Franklin grease trap policy proposed to be formalized in Town bylaw (audio & video)

FM #1193 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1193 in the series. 

This session of the radio show shares the Franklin (MA) Economic Development Subcmte Meeting conducted on Wednesday, May 1, 2024.  The meeting was held at the Municipal Bldg and conducted in a hybrid manner. Chair Melanie Hamblen, Councilors Brian Chandler & Cobi Frongillo were in the Council Chambers. Councilor Sheridan was absent.

The meeting was scheduled to begin at 5:45 and actually started at 5:55 (not 6:55 as is announced by Chair Hamblen). There was technical difficulty with the Zoom video but not with the YouTube video or any channel audio. Turned out to be a setting in the meeting set up that turned the video off for this session. (Duly noted for future sessions).  

Quick summary

• Current policy across Health Dept, Building Inspection and DPW calls out the requirements for grease traps for commercial use. Those policies would be combined into one Town bylaw to formalize and remove possible confusion or contention as to which one takes precedence.

• The draft bylaw was recommended to be moved to the Town Council for their review and approval. This one would not need to include the Planning Board for review.

The meeting runs about 26 minutes.    Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1193-economic-development-subcmte-mtg-05-01-24

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Economic Development Subcmte page -> https://www.franklinma.gov/economic-development-subcommittee 

Meeting agenda ->  https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/agendas/2024-05-01_edc_agenda_packet.pdf 

Franklin TV video on YouTube -> https://www.youtube.com/live/YKganfWutTA?si=EJQ77tsztrptv4Mi&t=100

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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 www.franklin.news/ or  www.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"

Franklin grease trap policy proposed to be formalized in Town bylaw (audio & video)

Town Council after much discussion votes to set June 11 as date for a $6.8M Prop 2 1/2 override (audio in 2 parts) Town Council after much discussion votes to set June 11 as date for a $6.8M Prop 2 1/2 override (audio in 2 parts)

FM #1190-91 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1190-91 in the series. 

This session shares the Town Council meeting of Wednesday, May 1, 2024 in 2 parts. 

All 9 councilors took part in Chambers.

Part 1  (~2 hours)

Covers the first hour of the meeting

• Citizen Comments

• Approval of Minutes - March 13, 2024

• Proclamation: Chris Stearns, Franklin TV 

• Police Department - Introduction of Mental Health Clinician Caroline Ferris

• Appointment to Conservation Commission - Nicole Chiaramonte

• Presentation: FY23 Financial Audit - Scott McIntire, Partner, Marcum LLP

And then skips past the Override presentation to jump to the citizens comments on the override and then the closing of the meeting

Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1190-franklin-ma-town-council-mtg-05-01-24-part-1-of-2

Part 2 (~ 2 and a quarter hours)

Includes the entire section of the joint presentation by Town Administrator Jamie Hellen and School Superintendent Lucas Giguere including the Council question and answers

Many department heads also spoke for the pledge

Legislation for Action

• Resolution 24-19: Override Pledge to the Citizens of Franklin

• Resolution 24-20: Setting Date of Proposition 2 ½ Override Ballot

• Resolution 24-21: Proposition 2 ½ Override Ballot Question 

Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1191-franklin-ma-town-council-mtg-05-01-24-part-2-of-2

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The Franklin TV broadcast of the 4 hour plus session is available for replay on YouTube ->  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w9nkmKHkrxA 

Agenda and supporting documents for this session -> https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/agendas/fixed_tc_agenda_v4.pdf 

Joint presentation doc-> https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/4b._2024-05-01_override_pledge_presentation.pdf 

My notes captured via Twitter can be found in one PDF file -> https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Fv18ylsYtYhbaSiLXkEDkZLQkm8C-2Q1/view?usp=drive_link 

Photo album with the slides as captured during the presentation on Wednesday

https://photos.app.goo.gl/dDxgDMFrcXDaNqR78 

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

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 after much discussion votes to set June 11 as date for a $6.8M Prop 2 1/2 override (audio in 2 parts)

Town Council after much discussion votes to set June 11 as date for a $6.8M Prop 2 1/2 override (video)

The Franklin (MA) Town Council met as scheduled on May 1, 2024 in Council Chamber. All 9 Councilors were present along with a packed room. Participants were also on Zoom and YouTube.

Brief recap:

• Recognition of Chris Stearns for 20 years with Franklin TV
• Introduction of new mental health clinician Caroline Ferris 
• Approved appointment of Nicole Chiaramonte
• Presentation on the FY 2023 Financial Audit by Scott McIntire, Partner, Marcum LLP. Another clean audit result, all processes are good no issues identified, no management letter or actions.
• presentation on the possible override and pledge statement results in passage of three resolutions
1. vote of acceptance by Council of pledge (9-0)
2. sets date for override of June 11 (8-1, Pellegri no)
3. sets amount of override for $6.8 million (9-0)

Franklin TV video link -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w9nkmKHkrxA

Agenda and supporting documents ->

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/agendas/fixed_tc_agenda_v4.pdf

Photo album of the presentation screen grab along with screens from the meeting

https://photos.app.goo.gl/dDxgDMFrcXDaNqR78

Recognition of Chris Stearns for 20 years with Franklin TV

What's happening Wednesday, May 1, 2024?

Wednesday, May 1

10:00am Veterans Coffee Social
5:30pm SAFE Gala
6:30pm Franklin Art Association

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Meeting schedule

Board of Health Meeting

Event Date:  Wednesday, May 1, 2024 - 5:00 pm

Conference Room, 3rd Floor

• audio recording by Franklin Matters/Franklin Public Radio for podcast later

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/agendas/boh_agenda_5.1.24_-_google_docs.pdf

Franklin Public Schools Comprehensive Facilities Planning Sub Committee Meeting

Event Date:  Wednesday, May 1, 2024 - 5:00 pm

3rd floor training room

• audio recording by Franklin Matters/Franklin Public Radio for podcast later

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/events/franklin_public_schools_comprehensive_facilities_planning_sub_committee_meeting.pdf

Economic Development Subcommittee

Event Date:  Wednesday, May 1, 2024 - 5:45 pm

Council Chambers

• broadcast via cable to Comcast 9, Verizon 29
• broadcast to YouTube at  http://bit.ly/43lBwVE 
• Zoom info - 5:45 pm  EDC  LIVE Chambers  see agenda doc

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/agendas/2024-05-01_edc_agenda_packet.pdf

Town Council Meeting

Event Date:  Wednesday, May 1, 2024 - 7:00 pm

Council Chambers

• broadcast via cable to Comcast 9, Verizon 29
• broadcast to YouTube at  http://bit.ly/43lBwVE 
• Zoom info - 7:00 pm Town Council  LIVE Chambers  see agenda doc

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/agendas/tc_agenda_5.1.24.pdf

What's happening Wednesday, May 1, 2024?

Why are there multiple calendars?

There is a Cultural events calendar upon which other community events are layered to create the Community calendar.

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:

The Cultural calendar displays only the cultural events      https://www.franklinculture.org/things-do/pages/calendar

Find the full Community event calendar  https://www.franklinmatters.org/p/blog-page.html

Franklin, MA: Town Council Meeting Agenda for May 1, 2024 session

Franklin Town Council

Agenda & Meeting Packet

May 1, 2024 at 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 9 and Verizon Channel 29. This meeting may be recorded by others.

b. Chair to identify members participating remotely.

c. Upcoming Town Sponsored Community Events

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

a. Proclamation: Chris Stearns, Franklin TV 

b. Police Department - Introduction

i. Mental Health Clinician Caroline Ferris

5. APPOINTMENTS

a. Conservation Commission - Nicole Chiaramonte   https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/con_com_appointment_-_nicole_chiaramonte_v2.pdf

6. PUBLIC HEARINGS - 7:00 PM - None Scheduled

7. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS - None Scheduled

8. PRESENTATIONS / DISCUSSION

a. Presentation: FY23 Financial Audit - Scott McIntire, Partner, Marcum LLP   https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/8a._-_audit_for_presentation_-_franklin_ma_fs23_-_draft_v2.pdf

9. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION

a. Resolution 24-19: Override Pledge to the Citizens of Franklin

(Motion to Approve Resolution 24-19 - Majority Vote)

b. Resolution 24-20: Setting Date of Proposition 2 ½ Override Ballot

(Motion to Approve Resolution 24-20 - Majority Vote)   https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/9b._resolution_24-20_-_override_ballot_date.pdf

c. Resolution 24-21: Proposition 2 ½ Override Ballot Question

(Motion to Approve Resolution 24-21 - Majority Vote)   https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/9c._resolution_24-21_-_override_ballot_question.pdf

d. Resolution 24-22: Adoption of Fiscal Policies

(Motion to Approve Resolution 24-22 - Majority Vote)   https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/24-22_-_adoption_of_fiscal_policies_v4.pdf

e. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 24-906: Changes to §185-3. Definitions, Mixed Use Development Definition - Referral to the Planning Board  (Motion to Refer Zoning Bylaw Amendment 24-906 to the Planning Board - Majority Vote)   https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/24-906_907_908_-_3_zoning_bylaws.pdf

f. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 24-907: Changes to §185-21 Parking, Loading and Driveway Requirements, Elimination of Minimum Parking Requirements in Downtown Commercial Zoning District - Referral to the Planning Board

(Motion to Refer Zoning Bylaw Amendment 24-907 to the Planning Board - Majority Vote)   https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/9f._bylaw_amendment_24-907.pdf

g. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 24-908: §185 Attachment 7. Part VI, Addition of Mixed Use Development to Use Regulation Schedule - Referral to the Planning Board (Motion to Refer Zoning Bylaw Amendment 24-908 to the Planning Board - Majority Vote)   https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/9g._bylaw_amendment_24-908.pdf

h. Resolution 24-23: Acceptance of Gift - Town of Franklin ($300,000)

(Motion to Approve Resolution 24-23 - Majority Vote)   https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/24-23_-_gift_acceptance_-_king_st._playground_0.pdf

i. Resolution 24-24: Acceptance of Gift of Trees - Town of Franklin

(Motion to Approve Resolution 24-24 - Majority Vote)  https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/24-24_-_gift_acceptance_-_trees_trugreen_donation.pdf

j. Resolution 24-25: Acceptance of Gift - Conservation Commission ($50)

(Motion to Approve Resolution 24-25 - Majority Vote)   https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/24-25_-_gift_acceptance_-_conservation_commission_0.pdf

10. TOWN ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT

11. SUBCOMMITTEE & AD HOC COMMITTEE REPORTS

a. Capital Budget Subcommittee

b. Economic Development Subcommittee

c. Budget Subcommittee

d. Master Plan Committee

e. Davis-Thayer Reuse Advisory Committee

f. Police Station Building Committee

g. GATRA Advisory Board

12. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS

13. COUNCILOR COMMENTS

14. EXECUTIVE SESSION - None Scheduled

15. ADJOURN

Note: Two-Thirds Vote: requires 6 votes

Majority Vote: requires majority of members present and voting

The Agenda doc also contains remote participation info ->

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/agendas/town_council_may_1_2024_agenda.pdf

Franklin, MA: Town Council Meeting Agenda for May 1, 2024 session

Town Council and School Committee hear from residents for or against an override, for June, or for Nov (audio in 2 parts)

FM #1179-80 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1179-80 in the series. 

This session shares the Joint Town Council & School Committee meeting of Wednesday, April 24, 2024 in 2 parts. All 9 Town Councilors and all 7 School Committee members participated.  Many town and school department managers were also present in the first couple of rows of the auditorium.

Over 400 folks were in the FHS auditorium, another 2-300 were online via YouTube at one point or another (and that tallied 800+ unique individuals by the time the meeting ended).

Part 1 

Covers the first 90 minutes of the meeting

• Town Administrator Jamie Hellen presented the FY 2025 budget

• School Superintendent Lucas Giguere accompanied by Business Administrator Dr Bob Dutch presented the school budget and issues

Audio link P1 -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1179-joint-town-council-school-cmte-mtg-04-24-24-p1-of-2

Part 2

The remaining 1 hour and 40 minutes covered the public comment and question section. Speakers were allocated 1 minute, most kept to the point.

Audio link P2 -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1180-joint-town-council-school-cmte-mtg-04-24-24-p2-of-2

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The Franklin TV broadcast of the 3 hour plus session is available for replay on YouTube ->   https://www.youtube.com/live/xMN27_nBPUU?si=aeSWZvxA-SMPJ6wo

Agenda for this session -> 

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/agendas/april_10_2024_town_council_meeting_agenda.pdf 

Town presentation

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/2024-04-24_fy25_budget_update_joint_sc_tc_meeting.pdf

School presentation

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/fy25_super_budget_sc_tc_presentation_4_24_24.pdf

My notes captured via Twitter can be found in one PDF file -> 

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1h_7qKlYxPivFDjatz9mjtDg8lU-WMY_q/view?usp=drive_link 

Photo album with the slides as captured during the presentation on Wednesday

https://photos.app.goo.gl/qiHMQqYaertGjcqSA 

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

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"

best depiction of 4 budgets for the portrait of a graduate