The Franklin Police Department is proud to congratulate Dave Ricci on his promotion to Sergeant

CONGRATULATIONS, SERGEANT RICCI!

The Franklin Police Department is proud to congratulate Dave Ricci on his promotion to Sergeant!

Sgt. Ricci joined the Franklin Police Department in 2018 after transferring from the Boston Transit Police Department. Before beginning his career in law enforcement, he served our country as a U.S. Navy Corpsman.

Throughout his service to Franklin, Sgt. Ricci has made a tremendous impact on our department. He serves as the FPD’s Veterans Liaison Officer, is one of our medical coordinators and instructors, and has been instrumental in enhancing department training.

Sgt. Ricci developed our EpiPen program, Combat Casualty Care program, and in-house CPR/First Responder training program, helping ensure our officers are better prepared to respond when seconds matter. His dedication and service to the Town of Franklin have also earned him numerous awards and recognitions.

Please join us in congratulating Sgt. Dave Ricci on this well-deserved promotion!

Town of Franklin

Speed limit on Chestnut Street is now 30 MPH for its entire length

"30 is the new 40!

Heads up, Franklin! The speed limit on Chestnut Street is now 30 MPH for its entire length.

Please slow down, stay alert, and watch for pedestrians, cyclists, and other motorists.

Help us keep Franklin’s roads safe for everyone. Drive safely! "

Town of Franklin

Franklin Department of Public Works

Shared from - https://www.facebook.com/share/19buyhYhJd/ 

Traffic & Radar requests for Franklin, MA nieghborhoods can now be made online

via Franklin Police Dept

"Have a traffic concern in your neighborhood?

Got drivers treating your neighborhood like the Mass Pike? Stop signs that seem to be more of a suggestion? Speed limits that apparently nobody got the memo about?

The Franklin Police Department accepts requests for radar enforcement and targeted traffic enforcement to help address traffic concerns throughout town.

📍 Think your street could use a little extra attention? Let us know!

👉 Submit a Safety Division Service Request here:"

https://franklinma.gov/FormCenter/Police-Safety-Division-7/Safety-Division-Service-Request-48

Franklin Police Department welcomes Officer Patrick Slason

via Franklin Police Dept

"Please join us in welcoming Officer Patrick Slason to the Franklin Police Department!

Officer Slason joins the FPD as a transfer from the New Bedford Police Department, where he served for the past year. He is a graduate of the Plymouth Police Academy and proudly served in the United States Marine Corps prior to beginning his career in law enforcement. 

In addition to his military and law enforcement experience, Officer Slason holds a bachelor’s degree in business from Suffolk University and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in criminal justice.

Officer Slason is currently assigned to our Patrol Division and Field Training Program, where he will continue building on his experience while serving the Franklin community.

We are excited to welcome Officer Slason to the team and look forward to working with him!

Welcome to Franklin, Officer Slason!"

Shared from - https://www.facebook.com/share/1W3iSBj9rg/ 

Community Heroes Day celebrated at the Children's Museum with Free Entry Oct 7, 2026

THIS Wednesday, Oct 7, we’re celebrating the people who help keep our community safe — and museum admission is FREE all day!

🚒 Community Heroes Day — Wednesday, October 7, 9 am–2 pm

Join us for a special day of play, exploration and community connection.

🚓 Touch-a-Truck with Franklin Police & Fire Franklin Police Franklin Fire Department 

🦺 Hands-on safety programming

🎟️ FREE museum admission all day

Community Heroes Day is made possible with support from Dean Bank.

It’s BACKKKKKKKK!!! - Celebrate Halloween at the Franklin Police Station - Saturday October 24

via Officer Frankie

"It’s BACKKKKKKKK!!! 

Come on down to the Franklin Police Station on Saturday October 24th from 2 PM - 5 PM and celebrate Halloween with your favorite spooky Officers. 

Come one come all, everyone is welcome and it’s FREE to the public.  

And make sure you say hello to Ben and I as we make our way around. 

Hope to see you all there!"

Shared from - https://www.instagram.com/p/DdSnhutOx5H/

Franklin Fire Dept 25th Anniversary 9/11 Memorial Services (audio)

FM #1819 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1819 in the series. 

This session of the radio show shares the Franklin Fire Dept 25th Anniversary 9/11 Memorial Services. Franklin Firefighters Local along Franklin Police Dept conducted the services at the headquarter fire station, downtown Franklin, September 11, 2026. 

Speakers in order

• Master of Ceremony - Josh Impey

• Chaplain Bob Poitras 

• State Representative Jeff Roy and State Senator Becca Rausch 

• Deputy Police Chief West, and Police Chief TJ Lynch 

• Fire Chief Charles Allen 

• Musical performances of the National Anthem, Amazing Grace, and Taps performed by Franklin High School students guided by Dianne Plouffe

The ceremony runs about 40 minutes. Let’s listen in

Audio link - https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1819-franklin-fire-25th-anniversary-9-11-memorial-svc-09-11-26/

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

Link to photo album - https://photos.app.goo.gl/7vj3TE2SjyY9rf5LA

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

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

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

How can you help?

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

• If you don't like something here, please let me know

• And if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We’ll share and show you what and how we do what we do

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!

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

You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"

Please join us for our 25th Anniversary 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony

We would like to invite our community to join us as we honor the memory of the lives lost on September 11, 2001, and recognize the courage and sacrifice of the first responders who answered the call.

📅 Friday, September 11th at 9:00 AM

📍 Franklin Fire Headquarters

40 West Central St., Franklin, MA 02038

Reminder: Bike and Helmet Safety Event - September 12 - 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM at Franklin High School

When:    September 12th, 9:30-11:00 AM

Where:     Franklin High School Parking Lot

Hosted by Alison Rheaume, Representative Roy, and the Franklin Police Department

Free helmets!! (while supplies last)

• free bike raffle
• bike course*
• coloring table*
• fire truck
• vendor tables
• decorate your helmet*
• “Buddy the Brain” story stroll

*All activities include adaptive options!

visit the event webpage for additional details - 

https://alirheaume.com/safetyevent

Franklin Police Department advice for Lincoln St parents (and those who use Lincoln St during school start and end time frames)

"First things first… yes, we used a picture of Ben to get your attention. 

It worked. You’re here. Mission accomplished. 

Now for the important part:

📚 Student Drop-Off: Please do NOT arrive at Lincoln Street School before 8:10 AM.

🏫 Student Pick-Up: Please do NOT arrive before 2:35 PM.

When vehicles begin lining up well before the designated times, the line can quickly stretch several hundred feet onto Lincoln Street and come to a complete standstill.

And when traffic stops moving, we start seeing vehicles attempting to pass the line by entering the oncoming traffic lane. That creates a significant safety concern for students, families, pedestrians, and everyone else using Lincoln Street.

⏰ The goal is simple: Please arrive at 8:10 AM for arrival and 2:35 PM for dismissal — and not before.

Doing so should help keep the line moving continuously, even if that movement occasionally resembles a very slow-moving parade.

For everyone traveling through the Lincoln Street area during arrival and dismissal, we also ask for a little patience during the first few weeks of school.

Consider this your official invitation to:

🎧 Start that audiobook you’ve been meaning to listen to

🎶 Enjoy your favorite playlist

☕ Take a deep breath and finish your coffee

🧘 Practice some mindful meditation

📱 Or simply remind yourself that you, too, were once responsible for getting to school on time.

Most importantly, please do not pass stopped traffic in the oncoming lane. A few extra minutes of patience is worth keeping everyone safe.

Thank you for helping us keep Lincoln Street School traffic safe, predictable, and moving!

And remember… Ben is watching. 

Franklin Public School District MA

Town of Franklin"

Shared from - https://www.facebook.com/share/1HEwz1pttQ/

Franklin Police Dept: "SCHOOL’S IN (almost). SLOW DOWN."

"The flashing lights are on, the school zone signs are out, and our students are almost back!

When those lights are flashing, the school-zone speed limit is 20 MPH. That isn’t a suggestion, a challenge, or a recommendation. It’s the law.

Kids can be unpredictable. They may cross the street, step into a crosswalk, or suddenly appear from between parked cars. Slowing down gives everyone more time to react and helps keep our children safe.

20 means 20. Not 25. Not 30. And definitely not “ I’m late for work.”

Please slow down, stay alert, put the phone down, and watch carefully for children, pedestrians, buses, and crossing guards."

— Your friendly neighborhood Franklin Police Department

Shared from - https://www.facebook.com/share/18LpMKQJpH/

Bike and Helmet Safety Event - September 12 - 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM

When:    September 12th, 9:30-11:00 AM

Where:     Franklin High School Parking Lot

Hosted by Alison Rheaume, Representative Roy, and the Franklin Police Department

Free helmets!! (while supplies last)

• free bike raffle
• bike course*
• coloring table*
• fire truck
• vendor tables
• decorate your helmet*
• “Buddy the Brain” story stroll

*All activities include adaptive options!

visit the event webpage for additional details - 

https://alirheaume.com/safetyevent

Catch up to see the daily duties of Officer Frankie (video reel)

"What a weeek it’s been and it’s only Wednesday 

Last Friday we went to a touch a truck at the Learning Express, yesterday we went and visited at the Medway Police Camp, visit ECDC Pond Street, last night we went to the Ashland Police Departments National night out, and today we got to meet the incoming middle schoolers at the Franklin Middle School.

I got to see so many of my two legged and four legged friends 

Ohhhhh and Dad and I got our new ride.  It’s soooooo nice!!!! 

Time to answer calls then go home and play ball. 

Thank you to everyone who included us in their special events"

video reel at Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/reels/Dbqyxk-uXdn/

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Officer_Frankie (@officer_frankie)

Franklin Police Dept: Now Hiring: Co-Response Clinician

The Franklin Police Department is seeking a compassionate, licensed (or license-eligible) mental health professional to join our team as a Co-Response Clinician.

In this rewarding role, you'll partner directly with Franklin Police officers to respond to calls for service, provide on-scene crisis intervention, conduct clinical assessments, connect individuals and families with community resources, and help improve outcomes during behavioral health emergencies.

🕒 Schedule:

Wednesday–Friday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Saturday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (40 hours/week; schedule subject to change)

💰 Salary: $71,000–$85,000 annually

We're looking for someone with:

✔ Master's degree in social work, psychology, counseling, or a related field

✔ 2+ years of crisis intervention experience

✔ Experience working with law enforcement and knowledge of the Co-Response model

✔ Strong communication, collaboration, and crisis management skills

📅 Priority Application Deadline: August 8, 2026

📧 How to Apply:

Email your resume and cover letter (or a Town of Franklin employment application) in Microsoft Word or PDF format to apply@franklinma.gov with "Co-Response Clinician" in the subject line.

Join us in making a meaningful difference by connecting individuals in crisis with the care and resources they need while helping keep our community safe.

A full job description and posting can be found here: 

https://franklinma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/9240/Co-Response-Clinician

Franklin Police Dept shares E-Bike Operation Rules and Law

The Town of Franklin E-Bike Users are required to follow general bicycle and e-bike laws enacted by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Under G.L. c. 85, § 11B3/4, Class 1 and 2 e-bikes are treated the same as pedal-powered bicycles. Massachusetts Laws about Bicycles.

You’re riding a MOTORIZED BIKE! 

You must have a driver’s license, registration, and a moped license plate.

Any e-bike exceeding the power or speed thresholds of Class 1 or 2 or has been modified is considered a “motorized bicycle” under M.G.L. c. 90, § 1. Violators will be towed and face criminal charges. 

E-Bike operation is prohibited on:

• On sidewalks, unless expressly permitted by local ordinance
• NRC Trails
• Playing Fields
• Dirt Paths
• School Fields

E-Bike operation allowed on:

• Public Roads
• Bike Lanes
• Shared Paved Paths

Traffic Laws: Riders must follow traffic laws as motor vehicles & traditional bicycles, including obeying traffic signals, yielding to pedestrians, and riding safely and predictably.

Scooters Laws and Regulations: Users are required to follow general scooter laws enacted by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Under G.L. c. 90, § 1E

• Riders must be at least 16 years old and hold a valid driver’s license or learner’s permit. 
• Helmets are required.  
• Maximum speed is 20 mph.  
• No passengers allowed.  
• Riding not permitted after sunset or before sunrise.  
• Not allowed to be operated on sidewalks.

Shared from - https://www.facebook.com/franklinmapolice/posts/pfbid02K3pUeA2HB6j6Ev2ARL1LjRhwBcP379a7qNcorS71yAz4RYZmPC8F55AjsDXNmjKkl

Reminder: Franklin Police Annual Golf Tournament - Aug 31, 2026

Mark your calendars for August 31, 2026 and join us at Franklin Country Club for a great day of golf, community, and giving back!

This isn’t just a tournament—it’s our ONLY annual fundraiser, and it directly supports so much in our community, including:

• Scholarships for Franklin High School seniors
• Local youth sports teams
• Events like the annual luncheon at the Senior Center
• Supplemental support for our holiday toy drive
• …and more

Scan the QR code OR register here:   https://birdease.com/35204

✔️ Register your foursome

✔️ Explore sponsorship opportunities

✔️ Make a donation if you’d like to support the cause

Whether you’re playing, sponsoring, or donating—every bit makes a difference right here in Franklin.

Grab your friends, swing for a cause, and help us continue giving back to the community we’re proud to serve 

Shared from - https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1BVK9VG3wV/

Fatal Motor Vehicle Crash Involving Bicyclist Under Investigation

On June 23, 2026, at approximately 3:20 PM the Metacomet Emergency Communications Center received multiple 911 calls reporting a motor vehicle crash involving a bicyclist in the area of King Street and the Interstate 495 North off-ramp. Callers reported that the bicyclist was a juvenile.

Officers from the Franklin Police Department and members of the Franklin Fire Department responded to the scene and immediately initiated life-saving measures. The bicyclist was transported to UMass Memorial Medical Center, where he was later pronounced deceased.

The victim has been identified as a 15-year-old Franklin resident.

The crash remains under investigation by the Franklin Police Department, the Massachusetts State Police Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Section, and the Norfolk District Attorney’s Office. The operator of the involved vehicle remained at the scene and is cooperating with investigators.

The Franklin Police Department extends its deepest condolences to the victim’s family, friends, and all those affected by this tragic incident.

No other information is being released at this time. Any other inquiries should be made to the Norfolk District Attorney's Office.

Town Council witnesses backfill new hires sworn in & approves committee appointments (audio)

FM #1772 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, numbers 172 in the series. 

This session shares the Franklin (MA) Town Council meeting held on Wednesday, June 17, 2026. The Council held this session as scheduled beginning at 6 PM. All 9 members participated in Chambers. 

The meeting recording runs about 1 hours and 40 minutes

Audio link -  https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1772-franklin-ma-town-council-mtg-06-17-26/

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

Town Council poses with backfill new hires

Franklin TV video available for replay - https://www.youtube.com/live/7ofs1YHsfj8?&t=66 

The agenda and documents released for this session - https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_06172026-2368

My notes in one PDF - https://drive.google.com/file/d/1RUd2GRsw73fPm4FS9hC690X-hR_aIM4s/view?usp=drive_link 

Photos of the swearing in's -  https://photos.app.goo.gl/U8E77Df5E6pp41iBA 

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

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

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

How can you help?

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

• If you don't like something here, please let me know

• And if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We’ll share and show you what and how we do what we do

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!

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

You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"

Town Council witnesses backfill new hires sworn in & approves committee appointments (video)

Franklin's Town Council met as scheduled on Wednesday, June 17, 2026 with all 9 members in Council Chambers for this short 90 minute session.

Franklin TV video available for replay - https://www.youtube.com/live/7ofs1YHsfj8?&t=66

The agenda and documents released for this session - https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_06172026-2368 

Quick recap

• Town Council witnessed and welcomed
• Swearing in of new Firefighter / Paramedic - Johnna Moitoso
• Swearing in of new Clinician - Danielle Machado
• Swearing in of new Officer - Caleb MacLean
• Note: These folks are all backfilling positions already part of the authorized hire level and which were open due to individuals leaving for some reason. The 2 School Resource officers recently authorized for FY 2027 are not expected to be filled until October
• Annual Reappointments and New Appointments of Boards and Committees Members were approved. There are approx. 20 positions across 8 boards/committees still open. Applications can be made online https://franklinmaboards.vt-s.net/newcaf.php
• 2 resolutions to prepare to close out the FY 2026 budget as the fiscal year approaches June 30
• General Funds Appropriations, Transfers and Adjustments FY26
• FY26 Snow and Ice Stabilization Account Transfer

My notes in one PDF - https://drive.google.com/file/d/1RUd2GRsw73fPm4FS9hC690X-hR_aIM4s/view?usp=drive_link

Town Council poses with backfill new hires

Photos of the swearing in's -  https://photos.app.goo.gl/U8E77Df5E6pp41iBA

Humidity did not keep the folks away, the Strawberry Stroll saw an increase in participants

From Main St between Dean and the Library looking towards Emmons St

The sun was bright, shade was sought to give a bit of relief from the humidity but the crowds kept coming. 

• Lots of happy faces were seen
• Many conversations were held
• Folks hopefully left with more info about what is available in Franklin

Thanks to the Franklin Downtown Partnership and all their vendors, organizations and volunteers for pulling this together. And of course to Franklin Police and Fire for their expert assistance in traffic control and with the occasional heat affected individuals.