Franklin Annual Report 2014: Council on Aging (Senior Center)

Continuing our reading of the 2014 Annual Report we come to the section from the Council on Aging which is responsible for the Franklin Senior Center

The Franklin Senior Center

The Franklin Senior Center is located at 10 Daniel McCahill Street and is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The Center provides programs, services and activities along with outreach, information and referral to serve the needs of older adults, disabled individuals and their families.

The Senior Center offers a health screening and wellness, nutrition, social service coordination, socialization, recreation, transportation, educational programs, a supportive day program, and volunteer and intergenerational opportunities.

The Center’s mission is to enhance the independence and quality of life for Franklin’s older adults by:

• Identifying the needs of this population and creating programs that meet those needs.
• Offering the knowledge, tools and opportunities to promote mental, social and physical well-being.
• Advocating for relevant programs and services in our community.
• Serving as a community focal point for aging issues and as liaison to local, state and Federal resources for older adults and their families.

Highlights

Last year, we added several new activities including: a weekly Open Art Studio for aspiring artists, an Aging Mastery Program which offered ongoing presentations on health and wellness, and lessons for using tablets and smartphones. In addition, we started to offer Reflexology sessions and a Chess Club.

We recruited a Senior Greeter to provide a brief orientation and tour of the Senior Center for newcomers, and we hosted an Open House to showcase the programs, services and activities offered at the Senior Center. Authors, Jennie Coughlin and Marjorie Turner Hollman gave presentations about their recently published books, and we hosted lectures on the History of Cathedrals and Travels in Southern India. We offered two evidence-based programs: Powerful Tools for Caregivers, and Chronic Pain Self-Management.

We collaborated with the Franklin Food Pantry to offer a mobile food pantry at the Senior Center. The Norfolk County District Attorney sponsored a Prescription Drug Mobile Take-Back. The 2013 WMRC Senior Expo was hosted by the Senior Center. The Expo featured 35 exhibitors, health screenings, a senior fashion show, and attracted over 400 seniors.

Caregiver Support

The AARP reports that 42% of U.S. employees have cared for an older relative or friend in the last five years, and 19% of retirees stopped working to provide elder care. Clearly, assistance is needed for members of our community who are struggling with this issue.

As part of our commitment to caregivers, we offer several respite and support services to alleviate the physical and emotional stress caregivers’ experience. They include:

• Supportive Day Program “The Sunshine Club” offers a structured, stimulating day program for frail elders and respite for their caregivers. This program enhances the quality of life for participants who enjoy fun activities, socialization and gentle exercise.
• Companion Caregivers is an in-home service that provides a companion for frail elders and respite to their caregivers by offering an affordable companion service.
• Caregivers Support Group is facilitated by two moderators who have completed a training program with the Alzheimer’s Association. The group meets biweekly.
• Powerful Tools for Caregivers is a 6-week evidencebased program that teaches caregivers how to reduce guilt and stress, communicate effectively, set goals and problem solve.

Health & Wellness Programs

The concept of Healthy Aging has become an integral component of our Wellness Program. This is a multi-faceted approach to encourage and maintain elder independence by fostering optimal mental, social and physical well-being.

The program provides chronic disease self-management, fall prevention, physical activity, healthy eating, social connection and community engagement. The Center’s Health & Wellness program offers the following:

• Health Clinics: Blood Pressure, Blood Sugar, Podiatry, Flu Vaccinations, and Vision & Hearing screenings.
• Evidence-based programs: Developed through rigorous research, these programs provide clear physical, psychological, and social benefits with
measurable outcomes; e.g, reducing doctor’s visits and hospitalizations.
• Fall Prevention: Evidence-based seminars, Gait Assessments, Fall Risk Assessments, Medication Management and Home Safety evaluations, which
evaluate elders’ home environments to determine if the risk for dangerous falls can be reduced. Based on this evaluation, installation of grab bars and adaptive devices are provided.
• Fitness: Cardio Tone & Stretch, Zumba, Yoga, Tai Chi, Chair Exercise, Walking Club, Bocce, Line Dancing, Chair Volleyball, Reiki, Reflexology and Meditation are offered.
• Support: Eye Health, Weight Loss, and Caregivers Support Groups; individual consultations with our Health & Wellness Nurse.
• Education: Monthly presentations such as Paring Down to Essentials, Medicare Boot Camp, Cooking for One, and Five Wishes Advance Directive.
• The Center’s Health & Wellness Nurse provides weekly blood pressure testing.

The Center provided over 3,500 health service contacts last year. We offered 2 seminars, the Aging Mastery Program and Living Your Best Life; 2 evidence-based workshops, Chronic Pain Management and Powerful Tools for Caregivers; a Flu Vaccine Clinic, and 3 Gait Assessment clinics over the course of the year. In collaboration with the Medway Senior Center, we offered the Aging Mastery Program, which encourages elders to take key steps to improve their well-being and add stability to their lives. Built on the foundation of actionable goals, sustainable behaviors, clear incentives and peer support, this self-paced program enables participants to create their own personal pathways for aging well.

Outreach/Social Service Coordination

The Franklin Senior Center provides assistance with housing, employment, home care services, tax abatements, long-term care placement, prescription drug programs, and many other programs and services for elderly and disabled residents through the Center’s Social Service Coordinator. The Coordinator can make home visits to homebound residents to assess needs and make referrals. The Social Service Coordinator can also assist the non-senior population. The Coordinator can help seniors and others access several social benefit programs, including Food Stamps, Fuel Assistance, Mass Health, Supplemental Security Insurance, Veteran’s benefits, and many other public benefits.

The Social Service Coordinator assists seniors and the nonsenior community by referring them to monthly legal clinics, and the SHINE (Serving the Health Insurance Needs of Elders) program, which provided assistance with health insurance questions and problems for 152 elders last year. Free income tax preparation assistance was also provided by Senior Center for 115 seniors and by the AARP for 140 seniors. An information session providing assistance to seniors in obtaining real estate tax abatements and the State’s Circuit Breaker tax credit was also offered. Our volunteer completed Circuit Breaker Tax Credit returns for 48 elderly residents, resulting in a total of $43,350.00 in senior tax relief.

The Council on Aging tapes a cable television show, The Senior Circle, which offers a wealth of information on senior topics and issues of interest. The show is shown on Franklin Public Access, Channel 8.

Nutrition

The Center’s Common Grounds Café offers seniors a nutritious, affordable breakfast and luncheon in a social setting, as well as monthly theme parties. By utilizing volunteers, we can offer an extremely affordable meal that accommodates senior budgets. A recent study found that “Social contact may be as effective as physical activity in improving mood and quality of life.” The Café and our monthly parties offer a great
opportunity for seniors to enjoy a delicious meal enhanced by social interaction. Last year we served over 20,000 nutritious, affordable meals at the Café, a 5% increase over last year.

Educational Programs

We offer instruction and educational programs in numerous areas including the following:

• Computer, Tablet & Phone Instruction
• Italian Conversation Group
• Current Events Discussion Group
• CPR Certification
• Painting Instruction
• Woodcarving Instruction
• Knitting & Quilting Instruction
• Arts & Crafts Instruction
• Writers Group – Senior Scribblers
• Book Discussion Group
• Cribbage Instruction
• Smart Driver Classes
• America- An Artful Journey

Social and Recreational Programming

The Senior Center offers a varied assortment of social and recreational activities in an effort to reduce social isolation by encouraging friendship and engagement. The Center’s Café and social events foster social interaction as do many other social and recreational opportunities offered at the Center. Some of these include: cards, board games, arts & crafts, pool/billiards, movies, day trips and our chorale group.

Transportation

Handicapped accessible transportation is available to Franklin’s elderly and disabled residents through GATRA, the Greater Attleboro Taunton Regional Transit Authority. Dial-ARide service is available to Franklin’s older residents within Franklin or out-of-town within a 15 mile radius.

GATRA also offers a fixed route bus through town and long-distance transportation for medical appointments to Boston and other destinations. GATRA transportation can be scheduled by calling 800-698-7676.

The Council on Aging works with GATRA to assure optimal access to, and quality of both Dial-A-Ride and the fixed bus route services for senior and disabled riders. The Senior Center also offers weekly recreational trips at an affordable price for older adults.

Friends of Franklin Elders

The Friends of Franklin Elders, Inc. (FOFE) is a private, non-profit organization, which was founded to assist the Franklin Senior Center with funding. The Friends supplement town funding for the Senior Center by funding programs, services, and equipment. FOFE raises funds through its annual membership drive. The Center relies on FOFE to help fund salaries for our Grill Cook and Health & Wellness Nurse. The Friends also funded our annual Veterans Breakfast, our Volunteer Recognition Luncheon, entertainment for social events, and various other expenses. The Friends publish our monthly newsletter, The Franklin Connection. In collaboration with the Benjamin Franklin Charter School, FOFE provides gifts to 40 homebound elderly residents.

Tax Work-Off Program

Franklin offers a Tax Work-Off Program for senior homeowners aged 60 and over. Seniors can take a credit of up to $800.00 off their real estate taxes by working in various town departments at the minimum wage. This program provides important tax relief to senior citizens, while supplying the town with knowledgeable workers. In 2013, ninety-three participants worked for a total of 8,495 hours at a total cost of $67,960. Senior workers were placed in the Library, Treasurer/Collector’s office, the Recreation Department, the DPW, the Assessors’ office, the Building/Inspection office, the Senior Center and several schools.

Volunteers

The Council on Aging is deeply indebted to our volunteers for their steadfast service and commitment to the Senior Center. They enrich our programming and enhance our ability to serve older adults effectively. Volunteers donate their time working in our gift shop, café, Supportive Day Program, as instructors, and in many other capacities. Last year, 106 dedicated volunteers contributed 11,212 hours of service to the Senior Center. Each year, we pay tribute to our volunteers for their dedicated service at our annual Volunteer Recognition Luncheon, which is funded by the Friends of Franklin Elders.

Intergenerational Activities

The Senior Center is committed to joining generations and we enjoyed many intergenerational activities with students of all ages over the course of the year. These activities help to create a sense of community, improve self-esteem in both generations, and dispel age-related stereotypes.

The Tri-County Technical Regional Vocational School Health Services students visited the Center bi-weekly to interact with seniors and assist with activities; they also hosted a Health Fair. Tri-County’s Honor Society offered free gift wrapping for seniors during the holidays.

National Honor Society students at Franklin High School hosted their annual Spring Fling for seniors with a free luncheon, entertainment by talented students, and generous raffle prizes which the students solicit from local merchants.

Our Supportive Day Program met monthly with students from the Early Child Development Program. Horace Mann students organized a Poetry Day at the Center and shared classic poems with seniors who shared their poems as well. Our seniors mentor students at the Parmenter School’s Book Buddies program. We hosted two interns from Franklin High School and two interns from Xaverian Brothers High School.

Some further conveniences offered at the Senior Center include:

• Hairdresser/Barber/Manicures
• “Ben’s Bounty” Gift Shop
• Free Medical Equipment & Supply Loans
• Fitness Equipment
• Franklin Connection Newsletter
• “Senior Circle” Cable Program
• Recycling – Batteries & Light bulbs

Funding & Partnerships

The Center’s total funding from all sources was $285,921 last year. When broken down, this includes 54% from the Town’s General Fund, 22% from Revolving Funds, 12% from the state’s Elder Affairs grant, 8% from the Friends of Franklin Elders and 4% from the MetroWest Health Care Foundation.

The Franklin Council on Aging partners with the Franklin Police Department and the Norfolk County Sheriff’s Office. The Franklin Police Patrolmen’s Association officers offer a holiday luncheon at the Senior Center every year, along with educational presentations and Bingo parties.

The Norfolk County Sheriff’s Office collaborates with the Senior Center and the Franklin Police to create awareness of scams and fraudulent schemes to reduce elderly victimization and enhance the safety of older adults.

The Sheriff’s Office sponsors the Yellow Dot Program which furnishes a sticker for an elder’s vehicle, which directs first responders to the driver’s medical information in the glove compartment.

The Sheriff’s Office and the Franklin Police Department also manage the Project Lifesaver program, which recovers elders with dementia who may wander. The program provides subscribers with a wrist bracelet with a radio transmitter. Should the subscriber wander, a search and rescue team is deployed to track the signal. The program is available to elderly residents suffering from dementia.

The Senior Center also worked with a Veterans organization, “IPods for Wounded Veterans” to send afghans to military hospitals in Washington D.C.

In Memorium: Stella Jeon

The Franklin Council on Aging was greatly saddened by the loss of long-time member, Stella Jeon. Stella was a passionate advocate for the Senior Center, the town of Franklin and those with low vision. Stella was the embodiment of kindness and touched many lives in our community and beyond. Stella will be commemorated with the re-naming of the Center’s library as the “Stella Jeon Memorial Library” and the addition to our parking lot will be designated as “Stella Jeon Way”.

Respectfully Submitted,

Karen Alves
Senior Center Director

Mah Jongg lessons start in January at the Senior Center

For additional information on the Council on Aging (Senior Center) you can visit their page on the official Franklin website  http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_Senior/index


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The full annual report can be obtained from the Town Clerk's office (hard copy) or viewed and/or downloaded from the Franklin website here
http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_Clerk/annual/2014report.pdf

Annual reports of prior years can also be found online at
http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_Clerk/annual/

Franklin Annual Report 2014: Recreation Department

Continuing our reading of the 2014 Annual Report, we come to the Recreation Department.


The Recreation Department is located at 150 Emmons Street. The Recreation Department offers Franklin and Medway residents a variety of programs and events for youths and adults as well as coordination of youth sports organizations field use and coordination of maintenance at athletic fields. The department operates and schedules activities for Chilson Beach at Beaver Pond, Fletcher Field, Dennis Pisani Field (formally Theron Metcalf), Henry “Ski” Faenza Tot Lot (Nason Street Tot Lot), King Street Memorial Field, Dacey Community Field, and Meadowlark Lane Athletic Fields. The department is also responsible for scheduling the use of all school athletic fields during the summer, when school is not in session. Our department works closely with the various town youth sports organizations and Athletic Director Brad Sidwell to schedule all youth sports activities around the high school team practices and games.

Chilson Beach

This year, Chilson Beach was a busy place with over 3000 visitors utilizing the many functions of the pond. Canoeing, kayaking, swimming, fishing, and hiking were some of the activities available at Chilson Beach. We continue to operate soccer, field hockey, football, boy’s lacrosse and cross country running on and around the turf field. The turf field was used for NFL Flag football, Pop Warner football, soccer, and lacrosse, as well as yoga for senior citizens, tai chi, boot camp, and many other recreational activities. A portable recycled plastic walkway was installed for handicap accessibility to the water and playground area. The Franklin High School soccer, lacrosse and field hockey programs play all of their home games on the turf field as well.

Summer Playground Program

An eight week playground program was held at King Street Memorial Field & Medway’s Choate Park from June 23-August 15, 2014. The program hours were Monday-Friday from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm daily. Activities included: organized games, arts and crafts, water activities, sports, and weekly visitors. The themed weeks featured camp shirt tie dye on Tuesdays, field trips on Wednesdays, a giant slip and slide every Thursday, and Pizza day Fridays. The program grew this summer to over 1,000 registrants. The Franklin Summer Playground Program Director this year was Kaitlyn Williamson. The Franklin Summer Playground Program staff included: Paul, Allison and Tom O’Donoghue, Nicole Williamson, Dan Kohutanycz, Amy Trottier, Erik and Jakob Herlitz, Nicole Ellin, Emily Allard, Brendan Kuzio, Nicholas DePedro, Aiden Gilbert, Jacob Davis, Erin Connelly, Kyle Collins, Kelly Dubowskiand Dominic Girdini.

The Medway Summer Playground Program Director was Marybeth Bryne. Her staff included: Tyler Cummings, John Geromini, Alec Marshall, and Ryan
Spillane.

Youth Basketball Program

The Youth Basketball program continues to grow and now involves over 1,178 children, 130 teams, 202 coaches, and utilizes every school gymnasium in town. The Recreation department expanded its basketball program to include High School aged kids looking to continue playing. This intramural program gives kids in grades 9-12 a chance to continue playing pick up basketball on Saturday nights. The program utilizes school gyms at Parmenter, Davis Thayer, Horace Mann Middle School, Remington Elementary, J.F. Kennedy School, Keller Sullivan Middle School, and Franklin High School auxiliary gym. This year the youth basketball program ran from November 9th-March 1st on Saturdays. The FYBL is divided into ten divisions: Kindergarten (co-ed), 1st & 2nd Grade Boys, 1st & 2nd Grade Girls, 3rd & 4th Grade Boys, 3rd & 4th Grade Girls, 5th & 6th Grade Boys & 5th & 6th Grade Girls, 7th & 8th Grade Boys, 7th & 8th Grade Girls and High School Intramural division.

This year, our coordinators were Dave Angermeier 3rd & 4th Boys, Bob Pingeton 3rd & 4th Girls, Ryan Jette 5th & 6th Girls, Tim Saunders 5th & 6th Boys, Mike Canesi 7th & 8th Girls, Mark Eccher and Steve Skaza 7th & 8th Boys, and Mike Vinson High School Intramural League. It is because of these individuals and the volunteer coaches, that this program is a success. The K-4th grade leagues are set up as a non-competitive learning experience for the children with the focus on fundamental basketball skills. Grades 5th-8th grade basketball leagues start to teach the kids different rules, zone defense, pressing, and traits of competitive basketball. Ten players are drafted to each team and games are played weekly on Saturdays. Participation trophies are awarded to all Kindergarten through 4th grade players, and a “break-up” pizza party is held for all K-2nd grade players after the final game of the season.

Pee Wee Baseball

The Pee Wee Baseball program was created in 1999 by Director, Ryan Jette. Since then, the program has grown from 26 kids to 200 kids annually. Taking his lifelong baseball coaching experience coupled with past employment with Major League Baseball International, Ryan created a beginners baseball program that teaches kids the proper techniques of hitting, fielding, base running and throwing. This fun league features 4 practice sessions and 8 controlled games. The use of tees, soft bats and spongy balls make this program a safe and enjoyable start children ages 4-6 years old. Head Instructors Mike Massuer and Paul O’Donoghue will be on site to run the drills, organize the scrimmages, and support the volunteer
coaching staff.

Kid Care Babysitting

The Recreation Department continues to offer this 6-hour training program for kids ages 11-16 years old. Kelley Brooks teaches kids the business of babysitting while coordinating lectures on childcare, fire and police safety, nutrition, and diapering. Classes were offered monthly throughout the year and over 100 kids were introduced to the business of babysitting.

NFL Flag Football

The Recreation Department teamed up with the NFL to bring this non-contact flag football league to kids aged 6-14 years old. 395 kids signed up to play each Tuesday & Thursday evening at the Beaver Pond Turf Field. Reversible NFL game jerseys, playbooks, belt/flag setup and access to the NFL Kids website gives kids the opportunity to follow their favorite player or team. Players learned the fundamentals of throwing, catching, running and teamwork. Punt, pass, and kick competition will allow kids to showcase their skills in a competition against area youths.

new floating bridge at DelCarte Recreation (off Pleasent St)

Tennis Program

The youth tennis instructional program was offered at the Choate Park Courts in Medway. The two six-week program was under the supervision of Wesley Esthimer and John Hardesty. Classes were run at the Choate Park Tennis Courts in Medway Tuesday evenings through Thursday evenings for all skill levels. Around 50 children and adults participated in our tennis program.

Golf Lessons

The Recreation Department expanded the golf lessons offered into the summer months, by offering a full or half day camp in the summer. The Recreation Department, in conjunction with Golf Professional, Mark Copithorne, offered Adult and Junior Golf instruction at the New England Country Club in South Bellingham. The lessons covered all aspects of the game of golf (putting, chipping, bunkers, irons, and woods). Registrants met one day a week for 6 weeks to practice their skills. Lessons were offered during the summer and fall season for over 340 residents attending. Express 2 day lessons were offered over April Vacation. Participants enjoyed playing the course following the six-week lesson to see what they learned.

Girls Lacrosse

The Recreation Department has been running the Girls lacrosse program since 2005. The program has grown from 28 girls to over 280 girls. Our teams participate in the Massachusetts Bay Girls Lacrosse League. There were four teams at the 1st-2nd grade division which was coached by Mike Ryan, Greg Tracey, Kim Carney, Beth Peterson, Renee Tolonen, Raquel Griffin, Mike Grasso and Rich Norton. There were five teams at the 3rd & 4th Grade division, which were coached by Ryan Jette, Tom O’Rourke, Mark Goguen, Barry Regan, Mike Grasso, Kevin O’Connor, Michelle Hess, Matt Hawkins and Nicole Ellin. There were three teams at the 5th & 6th Grade level, which was coached by Mark Goguen, Paul DeStefano, Charlie Clark, Kinjal Patel, Kim Carney and Ted Mazukina . And three teams at the 7th & 8th Grade level, which were coached by Roger Jette, John Jette, Todd MacCallum, Paul DeStefano, Chris Schmidt, Lindsey Baryluk and plenty of High School Players . All levels had successful seasons and played in 8 regular season games. Franklin Girls Lacrosse is still the largest girls’ lacrosse program in the state of Massachusetts.

ArtVenture Afterschool Studios

After being without an art program for nearly two years, the Recreation Department recently hired a new art instructor, Anne Marie Tracey in March. 80 children from Pre-k to Middle School have signed up to take one of the many diverse art programs. ArtVenture Afterschool Studio, Artventure Preschool Studios, Art Inspired by Cake Bar, and Art Summer Camp. All art programs are held at the Recreation Department.

Preschool Programs

Our Preschool classes are held in the mornings from 9:00am to 11:30am. The Recreation Department has four certified preschool instructors on staff. Colleen Ahearn and Gretchen McAuley are our science instructors. Approximately 200 children sign up for the year round preschool science programs. Little Engineers, Mad Scientist, The Amazing Body, Travel Through Space, Science for Seedlings, and the Science, Engineering and Math Camps just to name a few. The science classes are taught once a week for seven weeks. Kelley Brooks and Nicole Nesbit are our other two certified preschool instructors. Kelley and Nicole teach our First Friends programs; Exploration Station, First Friends, First Friends Lunch Bunch and More Fun with Friends. They hold class’s everyday, Monday through Friday and yearly roughly 400 children sign up to take their programs.

Girls Field Hockey

Franklin Recreation offers girls youth field hockey in many formats throughout the year. The fall (August-October) are usually the months that the field hockey leagues run (K-2 grade in house, 3-8 grade travel league). School vacations (Feb-Apr), Summer (Jun-Aug) are usually the times Lisa Cropper runs camps and introductory clinics. We work closely with the FHS program Head Coach Lisa Cropper to coordinate clinics, field usage, games. The K-2 division, an in house program features practice sessions and some in house small sided games. The 3rd & 4th grade team
will play some scrimmages/games against area teams (probably 4-6 games). The 5th & 6th and the 7th & 8th grade teams will play in the Walpole League with 8 games vs. surrounding towns. 150 girls comprise eight teams for the fall Field Hockey League.

NHL Street Hockey

This summer, our street hockey program was better than ever with over 100 kids and 8 NHL teams represented. We hold a skills clinic for the first four sessions to evaluate the players. Then, we will break them up into equal teams so that games will be fair and fun for all. Teams play twice a week, Monday and Wednesday’s. Tom Gately and David Marchand are the league coordinators and the reason why this program continues to grow. Our Street Hockey program participates at Fletcher Field.

Respectfully submitted,

Ryan Jette
Director of Recreation

new tot lot section at Fletcher Field

For additional information on the Recreation Dept you can visit their page on the official Franklin website  http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_Recreation/index


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The full annual report can be obtained from the Town Clerk's office (hard copy) or viewed and/or downloaded from the Franklin website here
http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_Clerk/annual/2014report.pdf

Annual reports of prior years can also be found online at
http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_Clerk/annual/

Franklin Annual Report 2014: Human Resources

Continuing our read of the Annual Report, we get to the section on Human Resources. As about 80% of the overall Franklin budget is related to the total costs of the people employeed by the town to perform the services we all receive, this is an important section.


If you visit the Town of Franklin website, Human Resources is found under “more”, but none of the services the Town provides can happen without the employees. The primary function of the Town of Franklin is Customer Service and that service is provided by its employees. The Human Resources Department provides Customer Service primarily to applicants, active and former employees.

During this fiscal year we began to see a transition in staff as baby boomers began to retire. This included five new full time hires in the Public Works Department, four in the Fire Department, two on the Custodial staff, and one Patrol Officer. As the Town withdrew from Civil Service for new hires in the Police Department, we sponsored an entry level exam. Over 200 individuals tested with over 75% passing the examination. As the fiscal year closed, we have begun a review of applicants, with the goal of filling at least two positions.

There are many conversations about benefits with new hires, and they continue throughout an employee’s time with the Town, as their lives change, and still continue into retirement. All retirees from the Town and School Department are cared for in the Human Resources Department. Retirees remain active, with changes to their health insurance programs as they move around the country and become eligible for Medicare.

In addition to the mandatory participation in Norfolk Retirement System, the Town offers:
• Life Insurance
• Health Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Section 125 Flexible Spending Accounts
• Short and Long Term Disability plans
• Section 457 Savings Plans

Health Insurance continues to be a major focus of planning, budgeting and communication. Federal Health Care Reform, also known as the Affordable Care Act (ACA) has had a significant impact on our health insurance program and premiums as it includes per capita fees for a national study commissions. Other than payroll, it represents one of the largest single costs to the Town. Changes at the state and federal level continue to develop, and we are watching to keep up to speed on the regulations, and working for the most cost effective way to provide comprehensive coverage to our employees and retirees.

All employees, other than Police and Fire, are covered by Workers’ Compensation, a federally mandated program. Our goal is to prevent accidents and lost time from work, and to protect individuals from financial loss when there is an incident. This “no fault” insurance is designed to provide income security and medical coverage for individuals injured on the job. Since July 2011, the program has been insured with MIIA. Human Resources continues to ensure that incident reports are filed timely with Worker’s Compensation, reviewing claims and making payments directly to the employees. We are now able to file claims “on line” to get them set up quickly so employees are treated and claims processed quickly.

Employees who have needed to use the services report a strong and positive experience working with claims managers. We also work with managers and employees across the Town to support safe work practices, so that the frequency and length of workers’ compensation and 111F absences are held to a minimum.

The Town of Franklin Safety Committee monitors practices and policies, with an eye to reducing hazards at the worksite.

We reviewed all benefit programs to be sure they comply with Federal and State laws. We continue to work to comply with all new reports and regulations. Over the coming year this will continue to add complexity as we coordinate changes at the Federal level with state regulations, or locally negotiated. We provide benefits that are competitive with the market to attract and keep the right workforce and provide those quality benefits at the lowest cost possible.

The HR Department has continued a wellness program, offered by MIIA to the employees of the Town. The Town was awarded a commendation for its program “Excellence in Wellness, Large Trust Accounts.” These have included fitness walking, relaxation techniques, and healthy eating. This
program, designed to improve health and fitness will continue next year at no cost to employees or to the Town. We hope to be able to focus future programs to target wellness issues that give rise to increased health care costs. A core of employees were enthusiastic about participation in the strength and aerobic classes, Healthy Matters heart program and an extended walking program.

In addition to active employees we are responsible for over 400 retirees of the Town of Franklin and Franklin Public Schools who have health and/or life insurance as a result of their long-term employment with the Town. We enjoy hearing about their activities after they have left employ with the town. As retirees are a very mobile population, it is our goal and mission to assist all retirees and their covered spouses with any questions they might have which includes the processing of all of their enrollment, coverage and address changes on a daily basis.

As we begin the next year our goals include:
• Work with all departments to maintain a safe work environment, to reduce lost time from on the job injuries.
• Review return to work options for employees who have been out on Workers’ Compensation or 111F.
• Review best practices in the public sector and find opportunities for skill development to offer to municipal employees.
• Continue to monitor changes arising from National Health Care Reform.
• Partner with School HR activities to find service improvements and cost efficiencies.
• Deliver high quality customer service to employees, retirees, and citizens.
• Constantly monitor full range of benefit options. Focus on the Health Insurance Program.
• Identify information which can be best communicated electronically and keep web site current.
• Provide excellent service to and resolve administrative issues arising from municipal health insurance program.
• Facilitate managers using job descriptions and performance evaluations to strengthen organizational and employee performance.
• Educate employees on the Sec. 125 Flexible Spending Accounts which are available to them for medical or dependent care costs. Support managers and employees in employee relations activities.

We appreciate our employees and retirees and look forward to another year of providing them service.

Respectfully Submitted
Stephanie Lutz
Human Resources Director.


INSURANCE ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Each of the municipal and school unions, as well as retired employees has a seat on the Town of Franklin Insurance Advisory Committee. It provides recommendations to the Town Administrator on health and dental plans. Meetings are an opportunity for employees from the unions to learn about insurance products, industry trends, and to help identify ways to meet employee needs within the framework of the Affordable Care Act, Massachusetts General Law, and available financial resources.

With the further portions of the Affordable Care Act from the Federal Government on the horizon, we anticipate changes, administrative challenges, and premium increases in the coming years.

There were no changes to the Health Insurance program, although there were numerous discussions about other carriers and design changes. Our initial quote was a 9.8% increase, but we were unable to find any better quotes. There were numerous discussion with MIIA and they suggested that we participate in a Pilot program including a robust and expanded Wellness initiative, and an agreement to help keep participant contact information current. This resulted in a renewal with a 7.8% premium increase. The Wellness Team held one meeting in June and will be meeting on a regular basis in the coming year to focus on education and programs to tackle life habits that contribute to good health.

The Town continued a Health Reimbursement Arrangement to help offset hospital in patient costs. We are happy to report that few of our employees required in patient care.

The Town provides dental benefits on a totally employee paid basis. The Committee again selected Guardian Life Insurance as the provider for its dental plan no increase to premiums. Approximately 300 employees have elected this benefit.

The Flexible Spending Account vendor was retained. This vendor provides debit cards for employees to use for immediate payment. Employees can avoid an additional out of pocket expense by using the cards.

The plan runs on a September 1 through August 31 calendar to more closely coordinate with the Health Insurance Plan and with the school year. We hope the participation in this plan will grow as employees recognize the tax savings available to them, and become more experienced in planning for medical and dependent care costs. Since this program exists on a tax exempt basis, changes at the federal level may cause plan changes. We will monitor any activity about Sec. 125 of the Tax Code to ensure we remain in compliance.

Participants on the IAC brought good questions to the process and have been very effective in exploring alternatives, and making recommendations. The IAC plans to continue its work gaining knowledge about the full insurance program. In the coming year we hope we will be able to reach out through this committee to other employees so that there is greater understanding of benefit plans.

Respectfully Submitted
Stephanie Lutz
Human Resource Director

screen grab of  Franklin's Human Resources webpage

To find out more about the Human Resources Department, you can find them here http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_Human/index


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The full annual report can be obtained from the Town Clerk's office (hard copy) or viewed and/or downloaded from the Franklin website here
http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_Clerk/annual/2014report.pdf

Annual reports of prior years can also be found online at
http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_Clerk/annual/

Franklin Annual Report 2014: Health Department

Continuing our read through the Annual Report we turn to the Health Department.

Mission Statement

The Franklin Health Department is charged with protecting the public health and well being of the
community, in accordance with federal, state and local public health laws and regulations. To fulfill this responsibility, the Franklin Health Department enforces a multitude of public health laws and
regulations, and administers a comprehensive inspection program.

Inspections

The following list identifies the primary components of the department’s inspection program, and the total number of inspections and re-inspections conducted for each component.

* Food Service/Retail Food/Inspections/ Complaint Investigations ................................. 365
* Title V Septic System Plan Review and Installation/Repair, Total Applications .............. 56
35 New, 21 Repairs, 17 Minor Repairs and Approximately 180 Field Inspections Conducted.
* Chapter II Housing Code Inspection/ Re-inspections  ..................................................... 33
* Public Health Nuisance/Odor/Noise/Animal Complaint Investigation .......................... 72
* Semi-Public Pool/Spa Testing/Inspection and Public Beach Testing .............................. 33
* Inspection and Licensing of Children’s Recreational Camps ............................................ 11
* Tanning Salon Inspection ................................................................................................... 4
* Manicure/Pedicure Establishment  ................................................................................... 8

Communicable Disease 

As mandated by the State Department of Public Health, local health departments must report, investigate and track all communicable disease occurrences in their jurisdictions. The Franklin Health
Department has had a long-term contract with the former VNA and Hospice of Greater Milford, now call Salmon Health Care, to assist with the investigation and follow up of reportable communicable diseases that occur in the community.

The following list depicts the reportable illness activity for fiscal year 2013-2014 in number of official cases:

Malaria ............................................................................ 0
Human Granulocytic Anaplasmosis ............................... 0
Calicvirus/Norovirus ...................................................... 1
Babesiosis ....................................................................... 0
Campylobacter ................................................................ 6
Hepatitis A ...................................................................... 1
Hepatitis B ...................................................................... 0
Hepatitis C ...................................................................... 9
Lyme Disease ............................................................... 13
Meningitis ....................................................................... 2
Streptococcus, Group A/B .............................................. 4
E. Coli ............................................................................. 0
Ehrlichiosis ..................................................................... 0
Giardiasis ........................................................................ 1
Salmonella Enteritis ........................................................ 2
Bacterial Infection, Avium, Vibrio ................................. 1
Encephalitis .................................................................... 0
Cryptosporidiosis ............................................................ 1
Legionellosis ................................................................... 1
Pulmonary TB ................................................................. 0
Chicken Pox .................................................................... 0
Pertussis .......................................................................... 1
Influenza ....................................................................... 40
Dog Bites ...................................................................... 17
Cat Bites ......................................................................... 4
Shigellosis ....................................................................... 0
TB related ....................................................................... 0
Streptococcus Pneumoniae ............................................. 2
Yersinia ........................................................................... 1
Vibrio sp ......................................................................... 1
Dengue Fever .................................................................. 0

Flu Clinics

In fiscal year 2013-2014, the VNA/Salmon Health Care held one seasonal flu clinic immunizing 82
residents. In addition, the VNA/Salmon Health Care provided TB screening/ testing and case follow-up for a number of residents.

Licenses and Permits

The following is a comprehensive list of all permits/licenses issued by the Franklin Health Department during fiscal year 2013-2014. Most licensed/permitted activities require at least annual
inspections as part of the permitting process.

Beaver Permits ................................................................ 9
Burial Permits ............................................................... 87
Bakery ............................................................................. 4
Bottling ........................................................................... 1
Catering .......................................................................... 2
Cleaners/Laundromats .................................................... 1
Recreational Camps ........................................................ 8
Demolition ...................................................................... 0
Septic Installers............................................................. 50
Disposal of Offal .......................................................... 37
Food Establishment .................................................... 109
Funeral Directors ............................................................ 3
Infectious Waste ............................................................. 1
Keeping of Animals ...................................................... 14
Frozen Desserts/Ice Cream ............................................. 8
Milk and Cream ............................................................ 23
Milk and Cream Vehicles ............................................... 4
Mobile Food ................................................................... 3
Pasteurization ................................................................. 1
Private Wells (potable .................................................... 3
Irrigation Wells ............................................................... 9
Recycling ........................................................................ 1
Retail Food ................................................................... 30
Stables ........................................................................... 20
Manicure Establishment ............................................... 17
Tanning Establishment ................................................... 4
Temporary Food ........................................................... 15
Trench Permits .............................................................. 39
Semi-Public Pools/Spas ............................................... 26
Tobacco/Nicotine Delivery Products ............................ 29

The Franklin Board of Health and the Health Department worked diligently to draft and implement
several new public health regulations during the last fiscal year. In April of 2014, a comprehensive
Tobacco and Nicotine Delivery Products regulation was enacted. In addition a new regulation governing the installation of septic systems was also passed by the Board of Health.

Staff

The current Health Department staff is as follows:
David E. McKearney, R.S. Public Health Director
Virginia M. McNeil, Health Agent,
Elizabeth Hoey, Health Inspector, (14) hours and
Mary Ellen Ficco, Administrative Assistant, (16) hours.

The Franklin Health Department wishes to thank all department heads and staff for their continuing
assistance and support of the Health Department throughout the year.

Board of Health

The three-member elected Board of Health is the policy making arm for the Health Department. The
board members assist in the drafting of public health bylaws, and review all site plans for compliance with local and state public health regulations. The board presides over administrative hearings in all matters concerning Health Department licensed and permitted activities. Board members are  available for consultation on issues relative to the public health as well.

Bruce Hunchard, Board of Health Chairman
Donald Ranieri, Jr. Vice Chairman
Philip Brunelli, Board Clerk.

Hours of Operation

The Franklin Health Department office is open Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 8:00AM to
4:00PM, Wednesday from 8:00AM to 6:00PM and Friday from 8:00AM to 1:00PM

Health Department personnel are available to meet with customers from 8-9:15AM and again from 3:15-4PM each day, or other hours by appointment as necessary.

Respectfully submitted,
David E. McKearney, R.S.
Public Health Director
Franklin Health Department

Screen grab of Franklin Health Department page

For additional information on the Health Dept you can visit their page on the official Franklin website  http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_Health/index


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The full annual report can be obtained from the Town Clerk's office (hard copy) or viewed and/or downloaded from the Franklin website here
http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_Clerk/annual/2014report.pdf

Annual reports of prior years can also be found online at
http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_Clerk/annual/

Franklin Annual Report 2014: Fire Department

Continuing our read through the Annual Report we turn to the Fire Dept.

The Department

The Franklin Fire Department is divided into two divisions: Operations and Maintenance, which is the largest and responsible for dispatch, emergency medical services, fire suppression and hazardous materials response. Administration and Support Services is responsible for personnel, budget and finance, training, code compliance and coordinating the Town's emergency preparedness.

Our Mission

The mission of the Franklin Fire Department is to:

• Have a positive impact in the lives of citizens and visitors of Franklin in their time of crisis by providing compassionate, contemporary, community driven services.
• Safeguard human life from the perils of fire, sudden illness, injury or other emergency medical condition, natural and man-made disasters as well as preserve the environment and property from ensuing destruction.
• Be responsible for a safe, productive and pleasant work environment for our employees, and provide them opportunities to gain new skills and advance their personal career goals.

Tower One - fully extended during the Harvest Festival 2014

Operational Objectives

• Initiating advanced life support to patients within 8 minutes of receiving the telephone call at our communications center.
• To access, extricate, treat and transport and transport trauma patients to a level one trauma medical facility within one hour of the occurrence of the injury.
• Interrupt the progression of fires in structures within 8 minutes of open flame ignition.
• To insure response readiness remains greater than 70%.
• Provide safety and survival skills for all school students in grade K through 5 consistent with the Student Awareness Fire Education (SAFE} initiative of the Commonwealth.
• Provide educational opportunities for department members to insure optimal performance and safety.
• To develop and maintain "best practice" to insure personnel and citizen safety.
• Insure fire safety through timely, consistent code compliance services to all external customers.
• Provide all department services in a manner that satisfies the needs of our customers.

Message from the Fire Chief

Similar to Fiscal Year 2103, Fiscal Year 2014 continued to be challenging for the members of the department to meet the high level of emergency services we strive to maintain for the citizens of Franklin . Unlike our report last year, Fiscal Year 2014 proved to have reason for hope, with the department receiving a Federal Staffing for Adequate Emergency Response (SAFER) Grant in the amount of $ 741,000. This grant allows the department to replace four firefighter - paramedics positions lost to budget constraints in Fiscal Year 2009 and will pay the salaries and benefits for these positions for the next two years. The last of the four personnel new completed the Academy in the end of May. The department also saw the return to work of two members on long term injury leave, which also aided in daily operations, leaving three employees on long term injury from 2013. These additions greatly improved day to day operations, substantially reducing the department's reliance on overtime.

As outlined in previous reports, in November of 2012, reduction in overall staffing levels forced the department to reduce minimum daily staffing to 9 personnel. The effect on service level has been negative, with a decrease in response time in the King Street District by 5%, increase in on-scene times by over 50% and an increase in overall time of incident, department-wide by 9%. While these conditions continue we are hopeful to increase minimum daily staffing back to 10 on-duty personnel in the beginning of Fiscal Year 15, with the return to duty or retirement of last 3 individuals on long term injury leave.

As indicated above, the department hired four new members to the department - 3 residents of the Town. We welcome William Blanchard, Jamie Murphy, Christopher Schmall and Joseph Padykula to the fire department. All have a varied range of experience in the fields of emergency medical and fire services and are a great addition to our organization. Additionally at the end of this year Robert Donovan stepped down as the Department's SAFE Officer. As SAFE Officer, Bob was responsible for providing and organizing public education for our department that focused on our school aged children and elderly populations. Bob lead this effort with distinction for years - we are grateful for his service and dedication in this position. This year the department responded to more than 3,400 emergency responses an overall increase of less than 1% from last year. This modest increase reflected no major increase in any call type category from Fiscal Year 2012.

In addition to emergency response, the department also continued to try to expand its fire prevention education activities, providing safety and survival education to the most vulnerable population to fire - our children and seniors. Through the dedicated efforts of SAFE Officer Robert Donovan, the department continued to educate over 100 children per month as well as attend various activities at the Senior Center. Lieutenant Tom Carlucci with Firefighter Keith Darling and Doug Perro provide dedicated assistance in completing this important service to our citizens.

Franklin Fire Dept

Our employees continue to be the chief reason for maintaining our current the level of success and level of services we provide our citizens. They continue to work tirelessly to protect life and property within Franklin. In addition to their on-duty responses, our employees commit countless hours in continuing education and training targeted to maintain and improved upon their emergency skills. Additionally, they continue to press forward in attempt to provide the highest level of service to the community based upon advancement in the fire-rescue field and advancements in technology. These efforts have yielded significant and broad insight into the requirements necessary to maintain and improve upon the services we provide to the citizens of Franklin.

Respectfully Submitted,
Gary B. McCarraher, Fire Chief


You can find out more about the Fire Dept on their informative town webpage
http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_Fire/index

They publish their response performance statistics quarterly
http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_Fire/Quarterly%20Performance%20Scorecard

Details on the two fire stations and the various types of equipment that the Fire Dept has available can be found here http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_Fire/stations

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The section on the Fire Dept also included some charts and information that was not as easy to share as the text. You can find the Fire Dept section on page 115

The full annual report can be obtained from the Town Clerk's office (hard copy) or viewed and/or downloaded from the Franklin website here
http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_Clerk/annual/2014report.pdf

Annual reports of prior years can also be found online at
http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_Clerk/annual/

Franklin Annual Report 2014: Historical Commission

Continuing our walk through the Annual Report we arrive at the Historical Commission

Summary

Franklin Historical Museum (free) Location: 80 West Central St, downtown, near the fire station.

Hours: Thursdays 5 to 8; Saturday 10 - 1; Sunday 1 - 4

Monthly Meetings are held on the third Tuesday of each month at the Museum and all are welcome to attend.

Overview

We have now completed our fourth year at the new museum and have been well received by the citizens of Franklin and surrounding communities. The museum continues to explore and celebrate the Town's cultural diversity, achievements and unique place in history.

Mission

Our mission is to preserve, protect and develop the historic and archeological assets of Franklin.

Membership

The commission is appointed by the Town Administrator and ratified by the Town Council. We have 7 full time members with voting privileges along with non-voting associate members. We invite all residents, with an interest in Franklin, to contact us to become associate members.

Hosting

All of our members take turns hosting at the museum at one time or another. We have continued to increase our hours of operation so that we are available to the public at diffi:rent times. We are always loolda& for people to belp as host at the mueeum. It is a fun, relaxing and a great learning expericiK:e. Try it ....... you'll like it!

Events

We held many events during this past year and had over 1,000 visitors at the museum. Some of the events included:

Birthday Party

We once again enjoyed celebrating Ben Franldin's Birthday.
We served a birthday cake and sang "Happy Birthday".

Wedding Gowns

Once again, we had our famous event exhibiting gowns from 1893 through 2010. Both young and old seem to enjoy this display.

Veterans Uniform Display

This is always a favorite display both with young and older residents. It's strriking to walk info the museum and see all the uniforms from all branches of the armed services standing at attention.

Sebool Participation

We encourage elementary and high scbool student visits to the museum to learn about Franklin throughout the year. It's important to see how Franklin "used to be" as compared to the present time. One student said "I wish I lived back then!" Teachers are welcomed to make arrangements with us to bring their class in for a visit.

Antique Appraisal Day

This is a very popular event that we hold each year at the museum. People are invited to bring up to three (3) items to be appraised. Very well attended.

Movie Night

One June 29th we showed the musical 1776. This was a first time event and enjoyed by all who attended. The popcorn was good too!

Annual Events of the Downtown Partnership

The Commission takes part in the annual events planned by the Downtown Partnership such as Harvest Festival (pumpkin carving contest) and Strawberry Festival. Our museum was opened and many first time visitors came by.

Demolition Requests

Under the demolition bylaw passed by the Town Council, the Commission is instructed to review any demolition request of a property 60 years and older. We look into the property to see if there is any historical significance and then write a review. In some instances, we ask that a plaque be displayed representing what existed on the parcel of land. Developers are very agreeable to this.

Audio Conversion Project

We are working with a FHS student, Micbael Labine and instructor Mark: Brady who spearheaded this project. We are converting all our old record albums to digital status. The turntables being used are fimded by a grant from the Teacher's Association secured by Mr. Peacock. It's great to be able to work hand in hand with Town and School personel. Thanks to all involved in this project.

Old Museum on Washington Street

We continue to look into possible uses for the "'Od Museum" on Washington Street. Any thoughts, give us a call.

Frieads of Historical Museum

The Friends, along with our regular and associate members, work very bard to bring special events to the museum. Without their support, we could not bring these special programs to the museum. Donations are always welcomed!

In conduslon, we feel that the Franklin Historical Museum has reached so many of its goals and we look forward to offering the residents of Franklin continued years of enjoyment. We are grateful for your support and look forward to another exciting year.

Respectfully submitted,
Franklin Historical Commission

Deborah L. Pellegri, Chair
Delwyn Arnold
Bob Percy
Marlene Oliver
Mary Olsson, ViceChair
Colette Ferguson. Treasurer
Connie Lawson

Associate Members

Mary O'Neill
Kai Olsson
Alice Vendetti
Minessa Konicki

Franklin Historical Museum

The full annual report can be obtained from the Town Clerk's office (hard copy) or viewed and/or downloaded from the Franklin website here
http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_Clerk/annual/2014report.pdf

Annual reports of prior years can also be found online at
http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_Clerk/annual/

screen grab of Franklin Historical Museum webpage

You can also find more information on the Historical Museum webpage here

http://franklinhistoricalmuseum.org/

Franklin Annual Report - 2014

The Annual Report is published each year with information from the prior fiscal year.

Town of Franklin, 2014 Annual Report

In the Town Code, Chapter 1, subchapter 4-3 the Annual Report is defined:

Prior to November 1 of each year, the Town Clerk shall cause to be prepared and made available to the inhabitants of the Town an annual report for the preceding fiscal year which shall include: the annual Town budget, the reports of all Town officers, the records of all Town Council bylaw amendments and resolutions, an abstract of births, marriages and deaths, and the wages, salaries, or other compensation of all Town employees.
[Added 5-2-2012 by Bylaw Amendment 12-681]

If you go to the official Franklin website, find the Town Code section and search for "Annual report" these are the results you should find 
http://ecode360.com/10432729?highlight=annual%20report,reports,annual,report


I'll be sharing sections of the report over the next several days. You can find a hard copy at the Municipal Building. Usually a copy is available on the table when you enter. If not, check with the Town Clerk's office.

You can also find the PDF copy online. The Annual Reports going back to 1006 are all available online
http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_Clerk/annual/

Finance Committee - June 4, 2013 - Agenda

The Finance Committee has a bunch of financial approvals pending for its Tuesday meeting.

The agenda can be viewed here




The agenda can also be found on the Franklin webpage
http://franklinma.virtualtownhall.net/Pages/FranklinMA_FinanceAgendas/Agenda%202013-6-4.pdf

Live reporting: Town Council - Budget hearing and vote

Present: Mercer, Dellorco, Kelly, Powderly, Vallee, Pfeffer, Jones, Bissanti, Roy (remote)
Absent:  none

A. ANNOUNCEMENTS – This meeting is being recorded by Franklin TV and shown on Comcast channel 11 and Verizon channel 29. This meeting may be recorded by Franklin Matters.

Deep in the numbers - Jeff Nutting, Jim Dacey and Franklin Town Council

B. HEARING - FY 2014 Budget Hearing – 2nd Reading
same process, reading line item budget and will acknowledge holds for further discussion

Holds on Treasurer/Collector and Town Clerk budgets had been held last night, were waived

Question on Facilities budget around a part-time person less than 20 hours, no benefits on the payroll through the construction period

Q - Are you undermanned?
Police Chief - yes, we are doing background on one individual now

Nutting - we have been up and down, we are hoping to get this one on by July after background checks pass etc.

Vallee - for a community our size, I don't feel we are well protected
Chief - we are fortunate with the people we have, maybe next year we could get
for the night shift, we have 3 with a sargent, with this one we can get back to 4 with a sargent

we do a forty percent replacement, if one goes out we don't replace them, if the second one goes out.

Nutting - if there is more people, the perception is that OT would go down, but it doesn't always work that way. From a crime stats, we were just named one of the safest communities.

The technology and the equipment make all those people more effective, even if it is not one time, it is not a sixty year cost. It would be nice to have more people in many places, if we have a deficit next year, what do we do?

Vallee - I am speaking for my constituents and I am not comfortable
Chief - if we want to do something, we should come up with a plan other than a time like this. You don't want to bring someone on when we may have to let them go a couple of years down the road.

Mercer - can you clarify? does this get to 44?
Chief - yes, we are at 43 and going to 44

Dellorco - What about the deputy chief?
Chief - we are working through that, this is a major decision. It is a minimal expense (i.e. increase) not an other body. We are talking with HR and should have something ready for the fall.

Nutting - we'd like to run the test for Franklin first and see what applicants we get.

Kelly - can we get a comparison report on who we stack with the other communities?
Nutting - we can do that

Kelly - I'm looking for stats that can be easily understood, how many people per square mile, etc.
Chief - we'd we right about 1.3 per thousand

Bissanti - i want to echo his sentiment, something happens during the night shift, what happens
Chief - if there are multiple accidents, Bellingham and Walpole will have a car there right away

Roy - from a public safety perspective, they do a great job, we were recognized as one of the safest communities in America. We are good shape, thanks for the good work by the Chief and dept

Jones - what would you say are the top three complaints the officers have
Chief - short on some shifts, not always sending people to training, lack of movement among the department

Powederly - I want to echo the great job that you and the Fire Dept does, across the board. I disagree with some of the comments about 'we have the money'. I think everyone would like to give staff back, we have lost 20% of our staff. you do a great job taking the pulse of the community and letting us know. I appreciate your efforts in trying to weigh those.

Vallee - Until we get back to 50, I will not be comfortable

continue the line item with the Fire Dept

Chief Gary McCarragher
optimal is 10 on shift and we are at 9
right around 400,000 for overtime

Nutting - the budget is under here because we don't have a collective bargaining agreement, we have one for every other union but not this one

Vallee - I am concerned that we are not providing 2 ambulances for our community
Chief - I share your concern, we are optimal with 5 people at each firehouse, we are one short and thereby it is a problem. We have the easy part of the budget problem, we can tell you what we need. You have to fill in the other details. We have a plan with the regional dispatch to allow us to re-position personnel to the line, we are competing for Federal dollars where Fall River is getting money over us where they are in danger of loosing 80 firefighters

Chief - 53% of the calls this year are the second call coming in when the department is already out on a call. We have call back so that helps immensely, those elements can become stressful. Fire rescue providers are the top stressful positions in America

Vallee - we are sitting with a stabilization fund and other money and I think we should do something

Pfeffer - we have nothing in this budget for the settlement?
Nutting - yes, we don't know when it will be could be the fall or next year, we don't know

Pfeffer - so it would come from free cash?
Nutting - likely, even if it is later this year, the Council still has to approve the deal when it is settled

Chief - removing the one person from the scene has a big impact

Powderly - I would like to respond to the comment of using the stabilization fund. We did use money from there in earlier years when it was significantly more. To dip into that now, relative to our budget, it is not good to use. The rating agencies look to that for our credit ratings. You can't keep dipping into that.

Vallee - my concern is not in saving money, it is in saving lives.

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on the schools budget line

Jones - Norfolk Aggie, a decrease?
Yes, two less students, at 2,000/student

Cultural Council
Roy - can we use the $1,000 extra in the budget and move that to the Cultural Council? The Council does good work and it seems an easy way to help increase the community in this arena
seconded, voted via roll call 9-0


C. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
1. Resolution 13-37: Adoption of FY 2014 Budget

Motion to accept budget, approved via roll call,  9-0

Recycling stickers expire june 30th, can we post a notice to renew
Walk through for the new high school Jun 10th a building committee meeting at the high school 6:00 PM

D. ADJOURN
motion to adjourn, passed via roll 8-1 (Roy humorously voted no)