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Providing accurate and timely information about what matters in Franklin, MA since 2007. * Working in collaboration with Franklin TV and Radio (wfpr.fm) since October 2019 *
Thursday, April 7, 2016
Circle of Friends Coffeehouse: Tickets for shows this Fall now on sale!
April is Autism Awareness month
April is Autism Awareness month. In conjunction with Autism Awareness Month:
The Franklin Police Department has posted a new form on its website. The form is for first responders and is designed to assist them in a search or interaction with a person who is on the Autism Spectrum.
It has space for a description, emergency contact information, other characteristics and a photo can be attached. If you have an Autistic Child or adult that you care for and would like to submit a form for us to have on file should we need to assist your loved one the link is attached.
Paper copies are available at Franklin Police Dispatch also.
All information will be kept strictly confidential.
The form
http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_Police/forms/Autism%20Elopement%20Alert%20Form%20Fillable.pdf![]() |
Franklin Police - 911 Panther Way |
In the News: Council approves sidewalk project, Red Cross blood drive, Temple schedules seder, FHS SADD schedules walk
From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin
Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160406/franklin-council-approves-sidewalk-project
Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160406/american-red-cross-to-hold-franklin-blood-drive
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160406/temple-etz-chaim-to-host-community-seder-for-passover
Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160406/franklin-high-school-to-hold-sadd-walk-of-tears
"Residents attending the Town Council meeting Wednesday night applauded after the council approved a $1.8 million sidewalk project.
The council unanimously approved the work, which would install new sidewalks and repair existing sidewalks along Pleasant and Chestnut streets.
Town Administrator Jeffrey Nutting said the matter came before the council last year, with the body voting to devote $50,000 for the design of the sidewalk. The town had subsequently gone out to bid on the project, with the total cost coming to about $1.8 million."
Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160406/franklin-council-approves-sidewalk-project
"The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive from 2 to 7 p.m. April 21 at the Franklin Elks Lodge, 1077 Pond St.
Eligible donors can give red blood cells through either a regular whole blood donation or a double red cell donation, where available. During a double red cell donation, two units of red blood cells are collected while most of the plasma and platelets are returned to the donor. Double red cell donors must meet additional eligibility criteria, which will be determined at the donation appointment."
Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160406/american-red-cross-to-hold-franklin-blood-drive
"Temple Etz Chaim will host its annual Second Night of Passover Community Seder at 6 p.m. April 23 at the Franklin Federated Church, 171 Main St.
The event will include Four Questions, matzo ball soup, chopped liver, brisket and traditional Passover desserts. A vegan option will be available.
Tickets will be discounted prior to April 18.
For information and payment arrangements: 508-528-5337; temple-etzchaim.org."
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160406/temple-etz-chaim-to-host-community-seder-for-passover
"The annual Students Against Drunk Driving Walk of Tears, in memory of Maura Howard, a graduate of King Philip Regional High School and Amy Callaghan, of Franklin High School, both victims of drunken-driving accidents, will take place at 11 a.m. May 1 at Franklin High School, 218 Oak St.
Registration begins at 10:30 a.m., followed by the ceremony; the walk will begin at 11 a.m. The walk is approximately 3 miles, and refreshments and water will be available."
Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160406/franklin-high-school-to-hold-sadd-walk-of-tears
Wednesday, April 6, 2016
Live reporting: to Closing
K. TOWN ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT
Nutting
downtown project underway again
Hellen
The town is now on YouTube, go visit
the town signed a new contract to convert the website
L. OLD BUSINESS
Bissanti -
farm retail stand, draft due in two weeks
alcohol - notifications coming
Pellegri - is there a way to deal with problems with the builder
a private proprty matter, town has no legal jurisdiction
it is a fight between the condo association and the builder
we legally have no standing in their issue
Padula -
how is the playground coming along?
need to pour the concrete
still expected to be out at end of April to finish the work
M.NEW BUSINESS
Pellegri
a proclamation for people celebrating those turning 100 years old
N. COUNCIL COMMENTS
Jones - reads the Chief's announcement on autism awareness (to be posted to FM on Thursday)
did meet with Hellen and Sherlock on communications for Franklin
Jamie has been doing some excellent things
Dellorco
shout out for District Attorney to get 5 of us down to Atlanta for the drug summit
there is heavier stuff coming, it is already down south
1st drop in center at St Johns on Pleasent St
Bissanti
a great night to be a councilor, the sidewalks and recreation
I think the people are seeing and noticing that
Eagle scouts program at Methodist church coming
Pfeffer
lottery held for two affordable houses
seven candidates, 2 Franklin residents chosen
signed the P&S today
Library party on Friday, it closes this Friday
need some lights on Kenwood Circle, bids opening tomorrow
Pellegri
thanks to Roger for taking care of 150 Emmons
thanks to Steve Sherlock for the pictures taking all around town
May and June will be really started
statue making progress also
O. EXECUTIVE SESSION
not needed
P. ADJOURN
motion to adjourn, passed 8-0
Live reporting: Legislation for Action
I. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS
EDC meeting did discuss the blight bylaw
does the current bylaw have enough teeth in it?
yes, with the help of our building inspector, the attorney general's office is involved and working well
I think it is working, used with four properties are in the process
as far as commercial goes, looking for grant funds along the Downtown Partnership
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2016/04/franklin-ma-town-council-agenda-april-6.html
J. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
1. Resolution 16-17: Ratification of AFSCME Local 1298, Public Telecommunications
8th contract agreed to this year, inline with other contracts
2. Resolution 16-18: Appropriation: Elections Expenses
3. Resolution 16-19: Appropriation: Veteran’s Benefits
4. Resolution 16-20: Appropriate and Authorize the Borrowing of Funds to Pay Costs of the Purchase of Sidewalks and Related Work – 2/3 Vote
5. Proposed FY 16 Capital Plan - Memo
no action required (action covered in Resolution 16-23)
http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_Council/Agenda/FY%2016%20Capital%20Plan.pdf
6. Resolution 16-21: Appropriation: Fire Truck Stabilization Fund
Finance Committee vote unanimous to approve
part of the plan for paying for the trucks on a regular basis, put money aside
money to stabilization funds require a 2/3rd vote
http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_Council/Agenda/resolution%20stabfd%2016-21%20firetruck.pdf
read in for the record the listing of the 16-23 items before taking the vote on 16-21 (which did pass)
7. Resolution 16-22: Appropriation: Athletic Fields Capital Improvement Stabilization Fund
http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_Council/Agenda/resolutionstabfd%2016-22%20athleticfields.pdf
similar to the fire truck process, saving money to replace the turf fields eventually, need a bid process, will also plan to resolve the infill to be used before the fields are replaced
need to keep the community informed on the infill material prior to any decision
Jones - I am glad this is starting to be addressed
Kelly - I am aware of a number of meetings on this
8. Resolution 16-23: Appropriation: Capital, FY 16
Finance Committee vote unanimous to approve $1,938,607.09
see listing of items in agenda documents
http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_Council/Agenda/resolution%20capital%2016-23%20FY16.pdf
plan presented an reviewed by FinCom and Council subcommittee, free cash down from last year, so choices had to be made
Fire Station #2 roof is about 15 years old and needs to be replaced due to water issues from leaks in 'old' roof
9. Resolution 16-24: Appropriation: Water Enterprise Capital FY 16
http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_Council/Agenda/resolution%20wtr%20Enterprise%20capital%2016-24.pdf
study on wells 3 and 6
water and sewer on enterprise accounts supported by the rates paid by the users
the 'excess' money in the accounts is planned for usage for the capital accounts and other sundry expenses
10. Resolution 16-25: Appropriation: Sewer Enterprise Capital FY 16
http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_Council/Agenda/resolution%20swr%20Enterprise%20capital%2016-25.pdf
haven't upgraded the doors in a number of years, difficult to get in with multiple keys, replacing doors and key systems
11. Resolution 16-26: Appropriation: Recreation Improvements
http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_Council/Agenda/16-26%20Recreation%20improvements.pdf
Jones - anything we can do to support the children in athletics should be done
Nutting - hats off to Carlos and his folks for doing the good work
Bissanti - It almost makes me want to be a kid again in this town
12. Bylaw Amendment 16-757: Amending the Code of the Town of Franklin by Adding a New Chapter to Require That Property Owners Provide Notification to Public Safety Officials of the Existence of Certain Structures And/Or Uses – 1st Reading
motion to move to second reading, seconded, passed 8-0
Chief McCarragher
1st to alert firefighters about the solar panels on roofs, can be an electrical hazard
can be more easily seen on pitched roofs, hard to see on flat roofs
signage requested for front of building
also on file with fire dept so they can have record of it
if you have had solar put on in the last few years, this does not apply
also needing info on hazardous materials
health hazards have a rating system to indicate the nature of the hazards contained within the buildings
help to save the firefighters from exposure
as the industrial parks emptied out, it was less of an issue
as the economy is picking up, the occupancy is growing, this adds a redundant layer of info
Jones - police and fire may shut off power at the house, solar is usually constantly live however, so this can be a help
Pfeffer - we have a major marijuana growing facility, what notifications do they have
McCarragher - I'd defer to the police chief, I do have a story on the permitting process that they went through, those plant growing facilities do consume a lot of electricity
Pellegri - question on a new chapter?
Cerel - it is really focused on property owners and made sense to make it separate from the hazardous material bylaw
Pellegri - we have so many permits required, who is doing that? 13 permits is too many, we should review that
McCarragher - we do have a couple of people who do this in their down time
EDC meeting did discuss the blight bylaw
does the current bylaw have enough teeth in it?
yes, with the help of our building inspector, the attorney general's office is involved and working well
I think it is working, used with four properties are in the process
as far as commercial goes, looking for grant funds along the Downtown Partnership
- Links for the associated documents can be found here
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2016/04/franklin-ma-town-council-agenda-april-6.html
J. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
1. Resolution 16-17: Ratification of AFSCME Local 1298, Public Telecommunications
- motion to approve, seconded, passed 8-0
8th contract agreed to this year, inline with other contracts
2. Resolution 16-18: Appropriation: Elections Expenses
- motion to approve, seconded, passed 8-0
3. Resolution 16-19: Appropriation: Veteran’s Benefits
- motion to approve, seconded, passed 8-0
4. Resolution 16-20: Appropriate and Authorize the Borrowing of Funds to Pay Costs of the Purchase of Sidewalks and Related Work – 2/3 Vote
- motion to approve, seconded, passed 8-0 (via role call)
estimate came in with bids less than forecasted, could get started this year and possible get most if not all this year, finish next year
down Pleasant to Griffin, then up Chestnut to RT 140
Padula - clarification, answered by Nutting
Max Morrengello
thanks for taking on this issue, great for property values and safety
Bill Leonard
thank you to Jeff for his ease of communication, the roads are a raceway
from a quality of life perspective, it is a going to be a good thing
thanks for being forward thinking an appropriating the funds for this
Christy
part of the Master Plan committee
am very much in favor of this
I want to remind you of the Master Plan goal to make this more walkable and bikeable
make DelCarte more accessible and to the other resources
a worthwhile investment
Donna Grant
long fellow drive,
little fellows here went door to door to get notices out
they are my grandchildren and I applaud your good wisdom
Joanne Philip
our sons are about to be able to walk to school up the street
thanks for making this a safer place to race our kids
Jim Hill
30 years ago we lived on Pleasant St
26 years ago we moved away from the lack of safety issues
a car had crashed into the pole in front of our house
I commend the Council for this issue
no action required (action covered in Resolution 16-23)
http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_Council/Agenda/FY%2016%20Capital%20Plan.pdf
6. Resolution 16-21: Appropriation: Fire Truck Stabilization Fund
Finance Committee vote unanimous to approve
- motion to approve, seconded, passed 8-0 (via role)
part of the plan for paying for the trucks on a regular basis, put money aside
money to stabilization funds require a 2/3rd vote
http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_Council/Agenda/resolution%20stabfd%2016-21%20firetruck.pdf
read in for the record the listing of the 16-23 items before taking the vote on 16-21 (which did pass)
7. Resolution 16-22: Appropriation: Athletic Fields Capital Improvement Stabilization Fund
- motion to approve, seconded, passed 8-0 (via role)
http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_Council/Agenda/resolutionstabfd%2016-22%20athleticfields.pdf
similar to the fire truck process, saving money to replace the turf fields eventually, need a bid process, will also plan to resolve the infill to be used before the fields are replaced
need to keep the community informed on the infill material prior to any decision
Jones - I am glad this is starting to be addressed
Kelly - I am aware of a number of meetings on this
8. Resolution 16-23: Appropriation: Capital, FY 16
- motion to approve, seconded, passed 8-0
Finance Committee vote unanimous to approve $1,938,607.09
see listing of items in agenda documents
http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_Council/Agenda/resolution%20capital%2016-23%20FY16.pdf
plan presented an reviewed by FinCom and Council subcommittee, free cash down from last year, so choices had to be made
Fire Station #2 roof is about 15 years old and needs to be replaced due to water issues from leaks in 'old' roof
9. Resolution 16-24: Appropriation: Water Enterprise Capital FY 16
- motion to approve, seconded, passed 8-0
http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_Council/Agenda/resolution%20wtr%20Enterprise%20capital%2016-24.pdf
study on wells 3 and 6
water and sewer on enterprise accounts supported by the rates paid by the users
the 'excess' money in the accounts is planned for usage for the capital accounts and other sundry expenses
10. Resolution 16-25: Appropriation: Sewer Enterprise Capital FY 16
- motion to approve, seconded, passed 8-0
http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_Council/Agenda/resolution%20swr%20Enterprise%20capital%2016-25.pdf
haven't upgraded the doors in a number of years, difficult to get in with multiple keys, replacing doors and key systems
11. Resolution 16-26: Appropriation: Recreation Improvements
- motion to approve, seconded, passed 8-0
http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_Council/Agenda/16-26%20Recreation%20improvements.pdf
Jones - anything we can do to support the children in athletics should be done
Nutting - hats off to Carlos and his folks for doing the good work
Bissanti - It almost makes me want to be a kid again in this town
12. Bylaw Amendment 16-757: Amending the Code of the Town of Franklin by Adding a New Chapter to Require That Property Owners Provide Notification to Public Safety Officials of the Existence of Certain Structures And/Or Uses – 1st Reading
motion to move to second reading, seconded, passed 8-0
Chief McCarragher
1st to alert firefighters about the solar panels on roofs, can be an electrical hazard
can be more easily seen on pitched roofs, hard to see on flat roofs
signage requested for front of building
also on file with fire dept so they can have record of it
if you have had solar put on in the last few years, this does not apply
also needing info on hazardous materials
health hazards have a rating system to indicate the nature of the hazards contained within the buildings
help to save the firefighters from exposure
as the industrial parks emptied out, it was less of an issue
as the economy is picking up, the occupancy is growing, this adds a redundant layer of info
Jones - police and fire may shut off power at the house, solar is usually constantly live however, so this can be a help
Pfeffer - we have a major marijuana growing facility, what notifications do they have
McCarragher - I'd defer to the police chief, I do have a story on the permitting process that they went through, those plant growing facilities do consume a lot of electricity
Pellegri - question on a new chapter?
Cerel - it is really focused on property owners and made sense to make it separate from the hazardous material bylaw
Pellegri - we have so many permits required, who is doing that? 13 permits is too many, we should review that
McCarragher - we do have a couple of people who do this in their down time
Live reporting: Town Council - April 6, 2015
Present: Pellegri, Padula, Vallee, Kelly, Pfeffer, Bissanti, Dellorco, Jones
Absent: Mercer
A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
– March 9, 2016, March 23, 2016
motion to approve, seconded, passed 8-0
B. ANNOUNCEMENTS
– This meeting is being recorded by Franklin TV and shown on Comcast channel 11 and Verizon channel 29. This meeting may also be recorded by others.
C. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS
none
D. CITIZEN COMMENTS
E. APPOINTMENTS
none
F. HEARINGS
none
G. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS
none
H. PRESENTATIONS/DISCUSSIONS
Michael G. Bellotti, Sheriff, Norfolk County
an overview of the Sheriff's office
sheriffs are all elected officials
avg detention is about 39 months
decreased from 380 to 320 employees over the past several years
90% of the budget is care and custody of those being held
half of the officers are sworn as deputy sheriffs
love working on K9 or other mutual aid arrangements
offenders coming in, up to 90% alcohol and substance issues
lack of vocational skills
assessment of the offender, where are their deficits
try to match them with a program either within the facility or outside organizations
manage some recovery home beds within Norfolk County
Northeastern Univ has been doing an ongoing study with the County
2 of 3 offenders do go through an enhanced program
they do get good time for doing the program
1 of 3 are recidivists, national average is about 65% so 33% is pretty good
what we are finding is that the offenders are much younger
no longer just an urban thing, heroin is evolving
investing in those stakeholders and making sure those limited resources are being spent on keeping people from coming back;
transition from incarceration to medium security to bracelet on a campus, earning their freedoms along the way
mandatory sentences hinder the step down process
it refreshing to see some many folks here some who have committed for years and others are new folks; thanks to the police chief for working with us in the community in a law enforcement role
would love to locate a youth academy in the area, a ropes course, or something of that nature
do have a model in Braintree that works
Dellorco - opened a drop in center in Milford last night, will open in Franklin next week
if they need help, we will get them help
Absent: Mercer
A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
– March 9, 2016, March 23, 2016
motion to approve, seconded, passed 8-0
B. ANNOUNCEMENTS
– This meeting is being recorded by Franklin TV and shown on Comcast channel 11 and Verizon channel 29. This meeting may also be recorded by others.
C. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS
none
D. 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.
- Jim Hill
regarding pipeline forum being put together by Sharon
all the communities that would be involved with the pipeline
what the impact is for each community
long list of special guest scheduled to speak at the forum (see listing) hoping to encourage some of the Council and administration take part to learn about the Spectra Energy project.
Being put on by citizens of Sharon
E. APPOINTMENTS
none
F. HEARINGS
none
G. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS
none
H. PRESENTATIONS/DISCUSSIONS
Michael G. Bellotti, Sheriff, Norfolk County
an overview of the Sheriff's office
sheriffs are all elected officials
avg detention is about 39 months
decreased from 380 to 320 employees over the past several years
90% of the budget is care and custody of those being held
half of the officers are sworn as deputy sheriffs
love working on K9 or other mutual aid arrangements
offenders coming in, up to 90% alcohol and substance issues
lack of vocational skills
assessment of the offender, where are their deficits
try to match them with a program either within the facility or outside organizations
manage some recovery home beds within Norfolk County
Northeastern Univ has been doing an ongoing study with the County
2 of 3 offenders do go through an enhanced program
they do get good time for doing the program
1 of 3 are recidivists, national average is about 65% so 33% is pretty good
what we are finding is that the offenders are much younger
no longer just an urban thing, heroin is evolving
investing in those stakeholders and making sure those limited resources are being spent on keeping people from coming back;
transition from incarceration to medium security to bracelet on a campus, earning their freedoms along the way
mandatory sentences hinder the step down process
it refreshing to see some many folks here some who have committed for years and others are new folks; thanks to the police chief for working with us in the community in a law enforcement role
would love to locate a youth academy in the area, a ropes course, or something of that nature
do have a model in Braintree that works
Dellorco - opened a drop in center in Milford last night, will open in Franklin next week
if they need help, we will get them help
4th Annual Elks Care Elks Share 5K - Saturday, May 7
The 4th Annual Elks Care Elks Share 5K is scheduled for Saturday, May 7, 2016.
Registration is open and available online http://franklinelks5k.com/
Registration is open and available online http://franklinelks5k.com/
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Elks Care Elks Share 5K - May 7, 9:00 AM |
Reminder: FHS presents Disney's "Beauty and the Beast"
The Franklin High School Music Department proudly presents
Music by Alan Menken, Lyrics by Howard Ashman and Tim Rice.
The musical will be on Friday, April 8th and Saturday, April 9th at 7:00 p.m.
in the Franklin High School auditorium.
Tickets are $10.00 and will be available at the door.
The musical will be on Friday, April 8th and Saturday, April 9th at 7:00 p.m.
in the Franklin High School auditorium.
Tickets are $10.00 and will be available at the door.
![]() |
FHS presents 'Beauty and the Beast' |
Hockomock Sports Preview for FHS Girls Softball and Lacrosse
Girls Softball
FRANKLIN
- 2015 Record: 14-10
- 2015 Finish: Reached Div. 1 South first round
- Coach: Kate Fallon
For the past few seasons, Franklin has been solidly entrenched as the third best team in the Kelley-Rex division, behind KP and Taunton, and also a team with the potential to make a run in the tournament. This spring, the Panthers will look to sustain that success with a number of new faces.
Senior Maddie Connelly returns as one of the team’s leading hitters and is a strong defensive outfielder. She will be joined by classmate Julia Arms and by Olivia Haba, as the Panthers look to fill the void left by Erin Hanley’s graduation. Seniors Caroline D’Aprile and Emily Sawyer will take over in the circle and try to replace Sabrina LoMonaco. In the infield, Olivia Di Giacomo returns at third base and classmate Alyssa DaSilva is back as well.
While there are question marks coming into the season, Franklin coach Kate Fallon is still expecting a strong year. She said, “We have some holes to plug from last years graduates, but we have a very hungry group!”
http://www.hockomocksports.com/softball-kelley-rex-division-preview-2016/
Girls Lacrosse
FRANKLIN
- 2015 Record: 15-5
- 2015 Finish: Reached Div. 1 East semifinal
- Coach: Kristin Igoe Guarino
Franklin enters this season as it does just about every season, as the heavy favorite to win another Kelley-Rex division title. The Panthers will need to replace the scoring and all-around game of Emily Jeffries, but have plenty of players that can step in to fill that production.
Senior midfielders Kenzie Pleshaw and Emily Spath will continue Franklin’s strength in the middle of the field and Sam Jones will be back to lead the defense. University of New Haven-commit Julia Jette will spearhead the attack along with junior Kendall Reardon, last year’s Underclassman of the Year.
Freshmen Annie Walsh and Halle Atkinson will also step into the lineup and show the future remains bright for the league’s top program.
Head coach Kristin Igoe, who has loaded the schedule this year with six of the top seven teams in the state, said, “We have a lot of talent, and when we put all the little pieces together, it is fun to watch. Our goal is to win the Hock and make it back to the sectional final.”
http://www.hockomocksports.com/girls-lacrosse-kelley-rex-division-preview-2016/
Franklin is once again the favorite in the Kelley-Rex with senior midfielder Emily Spath one of the key returning players. (Josh Perry/HockomockSports.com) |
"We are providing a budget that is inadequate to the needs of a first-rate school system"
From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160405/franklin-school-committee-considering-budget
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2016/03/fy-2017-school-budget-proposal.html
http://view.earthchannel.com/PlayerController.aspx?&PGD=franknma&eID=338
"The School Committee will likely discuss - and possibly adopt - a $58.3 million fiscal year 2017 budget proposal at its meeting next week.
The proposal, if approved, would represent a 2.28 percent increase over the $57 million fiscal year 2016 budget. District Business Administrator Miriam Goodman said the committee has taken the proposal under advisement.
"The School Committee has all of the information we've provided," she said, adding that the budget could possibly be adopted at that meeting."Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160405/franklin-school-committee-considering-budget
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decrease of 7 teachers and 3 FTE educational assistants for FY 2017 budget (2016-2017 school year) |
- The budget presentation from the March 22 School Committee meeting can be found here
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2016/03/fy-2017-school-budget-proposal.html
- The video replay of the School Committee meeting is available here
http://view.earthchannel.com/PlayerController.aspx?&PGD=franknma&eID=338
- Franklin Matters's summary of the meeting can be found here
Tuesday, April 5, 2016
The Bible Doesn't Say That! - Acclaimed author to speak April 11 in Franklin
Spend an evening with Dr. Joel M. Hoffman as he presents a talk titled The Bible Doesn't Say That! on Monday, April 11, 2016 at 7:00 PM at Franklin Federated Church, 171 Main Street.
What does the Bible really say about violence? About marriage? About men and women? The Bible has been reinterpreted and misinterpreted almost from the day it was written, so most people reading the Bible now have very little sense of the original text. Come listen and learn as Dr. Hoffman peels back 2,000 years of revisionism to take a look at the Bible as it was originally composed.
A popular and engaging speaker, Dr. Hoffman focuses on bringing the Bible to life and is known for his "fresh insights and interpretations about religious life in the 21st century." An internationally acclaimed teacher, author and translator, he presents to churches, synagogues, community groups, and university audiences across the world. He holds a Ph.D. in linguistics and has served on the faculties of Brandeis University and Hebrew Union College.
Hoffman is the author of the popular books "And God Said: How Translations Conceal the Bible's Original Meaning" and "The Bible's Cutting Room Floor: The Holy Scriptures Missing From Your Bible." Writing under the pen-name "J.M. Hoffman," he has also authored the thriller series "The Warwick Files." His latest book, "The Bible Doesn't Say That: 40 Biblical Mistranslations, Misconceptions, and Other Misunderstandings" hit the bookshelves on February 16, 2016.
The event is sponsored jointly by Temple Etz Chaim, Franklin Federated Church, The Parish of St. Mary (Roman Catholic), St. John's Episcopal Church, Franklin United Methodist Church and The First Universalist Society of Franklin.
Admission is free, although donations are welcome.
What does the Bible really say about violence? About marriage? About men and women? The Bible has been reinterpreted and misinterpreted almost from the day it was written, so most people reading the Bible now have very little sense of the original text. Come listen and learn as Dr. Hoffman peels back 2,000 years of revisionism to take a look at the Bible as it was originally composed.
A popular and engaging speaker, Dr. Hoffman focuses on bringing the Bible to life and is known for his "fresh insights and interpretations about religious life in the 21st century." An internationally acclaimed teacher, author and translator, he presents to churches, synagogues, community groups, and university audiences across the world. He holds a Ph.D. in linguistics and has served on the faculties of Brandeis University and Hebrew Union College.
The Bible Doesn't Say That: 40 Biblical Mistranslations, Misconceptions, and Other Misunderstandings |
The event is sponsored jointly by Temple Etz Chaim, Franklin Federated Church, The Parish of St. Mary (Roman Catholic), St. John's Episcopal Church, Franklin United Methodist Church and The First Universalist Society of Franklin.
Admission is free, although donations are welcome.
Franklin Newcomers and Friends Club - Apr 20, 2016
Please note that the Franklin Newcomers and Friends Club is changing the date of our April meeting. Due to a conflict on the 2nd Wednesday of the month, we're meeting on Wednesday, April 20th.
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3 restaurant |
Franklin Newcomers and Friends Club |
Light refreshments and non-alcoholic beverages will be provided.
Economic Development Committee - Apr 6 - 6:00 PM
"The Economic Development Committee will be meeting Wednesday evening at 6pm at the town hall room 205 to discuss our current Blight Bylaw for vacant properties with discussion to include residential and commercial property open to public."
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Via the Facebook post by Andrew Bissanti
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Franklin Municipal Building |
- The Blight Bylaw referenced can be found here
http://ecode360.com/14718968?highlight=blight#14718968
Note: The last official agenda posted to the Franklin website was either in 2014 or 2015 depending upon which page you reference.
- 2015
http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_Council/subcommitteeminutes/Economic%20Development%20Committee%20Minutes/EDC%20Minutes%20and%20Agendas
- 2014
http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_Economic/2014EDCMeetingMinutesandagendas/
In the News: Council considers sidewalks, Historical Museum events, Downtown Partnership schedule for year
From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin
Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160404/franklin-council-to-consider-sidewalk-project
To review the memo from Jeff Nutting as mentioned
http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_Council/Agenda/16-20.pdf
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160404/franklin-historical-museum-releases-event-list
Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160404/franklin-downtown-partnership-announces-2016-events
"The Town Council is set to consider at its meeting Wednesday night a $1.8 million project to improve town sidewalks.
The project, which would involve some borrowing by the town, would replace and improve existing sidewalks and install new sidewalks on Pleasant and Chestnut streets. If approved, work would begin this spring.
The Pleasant Street sidewalks that run from Main Street to Dean Avenue are slated to be replaced and improved, according to town officials. The new sidewalks would run along Pleasant Street from Dean Avenue to Miller Street, and on Chestnut Street from Old Chestnut Street to East Central Street."
Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160404/franklin-council-to-consider-sidewalk-project
To review the memo from Jeff Nutting as mentioned
http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_Council/Agenda/16-20.pdf
The following are upcoming events at the Franklin Historical Museum, 80 W. Central St.
Hours of operation are from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays; 1-4 p.m. Sundays; and 5-8 p.m. Thursdays.
The April item featured in the museum’s ongoing Item of the Month series is a small Native American Stone Knife. There is a lot to be learned about how Native Americans in this area used stone tools to create axes, grinding tools, etc. to shape their environment and live off the land. The knife, a general purpose tool, with both a tapering point and a thick edge, demonstrates the highly advanced workmanship and ingenuity of the local Wampanoag tribe.Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160404/franklin-historical-museum-releases-event-list
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Franklin Historical Museum |
The Franklin Downtown Partnership has set its 2016 dates for the Strawberry Stroll, October Stroll, Holiday Stroll, Spring and Winter Beautification days, and a Progressive Dinner. The Partnership also announces its general meeting dates and spring networking luncheons, all open to the public.
Downtown Beautification Day will be from 8 to 11 a.m. on May 21. The Partnership, the Franklin Garden Club and volunteers will install hundreds of flowers and greens throughout downtown and on the Common. Community service hours will be available to students. Contact Eileen Mason, emason4234@gmail.com, for information about the event, volunteer and sponsorship opportunities. Winter Beautification Day will be Nov. 20.
Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160404/franklin-downtown-partnership-announces-2016-events
Monday, April 4, 2016
FRANKLIN PUBLIC SCHOOLS - Monday (4/4/16) evening activities canceled due to snow storm
A message from FRANKLIN PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT
Good Afternoon,
Please be advised that due to continued, snowy conditions, we are canceling all afternoon and evening activities today, April 4, 2016. Solutions will be open until 6:00 PM.
Be safe!
Sally Winslow
Assistant Superintendent of Schools
Good Afternoon,
Please be advised that due to continued, snowy conditions, we are canceling all afternoon and evening activities today, April 4, 2016. Solutions will be open until 6:00 PM.
Be safe!
Sally Winslow
Assistant Superintendent of Schools
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Parmenter sign in the snow |
Safe Coalition evening with Mike Zito and others
Lots of folks gathered at THE BLACK BOX on Sunday evening to hear a number of stories about recovery from substance abuse. Mike Zito played an acoustic set after he told his story and then brought on his band, The Wheel, to play some hard driving blues and rock & roll.
The Storify summary of my tweets and that of others posting with the same #safe-zito tag line can be viewed here. Be sure to scroll within the Storify widget to read them all.
The Storify summary of my tweets and that of others posting with the same #safe-zito tag line can be viewed here. Be sure to scroll within the Storify widget to read them all.
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the SAFE Coalition board posed with Mike Zito and The Wheel at the end of the evening |
Parmenter Picture Day - Apr 4
"Of the 81 charter schools in Massachusetts, 74 had wait lists"
"On a Thursday night in March, a crowd gathered at Lowell Community Charter Public School to play a game of chance.
The event had the look of an after-school bingo night: a man pulled numbered balls out of a rotating metal cage while parents and children waited with anticipation, hoping to hit the jackpot.
But in this case, there was no cash prize. Instead, the numbers would dictate the fate of students looking for a coveted placement at the popular school. With more applicants than space available, a lottery is held annually to determine who gets in, and who is left out.
It’s a ritual that plays out at charter schools in communities across Greater Boston, from Foxborough to Malden to Marlborough. And as closely as parents watch for their child’s number to be picked, the ensuing wait lists are being scrutinized amid a larger, heated debate over whether Massachusetts should allow more charter schools."Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.bostonglobe.com/metro/2016/03/31/charter-school-lotteries-educational-game-chance/cNh9WqdASl757FNNvcqTxM/story.html
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Franklin's own Benjamin Franklin Classical Charter School currently uses the former St Mary's School but is planning on a new building along Washington St to accommodate its expansion plans |
Governor Baker today (Thursday, March 31, 2016) issued a statement on the charter school legislation proposed by the Massachusetts State Senate:
“While I thank the Senate for their work, the proposal offers no relief to 34,000 students currently on a waiting list to access high-performing public charter schools and the new mandates for local spending in this proposal could place a further burden on taxpayers. I look forward to continuing to work with the legislature to provide high quality educational options for these tens of thousands of kids and families, most who live in low-income urban neighborhoods, but have been clear that these families need relief now, regardless of how it is achieved.”
http://www.mass.gov/governor/press-office/press-releases/fy2016/governors-statement-on-senates-charter-school-bill.html
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