Please Respond Today to the 2020 Census

We have reached a 72.7% response rate for Franklin, there is still time to get beyond 80% (Franklin actually did 79.9% in the 2010 Census).

"The 2020 Census is underway and more households across America are responding every day. Over 70 million households have responded to date, representing 56.6% of all households in America. Make sure that you and your friends and family are included in this once-a-decade count.

Help us spread the word: Everyone can respond to the 2020 Census online in one of 13 languages, with assistance available in many more.

Please note: About 64 million households across the nation will receive a paper questionnaire in the coming days. If you receive mail after you have responded, you should disregard it. It was sent before we received your response."

https://2020census.gov/en.html

Visit the 2020 Census response rate map  
https://2020census.gov/en/response-rates.html

The current results for Franklin (as of Sunday, May 3, 2020):

Please Respond Today to the 2020 Census

FPD: May the 4th be with you!

Even if you are not celebrating, Franklin Police Dept. would like to wish you a very happy Star Wars Day. 

We’re lucky enough to have our very own Han Solo and Chewbacca ...

Officer Mucciarone and FPD therapy dog Ben Franklin!

FPD: May the 4th be with you! (Photo from FPD)

Podcast Recommendation: Brene Brown's "Unlocking Us"

In these challenging times, akin to the safety warning when flying, we need to put our oxygen mask on first before helping the child next to us. Taking care of ourselves, will help provide the resilience to deal with the changes each day brings.

A good nights sleep, exercise, and a healthy diet can address the physical aspects. For the mental aspects, taking only a few doses of main stream media is one step. Choosing good reading or listening also helps. 

When I walk along the side roads, I can listen to one of several podcasts. One of the new entries to my regular list is appropriate for this time. Brene Brown has introduced a new podcast "Unlocking Us". It was supposed to get a big splash entry in March at the South by Southwest Conf (SXSW) but alas the pandemic shut that down. 

Splash entry or not, Brene is a worthy listen. In this episode she talks with Dr Marc Brackett about emotional literacy. 

"Dr. Marc Brackett has dedicated his life to studying emotions and to teaching us what he’s learning. In this episode, we talk about how emotional literacy – being able to recognize, name, and understand our feelings – affects everything from learning, decision making, and creativity, to relationships, health, and performance."

Listen to the podcast here (or subscribe via one of the several podcast apps where you can find it):
https://brenebrown.com/podcast/dr-marc-brackett-and-brene-on-permission-to-feel/

Podcast Recommendation: Brene Brown's "Unlocking Us"

Brene Brown is an accomplished author and speaker. She has a couple of TED Talks among several good videos to view and get the gist of what she talks about  https://brenebrown.com/videos/

Shareworthy: A Message from President George W. Bush

Share worthy!

A Message from President George W. Bush @TheCalltoUnite pic.twitter.com/FIn9wuOPTF

— George W. Bush Presidential Center (@TheBushCenter) May 2, 2020

If the embedded Tweet doesn't display properly follow this link:
https://twitter.com/TheBushCenter/status/1256607729151619073?s=09

The Announcer: "Gymnastics in the House: Paula and Lexi Lupien Score a Perfect 10 Together"

From The Announcer, we find this good write up on the Lupien's

"On January 31, 2003, Paula Lupien brought her daughter Lexi into the world.

Paula Lupien is now the gymnastics coach at Franklin High, while Lexi Lupien is one of the gymnasts on the team.

“Never in my wildest imagination did I think she was destined for gymnastics. Her dad is 6′ 7″ and she grew very fast and even when we started out in the gym when she was two, I thought maybe we would stay in recreational gymnastics for just a few years,” Paula Lupien said. “I was impressed with her drive at such a young age. No one could tell her she couldn’t do something. Even though her fast growing height was a challenge to her throughout the sport of gymnastics, she always worked hard to overcome whatever challenge came her way. She’s been a fighter her whole life.”

Continue reading the article online
https://announcerreport.com/2020/05/03/gymnastics-in-the-house-paula-and-lexi-lupien-score-a-perfect-10-together/

Paula and Lexi Lupien

"The MS4 permit is an important step to reduce the harmful impact of polluted stormwater"

From the MA Municipal Association, we find this update on the storm water issue:

"The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced on April 23 that it is proposing targeted modifications to the 2016 Small Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) general permit for Massachusetts communities.

An EPA statement said that the proposed modifications would give municipalities more tools and flexibility for permit implementation while also ensuring that the water quality goals of the Clean Water Act are met.

The proposed modifications were developed through a multi-year mediation between the EPA and parties who challenged the underlying 2016 permit.

Last December, the EPA announced that a settlement agreement had been reached between the agency and the permit litigants – including municipalities, environmental groups and other stakeholders – and initiated a public comment period. The settlement agreement was executed in mid-April. According to the EPA, the proposed modifications to the permit are identical to those contained in the settlement."

Continue reading the article online
https://www.mma.org/epa-proposes-ms4-permit-modifications-for-massachusetts-communities/

The MS4 permit is the driver behind the storm water utility fee being developed. As reported and shared here over the years, Franklin has been a leader in storm water management preparing for the day when the fee take effect. The story of what Franklin accomplished over the years is summarized in the Information Session Presentation.

The first two sessions were held but the third storm water information session (March 22) was canceled as the coronavirus shutdown took place. In the new normal world we will go forward with, there will be additional sessions. The schedule at this time is not yet available.

You can listen to each of the first two session recordings

FM #223 - Stormwater Utility Fee Info Session 1 - March 6, 2020 (audio)
https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-223-stormwater-session-1-3-5-20

FM #225 Stormwater Utility Session 2 - March, 11, 2020 (audio)

https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-225-stormwater-utility-session-2-3-11-20

The presentation doc was updated for the second session and available here.
https://www.slideshare.net/shersteve/town-of-franklin-stormwater-info-session-2 

Town of Franklin: Stormwater Info Session #2 from Franklin Matters

The second session was held at the Franklin TV studio

MassDPH video on how to cover your face (video)

"Social distancing and staying at home are the best ways to prevent the spread of COVID-19. But if you must go out, be sure to cover your face. Here's how. For more information, visit mass.gov/COVID-19."

Video link = https://youtu.be/HtUJPizQVPI




Shared from Twitter
https://twitter.com/TOFranklinMA/status/1257276203985186817?s=09

"Leaping Into Kindergarten" - rescheduled to May 20 via YouTube Live

"Our Leaping Into Kindergarten event has been rescheduled for Wednesday, May 20 at 6 PM.

It will be live-streamed on our YouTube channel, which is available here https://youtube.com/channel/UCr0pe33QnCdA2FI045LADwg

#Kindergarten"

Shared via Twitter
https://twitter.com/KellerSchool/status/1256912731191549952?s=09

Our Leaping Into Kindergarten - rescheduled to May 20 via YouTube Live

Our Leaping Into Kindergarten event has been rescheduled for Wednesday, May 20th at 6pm. It will be live-streamed on our YouTube channel, which is available here https://t.co/wTjNYPuJdA #Kindergarten pic.twitter.com/Atmb4kRwDm

— Franklin Public Schools, MA (@FranklinPSNews) April 29, 2020

"factory plans to produce three levels of medical gowns"

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"The previously-vacant Clark-Cutler-McDermott Company building in Franklin will be brought back to life next week when it starts producing its first round of personal protective equipment (PPE).

“It’s coming along - they’re getting very close (to starting production),” said Town Council Chairman Tom Mercer of the factory building on Fisher Street, which will begin production of medical gowns on Tuesday or Wednesday.

The facility, which has the potential to make more than 100,000 gowns weekly for first responders and hospital workers throughout Massachusetts and Rhode Island, will deliver its first batch of gowns to Milford Regional Medical Center.

The factory expects to receive its last materials on Monday to begin production, but likely won’t start operating at full capacity immediately, said Mercer."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200502/franklin-factory-to-begin-producing-ppe-next-week

The scale house in the rear of the Clark Cutler McDermott site

 

How to Decode the Different "Get My Payment" Status Messages

From CNN, information on how to decode the IRS error messages

"The IRS has sent 122 million payments for a total of $207 billion, according to the National Taxpayer Advocate service. But that leaves about 28 million people who are still waiting.

Some who have used the Get My Payment tool and are frustrated after receiving a cryptic status message and have no one to call for help since the agency shut down its call center during the pandemic. The tool is updated daily, so it's worth checking back.

Here's how to decode the different status messages you might receive:"

Continue reading the article online
https://www.cnn.com/2020/05/01/politics/stimulus-checks-get-my-payment-status-not-available/index.html

Shared via Twitter
https://twitter.com/CNN/status/1256928022411857920?s=09

How to Decode the Different "Get My Payment" Status Messages

Franklin, MA: Town Council - Agenda - May 6, 2020

Agenda: Meeting Date  - May 6, 2020

A NOTE TO RESIDENTS: Due to the growing concerns regarding the COVID-19 virus, we will be conducting a remote/virtual Town Council Meeting. In an effort to ensure citizen engagement and comply with open meeting law regulations, citizens will be able to dial into the meeting using the provided phone number (Cell phone or Landline Required) OR citizens can participate by clicking on the attached link (Phone, Computer, or Tablet required). The attached link and phone number will be active for the duration of the meeting for citizens to ask questions/voice concerns. 

Link to access meeting: May 6, 2020 Town Council Meeting Link HERE -- Then click “Open Zoom”

Or copy and paste this URL into your browser: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86173909783

Call-In Phone Number: Call 1-929-205-6099 and enter Meeting ID # 861 7390 9783 --Then press #

1. ANNOUNCEMENTS 

This meeting is being recorded by Franklin TV and shown on Comcast channel 11 and Verizon Channel 29. This meeting may be recorded by others.

2. CITIZEN COMMENTS 

Citizens are welcome to express their views for up to five minutes on a matter that is not on the agenda. The Council will not engage in a dialogue or comment on a matter raised during Citizen Comments. The Town Council will give remarks appropriate consideration and may ask the Town Administrator to review the matter.

3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 
March 25, 2020

4. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS
- None Scheduled

5. APPOINTMENTS
- None Scheduled 

6. HEARINGS - 7:10pm
Zoning Bylaw Amendment 20-854: Changes to §185-40. Water Resource District

7. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS
Dean College: New Section 12 All Alcoholic Beverages License, Located at 135 Emmons Street, Franklin, MA.
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/mai/files/7a._dean_college_license_application_web.pdf

8. PRESENTATIONS/DISCUSSIONS
a. Coronavirus Update
b. Community Preservation Act (CPA)
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/mai/files/10a._resolution_20-20_community_preservation_act_cpa_web_0.pdf

9. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS
a. Capital Budget Subcommittee
b. Budget Subcommittee
c. Economic Development Subcommittee

10. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
10a. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
Resolution 20-20: Community Preservation Act, G.L. Chapter 44B, Sections 3-7 Authorization for Ballot Question (Motion to Approve Resolution 20-20, CPA Ballot Initiative - Majority Vote)
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/mai/files/10a._resolution_20-20_community_preservation_act_cpa_web.pdf

10b. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
Resolution 20-21: Gift Acceptance - Recreation Department - $75,000 from the Boston Bruins Foundation (Motion to Approve Resolution 20-21 - Majority Vote)

10c. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
Bylaw Amendment 20-857: Chapter 82, Trash and Recycling Fee Increase - Second Reading (Motion to Adopt Bylaw Amendment 20-857 - Majority Roll Call Vote)

10d. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
Resolution 20-22: Ratification of the Memorandum of Agreement Between Department of Public Works, AFSCME Council 93, Local 1298 Employees and the Town of Franklin (Motion to Approve Resolution 20-22 - Majority Vote)

10e. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
Resolution 20-23: Amendment - Library Union Contract (Motion to Approve Resolution 20-23 - Majority Vote)

10f. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
Resolution 20-24: Amendment - Facilities/Trades Union Contact (Motion to Approve Resolution 20-24 - Majority Vote)

10g. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
Resolution 20-25: Amendment - Custodians Union Contract (Motion to Approve Resolution 20-25 - Majority Vote)

10h. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
Resolution 20-26: Amendment - Firefighters Union Contract (Motion to Approve Resolution 20-26 - Majority Vote)

11. TOWN ADMINISTRATOR'S REPORT

12. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS

13. COUNCIL COMMENTS

14. EXECUTIVE SESSION 
- None Scheduled

ADJOURN


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

https://www.franklinma.gov/town-council/agenda/may-6-town-council-agenda-remote-meeting

Franklin, MA: Town Council - Agenda - May 6, 2020

FM #259 Board of Health: C Liberty, B Sweet 4/29/20 (audio)

FM #259 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 259 in the series.

This session of the radio show shares my conversation with Board of Health Chair Bridget Sweet and Health Director Cathleen Liberty on April 29, 2020. We had our conversation via virtual conference bridge to adhere to the ‘social distancing’ requirements of this pandemic period.

We discussed the recent Board of Health meeting, the new Emergency Order on facial coverings, the feedback that led to this step, additional feedback will be monitored at the next meeting for possible revision to take a further step if necessary.

We discuss the hierarchy of the MA health departments and how it has been brought to the frontlines with this pandemic. The relationship of the Executive Order by Governor Baker, the Department of Public Health that sets regulations for all MA communities and our local Board of Health that has the ground level responsibility.

The recording runs about 36 minutes, so let’s listen to my conversation with Cathleen and Bridget. Audio file - https://www.hipcast.com/podcast/Hs9FtKk7




--------------
Note: on Friday, May 1, Gov Baker issued an executive order effective May 6, 2020 that will supercede the Franklin order and render moot the discussion on further extensions. The conversation on the rationale and CDC guidelines is still very much relative as we live in this 'new normal'
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/05/gov-bakers-executive-order-has-extended.html

April 27 Board of Health Emergency Order
https://www.franklinma.gov/health-department/news/board-health-emergency-order

Attorney General Office guidance referenced
https://www.mass.gov/news/ag-healey-issues-guidance-on-disability-rights-during-covid-19-pandemic

Health Dept page  https://www.franklinma.gov/health-department
Board of Health page  https://www.franklinma.gov/health-department

Franklin Portal page
https://www.franklinma.gov/home/pages/important-links-and-best-practices

Portal page on “Best Practices”
https://www.franklinma.gov/home/pages/important-links-and-best-practices

Prior podcasts with Cathleen
March 27 https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/03/fm-232-franklin-ma-health-director.html
March 13 https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/03/fm-224-health-director-cathleen-liberty.html
January 28 https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/01/fm-196-cathleen-liberty-franklins.html



We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm).

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

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

I hope you enjoy!

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

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

FM #259 Board of Health: C Liberty, B Sweet 4/29/20 (audio)

FM #258 Economic Dev Subcomm Mtg - 4/27/20 (audio)

FM #258 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 258 in the series.

This session of the radio show shares the Economic Development Subcommittee Meeting held April 27, 2020 via virtual conference bridge to adhere to the ‘social distancing’ requirements of this pandemic period.

The meeting was led by Subcommittee Chair Melanie Hamblen. Each person is identified as they speak for this virtual meeting. The one agenda item for discussion was an inclusionary zoning bylaw proposal.

As you listen to the meeting the presentation of the proposal, then discussion, and comments by members of the committee, Planning Board, and others. Ultimately, the feedback will be incorporated into some tweaks for the measure to be brought back to the committee before going to the Town Council to begin the formal approval process sometime in the near future.

For reference, the process at the Town Council would be first to refer it to the Planning Board. They would hold a public hearing, take comments and vote on a recommendation to send back to the Council. The Council would also schedule a public hearing, and if moving forward would require two readings before the vote on the bylaw. Technically the proposal could fall out in this process but given the consensus expressed thus far, it will likely be modified to ensure approval.

The recording runs almost an hour and 20 minutes, so let’s listen to the Economic Development Subcommittee meeting of April 27, 2020.  Audio file =
https://www.hipcast.com/podcast/H13hKhx7





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


The agenda doc for the meeting can be found
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/04/franklin-ma-economic-development.html


We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm).

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

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

I hope you enjoy!

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

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

The Dean Ave apartment complex was used as an example in the inclusionary zoning bylaw material

Town of Franklin - Department Re-entry Update - May 1, 2020

Every department across the Town of Franklin has an update in this document

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1VKhRNOY42YAZqrrxx9Hhm2cMlW9kybk4/view?usp=sharing

or on the Town of Franklin page
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/uploads/department_protocols_covid_19_7.pdf

Town of Franklin - Department Re-entry Update - May 1, 2020

Update to GoFUndMe for FHS Wrestling Coach Carmine Colace

"Hello, This is Coach C (Coach Colace) I want to thank everyone, some again and some who have recently donated. What you have done with your donations will enable us to save all that we have established at New England Gold. As all of you know how much I love the sport of wrestling and all of the wrestlers, along with our coaches and parents.  

I don't know how long this Pandemic will last. Remember, there is no social distancing in wrestling. There may not be a New England Gold when all this is over. The money raised will help keep us going.  

When are able to get back, we will be taking precautions. We have invested in thermometers so when we can take the temps of wrestlers as they come in. We have also invested in installing an Airphx Machine that will help keep our facility safe and virus free. Rent, insurance and utilities will be paid As you have figured out, the money raised will be going back to wrestling.  

Thank You very much, Coach C"

This is Coach C (Coach Colace)

Contribute to the cause 

https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-legendary-franklin-coach-carmine-colace

"In a time of a tragic pandemic, small businesses are struggling to pay their bills. One of these businesses, New England Gold Wrestling Club, is owned by legendary Franklin High School wrestling coach, Carmine Colace. Carmine has transformed hundreds of lives not only in the town of Franklin but all over the New England region.

In these troubling times, we hope to help support Carmine pay for rent and prepare for when he re-opens. Carmine’s significant other Kathy has been recently diagnosed with breast cancer. Kathy has embraced the lifestyle of wrestling and has a smile on her face every time we see her.

Carmine has taught all of his wrestler’s life long lessons such as hard work, dedication and to just keep on wrestling. Carmine’s hard work and dedication has led to not only our success but his success as well. We know this time is difficult for everyone but please consider helping Carmine and New England Gold wrestling during a difficult financial time.

We want to see Carmine continue to change people’s lives. Just like Carmine supports us in following our dreams, we want to do the same."

GoFundMe link
https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-legendary-franklin-coach-carmine-colace


Shared via Twitter:
https://twitter.com/FHSWrestle/status/1253349939465334784?s=09

GoFundMe for FHS wrestling coach: Carmine Colace