Showing posts with label fees. Show all posts
Showing posts with label fees. Show all posts

Sunday, May 8, 2022

Town Council hears from Congressman Auchincloss, can't decide on parking fines, is impatient with DT progress, among items at May 4 session

FM #790 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 790 in the series. 

This session shares part of the Franklin, MA Town Council meeting held on Wednesday, May 4, 2022. 

The meeting was conducted in a hybrid format: members of the Town Council and Town Administration personnel were in the Council Chambers, some members of the public participated in person, some via the Zoom conference bridge, all to adhere to the ‘social distancing’ requirements of this pandemic period.

Quick recap:

  • Recognition of Harriet DiMartino on her 100th birthday

  • Compliance check failures continued from prior meeting; both 7-Eleven & Liquor World acknowledged and accepted violations, agreed to one day suspension of license effective May 11

  • Public hearing for street acceptances held, both ultimately passed via legislation with 8-0 vote (1 absent)

  • Congressman Jake Auchincloss, 4th Congressional District, appeared to provide multiple updates and answer questions from the Council and meeting participants. First Federal elected official to appear before Council

  • Melanson & Heath presented an overview of the just completed FY 2021 audit results; the results are good, no issues found, nor was a management letter included also a good sign that the financial processes are in good order

  • Bylaw to adjust parking fines tabled for 2nd meeting in June, more discussion clearly required on this topic. As reported, there was no consensus among the EDC which brought it forward and there remains no consensus on how to proceed

  • Second bylaw parking zone map proposed changes to add a ban on overnight parking downtown. Almost got tied to the other bylaw item (they are separate but related) but did get moved to a second reading

  • Update on Davis Thayer provided by Town Administrator. The building is still in School Committee control, confirmation received from MSBA on their awareness of closing and that the closing should have no impact if the Town does decide in future to go for MSBA funding. Not sure why the Council remains “impatient” with this status as they could have started their planning process to determine a future use anytime after the building actually closed. The School District is not using the building for education, another use can start to be determined, it will take time to do so, and likely be still not finally decided by the time the School Committee turns the building over legally to the Town

The recording runs about 3 hours and 35 minutes (3:35)

The show notes contain links to the meeting agenda. Let’s listen to the Town Council meeting of May 4, 2022

Audio file -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-790-town-council-meeting-05-04-22

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Agenda document ->  https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/agendas/town_council_agenda_may_4_2022.pdf

My notes of the meeting captured via Twitter are shared in one PDF here. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1fMWY7GtMKVFxIC_v1UtFIWXE7iIrLK4a/view?usp=sharing

You can find the Franklin TV video link here -> https://youtu.be/eTzFFC_N9ds (the meeting starts at 2:50)


Photos from this session can be found in one album ->   https://photos.app.goo.gl/RfP17XvuTeDNCLwk6

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

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 www.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"

Congressman Auchincloss poses with Town Council, Town Administrator, and Town Clerk
Congressman Auchincloss poses with Town Council, Town Administrator, and Town Clerk


Friday, April 15, 2022

Economic Development Subcommittee moves parking fee changes and restrictions forward to Council

FM #776 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 776 in the series. 


This session of the radio show shares the audio recording of the Economic Development Subcommittee meeting held on Wednesday, April 13, 2022 in the 3rd Floor Training Room.  


Quick recap:

  • Two items on the agenda, first up - parking update for the East/West & Nason Sts area; Chief Lynch and Lt Riley provided updates on parking pattern and parking fee structure in comparison to some neighboring communities, draft presented for review in agenda doc. Key discussion from community and councilors was around what amount would change the behavior of the students without creating a negative impact on businesses and residents. Ultimately passed for consideration by full council amending overtime violation to be set at $35

  • Second item - changing the hours of parking zone, and setting no overnight parking, attempting to keep vehicles in movement creating space for others to use, running out of time (due to first issue) but this moved to the Council for additional discussion as well.



The recording of the meeting runs just over an hour.   Audio file -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-776-economic-development-subcmte-mtg-04-13-22



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


Meeting agenda doc -> 

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/agendas/2022-04-13_edc_agenda_packet_0.pdf 


My notes captured via Twitter 

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1dJ1cfHPu9_ev2IYBa8Rj1nyRad0sDj89/view?usp=sharing 


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


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"

 

Economic Development Subcommittee moves parking fee changes and restrictions forward to Council
Economic Development Subcommittee moves parking fee changes and restrictions forward to Council

Sunday, August 15, 2021

Franklin, MA: Town Council - Agenda - August 18, 2021

1. ANNOUNCEMENTS FROM THE CHAIR

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.

Chair to identify Council Members participating remotely

2. CITIZEN COMMENTS

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

None Scheduled

4. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS

Proclamation/Recognition: Dale Kurtz - Retirement, Veterans Service Officer

Recognition: Bristol Savings Bank - Donation to the Fire Department 

Recognition: Fourth of July Committee - Joe Carmignani & Paul Kortick

5. APPOINTMENTS

None Scheduled

6. HEARINGS - 7:10pm

Zoning Bylaw Amendment 21-874: Amendment to Ch.185 Section 21 Parking, Loading, and Driveway Requirements (to be continued)

7. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS

99 Restaurants of Boston, LLC d/b/a 99 Restaurant Pub #30130, Located at 847 West Central Street, Franklin, MA 02038, Change of Manager

8. PRESENTATIONS/DISCUSSIONS

9. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS

  • Capital Budget Subcommittee
  • Budget Subcommittee
  • Economic Development Subcommittee

10. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION

10a. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION

Resolution 21-46: Gift Acceptance, Fire Department, $25,000 - Bristol County Savings Bank (Motion to Approve Resolution 21-46 - Majority Vote)

10b. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION

Resolution 21-47: Gift Acceptance, Fire Department $5,000 and Police Department $5,000 - Digital Federal Credit Union (DCU) (Motion to Approve Resolution 21-47 - Majority Vote)

10c. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION

Resolution 21-48: Gift Acceptance, Police Department $10, Recreation Department $250, Veterans Department $200 (Motion to Approve Resolution 21-48 - Majority Vote)

10d. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION

Resolution 21-49: Acceptance of Access Easement Over Property Located at 340 East Central Street (Motion to Approve Resolution 21-49 - Majority Vote)

10e. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION

Bylaw Amendment 21-875: Chapter 82, Trash and Recycling Fee Increase - First Reading (Motion to move Bylaw Amendment 21-875 to a Second Reading - 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 
The agenda page can be found ->  https://www.franklinma.gov/town-council/agenda/august-18-town-council-agenda

The one doc PDF of the agenda can be found ->


DPW: Trash & Recycling fee increase proposed
DPW: Trash & Recycling fee increase proposed

Wednesday, May 19, 2021

CommonWealth Magazine "Should state parks be funded with user fees or tax dollars?"

 

"STATE FUNDING for the agency that oversees parks fell by $4.5 million over the last 12 years, even as expenses kept growing. To make ends meet, the Department of Conservation and Recreation has had to capitalize on its assets, collecting more and more revenue from those who use the parks or lease space in them.

Two recent examples illustrate the trend. DCR recently began moving ahead with plans to start charging for parking along roadways it owns in Revere and Cambridge. Most of the new parking meters were installed along Revere Beach Parkway, which abuts the nation’s oldest public beach.

The agency also hiked nightly camping fees for out-of-state visitors to the state’s parks. The camping fee for out-of-state visitors to the state’s premier parks jumped temporarily from $35 to $75 last year and was made permanent this year.

Both moves make political and practical sense. Charging for parking is a way of making users share in the upkeep of beaches and parks. Charging out-of-state residents far more than in-state residents for campsites is a way of pushing the cost of upkeep on to those who don’t vote here and whose complaints are likely to fall on deaf ears."

Continue reading online ->
 
 

Monday, April 19, 2021

FY 2022 Budget - Executive Summary

In one or my "Talk Franklin" conversations with Town Administrator Jamie Hellen, he has said that the most important thing to read in the Town Budget is the Executive Summary. There are dozens of pages of detail to support the summary but the summary gives the broad overview, and highlights the key details, that you can then take a deeper dive into the supporting pages to explore.

You can find the Executive Summary as a separate doc here

You can find the full set of documents for the FY 2022 budget on the Town of Franklin page



FY 2022 Budget - Executive Summary
FY 2022 Budget - Executive Summary


Sunday, March 21, 2021

FM #497 - Town Council Quarterbacking - 03/18/21 (audio)

FM #497 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 497 in the series. 


This shares my conversation with Town Council Chair Tom Mercer. This is one of a series of conversations meant to provide a recap of the prior Council meeting. Akin to one of the many sports post-game analysis broadcasts we are familiar with in New England,  this would be a discussion focused on the Franklin Town Council meeting: 


  • ok, what just happened? 

  • What does it mean for Franklin residents and taxpayers?


The show notes include links to the meeting agenda and associated documents.


Our conversation runs about 25 minutes, so let’s listen in to my quarterbacking session with Tom Mercer.


Audio file = https://player.captivate.fm/episode/bb4cc8a1-24ed-404d-9ee6-c233fddca435


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

Agenda document (and released supporting materials in one PDF) 

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/agendas/03-17-21_town_council_agenda_1.pdf 


My notes from the meeting

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2021/03/recap-town-council-meeting-mar-17-2021.html 

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

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/  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" 

 

FM #497 - Town Council Quarterbacking - 03/18/21 (audio)
FM #497 - Town Council Quarterbacking - 03/18/21 (audio)

Friday, March 19, 2021

Recap -Town Council meeting Mar 17, 2021 - opens with moment of silence remembering 42 lost to COVID-19

Quick Recap:
  • opens with moment of silence remembering 42 lost to COVID-19 
  • Citizens Comment: reminder on bricks for the Veterans Walkway purchased by April 1 will be installed for Memorial Day; announcement of a Franklin Area Non-profit Network beginning March 29
  • Recognition of retirees from DPW and Police along with the swearing in of new Police and Fire personnel 
  • First passage of fee for food trucks for private parties
  • Bylaw proposal referred to Planning Board on removal of restrictions for space for tasting room
 
----
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.
 
Photos captured during the meeting and shared via Twitter can be found in one folder  https://photos.app.goo.gl/nFjW3RwqtrzycAGW7
 
The Twitter hashtag can be found online  #tc0317


  • Getting ready for the town Council meeting #tc0317 https://franklinma.gov/town-council/agenda/march-17-town-council-agenda Agenda doc has the connection info to view via cable, live stream or Zoom.
  • Reminder on bricks for sale for the Veterans Walkway available for purchase by Apr 1, the cut off would be for brick to be installed this Memorial Day. #tc0317 I announced the kick off meeting for the Franklin Area Nonprofit Network on Mar 29 at 7 PM more info to come
  • Citizen commenting against the stormwater fee but confusing it with the water and sewer enterprise funding process #tc0317 valid comments on any increase needs to be considered.
  • Ciccone question and confusion around the stormwater, also confusing about what is where on the budget. Also confusing the capital vs operational budget spending. #tc0317 Motion on minutes from prior meeting, passes 9-0 via roll call
  • Recognition of - David Allard - Retirement Recognition, Franklin DPW #tc0317
  • Recognition of - Kevin Ryan - Retirement Recognition, Franklin Police Department #tc0317 served 44 years, under 5 chiefs Resolutions from House and Senate presented by Rep Roy
  • Brief break to allow for movement of folks within the chambers Recognition of Detective John Maloney - Retirement Recognition, Franklin Police Department #tc0317
  • Recognition of Kristopher Smith - Achievement Recognition, graduation from the Massachusetts Fire Academy #tc0317
  • Swearing in of new officers for Police - (1) Rob Burchill - New Patrol Officer Ceremonial Swearing In & Badge Pinning, Police Department (2) Derek Tetrault - New Patrol Officer Ceremonial Swearing In & Badge Pinning, Police Department #tc0317 sworn in by town clerk N Danello
  • Brian Armstrong - New Hire, Firefighter/Paramedic - Fire Dept Jeffrey Ward - New Hire, Firefighter/Paramedic - Fire Dept Kent Parsons - New Hire, Firefighter/Paramedic - Fire Dept Benjamin Angelo - New Hire, Firefighter/Paramedic - Fire Dept #tc0317
  • The four firefighter/paramedics are starting Monday, being sworn in tonight. #tc0317 and pinned by family members
  • Norfolk County Sheriff Patrick W. McDermot was rescheduled for a future meeting Subcommittee meetings for capital and budget being confirmed #tc0317
  • Moving to legislation for action, temporary food truck event fee, https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/10a._food_trucks.pdf #tc0317 only vote needed for a new fee to help expand food trucks in Franklin, private property owners. Fact sheet in agenda doc motion to 2nd reading, second, passes 9-0 via roll call
  • Motion to refer to Planning Board,  https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/21-872_tasting_room.pdf #tc0317 Change in requirements for tasting room for new establishments, does not apply to existing unless they come back to Planning Board. Passes 9-0 via roll call
  • Town Admin report congratulations to cultural District for first state grant, housing grant received for affordable housing, chapter 90 allotment just under $1M, thanks to legislative delegation for keeping local aid coming, Gov Baker apparently to move to Phase 4 #tc0317
  • #tc0317 Sr coffee hour at 8:30 AM, police reform discussion coming 3/24 at 7 PM, need to recognize and note hate crimes Homeless forum on 3/25 Congrats to retirees and new hires Lost 42 Franklinites to COVID Recognition of access to police hiring, not full pool of candidates
  • #tc0317 #talkfranklinfirst gift cards sold over $42k so far, money to stay here. Thanks to Anne Marie for her efforts on the gift cards Historical Museum open, looking for volunteers. Sundays 1-4pm. thanks to the library for their efficiency during the closed period
  • #tc0317 stay safe, be careful. We're not done yet, SAFE is very busy, help someone, reach out. Condolences to those who lost any one to this pandemic. Don't forget to do what we need to do, masks, social distance... Happy st patrick's
  • Motion to enter executive session, not to return to open meeting 9-0 via roll call That's all for tonight, catch you next time #tc0317 
 
Chief Lynch checking the inscription on the plaque
Chief Lynch checking the inscription on the plaque

Sunday, March 14, 2021

FM #490 - Finance Committee Meeting - 03/10/21 - P3 of 3 - FY22 revenue estimates (audio)

FM #490 = Welcome. This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 490 in the series. 

This session shares part 3 of the Franklin, MA Finance Committee meeting held on Wednesday, Mar 10, 2021. 

The meeting was conducted in a hybrid format: the Finance Committee members, Town Administrator and key personnel, were in the Council Chambers; the remainder, along with the public, were remote via conference bridge, all to adhere to the ‘social distancing’ requirements of this pandemic period.

I’ve split the just almost three hour meeting into three logical segments:
  • First - covers the capital budget discussion and vote to approve (approx. 75 minutes)
  • Second covers the public safety presentations and discussion; the MECC, Fire Dept. and Police Dept. (approx. 67 mins)
  • *** Third *** and last but not least a look at the estimate for revenues for the FY 2022 budget. More to come on this as the budget cycle begins in earnest now meeting (approx. 30 minutes)

The show notes contain links to the meeting agenda and to my notes. 

Let’s listen to this segment of the Finance Committee meeting of Mar 10, 2021

Audio file =  https://player.captivate.fm/episode/7ade95d3-e023-4a12-b4fb-72640e702aec


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

Agenda doc   
https://franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/agendas/revised_fin_com_agenda_complete_1.pdf

My notes from the meeting
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2021/03/finance-committee-meeting-recap-topics.html 
 
--------------

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/ 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"

Town Administrator Jamie Hellen explaining the revenue estimates as we start the budget cycle for FY 22
Town Administrator Jamie Hellen explaining the revenue estimates as we start the budget cycle for FY 22


Monday, March 8, 2021

FM #483 - Town Council Meeting - 03/03/21 (audio)

FM #483 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 483 in the series. 

This session shares the Franklin, MA Town Council meeting held on Wednesday, Mar 3, 2021. 

The meeting was conducted in a hybrid format: most members of the Town Council, selected guests, and Town Administration personnel were in the Council Chambers, at least one member of the Council was remote along with the public via the Zoom conference bridge, all to adhere to the ‘social distancing’ requirements of this pandemic period.

Compared to prior meetings, this is a relatively short session only 1 hour and 18 minutes

The show notes contain links to the meeting agenda including the documents released for this agenda. 

Let’s listen to this segment of the Town Council meeting of Mar 3, 2021.  


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

Town Council ‘quarterbacking session’ with Chair Tom Mercer
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2021/03/fm-481-town-council-quarterbacking.html 

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

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/ 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"

FM #483 - Town Council Meeting - 03/03/21 (audio)
FM #483 - Town Council Meeting - 03/03/21 (audio)


Monday, December 7, 2020

FM #406 Town Council Mtg - P2 of 3 - 12/02/20 (audio)

FM #406 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 406 in the series.

This session shares the Franklin, MA Town Council meeting held on Wednesday, Dec 2, 2020.

The meeting was conducted in a hybrid format: members of the Town Council, selected guests, and Town Administration personnel were in the Council Chambers, the public was remote via Zoom conference bridge, all to adhere to the ‘social distancing’ requirements of this pandemic period.

I’ve split the full four hour plus meeting into three logical segments:

  • First - covers the opening through the first public hearing on the tax rate and subsequent votes to approve 14.65% as the rate for FY 2021 (1 hour and 5 minutes)
  • Second - covers two of the public hearings; the Comcast contract renewal for 10 years, and the bylaw fee adjustment to reduce the fees for next year only to help the local restaurants during this COVID-19 pandemic period (36 mins)
  • Third - covers the presentation on the spear phishing incident through to the meeting close. There was a 4 minute recess during this segment, I did remove most of the silence to reduce the time for this segment (where I could) (2 hours and 17 minutes)

The show notes contain links to the meeting agenda including documents released for this agenda.

Let’s listen to this segment of the Town Council meeting of Dec 2, 2020. Audio file => https://player.captivate.fm/episode/8e5fe663-ef08-47af-8d56-36b299ea74c1 


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

Agenda document (and released supporting materials in one PDF)
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/agendas/12-02-2020_town_council_agenda.pdf
 
Agenda details with individual documents  
https://www.franklinma.gov/town-council/agenda/december-2-town-council-meeting-tax-rate-hearing

Spear phishing update folder
https://franklinma.gov/administrator/pages/spear-phishing

My notes from the meeting
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/12/town-council-meeting-comcast-contract.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"

 

Town Administrator Jamie Hellen address the Council on the Comcast contract and bylaw fee adjustment
Town Administrator Jamie Hellen address the Council on the Comcast contract and bylaw fee adjustment

Tuesday, October 13, 2020

Franklin, MA: School Committee - Recap - Oct 13, 2020

Quick Recap:

  • The meeting was broadcast via Verizon and Comcast as well as the live steam via the Franklinma.gov page. All three channels had an audio problem with no sound. The Zoom meeting audio was fine (the Zoom where it happened). Zoom originated the broadcast from the Council Chambers and apparently the audio got lost getting elsewhere
  • Hiring staff is still a concern, bandwidth not an issue (version of Chromebook is), awaiting delivery of new Chromebooks so swaps can be made; teacher and student SEL a concern; communication issues acknowledged (Where was the Community Relations committee?)
  • Three MASC resolutions passed 7-0, one by 4-3 vote as some were fearing that reducing voting age for municipal elections would add student votes to a potential override situation; two other resolutions were already adopted by this committee earlier in 2020
  • District Improvement plan outlined and voted to adopt
  • Superintendent Ahern presented the ‘evidence’ to support her accomplishments versus the goals set out; some discussion on what was the period of evaluation, as 5 of the committee are new and had not participated in the goal setting, although they did partially participate in the period of evaluation
  • Approval to reduce the pay to ride bus fee to account for the hybrid schedule (versus full time in person) which had been anticipated when set
  • The full Davis Thayer and facility report analysis is coming up next meeting, read the report to prepare


----
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  #schcom1013
https://twitter.com/hashtag/schcom1013?src=hashtag_click


  • Getting ready for the next School Committee meeting - have you checked out the agenda? https://franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/agenda-10-13-20 #schcomm1013 it has the connection info for this session
  • The meeting available via Verizon and Comcast local channels as well as via lice stream from the Town of Franklin page #schcomm1013 https://franklinma.gov/home/pages/live-meetings-stream all brought to you by Franklin TV
  • FHS representatives here for first time in school year. Akash Shetty, class president, Katie Garrigan & Nipun Goel also present and intro themselves; also spoke of mixed bag on remote learning, not easy, teachers doing well, reqs independence #schcom1013
  • #schcom1013 now for Superintendent's report. Review of health data metrics and moving to hybrid as announced last week. Trending under 1% positivity rate and steady. Moving forward as scheduled. FHS model changed to 33% (instead of 1/4) A,B,C cohorts
  • #schcom1013 UV upgrade has begun, currently filters and maintenance complete, and dampers open to increase air flow. 2 types of units large and small, Keller-Sullivan being done, FHS contracted, full schedule in report posted Weds
  • Chromebook arrival anticipated, video bandwidth is fine, issue is with browser and unit software. Swaps being prepared once new units arrive. #schcom1013 contracted for remote service for families with unit problems
  • Staffing continues to be a concern Report of no sound via the live stream, Zoom is fine. Verizon/Comcast also with no volume #schcom1013
  • Folks working the sound issue #schcom1013
  • #schcom1013 large size class VLA for K and 2nd grade a priority for additional help, as noted earlier with the staffing issues
  • Could look at schedule as an interim step for lower level grades #schcom1013 wouldn't want to walk back the overall time as it took so long to get to full day K
  • Superintendent is responsible for the health and safety of the students and staff daily, thanks to all for stepping up, the employers are also stepping up. #schcom1013 Moving along to Superintendent eval
  • https://franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/supt-eval-presentation presentation doc for eval. #schcom1013 Rubrics for eval with focus indicators
  • #schcom1013 student goal will need to be revised as it was based upon 3 years of MCAS results and that was skipped last year. "When requested" holds exit interview with departing staff.
  • Portrait of a graduate coming in next couple of meetings #schcom1013 (Zoom participation up to 60+)
  • Seal of biliteracy coming for FHS, #schcom1013 one if the key policy matters is the closing study for Davis Thayer and that is underway. Report coming to meeting 10/27 https://franklinps.net/district/davis
  • Portrait of a graduate (PoG) unites us all together. For Superintendents one of the most important work is to hire principals #schcom1013 to share background material on PoG, should also incorporate pandemic related items as they weren't planned for
  • #schcom1013 how to address pandemic as it straddles 2 school years, last year is part of this eval. Next eval will cover this year and the summer prep etc. Including meetings via Zoom as business changed. Didn't want to go back
  • Judy objects to use of 'evidence' results would be better, otherwise sounds like their picking apart the work. #schcom1013 Q on timing of eval period vs. SchCom term what they could see/observe. Q on staff wellbeing
  • Superintendent eval publicly on Nov 10 #schcom1013 https://franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/dip-goals-presentation doc contains the updated goals for approval, school goals cascade down from these
  • Essential skills for portrait of a graduate (PoG) shown in these 5 areas #schcom1013 part of the overall district plan, more to come on the PoG as it comes forward as mentioned
  • Key quote #schcom1013 work being done by Community group to be synched with the schools work in this area
  • Still no sound on livestream (only Zoom) #schcom1013 I'll make sure to turn my audio recording around quickly so you can listen to this while Franklin TV queues the replay for cable
  • What is the meaning of 'homework' when all school work is done at home? #schcom1013 use of digital tools for safety and privacy for users.
  • PoG creates a structure for building on the skills across the grades to prepare for walking out the door as an adult #schcom1013 difference between school values and skill competency
  • Q on goals vs this year what is it going to bring? Are we taking on too much? What is the rationale? #schcom1013 anything new is tailored narrowly to this environment, assessment is strategic, could allow us to assess less could do both remote and hybrid, adaptive as well
  • Someone unmutted went full screen to yawn. Thanks, needed that. You know it's contagious #schcom1013 no new curriculum lifts this year, explanation helped to settle what was new vs New
  • Recommend adoption of district goals https://franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/disc-action-dip #schcom1013 motion seconded, passed 7-0 via roll call
  • Motion on policy approval https://franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/disc-action-b-policy #schcom1013 motion seconded, passed 7-0 via roll call
  • Motion on bus ride pay fee reduction seconded https://franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/disc-action-c-ptr #schcom1013 seconded passed 7-0 via roll call for this school year only due to pandemic.
  • MASC resolutions up for approval https://franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/disc-action-d-masc-resolutions 4 resolutions chosen, 2 already acted upon previously. #schcom1013 motion and second amended to hear a summary of the resolution passed 7-0 via roll call
  • Res 1 calls for moratorium for testing for 2020-2021 sch year, motion seconded passes 7-0 via roll call Res 4 lowers voting age for municipal election via empower act, motion and seconded, passes 4-3 via roll call
  • Res 5 advocates for progressive tax regulations, motion seconded passes 7-0 #schcom1013 Res 6 allocation of medicade funding motion seconded passes 6-1 (what % actually goes to schools) Judy no
  • #schcom1013 recap of res 2 and 3 Info matters Budget met last week, scheduled future session; comm relations Tues at 3, newsletter items needed chap 70 presentation last week, FEF fund raiser well attended (approx 40) Policy meeting coming
  • Facilities report reviewed 9/30, coming up 10/27 for full discussion https://franklinps.net/district/davis-thayer-facilities-analysis/pages/comprehensive-facilities-assessment-report #schcom1013 Joint PCC met, updates confirming what Supt said, concerned about fund raising this year due to pandemic
  • "Caste" by isabel Wilkerson, currently #1 recommended by Rev Eric Cherry #schcom1013 Facilities report next meeting Consent agenda motion to approve, second, passes 7-0 via roll call Judy obtains on minutes for meeting she missed
  • Motion to adjourn regular session, go to executive session to discuss strategy, will reconvene to return Motion to go, second, passes 7-0 #schcom1013
  • While they will return, that is all for me tonight, catch you next time #schcom1013

 

Franklin, MA: School Committee - Recap - Oct 13, 2020
Franklin, MA: School Committee - Recap - Oct 13, 2020