![]() |
| Letter from State Rep Vaughn to Mass DEP on Kingsbury Pond Issue |
Providing accurate and timely information about what matters in Franklin, MA since 2007. * Working in collaboration with Franklin TV and Radio (wfpr.fm) since October 2019 *
Sunday, May 24, 2026
Letter from State Rep Vaughn to Mass DEP on Kingsbury Pond Issue
Wednesday, April 29, 2026
Franklin Art Association: Quick updates
- FAA Spring Show at the Norfolk Library runs through the end of this week
- The deadline to register for the Fakes & Forgeries exhibit is Saturday May 2
- The last regular meeting of the year on Wednesday May 6th 6:30pm at the Franklin Senior Center featuring guest artist Kristin Parone, a floral painter
Friday, April 10, 2026
Franklin Art Association Spring Art Show at Norfolk Public Library - Reception, April 11 from 3 to 5 PM
Monday, April 6, 2026
Franklin Art Association’s “Spring Art Show” reception at the Norfolk Library - April 11
![]() |
| Franklin Art Association’s “Spring Art Show” reception at the Norfolk Library - April 11 |
Tuesday, February 24, 2026
FAA show and sale scheduled to open April 5 at Norfolk Public Library
![]() |
| FAA show and sale scheduled to open April 5 at Norfolk Public Library |
Saturday, February 21, 2026
Narcan training at Medway & Norfolk Public Libraries on Saturday, Feb 21
Friday, November 14, 2025
Norfolk Lions host fundraiser for SAFE Coalition on Saturday, Nov 22
![]() |
| Norfolk Lions host fundraiser for SAFE Coalition on Saturday, Nov 22 |
Monday, November 3, 2025
Franklin Art Association art show open at Norfolk Library; Reception, Nov 13
![]() |
| Franklin Art Association art show open at Norfolk Library; Reception, Nov 13 |
Tuesday, September 16, 2025
Songwriting/Poetry Circle at the Norfolk Public Library - Oct 23
![]() |
| Songwriting/Poetry Circle at the Norfolk Public Library - Oct 23 |
Wednesday, May 7, 2025
What's with the Norfolk Park St bridge detour?
Park St. Bridge Closure: UPDATE - May 5, 2025
MassDOT has completed its initial evaluation of the existing Park Street Bridge structure and its condition. Through this evaluation, it has been determined that the bridge’s condition does not allow for the reopening of the bridge to its full capacity due to safety concerns for the motoring public. A full width reopening of the bridge would require the replacement of its superstructure at a minimum, and such a replacement would require a project with a dedicated funding source.
There is an opportunity to reopen the bridge at a reduced capacity in the short term. District 5 has submitted a recommendation to the MassDOT Bridge Load Rating Unit that the northbound lane on the bridge be allowed to reopen to traffic at a reduced load capacity. This recommendation would allow for passenger vehicles to utilize the northbound lane approaching Main Street but would still restrict truck traffic and other heavy vehicles. The Bridge Load Rating Unit is responsible for making the final recommendation to the State Bridge Engineer regarding the reopening of the northbound lane. Given the impacts to the community the District has requested that they make their review a high priority. While the District waits for the final determination, it is developing the necessary plans to put this changed condition in place as expeditiously as possible.
Regarding the long-term replacement of the bridge, the District has added this to its priorities for the next iteration of the State Traffic Improvement Program (STIP). This bridge is considered an On-system, non-National Highway System (NHS) bridge. Securing funding for such bridges has been difficult in recent years as most bridge funds are being utilized to address bridges that are part of the NHS. MassDOT is evaluating options to fund On-system, non-NHS poor condition bridges, and will continue to look for opportunities to address the long-term concerns at this location.
Thank you for your patience as MassDOT works to mitigate the safety concerns at this bridge. We will keep all stakeholders informed of the final determination of the Bridge Load Rating Unit as soon as it is received.
Tuesday, April 29, 2025
Finance Committee hears of the Franklin School budget as proposed (video)
- School Superintendent Lucas Giguere and Interim Business Administrator Jana Milotti made the presentation supported at different points by Dr Dutch and Asst Supt Paula Morano
- The slides of the presentation can be found -> https://photos.app.goo.gl/RZR8tubpGhMB6Ac47
- The school budget fits within the Town allocation which assumes a successful override vote on June 3. The school budget is an increase over last year by $2.9M
- Redistricting brought significant savings to the tune of $3.1M
- If the override fails, $2M would be cut from this budget (per current Town documented allocation) resulting in no decrease in sports or transportation fees, staff reductions, higher class sizes, etc. See the photo of slide page 25
- The committe meeting almost closed out without even mentioning the Norfolk Agggie or Tri-County budgets
- Tuesday night the budget items for public works and public safety are up for discussion. The meeting will be in the 3rd floor training room.
Saturday, April 26, 2025
Franklin, MA: Finance Committee Agenda for 1st Budget hearing, Mon, Apr 28 (education)
FPS FY26 Budget Book a. Public Education :i. 395 Norfolk County Agricultural Schoolii. 390 Tri-County Regional Vocational School Districtiii. 300 Franklin Public School District1. FPS FY26 Budget Book ->https://core-docs.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/4780/FPSD/5269967/-FY26_Franklin_Budget_Book_.docx_-_Google_Docs_1_.pdf
Sunday, April 6, 2025
"An Act to establish a study of Kingsbury Pond in the town of Norfolk" - H1061
![]() |
| "An Act to establish a study of Kingsbury Pond in the town of Norfolk" - H1061 |
Tuesday, March 18, 2025
Franklin Art Association Art Show and Sale Exhibit - Mar 31 through Apr 25, 2025
Saturday, August 31, 2024
Boston Globe writes "Mass. primary: Governor's Council has a lively Democratic ticket"
"It vets judicial nominees and approves politically fraught pardons, yet operates in obscurity. Now, in a political cycle largely bereft of intraparty intrigue, the little-known Governor’s Council also may boast the liveliest Democratic primary battles in Massachusetts.Fourteen Democrats are vying in Tuesday’s primary for one of the eight seats on the council, a long-ignored, sometimes ridiculed body with roots in the Colonial era. A pair of its longest-serving members are facing primary challengers in their districts, including in a tense rematch in Greater Boston. Two other seats are open. Come November, more than half of the panel could be new faces, an oddity in a State House defined by incumbent supremacy.There’s the potential for history-making, too: The batch of Democratic candidates includes three women of color, any of whom would be the first to ever serve on the council and its first person of color in more than three decades.At stake is the responsibility to vet every judge, clerk-magistrate, and Parole Board member nominee chosen by the governor, as well as any proposed pardons or commutations. As the spotlight on the power, and problems, of the US Supreme Court and federal judiciary has grown, so, too, has the interest in Massachusetts’ own judicial gatekeeper — at least say those seeking a part-time council spot and its $36,025 annual salary."
![]() |
| Video link -> Tamisha Civil |
![]() |
| Video link -> Muriel Kramer |
Thursday, August 22, 2024
Norfolk Cable presents the "District 2 Governor's Council Candidates Forum" (video)
![]() |
| (L-r) Civil, Kramer, & Reservitz |
Saturday, August 3, 2024
Cactus And Succulent Festival - Sep 14
![]() |
| Cactus And Succulent Festival - Sep 14 |
Saturday, November 4, 2023
Register O'Donnell Announces 2023 Holiday Food Drive November 14th through December 14th
The cost of living has become increasingly challenging for many individuals and families across Norfolk County, making it difficult to afford basic necessities such as food, which can be especially difficult during the holiday season when the pressure to provide for loved ones is heightened. Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell is asking people to take a moment to contribute to the Annual Registry of Deeds Food Drive, starting Tuesday November 14th and running through Thursday December 14th.
“There is no doubt that Norfolk County is a desirable place to live and to work. However, there are people throughout the county who are truly hurting. This year, we, as a community, have seen a rising demand for food assistance, and it is crucial that we come together to support those in need. By participating in the Annual Registry of Deeds Food Drive, we can make a significant impact this holiday season,” said Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell.

Register O'Donnell Announces 2023 Holiday Food Drive
November 14th through December 14th
Today, according to the latest Project Bread statistics, 18.8% of households in Massachusetts are considered food insecure. Furthermore, 21.9% of children in the state are also considered food insecure. The increasing cost of housing and food are likely factors that contribute to the rising rates of food insecurity.
Register O'Donnell noted. “As the holidays approach, there is definitely a need for more food assistance. Household expenses are higher due to the cost of home heating fuel, food bills, and increased interest rates. Some Norfolk County families are hit harder by these increased costs and worry about putting food on the table this holiday season. So, let us be mindful during this Thanksgiving season that others may need our help.”
Non-perishable food items can be brought directly to the Registry of Deeds, which is located at 649 High Street in Dedham. A donation bin will be set-up in the Registry's lobby and food can be dropped off Monday through Friday between 8:00AM to 4:30PM. Suggested donations include canned goods, breakfast cereals, pasta, sauces, toiletries, and paper products.
“We (Interfaith Social Services) are experiencing a 30% increase in the demand for food assistance which is the heist it has been in our 53 years of operation,” said Rick Doane, Executive Director for Interfaith Social Services in Quincy. “We would be extremely grateful for any assistance that the local community could provide.”
If you can't get to the Registry of Deeds building to drop off food, you can check the Registry website at www.norfolkdeeds.org for a pantry location in your community.
“Working together, we can truly make a huge difference this holiday season,” concluded Register O'Donnell. “By supporting each other and being mindful of those in need we can help those struggling with food insecurity, because no one should go hungry, especially during this time of year. I ask that we all embrace the true meaning of the Thanksgiving by showing compassion and generosity towards all.”
To learn more about these and other Registry of Deeds events and initiatives, “like” us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/norfolkdeeds. Follow us on Twitter and Instagram at @norfolkdeeds.
The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds, located at 649 High St., Dedham, is the principal office for real property in Norfolk County. The Registry is a resource for homeowners, title examiners, mortgage lenders, municipalities, and others with a need for secure, accurate, and accessible land record information. All land record research information can be found on the Registry's website, www.norfolkdeeds.org. Residents in need of assistance can contact the Registry of Deeds Customer Service Center at (781) 461-6101 or email us at registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.
Thursday, October 26, 2023
Senator Rausch schedules Central Region Town Hall on October 30 at Norfolk Public Library
|



















