Franklin, MA: School Committee - Meeting Agenda - Nov 23, 2021

Franklin School Committee 

November 23, 2021

Municipal Building – Council Chambers 7:00 P.M.

Meetings are recorded by Franklin TV and shown on Comcast channel 11 and Verizon channel 29.  Any individual who also wishes to record this meeting must obtain explicit permission from the Chair

Vision Statement

The Franklin Public Schools will foster within its students the knowledge and skills to find and achieve satisfaction in life as productive global citizens.

Members of the public are now welcome to attend committee meetings in person. Additionally, in an effort to ensure citizen engagement, citizens will be able to continue to view the public meeting using Zoom. We will use the Zoom Webinar feature. You may view the meeting with the link or phone numbers below. Participants wishing to speak during the Citizen’s Comments portion of the agenda may be asked to raise their hand to be recognized by the Chair. The webinar host may invite the attendee to unmute for comment at the Chair’s direction.

Call to Order

Pledge of Allegiance 

Moment of Silence

I. Routine Business

A. Review of Agenda

B. Citizen’s Comments

In the spirit of open communication, “the Committee will hold a public participation segment (also called Citizen’s Comments) about matters not related to an agenda item at the beginning of each regular School Committee meeting. The Committee will listen to, but not respond to any comment made…. A Committee member may add an agenda item to a future meeting as a result of a citizen comment…. The Committee will hear public comments related to an agenda item when the Chair deems appropriate during the Committee meeting. Topics for discussion during the meeting must be limited to those items listed on the Committee meeting agenda for that evening…. ” - from Policy BEDH

C. FHS Student Representative Comments

D. Superintendent’s Report

II. Guests/Presentations

A. MCAS Data Presentation: Dr. Tina Rogers and Dr. Linda Ashley

https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/mcas_-sc_presentation.pdf

III. Discussion/Action Items

A. Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Job Description

I recommend approval of the new position of Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion as discussed.  https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/discussion_action_a_-_new_position_dei.pdf

B. Proposal for Optional Mask Wearing by Vaccinated Students/Staff at FHS related to Policy EBCFA Face Coverings

I recommend approval of the proposal for optional mask wearing by vaccinated students/staff at FHS as discussed.   https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/discussion_action_b_-_mask_proposal.pdf

IV. Discussion Only Items

A. Open Meeting Law Complaint Response - Ms. Denise Spencer

V. Information Matters

A. School Committee Sub-Committee Reports (e.g. Ad Hoc Supt. Evaluation, Budget, Community Relations/Public Schools Advocacy, Policy, Transportation)

B. School Committee Liaison Reports (e.g. Joint PCC; Substance Abuse Task Force; School Wellness Advisory Council; Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee)

VI. New Business

A. To discuss any future agenda items

VII. Consent Agenda

A. Approval of Minutes

I recommend approval of the minutes from the November 9, 2021 School Committee meeting as detailed.

B. Transfers

I recommend approval of the budget transfers as detailed.

C. Athletics Gift

I recommend acceptance of a check for $461.82 from All-American Publishing for supplemental supplies for the Athletics Department as detailed.

D. Annie Sullivan Gift

I recommend acceptance of a check for $2,100.00 from the Annie Sullivan PCC for in-house enrichment as detailed.

E. Parmenter Gift

I recommend acceptance of a check for $3,227.12 from the Parmenter PCC for supplemental supplies as detailed.

VIII. Payment of Bills Ms. Spencer

IX. Payroll Ms. Stokes

X. Executive Session

a. Pursuant to M.G.L. c. 30A, §21(a)(3) to discuss strategy with respect to litigation as an open meeting may have a detrimental effect on the litigating position of the public body and the Chair so declares.

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

c. Pursuant to M.G.L. c. 30A, §21(a)(2) to conduct collective bargaining with the FEA/RN unit as an open meeting may have a detrimental effect on the bargaining position of the School Committee and the Chair so declares, and to return in Open Session.

XI. Adjournment

Meeting packet folder ->  https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/pages/november-23-2021-school-committee-meeting-packet

Meeting agenda doc ->  https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/scagenda_11-23-21.pdf

Franklin, MA: School Committee  - Meeting Agenda - Nov 23, 2021

Recap: Town Council reorganizes (sort of); hears about open meeting law, etc. appoints 4 to Cultural Council; closes with Executive Session

Quick Recap:

• Town Clerk Nancy Danello sworn in (2nd time, first time on election night), then she swears in the Town Council
• Council reorganizes by nomination and vote to retain Mercer, Dellorco, and Jones as Chair, Vice-Chair and Clerk respectfully; so while they have officially re-organized, there is no change in the leadership at this time
• Appointments of four individuals to Cultural Council approved
• Overview of Open Meeting, Law, Ethics, etc. provided by Attny Mark Cerel. As many times as I have seen this overview (8 times, I think?), it is good to review, something different catches my attention each time.
• Council entered Executive Session to discuss the latest on the Prospect St property situation and did not return to open session

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As with most meetings in this pandemic period, I took my notes via Twitter. I participated in the meeting in the Council Chambers. 

The Twitter hashtag can be found online  #tc1110

https://twitter.com/search?q=%23tc1110&src=typeahead_click 

Agenda document -> https://www.franklinmatters.org/2021/11/franklin-ma-town-council-meeting-agenda.html

• getting ready for the Town Council meeting to begin shortly - agenda doc and remote connection info -> https://franklinmatters.org/2021/11/franklin-ma-town-council-meeting-agenda.html…  #tc1110
• Motion to nominate Mercer as Chair, seconded, approved 9-0; motion to nominate Dellorco as Vice-Chair; seconded, approved 9-0 motion to nominate Jones, seconded, passes 9-0 #tc1110
• motion to adopt procedure manual -> ADOPTION OF TOWN COUNCIL PROCEDURE MANUAL: Resolution 21-67       https://franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/3._21-67_adoption_of_council_procedures.pdf…  #tc1110  subcommittee will review and propose revisions possible  -  seconded, passes 9-0
• meeting protocol statement read by Chair Mercer; meeting options, Zoom, cable Verizon/Comcast, and live stream - Citizen comments; Rev Juncker and Rabbi Alpert step forward to make Interfaith Council as they did at #schCom1109 meeting  #tc1110
• statement on #LoveFranklin can be found -> https://franklinmatters.org/2021/10/a-call-to-our-community-lovefranklin.html…  #tc1110 (BTW - I am a signer of this statement, one of the 365 community members)
• J Callaway-Tripp after an atrocious election, congratulations, I hope you do wonderful things #tc1110
• approval of minutes from 10/06/21 meeting, motion, seconded, passes 9-0  #tc1110
• APPOINTMENTS a. Franklin Cultural Council: Venus Senjam - motion, seconded, passes 9-0  #tc1110 Cormier-Leger, Frongillo, Jones - thanks to these candidates, good candidates
• APPOINTMENTS b. Franklin Cultural Council: Patrick Kinner#tc1110 - motion, seconded, passes 9-0 c. Franklin Cultural Council: Shelley Green - motion, seconded, passes 9-0d. Franklin Cultural Council: Jacob Juncker - motion, seconded, passes 9-0
• LICENSE TRANSACTIONS a. Residence Inn Boston Franklin, License Modification, Change of Manager, Officers/Directors/ LLC Managers & Change of ownership Interest, 4 Forge Parkway, Franklin, MA 02038  #tc1110  motion to approve, seconded, passes 9-0
• License modification -> b. Shaw's Supermarkets, Inc. d/b/a Shaw's, License Modification, Change of Officers/Directors/LLC Managers, 255 East Central Street, Franklin, MA 02038  #tc1110 motion, seconded, passes 9-0
• license modification - c. 99 Restaurants of Boston, LLC d/b/a The Ninety-Nine, License Modification, Change of Officers/Directors/LLC Managers, 847 West Central Street, Franklin, MA 02038  #tc1110 motion, seconded, passes 9-0
• Farmers Market license - D. La Cantina Winery Company, Farmer-Winery, Farmer’s Market License, 355 Union Street, Franklin, MA 02038 #tc1110 motion, seconded, passes 9-0 3rd time for the Market at Fairmount Fruit Farm (11/20/21)
• Presentation: Open Meeting Law, Public Records, Ethics and Conducting a Public Meeting - Mark Cerel, Town Attorney Memo - > https://drive.google.com/file/d/15Ft8UZqacUKK2AT_rieHgQl4NFNR0-Xu/view?usp=sharing…  Presentation Doc - >   https://drive.google.com/file/d/15KP9W1fQTC5rOiiO_OBi6HFZv_PHtG0t/view?usp=sharing…  #tc1110
• starting with page 11 of the presentation doc - this is the short story version - each of these topics could take more time to review thoroughly #tc1110 applicable for open meeting law when a quorum is together;
• in open meeting law, public has right to be present but not an absolute right to participate, subject to the chair of the public body; there are consequences for enforcement #tc1110 no blanket immunity for speech, potential liability for any comments if derogatory, threatening
• shifting to public records law - includes all forms of documents including electronic  - the document itself is the public record regardless of the device it located on; i.e. a personal device. #tc1110 there are town business email accounts for Town Council/School Committee …
• to help with the separation of the town business and personal business. There are public records officers defined within Municipal operations, most requests are from outside for some other purpose - we don't have a lot of requests as the website is so stocked with docs. #tc1110
• the easiest answer; if you are thinking about posting it, don't; #tc1110 shifting to ethics - this is a criminal statue  - Town Council members are considered "municipal employees" and covered by all "statutory prohibitions and restrictions"
• identify the potential conflict sooner than later and recuse yourself at the outset. #tc1110 Ethics Commission can be helpful and then be an investigator and hearing leading to decisions for civil and criminal as required
• next up - conducting public hearings - #tc1110 differences in liability between legislative role (most resolutions) and administrative (i.e. alcohol license or violations) - be careful about what you do
• a. Resolution 21-65: Cable Funds in Support of PEG Service and Programming per MGL Ch. 44, §53F3/4 - $18,500.22 (Motion to Approve Resolution 21-65 - Majority Vote) - motion, seconded, passes 9-0 #tc1110
• b. Resolution 21-66: Gift Acceptance: Veterans Service Department ($3,295.00) and Fire Department ($965.00) (Motion to Approve Resolution 21-66- Majority Vote) #tc1110 motion, seconded, passes 9-0
• Town Administrator's Report - thanks and congratulations to the successful candidates; cafe will be closed at Senior Center, deep cleaning to be done, also expanding tax workoff to include the cafe; #tc1110  Nov 18, at FHS auditorium also Zoom feature
• future agenda items; accessory dwelling units for Economic Development; Civil discourse pledge should be taken up; Housing Authority coming Nov 17 as the feature presentation; #tc1110 Councilor Comments - grade 6 youth football game coming this weekend, best wishes
• need to leaf pickup to assist other seniors to help them with taking the leaves to the transfer station/Beaver St #tc1110 vandalism at FHS bathrooms, work closely with Superintendent and their staff, etc. incidents are taken seriously. dealing with minors and legal process …
• mental health related issues, a lot of grief and difficulty out there today, not completely surprised. #tc1110 Frongillo touting talk on Mon on "Strong Towns" (info to be shared later) 9:30 AM
• thanks to the voters; Pellegri tapping on to the Chandler comments about the vandalism; has suggestions on how to stop it; #tc1110 Jones touting Mamma Mia performances this weekend (Fir/Sat) (see the community calendar for details)
• Thanks to the voters, awesome to see all the folks come out; wish the veterans the best; Nov 18 is an important event, #tc1110 good story on an issue raised last night, SAFE Coalition has a plan underway for the individual today; congratulate all the newly elected
• thanks also to all those who stepped up to run, even if they were not successful, there are other opportunities to stay involved #tc1110 do need to enter Executive Session - prospect St - not to return to open meeting ; vote to enter, vote via roll call - passes 9-0

 

Audio recording of meeting to be available in couple of days

Town Clerk Nancy Danello sworn in by justice of the peace

Recap: School Committee meeting interrupted by audience; MASC resolutions discussed, mask policy approved, Executive Session closed meeting

Quick Recap:

• The FHS student updates were interrupted by some members of the audience, a shouting match ensued, and a break in the meeting was gaveled by the Chair
• As the meeting back to business, they heard a presentation from the Science National Honor Society, status update on re-opening, and the Oct 1 enrollment report (with lots of details) 
• The MASC resolutions were discussed, and while most passed, the exact vote outcome was not clear (all seven members were in the Chambers and roll call was not required)
• Given the DESE decision to extend the mask policy was announced Tuesday afternoon, the policy proposal had been reworded to provide room for implementation of future changes. The decision to apply for the waiver (as FHS has reached 82% vaccination rate) was approved. The masks don't go away immediately. The next school committee will hear of the proposed implementation plan before it is set in motion. Given what has been happening around with other districts, a cautious approach is quite likely with more of a relaxed implementation after the holidays (assuming the number of COVID cases remains low)
• Recognition of the three members not returning (they are not running for re-election) was moved from meeting opening to just before the Executive Session. They received a plaque and a token of appreciation
• The Committee entered executive session not to return to public meeting and the broadcast/live stream ended

 

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As with most meetings in this pandemic period, I took my notes via Twitter during the meeting reporting in real time via the Zoom/live stream 

 

The Twitter hashtag can be found online  #schcom1026

https://twitter.com/search?q=%23schcom1026&src=typed_query 

 

Agenda doc -> https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/agendas/scagenda_10-26-21_0.pdf

 

Meeting packet folder - >  https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/pages/october-22-2021-school-committee-meeting-packet

 

Photos captured during the meeting and shared via Twitter can be found in one folder  https://photos.app.goo.gl/8pD4yEPwTQjcSLhh7

 

• Getting ready for live tweeting/ reporting on the Franklin  #schcom1026 meeting
• Meeting packet folder contains agenda doc, connection info, and anything else released 4 this meeting. Superintendent's report gets added on Weds https://franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/pages/october-22-2021-school-committee-meeting-packet… #schcom1026
• In a time warp? #schcom10126 we'll find out soon…
• Something of a time warp in that the live stream started before some folks were allowed into the Zoom session (at least me) #schcom1026
• Motion to move the recognition of departing members to end of meeting, moved, seconded, (to conclude all business) before executive session #schcom1026 passes (likely 7-0; to be confirmed as members are viewed)

Citizen Comments

• Citizen comment on 'protected students' who is  who determines? Shouldn't be a division looking for definition. #schcom1026 
• Husband of candidate Videra reads the section left out of the statement from the candidate forum quote from The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison
• Parent with comment on student lunch time and recess time, Franklin has done nothing in the 8 years she has been complaining about, then shifts to sex talk for 9 year olds, "the hate you give" being read earlier than recommended #schcom1026
• Parent speaking on the DESE extension and lack of initiative for FPS to go on their own, #schcom1026 no survey done of parents to see where they fall on this 
• Parent talking about possible coercion for vaccine to kids as discussed by SchCom at prior meeting
• Resident complains about the lack of Franklin TV for making the #SchCom1026 videos available.
• FHS students plugging production of "Mamma Mia" Nov 12-13; trunk or treat this weekend in FHS parking lot; National Honor society project to run theater clinic for elementary students; #schcom1026 Medway doing regular testing in lieu of masks
• FHS seniors coming back and now starting to feel stress as college apps are being done, hard transition; enforcing masks, students not following be considerate of those around and their well-being #schcom1026
• Spirit week, include photos to add soul to the school, gym decorated, corner colors by class, cabaret last week, Dalton award from Globe for sports, #schcom1026 student responds to protected student question, everyone is protected
• Meeting takes a break as parent objects to FHS student comment on harassment and voices are raised #schcom1026
• Chair gaveled for break after request for silence was not adhered to, zoom muted, live stream audio switch to radio. Assume it will come back some time #schcom1026

Break/Return

• Someone on Zoom complaining about violating open meeting, actually no. Once gaveled for a break, they are not in an official meeting, when they gavel back the meeting will resume. #schcom1026
• Gaveling back to order. #schcom1026
• Everyone was respectful in their comments, that same respect should be accorded the FHS students. #schcom1026

Superintendent Report

• Next up Superintendent Report, Professional development schedule for Nov 2; congrats to FHS for Dalton award, leaving room for parking at the gym for election #schcom1026 FDA working towards making vaccine available when approved in a local clinic
• With round of committee option to comment or question the report, confirms that all seven are indeed in the Chambers this evening #schcom1026

FHS Science National Honor Society

• FHS students presenting on national honor society for science #schcom1026  https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/sci-nhs
• Screen grabs on science nights conducted by group pre-COVID #schcom1026
• YouTube channel created during COVID to share the experiments #schcom1026
• Working with elementary school to develop a science project for their curriculum #schcom1026 ad-hoc comments on promotion of DEI setting a good role model for younger students given tonight's events

MASC resolutions

• Next up discussion action item; MASC resolutions for delegate representation at conf next week, motion on resolution 1  https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/d-res  #schcom1026 vote not clear but would pass (Pfeffer no, someone else no, possible abstain also)
• MASC resolution 2 Pfeffer also speaks to no on this, (the resolution would enable MASC to lobby on our behalf for these) #schcom1026 vote likely 6-1 
• Resolution 3 - Pfeffer also speaks to no, Keenan where is the prioritization on these? How does that come to play? Superintendent adds some clarification around funding and priorities and funding sources, res 4 would require time on learning change for recess #schcom1026  Vote on res 3, likely 6-1 
• #schcom1026 resolution 4 Pfeffer also speaks to no due to her lack of understanding of the wording; vote likely 6-1 
• Resolution 5 - Pfeffer likes this one! Zero tolerance policy should be avoided whenever possible, use restorative practice, vote 7-0
• Resolution 6 an alternative to MCAS, vote 7-0
• Resolution 7 SchComm and receivership; Pfeffer speaks to no on this (?) Discussion on this as intending to restoration of local control - vote 6-1 likely #schcom1026
• Resolution 8 - Pfeffer too altruistic statement, chances of getting in her opinion slim to none, voting no; vote hard to say but likely not passed
• Resolution 9 - voting 6-1 #schcom1026

Policy discussion/approvals

• Policy for approval  https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/d-b-pol-2ndrd #schcom1026 vote 7-0
• Policy for approval  https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/d-c-pol-1strd move to second reading vote 7-0
• Policy on face coverings   https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/d-e-pol-adoption #schcom1026 FHS at 82% would allow for approval of waiver to DESE motion to waive 1st reading, assume waiver approved would come back with implementation plan vote 7-0
• Motion on policy to approve, passes 7-0 #schcom1026, implementation plan would still come back to Committee for approval (likely post election)
• Reopening report/ Oct 1 enrollment report
• Reopening report; smaller increase in vaccination rates, info is accurate, DESE has time delay in reporting, ours is direct access; #schcom1026   https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/10-22-status-update
• Oct 1 enrollment update   https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/october_1_enrollment_report_2021.pdf
• Update on McKibben study and look back, lunch is free, may have deterred folks from applying previously, free lunch #s, more English learners in district this year; increase in diversity among student population #schcom1026 page 5 indicates resident students going elsewhere
• Page 6 will be updated after another report is filed, timeline on charter expansion includes in recap, 33 students from FHS last year did attend an online school in MA #schcom1026
• Policy subcom has been busy, joint PCC last meeting today attended by Pfeffer, good work being done by group, equitable spending across the elementary schools being looked at #schcom1026 adventure continues; SWAC touts upcoming forum on Nov 16 for community, flyer coming, hybrid

New business / recognition

• New business; Nov 9, organization meeting, vote on leadership and subcommittees; MCAS update later in Nov, update on waiver and next steps for facial covering implementation (assuming waiver accepted) #schcom1026 consent agenda approved, passes 7-0
• Recognition of departing #schcom1026 members, last two years were most challenging, pandemic, budget, facility analysis; Keenan first, Pfeffer next, Bergen next
• Photos to be added, plaque, token of appreciation given to the three members in recognition #schcom1026
• Keenan: Appreciate the patience, we haven't always agreed but is has been an honor and a privilege, it takes a lot to whomever is elected, keep it civil and kind, #schcom1026 "it is easier to listen the more civil and kind it is"
• Pfeffer: to do this properly we need to ask questions, examine the costs and manpower, how does the school get money? how does the town get money? New members should be given a copy of Roberts Rules of Order #schcom1026
• Bergen: thanks to the community for the honor of serving, thanks for your patience in the world of Zoom, tech is not one of my strengths; showed concern for staff as well as the students; wrote a few closing remarks - the Portrait of a Graduate is an impressive accomplishment
• Schools and town services are affected by the budget shortfall it is up to the residents to decide, we provide an objective transparent view of the budget and issues, legislative forums among others outreach efforts #schcom1026
• Rigorous academic education as well as physical emotional well-being, what Horace Mann knew, opioid problem hasn't gone away, emotional health issues are growing around us, a community issue, #schcom1026 we need to understand the toll it takes on us and the children
• In my time, 9 superintendents, never had one dealt with the challenges that Dr Ahern has in her term, it has not been done by her alone, along with her central office staff and the principals across the district, the whole staff bus drivers, custodians, etc. #schcom1026
• Thanks to Chris Sterns and Franklin TV for making the meetings happen, thanks, Horace Mann would be proud of us today. #schcom1026 
• MJ interjects to give thanks, Judy jokes that she'll go to the Planning Board next. MJ acknowledges knowing Dr Bergen and working with her

Executive session / not to return to open meeting

• Motion to enter executive session, not to return to open meeting, to discuss negotiation and legal issues Via roll call passes 7-0
• That's all for tonight (yup, late to this, what a night!) #schcom1026
• Audio recording of meeting to be available in couple of days

 

The YouTube version of the meeting can be found https://www.franklinmatters.org/2021/10/what-happened-at-franklin-school.html

FHS Science National Honor Society provides update

Town Council Meeting - 09/01/21 - Audio in 2 parts

FM #598 & 599 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, numbers 598 & 599 in the series. 

This session shares part of the Franklin, MA Town Council meeting held on Wednesday, September 1, 2021. 

The meeting was conducted in a hybrid format: members of the Town Council and Town Administration personnel, many of the Police promotion and new hires, along with their guest and family members were in the Council Chambers, some members of the public participated via the Zoom conference bridge, all to adhere to the ‘social distancing’ requirements of this pandemic period.

I’ve split the just over 3.5 hour session (total elapsed time) into 2 logical segments:

• First - covers the opening, Police promotions, new hires and the Public hearing on the downtown zoning item. The break after the police ceremonies was excluded from this audio.  (~59 mins)

• Second - covers the balance of the meeting, entry to Executive Session, and then the return to open meeting 40 minutes later  (~1 hour and 8 minutes)

The show notes contain links to the meeting agenda. Let’s listen to the Town Council meeting of Sep 1, 2021

Part 1 = https://player.captivate.fm/episode/69af8744-8945-4f07-9192-beec01e71403

Part 2 = https://player.captivate.fm/episode/da222513-19e9-462b-a3d0-794a3699828f

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Agenda document 

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/agendas/9-1-21_town_council_agenda.pdf 

My notes from the meeting  -> https://www.franklinmatters.org/2021/09/recap-town-council-meeting-090121.html

Photos of the Police promotions and swearing in can be found in one album

https://photos.app.goo.gl/VJ494vDqhnX1SEDbA

Town Council Quarterbacking session (a short recap with Council Chair Tom Mercer) -> 

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2021/09/fm-597-town-council-quarterbacking.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 www.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"

 

Victoria McVicar, New Hire Introduction & Ceremonial Swearing in

Recap: Town Council Meeting - 09/01/21 - Police new hires & promotions, public hearing completed, executive session on Chap 61a property

Quick Recap:

• 2 police promotions and 2 new hires were recognized and sworn in. The department is staying within their number and backfilling as folks retire or move on as has been noted during the year
• Public hearing on downtown zoning proposal completed but action on the Legislation was deferred pending study being done on overall zoning
• new Superintendent, Karen McGuire, of Tri-County came to present and start building the relationship
• Executive session held on 215 Prospect St, property appraisal required in next 30 days as it may move from Chap 61A

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As with most meetings in this pandemic period, I took my notes via Twitter during the meeting although this time, reporting live from the Council Chambers.
 
The Twitter hashtag can be found online  #tc0901 
https://twitter.com/search?q=%23tc0901&src=typed_query 
 
Agenda doc (including connection info) ->   
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/agendas/9-1-21_town_council_agenda.pdf  

Photos from the Police promotion and swearing in section of the session can be found https://photos.app.goo.gl/VJ494vDqhnX1SEDbA
 

• I am getting ready for the Town Council meeting coming up at 7 PM - #tc0901 - agenda and connection info ->  https://franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/agendas/9-1-21_town_council_agenda.pdf
  
• Council chambers filling up, the local power outage has been resolved (no details on what it was but it appears to have  had a quick fix)! #tc0901 NationalGrid map updated to show the outage clear https://outagemap.ma.nationalgridus.com
  
• tech difficulty, will be live via Zoom, no cable (recorded for broadcast later) #tc0901
  
• copy and paste this URL into your browser: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89536850696 ○ Call-In Phone Number: Call 1-929-205-6099 and enter Meeting ID # 895 3685 0696 --Then press # #tc0901
  
• Chair Mercer updates on meeting broadcast status; #tc0901 Citizen Comments - Nancy Danello, Town Clerk - updates on the forthcoming election, Nov 2. Sep 14, papers due, Sep 30 withdrawal date; Oct 1, ordering the ballots - then the applications for absentee ballots
  
• J Callaway-Tripp - speaking on trash rate increase, all the fees have increased and stormwater is still possible, $8 is a lot for some; "you have no idea on how many it hurts" #tc0901 "the problem is not everyone is being represented"
  
• comment via Zoom user - Jackie M - compliments on the minutes, Q on omissions from the minutes, things were not included in the comments? is this general procedure? re: liquor license for Dean. is it like a court reporter?
• some non-residents attempted to interrupt, they were cleared. #tc0901
  
• Town Admin - Jamie Hellen -"There is an archive of the recordings, available, not required to do something like a stenographer does as the recordings are available" #tc0901  per Attny Cerel, this is more than what is required, not to be a verbatim of discussion
  

Proclamations and recognitions

• moving to proclamations and recognitions - promotions and new hires for Police Dept  
• Sgt Palmieri promo to Sgt #tc0901 photo coming later
  
• Jack Flynn, Promotion to Detective, #tc0901  photo to be added
  
• Patrick MacDonald, New Hire Introduction & Ceremonial Swearing in  #tc0901 photo to be added
  
• Victoria McVicar, New Hire Introduction & Ceremonial Swearing in  #tc0901 photo to be added
  

Appointment

• returning to meeting; appointment to Conservation Commission, Richard Johnson  https://franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/5a._appointment_r_johnston.pdf…  #tc0901
  
• motion to approve, second, passes 8-0

Public Hearing

• moving to the public hearing on the zoning bylaw; parking downtown, Planning Board did not approve this; J Calloway-Tripp speaking on the measure. #tc0901 "Franklin the traditional village center" she exceeded her time allowed
  
• Bissanti - shame on the Council for letting the C1 zone go. The hearings were held, no one was speaking up. The FDP were fighting for this for years, and where were they. Hamblen - came out of the business listening sessions open to the public #tc0901
  
• MAPC will do a zoning study on potentially recommend other changes. Hamblen recommends waiting until that comes back before changing. #tc0901 Mercer, we did authorize the MAPC to do the study, the hearing was kept, the action item was removed from the agenda.
  
• Bissanti - in defense of the EDC, we spoke for this at length, we are getting torpedoed, folks are not understanding the change for the bylaw and implications of those changes #tc0901
  
• Bissanti - Maybe the EDC is not the best for the zoning discussions. Frongillo - waiting for the study is wise, the studies do recommend we keep parking off the main downtown streets; Planning Board approval is not required for what we need to do. #tc0901
  
• the downtown projects were State and Federal funded for the revitalization, all the work in streetscape work did improve the pedestrian traffic and allow for better traffic flow as well as Fire response to north end, 90 sec improvement #tc0901
  
• Jones, our responsibility ends at the sidewalk, the property owners control more of that than we do. #tc0901 motion to close public hearing, moved, seconded, passes 8-0
  

Tri-County Superintendent

• Karen McGuire, new Superintendent of Tri-County Voc, here to provide intro, meet/greet, etc.
• offers 16 career and technical programs in addition to adult ed, looking for input from stakeholders. what are the challenges. this has been an unprecedented year of challenges #tc0901
  

Subcommittee reports

• Subcommittee reports - EDC - meeting before the next Council meeting, wayfinding signs one item on the agenda #tc0901
  

Legislation for Action

• Legislation for Action - a. Resolution 21-50: Gift Acceptance - Veterans’ Services, $400  - motion to approve, second, passes 8-0  #tc0901
  
• next up ->  b. Resolution 21-51: Cable Funds in Support of PEG Service and Programming per MGL Ch. 44,
• §53F3/4  (a quarterly transaction) motion to approve, seconded, passes 8-0  #tc0901
  
• next up - c. Resolution 21-52: Budget Stabilization Policy  #tc0901 motion to approve, second, passes 8-0  back ground on the 'rainy day fund' provided by Jamie Hellen, this proposal came from the FinCom after discussion over several meetings
  

Town Administrator Report

• Review of goals set 2 years ago, https://franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/11a._2020-2021_town_council_goals_update_as_we_go.pdf…  #tc0901 many of the items were accomplished and where not complete, work was mostly done. 23 confirmed cases (down from 31), 49 folks have passed due to COVID-19 in last 18 months
  
• Frongillo - we are still behind on road maintenance, still on stormwater, still need to get to the housing production plan, need to address all the infrastructure requirements of the Town #tc0901
  

Councilor Comments

• Q on plan for Maple Hill? yes, still needed for future #tc0901 local tax exemption for disabled veterans, as a local option; revisiting policy on half-mast flag status; Lincoln St is done, (now folks are going faster) 9/11 flag status reminder sent, TA Hellen will be away
  
• reminder: Sep 10th, zucchini races at the Farmers Market; 9/11 ceremony at Fire Dept; Pellegri -thanks to Rep Roy for arranging the Senator Warren visits to the Library and the Town Common, ashamed of the protestors behavior, didn't need to ruin the event
• Planning Board did start moving forward on the Housing Plan, we disagree on how to resolve it, but we at least recognize it is a problem Franklin needs to face; looking forward to using 'complete streets' going forward. #tc0901
  
• Bissanti - people need affordable housing, #tc0901 
  
• Jones - thanks for the Police/Fire coming for the promotions and swearing in ceremonies; Overdose Awareness Day Aug 31 - 2104 flags laid out on Town Common for those who passed during 2020 in MA.
• Dellorco - thanks to the Councilors for coming to the vigil last night
• Mercer - thanks also to those who came out last night, SAFE is doing good work for our community, they need to be thanked. #tc0901
  

EXECUTIVE SESSION

• a. Considering the purchase, exchange, lease or value of real property, because an open meeting
• may have a detrimental effect on the negotiating position of the Board. will reconvene to open session when complete; via roll call vote passes 8-0 #tc0901
  

Return to Close meeting

• returning to open meeting from Executive session, Zoom being re-opened, should commence momentarily  #tc0901 (approx. 40 mins in executive session)
  
• we're back live... #tc0901
  
• report from Exec Session, receipt of statement of intent to convert Chap 61A; 215 Prospect St - this starts a long process, contract with an appraisal of the property required, that is all the info we have, updates as the process proceeds  #tc0901, motion to adjourn, passes 8-0
  

 
Audio recording of meeting to be available in couple of days

 

Victoria McVicar, New Hire Introduction & Ceremonial Swearing In