Talking about the Master Plan Committee with Glenn Jones - 02/06/23 (audio)

FM #941 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 941 in the series. 

This session of the radio show shares my conversation with Town Councilor Glenn Jones. We met in the Franklin TV & Radio Studio to talk about the opportunity to help develop the “Master Plan” for Franklin. 

The Committee was recently established by the Town Council (01/04/23 meeting). Glenn has just been appointed as Chair. Councilor Cobi Frongillo will be Vice-Chair and Councilor Melanie Hamblen will be Clerk of the committee.

Applications for the 6 resident members of the committee are open and due by March 3, 2023.

The audio recording runs about 38 minutes. Let’s listen to my conversation with Glenn on the Master Plan and all that it will involve. Audio file -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-941-master-plan-opportunity-with-glenn-jones-02-06-23

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Applications for the Master Plan committee and other volunteer opportunities as discussed https://www.franklinma.gov/home/news/town-volunteer-opportunities

Master Plan charter (Town Council resolution creating committee) ->

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/9h._23-07_master_plan_update_comm.pdf 

Master Plan from 2013 (full 200+ pages) ->

https://www.franklinma.gov/planning-community-development/files/master-pan-2013 

Master Plan from 2013 (abridged version) -> 

https://www.franklinma.gov/planning-community-development/files/goals-policies-and-implementation-plan 

Master Plan update as of 2020 ->

https://www.franklinma.gov/planning-community-development/files/2020-master-plan-update 

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

This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but we can't do it alone. We can always use your help.

How can you help?

• If you can use the information that you find here, please tell your friends and neighbors

• If you don't like something here, please let me know

Through this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.

For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/ or www.franklin.news/

If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com

The music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana"  c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.

I hope you enjoy!

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You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"

The current Master Plan was completed in 2013 and due for an update

Town of Franklin - School Recreation Facilities and Parks (ADA Compliance Included) - 2023 OSRP Update

Happy Tuesday All,

It's that time again - another OSRP focus group meeting! 

As a recap, the FCC held a meeting about "Municipal Recreation Facilities and Parks (ADA Compliance Included)" on January 26. In case you missed it, the recording of this meeting can be found here. Have ideas and suggestions for the Town about municipal recreation facilities and parks? All feedback, comments, and suggestions can be submitted through this Google Form at any point throughout the OSRP process; so it's definitely encouraged to utilize this platform to communicate your thoughts. Responses are routinely checked and we have been connecting with many residents about their feedback. We'd love to connect with you, too!

February 9 Focus Group 

The next OSRP focus group meeting (Topic: School Recreation Facilities and Parks (ADA Compliance Included) is this upcoming Thursday, February 9 from 6-7pm in Council Chambers at Town Hall. Can't attend this Thursday? Not a problem! A separate OSRP Office Hour meeting is available this Friday, February 10 from 10-11a in Room 326A at Town Hall. You are encouraged to attend either (or both!) meetings, ask questions, and provide feedback on your thoughts and ideas about School Recreation Facilities and Parks (ADA Compliance Included). Don't forget to sign the Communitree poster when participating at Town Hall, too! We'd love to fill every leaf on this tree with the name of your group or organization.

A recording of the meetings will be posted next week for additional viewing on the OSRP webpage. In an effort to promote engagement, all focus group meetings can be accessed remotely on Franklin TV and via Zoom. Please visit the Conservation webpage for the focus group meeting agendas and updated Zoom login information.

Community Survey

Be on the lookout for the OSRP survey postcard (example shown below) available next Monday, February 13 on all digital platforms, at various locations around Town, and in your email inbox. The survey will be available for two months or until mid-April. Once the survey is launched, please feel free to share with your organization and surrounding community. Participation in this survey will help Town staff create the vision for the OSRP that is reflective of resident priorities. In other words, "help us, help you" create the Franklin you want to see.

Public Hearing 1

Our first OSRP public hearing is scheduled for February 21, 2023 from 6-8 pm at the Franklin Senior Center, Multi-Purpose Room. Attendees will learn more about the OSRP and review progress from the previous 2016 OSRP. We've accomplished a lot together and are excited to celebrate the progress with you. 

Other Ways to Get Involved

Don't have time to attend a focus group or office hour meeting? Not a problem! You and your organization are encouraged to still provide feedback regarding the 2023 OSRP update at any time throughout the OSRP process. Here's how...

• Visit the OSRP webpage to stay current
• Sign up for Conservation news alerts to stay current
• Add the 2023 OSRP Update Calendar to your digital calendar to stay current on events
• Provide ideas and feedback for the 2023 OSRP by Google Form or email
• Schedule a 2023 OSRP presentation for your group or organization
• Share this email with other groups such as sibling Scout Troops, Recreation clubs, your mountain bike club, etc!

Additionally, all public engagement opportunities can be found on the OSRP webpage here and are available in person, via Zoom, and on Franklin TV. There are plenty of opportunities to get involved, so please don't hesitate to connect!

The next focus group meeting is on Schmidt's Farm on February 23. We know this is a big ticket item for the community so start brainstorming ideas now. In the meantime, feel free to utilize this OSRP map to become familiar with Schmidt's Farm digitally.

2023 OSRP Focus Group Meeting - Recreation School Facilities and Parks (ADA Compliance Included) - Thursday, February 9

2023 OSRP Focus Group Meeting Recreation School Facilities and Parks (ADA Compliance Included) 

Thursday February 9

The Conservation Commission will hold its third Open Space and Recreation Plan (OSRP) focus group meeting this Thursday, February 9 from 6-7 PM in Town Hall Council Chambers. This meeting will also be available via Zoom. Zoom login information can be found here. 

In case you'll miss the Thursday meeting or would like further discussion, you are also invited to attend OSRP Office Hours Friday, February 10 between 10 and 11a in the third floor training room (Room 326A) at Town Hall or via Zoom. 

Bring your ideas and see you there! 

Shared from -> https://www.franklinma.gov/conservation/news/2023-osrp-focus-group-meeting-recreation-school-facilities-and-parks-ada

2023 OSRP Focus Group Meeting - Recreation School Facilities and Parks (ADA Compliance Included) - Thursday, February 9

Town of Franklin has a number of Volunteer Opportunities - one of these could be a good fit for you!

Town Volunteer Opportunities

Davis-Thayer Building Reuse Advisory Committee, Master Plan, Police Station and more!

Have you ever desired to volunteer for a town board or committee to enhance the great quality of life in Franklin? Below is a list of open vacancies on town boards and committees, including three new committees that have recently been established on major community-defining projects in town.  

Board/ Committee	# of Vacancies
Davis-Thayer Building Reuse Advisory Committee (NEW) The Davis-Thayer Citizens committee will explore options for reuse of the former school.	5
Master Plan Update Committee (NEW)  Applicants should expect a 12-18 month process to develop a ten-year vision for the community, including town facilities, arts and cultural development, housing, infrastructure, open space and economic development and much more.  Read the current town-wide Master Plan.	6
Police Station Building Committee (NEW) Applicants must have a background in engineering or in construction management.  The committee will evaluate and plan a Police Station.	2
Cultural District Committee The Committee promotes arts and cultural development in the district as part of the Town's  certification with the Commonwealth.	3
Design Review Commission (DRC) The DRC recommends sign design and style to the Planning Board.	1 (Associate)
Franklin Cultural Council The Cultural Council awards grants to local arts organizations every year and assists in sponsoring major events like the Cultural Festival And Annual Arts Symposium.	2

To apply, submit a Volunteer Application Form.  Deadline to apply is March 3, 2023. 

Paper copy forms and prospective applicants may also visit in person or call the Town Administrator's Office at 508-520-4949 and speak with Executive Assistant, Julie McCann. The staff are willing to assist anyone submitting an application by not using the online application portal. 

Shared from the Town of Franklin page -> https://www.franklinma.gov/home/news/town-volunteer-opportunities

Town of Franklin has a number of Volunteer Opportunities - one of these could be a good fit for you!

In case you missed it - 2023 OSRP Focus Group Meeting - Municipal Recreation Facilities and Parks (ADA Compliance Included)

The Conservation Commission held its second Open Space and Recreation Plan (OSRP) focus group meeting last Thursday, January 26. It was a lively discussion and we are most grateful for everyone that attended to share feedback on Municipal Recreation Facilities and Parks - ADA Compliance Included. In case you missed it, you can watch the meeting recording here. 

The next focus group meeting is titled "School Recreation Facilities and Parks (ADA Compliance Included)" and is scheduled for Thursday, February 9 from 6-7p in Council Chambers at Town Hall. In an effort to ensure citizen engagement, residents will also be able to attend the meeting via Zoom. Zoom login information can be found here. 

As always, residents are welcomed to provide feedback on any topic throughout the entirety of the OSRP process. Ideas and comments can be submitted through this Google Form or by emailing bgoodlander@franklinma.gov.

Thanks for helping grow the Franklin Community and we look forward to seeing you on February 9!

Shared from -> https://www.franklinma.gov/conservation/news/case-you-missed-it-2023-osrp-focus-group-meeting-recording-municipal-recreation

2023 OSRP Focus Group Meeting

2023 OSRP Focus Group Meeting - Municipal Recreation Facilities and Parks (ADA Compliance Included) - Thursday Jan 26

2023 OSRP Focus Group Meeting - Municipal Recreation Facilities and Parks (ADA Compliance Included) 

- Thursday Jan 26 - 6 PM

The Conservation Commission will hold its second Open Space and Recreation Plan (OSRP) focus group meeting this Thursday, January 26 at 6 PM. 

In case you'll miss the meeting or would like further discussion, you are also invited to attend OSRP Office Hours Friday, January 27 between 10 and 11 AM in the third floor training room at Town Hall. 

Bring your ideas and see you there!

Shared from -> https://www.franklinma.gov/conservation/news/2023-osrp-focus-group-meeting-municipal-recreation-facilities-and-parks-ada

Town of Franklin begins planning to update the Open Space and Recreation Plan

The Town of Franklin Open Space & Recreation Plan Overview with Breeka Li Goodlander (audio)

 FM #922 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 922 in the series. 

This session of the radio show shares my introductory conversation with the Town of Franklin Conservation Agent Breka Li Goodlander, CWS, PWS. We had our conversation via conference bridge.  

This session we spend time talking about the Open Space & Recreation Plan (OSRP) now being updated

• OSRP is part of the Master Plan, a plan for a plan

• Inventory of open space & recreation assets

• Input from community to build plan, feedback from community on plan draft

• Series of focus groups, public forums, survey, etc. used to gather the input

The conversation runs about 16 minutes. Let’s listen to my conversation with Breeka Li. Audio file -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-922-town-of-franklin-open-space-recreation-plan-overview-01-12-23

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Open Space & Recreation plan update  https://www.franklinma.gov/conservation/pages/2023-open-space-and-recreation-plan-update 

Open Space and Recreation Update Launch Video  https://youtu.be/D4Xxuw3k4Z8

Schedule of focus group meetings, follow up office hours, public forums, etc. ->  https://www.franklinma.gov/conservation/news/case-you-missed-it-2023-osrp-first-focus-group-meeting-sports-and-rec-programming

Mass Gov OSRP website: https://www.mass.gov/service-details/open-space-and-recreation-plans

OSRP Masswoods handbook: https://masswoods.org/sites/masswoods.org/files/pdf-doc-ppt/Open%20Space%20Handbook.pdf

Mass Open Space Network: https://www.massopenspace.org/ (Many free, introductory webinars for homeowners re: Open Space, estate planning, Chapter 61, etc.)

Conservation page ->  https://www.franklinma.gov/conservation 

Contact info ->  Conservation Agent/Natural Resource Protection Manager

(508) 520-4847

For project updates and other Conservation related news and information, you may subscribe for Conservation updates  https://www.franklinma.gov/subscribe 

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

This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but we can't do it alone. We can always use your help.

How can you help?

• If you can use the information that you find here, please tell your friends and neighbors

• If you don't like something here, please let me know

Through this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.

For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/ or www.franklin.news/

If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com

The music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana"  c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.

I hope you enjoy!

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You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"

Town of Franklin begins planning to update the Open Space and Recreation Plan

Town Council Quarterbacking session with Chair Tom Mercer condenses the 2.5 hour meeting to about 35 minutes (audio)

FM #921 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 921 in the series. 

This shares my conversation with Town Council Chair Tom Mercer. This is one of a series of conversations meant to provide a recap of the prior Council meeting. Akin to one of the many sports post-game analysis broadcasts we are familiar with in New England,  this would be a discussion focused on the Franklin Town Council meeting of Jan 18, 2023: 

• ok, what just happened? 

• What does it mean for Franklin residents and taxpayers?

We cover the following key topics

• Presentation on the first year at the Senior Center by Director Danielle Hopkins and Deputy Director Christina Larose; introduction of multi year plan, service enhancements, etc.

• Storm water presentation, how to find your property on the map, and calculate your fee; Then discussion on the credit booklet and process for applying; business would apply every five years, residents yearly

• Announcement of the Town Council members for the four committees authorized at the prior meeting, some of these will start right away, some later this year. The application process for residents to express interest is still forthcoming. These are the Councilors who will lead the efforts as Chair, Vice-chair and Clerk.

 

Committee	Chair	Vice-chair	Clerk
Ad-Hoc Arts & Culture	Frongillo	Cormier-Leger	Hamblen
Master Plan	Jones	Frongillo	Hamblen
Davis Thayer Reuse	Pellegri	Sheridan	Cormier-Leger
Police Station Building	Mercer	Chandler	Dellorco

 Links to the meeting agenda and associated documents released for this meeting are included in the show notes. 

Our conversation runs about 39 minutes. Let’s listen to this session of Town Council Quarterbacking recorded Jan 19, 2023. Audio file -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-921-town-council-quarterbacking-01-19-23

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Meeting agenda and documents released for this session ->

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/agendas/january_18_2023_town_council_agenda.pdf

Watch the Franklin.TV video replay on YouTube ->  https://youtu.be/OcZywdfQ5eA 

My recap, notes, and audio -> https://www.franklinmatters.org/2023/01/town-council-hears-updates-on-senior.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

• 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 your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"

Town Council Quarterbacking session with Chair Tom Mercer condenses the 2.5 hour meeting to about 35 minutes (audio)