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Tuesday, September 14, 2021
Senator President Spilka: Fall Priorities, Legislative Accomplishments so far
Co-ed Volleyball, Men's Basketball, & Badminton Starting Soon
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"How do we solve this problem? There’s a simple fix: eliminate off-cycle elections"
"Like most other municipalities, turnout in Boston in off years is pathetic: only 16.5 percent of registered voters cast ballots in Boston’s 2019 city council election. Secretary of State Bill Galvin is predicting turnout to be even lower than in 2013, despite Boston growing by 9 percent over the past decade. Turnout is not only low, but also racially skewed. Hispanic turnout was almost six times lower in the 2019 off-cycle election than in the 2020 presidential race. The share of Hispanic voters in the electorate was also 39 percent lower in 2019. Local elections determine control over public education – in a city where 43 percent of public school children are Hispanic, this loss of Hispanic voice in local government exacerbates existing racial disparities.
What accounts for the low turnout and racial disparities in local races? The problem is simple: Boston, like 80 percent of American cities, holds its local elections in odd-numbered years, or “off-cycle.” This practice dates back a century, when Progressive Era reformers believed that off-cycle elections would insulate local contests from national politics. In reality, however, this practice dramatically depresses turnout.
A recent issue brief released by policy action lab Policy for Progress explains why. Holding local elections off-cycle places an extra burden on voters by forcing them to know the date of their local election and take another trip to the polls. Without high-profile national races on the ballot, this added burden often means the difference between voting and staying home."
Continue reading the article online ->
The issue brief can be found -> https://drive.google.com/file/d/1scIb9G-_BOtJjUl7S3gmhnhmIlcOJMdV/view
Visit Policy for Progress online for more info -> https://www.policyforprogress.org/
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| "How do we solve this problem? There’s a simple fix: eliminate off-cycle elections" |
Franklin Lions schedule "Reverse Trunk or Treat" - Oct 23, 2021
"The Franklin Lions will be holding their second annual drive thru Trunk or Treat. We all looking to fill the Franklin High School parking lot with Trunkers."
Follow the event on Facebook for updates
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1551606135109407/permalink/2987559084847431/
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| Franklin Lions schedule "Reverse Trunk or Treat" - Oct 23, 2021 |
Franklin Dog Park help needed on Saturday, Sep 18
"Hello dog lovers.
We need volunteers to help out at the Franklin Dog Park on Saturday September 18 at 9:30 AM.
Every time we get heavy rains at the dog park, the wood chips wash down to the fence area. We are moving the wood chips from the fence area to areas that needs to be filled in.
Please bring wheelbarrows, shovels and rakes. Refreshments will be served."
Thank you
Furry Friends of the Franklin Volunteer Committee
Shared from Facebook
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| Dacey Field dog park |
Monday, September 13, 2021
Franklin, MA: Town Council - Agenda - Sep 15, 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.2. CITIZEN COMMENTS
b. Chair to identify Council members participating remotely.
a. 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. August 18, 2021 https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/3a._1_august_18_2021_tc_meeting_minutes_-_draft_for_review.pdf
4. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS
a. Police Department:
i. Sergeant Lee Drake - Retirement
ii. Sergeant Louis Marguerite - Promotion
a. Police Department:
i. Sergeant Lee Drake - Retirement
ii. Sergeant Louis Marguerite - Promotion
5. APPOINTMENTS
a. Janice Prentice - Associate member, Historical Commission https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/5a._appointment_-_prentice.pdf
b. Chuna Keophannga - Finance Committee https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/5b._appointment_-_keophannga.pdf
c. Tyrel Hansen - Finance Committee https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/5c._appointment_-_hansen.pdf
6. HEARINGS - 7:10pm - None Scheduled
7. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS
a. Franklin Shed, LLC d/b/a Franklin Shed, New Section 12 Restaurant, All Alcoholic Beverages, and approval of manager, located at 340 East Central Street, Franklin, MA. https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/7a._web_franklin_shed.pdf
8. PRESENTATIONS/DISCUSSIONS
a. SAFE Coalition, Jennifer Knight-Levine, Executive Director
b. Delcarte Conservation Area Weed Remediation, Jennifer Delmore, Conservation Agent https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/8b._delcarte_weeds_pres.pdf
9. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS
a. Capital Budget Subcommittee
b. Budget Subcommittee
c. Economic Development Subcommittee
10. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
a. Resolution 21-53: Gift Acceptance, Franklin Public Library $5,890, Veterans’ Service Department $300, Fire Department $200 (Motion to Approve Resolution 21-53 - Majority Vote)
b. Bylaw Amendment 21-875: Chapter 82, Trash and Recycling Fee Increase - Second Reading
(Motion to adopt Bylaw Amendment 21-875 - Majority Roll Call Vote) https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/10b._21-875_trash.pdf
11. TOWN ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT
12. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
13. COUNCIL COMMENTS
14. EXECUTIVE SESSION - None Scheduled
15. ADJOURN
Note:
Two-Thirds Vote: requires 6 votes
Majority Vote: requires majority of members present and voting
The agenda doc, including connection info and documents released for this meeting can be found -> https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/agendas/09-15-2021_town_council_agenda.pdf
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| Delcarte Conservation Area Weed Remediation |
Franklin Cultural Festival "Community Unity" - photo essay
How does one determine the success of the Franklin Cultural Festival "Community Unity" event held on Sunday, Sep 12, 2021 in great weather.
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| Kaye Kelly and group at the end of the "Sari Showcase" |
- The crowd and lines were steady from the opening at noon through 3:30 or so. Some may have decided to check out the sports event on TV. For those that remained, salsa lessons and great music continued.
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| the wise owl greeted young and young at heart |
- The variety and number of food trucks. Could there have been more, yes, if the food truck owners had followed through. For those who ran out of food early, maybe they'll be better prepared next time. For those trucks that didn't participate, their missed opportunity. It is a great start.
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| Eguie Castrillo & Mar del Norte Salsa Orchestra |
- The Kid's corner and puppet shows were pleasing based upon the hoots and hollers from those watching the show.
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| some of the crowd at the second puppet show |
- The line up of artisan crafters was multifaceted. Many of the booths reported good business from the great amount of traffic.
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| The Pamela Means Project performed |
- The beer and wine garden was busy when I stopped by. Got my wrist band after getting my license checked. Then some liquid refreshment to go with my food truck tacos on the lawn in the shade. I was not alone. Dozens of others were under the tent at tables or spread around the lawn as well.
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| two chicken tacos were delicious |
- Cultural diversity was achieved with one view of the salsa dance lessons. Participants spread among the ages from young to young at heart, mostly women (but a few men). A youngster with a Patriots jersey learning the salsa inline with a couple of young ladies wearing saris.
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| salsa dance lessons lead by RI Dance |
At least for this day, the smiling faces seemed to be enjoying the art based event. Let's work together for more of this. And yes, Franklin Matters is proud to be in good company in helping to sponsor this event.
Additional photos from the event can be found in one album
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| Franklin Matters is proud to be in good company in helping to sponsor this event |
Hockomock Boys Soccer: Players to Watch in 2021 - FHS
From HockomockSports.com we share the "Hockomock Boys Soccer: Players to Watch in 2021" for Franklin High School. Link to the full listing is shared below.
"TERRY O’NEILL, SENIOR – FRANKLIN
There isn’t much to say about Franklin senior Terry O’Neill that we haven’t already said sometime over the past two seasons, but that won’t stop us from doing so again here. A truly versatile player, O’Neill can play just about anywhere on the pitch, playing mostly in a holding mid spot as a sophomore and then dropping deeper to solidify the defense last season.
One thing we’re looking forward to this season is the return of heading the ball. The players did a nice job adjusting to the rules modified by COVID, but heading is such a key aspect of the game and it’s certainly a big part of O’Neill’s game. He does a nice job really standing out in his box against set pieces, and on the other end of the pitch, he’s the one setting the offense up whether it’s with a cross, a set piece service, or a shot on a free kick."
For the complete listing
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| Franklin’s Terry O’Neill (left) will be one of the top players in the Hock this season. (Ryan Lanigan/HockomockSports.com) |
FHS girls cross country results from MSTCA Relay meet 9/11/21
Coach Bailey (@FranklinHSXC) tweeted on Sat, Sep 11, 2021:
Results from the MSTCA relay meet: the fr/so team of Batla, Loukota, Walbert finished 4th & The jr/sr team of Peng, Duffy, Lavery finished 9th. Both teams were medal winners!Shared from Twitter: https://twitter.com/FranklinHSXC/status/1436756220413685762?s=03
The FHS team results are as follows:
Girls 4.6 Mile Run CC Frosh-Sophomore
4 Franklin HS, Girls A F/S Franklin HS 31:08.35 1
18 Franklin HS, Girls C F/S Franklin HS 34:08.07 2
20 Franklin HS, Girls D F/S Franklin HS 34:36.86 2
22 Franklin HS, Girls B F/S Franklin HS 34:50.61 3
Girls 4.6 Mile Run CC Junior-Senior
8 Franklin HS, Girls E J/S Franklin HS 31:38.85 1
23 Franklin HS, Girls F J/S Franklin HS 33:18.55 3
34 Franklin HS, Girls G J/S Franklin HS 35:22.10 4
The full results can be found online with the MSTCA
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| FHS girls cross country results from MSTCA Relay meet 9/11/21 |
Hockomock Volleyball: Players to Watch in 2021 - FHS
From HockomockSports.com we share the "Hockomock Volleyball: Players to Watch in 2021" for Franklin High School. Link to the full listing is shared below.
"TAYLOR LACERDA, SOPHOMORE – FRANKLIN
Even though they had to wait an extra six months to get last year’s campaign going, Franklin had a season to remember by winning a share of the Kelley-Rex division and then winning the Hock Cup against King Philip, the team they split the division title with. The Panthers had one of the best all-around players in senior Ally Bonnet-Eymard but one of the reasons that Franklin was so good last year was because they had a lot of viable options around her so defenses struggled to key in on one player.
It’s not often a freshman steps into the lineup and makes such a big impact right away, especially offensively as an outside hitter, but that’s exactly what Taylor Lacerda did. She played in all spots on the floor and was among Franklin’s statistical leaders in almost every category. She was second on the team with 74 kills, which was among the league leaders, as well as one of the top servers (24 aces) and defensive players (53 digs). The Panthers also graduated Emma Chase, who was third on the team in kills, so there will be more swings to had this year and Lacerda will be one of the top options."
"CAILYN MACKINTOSH, SENIOR – FRANKLIN
Mackintosh has been one of the best setters in the league for the past two seasons and the fulcrum on which Franklin’s potent attack balances. Her accurate passing and her ability to spot the opening in a defense have put the Panthers’ hitters into strong positions and put her at or near the top of the league’s assist charts for two years running. Mackintosh is tall and long, which enables her to also look for her own swings when the timing is right. She is a threat from the service line and a more than capable defender on the back row.
Mackintosh helped the Panthers win back-to-back league titles and last year’s Hock Cup and her vocal leadership will be important for the newer players on this year’s roster. Having a setter like Mackintosh opens up the entire court because any hitter is a threat and Franklin is counting on that balanced offense to make another title challenge this fall."
For the complete listing
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| Franklin’s Cailyn Mackintosh will be on the top players in the Hock this season. (Ryan Lanigan/HockomockSports.com) |
Register O'Donnell Reports Steady Real Estate Activity in Norfolk County
Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell reported the Norfolk County real estate market more than held its own during the month of August 2021. He also reports a continued strong showing in sales highlighted Norfolk County real estate market activity for the month of August.
Register O'Donnell stated, "The Norfolk County real estate market continues to be steady. There were 16,282 documents recorded at the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds which is a 1% increase over last year's August document volume. There were 1,999 deeds recorded out of this document volume, representing a 7% increase over August of last year. Average sale price, again including both residential and commercial sales, increased 3% over 2020 to $903,842.69."
Even though there was a considerable increase to the monies for mortgages the number of mortgages recorded decreased over the previous year's numbers. There were 3,665 mortgages recorded during the month which is an 11% decrease over 2020. Total amount of money borrowed for mortgages county wide was well over 3 billon, a 62% increase compared to August 2020. "While some of the mortgages are due to purchases and sales of real estate, other mortgages are due to 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. The growth in some real estate indicators seen in 2020 continues into 2021."
One continuing cause for concern, however in Norfolk County, was foreclosures. 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 August of 2021 there were 6 foreclosure deeds recorded as a result of foreclosure processes taking place in Norfolk County. Additionally, there were 15 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. August of 2020 there were no Notices to Foreclosure Mortgages and 5 foreclosure Deeds. "These numbers remind us that some of our neighbors continue to face financial challenges", said O'Donnell. "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 decreased this year at the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds in August. There was a 2% decrease in homestead recordings in August 2021 compared to August 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."
Register O'Donnell concluded, "Available real estate inventory continues to be a constant source of concern in Norfolk County. It's especially been a problem for first-time homebuyers attempting to crack the market. However, there is a silver lining in the August real estate statistics and that is based on the optimistic lending numbers that we've seen. These figures are very encouraging and tell us competitive interest rates and a robust eastern Massachusetts economy are having a positive effect on the Norfolk County region. The Registry of Deeds was operational every work day during the pandemic. "
"The Registry of Deeds continues to be open to the public for business, however that is being evaluated as the COVID-19 developments unfold. 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 in person, 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."
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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| Register O'Donnell Reports Steady Real Estate Activity in Norfolk County |
Recycling and Energy Drive - Sep 18
"We’re coming to Franklin!! And we hope to see you there! You most likely have several of these items in your home. Our team will unload them from your vehicle.
Click on the images to see more information about the Franklin Recycling and Energy Drive and bonus Dehumidifier Rebate.Set a reminder for September 18, 9 AM - 12 noon at Chilson Beach -Beaver St Recreation area.
It’s a drive through event through the Parking Lot.Please see the list of items being accepted below."
Shared from Facebook -> https://www.facebook.com/groups/1551606135109407/permalink/2984423341827672/
* Updated headline with correct date of Sep 18
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| items accepted |
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| rebate |
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| sponsors |
Reminder: St. Mary's Women’s Faith Formation - Sep 18
The St. Mary's Women’s Faith Formation will be starting in person monthly meetings again. We are extending an invitation to each of you to join us. Normally during the year we meet in the Parish Hall and via Zoom on the second Saturday of each month from 9:30-10:30 AM. Our meeting format begins with a welcome and opening prayer, then we watch a select video, have a small group discussion about it, and end with closing comments and a closing prayer.
This first meeting has been moved due to the scheduled Confirmation at the same time. For this first meeting only we will meet on the third Saturday of September (18th) from 9:30-10:30 AM in the Parish Hall.
We will view a video of Bishop Barron addressing “Prayer” at our September meeting. Light refreshments will be available. We really look forward to welcoming you back or hopefully welcoming you for the first time to our meeting.
A Zoom link is available for those who might feel more comfortable attending virtually. Please email Deacon Guy (deaconguy@stmarysfranklin.org) if you are interested in the Zoom link contact information. Either way you join us – we are glad you are there.
All women are welcome. https://www.stmarysfranklin.org/womens-faith-formation
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| St. Mary's Women’s Faith Formation - Sep 18 |
Sunday, September 12, 2021
Franklin Cultural Festival - today from noon to 6:00 PM on the Town Common
Today is the Community Unity themed Franklin Cultural Festival. The weather looks great for the slate of events including several food trucks and a beer & wine garden. The Kid's Corner has activities for the younger ones and the line of artisan vendors could have something you want.
The Historical Museum features their Second Sunday Speaker series with a personal reflection on Sep 11, 2001. https://www.franklinmatters.org/2021/09/franklin-historical-museum-never-forget.html
Sunday, September 12
12:00pm - Franklin Cultural Festival "Community Unity"
12:30pm - FCF: Franklin School of the Performing Arts
1:00pm - Historical Museum (always free)
1:15pm - Second Sunday Speakers Series
1:30pm - FCF: INDIA SHOWCASE
2:00pm - FCF: @ the Kid's Corner, "Puppet Showcase Theater"
2:30pm - FCF: The Pamela Means Project
3:30pm - FCF: @ the Kid's Corner, "Puppet Showcase Theater"
4:00pm - FCF: Salsa Dance Instructions by RI Latin Dance School
4:30pm - FCF: Eguie Castrillo & Mar del Norte Salsa Orchestra
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| map of Town Common and events |
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| Cultural Festival flyer with highlights |
Election 2021: Candidate interview questions finalized
Thanks to community input and review by the 'voter guide folks', the following questions were finalized. These questions will be used for candidates who accept the interview offer or chose to reply via email with responses.
The questions were chosen to provide a common background of information on the candidate and the position that they are campaigning for. An informed voter casts the best ballot.
The offer to candidates was made in August. A number have been scheduled and will be as the elections season progresses. All info related to the election can be found in the Election Collection. https://www.franklinmatters.org/2021/07/franklin-election-collection-2021.html
The questions can be found (and downloaded) from here -> https://drive.google.com/file/d/1GkFh21gYukaMheQL-P4C0T_EEaItvcAu/view?usp=sharing
Friendly reminder for those not yet registered to vote in Franklin, the deadline for this election is Oct 13.
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| Election 2021: Candidate interview questions finalized |
FHS Panther Hockey: bottle/can drive - Sep 25, 2021
"FHS Hockey Bottle & Can Drive!!!!
On 9/25 btw 8-12 @ Franklin's Pirelli Ice Rink. Come drop off your returnable bottles & cans.
@FHSSports @PanthersJVPuck @ToFranklinMa @FranklinRec @FYHockey"Shared from Twitter: https://twitter.com/FHSPantherHocke/status/1436468894835871756?s=03
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| FHS Panther Hockey: bottle/can drive - Sep 25, 2021 |
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