"it’s never been a better time to consider a job in craft beer"

"Timberyard Brewing Co. spent much of 2020 pivoting and belt-tightening.

The East Brookfield brewer furloughed all five of its part-time servers last March, then tried for the better part of the spring and summer to find the hours to piece its staff together again.

This year, though, Timberyard has already hired six new servers and a kitchen assistant. Production has increased by 200%, as the brewery signed a new distribution deal and hired on its first assistant brewer.

Area breweries were rebounding from the pandemic well before the state lifted all COVID-19 restrictions. Now most breweries are not only on sure enough footing to hire their employees back, but also need to add more staff to prepare for the large crowds expected this summer."

Continue reading the article online

https://www.worcestermag.com/story/lifestyle/2021/06/08/craft-beer-jobs-abound-worcester-area-breweries-rebound-pandemic/7583315002/

Did you know that plastic beer carriers can't be recycled (even though they are labeled as 100% recyclable)

"It’s estimated* that at least 10 million new plastic can carriers are used annually by breweries in Massachusetts, with just 10% of them being collected and re-used, and less than 2% of them ever getting recycled. As a result, the amount of plastic beer packaging waste ending up in landfills each year is enough to fill any of the state’s largest breweries with discarded carriers rather than beer.

A number of factors have combined to create a perfect storm in which carriers end up in the hands of consumers who pitch them into their curbside recycling bins because manufacturers market them as “100% recyclable.” But the state’s RecycleSmart website, an initiative of the Massachusetts department of Environmental Protection (DEP), and its three largest waste disposal companies (Casella, Republic, and Waste Management) all say that plastic carriers and six-pack rings are incompatible with sorting equipment. As a result, they get rejected and sent to landfill or incineration, both of which have negative impacts on the environment."

https://massbrewbros.com/just-one-tenth-of-plastic-can-carriers-get-re-used-or-recycled-in-massachusetts-a-team-of-eco-minded-breweries-and-environmental-groups-plan-to-change-that/

my small collection ready to recycle somewhere

The map displays locations where the carriers can be recycled:

Boston.com: "Local breweries team up to brew ‘As One,’ which funds a scholarship for people of color"

"Four Massachusetts breweries have joined forces to launch a scholarship with the hopes of bringing more people of color into a majority white industry.

67 Degrees Brewing, Arcpoint Brewing, Crue Brew Brewery, and White Lion Brewing teamed up to brew “As One,” a New England IPA that will be available to the public on March 31. A portion of the proceeds will go toward the creation of a scholarship at Holyoke Community College, and will be available to students of color who are enrolled in the college’s beer, cider, and winemaking program.

“The fabric of the craft beer trade doesn’t mirror the fabric of the communities we work, play, and live in,” said Ray Berry, owner and founder at White Lion, in a press release. White Lion is one of just five Black-owned breweries in Massachusetts."

Continue reading the article online

https://www.boston.com/food/beer/2021/03/24/as-one-beer-scholarship-holyoke-community-college

https://67degreesbrewing.com/

FM #480 - Economic Development Subcommittee Mtg - 03/03/21 (audio)

FM #480 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 480 in the series.

This shares the Economic Development Subcommittee meeting that was held on Wednesday, March 3, 2021.

The meeting was conducted in a hybrid mode; some of the key participants were in the Council Chambers, the Chair Melanie Hamblen led the meeting remotely along with many others via Zoom conference bridge to adhere to the ‘social distancing’ requirements of this pandemic period.

Links to the meeting agenda and my notes are in the show notes. The meeting recording runs about fifty nine minutes.  Audio file =   https://player.captivate.fm/episode/aada591e-6ed2-401b-90de-d949d30e7ab1

-----------

Meeting agenda including bylaw revision for food trucks and draft "Business Guide" 
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/agendas/edc_agenda_3-3-2021.pdf

My notes captured via Twitter and shared here in summary form
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2021/03/recap-of-economic-development-meeting.html

Quick Recap:

• Modification to bylaw requirement for up to 25% of the space allowed for the tasting room proposed for removal. Few other communities require such. Approved to bring to Council. Would still require approval process loop through the Planning Board and back to Council before effective
• Discussion on draft of new Franklin Business Guide. Good suggestions made. If you have any, please send to Anne Marie Tracy
• Discussion on proposal to change restrictions on food trucks. Would allow for private parties on private property. For a public event on private property (i.e. a business like Pour Richard's) they could get a permit for it. The current zone for food trucks would remain in place at the Town Common. Plans for them during the summer (assuming COVID protocols allow) for Farmers Market/Concerts on the Common. Approved to bring to Council for further discussion

Photos captured during the meeting and shared via Twitter can be found in one album  https://photos.app.goo.gl/PbwWoeJjCLhCyHDY8

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

We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm).

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

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"

 

cover of the draft "Business Guide" 

Recap of Economic Development meeting - Mar 3, 2021 - modification to tasting room bylaw and food trucks approved

Quick Recap:

• Modification to bylaw requirement for up to 25% of the space allowed for the tasting room proposed for removal. Few other communities require such. Approved to bring to Council. Would still require approval process loop through the Planning Board and back to Council before effective
• Discussion on draft of new Franklin Business Guide. Good suggestions made. If you have any, please send to Anne Marie Tracy
• Discussion on proposal to change restrictions on food trucks. Would allow for private parties on private property. For a public event on private property (i.e. a business like Pour Richard's) they could get a permit for it. The current zone for food trucks would remain in place at the Town Common. Plans for them during the summer (assuming COVID protocols allow) for Farmers Market/Concerts on the Common. Approved to bring to Council for further discussion

 

Photos captured during the meeting and shared via Twitter can be found in one album  https://photos.app.goo.gl/PbwWoeJjCLhCyHDY8

----

As with most meetings in this pandemic period, I took my notes via Twitter during the meeting reporting in real-time via the virtual session.
 
The Twitter hashtag can be found online  #edc0303 
https://twitter.com/search?q=%23edc0303&src=typeahead_click 

• Economic development Committee meeting start at 5:45 PM #edc0303  https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/agendas/edc_agenda_3-3-2021.pdf   Proposal to modify tasting room bylaw, proposal for food trucks modification, and draft of business guide up for review
• Real time reporting underway for the Economic Development meeting #boh0303 link shared earlier Chair Hamblen covers the meeting protocol message, all votes will be via roll call
• First up, the tasting room proposal as modified, changes the current bylaw by removing the % requirement of space for tasting area. Prior meeting had covered details, this is in response to that discussion. #edc0303 https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/agendas/edc_agenda_3-3-2021.pdf
• #edc0303 Bissanti thinks it is great, anything to help business. Jones, ditto. Frongillo agree most don't have restrictions. Planning Board approved current operations under prior plan, this affects new entities. Existing businesses would have to request a change if they want
• #edc0303 some business also have waivers and would not help existing businesses as they already have an exception, under this they would not comply. Motion to move bylaw amendment proposal to Council for full discussion, second, passes 4-0 via roll call.
• Next up business guide in draft up for review.  #edc0303 up for review, do you find what you need? If not contact Anne Marie Tracy to provide the input - page 5 of the agenda doc  https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/agendas/edc_agenda_3-3-2021.pdf
• #edc0303 consider colors to differentiate chapters, ensure links are good, doesn't really say where the zoning map is, where is R1, R2, etc. Highlight specific areas, downtown, Clark Cutler, Crossing, etc. A vacant registry? Need a larger conversation on town wide branding
• #edc0303 each business owner would take their own journey to open; my suggestion to develop a flow chart to help with the navigation; maybe having a planning board member at the tech review meeting, also they apparently aren't notified of EDC meetings
• #edc0303 Chair heard also that they went thru the tech review easily and yet runs into difficulty with Planning Board. Tech review is for staff dept heads to provide input, they do line up folks with what was presented. Planning Brd advised not to participate to avoid conflict
• #edc0303 back to business guide: love the idea of a flow chart. Bissanti thinks you need Plng Brd. Moving on to food truck proposal, add a fee for temp food truck event, fact sheet in packet. Page 35 has table of fees with addition of a food truck fee. Mostly internal approval
• No permit needed if private and public not invited, fee yes #edc0303 same for one day license, i.e. Pour Richards for a tasting with a food truck, fee required. Food truck friendly zone around Town Common remains as is. I.e. for events and summer concerts.
• A nonprofit like ArtWeek, etc. could arrange for the Common for their event and get food trucks. There is also a requirement to avoid conflicts with same foods, 500' buffer. Ex. a taco truck couldn't be in the parking lot across from Sante Fe Grille. #edc0303
• Bissanti food trucks have a place in Franklin. #edc0303 Jones fine with this. Frongillo what is the permit process? Hellen hadn't been aware of food trucks operating based here. There are mobile vendor codes to abide by, health safety, Chrissy works on this with the staff
• #edc0303 once familiar with business, they tend to be more of a 'rinse/repeat' and go quickly. Food service permit req'd from BoH for private events. A concern with parking where the food truck would appear in case enforcement is required. We want these to work.
• #edc0303 motion to move to Town Council, second, passes via roll call 4-0 
• Motion to adjourn, second, passes 4-0 via roll call 
• Catch you in a few for Town Council!

modification to tasting room bylaw and food trucks approved

 

FM #452 Economic Development SubComm Mtg - 02/03/21 (audio)

FM #452 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 452 in the series.

This shares the Economic Development Committee meeting that was held on Wednesday, February 3, 2021.

The meeting was conducted in a hybrid mode; some of the key participants were in the Council Chambers, the Chair Melanie Hamblen led the meeting remotely along with many others via Zoom conference bridge to adhere to the ‘social distancing’ requirements of this pandemic period.

Links to the meeting agenda and my notes are in the show notes. The recording runs about an hour and eight minutes (~68 mins)  Audio file =  https://www.hipcast.com/podcast/HsJsQlRS


 

-----------

Meeting agenda including bylaw revision for food trucks  
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/agendas/edc_agenda_revised_2-3-2021.pdf

My notes captured via Twitter and shared here in summary form
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2021/02/economic-development-subcommittee_5.html

Quick Recap:

• Very enlightening listening session this time. Good info gleaned from participants all around. Food trucks are not inanimate objects, they have people and families to support behind them
• Where did the 25% requirement for tasting space come from; the manufacturing bylaw allows 25% for a manufacturer to have that amount of space for a retail operation
• Tasting rooms as designed in the bylaw are shifting to be more than that per some of the participants; what should they have, how should they be operated, how can the service be 'safe'....
• Food requirement for tasting makes sense but then brings complications, patio space outside counted against space requirements, which then drive capacity and parking; need to be careful of making changes without considering other effects especially unintended ones
• the food truck experience is not the same as a table service, should not be considered competitive, they are distinctly different
• No pun intended but there is plenty of food for thought here, more to come as the info is reviewed and solution or options designed for next discussion (TBD)

 
Photos captured during the meeting and shared via Twitter can be found in one album  https://photos.app.goo.gl/nZAY5RwEoNGH37wt8

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

We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm).

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

Through this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.
 
For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/ 

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"

 

FM #452 Economic Development SubComm Mtg - 02/03/21 (audio)

Economic Development Subcommittee - meeting recap - 02/03/2021

Quick Recap:

• Very enlightening listening session this time. Good info gleaned from participants all around. Food trucks are not inanimate objects, they have people and families to support behind them
• Where did the 25% requirement for tasting space come from; the manufacturing bylaw allows 25% for a manufacturer to have that amount of space for a retail operation
• Tasting rooms as designed in the bylaw are shifting to be more than that per some of the participants; what should they have, how should they be operated, how can the service be 'safe'....
• Food requirement for tasting makes sense but then brings complications, patio space outside counted against space requirements, which then drive capacity and parking; need to be careful of making changes without considering other effects especially unintended ones
• the food truck experience is not the same as a table service, should not be considered competitive, they are distinctly different
• No pun intended but there is plenty of food for thought here, more to come as the info is reviewed and solution or options designed for next discussion (TBD)
  

 

Photos captured during the meeting and shared via Twitter can be found in one album  https://photos.app.goo.gl/nZAY5RwEoNGH37wt8

----

As with most meetings in this pandemic period, I took my notes via Twitter during the meeting reporting in real-time via the virtual session.

 

The Twitter hashtag can be found online  #edc0203

https://twitter.com/search?q=%23edc0203&src=typeahead_click

• Real time reporting underway for the Economic Development subcommittee meeting #edc0203 https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/agendas/edc_agenda_revised_2-3-2021.pdf
• Chair Hamblen takes role call of members as she is remote (Bissanti, Jones, and Frongillo in Chambers) #edc0203 discussion to begin on bylaw of section 19 license. Agenda doc includes some historical reference points https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/agendas/edc_agenda_revised_2-3-2021.pdf
• TA Hellen provides some of the history/background on the development of the proposal. #edc0203 recall beer garden at ArtWeek event in 2019, wanted to do more, COVID most recently has presented challenges
• Three businesses open and others in queue to do so. Use this as a listening session, open to business comment. Bob Vozella, La Cantina Winery, thanks for enabling the business, expanding the option for food trucks outside of the Town Common area would be beneficial #edc0203
• Do provide small plates and would like to provide more for the customers, do have menus and service in from the neighborhood restaurants. #edc0203 food trucks would provide another option.
• Yes it was said: "There is an appetite for food trucks to coexist with small businesses in Franklin". #edc0203 how much of difference does it make between a permanent restaurant or a temporary food truck as competition for town business?
• Food truck owner comments that she has worked for 10 years between Worcester and Boston and it is sad that she can't work in her home (Franklin) #edc0203 it doesn't just help Olivier sell their beer, it helps beyond that. Compliments the drink establishments.
• Food trucks are not inanimate objects, they also represent the business and the family behind it. The Bubbleman pivoted to do a hotdog truck in addition to bubbles, and can't work here. Board of Health won't allow this as a 'zoning issue' #edc0203 even in a private party
• Issue with bylaw as written forces larger facilities to generate enough money, corridor counts as part of the taproom. Could exclude it with a door, really. Consider patio or outdoor space as separate? #edc0203 burden placed on business re: rent and SQ footage larger than could
• Patrick D "The regs are driving residents to eat out at Patriot Place instead of downtown Franklin" Bissanti - "We don't want to hurt the existing businesses with food trucks" #edc0203
• T Padula reminds that the tasting rooms are expanding beyond what they were supposed to be, they should taste and leave; they are staying longer and competing with restaurants. #edc0203 Patrick D, Glen Pharma 25% on tasting room, not sure how derived, arbitrary #
• Burden on space, parking, safety, all make sense, but where the 25% comes from doesn't make sense. Owner has responsibly to manage the crowd. #edc0203 did look at food truck angle and ended up with a restaurant; food trucks are here to stay, folks want them
• "A food truck is not table experience, it is different." Olivier - 67 Degrees, grateful for bylaw to allow us to operate. 25% requirements hinders us operationally. Talked with Canton (Trillium, etc) parking/bathrooms required, but not limitation on tasting room size #edc0203
• #edc0203 25% clashes with other zoning requirements, needed to get 2 special permits to expand within 6 months of operation and do the same thing. A food truck at 67 should not affect other restaurants, especially in COVID times, would help now and long term
• Halligan, #edc0203 25% was designed for sample and short term visit to leave with product, it is growing into more than tasting, functions, entertainment, families, dogs, etc. Proposing larger footage if kitchen present, increases parking, drainage, etc. raises other issues
• Not an easy solution, where to go next. Need to close out discussion tonight and continue next time. #edc0203 "folks already eat out elsewhere, so improving options here will help not hurt" - Frongillo Manufacturing is only allowed 25% for retail, hence the derivation
• More to come, stay tuned, work to be done. Motion to adjourn, seconded, passes via roll call 4-0 #edc0203 

 

Economic Development Subcommittee - meeting recap - 02/03/2021

 

67 Degrees Brewing HOME DELIVERY (weekly) IS ON!!

Email from 67 Degrees announces:

Orders can be placed daily on our Webstore (https://commerce.arryved.com/location/BEPyvnP6).  

Delivery orders placed after 2 pm on the same delivery day will be delivered on the next zone schedule.  

67 Degrees Brewing HOME DELIVERY (weekly) IS ON!!

Enjoy Beer, Family, and Friends

Cheers!!

visit 67 Degrees online via their web page -> https://www.67degreesbrewing.com/

or via Facebook ->  https://www.facebook.com/67degrees.brew

"Breweries in Pandemic Times" - #thinkFranklinfirst

From the Boston Globe, an article of interest for Franklin:

"Chilly weather didn’t stop a devoted group of thirsty customers from huddling on the concrete patio outside the small Idle Hands brewery one evening last week. Tractor-trailers rumbled past on a busy four-lane road. The clickety-clack of the Orange Line could be heard nearby.

Despite the gritty backdrop, all six outdoor tables were occupied and replenished with India pale ale, pilsner, lagers, and other craft beer. A few steps away, drive-up customers walked just inside the empty taproom to pick up their favorite ale and cart it home.

Chris Tkach, the owner, said he has managed to weather the near-constant reinvention forced on his small business by the pandemic. Revenues are down only 10 to 15 percent so far this year, he said. But as temperatures fall, Idle Hands and the state’s 200 other breweries worry whether all the changes they have made to stay afloat since March will be enough.

“The next six months could be excruciatingly challenging,” said Jack Hendler, co-owner of Jack’s Abby in Framingham. “A lot of breweries have been able to get through the past three months, but it has yet to be seen what will happen over the next few.”

 

Continue reading the article online (subscription maybe required)

https://www.bostonglobe.com/2020/10/01/lifestyle/hard-hit-breweries-shiver-thought-winter/

This is an opportunity to #thinkFranklinfirst and consider 67 Degrees Brewing Co when looking for craft beer

https://67degreesbrewing.com/

MA Senate Passes Brewers Compromise

The Massachusetts State Senate on Thursday unanimously passed legislation that resolves a decade-long distribution dispute between brewers and wholesalers in the Commonwealth.

"Craft brewing is an industry that has grown in Massachusetts as a result of innovation, entrepreneurship, hard work and dedication to supporting small businesses, and is now thriving," said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). "Solving this decade-long dispute was a priority of mine long before becoming Senate President and I look forward to seeing this important agreement codified in law. I would like to thank my colleagues Senators Paul Feeney, Joe Boncore and Cindy Creem for their efforts and the Massachusetts Brewers Guild and Beer Distributors of Massachusetts for their determination in reaching this landmark compromise."

"The MBG is incredibly grateful for the support and leadership of Senate President Spilka in advocating for franchise law reform," said Sam Hendler, President of the Massachusetts Brewers Guild and co-founder of Jack's Abby Craft Lagers. This agreement is a victory for the more than 200 craft breweries across Massachusetts that have become pillars of their communities, helping local economies to thrive and drawing tourism to new areas. It took the collective effort of our counterparts in the legislature, the brewing community and the wholesalers to ensure we are able to continue our work as craft brewers now and for years to come."

"The Beer Distributors of Massachusetts are tremendously appreciative of the work, support, and leadership provided by Senate President Spilka in encouraging the Brewers Guild and the Beer Distributors to agree on franchise law reform that has been disputed for the past 10-years" said Joe Salois, owner & president of Atlas Distributing, Inc., Auburn, MA. "The efforts, leadership, and uncompromising willingness to reach agreement by the brewers, distributors, and legislature was a driving force in this achievement" said Salois.

The legislation, An Act Relative to Craft Brewers (S.2829), represents the agreement reached by The Massachusetts Brewers Guild, representing craft breweries, and the Beer Distributors of Massachusetts after good-faith negotiations encouraged by Spilka and her Senate colleagues.

"This bill will update our current franchise laws to reflect the modern marketplace, protect jobs and level the playing field for emerging brewers here in the Commonwealth," said Senator Michael J. Rodrigues (D-Westport), Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. "I applaud the spirit of compromise shown by brewers and distributors to get this done and reach agreement during this time of great uncertainty. Thank you to Senate President Spilka for her leadership and Senators Feeney, Boncore and others for their hard work to ensure we pass this legislation today."

"This agreement and resulting legislation is indicative of the importance of a growing beer industry here in Massachusetts. Both the brewers and distributors came together to forge an agreement that protects jobs, promotes economic growth and entrepreneurship, and benefits consumers," said Senator Paul Feeney (D-Foxborough). "I am proud to have played a role, along with Senate President Spilka and Senator Creem in providing the environment and sense of urgency that allowed this deal to be reached by these two very willing stakeholders. This legislation should signal to the industry that the Commonwealth is supportive of this growing sector and that a network of local and independent distributors and workers are ready to bring their product to market."

"Massachusetts is home to more than 200 breweries that represent the unique culture and contours of our local communities," said Senator Joe Boncore (D-Winthrop). "This legislation will create a level playing field for craft brewers. Now, perhaps more than ever, it is critical that we support small and local businesses as we work towards economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic."

"The growth and expansion of the craft brewery business over the last decade has been a welcome addition to the State economy," said Senate Majority Leader Cindy Creem (D.Newton). "I applaud all the parties involved for reaching an agreement that will allow this industry to flourish both now and into the future."

In Massachusetts, current law makes it difficult for a brewer to end a relationship with their distributor, jeopardizing potential growth. The compromise legislation (S.2829) would allow a brewery that produces less than 250,000 barrels (or just over 3.4 million cases) a year to end their relationship with a distributor with a 30-day notice and other certain protections. If a distribution contract is terminated, the brewery would be responsible for fairly compensating the wholesaler the fair market value of the distribution rights in addition to other costs for inventory and marketing investments. The legislation calls for both parties to engage in an expedited arbitration process to resolve such issues.

An Act Relative to Craft Brewers now moves to the Massachusetts House of Representatives for consideration. 

“To get to this point feels so so very good”

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"Craft brewers and the state’s beer wholesalers have reached a deal that would resolve a decade-long dispute over distribution rights centered around when a brewer can sever ties with its distributor, paving the way for the state’s smaller beer brands to free themselves from relationships they may feel are inhibiting their growth. 

The deal, if accepted by legislators on Beacon Hill, would apply to almost all of the more than 200 craft brewers in Massachusetts. The one notable exception would be Boston Beer Company, brewer of Samuel Adams beer and the second largest craft brewer in the country. 

Sam Hendler, one of the three founding brothers of Jack’s Abby Brewing in Framingham, helped negotiate the deal on behalf of the Brewers Guild. 

“I’m really excited. There’s still some anxiety because we don’t have a signature from the governor on the bill just yet. We are anxiously hopeful for everything to play out over the next two weeks,” Hendler said on Saturday."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200718/craft-brewers-wholesalers-strike-distribution-deal?rssfeed=true

Town Council recap Jan 8 meeting: 67 Degree pouring license approved, goals discussed, plastic bag restriction moves closer to reality

The agenda was completed but not in the order as published due to the time requirements. This is not unusual for the Council especially when there is a scheduled hearing for 7:10 PM and they don't have enough to do before that time runs around. In this case, they skipped ahead to cover an 'easy' item, the reintroduction of the snow removal bylaw (which turned out to be lease than 'easy.')

The discussion on the snow removal bylaw could have been straight forward. The Council had given a sense of the state for the reintroduction. The prior wording was reviewed by Town Administrator and Legal Counsel to bring the new version forward addressing the major problem from the prior - lack of enforcement.

During the discussion, it was revealed that none of the businesses, nor the Downtown Partnership, had been given a heads up on the proposal. The item was withdrawn from consideration by the Council and referred to the Economic Development Subcommittee for further discussion and review. It will likely come back to the Council but as the next EDC meeting is scheduled for Feb 5, it won't be likely to provide any relief for this winter season.

The Council turned to the 7:10 hearing and approval for the pouring license for Franklin Brewing Company doing business as 67 Degrees. They are working toward opening at 158 Grove St. They still have some final approvals and work to complete before opening but the pouring license is now approved.

The plastic bag reduction or prohibition (as opposed to ban) came up for discussion and was moved to a second reading. The FHS students will be invited to the next meeting (apparently had a school event conflict with this meeting) to be on hand for eventual approval.

The storm water bylaw moved forward to become a reality. The subcommittee to work out the details for the fee structure still needs to be named. The work to change the quarterly billing statement to add this line item to the current water/sewer and trash/recycling is also underway.

After completing the legislation for action, Town Administrator Jamie Hellen reminded the Council that they had not covered the goals and objectives. The Council then dug into that document as Jamie went through section by section. Multiple additions or clarifications were made along the way.

The Actions Taken document has not yet been published. A link to that will be added when available.

Additional details from the meeting may be found in my notes recorded live during the meeting.

• Live reporting: TA report to Closing

 https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/01/live-reporting-ta-report-to-closing.html

• Live reporting: License Transaction - Presentation...

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/01/live-reporting-license-transaction.html

• Live reporting: Legislation for Action (updated)

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/01/live-reporting-legislation-for-action.html

• Live reporting: Town Council - Jan 8, 2020

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/01/live-reporting-town-council-jan-8-2020.html

Town Council agenda links
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/01/franklin-ma-town-council-agenda-jan-8.html

storm water fee mock-up (from a recent bill for my household, the actual one may look different)

"We had to go and essentially combine the lots"

From the Wicked Local/Franklin, article of interest for Franklin:

"Three months after stalling on a negative vote of the Planning Board, a brewery and taproom proposed for downtown is back on track.

Town planners on Monday approved a special permit for As Built Brewery, doing an about-face on the proponents’ plans to transform the former landscaping property at 40 Alpine Row into a site for brewing and serving locally-made craft beer.

While they still need to secure some other approvals, “it’s a move forward,” said a pleased Jay Mello, who co-owns As Built Brewery with his friends Erik Trowbridge and Nick Erickson.

The Planning Board initially declined the special permit when voting in October. Mello said it turned out that “unbeknownst to us, the property was actually two parcels instead of one.”

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://franklin.wickedlocal.com/news/20200107/franklin-planners-ok-downtown-brewery

The future location on Aline Row for As Built Brewery

“If you’re on a beer trip, you’re coming here”

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"Three years ago, Jay Mello and two of his hiking buddies decided they were “sick of waiting in long lines for a beer.”

So they started brewing their own in the winter of 2016, and haven’t stopped. Though Mello admits, making your own beer wasn’t the easiest shortcut to take.

By the summer of 2020, the trio plans to open their new craft beer brewery and tasting room – As Built Brewery – in Franklin at 40 Alpine Row. The brewery will be the town’s first.

As Built will be located in a 6,000-square-foot space within the town’s downtown zoning district and will include a production area and a canning machine – the only brewery to have one in the area, said Mello. He calls the canning line “key to brewing,” and getting their beer in more people’s hands. Eventually, the brewery hopes to distribute their beer to local liquor stores."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20191005/as-built-brewery-plans-to-open-in-franklin-next-summer

As Built Brewery

You can find out more about As Built on their webpage  http://asbuiltbrewing.com/

on Facebook  https://www.facebook.com/pg/asbuiltbrewing

or at UnTappd  https://untappd.com/AsBuiltBrewingCo?

In the News: Dean switches athletic conference; gambling expansion hearings; brewers-distributors don't agree

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"The Great Northeast Athletic Conference has announced the addition of Dean College as its newest full core member institution beginning with the 2020-21 academic year, as recently announced by GNAC Commissioner Joe Walsh.

Dean College is currently a member of the New England Collegiate Conference for all sports excluding football.

In all, 14 of Dean’s 15 varsity sport programs will compete initially in the GNAC: baseball, men’s and women’s basketball, men’s and women’s cross country, field hockey, men’s golf, men’s and women’s lacrosse, men’s and women’s soccer, softball and men’s and women’s volleyball."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20190715/stronggreat-northeast-athletic-conference-adds-dean-college-strong

Dean's mascot "Boomer" out on the lawn recently

"Eight years after Massachusetts legalized casino gambling and while lawmakers are weighing further expansions of gaming, a Hopkinton couple told lawmakers the story of how “the spread of commercialized gambling” has turned their lives and business upside down, and warned lawmakers against further promoting gambling.

Sara and Jeff Austin, who own and operate a sound engineering firm in Framingham, noticed a few unauthorized transactions on a bank statement in December 2018. Their bookkeeper, Antonis Mallios, assured them it was an accounting error and would be rectified in no time.

But as the Austins sorted through seven years of records, they and law enforcement realized Mallios had allegedly stolen $885,000 from the company and another $470,000 from a Methuen health center where he also kept the books."

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https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20190715/hopkinton-couple-victims-of-alleged-embezzler-slams-push-for-plainridge-table-games

"Brewers and beer distributors are renewing the effort to create new pathways out of their business partnerships, but a “compromise” bill put forward by distributors has already been rejected by brewers, who are offering a plan they said would be “painful” for them but still preferable to the distributors’ option.

“We’re not trying to make it easy for us to leave our wholesalers,” said Boston Beer Company founder Jim Koch. “We’re willing to make it very painful in order to get something done. We’d love it differently, but it’s not going to happen. We have to make it painful for us.”

Under current law, once a beer supplier has worked with a particular distributor for six months, that distributor has indefinite rights to the products it has already distributed, and a supplier can only terminate the contract if the Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission determines that the distributor has violated one of five statutorily-defined conditions."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20190715/brewers-distributors-renew-quarrel-over-exclusive-contracts

Brewing a Cure 4 ALS - Aug 10

All proceeds raised at the event will be donated in honor of Denis Ceruti, a local businessman, originally from Medway. “Brewing a Cure 4 ALS” (https://fundraise.als.net/brewingacure4als), a craft beer and wine festival being held on August, 10th in Cambridge, MA, with the critical mission of raising funds to help find a cure for the devastating disease, ALS.

ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. Once ALS starts, it almost always progresses, eventually taking away the ability to walk, dress, write, speak, swallow, and breathe, and shortening the life span. How fast and in what order this occurs is very different from person to person. While the average survival time is three years, about 20 percent of people with ALS live five years, 10 percent will survive 10 years and 5 percent will live 20 years or longer.

There is currently no cure for ALS. This urgent unmet medical need for effective treatments for this devastating and fatal disease is the basis for the research and drug development effort at the nonprofit biotech organization, ALS Therapy Development Institute https://www.als.net/. Located in Cambridge, MA, ALS TDI is the world’s first and largest nonprofit biotech focused 100 percent on ALS research. ALSTDI is a 501 (C)3 organization. 87% of all funds raised by the organization go directly to ALS Research.

The organizers of “Brewing a Cure 4 ALS” are proud to be partnered with ALS TDI for this event. All proceeds raised will be donated to the ALS TDI in honor of our dear friend, Dennis Ceruti, a hardworking small business owner, a loving husband, and father of 4 amazing girls, who was diagnosed with ALS in 2018. We believe that ALS is not an incurable disease. It is an underfunded one.

At the moment, our greatest need is with ticket sales as well as table sponsorships. Tickets range from a $100 VIP early access ticket to a $60 general admission ticket. Table Sponsorships are $750. Whether it is sponsoring a table, purchasing tickets, or simply helping publicize the event to other interested businesses, brewers or beer enthusiasts, any support one could provide, big or small, would be appreciated.

Brewing a Cure 4 ALS - Aug 10

In the News: 100 years of the 19th Amendment; ZēLUS Beer designed specifically active lifestyle

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"Massachusetts ratified the 19th Amendment 100 years ago, ensuring a woman’s right to vote. Though more women are running for office and casting more ballots than men, female elected officials are still in the minority. Women make up 28.5% of the Massachusetts Legislature. 

When Shirley Anita Chisholm, the first black congresswoman in the United States, met 6-year-old Yvonne Spicer, she said her job was “to help people.” 

Spicer, who lived in the congresswoman’s hometown of Brooklyn, New York, was immediately enamored by her. 

“I think about that experience and where that seed was being planted when I was six,” said Spicer, Framingham’s mayor and the first African-American woman popularly elected mayor in Massachusetts."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20190623/womens-right-to-vote-is-no-guarantee-for-equal-representation




"ZēLUS Beer was designed specifically for your active lifestyle"

"Though the Zelus Beer Company launched in 2015, the Medfield brewer has been somewhat incognito, operating from an office and warehouse not open to the public. 

The company is set to change that soon; it has been building a “tap room” at 1 Green St. to feature its offerings, and plans to open it in coming days. 

Company founder Geoffrey Pedder said the company - named for Zelus, the Greek personification of competition and rivalry - began with the intent of connecting to anyone who’s active. 

“It was designed and developed with athletes in mind,” he said. “We do want to be known as the home for wellness beers, which is a big segment of the market.”

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20190622/new-tap-room-for-medfield-brewer

According the the Zelus webpage, the tap room is indeed open
https://www.zelusbeer.com/home

Zelus Beer Company

In the News: Franklin mulling retail marijuana shop, breweries

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"A retail marijuana store is on the agenda for consideration by the Planning Board next week, along with two proposed breweries. 

The board will hold public hearings on each proposal on Monday in the Town Council chambers at the Franklin Municipal Building, 355 East Central St. 

The hearing on the first brewery convenes at 7:05 p.m., followed by the second brewery at 7:10 p.m., and a hearing on the retail marijuana shop at 7:20 p.m. 

“This is our first retail marijuana (proposal),” Town Planner Amy Love said, noting the proposal is for a 5,000-square-foot facility at 1256 West Central St. “It’s in a marijuana overlay district.”

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20190614/franklin-mulling-retail-marijuana-shop-breweries

The public hearing notifications were posted here
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2019/06/public-hearings-planning-board-june-17.html

The complete Planning Board agenda can be found on the Town of Franklin page
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/agendas/june_17_2019.pdf

As Built Brewing (Facebook image)

In the News: Robbery suspect arrested; Wormtown expanding to Patriot Place

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

Robbery suspect arrested

"A Massachusetts man suspected of armed bank robberies in Massachusetts and Rhode Island was arrested Wednesday at Plainridge Park Casino, according to Massachusetts State Police. 

Officers from the East Providence Police Department and the Massachusetts State Police Gaming Enforcement Unit arrested Joseph Hickson, 31, of Walpole, while he was gambling at the Plainville, casino around 2:45 p.m., the Massachusetts State Police said. 

Hickson was arrested on a warrant charging him in a bank robbery that happened Tuesday, May 28, at the Washington Trust Bank on Newport Avenue in East Providence, according to the East Providence police. Franklin Police believe Hickson is responsible for the robbery at the DCU Federal Credit Union on West Central Street, on May 16, and at the time said “no weapons were shown” during that robbery."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20190530/suspect-in-armed-bank-robberies-in-franklin-and-walpole-arrested-at-casino


Wormtown expanding to Patriot Place

"New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft will soon add craft beer to his long list of connections to Worcester. 

This summer, Wormtown Brewery will open a brewery and taproom at Patriot Place in Foxborough, its second location and first outside the city. 

Wormtown is taking over Battle Road Brewing Co.’s space at 250 Patriot Place, part of an agreement to assume brewing and packaging operations for the Maynard brewpub."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20190530/next-draft-wormtown-to-open-brewery-taproom-at-patriot-place

Wormtown Brewery

In the News: Dean commencement; Lost Shoe Brewing and Roasting Co opens in Marlboro

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

Dean commencement

"When first-generation American Fatima Naidjate, a Muslim, first stepped onto the Dean College campus in Franklin for student orientation nearly four years ago, she scanned the crowd of freshmen for another girl wearing a hijab, eager to shake the feeling of being different. 

“Before Dean, I was always reminded by those around me that I was different,” said Naidjate, addressing a maroon sea of 292 fellow graduates as the college’s 153rd commencement student speaker on Saturday. She graduated summa cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a minor in sociology, planning to later pursue an MBA degree with a concentration in marketing. 

“As the great Maya Angelou put it, ‘They may forget what you said, but they will never forget how you made them feel.’ With the strong community of diverse individuals here at Dean, I always felt at home,” she said. “At Dean, I did not need someone who looked exactly like me – it was those who were different from me that allowed me to feel a sense of belonging.”

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20190511/dean-college-graduates-293-at-153rd-commencement

In the News: Dean commencement

Lost Shoe Brewing and Roasting Co opens in Marlboro

"A unique new business is brewing in downtown Marlborough. 

Lost Shoe Brewing and Roasting Company – a brewery and coffee roaster – opened its doors Saturday at the former Speakers nightclub on Weed Street. The brewery and roaster held a private soft opening for friends and family members Thursday. J.P. and Melynda Gallagher have worked for the past year and a half to turn the former nightclub into a combination coffee house and taproom. 

“We’ve put everything we have into this,” said Melynda Gallagher. “We’re so excited to share it with people.”

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20190512/lost-shoe-opens-brewery-and-roasting-company-in-marlborough-this-weekend

For more about Lost Shoe: https://lostshoebrews.com/