Showing posts with label interceptor. Show all posts
Showing posts with label interceptor. Show all posts

Thursday, May 4, 2023

Town Council approves inclusionary zoning & first reading on sewer rate increase among items on a full meeting agenda (video)

The Franklin (MA) Town Council met on Wednesday, May 3, 2023 for their regular meeting and covered a number of items. One of the major achievements was the passage of the inclusionary zoning bylaw. This was one of the action items from the Franklin For All project and a significant accomplishment.

Among the other news worthy items on the agenda were
  • All alcohol license approved for Sierra's Brick Oven Pizza
  • Corporate record license changes for both Longhorn Restaurant and the 99 Restaurant were approved
  • Financial Audit report for FY 2022reveals a clean report, no actions, no management letter, the Town maintains their AAA rating status
  • Presentation from the Charles River Pollution Control District
  • Update on the long awaited Beaver St interceptor, bids came in below expectations, sewer rates will rise and remain to pay for the 20 year borrowing costs of this major infrastructure project
  • PFAS regulation increases proposed by EPA can cost us significantly. Well 7 is currently offline, more wells may be in jeopardy of shutdown due to increased monitoring. Yet, PFAS is still being made, is a forever chemical and is major concern for future water supply quality and cost thereof
The full agenda and documents associated with it can be found online ->   https://www.franklinmatters.org/2023/04/franklin-ma-town-council-agenda-for-may.html

Franklin TV's video recording of the meeting is available for replay on YouTube

My notes captured via Twitter can be found in one PDF. My full recap and the meeting audio will be ready in a couple of days ->


Sunday, April 30, 2023

Franklin, MA: Town Council - Agenda for the May 3, 2023 Meeting

Franklin Town Council
Agenda & Meeting Packet
May 3, 2023 - 7:00 PM

Meeting will be held at the Municipal Building
2nd floor, Council Chambers 355 East Central Street 



1. ANNOUNCEMENTS FROM THE CHAIR
a. 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.
b. Chair to identify members participating remotely.

2. CITIZEN COMMENTS
a. Citizens are welcome to express their views for up to three 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 - None Scheduled.
5. APPOINTMENTS - None Scheduled.

6. PUBLIC HEARINGS - 7:00 PM
a. New Section 12 Restaurant Common Victualer All Alcohol License and Approval of Katrina Psikarakis as the Manager - Here Come Two Greeks, LLC d/b/a Sierra’s Brick Oven Pizza & Pub, Located at 370 King Street   https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/6a._sierras_new_license_app.pdf
i. See 7: License Transactions (a) below

7. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS
a. New Section 12 Restaurant Common Victualer All Alcohol License and Approval of Katrina Psikarakis as the Manager - Here Come Two Greeks, LLC d/b/a Sierra’s Brick Oven Pizza & Pub, Located at 370 King Street   https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/7a.license_transaction_-_sierras.pdf
 
b. License Modification - Change of Manager: Rare Hospitality International, Inc. d/b/a Longhorn Steakhouse; Located at 250 Franklin Village Drive, Franklin, MA 02038   https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/7b_license_transaction_-_longhorn.pdf

c. License Modification - Change of Officers/Directors/LLC Managers: 99 Restaurants of Boston, LLC d/b/a 99 Restaurant, Located at 847 West Central Street   https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/7c._99_lic_trans.pdf

8. PRESENTATIONS / DISCUSSION
a. Presentation: FY22 Financial Audit - Scott McIntire, Partner, Marcum LLP   https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/8a._presentation_-_audit.pdf
b. Presentation: Charles River Pollution Control District - Elizabeth Taglieri, Executive Director Charles River Pollution Control District  https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/8b._presentation_-_charles_river_pollution_control_district.pdf
    i. Legislation For Action 9 (a)
c. An Introduction to PFAS Regulations - DPW Director Brutus Cantoreggi and Water & Sewer Superintendent Doug Martin   https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/8c._memo_-_discussion_introduction_to_pfas_in_franklin.pdf

9. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
a. Bylaw Amendment 23-897: Sewer Rate Increase - First Reading
(Motion to Move Bylaw Amendment 23-897 to a Second Reading - Majority Vote)   https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/9a._23-897_-_sewer_rate_increase.pdf 
b. Resolution 23-30: Authorizing the Borrowing of Money to Pay Costs Associated with the Franklin Sewer System Asset Management Plan (CWSRF 12541)
(Motion to Approve Resolution 23-30 - ⅔ Majority Vote)      https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/9b._23-30_-.pdf
c. Resolution 23-31: Authority For Town Administrator to File Clean Water State Revolving Fund Loan Application (Motion to Approve Resolution 23-31 - ⅔ Majority Vote)    https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/9c._23-31.pdf
d. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 23-889: A Zoning Bylaw to Amend the Franklin Town Code at Chapter 185, Attachment 7., Part VI, Use Regulation Schedule: Residential Uses - Second Reading (Motion to Approve Bylaw Amendment 23-889 - Majority Roll Call Vote)   https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/9d._23-889.pdf
e. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 23-890: A Zoning Bylaw to Amend the Franklin Town Code at Chapter 185, Section 51 - Second Reading
(Motion to Approve Bylaw Amendment 23-890 - Majority Roll Call Vote)   https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/9e._23-890.pdf
f. Resolution 23-32: Gift Acceptance - Town of Franklin for Red Brick School House (Donation of “Established” Sign) (Motion to Approve Resolution 23-32 - Majority Vote)   https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/9f._23-32_0.pdf
g. Resolution 23-29: FY23 Capital Round 2
(Motion to Approve Resolution 23-29 - Majority Vote)   https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/9g._23-29_-.pdf

10. TOWN ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT

11. SUBCOMMITTEE & AD HOC COMMITTEE REPORTS
a. Capital Budget Subcommittee
b. Economic Development Subcommittee
c. Budget Subcommittee
d. GATRA Advisory Board

12. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS

13. COUNCIL COMMENTS

14. EXECUTIVE SESSION - None Scheduled.

15. ADJOURN

Note: Two-Thirds Vote: requires 6 votes
Majority Vote: requires majority of members present and voting


Franklin, MA: Town Council - Agenda for the May 3, 2023 Meeting
Franklin, MA: Town Council - Agenda for the May 3, 2023 Meeting

Sunday, January 1, 2023

Beaver St. Interceptor Rehabilitation/Replacement and New Beaver St. Pump Station - Invitation for Bids

Under MGL c. 30-39m, the Town of Franklin seeks bids for the Beaver Street Interceptor Rehabilitation/Replacement and New Beaver Street Pump Station.  Pre-bid conference and site walk through on 1/12/2023 at 11:00 AM at the Franklin Municipal Building.

The project includes but is not limited to: - Installation of approximately 8,000 lf of 8" to 24" sanitary sewer using open-cut excavation and/or jack and bore; - Rehabilitation of approximately 6,000 lf of 16" to 24" sanitary sewer using cured-in-place pipe lining; - Installation of approximately 4,000 lf of 18" sanitary sewer force main by open-cut excavation and construction of associated sanitary sewer pump station; - Installation of approximately 900 lf of new water main; - Associated work including new manholes, manhole rehab., trench and roadway pavement, traffic controls, and utility abandonment and relocation. 

Additional Information:  Beaver Street Interceptor Rehabilitation/Replacement and New Beaver Street Pump Station 

Shared from Town of Franklin pages ->  https://www.franklinma.gov/purchasing/bids/beaver-st-interceptor-rehabilitationreplacement-and-new-beaver-st-pump-station

Beaver St. Interceptor Rehabilitation/Replacement and New Beaver St. Pump Station - Invitation for Bids
Beaver St. Interceptor Rehabilitation/Replacement and New Beaver St. Pump Station - Invitation for Bids

Tuesday, July 26, 2022

What is the Beaver St Interceptor? Why does it need to be replaced?

The interceptor is a critical part of the Town of Franklin sewer system that enables our sewerage to be sent to the Charles River Pollution Control facility in Medway to be treated.

The interceptor is over 100 year old, runs along the MBTA tracks parallel to RT 140, alongside Mine Brook, and behind Franklin Village Mall (Stop & Shop plaza), and under i495. A break at almost any of the key points along the way would be a rather expensive disaster for Franklin.

Multiple grants and state bond financing will help to pay for this, the largest single project the Town of Franklin has taken on (aside from a school building).


DPW presentations to the Town Council over the years as the replacement project is talked of and becomes a reality


November 2014 - Beaver St culvert

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/beaver_st_culvert_presentation_0.pdf


February 2015 - part of DPW update to Town Council

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/council_update_feb_14_2015.pdf


Oct 2021 - Town Council update (audio)

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/10/fm-372-town-council-mtg-102120-part-2.html 


Oct 2021 Presentation doc https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/dpw_beaver_street_interceptor_10_21_2020.pdf 


Oct 2021 “Talk Franklin” with Jamie Hellen part of this covers the Beaver St Interceptor

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/10/fm-368-talk-franklin-102320-audio.html


Jan 2021 approval by Town Council of the Beaver St project, initial funding

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2021/01/fm-428-town-council-meeting-p1of2.html 


June 2022 authorized updated cost to fund the Beaver St project

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2022/06/town-council-hears-of-way-to-proceed.html


hydraulic flow diagram of the Beaver St interceptor covered in detail in Part 2 of the meeting audio
hydraulic flow diagram of the Beaver St interceptor 

Saturday, July 9, 2022

Legal Notice: public hearing on Beaver St interceptor project - July 21, 2022

Pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws Ch. 131, s.40 (The Wetlands Protection Act) Franklin Conservation Commission will hold a Hybrid Public Hearing on Thursday, July 21, 2022 at 7:02 PM on a Notice of Intent filed by Amy Anderson of Arcadis on behalf of Franklin Department of Public Works for the rehabilitation, replacement, and general improvements to the interceptor, as well as a new pump station on the property at 275 Beaver Street. The work will impact the Riverfront Area, Bordering Vegetated Wetlands, the 100-foot Bordering Vegetated Wetlands Buffer and the 200-foot Riverfront Area Buffer.

The Project begins at the end of an existing sewer line northwest of Franklin Village Mall and follows the line under West Central Street until Beaver Street; then along Beaver Street to Hayward Street and ends on Cottage Street. The work also involves a sewer line that runs from Beaver Street to Grove Street and along West Central Street until the intersection of Forge Parkway.

The hearing will provide an open forum for the discussion. This meeting will be done remotely via the “ZOOM” platform and “In-person” in the Council Chambers of the Municipal Building, 355 East Central Street. Residents can visit the Town Website (Franklinma.gov) and click on the Town Calendar for up to date information on how to access the meeting.

All records and files for this project can be viewed at the Conservation Office located on the first floor of the Franklin Municipal Building.

Any person or organization so wishing will be afforded an opportunity to be heard. The hearing location is accessible to persons with physical disabilities. If you require a translator or accommodations for a hearing impairment, contact the Conservation Department at the Municipal Building or by calling (508) 520-4929.

Patrick Gallagher
Chairman



Legal Notice: public hearing on Beaver St interceptor project - July 21, 2022
Legal Notice: public hearing on Beaver St interceptor project - July 21, 2022

Saturday, June 11, 2022

Town Council Quarterbacking with Chair Tom Mercer - a recap of the June 8, 2022 meeting (audio)

FM #816 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 816 in the series. 


This session of the radio show shares the Town Council Quarterbacking session with Chair Tom Mercer on Thursday morning, June 9, 2022.  The Town Council meeting was held on Wednesday, June 8.


·        ok, what just happened? 

·        What does it mean for Franklin residents and taxpayers?


PROCLAMATIONS / RECOGNITIONS

a. Proclamation - Franklin Flyers Youth Hockey Team

b. Proclamation - Franklin High School Theatre Company


License Transactions

a. License Modification: Change of Hours - PH Franklin, Inc. d/b/a Raillery Public House, Located at 280 Franklin Village Drive, Franklin, MA 02038 

b. New Farmer Winery-Farmers Market License - Crave Mead, LLC d/b/a Crave Mead, Located at 7 Main St., Unit 1, Blackstone, MA 01504 


PRESENTATIONS / DISCUSSION

a. Presentation/Discussion: North Grove Priority Development Area Redevelopment Concept - Urban Land Institute Technical Assistance Panel & MassDevelopment


LEGISLATION FOR ACTION

a. Resolution 22-32: Salary Schedule: Full-Time Elected Official - Town Clerk

b. Resolution 22-30: FY22 Capital Plan Round 2 

e. Resolution 22-39: Authorizing the Additional Borrowing of Money to Pay Additional Costs of the Beaver Street Interceptor Replacement Project 


The conversation runs about 40 minutes. Let’s listen to my conversation with Tom.

Audio file -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-816-town-council-quarterbacking-w-tom-mercer-06-09-22


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


Meeting agenda =>    

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/agendas/town_council_agenda_6-8-22_0.pdf 


Presentation on the Nu-Style property -> https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/agendas/franklin_presentation.pdf 


My notes -> 

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1c3eKOj6mOCpr1fos7dvk_N4zcoh-DyO3/view?usp=sharing 


My photos taken during the meeting are in one album   https://photos.app.goo.gl/6Rkh1UGK3MJ5Yz6S7 


YouTube video of meeting -> https://youtu.be/xQgdpRxgGOU


Keep up with events in Franklin via the Community Calendar

https://www.franklinmatters.org/p/blog-page.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/ 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 Council Quarterbacking with Chair Tom Mercer
Town Council Quarterbacking with Chair Tom Mercer 

Friday, June 10, 2022

Town Council hears of way to proceed with Nu-Style property, approves Town Clerk salary, authorized updated cost for Beaver St interceptor (audio)

FM #815 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 815 in the series. 


This session of the radio show shares the Town Council meeting held in hybrid format on Wednesday, June 8, 2022. 

  • Chair: T Mercer, M Hamblen, C Frongillo, G Jones (remote), P Sheridan, D Pellegri (clerk for meeting with Jones remote), R Dellorco, T Cormier-Leger, B Chandler
  • Town Administration: J Hellen, A Alleyne, M Cerel, et al

The recording runs two hours and twenty minutes (excluding the recess), so let’s listen to the Town Council meeting on June 8, 2022.


Audio file -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-815-town-council-mtg-06-08-22

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


Meeting agenda =>    

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/agendas/town_council_agenda_6-8-22_0.pdf 


Presentation on the Nu-Style property -> https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/agendas/franklin_presentation.pdf 


My notes -> 

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1c3eKOj6mOCpr1fos7dvk_N4zcoh-DyO3/view?usp=sharing 


My photos taken during the meeting are in one album 

https://photos.app.goo.gl/6Rkh1UGK3MJ5Yz6S7 


YouTube video of meeting -> https://youtu.be/xQgdpRxgGOU


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


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"


Franklin Flyer youth hockey team with Town Council
Franklin Flyer youth hockey team with Town Council

FHS theatre group with Town Council
FHS theatre group with Town Council

Sunday, June 5, 2022

Franklin, MA: Town Council - agenda - June 8, 2022 at 7 PM

FRANKLIN TOWN COUNCIL
Agenda & Meeting Packet
June 8, 2022 - 7 PM

1. ANNOUNCEMENTS FROM THE CHAIR
a. 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.
b. Chair to identify members participating remotely.
2. CITIZEN COMMENTS
a. Citizens are welcome to express their views for up to three 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

4. PROCLAMATIONS / RECOGNITIONS
a. Proclamation - Franklin Flyers Youth Hockey Team
b. Proclamation - Franklin High School Theatre Company
 
5. APPOINTMENTS - None Scheduled.
6. HEARINGS - 7:00 pm - None Scheduled.

7. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS
a. License Modification: Change of Hours - PH Franklin, Inc. d/b/a Raillery Public House, Located at 280 Franklin Village Drive, Franklin, MA 02038  https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/7a._raillery_change_of_hours.pdf
b. New Farmer Winery-Farmers Market License - Crave Mead, LLC d/b/a Crave Mead, Located at 7 Main St., Unit 1, Blackstone, MA 01504  https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/7b._farmers_market_license_-_crave.pdf
8. PRESENTATIONS / DISCUSSION
a. Presentation/Discussion: North Grove Priority Development Area Redevelopment Concept -

9. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
a. Resolution 22-32: Salary Schedule: Full-Time Elected Official - Town Clerk (Motion to Approve
b. Resolution 22-30: FY22 Capital Plan Round 2 (Motion to Approve Resolution 22-30 -
c. Resolution 22-34: Gift Acceptance - Senior Center ($100), Fire Department ($50) (Motion to
d. Resolution 22-35: Cable Funds in Support of PEG Service and Programming per MGL Ch. 44,
§53F3/4 (Motion to Approve Resolution 22-35 - Majority Vote)  https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/9d._22-35_peg_comcast_verizon.pdf
e. Resolution 22-39: Authorizing the Additional Borrowing of Money to Pay Additional Costs of the
Beaver Street Interceptor Replacement Project (Motion to Approve Resolution 22-39 - Two

10. TOWN ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT - None Scheduled.

11. SUBCOMMITTEE & AD HOC COMMITTEE REPORTS
a. Capital Budget Subcommittee
b. Budget Subcommittee
c. Economic Development Subcommittee

12. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS

13. COUNCIL COMMENTS

14. EXECUTIVE SESSION
a. Exemption #6: To consider the purchase, exchange, lease or value of real property, because an open meeting may have a detrimental effect on the negotiating position of the public body and the chair so declares.  i. Schmidt’s Farm, Prospect Street

15. ADJOURN

Note:
Two-Thirds Vote: requires 6 votes
Majority Vote: requires majority of members present and voting


Franklin, MA: Town Council - agenda - June 8, 2022 at 7 PM
Franklin, MA: Town Council - agenda - June 8, 2022 at 7 PM

Wednesday, August 18, 2021

Franklin Annual Report - 2020: Public Works

The Department of Public Works provides a wide range of services to the residents of Franklin.   It is organized into seven (7) Divisions:
1. Administration
2. Engineering
3. Highway and Grounds (including Highway Maintenance and Construction, Central Motors, Snow & Ice, Parks, Town and School Grounds Maintenance and Forestry/Insect Control)
4. Water (including ground water withdrawals, water treatment and distribution)
5. Sewer
6. Solid Waste and Recycling (including the operation of the Beaver St. Recycling Center)
7. Street Lighting

DPW ADMINISTRATIVE DIVISION
The major functions of the Administrative Division includes developing capital projects, long range planning, intergovernmental relations and compliance, grant writing, processing various private construction permits and drain layer licenses, purchasing, budgeting, accounting, payroll, and multiple forms of utility billing.

Capital Projects
The Administrative Division, in conjunction with Engineering and the operating divisions, develops major capital projects.

The DPW continues to design and construct long-range projects over three to four years. Progress on specific capital construction projects is outlined in subsequent portions of this report.

It is important to note that many of these projects are performed by existing staff members which saves significant amounts of money by avoiding the need to contract out these services. The process of planning, designing, permitting, and oversite of these projects is an arduous task that requires a great level of coordination and cooperation between DPW divisions and other state, municipal and federal departments.

Grant Writing
The Town continues to implement a grant of $119,000 to develop stormwater infiltration with a private developer on Dean Ave and at other various locations from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Mass DEP. We will investigate approaches for Franklin and private parties to work together to meet the permit requirements and save money for all.

The Town once again partnered with the Great American Rain Barrel Company to offer the discounted purchase of rain barrels to Franklin residents. Along with the discount, residents were eligible to receive a $50 rebate through the water conservation rebate grant.
 
The Town also received over $100,000.00 in recycling grants for our innovative programs at the recycling center in the proper removal and recycling of mattresses and Styrofoam to name a few.

Permits and Long Range Planning
The Town of Franklin also continues to oppose the implementation of the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Phase II and the pending Phase II Stormwater Permit for Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems (MS4) as required by the EPA. Phase I required the Town to highly regulate and monitor stormwater throughout the Town at a significantly increased cost. Phase II is projected to include increased regulatory requirements and cost even more. The Department will continue to refine and improve adopted regulations and practices to improve the stormwater in Franklin while minimizing the associated costs.

The Town of Franklin led a coalition of 16 other communities and challenged the EPA in Federal Court. Over the last year, the Town of Franklin has continued in mediation as directed by the Federal Court to try and work out disagreements and costs associated with the new MS4 storm water permit.

Long range planning is critical in the area of Public Works and must be accomplished consistently in order to ensure that the Town water, sewer and roadway infrastructure can support the needs of our residents. With the success of the 20/20 Plan, the Town Council authorized additional funding for waterline replacement and the improvement of roadways. Details on specific locations can be found in other parts of this report. With that funding already allocated, the Town Council continued with additional funding for the waterline replacement and road reconstruction of the Skyline Dr. neighborhood, Oak St Extension, Marvin Ave area and the Stanford Rd area. With the completion of the above mentioned projects we are looking at the next major waterlines and neighborhoods to be rehabilitated.

The DPW has continued to work with both the DEP and the Massachusetts Department of Recreation and Conservation to facilitate the final closing and capping of the Beaver Street Landfill Site.

The Town of Franklin has continued to work with other area towns and conservation groups towards ensuring that regional water supplies are protected.
The DPW is also looking at repairs/replacement of the “Beaver Street Interceptor”, the Town’s primary pipe that conveys sewer to the Charles River Pollution Control District for processing.

Continue reading the DPW section in the Annual Report in the PDF version (page 132) or the print version (#126)  https://www.franklinma.gov/town-clerk/files/town-franklin-annual-report-2020

Prior Annual Reports can be found online


Franklin Annual Report - 2020:  Public Works
Franklin Annual Report - 2020:  Public Works

Saturday, July 24, 2021

"Massachusetts will need to make major investments in infrastructure"

"If the heavy rains of this summer are emblematic of our future normal as climate change progresses, then so, too, is this: Much of that rainwater overwhelms local sewers, triggering the release of hundreds of millions of gallons of raw, untreated sewage into Massachusetts waterways.

When the rain falls, as it has so many days this month, aging sewers can fill and overflow, spilling pathogen-laden sewage into the same places where people fish, swim, and boat. It’s a problem that plagues the state, even without the expected impact from climate change.

Despite billions of dollars that have been spent to repair and upgrade sewers around Boston Harbor, for example, sewage overflows from Quincy have remained a persistent problem. Quincy recently signed a settlement with the federal government, agreeing to spend $100 million to fix its sewers. And just this week, discharged sewage was pointed to as a possible cause of an oily sheen, dead fish, and putrid smells on a section of the upper Charles River."

Continue reading the article online (subscription maybe required)

One of the major infrastructure pieces for Franklin just came online; the new water treatment plant on Grove St. The next item to come up for discussion later this year is the replacement project for the Beaver St interceptor, our major sewer connection. The project has been talked of for years and earlier this year, received funding for the full project plans and costs to be developed. That proposal is likely to come up during the fall. Stay tuned for it.

Recap of Jan 6, 2021 Town Council meeting which included authorization to fund the development work for the project design

The Finance Committee posted agenda for Nov 2020 including the interceptor project presentation document  https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/11/franklin-ma-finance-committee-agenda_14.html

My notes of the meeting  https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/11/finance-committee-meeting-recap-nov-17.html

The Oct 21, 2020 Town Council meeting segment with the Beaver St interceptor presentation and discussion  https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/10/fm-372-town-council-mtg-102120-part-2.html

key graphic depicts the sewer gravity flow along with the depth of the access points
key graphic depicts the sewer gravity flow along with the depth of the access points