3rd budget hearing covers Public Works & Public Safety (audio)

FM #1727 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1727 in the series. 

This session of the radio show shares the Finance Committee Budget Hearing on Public Works & Public Safety, the 3rd of 4 sessions to go over the FY 2027 budget. The meeting was held in Council Chambers with 8 of 9 members present.

Quick recap:

• Gus Brown, Building Commissioner, up first

• Brutus Cantoreggi, DPW up next, 

• Next up Police Chief Lynch, level service plus 2, looking to get the SROs back

• Next up, Chief Allen, Fire Dept.

• Dispatch Center or the MECC being covered

• Also skipped Tri-County and Norfolk Aggie last night with no explanation given for it. Tri-County and Norfolk Aggie, both assessments based upon enrollment, not much of a change year to year

• So Thursday night, the Finance Committee will use the 3rd Floor Training room for their discussion to be more “around a table” rather than spread out to help their discussion. Potential revisions coming to the budget, what they are we'll watch and see.

Let’s listen in

Audio link - https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1727-finance-cmte-budget-hearing-3-04-08-26/

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The Franklin TV video is available for replay -  

https://www.youtube.com/live/x8Hb_pCl64A?&t=164 

Agenda doc including links to the FY 2027 budget 

https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_04082026-2221 

My full set of notes in one PDF -  https://drive.google.com/file/d/1D-RumOpcYkE7SZ_czpSZzW5TKdS9SE3B/view?usp=drive_link 

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

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

How can you help?

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

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

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

Through this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.

For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/ or www.franklin.news/

If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com

The music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana"  c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.

I hope you enjoy!

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

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

Old Colony Habitat For Humanity Hosts Women Build Day For Women’s History Month

Old Colony Habitat for Humanity of Raynham, MA, hosted its third annual Women Build Day this Saturday, 21 March.

Over 30 volunteers gathered at our current build site at 762 Washington Street, Franklin, MA, to support the project as it enters its final stages.

Women Build Day For Women’s History Month

Habitat for Humanity International has supported Women Build efforts and volunteers since 1991. Globally, women are significantly more likely to experience housing insecurity. The Women Build initiative provides women with the opportunity to be proactive in aiding their communities, promoting agency and empowerment. As a woman-led Habitat affiliate, Old Colony Habitat for Humanity is proud to be a part of this program and thankful to all the women who have offered their support to our mission.

Our current project in Franklin is converting the former South Franklin Congregational Meeting House into a beautiful home for Sally Marmol and her children. Sally is a strong woman and mother who has worked tirelessly to support her family and become a homeowner. Her effort and determination inspire us to work alongside her in our mission to build hope, homes, and communities. We look forward to the Marmol family’s move-in, expected this upcoming June.

“Yesterday’s Annual Women’s Build Day was truly inspiring,” said Brenda McDonough, Board President and event sponsor. “Seeing more than 35 women come together–bringing their strength, skills, and heart–to support Old Colony Habitat for Humanity and the Marmol family in Franklin was incredible. This day is a powerful reminded of what happens when women unite with a shared purpose and community.”

Kimberly Thomas, CEO of Old Colony Habitat for Humanity, says, “My heart is full after such an incredible day. Women’s Build is one of the most meaningful traditions we have at Old Colony Habitat. To see so many women show up–supporting one another, lifting up the Marmol family, and creating something lasting together–was simply amazing. This is what community is all about.”

To learn more about how Habitat for Humanity’s Women Build program has helped support and empower women across the country, visit: https://www.habitat.org/stories/power-women-build.

For more information about Old Colony Habitat for Humanity, visit: https://linktr.ee/oldcolonyhabitat.

Mission: Dedicated to providing decent and affordable housing in partnership with families in need, Old Colony Habitat for Humanity is all of us working together, partnering with families to improve their housing, locally and around the world. Building strength, stability, and self-reliance through shelter.

Old Colony Habit shares a build day at the Franklin house (reel)

Yesterday was pure magic.

Old Colony Habit shares a build day
at the Franklin house (reel)

We’re so grateful to Jeff at StoryPulse Media for beautifully capturing the energy, teamwork, and heart of our build day with Plansee - Strong Metals.

This is what community looks like! A huge thank you to everyone who made it so special.

Looking for ways to help out? Be sure to check out our site, which lists different ways you can make a difference! 

https://oldcolonyhabitat.org/how-to-help/

View the video reel - https://www.facebook.com/reel/899176176297923

Franklin, MA: School Committee agenda for meeting Tuesday, Mar 11, 2025

Franklin School Committee

March 11, 2025 7:00 PM

Municipal Building – Council Chambers

Call to Order Mr. Callaghan

Pledge of Allegiance 

Moment of Silence

I. Routine Business

A. Review of Agenda

B. Payment of Bills Mr. Callaghan

C. Payroll Mr. McNeill

D. FHS Student Representative Comments

E. Superintendent’s Report

II. Guests/Presentations

A. Capital Projects and Facilities Improvements Presentation

B. District Transportation Presentation

III. Discussion/Action Items

A. Competency Determination Language in FHS Program of Studies (POS)

I recommend the suggested changes in the Competency Determination Language in the FHS Program of Studies as detailed.  https://core-docs.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/4780/FPSD/5389749/Discussion_Action_A_-_Competency_Determination_Language.pdf

IV. Discussion Only Items

A. 2025-26 User Fee Discussion

V. Information Matters

A. School Committee Sub-Committee Reports

B. School Committee Liaison Reports

VI. Consent Agenda

A. Approval of Minutes

I recommend approval of the minutes from your February 4, 2025 Budget Open Hearing Meeting and February 11, 2025 School Committee Meeting as detailed.

B. JFK Gifts

I recommend the acceptance of $2,050.00 from the JFK PCC for field trips as detailed.

C. FHS Gifts

I recommend the acceptance of $2550.00 for FHS as follows:

$50.00 Clair Cox - Supplemental Supplies- Athletics (in memory of Kathy Bonney)

$2500.00 Marguerite Brackley - Jim Gray Scholarship

VII. Good of the Order

VIII. Citizen’s Comments

IX. New Business

To discuss any future agenda items

X. Adjournment

Agenda doc also contina remote participation info ->

https://core-docs.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/4780/FPSD/5388334/SCAGENDA_3-11-25.pdf

Meeting packet contains other docs released for this meeting, additional will be added here after the meeting

https://www.franklinps.net/documents/departments/school-committee/meeting-packets/2024---25-meeting-packets/march-11%2C-2025-sc-meeting-packet/770110

Franklin, MA: School Committee agenda for meeting Tuesday, Mar 11, 2025

Jamie leads the group on 5 hot topics in this "Talk Franklin" episode (audio)

FM #1382 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1382 in the series. 

This session of the radio show shares our “Talk Franklin” discussion with Town Administrator Jamie Hellen in the Municipal Building on Tuesday, February 11, 2025.  

Several folks joined in this roundtable discussion on a variety of hot topics around development. Joining the discussion 

• Breeka Li Goodlander, Conservation Director

• Cathleen Liberty, Health Director

• Bryan Taberner, Director of Planning & Community Development

• Joel D’Errico, Franklin resident & developer

• Joe Halligan, Franklin resident & developer

• Brad Chaffee, Franklin resident & developer for Camford Property Group  

• Gus Brown, Building Commissioner

Key topics

• Main development issue, change

• Then 5 things that are top complaints

• Traffic

• Density

• Environmental concerns

• Too many school children

• Character of the Town

The recording runs about 1 Hour & 40 minutes. Let’s listen to this conversation on Franklin’s development hot topics. Audio link -> https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/letstalkfranklin/episodes/Talk-Franklin---A-Podcast-from-the-Town-Administrators-Office-e2f34do/a-aatdjc7

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Town of Franklin page  https://www.franklinma.gov/ 

Community calendar  https://bit.ly/FranklinCommunityCalendar 

Master Plan (as approved by Planning Board & Town Council)

https://www.franklinma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/4018/Final-Report 

Jimmy McMillen, founder of the “Rent is too Damn High Party”

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rent_Is_Too_Damn_High_Party

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

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

How can you help?

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

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

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

Through this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.

For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/ or www.franklin.news/

If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com

The music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana"  c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.

I hope you enjoy!

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

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

Jamie leads the group on 5 hot topics in this "Talk Franklin" episode (audio)

Gus Brown & I talk inspections, permits, line of sight, and the need for smart building (audio)

FM #1256 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1256 in the series. 

This session shares my conversation with Town of Franklin Building Commissioner Gus Brown. We had our discussion in the Franklin TV & Radio studio on Thursday, July 18, 2024. 

We talk about 

• His road to the Building Commissioner role

• Inspections department scope and permits

• Key info for residents (on permits, pools, line of sight, etc.)

• Need for smart building to keep growing revenue

The recording runs about 51 minutes, so let’s listen in. Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1256-town-of-franklin-gus-brown-07-18-24/

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Building & Inspections page => https://www.franklinma.gov/building-inspections-department   

Permit information page ->  https://www.franklinma.gov/node/22/files 

Online Permits page ->  https://www.franklinma.gov/building-inspections-department/pages/line-permitting 

Town of Franklin business guide -> https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/franklin_business_guide_5_0.pdf 

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

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

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

How can you help?

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

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

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"

Davis Thayer Building Reuse Advisory Committee seems to reach consensus on land lease, keeping building (audio)

FM #1235 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1235 in the series. 

This session shares the audio for the Davis Thayer Building Reuse Advisory Subcmte meeting held on Monday, June 10, 2024. The meeting was conducted in the Council Chambers. 

They had not met this year awaiting the receipt of Expression of Interests in the building/property. Five were confirmed received by the due date, May 31. 

After much discussion including hearing briefly from 3 of the 5 who happened to be present, the committee reached consensus on keeping the building intact, exploring a lease arrangement for the land, liking the mixed use proposals that may include housing.

 

The recording runs about 1 hour and 35 minutes, so let’s listen in. Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1235-davis-thayer-bldg-reuse-subcmte-mtg-06-10-24

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The Franklin TV video is available for replay -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WV5S5rdihD0

The agenda and links to the proposals and appraisal:

1. Property Appraisal Review

a. Real Property Appraisal Report, Shepherd Associates, LLC - May 1, 2024   https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/1a._2024_davis-thayer_real_property_appraisal_report.pdf

2. Expressions of Interest

a. Matthew Zajac  

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/matthew_zajac_davis_thayer_music_mecca_proposal_1.pdf

b. Dean College  

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/rei_davis_thayer_letter_of_interest_proposal_narrative_and_project_description_-_dean_college.pdf

c. Pennrose, LLC  

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/pennrose.pdf

d. HFA and TMC Properties  

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/tmc_hfa_davis_thayer_submission_email.pdf

e. Camford Property Group, Inc.  

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/camford_property_group.pdf

My notes in one PDF file -> https://drive.google.com/file/d/18sdxZAwZejdks44Wd9QcQCw5HhQ7IErC/view?usp=drive_link

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

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

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

How can you help?

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

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

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"

Davis Thayer Building Reuse Advisory Committee has 5 Expressions of Interest to consider - June 10 at 7 PM