Join us for a Jane's Walk in Franklin on Sunday, May 4 at 10 AM

Join Cobi Frongillo & Steve Sherlock NEXT SUNDAY (5/4) for our third annual walk around Downtown Franklin to reflect on placemaking and town planning.

The event is part of an annual international series of walks to honor the social activist Jane Jacobs.

Meet at the Depot St parking lot Sunday morning. We will leave at 10:00 AM and should meander back by 11:30 AM.

Join us for a Jane's Walk in Franklin on Sunday, May 4 at 10 AM

Shared from -> https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1AHWKwXMp5/

Find out more about Buliding Euitable Neighborhoos For Franklin (BEN 4 Franklin)  https://ben4franklin.org/

Economic Development Subcmte gets updates on MBTA Community status and Nu-Style brownfield (audio)

FM #1343 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1343 in the series. 

This session of the radio show shares the audio recording of the Economic Development Subcommittee (EDC) held on Wednesday, December 18, 2024 in the Council Chambers. 

All 4 members of the subcommittee participated in Chambers (Hamblen, Sheridan, Frongillo & Chandler).

Quick recap

• The Nu-Style project history is laid out in the presentation doc, progress is being made but complicated by the split of ownership of the properties involved. Especially as the building on the Town property that needs to come down is adjoining to the neighboring property building which has structural issues. Grant money is primarily being used for remediation work, additional grants are being sought to complete the work required.

• After all the zoning bylaw changes made for the Franklin For All project and specifically to meet the MBTA Community requirements,  we may finally be there. The last paperwork was submitted to the State and an answer is expected hopefully to confirm we do meet (actually exceed) the requirements. The timeline on the changes including the critical zoning changes is included in the presentation doc (shared below)

Motion to adjourn, passes 4-0 

The recording of the meeting runs about 55 minutes.   Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1343-economic-development-subcmte-mtg-12-18-24/

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Franklin TV broadcast is available for replay ->  https://www.youtube.com/live/AcTwbyEEB9s?&t=91

The agenda doc ->   https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/agendas/_2024-12-18_edc_agenda.pdf 

Presentation doc ->   https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1JJz3RhlTZXN7gA8Ux2O8wSqFxhUDFYnC/edit?usp=drive_link&ouid=101938843903614700481&rtpof=true&sd=true

My full set of notes in one PDF ->  https://drive.google.com/file/d/1DqhtXZdJneqbD0nDshW3iqBbgB9R1PRX/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. 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!

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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"

Nu-Style property photo

MBTA Community status summary

2024 A-Wreath-of-Franklin Wrapped!

Thank you + Community Survey

Thank you to all of our volunteers, wreath creators and businesses who participated in making this inaugural event a community effort. "The First Annual A-Wreath-of-Franklin and Holiday Sip, Shop Stroll N Roll was the perfect blend of the arts, the economy, old friends, new friends and the holiday spirit! The fellowship experienced in Franklin was heartwarming and its only the beginning! Look for more event, more people, more activities, more art and more camaraderie in 2025 at the Second Annual "A-Wreath-of-Franklin" and Holiday Sip Shop Stroll N Roll. We would love to have you on the committee! Stay tuned for details!" John Ristaino, Franklin Cultural Council Chair. If you had the opportunity to join us last weekend, let us know what you thought! Click here for our community survey. All feedback will be used to generate more cohesive and festive programming! Have further questions? Or want to get involved? Please email the Director of Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy; Cory Shea.

Community Wreaths will be on display until the first weeks of January 2025. Take a look at our community map to plan your visit! Here's a reel revealing a peek of the community magic leading up to the December 7th A-Wreath-of-Franklin Sip Shop Stroll N Roll Celebration! Pictured above, Dom DeBaggis rocking out at Fiori & Fern.

Special thank you to our award winning program Photographer and Franklin Cultural Council member, Kayla Nisbet for capturing the day! Visit the Franklin Culture's Facebook page to see the entire photo album. Pictured: Our youngest Franklin Community members participating at the Children's Museum of Franklin indoor ice skating rink that popped up at the Franklin United Methodist Church.

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Town of Franklin Franklin Culture District | 355 East Central Street | Franklin, MA 02038 US

A-Wreath-of-Franklin | Stories of the Season - Saturday, Dec 7

The sidewalks and businesses in downtown Franklin are about to come alive with holiday spirit! On Saturday, December 7 from 12 PM to 7 PM. Franklin will host its newest holiday tradition: Franklin’s Sip, Shop, Stroll & Roll. It will be a community event meant for everyone!

Sip: Coffee, teas, hot chocolate, soft drinks and special adult beverages will be available at our downtown cafes, markets and restaurants. 

Shop: Downtown vendors will be open to do your holiday shopping and to idea shop and dream as well. Artisans will be located throughout the downtown shopping area selling their arts and crafts. 

Stroll: Walk along Franklin’s downtown sidewalks now festively arrayed in holiday cheer. Stop into downtown stores, shops, businesses, restaurants and cafes and check out this year’s entries into the A-Wreath-of-Franklin Festival. Wreaths will be hung in many downtown venues. Vote for your favorites. 

Roll: Bring the stroller, wheelchair or carriage. There will be music, arts, holiday cheer and an indoor skating rink (no skates needed) throughout the day and evening." - John Ristaino, Franklin Cultural Council Chair

A-Wreath-of-Franklin | Stories of the Season - Saturday, Dec 7 

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12pm Ringing of the Bells & Kick off to our Festivities!

12-7pm - Popped Up all day at 12 Main Street - Arts Market! Shop for handmade goodies directly from the creators!

12-7pm - Pop Up Franklin Highschool Student Exhibition, 12 Main Street

12pm-2pm | Dean Bank, Cookies & Crafts in their lobby, 21 Main Street

12-4pm | Fiori & Fern 138 E Central St, Wreath Raffle + Live Music Featuring Heath Nisbett 12-1:30pm & Dom DeBaggis 2-3:30pm

12-7pm | The Little Shop of Olive Oils 5 Main St, Raffles and more!

12-7pm | Children’s Museum of Franklin Popped up at Franklin United Methodist Church 82 W Central St. Indoor Skating Rink, Hot Chocolate + Children Museum Swag Sale

12-7pm | Birchwood Bakery & Kitchen 17 E Central St.12-7pm Specialty Cocktails, coffees & Snacks. 12-5pm Live Music. Featuring Franklin Highschool Students Jenny’s Group, Daniel’s Group, Sarah’s Group. Ava, Kavya, Pat and Amelia. Jack & Aida.

12-7pm | Greco Design Co. 6 Main St, Raffles & more!

12-7pm | Applause 36 Main St, Grab a cup of Austrian hot chocolate from 12-7pm and visit with special elf guests from 12-4pm.

12-7pm | Franklin Historical Museum (Special hours), 80 W Central St, Screening at 5pm, " So Proudly We Hail"  The story of the lives of three U.S. Army nurses who leave San Francisco for their tour of duty in Hawaii in December 1941.

12pm- 12AM | Teddy Gallagher’s 30 Main St, Specialty ‘Wreath’ Cocktails

12- 9pm | The Rome 4 E Central St, Specialty Cocktails at The Rome.

12pm-12am | Teddy Gallagher's Irish Pub, 30 Main St, Specialty Cocktails, "Cinnamon Apple Wreath Martinis"

1pm | Franklin Public Library 118 Main St, Crafting for kiddos of all ages. They'll have an assortment of winter and holiday themed crafts for all to enjoy!

1-3pm | Franklin Historical Museum, Jazz-infused guitarist, Frank Saccoccio

5pm | The Dean College Vocal Ensemble Popped up by 12 Main Street

7pm | Ringing of the Bells + Voting Concludes wrapping up the evening!

7pm | Franklin United Methodist Church 82 W Central St, Jamie Barrett Performing Community Carols, Cookies & Cocoa.

Shared from -> https://www.franklinculture.org/wreath-franklin

Sip, Shop, Stroll & Roll, scheduled for Downtown Franklin on Saturday, December 7 from noon to 7 PM

Celebrate the Inaugural A-Wreath-of-Franklin Program

Introducing a collaborative community Program: A-Wreath-of-Franklin! Brought to you by your Franklin Cultural community volunteers (Franklin Cultural Council and Franklin Cultural District), Franklin Downtown Partnership and the Town of Franklin Department of Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy.

Sip, Shop, Stroll & Roll, scheduled for Downtown Franklin on Saturday, December 7 from noon to 7 PM Sip Shop Stroll & Roll on December 7th in Downtown Franklin, 12-7pm. Snow Date December 14th. The "Sip, Shop, Stroll, and Roll" event is the exciting celebration of the 'A-Wreath-of-Franklin' community wreath program, designed to bring people downtown to enjoy the festive atmosphere and vote for their favorite community-made wreaths. This festive day invites the Franklin community to experience the creativity of Franklin with live music, specialty cocktails, raffle prizes, and the chance to shop pop-up artisan goods in local storefronts. It's a day that combines holiday spirit with community pride, offering something for everyone to enjoy in the heart of downtown Franklin! Interested in being one of the pop up artisans? Please click here for more details!

Local artists, schools, and community members are invited to decorate wreaths in their interpretation of our inaugural theme, "Stories of the Season". Our cultural volunteers will pair community wreaths to be displayed at local businesses throughout the downtown area (December through January). Deadline for community wreath sign up is November 22nd. Click here! On December 7th, 12-7pm, enjoy a "Sip, Shop, Stroll & Roll" event. Community members are welcomed Downtown to vote for their favorite wreaths, shop, eat and enjoy local festivities! Don't miss the fun!

About the Wreaths Just as each wreath is carefully crafted, our traditions and acts of kindness weave together to create a stronger, more united community.  What does our theme, "Stories of the Season" mean to you? Is it celebrating your family heritage? Interpreting a favorite book from your book club? What will your story be? Once the wreaths have been created our volunteers will match the wreath with a local business located in the Downtown/Cultural District area. Wreaths will be placed in windows, with a QR code sign enabling our community to vote for their fan favorite! Need some Wreath decorating inspiration? Check out our Pinterest board! Click here!

Have questions? Please reach out to the Director of Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy, Cory Shea.

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Town of Franklin Franklin Culture District | 355 East Central Street | Franklin, MA 02038 US

A-Wreath-of-Franklin coming in December

Join us for A-Wreath-of-Franklin, a festive community celebration! 

A-Wreath-of-Franklin coming in December

Local artists, schools, and community members are invited to create their own wreaths! These beautiful wreaths will be paired with local businesses throughout the downtown area. Each display will include a QR code for community members to vote for their favorite wreath. 

On December 7, (time TBD), enjoy a "Sip, Shop, Stroll & Roll" event, where you can vote, partake in festive activities, and support Franklin’s local businesses. 

Don’t miss the fun! 

SIGN UP to participate here -> https://form.jotform.com/242634718318056

Deadline for participation form to be filled is Friday, November 22nd.

For more info visit -> https://www.franklinculture.org/wreath-franklin

Town Council approves additional $1M for schools, starts process for override, turns down King St parcel zoning change (video)

The Town Council met as scheduled on Wednesday, July 17. 7 members were present in Council Chambers, one participated remotely (Cormier-Leger), one was absent (Hamblen). For the time when Cormier-Leger participated all votes were recorded via roll call.

Quick summary

• A number of citizens comments accounted for approx. 30 minutes of the meeting before the Council began its business.
• The zoning change for the parcel on King St while forwarded to second reading by a 5-4 vote was roundly defeated by an 8-0-1 (1 absent) vote.
• The override and budget discussion resulted in two actions. 
• One - consensus to begin with a Joint Budget series of meetings to work on determining the future (assuming yes, when?), and getting consensus among the 3 committees (Town Council, School Committee and Finance Committee) on an amount for an earlier spring vote.
• Two - the Council did vote to take $1M from the debt stabilization account to provide for additional funding for the School budget. The School Committee will vote to accept the funding at their next scheduled August meeting (Aug 13). (After this vote Cormier-Leger left the session)
• A set of 3 bylaws to change downtown commercial zoning to bring the Town into compliance with the MBTA regulations were approved and moved to second reading. The second reading will be a Council meeting in August.
• The zoning change for the mill store property on Union St was approved and moved to second reading (also at a meeting in August)
• The Council also voted to approve the land swap deal with the state. This work started approx. 11 years ago and finally getting to the changing of the deeds stage to complete. This will set up for future renovation & enhancements to the Beaver St recycling Center.

The Franklin TV video of the 3 hour session can be found ->  https://www.youtube.com/live/dvI5kTzZqP0?si=Od24AGR5njNiF99I&t=67

Agenda document for this session: 

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/agendas/tc_agenda_july_17_2024.pdf

My notes as captured during the session can be found in one PDF

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1rUWE6iK-G1T7xnVsjgXiGj2-l2P9S9Kg/view?usp=drive_link

Franklin, MA: Town Council -Agenda for Meeting July 17, 2024 at 7 PM