Saturday, May 6, 2023

SAVE-THE-DATES for MEMORIAL DAY 2023

Memorial Day Breakfast – Friday, May 26 - 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Will be held at the Franklin Senior Center. Reservations are required. Sign up at the Senior Center reception desk or call Mary at: (508) 520 – 4945 by May 12.

Memorial Day Parade – Monday, May 29 - 10:30 AM 
Starts at Dean College, then proceeds to Union Street and St. Mary’s Cemeteries via School, West Central and Beaver Streets and concludes at the Town Common.

Memorial Day Ceremony – Monday, May 29 - Noon 
Will be held on the Town Common by the War Memorial after the parade. Franklin Veterans who have passed since last Memorial Day as well as Franklin’s 45 fallen heroes who died in our nation’s combats will be recognized.

Please note: If it rains on May 29, please check the Veterans’ Services web page at: https://www.franklinma.gov/veterans-services for cancellation notice.

Let us all remember…We are the land of the free because of the brave.

SAVE-THE-DATES for MEMORIAL DAY 2023
SAVE-THE-DATES for MEMORIAL DAY 2023


Town Council Quarterbacking condenses the May 3, 2023 meeting & simplifies what it means (audio)

FM #990 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 990 in the series. 


This shares my conversation with Town Council Chair Tom Mercer in our Town Council Quarterbacking session. This is one of the series of conversations meant to provide a recap of the prior night’s Town Council meeting. 


Akin to one of the many sports post-game analysis broadcasts we are familiar with in New England, this would be a discussion focused on the Franklin Town Council meeting of May 3, 2023


  • ok, what just happened? 

  • What does it mean for Franklin residents and taxpayers?


We cover the following key topics

7. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS

a. New Section 12 Restaurant Common Victualer All Alcohol License and Approval of Katrina Psikarakis as the Manager - Here Come Two Greeks, LLC d/b/a Sierra’s Brick Oven Pizza & Pub, Located at 370 King Street   

b. License Modification - Change of Manager: Rare Hospitality International, Inc. d/b/a Longhorn Steakhouse; Located at 250 Franklin Village Drive, Franklin, MA 02038   

c. License Modification - Change of Officers/Directors/LLC Managers: 99 Restaurants of Boston, LLC d/b/a 99 Restaurant, Located at 847 West Central Street   

8. PRESENTATIONS / DISCUSSION

a. Presentation: FY22 Financial Audit - Scott McIntire, Partner, Marcum LLP   

b. Presentation: Charles River Pollution Control District - Elizabeth Taglieri, Executive Director Charles River Pollution Control District  

c. An Introduction to PFAS Regulations – Water & Sewer Superintendent Doug Martin   

9. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION

a. Bylaw Amendment 23-897: Sewer Rate Increase - First Reading

b. Resolution 23-30: Authorizing the Borrowing of Money to Pay Costs Associated with the Franklin Sewer System Asset Management Plan (CWSRF 12541)

c. Resolution 23-31: Authority For Town Administrator to File Clean Water State Revolving Fund Loan Application 

d. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 23-889: A Zoning Bylaw to Amend the Franklin Town Code at Chapter 185, Attachment 7., Part VI, Use Regulation Schedule: Residential Uses - Second Reading 

e. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 23-890: A Zoning Bylaw to Amend the Franklin Town Code at Chapter 185, Section 51 - Second Reading

f. Resolution 23-32: Gift Acceptance - Town of Franklin for Red Brick School House (Donation of “Established” Sign) 

g. Resolution 23-29: FY23 Capital Round 2



Links to the meeting agenda and associated documents released for this meeting are included in the show notes. 


Our conversation runs about 45 minutes. Let’s listen to the Town Council Quarterbacking session recorded May 4, 2023

Audio file -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-990-town-council-quarterbacking-05-04-23



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The agenda doc can also be found on the Town of Franklin page ->   

 https://www.franklinmatters.org/2023/04/franklin-ma-town-council-agenda-for-may.html 


My notes in one PDF file -> 

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1gWiBSq_Q8vMNIUKv32jeLQtMypvF8fTb/view?usp=share_link


Franklin TV meeting video ->  

https://www.youtube.com/live/mhRDmkdk7og?feature=share


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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/ or www.franklin.news/

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!

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


Franklin, MA: School Committee - Agenda doc for Meeting May 9, 2023 - 7 PM

Franklin School Committee
May 9, 2023 - 7:00 PM
Municipal Building – Council Chambers


Call to Order Ms. Spencer
Pledge of Allegiance
Moment of Silence

I. Routine Business
A. Review of Agenda
B. Payment of Bills Mr. McNeill
C. Payroll Ms. Spencer
D. FHS Student Representative Comments
E. Superintendent’s Report

II. Guests/Presentations

III. Discussion/Action Items
A. BICO Board Appointment 23-24
I recommend approval of the appointment of Lucas Giguere as the BICO Board
representative for Franklin Public Schools for the 2023-24 school year.  ->   https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/discussion_action_a_-_bico_board_appointment_1.pdf

B. ACCEPT Board Appointment 23-24
I recommend approval of the appointment of Lucas Giguere as the ACCEPT Board
representative for Franklin Public Schools for the 2023-24 school year.  ->   https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/discussion_action_b_-_accept_board_appointment_1.pdf

C. Redistricting Vote
I recommend approval of the redistricting recommendation as detailed in the

IV. Discussion Only Items
A. Interim School Business Administrator
Recommend an Interim School Business Administrator position for the
2023-2024 fiscal year and continuation of a comprehensive search process for a
permanent position during the 2023-2024 school year.

V. Information Matters
A. School Committee Sub-Committee Reports
B. School Committee Liaison Reports

VI. Consent Agenda
A. Approval of Minutes
I recommend approval of the minutes from the April 25, 2023 School Committee
Meeting as detailed.
B. Keller Gift
I recommend acceptance of a check for $395.43 from O’Connor Portraiture for
supplemental supplies at Keller Elementary School as detailed.
C. Overseas Account
I recommend approval of the Overseas Trip Fundraising Account within the
Student Activity Fund at Franklin High School.

VII. Good of the Order

VIII. Citizen’s Comments

IX. New Business
To discuss any future agenda items

X. Executive Session
a. Pursuant to M.G.L. c. 30A, §21(a)(3) to discuss strategy with respect to collective
bargaining with the ESP/LPN, unit as an open meeting may have a detrimental effect on the  bargaining position of the School Committee and the chair so declares.

XI. Adjournment




Franklin, MA: School Committee Agenda
Franklin, MA: School Committee Agenda

Reminder: Join Cobi & I for a walk and talk about Franklin today (5/06/23 at 10:30 AM)

Should be good weather today for a walk!

You are invited to join Town Councilor Cobi Frongillo & I as we walk and talk about Franklin, zoning, interesting tidbits, etc. 

We'll meet at the High St side of the Town Common and leave at 10:30 AM Saturday morning, May 6, 2023.

The route as proposed is just over 3 miles (or about 5 K) that will bring us back to the Common. We should return to the Common by about noon.
  • Dress for the weather whatever it is or forecasted to be for Saturday
  • Bring along water (talking makes one thirsty)
  • Wheels and paws are welcome to come along

Photo of the walking route
Photo of the walking route (Counter clockwise)



Interactive Maps (via MapMyWalk) 


Franklin's first participation in the national annual @janeswalk, in honor of the late social activist Jane Jacobs - May 6, 10:30 AM
Franklin's first participation in the national annual @janeswalk, in honor of the late social activist Jane Jacobs - May 6, 10:30 AM

Reminder: Redistricting Listening Session May 7 from 2 to 3 PM At the Library

 A redistricting listening session has been scheduled by two members of the School Committee: Camille Bernstein and Dave Callaghan. The session is scheduled for Sunday, May 7 from 2 to 3 PM.


Note: the School Committee is scheduled to vote on the redistricting proposal at their May 9 meeting.


The report to the School Committee with the redistricting proposal can be found ->   https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/redistricting_analysis_recommendation_report_2022-23.pdf


Redistricting Listening Session May 7
Redistricting Listening Session May 7

No rain in the forecast for this Earth Day Celebration at DelCarte - Sunday, May 7 from 9 AM to 1 PM

We only have one Earth! Let's take good care of it! Franklin Residents are encouraged to join us for our Earth Day at DelCarte event on May 7th, 2023! Come join the Franklin Conservation Commission, Department of Public Works, Department of Conservation and Recreation, Agricultural Commission, and others to celebrate our shared Earth from 9am to 1pm at the DelCarte Conservation Area at 459 Pleasant Street. This is a great event for children and families!

Celebrate with us by signing up for compost bins, learning about stormwater and rain gardens, enjoying a woods walk, exploring vernal pools, and more!

Overflow parking is available at 337 Pleasant Street and other side streets. Service Hours validated upon request and stewardship. See you there!

This event had been scheduled for April 23 but got rained out.


No rain in the forecast for this Earth Day Celebration at DelCarte - Sunday, May 7 from 9 AM to 1 PM
No rain in the forecast for this Earth Day Celebration at DelCarte - Sunday, May 7 from 9 AM to 1 PM

FHS Panthers Softball Clinic - May 7

FHS Panthers Softball Clinic, hosted by and the Varsity Softball Team!
Sunday May 7th, 10 AM – 12 PM Franklin High School Softball Fields Sign Up Link: signupgenius.com/go/20f054da8ad
Please bring a check for $35 payable to FHS Softball Boosters.


FHS Panthers Softball Clinic - May 7
FHS Panthers Softball Clinic - May 7




Recognizing the Needs of People on the Autism Spectrum and Their Families

Social Security’s programs touch the lives of nearly every American. We remain steadfast in our commitment to reducing barriers to ensure people eligible for our benefits receive them. We provide income security for the diverse populations we serve, including people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and their families.

Many parents and caretakers of children with disabilities lose work hours and income because of their children’s care needs. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) provides monthly financial support to low-income families with children who have developmental and behavioral disabilities. This includes ASD – and physical impairments.

Children under age 18 can get SSI if they meet Social Security’s definition of disability for children and live in a household with limited income and resources. We define a disability as:
  • The child must have a physical or mental condition(s) that very seriously limits the child’s activities.
  • The condition(s) must have lasted, or be expected to last, at least 1 year or result in death.
Continue reading the article on the Social Security page->

Friday, May 5, 2023

Franklin's Event Outlook: May 5, 2023 to May 11, 2023

Rain, rain, go away, all of Franklin wants to get out and play... Seems like that will actually happen this weekend. 

With a clear, dry and warm forecast, you can get out for a walk & talk about Franklin and have time to walk the labyrinth on Saturday. Or catch a Jamie Barrett concert at the Library. 

Your choices are listed below (and on the community calendar) as #artshappenhere in Franklin.


Friday, May 5 - Cinco de Mayo

5:00pm - Cinco de Mayo Fiesta (sold out) (LaCantina Winery)

6:00pm - Criminals & Beauty Queens (67 Degrees Brewery)


Saturday, May 6

10:00am - Franklin Historical Museum (always free)

10:30am - Jane Jacobs Neighborhood Walk (start at Franklin Town Common)

10:30am - Jamie Barrett Concert (Franklin Public Library)

11:00am - Class of 2023 Commencement (Dean College)

12:45pm - World Labyrinth Day - Walk for Peace (First Universalist Society of Franklin)

4:00pm - Laura May duo (live music) (LaCantina Winery)

6:00pm - Sudden Odd Behavior (67 Degrees Brewery)


Sunday, May 7

1:00pm - Franklin Historical Museum (always free)

7:00pm - Interfaith Teen Climate Change Meeting (St John’s Episcopal Church)


Tuesday, May 9

1:00pm - Dean College Lecture Series: Creative Writing (Franklin Senior Center)

7:00pm - FBRTC Meeting (67 Degrees Brewery)

7:00pm - Yankee Quilters (Emma's Quilt Cupboard)


Wednesday, May 10

1:00pm - Senior Scribblers (writing group) (Franklin Senior Center)

6:00pm - FHS POPS Night/8th Grade Side by Side Concert (Franklin High School)

7:00pm - Franklin Newcomers & Friends (Escape Into Fiction)

7:00pm - St Mary's Women's Faith Formation Group (virtual)


Thursday, May 11

10:00am - Writer's Quiet Space (Escape Into Fiction)

6:00pm - Dave Penza (live music) (LaCantina Winery)

7:00pm - Massachusetts Anti-Bullying Laws Workshop (Virtual)


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The Franklin Art Association Art Gallery remains open during business hours at Escape into Fiction (Main St, Franklin)

Find the full Community event calendar  https://www.franklinmatters.org/p/blog-page.html

The Cultural calendar displays only the cultural events      https://www.franklinculture.org/things-do/pages/calendar

If you have an event to add to the calendar, you can use the form to submit it for publication:  https://forms.gle/oPdi8X3ZbHHyrHzo6

The Town meeting calendar is found  https://www.franklinma.gov/calendar
The School district calendar is found  https://www.franklinps.net/calendar-by-event-type/26 


Franklin's Event Outlook: April 21, 2023 to Apr 27, 2023
Franklin's Event Outlook: April 21, 2023 to Apr 27, 2023

Finance Committee: FY 2024 Budget Hearings Scheduled - May 8, May 10, & May 11, 2023

Finance Committee Meetings - May 8, May 10 and May 11 of 2023

The Finance Committee will hold a series of meetings May 8, 2023 - May 11, 2023. 

These meetings will review various aspects of the FY2024 Town Administrators Operating Budget.

You may access the agenda and links for the following meetings below....

All meetings will commence at 7:00pm in the Municipal Chambers and via the Zoom platform.

Shared from -> https://www.franklinma.gov/home/news/finance-committee-meetings-may-8th-may-10th-and-may-11th-2023


Finance Committee: FY 2024 Budget Hearings Scheduled - May 8, May 10, and May 11, 2023
Finance Committee: FY 2024 Budget Hearings Scheduled - May 8, May 10, and May 11, 2023

Weather reschedules tennis & softball; doesn't stop baseball from topping Milford on Thursday

Via HockomockSports.com and Twitter, we share the results of the spring sports competition for Franklin High School on Thursday, May 4, 2023. We also provide the link to the full set of Hockomock League results below.


Baseball = Milford, 0 @ Franklin, 10 – Final (6 inn.) 
– Locked in a one-run game through 4.5 innings, Franklin’s offense roared to life with a six-run fifth inning followed by three more in the sixth to earn a big win over Milford. The Panthers scored in the first when Eisig Chin reached on an error and Ryan Gerety (walk) scored but the Hawks escaped a bases-loaded situation with no outs to limit the damage. The game stayed 1-0 for the next three innings and Alfred Mucciarone escaped a bases loaded jam for the Hawks, inducing a ground ball to second baseman Luke Sidwell, who started a 4-6-2 double play to end the threat and the inning. Chin ignited the offense again in the fifth with a lead off double, Henry Digiorgio followed with a single and the Panthers’ offense rolled from there. Ethan DePaolo had a big day for Franklin, going 2-for-4 with a double, three RBI, and two runs scored. Ben Jarosz also had a double, an RBI, and two runs for Franklin. Mucciarone got the win, allowed just one hit and one walk, striking out nine in six scoreless innings.

Softball = Franklin @ Milford – Postponed to Wednesday, 5/24 at 3:45.

Boys Tennis = Milford @ Franklin – Postponed to TBD.

Girls Tennis = Franklin @ Milford – Postponed to TBD.

For other results around the Hockomock League

FHS Panthers
FHS Panthers