Economic Development Subcmte shovels the snow bylaw forward for Council discussion (video)

The Economic Development Subcommittee (EDC) talked about snow removal on a hot Wednesday in the Franklin Council Chambers for their regularly scheduled meeting.

The proposed re-introduction of the sidewalk snow removal bylaw which was rescinded in 2017 was initially discussed at the August EDC meeting at which one member was absent. All four participated this time, 3 present in Chambers, one via remote connection.

That the bylaw hadn't been present for 6 years apparently had wrought enough interest to make it to the Council's objectives, hence this discussion.

The committee could have decided to do more research before forwarding to the Council, or done nothing (effectively continuing the status quo of the past 6 years). They did end up moving it forward without recommendation for a full Council discussion. Some additional research will be done by Town staff in prep for a future Council meeting.

Quick recap: what some folks would want is for the Town to clear the sidewalks, however the DPW is not staffed to do this and their other priorities. The community (commercial, retail and residents) should be able to help which is what the proposal lays out. It will create some inequity and hardship particularly among some of the elderly and disabled residents. 

What kind of community and area do we want to live in is the real question?

There are pros and cons, and no easy answer. Where is Solomon when we need him?

Full agenda doc -> 

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/agendas/edc_agenda_9.6.23.pdf

Franklin TV Video link -> https://www.youtube.com/live/DLFDj9HEyRU?si=4_o_8sYPiFQqWhLZ&t=105

My notes taken via Twitter and captured via a single PDF ->   https://drive.google.com/file/d/1rOTVhHzvrppkmJB3HmmyqbJHaq6LTXj7/view?usp=drive_link

The proposed map of sidewalks to be cleared by the DPW

Proposed sidewalk snow removal map

4 meetings on Weds night: Board of Health, Comprehensive Facilities Planning, EDC, and Town Council

FRANKLIN TOWN COUNCIL

• September 6, 2023 7:00 PM
• 2nd floor, Council Chambers    https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/agendas/town_council_agenda_-_9.6.23.pdf

Economic Development Subcommittee

• September 6, 2023 5:30 PM
• Council Chambers, 2nd Floor   https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/agendas/edc_agenda_9.6.23.pdf

Comprehensive Facilities Planning Subcommittee

• September 6, 2023 - 5:00 PM
• Municipal Building 3rd Floor Training Room    https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/agendas/comprehensive_facilities_planning_subcom-9_6_23.pdf

BOARD OF HEALTH AGENDA

• September 6, 2023 5:00pm
• Training room, 3rd floor   https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/events/boh_agenda_09-06.23_-_google_docs.pdf

Note the Board of Health Meeting and the Comprehensive Facilities Planning Subcmte is also scheduled for the same date, time and room. Stay tuned, something for one of these meetings will likely change.

4 meetings on Weds night: Board of Health, Comprehensive Facilities Planning, EDC, and Town Council

Economic Development Subcommittee agenda for Weds, Sep 6 at 5:30 PM

Economic Development Subcommittee

Agenda & Meeting Packet

September 6, 2023 5:30 PM

Meeting will be held at the Municipal Building

Council Chambers, 2nd Floor

355 East Central Street

Agenda:

1. Proposed sidewalk snow removal bylaw and map

a. Revised Map  https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/sidewalk_commercial_proposed_v2.pdf 

b. Draft Bylaw Proposal   https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/1b._23-902_snow_removal_bylaw_draft.pdf

Full agenda doc with remote participation info -> 

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/agendas/edc_agenda_9.6.23.pdf

 

Proposed sidewalk snow removal map

Downtown Partnership - General Meeting scheduled for Thursday, Sep 7 at 8:30 AM

The next Franklin Downtown Partnership General Meeting will be held on Thursday, September 7, 2023. 

Specific topics of interest are: Town Administrator Jamie Hellen with a downtown parking update and guest speaker Brad Chaffee from Camford Property Group regarding the company's new downtown project.

Downtown Partnership - General Meeting scheduled for Thursday, Sep 7 at 8:30 AM

Shared from the Downtown Partnership page -> 

https://www.franklindowntownpartnership.org/2023/08/september-general-meeting.html

In this Talk Franklin episode, we start with the State announcement on temporary housing of migrants (audio)

FM #1050 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1050 in the series. 

This session of the radio show shares my "Talk Franklin" session with Town Administrator Jamie Hellen. We had our conversation in the Municipal Building on Thursday, August 24, 2023.  

Topics for this session

Notification on State arranging to place migrants in Best Western Hotel

Davis Thayer Reuse; suggestions gathered, some interesting & new

Economic Development, Small zoning change

Police Station Building Cmte, Starting work

School opens, drive safely

The recording runs about 42 minutes. Let’s listen to my conversation with Jamie & Amy on Thursday, August 24, 2023. Audio file -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1050-talk-franklin-08-24-23

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Town Administrator page -> https://www.franklinma.gov/administrator

Talk Franklin podcast page -> https://anchor.fm/letstalkfranklin 

Davis Thayer Reuse Committee agenda & links ->  https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/agendas/_2023-08-15_davis-thayer_reuse_agenda_.pdf 

 

Notification on migrant temporary housing

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2023/08/ma-notifies-franklin-of-plans-to-house.html

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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!

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

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

In this Talk Franklin episode, we start with the State announcement on temporary housing of migrants (audio)

Economic Development Subcommittee agrees to proposal on zoning change for 2 lots from Residential to Business (audio)

FM #1046 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1046 in the series. 

This session of the radio show shares the Economic Development Subcommittee meeting held on Wednesday, August 23, 2023. 

Chair: M Hamblen, C Frongillo, P Sheridan, G Jones

Town Administration: J Hellen, B Taberner

Brief recap

• Brief discussion around the proposal to change the zoning of 2 lots on King St near Fire Station 2 from residential to business. 

• A few questions to clarify the matter considering the process and kind of business operation to be allowed were asked. These are more likely to be better understood/considered during the formal hearing process assuming the measure continues to get referred by the Town Council to the Planning Board. The Planning Board will review and make their recommendation back to the Council which in turn holds their own public hearings before voting on it.

• One of the nuances on the timeline, by starting now, it could get completed (i.e. a final decision by the Council) before the November election, at which point if it was still in limbo, it would need to start all over.

• The measure was approved by 4-0 to bring to the Town Council at the next meeting (Sep 6).

The recording runs about 18 minutes, so let’s listen to the Economic Development Subcmte discussion on Aug 23, 2023. Audio file -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1046-economic-development-subcmte-mtg-08-23-23

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You may access the agenda for this meeting here: https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/agendas/edc_agenda_aug_23_2023.pdf 

Shared from ->  https://www.franklinma.gov/home/news/economic-development-subcommittee-meeting-august-23rd-2023 

My notes captured via Twitter during the meeting can be found in one PDF ->   https://drive.google.com/file/d/1eVFLdGt46ZwOiBLGURB-X6aeax6QRdU3/view?usp=drive_link 

Franklin TV video replay -> https://www.youtube.com/live/oqw7ereD3uI 

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

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"

map showing location of the 2 lots in question on King St

Economic Development Subcommittee agrees to proposal on zoning change for 2 lots from Residential to Business (video)

The Economic Development Subcommittee met as scheduled on August 23, 2023 at 5:30 PM. All four members were present for the brief discussion around the proposal to change the zoning of 2 lots on King St near Fire Station 2 from residential to business. 

A few questions to clarify the matter considering the process and kind of business operation to be allowed were asked. These more likely to be better understood/considered during the formal hearing process assuming the measure continues to get referred by the Town Council to the Planning Board. The Planning Board will review and make their recommendation back to the Council which in turn holds their own public hearings before voting on it.

One of the nuances on the timeline, by starting now, it could get completed (i.e. a final decision by the Council) before the November election, at which point if it was still in limbo, it would need to start all over.

The measure was approved by 4-0 to bring to the Town Council at the next meeting (Sep 6).

map showing location of the 2 lots in question on King St

You may access the agenda and links for this meeting here: https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/agendas/edc_agenda_aug_23_2023.pdf

Shared from ->  https://www.franklinma.gov/home/news/economic-development-subcommittee-meeting-august-23rd-2023 

My notes captured via Twitter during the meeting can be found in one PDF ->   https://drive.google.com/file/d/1eVFLdGt46ZwOiBLGURB-X6aeax6QRdU3/view?usp=drive_link

Franklin TV video replay -> https://www.youtube.com/live/oqw7ereD3uI

Public Comment looked for on the State Economic Development Plan

The Massachusetts Executive Office of Economic Development (EOED) is continuing its work developing the Commonwealth’s economic development plan. The Healey-Driscoll Administration announced that more than 1,300 residents have engaged in this process so far. The administration is encouraging the public to continue providing them with feedback, ideas, and suggestions for the state's economic development plan through their online feedback form.  

https://edpcregionalplanning.formstack.com/forms/healey_driscoll_administration_economic_development_plan_submissions

More information on the Economic Development Planning Process can be found on the EOED Webpage.  https://www.mass.gov/economic-development-planning-process

Public Comment looked for on the State Economic Development Plan

Economic Development Subcommittee Meeting - August 23, 2023 at 5:30 PM

The Economic Development Subcommittee will meet on August 23, 2023 at 5:30 PM.

You may access the agenda and links for the meeting here: https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/agendas/edc_agenda_aug_23_2023.pdf

Shared from ->  https://www.franklinma.gov/home/news/economic-development-subcommittee-meeting-august-23rd-2023

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The text of the memo in the agenda:

"As you know the Town has been asked to consider rezoning to Business two residentially zoned parcels of land adjacent to the Fire Station on King Street. The Department of Planning & Community Development has developed Zoning Map Amendment 23-901 for the Town Council’s Economic Development Subcommittee’s consideration.

If approved by Town Council, Zoning Map Amendment 23-901 would amend the Town’s existing Zoning Map (Chapter 185, Section 5, of Franklin Town Code) by changing the following parcels from the Single Family Residential III zoning district to the Business zoning district. 

This small zoning map change would allow development of the two parcels for a variety of commercial uses. Uses allowed by right include: nursery, greenhouse or garden center; restaurant; other retail sales and services; office uses including banks/credit unions, medical/dental, and other professional or administrative uses; business incubator or co-working space; artisanal and craft maker space; art gallery.

Uses that may be allowed by Planning Board special permit include: motor vehicle, boat, farm implement sales (without repair service); filling or service station; vehicular service establishment; function hall or catering; hotel or motel; brewery, distillery, or winery production with tasting room.

Uses that may be allowed by Zoning Board of Appeals special permit include: animal hospital, kennel, day care, training, or grooming.

Attachments 2 through 8 (Use Regulations Schedules Parts I through 7) of the Town's Zoning Bylaw (Chapter 185 of Franklin Town Code) contain a complete list of uses that are allowed by right or may be allowed by Zoning Board of Appeals or Planning Board special permit in the Business Zoning District.

Attached are the following:

• Bylaw Zoning Amendment 23-901; and
• A diagram with two maps: one showing the current zoning in the area, and one showing
• proposed Zoning Map changes.

If the Economic Development Subcommittee supports the proposed zoning map amendment, the issue should be scheduled for a Town Council meeting in the near future for further consideration. Please let me know if you have questions or require additional information."

Economic Development Subcommittee Meeting - August 23, 2023 at 5:30 PM

Economic Development Subcommittee considers updates to a revised sidewalk snow removal bylaw (Audio)

FM #1041 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1041 in the series. 

This session of the radio show shares the Economic Development Subcommittee meeting held on Wednesday, August 16, 2023. 

Chair: M Hamblen, C Frongillo, P Sheridan, G Jones (absent)

Town Administration: J Hellen, B Taberner

Brief recap

• The previous sidewalk snow removal bylaw was repealed as unenforceable in 2017

• The sidewalks covered by the Town in their snow removal plan have not been updated in years

• Small sections were discussed and proposed to add to the Town removal coverage (along 140 near the Westerly Apts., the East/West Streets neighborhood, the Alpine/Milliken neighborhood)

• Discussion on the parameters for clearing, when to have completed, etc. were reviewed, also the need for marketing and education to build a culture of "we can do this" and take care of the neighbors who are unable to do so.

• The Town staff will work on the revisions as discussed, basic text of the prior bylaw is a good start to work with, add the map (new areas), etc.

• Motion to adjourn

The recording runs 57 minutes, so let’s listen to the Economic Development Subcmte discussion on Aug 16, 2023. Audio file -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1041-economic-development-subcmte-mtg-08-16-23

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Meeting agenda =>    https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/agendas/_2023-08-16_edc_agenda_.pdf

My notes ->  https://drive.google.com/file/d/12loCjrT1sEa9Gfc9Y4gSrauJJohznz_q/view?usp=drive_link

Meeting video ->  https://www.youtube.com/live/v0pTxjdGlIo

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

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"

taken in 2017 on a walk Sunday morning, approx. 12 hours after the storm ended

Economic Development Subcommittee considers updates to a revised sidewalk snow removal bylaw (video)

Three of the four Economic Development Subcommittee members met on Wednesday as scheduled before the full Town Council meeting to hear about possible revisions to a sidewalk snow removal bylaw.

Chair Melanie Hamblen, Cobi Frongillo, Patrick Sheridan, Glenn Jones (absent)

Brief recap

• The previous bylaw was repealed as unenforceable in 2017
• The sidewalks covered by the Town in their snow removal plan have not been updated in years
• Small sections were discussed and proposed to add tot he Town removal coverage (along 140 near the Westerly Apts., the East/West Streets neighborhood, the Alpine/Milliken neighborhood)
• Discussion on the parameters for clearing, when to have completed, etc. were reviewed, also the need to marketing and education to build a cultural of "we can do this" and take care of the neighbors who are unable to do so.
• The Town staff will work on the revisions as discussed, basic text of the prior bylaw is a good start to work with, add the map (new areas), etc.
• Motion to adjourn

Franklin TV video of the session is available for replay ->   https://www.youtube.com/live/v0pTxjdGlIo

My notes captured via Twitter during the meeting canbe found in one PDF

https://drive.google.com/file/d/12loCjrT1sEa9Gfc9Y4gSrauJJohznz_q/view?usp=drive_link

taken in 2017 on a walk Sunday morning, approx. 12 hours after the storm ended