Join us for a Jane's Walk in Franklin on Sunday, May 4 at 10 AM

Join Cobi Frongillo & Steve Sherlock NEXT SUNDAY (5/4) for our third annual walk around Downtown Franklin to reflect on placemaking and town planning.

The event is part of an annual international series of walks to honor the social activist Jane Jacobs.

Meet at the Depot St parking lot Sunday morning. We will leave at 10:00 AM and should meander back by 11:30 AM.

Join us for a Jane's Walk in Franklin on Sunday, May 4 at 10 AM

Shared from -> https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1AHWKwXMp5/

Find out more about Buliding Euitable Neighborhoos For Franklin (BEN 4 Franklin)  https://ben4franklin.org/

Town Council starts with recognitions before conducting business (audio)

FM #1433  This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1433 in the series. 

This session shares the Franklin (MA) Town Council Meeting of Wednesday, April 16, 2025. All 9 of the members participated in Council Chambers.   

 

Approx. 10-15 minutes of the recess for photos is excluded from the audio and replaced by a few seconds of music to mark the spot.

Quick recap:

School Committee Chair D Callaghan provided an update on recent meeting updates including the potential naming of the "Horace Mann Campus"

per Town Clerk, notification of election coming via mail re: the override election June 3. Postcard with QR code to register to vote, also includes a vote by mail application. Only one card to head of household not one per every voter

Proclamations and recognition for

•   the FHS Cheerleaders

•   the FHS boys basketball team

•   members of the Dean College Athletic Training first responders who saved the life of an individual at a recent athletic event

Appointment of the 2025 election workers was approved by unanimous vote

Public hearing conducted on 2 related bylaw changes to allow Shared-Use Commercial Kitchens in commercial zones. The Planning Board had approved also, these measures were moved to a second reading (at a future meeting)

Presentation and update on work being done by  Franklin Police Department Mental Health Clinician Division - Kallie Montagano, Clinician Program Manager

Followed by an update on the Franklin Crisis Action Team by Deputy Administrator Amy Friguiletti. Housing and temp shelter the top issue the FCAT group sees

Resolution 25-18: June 3, 2025 Election Early & Mail in Voting was approved unanimously. The scheduled early voting dates will be added to the Community calendar

A Zoning Bylaw to Amend Chapter 185, Section 24, Floodplain District - Referral to the Planning Board was approved unanimously. Apparently, the Town slipped in knowing that this had a 5 year life expectancy and was due to be updated. Only minor changes required but the due process is being initiated now with this referral

Approval for acceptance of gifts from the Robert Catalano family and estate was unanimous. It also led to a discussion on how the funds such as these are used. Mostly for programs but if there is something specifically funded, the Council would like to be notified.

Let’s listen to the meeting recording which runs about 2 hours and 53 minutes.  Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1433-town-council-mtg-04-16-25/

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

The Franklin TV video is available for replay -> https://www.youtube.com/live/C9jXhRmTTlI?&t=94 

The agenda and released documents can be found -> https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_04162025-1682

My full set of notes captured during the meeting

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1nIb72BBNqBkuEgMCgS9ggo5T5UR8A7BD/view?usp=drive_link 

Photo albums of the recognitions ->   https://photos.app.goo.gl/NFs8QPA39vzy5tzn8

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

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"

 

Rep Roy brought in 2 ancient lanterns for "2 Lights for Tomorrow"

Tom Mercer and I condense the 3 hour Town Council meeting to about 35 minutes (audio)

FM #1431 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1431 in the series. 

This session of the radio show shares our “Town Council Quarterbacking” with Town Council Chair Tom Mercer. We had our conversation via the Zoom Conference Bridge on Thursday, April 17, 2025.  

Our conversation condensed the Town Council meeting of April 16, 2025. 

We focus on two questions:

• ok, what just happened? 

• What does it mean for Franklin residents and taxpayers?

Topic for this session:

• School Committee Chair D Callaghan provided an update on recent meeting updates including the potential naming of the "Horace Mann Campus"

• per Town Clerk Nancy Danello, notification of election coming via mail re: the override election June 3. Postcard with QR code to register to vote, also includes a vote by mail application. Only one card to head of household not one per every voter

• Appointment of the 2025 election workers was approved by unanimous vote

• Resolution 25-18: June 3, 2025 Election Early & Mail in Voting was approved unanimously. The scheduled early voting dates will be added to the Community calendar

• Proclamations and recognition for 

• the FHS Cheerleaders, National Champs for 5th year

• the FHS boys basketball team, State Division 1 Champs

• members of the Dean College Athletic Training first responders who saved the life of an individual at a recent athletic event

• Public hearing conducted on 2 related bylaw changes to allow Shared-Use Commercial Kitchens in commercial zones. The Planning Board had approved also, these measures were moved to a second reading (at a future meeting)

• Presentation and update on work being done by  Franklin Police Department Mental Health Clinician Division - Kallie Montagano, Clinician Program Manager 

• Followed by an update on the Franklin Crisis Action Team by Deputy Administrator Amy Friguiletti. Housing and temp shelter the top issue the FCAT group sees

• A Zoning Bylaw to Amend Chapter 185, Section 24, Floodplain District - Referral to the Planning Board was approved unanimously. Apparently, the Town slipped in knowing that this had a 5 year life expectancy and was due to be updated. Only minor changes required but the due process is being initiated now with this referral

• Approval for acceptance of gifts

Let’s listen to my conversation with Tom as we recap the Town Council meeting. Approx. 35 minutes Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1431-town-council-quarterbacking-04-17-25/

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

The Franklin TV video is available for replay -> https://www.youtube.com/live/C9jXhRmTTlI?&t=94 

The agenda and released documents can be found -> https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_04162025-1682

My full set of notes captured during the meeting

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1nIb72BBNqBkuEgMCgS9ggo5T5UR8A7BD/view?usp=drive_link 

Photo album of the recognitions ->   https://photos.app.goo.gl/NFs8QPA39vzy5tzn8 

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

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"

Tom Mercer and I condense the 3 hour Town Council meeting to about 35 minutes (audio)

Town Council starts with recognitions before conducting business (video)

The Town Council met as scheduled Wednesday, April 16, 2025 with all nine members present for a 3 hour recogntions and business session.

The Franklin TV video is available for replay -> https://www.youtube.com/live/C9jXhRmTTlI?&t=94

The agenda and released documents can be found -> https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_04162025-1682 

Quick recap:

• School Committee Chair D Callaghan provided an update on recent meeting updates including the potential naming of the "Horace Mann Campus"
• per Town Clerk, notification of election coming via mail re: the override election June 3. Postcard with QR code to register to vote, also includes a vote by mail application. Only one card to head of household not one per every voter
• Proclaimations and recognition for 
• the FHS Cheerleaders
• the FHS boys basketball team
• members of the Dean College Athletic Training first responders who saved the life of an individual at a recent athletic event
• Appointment of the 2025 election workers was approved by unanimous vote
• Public hearing conducted on 2 related bylaw changes to allow Shared-Use Commercial Kitchens in commercial zones. The Planning Board had approved also, these measures were moved to a second reading (at a future meeting)
• Presentation and update on work being done by  Franklin Police Department Mental Health Clinician Division - Kallie Montagano, Clinician Program Manager
• Followed by an update on the Franklin Crisis Action Team by Deputy Administrator Amy Friguiletti. Housing and temp shelter the top issue the FCAT group sees
• Resolution 25-18: June 3, 2025 Election Early & Mail in Voting was approved unanimously. The scheduled early voting dates will be added to the Community calendar
• A Zoning Bylaw to Amend Chapter 185, Section 24, Floodplain District - Referral to the Planning Board was approved unanimously. Apparently, the Town slipped in knowing that this had a 5 year life expectancy and was due to be updated. Only minor changes required but the due process is being initiated now with this referral
• Approval for acceptance of gifts from the Robert Catalano family and estate was unaninmous. It also led to a discussion on how the funds such as these are used. Mostly for programs but if there is something specifically funded, the Council would like to be notified.

My full set of notes captured during the meeting

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1nIb72BBNqBkuEgMCgS9ggo5T5UR8A7BD/view?usp=drive_link

Photo albums of the recognitions ->   https://photos.app.goo.gl/NFs8QPA39vzy5tzn8

members of the Dean College Athletic Training first responders who save the life of an individual at a recent athletic event

"Implementation of MBTA Communities Law Continues with Nearly 70 Communities Approved"

"Permanent regulations for the MBTA Communities Law have been published and nearly 70 communities are now compliant or conditionally compliant.  

The MBTA Communities Law is working."

Shared from -> https://x.com/MA_EOHLC/status/1912119967509827710?

Read the full press release ->

https://www.mass.gov/news/implementation-of-mbta-communities-law-continues-with-nearly-70-communities-approved

The Town of Franklin is in the "Zoning has been adopted and/or submitted for review" category.

"Implementation of MBTA Communities Law Continues with Nearly 70 Communities Approved"

Franklin, MA: Agenda for Town Council meeting April 16, 2025

Franklin Town Council
Agenda & Meeting Packet
April 16, 2025 - 7 PM

 

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. In compliance with G.L. Chapter 30A, Section 20, the Open Meeting Law, the Council cannot engage in a dialogue or comment on a matter raised during Citizen Comments. The Town Council may ask the Town Administrator to review the matter. Nothing herein shall prevent the Town Administrator from correcting a misstatement of fact.

3.    APPROVAL OF MINUTES
a.    March 19, 2025

4.    PROCLAMATIONS / RECOGNITIONS
a.    Proclamation: Franklin High School Cheerleaders
b.    Proclamation: Franklin High School Boys Basketball Team
c.    Proclamation: The Dean College Athletic Training and Franklin Public Safety Departments
 

5.    APPOINTMENTS
a.    2025 Election Workers  https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/5217/5a---Appointments---Election-Workers
i.    See Exhibit 1 of Appointment Transaction in agenda packet for list of names

6.    PUBLIC HEARINGS - 7:00 PM

a.    Zoning Bylaw Amendment 25-927: A Zoning Bylaw to Amend Chapter 185, Section 3 of The Code Of The Town of Franklin, Definitions (Shared-Use Commercial Kitchen)
i.    Legislation for Action # 9b.  https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/5234/6a-1-Shared-Kitchen-Public-Hearing
b.    Zoning Bylaw Amendment 25-928: A Zoning Bylaw to Amend Chapter 185, Attachment 3, Use Regulation Schedule, Part II Principal Uses (Shared-Use Commercial Kitchen)
i.    Legislation for Action # 9c.   https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/5235/6b-Public-Hearing-Shared-Kitchens

7.    LICENSE TRANSACTIONS - None Scheduled
 

8.    PRESENTATIONS / DISCUSSION
a.    Franklin Police Department Mental Health Clinician Division - Kallie Montagano, Clinician Program Manager
b.    Franklin Crisis Advocacy Team - Amy Frigulietti, Deputy Town Administrator

9.    LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
a.    Resolution 25-18: June 3, 2025 Election Early & Mail in Voting
(Motion to Approve Resolution 25-18 - Majority Vote)   https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/5227/9a-25-18---6_3_25-Election-early-voting-and-vote-by-mail
b.    Zoning Bylaw Amendment 25-927: A Zoning Bylaw to Amend Chapter 185, Section 3 of The Code Of The Town of Franklin, Definitions (Shared-Use Commercial Kitchen) - First Reading (Motion to Move Zoning Bylaw Amendment 25-927 to a Second Reading - Majority Vote)
c.    Zoning Bylaw Amendment 25-928: A Zoning Bylaw to Amend Chapter 185, Attachment 3, Use Regulation Schedule, Part II Principal Uses (Shared-Use Commercial Kitchen) - First Reading
(Motion to Move Zoning Bylaw Amendment 25-928 to a Second Reading - Majority Vote)
d.    Zoning Bylaw Amendment 25-935: A Zoning Bylaw to Amend Chapter 185, Section 24,
Floodplain District - Referral to the Planning Board  https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/5236/9d-25-935-Floodplain
(Motion to Refer Zoning Bylaw Amendment 25-935 to the Planning Board - Majority Vote)
e.    Resolution 25-19: Acceptance of Gifts - Senior Center ($3,014.98), Veterans’ ($11,959.90)
(Motion to Approve Resolution 25-19 - Majority Vote)

10.    TOWN ADMINISTRATORS REPORT
 

11.    SUBCOMMITTEE & AD HOC COMMITTEE REPORTS

a.    Town Administrator Evaluation Ad Hoc Subcommittee Report (Vote to Accept)  https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/4568/2025-TA-Evaluation
b.    Capital Budget Subcommittee
c.    Economic Development Subcommittee
d.    Joint Budget Subcommittee
e.    Police Station Building Committee
f.    GATRA Advisory Board

12.    FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS

13.    COUNCIL COMMENTS

14.    EXECUTIVE SESSION - None Scheduled

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

 

 

Franklin, MA: Agenda for Town Council meeting April 16, 2025

Franklin Town Council sets June 3 for date of Override vote on $3,862,672 to balance FY 2026 budget (audio)

FM #1412  This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1412 in the series. 

This session shares the Franklin (MA) Town Council Meeting of Wednesday, March 19, 2025. 8 of the 9 of the members participated in Council Chambers (1 absent - Dellorco).  

Quick recap:

• after approval of 2 prior meeting minutes, the Council get to the key item and after a brief discussion took two votes; 

• one to approve the amount and ballot question text 

• the second to set the date, Tuesday, June 3, 2025 for the override

• both votes were 8-0-1 (1 absent)

• The School Committee had met earlier that evening and voted unanimously to support the override vote. Chair Dave Callaghan and Vice-Chair David McNeill stood up to make that announcement during the discussion

• Other legislation for action on the minimum item agenda for the evening; 2 items to extend the sewer and water lines to a new residence that had already been approved in the first vote both received the passing vote by the same 8-0-1 vote (1 absent) via roll call

• A resolution accepting gifts to the Veterans services was approved and thanks extended

• Town Administrator's Report

• Jamie acknowledged receipt of a letter from Archbishop Henning commending the work of the Fire Dept on the St Mary's Church fire. He had just recently attended the re-opening masses. The letter will be posted to the Town pages

• The lease for Town use of the Ferrara's parking lot was signed to extend the agreement for 5 years

• The final approvals on the deed and associated documents for the Old South Church were completed and to be handed over to Habitat for Humanity so the docs can be filed with the Registrar of Deeds, and work can begin to renovate the building for a residence

• After a round of Councilor comments, the meeting closed

Let’s listen to the meeting recording which runs about 1 hour and 38 minutes.  Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1412-town-council-mtg-03-19-25/

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

Franklin TV video for replay of meeting -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GoNPkBHRLzI 

The agenda doc released for the meeting ->    https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_03192025-1639 

My full set of notes taken during the meeting (in one PDF) -> https://drive.google.com/file/d/1TPEkxHcViPCNwOGHmiydPVt1rGW5Xy05/view?usp=drive_link  

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

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"

Franklin TV video for replay of meeting -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GoNPkBHRLzI