Monday, November 7, 2022

Representative Jeff Roy rolls out 2022 endorsements for his re-election campaign

Maura Healey has endorsed Jeffrey Roy in his State Representative race in the 10th Norfolk District (Franklin and Medway). “Representative Roy is a passionate advocate who stands for our values and gets things done for Franklin and Medway,” said Healey. “We’ve worked together on many of the most pressing issues facing Massachusetts residents, including the recently passed clean energy and offshore wind bill, and I look forward to continuing to deliver results together. I’m proud to endorse him for re-election.”

In addition to Healey, Roy has been endorsed by Franklin Firefighters Local 2637, Professional Firefighters of Massachusetts, Massachusetts AFL-CIO, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW Local 103), Environmental League of Massachusetts Action Fund, Sierra Club, 350 Mass Action, Massachusetts Nurses Association, and SEIU Local 509. He has also been endorsed by Franklin Town Council Chair Thomas Mercer; Franklin Town Council Vice-Chair Robert Dellorco; Franklin Town Council Clerk Glenn Jones; and Franklin Town Councilors Deborah Pellegri, Melanie Hamblen, Ted Cormier-Leger, Cobi Frongillo, and Patrick Sheridan.

“Chair Roy was central to the passage of the 2021 Roadmap Bill, one of the strongest climate laws in the US,” said Casey Bowers from the Environmental League of Massachusetts Action Fund. “He also crafted the House’s offshore wind bill which will ensure the industry takes off in Massachusetts and provides the clean energy we need to reach our roadmap targets. We're grateful for his leadership in addressing the climate crisis.”

"Representative Roy has quickly become a climate champion for Massachusetts," said Mimi Locke, Political Committee Chair for the Sierra Club Massachusetts Chapter. "As House chair of the Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy Committee, he stewarded the Massachusetts 2022 climate bill into law. The bill will significantly build out our clean energy industries while minimizing ratepayer impact and creating new, good clean energy jobs."

350 Mass Action’s Political Director, Cabell Eames stated: "It is with great pleasure that 350 Mass Action proudly endorses Representative Roy for the 10th Norfolk district.

Representative Roy has delivered expansive progress as the chair of the Telecommunications, Utility, and Energy committee, proving that the Commonwealth is ready to be a leader in driving solutions that invigorate our economy at scale and insure a better life for Massachusetts residents in the face of climate change."

“SEIU 509 is proud to endorse Jeff Roy for State Representative in the 10th Norfolk,” said Peter MacKinnon, President of SEIU 509. “Representative Roy is committed to leveling the playing field for every resident of the Commonwealth - from fighting for affordable higher education to championing job growth and creation across our sectors. We look forward to working with him on policies that will continue to uplift our members and the communities they serve.”

Massachusetts AFL-CIO President Steven A. Tolman stated: “The Massachusetts AFL- CIO Executive Council has officially voted to endorse your campaign for State Representative in the 10th Norfolk District. We are proud to support candidates who have demonstrated a commitment to the values and principles of the Labor Movement. I would like to congratulate you on earning the endorsement of the Massachusetts AFL-CIO and our nearly half a million members across the Commonwealth. We look forward to advocating on your behalf and working together to create a brighter future for working people in Massachusetts.”

In his letter announcing the local endorsement, Franklin Union President, Brian Hamann, stated: "The Professional Firefighters of Franklin feel very fortunate to have a friend of your stature representing the 10th Norfolk district. Since your election in 2012 you have stood by our side through triumph and tragedy. Your unwavering commitment to the fire service and our members has been evident.”

In announcing the state level endorsement, PFFM President Richard D. MacKinnon Jr. stated: “During your career as an elected official, you have prioritized the relationships you hold with the firefighters of your district. You understand our issues and are an effective advocate for us on Beacon Hill. We look forward to your next term in office and continued leadership for firefighters.”

"I am absolutely thrilled to receive the support and endorsement from all of these groups and individuals," noted Roy. "In my years in the Massachusetts House I have built strong and lasting relationships and have partnered with them to make Massachusetts and our communities great places to live, work, and raise a family. With their continued support, I am confident we can continue to deliver results for Massachusetts."

Since 2013 Jeff has been part of a legislative team that has addressed the issues of education, economic development, the coronavirus pandemic, health care, substance use disorder, criminal justice, civil rights and social equity, gun safety, climate change, energy, and the environment. In addition, he led efforts to:

Draft and pass the clean energy and offshore wind bill in 2022;
Draft and pass the Genocide Education Act in 2021;
Finalize the Roadmap Bill on climate change in 2021;
Draft and pass legislation on Step Therapy and Patient Safety in 2022;
Draft and pass legislation relative to sexual violence on higher education campuses in 2021;
Draft and pass legislation increasing transparency and financial reporting requirements for higher education institutions in 2019;
Draft and pass legislation that increased transparency and civic engagement by creating a searchable online database of legal notices in 2015;
Pass legislation lowering thresholds on specialty license plates, making them available to smaller charities and causes in 2015; and
Pass legislation to create a Regional Dispatch Center for Franklin, Norfolk, Wrentham, and Plainville in 2013.

He has also led efforts to bring millions of dollars in local aid for schools, roads, infrastructure, public safety, arts, recreation, substance use disorder, economic development, historical preservation, and food insecurity. He has also helped thousands of constituents with issues involving unemployment, health care, human services, and other matters with state agencies.

Roy is seeking re-election as the State Representative for the 10th Norfolk District (Franklin & Medway). He is the Chair of the Joint Committee on Telecommunications, Utilities & Energy and previously served as Chair of the Joint Committee on Higher Education, and the Joint Committee on Health Care Finance. He is also the Chair of the Manufacturing Caucus, which promotes and encourages “Making It” in Massachusetts. Previously, he served as a member of the Franklin Town Council and Franklin School Committee where he held the position of Chair for 9 of his 10 years. He also chaired Franklin's Master Plan Committee from 2012 to 2013.

For more information on Jeffrey Roy, please visit http://jeffreyroy.com/.

Reminder: Register O'Donnell Announces 2022 Holiday Food Drive November 14 through December 13, 2022

As inflation rates continue to rise and the cost of living becomes an increasing challenge for some families across Norfolk County, Register of Deeds William O'Donnell is asking people to take a moment to contribute to the Annual Registry of Deeds Food Drive, starting Monday November 14th and running through Tuesday December 13th.

"There is no doubt that Norfolk County is a desirable place to live and to work. However, there are people throughout the county that are truly hurting. This year we, as a community, have seen an unprecedented rise in inflation rates, especially in the cost of food. Some Norfolk County families are hit harder by these increased costs and worry about putting food on the table this holiday season."

Today, according to the latest Project Bread statistics, 19.6% of households in Massachusetts are considered food insecure. Furthermore, 22% of children in the state are also considered food insecure. The increasing cost of housing and food are likely factors that contribute to the rising rates of food insecurity.

Register O'Donnell noted. "As the holidays approach, there is definitely a need for more food assistance. Household expenses are higher due to the cost of home heating fuel, food bills, and increased interest rates. Let us be mindful during this Thanksgiving season that others may need our help."

Non-perishable food items can be brought directly to the Registry of Deeds, which is located at 649 High Street in Dedham. A donation bin will be set-up in the Registry's lobby and food can be dropped off Monday through Friday between 8:00AM to 4:30PM. Suggested donations include canned goods, breakfast cereals, pasta, sauces, toiletries, and paper products.

If you can't get to the Registry of Deeds building to drop off food, you can check the Registry website at www.norfolkdeeds.org for a pantry location in your community.

"Working together, we can truly make a huge difference this holiday season," concluded Register O'Donnell.

To learn more about these and other Registry of Deeds events and initiatives, "like" us on facebook.com/norfolkdeeds, follow us on twitter and instagram @norfolkdeeds.

The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds, located at 649 High St., Dedham, is the principal office for real property in Norfolk County. The Registry is a resource for homeowners, title examiners, mortgage lenders, municipalities and others with a need for secure, accurate, accessible land record information. All land record research information can be found on the Registry's website, www.norfolkdeeds.org. Residents in need of assistance can contact the Registry of Deeds Customer Service Center at (781) 461-6101 or email us at registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.org.

Register O'Donnell Announces 2022 Holiday Food Drive  November 14  through December 13, 2022
Register O'Donnell Announces 2022 Holiday Food Drive  November 14  through December 13, 2022

Representative Roy step therapy bill signed into law (video)

Patients in Massachusetts will have better access to a wider array of medications after Rep. Jeffrey N. Roy’s step therapy bill was signed by Gov. Charlie Baker last week. Roy filed the bill in the House with Rep. Marjorie Decker (D- Cambridge). The bill will curtail the policy of insurance providers insisting on lower-cost treatments before approving coverage of more expensive medications.

"We've heard countless stories of patients being forced to take drugs that their health insurers want as opposed to what their doctors think is best," said Rep. Roy. "This is a great, common-sense measure to help patients get the care that their physician believes they need. It removes needless insurance protocols that delay necessary treatment and access to medication and removes the barriers that interfere with sound medical judgments made within the confines of the physician-patient relationship.”

The new law requires insurance providers to approve or deny step therapy exemption requests within three business days, or 24 hours in an emergency, meaning faster access to the more expensive drugs. It is a win for patients who would otherwise have to go through a lengthy authorization or review process.

Roy further noted the old "Fail First" practice was untenable for obvious reasons. “Adding to patient stress by delaying access to the medicine they need is unacceptable,” he added. “We live in a state that has some of the best healthcare in the world and this legislation restores access to that great system for all patients. I thank the many volunteers and advocacy groups who shared stories and pushed for this bill.”

Patients will be eligible for an exemption from the step therapy process if the cheaper drugs would harm them, if they have already tried and failed to improve on the drugs, if the treatment would be ineffective or if they're already stable using their preferred medication.

Advocates opposed to step therapy had been working for years to convince Beacon Hill leaders to limit or ban the practice.

Rep. Roy’s floor remarks on the bill are available at https://youtu.be/6zYy_HgR8Ag

For more information on Jeffrey Roy, please visit http://jeffreyroy.com/.

Representative Roy step therapy bill signed into law (video)
Representative Roy step therapy bill signed into law (video)


"the critical milepost of 2030 is already out of reach"

"Boston is so far behind on climate progress that cutting greenhouse emissions in half by the critical milepost of 2030 is already out of reach, a new assessment has found, and reaching the goal of net zero emissions by 2050 will require a decades-long, all-in effort.

The report blamed a decade or more of stalled action at the city, state, and federal levels, and said that dramatic changes must now begin.

In a year that saw the hottest three-week period in 151 years of Boston records and just ahead of what is expected to be a record-hot weekend, the report, dubbed the Inaugural Boston Climate Progress Report, was seen as a jolt of reality.

“It is a call to action,” said report author Joan Fitzgerald, a professor of public policy and urban affairs at Northeastern University. “But this city government can’t do this alone. ... Everyone has to be moving in lockstep to realize these goals.”
Continue reading the Boston Globe article (subscription maybe required) ->

CommonWealth Magazine coverage ->

Boston Foundation page releasing their report ->

Download the PDF version (there are other versions available) -> 

 
Boston’s Long Wharf as a king tide flooded parts of Boston’s waterfront, as well as other coastal areas of Massachusetts. DAVID L. RYAN
Boston’s Long Wharf as a king tide flooded parts of Boston’s waterfront, as well as other coastal areas of Massachusetts. DAVID L. RYAN

Town Clerk's Office will be closed on November 8 due to State Election

Notice: The Town Clerk's Office will be closed on November 8, 2022 due to State Election

Visit the Town Clerk online at -> https://www.franklinma.gov/town-clerk 


Town Clerk's Office will be closed on November 8 due to State Election
Town Clerk's Office will be closed on November 8 due to State Election

The Vicious Cycle of Automobile Dependency

Daniel Moser (@_dmoser) tweeted on Sat, Nov 05, 2022:
The Vicious Cycle of Automobile Dependency 

Unsustainable planning practices reinforce a cycle of increased automobile use, more automobile-oriented community redevelopment, and reduced mobility options.
 

Shared from Twitter ->  https://t.co/vTpFy1UlTc


The Vicious Cycle of Automobile Dependency
The Vicious Cycle of Automobile Dependency

The Guardian: "‘It was like an apocalyptic movie’: 20 climate photographs that changed the world"

"For a week in July 2018, a giant 100m-tall iceberg loomed over a tiny village on the west coast of Greenland. Villagers were evacuated, and the world watched in suspense: if a chunk of the 10m-tonne iceberg had broken apart or “calved”, it would have caused a tsunami and obliterated the settlement of Innaarsuit. Eventually, it drifted away from the shore – but as glaciers melt, we can expect to see more masses of ice breaking off and floating dangerously close to land."
Continue reading the article and viewing the impactful photos: (subscription maybe required)  ->  https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2022/nov/05/20-climate-photographs-that-changed-the-world

They are the images that made us sit up and take notice
They are the images that made us sit up and take notice

   

Franklin TV and wfpr.fm schedule for Monday, Nov 7, 2022

  • wfpr.fm or 102.9 on the FM dial = Monday

9 AM 12 PM and 6 PM Talkin’ the Blues – Jim Derick & Todd Monjur
2 hours of awesome blues music, info, interviews

11 AM 2 PM and 8 PM A More Perfect Union – Discussing American Politics and Current Events - Peter Fasciano, Dr. Michael Walker Jones, Dr. Natalia Linos, State Rep Jeff Roy, Chris Woolf, and Nick Remissong host a round table discussion on current events and American politics, bringing about thoughtful conversation, compelling discourse, and a look at what the future might hold for the United States

  • Franklin All Access TV - Our Public Access Channel (Comcast 8, Verizon 26) = MONDAY

8:00 am SAFE Coalition: Danny Lagarce
9:00 am 4th of July 2022: Matt Zajac
12:00 pm Brook'n'Cookin: Stromboli
12:30 pm Sandhya: Macaroons
1:00 pm Cooking Thyme: Apple Crisp
1:30 pm Pizzapalooza: Meat-Lovers Pt. 2
2:00 pm New England Candlepins: Fall 2019 Show 5
3:00 pm Candlepin New Generation: Show 7
3:30 pm Veterans' Call: VA Pension
4:00 pm Physician Focus: Winter is Coming
7:30 pm Frank Presents: Mark Lenzi
8:30 pm Frank's Musings: Ballot Questions

  • Franklin Pride TV - Our Educational Channel (Comcast 96, Verizon 28) = MONDAY

7:00 am Public School Concert: Sullivan Winter Music 2019
8:30 am Critical Conversations: Social Media
10:30 am Public School Concert: Elementary Winter Music Pt. 1 12-11-18
12:00 pm FHS Girls Varsity Soccer v Milford 10-27-22
2:00 pm SAFE Coalition: Michelle Palladini
3:00 pm All-Town Showcase: Chorus & Orchestra
8:00 pm FHS Varsity Field Hockey: v Barnstable 11-04-22


  • Franklin Town Hall TV - Our Government Channel (Comcast 11, Verizon 29) = MONDAY

8:00 am Planning Board: 10-17-22
12:00 pm Finance Committee 10-26-22
2:00 pm Planning Board: 10-17-22
7:00 pm Planning Board: LIVE, Chambers, 858 1141 3343


Get this week's program guide for Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) online  http://franklin.tv/programguide.pdf  

Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm)
Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm)

Sunday, November 6, 2022

Finance Committee Meeting - Agenda - November 9, 2022 at 7 PM

Finance Committee Meeting 
November 9, 2022

Meeting will be held at the Municipal Building
2nd floor, Council Chambers
355 East Central Street

Agenda
1. Call to Order
2. Public Comment
3. Approval of Minutes:10-26-2022
4. FY23 Operating Budget Adjustment
a. Town Administrator Memo
b. FY23 Budget Revenue and Control Sheet, adjusted
c. Resolution
5. Future Agenda Items
6. Adjourn

Please find the agenda and links here:   https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/fin_com_mtg_agenda_nov_9_2022.pdf 

Finance Committee Meeting - November 9, 2022 at 7 PM
Finance Committee Meeting - November 9, 2022 at 7 PM

Town Council Quarterbacking with Tom Mercer gets inside the last meeting for you (audio)

FM #874 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 874 in the series. 


This shares my conversation with Town Council Chair Tom Mercer. This is one of a series of conversations meant to provide a recap of the prior Council meeting. Akin to one of the many sports post-game analysis broadcasts we are familiar with in New England,  this would be a discussion focused on the Franklin Town Council meeting of Nov 2, 2022


  • ok, what just happened? 

  • What does it mean for Franklin residents and taxpayers?


We cover the following key topics

Election Of Officers

License Transactions

o   3 change of manager

o   Big Y change of manager

o   license transfer from Franklin Village Liquors to Big Y for all alcohol

National Register Historic Districts In Franklin (rescheduled)

Lead Service Line Inventory

Gift Acceptance - Veterans’ Services Dept. ($1,845), Fire Dept. ($486

Parking


Our conversation runs about 28 minutes:


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


Let’s listen to this session of Town Council Quarterbacking recorded Nov 3, 2022


Audio file -> 
https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-874-town-council-quarterbacking-with-tom-mercer-11-03-22


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The agenda and documents for this session can be found -> 

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/agendas/november_2_town_council_meeting.pdf


Watch the Franklin.TV video replay on YouTube -> https://youtu.be/CqUQ6OxjMj4


My notes in one threaded PDF document

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1JQqjOe3j5PayvvfeB5hnvURBbrcPfUUN/view?usp=share_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


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


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

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


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


I hope you enjoy!

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


Franklin, MA: Town Council - Agenda - Nov 2, 2022
Franklin, MA: Town Council - Agenda - Nov 2, 2022