The Book Sale is at the DPW on Hayward St.
They will be open from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Franklin: car wash at Parmenter school today.
Franklin: car wash at Parmenter school today., originally uploaded by shersteve.
The car wash will be open from 9:30 AM to 1:30 PM
The Bottle and Can drive will operate from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Beautification Day - 1000 flowers today
FRANKLIN -
The Franklin Downtown Partnership is preparing for its 2009 events and festivals.Read more about event that the Downtown Partnership is holding online at the Franklin Gazette
On May 16, the Partnership and Franklin Garden Club will kick off the year with their annual Downtown Beautification Day. Volunteers will meet at the town center to plant more than 1,000 flowers. Due to the economy this year, the group is reaching out to businesses and residents asking for donations to assist with the cost of the flowers and the winter decorations. All contributions are tax deductible. Contact Eileen Mason at 508-330-4234 or emason11@verizon.net to volunteer or sponsor the beautification project.
"Technology has a lot to offer"
GHS
FRANKLIN —
This September, Franklin High School is going hi-tech.
No more playing catch-up to students toting iPhones and other electronic gadgets in their pockets; instead, school leaders are bringing wireless technology into the classroom.
The Technology Department has installed two wireless networks, with 21 access points around the high school, to make the entire building completely wireless, said Technology Director Tim Rapoza.
"It's a very big initiative. I don't know any other district that does it. They're all watching us to see how it goes," said Rapoza, smiling.
"I don't mind pioneering it a little bit. I think it's the right way to go. I don't look at it as a leap - I look at it as us moving in the right direction faster than everybody else, because it is inevitable," Rapoza said.
Read more about the wireless internet at FHS in the Milford Daily News here
Friday, May 15, 2009
Kodak Lesson Plans
Sent to you by Steve Sherlock via Google Reader:
via Free Technology for Teachers by rbyrnetech@hotmail.com (Mr. Byrne) on 5/14/09
Kodak has been a household name for over one hundred years, but when most people hear the name Kodak they think "camera" not "lesson plans." A little-known aspect of Kodak's website offers lesson plans for every grade level in twelve subject areas. The lesson plans are organized by grade level and subject area. These are not skeleton lesson plans, the Kodak lesson plans have very detailed directions for classroom implementation. All of the lesson plans include the use of photographs and or cameras.Applications for Education
The Kodak Lesson Plans provide good ideas for integrating art and photography into just about any subject area.
Here are some related resources that may be of interest to you:
Blogs for Art Teachers
Explore the British Library Online Gallery
Award Winning Google Earth Lesson Plans
Things you can do from here:
- Subscribe to Free Technology for Teachers using Google Reader
- Get started using Google Reader to easily keep up with all your favorite sites
"monument only exists because of the generosity of residents"
GHS
FRANKLIN —
On Memorial Day, the families of Franklin's two soldiers killed in action since September 11, 2001, will unveil a new memorial honoring the fallen heroes, says Veterans Agent Bob Fahey.
The monument, which features a bronze doughboy statue, is fully in place on the town common, Fahey said.
Next week, colored cement will be poured around it as flooring, and six lit service flags will be installed, he said.
"I think it's going to possibly be one of the nicest memorial sites in the state. I really feel it's going to be a thing of indescribable beauty," Fahey said, getting choked up.
"But most of all, it's going to bring home to people recognition of the sacrifices made on our behalf by all those who served in the military," he said.
Read the full article on the monument in the Milford Daily News here
For pictures of the other war monuments on the Town Common visit here and here
A recent picture of the WWI doughboy can be see on the top right corner of Franklin Matters.
Gov Patrick comes to Franklin 5/17/09
Governor Deval Patrick will hold a "Town Hall Meeting" on Sunday May 17 at 4pm-5pm at the Franklin Senior Center 10 Daniel McCahill Street.
For additional information on Governor Patrick's forums visit www.mass.gov/governor/forum
For additional information on Governor Patrick's forums visit www.mass.gov/governor/forum
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Industry: RokkSoft - VocalEZ
RokkSoft Solutions Offers VocalEZ Voice Recognition Medical Transcription SaaS with Expanded Support for Windows Mobile Devices
Franklin, MA, May 14, 2009 --(PR.com)--
RokkSoft Solutions Corp has announced that the VocalEZ medical dictation transcription system now provides support for Windows Mobile equipped cell phones and PDAs.
VocalEZ Mobile for Windows Mobile enables dictation of patient encounter notes on any mobile phone or personal digital assistant (PDA) that supports Microsoft Windows Mobile® OS. This empowers the physician to quickly dictate encounter notes and medical letters while making rounds or when traveling. Or, simply use VocalEZ Mobile for all dictation as an un-tethered system user.
RokkSoft offers the VocalEZ medical dictation transcription system as a pay-for-use or “Software as a Service” (SaaS) model to physician practices and medical clinics.
Support of Windows Mobile devices enables physicians to complete dictation jobs when out of the office or on rounds for later conversion to clinical documentation by the VocalEZ voice recognition software.
VocalEZ wraps an integrated workflow around voice-enabled software and web technologies to provide a simple, cost effective dictation transcription platform delivering more accurate, timely and integrated medical documentation for electronic medical records.
For more information, visit www.rokksoft.com/vezmobile.html or call 866-509-0554.
###
About RokkSoft
RokkSoft Solutions Corp represents companies that provide medical practices and businesses with industry-changing technology applications to improve productivity and drive down operating costs. These applications are delivered in a “Software as a Service” (SaaS) model to minimize required startup resources and eliminate capital expenditures. This enables clients to quickly realize ongoing cost savings. For more information, please visit http://www.rokksoft.com.
This press release originally was posted here
VocalEZ voice-enabled transcription software-as-a-service converts dictation to clinical documents in minutes at half the cost of traditional transcription.
Franklin, MA, May 14, 2009 --(PR.com)--
RokkSoft Solutions Corp has announced that the VocalEZ medical dictation transcription system now provides support for Windows Mobile equipped cell phones and PDAs.
VocalEZ Mobile for Windows Mobile enables dictation of patient encounter notes on any mobile phone or personal digital assistant (PDA) that supports Microsoft Windows Mobile® OS. This empowers the physician to quickly dictate encounter notes and medical letters while making rounds or when traveling. Or, simply use VocalEZ Mobile for all dictation as an un-tethered system user.
RokkSoft offers the VocalEZ medical dictation transcription system as a pay-for-use or “Software as a Service” (SaaS) model to physician practices and medical clinics.
Support of Windows Mobile devices enables physicians to complete dictation jobs when out of the office or on rounds for later conversion to clinical documentation by the VocalEZ voice recognition software.
VocalEZ wraps an integrated workflow around voice-enabled software and web technologies to provide a simple, cost effective dictation transcription platform delivering more accurate, timely and integrated medical documentation for electronic medical records.
For more information, visit www.rokksoft.com/vezmobile.html or call 866-509-0554.
###
About RokkSoft
RokkSoft Solutions Corp represents companies that provide medical practices and businesses with industry-changing technology applications to improve productivity and drive down operating costs. These applications are delivered in a “Software as a Service” (SaaS) model to minimize required startup resources and eliminate capital expenditures. This enables clients to quickly realize ongoing cost savings. For more information, please visit http://www.rokksoft.com.
This press release originally was posted here
"It's frustrating, the membership is frustrated"
Milford Daily News
FRANKLIN —
Aside from the teachers union, the Professional Firefighters of Franklin is the only union in town that has not voted for a wage freeze next year - but for good reason.
The 47-member union has not had a contract since July 2007, or a raise since July 2006, said union President Capt. Steven J. Sims.
"A lot of guys are catching flak when they're out around town, people saying they should take a pay freeze. It's frustrating to the membership, because most of the public doesn't realize we haven't had a contract for two years," Sims said.
Read the full article in the Milford Daily News here
"It's a lot easier to get 40 people to agree"
Milford Daily News
FRANKLIN —
The heads of Local 1298, which represents five town unions, say the teachers union should "step up" and take a wage concession to save their colleagues' jobs.
"My belief is, when (Town Administrator) Jeff Nutting came to us with an offer to save jobs with a wage freeze, it was not an issue of negotiating a contract," said Patrick Farrell, Local 1298 chairman.
"We did it, the Police Department went for it, and the Fire Department is still in contract negotiations, so my opinion is, they should step up to the plate and they should take the deal," Farrell said.
Teachers instead asked for concessions on other matters in exchange for the pay freeze. That's led to an ongoing stalemate with the School Committee.
Read the full article in the Milford Daily News here
The Story of Stuff
Annie Leonard spent time doing some research and then managed to produce this video that tells the story of stuff.
I plan on reading the annotated script which you can find here.
You can find other resources on their web site
You can follow the updates on their blog
What do you think of the Story of Stuff?
I plan on reading the annotated script which you can find here.
You can find other resources on their web site
You can follow the updates on their blog
What do you think of the Story of Stuff?
New England Sports Celebration - 5/31/09
From the Facebook page for the New England Sports Celebration
Come down and help us raise funds for the F.X. O’Regan Early Childhood Development Center PCC. We are planning a fun-filled family day celebrating the proud tradition of New England sports!!
Currently, we have Boston hockey legend TERRY O'REILLY coming down to sign autographs from 2PM-4PM.
Signatures are $15 each with no charge for inscriptions. You are welcome to bring your own items, and we will have a great selection of pictures, pucks and other items available for sale!
Also from 2PM - 4PM, Wally the Green Monster will be visiting to take pictures and sign autographs for his fans for FREE!!!
AND JUST ANNOUNCED - Football Legend STEVE GROGAN will also be available from 2PM-4PM!!! Signatures are $15 each with no charge for inscriptions.
There will be lots of other fun activities for the kids, as well. Cash bar and concessions will be available. did we mention....ADMISSION IS FREE!!!
This is a public event and we want to pack the place - so please feel free to invite anyone you would like!!! A lot more to come on this...
SAVE THE DATE!!
FREE SOLAR ENERGY PRESENTATIONS
FREE SOLAR ENERGY PRESENTATIONS FOR MA HOMEOWNERS
- May 16th in Natick
- May 19th in Newton
Hosted by Alteris Renewables, the Northeast’s leading solar energy company (www.alterisinc.com)
Come find out how solar power can affordably and effectively power your home. Photovoltaic (solar electric) technology is going mainstream as it continually becomes less expensive.
To learn about the myths and realities of solar power, including system cost and return on investment, attend a free seminar in Natick or Newton:
- May 16, 9:30am Crowne Plaza Hotel 1360 Worcester Street, Natick, MA 01760 (Rte 9, across from Natick Mall)
- May 19, 7:00pm Marriott Hotel 2345 Commonwealth Ave., Newton, MA 02466 (Near intersection of Rt. 30 & I-95)
Advance registration is requested by calling 800-955-1548
You can save money and the environment at the same time. Come learn how!
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
"agreed to preserve full-day kindergarten"
Milford Daily News
FRANKLIN —
Hoping to preserve as many teaching jobs as possible, School Committee Chairman Jeffrey Roy last night announced the committee and teachers union are continuing to negotiate wage concessions into the 11th hour.
Representatives from both groups met Monday night and made "significant progress" toward a resolution in the best interest of students, Roy said.
Reading from a statement he and new union President Robert McLaughlin prepared, Roy said, "The School Committee and (union) are engaged in fruitful talks regarding a temporary wage concession for (next) year."
Roy said he is optimistic.
"I was encouraged by the respectful and collaborative tone of the discussions and I'm hopeful this will lead to a solution," he said.
Read the full article on the School Committee meeting in the Milford Daily News here
Read all the live reporting posts from the same School Committee meeting here
School Committee Mtg 05/12/09
The collection of live reporting from the School Committee meeting on Tuesday, May 12th can be found here
- Live reporting - end
- Live reporting - Superintendent's report
- Live reporting - Action items
- Live reporting - FY 2010 budget continued
- Live reporting - Joint Statement (full text)
- Live reporting - FY 2010 budget Q and A
- Live reporting - joint statement SchCom and FEA
- Live reporting - budget FY 2010
- Live reproting - FHS MSBA Draft report
- Live reporting - Moodle Facilitated Courses
- Live reporting - School Committee 5/12/09
Internet Safety - 5/19/09 - 7:00 PM
The Franklin Community Health Council
Presents Worldwide leader in the area of online safety and parent and child Internet EducationTuesday, May 19, 2009
7:00 PM
Horace Mann Middle School Auditorium
7:00 PM
Horace Mann Middle School Auditorium
Parry Aftab is a security, privacy and cyberspace lawyer, as well as an author and child advocate. Ms. Aftab is Executive Director of WiredSafety.org, the largest online safety and educational program in cyberspace that provides important information and programs for children and teens, educators, law enforcement, parents and librarians for all matters related to children online, including online safety and privacy.
Parry Aftab is frequently called as an on‐air expert by all major news services, including CNN, Fox News, MSNBC, ABC News, The O'Riley Factor and CBS News. She has been used as a resource for 20/20, Dateline, Oprah, Inside Edition and 48 Hours. She has also appeared on Good Morning America, The Today Show, and the CBS Morning Show.
For more information please a contact: Lisa Keohane at lkeohane@dean.edu or call 508‐553‐4821
"The place is looking better"
Milford Daily News
The fate of the Red Brick School is safe for another year, thanks to Benjamin Franklin Classical Charter Public School, according to the Brick School Association.
The charter school has been leasing the school from the town for $1 for the year since early last fall, and has signed on to another year, said Herbert Hunter, association treasurer.
Charter school students have been using the historic building for after-school activities that they wouldn't otherwise be able to do, said charter school Head Kevin O'Malley.
"We're just getting into our relationship with the Brick School, but we're already getting good use out of it this year, and next year, we're looking to do even more," O'Malley said.
Read the full article in the Milford Daily News here
Treesavers: Paul Barcelo
Paul Barcelo, author of The Sweet War Man
Will be appearing at Treesavers Books to sign his new book, The Sweet War Man.
Paul Barcelo completed Army Infantry training at Fort Benning, Georgia, then rotary wing training at Fort Wolters, Texas and Fort Rucker, Alabama. He flew one tour as a UH-1 pilot in Republic of Vietnam. He resides in Franklin, Massachusetts with his wife and four children. This is his first novel.
May 16, 2009 from 2:00 to 4:00 PM
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Live reporting - end
School Committee Sub-Committee Reports - none
School Committee Liaison Reports - none
6. New Business
To discuss future business that may be brought before the School Committee. none
7. Executive Session
Contractual Negotiations
The School Committee voted to go into executive session for the purposes of negotiation, not to return to an open meeting.
School Committee Liaison Reports - none
6. New Business
To discuss future business that may be brought before the School Committee. none
7. Executive Session
Contractual Negotiations
The School Committee voted to go into executive session for the purposes of negotiation, not to return to an open meeting.
Live reporting - Superintendent's report
Superintendent’s Report
- Reduction in Force covered earlier
- User Fees covered earlier
- Town / School Expenditure Agreement (Final Draft) will come up for formal action next time
- End of Year Events a full listing supplied to SchCom
- Enrollment Comparisons for April 08-09
Live reporting - Action items
4. Action Items
- I recommend approval of the FHS field trip to McCoy Stadium, Pawtucket, RI on (tentatively, based on ticket availability) June 15, 2009 for a Pawsox game from 5 P.M. to approximately 10:30 P.M. Approved 7-0
- I recommend approval of the FPS Music Dept. field trip to Canobie Lake Park in Salem, NH on June 12, 2009 from 2:00 P.M. to 10:00 P.M. Approved 7-0
- I recommend acceptance of a check for $500.00 from Exxon Mobil for Franklin High School to be used for academic recognition for seniors. Approved 7-0
- I recommend moving FY10 Budget amount of $50,297,820. to public hearing on May 26, 2009. Approved 7-0
Live reporting - FY 2010 budget continued
Armenio
what does this do to the accreditation at the High School
Ogden
I talked with them last Friday
reviewed the options to keep class sizes reasonable
if we institute study halls, what would the consequence be?
She didn't know the answer to those questions, she was going to research that and get back to us
I got a sense that given the duress and financial circumstances, it might be okay
Armenio
be prepared when something leaves, it generally doesn't come back
When the Town budget is so heavily dependent upon the State generosity, it runs into these issues
I can't support going to half-day at this time
plan for the following year, you don't know what is going to happen
it is not a threat, it is a head's up for FY 2011
Cafasso
there is a lot going on, will need to communicate about the changes to all there next year as well as the incoming 8th graders
Light
I have a letter ready to go to the parents, etc.
to go out via ConnectEd and via the website
what does this do to the accreditation at the High School
Ogden
I talked with them last Friday
reviewed the options to keep class sizes reasonable
if we institute study halls, what would the consequence be?
She didn't know the answer to those questions, she was going to research that and get back to us
I got a sense that given the duress and financial circumstances, it might be okay
Armenio
be prepared when something leaves, it generally doesn't come back
When the Town budget is so heavily dependent upon the State generosity, it runs into these issues
I can't support going to half-day at this time
plan for the following year, you don't know what is going to happen
it is not a threat, it is a head's up for FY 2011
Cafasso
there is a lot going on, will need to communicate about the changes to all there next year as well as the incoming 8th graders
Light
I have a letter ready to go to the parents, etc.
to go out via ConnectEd and via the website
Live reporting - Joint Statement (full text)
(May 12, 2009) The Franklin School Committee and Franklin Education Association (FEA) are engaged in fruitful talks regarding a temporary wage concession for the FY10 school year. Representatives from both groups, who met last night, report making significant progress toward a resolution in the best interests of Franklin students.
"I was encouraged by the respectful and collaborative tone of the discussions and I'm hopeful that this will lead to a solution," said Jeffrey Roy, Chairman of the Franklin School Committee.
"Both sides agree that advancing student achievement will require reasonable class sizes, professional development opportunities and highly qualified staff."
Robert McLaughlin, the president of the Franklin Education Association said: "We thank the School Committee for their receptivity to our concerns. We reaffirm our commitment to providing a high quality education to the children of Franklin and look forward to a swift, common sense resolution toward that end.”
Members of the Franklin School Committee and the general membership of the FEA will need to discuss and vote on any proposal designed to help balance the FY10 budget. Both the School Committee and the FEA hope to have the talks concluded and action taken prior to the School Committee’s May 26 public hearing on the FY10 budget.
"I was encouraged by the respectful and collaborative tone of the discussions and I'm hopeful that this will lead to a solution," said Jeffrey Roy, Chairman of the Franklin School Committee.
"Both sides agree that advancing student achievement will require reasonable class sizes, professional development opportunities and highly qualified staff."
Robert McLaughlin, the president of the Franklin Education Association said: "We thank the School Committee for their receptivity to our concerns. We reaffirm our commitment to providing a high quality education to the children of Franklin and look forward to a swift, common sense resolution toward that end.”
Members of the Franklin School Committee and the general membership of the FEA will need to discuss and vote on any proposal designed to help balance the FY10 budget. Both the School Committee and the FEA hope to have the talks concluded and action taken prior to the School Committee’s May 26 public hearing on the FY10 budget.
Live reporting - FY 2010 budget Q and A
Left to Right: Miriam Goodman, Wayne Ogden, Maureen Sabolinski, Peter Light
50% of the stimulus can be used to retain teachers, 50% for facilities
applications not available yet
will need to be approved by the State
School Choice funds were always put aside
budgeted at about 250,000 revenue has been about 350,000
recommending use of the 150,000 to save positions for FY 2010
Cafasso
let's bring this down to a user level
what does this do to class sizes, what happens to the libraries when they aren't staffed?
Ogden
some of that is already out there see the March presentations on this link
Cafasso
we are cobbling this together to do level service with a bunch of one time funds
Light
schedule would need to be done, haven't really started with the students yet
do need to get the schedule resolved before the school year ends
Ogden
need consensus to begin the planning, action would come next time to formally approve
Sabolinski
this is really a two year problem, this offers consistency and stability
Mullen
can't support going to half day kindergarten, telling folks in May that they need to find a place next year is not good
Rohrbach
there is no late bus in this budget
Is the Freshman collaborative intact with this?
Light
When teachers meet for the collaborative, this is done
Teachers did have a prep and a work session, prep is required
with the six periods, the work period is gone
Slight
what does that do to the actual schedule
Light
with the 7 day schedule, one class dropped
we are looking to see how this would maintain the 6 classes within the six periods
Trahan
Once you leave you can never return again
none of these changes are good
we want to move the system from good to great and none of this is good
we have looked at these items
some of the items are not workable
going to a half day at this late date but this is not something I can support
I don't know where we are going to get the money but I can't support it
Kelly
I can't support half-day
Ogden
if we went half day with a full day pay option, we could keep the grant
Sabolinski
the add backs could go into the kindergarten area due to the changes being being proposed by the high school
Roy
the gap is a million and a half
we've talked about 50,000 per position
that is 30 positions
we will be able to add positions back with the wage concessions
Ogden
if the stars align perfectly, being frugal, salary freezes, no other changes in unemployment
we could get to loosing 10 or fewer
Live reporting - joint statement SchCom and FEA
SchCom:
Fruitful talks are underway
significant progress is being made
respectful tone and discussion
Teachers:
We thank the school committee for being receptive to our concerns
A vote will be required to approve, hopeful to have this completed before the 5/26/09 meeting
Fruitful talks are underway
significant progress is being made
respectful tone and discussion
Teachers:
We thank the school committee for being receptive to our concerns
A vote will be required to approve, hopeful to have this completed before the 5/26/09 meeting
Live reporting - budget FY 2010
3. Discussion Only Items
Per pupil allotments
Elem $210
Middle $225
High $355
Total dollars remained constant from FY 2009
District wide, potentially 42 positions to reduce (originally in Jan 09 was referenced as >60)
Classroom teachers
Specialists
Librarians
Asst Principal
Secretary
Central Office Data processing
Extracurricular Activities
Notices went out to more than 60 teachers due to the bumping rights, etc. the actual positions lost will only be around 42
The number can be reduced with additional revenue or additional savings
The salary freeze could account for 16 positions within this number of 42 if resolution is reached
FHS
4 teachers
Librarian
Asst Princpal
Office Secretary
6 periods (current schedule has 7 periods)
PE/Health becomes an elective (policy)
Class sizes remain manageable
Middle Schools
2 grade 6
4 grade 7
4 grade 8
2 music
Elementary
18.5 classroom teachers
Full day kindergarten reduced to half day kindergarten
2.5 librarians
1.2 specialists
Implementing a growth in fees over three years would bring the fees to a 50/50 position; the budget would support 50 of the program, the fees would support the remaining 50 percent of the program
Fees
Athletic fees
FY 10 - 200
FY 11 - 225
FY 12 - 250
Extracurricular
FY 10 - 50
FY 11 - 75
FY 12 - 100
Pay-to-ride
FY 10 - 350
FY 11 - 375
FY 12 - 400
Circuit breaker 110,00
State fiscal stabilization 448,381
Federal stimulus 375,000
Extraordinary relief 426,339
School choice 150,000
------------------------------------
Total revenue increase 1,504,720
Remaining differential between level service budget 53,807,773 to level funded 50,297,820
is $1,489,233
- User Fees
- Staff Reduction in Force (RIF)
- Adoption of FY10 Budget for public hearing (May 26, 2009)
Per pupil allotments
Elem $210
Middle $225
High $355
Total dollars remained constant from FY 2009
District wide, potentially 42 positions to reduce (originally in Jan 09 was referenced as >60)
Classroom teachers
Specialists
Librarians
Asst Principal
Secretary
Central Office Data processing
Extracurricular Activities
Notices went out to more than 60 teachers due to the bumping rights, etc. the actual positions lost will only be around 42
The number can be reduced with additional revenue or additional savings
The salary freeze could account for 16 positions within this number of 42 if resolution is reached
FHS
4 teachers
Librarian
Asst Princpal
Office Secretary
6 periods (current schedule has 7 periods)
PE/Health becomes an elective (policy)
Class sizes remain manageable
Middle Schools
2 grade 6
4 grade 7
4 grade 8
2 music
Elementary
18.5 classroom teachers
Full day kindergarten reduced to half day kindergarten
2.5 librarians
1.2 specialists
Implementing a growth in fees over three years would bring the fees to a 50/50 position; the budget would support 50 of the program, the fees would support the remaining 50 percent of the program
Fees
Athletic fees
FY 10 - 200
FY 11 - 225
FY 12 - 250
Extracurricular
FY 10 - 50
FY 11 - 75
FY 12 - 100
Pay-to-ride
FY 10 - 350
FY 11 - 375
FY 12 - 400
Circuit breaker 110,00
State fiscal stabilization 448,381
Federal stimulus 375,000
Extraordinary relief 426,339
School choice 150,000
------------------------------------
Total revenue increase 1,504,720
Remaining differential between level service budget 53,807,773 to level funded 50,297,820
is $1,489,233
Live reproting - FHS MSBA Draft report
3. Discussion Only Items
Cafasso - initial reaction, some interesting solutions proposed
notes that the building is well maintained, very functional
offers ideas for potential solutions to accessibility to the boys locker room, accessibility in general
Mullen - didn't talk about the big system issues, nor did it talk about the funding for the building
Sabolinski - ithis report moves us closer, the cafeteria suggestions were not really in line with our needs; for example, building new cooking space and use the existing space for dining areas
Armenio - listening to the architects when they walked into the garage and said this could be the boys locker room and only would need access to the field house but the accessabilty is otherwise resolved.
Mullen - this report took a smaller approach to fixing some of the problems
Cafasso - two costs to the project, one for the cost of the materials and whatever is done, the second cost is due to the disruption of the school year. Some of what they came back with could be done without an impact to the building operation
Ogden - the building has been so well maintained that we are not high in the listing, if we want to get State help, these are some things that could be done that would be less expensive and perhaps could be done with State help sooner
- Draft MSBA Report on FHS
Cafasso - initial reaction, some interesting solutions proposed
notes that the building is well maintained, very functional
offers ideas for potential solutions to accessibility to the boys locker room, accessibility in general
Mullen - didn't talk about the big system issues, nor did it talk about the funding for the building
Sabolinski - ithis report moves us closer, the cafeteria suggestions were not really in line with our needs; for example, building new cooking space and use the existing space for dining areas
Armenio - listening to the architects when they walked into the garage and said this could be the boys locker room and only would need access to the field house but the accessabilty is otherwise resolved.
Mullen - this report took a smaller approach to fixing some of the problems
Cafasso - two costs to the project, one for the cost of the materials and whatever is done, the second cost is due to the disruption of the school year. Some of what they came back with could be done without an impact to the building operation
Ogden - the building has been so well maintained that we are not high in the listing, if we want to get State help, these are some things that could be done that would be less expensive and perhaps could be done with State help sooner
Live reporting - Moodle Facilitated Courses
2. Guests/Presentations
Moodle Facilitated Courses
Pandora witnessed the collaboration and learning between Adam and Eileen in working to bring the Moodle system to life for Franklin.
http://cms.franklin.k12.ma.us/
Moodle - "modular object oriented learning environment"
Open source software, 27 million users
Switched from Blackboard to Moodle to save money
only the in-house server and in-house expertise is required to support it
Eileen - did use Blackboard, wasn't very flexible, went to a conference and heard about it
a virtual high school accredited by the State of Florida is operational
Attended summit at Olin College, people were impressed with what Franklin has already accomplished with Moodle
Eileen did a training session with 8 teachers today
It takes a lot of work for teachers to do, all on their own time
Forensic science class being set up
provides the required text, uses blogs for communication back and forth
Internet sites are pre-cleared by the teacher before set up for the students to link out to within Moodle
Schedule posted in advance for Forensic science to provide some flexibility for the students to complete their work
Up to 30 expected to be able to handle the course with this teacher, did have 10 last year
Moodle does a lot of the work electronically
feedback to the students automated by the system
A couple of students did take a course from Las Vegas last year.
Only issue was with working the timing for when work is due to accommodate multiple time zones
Students need the opportunity to experience on-line learning before they go to college
Principal Light - course on transcript, no weighting for College or Honors scoring yet, on honors pre-calc course counts for the grade point average
"We may not have a Smartboard in every classroom but we are doing so much more" Eileen
Life Long Learning has been providing the start up costs, as the courses really get rolling, then it would come into the full and normal school program. Teachers in the future may divide their time between classroom face-time and classroom online-time.
Forensics uses "Forensics for Dummies" is used as the text, available for about $18 from various on-line booksellers. The course is built to extend the material prepared in the text.
Tim Raposa points out the collaboration on technology between the town and school.
Moodle Facilitated Courses
Pandora Carlucci10 courses now available online
Eileen Belastock
Adam Wawrow
Pandora witnessed the collaboration and learning between Adam and Eileen in working to bring the Moodle system to life for Franklin.
http://cms.franklin.k12.ma.us/
Moodle - "modular object oriented learning environment"
Open source software, 27 million users
Switched from Blackboard to Moodle to save money
only the in-house server and in-house expertise is required to support it
Eileen - did use Blackboard, wasn't very flexible, went to a conference and heard about it
a virtual high school accredited by the State of Florida is operational
Attended summit at Olin College, people were impressed with what Franklin has already accomplished with Moodle
Eileen did a training session with 8 teachers today
It takes a lot of work for teachers to do, all on their own time
Forensic science class being set up
provides the required text, uses blogs for communication back and forth
Internet sites are pre-cleared by the teacher before set up for the students to link out to within Moodle
Schedule posted in advance for Forensic science to provide some flexibility for the students to complete their work
Up to 30 expected to be able to handle the course with this teacher, did have 10 last year
Moodle does a lot of the work electronically
feedback to the students automated by the system
A couple of students did take a course from Las Vegas last year.
Only issue was with working the timing for when work is due to accommodate multiple time zones
Students need the opportunity to experience on-line learning before they go to college
Principal Light - course on transcript, no weighting for College or Honors scoring yet, on honors pre-calc course counts for the grade point average
"We may not have a Smartboard in every classroom but we are doing so much more" Eileen
Life Long Learning has been providing the start up costs, as the courses really get rolling, then it would come into the full and normal school program. Teachers in the future may divide their time between classroom face-time and classroom online-time.
Forensics uses "Forensics for Dummies" is used as the text, available for about $18 from various on-line booksellers. The course is built to extend the material prepared in the text.
Tim Raposa points out the collaboration on technology between the town and school.
Live reporting - School Committee 5/12/09
Attending: Armenio, Cafasso, Kelly, Mullen, Roy, Rohrbach, Trahan
Missing: none
1. Routine Business
Citizen’s Comments
Review of Agenda
Minutes: I recommend approval of the minutes from the April 14th and April 28th 2009 School Committee Meetings. Motion to approve, passed unanimously (except for 1 - abstain for the 14th)
Payment of Bills Mr. Kelly Motion to approve, passed unanimously
Payroll Ms. Armenio
FHS Student Representatives
Missing: none
1. Routine Business
Citizen’s Comments
Review of Agenda
Minutes: I recommend approval of the minutes from the April 14th and April 28th 2009 School Committee Meetings. Motion to approve, passed unanimously (except for 1 - abstain for the 14th)
Payment of Bills Mr. Kelly Motion to approve, passed unanimously
Payroll Ms. Armenio
FHS Student Representatives
Governor comes to Franklin 5/17/09
Governor Deval Patrick will hold a "Town Hall Meeting" on Sunday May 17 at 4pm-5pm at the Franklin Senior Center 10 Daniel McCahill Street.
For additional information on Governor Patrick's forums visit www.mass.gov/governor/forum
For additional information on Governor Patrick's forums visit www.mass.gov/governor/forum
"anxious about full-day kindergarten"
Milford Daily News
FRANKLIN —
Tonight, the School Committee will make final decisions about what to cut - with full-day kindergarten and at least 30 teachers' jobs on the line - to balance the budget.
As of yesterday afternoon, the union and School Committee had not yet reached an agreement on wage concessions, said Chairman Jeffrey Roy.
Without a wage deferral from the 550-member Franklin Education Association, the School Department faces a budget gap of $1.5 million, Roy said.
A "yes" from the union will save about $800,000, which will be used to save 16 teachers' jobs, Roy said.
A "no" from the union means a minimum of 30 teachers will be laid off, Roy said.
Tonight, the School Committee must vote on a final budget in time for its public hearing on May 26, though the budget does not have to be finalized until June 30, Roy said.
Read the full article about the school budget in the Milford Daily News here
HMEA's 8th Annual Independence 5K Walk/Run
HMEA's 8th Annual Independence 5K Walk/Run in the Park will be held on Sunday, May 17, 2009. Our friends at EMC2 Corporation, 50 Constitution Boulevard, Franklin, MA have again allowed us to hold this premier fundraising event on their grounds. Gail Huff from WCVB-TV Channel 5 News will once again be our host.To register to walk please visit firstgiving.com/hmea. Here you can also set-up your own personal fundraising page that can be e-mailed to all your family, friends and co-workers asking them to support your efforts to raise funds for HMEA.
If you want to participate in the road race please register at active.com/hmea. OR, if you prefer you can complete your registration form online, print it and mail directly to HMEA along with your registration fee(s). You could also e-mail it back to hmea@hmea.org. Click here for the registration form.
Interested in becoming a sponsor of this fun-filled family day event? To learn what sponsorships are available click here for the Sponsorship Opportunities flyer.
More information will be available shortly. In the meantime if have any questions please call Linda Conley at 508.298.1107 or Doug MacPherson at 508.298.1105.
Monday, May 11, 2009
Strategic Planning Survey Closes 5/12/09
The Strategic Planning survey announced previously is available for your input. The survey closes out on Tuesday, May 12, 2009.
Please take a few minutes to provide your input online here
What is the survey about? This slide cast will explain:
Please take a few minutes to provide your input online here
What is the survey about? This slide cast will explain:
School Committee Meeting May 12, 2009 - Agenda
Franklin School Committee Meeting
May 12, 2009
Municipal Building – Council Chambers
7:00 P.M.
May 12, 2009
Municipal Building – Council Chambers
7:00 P.M.
AGENDA
1. Routine Business
Citizen’s Comments
Review of Agenda
Minutes: I recommend approval of the minutes from the April 14th and April 28th 2009 School Committee Meetings.
Payment of Bills Mr. Kelly
Payroll Ms. Armenio
FHS Student Representatives
Correspondence
- Budget to Actual
- Letter from Susan Tribe
2. Guests/Presentations
Moodle Facilitated Courses
Pandora Carlucci
Eileen Belastock
Adam Wawrow
3. Discussion Only Items
- Draft MSBA Report on FHS
- User Fees
- Staff Reduction in Force (RIF)
- Adoption of FY10 Budget for public hearing (May 26, 2009)
4. Action Items
- I recommend approval of the FHS field trip to McCoy Stadium, Pawtucket, RI on (tentatively, based on ticket availability) June 15, 2009 for a Pawsox game from 5 P.M. to approximately 10:30 P.M.
- I recommend approval of the FPS Music Dept. field trip to Canobie Lake Park in Salem, NH on June 12, 2009 from 2:00 P.M. to 10:00 P.M.
- I recommend acceptance of a check for $500.00 from Exxon Mobil for Franklin High School to be used for academic recognition for seniors.
- I recommend moving FY10 Budget amount of $50,297,820. to public hearing on May 26, 2009.
5. Information Matters
Superintendent’s Report
- Reduction in Force
- User Fees
- Town / School Expenditure Agreement (Final Draft)
- End of Year Events
- Enrollment Comparisons for April 08-09
School Committee Sub-Committee Reports
School Committee Liaison Reports
6. New Business
To discuss future business that may be brought before the School Committee.
7. Executive Session
Contractual Negotiations
8. Adjourn
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Brook St house fire
GHS
FRANKLIN —
One Franklin firefighter was injured yesterday afternoon in a two-alarm house fire at 179 Brook St.
Fire Chief Gary McCarraher did not identify the firefighter, but said the injuries were not life-threatening. The firefighter was taken to Milford Regional Medical Center, he said.
Firefighters encountered heavy smoke and heat conditions throughout the building, McCarraher said.
Flames blazed from the roof of the two-story home around noon, and smoke continued to rise above the house for about 20 minutes after the fire was under control at 12:30 p.m.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation, McCarraher said. The fire started in a utility room on the lower level, he said.
The lower level sustained extensive fire and water damage, and the whole house suffered smoke and fire damage, McCarraher said.
Franklin Building Commissioner David Roche said the house needs to be condemned and boarded up.
Read the full story on the Brook St fire in the Milford Daily News here
"the ensemble's just so energetic and so happy to be there"
GHS
FRANKLIN —
Read the full article on Andrea's stage debut in the Milford Daily News hereNoble and Greenough School senior Andrea Ross has had a fairly incredible career at age 18. The Franklin resident has already starred in the national tour of an Andrew Lloyd Webber musical, recorded her own CD and won a prestigious Boston theater award.But only now will Ross debut on her own high school stage, as the lead in "Thoroughly Modern Millie," opening next Tuesday.Ross says she initially planned on doing lots of shows at Nobles, but "this is the first year that I've been here for the full year. And I finally have a spring free, so I'm finally doing the musical."Her turn in the school's Vinik Theatre comes just in time, as Ross graduates May 28.
Saturday, May 9, 2009
Sponsor a hug today!
I met Gail at last weekend's SOBCon conference in Chicago. I was inspired to donate for a hug and encourage you to try to do the same. From their website:
What we're doing
Inspire Me Today Founder Gail Lynne Goodwin and her husband Darryl will take off in a small prop plane from Colorado to circumnavigate the globe and literally hug the world. The tour will stop in 45 locations over a period of five months.
On a personal mission to make a difference, they will be:
- Delivering an estimated $1,000,000 to important causes throughout the tour raised through grassroots contributions from people like you
- Giving at least 2,000 hugs in each location to literally wrap the world in 100,000 hugs
- Gathering great wisdom, inspiration and brilliance from leaders and luminaries in the far reaches of the globe to bring back and share on InspireMeToday.com
Why we're doing it
In this time of doom and gloom when it seems the whole world is struggling, we choose to change that focus by inspiring humanity to trust in what is good and what is possible. We believe in a message of hope, change, responsibility, and commitment to others.
We believe through opening our hearts and celebrating our global connectivity, bridges and understanding can be built between us. By connecting Hug Sponsors with the exact hug recipients, we will create opportunities to connect people from all walks of life, from different religions, cultures, ethnicities, and create friendships that extend from one continent to another. By raising money with people like you, we will be making a tangible difference in the world and supporting important causes together. We welcome your participation and look forward to working with you!
Do you believe in a message of hope, change, responsibility, and commitment to others?
For more information on their world tour, and to contribute if you can, please visit their website here
Friday, May 8, 2009
Quick clarification
The prior posting on "We have no one to fault but ourselves" was meant as a call to action for the 80% of the Franklin voters who did not cast their ballot in November 2007.
While there may be differences in views on this item or that, I have great respect for all our elected officials, especially those on the Town Council, School Committee, Finance Committee, and the other elected committees that contribute to this town.
They give much of their time to perform their duties on our behalf.
Contrary to what some apparently believe, they do not get paid for what they do. It is a volunteer effort and public service initiative much like my own efforts here.
Franklin will be a better place with all involved.
If you don't think you should be involved, stop me around town some time. You should be able recognize me by now. I'd like to find out why.
PS - My thanks to Town Council Chairperson Chris Feeley for taking the time to provide feedback on the prior posting and to enable this clarification.
While there may be differences in views on this item or that, I have great respect for all our elected officials, especially those on the Town Council, School Committee, Finance Committee, and the other elected committees that contribute to this town.
They give much of their time to perform their duties on our behalf.
Contrary to what some apparently believe, they do not get paid for what they do. It is a volunteer effort and public service initiative much like my own efforts here.
- To the 1 in 10 Franklin voters who cast your ballot in November 2007, reach out to your neighbors at any opportunity you have, gently remind them of their civic duty.
- To the 9 in 10 Franklin voters who did not cast your ballot in November 2007, please, please get involved. Take a step forward. Attend a meeting. Be informed. Cast your ballot when the next election rolls around.
Franklin will be a better place with all involved.
If you don't think you should be involved, stop me around town some time. You should be able recognize me by now. I'd like to find out why.
- Finally, to all Franklin resident that are eligible to vote but have not yet registered, please consider doing so. The Town Clerk's office is open with convenient hours Monday-Friday. It is a quick and easy transaction.
PS - My thanks to Town Council Chairperson Chris Feeley for taking the time to provide feedback on the prior posting and to enable this clarification.
We have no one to fault but ourselves!
As I went back to the November 2007 Town election results for yesterday's posting, I was surprised to see the numbers. Yes, I knew the turnout was low but the real impact is what affects us everyday here in Franklin.
Only 1 in 10 registered voters in Franklin have a right to complain about how things are being determined.
The other 9 better do something to get involved, become informed, and cast a vote when the next election comes around.
Oh, yes. This is election year isn't it!
Notes:
The Election results can be found on the Town of Franklin Annual Report for 2008. Page 57-59.
Hard copies are available at the Municipal Building. You can also down load a copy from the website here (PDF).
The candidates for Town Council and School Committee are shown in declining order of votes received.
The % voted is their total as a percent of the total cast, 3845.
The % voters is their total as a percent of the total registered voters for 2007, 18572. From P56 of the Town Report; 19102 minus the growth of 530 voters during 2008 equals 18572.
| Candidate | Votes | % Voted | % Voters |
| Vallee | 2201 | 57.2% | 11.9% |
| Feeley | 1979 | 51.5% | 10.7% |
| Zollo | 1978 | 51.4% | 10.7% |
| Bartlett | 1893 | 49.2% | 10.2% |
| Pfeffer | 1692 | 44.0% | 9.1% |
| Whalen | 1680 | 43.7% | 9.0% |
| Doak | 1673 | 43.5% | 9.0% |
| Mason | 1568 | 40.8% | 8.4% |
| McGann | 1549 | 40.3% | 8.3% |
| Kelly | 2141 | 55.7% | 11.5% |
| Roy | 2021 | 52.6% | 10.9% |
| Trahan | 1976 | 51.4% | 10.6% |
| Cafasso | 1899 | 49.4% | 10.2% |
| Mullen | 1871 | 48.7% | 10.1% |
| Armenio | 1823 | 47.4% | 9.8% |
| Rohrbach | 1761 | 45.8% | 9.5% |
Only 1 in 10 registered voters in Franklin have a right to complain about how things are being determined.
The other 9 better do something to get involved, become informed, and cast a vote when the next election comes around.
Oh, yes. This is election year isn't it!
Notes:
The Election results can be found on the Town of Franklin Annual Report for 2008. Page 57-59.
Hard copies are available at the Municipal Building. You can also down load a copy from the website here (PDF).
The candidates for Town Council and School Committee are shown in declining order of votes received.
The % voted is their total as a percent of the total cast, 3845.
The % voters is their total as a percent of the total registered voters for 2007, 18572. From P56 of the Town Report; 19102 minus the growth of 530 voters during 2008 equals 18572.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Town Council Continues Math Error School Committee Started
In Thursday's paper:
Councilor Joseph McGann said he believes it is only a "handful" of union members who refuse to accept a wage deferment without conditions attached.
"It's just a handful, and that handful is very selfish and very one-sided. Every other union in Franklin has conceded to and waived raises," McGann said.
Gee, if we go back to the election in November 2007 that brought Councilor McGann to this position, there were 3845 ballots cast. This reflects only 20% of the total Franklin registered voters. He gained 1549 votes which was 40% of those cast and only 8% of the total Franklin registered voters. These numbers are all from the Franklin Annual Report for 2008 and you can go double check the math if you would like.
So what is this “handful” of teachers he is talking about?
According to what was reported in this paper, half the teachers participated in the first vote and 80% of those voted for the wage deferral with the three conditions. So if you do the math, that would equate to 40% of the teachers eligible to vote. 10% voted against the proposal. 50% choose not to vote.
Councilor McGann, you are calling 40% a “handful”?
Then what would you call the 8% who voted for you in November 2007?
The Town Council has chosen to unanimously and quite publicly back the School Committee. Why didn't they do that in June 2007 for the override that failed?
This time, I think they have picked the wrong numbers to make their case. They are continuing an error the School Committee started and has yet to correct.
"hearings are slated to begin next week"
Dining out at restaurants, registering your car, and even watching satellite television would get more expensive under a plan that will be recommended today by a special legislative panel hunting for new revenue to aid cities and towns.
The commission's report contains a potentially big money maker for municipalities. It says local officials should have the option of raising meal taxes by 2 percentage points and increasing taxes on hotel rooms by 4 percentage points.
The increases, along with a variety of other taxes and fees, would raise at least $409 million to benefit municipalities as state lawmakers are reducing local aid payments. It would be a crucial boost for struggling cities and towns, panel members and city leaders said.
"It's the first light we've seen in a dark tunnel," Mayor Thomas M. Menino of Boston said in an interview yesterday. "It seems positive to me. We've been advocating for local options for several years, and if this says cities can have their own local option, it's a good beginning."
The Boston Globe today reports on some progress made to enable local communities to obtain revenue. Read more about this attempt to reduce our dependency on local property taxes here
New England Sports Celebration - 5/31/09
From the Facebook page for the New England Sports Celebration
Come down and help us raise funds for the F.X. O’Regan Early Childhood Development Center PCC. We are planning a fun-filled family day celebrating the proud tradition of New England sports!!
Currently, we have Boston hockey legend TERRY O'REILLY coming down to sign autographs from 2PM-4PM.
Signatures are $15 each with no charge for inscriptions. You are welcome to bring your own items, and we will have a great selection of pictures, pucks and other items available for sale!
Also from 2PM - 4PM, Wally the Green Monster will be visiting to take pictures and sign autographs for his fans for FREE!!!
AND JUST ANNOUNCED - Football Legend STEVE GROGAN will also be available from 2PM-4PM!!! Signatures are $15 each with no charge for inscriptions.
There will be lots of other fun activities for the kids, as well. Cash bar and concessions will be available. did we mention....ADMISSION IS FREE!!!
This is a public event and we want to pack the place - so please feel free to invite anyone you would like!!! A lot more to come on this...
SAVE THE DATE!!
The groups formed "walking school buses"
Milford Daily News
FRANKLIN —
Dodging puddles and raindrops yesterday morning, crowds of students took to the streets in the state's third annual Walk to School Day.
Rather than driving down Oak Street yesterday morning, Alexandra Thomas walked her children, Cameron and Lily, to Oak Elementary School.
"It was a little chilly, but we did it, it was a team effort," Thomas said.
The young students seemed to grasp the mission of the event.
"It's good exercise and I wanted to help the Earth," said Cameron, a fifth-grader.
The event is put on by MassRIDES, the state's travel options service under the Executive Office of Transportation, as part of the state's Safe Routes to School program. It emphasizes the importance of increasing physical activity among children, pedestrian safety, traffic congestion and concern for the environment.
Read the full article about this walk to school day in the Milford Daily News here
40% of urban travel is for trips 2 miles or less. 90% of those trips are by car. Consider taking Clif Bar's Two Mile Challenge. Read about this effort to increase exercise and reduce pollution here
"We're very committed to making it work"
Milford Daily News
MEDWAY —
After lengthy discussions, Medway's Board of Library Trustees unanimously voted to go forward with regionalizing Medway's library next year by sharing the services of Franklin's current library Director Felicia Oti.
"As a first step toward regionalizing, we accept Felicia Oti as our Interim Library Director for fiscal 2010, for a maximum of 14 hours per week," Wendy Rowe, chairwoman of Medway's Board of Library Trustees, said in an e-mail sent to officials in both towns late Tuesday night.
Medway Town Administrator Suzanne Kennedy said she was "delighted" at the board's unanimous support of regionalizing library services.
read the full article on this next step towards regionalization in the Milford Daily News here
"the art of compromise"
Milford Daily News
FRANKLIN —
One after the other, town councilors last night said they support the School Committee and appealed to the teachers union to vote for wage concessions without conditions to save jobs.
"Personally, on this issue, I'm behind the School Committee 100 percent," said Chairman Christopher Feeley.
He and his fellow councilors said they do not believe the majority of teachers support the union leadership's hardline stance on the three conditions that stand in the way of an agreement with the School Committee.
They urged union leaders to hold another meeting to let the membership vote on the issue, and implored teachers to attend and let their voices be heard.
Councilor Joseph McGann said he believes it is only a "handful" of union members who refuse to accept a wage deferment without conditions attached.
"It's just a handful, and that handful is very selfish and very one-sided. Every other union in Franklin has conceded to and waived raises," McGann said.
read the full article about the Councilor's comments in the Milford Daily News here
Town Council Mtg 05/06/09
The live reporting posts for the Town Council meeting on Wednesday 5/6/09 can be found here
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Live reporting - Town Admin, and closing comments
K. TOWN ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT
Jeff read the listing of the sponsors of the recent Earth Day, huge success
remind folks to pick up litter as you go to help keep the town clean
May 17th, HMEA 5K roadrace
Update of fiscal policies in councilor packets
Beautification Day - May 16th 8:00 AM at the bridge
FINCOM did finish their budget hearings on Tuesday
Not sure if we will make the schedule that we have set thus far
Budget as proposed eliminates 11 municipal jobs, only 1.25 people will actually be laid off due to other changes
School Committee budget hearing on May 26th
L. OLD BUSINESS
Vallee - listing of street resurfacing?
Nutting - had to re-bid the hot-top so that should be coming, within the next 30 days we should be ready
Vallee - What is status of Walgreens?
Nutting - we should be ready to close on June 30th
Bartlett - get the listing of street out on the web site so the residents can see
Nutting - yes
McGann - how do we arrive at the street listing?
Nutting - anytime there is a water line, we do the paving the next year. we have a master listing of streets, part art and part science. We do have a huge listing of work that needs to be done. We don't appropriate any money for road improvements.
M. NEW BUSINESS
Vallee - After listening to the Financial Planning Committee, Milford operating under Chapter 121a
Nutting - this is similar to the TIF which we do provide
Nutting - part of it is zoning, big box stores are not allowed, from a tax structure, we have a very low rate. We have given out TIF's with your approval. We are trying to get folks here to fill our warehouses.
Vallee - we should be more proactive in trying to create jobs
Nutting - we are about to begin to update the master plan to look at those issues, rezoning from residential to commercial is not easy
Vallee - I'd like to request that the Planning Dept do the research on Chap 121a
Taberner - we should look at more rezaoning, we have to do it for the greater good
N. COUNCIL COMMENTS
Whalen - would like to take this time to comment on the stand off between the teachers and the School Committee. Addressing teachers directly. 7 unions made the concession for the Town to avoid layoffs.
Mason - echoes Whalen's comments and wishes a speedy resolution to the issue
Zollo - I find it hard to believe that the majority of the teachers are actually supporting their leadership.
McGann - I too believe it is not the whole union that represented, it is a small group, they are very selfish and one sided. It is only a handful.
Congratulations to Mr Fahey for his work in the veterans area.
Doak - I would like to endorse Councilor Whalen's eloquent comments. I don't claim to know all the details. If these concessions don't go through, we will lose more teachers and that is not good.
Pfeffer - I would like to see the art of compromise
Feeley - I find it difficult to believe that the whole number of teachers are behind this. The School Committee conceded the three items for the one year (Editor note: This is not correct, the School Committee conceded only 2 of the 3 items) this shows an attempt to reach an agreement.
Jeff read the listing of the sponsors of the recent Earth Day, huge success
remind folks to pick up litter as you go to help keep the town clean
May 17th, HMEA 5K roadrace
Update of fiscal policies in councilor packets
Beautification Day - May 16th 8:00 AM at the bridge
FINCOM did finish their budget hearings on Tuesday
Not sure if we will make the schedule that we have set thus far
Budget as proposed eliminates 11 municipal jobs, only 1.25 people will actually be laid off due to other changes
School Committee budget hearing on May 26th
L. OLD BUSINESS
Vallee - listing of street resurfacing?
Nutting - had to re-bid the hot-top so that should be coming, within the next 30 days we should be ready
Vallee - What is status of Walgreens?
Nutting - we should be ready to close on June 30th
Bartlett - get the listing of street out on the web site so the residents can see
Nutting - yes
McGann - how do we arrive at the street listing?
Nutting - anytime there is a water line, we do the paving the next year. we have a master listing of streets, part art and part science. We do have a huge listing of work that needs to be done. We don't appropriate any money for road improvements.
M. NEW BUSINESS
Vallee - After listening to the Financial Planning Committee, Milford operating under Chapter 121a
Nutting - this is similar to the TIF which we do provide
Nutting - part of it is zoning, big box stores are not allowed, from a tax structure, we have a very low rate. We have given out TIF's with your approval. We are trying to get folks here to fill our warehouses.
Vallee - we should be more proactive in trying to create jobs
Nutting - we are about to begin to update the master plan to look at those issues, rezoning from residential to commercial is not easy
Vallee - I'd like to request that the Planning Dept do the research on Chap 121a
Taberner - we should look at more rezaoning, we have to do it for the greater good
N. COUNCIL COMMENTS
Whalen - would like to take this time to comment on the stand off between the teachers and the School Committee. Addressing teachers directly. 7 unions made the concession for the Town to avoid layoffs.
Mason - echoes Whalen's comments and wishes a speedy resolution to the issue
Zollo - I find it hard to believe that the majority of the teachers are actually supporting their leadership.
McGann - I too believe it is not the whole union that represented, it is a small group, they are very selfish and one sided. It is only a handful.
Congratulations to Mr Fahey for his work in the veterans area.
Doak - I would like to endorse Councilor Whalen's eloquent comments. I don't claim to know all the details. If these concessions don't go through, we will lose more teachers and that is not good.
Pfeffer - I would like to see the art of compromise
Feeley - I find it difficult to believe that the whole number of teachers are behind this. The School Committee conceded the three items for the one year (Editor note: This is not correct, the School Committee conceded only 2 of the 3 items) this shows an attempt to reach an agreement.
Live reporting - legislation for action
J. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
1 - Land was taken in 1986 from the US Government and should not have been, they finally discovered the error and have asked us to correct it. The easement for sewer through wetlands hasn't chnaged.
2 - Conservation Commission worked on this to prepare the proposal and reduce the cost of the drafting required.
Chris Botchis
Andy Tolland
Ray Willis
Nick Alferi
Nutting
We don't know how much it will cost. Depending upon what it does cost, we could put it into the capital budget, or bond it, or look for grants to help cover it.
Tolland
Purpose of this aspect of the study is to focus on the three options and figure out what the least cost options would be. We need tight cost estimates. Everything has been based from a far, this would be a closer study.
Probably along the lines of 6-9 months to do the study, no more than a year.
Based upon what they have said, it could fail but it unlikely to. We are not looking at loss of life or property. The ponds remove nutrients from the storm water before it gets to the Charles River. It is helpful as we are overall being charged with reducing phosphorous from the Charles River.
We are looking for partial dam removals or full dam replacements.
Nutting
It is our responsibility, it is town owned property.
Mason
I am not inclined to approve this given the circumstance
Unless there is a real crisis, I don't see the need for this at this time
Pfeffer
I think we need to do this, Mr Delcorte provided this land, there is a lot of water, we are liable for it
- Resolution 09-26: Acknowledgment of Invalidity of Order of Taking Directed to Land of United States of America approved 9-0
- Resolution 09-27: Appropriation – DelCarte Open Space Dam Repair/Removal approved 8-1 (Mason voted no)
- Resolution 09-28: Appropriation – Veterans’ Benefits approved 8-0 (Vallee stepped out momentarily)
- Resolution 09-29: Appropriation – Snow & Ice approved 9-0
1 - Land was taken in 1986 from the US Government and should not have been, they finally discovered the error and have asked us to correct it. The easement for sewer through wetlands hasn't chnaged.
2 - Conservation Commission worked on this to prepare the proposal and reduce the cost of the drafting required.
Chris Botchis
Andy Tolland
Ray Willis
Nick Alferi
Nutting
We don't know how much it will cost. Depending upon what it does cost, we could put it into the capital budget, or bond it, or look for grants to help cover it.
Tolland
Purpose of this aspect of the study is to focus on the three options and figure out what the least cost options would be. We need tight cost estimates. Everything has been based from a far, this would be a closer study.
Probably along the lines of 6-9 months to do the study, no more than a year.
Based upon what they have said, it could fail but it unlikely to. We are not looking at loss of life or property. The ponds remove nutrients from the storm water before it gets to the Charles River. It is helpful as we are overall being charged with reducing phosphorous from the Charles River.
We are looking for partial dam removals or full dam replacements.
Nutting
It is our responsibility, it is town owned property.
Mason
I am not inclined to approve this given the circumstance
Unless there is a real crisis, I don't see the need for this at this time
Pfeffer
I think we need to do this, Mr Delcorte provided this land, there is a lot of water, we are liable for it
Live reporting - Bylaw
Zollo - arrives late
H. Presentations/DISCUSSION
Pfeffer
Question on how it would apply to someone who teaches piano lessons a single student at a time
Taberner
If you have 2 or more at a time, then there are additional requirements
Just places limitations on what you can do to operate a business from a residence
Cerel
Current definition of present uses is loose and needs to be tightened up
Bartlett
I'd like to see what our current bylaw is to compare this to
I'd like to hear about what the problems are that drove this
Dahlstrom
The use of a residence for a catering business, parking vehicles for a construction business
Bartlett
Question on defining "objections"
McGann
What about entities that are already operating
They would be grandfathered
Doak
What are the other bylaws that we are trying to be consistent with?
Feeley
question on E2a
Alfieri
Refers to the # of vehicles parked in an auxiliary parking area on the land
Not the personal vehicles being used but those being stored
Cerel
section - D1a provides additional detail in answer to Councilor Bartlett's question
Building Commissioner would be required to have an objective standard
Feeley
this should go through the normal process
H. Presentations/DISCUSSION
- Zoning Bylaw, Chapter 185-39. Uses accessory to dwellings.
Pfeffer
Question on how it would apply to someone who teaches piano lessons a single student at a time
Taberner
If you have 2 or more at a time, then there are additional requirements
Just places limitations on what you can do to operate a business from a residence
Cerel
Current definition of present uses is loose and needs to be tightened up
Bartlett
I'd like to see what our current bylaw is to compare this to
I'd like to hear about what the problems are that drove this
Dahlstrom
The use of a residence for a catering business, parking vehicles for a construction business
Bartlett
Question on defining "objections"
McGann
What about entities that are already operating
They would be grandfathered
Doak
What are the other bylaws that we are trying to be consistent with?
Feeley
question on E2a
Alfieri
Refers to the # of vehicles parked in an auxiliary parking area on the land
Not the personal vehicles being used but those being stored
Cerel
section - D1a provides additional detail in answer to Councilor Bartlett's question
Building Commissioner would be required to have an objective standard
Feeley
this should go through the normal process
Live reporting - License transactions
F. HEARINGS - none
G. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS – Request for Approval of Change of Manager – 99 Restaurant - approved 8-0
G. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS – Request for Approval of Change of Manager – 99 Restaurant - approved 8-0
Live reporting - Town Council - 5/6/09
Attending: Whalen, Mason, Vallee, Bartlett, Feeley, Pfeffer, McGann, Doak, Zollo (late)
Missing:
A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – April 1, 2009
motion to approve - passed 8-0
B. ANNOUNCEMENTS
schedule change for June
June 3, 10, 11, if req'd special meeting on Jun 24th
10, 11 will be the budget hearings
Dedication of new monument on Memorial Day
WMRC - 1490 AM
free lunch for 1st 300 people
at Senior Center
C. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS - none
D. CITIZEN COMMENTS - none
E. APPOINTMENTS
Missing:
A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – April 1, 2009
motion to approve - passed 8-0
B. ANNOUNCEMENTS
schedule change for June
June 3, 10, 11, if req'd special meeting on Jun 24th
10, 11 will be the budget hearings
Dedication of new monument on Memorial Day
WMRC - 1490 AM
free lunch for 1st 300 people
at Senior Center
C. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS - none
D. CITIZEN COMMENTS - none
E. APPOINTMENTS
- Cultural Council - Kathy Stankard - approved 8-0
- Council on Aging - Paul J O'Connell - approved 8-0
- Charles River Pollution Control District - William J Goode - approved 8-0
Strategic Planning Survey Available
Strategic Planning survey announced previously is now available.
Please take a few minutes to provide your input online here
What is the survey about? This slide cast will explain:
Please take a few minutes to provide your input online here
What is the survey about? This slide cast will explain:
"will meet on Tuesday to make final decisions on what areas to cut"
Milford Daily News
FRANKLIN —
The Finance Committee unanimously approved the School Department's $50.3 million, level-funded budget, as recommended by Town Administrator Jeffrey D. Nutting, though school officials are banking on getting up to another $3.5 million to help keep pace with rising costs.
The budget does not reflect the School Department's final budget, as the School Committee is expecting at least $1.5 million worth of revenue from state and federal funds, and possibly another $800,000 from wage concessions by the teachers union, said Chairman Jeffrey Roy.
The School Committee is aiming for a level-service budget, at just over $53.8 million, and is still optimistic about closing the budget gap between the two versions, Roy said. "We've been targeting a level-service budget since the beginning of this process," Roy said.
The budget has been a moving target, with so many unanswered questions about funding, such as how much Franklin schools will get from state aid and the federal stimulus package, he said.
Read the full article about the Finance Committee meeting in the Milford Daily News here
In addition to what the article references, the Finance Committee also approved the Information Technology budget. The coverage of the complete meeting can be found here.
"Let us put an end to this public squabble"
Milford Daily News
FRANKLIN —
In what has grown into online crossfire between school leaders, new teachers union President Robert McLaughlin posted a two-page letter on a Web site yesterday picking apart statements made in the School Committee's two YouTube videos.
In the letter, posted on franklinteachers.org/joomla, McLaughlin said he was heartened to hear School Committee Chairman Jeffrey Roy use the word "partner" in reference to contract talks with the union, but concluded the School Committee "certainly has not even met us halfway in attempting to resolve this stalemate."
The School Committee has asked the Franklin Education Association to defer its negotiated 2.5 percent wage increase until fiscal 2011 to save about 16 teachers' jobs.
"As always the members of the FEA were glad to pitch in and do their part," said McLaughlin.
Read the full article about the teachers response to the School Committee in the Milford Daily News here
Treesavers: Paul Barcelo
Paul Barcelo, author of The Sweet War Man
Will be appearing at Treesavers Books to sign his new book, The Sweet War Man.
Paul Barcelo completed Army Infantry training at Fort Benning, Georgia, then rotary wing training at Fort Wolters, Texas and Fort Rucker, Alabama. He flew one tour as a UH-1 pilot in Republic of Vietnam. He resides in Franklin, Massachusetts with his wife and four children. This is his first novel.
May 16, 2009 from 2:00 to 4:00 PM
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