Community Preservation Committee recommends multiple project for approval with FY 2026 CPA funds (audio)

FM #1442 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1442 in the series. 

This session of the radio show shares the Community Preservation Committee meeting held in the Council Chambers on Monday, May 5, 2025. All nine members of the committee were present in Council Chambers.

 

Quick Recap -> 

• No live broadcast of the Community Preservation committee meeting tonight. The meeting was recorded and will be set for broadcast later

• Minutes approved for August 20, 2024 and December 18, 2024 (approved as amended, some minor updates on who the members were at the time)

• Citizen comment; request for pickleball courts, already planned for the King St Park renovation, lights on the fields are out for bid, and courts are possible for phase 2, likely coming before the CPC in the fall to approve funding for additional pickleball courts

• 5 year anniversary of CPA in Franklin coming in the fall. Yes, really. Time flies  Committee will need to discuss how to utilize the discretionary funding, potentially use more by category or continue to save for future use 

• Motion to approve the funding resolution - FY26 Budget Approval - Resolution 25-25 Moved, second, passes 9-0 

• Jamie talks to the current projects proposals

FY26 Project Slate - Resolution 25-26 

i. Schmidt Farm Debt/Interest - $323,750

ii. Maple Hill Debt/Interest - $252,818

iii. School Playgrounds (Redistricting) - $181,623

iv. Open Space & Recreation Plan Supplement - $14,600

v. Sports Fields Wall Padding Replacement - $40,000

vi. Repair 1949 Fire Engine - $20,000

vii. Library Historic Hall Repairs - $80,000

Motion to approve, second, passes 9-0

• FY26 Project - Resolution 25-27 - Franklin United Methodist Church - $105,245

• Rev Jacob here to talk to the details with Tricia Prewitt

• CPA funding has been used for historical renovations of church facilities Discussion on the "anti aid" amendment

• Three tests generally; iconic?, no use of funds for 'maintenance', substance of uniqueness?

• Would require a preservation restriction. Town did this for the Old South Meeting House/Habitat for Humanity project recently, it was 'easy' compared to this potential project

5 minutes break per chair, Ready to resume Meeting opens

• Franklin United Methodist Church discussion resumes

• Previously presented May 2024

• Additional research completed since that time, identification of the role that the church has placed. Thanks to Rowan and Vicki for their research assistance

• CPA flow chart on determining use of funds for historic preservation https://www.communitypreservation.org/sites/g/files/vyhlif4646/f/uploads/cpa_historic_flowchart_2025.pdf 

• Adjustments to proposal by removing the cross restoration from the scope and total reducing cost request, Funds will only be used for preservation of the exterior of the building 

• Interesting that the community participation is more in the church building than the congregation does (respectfully)

• Motion to approve proposal as revised, Vote via roll call passes 9-0

• Next to set a date; Oct 21 an off school committee mtg 

• Chair requests Town to look into Housing Authority for use of preservation funds

• Motion to adjourn, second, passes 9-0

The recording runs about 75 minutes, so let’s listen in.  Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1442-community-preservation-cmte-mtg-05-05-25/

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Franklin United Methodist Church discussion

Community Preservation Cmte page -> https://www.franklinma.gov/501/Community-Preservation-Committee 

Agenda doc and released materials https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_05052025-1717 

 

My notes in one PDF file -> 

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1WdsqZK2kBSiWBcNqQPl_XM2UW4roPZEX/view?usp=drive_link 

Franklin TV video not yet available 

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We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) or 102.9 on the Franklin area radio dial. 

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How can you help?

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Through this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.

For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/  or www.franklin.news 

If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com

The music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana"  c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.

I hope you enjoy!

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Franklin Middle School Students Recite 'Democracy' by Langston Hughes and Meet with Senator

Franklin Middle School Students
Recite 'Democracy' by Langston Hughes

Superintendent Lucas Giguere, Curriculum Leader Joe Barca and Horace Mann Middle School teacher Joe Corey are proud to announce that a team of sixth-grade students formulated coherent arguments for recess as part of school-day learning time, recited Langston Hughes’ poem “Democracy” and met with State Senator Becca Rausch.

Now they’re preparing for their first Poetry Day at the Franklin Senior Center since the start of the pandemic.

Earlier this year, Mr. Corey’s Team Lightning embarked on a unit devoted to argument writing.

“Argument writing is one of the assigned units this year with our new CommonLit 360 curriculum,” Corey said. “The topic of investigation for grade 6 was recess. The kids read charts, handouts, and articles and watched videos about the research that proves the benefits of mandatory unstructured recess.”

The students had already bid farewell to recess the previous year.

“As sixth graders, they don't get to enjoy daily recess as was the case in grade 5, so they were enthusiastic about the topic,” Corey explained. “The unit closed with the kids writing a bulleted list of the best facts that support recess. My cluster, Team Lightning, took the culminating activity further by writing actual letters to three different audiences: the incoming principal of the combined middle school, the interim Commissioner of Education at the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) and one class wrote to state Rep. Jeffrey N. Roy, while the other class wrote to Sen. Rausch.”

Corey mentioned the letters when he spoke with Rep. Roy and Sen. Rausch at a legislator's forum in Franklin.

“Shortly thereafter, we sent the letters,” Corey said. “Our call to action in every letter was to ask for legislation or rule reform that allows for recess to count as time on learning and which thereby allows for 30 minutes of daily unstructured recess for kids in K-8.”

An aide to Sen. Rausch contacted Team Lighting to plan a visit, and the legislator was welcomed into their classroom.

“She gave us homework to investigate pending legislation, as lots of new bills were recently announced for this session, and share any new insights,” Corey said.

After the visit, Corey surveyed his students.

“The senator's visit makes me more likely to reach out to my elected leaders in the future about issues that I feel are important because I want to make the world a better place, not just by wanting to give middle-schoolers recess, but to help solve problems that are worldwide,” said student Adriana Leeber.

“She talked to us like we were adults instead of children,” said student Gabby Kepple.

Corey asked his students to describe their favorite part of Sen. Rausch's visit.

“It was fun answering and asking questions, and I think all the research paid off,” said student Carter Ficco.

The class impressed with a flawless recitation of “Democracy” by Langston Hughes.

“I was very proud of the kids for their articulate answers to the Senator’s meaningful questions about the necessity for structured recess and possible solutions,” said Curriculum Leader Barca. “Their terrific work in reciting ‘Democracy’ by Langston Hughes means that they are ready to book a visit to the Senior Center for another poetry day, the first since COVID.”

Poetry Day at the Franklin Senior Center is set for June 6 at 12:15 p.m. for Corey’s Team Lightning cluster of 42 students.

“This experience is one of many ways our teachers educate the whole child,” said Superintendent Giguere. “We’re teaching our students how to be impactful citizens in their community. I’m very impressed with these sixth graders and their dedicated teacher. The seniors are in for a treat on Poetry Day!”

Watch the students recite "Democracy" by clicking here ->

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gNo8uKr98X0

 

Franklin Elementary School Students Partner with Franklin Food Pantry

Parmenter’s Character Education Council
, a group of fourth and fifth graders

Superintendent Lucas Giguere and Gerald M. Parmenter Elementary School Principal Evan Chelman are proud to announce a successful partnership between students and the Franklin Food Pantry.

“What’s truly powerful about this partnership with Parmenter Elementary School is that it brings elementary-aged students into The Pantry to witness firsthand the reality of food insecurity in their community,” said Franklin Food Pantry's Associate Director Laura Doherty.  “Not only does the partnership give students the opportunity to volunteer but allows them to envision themselves shopping at The Pantry and understand that accessing food assistance is nothing to be ashamed of — we’re a welcoming and safe community resource for all.”

Parmenter’s Character Education Council, a group of fourth and fifth graders, recently visited The Pantry. In addition to providing The Pantry with much-needed food donations, the students’ visit offered a meaningful opportunity for them to tour the facility and learn about food insecurity within the Franklin community.

“The experience helped reduce the stigma surrounding food insecurity by fostering understanding and empathy,” said Doherty. “Our hope is that students leave knowing it’s okay to ask for help — and that The Pantry is a safe, welcoming place where anyone can access healthy food when needed.”

The Pantry is a nonprofit organization that relies on the generosity of individuals, businesses and foundations to carry out its mission: to alleviate food insecurity and compassionately empower the Franklin community through resources and collaboration.

“If children in our community are in need of healthy food, we want them to know that we are here with open arms and they should never be embarrassed about it,” said Doherty. “Everyone needs help sometimes.”

There are many meaningful ways to support The Pantry, from donating and volunteering to hosting food drives.

“The kids saw what it would be like to shop here if they were food insecure,” said Doherty. “We focused on how food insecurity is nothing to be ashamed of. The Pantry is like a regular market, except the food is available at no cost. It’s important that we get kids involved at a young age. By involving and informing young people, our hope is that they’ll share our mission with their friends and family, and approach us without hesitation if they need our support."

Principal Chelman drove the students and their donations to The Pantry.

“Thank you, Laura, for the incredible work you do at the Franklin Food Pantry and for warmly welcoming Parmenter’s Character Education Council into the facility this year,” said Principal Chelman. “And thank you to Jessica Ulm of the Parmenter PCC (Parent Communication Council). We relied on Jessica to be a liaison between The Pantry and the school. The experience had such a positive impact on our students — they were not only excited about the donations but also truly moved by what they learned. And I have to admit, I loved getting to drive the van!”

Each student member of Parmenter’s Character Education Council applied to join and was selected by a team of teachers as a role model for Parmenter's core values: caring, inclusion, respect, courage, leadership and effort.

“Students give up their lunch and recess time to meet and discuss projects, create plans and make materials,” said Parmenter fifth-grade teacher and Council Advisor Michaela Geary. “Throughout the year, we have planned different community service projects including Treats for Troops, a candy drive after Halloween for troops serving overseas; World Cancer Day, a fundraiser for the Jimmy Fund; the Winter Gear Drive, to benefit Cradles to Crayons; and the recent Food Drive for the Franklin Food Pantry.

“For the food drive, students created posters, organized the donations, loaded the van with donations and then unloaded the van when we arrived at the Food Pantry,” said Geary. “Upon returning from the tour, students were excited to share what they had learned with the school. We will be speaking about our trip at the next whole school meeting.”

Click here to learn how you can get involved with The Pantry.

 

Additional photos can be found on the Schools page -> https://www.franklinps.net/article/2191244

 

Frequently Asked Questions: FY 2026 Override -> Questions 17 - 20

Frequently Asked Questions - shared from the Town of Franklin FY 2026 Override Information page. There are 40 and a form to ask another question if it is not already listed there -> https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/Faq.aspx?TID=41

17.What is meant by “new growth”?

New growth refers to new construction or other improvements that add to the tax base allowing for an increase in the total tax amount. If a new subdivision of houses is built in an empty field, the extra real estate value of those houses is added to the amount that may be taxed (the levy limit). 

18.How long is the override in place?

An override is a permanent increase in taxes. It would remain in place unless there was a subsequent underride vote.

19.Would this impact both residential and commercial tax payers?

Yes, both residential and commercial taxes will increase at the same rate.

20.How do taxes in Franklin compare to surrounding communities?

The average residential tax bill in Franklin is lower than that in many neighboring communities. Please visit the Division of Local Services website for detailed information on tax bills for communities across Massachusetts.

Additional info can be found on the Town FY 2026 Override page ->    https://www.franklinma.gov/1089/Fiscal-Year-2026-Override-Information

Frequently Asked Questions: FY 2026 Override

Reminder: Deadline to register FAA 'Fakes and Forgeries" is May 25, 2025

CALLING ALL ARTISTS:  

1st Annual Fakes and Forgeries Exhibit

The Franklin Art Association is collaborating with the Franklin Historical Museum to present the 1st Annual Fakes and Forgeries Exhibit.  This exhibit is open to all artists including student artists in Franklin and the surrounding areas.  

There is no entry fee to participate.   

The exhibit will be held at the Franklin Historical Museum June 7 - June 22, with a registration deadline of May 25.  

Please register online at  https://forms.gle/DT4yys85cPNPPQAK7 

So get those brushes and paints out and help make this first of its kind Franklin community event a huge success!

Massachusetts State Police announce the successful implementation of Safety Cloud (video)

Massachusetts State Police (@MassStatePolice) posted Tue, May 06, 2025:

Today (05/06/25), the Massachusetts State Police announced the successful implementation of Safety Cloud, an integrated notification system that alerts drivers to nearby emergency vehicles with activated lights and sirens.

Video link with summary  -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9DuEiPIhWL8 

You can read more about the platform here: https://t.co/TwxLGdwVQ1

Shared from ->  https://t.co/eJqw5BUVpM

St John’s extends invitation to all for two new opportunities to socialize

You are invited to two new opportunities to socialize. We hope you’ll join us:

Walking group:

St John’s Episcopal Church

Let’s get some fresh air and exercise together. Every Saturday at 10 AM, weather permitting, beginning May 17. Meet in the parking lot. Kids, dogs, and friends welcome.

Gather ‘round the fire:

Every Sunday at sunset, weather permitting, beginning May 18. Bring a chair, a beverage, something to cook on a stick, a musical instrument, a poem, or a friend. On the lawn at St John’s.

St John’s Episcopal Church, 237 Pleasant Street, Franklin

For more information:

Call 508-528-2387 Email Rector@StJohnsFranklinMA.org

Like us on Facebook See our website at www.stjohnsfranklinma.org   

 

FHS Boys Lax Boosters schedule fund raiser at George's Pizza

FHS Boys Lax Boosters (@FHSlax_boosters) posted Tue, May 06, 2025:

 

 

Shared from -> https://t.co/4CJLn6z4rs

 

What's with the Norfolk Park St bridge detour?

Via Town of Norfolk:

Park St. Bridge Closure: UPDATE - May 5, 2025

MassDOT has completed its initial evaluation of the existing Park Street Bridge structure and its condition. Through this evaluation, it has been determined that the bridge’s condition does not allow for the reopening of the bridge to its full capacity due to safety concerns for the motoring public. A full width reopening of the bridge would require the replacement of its superstructure at a minimum, and such a replacement would require a project with a dedicated funding source.

There is an opportunity to reopen the bridge at a reduced capacity in the short term. District 5 has submitted a recommendation to the MassDOT Bridge Load Rating Unit that the northbound lane on the bridge be allowed to reopen to traffic at a reduced load capacity. This recommendation would allow for passenger vehicles to utilize the northbound lane approaching Main Street but would still restrict truck traffic and other heavy vehicles. The Bridge Load Rating Unit is responsible for making the final recommendation to the State Bridge Engineer regarding the reopening of the northbound lane. Given the impacts to the community the District has requested that they make their review a high priority. While the District waits for the final determination, it is developing the necessary plans to put this changed condition in place as expeditiously as possible.

What's with the Norfolk Park St bridge detour?

Regarding the long-term replacement of the bridge, the District has added this to its priorities for the next iteration of the State Traffic Improvement Program (STIP). This bridge is considered an On-system, non-National Highway System (NHS) bridge. Securing funding for such bridges has been difficult in recent years as most bridge funds are being utilized to address bridges that are part of the NHS. MassDOT is evaluating options to fund On-system, non-NHS poor condition bridges, and will continue to look for opportunities to address the long-term concerns at this location.

Thank you for your patience as MassDOT works to mitigate the safety concerns at this bridge. We will keep all stakeholders informed of the final determination of the Bridge Load Rating Unit as soon as it is received.

Shared from -> https://www.norfolk.ma.us/news_detail_T3_R181.php?

Franklin Public Radio - wfpr.fm Schedule for Wednesday, May 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 is 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

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 segment features my conversation with Dick Hynes (American Legion) and Scott Carruthers (VFW) about the changes to the Memorial Day Parade for 2025 https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/04/dick-scott-talk-about-changes-to-2025.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)  

Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi explore all things wine with you talk about Italian Adventures & Vacation Vino -> https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/04/the-wonderful-world-of-wine-www-episode_01702127898.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, May 7, 2025

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

7:30 am     Mental Health: Diane Plouffe & Jamie Barrett
8:30 am     The Black Box: Wicked
10:00 am     Franklin Art Association: Erin Spencer
11:30 am     Cooking Thyme: Lobstah
12:00 pm     Brook'n'Cookin: Meatballs
12:30 pm     Cooking with Linda: Chicken Pot Pie
1:30 pm     Pizzapalooza: Margherita Pizza
2:00 pm     New England Candlepins: Summer 2019 Show 6
3:00 pm     Candlepin New Generation: Show 3
3:30 pm     Metrowest Boston Annual Meeting 2025 Pt 2
5:30 pm     Shelley Otis: Harpist
7:30 pm     PorchFest Pt 1

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

7:00 am     Public School Event: Remington Spring Music '22
8:30 am     Lifelong Music Spring 2025: Band and Glee
10:00 am     SAFE Coalition: The Hamlins
11:00 am     Public School Concert: FHS Spring Jazz '22
12:30 pm     FHS Varsity Softball v Walpole 04-22-25
3:00 pm     FHS Varsity Baseball v Canton 05-01-25

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

8:00 am     Town Council 04-30-25
11:00 am     Joint Budget Subcommittee Listening Session 1 01-30-25
2:00 pm     Town Council 04-30-25
7:00 pm     Town Council  CHAMBERS  890 4194 8798

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

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