Extension of Premises: Outdoor Dining on Private Property/Parking Lot - UPDATE

 

"This guidance is for restaurants who wish to use or currently use private parking lots for outdoor dining to increase business activity and revenues in a safe and responsible way during the COVID-19 pandemic. On June 3 2020, the Town Council authorized the Town Administrator to execute any and all licenses relative to COVID-19 Executive Order No. 35 in regards to opening reactants for outdoor dining.

For any businesses who applied and were approved last year: Your permit remains in effect however you must send the Town Administration Office your updated Certificate of Liability Insurance. Also, if you had tents and wish to use these again you must have those reinspected by the building department. Please contact the Building department at 508-528-4926 with any questions or complete the online building application here: https://franklinma.viewpointcloud.com/categories/1081/record-types/6456

For any new businesses applying or any changes to existing permit being made: Before the private parking lot is used for the benefit of the restaurant, the owner or his/her/their designee, shall complete the online “Temporary Outdoor Dining License” application via Viewpoint under “Administration”. https://franklinma.viewpointcloud.com/"
 

Download a copy of the file:  https://drive.google.com/file/d/1VPKyWSW1Umi5IoWmwgVJxzY__HJSGx0x/view?usp=sharing

Shared from: https://www.franklinma.gov/home/news/update-temporary-outdoor-dining

Extension of Premises: Outdoor Dining on Private Property/Parking Lot - UPDATE

 

Economic Development Subcommittee - Agenda - Mar 3, 2021

Economic Development Subcommittee Meeting

Agenda & Meeting Packet

March 3, 2021 - 5:45 PM 

Agenda:
1. Tasting Room bylaw proposal
2. Franklin Business Guide (Draft Attached)
3. Food Trucks materials update

Agenda doc and meeting materials, including connection info for this virtual meeting

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/agendas/edc_agenda_3-3-2021.pdf

Economic Development Subcommittee - Agenda - Mar 3, 2021

Town Council - recap of Feb 17, 2021 Meeting

Quick Recap:

• Special alcohol license approved for Dacey's Market. Not part of the Town pool of such licenses.
• Community Preservation Committee appointments approved. 30 candidates for the four at large residents spots. Thanks to all for stepping up. A good team to go forward
• Complete Streets approach presented to Council, will return for a formal approval as a 'policy' not a bylaw. Will also provide some bonus points for applications to State for grants for work on roads, sidewalks and the like
• Annual review of Town Administrator presented and report approved by 8-1 vote (Bissanti no). Will come to Council again for formal approval and there will also be a 'goals setting session' and discussion on how to better improve the overall review process
• Fire Dept found a good deal on two pumper trucks saving a bunch of money, purchase authorized. They will arrive later this year, replace two front line units, which will then move to reserve and the two current reserve units (2000 and 2007 vintage) will be marked surplus and sold.
• Storm water bylaw articles I, II, and III returned for their second reading. Elongated and misplaced discussion again ensued as folks were getting wrapped around these are setting up for the possible utility fee coming up later this year. They were all passed by 8-1 vote (Bissanti no on all)
• Sad to hear that 38 Franklinites have lost their lives during this COVID-19 pandemic. 85% of them were over 75 years old

Photos captured during the meeting and shared via Twitter can be found in one album    https://photos.app.goo.gl/D5ZBXuVmqXWBKwv68

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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  #tc0217
https://twitter.com/search?q=%23tc0217&src=typeahead_click 

• Are you getting ready for the Franklin, MA Town Council meeting? Coming up at 7 PM. Agenda doc and connection info here https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/agendas/2-17-21_town_council_agenda_0_0.pdf  #tc0217
• Real time reporting underway for the Town Council meeting #tc0217
• #tc0217 approval of minutes for Jan 20 , passes via roll call 9-0 

Public Hearing - Dacey's Market

• Moving to public hearing on MADD Deli/ Dacey's Market 
• Special home rule legislation passed by state house. This is unique to the site, can't be moved or reused without special legislation, Bissanti recuses
• #tc0217 "feels good to be help a neighborhood business" hearing closes via roll call 8-0-1 (8 yes, 1 recused). License transaction, motion to approve. Passes via roll call same vote as above 8-0-1

Community Preservation Committee appointments

• Community preservation Committee nominations, 30 at large applied for 4  seats, selected 4 which we see tonight #tc0217 https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/cpc_updated_memo.pdf 
• Nice diverse group, have work to do! 4 chosen deliberate to have Community knowledge ... All have shown support/interest
• FYI approx 26 via Zoom, another 7 on live stream, and some unknown # via Comcast/Verizon #tc0217 all also committed to approach it is this an open mind, management of open space, willing to build a program from scratch for the community and preservation/development efforts
• #tc0217 TA Jamie Hellen thanks the 5 Committees for their public discussion and selection. Nominated individuals contained in the doc linked here https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/cpc_updated_memo.pdf
• These appointments would come back in June for the annual renewal on the 1 or 2 year appointment to enable the staggering terms per the bylaw #tc0217 something for everyone, many new folks just starting to get involved, affordable housing a trend item
• #tc0217 why only released on Tuesday? Just timing with holiday and 30 folks to contact. Many thanks for the number of volunteers to come forward. CPC in Hyde Park has a project on the Dedham line, good story, like to see something like that hear.
• #tc0217 there will be nine individual votes, one per nominee, all will be via roll call (assuming the votes are the same, I'll be concise) if there is a difference it will be noted; first 9-0 for Livingstone, second 9-0 Malcolm, third 9-0 Feeley, fourth 9-0 Halligan …
• #tc0217 fifth 9-0 Simarian, sixth 9-0 Giardino, seventh 9-0 Oxford, eighth 9-0 McNeill, ninth 9-0 Doyle. 
• That completes the community preservation Committee approvals! 
• A good team to take on some challenges. Thank you!

2 minute recess 

• Two minutes recess #tc0217
• #tc0217 resuming meeting.

Complete Streets presentation

• Presentation on Complete Streets https://franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/8a._complete_streets_web.pdf …. Five straight appearances for DPW Director Brutus Cantoreggi, engineer Mike Maglio also presenting #tc0217
• #tc0217  doesn't have to be everything done on the right side of the slide, major piece is the approach of transportation as a whole not just cars first
• #tc0217 signage and markings are an easy less expensive approach to integrate. State grant applications can be helped with this designation, also a housing Community. An opportunity loss rather than a money loss. Was part of Master Plan (but not prioritized)
• Part of overall planning for downtown development, ease of access, sidewalks, etc. #tc0217 
• Sidewalk on Beaver St from RT 140 to the parks already funded, had this been available it could have applied. Washington St survey of the sidewalk planning is being done
• #tc0217 battle with impervious coverage and we are talking about adding sidewalks. It is connectivity where there are none, not like taking or reducing them in the cul-de-sac. 
• Where are the gaps? Input from Planning dept, and Police where accidents occur.
• General consensus thumbs up to develop a policy to bring back to Council in April for one vote (not a bylaw) #tc0217 

Town Administrator review

• Annual review of Town Administrator  https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/9a._ta_eval_docs.pdf asking council for approval to go to review file.
• #tc0217 subcommittee section usually is empty, this time it contains the TA evaluation report https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/9a._ta_eval_docs.pdf 
• There will be a goal session in future to include the evaluation process adjustments. Looking for TC to accept report as presented.
• #tc0217 "it is easy to be critical of everybody but yourself" he works hard, settling into role, good for the community. Need to figure out a better eval process for future.
• #tc0217 Mercer has worked closely with Jamie over the past 2 years, talking regularly, his admin team has worked well together, look at how much we have done during this challenge! The evaluation is not the TA, it is the entire staff, it is true, you are going to find this …
• Anywhere else. #tc0217 an incredible team here with a service level like no other. 
• Motion and second to accept the report, via roll call 8-1 (Bissanti no)

Legislation for Action

• Moving to legislation for action. #tc0217  https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/10a._lib_gift_web.pdf 
• Gift to the library, motion to approve, seconded, passes 9-0 via roll call
• Appropriation for fire trucks #tc0217  https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/10b._fire_borrowing_web.pdf 
• Using $300k from funds set aside, and financing $800k. Motion and second; Chief McLaughlin speaking for, good timing for purchase. Order price for 2019 but completing now, good opportunity
• Engine 4 since 2000 has served us well, has been in reserve. Local vendor. Corroded frame rail to replace $105k for engine 3 from 2007. Could save $ now, avoid maintenance in next several years. #tc0217 Engine 1 would go into reserve at King St Station. Stars aligned
• #tc0217 could save some free cash for a few years instead of putting aside the fire truck fund. A choice, let's continue to put it aside per Kelly. "It is a great deal" these are stock trucks, all the hose and stuff from the existing trucks will go to these.
• Came up during a regular discussion with vendors and found these as an opportunity via one of the vendors. Cab space, length of the truck, all considerations for us and our environment, given space on the streets how used etc. 30' long #tc0217 disposition of surplus …
• State process defined for surplus, funds do come back to general funds. #tc0217 motion and second, vote passes 9-0 via roll call. Chief thanks council for support on behalf of the department.
• Stop sign listing updated #tc0217 Chief Lynch here to answer questions on the proposed amended street listing https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/10c._stop_signs_web_0.pdf 
• Kelly advocates for stop sign at Main St, Eamons St. Missing one there is a problem
• If someone calls for a stop sign, where does the process start? It can start at Police,  DPW will coordinate with Police and engineering before placement. #tc0217 motion, second to move to second reading passes via roll call 9-0

Stormwater extended discussion

• Storm water bylaw article I, https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/10d._stormwater_art_1_web.pdf for second reading #tc0217 (Kelly ranted on this the first time around misunderstanding these as financial) mostly verbiage changes per compliance with MS4 permit - next 3 resolutions
• #tc0217 original bylaws were passed approx 15 years ago, simple housekeeping to the memo verbiage per Town Attny Cerel. Nothing additional permitting, just cleaning up what is already been done. Bissanti doesn't understand the changes and fears it is slipping in the storm …
• ... Water utility fee (which is what he is against). Recall Cerel's statement that these were passed 15 years ago. #tc0217 long discussion (catch recording for details)
• Finally get to vote on the change, article I, passes via roll call 8-1 (Bissanti no) #tc0217 https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/10d._stormwater_art_1_web.pdf 
• Vote on article II, 8-1 (Bissanti no, "doesn't want to be any part of this")  https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/10e._stormh2o_art_2_web.pdf vote on Article III same  8-1 https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/10f._storm_h20_web_art_3.pdf 

Town Administrator report through to closing

• #tc0217 grants applied for Museum, COVID update, cases down, status yellow again, capacity increases for business, 38 have died in Franklin from COVID-19. 85% of the deaths were over 75. 65+ can start on 2/18 for appts for vaccine. Teachers next after 65+
• Our local clinic is not likely to be active as we are so close to Gillette. #tc0217 
• Pre-budget what have we given for raises town and school
• Reminder Senior Center coffee hour via Microsoft Teams in the morning (2/18).
• How is the snow budget doing? About $900K to date, about $200K per storm so we'll be over after this weekend. Not just snow, the salting events. #tc0217 Chair Mercer apologizes for late hour, motion to adjourn, passes 9-0
• That's all for tonight, catch you next time!

 

For all the documents released for this meeting

https://www.franklinma.gov/town-council/agenda/february-17-town-council-agenda

Town Council - recap of Feb 17, 2021 Meeting

FM #462 - Franklin's Acting Town Clerk - 02/10/21 (audio)

This session of the radio show shares my conversation with Franklin’s Acting Town Clerk Nancy Danello along with her assistant Susan Merullo.

We had our conversation via conference bridge to adhere to the ‘social distancing’ requirements of this pandemic period.

We talk about: 

• What is your Franklin story?
• Almost 6 months already, including two elections (Nov, Dec 2020)
• What else are you doing?
• What does the 2021 year hold (beside November elections)?

Links to the Town Clerk web page is included in the show notes. The recording runs about 22 minutes, so let’s listen to my conversation with Nancy and Susan.

Audio file = https://player.captivate.fm/episode/7541a85e-30d4-4916-bb7f-1a078094ad77

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Town Clerk page = https://www.franklinma.gov/town-clerk 

Updated official directory (as mentioned) https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/uploads/2021_directory_of_town_state_and_county_officials_0.pdf 

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

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/ 

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"

Acting Town Clerk Nancy Danello provides an update to a Town Council meeting in 2020

Public Hearing: MADD Deli, Inc d/b/a Dacey's Market & Deli - New Wine & Malt Retail Store License

Public Hearing: MADD Deli, Inc d/b/a Dacey's Market & Deli - New Wine & Malt Retail Store License

The Franklin Town Council will hold a Public Hearing on  an application by MADD Deli,Inc. d/b/a Dacey’s Market and Deli, located at 353 Lincoln Street, Franklin, MA for a New Wine & Malt Retail Package Store License. This hearing will be held on Wednesday, February 17, 2021 at 7:10 PM.

This hearing will provide an open forum for the discussion. This meeting will be held remotely via the “ZOOM” platform. 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.

If you have any questions, please call the Town Administrator’s Office at (508) 520-4949.

Shared from:
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/agendas/2021-02-01_wed_abutters_-_madd_deli_inc_daceys_market_deli_2.pdf

 

Public Hearing: MADD Deli, Inc d/b/a Dacey's Market & Deli

 

Town Council meeting recap = Jan 20, 2021 - Public House license approved, several streets accepted

Quick Recap:

• New all alcohol license for the Public House (in Franklin Village - former location of British Beer Co)
• Multiple streets accepted, allows for formal Town ownership, completes a process that broke when developers completed their projects in some cases years ago. Minimal patching and plowing could be done without acceptance, major repairs prohibited as government money can not be spent on private property.
• Storm water bylaws required minor technical adjustments to bring them inline with the EPA MS4 permit. This was the first reading for the four individual bylaws to be heard. All were approved for second reading.
• Councilor Kelly went on a 'rant' around the storm water utility fee during the storm water bylaw update thinking that the changes were bringing the utility fees to the discussion. That was not the case, the utility fee proposal, discussion, and decision will be a separate item for a future agenda but the rant continued.
• First responder vaccine distribution completed on Wednesday, process caught attention of Milford Regional Hospital who wants to leverage our experience. No word yet on what's next for vaccine distribution. Awaiting info from MA DPH on who, what and when available. Stay tuned.

Photos captured during the meeting can be found in one folder
https://photos.app.goo.gl/FvaSN8sVwcUwRrnr6

recording of meeting to be made available soon

----
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  #tc0120 
https://twitter.com/hashtag/tc0120?src=hashtag_click 

• Shifting from one Zoom session to another to report on the Town Council meeting about to begin. Agenda doc has connection info https://franklinma.gov/town-council/agenda/january-20-town-council-agenda #tc0120
• Meeting called to order #tc0120
• Chair Tom Mercer runs through protocol message for meeting #tc0120 reminder on incorrect calculation of interest on tax bill for 3Q. Corrected bill mailed, due date extended. online portal has correct amount.

Citizen Comment

• Citizens comments #tc0120 Kathy Hulin speaking for the Interfaith food Community team, introducing Project Envoy (see posting earlier today with info. https://franklinmatters.org/2021/01/project-envoy-eat-outtake-out-help-out.html)

Approval of prior minutes

• Approval of minutes for Dec 2, 2020 via roll call passes 9-0 #tc0120 proclamation postponed to meeting in Feb Public hearing opens at 7:10 PM - license hearing for Public House

Public hearing - new alcohol license

• Targeting for opening in May/June depending upon renovation being done, menu some carry over from The Gavel. 'Upscale American' would be Indoor and outdoor service weather permitting, capacity inside 180 (occupancy 200). No license pledge needed, self funded. #tc0120
• All servers to be too certified, may come back with an operation manager later. #tc0120 fees reduced for this year per bylaw previously approved. Landlord needs to do something 1st, license needed to be confirmed, then restaurant would proceed. Motion 2 close hearing via roll
• Opening hearing on street acceptances, then back to approve the license (rather than have them wait) motion to approve, seconded, passes 9-0 via roll call (Hamblen remote) #tc0120 kudos for Chrissy Whelton on this process No to the street acceptances, first wave of several

Public hearing on street acceptances

• Last tweet should have said NOW to streets, not 'no' #tc0120 what is practical difference between public and private; primary difference town takes care of road repairs and snow plowing, the total mileage of roads helps with state reimbursement.
• #tc0120 Q on sidewalks along Baron would they removed at sometime, and narrow like Coronation Dr. Baron is one of the work roads, can't work on it without funding, haven't taken hard look at it. Would be done via public hearing. The road is a mess. It is a concern
• #tc0120 reinforce the state of disrepair of Baron, can't put money in it unless it is accepted. Often folks don't walk on the sidewalks, use the road instead. Don't count on getting two sidewalks, we need to reduce impervious coverage. EPA in charge of the potential fine
• #tc0120 just not possible with EPA restrictions. Multiple councilor comments on road condition and planning for redoing eventually. It costs the Town to create the acceptance plan. We plow/filling potholes for safety reasons where streets were intended to be accepted
• Baron due to condition would be a full depth reconstruction. #tc0120 landscaping on Coronation is aborhent claims of severely compromising safety to save some money. 1st step is recognizing the road, let's do that. Homeowners responsible for keeping sidewalks passable

Subcommittee Updates

• #tc0120 motion to close hearing, passes 9-0 via roll call EDC met last Weds, started discussion on housing, had a pretzel discussion, need to come back with some definition, 5:45 next meeting to discuss food truck bylaw. TA review rescheduled! storm water bylaw ...
• Passed a year ago, info sessions planned, 2 held before pandemic. #tc0120 storm water page has info and maps for property impervious coverage; utility fee more fair application, credits available, will offset ops budget funds eventually https://www.franklinma.gov/stormwater-division 
• 14 Communities already have a utility fee, ours is less than the others. #tc0120 fee would raise about $1.4M each year. Would free operations capacity in FY 22 and FY 23. Check your property on the map https://www.franklinma.gov/stormwater-division 
• #tc0120 Dellorco and Jones add to reinforce Hamblen's comments on the utility fee to manage the EPA mandate. Did check proof of proposed billing statement that would include the utility fee and appear on next water, sewer invoice. There are legislation tonight ...
• To set up for the utility fee, no action on the fee itself tonight. #tc0120 * Moving to legislation for action. 

Legislation for action

• https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/10a._21-06_skyline_charles_drive.pdf passes 9-0 via roll call
• https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/20-07_cobblestone_barron.pdf Roll call to waive reading, passes 9-0 Motion to approve, seconded, passes 9-0 via roll call https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/10c._21-08_crystal_woodhaben.pdf Roll call to waive reading, passes 9-0 Motion to approve, seconded, passes 9-0 via roll call
• https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/10d._21-865_stormwater.pdf #tc0120 reading revision in sec D motion to move to 2nd reading, mostly housecleaning items. Utility fee would come up for 2 hearings for approval. Items need to confirm the language per the EPA permit.
• Real concern about the billable units, parking spaces, business may need less spaces than required, and EPA fee is based upon the impervious coverage. #tc0120 the utility fee is equally applicable to nonprofit as well as commercial businesses. Kelly long rant on fee proposal
• There is an abatement process for this, credits and fee waivers. #tc0120 Kelly's issue is a separate topic from what is on the agenda tonight. Per Attny Cerel this motion has nothing to do with the utility fee, this has to with development of 2 acres or more
• #tc0120 we continue to add fees and then the next Council raises it, and the next. Don't think this is the equitable way to go. There are four amendments tonight. Finally, now the vote to move to 2nd reading 9-0 via roll call
• https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/10e._bylaw_21-866_chapter_153-12_soil_erosion.pdf #tc0120 second of 4 items, motion to move to 2nd reading, passes 9-0 via roll call https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/10f._bylaw_21-867_chapter_153-16_standards.pdf 3rd of 4 items, motion to move to second reading, passes 9-0 via roll call
• https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/10g._bylaw_21-868_chapter_185-31_site_plan_and_design_review_b.pdf motion to refer to planning board, #tc0120 Q why recommended not required, are there defined terms? Passes 9-0 via roll call

Town Administrator report through to closing

• Town Administrator report, FHS gym completed the vaccine clinics nothing wasted on doses, had backup plan for utilization of the extras Milford Regional asking for us to help them plan distribution. As to what is next? Don't know. #tc0120
• #tc0120 early education and K-12 before the over 65 with multiple co-morbidities Health Director Liberty can now order vaccines. Some distribution will be on-site for some groups, rather than in a facility like the gym
• #tc0120 waiting for the State to tell us when we get the next batch. For distribution to the general public, it would likely use the high school for parking, flow, etc. Billable units. Driving downtown, no cars parked at all at 11 in the morning.
• #tc0120 "shout out to Project Envoy for helping in this way, great to see the community help." "It is sad to see the downtown so quiet and empty." "Congratulations to Declan Lynch for his scholarship win." Hotline is off the charts at SAFE Coalition with requests for help
• #tc0120 thank the Board of Health and our paramedics, it was really well done. To hear the comments from the other Communities, it was heartening. Motion to adjourn, passes 9-0 via roll call Catch you all next time!

Town Council meeting recap = Jan 20, 2021 - Public House license approved, several streets accepted

Franklin, MA: Town Council - Agenda - Jan 20, 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.

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   
a. December 2, 2020

4. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS   
a. Bill Murphy

5. APPOINTMENTS    
None Scheduled

6. HEARINGS - 7:10pm   
    a. PH Franklin d/b/a Public House - New All Alcoholic Beverages Restaurant License, 480 Franklin Village Drive, Franklin MA 02038
    b. Street Acceptances - Crystal Drive, Woodhaven Drive, Dena Drive, Skyline Drive, Charles Drive, Baron Road, Cobblestone Drive, and Woodstock Circle

7. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS   
PH Franklin d/b/a Public House - 480 Franklin Village Drive, Franklin MA 02038, New All Alcoholic Beverages Restaurant License

8. PRESENTATIONS/DISCUSSIONS    
None Scheduled

9. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS   

• a. Capital Budget Subcommitte
• b. Budget Subcommittee
• c. Economic Development Subcommittee
• d. Town Administrator Evaluation Ad Hoc Subcommittee Report
• e. Stormwater Ad Hoc Committee Report
  

10. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION    

10a. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION  

Resolution 21-06: Order of Acceptance of Skyline Drive and Charles Drive as Public Ways and Related Drainage and Utility Easements (Motion to Approve Resolution 21-06 - Majority Vote)

10b. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION   
Resolution 21-07: Order of Acceptance of Baron Road, Cobblestone Drive and Woodstock Circle as Public Ways and Related Drainage Easements (Motion to Approve Resolution 21-07 - Majority Vote)

10c. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION   
Resolution 21-08: Order of Acceptance or Crystal Drive, Woodhaven Drive, and Dena Drive as Public Ways, and Lot 21, Detention Area Lot (Motion to Approve Resolution 21-08 - Majority Vote)

10d. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION   
Bylaw Amendment 21-865: Chapter 153, Stormwater Management Article I, General Provisions - First Reading (Motion to Move Bylaw Amendment 21-865 to a second reading - Majority Roll Call Vote)

10e. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION   
Bylaw Amendment 21-866: Chapter 153, Stormwater Management Article II, Soil Erosion and Sediment Control - First Reading (Motion to Move Bylaw Amendment 21-866 to a second reading - Majority Roll Call Vote)

10f. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION  
Bylaw Amendment 21-867: Chapter 153, Stormwater Management Article III, Post Construction Stormwater Management - First Reading (Motion to Move Bylaw Amendment 21-867 to a second reading - Majority Roll Call Vote)

10g. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION   
Bylaw Amendment 21-868: Chapter 185, Zoning Article V, Special Regulations - Referral to the Planning Board (Motion to Refer Bylaw Amendment 21-868 to the Planning Board - Majority Roll Call Vote)

11. TOWN ADMINISTRATOR'S REPORT   
COVID-19 Update

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

Agenda folder https://www.franklinma.gov/town-council/agenda/january-20-town-council-agenda

 Agenda doc (PDF) https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/agendas/01-20-2021_town_council_agenda.pdf

 

Franklin, MA: Town Council - Agenda - Jan 20, 2021

Public Hearing - New Section 12 All Alcoholic Beverages License - Jan 20, 2021

Public Hearing- New Section 12 All Alcoholic Beverages License

480 Franklin Village Drive

The Franklin Town Council will hold a Public Hearing on an application by PH Franklin d/b/a Public House, located at 480 Franklin Village Drive, Franklin, MA for a New All Alcoholic Beverages Restaurant License. The hearing will be held on Wednesday, January 20th, 2021 at 7:10 PM. This hearing will provide an open forum for the discussion.

This meeting will be held remotely via the “ZOOM” platform. 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. If you have any questions, please call the Town Administrator’s Office at (508) 520-4949.

Submitted by,

Chrissy Whelton
Licensing Administrator

Shared from the Town of Franklin page   https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/agendas/2020-01-06_public_house_web_abutters_notification.pdf

Public Hearing - New Section 12 All Alcoholic Beverages License - Jan 20, 2021

FM #350 Town Council Mtg - 9/16/20 (audio)

FM #350 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 350 in the series.

This session shares the Franklin, MA Town Council meeting held on Wednesday, Sep 16, 2020. The meeting was conducted via conference bridge to adhere to the ‘social distancing’ requirements of this pandemic period.

Chair Tom Mercer opened the meeting on schedule. In addition to a set of appointments, approval of prior meeting minutes, a discussion on a possible liquor licenses request for Dacey’s Market, there was one key presentation for the Health Dept.

Cathleen Liberty, Health Director, presents an update on the work the Health department and Board of Health conducts for the town.

The show notes contain links to the meeting agenda and to the presentation document.

This meeting runs just about 1 hour and 45 minutes, so let’s listen to the Town Council meeting of Sep 16, 2020

Audio file: https://www.hipcast.com/podcast/HV9TwkVK


 

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Town Council agenda
https://www.franklinma.gov/town-council/agenda/september-16-town-council-agenda

Health Dept presentation
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/8a._board_of_health_presentation_1.pdf

My notes from the meeting
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/09/town-council-meeting-recap-sep-16-2020.html

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We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) or 102.9 on the Franklin area radio dial.

This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but we can't do it alone. We can always use your help.
 
How can you help?
If you can use the information that you find here, please tell your friends and neighbors
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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!
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You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"
 

FM #350 Town Council Mtg - 9/16/20 (audio)

Franklin, MA: Town Council - Agenda - Sep 16, 2020

The public will NOT be permitted to enter the building or participate in person. Only pre-approved participants on the meeting agenda will be allowed to enter the Building and participate in person. Residents can attend and participate via the “ZOOM” Platform.

A NOTE TO RESIDENTS: 

Due to the continued concerns regarding the COVID-19 virus and Governor Baker’s declared State of Emergency, we will be conducting a remote/virtual Town Council Meeting for all public access and participation. In an effort to ensure citizen engagement and comply with open meeting law regulations, citizens will be able to dial into the meeting using the provided phone number (Cell phone or Landline Required) OR citizens can participate by clicking on the attached link (Phone, Computer, or Tablet required). The attached link and phone number will be active for the duration of the meeting for citizens to ask questions/voice concerns. If residents are just interested in watching the meeting it will also be live-streamed by Franklin TV and shown on Comcast Channel 11 and Verizon Channel 29.

Link to access meeting: September 16, 2020 Town Council Meeting Link  https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83381726558
Call-In Phone Number: Call 1-929-205-6099 and enter Meeting ID # 833 8172 6558 --Then press #
 
1. ANNOUNCEMENTS   
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.

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   
a. August 12, 2020
b. September 2, 2020

4. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS   
None Scheduled

5. APPOINTMENTS   
a. Library Board of Directors (Associate): Barbara Steele
b. Franklin Cultural Council: Jamele Adams
c. Franklin Cultural District: Amy Adams
d. Design Review: Gerald Wood
e. Design Review: Venkata KP Sompally

6. HEARINGS - 7:10pm   
None Scheduled

7. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS   
Change in Manager - Let’s Eat (Franklin), LLC, d/b/a Three Restaurant, 461 West Central Street, Franklin, MA 02038

8. PRESENTATIONS/DISCUSSIONS 

Health Department: Cathleen Liberty

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/8a._board_of_health_presentation_1.pdf

9. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS   
a. Capital Budget Subcommittee
b. Budget Subcommittee
c. Economic Development Subcommittee

10. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION   
None Scheduled

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 can be found online at the Town of Franklin page

https://www.franklinma.gov/town-council/agenda/september-16-town-council-agenda

 

Or in one PDF file  https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/agendas/09-16-2020_town_council_meeting_agenda.pdf

 

Franklin, MA: Town Council - Agenda - Sep 16, 2020

Commonwealth Magazine: delays in childcare licensing; "A color coded map is not a plan"

 From CommonWealth Magazine we share two articles of interest for Franklin:

"NICOLE MCCORMACK, a hairstylist from Haverhilll, always dreamed of opening a home daycare. So with her youngest son entering kindergarten, she started applying for a license in March.

Five months later, she has not been able to take the training courses required by the Department of Early Education and Care, and her licensing process is stalled. The delays have left her and several families who are interested in her daycare, either neighbors or people who saw her website, in limbo.

“There’s people that are calling, and I don’t know what to tell them, when I’ll be able to accept them,” McCormack said.

As many existing childcare providers struggle with the decision about whether to reopen amid the COVID-19 pandemic, a crop of potential new providers have been prevented from opening by pandemic-related delays in the state’s licensing process."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required) 

https://commonwealthmagazine.org/state-government/licensing-of-new-childcare-providers-on-hold/

"EVERY CITY AND TOWN in Massachusetts has spent months trying to figure out how to return to in-person schooling. We all know the social, emotional, and educational benefits for our children. We all know a fully functioning school system also primes the pump of our economy because it allows everyone to go to work. I recognize the importance not just as a mayor, but as a parent of four school-aged children. However, the stark reality is we’re in the midst of a pandemic with COVID-19 cases still cropping up all over our state.

What we have needed from the start is a real plan from the state and the support needed to implement it. We need pervasive surveillance testing so we can catch and isolate new cases before we suffer general outbreaks. We need robust contact tracing. We need to re-outfit ventilation systems in our schools and reorganize our classrooms. We need to have a rational understanding of how many other things in our society we can have open before we attempt to bring back our schools full-time. Instead, what we got last week was a color-coded map that provides no new information for those of us working on these issues.

I appreciate the bind in which Gov. Charlie Baker finds himself. Much of what we need to develop a sustainable reopening plan relies upon federal funding and support, and that’s a black hole from which no help is likely to emerge. However, a map is not a plan.

Municipal officials already are well aware of our local numbers. Yet it means very little that our community ranks as low risk of transmission when we have two extremely high risk communities, Everett and Chelsea, on our border and a school workforce that resides throughout the region. What happens in Everett and Chelsea happens in Somerville. Coronavirus doesn’t recognize city lines. If we’ve got an outbreak on our doorstep, then we need to respond like we’ve got an outbreak."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required) 

https://commonwealthmagazine.org/opinion/curtatone-a-color-coded-map-is-not-a-plan/

In the News: “remain open to a negotiated resolution"

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"A proposed question to allow more stores to sell beer and wine will not appear on the ballot this fall and its backers will instead work to put the question before voters in 2022.

Cumberland Farms, the Westborough-based convenience store giant that was leading the ballot initiative campaign, said Friday night that it is dropping its effort due to the COVID-19 pandemic’s impacts on the retail sector and the company’s corresponding need to focus more on the health and safety of its workers and customers.

“They deserve our undivided attention as we fulfill our ongoing commitment to safely providing essential services in cities and towns across Massachusetts. To that end, it’s become clear that leading an eight-figure ballot measure campaign is not a prudent course of action at this particular moment in history,” said Matt Durand, chairman of the ballot question committee and head of public policy at Cumberland Farms. “Make no mistake: The issue of safe and fair competition in the beverage alcohol marketplace remains a top legislative priority for Cumberland Farms and other food stores, just as it remains an important question of public policy for this commonwealth. As we’ve said from the beginning, we’re prepared to take this effort all the way to the voters if necessary. That position has not changed, and I look forward to the next biennial election cycle.”

The proposed question, according to the attorney general’s summary, would “create a license allowing food stores to sell wine and beer for off-premises consumption, progressively increase and then eliminate the limit on the number of licenses for the sale of alcoholic beverages consumed off-premises that any one retailer could own or control.”

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200627/cumberland-farms-drops-beer-and-wine-ballot-question

In the News: "a licensing process every three years"

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"Massachusetts would start a wide-ranging effort to crack down on police violence and improve transparency by implementing a certification system and stripping licensure from officers who commit egregious violations under a new bill Gov. Charlie Baker detailed Wednesday, following a wave of demonstrations where protesters have demanded immediate reforms.

Baker described the legislation as a “first step” toward creating a more just system, acknowledging that legislative leaders will likely attempt to build on his proposal to address other priorities beyond accountability.

Lawmakers who joined the governor at a Wednesday press conference said the legislation had been in the works for months, and Baker said the protests against police violence and systemic racism that have swept across the country in recent weeks have given the issue a new sense of urgency."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200617/gov-charlie-baker-rolls-out-first-step-of-police-reform-that-would-create-licensing-system-for-police-and-creating-statewide-database-tracking-system

Video link = https://youtu.be/zeleIb1GHTo

Town Council denies Dean College liquor license; approved trash/recycling fee increase

Briefly:

• The Council denied Dean College a liquor license to replace the daily/event based one they request up to 30 times a year. No issues ever over the years of this process, yet fears of future problems prevailed for Council vote. With one member absent, the vote was 4-4 hence failing
• The water resource map was updated as a formality and necessary to correct technical errors, this was approved as the last legislative item for action
• The coronavirus update by Town Administrator Jamie Hellen still seems inadequate for at least one Councilor. The plan was released for the phased re-opening of Town operations but it seems to have been not enough
• The trash recycling fee increase was approved 8-0-1 (1 absent, 8 for)
• Action on the Community Preservation Act was punted to a future (June?) meeting primarily for tworeasons, Pellegri's absence and concern over the 3% proposal, although the Council still seems to want to put it on the November ballot. And they have time to do so by voting to approve before October

My real-time notes for the Town Council meeting of May 6, a lengthy session on Wednesday night.

• Real time reporting underway for Town Council meeting tonight, #tc0506
• 8 of the 9 Council in attendance tonight (Pellegri absent) approx 26 total participating at start of meeting #tc0506
• Motion to approve minutes of March 22; seconded passed 8-0-1 via roll call (1 absent) #tc0506
• Jackie Maciel lives on Elm St regarding COVID-19 data as published, raising problem with the #s as reported; towns being held hostage by the cities. Makes reference to AG Barr. #tc0506
• Next item water resource map update for hearing, had been discussed in time BCE (before coronavirus era) required per state DEP, really a house cleaning item. #tc0506 TA Jamie Hellen provides update, No cost to it. Up to 29 participating now
• Need to update map due to zoning requirements for the water resource protection, a developer had a proposal stopped to an inaccurate map #tc0506
• Dean college license application for liquor as discussed in last meeting back up for discussion, and revised since last time per discussion. Modifications to address items raised last time. New license would replace the daily ones they had been using #tc0506
• Discussion continues, side issues of future, and safety, and would this license then lead to a brewery desire? No, not desired by Dean, trying to simplify the license process for the Town and Dean #tc0506
• Annual license actually provides more oversight and protection (than the 30 x daily licenses) which is what some Councilors are asking for but appear to be getting confused by the side issues they raise #tc0506
• TA Hellen provides summary and updates to various points raised during the discussion. #tc0506
• Roll call vote on the amendment to add the restrictions to the motion, passed 8-0-1 (1 absent) vote on measure itself: Bissanti no, Chandler no, Dellorco no, Kelly no, motion does not carry as it finishes with a 4-4-1 (1 absent) #tc0506
• Moving on to coronavirus update, up to 98 cases, approx 20/week. Plan on return dept by dept shared last week including Library contactless pickup/take out #tc0506 all Beaver St services open next week, only brush this week
• Councilor Jones asking for the plan when the TA already said that is further away. There is NO public access under the first wave of the plan released. Not ready to make those decisions, discussion still underway #tc0506
• Moving on to Community Preservation act, recap of what's been done to get here. Did include 3% surcharge along with the common exemptions, if to out on ballot for Nov, need to decide by October. #tc0506
• Concern on the 3% item, maybe go lower initially. Get it passed, and perhaps after we have had success raise it later. Bissanti asking for delay to allow Pellegri to participate. #tc0506 most community went with 3 for the additional match/round of funding available
• Can getting kicked down the road on this item, seeming for and mostly for 3% but deferring to Pellegri for her to weigh in at a meeting in June #tc0506
• 1- Budget subcomm update on discussion 5/4 with follow up meeting on 5/11 at 5:30pm #tc0506 2- EDC meeting on inclusionary zoning held, another to be scheduled meeting notes and audio posted
• Legislation up now, Bruins Grant of $75K for Fletcher field of basketball street hockey court under construction #tc0506
• Acceptance of gift passed 8-0-1 (1 absent) #tc0506
• Recycling/trash fee increase up for 2nd approval; chart of fees over the years shared previously, still below what we had been paying before we started single stream, vote 8-0-1 (1 absent)
• Next 5 items all up for approval are for the resulting agreements with various negotiation groups. First passed 8-0-1 (1 absent) these were discussed in executive session last week. All should pass by same vote hearing that. Second does
• Third passes, same vote; fourth passes, same vote and fifth passes by same vote - see agenda doc for details vote via roll call 8-0-1 (1 absent) #tc0506
• Zoning bylaw amendment 20-854 passed by 8-0-1 (1 absent)
• Wouldn't due justice to the council comments with this method of notes, listen to the replay for details. #tc0506 thanks to residents for patience and compliance during this. Thanks to the first responders for their work helping us all!
• Motion to adjourn, seconded, passed via roll call 8-0-1(1 absent)

The agenda and associated documents can be found online
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/05/franklin-ma-town-council-agenda-may-6.html

screengrab of virtual Town Council meeting 5/6/20

Franklin Residents: Dog License deadline is POSTPONED until June 1st

Dog License deadline is POSTPONED until June 1st

Dog licenses are now due on June 1, 2020. They can be paid online here https://franklinma.viewpointcloud.com/categories/1075 or payments can be made by check/money order in the white mailbox on the side of the municipal building. 

Shared from the Town of Franklin page
https://www.franklinma.gov/home/news/dog-license-deadline-postponed-until-june-1st
 

Top dog photos as of March 2, 2020

 

Franklin Residents: Dog License deadline is POSTPONED until June 1st