CommonWealth Magazine: "T capital funding sources projected to fall off cliff"

From CommonWealth Magazine we share an article of interest for Franklin:

"THE MBTA is preparing to cut service levels to deal with a budget shortfall looming over next year, but the Massachusetts Taxpayer Foundation warned members of the Fiscal and Management Control Board on Monday that even bigger problems are just around the corner.

Andy Bagley, a vice president at the Massachusetts Taxpayers Foundation, said MBTA capital funding sources will fall off a cliff in fiscal 2025, roughly four years from now. When that happens, he said, the T won’t have enough money to maintain and modernize the existing system and pursue other initiatives that already have wide support.

“There’s a capital cliff coming and without additional resources you’re going to face some extremely difficult challenges in the near future,” Bagley said.

The T’s Fiscal and Management Control Board typically hears presentations from staff that tend to follow carefully scripted narratives. The board accepts testimony from the public, but those comments are time constrained and usually narrowly focused. On Monday, however, Bagley was given the opportunity to lay out in depth the Tax Foundation’s concerns about the T’s financial future."

Continue reading article online

https://commonwealthmagazine.org/transportation/t-capital-funding-sources-projected-to-fall-off-cliff/

 

 

Franklin Food Pantry Names Capital Campaign Committee

Hires Local Architect Firm and Project Manager to Renovate Pantry

The Franklin Food Pantry has announced members of its Capital Campaign Committee. The Capital Campaign Committee, led by Franklin Food Pantry Board member, Suzanne Gendreau, consists of local leaders and Pantry staff and will work to raise funds to renovate 138 East Central Street into a vibrant functioning Food Pantry. In April of 2020, The Pantry purchased the building to better serve its neighbors. In addition, The Pantry has hired Franklin-based Brad Chaffee of Camford Property Group as its project manager and Kuth Ranieri Architects as its architect to design the plans of the new Pantry.

Suzanne Gendreau

Along with Gendreau, the committee members include: Lynn Calling, executive director of the Franklin Food Pantry; Kim Cooper, donor relations manager; Ingrid Cornetta, public relations professional; Jeff Ellis, CPA;  Glenn Jones, town council member; Susan Morrison, realtor; Donna O'Neill, food pantry volunteer; Laura Often, communications manager; Jeff Roy, state representative and Steve Sherlock, Franklin Matters editor. For more information about the committee visit the Franklin Food Pantry website (https://www.franklinfoodpantry.org/new-building-updates/campaign/).

"We couldn't be happier with the group of people who have stepped up to help us raise the money we will need to make our dream of a new building a reality," said Lynn Calling, executive director of the Franklin Food Pantry. "The Franklin Food Pantry is more than just a food pantry, it is a place to build community, provide resources and help our neighbors improve their quality of life. By moving into a larger building, we will be able to store more food and hold places for our neighbors to meet together to better share resources as well as offer a safer place for our neighbors, volunteers and staff."

The Pantry has also selected Camford Property Group's Brad Chaffee to project manage the build out and named Kuth Ranieri Architects as its architect. The Franklin Food Pantry has conducted focus groups with staff, volunteers and neighbors to learn what they are looking for in a Pantry and the designs will reflect those suggestions and ideas.  "Brad's leadership will ensure that the project is both cost-effective and organized. With Brad, we selected Kuth Ranieri Architects because of their experience with civic projects and dedication to improving communities," continued Calling. "They also bring a local connection to the project so we know they will take extra care in ensuring that the building reflects the values of The Pantry and the Franklin Community."

The Franklin Food Pantry will launch a public capital campaign later this year. In the meantime, donors can visit here to make a donation to the campaign or can set up their own fundraising page here. For more information visit: www.franklinfoodpantry.org.

About the Franklin Food Pantry

The Franklin Food Pantry offers supplemental food assistance and household necessities to over 1,400 individuals. As a nonprofit organization, the Pantry depends entirely on donations, and receives no town or state funding. Between June 2019 and July 2020, 287,691, pounds of food was provided to clients. Other programs include the Weekend Backpack Program, Carts for Clients, Mobile Pantry, and holiday meal packages. Visit www.franklingfoodpantry.org for more information.

Town Council Meeting Recap - Oct 21, 2020

Quick Recap:

• Update by Town Clerk on election processing and four confirmed candidates for Town Council special election on Dec 5
• Update by Police Chief TJ Lynch on identity theft and unemployment claims. Cybercriminals are active especially in this time of uncertainty, please take precautions. If you have been affected please notify the police
• Drought status worsens, we are over 10 inches of rainfall behind normal. THe recent rain events help but are not sufficient to make up the gap that remains
• Committee appointments approved
• Fire Department swore in three new firefighter paramedics (replacing retirements) and Police did two new officers (also replacing retirements) recognizing one of the retirees in the session
• The project analysis on the Beaver St interceptor was presented. This will be the largest public works project outside of a school the town has faced Estimates for three scenarios range from $9 to $25M. Much more to come as this proposal develops, the work does need to be done and done well sooner rather than later.
• Proposal for food trucks and other 3rd parties as an option for the farm license (67 Degrees, La Cantina, etc.) tabled after extensive discussion.

Photos captured during the meeting and shared via Twitter can be found in the album  https://photos.app.goo.gl/ZQpcAz2ZNSgTUC2XA

----
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  #tc1021
https://twitter.com/search?q=%23tc1021&src=typed_query

• Getting ready for the Town Council meeting at 7 PM; agenda and connection info in agenda doc here https://franklinma.gov/town-council/agenda/october-21-town-council-agenda #tc1021
• Multiple options to watch/listen to meeting; Comcast channel 11 or Verizon channel 29, also live streamed from town of Franklin page https://www.franklinma.gov/home/pages/live-meetings-stream as well as the Zoom info in doc linked earlier #tc1021 oh, and you can call in via phone as well!
• Real time reporting underway for the Town Council meeting, #tc1021
• Town clerk Nancy Danello updates to #tc1021 2600 early voters this far, another 7500 mail ballots received (12,000 sent out). Mail ballot processing in advance of Nov 3 scheduled and being done per schedule
• Four candidates for special Town Council election on Dec 5 names to be provided later #tc1021 Chief Lunch provides update on unemployment claim filing being investigated and followed by FBI and other resources
• 58,000 fraudulent claims filed as of July and caught at MA unemployment. Victims of identity theft find out after the fact, a second waive targeting Municipal employees Worcester has over 500 #tc1021 238 fraud related claims since march for Franklin alone.
• Watch for unauthorized transactions, watch for pages mimicking official pages esp when asked to provide personal info. Don't give, if they were legit, they already had it #tc1021 call and claim with Franklin police in addition to the credit bureaus, etc.
• DPW Cantoreggi introduce Doug Martin as water supervisor and drought update, down over 11 inches year to date even though we had some rain events. Using less now, a half million gallons more/day (folks are home, not going to work) #tc1021
• #tc1021 additional slides on drought, one slide shows a Worcester reservoir down 80%, the other shows DPW Director Cantoreggi
• Motion to approve minutes, second, passes 8-0 (pending confirmation of those present in room) #tc1021 Appointment to registrar, seconded passes 8-0.https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/gail_karner_1.pdf
• Appointment to Finance Committee https://franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/fincom_natalie_riley.pdf #tc1021 motion to approve, seconded, passes 8-0
• Catching up with 3 sworn in for fire department. 2 for police dept, and recognition for one retirement for Police. #tc1021 a batch of photos will be added to the website with the meeting notes.
• Fire Department Pinnings: Joshua Impey, Joshua Sables, Kristopher Smith #tc1021 Police Department: i. Pinnings - Jonathan Giron, Nicholas Storelli ii. Retiree - Doug Nix
• Moving to presentation/discussion section on emergency management for power outages #tc1021 Chief McLaughlin back up to provide overview and details on planning and execution during and event work on trees can't be done in wind over 30 mph for safety
• During camera scan of chambers during the pinning ceremony (albeit socially distanced) was able to see all 8 councilors present (1 open spot to be filled with special election Dec 5) #tc1021
• Town budget for trees is for maintenance of town owned property, trees in or interfering with a power line need to be done by nationalGrid. They have a plan and are working the circuits on a cycle to cut them back. #tc1021 northside of town is worse than rest, why?
• Moving to the Beaver St interceptor #tc1021 collects about 70% of the sewerage in town and is over 106 years old. A huge asset but also a liability https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/8b._presentation_-_beaver_street_interceptor_.pdf
• It is not known if there is a worse location; a brook on one side, train track on other side, and then the plaza and i495 - has at least been cleaned, manholes rehabbed #tc1021 I&I infiltration and intrusion plan been executed for many years, approx 3M gals/day
• Has reduced the flow where possible, batching flow via a holding tank to avoid peaks, water conservation is good for this, low flow toilet helps sewer flow, #tc1021 as much as we have done, still need to do more and it will cost money
• Hydraulic model show here Cottage St is high end and it flows down along the tracks and then to 140 Franklin Village #tc1021
• Three alternatives not just costed but also benefit analysis added across 8 factors. Alt 3 while expensive is better long term. #tc1021
• Project sized for flows of 2070 so it does have growth built into this. Timing to move to actually save money is to go now, avoids failures sooner finances cheaper now that could be #tc1021 rather than digging 140, they'd do the hole like they used for East Central
• #tc1021 alternative 1 and 2 keeps pipe in and along Mine Brook, if you get a failure on 1 or 2 you'd still need to do alt 3 Q on overflow along Cottage by Franklin Paint did see that in 2010. Alt 2 is effectively the baseline analysis.
• Bissanti doesn't understand how to spend money to go first class with money we don't have. #tc1021 Jamie - financial model and impact to rate payers is not in this presentation, we do need to examine it. It is a question to be answered but we haven't yet
• A 25 year bonded project but it could be paid off earlier. The Charles River assessment has been less because we did work to reduce the outflow to them. That can be a factor. #tc1021
• Subcommittee reports, budget not meeting in Oct. EDC had another listening session on Monday, long lots of feedback, next one in November (Nov 16) #tc1021
• Moving to action items: https://franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/20-61_food_truck.pdf Authorization for farm series license temporary for on premise food service provided by others. #tc1021. Similar to outdoor dining, expands food truck dining to 67 Degrees, La Cantina and Glen Pharma
• SafeServe certificate could also be an alternative for catering here and other businesses, employee of site would need to be SafeServe certified. #tc1021 when state of emergency goes away, this does too. Glen Pharma has a restaurant may not need to use it
• Board of health would be involved, $100 food vendor permit for a year. #tc1021 questions on how it work. Would also need to look at cater and regulations to see what can be done, folks have left here because the opportunity was elsewhere
• Ice cream truck operations get CORI'd but food truck doesn't per state Legislation. Debate about food trucks vs regular restaurants is hard to quantify, it is a discussion point. What does the Town want to do? #tc1021 let's review other Communities with food truck bylaws
• Would 3 or the Rome be interested in doing it via a food truck? #tc1021 Moonlight Chef owner speaks on business during COVID-19, why are we going to allow food trucks all if sudden, not a good move, reconsider please
• This allows contracting for 3rd party whether restaurants or food trucks. Still issue with SafeServe and who has it. Motion to table res 20-61, seconded, passes 8-0
• https://franklinma.gov/town-council/agenda-items/10b-legislation-action-39 motion to approve, second, passes 8-0
• https://franklinma.gov/town-council/agenda-items/10c-legislation-action-33 motion to refer to planning board, second, passes 8-0
• franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/20-862_longhill_and_pleasant.pdf Motion to move to planning board, second, passes 8-0
• Town administrator report. Gov baker emergency order for outdoor dining extended. 33 active cases of COVID, largest increase since June. Firefighter memorial this Sunday at station #tc1021
• The Town does not regulate Halloween. Schools are moving ahead with plan. #tc1021 white dots are on grass for demarcation. "Some of the worse advice I ever got was from legal counsel" need answers on the $522K, there could have been another way to do the grass
• #tc1021 "this too will pass" thanks to both chiefs for bringing the pinning forward tonight, it has been awhile and good to do. We have to listen to our legal experts, we will bring something forward. Add the additional handicap spots right in the roadway
• #tc1021 looking like we're going for a high turnout voting. Motion to adjourn, passed 8-0 So that does it for me tonight catch you next time 

 

Town Clerk Nancy Danello provides an update to the Council meeting

Town Council Budget Hearing #2 - Recap - June 18, 2020

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 #tcbh0618
https://twitter.com/search?q=%23tcbh0618&src=typed_query

• Two options for listening/participating in the Town Council budget hearing tonight 1/2 = use your web browser to listen to http://wfpr.fm or tune to the radio dial at 102.9 in the Franklin area #tcbh0618 https://buff.ly/3hEjgQP

• Getting ready for real time reporting for the Town Council meeting tonight. Out on the FHS football field again, broadcasting live on the radio http://wfpr.fm or 102.9 on the Franklin area dial #tcbh0618
• Sound check underway, should be online soon #tcbh0618
• Another gorgeous evening here at FHS on the football field, Pisini Stadium. Less then a dozen folks in audience this evening (approx 75-80 last night) aside from Council and town management #tcbh0618

• Q on some items in DPW budget items, their budget is complex as they also support the enterprise funds, and trying to take care of storm water along the way. #tcbh0618 Q how many folks would you need? More than we have, we're about 2/3 of comparable Community
• Q on town bylaw to not touch a road after it has been rebuilt? Still in effect, does only cover the full rebuild, could modify the bylaw to include other types of repairs. #tcbh0618
• Cerel interjects to clarify unfunded mandate restriction of use to state imposition but not to the Federal government. #tcbh0618 Mercer asks Brutus for a brief primer for storm water. There have been info sessions on this, there will be a utility fee to assist
• We have to do the Storm water maintenance, the question is how we pay for it we could use the utility fee, or we just keep it in the budget. #tcbh0618 find much of the info here https://www.franklinma.gov/stormwater-division
• Q if we needed to cut more where would you cut in the DPW? It could be in any number of areas but would also affect the looks and quality of life. #tcbh0618 the storm water utility could gradually get the items moved from operations to the utility
• Q on speculation of a farmer suit that could toss the regs and hence we would have lost the money? It is speculation, so no further answer required #tcbh0618 recognition for Cathy Liberty and Health Dept for the work on the pandemic
• Next up, Senior Center - Karen Alves current Director, and retiring; Erin Rogers, new Director, no questions, just recognition #tcbh0618
• Next up, Recreation - COVID-19 has been tough to deal with, lots of credits issued for programs we couldn't run, are getting ready to do some in July, mostly fee based programs #tcbh0618 court at Fletcher underway, nets for safety at the high school ball fields
• Approx $600K in grants over last five years for various projects for recreation. #tcbh0618 concerts in the common, socially distanced on then common for 4-5 weeks
• Q on debt/interest as percent of ops budget. Deep in the report are details showing the position where we are, some bonds will be paid off freeing up room for capital funding. There is a separate item on the agenda for a funding list. #tcbh0618 have good rating credit rating
• Another glorious evening out on the field tonight. #tcbh0618 update on the CARES Act for COVID expense, highly restricted for response only, not operations used for PPE, some technical items but not ops
• Recieved $1M in the first allocation, most of this was used for 1,000 Chromebooks for schools in prep for a possible hybrid model in September #tcbh0618 that completes the first run through of the budget line items
• Next up vote on the budget https://franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/5a._resolution_20-31_adoption_of_fy21_budget.pdf. Passed 9-0, no roll call required this evening
• Next up Community Preservation Act  https://franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/5b._resolution_20-36_cpa_ballot_vote.pdf a surcharge of 2% proposed to be out on the ballot for the Nov election, passed 9-0, no roll call required
• Capital appropriation with draft set of projects https://franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/5c._resolution_20-37_borrowing_authorization.pdf  Motion to approve, passed 9-0, again no roll call required
• So what do those three votes mean? After the discussions, no one steps up to call for additional revenue for schools although a year ago the Joint Budget Subcommittee called for it. What happened? The CPA is approved for voters to have their say #tcbh0618
• The third vote for capital is a reasonable and required appropriation. It definitely shows fiscal planning. However the fiscal planning on that is missing on the operational budget. #tcbh0618
• Councilor comments. #tcbh0618 by the way, the audience grew from when I first took a count, was about 2 dozen folks tonight.
• June 19, 2019 the joint budget subcommittee meeting notes https://franklinmatters.org/2019/06/fm-167-joint-budget-subcommittee.html refers to an override required for this year but not discussed tonight, maybe as this budget round continues #tcbh0618
• Chair Mercer closing meeting with this budget as a work in progress #tcbh0618 . This completes the reporting for tonight catch you all next time!

ready for the three votes to close out the procedings

Town Administrator Jamie Hellen explains; Assistant Chrissy Whelton listens

FM #300 - Talk Franklin with Jamie Hellen, Anne Marie Tracey 6/12/20 (audio)

FM #300 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 300 in the series.

This session of the radio show shares my "Talk Franklin" conversation with Town Administrator Jamie Hellen and Marketing and Communications Specialist Anne Marie Tracey. We had our conversation via conference bridge to adhere to the ‘social distancing’ requirements of this pandemic period.

We talk about
Re-opening

• Recreation summer brochure
• Restaurants outdoor dining

FY 2021 Budget

• Town Council schedule 6/17-18
• Senior coffee hour Rep Roy and Town administration - 6/18

Capital budget

• capital vs. operation

Economic development

• inclusionary zoning

Graduation parade

And close with some cultural comments about Gary Clark Jr, blues guitarist and a new album just released by Norah Jones

The recording runs about 48 minutes, so let’s listen to my conversation with Jamie and Anne Marie

Audio file = https://www.hipcast.com/podcast/Hyyy3D27



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

Recreation Summer Brochure
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/uploads/summer_brochure_2.pdf

FY 2021 budget info
https://www.franklinma.gov/town-budget/pages/fy2021-budget-materials

Town Council meeting info for 6/17-6/18 as discussed is not yet available, will be shared as soon as it is

Gary Clark Jr https://www.garyclarkjr.com/ or  https://www.youtube.com/user/garyclarkjr

Norah Jones new album
https://www.amazon.com/Pick-Me-Up-Off-Floor/dp/B085HJ889S

or her web page  https://www.norahjones.com/

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

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/
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"

new basketball hoops installed at Fletcher Field

FM #296 Capital Budget SubComm - 6/10/20 (audio)

FM #296 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 296 in the series.

This session shares the Capital Budget SubCommittee meeting held on Wednesday, June 10, 2020. The meeting was conducted via conference bridge to adhere to the ‘social distancing’ requirements of this pandemic period.

Chair Debbie Pellegri opened the meeting and member Matt Kelly did the honors outlining the protocol for how the meeting will be conducted.

The recording runs about 45 minutes, let’s listen to the Capital Budget SubCommittee meeting of Wednesday, June 10

Audio file - https://www.hipcast.com/podcast/H1xF88Y7



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

My notes captured during this meeting
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/06/capital-budget-subcommittee-recap-june.html

The agenda for the meeting is posted
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/06/capital-budget-subcommittee-meeting.html

The budget for FY 2021 is available
https://www.franklinma.gov/town-budget/pages/fy2021-budget-materials

Additional info on the Finance Committee meeting where these items were discussed can be found   Budget Hearing #4 - 6/04/20

• audio = https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/06/franklin-ma-finance-committee-budget_55.html
• notes = https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/06/finance-committee-budget-hearing-4.html

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

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/
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 #296 Capital Budget SubComm - 6/10/20 (audio)

Capital Budget SubCommittee - Recap - June 10, 2020

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 #cbsc0610
https://twitter.com/search?q=%23cbsc0610&src=typed_query

• Real time reporting underway for the capital budget Subcommittee meeting today. Chair Pellegri has Kelly read the protocol statement as she was connected via phone only. #cbsc0610
• First up, a van for the electrician to use, purchased from Franklin Ford, passed via roll call as 4-0 (Kelly, Chandler, Dellorco, Pellegri) 2nd item the additional funds for the server replacement missed the first time around. Also passes 4-0 #cbsc0610
• Next item to close out some road/sidewalk work already started and underway. Will leave $300k in 'free cash' unencumbered for something needed down the road. Can be used in July/Aug per recent Legislation #cbsc0610 vote to approve passed 4-0 normal road money is chap 90
• Good piece of info, to add sidewalk where not already cost about $100/foot. Beaver St up next, followed by Washington St. #cbsc0610
• Next up another ambulance, $350k, would give us 2 in reserve, can only put 2 on road at a time. To fund a third is major personnel requirements. #cbsc0610
• Next up debt authorization, rationale for some other capital improvement to be done with less than a debt exclusion (which is used for complete new or refurbed schools). This method did the Library, Senior Center, fire station, etc. Previously. #cbsc0610
• Combined great credit score and low interest rates, as well as likely obtain favorable pricing just sets us up for doing needed for very cost effectively. Recommend for Council next week, actual authorization would be later. #cbsc0610
• That completes the agenda, the FinCom had voted 8-0 on all of these last week. Worried about the windows in the municipal building, not sure what's behind the walls. #cbsc0610
• Motion to adjourn, that completes reporting for this meeting. Stay tuned, Economic Development Subcommittee up at 6:30 #cbsc0610 #edc0610 and we'll roll along!

 

screen grab of virtual meeting

screen grab of capital funding project list

 

Capital Budget Subcommittee Meeting - June 10, 2020

Announcements:

Remote Meeting - Held on “Zoom” platform January 10, 2020 - 5:30 PM
This meeting may be recorded by audio or video.


● For link to Access the Meeting Click HERE then click “Open Zoom”

○ Or copy and paste this URL into your browser: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89521197448
● Call-in Phone Number: Call 1-929-205-6099 and enter Meeting ID 895 2119 7448 - then press “#”


Discussion:

1. Review Finance Committee actions on capital request and borrowing authorization.


PDF of agenda
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/agendas/06-10-2020_capital_budget_subcommittee_meeting.pdf

-----
 
The Finance Committee meeting of 6/04/20 provides the details to be review at this session

Budget Hearing #4 - 6/04/20

• audio =  https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/06/franklin-ma-finance-committee-budget_55.html
• notes =  https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/06/finance-committee-budget-hearing-4.html

 

Capital Budget Subcommittee Meeting - June 10, 2020

Franklin, MA: Finance Committee - Budget Hearing #4 6/04/20 (audio)

FM #288 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 288 in the series.

This session shares the Franklin, MA Finance Committee meeting held on Thursday, June 4, 2020. The meeting was conducted via conference bridge to adhere to the ‘social distancing’ requirements of this pandemic period.

This is the fourth and final budget hearing for the Fiscal Year 2021 (FY 21).

The Finance Committee Chair Micheal Dufour opens the meeting. Each person who speaks is announced. The show notes contain links to the meeting packet and to the individual documents referenced.

The departmental budgets for Human Services, Culture and Recreation, along with that of General Government categories are reviewed.

The budget proposal is voted on to recommend for the Town Council. Capital Program Adjustments along with Municipal Borrowing Authorization are reviewed and voted upon

The recording runs about two hours (2:00) , so let’s listen to the Finance Committee budget hearing of June 4.

Audio file = https://www.hipcast.com/podcast/HrVqr9B7



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

Agenda document
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/06/franklin-ma-finance-committee-budget.html

Additional info
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/uploads/fincomm_additional_info_updated.pdf

Budget doc and Overview memo
https://www.franklinma.gov/town-budget/files/fy21-town-administrator-budget-message

FY 2021 budget documents
https://www.franklinma.gov/town-budget/pages/fy2021-budget-materials

School budget summary
https://www.franklinps.net/sites/franklinmaps/files/uploads/02._executive_summaryrevised.pdf

Schools FY 21 recommended budget
https://www.franklinps.net/sites/franklinmaps/files/uploads/fy21_sc_approved_budget_overview.pdf

School Budget page https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-district-budget/pages/fy-2021-budget

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

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

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

I hope you enjoy!
------------------

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

the capital items as discussed for the Municipal Borrowing Authorization

FM #265 Franklin Food Pantry New Building 5/04/20 (audio)

FM #265 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 265 in the series.

This session of the radio show shares my conversation with Lynn Calling, Executive Director of the Franklin Food Pantry and Tina Powderly, Chair of the Board of Directors. We had our conversation via virtual conference bridge to adhere to the ‘social distancing’ requirements of this pandemic period.

We talk about the happy news that the Food Pantry has their own home to look forward to. While they are appreciative of the space Rockland Trust has let them use for over 10 years, their needs have outgrown the space.

Lynn talks about the current operations during this pandemic. Tina provides some background on the building search and closing. Work remains to be done before they move. There will be a capital campaign to help fund the mortgage and buildout.

Disclosure: during the conversation you will hear about my background with the Food Pantry and that I am committing to this capital campaign.

The recording runs about 25 minutes, so let’s listen to my conversation with Lynn and Tina. Audio file =  https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-265-franklin-food-pantry-new-bldg-plus-5-04-20

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

Prior recording with Lynn Calling at the end of March 2020
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/03/fm-230-lynn-calling-franklin-food.html

The Franklin Food Pantry current needs
https://www.franklinfoodpantry.org/give-help/donate-food/current-needs-list/

Donate to the Franklin Food Pantry
https://www.franklinfoodpantry.org/give-help/donate-funds/

--------------
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"

Lynn Calling, Executive Director of the Franklin Food Pantry in front of the new building at 138 East Central St

Franklin, MA: Town Council - Agenda - Feb 5, 2020

1. ANNOUNCEMENTS

a. This meeting is being recorded by Franklin TV and shown on Comcast Channel 11 and Verizon Channel 29. This meeting may be recorded by others.

2. CITIZEN COMMENTS

a. Citizens are welcome to express their views for up to five minutes on a matter that is not on the agenda. The Council will not engage in a dialogue or comment on a matter raised during Citizen Comments. The Town Council will give remarks appropriate consideration and may ask the Town Administrator to review the matter.

3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
January 22, 2020

4. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS
None Scheduled

5. APPOINTMENTS
Historical Commission: Randy La Rosa

6. HEARINGS
None Scheduled

7. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS - 7:10 pm
Maks Roast Beef and Breakfast, Inc., New Wine and Malt License, Located at 451 West Central Street, Franklin, MA 02038

8. PRESENTATIONS/DISCUSSIONS
a. Norfolk County Sheriff Office and House of Corrections Update with Sheriff McDermott Community
b. Preservation Act Discussion.

• i. Town Administrator Memo & Backup Material

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/mai/files/cpa_town_admin_memo_backup_material_-_web.pdf

9. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS

• a. Capital Budget Subcommittee
• b. Budget Subcommittee
• c. Economic Development Subcommittee

10. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
10a. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
Resolution 20-03: Capital FY20 (Motion to approve Resolution 20-03 - Majority Vote)

10b. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
Resolution 20-04: OPEB Trust Funds Transfer (Motion to approve Resolution 20-04 - Majority Vote)

10c. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
Resolution 20-05: Free Cash to Stabilization Accounts Transfers (Motion to approve Resolution 20-05 - Majority Vote)

10d. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
Resolution 20-09: Gift Acceptance - Veterans Services, $350 (Motion to approve Resolution 20-09 - Majority Vote)

10e. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
Resolution 20-10: Gift Acceptance - Senior Center, $1000 (Motion to approve Resolution 20-10 - Majority Vote)

10f. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
Resolution 20-11: Gift Acceptance - Police Department, $300 (Motion to approve Resolution 20-11 - Majority Vote)

11. TOWN ADMINISTRATOR'S REPORT
12. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
13. COUNCIL COMMENTS
14. EXECUTIVE SESSION
None Scheduled

ADJOURN


Note:  Two-Thirds Vote: requires 6 votes
Majority Vote: requires majority of members present and voting

Shared from the Town of Franklin page
https://www.franklinma.gov/town-council/agenda/february-5-town-council-agenda

The full agenda packet can be found
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/agendas/2020-02-05_town_council_agenda_packet.pdf

Franklin, MA: Town Council - Agenda - Feb 5, 2020

FM #194 - Capital Budget Subcommittee meeting of 1/15/20 (audio)

This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 194 in the series, now collaborating with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm).

This recording shares the Capital Budget Subcommittee meeting of Wednesday, Jan 15, 2020. It was held in the Municipal Building, 3rd floor training room. 

The four members of the Town Council that make up this committee chaired by Debbie Pellegri were all present. Matt Kelly, Brian Chandler, and Robert Dellorco you’ll hear as they take their turn asking questions of the department leads on the individual capital requests.

Town Administrator Jamie Hellen begins with an explanation of the free cash for FY 2020 which is the starting point. To help follow along with the math, the starting point of ‘free cash’ is $3.482M. The set aside amount is $1.718M which leaves $1.764M for the capital budget.

The Finance Committee met twice in December to review and approve the recommendations. The Subcommittee now has their chance to review and approve of the $1.539M amount recommended to bring to the full Town Council for their discussion and approval. Yes, there is $124K left aside for the ‘second pass’ after the winter and the snow/ice budget expenses are fully known.

Ultimately, the subcommittee did approve all the requests so the full Town Council will get their turn at a future meeting. There was one condition on the School Committee amount approved; the numbers, as proposed, didn’t add up properly on the document and were not able to be explained fully in the meeting. The numbers will get sorted out (and corrected, if necessary) for the Town Council discussion.

Links for the capital budget memo and supporting documents are included. I include my Excel spreadsheet so you can see those totals and subtotals.

Agenda:
1. Free Cash Overview

2. Department Presentations

• a. School Department
• b. Facilities Department
• C. Recreation Department
• d. Technology Department
• e. Administration Department
• f. Fire Department
• g. Police Department
• h. Public Works Department

3. Final Recommendation of the FY20 Capital Plan

Capital Budget agenda document
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/agendas/capital_budget_agenda_1-15-2020.pdf

Capital budget supplemental information
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/agendas/fy20_capital_plan_2_supplemental_materials_1.pdf

"This is a meeting of the Franklin Town Council Sub-Committee; under the Open Meeting Law, this subcommittee is a separate "public body" from the Town Council. Therefore, unless the Town Council has separately noticed and posted its own meeting, Councilors who are not members of this subcommittee will not be permitted to speak or otherwise actively participate @ this meeting, although they may attend and observe. This prohibition is necessary to avoid the potential for an Open Meeting Law Violation."

The Finance Committee reviewed and approved the capital budget over two sessions and the recordings for each session are available here

Finance Committee - Dec 10, 2019
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2019/12/fm-188-finance-committee-capital-plan.html

Finance Committee - Dec 17, 2019
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2019/12/fm-186-finance-committee-capital-budget.html

The meeting itself runs approx 1 hour and 40 minutes, so without further ado here is Capital Budget Subcommittee meeting of Jan 15, 2020.


Audio link --> https://www.hipcast.com/podcast/HsdMJLTX
or use the embedded widget here




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


This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but I can't do it alone. I 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 this, please let me know.

Through this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements.
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"

Capital Budget Subcommittee Meeting - Jan 15, 2020

Capital Budget Subcommittee Meeting - Jan 15, 2020

Capital Budget Subcommittee Meeting

Municipal Building

355 East Central Street, 3rd Floor Training Room Franklin, MA

January 15, 2020

6:00 PM

1. Free Cash Overview

2. Department Presentations

• a. School Department
• b. Facilities Department
• C. Recreation Department
• d. Technology Department
• e. Administration Department
• f. Fire Department
• g. Police Department
• h. Public Works Department

3. Final Recommendation of the FY20 Capital Plan


Capital Budget agenda document
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/agendas/capital_budget_agenda_1-15-2020.pdf

Capital budget supplemental information
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/agendas/fy20_capital_plan_2_supplemental_materials_1.pdf

This is a meeting of the Franklin Town Council Sub-Committee; under the Open Meeting Law, this subcommittee is a separate "public body" from the Town Council. Therefore, unless the Town Council has separately noticed and posted its own meeting, Councilors who are not members of this subcommittee will not be permitted to speak or otherwise actively participate @ this meeting, although they may attend and observe. This prohibition is necessary to avoid the potential for an Open Meeting Law Violation.

The Finance Committee reviewed and approved the capital budget over two session and the recording segments are available here

Dec 10, 2019
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2019/12/fm-188-finance-committee-capital-plan.html

Dec 17, 2019
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2019/12/fm-186-finance-committee-capital-budget.html

Capital Budget Subcommittee Meeting - Jan 15, 2020