Franklin, MA: Town Council - Agenda - Jan 4, 2017

(Note the links should take you to the Town of Franklin page with the associated documents)

Agenda Item	Summary
A. Approval of Minutes
A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
B. ANNOUNCEMENTS
C. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS
D. CITIZEN COMMENTS
E. APPOINTMENTS
F. HEARINGS
G. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS
H. PRESENTATIONS/DISCUSSIONS
1. Discussion on Joint Town Council/Planning Board meetings
2. Master Plan Update
I. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS
J. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
1. Bylaw Amendment 16-778: Chapter 160, Taxpayers, Delinquent- 2nd Reading (majority vote)
2. Bylaw Amendment 17-784: Repeal Sign Restrictions Bylaw- 1st Reading (majority vote)
3. Bylaw Amendment 17-785: Repeal of Sidewalk Snow and Ice Removal Bylaw -1st Reading (majority vote)
4. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 17-786: Storage Facility Bylaw (Referral to the Planning Board)
K. TOWN ADMINISTRATOR'S REPORT
L. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
M. COUNCIL COMMENTS
N. EXECUTIVE SESSION
O. ADJOURN
O. Adjourn

You can also view the single PDF with all the supporting documents here

http://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/agendas/tc_agenda_1-4-17.pdf

expanded parking lot at the Senior Center

Franklin Police: Training Exercise Advisory

Training Exercise Advisory: 

The Franklin Police Department, the Metropolitan Law Enforcement Council and Dean College will participate in a law enforcement related training exercise throughout the campus of Dean College on Wednesday, January 4, 2017 from 8am - 2pm. 

There will be several law enforcement vehicles participating in the scenario to include mobile command posts, armored personnel carriers, etc. 

The entirety of the exercise will occur on the Dean College campus and we do not expect any road closures or other issues that will affect the downtown district.

Dean College, Main St, Franklin, MA

Franklin Police: Training Exercise Advisory

"He’s the heart and soul of our team"

By KEN HAMWEY, Staff Sports Writer for localtownpages - Franklin

"Some may think that Franklin High basketball coach CJ Neely is overly effusive in describing junior captain Paul Mahon. 

The Panthers’ coach, who directed his squad to the Sectional finals last year and a co-championship in the Kelly-Rex Division of the Hockomock League, is extremely bullish on his off-guard, calling him “a coach’s dream, one of the best defensive players in the league, the ultimate competitor and a good person, on and off the court.’’ 

Mahon, a 5-foot-10, 155-pound off-guard, is indeed special. He’s humble in his role as Franklin’s only captain, and he’s willing to learn what he doesn’t know. He’s also encouraging when teammates need an emotional lift, and he’s quick to offer assistance and friendship to the less fortunate. 

Consider this situation — his best friend since early childhood is a Down syndrome youth, and Mahon often shoots jump shots with him in their back yards or in Franklin High’s gym. The 17-year-old Mahon also attends his friend’s Special Olympics events. “I always try to encourage him,’’ Mahon said."

Continue reading the article online
http://www.localtownpages.com/content/mahon-classy-captain-franklin-hoop-squad

FHS Boys Basketball Captain Paul Mahon

"I just wanted to make Franklin competitive"

By Christopher Tremblay, Staff Sports Writer for localtownpages - Franklin

"On April 29, in a ceremony taking place at Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, the Franklin Wrestling Program, under the guidance of Coach Carmine Colace, will be inducted into the Massachusetts Chapter of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame as the Team of the Decade for the 1990’s. 

Throughout the 90’s the Panther grapplers were able to win seven state championships (1990, 1991, 1992, 1994, 1998, 1999 and 2000), finished second twice; won eight Hockomock League Titles (including six in a row from 1990-95) had two undefeated seasons and averaged 20 wins per season with Colace at the helm. What’s even more impressive is throughout his coaching career, Colace’s teams have collected 10 State Titles, finished second five times and during his 25 year run have never finished lower than fifth once they reached the Sectionals. 

“Wrestling in the state of Massachusetts had some dominant teams in the 60’s, but nothing like the team we had here at Franklin,” Colace said. “The 1999 team was probably the best team that we have ever had here, and we actually lost a game that year. During the State Tournament, we had already wrapped up the title after the first day of competition and really didn’t need to wrestle on day two. That’s how impressive they were.”

Continue reading the article online
http://www.localtownpages.com/content/franklin-wrestling-makes-history-thanks-coach-colace

Franklin Wrestling Makes History Thanks to Coach Colace

Master Plan Update

An update to the Master Plan is on the agenda for the Town Council meeting Wednesday, Jan 4,2017.

You can find the update document embedded here:






You can also find the document on the Town of Franklin page
http://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/mai/files/h2_master_plan.pdf

The full 2013 Master Plan can be found here
http://www.franklinma.gov/planning-community-development/pages/master-plan-2013

The Master Plan webpage can be found here
http://www.franklinma.gov/planning-community-development/pages/master-plan

new sidewalks on Pleasant St provide access to DelCarte

The full agenda for Jan 4, 2017
http://www.franklinma.gov/town-council/agenda/town-council-meeting-agenda

In the News: Local legislator priorities for 2017

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

"Beacon Hill will likely be a busy place in 2017. 

Local lawmakers have identified a range of priorities for the new year, including criminal justice reform, budgeting and continuing to support the communities they serve. 

Here's a look at some priorities for several local incumbent lawmakers:

State Sen. Richard Ross, R-Wrentham:

• Marijuana law: Ross says the new recreational marijuana law needs to be improved. "It is imperative that we do it the right way, and address the serious public health and safety issues that were not properly outlined in the ballot language," he said in a statement.
• Patent trolls: These are people or companies that falsely allege patent infringement and seek payment from victims. Ross plans to pursue legislation to stop patent trolling, which "has had an extremely detrimental effect on many businesses in my district and across the commonwealth," he said.
• Ross said he also plans to focus on district priorities "such as local aid, education funding, public safety, and economic development, while striving to maintain a cost effective and transparent government."

State Rep. Jeff Roy, D-Franklin:

• Teen sexting: Roy plans to again pursue legislation to give police a new tool for handling teen sexting incidents. Police currently can only charge a minor who sent or received an inappropriate picture with a felony child pornography charge. Roy would like to see a new misdemeanor charge available for police to charge youth 17 and younger. Education is also important, he said.
• Explosive gas detectors: These devices detect highly volatile gases such as propane and should be required in homes where these gases are present, Roy said. They are similar to smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, he said.
• Education: Roy wants to increase the study of civics and genocide in schools and improve protection of student data.

State Sen. Karen Spilka, D-Ashland:

• Budget: Spilka, the Senate Ways and Means chairwoman, said she will focus on developing a responsible fiscal 2018 budget, which should support people in need and cities and towns while helping stimulate the economy. Officials also need to find ways to reign in increasing health care costs, she said.
• Spilka supports the paid family and medical leave bill, which passed the Senate in 2016 but did not become law. Reducing income inequality should also be a focus. People who work 40 hours per week should not be living in poverty, she said.
• Criminal justice reform: Officials need to look at alternatives to jail for adults and juveniles and consider raising the ages the juvenile justice system serves. Research shows people's brains are not fully developed until they are in their mid-20s. And, putting someone as young as 7 years old in the juvenile system is not solving what is likely a problem with the child's family, she said.

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20170101/metrowest-lawmakers-outline-2017-priorities

Davis Thayer Elementary School sign "Happy New Year, school starts Jan 3"

2017 Dog Licensing Season Begins!

"When the ball drops to ring in a New Year, it is also a reminder that annual dog licensing season also begins.

This year, I am very excited to announce a pilot initiative to allow residents to license your dog online.

We hope you find the new cloud-based software easy to use. You can license your dog at your convenience, 24-7, without ever making a trip to the Municipal Building. Simply register online and our office will send you your loved one’s dog tags in the mail.

Please visit our new site to register you dog:
https://franklinma.viewpointcloud.com/

Residents may also find the registration center on the Online Payments section of the Town’s website at www.franklinma.gov

Our office reminds dog owners that licensing your dog is due by April 1st. After April 1st, a late fee will be assessed. In addition to the late fee, if your dog is found to have not been registered at all, there is a $100 fine, per state law.

You are also required to send a rabies certificate and to provide your Vet's information to allow us to communicate better with them on rabies information and expiration.

2017 Fee Schedule:

Dog Licensing Registration:

• Before April 1st (spayed/neutered) = $20.00
• Before April 1st (not spayed/neutered) = $30.00
• After April 1st (Late dog registration fee, spayed/neutered) = $50.00
• After April 1st (Late dog registration fee, not spayed/neutered) = $60.00

By using this online service, we will also email you notification of next year's dog licensing as well. 

Let us do most of the work for you so you can spend more time with your pets. Register today!
Please call the office at (508) 520-4900 with any questions.

And, yes, the Town Clerk still accepts applications via mail and personally in the office. Forms will be sent out in the upcoming census mailing in January. Do not hesitate to stop in to register your dog.

I wish everyone a very happy and safe New Year’s weekend."

Teresa M. Burr
Town Clerk

Online service page for Franklin Town Clerk

http://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/news/2016-12-30_2017_dog_licensing_season_begins_0.pdf

Franklin Newcomers: January 11 - Earls and Hollman on Outdoor Activities

The Franklin Newcomers and Friends Club welcomes you to our next monthly meeting. On Wednesday, January 11th we are pleased to host two speakers. 

• Local Author and Community Volunteer Alan Earls will update us on the Charles River Meadowlands. He will talk about the over 500 acres of open space that make this one of the great land preservation and management opportunities in our region. 

• Also, local Author and Historian Marjorie Turner Hollman will introduce us to a treasure trove of outdoor recreational opportunities in our area. She has authored books highlighting easy walks and hikes in our locale. She will share her knowledge of hidden gems in our area waiting to be explored.

clouds on the surface at DelCarte

We invite any resident of Franklin, or a surrounding town that doesn't have a Newcomers Club, to join us at "3" Restaurant, 461 West Central Street, Franklin. Complimentary appetizers and beverages are provided and a cash bar is available. 

We meet upstairs at 7:30pm on the 2nd Wednesday of the month. We run our meetings September through May. Additionally, we hold many fun and varied events to stay connected throughout the year.

For more information, please visit our website www.franklinnewcomers.com or our Facebook page, Franklin Newcomers and Friends Club.

Franklin Newcomers and Friends Club

Additional info on the Charles River Meadowlands can be found online
http://www.charlesrivermeadowlands.org/

Additional info on Marjorie can be found on her webpage
https://marjorieturner.com/

Franklin Public Library and Municipal Bldg closed Monday, trash NOT delayed this week

Town Hall closed Monday January 2, 2017

Franklin Public Library closed on Monday, Jan 2

http://www.franklinma.gov/home/urgent-alerts/town-hall-closed-monday-january-2-2017-trash-will-not-be-delayed-new-years

Trash WILL NOT be delayed for the New Year's holiday. Your trash and recycling will be picked up on your usually scheduled trash day.

Christmas trees will be picked up during the week of Jan 9

Reminder: Christmas trees will be picked up during the week of Jan 9

In the News: noon year's eve; opioid prescription tracking

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

"Local families gathered at the Franklin Public Library midday Saturday to celebrate "Noon Year's Eve." 

The party, now in its second year, is a family-friendly way to ring in the new year without having the young ones stay up until midnight, said librarian Wendy Doody. 

"We did it last year for the first time, and it was very successful," she said, estimating that about 50 people showed up to take part in the festivities. "(Last year) the library director and I looked at the calendar and saw we didn't have any programs for this time of year, so we though this might work."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20161231/families-ring-in-noon-year-at-franklin-library

"Although Massachusetts' opioid deaths are still on the rise, with the powerful drug fentanyl adding to the toll, facets of the Legislature's anti-drug act are beginning to help. 

Prescribers have doubled their use of a new online tool to check if patients are getting prescriptions from multiple sources. Schools around the state are instituting programs for students, particularly athletes, to educate them about the dangers of opioids. 

"This approach is building a foundation that will serve us well over the long term," Public Health Commissioner Monica Bharel says nine months after Gov. Charlie Baker signed the Act Relative to Substance Use, Treatment, Education and Prevention. 

"This is an epidemic that has been building for years, but I am hopeful in the fact that never before has the commonwealth committed so many resources to addressing opioid misuse disorder, and we are going to continue this comprehensive approach no matter how long it takes," Bharel said."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20161231/opioid-epidemic-update-online-tool-tracks-prescriptions-of-painkillers

S.A.F.E. is a coalition of community partners who have come together to provide support, education, treatment options, and coping mechanisms for those affected by substance abuse disorder.

Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell partners with newlife Home Refurnishing

Norfolk County Register of Deeds partners with newlife Home Refurnishing

Saying that there's no better time of year to help out others, Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell says that his agency will continue its collections of household items for a non-profit organization dedicated to helping people establish a new home.    The charity, known as newlife Home Refurnishing located in Walpole, opened its warehouse doors in November of 2013, providing such free household items to its clients as furniture, linens, mattresses, dishes, pots and pans and more. "The agency serves a wide variety of people including those affected by disasters (such as fires and floods), as well as veterans and others who are trying to get back on their feet," noted O'Donnell.    In their nearly 3 years of operation, newlife Home Refurnishing has served more than 740 households, 1300 individuals and nearly 100 veterans. Furthermore, approximately 90 social agencies have sent clients to the organization. Just recently the organization got involved in an initiative dealing with chronic homelessness with the City of Boston.    "We are truly excited to be involved," said Register O'Donnell, "but the Registry, because of space limitations can only collect certain types of new and gently used household items (no furniture), but we would love to receive donations such as linens, sheets, comforters and blankets (no king size). Other items they are looking for include pots, pans, kitchen and cooking utensils (no dishes), silverware, towels and face cloths, (no beach towels)," noted O'Donnell.    Those interested in making a donation, can call Alicia Gardner at 781-461-6104 or email her at agardner@norfolkdeeds.org. The Registry requests that if you are looking for a receipt, please bring a list of the items that you are donating. You can also directly donate to newlife  Home Refurnishing. They are located at 102 Elm Street, Walpole. Donations are accepted on Saturday mornings between the hours of 9:00-11:00 or by appointment. Check their website at www.newlifehr.org for further details.    To learn more about these and other Registry of Deeds events and initiatives, "like" us on facebook.com/norfolkdeeds, follow us on twitter and instagram @norfolkdeeds. The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds, located at 649 High St., Dedham, is the principal office for real property in Norfolk County. The Registry is a resource for homeowners, title examiners, mortgage lenders, municipalities and others with a need for secure, accurate, accessible land record information. All land record research information can be found on the Registry's website www.norfolkdeeds.org. Residents in need of assistance can contact the Registry of Deeds Customer Service Center at (781) 461-6101, or email us at registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.org. Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell Partners with newlife Home Refurnishing Register of Deeds Bill O'Donnell dropping off household items to Barbara Yates of newlife Home Refurnishing Register Bill O'Donnell and Barbara Yates of newlife Home Refurnishing email: registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.org phone: 781-461-6116 web: http://www.norfolkdeeds.org

Norfolk County Registry of Deeds, 649 High Street, Dedham,, MA 02026-1831 Sent by registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.org in collaboration with Try it free today

REMINDER: Winter Sports Classes Begin January 9

Still Time To Register

DON'T FORGET Winter Sports Classes begin January 9! Advanced Volleyball Badminton, Basketball Intermediate Volleyball   REGISTER TODAY The Center for Adult Education  Community Learning 218 Oak Street Franklin, Massachusetts 02038 (508) 613-1480 Franklin Public Schools                  Lifelong Learning Institute The Center for Adult Education  Community Learning

Sent by adulted@franklin.k12.ma.us in collaboration with Try it free today

Annual Report 2016: Town Attorney

"The Town has an in-house attorney, Mark G. Cerel. Attorney Cerel has an office in the Town Administration offices and works three days a week.

In addition, he attends regular Council sessions and meetings of town boards and commissions on an asneeded basis. His responsibilities include providing legal advice to the Town Administrator and other town officials, review and drafting of legal documents, and representation of the town in negotiations and litigation other than labor-related matters. Having an in-house attorney has enabled town officials to obtain prompt legal review and advice; it has also expedited various town projects which require legal input.

During the past year, Attorney Cerel has continued to be successful not only in resolving actual litigation but also in resolving disputes prior to litigation on terms favorable to the Town; he has also continued to draft proposed legislation and to be involved in contract and real estate negotiations. In addition, he has continued to work with the staff to review and update the Town's zoning and general bylaws.

An in-house attorney plays an essential role in limiting the town’s legal exposure. He assists in resolving matters before they result in legal action and he provides the town with a strong legal presence that discourages people from filing frivolous lawsuits.

The Town Attorney represents the town and is only available to consult with individual residents if the Town Administrator’s prior approval is obtained."


Respectfully submitted,

Mark Cerel
Town Attorney

Franklin Municipal Building

Download and read the full Annual Report for the Town of Franklin FY 2016

http://franklinma.gov/administrator/files/franklin-2016-town-report

Prior year annual reports can be found

http://www.franklinma.gov/administrator/pages/annual-reports

Planet Fitness Kick Starts the New Year With Special Offer

Planet Fitness is kick starting the New Year with a sale from January 1 through January 11, by offering new memberships for a $1 enrollment fee and then $10 a month with no commitment. Known for its Judgement Free Zone®, Planet Fitness wants to help first time gym-goers meet their New Year's health and fitness goals by offering a non-intimidating gym experience at an affordable price. Anyone can take advantage of this great deal in the United States or Canada. To find a club, visit PlanetFitness.com/local-clubs.

"New Year's resolutions such as getting fit or joining a gym are top of mind, and we know many people may feel intimidated or unsure of where to start with their fitness goals," said Chris Rondeau, Planet Fitness Chief Executive Officer. "Working out should be fun and done at your own pace, and at Planet Fitness we're here for everyone regardless of their fitness level."

Brian Zehetner, Planet Fitness' Director of Health and Fitness and co-author of the book Working Out Sucks! (And Why It Doesn't Have To), offers advice to help keep a New Year's resolution from turning into a "stress-olution":

1. Set realistic goals. It's important to set realistic goals and celebrate achievements along the way, both big and small, which will help keep you motivated! It doesn't matter if your goal is to walk your first mile on a treadmill, or train for a 10K, just know it takes time to form a new habit.

2. Be accountable to someone. Let a close friend or relative know what your plans are for the New Year. They may be interested in joining you on your journey, and if so, the PF Black Card® for only $19.99 a month is a great option. You can work out with a buddy every day for no additional fee.

3. Enjoy what you love, in moderation. Working out and nutrition go hand in hand, but you don't have to forgo all your favorite foods entirely. So, if you're trying to eat healthier in the New Year, it's okay to enjoy that slice of pizza every once in a while too. Especially if you're getting in a good workout!

Planet Fitness has revolutionized the fitness industry with extremely low prices (memberships for just $10 or $19.99 a month*) and offers a variety of benefits including a hassle-free environment called the Judgement Free Zone®, brand name cardio and strength equipment, fully equipped locker rooms, flat screen televisions, unlimited small group fitness instruction by a certified trainer through the pe@pf® program, and much more.

Planet Fitness also provides members with an opportunity to connect and support each other with "Planet of Triumphs," an online community that celebrates all accomplishments and inspirational stories of Planet Fitness members. Planet of Triumphs provides an online platform for members to recognize their triumphs (big or small), share their stories and encourage others, reinforcing the Company's belief that 'everyone belongs'. Check out real Planet Fitness member stories and accomplishments at PlanetofTriumphs.com.

For more information or to join online, please visit www.PlanetFitness.com or follow us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/PlanetFitness), Instagram (www.instagram.com/planetfitness/) and Twitter (www.twitter.com/PlanetFitness).

*participating locations

About Planet Fitness

Founded in 1992 in Dover, N.H., Planet Fitness is one of the largest and fastest-growing franchisors and operators of fitness centers in the United States by number of members and locations. As of September 30, 2016, Planet Fitness had more than 8.7 million members and more than 1,200 stores in 47 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Canada and the Dominican Republic. The Company's mission is to enhance people's lives by providing a high-quality fitness experience in a welcoming, non-intimidating environment, which we call the Judgement Free Zone®. More than 90% of Planet Fitness stores are owned and operated by independent business men and women.

Happy New Year !!!

Welcome to 2017

This will be the only post today. 

Take the time to enjoy the holidays with family and friends. 

If you need something to read, there are plenty of posts in the archives going back to November 2007 and there are photos taken in and around Franklin in the Flickr tab.

sun and clouds reflecting upon the lower pond at DelCarte

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