Building Equitable Neighborhoods for Franklin (BEN 4 Franklin) is proud to endorse six candidates for Franklin Town Council: Thomas Mercer, Maxwell Morrongiello, Patrick Sheridan, Ken Ojukwu, Michael LeBlanc, and Glenn Jones.
In early October, BEN 4 Franklin shared a questionnaire with all Town Council candidates to learn more about their views on housing, neighborhood planning, and Franklin’s long-term growth. Candidates were informed that their answers would be published publicly and that BEN may choose to endorse those whose values align with the group’s mission.
BEN is endorsing all six candidates who responded to the questionnaire, each of whom expressed a thoughtful commitment to keeping Franklin an affordable, welcoming, and financially healthy place to live.
“We’re encouraged to see these candidates engaging seriously with the challenges facing Franklin - from rising housing costs, to operating budget pressure, to the need for smart, balanced development,” said Mark Minnichelli, Co-Chair of BEN 4 Franklin. “These six candidates share our vision of a vibrant, welcoming, and financially-strong Franklin.”
The full questionnaire and candidate responses are posted at ben4franklin.org/2025-election. The survey asked candidates about topics such as expanding housing choices, supporting small businesses downtown, and implementing the 2025 Franklin Master Plan.
Building Equitable Neighborhoods for Franklin is a volunteer community group that envisions a Franklin where everyone can find a home and feel connected to their neighborhood. Guided by the Franklin for All report, BEN advocates for housing options that fit every stage of life, walkable neighborhoods, and thoughtful growth that protects the town’s character while strengthening its finances.
Residents can learn more about BEN’s work and sign up for updates at ben4franklin.org.
