Town of Franklin to Establish a 250th Anniversary Celebration Committee

The Town of Franklin is excited to announce the establishment of a 250th Anniversary Celebration Committee. The Committee will plan, organize, and carry out events and activities pertaining to Franklin’s 250th Anniversary celebration, which will be held throughout the Town’s semiquincentennial year, culminating with a signature event marking the Town’s 250th anniversary of March 2, 2028. 

250th Anniversary Celebration Committee

“The Town Council is enthusiastic in establishing this committee in recognition of Franklin’s 250th Anniversary”, stated Town Council Chair Thomas Mercer. “The mission of the Committee is to have events throughout the year recognizing Franklin’s Past, Present and Future - engaging all Franklinites in a celebratory, collaborative, and unified manner.” 

Thirteen voting members and five ex officio non-voting staff members will be appointed to the Committee. Of the thirteen voting members, one member from the Cultural District Committee, Cultural Council, Historical Commission, and Library Board of Directors will be recommended to the Town Administrator by the Chair of each committee, and one member of the Dean College organization will be recommended by the College’s President or Interim President.  Eight At-Large Franklin residents will be selected through the Town’s standard volunteer application process. The terms of the committee members will end on June 30, 2029.

“The Committee will be asked to engage town boards, committees and departments for input, ideas and collaboration on the yearlong celebration and plan a rich program of events and activities”, said Franklin Town Administrator Jamie Hellen. “Due to the nature of this committee, the Town is able to establish a fund in accordance with MGL Chapter 53, Section 53i and fundraise to finance these programs. The Town anticipates hosting events and activities similar to what many other communities have done during their celebrations, such as a gala, carnival, parade, concert, fireworks, time capsule, monument, tours, a tree or other commemorative gesture, or whatever creative ideas the committee comes up with that tells Franklin's unique story.”

Franklin residents interested in serving on the Committee should apply via the Town’s Online Volunteer Application Form. The application will remain open to the community until September 15, 2025.  The Town anticipates that the Committee will begin meeting this October, 2025

You can take action (send an email) ASAP to help with funding local PEG studios (like Franklin.TV)

As you know, local PEG studios like Franklin.TV are nonprofit charities - funded by law via cable subscriber access fees.

As more subscribers 'cut the cord', our revenue drops.

In 2025, we are now below the revenue we had 15 years ago in 2010. Inflation has raised our costs in that same time period beyond an additional 50%.

The MA Telecom Committee on Beacon Hill has a hearing on July 10th. They are discussing legislation to mitigate our falling revenue via streaming TV access fees.

An Act to modernize funding for community media programming

• The House version is H.74  https://malegislature.gov/Bills/193/H74  or https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H91
• The Senate version is S.41  https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S41

Some believe that we are irrelevant - a relic of old legacy TV service. We are definitely not that. Today, most PEG studios provide free live streaming for local community groups and their events, school sports, government meetings, and much more.

A letter of support from your organization to the committee legislators would be a great help.

Simply describe our work with you and how we have been helpful - and if so, even beyond producing any TV programs.

If the pending legislation fails, we will soon be forced to reduce our current level of community engagement and support.

We were given short notice and wish to show support from our community. Below is an email list of direct legislative committee contacts.

Please send your letter of support to them and please cc me as well.

We are testifying before the committee on Jul 10, 2025.  Hearing ->   https://malegislature.gov/Events/Hearings/Detail/5274

We hope to have them report out the pending bills favorably for a vote.

Much thanks,

Pete Fasciano

Michael.Moore@masenate.gov,

Pavel.Payano@masenate.gov,

Tricia.Farley-Bouvier@mahouse.gov,

james.hawkins@mahouse.gov,

Mike.Barrett@masenate.gov,

Barry.Finegold@masenate.gov,

Paul.Mark@masenate.gov,

peter.durant@masenate.gov,

Steve.Ouellette@mahouse.gov,

Christopher.Flanagan@mahouse.gov,

Thomas.Moakley@mahouse.gov,

Orlando.Ramos@mahouse.gov,

Steven.Owens@mahouse.gov,

tommy.vitolo@mahouse.gov,

Joan.Meschino@mahouse.gov,

Marc.Lombardo@mahouse.gov,

John.Gaskey@mahouse.gov

--

Pete Fasciano,

Executive Director,

Franklin.TV &

wfpr.fm 102.9

Town of Franklin is seeking volunteers for Town boards and committees!

The Town of Franklin is seeking volunteers for Town boards and committees!

Franklin residents who are looking to get involved and contribute to the enhancement of our wonderful community are encouraged to apply for membership on a Town board or committee!  For a complete list of our boards and committees and to learn what each does, please visit our Board and Committees website:  https://www.franklinma.gov/158/Boards-Committees.

To view current vacancies and apply, submit an online application here: https://franklinmaboards.vt-s.net/newcaf.php.  Applicants are welcome to apply to multiple boards & committees listed in the application.  We encourage applications even when there are no current vacancies, as these applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis as vacancies arise.

Town of Franklin

Please note, many boards & committees have membership terms that expire annually on June 30th, so this is a great time of year to apply for seats that may become vacant on July 1st!  We strongly advise submitting your volunteer application by April 4th to be considered for one of these opportunities. 

Interested candidates are highly encouraged to attend a committee meeting and visit the Town's YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp4_sDQGHNa9MKpqfmXGZrg) to view past meetings to get a sense if your selected committee is the right fit!  Interested candidates are also welcome to contact committee members for more information.  

If you have any questions please contact Julie McCann in the Town Administration Office at (508) 520-4949 or visit the office located on the 3rd floor of the Municipal Building, 355 East Central St.

Shared from -> https://www.franklinma.gov/civicalerts.aspx?AID=46

Master Plan Cmte & Subcmte Meetings this week: Feb 12 to 15

 

OSRP & NCHR Subcommittee

Event Date: 

 

Monday, February 12, 2024 - 6:00 pm

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/agendas/osr_nchr_subcommittee_agendas_-_february_12th_2024.pdf

Master Plan Committee - Public Hearing 1

Event Date: 

 

Wednesday, February 14, 2024 - 6:30 pm

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/agendas/master_plan_agenda_-february_14_2024.pdf

Housing and Economic Development Subcommittee

Event Date: 

 

Thursday, February 15, 2024 - 5:00 pm

Agenda not yet posted. When available should be found here -> https://www.franklinma.gov/master-plan-update-committee/events/451061

Master Plan Update Cmte and Subcommittee meetings for Week of Dec 11 to Dec 16

The schedule of Master Plan Update meetings for this week:

Monday, December 11, 2023 - 7:00pm

• Land Use Subcommittee - Cancelled

Tuesday, December 12, 2023 - 7:00pm

• OSRP & NCHR Subcommittee ->   https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/agendas/osrp_and_nchr_subcommittee_agenda_-_december_12th_2023.pdf

Wednesday, December 13, 2023 - 5:00pm to 6:30pm

• CSFC Subcommittee -> agenda not yet posted

Wednesday, December 13, 2023 - 6:30pm

• Master Plan Committee ->   https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/agendas/master_plan_agenda_-december_13_2023.pdf

Saturday, December 16, 2023 - 10:00am to 2:00pm

• Sustainability Subcommittee - at Winter Farmers Market ->   https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/agendas/sustainability_-agenda_2023-12-16_0.pdf

And have you responded to the survey yet?

Survey link -> https://forms.gle/NCfcPF6mAr2yLw8n9

Master Plan Update Cmte and Subcommittee meetings for Week of Dec 11 to Dec 13

Master Plan Update Cmte discusses, Inventory Report, Survey, Outreach efforts, & approves Meeting schedule for 2024 (audio)

FM #1110 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1110 in the series. 

This session of the radio show shares the Master Plan Update Committee meeting held on Wednesday, November 29, 2023.

After an update from the subcommittees, they discussed issues with the Inventory Report, the Survey launched, subcommittee outreach efforts, & approved their Meeting schedule for 2024.

The agenda:

1. Meeting Minutes: September 13 & 27, 2023 & October 25, 2023

2. Subcommittee Updates

3. Existing Conditions & Inventory Draft Report - Discussion

4. Tabling and outreach for Survey

5. 2024 Meeting Dates

Listen to the recording of the Master Plan Update Cmte meeting held on November 29, 2023. The meeting runs about 120 minutes. Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1110-master-plan-update-cmte-mtg-11-29-23

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The Master Plan update Committee page -> https://www.franklinma.gov/master-plan-update-committee 

Meeting agenda -> https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/agendas/master_plan_agenda_-november_29_2023_0.pdf 

Franklin TV video link -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JnMfCfe-RnI 

My notes captured via Twitter in one PDF ->    https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Gl1LBNE_LqXQiMuCNFdhqwZu6sinTkDZ/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

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!

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

Master Plan Update Cmte discusses, Inventory Report, Survey, Outreach efforts, & approves Meeting schedule for 2024 (audio)

Rail Trail Committee raises a Call for Volunteers!

We need your skills and your help. Join us at a meeting or drop us an email

View this email in your browser Call for Volunteers!! We hope this email finds you well and enjoying the beauty of our community. We are reaching out to you today because we believe that your unique skills, passion, and energy could be a fantastic addition to our team at the Franklin & Bellingham Rail Trail Committee. Our committee has been dedicated to the development and upkeep of the Southern New England Trunkline Trail in Franklin & Bellingham, a cherished community space that promotes wellness, unity, and outdoor enjoyment. We have achieved significant milestones over the years, but we understand that our continued success depends on the collective efforts of dedicated volunteers like you. We are currently seeking volunteers to support us in a variety of capacities, and we firmly believe that there is a role perfectly suited to your skills and interests: Event Support: Our events, such as the upcoming Harvest Festival, rely on volunteers to manage booths, assist with logistics, and ensure everything runs smoothly. Trail Walk Leaders: If you have a passion for the outdoors and love interacting with others, consider leading our monthly trail walks. It's a wonderful way to connect with fellow community members and promote the beauty of our trail. Marketing Communications: If you're a creative thinker with a knack for spreading the word, we could use your talents in helping us create compelling communications to engage the community and promote our events. Grant Writing: Are you skilled in writing persuasive proposals? Help us secure essential funding by applying for grants that will enable us to enhance our trail and continue our mission. Account Management: For those who are organized and detail-oriented, managing our accounts and financial records is an area where your skills can truly shine. Your contribution, whether it's an hour or two at an event or a regular commitment in a specialized role, will make a significant impact. Volunteering with us is not only a chance to give back to your community but also an opportunity to build new friendships, develop skills, and be a part of a dynamic team that's passionate about creating positive change. If you're interested in joining our ranks of dedicated volunteers, come to one of our meetings, the second Tuesday of every month at 67 Degrees Brewing meet the team and enjoy a beer on us - next meeting is Tues Sep 12th at 7pm! Or, just reach out to us at fbrtcommittee@gmail.com with your area of interest. We'll provide you with more information and discuss how your involvement can best align with your schedule and abilities. Thank you for considering this invitation. Together, we can continue to make the SNETT a vibrant and enriching space for all. Warm regards, Franklin & Bellingham Rail Trail Committee Copyright © 2023 Franklin & Bellingham Rail Trail Committee, All rights reserved. You are receiving this email because you have opted in to stay informed about the Franklin & Bellingham Rail Trail Committee Our mailing address is: Franklin & Bellingham Rail Trail Committee PO Box 68 Franklin, Ma 02038

Davis Thayer Reuse Committee hears & discusses multiple options for the building (audio)

FM #1040 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1040 in the series. 

This session of the radio show shares the audio for the Davis Thayer Reuse Committee meeting held on Tuesday, August 15, 2023 in the Council Chambers. 

The committee heard and discussed many ideas for possible reuse of the former school building. Police station, community arts center, housing, and recreation headquarters were among the key items mentioned. Splitting the land into 2 parcels was suggested. Another was to build a new municipal building in addition to the police station and sell off the current municipal building was a new idea.

Multiple parties apparently being invited to the next meeting proposed for Sep 19 at 7 PM. Police Chief, arts and recreation, and housing trust representatives among the key participants suggested to provide insights to the discussion.

Arrangements being finalized for movers to clear the facility to enable open houses for the community (and committee) to view the building, Open houses likely to be scheduled in October. 

The recording runs about 80 minutes, so let’s listen to the Davis Thayer Reuse Committee meeting. Audio file -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1040-davis-thayer-reuse-cmte-mtg-08-15-23

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The meeting agenda -> 

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/agendas/_2023-08-15_davis-thayer_reuse_agenda_.pdf 

The draft facility condition report ->

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/davisthayer_existing_cond_draft_v2_1.pdf 

The Franklin TV video is available for replay ->   https://www.youtube.com/live/HRdzWScNZCA 

My notes captured via Twitter during the meeting are in one PDF file -> https://drive.google.com/file/d/1nQU6e9arZuu33HTFtMjnY_eVf084AKBU/view?usp=drive_link 

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

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 www.franklin.news or www.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"

Davis-Thayer Reuse Advisory Subcommittee Meeting