BEN's Bulletin: Budget and Stobbart's

Seeking opportunities for smart new growth!

BEN's Bulletin (03/24/25)   Weather and agendas are heating up! With Franklin's budget constraints, it is increasingly important for the community to find smart opportunities for new tax revenue that doesn't place further strain on the Town's expenses.  Interested in what's happening at the state level? Join our partner organization Abundant Housing Massachusetts for their Statewide Policy Webinar next Thursday. As always, please join our monthly meeting (every third Thursday at 7pm) at Franklin TV or virtually at the following link: meet.ben4franklin.org. Key Agenda Items This month, we're sharing expanded thoughts on the proposed housing development at 444 E Central Street ("Stobbart's") as well as providing the regular BEN's Take on upcoming meetings. Click HERE for live links to the agenda items.   Stobbart's Nursery (444 E Central Street) On Thursday, the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) will have a public hearing on a proposed 264-unit "Friendly 40B" affordable housing development, across five buildings and a clubhouse, on the site of Stobbart's Nursery on E Central St. The project was endorsed by the Franklin Town Council and advances Master Plan goals. Here are a few quick reasons why BEN believes the project would make Franklin stronger: Promotes affordability Increases the supply of smaller units, which are in high demand and offer more attainable housing options for young professionals, seniors, and working families. 25% of units are deed-restricted as affordable, ensuring more residents can live and work in Franklin without being priced out. Supports neighborhood vibrancy and community connections Brings new residents to support businesses along East Central Street, strengthening the increasingly mixed-used commercial corridor. Location near other housing developments and the future bus route transforms the stretch into a connected and accessible neighborhood. Strengthens Franklin's financial health Generates significantly more tax revenue than single-family homes without the added infrastructure costs (road maintenance, etc.). Provides much-needed revenue to help Franklin address budget challenges and maintain high-quality public services.  MYTH-BUSTING: Many opposed to new homes cite the costs of education and emergency services. In fact, projects like these generate substantially more revenue than incremental additional service costs. Ensures sustainable growth and preservation Develops housing in an already built-up and serviced area, preventing further sprawl and preserving open spaces. Transit- and commercial- accessible location reduces car traffic and promotes pedestrian activity. What We're Consuming How Mass. can streamline homebuilding (Boston Globe) State commission on housing production targets single-family zoning, other sweeping reforms (Boston Globe) Finding the Fit: How Parking Policies Shape Our Neighborhoods and Determine Housing Outcomes (Metropolitan Area Planning Council) Recovery Playbook: Back to Downtown & Main Street (Jonathan Berk) Reach out with any comments or questions. Thanks! The BEN Brigade Know someone else who may be interested in this content? Please share! Newsletter Sign Up Ben 4 Franklin, 23 Hutchinson St, Franklin, MA Send free email today

Franklin Food Pantry responds to questions on changes to Federal nutrition programs

Many of our supporters have asked about changes to federal nutrition programs and the impact on the Franklin Food Pantry. While we can’t predict the future, we want to reassure you that thanks to our dedicated staff, committed Board, and incredible volunteers, we are confident that we are in a position to adapt and find solutions to whatever comes our way. 

Franklin Food Pantry responds to questions
on changes to Federal nutrition programs

Your continued support is as important as ever. 

Together we will make sure our neighbors continue to receive the care and resources they need. 

Together, we’re stronger — and together, we’ll keep making a difference. 

❤️ #FranklinFoodPantry #CommunityStrong #TogetherWeCan #EndHunger

Shared from -> https://www.facebook.com/share/18qpoSEUCq/

For more information about The Pantry (including contributing to the cause) visit->    https://www.franklinfoodpantry.org/

Massachusetts Solar for All Website Now Live!

Learn more about MASFA programming and sign up for email updates

Now Live: MASFA Website! Dear Friend of MassCEC, We're thrilled to share more information about the upcoming Massachusetts Solar for All (MASFA) program through a new website available on mass.gov! MASFA will provide a range of solar PV opportunities for low-income and disadvantaged communities across the Commonwealth. Though program design is still being finalized, details on the intended program offerings are now available on the website; more information will be shared as the various program components roll out over the coming months.   MASFA Website If you have any questions about the program, feel free to reach out to solar@masscec.com. To receive more information on MASFA as it rolls out, please sign up for the DOER mailing list below. MassCEC will soon begin soliciting contractors to provide supporting technical services and other support for this programming, which will be listed here. Prospective providers should also sign up for updates as these opportunities go live. Sign up for the MASFA mailing list About MASFA: Massachusetts has received a $156 million, five-year award from the Environmental Protection Agency ("EPA") to launch the MASFA program, which aims to expand access to clean and affordable solar energy to LIDAC communities in Massachusetts. The MASFA Coalition, consisting of MassCEC, Department of Energy Resources, Massachusetts Community Climate Bank, and Boston Housing Authority, will utilize federal funds to develop and administer core residential solar PV initiatives in low-income and disadvantaged communities. These include zero-interest solar loan and solar lease initiatives for single-family homes, third-party and direct ownership initiatives for solar systems on public and private affordable multifamily housing properties, and low-income community shared solar initiatives that deepen community solar benefits to eligible subscribers.  Thank you, MassCEC Massachusetts Clean Energy Center The Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) is a state economic development agency dedicated to accelerating the clean energy and climate solution innovation that is critical to meeting the Commonwealth's climate goals, advancing Massachusetts' position as an international climate leader while growing the state's clean energy economy. Copyright © 2024 All rights reserved. Our mailing address is: 294 Washington St Suite 1150 Boston, MA 02108 617-315-9300

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SAVE THE DATE: Nick Strong Foundation schedules golf tournament June 16

2nd Annual Nick Strong Golf Tournament

"2nd Annual Nick Strong Golf Tournament.  

Save the date June 16th, 202.  

Registration TBD

Shared from -> https://t.co/dMU23HukQS

Jennifer Tefft scheduled to perform on March 27 at Startling Line Brewing

Jennifer Tefft schedules 2 solo shows

 

"Gearing up for a busy April with the Jennifer Tefft & The Strange but in the meantime - two solo shows this week!"

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

Charter school trustees and subcommittee members sought

For over 20 years, the Benjamin Franklin Educational Foundation (BFEF) has played a vital role in supporting the growth and development of the Benjamin Franklin Classical Charter Public School (BFCCPS). Originally focused on funding capital improvements, BFEF’s mission has evolved to encompass a broader range of initiatives that enhance the student experience beyond what tuition alone can provide. From facility upgrades and staffing infrastructure to academic enrichment and parent education forums, BFEF is committed to securing the school's future by diversifying its funding sources.

Charter school trustees and subcommittee members sought

As the landscape of public education funding faces uncertainty, we turn to our community—current families, alumni, and supporters—to help sustain the exceptional, well-rounded education that defines BFCCPS. Now, more than ever, your involvement can make a meaningful impact.

The Foundation is actively seeking trustees and subcommittee members to help drive its mission forward. Whether you have experience in fundraising, event planning, or expanding academic and extracurricular programs—or simply a passion for supporting our students and educators—there’s a place for you here. Join us in shaping the next chapter of BFCCPS and ensuring its legacy of excellence continues for generations to come.

If you are interested in learning more please email us at: [Info@bfefoundation.org](mailto:Info@bfefoundation.org).

Shared from -> https://www.facebook.com/share/p/15HPuSqipB/

Evaluating Your College Financial Aid Offers - March 26

What to Expect

Evaluating Your College
Financial Aid Offers - March 26

Not all college financial aid offers are created equal. For families with students recently accepted to college, making sense-and cents-of the various financial aid offers they receive can be a difficult and confusing process. This session will focus on better understanding the nuances associated with financing a higher education and the many aspects that contribute to net cost, including merit scholarships, need-based grants, state and federal aid, student and parent loans, the FAFSA and beyond. The event will include a Q&A period.

Presenters

• Jean Ricker, Assistant Vice President, Student Financial Planning Dean College
• Bonnie Quinn, Director, Student Financial Services  Wellesley College

Wednesday, March 26, 2025 7:00PM

Golder Room, 2nd Floor, Dr. Paula M. Rooney Student Center, Dean College

Sponsored by Woods Career and College Counseling. 

For more information, contact Kathleen Woods at kwoodsp5@comcast.net.

Register for this event -> https://bit.ly/3QCdZfd

Franklin Public Radio - wfpr.fm Schedule for Wednesday, March 26, 2025

Yes, Franklin has it's own radio station -> wfpr.fm. Franklin Public Radio has a brand new schedule for the locally produced shows that fill our air waves. 

It ia available anywhere, anytime at wfpr.fm or in the local Franklin, MA area at 102.9 on the FM dial.

Tune in to listen to the following:

Franklin Public Radio - wfpr.fm Schedule for Wednesday, March 26, 2025

8:00 AM, 1:00 PM and 6:00 PM   Franklin Matters Radio – Steve Sherlock 

Franklin and its local government, services and events  (repeats Saturday at 2 PM)  

This session of the radio show shares my conversation with Jon Mitchell, composer of the Chamber opera, Mary Anning, Fossil Hunter. Timothy Ayres-Kerr, joins us for the discussion on the origin of this opera and its scheduled performance in Grafton on April 5 https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/03/claflin-hill-apple-tree-arts-chamber.html

9:00 AM, 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM  The Wonderful World of Wine – Mark Lenzi, Kim Simone    All about wine, its culture, lore and finer points.    (repeats Saturday at 1 PM)  

Mark & Kim talk conduct an Interview with Jim Spadaccini on the Immersive Wine Experiences: The Future of Tasting with Ideum

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/03/the-wonderful-world-of-wine-www-episode.html

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

Franklin TV schedule for Wednesday, March 26, 2025

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

7:30 am Mental Health : Amanda Ayer & David Gove

8:30 am Ben Gardner's Boat

10:00 am FUMC: Cathy Cargill Koch

11:30 am Cooking Thyme: Spring

12:00 pm Brook'n'Cookin: Meatballs

12:30 pm Cooking with Linda: Meatballs

1:30 pm Pizzapalooza: Meat-Lovers Pt. 2

2:00 pm New England Candlepins: Summer 2019 Show 3

3:00 pm Candlepin New Generation: Show 12

4:00 pm Winning Ways with the MIAA: Referee Shortage Pt1

5:00 pm Concerts on the Common: Matt Zajac

8:00 pm ArtWeek: Airmen of Note

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

7:00 am Lifelong Music: Strings School 01-22-25

8:30 am Public School Concert: Annie Sullivan Winter Music 2023

10:00 am SAFE Coalition: Youth Sports

11:00 am All-Town Showcase 2024: Band

12:30 pm FHS Boys Varsity Hockey v Attleboro 02-05-25

2:00 pm Winning Ways with the MIAA: Referee Shortage Pt1

3:00 pm FHS Girls Varsity Hockey v Stoughton 12-18-24

5:00 pm Track and Field: v Taunton 05-18-21

8:30 pm Rec Basketball: 6th - 8th Grade Girls Championship 2025

9:32 pm Rec Basketball: 5th & 6th Grade Boys Championship 2025

10:46 pm Rec Basketball: 7th & 8th Grade Boys Championship 2025

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

8:00 am Town Council 03-19-25

2:00 pm Town Council 03-19-25

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: Tuesday, March 25, 2025 ???

For additional details on Library & Senior Center events ->     
https://www.franklinma.gov/calendar.aspx?CID=37,24&showPastEvents=false

Tuesday, March 25

* "Look Up" Gallery (during open hours)

2:30pm Rainbow Cafe (Franklin Senior Center)

6:00pm All Town MICCA Showcase Concert (Chorus/Orch) (Franklin High School)

7:00pm Musical Bingo (Raillery Public House)

** Town Meetings today   **

Design Review Meeting

Tuesday, March 25th Time: 7:00 PM

https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Item/344?fileID=4249 

Franklin School Committee

Tuesday, March 25th  Time: 7:00 PM

https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_03252025-1651 

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Why are there multiple calendars?

What's happening today in Franklin? 

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/calendar.aspx?CID=37&showPastEvents=false

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

FREE Community Concert Franklin United Methodist Church features Michael Rivelis - Apr 26

Michael Rivelis - Apr 26

"Join us for a FREE Community Concert @FranklinUMC featuring Michael Rivelis on Saturday, April 26, at 7pm.

To learn more about the Community Concerts @FranklinUMC, the artist, and to download and print a flyer for this event, go to    https://franklinumc.org/community/concerts/.

Franklin United Methodist Church (UMC) is located at 82 W. Central Street, Franklin (MA). Parking is available in the parking lot between the church and the Franklin Historical Museum. Street parking is available on East St., West St., and Church Ave"