Franklin, MA: agenda for Economic Development Subcmte Mtg - Weds, July 16 - 5:45 PM

Economic Development Subcommittee 

Agenda & Meeting Packet

July 16, 2025 - 5:45 PM

Meeting will be held at the Municipal Building 

Council Chambers, 2nd Floor, 355 East Central Street *

Agenda:

1. Discussion and Recommendation of creating the Crossing Neighborhood Zoning District

a. Department of Planning & Community Development Memo  https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/6226/1a-DPCD-Memo---Crossing-Neighborhood-Zoning-District---71625

b. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 25-929: Creation of the Crossing Neighborhood Zoning District  https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/6225/1b-ZONING-BYLAW-ADMENDMENT-25-929---Crossing-Neighborhood-District---Definition

c. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 25-930: Zoning Map Changes  https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/6227/1c-ZONING-BYLAW-ADMENDMENT-25-930---Crossing-Neighborhood-District---Zoning-Map

d. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 25-931: Use Regulations  https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/6228/1d-ZONING-BYLAW-ADMENDMENT-25-931---Crossing-Neighborhood-District---Use-Regulation-Schedule

e. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 25-932: Lot, Area, Frontage, Yard, Height Requirements   https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/6229/1e-ZONING-BYLAW-ADMENDMENT-25-932---Crossing-Neighborhood-District---Dimensional-Regulations

f. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 25-933: Parking, Loading, Driveway Requirements  https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/6231/1f-ZONING-BYLAW-ADMENDMENT-25-933---Crossing-Neighborhood-District---Parking-etc-reqs

g. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 25-934: Changes to Ch. 185, Sections 3, 4, 20, 31  https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/6230/1g-ZONING-BYLAW-ADMENDMENT-25-934---Crossing-Neighborhood-District---Chapter-185-Sections-3-4-20-31

2. Discussion and Recommendation on eliminating “Use Variances” from the authority within the Zoning Board of Appeals   https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/6235/2-1---DPCD-Memo---Crossing-Neighborhood-Zoning-District---71625

3. Update on 2026 World Cup preparation

4. 2024-25 Town Council/Administrator EDC Goals Review

a. Discussion on priorities of Master Plan, Housing Production Plan, Franklin For All plans   https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/6233/2024-2025-EDC-Goals

The complete agenda also includes remote participation info -> https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/Economic-Development-Subcommittee-7/?#_07162025-1818

Franklin, MA: agenda for Economic Development Subcmte Mtg - Weds, July 16 - 5:45 PM

* Note: due to equipment failure in the Studio for the Council Chambers, the meeting may move to the Studio in the 3rd Floor Training Room. (Remote info won't change)

Franklin School Committee Policy Subcommittee Meeting - May 13 - 6 PM

FRANKLIN SCHOOL COMMITTEE

Policy Subcommittee Meeting

DATE: 5/13/25 TIME: 6:00

G E N D A

“The listing of matters are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair which may be discussed at the meeting. Not all items listed may, in fact, be discussed, and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by law.”

I. Attendance

II. Distribution of Approved Policies

A. ACA - Nondiscrimination on the basis of Sex

B. Elimination: ACA-R - Nondiscrimination on the basis of Sex Under Title IX including sex based harassment

III. Discussion of Policies sent to School Committee

A. FF - Naming Facilities

B. KCDA - Memorial Commemorations

IV. Policy Revisions & New Policies - New Discussion Item

A. User Fees 2025

B. EB - Safety Program C. EBB - First Aid

D. EBC - Emergency Plans

E. EBCD - Emergency Closings F. BIA - New School Committee Member Orientation

The agenda doc has remote participation info ->   https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_05132025-1737  

 

Franklin School Committee Policy Subcommittee Meeting - May 13 - 6 PM

 

School Committee Policy Subcommittee recommends consideration of "Horace Mann Campus" (audio)

FM #1423 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1423 in the series. 

This session shares the Franklin (MA) School Committee Policy Subcmte meeting held on Tuesday, April 8, 2025. All 3 members participated, Chair O’Sullivan, members Callaghan, McNeill.  Supt Giguere, Ops Director Boisvert, and Dr Rogers representing the Central Office.

Quick recap:

• Supt Giguere sets the stage with some background on how this topic has developed during the redistricting efforts first updated in Dec 2024, then in Jan 2025 to act on the notification to Police, Fire, and DESE on the temporary naming of the new schools operating in the buildings that remained operational in the District

• Some members of the community have misunderstood the delay in allowing the new middle school community to work to develop their identity “as the Schools doing away with Horace” which was not or ever the case, however

• Mercer - Horace Mann is a central source of civic pride and if you wrap the district around H Mann then the community will come along

• J Johnston with the story of H Keller and some of the not so good aspects of her background; Remington was president of Thompson Press and a 20 year SchCmte Member along with other committees in service of the community, definitely worthy of remembering. H Mann you know, he was all for total equality and public education, he wanted teachers trained for their position and not just someone who could do it

• Proposal for the 'campus' i.e. all of the complex including the High school to be designated as such to get ahead of the other conversations so that the Town business doesn't get distracted by this naming convention iitem

• Subcmte discussion on approval for the Central Office to move forward with the Horace Mann campus and potentially a committee to foster the honoring as it goes forward. So moved, passes 3-0 via roll call

• Transportation conundrum - previously a bus/busses included a stop on their routes to drop kiddos off at the Y, with the redistricting such could not easily be done; would likely require adding back a bus on a different slot and results in a cost estimated as low as 45K and as high as $85K. Discussion around options but none prevailed and the “conundrum” remained

• Given the timing (needing to close this session to get to the full committee meeting), the topic on a letter to support the alternative funding being discussed within the Legislature was mentioned briefly, Callaghan to add some stats from the Franklin TV deck presented earlier to the draft in hand and review further in another session

• Motion to adjourn, passes 3-0 

The recording runs about 54 minutes, so let’s listen in. Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1423-school-cmte-policy-subcmte-mtg-04-08-25/

 

 

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The meeting agenda can be found -> https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_04082025-1668 

The Town Council memo as discussed -> https://drive.google.com/file/d/1CCDx8c4zn4ZVUr0EYQy1snpygRVLzxHO/view?usp=drive_link 

My full set of notes taken during the meeting can be found in one PDF ->

https://drive.google.com/file/d/14gUGQ0N6s5bMiGwhbHegsRcxfkZUCirY/view?usp=drive_link 

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

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

How can you help?

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

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

• And if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach. We’ll share and show you what and how we do what we do

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

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

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

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

I hope you enjoy!

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

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

School Committee Policy Subcommittee recommends consideration of "Horace Mann Campus" (audio)

Charter school trustees and subcommittee members sought

For over 20 years, the Benjamin Franklin Educational Foundation (BFEF) has played a vital role in supporting the growth and development of the Benjamin Franklin Classical Charter Public School (BFCCPS). Originally focused on funding capital improvements, BFEF’s mission has evolved to encompass a broader range of initiatives that enhance the student experience beyond what tuition alone can provide. From facility upgrades and staffing infrastructure to academic enrichment and parent education forums, BFEF is committed to securing the school's future by diversifying its funding sources.

Charter school trustees and subcommittee members sought

As the landscape of public education funding faces uncertainty, we turn to our community—current families, alumni, and supporters—to help sustain the exceptional, well-rounded education that defines BFCCPS. Now, more than ever, your involvement can make a meaningful impact.

The Foundation is actively seeking trustees and subcommittee members to help drive its mission forward. Whether you have experience in fundraising, event planning, or expanding academic and extracurricular programs—or simply a passion for supporting our students and educators—there’s a place for you here. Join us in shaping the next chapter of BFCCPS and ensuring its legacy of excellence continues for generations to come.

If you are interested in learning more please email us at: [Info@bfefoundation.org](mailto:Info@bfefoundation.org).

Shared from -> https://www.facebook.com/share/p/15HPuSqipB/

Capital Budget Subcmte reviews the capital budget proposal & recommends to Town Council (audio)

FM #1367 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1367 in the series. 

This session shares the Capital Budget Subcmte Meeting held Wednesday, January 29, 2025 in the Council Chambers. All four members participated. 

 

1. FY25 Capital Plan & Subcommittee recommendations 

a. Town Administrator Memo  

https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/4098/2025-01-29-CBSC-Agenda---1a-FY25-Capital 

b. FY25 Department Summary Requests & Capital Plans  

https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/4117/1b---Capital---Dept-Requests-and-5-Year-Plans 

c. Quotes  

https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/4116/1c-Quotes 

The votes to approve all recommendations were 4-0

The agenda doc https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_01292025-1526

The recording runs about 3 hours , so let’s listen in. Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1367-capital-budget-subcmte-mtg-01-29-25/

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My full set of notes in one PDF ->   

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1GNNvCsoWOmoEZ8ReL0iqH6B9MO9Moj96/view?usp=drive_link 

Franklin TV video links -> https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/01/capital-budget-subcmte-reviews-capital.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

• And if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach. We’ll share and show you what and how we do what we do

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

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

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

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

I hope you enjoy!

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

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

The "free cash" allocation overview for the capital budget proposal 

Capital Budget Subcommittee

Joint Budget Subcmte Listening Session goes 3 hours; quite a few questions & lots of listening (video)

The first in the series of SIX Joint Budget Listening Sessions was held at the Elks Lodge on Thursday evening, Jan 30, 2025. 

The Franklin TV video is available for replay ->   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HWIm5bsscs0

The agenda packet includes:

a. Town Administrator FY26 Budget Update #4 Memorandum - https://www.franklinma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/4201/Town-Administrator-FY26-Budget-Update-4-Memorandum-

b. Updated FY26 Budget Model (1/30/25)  - https://www.franklinma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/4191/02b-FY26-Budget-Control-Sheet---Control-Summary

c. Estimated Override Matrix  - https://www.franklinma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/4190/02c-Override-Tax-Rate-Impact-Calculationxlsx---Sheet1

d. Board of Assessors Request Letter  https://www.franklinma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/4189/02d-Board-of-Assessors-Support-for-Administrative-Assistant

My set of notes taken during the meeting can be found in one PDF

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1DK7FArRJNsgwnwdXSehJtDtQRbleA0x8/view?usp=drive_link

I will put together a brief summary and takaways in the next day or so to share with the audio of this session.

9 of the 10 members of the Joint Budget Subcmte plus Hellen & Giguere

There was room at the Elks at the opening and still room at the end

Capital Budget Subcmte reviews the capital budget proposal & recommends to Town Council (video)

The Capital Budget Subcommittee met as scheduled on Wednesday, Jan 29 at 7 PM. All four members were present in Chambers.

Franklin TV video is available for replay -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oU2Z065FX-g

The agenda doc ->

https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_01292025-1526

Quick recap

• Comments by the committee members opening the meeting, acknowledging the work of the Finance Committee, seemed like this could be a short session. 3 hours later, the meeting adjourned. All the budget items as presented were approved by 4-0 votes
• The Town Council will now take these up at one of their February meetings

My full set of notes taken during the meeting can be found in one PDF

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1GNNvCsoWOmoEZ8ReL0iqH6B9MO9Moj96/view?usp=drive_link

The capital budget proposal on the agenda for the Capital Budget Subcommittee Wednesday

Capital Budget Subcommittee

What's happening in Franklin, MA: Wednesday, January 29, 2025 ???

Wednesday, January 29

• Fiber Art Installation (Franklin Public Library) 
• Last days to buy Music Booster calendar raffle for February

1:00pm Scribblers Writing Group (recording session) (Franklin TV Studio)

7:00pm FHS Jazz Concert (Franklin High School)

**   Town Meetings today   **

Capital Budget Subcommittee Meeting

January 29, 2025, 7:00 PM

https://franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_01292025-1526

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Why are there multiple calendars?

What's happening today in Franklin? 

Respectfully, the Library and Senior Center calendars are too full of events to include all their events so we tend to focus on the major events. Town and School meetings are also kept separate. Links for all the calendars are shared here:

Find the full Community event calendar  https://bit.ly/FranklinCommunityCalendar

If you have an event to add to the calendar, you can use the form to submit it for publication:  https://bit.ly/Submit2Calendar

The Library calendar of events ->    calendar link

The Senior Center calendar of events ->   https://www.franklinma.gov/calendar.aspx?CID=37&showPastEvents=false

The Town meeting calendar is found  https://www.franklinma.gov/Calendar.aspx
The School district calendar is found  https://franklinpublicschooldistrictma.sites.thrillshare.com/o/fpsd/page/school-calendars

Capital Budget Subcommmittee to review the FY 2026 capital budget - Jan 29 - 7 PM

The Capital Budget Subcommittee of the Town Council gets to review and vote on the capital budget at their session Wednesday night.

The Finance Committee reviewed this capital budget among the items on its agenda at their Jan 15 meeting. The recap, audio and video links are available here ->  https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/01/finance-committee-approves-recommended_0799398139.html

FY25 Capital Plan & Subcommittee recommendations 

a. Town Administrator Memo  

https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/4098/2025-01-29-CBSC-Agenda---1a-FY25-Capital

b. FY25 Department Summary Requests & Capital Plans  

https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/4117/1b---Capital---Dept-Requests-and-5-Year-Plans

c. Quotes  

https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/4116/1c-Quotes

The capital budget proposal on the agenda for the Capital Budget Subcommittee Wednesday

The Capital Budget Subcommittee agenda ->   https://franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_01292025-1526

The meeting will be broadcast to Comcast & Verizon subscriber as well as to Zoom and to YouTube  https://bit.ly/FTV-TownHall