Showing posts with label Norfolk. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Norfolk. Show all posts

Tuesday, April 29, 2025

Finance Committee hears of the Franklin School budget as proposed (video)

The Finance Committee held their first of 3 budget hearings for the FY 2026 budget on Monday, April 28, 2025. All 8 members were present in Council Chambers.

Franklin TV recording available for replay -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t2k6pGMSzeU


Quick recap:
  • 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.
My notes captured during the meeting via Twitter

Finance Committee hears of the Franklin School budget as proposed (video)
Finance Committee hears of the Franklin School budget as proposed (video)



Saturday, April 26, 2025

Franklin, MA: Finance Committee Agenda for 1st Budget hearing, Mon, Apr 28 (education)

Finance Committee Meeting 
Agenda & Meeting Packet 
Monday, April 28, 2025


Agenda 

1. Call to Order 

2. Public Comments 

3. Approval of Minutes 
a. January 15, 2025 

4. FY26 Town Administrator Operating Budget Hearing FY26 
Town Administrator Budget Materials website ->   https://www.franklinma.gov/Archive.aspx?ADID=500
FPS FY26 Budget Book
FPS FY26 Budget Book
a. Public Education : 
i. 395 Norfolk County Agricultural School 
ii. 390 Tri-County Regional Vocational School District 
iii. 300 Franklin Public School District 
1. 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

5. Adjourn



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" -> https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1061

The hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, April 8, 2025 from 01:00 PM -  5:00 PM in A-1

Anyone can submit written public comment or sign up to make public comment in person. The instructions to do so are here: https://malegislature.gov/Events/Hearings/Detail/5121
 
 
Note: A view of the legislative history shows that this bill has been submitted for multiple sessions. Maybe with this hearing process, it might actually get acted upon.

"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

Franklin Art Association Art Show and Sale Exhibit - Mar 31 through Apr 25, 2025
Franklin Art Association Art Show
and Sale Exhibit - Mar 31 through Apr 25, 2025
Exhibit Open: March 31 - April 25, 2025

Opening Reception: Thursday, April 10 6:30 - 8:00 PM

Hosted at the 
Norfolk Public Library 
139 Main Street
Norfolk MA

 

Download the flyer as a reminder or to share -> 

 

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."
Continue reading the article (subscription maybe required) -> 

Thursday, August 22, 2024

Saturday, August 3, 2024

Cactus And Succulent Festival - Sep 14

Free Admission, Parking, and Plants

Norfolk, Mass – September 14th

The Cactus and Succulent Society of Massachusetts will be presenting its 18th Annual Cactus and Succulent Festival on Norfolk Town Common and also in the Norfolk Library from 9 AM until 4 PM on Saturday, September 14th. 

Admission is Free. The First 50 attendees on each day will receive a free cactus or succulent plant!

On display in the library will be hundreds of striking cacti and succulents. Often referred to as living sculptures, cacti and succulents are truly exotic plants. From as small as a pebble to as big as a house, these plants have devised many ways to deal with blazing hot deserts, freezing mountains, and impenetrable jungles.

The Festival will also feature 25 Horticultural Vendors and a Veggie Truck loaded with a large assortment of locally grown produce. Attendees can treat themselves to fresh produce and exotic plants all in one beautiful location – Norfolk, Mass. 

For more information, check out the Massachusetts Cactus and Succulent Society website at CSSMA.ORG or on Facebook.

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
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.org.

Thursday, October 26, 2023

Senator Rausch schedules Central Region Town Hall on October 30 at Norfolk Public Library


View this email in your browser
Senator Rausch schedules Central Region Town Hall on October 30 at Norfolk Public Library

Dear Franklin Resident,

A quick reminder to please join me and my team at our upcoming Town Hall in the Central Region of our district this coming Monday, October 30 at 6pm at the Norfolk Public Library. We will give some legislative and other updates from Beacon Hill, and chat about your questions, comments, and ideas. Residents from any part of the district are invited to attend. We will be joined by our partners in local government and State Representative Marcus Vaughn. I hope to see you there.


Senator Rausch schedules Central Region Town Hall
Senator Rausch schedules Central Region Town Hall


When: October 30, 2023 at 6pm (doors open at 5:45pm)
Where: Norfolk Public Library, 2 Liberty Lane

As always, if you are a constituent and need assistance, please don't hesitate to call me and my team at (617) 722-1555, email me at becca.rausch@masenate.gov, or attend upcoming office hours. We are here to help.


Yours in service,  

 
Senator Becca Rausch   

Sign up for a 15-minute appointment here
Twitter
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Our mailing address is:
The Office of Senator Becca Rausch
Massachusetts State House, Room 215
24 Beacon Street, Boston, MA 02133                          

Tuesday, August 22, 2023

Cactus and Succulent Festival - Sep 16 & 17

The Cactus and Succulent Society of Massachusetts will be presenting its 17th Annual Cactus and Succulent Festival on Norfolk Town Common and also in the Norfolk Library over the weekend of September 16th and 17th. 

The Festival is open on Saturday from 9 AM until 4 PM and on Sunday from 10 AM until 2 PM. Admission is Free. The First 50 attendees on each day will receive a free cactus or succulent plant! While the Show is on both Saturday and Sunday, the Sale is only on Saturday.

On display will be hundreds of striking cacti and succulents. Often referred to as living sculptures, cacti and succulents are truly exotic plants. From as small as a pebble to as big as a house, these plants have devised many ways to deal with blazing hot deserts, freezing mountains, and impenetrable jungles.

The Festival will also feature more than 25 Horticultural Vendors and a Farmer’s Market. So attendees can treat themselves to fresh produce and exotic plants all in one beautiful location – Norfolk, Mass.

For more information, check out the Massachusetts Cactus and Succulent Society website at CSSMA.ORG or on Facebook.

Download this flyer as a reminder or to share -> 

Cactus and Succulent Festival - Sep 16 & 17
Cactus and Succulent Festival - Sep 16 & 17

Sunday, May 14, 2023

Finance Committee Budget Hearing #2 gets to hear from Norfolk Aggie, Tri-County & Franklin Public Schools (audio)

FM #995 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 995 in the series. 


This session of the radio show shares the Finance Committee meeting and second of three budget hearings for the FY 2024 budget year. The meeting was held on Wednesday, May 10, 2023. 


All 9 members of the Finance Committee participated; 7 present in the Council Chambers, 2 remote. Town Administrator Jamie Hellen, Comptroller Chris Sandini, Treasurer/Collector Kerri Bertone. 


Norfolk Agriculture & Tri-County covered their budgets and answered questions followed by the Franklin School budget. 


Quick recap:

  • John Martin, Superintendent Norfolk Aggie; John Wallace, Business Manager, Norfolk Aggie

    • Norfolk Aggie, 365 acres, inc in 1916 first campus in Weymouth #fincom0510 four courses of study, explore frosh and soph year then choose major for junior and senior studies

    • Animal science is the most popular of the four studies, about 560 total, 16 students from Franklin this year, 3 seniors, applications are open for next year

    • 40 students from Boston making it the largest sending community. There is demand for the programs, they do have a wait list

  • Karen McGuire, Tri-County Superintendent, presenting along with Dan Haynes,  Business Manager

    • Should hear in June about the final cost of the proposed building replacement, and then in August on what MSBA will provide for reimbursement, assuming they do. At that time, the 11 sending communities have 120 days to vote to approve the building proposal

    • How the individual communities fund the cost is up to them, cost allocation based upon sending students

  • Franklin’s budget was presented by Supt Lucas Giguere, Business Manage Miriam Goodman, School Cmte budget subcmte Chair Dave McNeill


The meeting recording runs about 1 hour and 55 minutes, so let’s listen to the Finance Committee meeting May 10, 2023.

Audio file -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-995-finance-cmte-budget-hearing-2-05-10-23


--------------

Meeting agenda document ->   https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/agendas/_2023-05-10_finance_committee_agenda_2.pdf 


FY 2024 budget information -> https://www.franklinma.gov/town-budget/webforms/fy-24-budget-materials 


My notes ->   https://drive.google.com/file/d/1gsupUzfumR385d7qcgklxMfI7enZjmVU/view?usp=share_link 


Link to Finance Committee => https://www.franklinma.gov/finance-committee 


YouTube recording =>  https://www.youtube.com/live/1-4GwOsbRNc?feature=share 


Photos captured during the meeting can be found in one album -> 

For Tri-County slides -> https://photos.app.goo.gl/6akR6TvwSyrYvkFh6 


For FPS slides -> https://photos.app.goo.gl/2WYTBKhpxisJFUuT9 


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We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) or 102.9 on the Franklin area radio dial.  


This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but we can't do it alone. We can always use your help.

 

How can you help?

  • If you can use the information that you find here, please tell your friends and neighbors

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Through this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.


For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/ or www.franklin.news/

If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com


The music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana"  c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.


I hope you enjoy!

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Tri-County budget is very similar to Franklin's in regards to salary & benefits as percent of total budget
Tri-County budget is very similar to Franklin's in regards to salary & benefits as percent of total budget


Thursday, May 11, 2023

Finance Committee gets to hear from Norfolk Aggie, Tri-County & Franklin Public Schools (video)

The Franklin Finance Committee met for the second of their 3 budget hearings on Wednesday, May 10 at 7 PM. Schools were the topic for the evening. The FinCom heard for the first time from Norfolk Aggie, got an update from Tri-County, and spent the most time trying to understand the Franklin schools systemic budget issue.

The third and final hearing takes place on Thursday, May 11 also scheduled for 7 PM.

Presentation documents for Tri-County and Franklin Public Schools are scheduled to be added to the Town page. Once those links are identified, they'll be added here. In the meantime, photos capturing the slides used are available.

a. Education:
i. 395 Norfolk County Agricultural School  FY 2024 budget -> 
https://cms5.revize.com/revize/norfolkcountyma/FY24%20Norfolk%20County%20Budget%20V3%204-12-23.1.pdf
ii. 390 Tri-County Regional Vocational School District  FY 2023 budget ->  https://tri-county.us/budgets-financial-documents/
iii. 300 Franklin Public School District  -> FY 2024 -> 
https://www.franklinps.net/fy24budget




one slide from the Tri-County update to the FinCom on Weds
one slide from the Tri-County update to the FinCom on Weds