Friday, April 17, 2026

FY 2027 Budget Narrative: Legal Services section

From the Town Administrator's FY 2027 Budget Narrative, each department's story is worth sharing. 


General Purpose

The Legal Department is responsible for providing independent legal advice and for participating in the drafting and reviewing of all legal instruments.

Core Functions

The Town Attorney represents the Town on all legal matters, including litigation, contracts, drafting of Town bylaws, resolutions and zoning.
The Town also engages special counsel for labor and personnel matters, as well as other specialties, as needed, such as solar or certain land use cases involving lawsuits and/or appeals.
To provide exemplary customer service and legal advice to the Franklin Town Council, Town Administration and Town staff.

Staffing

One (1) Part-Time Town Attorney.
 
FY27 Requested Budget Highlights

Excluding the 2.5% COLA, this is a level-funded budget.
In the coming years, succession planning will be required to replace Attorney Cerel, which will be a very expensive and costly endeavor.