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| Santa arrives on the Franklin Town Common Nov 26 |
Sponsored by Concerts on the Common. Donations to help with this and the Town Common decorations are appreciated. Checks can be mailed to
"Concerts on the Common"
PO Box 92
Franklin, MA 02038
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| Santa arrives on the Franklin Town Common Nov 26 |
It feels like we are hitting our stride this week! The Emergency Shelter in Franklin is near capacity, the After-School Program has begun, and we’ve worked most of the kinks out of our process for assessing needs, collecting donations and distributing them.
The After-School Program is up and running. In its first offering, it served an estimated 30 children, elementary age and younger. The program was such a success that, in the future, we’ve been given permission to start a little earlier in order to reach out to the middle- and high-school students who arrive to the shelter about an hour before the elementary students. If you’d like to help with the After-school Program, please reach out to Rev. Kathy McAdams. We are hopeful that we will soon be able to offer the program over multiple days each week.
All donations have been consolidated at the Franklin United Methodist Church and teams of volunteers have done an excellent job of sorting. Next week, we will be sorting on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday. In the weeks that follow we will have regular sorting on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Click here to learn more and signup for donation sorting.
The other amazing thing that happened this week was the receipt of several donations for the Franklin Interfaith Council’s Local Humanitarian Aid Fund, including a $1000 gift from a community member. In the near term, these funds will go to provide direct support and aid to the shelter. If you’d like to make a donation online, click here and designate the “Local Humanitarian Aid Fund.”
Attached is the updated flyer. We are continuing to ask for baby wipes and laundry detergent. We are also asking for new (in the package) socks and underwear (all sizes). Please distribute the flyer as you see fit.
Thank for your donations! Thank you to everyone who has volunteered! Thank you all for your continued support.
Peace.
Jacob
><O><O><O><O><O><O><O><
Rev. Dr. Jacob W. Juncker
Pastor, Franklin United Methodist Church
President, Franklin Interfaith Council
Download the flyer here and share ->
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1H2wHKs4D1T5BIkYnTpLZP9BZPZqBGFuX/view?usp=drive_link
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| #LOVEfranklin // Emergency Shelter Humanitarian Aid UPDATE for Nov 3. 2023 |
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| FHS Panther sports results shared via subscription to HockomockSports.com |
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| Beaver Street Interceptor (BSI) |
Construction activities will begin Monday, November 6, 2023. For more information, please use the interactive map below.
JOIN US!
Groundbreaking Ceremony - 11:00 am on Thursday, 11/9/23 at Franklin Recreation Office (275 Beaver Street Franklin).
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| Beaver Street Interceptor Construction begins 11/6, ground breaking ceremony 11/9 |
Interested in receiving email updates regarding the
Beaver Street Interceptor Rehabilitation/Replacement Project?
Please subscribe here (select Beaver Street Interceptor from the list).
History
The Beaver Street Interceptor (BSI) was originally constructed in 1914 and discharged to the former Franklin Wastewater Treatment Plant on Pond Street (aka, the sewer beds). Currently, the BSI conveys over 70% of the Town's sewage with an average daily flow (ADF) of approximately 1.5 million gallons per day (MGD) of sewage flow through the pipeline. The interceptor includes 59 manholes and approximately 2.3 miles (11,932 LF) of 16-inch to 24-inch cast iron (CI) pipe, reinforced concrete (RC) pipe, and vitrified clay (VC) pipe. The BSI extends from the intersection of Cottage Street and Union Street to the easement behind Pond Street, near the Interstate 495/Route 140 interchange, where it discharges to the Mine Brook Interceptor. Due to its age, the risk and consequence of failure, and the percentage of the Town's sewer flows conveyed by the interceptor, the BSI is considered Franklin's most critical sewer asset.
The BSI, constructed in 1914, has been in continuous service for 108 years. Other than routine maintenance, no improvements to the interceptor have been made since its construction. Since 2003, the Town has contracted for cleaning, internal investigation, and condition assessment of the BSI on a recurring 5-year basis. Extensive manhole inspections and cleaning and closed-circuit television (CCTV) inspection of the pipes were last completed in 2013 and 2014, respectively. Results of these investigations have shown signs of increasing deterioration and worsening conditions of the pipes and manholes, most notably increased tuberculation, cracks, manhole and pipeline infiltration, and root intrusion.
Rehabilitation/Repair Project Description
The Project is located in the Town of Franklin, MA in Norfolk County. The current interceptor is in need of replacement. Therefore, the Town proposes rehabilitation, replacement, and general improvements to the interceptor as well as a new pump station on the property at 275 Beaver Street, Franklin, MA. The proposed project provides the most cost-effective, long-term solution to the BSI's capacity and structural deficiencies, human health and environmental risks, accessibility and operation and maintenance challenges, by abandoning and rerouting sewers in the most risk-prone and problematic, inaccessible areas. The work of the Project to reroute sewers is being undertaken, in part, to move sewers out of wetland resource areas at the same time as making other improvements.
The Project includes the following key components:
For additional information see links below:
Alternative Analysis:
Beaver St Interceptor Alternatives Analysis
Appendix A-Manhole Inspection Logs-May 2013
Appendix B-CCTV Inspection Logs-August 2014 to September 2014
Appendix C-Hydraulic Model Technical Memorandum
Appendix D-BSI Replacement-Franklin Town Council Meeting Presentation-10/21/20
Appendix E Project Cost Estimates
Presentations:
Interceptor Town Council Presentation Update June 2022
Interceptor Alternatives Analysis Town Council Presentation 10/21/20
Notice of Intent-Conservation Commission:
Notice of Intent Packet-Franklin Conservation Commission Submittal
Project Site Overview Figure
Media Coverage:
What is the Beaver St Interceptor? Why does it need to be replaced? -TUESDAY, JULY 26, 2022 (https://www.franklinma.gov/water-sewer-division/pages/beaver-street-interceptor )
Schedule:
December 21, 2022 - Advertise for Bids
https://www.franklinma.gov/purchasing/bids/beaver-st-interceptor-rehabilitationreplacement-and-new-beaver-st-pump-station)
(https://www.milforddailynews.com/public-notices/notice/12/21/2022/bids-beaver-street-pump-station-legal-2022-12-21-the-milford-daily-news-massachusetts-0cc175)
March 8, 2023 - Bid Opening
June 15, 2023 - Anticipated Contact Award
Fall/Winter 2023 - Anticipated Construction Start
Summer 2026 - Anticipated Construction Completion
Shared from -> https://www.franklinma.gov/water-sewer-division/pages/beaver-street-interceptor
"Hi Franklin!
Looking to get your kids outside on the half day next Thursday?
Join the Conservation Commission and our Conservation Agent at the Riverbend Conservation Area for a hike and story.
Details here! We hope to see you there!"
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"ATTORNEY GENERAL Andrea Campbell notified state Auditor Diana DiZoglio on Thursday evening that the auditor’s office lacks the legal authority to audit the Legislature without its consent.The decision by Campbell deals a major setback to DiZoglio’s crusade to scrutinize the policies and procedures of the House and Senate chambers where she used to serve, but it doesn’t end it.In addition to seeking Campbell’s legal opinion on her authority to audit the Legislature, DiZoglio is pursuing a ballot question that would establish a law giving her that power. Campbell, who certified the question as legally suitable to go on the ballot, said in effect that her response to DiZoglio’s request is an interpretation of existing law and is unrelated to the quest for a new law.“I believe transparency is a cornerstone of good government, but that transparency must be achieved through methods that are consistent with the law,” Campbell said. “As the chief law officer of the Commonwealth, it is my office’s role to determine the legal position of the state by looking at the law as it exists on the books today, and evaluating what that law allows, and what it does not. After a thorough review of the statutory text, pertinent Supreme Judicial Court decisions, and relevant history, we have concluded that current law does not allow an audit of the Legislature over its objection.”
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| State Auditor Diana DiZoglio, surrounded by past audits by her office of the Legislature or legislative committees. (Photo by Bruce Mohl) |
"MASSACHUSETTS IS rightly proud of its “revolutionary tradition,” but according to democracy scholar Danielle Allen, the health of the state’s democratic structures isn’t all rosy in practice
“A healthy democracy depends on a couple of critical values,” Allen, a Harvard professor of political philosophy, ethics, and public policy, said on a live episode of The Codcast. “There’s the value of inclusion, really achieving full inclusion, the value of engagement or participation, and then the value of competitiveness. And on each of those dimensions, we can see room for improvement in Massachusetts.”
Allen is focused on what she calls the work of “democratic renovation,” in part through her role as president and founder of Partners in Democracy. The organization pushes for reforms to bolster running for office, voting in elections, and making government systems more transparent. Allen herself made a short-lived bid for governor last year, pushing for many of these reforms."
The cost of living has become increasingly challenging for many individuals and families across Norfolk County, making it difficult to afford basic necessities such as food, which can be especially difficult during the holiday season when the pressure to provide for loved ones is heightened. Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell is asking people to take a moment to contribute to the Annual Registry of Deeds Food Drive, starting Tuesday November 14th and running through Thursday December 14th.
“There is no doubt that Norfolk County is a desirable place to live and to work. However, there are people throughout the county who are truly hurting. This year, we, as a community, have seen a rising demand for food assistance, and it is crucial that we come together to support those in need. By participating in the Annual Registry of Deeds Food Drive, we can make a significant impact this holiday season,” said Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell.
Register O'Donnell Announces 2023 Holiday Food Drive
November 14th through December 14th
Today, according to the latest Project Bread statistics, 18.8% of households in Massachusetts are considered food insecure. Furthermore, 21.9% of children in the state are also considered food insecure. The increasing cost of housing and food are likely factors that contribute to the rising rates of food insecurity.
Register O'Donnell noted. “As the holidays approach, there is definitely a need for more food assistance. Household expenses are higher due to the cost of home heating fuel, food bills, and increased interest rates. Some Norfolk County families are hit harder by these increased costs and worry about putting food on the table this holiday season. So, let us be mindful during this Thanksgiving season that others may need our help.”
Non-perishable food items can be brought directly to the Registry of Deeds, which is located at 649 High Street in Dedham. A donation bin will be set-up in the Registry's lobby and food can be dropped off Monday through Friday between 8:00AM to 4:30PM. Suggested donations include canned goods, breakfast cereals, pasta, sauces, toiletries, and paper products.
“We (Interfaith Social Services) are experiencing a 30% increase in the demand for food assistance which is the heist it has been in our 53 years of operation,” said Rick Doane, Executive Director for Interfaith Social Services in Quincy. “We would be extremely grateful for any assistance that the local community could provide.”
If you can't get to the Registry of Deeds building to drop off food, you can check the Registry website at www.norfolkdeeds.org for a pantry location in your community.
“Working together, we can truly make a huge difference this holiday season,” concluded Register O'Donnell. “By supporting each other and being mindful of those in need we can help those struggling with food insecurity, because no one should go hungry, especially during this time of year. I ask that we all embrace the true meaning of the Thanksgiving by showing compassion and generosity towards all.”
To learn more about these and other Registry of Deeds events and initiatives, “like” us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/norfolkdeeds. Follow us on Twitter and Instagram at @norfolkdeeds.
The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds, located at 649 High St., Dedham, is the principal office for real property in Norfolk County. The Registry is a resource for homeowners, title examiners, mortgage lenders, municipalities, and others with a need for secure, accurate, and accessible land record information. All land record research information can be found on the Registry's website, www.norfolkdeeds.org. Residents in need of assistance can contact the Registry of Deeds Customer Service Center at (781) 461-6101 or email us at registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.
Friday, November 3
6:00pm - Piano Steve (live music) (La Cantina Winery)
7:00pm - Arts Mosaic (ticketed event) (Dean College)
Saturday, November 4
10:00am - Franklin Historical Museum (always free)
4:00pm - Tyler Zajac (live music) (La Cantina Winery)
6:00pm - Annual FPAC Gala (in person and virtual event) (THE BLACK BOX)
7:00pm - Arts Mosaic (ticketed event) (Dean College)
Sunday, November 5
Daylight Saving Time ends (clocks fall back 1 hour)
1:00pm - Franklin Historical Museum (always free)
Tuesday, November 7 = Election Day
6:00am - Town of Franklin Election (Franklin High School)
6:00pm - Franklin Garden Club - meeting (Franklin Public Library)
Wednesday, November 8
1:00pm - Senior Scribblers (writing group)
3:00pm - Fall Health Fair
7:00pm - St Mary's Women's Faith Formation Group
Thursday, November 9
6:00pm - FAA Art Gallery Reception
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| Franklin's Event Outlook: October 27, 2023 to November 3, 2023 |
By the way, the Franklin Conservation Commission is hosting their annual autumn event "Cider & Stroll" at DelCarte at the same time as the meet and greet. Feel free to join their event before or after meeting with us for FFC.
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| Join the "Friends of Franklin Conservation"! |
Shared from -> https://www.franklinma.gov/conservation/news/join-friends-franklin-conservation
FM #1093 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1093 in the series.
This session of the radio show shares the Town Administrator’s Report segment from the Town Council Meeting of Nov 1, 2023. Town Administrator Jamie Hellen provides an update on the Migrant Housing status.
The report segment runs about 9 minutes. Let’s listen to this segment of the Town Council meeting on Wednesday, November 1, 2023.
Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1093-town-administrators-report-migrant-housing-status-11-01-23
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Town Administrator page -> https://www.franklinma.gov/administrator
Town Council agenda doc -> https://www.franklinmatters.org/2023/10/franklin-ma-agenda-for-town-council.html
Migrant Housing Portal -> https://www.franklinma.gov/health-department/pages/migrant-dashboard-portal
Prior updates on the Migrant Housing Status
Update from the Oct 18, 2023 meeting -> https://www.franklinmatters.org/2023/10/town-council-segment-migrant-housing.html
Update from the Oct 11, 2023 meeting -> https://www.franklinmatters.org/2023/10/town-administrators-report-migrant.html
Update from Sep 20 meeting -> https://www.franklinmatters.org/2023/09/town-administrators-report-on-migrant_20.html
Update from Sep 6 meeting -> https://www.franklinmatters.org/2023/09/town-administrators-report-on-migrant.html
Notification on migrant temporary housing -> https://www.franklinmatters.org/2023/08/ma-notifies-franklin-of-plans-to-house.html
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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 iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"
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| Town Council Segment - Migrant Housing Status - 11/1/23 (audio) |
