Reopening Massachusetts: Baker-Polito Administration Initiates Transition to Step Two of Second Phase of Four-Phase Approach

Consistent with Public Health Data and Trends, Step Two of Phase II of Reopening Massachusetts Set to Begin on June 22

Today (Friday, June 19, 2020), the Baker-Polito Administration announced that Step Two of Phase II of the Commonwealth’s four-phase reopening plan, Reopening Massachusetts, will begin on Monday, June 22 to allow additional industries to resume operations under sector-specific guidelines.

Businesses and sectors set to begin operating in Step Two of Phase II are subject to compliance with all mandatory safety standards.

On May 18, the Administration released a four-phased plan to reopen the economy based on public health data, spending at least three weeks in each phase. Key public health data, such as new cases and hospitalizations, has been closely monitored and seen a significant decline allowing for Step Two of Phase II to begin on June 22.

The following will be eligible to reopen in Step Two of Phase II on Monday, June 22:

• Indoor table service at restaurants;
• Close-contact personal services, with restrictions;
• Retail dressing rooms, by appointment only;
• Offices, at 50 percent capacity

Full list and safety protocols available at www.mass.gov/reopening.

In order to give Step 2 businesses time to prepare, the Administration had previously released sector-specific guidance in advance of Phase II for industries including restaurants, close-contact personal services and sectors not otherwise addressed:

• Guidance for Restaurants  https://www.mass.gov/info-details/safety-standards-and-checklist-restaurants
• Guidance for Close-Contact Personal Services  https://www.mass.gov/info-details/safety-standards-and-checklist-close-contact-personal-services
• Guidance for Other Industries  https://www.mass.gov/resource/reopening-sector-specific-protocols-and-best-practices
• Guidance for Sectors Not Otherwise Addressed  https://www.mass.gov/info-details/safety-standards-and-checklist-sectors-not-otherwise-addressed

Before these sectors can resume operations under the guidelines, businesses must meet all safety standards, create a COVID-19 control plan, and complete a self-certification.

VIEW THE FULL REPORT  https://www.mass.gov/doc/reopening-massachusetts

VIEW GOVERNOR BAKER’S PHASE II EXECUTIVE ORDER  https://www.mass.gov/doc/june-6-2020-phase-ii-reopening

Video update link for June 19, 2020 = https://youtu.be/jT5dDSQIHUU

Franklin Downtown Partnership Reminds Residents to "Keep It Local"

The Franklin Downtown Partnership (FDP) wants to remind residents to “keep it local” by supporting small businesses in Franklin who have been there for them year after year.

With this in mind the FDP's goal is to provide Franklin residents with one place they can visit for all updated information on local businesses, as well as one website, www.franklindowntownpartnership.org, which lists small businesses in Franklin that sell gift cards.

“During this time of social distancing, the Franklin Downtown Partnership is working hard to keep the community updated on the re-opening plans for each business,” said FDP Executive Director Lisa Piana. “With each new opening phase there is new information that needs to be communicated to residents. The FDP is committed to getting this information out in a timely manner.”

Franklin Downtown Partnership

Businesses should email the FDP at Downtown.Franklin@yahoo.com so they can get their updated business information listed on the Partnership website.

Franklin business owners or residents who would like to receive the FDP newsletters should contact the FDP office. The newsletter provides updates on local businesses, town news and information that affects local businesses. The FDP also provides lots of information through social media - follow the FDP on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

The Franklin Downtown Partnership is a nonprofit, 501©3 organization made up of more than 300 business owners, community leaders and residents working to stimulate economic development downtown and create a positive impact throughout the area. Visit www.franklindowntownpartnership.org for more information. 

Pantherbook: "Getting To Know Our New Principal, Mr. Hanna"

Via Pantherbook we find an introduction to Mr Hanna, the new FHS Principal.

"As Franklin High School says a goodbye to our former principal, Mr.Peri, many of us are curious about the new chapter of our high school, and the person who will lead it. Starting the fall 2020-2021 school year, we will receive Mr.Hanna as our new principal. Keep reading if you want to know more about Mr.Hanna, his plans for the school, or how you will be affected by him!

Here is a little background about our incoming principal. Mr.Hanna has two kids, 9, and 12, so he is familiar with the highs and lows of school received by students. Previously an assistant principal at Hopkinton High School since 2013, Mr.Hanna is experienced in the field of educational leadership;

“I think just understanding the logistics of a school, the scheduling, the behind the scenes work that as a teacher you’re not as aware of; also having difficult conversations with parents, students, and teachers… anytime you’re a leader you’re dealing with situations that aren’t simple. So it helped me learn how to effectively lead a school…” he says, in response to how his leadership at HHS has prepared him to take on the role of principal at FHS.

Prior to his position Hopkinton, Mr.Hanna was a History teacher and football coach at Natick High School for 13 years. A chance to grow and the pride of Franklin in its students, schools, and teachers motivated him to make the move to Franklin."

Continue reading this at Pantherbook
https://franklinpanthers.us/top-stories/2020/06/16/getting-to-know-our-new-principal-mr-hanna/

Shared via Twitter: https://twitter.com/FHSPantherbook/status/1273000783919951874?s=09

Joshua Hanna, incoming FHS Principal (Pantherbook photo)

Last 50+ Program Franklin session - June 26 - "Creating focus and momentum in your job search"

Date: Friday June 26; 9 AM
Platform: Zoom
Hosting Town: Franklin
Topic: Creating focus and momentum in your job search
If Time Permits: We will also discuss Dealing with Ageism.

Special Guest: Tom McDonough of the Institute for Career Transitions

Tom is a career and life coach, Director of Programs and founding Board member for the Institute for Career Transitions. Though his career story has allowed him to experience many roles, the underlying theme is helping colleagues clarify and align personal and career goals with their core values.

Tom will teach you a two-part approach to create focus and momentum in your job search:

1. Job Search Triage: Identifying where the bottlenecks are located in your search.
2. Next Step Sprint: Once you identify your highest leveraged activity, that if achieved, will keep you moving forward, you'll design a two-week sprint to achieve that outcome.

Program Pre-Registration (once per town location) is required: https://50plusjobseekers.org/outreach/registration/

If you have registered previously with the town that virtually hosts the session, there is no need for you to register again.

Session Registration is also required for this specific online meeting:

After you register for the 50+ Program, we will place you on a list to receive the email that contains the session's registration information.


For additional information about this program, please contact Erin Rogers; Social Services Coordinator, Franklin Senior Center; erogers@franklinma.gov; (508) 520-4945.

50+ Program Franklin session - June 26

Let's Go On With the Show: A Virtual Benefit for the Franklin Performing Arts Company

Join this star-studded cast on Sunday, June 21 at 7:00 pm EDT on the FPAC YouTube channel for an evening of fundraising with fantastic performances by Tony Award Winners, Broadway Stars, FPAC Favorites, and more!

Donations made throughout the evening will support FPAC and help keep THE BLACK BOX open!

View the Facebook Event here  https://www.facebook.com/events/264355961342385/

Let's Go On With the Show

Town of Franklin: COVID-19 Case Count Status

"The chart below details the confirmed, recovered, and isolated cases of COVID-19 in the Town of Franklin. This data reflects the most current information available and will be updated with additional information as confirmed counts are released through the Franklin Board of Health from the state Department of Public Health (DPH). Data for this table is based on information available in the Department of Public Health surveillance database at a single point in time.Case counts for specific cities and towns change throughout the day, as data cleaning occurs(removal of duplicate reports within the system) and new demographic information (assigning cases to their city or town of residence) is obtained. Statewide data is here​ (https://www.wbur.org/commonhealth/2020/04/16/coronavirus-cases-by-city-and-town-in-massachusetts)."

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/uploads/covid-19_case_counts_6.pdf

This confirms that what we are doing (social distancing, face coverings, washing hands, etc.) is working. Let's keep it up as we gradually re-open.

Town of Franklin: COVID-19 Case Count Status

Franklin Historical Museum: COVID-19 Archive Project Survey

The Historical Museum is conducting a survey on what we are doing during this pandemic.

"As you well know, we are currently living through an event which will become a dash on historical timelines in future classrooms around the world. It will be a date memorized by history majors and a subject studied by researchers, scientists, and anthropologists alike as they work to understand what happened - how the spread occurred, what our response was, and how people across the globe pulled together to fight, to survive, and to find moments of joy in otherwise uncertain times.

The COVID-19 outbreak has challenged us all in ways we did not know were possible. Many of us have had to endure the unthinkable from losing jobs and suddenly becoming a homeschool teacher to worrying if it’s safe to take a walk down the street. But, it has also sparked some extraordinary and astonishing stories about the human spirit. Neighbors are helping neighbors attain food and toilet paper. Family bonds are growing stronger through video calls and virtual game nights. And, manufacturing companies are finding ways to change gears and produce much-needed medical supplies.

Now is an important time to think about how history is preserved and how what we choose to save will determine how we will be seen by posterity. With this in mind, the Franklin Historical Museum asks that you consider sharing your COVID-19 stories with us. What has quarantine been like? Are you home alone or with family members? What have you done to stay connected to friends and family outside of your household? What have you done to stay entertained? Did you binge watch tv shows and movies? Did you learn a new skill? What were your favorite moments, your most challenging moments? What do you want people to take away from this moment in history?

Stories can be shared using this form and/or by tagging us on social media #franklinstayshome."

Here is the link: https://forms.gle/3ztGoasvjGVz8RXy9

--
Rebecca Finnigan
Archivist
Town of Franklin
80 West Central Street
Franklin, MA 02038
rfinnigan@franklinma.gov

Franklin Historical Museum: COVID-19 Archive Project Survey

Town Council Budget Hearing #2 - Recap - June 18, 2020

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 #tcbh0618
https://twitter.com/search?q=%23tcbh0618&src=typed_query

• Two options for listening/participating in the Town Council budget hearing tonight 1/2 = use your web browser to listen to http://wfpr.fm or tune to the radio dial at 102.9 in the Franklin area #tcbh0618 https://buff.ly/3hEjgQP

• Getting ready for real time reporting for the Town Council meeting tonight. Out on the FHS football field again, broadcasting live on the radio http://wfpr.fm or 102.9 on the Franklin area dial #tcbh0618
• Sound check underway, should be online soon #tcbh0618
• Another gorgeous evening here at FHS on the football field, Pisini Stadium. Less then a dozen folks in audience this evening (approx 75-80 last night) aside from Council and town management #tcbh0618

• Q on some items in DPW budget items, their budget is complex as they also support the enterprise funds, and trying to take care of storm water along the way. #tcbh0618 Q how many folks would you need? More than we have, we're about 2/3 of comparable Community
• Q on town bylaw to not touch a road after it has been rebuilt? Still in effect, does only cover the full rebuild, could modify the bylaw to include other types of repairs. #tcbh0618
• Cerel interjects to clarify unfunded mandate restriction of use to state imposition but not to the Federal government. #tcbh0618 Mercer asks Brutus for a brief primer for storm water. There have been info sessions on this, there will be a utility fee to assist
• We have to do the Storm water maintenance, the question is how we pay for it we could use the utility fee, or we just keep it in the budget. #tcbh0618 find much of the info here https://www.franklinma.gov/stormwater-division
• Q if we needed to cut more where would you cut in the DPW? It could be in any number of areas but would also affect the looks and quality of life. #tcbh0618 the storm water utility could gradually get the items moved from operations to the utility
• Q on speculation of a farmer suit that could toss the regs and hence we would have lost the money? It is speculation, so no further answer required #tcbh0618 recognition for Cathy Liberty and Health Dept for the work on the pandemic
• Next up, Senior Center - Karen Alves current Director, and retiring; Erin Rogers, new Director, no questions, just recognition #tcbh0618
• Next up, Recreation - COVID-19 has been tough to deal with, lots of credits issued for programs we couldn't run, are getting ready to do some in July, mostly fee based programs #tcbh0618 court at Fletcher underway, nets for safety at the high school ball fields
• Approx $600K in grants over last five years for various projects for recreation. #tcbh0618 concerts in the common, socially distanced on then common for 4-5 weeks
• Q on debt/interest as percent of ops budget. Deep in the report are details showing the position where we are, some bonds will be paid off freeing up room for capital funding. There is a separate item on the agenda for a funding list. #tcbh0618 have good rating credit rating
• Another glorious evening out on the field tonight. #tcbh0618 update on the CARES Act for COVID expense, highly restricted for response only, not operations used for PPE, some technical items but not ops
• Recieved $1M in the first allocation, most of this was used for 1,000 Chromebooks for schools in prep for a possible hybrid model in September #tcbh0618 that completes the first run through of the budget line items
• Next up vote on the budget https://franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/5a._resolution_20-31_adoption_of_fy21_budget.pdf. Passed 9-0, no roll call required this evening
• Next up Community Preservation Act  https://franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/5b._resolution_20-36_cpa_ballot_vote.pdf a surcharge of 2% proposed to be out on the ballot for the Nov election, passed 9-0, no roll call required
• Capital appropriation with draft set of projects https://franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/5c._resolution_20-37_borrowing_authorization.pdf  Motion to approve, passed 9-0, again no roll call required
• So what do those three votes mean? After the discussions, no one steps up to call for additional revenue for schools although a year ago the Joint Budget Subcommittee called for it. What happened? The CPA is approved for voters to have their say #tcbh0618
• The third vote for capital is a reasonable and required appropriation. It definitely shows fiscal planning. However the fiscal planning on that is missing on the operational budget. #tcbh0618
• Councilor comments. #tcbh0618 by the way, the audience grew from when I first took a count, was about 2 dozen folks tonight.
• June 19, 2019 the joint budget subcommittee meeting notes https://franklinmatters.org/2019/06/fm-167-joint-budget-subcommittee.html refers to an override required for this year but not discussed tonight, maybe as this budget round continues #tcbh0618
• Chair Mercer closing meeting with this budget as a work in progress #tcbh0618 . This completes the reporting for tonight catch you all next time!

ready for the three votes to close out the procedings

Town Administrator Jamie Hellen explains; Assistant Chrissy Whelton listens

Department Spotlight - Technology

Department Spotlight - Technology
Learn more about our town departments in our "Spotlight Series"

The Technology Department is featured in the latest edition of our "Spotlight Series" https://sites.google.com/franklinps.net/spotlight-technology/home

Find this and the entire series on the home page of our website at https://www.franklinma.gov/home/pages/department-spotlights

Department Spotlight - Technology

Director Tim Rapoza presented to the School Committee in February and the presentation document and the audio of the session
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/02/fm-207-technology-director-tim-raposa.html

67 Degrees Reopening With Outdoor Seating - Friday - June 19

Hello everyone!!

We are beyond thrilled to announce that we will resume operations in our taproom starting this Friday 19 June at 4:30 pm via outdoor seating only.

First and foremost, I want to thank all of you for keeping us afloat during these unforeseen and difficult times.  Your support for local breweries like ours has been a lifeline over the past 3 months. 

As you can imagine, our way of doing business will be different than before the pandemic.  We have put some sensible sanitary and precautionary measures in place to keep our patrons and staff safe.  

Specifically:

- All tables in our outdoor seating area will be spaced 6 feet apart
- There are hand sanitizer stations throughout our facility
- We urge our guests to wear a face mask if at any point they are inside the tasting room or facility (i.e. ordering drinks, transiting to restrooms, etc.)
- You are welcome to take off your mask while in the outdoor seating area to enjoy your pint and interact with your party :-) (i.e. friends, family, etc.)
- All alcoholic drinks must be consumed within the outdoor seating area
- Our staff will have a face mask on regularly, especially while serving or interacting with our guests
- There will be no packaged beer sales (i.e. 4-pack/Crowler/Growler) for the next two weeks

We ask that you bear with us as we do our absolutely best to ensure everyone of our guests have a wonderful experience at our venue.  We miss you all and look forward to seeing you again. 

Cheers!!

67 Degrees Reopening With Outdoor Seating - Friday - June 19

FM #302 School Committee Budget SubCommittee - 6/17/20

FM #302 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 302 in the series.

This session shares the Franklin, MA School Committee Budget SubCommittee meeting held on Wednesday, June 17, 2020. The meeting was conducted via conference bridge to adhere to the ‘social distancing’ requirements of this pandemic period.

Subcommittee Chair Ann Bergen open the meeting (late at 10:09 AM). Each person who speaks is announced. The show notes contain links to the meeting packet and to the individual documents referenced.

The show notes contain links to the agenda and school budget docs. As you’ll hear nothing new was released for review at this meeting.

The recording runs just over an hour, so let’s listen to the budget SubCommittee meeting of June 17.  Audio file = https://www.hipcast.com/podcast/HZNSrTq7




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

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

My notes reported live during the meeting
(link to be added) 
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/06/school-committee-budget-subcommittee.html

--------------
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 Downtown Parking Map

Thanks to the Cultural District Committee for putting this together!  https://www.franklinculture.org/

Franklin Downtown Parking Map

July Veterans VIRTUAL Coffee Social - July 1

July VIRTUAL Coffee Social

Join us Wednesday, July 1 at 10 a.m. via Zoom!

Here is the log-in info:

• Link to Join: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88642520059
• Call in Number: 1-929-205-6099 Meeting ID: 88642520059#

If you haven't joined us for the last two Zoom Socials, you'll need to download the Zoom app if it's not already on your device.

If you have any questions, please send an email to: veterans@franklinma.gov Put "Coffee Social" in the subject line.

We'll provide updates and conversation, you'll need to supply your own coffee :-)
We hope to "see" you on July 1st!

July Veterans VIRTUAL Coffee Social - July 1

Help HMEA with Jukebox Virtual Bingo - June 24

There's one more chance for you to support HMEA's incredABLE 5k and raise more money for your favorite HMEA program!

Rob Peters Entertainment and Game Show Parties of Boston will be hosting Jukebox Bingo featuring song clips in a format similar to “Name That Tune”. With a variety of music from the 1940's to today’s top hits.

With 4 bingo cards, you’ll have 4 chances to win one of these great prizes: Bluetooth Music Ball Light Bulb Speaker with Remote, a Selfie Stick Tripod with Wireless Remote Shutter, Smart WiFi Outlet with Remote, or Bluetooth 5.0 Wireless Earbuds.

All proceeds will benefit the programs at HMEA that serve children and adults with developmental disabilities and their families. You can choose an HMEA program to benefit from your ticket purchase.


For more info and to register
https://myemail.constantcontact.com/Last-chance-to-do-something-incredABLE-.html?soid=1114254466392&aid=oEffDEgYnN0

 Help HMEA with Jukebox Virtual Bingo - June 24

School Committee - Budget SubCommittee meeting recap - June 17, 2020

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 #sbsc0617
https://twitter.com/hashtag/sbsc0617?src=hashtag_click

• Ready to report on school budget Subcommittee meeting when it starts #sbsc0617
• Still waiting #sbsc0617
• Finally starting at 10:09 #sbsc0617
• Still working on closing $3.4M gap in budget, no additional proposed reductions shared with subcommittee. More discussion remains within the team to work towards the FY21 budget. SchComm meeting 6/23 likely to have items to review #sbsc0617
• DESE guidance expected soon, would like to incorporate that before sharing. #sbsc0617 very aware of 100+ notifications made, having discussion to reappoint as needed to maintain certain certifications.
• Guidance expected on social distance, etc. Hybrid or in person, not in regards to budget info from State. Q on cost impact for guidance is considered per conf calls with DESE's Riley and other superintendents. All guidance goes through the Governors office #sbsc0617
• Est $490/per pupil for PPE costs could be added for September. #sbsc0617 what is comm strategy in the short term costs vs. the long term costs that would need to be addressed even without COVID-19? Community needs to understand the difference.
• Yes, we need to be creative to solve the short term item. Dr Bergen attempts to clarify her comments re: not having Davis Thayer discussion without DT parents involved. #sbsc0617 do we have an efficiency study to refer to? No. More quantitative than qualitative
• Did some program specific studies (Spec Ed, counciling, etc.) But not overall. #sbsc0617 How much time do we spend optimizing? How do you expect to have a top district if you are spending below 75%, how would we be if were average. Per pupil costs is a state calc on total
• Could some of the lower per pupil costs be part of our efficiency? Yes, for sure. #sbsc0617 technology might be an area more easily understood as an efficiency, might be small (i.e. noise rather than impact)
• Student opportunity act revised the funding formula and Franklin was 'held' at their level, we can benefit from circuit breaker relief and transportation relief but otherwise get an increase of approx $30/pupil per year. #sbsc0617 such a complicated topic, this point is missed
• Heather endorses signing up for alerts and news from the town and schools. #sbsc0617 need vote via roll call to adjourn, approved 2-0, other had to drop at 10.
• So that concludes reporting on this session, nice discussion, nothing new or major to add to overall budget discussion. Will resume reporting at budget hearing tonight. Catch you then. #sbsc0617

Ready to report on school budget Subcommittee meeting when it starts #sbsc0617

Finally starting at 10:09 #sbsc0617

FM #301 "Talk Franklin" - PreGame Live 6/17/20

FM #301 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 301 in the series.

This session of the radio show shares my "Talk Franklin" conversation with Town Administrator Jamie Hellen live on the FHS football field, Pisini Stadium. This was a special ‘pre-game’ edition to the Town Budget hearing on Wednesday, June 17, 2020. We did converse adhering to the ‘social distancing’ requirements of this pandemic period.

The live broadcast ran 18 minutes, so let’s listen to my conversation with Jamie

Audio File = https://www.hipcast.com/podcast/Hr64jB27



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

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

Voting doc as referenced
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/agendas/06-18-2020_town_council_budget_agenda.pdf

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

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"

Town Council Chair Tom Mercer opening the meeting

Real time reporting: Town Council - Budget hearing #1 - June 17, 2020

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 #tcbh0617
https://twitter.com/hashtag/tcbh0617?src=hashtag_click

• Live reporting for Town Council budget hearing live on radio http://wfpr.fm.or 102.9
• Chair Mercer explains choice of location due to the seriousness of the proposed cuts so the Council could "face the public" #tcbh0617
• Reading the voting doc and recording holds from one or more council for further discussion #tcbh0617
• Town admin budget held primarily to take the time to introduce the staff #tcbh0617 Cerel, Whelton, Alleyne, and Tracey. Marketing and Communications is a joint position with Schools and Town.
• Q on human resources, could there be a payment for those who have a spouse on a health plan that could be on another plan? #tcbh0617 possible, has been discussed but not implemented
• Rough head count of audience aside from town staff and Council seems to be about 75-80 in attendance. #tcbh0617
• Q for facilities on what was cut, some of the facilities, like Senior Center and library are closed and not likely re-opening soon so they were 'easy' #Tcbh0617 no further cuts should be considered at this point given the cleaning required for safety
• Q on expenses for two contractors in electrical and HVAC, it was reduced by $23K for this budget. What was expense for last year? A million? No, we'll have the specific answers Thursday night #tcbh0617
• Q on police budget, new contract allowed for add of 5 officers to bring to 52. Hard to say how effective it has been as pandemic has also hit and we've adjusted to handle things safely. #tcbh0617
• Q on Police meeting/conf line item, it really should be renamed as it covers the training. #tcbh0617
• Fire chief up next, Q on the reforms and changes made recently and how they have set up for service to the community. #tcbh0617 removed from civil service, removed stipends, increased rescue billing amount, achieved an ISO rating of 2, only 7 others have a 1 and we're going to
• Chief - we were able to get ahead of covid, bring in PPE and along with cooperation with police, facilities and other depts, we have been instrumental in keeping our impact low for the town #tcbh0617
• Chief also wants to reclassify the meeting/conf line item, good quick answer to the penny as to what amount is there and what it is for #tcbh0617
• Next up MECC the regional dispatch center of which are part. Town administrator Jamie Hellen explains how it works, and how two more communities will be added. By doing the add, Franklin will be able to save money via the assessment #tcbh0617
• With the two new Communities, Mendon and Millville, we'll be combining two regional centers and gain some state funding incentives to do so #tcbh0617 approx $700K savings coming, will need to create new stabilization fund to prepare for 4 years out
• Sunset is nice here on the field for this budget hearing. #tcbh0617
• Next up school budget, Council sets a bottom line number and them the school Committee does all the rest. Dr Ahern up. Facilities Analysis is underway, looking at all facilities K-8, #tcbh0617 it is not complete, still info gathering
• 1100 student enrollment decline since peak of 2008, enrollment projections revised this spring and will be re-looked at in Sep with the consultant. #tcbh0617 architect report looking at all of K-8 capacity as well as enrollment to be able to make decisions
• Q what will school look like in September? Not sure, awaiting guidance from DESE this month, have started planning with a multiple function group to see what it could look like to do safely. #tcbh0617
• May have to do this hearing again in Sep and maybe even in Jan 2021, there are so many answers we don't know. #tcbh0617 we made decision to make the nonrenewals for non-professional staff due to the uncertainty. We are still looking at what else could be done
• Dr Ahern expands on the answer of the notifications and programs, it may seem disproportionate but it is what it is under the circumstances. #tcbh0617 no specific answer yet on the total $s of unfunded mandates
• Q if we could close DT and cut the 14 curriculum coaches, that could have about $2.5m per some folks analysis. Sara responds we haven't calculated the DT amount as the study as mentioned is incomplete. the coaches are likely needed in Sep due to the remote learning #tcbh0617
• Kelly presses Sara on the facilities report and when it will arrive, is it late? As she has seen the drafts does it support a closure? Sara will only say the draft does "support consolidation of facilities" #tcbh0617 she wants a complete and accurate report not 1 rushed
• Kelly also asks about the 'late' start for a principal search for DT. The interim search was announced in early in May, given all the uncertainty, it was a wise choice, she is confident to be able to find someone. #tcbh0617
• Given the COVID impact on music that was a factor in reduction planning, 1.5 staff at Central office were reduced in this budget. Given the disruptive nature of redistricting, waiting to see what the report says to continue the planning process #tcbh0617
• Per Sara, first round of bring back likely to happening next week or so, #tcbh0617 Bissanti, I don't know what we're waiting for on DT, it is out of code, it can not house children, we need answers
• Mercer adds that the preliminary from DESE calls for the school district to provide PPE for students for each of the 180 days, now it is preliminary but an example of an unfunded mandate; clarification, student should provide, District would have spares #tcbh0617
• Den Ryan providing insights from music students over the years and all the benefits from music. #tcbh0617 Heather speaks for group grown in past week who are concerned with the school budget. What happened, why now? Points out lack of knowledge about schools
• School Committee member Keenan speaking about his learning process, the schools do need more money and a lot more, #tcbh0617 75% of other school districts spend more than we do. DT is a short term issue. We need to solve the longer term issue, funding
• Keenan - Most of the talk tonight is about cuts, if we don't address the funding issue, it will be sports next #tcbh0617 Dr Bergen speaks, Norwood had an override and had 70% turnout, unity, not one group against another
• Good break point given the time it is (10:15ish) to continue the meeting Thursday, motion to adjourn, passed 9-0 #tcbh0617
• So this concludes the reporting for this evening, catch you all Thursday #tcbh0617

Budget hearing documents can be found online
https://www.franklinma.gov/town-budget/pages/fy2021-budget-materials

Chair Mercer explains choice of location due to the seriousness of the proposed cuts so the Council could "face the public" #tcbh0617

Sunset is nice here on the field for this budget hearing. #tcbh0617

Options for watching the Town Council budget hearing - Thursday, June 18

• Two options for listening/participating in the Town Council budget hearing tonight  1/2 = use your web browser to listen to wfpr.fm or tune to the radio dial at 102.9 in the Franklin area  #tcbh0618

• Two options for listening/participating in the Town Council budget hearing tonight  2/2 = Come to the FHS football field (Pisini Stadium) on Oak St (bring chair, blanket, face covering, etc.) #tcbh0618

The budget hearing materials can be found online at
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/06/franklin-ma-town-council-budget-hearing_17.html

or on the Town of Franklin page
https://www.franklinma.gov/town-budget/pages/fy2021-budget-materials

On the FHS field as the budget hearing Wednesday took place

 
Note: video of the meeting is being recorded for playback later. There is no video broadcast of the meeting as the field does not have an internet connection.

FSPA Announces Reopening Plan with Virtual Option

The Franklin School for the Performing Arts (FSPA) will open at 38 Main Street on June 29 with a virtual option for Summer 2020. The school will employ safety measures for enhanced cleaning, hygiene, screening, and distancing as detailed in their Four Pillar Plan. Families who are not completely comfortable returning for classes in person may elect the virtual option for the Summer Session. 

“Our staff has prepared the building and adapted programs to meet the most current guidelines for a summer reopening,” comments Director Raye Lynn Mercer. “Our camps and intensives will have stable student groupings and limited class sizes, with break time and some classes held outdoors.”

FSPA provides an exciting summer session of theater programs, ballet intensives and one-week creative camps, along with music and dance classes. The 2020 summer session runs from June 29 to August 21. The summer months are a wonderful time for families new to the school, as well as beginner students, to get involved at FSPA. Summer productions provide fun performance opportunities while weekly classes and intensives give all students the chance to focus on skill building, improving technique, or trying a brand new discipline. “This summer’s shows are specifically written and planned in a creative, socially distanced format,” says Mercer.

FSPA’s Summer Ballet Intensives feature training in classical ballet technique, pre-pointe and pointe, with contemporary and jazz master classes. The four-week Intermediate/Advanced Intensive runs June 29-July 23 and the three-week Young Dancer Intensive is slated July 6-23, both under the direction of Cheryl Madeux.

FSPA Summer Theater provides the opportunity for immersion in a Broadway Boot Camp, cabaret show, play, or musical theater production, with enrollment for one to five weeks. The Cabaret week focuses on repertoire choices, song interpretation, and solo presentation, and concludes with a cabaret style revue at THE BLACK BOX theater’s outdoor stage in downtown Franklin. The three-day Broadway Boot Camp brings Broadway headliners to FSPA for song and dance master classes and coaching on individual performance skills. A weeklong drama program presents a straight play, while a two-week musical theater program stages a customized book musical at THE BLACK BOX.

A variety of weeklong performing arts camps are offered throughout the summer in addition to weekly classes for all ages and levels. Children ages 3-5, are invited to learn about FSPA’s Little Music School program in individual sessions with LMS Director Kim Rezendes.

Mercer concludes, “We are very excited to reopen at 38 Main Street, but remain prepared to make changes and adjust our plans as required by the Mass.gov reopening Massachusetts guidelines.” For more information on Summer offerings as well as details on FSPA’s Four Pillar plan for reopening, visit www.FSPAonline.com or call 508-528-8668. Specific questions can also be directed to reception@FSPAonline.com. FSPA is located at 38 Main Street in downtown Franklin. 

 

FSPA Announces Reopening Plan with Virtual Option

In the News: "As a result of those savings, Hellen said, the town is avoiding municipal layoffs"

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

"Anticipated bumps in the town’s financial road are giving way to potholes as the town enters a new fiscal year on July 1.

In the face of significant economic impacts stemming from the COVID-19 global pandemic, Town Administrator Jamie Hellen said the town is bracing to travel “a turbulent road” - but how turbulent will depend on the level of cuts that may trickle down in local aid from the state, and the total fallout from loss of local receipts during the economic shutdown.

“The bottom line is FY21 will be a very turbulent road, if not a devastating one that will likely have far reaching effects on the service delivery to the community,” Hellen wrote in his executive summary as part of the town’s initial $131.8 million budget plan.

He also said the situation will “require every department to develop new protocols, question spending, rethink service delivery and prepare for unchartered territory. The situation will also require significant engagement from all stakeholders and citizens in the community.”

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200617/for-franklin-turbulent-financial-road-ahead

Links to FY 2021 budget materials

a. Voting Document for the FY21 Franklin Town Budget
i. FY21 Budget Message from the Town Administrator  https://www.franklinma.gov/town-budget/files/fy21-town-administrator-budget-message
ii. FY21 Town Administrator Proposed Budget  https://www.franklinma.gov/town-budget/files/updated-budget-councile
iii. Appendix A

iv. Appendix B1 Franklin School Committee Recommended FY21 Budget Executive Summary (https://www.franklinps.net/sites/franklinmaps/files/uploads/02._executive_summaryrevised.pdf), Appendix B2 Franklin School Committee Recommended FY21 Budget (https://www.franklinps.net/sites/franklinmaps/files/uploads/fy21_sc_approved_budget_overview.pdf)

• Appendix C1 Historic Data: Budget Breakdown  https://www.franklinma.gov/town-budget/files/appendix-c1-historic-data-budget-breakdown
• Appendix C2 Historic Data: Operating Revenue https://www.franklinma.gov/town-budget/files/appendix-c2-historic-data-operating-revenue
• Appendix C3 Historic Data: Fixed Cost  https://www.franklinma.gov/town-budget/files/appendix-c3-historic-data-fixed-costs
• Appendix C4 Historic Data: Local Aid  https://www.franklinma.gov/town-budget/files/appendix-c4-historic-data-local-aid
• Appendix C5 Historic Data: Local Receipts  https://www.franklinma.gov/town-budget/files/appendix-c5-historic-data-local-receipts
• Appendix C6 Historic Data: Assessments  https://www.franklinma.gov/town-budget/files/appendix-c6-historic-data-assessments
• Appendix C7 Historic Data: New Growth  https://www.franklinma.gov/town-budget/files/appendix-c7-historic-data-new-growth
• Appendix C8 Historic Data: Free Cash Balances   https://www.franklinma.gov/town-budget/files/appendix-c8-historic-data-free-cash-balances
• Appendix C9 Historic Data: FC & RE  https://www.franklinma.gov/town-budget/files/appendix-c9-historic-data-fc-re

vi. Appendix D - Storm Water  https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/uploads/_stormwater_council_outreach_2019_2.pdf
https://twitter.com/TOFranklinMA/status/1272968359953522688?s=09

The budget hearing underway at FHS on Wednesday night