Franklin, MA: Agenda for the Town Council meeting scheduled for Wednesday, Sep 3, 2025 at 7 PM

Franklin Town Council

Agenda & Meeting Packet

September 3, 2025 = 7:00 PM

1. ANNOUNCEMENTS FROM THE CHAIR

a. This meeting is being recorded by Franklin TV and shown on Comcast channel 9 and Verizon Channel 29. This meeting may be recorded by others.

b. Chair to identify members participating remotely.

c. Upcoming Town Sponsored Community Events.

2. CITIZEN COMMENTS

a. Citizens are welcome to express their views for up to three minutes on a matter that is not on the agenda. In compliance with G.L. Chapter 30A, Section 20 et seq, the Open Meeting Law, the Council cannot engage in a dialogue or comment on a matter raised during Citizen Comments. The Council may ask the Town Administrator to review the matter. Nothing herein shall prevent the Town Administrator from correcting a misstatement of fact.

3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES

a. July 23, 2025   https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/6752/3a-July-23-2025-TC-Meeting-Minutes--Draft-for-Review

b. August 13, 2025   https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/6751/3b-August-13-2025-TC-Meeting-Minutes--Draft-for-Review

4. PROCLAMATIONS / RECOGNITIONS

a. Proclamation: Hunger Action Month 

b. Police Department

i. Retirement Recognition & Proclamation: Police Sergeant Michael Campanelli

ii. Promotion Recognition: Police Sergeant Joseph MacLean

c. Retirement Recognition & Proclamation: Fire Chief James McLaughlin

5. APPOINTMENTS

a. Fire Chief 

b. Community Preservation Committee - Richard Johnson    https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/6779/5b-Appointments---CPC-and-Cultural-Council

c. Cultural Council

i. Ryan Hanley

ii. William Lee

iii. Caryn Parnell

6. PUBLIC HEARINGS - 7:00 PM - None Scheduled.

7. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS - None Scheduled.

8. PRESENTATIONS / DISCUSSION

a. Franklin Food Pantry Update: Tina Powderly, Executive Director

b. Norfolk County Sheriff’s Office Update: Patrick McDermott, Norfolk County Sheriff

c. Legislative Update: Senator Rebecca Rausch and Representative Jeff Roy

9. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION

a. Resolution 25-50: Adoption of Local Initiative Program “Friendly 40B” Policy (Tabled from July 23, 2025 Town Council Meeting) (Motion to Take Resolution 25-50 off the table (Non-debatable) - Majority Vote ) (Motion to Approve Resolution 25-50 - Majority Vote)  https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/6783/9a-25-50---Friendly-40B-Policy

b. Bylaw Amendment 25-942: A Bylaw to Amend the Code of the Town of Franklin at Chapter 170, Vehicles and Traffic - Second Reading (Motion to Approve Bylaw Amendment 25-942 - Majority Roll Call Vote)  https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/6780/9b-25-942---Lewis-Street-Parking-Restrictions

c. Resolution 25-56: Acceptance of Gifts - Veteran’s Services ($750), Senior Center ($100) (Motion to Approve Resolution 25-56 - Majority Vote)  https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/6797/9c-25-56--Gift-Acceptance---Veterans-Sr-Ctr

d. Resolution 25-57: Cable Funds in Support of PEG Service and Programming per MGL Ch. 44 §53F3/4 (Motion to Approve Resolution 25-57 - Majority Vote)  https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/6787/9d-25-57---PEG-Comcast-and-Verizon

10. TOWN ADMINISTRATORS REPORT 

11. SUBCOMMITTEE & AD HOC COMMITTEE REPORTS

a. Capital Budget Subcommittee

b. Economic Development Subcommittee

c. Joint Budget Subcommittee

d. Police Station Building Committee

e. GATRA Advisory Board

Franklin, MA: Agenda for the Town Council
meeting scheduled for Wednesday, Sep 3, 2025 at 7 PM

12. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS

13. COUNCIL COMMENTS

14. EXECUTIVE SESSION

15. ADJOURN

Note: Two-Thirds Vote: requires 6 votes

Majority Vote: requires majority of members present and voting ‘

The agenda doc also contains remote participation info ->   https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_09032025-1891 

Fall Safety Fest! scheduled for Sep 20 at Fletcher Field

Fall Safety Fest! scheduled for Sep 20 at Fletcher Field

via State Rep Jeff Roy:

Hello! Hope everyone's summer has been filled with lots of fun and happiness. While summer is coming to an end, there's still much to look forward to during the season of fall. 

For example, this September Franklin will be having its inaugural “Fall Safety Fest!” Sheriff Patrick McDermott and myself will be hosting this must attend event in Franklin on Saturday, September 20th at Fletcher Field, 45 Peck Street from 11 AM to 2 PM.

It will be an enjoyable time filled with free food, family activities, live K9 Demos, Vendors and Touch-A-Truck! 

Please come and help us support the Franklin Food Pantry where we will be collecting non-perishable food items. Hope to see you there!

Shared from -> https://www.facebook.com/share/p/14GCgAyFhuV/

Massachusetts Legislature Approves Road and Bridge Funding for Cities and Towns

Annual Chapter 90 legislation delivers funding for paving roads, easing traffic, and culvert and bridge improvements

The Massachusetts Legislature passed a bill to distribute $1.2 billion among cities and towns to maintain and repair roads and bridges across the state. Within the grants, State Representative Jeffrey Roy (D-Franklin) was pleased to advocate for the bill which provides significant funding for Franklin and Medway. Franklin will receive a total of $1,784,137.23 while Medway was awarded $797,908.81. 

Massachusetts Legislature Approves Road and Bridge Funding for Cities and Towns

“This legislation provides critical funding that allows for the needed repairs on roadways and infrastructure to ensure safer travels for my constituents and across the state,” said Representative Roy. “I want to thank House Speaker Ron Mariano and Joint Committee on Transportation House Chair James Arciero for their leadership in supporting this important piece of legislation.”

The funding, derived from bonding, will expand the Chapter 90 program and help address transportation related improvements, road and bridge repairs, and the impacts of climate change on local infrastructure.

The bill enacted includes a one-year authorization of $300 million for the Chapter 90 Program, which provides funding to local municipalities for improvements on public roadways. This makes a 50 per cent increase over past funding levels. The bill also appropriates $885 million in additional funding that will help ensure the Commonwealth is able to achieve its long-term transportation goals.

“Providing funding for critical infrastructure projects through investments in the Commonwealth’s public transportation, roads, and bridges is one of the most important responsibilities that we have as members of the Legislature,” said House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano (D-Quincy). “I’m proud of the support for local infrastructure repairs that this legislation provides, and of the funding that it allocates for projects that will address congestion hotspots across the Commonwealth. I want to thank Chairman Arciero, Chairman Finn, and all my colleagues in the House, as well as our partners in the Senate, for supporting this vital legislation.”

The one-year $300 million authorization in the Chapter 90 program funding represents a historic 50 per cent increase and includes:

• $200 million to be distributed to all municipalities based on the standard Chapter 90 program distribution formula;

• $100 million to be distributed to all municipalities based solely on road mileage.

Funding for three additional critical programs to support various transportation related projects include: 

• $500 million for the Lifecycle Asset Management Program (LAMP), which supports non-federally aided roads and targets the pavement and bridges that are in the worst condition in the Commonwealth.

• $200 million for a culvert and small bridge repair program for municipalities’ local culverts and small bridges under 20 feet that are in a state of disrepair or require replacement.

• $185 million for capital projects to reduce congestion hotspots, funding that will be available for projects such as shared use paths, intersection improvements, railroad grade crossings, and sidewalks.

State Rep Jeff Roy Newsletter Provides Updates on Recent Activities

State Rep Jeff Roy writes:

"We did a print edition of this month's newsletter which you can see in the images below. This month we cover recess, our Commonwealth heroines, the budget, and a host of other issues for Franklin and Medway. "

State Rep Jeff Roy Newsletter Provides Updates on Recent Activities

You can find this -> https://mailchi.mp/18205f20a259/march-2021-newsletter-10611322

You can subscribe to get your own copy of the newsletter -> https://jeffreyroy.com/newsletter/

2 of the Class of 2025 Heroines of Massachusetts recognized for their work at the Franklin Food Pantry

This year, the Class of 2025 Commonwealth Heroines comprises more than 125 women from across the state, leaders in industry, business, nonprofit, advocacy, and more. Read this year’s program book (link below) to learn more about their incredible stories from the legislators who nominated them.

The 22nd Annual Heroines of Massachusetts Celebration was held June 26, 2025 at the Mass State House. 

Yianna Zicherman, Milford

Yianna Zicherman

Yianna Zicherman, a Milford resident, works in the Franklin Food Pantry, and I ask that you nominate her for one of the 2025 Commonwealth Heroines awards. Yianna Zicherman manages the Pantry’s warehouse and a staff of volunteers. Yianna is not visible to the Pantry’s large coterie of clients, but more than 1,800 local families unknowingly benefit from all that she achieves for them. 

As a Pantry volunteer, Yianna’s strength in working through exhaustion and never seeking an opportunity to relax when knowing that her work is so valued by locals with food insecurities. I see her direct a volunteer staff and work together with them as they stack and organize food supplies so that the Pantry is well-prepared when the clients arrive. 

These clients include those with disabilities, the elderly on fixed incomes, some who are temporarily between jobs, and some who work but their salaries are insufficient to provide enough food for their families. Every item that is placed on shelves for the Pantry’s clients is placed there by Yianna and her volunteers. Yianna is an extraordinary woman who works hard to aid those with food insecurities. She places the needs of the less fortunate above all. - State Representative Brian Murray

Tina Taveres Powderly, Franklin

Tina Powderly

Tina Powderly is the Executive Director of the Franklin Food Pantry and led the efforts to build a new state-of-the-art facility. The new building provides a dignified and attractive space for customers to get what they need -- the food and the resources necessary for success. In 2024 alone, the Pantry reached 25,000 people and Tina’s tireless service has helped erase the stigma associated with food insecurity. Moreover, Tina has been instrumental in educating the community and raising awareness about hunger and how good food nourishes the body and powers a strong mind. 

Tina has 20 years of experience working in a variety of areas in the healthcare industry, including healthcare consulting, community benefits, and hospital business development and strategy. Tina previously was an Executive Recruiter for AMN Healthcare in its executive and leadership division. Tina also has directed the activities of the CEO’s office at Milford Regional Medical Center and worked as an independent consultant in business development at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, helping develop major expansion projects both in outlying communities and in Boston. 

Tina earned a B.S. in Business Administration from Georgetown University and an M.S. in Health Policy Management from the Harvard School of Public Health. She served on the Franklin Food Pantry’s Board of Directors from 2017 – 2021, including two years as its Chair before joining the Pantry as Executive Director. She has also served on the Hockomock YMCA Board of Managers and as Vice Chair of the Franklin Town Council. Tina resides in Franklin with her husband. They have five children. - State Representative Jeffrey Roy

For the complete listing of the Class of 2025 Commonwealth Heroines ->    https://masscsw.org/2025/06/18/read-the-2025-commonwealth-heroines-program-book/

2 of the Class of 2025 Heroines of Massachusetts
recognized for their work at the Franklin Food Pantry

Tina Powderly Honored in MA Women's Commission, Commonwealth Heroine Class of 2025

Franklin resident Tina Powderly was recently elected to the 22nd Annual Massachusetts Women's Commission "Commonwealth Heroine Class of2025." Nominated by State Representative Jeffrey N. Roy (Franklin-D), Ms. Powderly was honored alongside over 125 other distinguished women from around the Commonwealth at the State House in the Great Hall of Flags on June 26th, 2025.

Tina serves her community by working as the Executive Director of the Franklin Food Pantry. It is thanks to her that a new facility was built, leading to the feeding of over 25,000 people in 2024 alone. Tina holds experience in various fields, such as healthcare consulting, and hospital strategy, allowing her to receive leadership positions at AMN Healthcare, Milford Regional Medical Center, and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. She holds a Bachelors Degree from Georgetown University and a Masters Degree in Health Policy Management from Harvard. Tina has served on the YMCA's Board of Managers, and as Vice Chair of the Franklin Town Council. Living with her husband and five children in the community, she has served the Town of Franklin with honor and distinction.

(L-R) T Powderly, J Roy

"I'm honored to nominate Tina Powderly as a 2025 Commonwealth Heroine," said State Representative Jeffrey N. Roy. "Her selfless work in the healthcare industry, service to her community, and her leadership at the Franklin Food Pantry cement her status as an upstanding pillar of the community and display a perfect representation of a Commonwealth Heroine."

"The Commonwealth Heroines are women who don't make the news, but make all the difference in their communities," said Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women (MCSW) Chairwoman Mary-dith Tuitt. 'Thousands of women in every community across the Commonwealth perform unheralded acts on a daily basis that make our homes, neighborhoods, cities, and towns better places to live. Commonwealth Heroines use their time, talent, spirit, and enthusiasm to enrich the lives of others in their community. They are mentors, volunteers, and innovators - they are the glue that keeps a community together."

Each year the Commission partners with state legislators to identify women who make outstanding contributions to their organizations and in their communities. Each legislator is encouraged to submit one woman from their constituency as a means of recognizing their invaluable efforts and extraordinary acts of service, who are making a big difference in their communities but not necessarily making the news.

Plansee USA participates in Manufacturing Day at MA State House

The Massachusetts Legislative Manufacturing Caucus Co-Chairs, Representative Jeff Roy and Senator Paul Feeney, in conjunction with the Associated Industries of Massachusetts (AIM), recently sponsored Manufacturing Day at the State House, inviting Massachusetts Legislature members and State House staff to interact with industry leaders.

This event provided a singular opportunity for direct engagement with employers and industry leaders influencing the future of manufacturing in the Commonwealth. It also served as a platform for legislators and staff to grasp the implications of policy decisions on the manufacturing sector and to recognize the collective efforts contributing to positive outcomes in Massachusetts.

Plansee USA participates in Manufacturing
Day at MA State House

A team from Plansee USA, located in Franklin, MA, participated in the event alongside numerous manufacturers, policy leaders, advisors, and advocates. Plansee USA is a prominent center of expertise and technology, distinguished by its high-precision machining of molybdenum, tungsten, and heavy metal alloys for various industries within the US.

Shared from ->   https://www.instagram.com/p/DLmnnZDPr14/

Plansee received Tax Incremental Financing (TIF) in 2022

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2022/07/recap-town-council-recognizes-100th.html

Plansee also received a Manufacturer of the Year award in 2019

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2019/10/manufacturing-caucus-hosts-fourth.html

State Rep. Jeff Roy Visits Franklin's Horace Mann Middle School to Discuss Recess Legislation with Sixth Graders

Superintendent Lucas Giguere and Horace Mann Middle School (HMMS) teacher Joe Corey are pleased to share that students recently welcomed State Rep. Jeff Roy for an engaging conversation about the legislative process and an important bill that directly impacts them.

On a recent visit to the school, Rep. Roy met with the Grade 6 Team Lightning students to discuss pending legislation that would mandate 30 minutes of unstructured recess daily for all students in grades K-8. The visit was the latest in a series of civics-focused learning opportunities for students, who have been studying how bills become laws and advocating for causes for which they care.

State Rep. Jeff Roy recently visited with students at
Horace Mann Middle School to discuss the
legislative process and a pending
recess bill. (Photo Courtesy Franklin Public Schools)

Team Lightning educators — Mr. Joseph Corey, Ms. Lauren Goode, Mrs. Erin Bouchard and Mr. David Foster — facilitated the event, during which Rep. Roy shared his support for the recess bill and walked students through the steps of the legislative process. He noted that while the bill enjoys bipartisan support, the state’s legislative calendar runs in two-year cycles, meaning that even well-supported ideas can take time to become law.

"I really enjoyed how he explained the process of making a law," said student Clare Fisk. "It let me understand how our law would get passed. I also really liked when he told us examples of how other laws got passed."

Rep. Roy also expressed his appreciation for the students’ civic engagement, especially after learning they had submitted written testimony to the Joint Committee on Education in response to a May 6 hearing on the bill. Many students watched the hearing live in class and followed up with persuasive letters and poems advocating for recess.

"I have never met an important person of authority before," said student Sebi Ciporkin. "Their presence actually gave me goosebumps."

Students found the experience both inspiring and informative, from understanding the legislative timeline to learning about the differences between emergency bills and standard filings.

"I enjoyed meeting with my elected representative and senator because it is cool to learn more about the law-making process and it is just overall pretty cool to meet with someone who represents our state," said student Desi Camp.

The visit followed a similar conversation with state Sen. Becca Rausch, who met with students earlier this year. Both lawmakers offered students encouragement and advice for strengthening their advocacy efforts.

"They listened to our research, told us that they were on board, and then told us their facts," said student Theo Perry. "They listened to our poems and were surprised, impressed and kind."

Rep. Roy, a Franklin resident and parent of three HMMS alumni, shared memories of his own children enjoying recess and expressed concern that middle schoolers today often go without it due to academic time-on-learning requirements from the state Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE).

"We’re so proud of our students for engaging so deeply with the democratic process," said Superintendent Giguere. "Their thoughtful questions, persuasive writing and respectful dialogue with elected leaders demonstrate the powerful impact of student voice."

Audio recording of the FHA Appreciation Event held Monday, June 9, 2025 (audio)

FM #1468 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1468 in the series. 

This session shares audio recording of the Appreciation Event celebrating the collaboration that returned a single family home to Franklin housing stock. State Representative Jeff Roy hosted the event on Monday, June 9, 2025

 

Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1468-fha-appreciation-event-06-09-25/

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Video recording by Steve Sherlock (Franklin Matters/Franklin Public Radio)

Video link -> https://youtu.be/lXcfc3-nNbI

Front row (L-R) Nayda Sanchez-DeJesus, Mark Lanigan, Larry Rettman, Maurice Coleman, Jeff Roy, Chris Feeley, Mike Doherty, George Danello, Paul White; Back row: Lisa Mosczynski, Lisa Audette, Susan Speers

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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

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

• And if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach. 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!

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

Appreciation Event celebrates the collaboration that returned a single family home to franklin housing stock (video)

State Representative Jeff Roy hosted the event on Monday, June 9, 2025. 

Video recording by Steve Sherlock (Franklin Matters/Franklin Public Radio)

Video link -> https://youtu.be/lXcfc3-nNbI

Front row (L-R) Nayda Sanchez-DeJesus, Mark Lanigan, Larry Rettman, Maurice Coleman, Jeff Roy, Chris Feeley, Mike Doherty, George Danello, Paul White; Back row: Lisa Mosczynski, Lisa Audette, Susan Speers

Event background:

The Franklin Housing Authority has acquired the ‘long-time vacant’ property located at 813 Summer Street, Franklin. The beautifully renovated three-bedroom home will be leased to an income eligible family and the property will remain in the Town’s affordable housing stock through perpetuity.   

The process of obtaining the property took many years and has involved much assistance from several local officials, agencies and advocates.

 

Supporters included: State Representative Jeffrey Roy, Jamie Hellen, Town Administrator, Lisa Mosczynski, President, Metacomet Land Trust (MLT) and all of MLT’s Board of Directors including Treasurer Susan Speers, Attorney Michael Doherty, Attorney Richard Cornetta, Chairman Christopher Vericker, Franklin Municipal Affordable Housing Trust (MAHT) and all MAHT’s Trust Members including Christopher Feeley, Bank of America, Dean Bank, George Danello, Chairman of the Franklin Housing Authority (FHA) and all FHA Board Members.

Read full article: 

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2023/08/franklin-housing-authority-preparing-to.html

State Rep Jeff Roy Honors Richard "Dick" Hynes at Inaugural Statewide Military Appreciation Day

State Representative Jeffrey N. Roy (D-Franklin) proudly honored Richard "Dick" Hynes of Franklin today at the first-ever Military Appreciation Day ceremony held in the Massachusetts State House's historic House Chamber.

Military Appreciation Day was created by the Healey-Driscoll Administration to establish a lasting annual tradition that brings together local, state, and community leaders to honor those whose service might otherwise go unrecognized. Each legislator was invited to nominate a member of their local military community-whether a veteran, active-duty service member, National Guard, Reservist, or military spouse-to be honored during the ceremony. More than 125 individuals who exemplify commitment to service and community were recognized from districts across Massachusetts.

"I'm proud to recognize Richard "Dick" Hynes for his military service and community leadership," said Representative Jeffrey N. Roy (D-Franklin). "His contributions reflect the strength, resilience, and dedication of our local military community, and I'm honored to celebrate him at this statewide event. We appreciate his service and efforts to keep the memories of our 45 fallen soldiers alive with moving ceremonies at the Veterans Memorial on the Franklin Town Common."

(L-R) Dick Hynes, St Rep Jeff Roy

Hynes served in the Navy as a Medic during the Vietnam War from August 1962 to April 1967. Dick attained the rank of HM2 which is the Hospital Corpsman Second Class and is the largest occupational rating in the Navy. Dick proudly received the National Defense Medal along with the Good Conduct Medal. While serving, he met Judy, his Navy nurse wife of 43 years.

For the past several years, Hynes has led efforts to honor the 45 Franklin veterans who lost their lives in service to our country. The Town of Franklin has one of the most beautiful Veteran's Memorial areas in the state, including 45 granite posts which line the Veterans' Walkway. Each one of these posts is dedicated to a Franklin veteran who gave his life, defending our freedom.

Under Dick's leadership, along with Franklin's Veterans' organizations, the Edward L. Grant American Legion Post 75, and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3402, a program has been developed honor and remember those who died for our nation. This program includes the placing of a Memorial Wreath for the day, the playing of Taps, a salute from those present, and a reading of whatever history we may have on that veteran.

The State House ceremony featured remarks from Governor Maura Healey, Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll, Veterans Services Secretary Jon Santiago, Senate President Karen Spilka, and a keynote address by General Joseph F. Dunford, Jr. (Ret.), former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and 36th Commandant of the U.S. Marine Corps.

"This event is about gratitude," said Governor Maura Healey. "We're here to honor the everyday heroes-veterans, active-duty service members, and military families-whose courage, strength, and commitment continue to shape our state for the better. Military Appreciation Day is now a Massachusetts tradition and one we'll proudly carry forward each year."

"Massachusetts is home to one of the most vibrant, committed military communities in the country," said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. "This day is about uplifting the stories and contributions of those who have sacrificed so much and showing that their service will never go unrecognized."

"Every day, I meet veterans and military families who continue to lead, serve, and inspire," said Secretary Jon Santiago. "As we approach Memorial Day, and during a month dedicated to honoring our military, this event reflects what makes Massachusetts special: a deep respect for service, and a commitment to those who wear the uniform-and those who stand beside them."

"My father's service in the United States Army defined his life and deeply shaped my own - and I know the same holds true for thousands of service members and their families across Massachusetts," said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). "It is a privilege to honor those residents who have dedicated themselves to serving our country, and I am profoundly grateful for their unwavering commitment and sacrifice."

"It is an honor to host the inaugural Military Appreciation Day in the historic House Chamber," said Speaker of the House Ronald Mariano. "This new tradition reflects our deep appreciation for the veterans, service members, and military families who strengthen every corner of our Commonwealth."

The keynote address was delivered by General Joseph F. Dunford, Jr. (Ret.), former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and 36th Commandant of the U.S. Marine Corps. A Boston native and one of the most distinguished military leaders in recent history, General Dunford spoke about the legacy of service, leadership, and community and the importance of honoring those who serve across generations.

"It's an honor to return home to Massachusetts and stand alongside a community so deeply committed to those who serve. Military Appreciation Day reflects something I've long believed: that service is not just what we do in uniform-it's a lifetime of leadership, character, and sacrifice," said General Joseph F. Dunford, Jr. (Ret.), 19th Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. I'm proud to join the Commonwealth in recognizing these remarkable individuals and the values they represent."

The program also featured a powerful performance of the National Anthem by Springfield native and NBC's The Voice finalist Michelle Brooks-Thompson. Following the ceremony, honorees and guests were invited to a lunch reception generously donated by the Military Friends Foundation, a Massachusetts nonprofit dedicated to providing support and emergency assistance to military families and families of the fallen.

To view the full list of 2025 Military Appreciation Day honorees ->

https://www.mass.gov/doc/military-appreciation-day-2025-honoree-list/download

Additional photos of Rep Roy and Dick Hynes can be found (courtesy of Rep Roy's Office)  https://photos.app.goo.gl/16US8SnCCdBN3GBe7

Voices of Franklin: Rep Jeff Roy on voting Yes for the override (video)

State Representative Jeff Roy on voting Yes for the Override

Video link -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XeNWf66hicA

For more about Jeff Roy visit his page -> https://jeffreyroy.com/

For more about the FY 2026 Override ballot question, visit the Town page ->   https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/1089/Fiscal-Year-2026-Override-Information

If you have something to say, you can find the guidelines here
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2011/03/introducing-voices-of-franklin.html

What's happening in Franklin, MA: Thursday, May 15, 2025 ???

Library & Senior Center events

Thursday, May 15

 

** Kennedy PCC fund raising (Santa Fe Burrito Grill)

8:30am State & Town Officials Office Hour (Franklin Senior Center)

10:00am Van & Pavilion Ribbon Cutting Ceremony  (Franklin Senior Center)

5:00pm Board Game Night (Pete's Nerd Emporium)

7:00pm Birchwood Wine Dinner (Birchwood Bakery & Kitchen)

7:00pm 350 Mass Greater Franklin Node Meeting (First Universalist Society Franklin)

7:00pm BEN 4 Franklin Mtg (Franklin TV and Radio Studio) 

7:30pm Musical Bingo (Teddy Gallagher's Irish Pub)

For additional details on Library & Senior Center events ->   

https://www.franklinma.gov/calendar.aspx?CID=37,24&showPastEvents=false

**   Town Meetings today   **

Coffee Hour with State & Local Officials

May 15, 2025, 8:30 AM

No agenda for this informal gathering

Conservation Commission Meeting

May 15, 2025, 7:00 PM

https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_05152025-1741

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What's happening today in Franklin? 

Find the full Community event calendar  https://bit.ly/FranklinCommunityCalendar

If you have an event to add to the calendar, you can use the form to submit it for publication:  https://bit.ly/Submit2Calendar

The Town meeting calendar is found  https://www.franklinma.gov/Calendar.aspx
The School district calendar is found  https://franklinpublicschooldistrictma.sites.thrillshare.com/o/fpsd/page/school-calendar