Annual Report Of The Cultural District Committee - FY 2021

Note: FY 2021 is last year (July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021). The report was prepared to cover the business for the FY 2021 period. This year’s report FY 2022 (July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022) is in preparation now and is normally available for distribution at the polls for the November election.

The Franklin Cultural District Committee is a volunteer committee appointed by the Town Administrator and ratified by the Town Council. The committee is comprised of up to seven members, all of whom are town residents. The committee meets as a full group once a month and subcommittees comprised of board members and partners meet as needed.

The FCDC hosts quarterly Partners meetings. These meetings usually rotate among weeknights and locations in town in an effort to provide flexibility in attendance, as work schedules vary throughout the town. During the COVID Pandemic all FCDC meetings have taken place using the Zoom platform. The meetings are publicized through social media, as well as print media. Meeting times, dates and agendas are posted on the Town’s website. All meetings are open to the public.

Members:

Nancy Schoen, Chair John LoPresti, Vice-Chair Pandora Carlucci, Clerk Amy Adams

Jamie Barrett Evan Chelman Roberta Trahan

Mission Statement. 

Our mission is to enrich and inspire our residents and visitors by fostering local cultural, artistic, culinary and historical development aligned with local partners in a defined walkable area, the Cultural District that is easily accessible and serves as the center of economic activity.

Our goals include:

● Actively promoting the arts by attracting local artists and supporting cultural activities within the town;

● Encouraging business and job development;

● Helping to preserve and promote the town’s historical sites and events;

● Building community spirit within Franklin and encourage civic involvement; and

● Helping to create an appealing, attractive, and vibrant destination for tourists.

 

During FY21 the FCDC received a $7,500.00 grant and a $500.00, Festivals Grant from the Massachusetts Cultural Council. The FCDC re-granted the majority of these funds to several Franklin Cultural District Partners through an application review process.

FCDC regularly works to collaborate with Franklin Cultural District’s partners, focusing on supporting and participating in their efforts. In collaboration with many of our Cultural District Partners, FCDC sponsored Franklin’s first ArtWALK Celebration.

During the ArtWALK Celebration weekend, eighteen Franklin artists displayed their artwork in fifteen different businesses in the Cultural District. Throughout the ArtWALK weekend there were many performances held in the Cultural District.

The FCDC was pleased to be able to support the following projects offered to the community by our Cultural District Partners. These events were all part of the weekend ArtWALK Celebration.

● Dave Burnham on behalf of LiveARTS for three piano recitals which were held in the Franklin Historical Museum

● Franklin Art Association purchase of sixty easels which the artists used to display their artwork in fifteen businesses throughout the Cultural District

● Caleigh Keating and Bree Comeau, Children’s Librarians at the Franklin Public Library for a performance of the Hodge Podge puppet on the Franklin Town Common

● Raye Lynn Mercer on behalf of the Franklin Performing Arts Company, THE BLACK BOX Theater and the Franklin School for the Performing Arts for a tent that was used for many performances during the summer

● Dale Kurtz, Veterans’ Agent for the Town of Franklin a grant for engraving on the Veterans’ Walkway

● Franklin Public Schools Music Department Master Class for students and a performance on the Town Common featuring violinist Sarah Whitney, accompanied by Franklin High School musicians

● 67 Degrees Brewing for a visual art demonstration and three musical performances during the ArtWALK Celebration 

● Franklin Downtown Partnership for the installation of the Ladybug sculptures.

In the spring of 2021, the FCDC received a grant from the Franklin Cultural Council. With this grant the FCDC was able to sponsor two concerts. The first concert was a cello recital featuring Franklin resident, Brent Selby. This recital was recorded by Franklin TV, was live streamed on Facebook and was also broadcast on the local cable several times for viewing by the entire Franklin community. The second concert was a viola recital featuring Don Krishnaswami which was held at THE BLACK BOX Theater. At this performance Mr. Krishnaswami performed the premiere of Julian Grant’s Suite for Solo Viola. The Franklin Cultural Council also sponsored a concert on the Town Common featuring the Latin, Jazz Band Mark Shilansky and “Join the Group”.

Beginning in June 2020 the FCDC began publishing a monthly electronic newsletter. During the past year, the number of newsletter subscribers has more than doubled. Franklin Cultural District Newsletter highlights include:

● What’s Happening in the District

● Cultural Partners’ Updates

● Cultural District News

● Beyond the Cultural District

The newsletter has enabled the Cultural District Committee to share important Cultural District news and events with a wide audience. All editions of the FCD Newsletters can be found on the Franklin Cultural District website, https://www.franklinculture.org/.

 

● Twitter @franklin culture

● Instagram @franklinculture

The Franklin Cultural District Committee will continue to support and promote the arts throughout the Franklin Community.

Respectfully submitted, 

Nancy Schoen

FCDC Chair

The full Annual Report for 2021 can be found

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/2021_annual_report.pdf

The collection of Annual Reports can be found online

https://www.franklinma.gov/town-clerk/pages/town-franklin-annual-reports

Annual Report Of The Town of Franklin - FY 2021

Annual Report Of The Town Council - FY 2021

Note: FY 2021 is last year (July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021). The report was prepared to cover the business for the FY 2021 period. This year’s report FY 2022 (July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022) is in preparation now and is normally available for distribution at the polls for the November election.

The Town Council is the holder of all general, corporate, legislative, and appropriation powers of the Town of Franklin. On behalf of the Town Council, I submit our annual report for fiscal year 2021.

Franklin Town Council 

Tom Mercer, Chair
Robert Dellorco, Vice Chair
Glenn Jones, Clerk 

Matthew Kelly 

Deborah Pellegri 

Melanie Hamblen 

Andrew Bissanti 

Brian Chandler
Eamon McCarthy-Earls (Resigned - September 2020) Cobi Frongillo (Elected - December 2020)

Budget Subcommittee
The Budget subcommittee is Chaired by Councilor Matthew Kelly. Subcommittee members are Thomas Mercer, Deborah Pelegri and Melanie Hamblen.

The subcommittee had a total of 4 meetings in FY21 and approved a balanced budget for FY21.

Economic Development Subcommittee

The Economic Development Subcommittee is chaired by Melanie Hamblen. Members of the committee are Glenn Jones, Andrew Bissanti, Eamon McCarthy-Earls (through September 2020), Brian Chandler, and Cobi Frongillo (December 2020 - present).

A special thank you to Councilor Brian Chandler who stepped in to serve on EDC while a special election commenced. As of January 2021 Cobi Frongillo has stepped in to serve on the Economic Development Subcommittee.

Despite the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Town Council had a very active and productive year preserving and growing the local economy. As COVID-19 had a devastating impact on many local restaurants, the Town Council voted to give the Town Administrator authority to grant temporary outdoor dining licenses as allowed by the ABCC. This change allowed for restaurants to have outdoor dining in order to comply with COVID-19 regulations. Outdoor dining was further extended into the fall season and eventually extended for the entirety of the declared state of emergency in Massachusetts to give many struggling restaurants the opportunity to keep their doors open.

As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic the Council approved a Temporary Bylaw Amendment for the Municipal Service Fees Section A to reduce 2021 Annual License Fees by 25% for all Section 12 Common Victualer Licenses for the 2021 renewal period only, after which the full fees shall be reinstated. This was an effort to alleviate some of the financial burdens on local restaurants.

The Council also approved state Farmer Series Section 19 licenses for the first ever craft brewery and first ever craft distillery in Franklin and continues to improve the current bylaw to attract similar businesses. The introduction of Farmer Series licenses to town has provided a much needed economic boost.

The Economic Development Subcommittee held a series of five Business Listening Sessions with Business owners, key stakeholders and citizens to discuss needs, ideas and strategies to improve Franklin's Economic Development, Marketing and communications. These sessions focused on:
● Downtown Franklin, the Crossing, and Franklin Cultural District
● Restaurants, Hotels and Hospitality
● Retail, Personal Services and Fitness
● Industrial Parks and Manufacturing
● Real Estate, Construction and Housing.

Capital Budget Subcommittee
The Capital Budget Subcommittee is Chaired by Councilor Debbie Pellegri and has members consisting of Robert Dellorco, Matthew Kelly, and Brian Chandler.
 
The Capital Budget Subcommittee recommended that the full Town Council appropriated:

Capital Round 1:
● School - Vehicles, Infrastructure, technology & Equipment - $200,000
● Facilities - Infrastructure - $500,000
● Fire - Equipment & Technology - $127,535
● Police - Vehicles, Equipment, Technology - $299,675
● Public Works - Infrastructure & Vehicles - $415,000
● Water Enterprise - Vehicles, Infrastructure, Technology & Equipment - $753,000
● Sewer Enterprise - Infrastructure & Vehicles - $506,000

Capital Round 2:
● Finance - Budget Stabilization - $137,000
● Public Works - Road & Infrastructure, Snow & Ice Personnel/Expenses, Vehicle - $182,058
● Technology - Sonic Firewall Upgrade & Licenses - $219,489
● School - Security Expansion - $32,000
● Treasurer/Collector - Software - 25,000
● Animal Control - Vehicle - $20,000
● Facilities - Police Station Study - $150,000

Ad Hoc Stormwater Committee
The Ad Hoc Stormwater Subcommittee is chaired by Melanie Hamblen and has members consisting of Robert Dellorco, Glenn Jones and Eamon McCarthy Earls. The subcommittee held four Community Information Sessions to educate the community on the facts and financial burdens of stormwater. These sessions were held at various times, days of the week and locations to be able to accommodate all who wanted to attend. However due to the COVID-19 pandemic one session which would have been held at the library was cancelled. A formal recommendation is being discussed in 2021 at the Town Council level about how to finance this unfunded mandate from the federal government (EPA).
 
More information on stormwater can be found here: https://www.franklinma.gov/stormwater-division.

Other
The Franklin Town Council unanimously supported the authorization to add the Community Preservation Act to the November 2020 ballot. The passing of this Act would result in a 2% surcharge on real property to begin in FY21 for the purposes of acquisition, creation, preservation, and rehabilitation of open space, historic resources, land for recreational uses, and support of community housing. CPA previously failed at the ballot in 2007 with a 56.5% voting no. However, 58% voted yes in 2020. Thank you to the citizens of Franklin for investing in your future by agreeing to pay more to protect open space, ballfields, parks, affordable housing, and historical preservation.

The Council established a Community Preservation Committee consisting of one member of the Conservation Commission, one member of the Historical Commission, one member of the Housing Authority, one member of the Recreation Advisory, one member of the Planning Board and four at large citizens.

The Town Council celebrated the completion and opening of the Southern New England Trunkline Trail (SNETT) Prospect Street Tunnel in October of 2020 during a ribbon cutting with supporters, Representative Jeff Roy, Senate President Karen Spilka, Senator Becca Rausch, Town and state officials.

The Town Council continues to work with the Senior Center/ Council on Aging and the Administration on educating the community and increasing awareness and understanding of the Dementia Friendly initiative.

The Plastic Bag Prohibition Bylaw passed and went into effect in July 2020 with the option for local businesses to apply for a three month compliance extension for economic hardship.
 
The Town Council signed a 36 month contract with consultant Colonial Power Group and electricity supplier Dynegy Energy Services to design, implement, manage, and supply its electricity program. This program is designed to reduce the community's carbon footprint, enhance individual homeowner choice for electricity rates and achieve more stable pricing.

The Town Council voted to renew the Comcast Cable License Agreement. The renewal term for this agreement will be from December 2, 2020 to December 1, 2030. In this agreement Comcast has agreed to a discount for qualified Senior Citizens 65 or older as well as $2.00 off its monthly “Extra” Service Level or that Digital Level of Service.

The Council approved a balanced budget and worked with the Town Administration on obtaining a five year capital plan for all departments including the Water and Sewer Enterprise funds.

Several Zoning Bylaw and traditional Bylaw amendments were approved in FY21 consisting of various lot line cleanups throughout town, changes to former bylaws to comply with the towns MS4 Permit and Stormwater management plans, and updates to the Fire Departments ALS/BLS and Mileage rates.

The Town Council determined a water rate increase to prepare for the water treatment plant and the reconstruction of wells 3 and 6. This is a $12 million dollar project that will add 720K GPD for public safety, preservation of the water supply and potential for future economic growth.

The Town accepted over $224,000 worth of donations in the 2021 fiscal year. These donations helped to support various Town Departments.

The Council successfully navigated the COVID-19 pandemic. In the early months of the pandemic the Town Council held remote virtual meetings using the ZOOM platform. Starting July 29th Council members and select staff hosted meetings in the Council chambers and broadcast them over television live streams, citizens were able to participate in the meeting using the zoom platform.
 
Finally, on behalf of the entire Town Council, I would be remiss if I did not thank all of the employees of the Town of Franklin for their tireless dedication, innovation and work during the year of 2020/2021 dealing with the global COVID-19 pandemic. We have been impressed and blessed with the incredible staff we have to keep the organization moving forward on all of the Town’s goals. Thank you!

It is a pleasure to serve my fellow citizens and to submit this annual report on behalf of the Franklin Town Council for your review.

Sincerely, 

Thomas Mercer Chairman, 

Franklin Town Council 

The full Annual Report for 2021 can be found

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/2021_annual_report.pdf

The collection of Annual Reports can be found online

https://www.franklinma.gov/town-clerk/pages/town-franklin-annual-reports

Annual Report Of The Town Council - FY 2021

Annual Report of the Treasurer Collector - FY 2021

Note: FY 2021 is last year (July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021). The report was prepared to cover the business for the FY 2021 period. This year’s report FY 2022 (July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022) is in preparation now and is normally available for distribution at the polls for the November election. Updated - 08/15/22

In Fiscal Year 2021, the Treasurer Collector’s office had many staff changes. The first change was our new Assistant Treasurer Collector, Marina Malamud. Marina has demonstrated her ability to learn quickly and has made several improvements since she started. Also, Patti Wyllie retired after 33 years with the Town of Franklin.

The Treasurer Collector’s office went Green! We now offer our residents the option to go paperless and for the residents’ convenience the Town is waiving the ACH fee when paying by electronic check.

Standard and Poor’s Ratings Services, a municipal credit rating agency, affirmed the Town’s AA+ bond rating again this fiscal year.

Standard and Poor’s stated “The rating reflects our opinion of Franklin’s history of balanced finances and strong reserve levels, supported by a very strong, growing and affluent property tax base, in addition to a strong management team that maintains several formalized financial policies and practices.”

During FY 2021, $209,381 was collected in back property taxes, interest and fees. Eighteen (18) property owners paid off all outstanding taxes and redeemed their properties out of tax title. We continue to pursue delinquent taxes through the foreclosure process and there are currently 20 properties in Land Court.

There were 1,615 Municipal Lien Certificates issued by the Treasurer-Collector’s office generating revenue of $80,350. Also collected was $4,673 in fees for duplicate bills and files that we supplied to tax services and escrow agents. During FY21, the Treasurer- Collector’s office printed and mailed 11,841 Real Estate Tax bills and 668 Personal Property Tax bills four times a year. We also sent out 34,152 Motor Vehicle Excise Tax bills, and 42,411 Utility bills. The following Demands were also printed and mailed, 541 Real Estate Tax, 110 Personal Property Tax, and 4,199 Motor Vehicle Excise Tax. There were 2,860 Motor Vehicle warrants issued in FY20. There were one (1) Betterment release (water, sewer and road). We also collected $110,432 for backflow testing and $59,496 for Sprinkler/Hydrant charges.

The Treasurer also acts as the town’s parking clerk. Our deputy collector, Kelley & Ryan Associates of Hopedale, handles the billing and collection of parking tickets. During FY21 we collected $5,163.70 for parking violations.

I would like to thank all town departments for the timely and accurate turnover of fees to the Treasurer-Collector’s office. I also would like to acknowledge my team, I am constantly impressed by your performance. Thank you for using your remarkable talents and skills to fuel our mutual efforts. I am really proud to be part of this team. Finally, I like to thank the residents of Franklin for their kindness and support.

Respectfully submitted,

Kerri A. Bertone 

Treasurer-Collector 

The full Annual Report for 2021 can be found

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/2021_annual_report.pdf

The collection of Annual Reports can be found online

https://www.franklinma.gov/town-clerk/pages/town-franklin-annual-reports

Annual Report Of The Town of Franklin - FY 2021

Annual Report Of The Franklin Cultural Council - FY 2021

Note: FY 2021 is last year (July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021). The report was prepared to cover the business for the FY 2021 period. This year’s report FY 2022 (July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022) is in preparation now and is normally available for distribution at the polls for the November election. Updated - 08/15/22

The Franklin Cultural Council (FCC) is a grant-making body that allocates funds for projects and programs in the arts, humanities, and interpretive sciences. The FCC has also chosen to conduct a number of arts-related programs and events throughout the year to support and encourage arts and culture within Franklin.

For FY2021, the FCC again successfully lobbied the Town of Franklin for a steady and level grant- disbursement budget, to support additional programming within the newly demarcated Franklin Cultural District. This additional funding was combined with state- allocated Mass Cultural Council funds—which also saw an increase—allowing the FCC to award a total of

$25,000 in grants supporting 30 arts and cultural events for Franklin residents. These programs included many annual favorites such as performances at the schools and Senior Center, the Middle School Authors Series as well as children’s entertainment at the library. In addition, new programming included hosting weekly music for the Franklin Farmers Market. This was by far one of the most visible representations of our funding this year. The response from the community regarding the new and improved market was overwhelming. Our town common was brimming each Friday with happy community members shopping and enjoying live music.

As was the case for everyone across the Commonwealth and indeed the country, the COVID-19 pandemic had a dramatic impact on the FCC’s programs and events for the fal1 of 2020. The FCC carefully considered the needs of the community and for safe and socially distanced programming. In September and October, the FCC hosted a number of live music performances outside at the Senior Center. Musicians were brought in from the prestigious Berklee College of Music and entertained some of the most vulnerable in our community. Seniors were able to watch from their car, or get up and dance, as many did. Because of the State limitations on large gatherings, two shows were held on each event day to limit the number of participants.

In October, the FCC created a Halloween House Decorating Contest in Franklin. The goals were to offer a distraction to the ongoing pandemic and perhaps some levity and creativity to our community. A surprising 52 houses signed up to compete in the contest and FCC board members drove separately to judge each house. A virtual community map was created and shared far and wide over social media. Winners were chosen and our State Representative, Jeff Roy, kindly handed out awards personally at the winner’s doorsteps. The contest was covered by The Boston Globe and the community has insisted on a “2nd Annual” Halloween House Decorating Contest for 2021.

Once November brought colder weather, all programming moved online. Between November 2020 – April 2021, the FCC hosted ten online “Monday Night Masterclasses”. The masterclasses were hands-on demonstrations of cooking, flower arranging, meditation and paint nights given by professionals in the area. The online classes were given for free to the community and were meant to offer levity and opportunities to be creative during the dark months of a pandemic winter.

We were unable to run the popular spring “Arts Advocacy Day” due to Covid-19. And “ArtWeek”, another well- known statewide event was cancelled indefinitely by the Boch Center.

In September of 2021, the FCC will host the first “Franklin Cultural Festival”. This has been planned on the back of the successful 2019 “Taste of the Arts Festival”. We hope to fill the common with 5,000 participants to enjoy live music and dance, artisan vendors, food trucks and a wine and beer garden. Our late spring plans revolved around getting the parts and pieces of the festival in place.

The FCC continued to grow their social media presence significantly over the past year with regular posts to Facebook and Instagram and by hosting popular online events. Our Facebook page has 1,700 followers and we have worked hard to nurture an engaged audience.

The FCC is looking forward to FY22 and leveraging the momentum we have built over the past few years to serve the community in greater and new ways. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact our lives, we are confirmed in our belief that the arts and culture offer a way through fear and anxiety and toward our shared humanity.

The full Annual Report for 2021 can be found

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/2021_annual_report.pdf

The collection of Annual Reports can be found online

https://www.franklinma.gov/town-clerk/pages/town-franklin-annual-reports

Annual Report Of The Town of Franklin - FY 2021

Annual Report Of The Conservation Commission - FY 2021

Note: FY 2021 is last year (July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021). The report was prepared to cover the business for the FY 2021 period. This year’s report FY 2022 (July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022) is in preparation now and is normally available for distribution at the polls for the November election. Updated - 08/15/22

Franklin Conservation Commission is responsible for promoting and protecting the Town of Franklin’s natural resources, and protecting the Town’s wetlands resources.

The Commission is comprised of seven volunteer residents appointed for three year terms by the Town

 

Administrator. Current Commission members have diverse professional experience related to environmental science, biology, engineering, and project management. Because of their different backgrounds, each commissioner is able to offer a different perspective during the review of applications for a wetland permit that ultimately benefits Franklin.

Franklin has continuously been represented at the annual conference of the Massachusetts Association of Conservation Commissions each March, with Commissioners attending classes and workshops and talking with other Commissioners from across the state as well as lawyers, ecologists and engineers active in conservation.

The Department of Planning and Community Development provides administrative and technical support to the Commission.

Permitting of Work within or Adjacent to Wetlands Resources

The majority of the Commission’s attention is directed to administering Massachusetts and Franklin wetland protection laws and regulations. Those laws and regulations require Conservation Commission permits to work in or within 100 feet of a wetland, in the 100 year flood hazard zone, or within 200 feet of a perennial stream.

During FY21 the Conservation Agent reviewed and administratively approved 16 minor buffer zone applications.

During FY21 the Conservation Commission received 32 permit applications to work within areas under their permitting jurisdiction. In addition the Commission issued Certificates of Compliance for previously permitted projects, and granted permit extensions to allow projects to finish. 

Some of the more interesting project applications before the Commission during FY21 include the Maple Hill Subdivision that was approved, the Chilson Park Playground Expansion project that was approved, and the Cottage Street/Cottage Court/Peck Street affordable housing and stream relocation project, which was denied.

DelCarte Conservation Area

The Commission continues to work on the DelCarte Area (aka the Franklin Reservoirs) off of Pleasant Street. There are a series of seven “structures” (six dams that had been originally used for cranberry farming and a stone wall that beavers had dammed) along Miller brook thru the 100+ acre DelCarte Area.

The Commission retained the services of ESS, Inc. to undertake an ecological study to ascertain the flora and fauna viability in the pond and develop a long term management plan. This study, completed in 2015-2016 has given the Town a comprehensive understanding of exactly “what is there” and includes a management plan to help keep the area viable as a true recreational jewel. The first two phases of the plan’s recommendations, the treatment of invasive plant species was undertaken in the spring/summer of 2017-2019. The Town appropriated Capital improvement funds to help implement the next phases of this study in 2019-2020. The pond’s invasive species were treated again throughout the summer of 2021.

The Commission is currently in the process of working with a local boy scout who is proposing adding informational and directional kiosks to the DelCarte area to help hikers better navigate the trails.

The Commission collects application fees for all permits that come before them. These fees paid for, among other things, the studies on the DelCarte recreation area and thus allowed the Commission to truly understand the issues facing the town in maintaining this area for quality recreation.

The Commission plans on holding an Earth Day celebration and clean up at DelCarte on October 16, 2021.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, public hearings are being held in the Council Chambers in a hybrid meeting style that residents and applicants can attend in person, or virtually, via Zoom.

There is a whole lot more to the Conservation Commission section of this annual report but the tables and other info were not easily copied for this format. 

Find the remainder of the Conservation Commission report on page  119

The full Annual Report for 2021 can be found

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/2021_annual_report.pdf

The collection of Annual Reports can be found online

https://www.franklinma.gov/town-clerk/pages/town-franklin-annual-reports

Annual Report Of The Town of Franklin - FY 2021

Annual Report Of Franklin Housing Authority - FY 2021

Note: FY 2021 is last year (July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021). The report was prepared to cover the business for the FY 2021 period. This year’s report FY 2022 (July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022) is in preparation now and is normally available for distribution at the polls for the November election. Updated - 08/15/22

Board Members

The following Officers were duly elected at the annual organizational meeting of the Franklin Housing Authority held on April 12, 2021.

• George A. Danello, Chairman 
• Christopher K. Feeley, Vice Chairperson 
• Peter L. Brunelli, Treasurer
• Diane Padula, Assistant Treasurer 
• Andrew M. Kepple, Commissioner

FHA Staff

Lisa Audette, Executive Director 

Candice Day, Administrative Assistant 

Carole Blanchard, Office Assistant 

Sean Pope, Maintenance Supervisor 

Frank McAvoy, Maintenance Laborer 

James Brunelli, Groundskeeper/Laborer

Julia Schneiderman, Service Coordinator

Retired Maintenance Supervisor

Mike Gilligan was hired by the Franklin Housing Authority in 1988 to the maintenance department. He worked to climb the ranks and became supervisor of the department where he maintained his position for 29 years before retiring. During Mike’s tenure he honorably served many residents to assure that their housing was in compliance with regulations and safe. Mike headed many renovation projects through the years and trained several staff members to skillfully serve our resident with respect and dignity. We wish Mike long and healthy retirement and thank him for his 33 years of service.

Dealing with COVID-19

As the pandemic reared its’ ugly head in the spring of 2020, Franklin Housing Authority aggressively began cleaning and sterilizing all public areas within our developments for the protection of our residents. While many businesses shut down, we remained in place to support our residents and maintain as much stability as possible during the very frightening and uncharted months of unusual turmoil. While we are not out of danger yet, we see light at the end of the tunnel. Much appreciation to Representative Jeff Roy for providing us with ‘impossible to find’ face coverings for our residents during this time. He played a very crucial part in keeping our resident from contracting or spreading this virus. Thanks to our residents for listening to the Governors’ warnings and guidance during this time. It brought many months of loneliness to many of our seniors but the stamina of their compliance kept us safe. Much thanks to our maintenance department for continuing to respond to emergency work orders throughout the pandemic and maintain the buildings and property in a safe manner. Also, office staff adjusted their schedules and work environment to maintain as much continuity as possible. It has not been easy for any them or their families. Their service is highly commendable. Lastly, the unwavering support of Chairman Danello and the FHA Board Members cannot go unnoticed. Board Members were readily available for any need of the agency and always looking out for the best interest of our staff and residents. Their remarkable awareness and action throughout has demonstrated their commitment to the agency. We are very fortunate.

Modernization of the Franklin Housing Authority Properties

A Contract for Financial Assistance from the Department of Housing & Community Development (DHCD) for the purpose of repairing components of the aged agency for their fiscal year ending June 30, 2021 was awarded to the FHA. Several projects are in the works using this very timely and important funding including support beam repairs, fire alarm system and sewer line replacement.

FHA Property

The Franklin Housing Authority manages 161 units of State Aided Elderly/Disabled Housing, 33 units of low income Family Housing and two, 8-unit Group Homes. Additionally, the Housing Authority is responsible for a four-bedroom congregate facility. This program provides a shared living environment for its residents who maintain private bedrooms. Congregate housing was established for residents who are self-reliant, however may need limited additional support.

Franklin Housing Authority also owns two single family homes and one duplex in Franklin. These properties are reserved for lease to low-income persons and afford these families the opportunity to live in a residential neighborhood for an affordable rent.

Managing Agent for Norfolk Housing Authority Franklin Housing Authority has been contracted to manage the Norfolk Housing Authority. By taking on this agreement, we increase the FHA/NHA housing stock by an additional 84 units of public housing. Norfolk is very close logistically and has been the ‘little brother’ to Franklin for many years. We see this opportunity as a benefit to our new Norfolk residents and financially beneficial to both agencies. We look forward to working at the Norfolk Housing Authority and with the NHA Board Members to maintain the beautiful, safe and affordable housing in the Town of Norfolk.

Special Events Noted with Appreciation

Franklin Rotarians were not able to wow or residents with their service during COVID-19. However, they have not forgotten us and are currently planning to resume the previous event schedule at our agency. Much thanks to the Franklin Rotarians for their continued support.

Special Thanks

The Board of Commissioners, Staff and Residents of the Franklin Housing Authority wish to express their thanks and appreciation to the following:

• The Clergy, for continuous support and comfort in the time of need and always.

• Chairman Tom Mercer and all of the Franklin Town Council Members, Town Administrator, Jamie Hellen and their staff for their continued support and assistance.

• Chairman Christopher Vericker and all Franklin’s Municipal Affordable Housing Trust members for having a similar goal as FHA in providing affordable housing to people of lower income.

• Council on Aging, Veterans Agent, SHINE Program and Food Pantry for assisting residents with health care concerns and working with the Authority to recognize needs and provide activities, nourishment and specialized services.

• Franklin Police Department, Police Chief Lynch and the entire Franklin Police Department for continuous concern, attention and response to the needs of the Authority and its Residents.

• Franklin Fire and Rescue, Chief James McLaughlin, Deputy Chief James Klich and Deputy Chief Joseph Barbieri and their Department are always professional and respectful when assisting our residents during a medical time of need.

• Senator Karen Spilka, Senator Rebecca Rausch and Representative Jeffery Roy for their relentless support of the Housing Programs and Bills with the best interest of our town and residents at heart. Also, a huge thank you to Representative Roy for providing our resident with a supply of face covering masks during the pandemic. At the time of need when masks were no where to be found, Rep. Roy came to the rescue.

• Governor Charlie Baker and Lt. Governor Karyn Polito for the support of Massachusetts public housing.

• Norfolk County Sherriff’s Department and Sherriff Jerome McDermott for including FHA in their inmate community service program, their professionalism during evictions and their support of the Franklin Housing Authority.

• Franklin Food Pantry and Executive Director Tina Powderly for the support of the residents of Franklin Housing Authority. Also, much appreciation for placing food pickups in the most convenient places for our residents to manage.

• Saint Mary’s Church, Friends of Franklin and Saint Vincent de Paul for supporting our residents during exceptional times of need.

Through the years, the Franklin community and the housing authority find ways to improve the quality of life for our area seniors, disabled persons and low- income families. With the support of the Commissioners and the community, the Franklin Housing Authority continues to be a wonderful, safe and affordable community housing opportunity.

Respectfully submitted,

Lisa M. Audette, 

Executive Director, PHM, MCPPO 

franklinhousing.org

The full Annual Report for 2021 can be found

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/2021_annual_report.pdf

The collection of Annual Reports can be found online

https://www.franklinma.gov/town-clerk/pages/town-franklin-annual-reports

Annual Report Of The Town of Franklin - FY 2021

Annual Report Of The Charles River Pollution Control District - FY 2021

Note: FY 2021 is last year (July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021). The report was prepared to cover the business for the FY 2021 period. This year’s report FY 2022 (July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022) is in preparation now and is normally available for distribution at the polls for the November election. Updated - 08/15/22

During Fiscal Year 2021, the Charles River Pollution Control District’s (District) regional advanced wastewater treatment facility received and treated approximately 1,693 million gallons (4.63 million gallons per day) of raw wastewater, including 9.6 million gallons of septage from the District’s member and customer towns before discharge to the Charles River.

As part of the District’s infiltration and inflow program, the District inspected the Mine Brook Interceptor Subsystem, which included inspecting 99 manholes, and performing closed-circuit television camera (CCTV) and multi-sensor inspections of 28,400 linear feet of pipe for signs of infiltration and inflow. Repair work is scheduled to be completed during FY 2022.

In late 2015, the District entered into a Power Purchase Agreement to receive net-metering credits from a solar array in Carver, Massachusetts. The array has been online since December 2015 and to- date the District has received over $420,000 in net- metering credits.

The District’s Fiscal Year 2022 budget is 1.9% higher than the previous years’ budget. The District’s FY 2022 budget for operations and maintenance is $3,814,850, while the capital projects budget is $2,262,900. Franklin’s share of the operation and maintenance and capital projects budgets are estimated to be $2,103,960 and $1,272,840, respectively.

For more information on the District please check out our website at https://www.charlesriverpcd.org/.

Respectively submitted

Douglas M. Downing, Chairman (Medway) 

David Formato, Vice Chairman (Franklin) 

Mark Cataldo, Clerk (Franklin)

Michael Callahan (Medway) 

Wolfgang Bauer (Franklin)

Charles River Pollution Control District (CRPCD) Officers:

Elizabeth Taglieri, P.E., Executive Director 

John D. Foster, Treasurer

Barbara Maffeo, Executive Secretary

The full Annual Report for 2021 can be found

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/2021_annual_report.pdf

The collection of Annual Reports can be found online

https://www.franklinma.gov/town-clerk/pages/town-franklin-annual-reports

Annual Report Of The Town of Franklin - FY 2021

Annual Report of the Purchasing Department - FY 2021

Note: FY 2021 is last year (July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021). The report was prepared to cover the business for the FY 2021 period. This year’s report FY 2022 (July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022) is in preparation now and is normally available for distribution at the polls for the November election. Updated - 08/15/22

Goals

The Purchasing Department is responsible for preserving and protecting the fiscal resources of the  Town. The Purchasing Office assists other departments in procuring quality goods and services in a fair, competitive, and transparent manner, using objective standards for the selection of contractors and vendors, to ensure fair, impartial, and uniform bidding, contract development and awarding procedures. All purchases are made in accordance with Massachusetts State Laws and Town By-Laws.

Procurement Changes

During Fiscal Year 2021, the Purchasing function seamlessly shifted to a remote model in keeping with COVID-19 safety measures. The Department had already instituted distribution of bid documentation through the Town website. In March 2020, the Department began conducting bid openings remotely with plan holders attending openings via Zoom meetings. In October, 2020, the former Chief Procurement Officer, John Bugbee, left the Town of Franklin to pursue an opportunity in a different town. We are grateful to John for his contributions and wish him continued success. I have worked closely with John since 2015 and am excited to continue to provide a high level of service and expertise

to both our internal and external customers.

Objectives

The Purchasing Department promotes fair, prompt, and courteous consideration to all suppliers. The Department is committed to providing those same standards to our internal customers while ensuring their procurement needs are met in a timely manner. Additionally, the Purchasing Department strives to attain the highest ethical standards in all transactions and correspondence.

Respectfully submitted:

Pamela Vickery

Chief Procurement Officer

Town of Franklin

The full Annual Report for 2021 can be found

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/2021_annual_report.pdf

The collection of Annual Reports can be found online

https://www.franklinma.gov/town-clerk/pages/town-franklin-annual-reports

Annual Report Of The Town of Franklin - FY 2021

Annual Report Of The Building Inspection Department - FY 2021

Note: FY 2021 is last year (July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021). The report was prepared to cover the business for the FY 2021 period. This year’s report FY 2022 (July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022) is in preparation now and is normally available for distribution at the polls for the November election. Updated - 08/15/22

The Building Inspection Department is a multi- functional office responsible for the construction, demolition, alteration, repair and occupancy of all residential, commercial, business and industrial uses for both existing and new construction in accordance with the Massachusetts Building Code. The department is responsible for the administration, interpretation and enforcement of the following codes:

Massachusetts State Building Code - 780CMR 

Town of Franklin Code - Zoning – CH 185 

Mass. Electrical Code – 527 CMR

Mass. Plumbing & Gas Code – 248 CMR 

National Fuel Gas Code – NFPA 54-2002 

Sealer of Weights and Measure – G.L. CH 98 

Architectural Access Board – 521 CMR

Hours of Operation

The Building Inspection Department’s hours are Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday 8:00a.m.-4:00p.m., Wednesday 8:00a.m.-6:00p.m. and Friday 8:00a.m.- 1:00p.m.

For your convenience, you may visit our website: at www.franklinma.gov this site contains a series of online forms and applications easily accessible and available to download and apply online. The website has sample plot plans, sign regulations, swimming pool instruction manuals, shed/barn instruction manuals, zoning criteria and other information necessary to process a permit or to simply provide information to the public.

Building Department Staff

Building Commissioner/Zoning Officer: Lloyd Brown

Inspectors:

Inspector of Wires: Bernard Mullaney 

Asst Wiring Inspector: James Loughlin 

Plumbing/Gas Inspector: Richard Cornetta

Asst Plumb/Gas Inspector: John “Jack” Giancola 

Local Building Inspector: Stephen O’Neill 

Sealer of Weights & Measurers - Comm. of Mass. /Div. of Standards

Staff Assistants

Judy Demers

Melissa Kiriacopoulos 

Tyler Paslaski

Casey Thayer

 

Lloyd Brown, Commissioner of Buildings, is responsible for all construction trade inspectors, municipal maintenance and supervision of all construction, zoning interpretation and determination, pre-planning and review of all subdivisions and proposed construction and improvements and general input for all other municipal departments and construction-related inquiries.

FY 2021 saw an upward rise in the amount of building permits issued. No doubt a result of more folks staying home and taking less vacations. We appreciate the patience of all residents, town council members and fellow employees, without everyone’s help and understanding FY21 would have been challenging. To our commercial customer’s, we thanks you as well. We saw the passing of our longtime Assistant Plumbing and Gas Inspector, Richard McCormick. Mac was solid inspector and a great friend, he is missed. As always for the past several decades our town is growing and changing every day. New buildings replace older structures and remodeling keeps the older building up to code. A convenient permit process helps to apply for all of our permits with any electronic online device. It’s a pleasure to serve you all!

Building Permits

This year the Building Department issued a total of 1732 building permits and the revenues collected totaled $810.557.20

There is a whole lot more to the Building Inspection Department section of this annual report but the tables and other info were not easily copied for this format. 

Find the remainder of the Building Inspection Department report on page  116

The full Annual Report for 2021 can be found

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/2021_annual_report.pdf

The collection of Annual Reports can be found online

https://www.franklinma.gov/town-clerk/pages/town-franklin-annual-reports

Annual Report Of The Town of Franklin - FY 2021

Annual Report Of The Department Of Public Works - FY 2021

Note: FY 2021 is last year (July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021). The report was prepared to cover the business for the FY 2021 period. This year’s report FY 2022 (July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022) is in preparation now and is normally available for distribution at the polls for the November election. Updated - 08/15/22

The Department of Public Works provides a wide range of services to the residents of Franklin. The DPW is organized into seven (7) divisions:

1. Administration

2. Engineering

3. Highway and Grounds (including Highway Maintenance and Construction, Central Motors, Snow & Ice, Parks, Town and School Grounds Maintenance and Forestry/Insect Control)

4. Water (including ground water withdrawals, water treatment and distribution)

5. Sewer

6. Solid Waste and Recycling (including the operation of the Beaver St. Recycling Center)

7. Street Lighting

DPW ADMINISTRATIVE DIVISION

The major functions of the Administrative Division include developing capital projects, long range planning, intergovernmental relations and compliance, grant writing, processing various private construction permits and drainlayer licenses, purchasing, budgeting, accounting, payroll, and multiple forms of utility billing.

Capital Projects

The Administrative Division, in conjunction with Engineering and the operating divisions, develops major capital projects.

The DPW continues to design and construct long-range projects over three to four years. Progress on specific capital construction projects is outlined in subsequent portions of this report.

It is important to note that many of these projects are performed by existing staff members which saves significant amounts of money by avoiding the need to contract out these services. The process of planning, designing, permitting, and oversite of these projects is an arduous task that requires a great level of coordination and cooperation between DPW divisions and other state, municipal and Federal departments.

Grant Writing

The Town completed the S319 grant from the Environmental Protection Agency and Mass DEP totaling $125,000. Through this grant we were able to develop a stormwater infiltration system with a private developer on Dean Ave. and construct bio retention areas on both Meadowlark Lane and Griffin Road.

The Town once again partnered with the Great American Rain Barrel Company to offer the discounted purchase of rain barrels to Franklin residents. Along with the discount, residents were eligible to receive a $50 rebate.

 

The Town received approximately $20,000.00 in recycling grants for our innovative programs at the recycling center in the proper removal and recycling of mattresses and Styrofoam, to name a couple.

In addition, The Town was awarded a $38,000 grant from Mass DOT to begin the development of a prioritization plan for the complete streets program as well as a $15,500 grant from the Department of Industrial Accidents for workplace safety training.

Permits and Long Range Planning

Long range planning is critical in the area of Public Works and must be accomplished consistently in order to ensure that the Town water, sewer stormwater and roadway infrastructure can support the needs of our residents. With the success of the 20/20 Plan, the Town Council authorized additional funding for waterline replacement and the improvement of roadways. Details on specific locations can be found in other parts of this report.

The DPW has continued to work with both the DEP and the Massachusetts Department of Recreation and Conservation to facilitate the final closing and capping of the Beaver Street Landfill Site.

The Town of Franklin has continued to work with other area towns and conservation groups towards ensuring that regional water supplies are protected.

Solid Waste and Recycling Collection Program

The single stream automated solid waste and recycling program continues to be a very successful program and has improved recycling rates and provided greater convenience for users. Improvements continue to be made to the Beaver St. Recycling Center to make the facility more attractive and customer friendly.

Hails and Farewells

We had several employees move on from their roles with the DPW and I would like to thank them for their years of dedication and service to the Town of Franklin! Mr. Deacon Perrotta, Director of Operations, retired after many years of leading the DPW Operations Team. Deacon’s contributions were numerous and he is sorely missed. Dave Allard, our Water Foreman, also retired after 34 years of service. In recognition of his unwavering commitment to the Franklin Water Department, the new Grove St Water Treatment Plant was dedicated to Mr. Allard this Spring! Mr. Chris White, Solid Waste Coordinator, also retired. His commitment over the years shaped our Solid Waste Program and Recycling Center into the top notch programs they are today. Finally, Mr. Jason Mello, our Assistant Town Engineer, moved on to pursue a new position, and we wish him well in all his future endeavors.

With losses there are also gains! We welcomed several new employees to our Management/Administrative Team including: Mr. Doug Martin, Water & Sewer Superintendent; Ms. Brooke Cotta, Assistant Town Engineer; Ms Danica Cucchi, GIS Assistant; and Ms. Marissa Allen, Administrative Assistant. The DPW was also fortunate to hire some new employees to our Operations Team. These included: Justin Mercer, Vito DaSilva and Peter Fricker. We are lucky to have them all.

We also had the good fortune of promoting many employees on our team. These employees include: Mr. Derek Adams, Environmental Affairs Superintendent; Mr. Anthony Brunetta, Assistant Highway and Grounds Superintendent; Mr. Steve Carlucci, Water Foreman; Mr. James Henchy, Crew Leader; Mr. Kevin Parslow, Water Treatment Foreman; Mr. Jacob Standley, Assistant Water/Sewer Superintendent; and Ms. Roseanne Szczepanowski, Assistant Admin & Budget Manager. Ms. Pam Vickery was also promoted but left the DPW Team to work as the Town of Franklin Purchasing Agent. We wish them all the best of luck in their new roles!

Thanks

As the Director, I owe many thanks to my entire staff as they make this department work and serve all residents in a timely manner. Everyone is committed to providing extraordinary service to the Town in the most cost effective manner possible.

The DPW staff are all dedicated professionals who put in so much extra time and effort to make this department a success. The Town and I are very fortunate to have such talented individuals to work with. I would like to thank, The Town Engineer Mr. Mike Maglio, Assistant Town Engineer Ms. Brooke Cotta, Admin & Budget Manager Ms. Kathy Mooradd, Assistant Admin & Budget Manager Ms. Roseanne Szczepanowski, Highway and Grounds Superintendent Mr. Carlos Rebelo, Assistant Highway & Grounds Superintendent Mr. Anthony Brunetta, Water & Sewer Superintendent Mr. Doug Martin, Assistant Water & Sewer Superintendent Mr. Jacob Standley, GIS Coordinator Ms. Kate Sjoberg, and Environmental Affairs Superintendent, Mr. Derek Adams.

I would also like to thank, Ms. Lynne Marchand, Ms. Paula Juarez, Ms. Cindy Elz and Ms. Marissa Allen, who support the Administration Division as well as Mr. Warren Groth, Mr. Bill Wenners and Ms. Danica Cucchi, from the Engineering Division. These individuals respond quickly and with courtesy to thousands of requests for assistance and information throughout the year.

We would like to welcome Recycling Center Supervisor, Steve Geer and thank the entire Recycling Center staff who continue to do a wonderful job.

I would especially like to thank the “Crew” and the mechanics that work out of the DPW garage. These are the employees who are not always seen, but provide the day to day services that are all too often taken for granted. They pump, treat and deliver safe drinking water; they care for parks and ball fields, maintain the roadways, repair and sustain all Town and school vehicles and handle all our waste. They are always available, day and night, and work long hours to assist in any emergency situation whether it is snow removal, water breaks, sewer backups, wind, lightning storms and flooding, among many others. They are all extremely professional and dedicated to their jobs. I cannot thank them enough.

Respectfully submitted, 

Robert A. Cantoreggi II 

Director of Public Works

Kathy Mooradd

Administration & Budget Manager

“Gettin’ It Done”

There is more to the Public Works section of the annual report. More data and information covering each of the divisions is available in the full report beginning with Page 173

The full Annual Report for 2021 can be found

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/2021_annual_report.pdf

The collection of Annual Reports can be found online

https://www.franklinma.gov/town-clerk/pages/town-franklin-annual-reports

Annual Report Of The Town of Franklin - FY 2021