Providing accurate and timely information about what matters in Franklin, MA since 2007. * Working in collaboration with Franklin TV and Radio (wfpr.fm) since October 2019 *
Monday, August 23, 2021
The Franklin DPW is looking for 2 candidates for their Heavy Motor Equipment Operator positions
Sunday, July 25, 2021
SAFE Coalition is hiring
SAFE Coalition is hiring |
Friday, July 9, 2021
Catching up to some National news
‘The Great Resignation’: June’s US jobs report hides unusual trend
"The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported on Friday (07/02/21) that the US economy added 850,000 jobs last month. Hidden by this encouraging figure is the hint of an unusual trend: people are beginning to quit their jobs in extraordinary numbers.June’s numbers, in combination with last month’s figures, suggest that the economy is continuing to recover at a steady pace. The rate of unemployment was 5.9% and 9.5 million people remain unemployed."
"The national memorial draws nearly 3 million visitors a year – and Native Americans want the site back with a focus on oppressionMount Rushmore national memorial draws nearly 3 million visitors a year to its remote location in South Dakota. They travel from all corners of the globe just to lay their eyes on what the National Park Service calls America’s “shrine of democracy”.Phil Two Eagle is not opposed to the fact that the giant sculpture of American presidents is a major tourist attraction but he thinks the park should have a different focus: oppression.“It should be turned into something like the United States Holocaust Museum,” he said. “The world needs to know what was done to us.”
Saturday, June 5, 2021
The SAFE Coalition is hiring
Tuesday, June 1, 2021
BFCCPS is hiring for the 2021-2022 school year
BFCCPS is a regional public charter school for students in Kindergarten through Grade Eight. We are exited to announce that we're hiring for the 2021-2022 school year!
You may notice that several new positions are available as a result of the expansion of our Grade 7 class from 52 to 96 students next year!
You can learn more about the school's mission and history and see available openings on this page of our website. http://bfccps.org/about/employment
BFCCPS is hiring for the 2021-2022 school year |
Sunday, May 23, 2021
The Franklin Food Pantry is hiring a Client Services Coordinator
"Are you passionate about people and the community? The Franklin Food Pantry is looking for a Client Services Coordinator to join our team. Our vision is to build a community in which everyone in need has an improved quality of life through nutritious food and supportive resources. We are looking for a collaborative, team player who believes in our vision is adaptable and has a singular client focus.Reporting to the Director of Strategic Initiatives, the Client Services Coordinator is responsible for providing outstanding service to our clients while leading a shift of volunteers during pantry operations. This position is the primary point of contact for all volunteers and clients at the Pantry and exemplifies a positive attitude at all times fostering a welcoming, supportive environment for clients, volunteers, donors and co-workers.This is a part time, 20 hour per week position."
Friday, May 14, 2021
HMEA is hiring! Is there a position for you?
HMEA boasts a supportive and cooperative environment. Our employees demonstrate caring and compassion and share a common core of values. We celebrate diversity and encourage learning and professional growth. We offer comprehensive training and are committed to promoting from within.
For more info about HMEA and to apply https://www.hmea.org/careers/
Monday, May 3, 2021
Rhapsody’s Victorian Coffee House: Special Announcement
Rhapsody’s Victorian Coffee House: Special Announcement |
Thursday, April 1, 2021
Franklin Public Schools, MA: now hiring a Technology Support Technician
The FPS/TOF Technology Department is seeking qualified candidates for the role of Technology Support Technician. Learn more about the role, qualifications, and application process on School Spring here https://www.schoolspring.com/login.cfm
Shared from Twitter: https://twitter.com/FranklinPSNews/status/1377267608303587330
Franklin Public Schools, MA: now hiring a Technology Support Technician |
Saturday, March 27, 2021
Town of Franklin, MA: Job Opportunities - DPW, Deputy Town Clerk
Job Opportunities
To apply for a vacant position, please submit a resume and cover letter to apply@franklinma.gov. Please put the job title in the subject line of your email.
- Summer Jobs - Facilities and Department of Public Works https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/uploads/summer-jobs-posting-draft-march2021.pdf
- Part-Time Administrative Assistant - Department of Public Works https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/uploads/dpw-part-time-admin-job-posting-march242021_0.pdf
- Heavy Motor Equipment Operator - Department of Public Works - updated February 2021 https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/uploads/hmeo-external-posting-feb112021.docx.pdf
- Substitute Custodian - still available as of March 2021 https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/uploads/sub.custodian-posting-jan2021.pdf
Town of Franklin, MA: Job Opportunities - DPW, Deputy Town Clerk |
Monday, March 22, 2021
HMEA may have a position for you! Check out the virtual job fair Tuesday, Mar 23, 2021
If you want to make a difference in your work, here's your opportunity. We're looking to fill a variety of positions, including direct care staff, residential managers, and more.
Email jobs@hmea.org to sign up for our first of three career fairs on Tuesday, March 23rd. https://t.co/wVs6hY4sLd
HMEA may have a position for you! Check out the virtual job fair Tuesday, Mar 23, 2021 |
Friday, March 19, 2021
Recap -Town Council meeting Mar 17, 2021 - opens with moment of silence remembering 42 lost to COVID-19
- 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
- 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 |
Wednesday, March 10, 2021
Strive Ninja Warriors now hiring - "Kids Fitness Coach"
Strive Ninja Warriors hiring - "Kids Fitness Coach" |
Tuesday, January 26, 2021
HMEA is hiring Direct Support staff for its Residential Division
Looking for a rewarding job? HMEA is currently hiring Direct Support staff for its Residential division in the Franklin Area
Full & part time available, visit www.hmea.org or email a resume to jobs@hmea.org for more information
What is Horace Mann Educational Associates (HMEA)? Listen to the interview with HMEA President Michael Moloney. We talk about
- How HMEA is adapting their service delivery to the pandemic
- What services they provide to more than 4,000 people in over 100 communities
- How Cloud 4 Causes is helping non-profits with their technology needs
Wednesday, November 25, 2020
Franklin, MA: Job Opportunities for Finance, DPW, and Police
Job Opportunities
To apply for a vacant position, please submit a resume and cover letter to apply@franklinma.gov. Please put the job title in the subject line of your email.
Purchasing Agent - Finance Department https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/uploads/purchasing-agent-job-posting-nov242020.pdf
Heavy Motor Equipment Operator - Department of Public Works https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/uploads/dpw-hmeo-posting-nov242020.pdf
Executive Assistant - Police Department https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/uploads/executive-assistant-police-jobposting-nov2020.pdf
Recycling Center Laborer - Department of Public Works https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/uploads/recycling-center-laborer-posting-august172020.pdf
Substitute Custodian https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/uploads/sub.custodian-posting-july272020.pdf
If you do not have a resume, you may send a completed Application for Employment instead. https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/uploads/application_for_employment_-_town_of_franklin.pdf
Franklin, MA:: Job Opportunities for Finance, DPW, and Police |
Saturday, October 31, 2020
MassHire Statewide Virtual Job Fair - November 10
The MassHire Department of Career Services Veterans Program and the MassHire Career Center System cordially invite you to our Statewide Virtual Job Fair on Tuesday, November 10, 2020.
Event Hours
9am to 10am (Veterans only)
10am to 2pm (General Public)
Explore job openings & chat with over 100 Employers! Including:
- MBTA
- Raytheon
- Amazon
- Boston College
- V.A.
- The Kraft Group
- Catania Oils
- Executive Office of Health and Human Services
- Mass Bay Brewing Company
- And Many More...
Job Fair Preparation
- You must register on MassHire JobQuest to obtain a Job Seeker ID which is needed to register for the job fair.
- You will also need a resume (PDF format) to register. If you need help with your resume please contact your local MassHire Career Center
- To register for the job fair go to https://portal.premiervirtual.com/event/register-jobseeker/2480-masshire-veterans-fair.
If you need any additional information please contact your local MassHire Career Center
Wednesday, September 23, 2020
School Committee Meeting - Recap of Sep 22, 2020
Summary:
- The Superintendent's Report was detailed and covered a whole host of areas around the re-opening of schools, issues with bandwidth, equity of materials and class sizes, acknowledgement of communications issues, etc. See the Twitter thread for details.
- An overview on the hiring practices was provided and the 'comprehensive' personnel report was lacking in that it did not fully account for the 104 (or 103) notifications. This is really an elementary level math problem and it is disappointing not to get a resolution (yet).
- Resources attempted to being into the system (additional counselors, digital learning specialists, curriculum personnel...) have had their needs raised due to the requirements of delivery education in this pandemic period (hybrid or remote).
- A preview of the District Improvement Plan and goals for this year, including an update on prior year accomplishments was provided. Approval of the goals is up for vote at next meeting.
- The Community Relations Subcommittee will met again (their absence could have helped with the above communication issues). The Facility Analysis Subcommittee has a meeting Sep 30 to pick up where they suspended work during the summer. The Policy subcommittee has been busy. The Budget Subcommittee will be scheduling a meeting.
- The meeting was to go to executive session and return but given the uncertainty for when they would return, I left the meeting when they entered executive session.
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 #SchCom0922
https://twitter.com/search?q=%23schcom0922&src=typeahead_click
- Real time reporting underway for the #Schcom0922 meeting. (They should wait a minute once allowing entrance to Zoom before starting)
- Moving to superintendent's report: update on reopening, ongoing support for PD, metrics, transition to hybrid, update on chromebook, etc. #schcom0922
- See text of report on #schcom0922 page when posted Weds AM (will share link when available. Meeting being broadcast via zoom (link in agenda doc), Verizon/Comcast and Town of Franklin live stream (http://FranklinMA.gov)
- Another Professional development day scheduled for Friday per calendar https://franklinps.net/district/about-us/pages/school-calendars #schcom0922 COVID metrics slightly higher for Franklin over last several weeks still in good stage, hybrid a go so far
- Still looking to accelerate the hybrid date for FHS (is currently end of first Q marking period) #schcom0922 4,000 chromebooks and germicidal implementation benefit the schools from COVID funding coordinated with Town
- Grant used to support technology integrationist along with others (see the personnel update for details) #schcom0922 https://franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/personnel-update. (will spend more time on this report later in meeting)
- Apologies for info flow to families on virtual academy, not what she would have preferred, hybrid has been a challenge to plan for. Has been working hard on the virtual program, with separate staffing model. #schcom0922 still coding students into the learning system
- Supplies pickup scheduled for next week for virtual academy, more details coming; some chromebooks coming next week, more in Oct. Details to be provided, tech dept working on issues. Internet bandwidth has supported this far, researching minor issues here/there #schcom0922
- Demand on video driving the issues, closing in on a solution. #schcom0922 digital integrationist holding events for families on remote learning. There are families without internet, hard to quantify, can provide access.
- FHS sports won the Boston Globe Dalton award 2nd year in a row. (Shared on FM previously) #schcom0922 Req to bring in example of enhanced learning being used to meeting. Req to teachers principals re: lingering issues SchCom should know pls be specific
- Discussion on teachers supporting both in person students and online (remote) students; looking for monitors and ESPs for assistance in this manner. #schcom0922 sounds like teachers need to be like a circus ring master keeping students engaged in person and remote at same time
- Talk about how to apply and address SEL in this environment. #schcom0922 SEL Committee will also be spending time on this as they get started this school year. Q - Hearing things being worked on during taskforce but not being used now? May reconnect with members of task force
- So much work to be done, maybe it feels like too much work to be done. Difference in and among the 6 elementary schools and now the 7th with the virtual academy. Curious on the differences and why? Not to resolve now, but need to be addressed. #schcom0922
- Material difference, class size difference between hybrid and virtual, will virtual be separated in line item budget? #schcom0922 is the equivalence among the students and schools including virtual? What is special ed alignment for virtual vs. hybrid?
- #schcom0922 central office does spend time on where to be consistent vs local i.e. individual school direction. It is a tension and discussed. Work last year on consistency did get halted due to pandemic. Resources are being looked at, building principals can supplement
- Hybrid does become challenging because you have two cohorts and the high needs students. Virtual is not to be separate reporting, per DESE requirements. Virtual will participate with building teachers for consistency and also among virtual #schcom0922
- Are tracking expense for virtual separately and will allocate back to each school they came from for end of year reporting #schcom0922 helpful to NOT think of virtual as a 7th, communications still the issue that rears its head, difference creates confusion
- Bergen: it is a learning curve, an enormous one, always adjusting, it goes across all levels. Q's first line is to principal, SchCom is not to get into day-to-day issues. #schcom0922 understand the respect and complexity of what we're doing
- What we have asked for before in budget and couldn't get; these are still needed even more so today: curriculum consistency, digital learning integrationist... Look at all the awards across, DECA, Mock trial, music, we have a lot to be proud of #schcom0922
- Lisa Trainor, HR for schools is present to get into the details on the personnel report. https://franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/personnel-update #schcom0922 usually a hiring season in spring, onboard in summer and we go in September, some adjustments during but not the scale we see now
- In competition with other districts for a variety of staff to help now. #schcom0922 start with hiring process. Respect and experience of candidates whether hired or not is key for process. Interview team for teachers and some positions. Lesson planning, reference checks
- #schcom0922 a rigorous process to ensure a right fit. Usually a large pool to draw from, this time around smaller choices. 6 resignations due to non renewal where they went elsewhere before could recall. Accommodations made where possible.
- Page 2 of memo outlines budget process positions, #schcom0922 increase in counseling at Parmenter due to partner not participating this time due to pandemic but services still needed. Page 3 pandemic positions building subs was six, up to ten today
- More updates on lifelong learning coming in future meetings. 104 notices given. 87 returned. (#s still not adding up) Milford Daily News reporter talked to Superintendent today resulting in article updated late today #schcom0922 chap 70 funding related insights helped
- Unsung heroes all over Central Office, #schcom0922 21.6 open positions includes all. Principal at Keller was teaching art (and doing it well) LPNs needed. Q on long term sub vs. new teachers. Teachers on salary schedule, mentor works with staff usually but assigned to subs too
- Moving to District Improvement goals #schcom0922 https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/dip_outcomes_and_preview_2020-2021.pdf
- DESE pilot interrupted per pandemic. #schcom0922 vaping focus for substance abuse taskforce via grants, support for staff and families for SEL will be focus this year building upon work started last year.
- Working to create a feeling of safety when approaching the building. SEL team did continue through the school closure to meet virtually and work on the "I can" statements #schcom0922 data from summer surveys to be incorporated in work
- Principal to do building based survey to get input from teachers and staff, #schcom0922 resources from health care/plans made available as well. This is a preview of the DIP goals, to be voted at a future meeting.
- Expanding with SAFE Coalition per local funding for counseling, portrait of a graduate coming this fall. #schcom0922 Ron Taylor mentioned in regards to tweet thread about expectations
- #schcom0922 assessment of skills and address accordingly, leverage portrait to build curriculum, https://franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/district-improvement-goals MAPLE one item to come off list as one to take off plate (from earlier meeting)
- Identify support for academic enrichment, instructional practices for hybrid and digital environment #schcom0922
- Q on homework program that had been cancelled, when? Special consideration for homework during remote, work would shift and trying to distinguish independent work vs work outside if school day #schcom0922 increase awareness of bias in materials for example
- Awareness of bias is also work being done in some of the curriculum studies; Q on transition back to FHS and middle school; screening would be building based #schcom0922
- Priority to build relationships over curriculum with students, Community spirit among staff, #schcom0922
- Moving to discuss/action items https://franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/policy-1st-reads #schcom0922 first based on MASC with progressive consequences; also MA general law re: idling in a vehicle in or around a school building - motion to move to 2nd reading, second, passes 6-0 (1 absent Pfeffer)
- #schcom0922 MASC delegate appointment for Denise Spencer https://franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/disc-b-masc Moved, second, passes 6-0 (1 absent)
- Budget Subcommittee coming next week TBD, MASC 10 resolutions to be scheduled for review over the two Oct meetings before the conf in November, FEF fund raiser at La Cantina 9/30, Community relations TBD, facilities mtg scheduled 9/30 #schcom0922
- #schcom0922 joint PCC met recently, Judy did attend will have notes next time, looking at PCC resources, officers, etc. Event planning underway for social and racial justice, TBD. Y gave out 175K food packs, 3K to Franklin
- Consent agenda up Motion to approve, second, passes 6-0 (1 absent) Motion to go to executive session to return to open meeting #schcom0922 passes 6-0 (1 absent)
- That will be all for me for this tonight, catch you next time #schcom0922
Superintendent Sara Ahern making a point during meeting 9/22/20 |
Sunday, September 20, 2020
Franklin, MA: School Committee - Agenda - Sep 22, 2020
□ Vision Statement □
Pledge of Allegiance
I. Routine Business
A. Review of Agenda
B. Citizen’s Comments
In the spirit of open communication, “the Committee will hold a public participation segment (also called Citizen’s Comments) about matters not related to an agenda item at the beginning of each regular School Committee meeting. The Committee will listen to, but not respond to any comment made…. A Committee member may add an agenda item to a future meeting as a result of a citizen comment…. The Committee will hear public comments related to an agenda item when the Chair deems appropriate during the Committee meeting. Topics for discussion during the meeting must be limited to those items listed on the Committee meeting agenda for that evening…. ” - from Policy BEDH
A. Personnel Update - Lisa Trainor
https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/dip_outcomes_and_preview_2020-2021.pdf
III. Discussion/Action Items
A. Policy - First Readings
I recommend moving the following Policies to a second reading as detailed:
B. EEAJ - Motor Vehicles Idling on School Grounds
I recommend the Committee appoint Denise Spencer to serve as the Committee's delegate to the annual MASC Annual Meeting of Delegates.
IV. Discussion Only Items
A. None
V. Information Matters
B. School Committee Liaison Reports (e.g. Joint PCC, Substance Abuse Task Force, School Wellness Advisory Council)
VI. New Business
A. To discuss any future agenda items
VII. Consent Agenda
I recommend approval of the minutes from your September 8, 2020 School Committee Meeting as detailed.
B. Approval of Executive Session Minutes for release
I recommend approval of the Executive Session minutes from your September 8, 2020 School Committee Meeting as detailed.
VIII. Payment of Bills Dr. Bergen
Pursuant to M.G.L. c. 30A, §21(a)(3) to discuss strategy with respect to collective bargaining with the FEA/RN Unit as an open meeting may have a detrimental effect on the bargaining position of the School Committee and the chair so declares.XI. Adjournment
Tuesday, July 7, 2020
Franklin Annual Report 2019: Human Resources Department
Fiscal Year 2019 was a very busy year for the Human Resources Department. The Town continued to experience our “retirement boom” with the departure of Fire Chief Gary McCarraher, former Deputy Fire Chief Paul Sharpe, and of course, the retirement of our fearless leader, Jeff Nutting, after 18 years as our Town Administrator! The show must go on, even without these valued employees, and we are lucky to have Town Administrator Jamie Hellen and new Fire Chief James McLaughlin and Deputy Chiefs Joseph Barbieri and James Klich stepping up to lead us for the foreseeable future.
The Police Department kept us very busy this year with a few retirements as well as the implementation of a new schedule in the Patrol Division. We are now one of a handful of communities in Massachusetts that offer a (“4&4” schedule. The schedule allows our officers to work four (4) ten (10) hour days and then take four (4) consecutive days off. Although the schedule officially started in FY20, we spent a significant portion of FY19 preparing for this adjustment, including adding additional Patrol Officers to the Police Department. As a result of the new schedule and a few other personnel changes, we hired 7 new Patrol Officers and promoted 2 Officers to Sergeant in just one fiscal year.
As a result of the retirements and other movement within the Fire Department, we appointed a new Chief, 2 Deputy Chiefs, 3 Captains, 2 Lieutenants and 5 new Firefighter/Paramedics in FY19 (and the first week of FY20 since Chief McLaughlin started on July 8, 2019).
Between July 1, 2018 and June 30, 2019, the Town also hired a Conservation Agent, an Archivist, an Administrative Assistant in the Town Administrator’s Office, a Clerk the Treasurer’s Office, a Clerk in the DPW, 2 Assistant Youth Services Librarians, 2 Library Assistants, a Town Electrician, 3 Custodians, and 2 Heavy Motor Equipment Operators at the Department of Public Works, and part-time employees in Recreation and the Senior Center. Like in years past, we hired about 30 students to work full-time at the DPW and in Facilities for the summer. These employees were instrumental in getting our schools and school grounds ready for the 2019-2020 school year.
As in years past, Jeff Nutting, Jamie Hellen and I worked closely with the Finance and HR teams from the Franklin
Public Schools and the Insurance Advisory Committee to try to contain the cost of health insurance. We currently provide health insurance to approximately 1200 employees and retirees from both the Town and Schools on our plan. Even a small increase in health insurance premiums can have a huge impact on the total budget.
For the second year in a row, the Town offered a qualified high deductible health insurance plan through Harvard Pilgrim Health Care to our active employees. If an employee moved from the traditional HMO to the high deductible HMO plan, they could save money on the monthly premium in exchange for a slightly higher deductible. This plan change saved the Town money, so we shared some of the savings with the employees by depositing money into each employee’s Health Savings Accounts (HSA). During the open enrollment period, we had 21 additional employees join the High Deductible Plan, bringing our numbers up to about 40 Town employees. These employees saved the Town an additional $19,000. This figure does not include the savings realized by people who joined the plan in FY18 or the additional savings achieved by the School Department. We have received very positive feedback from employees who have joined the high deductible plan and hope that we can continue to experience these savings in future years.
We worked closely with the Human Resources Department for Franklin Public Schools to offer a “Benefits Fair” during our open enrollment period in April. We invited representatives from Harvard Pilgrim and our other insurance vendors to set up tables to provide benefit information to our employees. We had a great turnout and employees were very pleased to have the opportunity to gather additional information and ask questions.
It was a very busy and challenging year, but HR Administrator Sandy Golebiewski and I both enjoyed it. It is very exciting to be part of the hiring team and it has been a pleasure getting to know our new employees and welcoming them to the Town. We look forward to another year of serving the employees and retirees of the Town of Franklin.
Respectfully submitted,
Karen M. Bratt
Human Resources Director
Download your copy of the Annual Report
https://www.franklinma.gov/town-clerk/files/town-franklin-annual-report-2019
Visit the Human Resources Dept online https://www.franklinma.gov/human-resources
Franklin Annual Report 2019: Human Resources Department |