020

________________________________

Car parade  = Friday, June 5th at approx. 2PM

live on Franklin Radio: 102.9 FM or wfpr.fm (from any browser)  

__________________________

Graduation Broadcast  = Friday, June 5th @ 6PM:

FHS Graduation Youtube Channel  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCPgdF_EMhVBJjq3N58lbmw 

Comcast TV viewersAccess Channel= 8, Educational Channel =98
Verizon TV viewersAccess Channel =26, Educational Channel =28
Franklin Public Schools: Graduation Parade and Video - June 5
Franklin Public Schools: Graduation Parade and Video - June 5

Senator Rausch: COVID-19 Update #22

CORONAVIRUS / COVID-19 UPDATE #22

Thursday, June 4, 2020


Friends,

Black Lives Matter.

What happened to George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Tony McDade – and countless more Black people in encounters with law enforcement in America – is unequivocally wrong, and we should be unequivocal in our pursuit of justice and structural reform. I stand in solidarity with Black folks in this Commonwealth and this nation, a nation built by enslaved Africans, and a nation that is forever shaped by the legacy of slavery.

Thank you for the overwhelming advocacy my office has received from so many of you supporting the nationwide protests against police brutality, over-policing of communities of color, and lack of accountability for police officers who abuse their positions of power.

We must center the voices of those who are disproportionately affected by centuries of systemic injustice. On Tuesday, Black and Latinx elected leaders from across the Commonwealth marched from the African Meeting House to the State House, and then outlined their 10-point plan as a first step toward structural change designed to achieve justice and equity. This event was an incredibly powerful call to action, and it was a true honor to march and stand in solidarity with my colleagues.

 Photo Credit: Boston City Councilor Julia Mejia
 Photo Credit: Boston City Councilor Julia Mejia

The 10-point plan crafted by the members of the Black and Latino Legislative Caucus and other elected leaders of color in all levels of government must be the beginning. As Congresswoman Pressley says, "the people closest to the pain should be closest to the power," and I will do everything in my purview to follow and lift up my colleagues' leadership in this moment. I also look forward to hearing additional proposals and feedback from the communities most affected by policing and other manifestations of systemic racism, and I pledge to keep you all updated on my legislative work to break down structural barriers to equity.

One of those manifestations lies in maternal health. On Wednesday, I co-hosted the Massachusetts COVID-19 Maternal Health Equity Town Hall with Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley, Senator Elizabeth Warren, State Representatives Liz Miranda and Kay Khan, and the newly formed MA COVID-19 Perinatal Health Coalition (https://www.massperinatal.org/to learn about how race-based maternal health disparities, which were already significant, have been and continue to be worsened by COVID-19. There was overwhelming interest, and over 600 people joined the largest zoom call in which I have ever participated. You can always watch the whole program (https://youtu.be/pnhd0OJxFqkfor yourself! I will continue to fight for my legislation to examine maternal health disparities and provide licensure for out-of-hospital midwifery, so all pregnant people can access the birthing care that is right for them.

As always, my team and I are here for you. Call us at 617-722-1555 or email me directly at becca.rausch@masenate.gov and one of us will get back to you as quickly as we can. Please follow me on Twitter and Facebook for real-time updates.

Wishing you and your families strength, health, and resilience.
           

Yours in service,
Senator Becca Rausch

The newsletter was shortened for publication here, to review the full set of contents, check this link
https://mailchi.mp/df8957896b22/covid19-update-12538755

Town of Franklin: FY 21 Budget Hearings Jun 17 - Jun 18

Town of Franklin Budget Hearings


The Franklin Town Council will hold Public Hearings on Wednesday, June 17, 2020 and Thursday, June 18, 2020 at 7:00 p.m. for the proposed budget for Fiscal 2021. 

Please refer to the Town Website (Franklinma.gov) for location information. Copies of the budget are available for inspection in the Office of the Town Administrator, Franklin Municipal Building, 355 East Central, Franklin, MA during our adjusted business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Friday. A copy is also available at the Franklin Public Library and in the Town Clerk's office. 

A detailed FY 2021 budget document is available at the Town’s official website https://www.franklinma.gov/town-budget/pages/fy2021-budget-materials 

Any questions or comments can be directed to Chris Sandini, Franklin Finance Director, at (508) 553-4864. 



A general summary of the budget follows:

Town of Franklin: FY 21 Budget Hearings Jun 17 - Jun 18
Town of Franklin: FY 21 Budget Hearings Jun 17 - Jun 18


Notification for Jun 17-18
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/agendas/notice_budget_hearing_fy21_2.pdf

2020-2021 Trash and Recycling Mailer

2020-2021 Trash and Recycling Mailer 

The annual mailer to Franklin Residents for July 1, 2020 through June 30, 2021
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/uploads/franklin_program_guide_2020-2021.pdf





2020-2021 Trash and Recycling Mailer
2020-2021 Trash and Recycling Mailer 

Thursday, June 4, 2020

Franklin Downtown Partnership - Special Meeting on Re-opening Business - June 4, 2020 (audio)

As with most meetings in this pandemic period, I took my notes via Twitter during the meeting reporting in real-time via the virtual session.

The Twitter hashtag can be found online #fdp0604
https://twitter.com/search?q=%23fdp0604&src=typed_query

  • Real time reporting underway for Franklin Downtown Partnership meeting with special session on re-opening business. #FDP0604
  • Senator Rausch holding virtual open office hours every other week, contact info on her page and shared via FM https://franklinmatters.org/2020/05/senator-rausch-covid-19-update-21.html #fdp0604
  • Rep Roy provides updates; early voting being worked on for Sept primary, along with mail in options in House to be sent over to the Senate for their action. Health and fitness centers currently categorized as "art", disagrees with Governor's position #fdp0604
  • Rep Roy shares that $120k granted to Contollo Mass Manufacturing for the making of PPE; touting show being aired on Franklin TV 6/9 6 PM from Milford TV on health care workers #fdp0604
  • Susan Nichols representing Senator Spilka for this session. #fdp0604 child care and small business issues among top issues being worked, listening sessions for the re-opening advisory sessions, info to be shared on how to submit Q's or provide feedback
  • Town Admin Jamie Hellen calling for resident participation in budget cycle, tough decisions to be made with budget cuts on municipal and school side, needs folks to be part of the conversation #fdp0604
  • Town Council approved TA as temporary approval for liquor license authority as licenses extend for outdoor seating, plans can be draft but need to provide visual outline of what the plan is. #fdp0604 downtown parking map to be published soon to help
  • Franklin has 2nd lowest infection rate among Communities over 30k per Jamie #fdp0604 we do have 15 active cases here now, mandatory guidelines are a good baseline, we can credit for "doing the right thing" there will be the "few knuckleheads" who refuse
  • #fdp0604 some restaurants are ready to go. Kudos to Bridget Sweet, BoH Chair, also a health agent elsewhere. Cathleen Liberty, health Director now here since Dec 2019. "An amazing calming presence"
  • Next up, Cathy Liberty, education of residents and business is a priority. Food safety steps key, providing guidance and info to help restaurants and businesses. Getting to know key stakeholders quickly #fdp0604 covid portal a good resource, podcast series also available
  • "education is the key to prevention" is Cathy's guiding principle. Awaiting word from Gov Baker on when Phase 2 begins. #fdp0604 a bill on EEE has moved out of committee in Senate, last year 8 deaths (COVID-19 is over 6,000)
  • Update from Susan Nichols: You can submit comments to the Reopening Advisory Board here: https://mass.gov/forms/submit-comments-to-the-reopening-advisory-board #fdp0604
  • Updates provided, good info shared but no questions from the audience at this session. Reporting closes out, will prepare audio to share for those who missed meeting. Catch you next time #fdp0604

Audio file = https://www.hipcast.com/podcast/HcGJ3mJ7v



Franklin Downtown Partnership - Special Meeting on Re-opening Business - June 4, 2020
Franklin Downtown Partnership - Special Meeting on Re-opening Business - June 4, 2020