The Franklin Elks (1077 Pond Street) will be honoring the American Flag this coming Saturday at 11 AM. We will perform an Elks ritual. All are welcome.
Shared from Facebook:
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| Elks Flag Day Celebration on Saturday - June 12 |
Tuesday, June 8, 2021
Elks Flag Day Celebration on Saturday - June 12
"Consumer Federation of America cited concerns about unfair pricing, misuse of data, and loss of privacy"
"It is sometimes called “usage-based insurance” and sometimes “insurance telematics.” It’s when you agree to allow your auto insurer to ride along with you — quite literally.If you agree, a constant stream of data flows from your vehicle to your insurer, via a telecommunication device, including how fast you are going, the time of day you are driving, and when and how hard you are hitting the brakes.What’s the purpose? Insurers say they want to reward good drivers with lower premiums: for example, those who drive within the speed limit, mainly during daylight hours, and without frequently jamming on the brakes. (For drivers whose reckless driving habits correlate to higher risk for crashes, higher premiums may result, although few bad drivers are expected to opt in for telematics.)"
Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
News of Interest: Amazon implementation raises security issues
"There’s an eyebrow-raising technology buried inside millions of Amazon Echo smart speakers and Ring security cameras. They have the ability to make a new kind of wireless network called Sidewalk that shares a slice of your home Internet connection with your neighbors’ devices.And on Tuesday, Amazon is switching Sidewalk on — for everyone.I’m digging into my settings to turn it off. Sidewalk raises more red flags than a marching band parade: Is it secure enough to be activated in so many homes? Are we helping Amazon build a vast network that can be used for more surveillance? And why didn’t Amazon ask us to opt-in before activating a capability lying dormant in our devices?I recommend you opt out of Sidewalk, too, until we get much better answers to these questions."
Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
Monday, June 7, 2021
Reminder: School Committee meeting - Tuesday, Jun 8
Among the key items on the agenda for this meeting:
II. Guests/Presentations
A. Davis Thayer Highlights – Dr. Edward Quigley, Principal
B. Communication - Dr. Ahern & Anne Marie Tracey
III. Discussion/Action Items
A. none
IV. Discussion Only Items
A. Reopening Schools Status Update – June 4, 2020-2021
The agenda doc with connection info can be found
The meeting packet folder with docs released for the meeting (will also include those updated after the meeting) https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-committee/pages/june-8-2021-school-committee-meeting-packet
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| https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=2140819039394644&id=135128216630413 |
Important Notice to Franklin Taxpayers - Community Preservation Act surcharge
On your Real Estate Tax Bill this quarter you may notice a Community Preservation Act surcharge.
- Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Community Preservation Act?
The Community Preservation Act (CPA) is a smart growth tool that helps communities preserve open space and historic sites, create affordable housing and develop outdoor recreational facilities. Monies generated by this surcharge go into a dedicated fund and can only be used for these stated purposes. Franklin residents voted to approve a 2% CPA tax surcharge in November of 2020, effective for July 1, 2021 (Fiscal Year 2022).
The Community Preservation Act (CPA) is a smart growth tool that helps communities preserve open space and historic sites, create affordable housing and develop outdoor recreational facilities. Monies generated by this surcharge go into a dedicated fund and can only be used for these stated purposes. Franklin residents voted to approve a 2% CPA tax surcharge in November of 2020, effective for July 1, 2021 (Fiscal Year 2022).
How often will I see this charge?
The 2% CPA surcharge will be added to all four quarters of your Real Estate Tax Bills.
The 2% CPA surcharge will be added to all four quarters of your Real Estate Tax Bills.
Will the amount change when the Actual Real Estate Tax Bills are issued in January?
Yes, but the amount you see is an estimate based on the prior year’s tax assessment.
Yes, but the amount you see is an estimate based on the prior year’s tax assessment.
Who Decides How the Money Is Spent?
By state statute, the Franklin Town Council recently created a Community Preservation Committee (CPC). These dedicated resident-volunteers hold meetings and consider projects brought before them by the Community. They not only consider whether these projects qualify for CPA funding under the law but how proposals will benefit the community’s unique circumstances. If approved, projects are brought before the Town Council for appropriation.
By state statute, the Franklin Town Council recently created a Community Preservation Committee (CPC). These dedicated resident-volunteers hold meetings and consider projects brought before them by the Community. They not only consider whether these projects qualify for CPA funding under the law but how proposals will benefit the community’s unique circumstances. If approved, projects are brought before the Town Council for appropriation.
For more information regarding Community Preservation, please visit www.franklinma.gov/community-preservation-committee
Shared from the Town of Franklin Newsletter for June 2021
Notes from the Community Preservation Committee meetings
(Next meeting is scheduled for June 15, 2021)
- May 18, 2021 - recap => https://www.franklinmatters.org/2021/05/community-preservation-committee_19.html audio => https://www.franklinmatters.org/2021/05/fm-545-community-preservation-committee.html
- Apr 6, 2021 - recap => https://www.franklinmatters.org/2021/04/recap-community-preservation-committee.html audio => https://www.franklinmatters.org/2021/04/fm-505-community-preservation-committee.html
- Mar 2, 2021 - recap => https://www.franklinmatters.org/2021/03/community-preservation-committee-holds.html Audio => https://www.franklinmatters.org/2021/03/fm-477-community-preservation-comm-mtg.html
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| Important Notice to Franklin Taxpayers - Community Preservation Act surcharge |
Escape to the Arts! Friday, June 11
Escape to the Arts! Friday, June 11 starts Franklin's ArtWALK Celebration.
For the complete schedule of events and activities for the ArtWALK
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| Escape to the Arts! Friday, June 11 |
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| Franklin's ArtWALK Celebration June 11-12-13 |
meet Abby and Julia at the Empty Bowls Silent Auction - Jun 10
Via Brenna Johnson:
"Interested in the Empty Bowls Silent Auction launching on Thursday, June 10th at 4:30PM online? Well, meet Abby and Julia who have worked together for the last 2 years donating their time in making special objects for the online and in person Silent Auction. While Empty Bowls (EB) is loosing Julia to Northeastern University next year, I cannot tell you how proud I am of this dynamic duos commitment to EB. They have made a set of 4 mugs for the auction and pictures will be posted online next week!To meet these EB members, select bowls, or to make a direct donation to the Franklin Food Pantry please register for the event using the link in my bio.At the event, masks required! in 30 minute groups, community members can look at and bid on the Silent Auction and select handmade bowls. There will be no food this year. Let's do this FRANKLIN!"
Link to buy tickets for Empty Bowls https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?
Shared from Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/CPrQIltDzYA/?utm_medium=copy_link
Register O’Donnell Reports Ongoing Positive Real Estate Activity for May 2021 in Norfolk County
While the weather in May was starting to get slightly warmer, so too was the Norfolk County real estate market, according to Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell.
The Register noted that a noticeable uptick in both real estate sales and lending transactions happened last month. “Specifically, during the month of May, Norfolk County real estate sales, both residential and commercial, totaled 1,767, a healthy 48% increase year over year from 2020 to 2021.”
Register O’Donnell stated, “The Norfolk County real estate market continues to be strong. There were 16,367 documents recorded at the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds in May which is a 30% increase over last year’s May document volume. Average sale price, again including both residential and commercial sales, increased 2% over 2020 to $1,005,765.93. Low inventory of properties for sale are keeping prices for real estate up. Low interest rates are helping buyers afford the home prices of these properties. It is pleasing to see that the real estate market has been solid and steady.”
In addition to real estate sales, the Norfolk County lending market has been very busy in May. There were 3,832 mortgages recorded during the month which is an 8% increase over 2020. Total amount of money borrowed for mortgages county wide was almost 2 billon, a 41% increase compared to May 2020. “While some of the mortgages are due to purchases and sales of real estate, there are a large number of individuals and families taking advantage off historically low interest rates by refinancing existing mortgages. Individuals have different motivations to refinance. Some refinance to reduce their monthly payments, others to take some years off their debt while still others are using the money to pay for home improvements and other capital expenditures” said Register O’Donnell.
Register O’Donnell went on to state, “There has been a strong demand for housing, single family housing particular, coupled with a limited supply of available housing stock and historically low interest rates which could be motivating buyers to do what is necessary to secure housing. Lending activity was up. The growth in numbers seen in 2020 continues into 2021.
A moratorium on foreclosures in place during the pandemic in 2020 was lifted on October 17, 2020. This moratorium was in place due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds has been closely watching the foreclosure market. O’Donnell stated, “During May of 2021 there were 6 foreclosure deeds recorded as a result of foreclosure processes taking place in Norfolk County. Additionally, there were 14 Notices to Foreclosure Mortgages, the first step in the foreclosure process, recorded here in Norfolk County. A foreclosure recording is very impactful on those being foreclosed on. May of 2020 there were no Notices to Foreclosure Mortgages and 7 foreclosure Deeds. Though it is great to see that the Foreclosure deed numbers have decreased, it is troubling to see the Notices of Foreclosure have increases so much. We will continue to monitor these numbers.
Additionally, for the past several years, the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds has partnered with Quincy Community Action Programs, 617-479-8181 x376, and NeighborWorks Housing Solutions, 508-587-0950 to help anyone facing challenges paying their mortgage. Another option for homeowners is to contact the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Consumer Advocacy and Response Division (CARD) at 617-727-8400. Register O’Donnell stated, “If you are having difficulty paying your monthly mortgage, please consider contacting one of these non-profit agencies for help and guidance.”
Homestead recordings by owners of homes and condominiums continue to increase this year at the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds in May. There was a 47% increase in homestead recordings in May 2021 compared to May 2020. “A Homestead,” noted O’Donnell, “provides limited protection against the forced sale of an individual’s primary residence to satisfy unsecured debt up to $500,000. It is great to see folks protecting the biggest asset most of us have, our homes. I would urge anyone who has not availed themselves of this important consumer protection tool to consider doing so. Please visit the Registry website at www.norfolkdeeds.org to get more information on homestead protection.”
In conclusion, Register O’Donnell stated, “Many small businesses and specific sectors of our economy, such as restaurant and hospitality, have been negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. One sector that continued to thrive during the pandemic is the real estate market, particularly the residential market. There have been many factors that have kept the Norfolk County real estate market viable. Motivated buyers and sellers, low interest rates, and the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds remaining open for the recording of land documents. While the Registry of Deeds building in Dedham remains closed to the general public, we at the Registry remain open operationally to serve our customers, the residents of Norfolk County and real estate professionals alike. The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds greatly appreciates the patience and understanding shown during this trying period of time. As society begins to reopen, restrictions are lifted and emergency COVID-19 orders expire the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds is open to the public for business.
The drop-off box located outside the main entrance of the Registry Building for the time being will continue to be available for use by those members of the public who may not be comfortable in entering the Registry of Deeds Building. Land documents are being recorded electronically for many of our institutional users. We are also receiving documents via regular mail, Federal Express and from those placed in our drop-off box located just outside our main entrance at 649 High Street, Dedham, MA. As your Norfolk County Register of Deeds, I want to again thank all of you for the cooperation, patience and understanding you have shown myself and the Registry staff during the COVID-19 pandemic.”
To learn more about these and other Registry of Deeds events and initiatives, like us at facebook.com/NorfolkDeeds or follow us on twitter.com/NorfolkDeeds and Instagram.com/NorfolkDeeds.
The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds is located at 649 High Street in Dedham. The Registry is a resource for homeowners, title examiners, mortgage lenders, municipalities and others with a need for secure, accurate, accessible land record information. All land record research information can be found on the Registry’s website www.norfolkdeeds.org. Residents in need of assistance can contact the Registry of Deeds Customer Service Center via telephone at (781) 461-6101, or email us at registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.org.
To learn more about these and other Registry of Deeds events and initiatives, like us at facebook.com/NorfolkDeeds or follow us on twitter.com/NorfolkDeeds and Instagram.com/NorfolkDeeds.
The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds is located at 649 High Street in Dedham. The Registry is a resource for homeowners, title examiners, mortgage lenders, municipalities and others with a need for secure, accurate, accessible land record information. All land record research information can be found on the Registry’s website www.norfolkdeeds.org. Residents in need of assistance can contact the Registry of Deeds Customer Service Center via telephone at (781) 461-6101, or email us at registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.org.
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| Positive Real Estate Activity for May 2021 in Norfolk County |
Lions looking to Light Up Franklin for the 4th of July
"The Franklin Lions would like to celebrate this 4th of July. Our goal is to Light Up the town on July 4th with paper lanterns.
We are selling the Lanterns in sets of 3 for $15. Lanterns come with LED light and string. Some assembly is required and pattern may vary.
Once you place your lantern on display we would love for you to send a picture of your lanterns all lit up. We will be posting a video of the lanterns on July 4th to our Facebook page.
To purchase your lantern please complete below. We will be in contact by email to confirm your order, delivery, and payment. "
Order form for Franklin Lions https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdI_v-eTUzVz_bAptyy5C5tmAVeym6qNt-NmHqdGkUjHtOc2g/viewform
Shared from Facebook:
Sunday, June 6, 2021
Franklin, MA: Town Council - Agenda - June 9, 2021
1. ANNOUNCEMENTS FROM THE CHAIR
a. 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.
b. Chair to identify Council Members participating remotely
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
a. April 07, 2021
b. April 14, 2021
c. May 05, 2021
d. May 19, 2021
4. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS
a. Proclamation: Franklin High School BALTS
b. Proclamation: Police Department, David Mellor
5. APPOINTMENTS
None Scheduled
6. HEARINGS - 7:10pm
- Chapter 61A, Town’s Right of First Refusal to Purchase Approx. 70 Acres of Land off Maple Street approved as “Maple Hill” Definitive Residential Subdivision
- Cover Memo and Purchase & Sale Agreement: Notice of intent to sell land for residential use off Maple Street
- Open Space Presentation - April 6th, 2021, Community Preservation Committee Meeting
- 2016 Town of Franklin Open Space Plan
7. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS
- La Cantina Winery, New Section 19C Farmer Brewery License & License Modification to Combine existing 19B and New 19C license to create a 19H Farmer Winery/Brewery License, 355 & 357 Union Street, Franklin, MA 02038
- Table and Vine, License Modification - Change of Manager and Stock Transfer, 348 East Central Street
8. PRESENTATIONS/DISCUSSIONS
None Scheduled
9. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS
a. Capital Budget Subcommittee
b. Budget Subcommittee
c. Economic Development Subcommittee
10. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
10a. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
Resolution 21-23: FY21 Capital Plan Round 2 (Motion to Approve Resolution 21-23 - Majority Vote)
10b. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
Resolution 21-30: Authorization for Intermunicipal Agreement with the Town of Bellingham to Supply Water to Private Franklin Residential Property Located at 425 Prospect Street (Motion to Approve Resolution 21-30 - Majority Vote)
10c. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
Resolution 21-31: Gift Acceptance - Veterans’ Services, $985 (Motion to Approve Resolution 21-31 - Majority Vote)
10d. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
Resolution 21-32: Cable Funds in Support of PEG Service and Programming per MGL Ch. 44, §53F3/4 (Motion to Approve Resolution 21-32 - Majority Vote)
10e. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
Bylaw Amendment 21-873: Chapter 139, Sewer Use Regulation Update - Second Reading (Motion to Adopt Bylaw Amendment 21-873 - Majority Roll Call Vote)
10f. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
Zoning Bylaw Amendment 21-872: To Amend The Franklin Town Code At Chapter 185, Section 3, Definitions, Tasting Room - First Reading (Motion to move Zoning Bylaw Amendment 21-872 to a second reading - Majority Roll Call 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
Agenda doc with connection info:
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| Franklin, MA: Town Council - Agenda - June 9, 2021 |
Franklin.tv: Congrats to the Grads of 2021
They have persevered through a year like no other.
by Pete Fasciano, Executive Director, Franklin●TV and wfpr●fm
by Pete Fasciano, Executive Director, Franklin●TV and wfpr●fm
Well, they did it. The Senior Class of 2021 has officially graduated and brought an end to a school year that was anything but normal. The year was all about being patient – adapting to unpredictable events. So too, the ceremonies were very much like the year. Facing the possibility of a rainout, the outdoor field ceremonies were held off by two hours to let the threatening clouds pass. Being patient – adapting to unpredictable events.
As in years past, at the end the students would march out in recession to meet families in the parking lot. Didn’t happen. Instead, their families immediately ran to meet them on the field. No more patience. They and their families became the unpredictable event – in the very best sense. Just like that – their year was done.
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| Thanks to our stalwart TV crew |
Thanks to our stalwart TV crew (I don’t get to use the word ‘stalwart’ often) - Keith Palmieri, Chris Flynn, Scott Tooker, Li Wang, Chris Leverone and Bill Hurley, we adapted and navigated our way through the festivities as an unpredictable event. Clearly, this year’s Franklin Seniors are now well prepared to do the same.
And – as always –
Thank you for listening to wfpr●fm.
And, thank you for watching
Get this week's program guide for Franklin TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) online
http://franklin.tv/programguide.pdf or for archive purposes
Watch "The Music Behind "Bright Star"" on YouTube
The Music Behind "Bright Star" = Podcast produced by Abigail Drake
Video link => https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i80LLCyiT34
Visit the link to reserve your tickets now -> https://t.co/rtXoYNv23S
Shared from Twitter: https://t.co/JZxNSthZO4
Open house - Grove Street Water Treatment Plant - June 12
"A public open house for the new Grove Street Water Treatment Plant and Wells 3&6 reconstruction will be on Saturday, June 12th from 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM.
The site and parking is located at the SNETT Trail Parking lot (235 Grove Street).
All are welcome to tour the Town's new Water Treatment Plant, ask questions, and learn about the water system in Town."
Shared from Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/931498886934582/posts/4205619649522473/
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| Open house - Grove Street Water Treatment Plant - June 12 |
Empty Bowls - modified fund raiser - June 10
Brenna M. Johnson (@johnsonb_ms) tweeted on Thu, Jun 03, 2021:
Shared from Twitter: https://twitter.com/johnsonb_ms/status/1400584059722551297
On Thursday June 10th, EB will host a modified fundraiser at FHS in room 138 (No Food.)
See the classroom, bid on the Silent Auction, meet club members, make a difference!!!
@FHS_EmptyBowls @FHSPantherbook @FranklinHS @FranklinMatters #emptybowls
https://t.co/qtfO67qDJj
Get your ticket or contribute to the cause
https://www.franklinfoodpantry.org/empty-bowls-sponsors-2021/
https://www.franklinfoodpantry.org/empty-bowls-sponsors-2021/
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| Empty Bowls - modified fund raiser - June 10 |
50+ Program Special Event - Thursday June 10, 2021 - 10 AM
ReInvention in Possible after 50!
Join us at this Special Panel Event
Thursday, June 10th: 10-1130am
Do you ever Dream about a Future that is different from your Present?
Do you ever think about doing what you've always wanted to do?
Let's face it - the idea of reinventing yourself after the age of 50 is a frightening prospect. No doubt- it means taking a risk, after a lifetime of experience.
But- staying in a job you don't like is a risk. Retiring and doing nothing is a risk. There are always risks to take, but reinventing yourself and taking on new challenges – achieving a lifetime dream or desire – is a "good" risk to take.
Join our Panelists who have all at some point in their life made the choice to take the chance to make the change and to reinvent themselves. They will be sharing some of the strategic, tactical and practical steps you can take to reinvent yourself.
· Elaine Crosby, CEO/CO-Founder-Puddingstone Place
· Lisa Dooley, Owner-Your Organized Life; Author
· Mike Savage, Business Coach; Savage Secrets; SCORE
· Danielle Duplin, Co-Founder-AGENCY@cic and Founders over 55
Registration is Required to attend this Special Event
https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJMrc-ihqzgjG91nPwL0SdN1SFAFeV4oGpwy
If you are interested in joining our 50+ Job Seekers Group, please visit our website: https://50plusjobseekers.org/outreach/registration/
For additional information, contact: 50plusjobseekersadmin@mcoaonline.com
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| 50+ Program Special Event - Thursday June 10, 2021 - 10 AM |
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