April's second week is scheduled to bring showers & a more 'normal' slate of Town meetings

April's second week is scheduled to bring showers and a more 'normal' slate of Town meetings even with 2 cancellations.

 

The Cultural Council & Planning Board have regular meetings on Monday. School Committee gets an update on the elementary & ECDC redistricting efforts Tuesday, after their Policy Subcommittee meets earlier that night. Friends of the Library also meet on Tuesday

 

Wednesday has a Historical Commission meeting and Thursday has the Municipal Affordable Housing Trust as well as the Charles River Pollution Control meetings.

A friendly reminder that the The Finance Committee has its set of 3 budget hearings scheduled for April 28, 29 and May 1. If anyone has any questions about the line item details on the FY 2026 budget, these three nights are the time to do so. 

 

Prior year experience indicate that the General government departments/line items will be on one night, the schools (Franklin, Tri-County, Norfolk Aggie) on one night and the third night covers public safety (Police, Fire & Dispatch) as well as Public Works both operational and enterprise accounts (water, sewer, solid waste, & storm water). Exactly which night will come out when the agendas are posted. 

One might ask why the Town is always looking to hire for one or more positions? This a normal part of business. The positions being hired for are generally backfilling for someone who has retired or moved on to another opportunity. The Town has infrequently added net new positions. These are the kinds of details that are addressed in the line by line department review of their FY 2026 budget by the Finance Committee budget hearings that close out April.

April's second week is scheduled to bring showers & a more 'normal' slate of Town meetings

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*** Meeting schedule for the week of April 7 - April 13

(as of the Town web site on Friday evening, 4/4/25)  ***

Franklin Cultural Council Meeting

April 7, 2025, 7:00 PM = https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/5131/Franklin-Cultural-Council-April-Meeting?bidId= 

Planning Board Meeting

April 7, 2025, 7:00 PM = https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Item/365?fileID=4379 

Design Review Meeting Cancelled

April 8, 2025, 7:00 PM

Franklin School Committee - Policy Subcommittee

April 8, 2025, 6:00 PM = https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_04082025-1668 

Franklin School Committee Meeting

April 8, 2025, 7:00 PM = https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_04082025-1669 

Friends of the Franklin Public Library Meeting

April 8, 2025, 7:00 PM @ Friends of Franklin Library Community Room (no agenda posted)

Historical Commission Meeting

April 9, 2025, 6:00 PM = No agenda posted

Charles River Pollution Control Meeting

April 10, 2025, 3:00 PM https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_04102025-1664 

Municipal Affordable Housing Trust Meetings

April 10, 2025, 2:00 PM https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/5145/April-10-2025---Agenda?bidId= 

Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) Meeting

April 10, 2025, 7:30 PM = No meeting, next meeting is April 24

 

*** Looking back at the week that was ***

The biggest news of the week didn't come from the meetings or agenda topics, it was the police report on the investigations underway regarding the 2 potential hate crimes associated with the vandalism reported.

 

The Board of Health met on Wednesday and the exclusive audio and recap of the meeting is available ->

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/04/board-of-health-meeting-april-2-2025.html

 

The Franklin TV video replay of the Conservation Commission meeting Thursday is available  -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oYvAHAknjas

 

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For all the meetings and cultural events, check out the calendars at Franklin.news where each day, that day's events on posted on the top of the page

• Town calendar -> https://www.franklinma.gov/Calendar.aspx
• Community calendar -> https://bit.ly/FranklinCommunityCalendar

Subscribe for the daily dose of information ->   https://www.franklinmatters.org/p/welcome.html

Subscribe for the weekly dose of information -> 

https://www.franklinmattersweekly.org/p/subscribe-for-email.html

catching up to MICCA Awards for FHS Treble Choir & FHS Concert Choir

FHS Treble choir

Congratulations to the FHS Treble choir and FHS Concert Choir for their silver medals at MICCA!

FHS Concert Choir

Shared from -> https://x.com/MusicBoostersFr/status/1908917981201019146

Norfolk County Real Estate Activity Shows Mixed Results in March 2025

Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell reported that Norfolk County recordings for the month of March 2025 indicate a decrease in overall real estate compared to last year, but an increase compared to February 2025.

The Registry of Deeds recorded 7,550 documents in March 2025, a slight decrease of 1% from March 2024, but a 10% increase compared to February 2025.

Mixed Results in March 2025

“Lending activity and property sales and transfers represent a majority of the documents recorded at the Registry of Deeds, and March 2025 showed a slight decrease in both categories compared to last year,” noted Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell. “The slight decrease in real estate activity may be an indication of various economic factors affecting the country as a whole, which are now impacting the local real estate market. However, it is still early in the homebuying season, and this decrease may be a result of potential buyers waiting for more favorable economic conditions.”

The total number of deeds recorded for March 2025, reflecting both commercial and residential real estate sales and transfers, was 1,132, down 4% from March 2024, but up 9% from February 2025.

“This March was a slower start to the homebuying season than previous years, but we are hopeful that activity will pick up as we move further into the season,” stated Register O’Donnell. “Interest rates, inflation, and employment levels are key factors that influence the real estate market. While interest rates have decreased, encouraging buying, inflation still reduces consumer purchasing power. Employment levels and consumer confidence also play significant roles.”

In March, lending activity showed a slight decrease compared to the same month a year ago. A total of 1,065 mortgages were recorded in March 2025, down 2% from March 2024, but up 8% from February 2025. According to The Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation, average mortgage interest rates in March 2025 were between 6.63% and 6.67% compared to March 2024 when interest rates were between 6.74% and 6.88%.

“The mortgage activity in March 2025 may be being impacted by broader economic challenges,” stated Register O’Donnell. “The slight decrease compared to last year suggests that potential buyers may be hesitant due to factors such as affordability issues and economic uncertainty. Even with relatively stable interest rates, inflation and employment concerns can make it difficult for individuals to commit to long-term financial obligations like mortgages. As we move forward, it will be important to watch how changes in the economy and interest rates affect both the lending market and overall real estate activity in Norfolk County.”

The average sale price of commercial and residential properties for March 2025 was $1,166,825, a 12% increase compared to March 2024, and a 10% increase from February 2025. However, the total dollar volume of commercial and residential sales decreased by 13% from last year, totaling $519,237,415, but increased 15% from February 2025.

“Norfolk County remains a desirable location to both live and work, thanks to the vibrant communities and the dedicated efforts of municipal staff and leaders,” remarked Register O'Donnell. “However, the limited property inventory continues to pose challenges for buyers, particularly those purchasing their first home.”

The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds has been closely monitoring the foreclosure market. In March 2025, there were 7 foreclosure deeds recorded as a result of mortgage foreclosures taking place in Norfolk County, down 42% from the 12 recorded in March 2024. Additionally, there were 29 notices to foreclose, the first step in the foreclosure process, which is a slight increase from the 28 recorded in March 2024.

“Unforeseen events can happen to any of us, and sometimes these events can have severe emotional and financial impacts. I urge anyone struggling to pay their mortgage, or who knows someone in this situation, to reach out to one of the non-profit organizations listed on our website, www.norfolkdeeds.org,” said Register O'Donnell.

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 concluded, “The real estate activity in Norfolk County for March 2025 showed mixed results. While there was a slight decrease in overall recordings compared to March 2024, there was a notable increase from February 2025. Despite challenges like limited property inventory and economic strains, Norfolk County remains a desirable location for both residential and commercial real estate.”

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.

Boston Globe: "Fiber art has long been ‘treated as a little sister’ to fine art"

"Artist Merill Comeau started talking to others back in 2022 about Gather 2025, a monthlong series of events in April exploring fiber arts in the Greater Boston area.

“I was thinking it would be four events over four weekends,” she said in a phone conversation from her home in West Concord.

But interest snowballed. Museums, galleries, groups, and makers jumped in.

Franklin's "art bombing" project anticipated this trend

“Now it’s like 70 events,” Comeau said. When you add opening and closing receptions, it’s closer to 100. There will be panel discussions, maker gatherings, demonstrations, and tours.

Exhibitions include “Art Evolved: Intertwined,” a show connecting basketry and quilting at Fuller Craft Museum, “Interwoven| Textile Arts and Climate Change” at Mosesian Center for the Arts, and “Orange Line: Connecting Neighborhoods North to South” at Piano Craft Gallery."

Continue reading the article online -> 

https://www.bostonglobe.com/2025/04/03/arts/gather-2025-fiber-textile-art-symposium-greater-boston/

How to access the Boston Globe with your Franklin library card   https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/02/how-to-access-online-resources-with.html 

The Fiber Art event collection -> https://www.gatherfibersymposium.com/events

Franklin Public Radio - wfpr.fm Schedule for Monday, April 7, 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:

wfpr.fm Schedule for Monday, March 31, 2025 - Franklin Public Radio

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

Franklin Public Radio - wfpr.fm schedule

Franklin TV schedule for Monday, April 7, 2025

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

7:00 am     Riffin' on Main Street: Katherine Kennedy
8:00 am     SAFE Coalition: Michelle Palladini
9:00 am     ArtWeek: Airmen of Note
12:00 pm     Brook'n'Cookin: Tai Salad
12:30 pm     Cooking with Linda: Pork Chops
1:05 pm     Cooking Thyme: Sweet Corn Risotto
1:35 pm     Pizzapalooza: White Pizza
2:02 pm     New England Candlepins: Summer 2019 Show 4
3:02 pm     Candlepin New Generation: Show 1
7:00 pm     Frank's Musings: Override
8:30 pm     Circle of Friends; Abbie Gardner

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

8:00 am     Lifelong Music: Strings School 01-22-25
9:30 am     Winning Ways with the MIAA: Referee Shortage 2
10:30 am     All-Town Concert: Chorus & Orchestra
12:00 pm     Cultural Council: BT ALC Big Band
1:30 pm     Track and Field: v Taunton 05-18-21
4:00 pm     FHS Girls Varsity Lacrosse v Westwood 04-01-25
7:30 pm     SAFE Coalition: Michelle Palladini
8:30 pm     FHS Varsity Softball v Attleboro 04-26-24

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

 

8:00 am     Planning Board 03-24-25
2:00 pm     Planning Board 03-24-25

7:00 pm     Planning Board CHAMBERS 839 1692 2812

 

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: Sunday, April 6, 2025 ???

Sunday, April 6

** Franklin Art Association Art Show and Sale Exhibit (Norfolk Public Library)

10:00am Climate: What will you do? (First Universalist Society Franklin)

11:00am Sunday Brunch (Teddy Gallagher's Irish Pub)

11:00am POSTPONED due to weather Franklin Fest (Longley Athletic Complex)

1:00pm Franklin Historical Museum (always free) 

2:00pm We stand with our Jewish neighbors (Franklin Town Common)

2:00pm Freaky Friday (Dean College Main Stage Theater)

3:00pm LiveARTS: Kingsley Chen (First Universalist Society Franklin)

7:00pm Rehearsal for Distinguished Young Women (Patti Eisenhauer Dance Center)

For additional details on Library & Senior Center events ->  

https://www.franklinma.gov/calendar.aspx?CID=37,24&showPastEvents=false

** NO Town Meetings today   **

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What's happening today in Franklin? 

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 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

FHS Musicians bring back MICCA awards

Congratulations to FHS Repertory and Symphony orchestras! Both received gold medals at MICCA!

 

FHS Symphony orchestra

 

FHS Repertory Orchestra

 

Shared from -> https://www.facebook.com/share/p/15ijT4eADL/

 

Congratulations to the FHS Wind Ensemble and Concert band for their Gold and Silver medals at MICCA today!

 

FHS Wind Ensemble

FHS Concert band

 

Shared from -> https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1EAX2kTAu3/

School transportation registration open April 29

School transportation registration open April 29

 

Transportation Registration for the 2025-26 School Year will open on April 29, 2025. More information on how to register will be posted to the website and emailed to families when registration opens.

Share from -> https://www.facebook.com/share/1UM1WfXnxf/

Franklin TV: A Look Back

Ten Years Ago

by Pete Fasciano, Executive Director 04/06/2025

When we were building our studio (2013-2014) I documented every phase of construction. Lotsa Pix-n-Vidz in our photo archives. This past week I spent a few evenings compiling many of them into 3D stereograms – the old school origins of today’s hot digital/visual experience – VR, virtual reality. A stereogram is simply two photographs – one positioned for each eye, Left-Right. Think those Viewmaster disks many of us grew up with.

In the midst of my digital rummaging I wondered what we were up to ten years ago.

This is the Franklin Garden Club in 2015. They held a meeting in our Community Room and then recorded a cooking program in our kitchen. The first of many.

We officially moved out of our trailer and into the studio building in Mid-November. Here we are; four months later – partying and producing programs.

We still are. Do you have a program you would like to do? Call us. 508-541-4118.

And – as always –

Thank you for watching. 

Thank you for listening to wfpr●fm.

And staying informed at Franklin●news.

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

Community closet changes schedule to open Every Tuesday

The Community Closet is making a big shift to better serve our neighbors and build community: beginning in April, we will be open every Tuesday from 11 AM - 1 PM! 

Come check it out--shop, meet, serve, and share with neighbors.

 

Read the latest update and sign up to volunteer by going to https://franklinumc.org/2025/04/04/community-closet-franklinumc-april-2025/.

"An Act to establish a study of Kingsbury Pond in the town of Norfolk" - H1061

"An Act to establish a study of Kingsbury Pond in the town of Norfolk" -> https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1061

The hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, April 8, 2025 from 01:00 PM -  5:00 PM in A-1

Anyone can submit written public comment or sign up to make public comment in person. The instructions to do so are here: https://malegislature.gov/Events/Hearings/Detail/5121

 

 

Note: A view of the legislative history shows that this bill has been submitted for multiple sessions. Maybe with this hearing process, it might actually get acted upon.

"An Act to establish a study of Kingsbury Pond in the town of Norfolk"  - H1061