Comment Period Opens on Proposed Accessory Dwelling Unit (#ADU) regulations for Mass

Proposed Accessory Dwelling Unit (#ADU) regulations for Mass

Secretary Ed Augustus Jr. (@MA_EOHLC) posted  Mon, Dec 09, 2024:

#EOHLC is excited to invite you to comment on proposed Accessory Dwelling Unit (#ADU) regulations.  

We look forward to engaging with stakeholders on this important tool to help meet our growing #housing needs. 

Please visit https://t.co/5BJc6SsKWX for more information.

Shared from -> https://t.co/EX15aa5rTx

For more info on ADUs -> https://www.mass.gov/info-details/accessory-dwelling-units

USA Facts: How much money do people spend in December?

If you can’t tell it’s the winter holiday season from the festive commercials and lights, you might be able to tell by your dwindling bank account balance. Unsurprisingly, retail spending amps up in this final month of the year. Here’s the data to put it into perspective.  

USA Facts:  How much money do people spend in December?

• Americans spent an estimated $586.98 billion on retail in December 2023, or about $1,750 per person. For comparison, people spent an estimated $532.85 billion in November that year.
• February is usually the lowest sales month of the year, with an average spending of $320 billion. Sales tend to increase incrementally towards the end of the year, rising 4.5% from September to October, 4.7% from October to November, and 18.9% from November to December.  
• December spending reached a recent peak in 2021 at $593.34 billion. That was up 9.0% compared to 2020 and 1.1% higher than in 2023.  

For more on this topic visit this page -> https://usafacts.org/articles/how-much-money-do-americans-spend-on-holiday-shopping-2023/?

USA Facts:  USAFacts is a not-for-profit, nonpartisan civic initiative making government data easy for all  https://usafacts.org/about-usafacts/

Watch "Coldplay - ALL MY LOVE (Official Video) (Directors' Cut)" on YouTube

For anyone who watched Dick Van Dyke on TV or in Mary Poppins or nay number of his other performance, you'll appreciate this. 

Video link -> https://youtu.be/o4OlL0OpbW8

Dick Van Dyke

Franklin TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) schedule for Tuesday, Dec 10, 2024

• wfpr.fm or 102.9 on the FM dial = Tuesday

9:00 AM 12:00 Noon and 6:00 PM  Jazz Journey – with Pamela Hines

2 hours. An insightful tour of Jazz Greats in a golden era

11:00 AM 2 PM and 8:00 PM SAFE Radio– Jim Derick and Dr. Anne Bergen Addressing issues of Drug Abuse Disorder 

• Franklin All Access TV - Our Public Access Channel (Comcast 6, Verizon 26) = TUESDAY

7:30 am Joe Landry: Industry

9:00 am Mental Health: Susan Dunshee & Allison Tambolleo

10:00 am Frank Presents: Daniela Masters Pt 1

12:00 pm Brooke'n'Cookin: Mac'n'Cheese

12:30 pm Cooking with Linda: Garlic Mashed Potatoes

1:30 pm Pizzapalooza: Deep Dish

2:00 pm New England Candlepins: Summer 2018 Show 5

3:00 pm Candlepin New Generation: Show 6

3:30 pm Riffing on Main Street: Steve Sherlock

4:30 pm Winning Ways with the MIAA: Referee Shortage 2

5:30 pm Mrs. Claus Storytime

6:00 pm Fallen Heroes Pt 8

6:30 pm Winter Wonderland: Elvis Presley

9:00 pm Franklin Interfaith Thanksgiving 2024

• Franklin Pride TV - Our Educational Channel        (Comcast 8, Verizon 28) = TUESDAY

7:00 am Public School Concert: MICCA Showcase Pt. 1 03-14-18

9:00 am Public School Concert: Annie Sullivan Winter Music 2023

10:30 am Winning Ways with the MIAA: Referee Shortage 2

11:30 am FHS Varsity Swimming v King Philip 01-25-24

2:00 pm Mental Health: Susan Dunshee & Allison Tambolleo

3:00 pm FHS Boys Varsity Basketball v Catholic Memorial 03-12-24

5:30 pm FHS Winter Chorus & Orchestra 2022

7:00 pm FHS Boys Varsity Hockey v Bishop Feehan 02-07-24

9:30 pm FHS Theater Company: Cinderella

• Franklin Town Hall TV - Our Government Channel (Comcast 9, Verizon 29) = TUESDAY

8:00 am School Committee 11-26-24

12:00 pm Master Plan Committee 12-04-24

2:00 pm School Committee 11-26-24

7:00 pm School Committee  CHAMBERS  898 9656 8982  Code 169706

Get this week's program guide for Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) online  http://franklin.tv/programguide.pdf 

Watch Listen Read all things that matter in Franklin MA

What's happening in Franklin, MA: Monday, December 9, 2024 ???

Monday, December 9

• Franklin Art Association, Art Show & Sale (Norfolk Public Library)

5:00pm Cindy Lou Who & Grinch (Raillery Public House)

7:00pm Sondheim Showcase (Franklin Public Library)

**   Town Meetings today   **

Franklin Housing Authority Board of Commissioners Meeting (Central Pk Terrace)

Event Date:  Monday, December 9, 2024 - 4:30pm

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/events/franklin_housing_authority_board_of_commissioners_meeting_3.pdf

Planning Board Meeting (Council Chambers & broadcast)

Event Date:  Monday, December 9, 2024 - 7:00pm

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/agendas/december_9_2024.pdf

What's happening today in Franklin? 

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

Why are there multiple calendars?

Respectfully, the Library and Senior Center calendars are too full of events to include all their events so we tend to focus on the major events. Town and School meetings are also kept separate. Links for all the calendars are shared here:

Find the full Community event calendar  https://bit.ly/FranklinCommunityCalendar

If you have an event to add to the calendar, you can use the form to submit it for publication:  https://bit.ly/Submit2Calendar

The Library calendar of events ->    calendar link

The Senior Center calendar of events ->   https://www.franklinma.gov/node/39/events/upcoming

The Town meeting calendar is found  https://www.franklinma.gov/calendar
The School district calendar is found  https://franklinpublicschooldistrictma.sites.thrillshare.com/o/fpsd/page/school-calendars

Dean students to perform Sondheim Showcase at Library at 7 PM

The Sondheim Showcase is a tribute show to one of the most influential musical theater composers in the world. 

This piece is song cycle directed by Dean College senior Avery Sullivan. With the help and talent from multiple Dean College Performing Arts Students, this showcase is to share and celebrate Stephen Sondheim's music in a fun an educational way.

No Registration Required

Shared from -> https://www.franklinma.gov/franklin-public-library/bulletins/sondheim-showcase

Dean students to perform Sondheim Showcase at Library at 7 PM

Tri-County takes home the 2024 State Vocational Football Championship

 2024 State Vocational Football Championship

 

"Congratulations, Cougars!  

The Tri-County Football Team won the State Vocational Championship! Your hard work, dedication, and teamwork have truly paid off. 

We couldn't be prouder of your phenomenal success on the field. 

Go, Cougars!"

Shared from ->   https://www.facebook.com/share/1GMUTQ8kci/

Jefferson Elementary Ornament Sale - Orders Close Dec 10, 2024

Jefferson Elementary Alumni!!!

Looking for a way to Remember your Elementary school! Check out this great way to hold onto the memory for years. 

Jefferson ornament sale closes Dec 10

Since this is our last season as Jefferson

Krafts by Kellie is creating beautiful holiday ornaments to mark this special season.

Each ornament is $15, and 20% of all sales will be donated back to the Jefferson PCC to support our school programs.

To pay for the ornaments Venmo @Kellie-magnifico

Ornaments will be ready for pick-up in Franklin by December 15th. Have a special request? Kellie can make custom designs just for you!

Let’s make this final season at Jefferson one to remember while supporting a great cause.

Fill out this form to order yours today ->   https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe8rIxuxdQSVz-JTuQ6IcbzksiiQbh5mNXBoLIfdBoY7GfDqg/viewform?vc=0&c=0&w=1&flr=0&pli=1

Shared from -> https://www.facebook.com/share/p/17t9Q76Gna/

Norfolk Country Registry: Total Deed and Mortgage Recordings up in November, 2024

Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell reported that Norfolk County recordings for the month of November 2024 indicate an increase in the total number of deeds and mortgages recorded as compared to November 2023.

The total number of deeds recorded for November 2024, which reflects both commercial and residential real estate sales and transfers, was 1,333, up 5% from November 2023 and down 7% from October 2024.

“In the past five months, recordings show a sustained increase in the overall number of deeds recorded year over year, reflecting a consistent interest in real estate in Norfolk County,” noted Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell. “This indicates that the real estate market is performing well, particularly in certain neighborhoods and property types in Norfolk County.”

Total Deed and Mortgage Recordings up in November, 2024

In November, lending activity also increased compared to the same month a year ago. A total of 1,372 mortgages were recorded in November 2024, up 17% from November 2023 and down 10% from the previous month.

“While average mortgage interest rates have started to creep back up from their late September low they are still below the levels seen this time last year. Despite the recent increase in interest rates, the market continues to draw in prospective homebuyers and borrowers.” Register O'Donnell added, “The trajectory of average mortgage interest rates will likely play a role in determining the number of individuals seeking to take out new mortgages or refinance existing mortgages.”

The Registry of Deeds recorded 8,336 documents in November 2024. This was 3% less than in November 2023 and a 13% decrease compared to October 2024. Following JPMorgan Chase's acquisition of First Republic Bank last year, November 2023 saw an uncharacteristic number of over 350 mortgage assignments recorded, slightly skewing the percentage of the total number of documents recorded for November 2024 compared to November 2023. The adjusted number shows a 1% increase in real estate activity in November 2024 compared to this time last year.

“It is encouraging to see that mortgage and deed recordings, the bulk of the documents recorded at the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds, continue to show increases year over year. It will be interesting to see if this trend continues as we move into the winter months,” stated Register O'Donnell.

The average sale price of commercial and residential properties for November 2024 rose to $969,585, a 1% increase compared to November 2023 but a decrease of 15% from October 2024. The total dollar volume of commercial and residential sales is down, decreasing by 2% from last year and down 26% from last month.

“There is no doubt that Norfolk County is a desirable place to live and work. It is a credit to all the communities and the municipal staff and leaders who have created such a vibrant area to live and work,” stated Register O'Donnell. “However, due to the limited inventory of available property not matching that demand, I think many would agree that it is a difficult market for buyers, especially first-time home buyers.”

The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds has been closely monitoring the foreclosure market. In November 2024, there were 2 foreclosure deeds recorded as a result of mortgage foreclosures taking place in Norfolk County, less than the 5 recorded in November 2023. In November 2024, there were 26 notices to foreclose, the first step in the foreclosure process, less than the 27 recorded in November 2023.

“There is no question that this reduction in the number foreclosures is good news. With that said, we cannot forget that foreclosure activity has a human face associated with it, and there are still a number of our neighbors who have lost their homes, and even more are dangerously close to losing their homes,” said Register O'Donnell. “I would urge anyone struggling to pay their mortgage or who knows someone who is struggling to contact one of the non-profit organizations listed on our website, www.norfolkdeeds.org.”

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.

“November continued to show growth and demand in the real estate market, with increases in both mortgage and deed recordings,” concluded O'Donnell. “In the coming months, the inventory of available property and mortgage interest rate levels will likely play a big role in determining the direction of the market. Buyers, especially first-time home buyers, may continue to face challenges in finding affordable properties due to the high demand and limited inventory.”

To learn more about these and other Registry of Deeds events and initiatives, “like” us on Facebook at facebook.com/norfolkdeeds. Follow us on Twitter and Instagram at @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, and 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.

FBRTC: December Monthly Meeting scheduled for Dec 10

Meeting Tuesday night at Franklin.TV. We'd love to see you there

View this email in your browser December Monthly Meeting Hello!   Tuesday night we will have our monthly meeting at Franklin.TV, 23 Hutchinson Street, Franklin at 7pm. The meeting will be BYOB.  We'd love to see you there! The minutes from our previous meeting can be found here on our web site.   Warm regards, Franklin & Bellingham Rail Trail Committee Copyright © 2024 Franklin & Bellingham Rail Trail Committee, All rights reserved. You are receiving this email because you have opted in to stay informed about the Franklin & Bellingham Rail Trail Committee Our mailing address is: Franklin & Bellingham Rail Trail Committee PO Box 68 Franklin, Ma 02038

Senator Rausch hosts webinar on "Abortion & Reproductive Freedom in Mass" - Dec 17, 2024

"Abortion & Reproductive Freedom in Mass" - Dec 17, 2024

Please join us on Tuesday, December 17, 7-8 PM on Zoom to discuss the past, present, and future of abortion access and reproductive freedom here in Massachusetts. Visit beccarauschma.com/repro to register.

Thank you to the experts at @reproequitynow, @ppmassachusetts, @aclu_mass and @bostonuniversityschooloflaw for joining me in this critical conversation.

#mapoli #abortionishealthcare #abortion #reproductiverights #reproductivefreedom #mybodymychoice

Shared from -> https://www.instagram.com/p/DDNry7guyR7/

Birchwood Holiday Vendor Event Scheduled for Thursday, Dec 12

Birchwood Holiday Vendor Event Scheduled for Thursday, Dec 12

Shared from ->   https://www.instagram.com/p/DDIN0_1xVHa/

Senior center event highlights for week of Dec 9 to Dec 13

Senior center event highlights for week of Dec 9 to Dec 13

WINTER WONDERLAND is this Thursday (12/12/24) at the Franklin Senior Center!

There is always lots to do. Come in and check out what’s happening! #franklinseniorcenter #franklinma

For details on these highlight events, or on the regular daily schedule, please visit the Senior Center online at ->    https://www.franklinma.gov/fsc

Did you listen to Sarah & Ariel reveal December event highlights at the Senior Center?  https://www.franklinmatters.org/2024/11/sarah-ariel-reveal-december-event.html

Shared from -> https://www.instagram.com/reel/DDUT9rvRj5I/

Franklin TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) schedule for Monday, Dec 9, 2024

• wfpr.fm or 102.9 on the FM dial = Monday

9 AM 12 PM and 6 PM - Talkin’ the Blues – Jim Derick & Nick Remissong
2 hours of awesome blues music, info, interviews

11 AM 2 PM and 8 PM - Frank’s Music – with Frank Falvey

• Franklin All Access TV - Our Public Access Channel (Comcast 6, Verizon 26) = MONDAY

7:00 am Riffing on Main Street: Steve Sherlock

8:00 am SAFE Coalition: Woody Geissman

9:00 am The Black Box: Michael James Scott

12:00 pm Brooke'n'Cookin: Mac'n'Cheese

12:30 pm Cooking with Linda: Garlic Mashed Potatoes

1:10 pm      Cooking Thyme: Candy Apples

1:30 pm Pizzapalooza: Deep Dish

2:00 pm New England Candlepins: Summer 2018 Show 5

3:00 pm Candlepin New Generation: Show 6

3:30 pm Winning Ways with the MIAA: Referee Shortage 2

4:30 pm Winter Wonderland: Elvis Presley

7:00 pm Frank Presents: Daniela Masters Pt 1

8:00 pm Franklin Interfaith Thanksgiving 2024

9:30 pm Shelley Otis: Harpist

• Franklin Pride TV - Our Educational Channel        (Comcast 8, Verizon 28) = MONDAY

8:00 am FHS Girls Varsity Basketball v Milford 01-26-24

10:30 am FHS Winter Chorus & Orchestra 2022

12:00 pm Public School Concert: Horace Mann Winter Music 2022

1:30 pm Winning Ways with the MIAA: Referee Shortage 2

2:30 pm SAFE Coalition: Woody Geissman

3:30 pm Public School Concert: MICCA Showcase Pt. 1 03-14-18

6:00 pm FHS Boys Varsity Hockey v Bishop Feehan 02-07-24

8:30 pm Varsity Football: Franklin v King Philip 11-28-24

• Franklin Town Hall TV - Our Government Channel (Comcast 9, Verizon 29) = MONDAY

8:00 am Planning Board 11-18-24

12:00 pm Master Plan Committee 12-04-24

2:00 pm Planning Board 11-18-24

7:00 pm Planning Board  CHAMBERS  956 4819 5932

Get this week's program guide for Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) online  http://franklin.tv/programguide.pdf 

Watch Listen Read all things that matter in Franklin MA