Franklin Fire Department Promotes Mike Berthiaume to Captain

TOWN OF FRANKLIN | 355 East Central St., Franklin, MA 02038 Franklin Fire Department Promotes Mike Berthiaume to Captain The Franklin Fire Department is pleased to announce the promotion of Mike Berthiaume to captain. Captain Berthiaume was promoted to captain in July 2026 and serves as captain of Group 3 at Station 2. Captain Berthiaume joined the Franklin Fire Department in May 2015 as a firefighter/paramedic. He was promoted to lieutenant in July 2023 and began serving as acting captain in October 2025 before being permanently promoted to captain in July 2026. Throughout his career with the Franklin Fire Department, Captain Berthiaume has served as a field training officer and assistant fire investigator. He is certified as a Fire Officer I/II, Incident Safety Officer and Hazardous Materials Operational Level Responder. Prior to joining the Franklin Fire Department, Captain Berthiaume served for two years as a firefighter/paramedic with the Town of Bourne. While serving in Bourne, he was awarded the Massachusetts State Medal of Valor in 2015 for his actions during an active shooter incident. He also served as a call lieutenant with the Amherst Fire Department. Captain Berthiaume holds a master’s degree in emergency services management from Columbia Southern University and a bachelor’s degree from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. “I’m thankful for the opportunity to take on this role and for everyone who has supported me along the way,” said Captain Berthiaume. “I’m proud to continue serving the Franklin community alongside such a dedicated group of people.” The Franklin Fire Department congratulates Captain Berthiaume on his promotion and thanks him for his continued service and leadership within the department and the Franklin community. Visit the Town of Franklin website for news and community updates: News and Announcements —Stay informed and connected with the Town of Franklin— Town of Franklin | 355 E Central St, | Franklin, MA 02038 US

Governor Healey Signs Freedom to Read Law at Franklin Public Library

The Town of Franklin welcomed Gov. Maura Healey to the Franklin Public Library on Monday, August 10, 2026, as she signed the Freedom to Read law, establishing protections for the freedom to read and creating a fair, transparent process for reviewing library materials.

Town Administrator Jamie Hellen opened the event with remarks. Town Councilors, Town staff members and elected officials, library staff, Library Director Felicia Oti, Franklin Public Schools Superintendent Lucas Giguere, School Committee members, State Rep. Jeff Roy, State Sen. Becca Rausch and other local and state legislators were in attendance for the historic signing.

The Franklin Public Library — the nation’s first public lending library — provided a fitting setting for the signing of the legislation. As Town Administrator Hellen noted, “the Franklin Public Library is a perfect setting to celebrate this historic legislative achievement.”

The new law establishes statewide standards for how public and school libraries select and review library materials. It ensures families and community members have a voice when they have concerns about library materials, while establishing an open local process for reviewing those concerns. The law also protects librarians and educators who make library selections in good faith and reinforces local decision-making.

The Town of Franklin thanks Gov. Healey and the Healey-Driscoll administration for recognizing Franklin and its historic library and for joining the community for this important occasion.

The full press release from Gov Healey's office

https://www.mass.gov/news/governor-healey-signs-freedom-to-read-law-keeping-book-bans-out-of-massachusetts-schools-and-libraries

You're Invited: Open House for Franklin's New Well 7-7A PFAS Treatment Facility - August 20

The Town of Franklin's Water and Sewer Division of the DPW invites residents to tour the new Well 7-7A PFAS Treatment Facility during a community Open House on Thursday, August 20, from 5 to 7 PM, located at 21 Elizabeth Avenue.

The new facility was built to remove per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from drinking water and is designed to produce up to 580,000 gallons of treated drinking water per day while meeting Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) drinking water standards. The project also included upgrades to the site's existing treatment buildings, helping ensure Franklin continues to provide safe, reliable drinking water to the community.

During the Open House, visitors will have the opportunity to:

• Tour the new treatment facility.
• Learn how PFAS treatment works using granular activated carbon (GAC).
• Meet members of Franklin's Public Works and Water Operations team.
• Discover how the Town is investing in the long-term reliability and quality of Franklin's drinking water supply.

The event is free and open to the public. Whether you're interested in learning more about Franklin's water system or seeing the new facility firsthand, all are welcome to attend.

Shared from - https://www.franklinma.gov/m/newsflash/home/detail/180

Audio Recording Available for the Commission on Disability Meeting, August 6, 2026 (audio)

FM #1793 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1793 in the series. 

This episode shares the Franklin Commission on Disability Meeting held on August 6, 2026 at the Franklin Senior Center. 8 of the 9 members were present, (M Furilla absent).

Quick recap:

• Discussion brainstorming ideas for potential use of their annual budget along with the use of the fees accumulated from parking fines paid by those violating accessibility spaces.

• Approved use of funds ($100) to obtain membership in Downtown Partnership to gain booth space for the Harvest Festival

• Discussion on purchase of Disability Pride Flag, would also need to adjust the current flag bylaw (https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/1107/2024-Town-Council-Flag-Policy-PDF?bidId=)

• Discussion on participation for the Harvest Festival

• Discussion on participation for the Senior Expo (Oct 2)

• Discussion on potential for creating a virtual option for meeting participation. Via Zoom and use of an Owl camera. Decision potentially to be made at the October regular meeting for implementation TBD there after

The meeting recording runs just over 1 hour

Audio link - https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1793-franklin-commission-on-disability-mtg-08-06-26/

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

The meeting agenda - https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_08062026-2427  

Commission on Disability page - https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/496/Franklin-Commission-on-Disability 

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

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"

The Town of Franklin is seeking volunteers to serve on a variety of boards & committees

"Interested in making a difference in Franklin? 

The Town is seeking volunteers to serve on a variety of boards and committees.

Explore current vacancies, learn more about each board and committee, and submit a Volunteer Form online.    https://buff.ly/pAvUgwM"

Shared from - https://www.facebook.com/share/19EA7jNk1K/

Screen grab of the current openings

Check the current openings    https://franklinmaboards.vt-s.net/vt.php

Franklin Small Business Spotlight: The Rome Restaurant

This month, we're highlighting The Rome Restaurant, which has proudly served the Franklin community for 61 years.

"We are a family run Italian restaurant in the heart of downtown, known for its comforting homemade dishes, welcoming atmosphere, and long standing commitment to the community. For generations, our family has taken pride in serving classic Italian favorites, made from scratch with care, to all who walk through our doors."

When asked why they chose Franklin to grow their business, they shared: 

"We love being surrounded by people who value connection, history, and hometown pride."

When asked why supporting small businesses matters, they shared:

"Small businesses are the heart of our community; they keep Franklin strong and connected and help neighbors thrive." 

👉️ Follow along as we continue to highlight the local businesses that make Franklin a great place to live and work.

🔗 Learn more about Franklin's Small Business Spotlight Series at the link https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/1337/Small-Business-Spotlight-Series

Audio recording of the July 15, 2026 Town Council Communications Subcommittee Meeting (audio)

FM #1782 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1782 in the series. 

This session shares the Town Council Communications Subcommittee Meeting. The meeting was held in the Council Chambers at the Municipal Building on Wednesday, July 15, 2026.

 

Subcommittee Chair Caroline Griffith, members Jane Callaway-Tripp, Max Morrongiello, and Gene Grella also participated. Town Administrator Jamie Hellen, Operations Manager Julie McCann and Director of Communications & Community Engagement Liz Kalaijian participated.

Quick recap:

• The joint email response policy was approved by the subcommittee to bring to the full Council as amended (4-0 vote)

• The vote on social media guidelines for elected & appointed officials as amended was also approved to send to the full Council by a 4-0 vote

• Discussion on the work plan, Max raised some items discussed in prior meetings that did not make it to this listing

• Discussion on the scope of the committee, is it for Town Council communications or for communications on all of Town business?

The recording runs about 2 hours & 23 minutes, so let’s listen in.

Audio link - https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1782-town-council-communications-subcmte-mtg-07-15-26/

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

The Franklin TV video is available https://www.youtube.com/live/waSCPZX58RM?&t=247 

The agenda and released documents for this session

https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_07152026-2412 

My notes in one PDF - https://drive.google.com/file/d/1QjT_rM8lx14IKucFaXsUAC26x6f-k6wk/view?usp=drive_link 

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

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!

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

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

Franklin DPW's 2026 Hydrant Painting Opens for 2026

For more information, please visit: 

https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/1160/Annual-Hydrant-Painting-Event

It's time for the Franklin DPW's 2026 Hydrant Painting Event!

For more information, including event rules, application and frequently asked questions, please visit:

https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/1160/Annual-Hydrant-Painting-Event

Shared from - https://www.facebook.com/share/1DU6rczYzX/

Franklin Health Dept shares info on the Cyclospora parasite

"Have you heard about the "explosive diarrhea parasite"?

Cyclospora is a parasite that can cause cyclosporiasis, an intestinal illness that often leads to severe, watery diarrhea.

At this time, a specific food item has not been confirmed as the source. To help reduce your risk of foodborne illness, follow the fresh fruit and vegetable handling recommendations below.

It's also a good idea to pay attention to the brands of fresh produce you purchase and stay informed about food recalls and outbreak notices.

Learn more about preventing cyclosporiasis: https://www.cdc.gov/cyclosporiasis/prevention/index.html"

Follow the Franklin Health Dept on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/FranklinHealthDepartment

Shared from - https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1DGmMsq3uV/

The Town of Franklin is Looking to hire a Deputy Town Administrator

The Town of Franklin is seeking an experienced and collaborative leader to join our team as Deputy Town Administrator.

This executive leadership role works closely with the Town Administrator to support municipal operations, lead strategic initiatives and special projects, and collaborate with department leaders to advance the Town's priorities and deliver exceptional public service.

💼 Salary: $170,000–$200,000, commensurate with experience

📅 Priority application deadline: July 17, 2026 

Learn more about the position and apply at: https://buff.ly/uBQvoy6

Franklin Small Business Spotlight: Berry Insurance

This month, we're highlighting Berry Insurance, a family-owned business that has proudly called the Franklin community home for more than 50 years. 

When asked why they chose Franklin to grow their business, they shared:

"We are so thankful to call Franklin our home. Throughout our time here we have been so fortunate to have built up such a wonderful community of local clients and business partners. Whether we are making friendship bracelets at the Strawberry Stroll or Harvest Festival, collecting Christmas gifts for the Santa Foundation, or raising funds for Boston Children’s Hospital’s Halloween festivities, the people of Franklin always show up and offer unmatched support."

When asked why supporting small businesses matters, they shared:

"Small businesses are so important because there are real people and families behind them who truly care about their clients and communities. Small businesses often take the time to build relationships, earn trust, and give back locally, creating a level of care and accountability that’s hard to replicate through larger corporations. We’ve been fortunate to both serve and receive services from many small businesses in Franklin and the surrounding communities, and have seen the level of care and compassion that goes into each business." 

👉️ Follow along as we continue to highlight the local businesses that make Franklin a great place to live and work.

🔗 For more information about Franklin's Small Business Spotlight Series, visit https://buff.ly/e4hgOZB

Town of Franklin announces: "Scheduled Water Shut-Off on Wednesday, July 8, 2026"

Please spread the word!

Water shut-off tomorrow in the affected areas listed below. Thank you for your patience and please plan accordingly.

• Pine Street
• Stanwood Drive
• Sunken Meadow Road
• John Edwards Circle

Shared from -  https://www.franklinma.gov/m/newsflash/home/detail/162

Historic Old South Church Given New Life Through Community Partnership

On Thursday, June 25, the Town of Franklin and Old Colony Habitat for Humanity celebrated the transformation of the South Franklin Congregational Meeting House, known as the Old South Church, into a permanently affordable single-family home. The historic landmark, which has stood in Franklin since 1856, welcomed the Marmol family as its first residents, marking a new chapter in the building's history.

What began in 2022 with the Town's effort to redevelop the historic property has become a lasting investment in Franklin's future. Through its partnership with Old Colony Habitat for Humanity, the Town preserved an important piece of Franklin's history while creating a permanent affordable home where a family can build a future.

"When the Town began exploring the future of the Old South Church, we knew we had an opportunity to preserve one of Franklin's historic landmarks while creating a lasting benefit for our community," said Town Administrator Jamie Hellen. "Thanks to our partnership with Old Colony Habitat for Humanity, that vision became a reality. We're proud to welcome the Marmol family to Franklin and celebrate the beginning of a new chapter for both this historic building and the family who now calls it home."

Old Colony Habitat for Humanity was selected through a competitive redevelopment process to lead the renovation with the support of volunteers, donors, local businesses, architects, contractors and community partners.

Following Habitat's homeowner selection process, the Marmol family, including a mother who works in Franklin, was selected to purchase the home. Like every Habitat homeowner, the family completed hundreds of hours of sweat equity alongside volunteers before receiving the keys to their new home. 

The home will remain deed-restricted as affordable housing in perpetuity, permanently expanding Franklin's affordable housing inventory while returning the historic property to productive residential use. The unit qualifies toward the Town’s Chapter 40B percentage. 

“When I first learned that we had been selected for Habitat for Humanity, it felt like a dream," said new homeowner Sally Marmol. "Standing in front of this beautiful home, that dream has finally become a reality. We are excited to become part of the Franklin community, to be good neighbors, and to give back whenever we can, just as so many people have given to us. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you to Old Colony Habitat for Humanity, every volunteer, every sponsor, the Town of Franklin and everyone who believed in us. We promise to cherish this home and all that it represents."

The Town of Franklin extends its sincere gratitude to Old Colony Habitat for Humanity and the many volunteers, donors, businesses, architects, contractors and community partners whose collaboration helped bring this transformation to life.

“This project represents everything Habitat for Humanity stands for—bringing people together to create strength, stability and hope through homeownership," said Old Colony Habitat for Humanity CEO Kim Thomas. "We are incredibly grateful to the Town of Franklin, our sponsors, volunteers, tradespeople and community partners whose unwavering support made this extraordinary project possible. Transforming this historic building into a beautiful, welcoming home while preserving its incredible character has been a truly remarkable journey. The outpouring of generosity and collaboration has been inspiring, and we couldn’t be happier for the Marmol family as they begin this exciting new chapter in a home built with love, care and an entire community behind them.”

The Town proudly welcomes the Marmol family to Franklin and wishes them many years of happiness in their new home.

Additional photos courtesy of the Town of Franklin -

https://photos.app.goo.gl/cLnygiGLwJVGSUWm6