Revised School Budget for FY 2020

To: Franklin School Committee Members
From: Sara E. Ahern, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools 
Re: Revised FY 20 Budget
Date: September 20, 2019

As you are aware, the final FY20 budget approved by the State in late July was more favorable to Franklin than the initial budget figures from which we built a FY 20 budget. As often happens, additional allocations are made across Town departments and we anticipate an opportunity to receive an additional appropriation in October. This would add to the additional appropriation that was granted in August, in the sum of $102,500, to provide for two Kindergarten ESPs and the elimination of the parking fee.

The School Committee’s Budget Subcommittee met on September 16, 2019 and discussed revisions to FY 20. I recommend that additional appropriations, which may be received, be applied towards:

• Consultants to support an analysis of Davis Thayer Elementary School in the fields of demography/enrollment projections and adequacy of the facility.
• Restoration of supplies and services -- namely, classroom supplies and professional development -- which was reduced during the FY 20 budget development process.

At this time, I do not advocate for the restoration of positions. As the school year has started, it would be difficult to hire and bring back positions at this time. Furthermore, the favorable funding is a result of additional Charter tuition reimbursement which is scheduled to decrease in subsequent years (60% in FY 21 and 40% in FY 22). With this scheduled decline, I do not suggest restorations in the form of positions because of the instability this provides for those staff members. 

Analysis of Davis Thayer will assist the Committee in long-term planning.
Supporting classroom materials and professional development provides necessary resources to students in the classroom and the teachers who teach them.

I look forward to further discussion at the School Committee meeting on September 24, 2019. This will proceed to the Finance Committee and then Town Council in October.


This was shared from the Schools page
https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/revised-budget

Other documents released for the School Committee meeting Tuesday can be found online
https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/pages/september-24-2019-school-committee-packet

Revised School Budget for FY 2020

 
 

Franklin, MA: School Committee - Agenda - Sep 24, 2019

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.

A G E N D A

“The listing of matters are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair which may be discussed at the meeting. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by law.”

1. Routine Business
a. Review of Agenda
b. Citizen’s Comments

i. In the spirit of open communication, “the School Committee will hear public comment 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” – from Policy BEDH

c. FHS Student Representative Comments
d. Superintendent’s Report

2. Guests / Presentations
a. ECDC and Elementary Schools – School Improvement Plans

• ECDC School Improvement Plan 
• Davis Thayer School Improvement Plan
• Jefferson School Improvement Plan
• Keller School Improvement Plan
• JF Kennedy School Improvement Plan
• Oak Street School Improvement Plan
• Parmenter School Improvement Plan

b. School Start Times Update – Dr. Ahern

3. Discussion / Action Items

• a. Elementary School Improvement Plans

I recommend approval of the 19-20 School Improvement Plans for Davis Thayer, Jefferson, Keller, Kennedy, Oak Street and Parmenter Elementary Schools and ECDC as presented and discussed.

• b. Policy – First Readings

I recommend moving the following policies to a second reading at the next School Committee meeting as discussed:

• BEDB – Order of Business 

https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/current-bedb

• BEDH – Public Participation

https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/current-bedh
 
 4. Discussion Only Items
a. Revised FY20 Budget
https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/revised-budget

5. Information Matters
a. School Committee Sub-Committee Reports (e.g. Budget; Community Relations; Policy; Transportation; Public Schools Advocacy; Ad Hoc Superintendent’s Evaluation)

b. School Committee Liaison Reports (e.g. Joint PCC; Substance Abuse Task Force; School Wellness Advisory Council [SWAC]; MASC)

6. New Business
a. To discuss any future agenda items

7. Consent Agenda
a. Minutes
I recommend approval of the minutes from the September 10, 2019 School Committee meeting as detailed.
b. Executive Session Minutes
I recommend approval of the executive session minutes from the September 20, 2019 School Committee meeting to be released as detailed.
c. Parmenter Gift
I recommend acceptance of a check for $1,560.50 from the Parmenter PCC for supplemental supplies as detailed.
d. Remington Middle School Trip
I recommend approval of the request to take the RMS Adventure Club to Mt. Monadnock in Jaffrey, NH for a recurring field trip on October 19, 2019 as detailed.
e. Budget Transfers
I recommend approval of the budget transfers as detailed.

8. Payment of Bills Dr. Bergen

9. Payroll Mrs. Douglas

10. Correspondence

11. Executive Session

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

12. Adjournment

The documents released for this meeting can be found on the School District page
https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/pages/september-24-2019-school-committee-packet  Additional documents will be added to this page post meeting (generally during the business day after the meeting)

Franklin, MA: School Committee - Agenda - Sep 24, 2019

Franklin, MA: School Committee - Agenda - Aug 13, 2019

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.

A G E N D A

“The listing of matters are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair which may be discussed at the meeting. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by law.”

1. Routine Business
a. Review of Agenda
b. Citizen’s Comments

i. In the spirit of open communication, “the School Committee will hear public comment 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” – from Policy BEDH

c. FHS Student Representative Comments
d. Superintendent’s Report

2. Guests / Presentations
a. None

3. Discussion / Action Items
a. School Handbooks
I recommend approval of the Franklin Public Schools Student/Family Handbooks as discussed.
b. Policy – 2nd Reading / Adoption
I recommend adoption of the following policies as discussed:

i. BEC – Executive Sessions
ii. BEDG – Minutes
iii. JKAA – Physical Restraint of Students

c. Budget Discussion and Revised Budget
I recommend that the School Committee adopt a revised FY 20 budget of
$64,702,500.

4. Discussion Only Items
a. Summer Professional Development and Curriculum Update

5. Information Matters
a. School Committee Sub-Committee Reports (e.g. Budget; Community Relations; Policy; Transportation; Public Schools Advocacy; Ad Hoc Superintendent’s Evaluation)

b. School Committee Liaison Reports (e.g. Joint PCC; Substance Abuse Task Force; School Wellness Advisory Council [SWAC]; MASC)

6. New Business
a. To discuss any future agenda items

7. Consent Agenda
a. Minutes
I recommend approval of the minutes from the July 23, 2019 School Committee meeting as detailed.
b. End of Year Transfers
I recommend approval of the end-of-year budget transfers as detailed.
c. Surplus Technology Equipment
I recommend declaring the detailed list of technology equipment as surplus.
d. Athletics Donation
I recommend acceptance of a check for $200.00 from the Franklin Newcomers and Friends for participation fees for students who otherwise could not afford for sports, clubs, events, etc.

8. Payment of Bills Dr. Bergen
9. Payroll Mrs. Douglas
10. Correspondence
11. Executive Session

a. Pursuant to M.G.L. c. 30A, §21(a)(2) to conduct strategy sessions in preparation for negotiations with nonunion personnel or to conduct collective bargaining sessions or contract negotiations with nonunion personnel.

12. Adjournment


Meeting agenda
https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/agenda-8-13-19

Documents released for this meeting
https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/pages/august-13-2019-school-committee-packet

Franklin, MA: School Committee - Agenda - Aug 13, 2019

Franklin, MA: Town Council - Agenda - Aug 14, 2019

1. ANNOUNCEMENTS
a.This meeting is being recorded by Franklin TV and show on Comcast channel 11 and Verizon Channel 29. This meeting may be recorded by others.

2. CITIZEN COMMENTS
a.Citizens are welcome to express their views for up to five minutes on a matter that is not on the agenda. The Council will not engage in a dialogue or comment on a matter raised during Citizen Comments. The Town Council will give remarks appropriate consideration and may ask the Town Administrator to review the matter.

3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
a. July 24, 2019

4. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS 
​- None

5. APPOINTMENTS
a. Fire Chief Pinning Ceremony
b. Finance Committee, Michael Kasberg

6. HEARINGS ​- None

7. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS
a. The Chateau Restaurant of Franklin, Inc. New All-Alcoholic Beverages Restaurant License, 466King Street

8. PRESENTATIONS/DISCUSSIONS 
- ​None

9. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS
a. Capital Budget Subcommittee
b. Budget Subcommittee
c. Economic Development Subcommittee

10 .LEGISLATION FOR ACTION

• a.Resolution 19-53: Rescind Outdated Bonds ​(Motion to Approve Resolution 19-53 - Majority Vote (5))
• b.Resolution 19-54: Amendment to FY2020 Budget​ (Motion to Approve Resolution 19-54 -Majority Vote (5))
• c.Resolution 19-55: Acceptance of Gift - Council on Aging (​Motion to Approve Resolution 19-55- Majority Vote (5))
• d.Resolution 19-56: Acceptance of Gift - Franklin Senior Center​ (Motion to Approve Resolution19-56 - Majority Vote (5))
• e.Resolution 19-57: Acceptance of Gift - Franklin Fire Department ​(Motion to approve Resolution 19-57 - Majority Vote (5))
• f.Resolution 19-58: Acceptance of Gift - Franklin Police Department ​(Motion to approve Resolution 19-58 - Majority Vote (5))
• g.Sewer Map Amendment 19-844: 225 Plain Street - Sewer System Extension - 1st Reading (Motion to Move Sewer Map Amendment 19-844: 225 Plain Street - Sewer Extension to a Second Reading - Majority Vote (5))

11.TOWN ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT

12. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS

13. COUNCIL COMMENTS

14. EXECUTIVE SESSION 
- ​None Scheduled

15.ADJOURN

Notes: 
Two-Thirds Vote: requires 6 votes
Majority Vote: requires majority of members present and voting

Agenda document
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/agendas/2019-08-14_town_council_agenda.pdf

Full agenda (includes files released for this meeting)
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/agendas/august_12_2019_tc_full_agenda_0.pdf

Franklin, MA: Town Council - Agenda - Aug 14, 2019

In the News: Gov Baker approves FY 2020 budget; MA schools ranked #1 - again

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"Gov. Charlie Baker on Wednesday accomplished something House Speaker Robert DeLeo, who joined the Legislature in 1991, said he does not remember seeing happen before: signing the annual state budget without issuing a single spending veto. 

Placing the bottom line at $43.3 billion, Baker signed the annual budget just after 10 a.m. Wednesday, nearly a full month after the start of fiscal 2020 on July 1. 

The Republican governor also went along with the Democrat-controlled Legislature’s tweaks to a drug pricing control measure he proposed in January, and its $5.2 billion in Chapter 70 aid to local schools, nearly $70 million more than he recommended in the budget proposal he filed in January along with a series of school funding reforms. 

Responding to reporter questions after signing the bill in his office, Baker revealed that he did not slash any spending because “this budget’s balanced.”

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20190731/baker-signs-433b-budget-oks-all-spending

"For the second year in a row, Massachusetts schools are tops in the nation. 

At least that was the result of a recently-released study from the personal finance website WalletHub. 

The state’s schools were the highest ranked in both math and reading test scores, as well as the lowest percentage of threatened and injured high school students. The state ranked in the top five in several other categories. 

“Almost 8 percent of Massachusetts’ schools are among the top 700 nationwide, and its students have some of the highest math, reading and ACT scores,” Diana Polk, WalletHub communications manager, said in an email to Wicked Local. “In addition, a third of high school students in the class of 2018 scored at least ‘3’ on advanced placement exams, the largest percentage in the country. These all speak to the quality of the state’s public school system, which is maintained from year to year.”

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20190731/report-massachusetts-schools-best-in-nation---again

Find the full study online  https://wallethub.com/edu/states-with-the-best-schools/5335/

For the second year in a row, Massachusetts schools are tops in the nation

Fiscal Year 2020 1st Quarter Real Estate and Personal Property Tax Bills are due August 1, 2019

Fiscal Year 2020 1st Quarter Real Estate and Personal Property Tax Bills are due August 1, 2019

Fiscal Year 2020 1st Quarter Real Estate and Personal Property Tax Bills are due August 1, 2019
Reminders:

• You can pay online here

https://www.franklinma.gov/home/pages/online-payments-and-applications

• If you are mailing in your payment, please be sure to include the remittance copy with your check.
• If you choose to use your Online Banking to pay your bills, please remember to reference the bill number(s) you are paying.

Thank you!

This is an automatic message from Town of Franklin MA and shared from
https://www.franklinma.gov/treasurer-collector/news/fiscal-year-2020%C2%A01st-quarter-real-estate-and-personal-property-tax-bills

Fiscal Year 2020 1st Quarter Real Estate and Personal Property Tax Bills are due August 1, 2019

 

“This consensus Fiscal Year 2020 budget strikes a balance"

Representative Jeffrey Roy (D-Franklin) along with his colleagues in the Massachusetts Legislature passed its Fiscal Year 2020 (FY20) budget, which invests in programs and services across the Commonwealth. Funded at $43.1 billion, the budget makes major investments in education, housing, substance use disorder services, health care, and other areas while projecting a more than $476 million deposit into the Stabilization Fund – bringing the fund’s balance to more than $3 billion to safeguard the future of vital programs and services.

“I am proud of this fiscally responsible budget that supports the needs of individuals, families, and communities across the Commonwealth through thoughtful investments that increase local aid, strengthen our health care system and protect the environment,” said House Speaker Robert A. DeLeo (D-Winthrop). “This budget bolsters our ongoing efforts to combat the opioid crisis, invest in high-quality early education and care and makes another significant deposit into the state’s Stabilization Fund. These investments will have a long and lasting positive effect on the residents of Massachusetts. I want to thank Chair Michlewitz for his leadership and my colleagues in the House, especially those on the conference committee, who worked to put this package together.”

“This budget reaffirms our commitment to local aid and our communities and includes funds for important projects in Franklin and Medway,” said Representative Roy. “The House and Senate were successful at including significant local and regional money throughout the Commonwealth in this coming fiscal year’s budget. Additionally, Massachusetts is dealing with several important societal issues, like the opioid epidemic, public safety, aging infrastructure, and an aging population. The Legislature has struck a balance that takes on these challenges and maintains our commitment to our communities, our children, our seasoned citizens, and the disabled as well as advancing economic development and the arts.”

“Education is a top Senate priority, and I am therefore proud of the significant investments we make in K-12 education in the final FY2020 budget,” said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). “Not only have we voted to advance the largest year-over-year increase in Chapter 70 education funding in the last two decades, we have also made a substantial down payment towards funding the recommendations of the Foundation Budget Review Commission (FBRC). In addition, we fund health and wellness in schools, and provide considerable increases in reimbursement for special education, charter schools, and regional school transportation. Finally, I am very pleased that the conference budget includes $10 million in new funding for mental and behavioral health. These funds will allow the Commonwealth to address the root causes of many of the challenges facing our residents, including substance abuse, homelessness, unemployment and school bullying, among other things. I commend all of the members of the conference committee for their very fine work on this budget.”

Continue reading Representative Jeff Roy's press release in the full text:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1YwGHEVtd4C_iqVdeSvMRoa4GJHinXWAw/view?usp=sharing
 
The web page has been updated with the Conference Report.
https://malegislature.gov/Budget/ConferenceCommittee
 

https://malegislature.gov/Budget/ConferenceCommittee

Legislature Passes Balanced Budget with Targeted Investments in Education, Housing, Environment

Per Senate President Karen E. Spilka:

"Today (Monday) the Massachusetts Legislature passed its Fiscal Year 2020 (FY20) budget, which invests in programs and services across the Commonwealth. Funded at $43.1 billion, the budget makes major investments in education, housing, substance use disorder services, health care, and other areas while projecting a more than $476 million deposit into the Stabilization Fund – bringing the fund’s balance to more than $3 billion to safeguard the future of vital programs and services.

“I am proud of this fiscally responsible budget that supports the needs of individuals, families, and communities across the Commonwealth through thoughtful investments that increase local aid, strengthen our health care system and protect the environment,” said House Speaker Robert A. DeLeo (D-Winthrop). “This budget bolsters our ongoing efforts to combat the opioid crisis, invest in high-quality early education and care and makes another significant deposit into the state’s Stabilization Fund. These investments will have a long and lasting positive effect on the residents of Massachusetts. I want to thank Chair Michlewitz for his leadership and my colleagues in the House, especially those on the conference committee, who worked to put this package together.”

“Education is a top Senate priority, and I am therefore proud of the significant investments we make in K-12 education in the final FY2020 budget,” said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). “Not only have we voted to advance the largest year-over-year increase in Chapter 70 education funding in the last two decades, we have also made a substantial down payment towards funding the recommendations of the Foundation Budget Review Commission (FBRC). In addition, we fund health and wellness in schools, and provide considerable increases in reimbursement for special education, charter schools, and regional school transportation. Finally, I am very pleased that the conference budget includes $10 million in new funding for mental and behavioral health. These funds will allow the Commonwealth to address the root causes of many of the challenges facing our residents, including substance abuse, homelessness, unemployment and schoolbullying, among other things. I commend all of the members of the conference committee for their very fine work on this budget.”

Continue reading the full copy of the press release on the Joint Budget for FY 2020
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0wjbnXDBhczNnNMbzZDNFBwX1k4OVR0dktMQlFHVEFVR3Fr/view?usp=sharing

 While the bill was filed Sunday per the article the web page had not yet been updated as of Monday evening. The budget should find its way here eventually
https://malegislature.gov/Budget/ConferenceCommittee
 

https://malegislature.gov/Budget/ConferenceCommittee

In the News: FY 2020 state budget deal reached

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"Three weeks after the start of the new fiscal year, Democratic leaders finalized a fiscal 2020 budget agreement over the weekend to end a weeks-long stalemate and authorize $43.1 billion in state government spending over the next year.

The deal, which is expected to be voted on Monday by both the House and Senate, puts the state in position to potentially have a budget in place in time for the Legislature to avoid having to approve another stopgap spending measure. If Gov. Charlie Baker signs it within 10 days, Massachusetts may also avert being the last state in the country without a signed full-year budget, as it was last year.

After negotiations that began in early June, House and Senate leaders chose not to include new taxes on opioid manufacturers or e-cigarettes and vaping products. Both tax plans were initially proposed by Republican Gov. Charlie Baker and backed by the Senate, but the House felt they should go through the committee process.

The budget also dropped the Senate’s proposed freeze on tuition at the University of Massachusetts next year, and did not increase funding for the five-campus system beyond the $558 million recommended by the governor and both branches, making a tuition hike for students next year likely."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20190721/mass-budget-deal-to-be-voted-on-monday

While the bill was filed Sunday per the article the web page had not yet been updated as of Monday morning. The budget should find its way here eventually
https://malegislature.gov/Budget/ConferenceCommittee

https://malegislature.gov/Budget/ConferenceCommittee

In the News: Governor more positive about MA budget; heat safety tips

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"With the state budget stalemate between Democratic leaders now spilling into the second half of July, Gov. Charlie Baker met privately with House Speaker Robert DeLeo in his office on Thursday morning and said he spoke with other legislators throughout the day, leaving him “more optimistic” that a compromise could be near.

Baker has not yet said whether he’ll heed the House speaker’s call for him to file another spending bill to fund the government through August, and told the News Service on his way to an event in Brighton on Thursday that he’d prefer not to have to file such a bill.

Baker was reluctant to discuss the specifics of his meeting with DeLeo, but said, “I’ve talked to a lot of people in the Legislature today about the budget and I’m feeling a little more optimistic than I was on Monday that this might all get resolved.”

Asked if he planned to file a second interim budget, Baker said, “No, not if I don’t have to.”

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20190718/baker-more-optimistic-about-budget-compromise

"Hot temperatures combined with high humidity levels are expected to create dangerous heat conditions, with the most oppressive conditions expected Saturday. High temperatures Friday-Sunday are forecast to be in the 90s to lower 100s, and dew points in the low to mid 70s. Heat index values are expected to reach the mid to upper 90s Friday, 100 to 110 Saturday, and 97 to 105 Sunday, with the highest values occurring on Saturday in eastern Massachusetts and parts of the Connecticut River valley. The hot temperatures and high heat indices can lead to serious heat related-illnesses.

“MEMA urges residents to take precautions during the upcoming extreme heat. Never leave children or pets alone in a closed vehicle, find an air-conditioned public space, cooling center, or other cool spot for relief, and watch for heat-related illnesses,” said Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) Director Samantha Phillips. “Please check on your family, friends, or neighbors to make sure they are safe during the extreme heat.”

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://franklin.wickedlocal.com/news/20190718/mema-offers-health-safety-tips-during-extreme-heat

The full listing (with links for more info) can be found on the MA.gov page
https://www.mass.gov/service-details/extreme-heat-safety-tips

https://www.weather.gov/safety/heat

In the News: Dancing on Dean; Interim budget for MA consideration

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"Kevin R. Goffe, president and CEO of Dean Bank, announces that Dean Bank will continue Dancing on Dean, its free summer concert series, for the second year on Friday.

Dancing on Dean is a “block party-style” event taking place in the bank’s 21 Main St. back parking lot, complete with live music, beer and wine, local restaurants offering food for purchase and fun. It’s something Goffe has dreamed of doing in downtown for years.

“Through the efforts and cooperation of town officials, the Franklin Downtown Partnership, the Franklin School for the Performing Arts, other local businesses and our employees, we’re excited to be able to announce that the next Dancing on Dean will take place on Friday July 19 from 6-9 p.m.,” he said.

Each Dancing on Dean features a live band throughout the evening and dancing is encouraged. Goffe hopes local bands will become interested in playing in front of a hometown crowd, in a family-friendly environment as the event gains momentum."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20190715/dean-bank-to-host-dancing-on-dean-in-franklin

Dancing on Dean - Old Town - July 19, 2019

"With the annual state budget now 15 days late and negotiators acknowledging still-unresolved issues, House Speaker Robert DeLeo indicated on Monday that a compromise might not be within reach this month and said the governor should file legislation that would ensure government continues to operate into August.

The speaker’s statement on Monday came just hours after he publicly hinted that legislative leaders may have to consider “other options” for resolving a fiscal year 2020 budget if talks continue to drag later into July, a month in which state spending is covered by an interim $5 billion appropriation with no exact date for when funding will run dry.

“Based on the current status of the negotiations, the Speaker feels it would be prudent for the Governor to file a 1/12th budget for August to ensure the Commonwealth’s fiscal obligations are met,” DeLeo spokeswoman Catherine Williams told the News Service in a statement."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20190715/seeking-other-options-deleo-calls-for-interim-august-budget

In the News: Scooping the summer job; MA State budget late again

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

Scooping the summer job

"Corrin Fernald, 15, had applied for what seemed like her 15th job, and was promptly rejected for what seemed like the 15th time.

The incoming sophomore at Tri-County Regional Vocational Technical High School landed her first job last year at Molly’s Apothecary in Medway. But under child labor laws, she only worked about three times a month for two hours at a time.

Eager to earn more money for a car and to help fund her college education, she applied to about 10 other businesses a few months later, from supermarkets to coffee shops - and was turned away at all of them.

Fernald knows of only about five other 15-year-olds with jobs, and they were hired because they knew the employer, she said. She wondered why no one would hire her."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20190713/franklin-teens-scoop-up-cool-job

https://twitter.com/milforddaily/status/1150233218056118272

MA State budget late again

“Obviously, state aid is very important to the town, but if it’s a couple weeks late, then it really doesn’t have any impact on our operations,” said Natick Finance Director John Townsend.

As legislators finished their second week of the new fiscal year without a statewide budget, local government financial experts have mixed feelings about lawmakers’ tardiness.

“It affects us in that we’re not exactly sure how much money we’re getting from the state,” said Christopher Sandini, Franklin’s finance director. “Everything trickles down. If they’re late, then we can’t finalize our plans.”

On the first day after the deadline, July 1, Gov. Charlie Baker told the State House News Service he doesn’t have a problem with a budget coming in “a week or two” late. In a summary of discussions with leadership on Beacon Hill, the news agency has repeatedly called the group “unfazed.”

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20190713/local-officials-eager-for-state-to-finalize-budget

https://malegislature.gov/Legislators/Senate

In the News: still no State budget

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"There were no fiscal fireworks coming from the Massachusetts Statehouse this past week as a deadline for producing a new state budget passed quietly without eliciting much, if any, concern from state leaders.

A six-member legislative conference committee led by Senate Ways and Means Chairman Michael Rodrigues and House Ways and Means Chairman Aaron Michlewitz is working to settle disagreements between the two chambers over a $42.7 billion spending plan for the 12-month period that started July 1.

Meanwhile state government is operating on a stopgap budget."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20190707/talks-drag-into-states-new-fiscal-year

https://malegislature.gov/Legislators/Senate

Town of Franklin: Fiscal 2020 first quarter Real Estate and Personal Property

Fiscal 2020 first quarter Real Estate and Personal Property

Treasurer Collector Kerri A. Bertone has mailed the Fiscal 2020 first quarter Real Estate and Personal Property tax bills. Payment is due by 8-1-19. Payments received after that date will be charged 14% interest.

Town of Franklin: Fiscal 2020 first quarter Real Estate and Personal Property

In the News: MA FY 2020 budget late; FHS Hagen didn't miss day of school

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"State lawmakers and Gov. Charlie Baker will head into another new fiscal year on Monday without an annual budget in place.

While most states around the country have wrapped up annual budget deliberations, Democratic leaders in the House and Senate here have been unable to bridge disagreements over pieces of their nearly $43 billion spending bills.

The bills take different approaches to school aid, prescription drug price controls, a tuition and fee freeze at the University of Massachusetts and aid to the struggling nursing home industry, among other issues.

Negotiators are deliberating privately and have not disclosed what’s holding up an on-time agreement."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20190630/state-budget-talks-spill-into-new-fiscal-year

https://malegislature.gov/Legislators/Senate

"Six years ago, when the Daily News interviewed Lauren Hagen after she completed 13 years of public schooling without being absent for a single day, she appeared to issue a challenge to her younger brother Michael, then a sixth-grader.

“Even though a lot of people think it’s crazy, he should really push for it, because it’s such a great accomplishment and a great way to end your public school career,” Lauren said at the time.

Michael not only accepted his sister’s challenge, he fulfilled it.

From kindergarten through his senior year, also at Franklin High, Michael Hagen never missed a day."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20190629/franklins-michael-hagen-never-missed-day-of-school

"We will need to consider an override on FY 21 to maintain level services"

In my rush to post the info for the Joint Budget Subcommittee meeting Wednesday evening, I had not noticed the document contained an updated 5 year fiscal outlook. Town Administrator Jamie Hellen lays out the numbers as they are and shows the budget vs. revenue forecast is red for the next several years. 

As the letter (below), explains this is not a new issue. To the Town's credit, the fiscal planning that has been in place for the last several years has avoided this inevitable choice. There is a 5 year plan. There was savings put aside in the debt stabilization account. This amount was then used in the past two years to avoid further cuts. The School Budget has used their revolving fund balances for the past three years.

Plans have started for an override to be put before the voters for the FY 2021 budget. The specific amount and details remain to be finalized. The timing of the override vote also remains to be determined.

"Please find attached the five year fiscal forecast. I would like to remind everyone this is a "forecast". It uses information from the past and present to predict the future. Similar to a weather forecast, there are many factors that will affect what will actually happen. The forecast shows deficits in each year, but the Town is required by law to have a balanced budget, so decisions will be made along the way to ensure we comply with the requirement. 

The takeaway message from all reports is that Franklin will continue to struggle to maintain high quality school and municipal services given the fiscal constraints that we operate under. In the long run, it will come down to a decision by the voters of Franklin to pay higher taxes or reduce the current level of services. The forecast shows that if the town wants to maintain the same service level it will need about a $4 million override for FY 21. This amount could change based on many unknowns and assumptions at this time, however I can't see any scenario that would not require additional tax dollars. 

In short, the cost of doing business is exceeding our ability to raise the necessary revenue to pay for the services we enjoy. I cannot put it more succinctly than that. 

This is not a new message. Over the past many years, we have both reduced services and increased taxes in order to arrive at the level of service the citizens enjoy today. Both the School Department and the Municipal departments have all made significant reforms to their operations to keep our tax rate low. We will never stop this effort and will continue to work within what the citizens give us to work with. 

We do know that: 

• Our population has increased from about 30,000 in 2001 to over 35,000 in 2020 and it will continue to increase. Currently there are over 1,000 housing units recently constructed, under construction or in the "pipeline". 
• Health/pension/insurance care costs continue to be a concern. 
• Wage increases have been modest but they put a huge pressure on the budget. 
• Our unfunded retiree health insurance obligation is $74,000,000 (2018). 
• Our unfunded pension liability is $41,000,000 (2018). 
• We do not have the funds to provide "level services for the FY 20 School budgets and the Town services.
• We have no adequate funding source for roads/sidewalks. 
• The Town's capital needs will continue to grow and in a couple years, the capital needs of our schools, facilities and fields will me in the millions. 
• Water sewer rates will continue to rise due to long overdue infrastructure needs, mostly, for sewer and the Beaver Street Interceptor. 
• Open space is at a critical state where with little land left, the Town will need to invest in open space, as well. 

Franklin is in generally good financial shape today but we will continue to struggle to maintain high quality school and municipal services given the operating fiscal constraints that we operate under. 

We are unable to maintain level service budget in FY 20 even with the use of reserves. We will need to consider an override on FY 21 to maintain level services for the citizens of Franklin. 

We will continue to do are very best on behalf of all the citizens of Franklin to maintain a high quality of life while trying to control costs to the taxpayers."

Continue reading the 5 year forecast
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Pw3aDNOdhuQPRZ3XUXYAYXu_F-p4ejdn/view?usp=sharing

"We will need to consider an override on FY 21 to maintain level services"

Joint Budget Subcommittee Meeting - June 19

Joint Budget Subcommittee Meeting

(Comprised of members of the Town Council, School Committee and Finance Committee)
June 19, 2019

3rd Floor Training Room
Municipal Building
355 East Central Street
6:00 PM

Agenda
1. FY2020 and Beyond Budget Overview

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/agendas/joint_budget_subcommittee_agenda_6-19-19.pdf

Joint Budget Subcommittee Meeting - June 19

Town Council - Budget Hearings Recap - May 22-23, 2019

A disappointing performance by the Town Council in the two budget budget hearings. Why? They conducted a "public hearing" where they did not allow the public to speak on the first night. Is that really a public hearing? The first night was also marred by a series of questions by one councilor badgering a manager with whom he clearly has demonstrated a dislike. 

This was a budget hearing not a personnel performance discussion and totally inappropriate in the 'public forum'. That no one interceded to take it offline was also a disappointment.

The second night closed on a high note with the goodbyes and well wishes for the retiring Town Administrator Jeff Nutting. Jeff has been a professional and dedicated manager for the 12 plus years I have observed and reported on the town's business. I wish him well in his retirement.

Oh and yes, the budget as proposed was passed with two votes. The two votes were required to enable Councilor Glenn Jones to participate in almost all of the discussion and only recuse himself from the vote on the Tri-County portion of the budget. A sensible solution to a potential conflict of interest situation.

The schools will cut teachers, kindergarten aides, and high schoolers will pay for parking among the key take aways. Many of the critical needs prepared for by the schools in their initial budget will go unmet. It may be just this year but for the students, it is one year in school that they don't get to do over. 

The method of sharing the budget info is not one that works well. While the Council got their questions answered, they easily skipped over including the public in the discussion. Given the reality of tough budget decisions next year and more across the board than the road repair funds and schools, this should also be a consideration. How best to get the residents and voters involved with the budget details?

Links below provide the detailed notes reported during the meetings as well as links to the budget documents.


Wednesday, May 22

• Live Reporting: Legislation for Action to Closing
• https://www.franklinmatters.org/2019/05/live-reporting-legislation-for-action_22.html
• Live reporting: Town Council - May 22, 2019 - Budg...
• https://www.franklinmatters.org/2019/05/live-reporting-town-council-may-22-2019.html

Agenda for the first hearing
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2019/05/franklin-ma-town-council-agenda-may-22.html


Thursday, May 23

• Real time Reporting: Town Council - Budget Hearing...
• https://www.franklinmatters.org/2019/05/real-time-reporting-town-council-budget.html

Agenda for the second hearing
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2019/05/franklin-ma-town-council-agenda-may-23.html

Will be reporting remotely this evening for the Town Council meeting budget hearing #2 #tc0523 pic.twitter.com/0ExWrSvmOC

— Steve Sherlock (@FranklinMatters) May 23, 2019

With budget hearing scheduled to open at 7:10 looks like Council meeting won't be starting until then (albeit published for a 7 start) #tc0523 pic.twitter.com/I0DWC91vh9

— Steve Sherlock (@FranklinMatters) May 23, 2019

Kit Brady speaking for better funding for schools and our children. #tc0523 pic.twitter.com/DGORGq7KAP

— Steve Sherlock (@FranklinMatters) May 23, 2019

Two votes to pass the one FY 2020 town budget #tc0523 pic.twitter.com/w5eT3TN4Ze

— Steve Sherlock (@FranklinMatters) May 23, 2019

Town administrator Jeff Nutting makes his final report #tc0523 pic.twitter.com/TfTkY5YY90

— Steve Sherlock (@FranklinMatters) May 23, 2019

New town administrator Jamie Hellen making his thanks for Jeff and getting ready for what comes #tc0523 pic.twitter.com/KyaiKlOE1v

— Steve Sherlock (@FranklinMatters) May 23, 2019

Rep Jeff Roy presents a resolution from the MA House to recognize Jeff Nutting for his many years of service finishing in Franklin #tc0523 pic.twitter.com/BHYdpRIFvN

— Steve Sherlock (@FranklinMatters) May 23, 2019

New Town Administrator Jamie Hellen makes his remarks thanking
Jeff Nutting for his service and guidance