Fire Dept hiring to backfill open positions

Fire Dept hiring to backfill open positions

via Franklin Fire Dept

We’re hiring Firefighter/Paramedics!

Check out the job posting: https://www.franklinma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/7187/Firefighter—Paramedic-2025-10

Shared from -> https://www.instagram.com/p/DPt6hn6Edpq/

Finance Committee recommends Option B, adding back 2 firefighter/paramedics to resolve budget adjustment (audio)

FM #1492 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1492 in the series. 

This session shares the Finance Committee meeting very briefly conducted Monday, August 11, 2025. The Committee opened with 3 new members and the Chair absent, for his first time, so 8 of 9 present. One member was initially remote, then he came into Chambers so roll call votes were not required. 

The room had changed from the posted agenda so the Studio personnel were not present to broadcast as normal. The Owl was used to enable video and audio for those participating via Zoom. The recording of that can be processed for broadcast later by Franklin TV. video link -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EVIWsqxNQsQ

Quick recap:

• After a lengthy presentation and discussion, the Committee voted to recommend Option B for the Town Council to discuss and determine their vote on the FY 2026 budget adjustment.

• The State budget finalized in July authorized $231,152 LESS than the Town had put in the budget and adjusted after the failed override.

• Model A would have split the difference in making further cuts to both Town and School budgets

• Model B makes some minor cuts ($21K), adjusts health care (by $75K) but also by restoring 2 firefighter/paramedics ($115K) is forecast to also bring in $249K in revenue to offset the adds and ‘balance’ the budget again

• Note the numbers presented on the option B slide still result in a NET ADD of $18k to the budget (maybe that will get corrected before the Council meeting Wednesday)

Model A

Model A would split the difference in making further cuts to both Town and School budgets

Model B

Model B makes some minor cuts ($21K), adjusts health care (by $75K) but also by restoring 2 firefighter/paramedics ($115K) is forecast to also bring in $249K in revenue to offset the adds and ‘balance’ the budget again

Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1492-tof-finance-cmte-mtg-08-11-25/

Slides as presented -> https://www.franklinma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/6560/2025-08-11-Fin-Comm-Slideshow

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Agenda doc -> https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_08112025-1822 

FY26 Budget Amendments

a. Town Administrator Memo  

https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/6478/Town-Administrator-Memo 

b. FY26 Control Sheet Model A & B Comparison 

https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/6434/FY26-Control-Sheet-Model-A-and-B-Comparison 

c. FY26 Budget Voting Doc Model A & B Comparison  

https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/6433/FY26-Budget-Voting-Doc-A-and-B-Comparison 

d. Budget Voting Resolution Model A  

https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/6489/General-Fund-Appropriation-Transfers-and-Adjustments-Resolution-25-52---Option-A 

e. Budget Voting Resolution Model B  

https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/6492/General-Fund-Appropriation-Transfers-and-Adjustments-Resolution-25-52---Option-B

My notes for the meeting captured in one PDF -> https://drive.google.com/file/d/1DkU4mNB3P894CmvRaaqTJQXWhFPhYdB6/view?usp=drive_link 

Photos of the presentation slides for the meeting are in one album ->

https://photos.app.goo.gl/WYo4oK4oQWpQLKDfA

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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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Survey says: "Nearly all of the fire departments in Massachusetts do not meet national staffing standards"

via Franklin Firefighters Local 2637

"Nearly all of the fire departments in Massachusetts do not meet national staffing standards, according to a survey conducted by the state fire union in the wake of the deadly fire at a Fall River assisted living facility. 

.... 

Per standards set by the National Fire Protection Association, fire engines or ladder trucks should each be staffed with a minimum four on-duty members. In Massachusetts, the average number of firefighters on an engine is less than 2.5 firefighters and the average responding on a ladder is less than two, according to the survey.”

In Franklin, we want to be transparent about our current staffing levels and how they compare to national guidelines set by the NFPA (National Fire Protection Association).

Our minimum on-duty staffing is 11 personnel per shift, broken down as follows:

 • Engine 1: 1 Lieutenant, 2 Firefighters

 • Engine 2: 1 Captain, 2 Firefighters

 • Ambulance 1: 2 Firefighter/Paramedics

 • Ambulance 2: 2 Firefighter/Paramedics

 • Battalion 1: 1 Battalion Chief

Tower 1 is cross-staffed with Ambulance 1, meaning the same 2  Firefighter/Paramedics will respond in Tower 1 only if they are available and in the station. As call volume continues to rise year after year, Tower 1 is increasingly out of service when needed most.

According to NFPA 1710, fire departments in low call-volume areas should staff a minimum of 4 firefighters per apparatus, with that number increasing to 5 or 6 in high-volume or densely populated communities.

Despite these challenges, we remain committed to providing excellent care and emergency service to the Franklin community. We are proud of the work we do, and proud to serve.

#PFFM #IAFF

Read the Boston.com article on the MA survey of fire dept staffing levels vs the recommendation -> 

https://www.boston.com/news/local-news/2025/07/27/nearly-all-mass-fire-departments-fall-below-reach-national-staffing-standard-union-says/

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

Professional Firefighters of Franklin statement on FY 2026 override results

Professional Firefighters of Franklin

IAFF Local 2637

FRANKLIN, MASSACHUSETTS 02038

PO BOX 161 508-528-2323 x1962

BRIAN HAMANN     JOSHUA IMPEY DAVID OGILVIE  MICHAEL McCONAGHY

PRESIDENT VICE PRESIDENT TREASURER SECRETARY

To the Residents of Franklin:

We would like to express our deep disappointment in the wake of last night's vote, which resulted in a failed tax override. While we understand that there are many considerations in making these types of decisions, we must stress that this outcome will have a significant and immediate impact on public safety and the well-being of our community. The failure of this funding measure means that we now face unavoidable cuts to our staffing levels, including the deactivation of A3.

The reduction of staffing levels will strain an already overburdened system, potentially leading to longer response times and an increased risk to public safety. The elimination of the third ambulance means that we will no longer be able to respond to certain calls in a timely manner, which puts our ability to serve our community effectively in jeopardy. The failure to pass this tax override is a setback to the progress we've made together in ensuring a safer, healthier community.

We remain committed to our mission and will continue to serve with the dedication and professionalism you have come to expect from us. However, we urge all community leaders and residents to recognize the very real consequences of this decision and consider how we can work together to secure the resources needed to maintain the safety and well-being of everyone in Franklin.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. We look forward to continuing the conversation and working together toward a safer future.

Professional Firefighters of Franklin

Shared from ->   https://www.facebook.com/groups/1551606135109407/posts/4012566389013357/

Franklin area firefighters conduct specialized technical rescue drill

specialized technical rescue drill 

On Monday, your Franklin Firefighters teamed up with our peers from the Franklin Water Department, the Plainville and Millis Fire Departments to conduct a specialized technical rescue drill at the Grove Street Water treatment building. 

These drills and interagency collaborations allow us to be better prepared to protect the community through our all-hazards emergency response skillset. 

Thank you to The Franklin Water Department for hosting us! It was a very successful training drill.

Shared from -> https://www.instagram.com/p/DHdqAR6MPuf/

Professional Firefighters Of Franklin Local statement on Town of Franklin FY 2026 Budget

Professional Firefighters Of Franklin

IAFF Local 2637

P.O. Box 161

Franklin, Ma 02038

508-528-2323x1962

Professional Firefighters Of Franklin Local

Brian Hamann, President

Joshua Impey. Vice President

David Ogilvie, Treasurer

Michael Mcconaghy. Secretary

To the Residents of Franklin:

On Wednesday, March 5, 2025, a Town Council meeting was held where Town Administrator Hellen outlined the proposed FY 2026 budget for the Town of Franklin. This budget model reflects a S3.8 million structural budget deficit. In this proposed budget, a S250,000.00 cut was highlighted for the Franklin Fire Department. These budget cuts will directly result in a reduction of staffing for the Franklin Fire Department. 

Over the past 6 years, the Town Administrator, Town Council, and the residents of Franklin have made great strides to improve and invest in the Fire Department so that we are able to respond to the increased demand for service in our community. These budget cuts would be detrimental to our organization and to all of the residents, businesses, and visitors to our town. These cuts mean that the Yd ambulance is no longer staffed and therefore unable to respond to emergencies in the community. These cuts could result in a delay in service and decrease the availability of the Tower Ladder to respond to incidents. 

We cannot afford to go backwards. The Town's population is growing, our call volume is increasing, and the demand for Fire Department services is higher than ever. These cuts would undo years of progress and take our department back to a time where our resources were  stretched far too thin. The fire department has been responsible and transparent with its budget. 

We have never asked for more than what is needed to keep the community safe.

If an override does not happen and cuts move forward, public safety will suffer.

This is your town. 

Your tax dollars. 

Your Safety:

Professional Firefighters of Franklin

Shared from -> https://www.instagram.com/p/DG3sIc9SAzN/

For additional information on the FY 2026 Town budget visit the Town page ->  https://franklinma.gov/Archive.aspx?ADID=500

Franklin Fire Dept looking to fill 2 Open Firefighter/Paramedic positions

via Franklin Fire Dept:

"2 Open Firefighter/Paramedic positions

2 Open Firefighter/Paramedic positions

The Franklin Fire Department seeks candidates that have a passion in the Fire & Emergency Medical Services field. Candidates must be a certified paramedic in Massachusetts. Additional qualities include being highly motivated, work well with a committed team of professionals, be an integral part of the community you serve, have a desire for continued training and education. The members of the Franklin Fire Department are dedicated to enhancing the quality of life of the citizens of Franklin, as well as those who work here, visit and frequent the Town's businesses.

The Department provides a full range of Fire - Rescue Services including Fire Suppression, Paramedic level Emergency Medical Services, Technical Rescue and First Response Hazardous Materials response. We also provide a full range of prevention services to include code compliance, plans review and public education.

No Civil Service Requirement

Apply Now"

Shared from -> https://www.instagram.com/p/DDhSHzVJ88r/

Congratulations to Lieutenant David “Sal” Smith - retirement after 27 years

"Congratulations to Lieutenant David “Sal” Smith who officially retired from the FFD on Thursday September 12th. 

David served the town for 27 years, and was promoted to the rank of lieutenant in 2020. We wish him a long and healthy retirement with his family as he has certainly earned it. 

Thanks to everyone who stopped by during his last shift to congratulate him."

 

Congratulations to Lieutenant David “Sal” Smith - retirement after 27 years

Shared from -> https://www.instagram.com/reel/C_5n_nIxjSz/

1st Annual Franklin Firefighters Golf Tournament - Sep 30, 2024

1st Annual Franklin Firefighters Golf Tournament 

Via Franklin Firefighters 

"We’re happy to announce that we will be hosting our 1st Annual Franklin Firefighters Golf Tournament on September 30th! 

Register ASAP as foursomes are limited. 

For more information, contact Vic DaCosta at (508) 789-1777 or JD DeSouza at (508) 889-6958. 

We hope to see you there!"

Shared from -> https://www.instagram.com/p/C9pZkE_xHZa/

Franklin Professional Firefighter fund raising

Franklin Professional Firefighter fund raising

 

"It’s that time of year again! 

Our yearly fundraiser has been sent out! Please help support your Local Franklin firefighters! 

You have three options to help.

• To donate you can mail a check to PO Box 161,
• scan the QR code
• OR check out website.

Thank you for your support! #pffm #iaff #franklin

Shared from -> https://www.instagram.com/p/C6_R0VqLcKU/

Franklin Fire Dept still accepting applications for Firefighter/paramedic

We are still accepting applications for Firefighter/Paramedic. 

Check out the job posting here: shorturl.at/otEQZ

 

Franklin (MA) Fire Dept still accepting applications for Firefighter/paramedic

Shared from -> https://www.instagram.com/p/C6o6i1mxyq7/

Town of Franklin is looking to hire Firefighter/ Paramedics

"We’re hiring Firefighter/Paramedics. 

Check out the flyer. 

Here is a link to the job posting: https://shorturl.at/otEQZ"

Shared from -> https://www.instagram.com/p/C5OehTPxWB6/

Link to full job posting -> https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/ff-paramedic-posting_04-01-24.pdf

Town of Franklin is looking to hire Firefighter/ Paramedics

Franklin Fire welcomes 4 new firefighter/paramedics

Franklin Fire (@FranklinMAfire) posted Wed, Nov 01, 2023:

"Congratulations to our newest Firefighter/Paramedics sworn in at tonight's Town Council meeting.  

Please welcome Firefighter Kenneth Cotnoir, Firefighter Ovidiu Ticlea, Firefighter Christopher Rose, & Firefighter Douglas Jasper. 

https://t.co/3bsJZIF4Zq"

Shared from -> https://x.com/FranklinMAfire/status/1719880250304217356

Franklin Fire welcomes 4 new firefighter/paramedics

Town Council views 4 firefighter/paramedic swear-ins & discusses the process for charter changes (video)

The Town Council met on Wednesday, Nov 1, 2023 as scheduled.

Brief recap:

• 4 firefighter/paramedics were sworn in
• Key presentation and discussion around the Town charter and how to change it if so desired. A healthy discussion, some interesting nuances were revealed (a community with less than 6,000 can only use a town meeting format, a community with more than 12,000 can chose to use the city form of government). Likely to come forward again as part of the new Council goals setting session
• Finance Cmte meeting Nov 8 will review the budget update, still a downgrade of revenue of about $300K. Ways to manage this were found.
• Town Council will get to the budget at their Nov 15 meeting. The tax rate hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, Nov 21
• Migrant housing update, hotel now full. Coordinated efforts to help as required. Portal on the Board of Health webpage with donation listing and the migrant housing statistics. $10,000 grant received for non-emergency medical transportation. Clinic in the works with State and Federal official on work permits, lots of unknowns remain as details are still scant.

Franklin TV video link -> https://www.youtube.com/live/a4szhufndn0?si=HqcE_7yLD66iBNf9

Agenda doc -> https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/agendas/town_council_agenda_-_nov_1_2023.pdf

Did you know you can view a transcript for meetings as they broadcast and as they are reviewed? When in YouTube, show "More" and then view "Transcript" 

Town Council views 4 firefighter/paramedic swear-ins & discusses the process for charter changes (video)

Franklin Fire announces receipt of $301K grant from FEMA for Training

Franklin Fire (@FranklinMAfire) tweeted on Fri, Jun 23, 2023:

We are happy to announce that we were awarded $301,279 through the @fema Assistance To Firefighters Grant Program.  

These funds will be used for training. https://t.co/ZhLy47DHNc

Franklin Fire announces receipt of $301,000 grant for Training

Franklin (MA) Fire Department looking to hire Firefighter /Paramedic - Apply Now (before May 31, 2023)

POSITION: Firefighter /Paramedic

DEPARTMENT: Franklin Fire Department

SALARY RANGE:  $63,074.18 to $74,370.40 annually, plus 6% Paramedic Stipend (Rates effective FY24 - July 1, 2023)

POSTED:  May 1, 2023

Preferred deadline: May 31, 2023

 

The Franklin Fire Department is currently accepting applications for several vacant Firefighter/Paramedic positions.

Franklin is a vibrant town along Route 495 in Eastern Massachusetts, 28 miles south of Boston and 26 miles north of Providence. We have a population of approximately 35,000 spread across 27 square miles. The Franklin Fire Department is made up of a Chief, 2 Deputy Chiefs, 4 Battalion Chiefs, 1 EMS Chief, 4 shift Captains, 4 Lieutenants and 40 Firefighters.

The Franklin Fire Department provides a full range of fire-rescue services including fire suppression, paramedic level emergency medical services, technical rescue, and hazardous materials response. We also provide a full range of prevention services including code compliance, plans review, and public education and outreach.

The Department operates out of two stations - Headquarters and Station #2 - and staffs two engines, a tower ladder truck, two ambulances, and two brush trucks.

We respond to over 5,000 calls per year. A majority of our calls are for emergency medical services. Franklin Firefighter/Paramedics work 24 hours on, 24 hours off, 24 hours on, 120 hours off over an eight-week rotation (average of 42 hours per week).

Selected candidates will be required to complete the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy Career Recruit Firefighter Training Program upon hire.

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

• Must have certification as a Paramedic. If the candidate is certified as a nationally registered paramedic, they must receive licensure in Massachusetts
• Must be a High school graduate or equivalent
• Must obtain an Associate's Degree within 5 years from first date of hire Must be at least 21 years of age at the time of appointment
• Must currently reside or be willing to relocate within thirty {30) miles of the Town of Franklin within 9 months of appointment
• Must have and maintain a valid Driver's License
• Must not smoke any tobacco products (MGL 41-101A)

Must be able to perform the essential functions of a firefighter, including being willing and available to perform said functions on weekends, holidays, and on an overtime basis or when staffing requires

Franklin residents, U.S Veterans, and candidates who are currently on the Civil Service list are strongly encouraged to apply.

SELECTED CANDIDATES MUST COMPLETE THE FOLLOWING BEFORE HIRE:

• Thorough background check, including driving record check and CORI background check 
• Physical Examination including a drug screen
• Psychological Exam
• Successful completion of the Physical Ability Test (PAT) offered through the Commonwealth of Massachusetts

If  you are still in Paramedic School, please indicate in your resume or cover letter what requirements you have left and when you expect to be certified.

Interested candidates shall email a resume and cover letter in Microsoft Word or PDF format to apply@franklinma.gov by May 31, 2023.

More info about the Fire Dept is available on the Town of Franklin page ->

https://www.franklinma.gov/fire-department

Shared from -> https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/ff-paramedic-posting_05-01-23.docx.pdf

Franklin (MA) Fire Department looking to hire Firefighter /Paramedic - Apply Now (before May 31, 2023)

Town Council approves all alcohol license, purchase of Tower truck, hears of Tri-County building plans, & more (video)

The Town Council conducted the first of two meetings for February on Wednesday night. An eventful meeting covering a broad range of town business and updates in just under 3 hours.

Briefly

• New firefighter/paramedic Kristin Krauss was sworn in. William Blanchard, was sworn in for his promotion to EMS Battalion Chief
• The 'plus one' all alcohol license request approved in October to send to the Legislature did get the home rule petition passed and came back for Council approval. Confusion around a public hearing and several objections from neighbors and nearby business swayed only one Councilor as the measure passed 8-1
• Tri-county Regional Voc Tec representatives told the community of the plans underway to build a new school which will require an override vote likely in October. Numbers are still being worked to get to a potential MSBA approval in August and then the vote in October. Stay tuned.
• The Council authorized the purchase of a new Tower truck for the Fire Dept. The loan won't start until the truck arrives which could be 2-3 years from now. Due to that timing, it was urgent to get the order in now to avoid further costs, and to ensure we have support for the existing unit which is a critical piece of equipment for the Departments emergency response

The full agenda can be found ->   https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/agendas/feb_1_2023_town_council_agenda.pdf

My notes taken during the meeting can be found ->   https://drive.google.com/file/d/1MLzZ-p3wLBMFVmnHUHuxzl3xdT0jWQO6/view?usp=share_link

The audio and recap will be shared in the next couple of days.

The Franklin TV video is available for replay -> https://www.youtube.com/live/-AQpq8GSvi4?feature=share

the cost options for the Tri-County building proposal

State Representative Roy endorsed by state and local firefighters

The Franklin Firefighters Local 2637 and Professional Fire Fighters of Massachusetts have endorsed Jeffrey Roy in his State Representative race for the 10^th Norfolk District (Franklin and Medway). In his letter announcing the local endorsement, Franklin Union President, Brian Hamann, stated: 

"The Professional Firefighters of Franklin feel very fortunate to have a friend of your stature representing the 10th Norfolk district. Since your election in 2012 you have stood by our side through triumph and tragedy. Your unwavering commitment to the fire service and our members has been evident.”

In announcing the state level endorsement, PFFM President Richard D. MacKinnon Jr. stated: 

“During your career as an elected official, you have prioritized the relationships you hold with the firefighters of your district. You understand our issues and are an effective advocate for us on Beacon Hill. We look forward to your next term in office and continued leadership for firefighters.” 

State Representative Roy

"I am absolutely thrilled to receive the support and endorsement from these public safety professionals," noted Roy. "Public safety and having the backs of those who put their lives on the line for us has been a priority for me since I first took office. And I have learned a lot from the engagement, training, and feedback I receive regularly from these professionals. We have built a strong and lasting partnership to make Massachusetts and our communities great and safe places to live, work, and raise a family."

 

In addition to the firefighters, Roy has been endorsed by Maura Healey, the MASSACHUSETTS AFL-CIO, the Environmental League of Massachusetts Action Fund, the Sierra Club, the Massachusetts Nurses Association, and SEIU Local 509. He has also been endorsed by Thomas Mercer, Franklin Town Council Chair; Robert Dellorco, Franklin Town Council Vice-Chair; Glenn Jones, Franklin Town Council Clerk; and Franklin Town Councilors Deborah Pellegri, Melanie Hamlin, Cobi Frongillo, Ted Cormier-Leger, and Patrick Sheridan.

 

Roy is seeking re-election the State Representative for Franklin and Medway. In 2021 he was appointed Chairperson of the Joint Committee on Telecommunications, Utilities & Energy and is the House-Chair of the Manufacturing Caucus which promotes and encourages “Making It” in Massachusetts.

 

Since 2013 Jeff has been part of a legislative team that has addressed the issues of education, economic development, the coronavirus pandemic, health care, substance use disorder, criminal justice, civil rights and social equity, gun safety, climate change, energy, and the environment. In addition, he led efforts to:

 

• Draft and pass the clean energy and offshore wind bill in 2022;
• Draft and pass the Genocide Education Act in 2021;
• Finalize the Roadmap Bill on climate change in 2021;
• Draft and pass legislation on Step Therapy and Patient Safety in 2022;
• Draft and pass legislation relative to sexual violence on higher education campuses in 2021;
• Draft and pass legislation increasing transparency and financial reporting requirements for higher education institutions in 2019;
• Draft and pass legislation that increased transparency and civic engagement by creating a searchable online database of legal notices in 2015;
• Pass legislation lowering thresholds on specialty license plates, making them available to smaller charities and causes in 2015; and
• Pass legislation to create a Regional Dispatch Center for Franklin, Norfolk, Wrentham, and Plainville in 2013.

 

He has also led efforts to bring millions of dollars in local aid for schools, roads, infrastructure, public safety, arts, recreation, substance use disorder, economic development, historical preservation, and food insecurity. He has also helped thousands of constituents with issues involving unemployment, health care, human services, and other matters with state agencies.

 

For more information on Jeffrey Roy, please visit http://jeffreyroy.com/.

Professional Fire Fighters of Massachusetts

Franklin Firefighters Local 2637