What's happening in Franklin, MA: Saturday, May 10, 2025 ???

Saturday, May 10

Stamp out Hunger (leave bag for Postal Carrier pickup)

9:00am Thrifty Threads (Franklin Federated Church)

9:00am Women's Faith Formation (St. Mary's Parish)

10:00am Main St closed for Dean Commencement 

10:00am Franklin Historical Museum (always free)

11:00am Dean College 159th Commencement (Dean College)

1:00pm Italian film Festival - "Luca " (Franklin Historical Museum)

1:00pm 3rd Annual Pen to Picture Festival (Franklin Public Library)

7:00pm The Somewhat True Tale of Robin Hood (Tri-County Regional Vocational Tech HS)

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-calendar

Historical Museum Weekend: Cinema 80 film Saturday; "The Pioneering Women of Franklin" Sunday

Saturday, May 10

CINEMA 80, the Museum’s film program is back with an Itallian Film Festival

In cooperation with the Franklin Senior Center and the Sons and Daughters of Italy in America Lodge, the museum will be hosting several free Italian-themed films, shown on Saturday at 6:30 PM unless otherwise noted:

• May 10 - Luca ( at 1:00 in the afternoon) (Italian-themed 2021 Pixar animated film) 

Sunday, May 11

Second Sunday Speaker Series: For Mother’s Day, “The Pioneering Women of Franklin”

A group of very influential and accomplished women emerged in Franklin in the late 19th and early 20th century, heralding a new egalitarian era and (eventually) suffrage for women.  

Historical Commission Chair Alan Earls will relate the stories of a literary lioness, a missionary, an artist and educator who was torn between her native Germany and Franklin, and a woman who pioneered the dystopian novel.

There may also be mention of some important 20th century Franklin women.

  

The slide show and talk starts at 1:15.  

The museum is open from 1-4 and admission is free.

Historical Museum Weekend: Cinema 80 film Saturday;
"The Pioneering Women of Franklin" Sunday

Franklin, MA: School Cmte Agenda for Tuesday, May 13 meeting

Franklin School Committee

May 13, 2025 - 7:00 PM

Municipal Building – Council Chambers

Call to Order Mr. Callaghan 

Announcements from the Chair

Pledge of Allegiance

Moment of Silence

I. Routine Business

A. Review of Agenda

B. Payment of Bills Mr. Callaghan

C. Payroll Mr. McNeill

D. FHS Student Representative Comments

E. Superintendent’s Report

II. Guests/Presentations

A. Traffic Update

III. Executive Session

A. As per M.G.L c. 30A, §21 (3) To discuss strategy with respect to collective bargaining or litigation if an open meeting may have a detrimental effect on the bargaining or litigation position of the public body and the chair so declares.

IV. Discussion/Action Items

A. BICO Board Appointment 2025-26

The Chair recommends the appointment of Lucas Giguere as BICO board member for the 2025-26 school year as discussed. 

B. ACCEPT Board Appointment 2025-26

The Chair recommends the appointment of Lucas Giguere as ACCEPT board member for the 2025-26 school year as discussed.

V. Discussion Only Items

A. Horace Mann Naming Discussion

B. Superintendent’s Evaluation - Presentation of Evidence

C. FY26 Budget Executive Summary - Structural Deficit  

https://core-docs.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/4780/FPSD/5629656/FY26_Budget_Narrative_Overview.pdf

VI. Information Matters

A. School Committee Sub-Committee Reports

B. School Committee Liaison Reports

VI. Consent Agenda

A. Approval of Minutes

I recommend approval of the minutes from your April 29, 2025 School Committee meeting as detailed.

VII. Good of the Order

VIII. Citizen’s Comments

IX. New Business

To discuss any future agenda items

X. Adjournment

The agenda doc also contains remote participation info ->

https://core-docs.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/4780/FPSD/5629597/SCAGENDA_5-13-25.pdf

Additional documents/presentations during the meeting will be posted to the Packet folder after the meeting (usually a day or so later)

https://www.franklinps.net/documents/departments/school-committee/meeting-packets/2024---25-meeting-packets/may-13%2C-2025-sc-meeting-packet/799886

Franklin, MA: School Cmte Agenda for Tuesday, May 13 meeting

Franklin School Committee Policy Subcommittee Meeting - May 13 - 6 PM

FRANKLIN SCHOOL COMMITTEE

Policy Subcommittee Meeting

DATE: 5/13/25 TIME: 6:00

G E N D A

“The listing of matters are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair which may be discussed at the meeting. Not all items listed may, in fact, be discussed, and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by law.”

I. Attendance

II. Distribution of Approved Policies

A. ACA - Nondiscrimination on the basis of Sex

B. Elimination: ACA-R - Nondiscrimination on the basis of Sex Under Title IX including sex based harassment

III. Discussion of Policies sent to School Committee

A. FF - Naming Facilities

B. KCDA - Memorial Commemorations

IV. Policy Revisions & New Policies - New Discussion Item

A. User Fees 2025

B. EB - Safety Program C. EBB - First Aid

D. EBC - Emergency Plans

E. EBCD - Emergency Closings F. BIA - New School Committee Member Orientation

The agenda doc has remote participation info ->   https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_05132025-1737  

 

Franklin School Committee Policy Subcommittee Meeting - May 13 - 6 PM

 

FHS sports schedule Friday was rained out & rescheduled

Via Twitter, Franklin TV, and our subscription to HockomockSports.com, we share the results of the Spring sports competition for Franklin High School on Friday, May 9, 2025

Baseball = Franklin @ King Philip – Postponed to TBD.

Boys Tennis = King Philip @ Franklin – Postponed to Saturday, May 10 at 3:00.

Girls Tennis = Franklin @ King Philip – Postponed to Saturday, May 10 at 3:00.

For other results across the Hockomock League (subscription required)
https://hockomocksports.com/fridays-schedule-scoreboard-05-09-25/

 

 

FHS Panther sports results shared via Twitter & subscription to HockomockSports.com

Frequently Asked Questions: FY 2026 Override -> Questions 29 - 32

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

29. Can we increase fees? 

The state sets limits on how much we can increase fees and what additional taxes (like meals taxes) we are able to assess. Fees must be reasonable as a method to pay for the costs of services and not as a method to raise revenue to pay for general town services.  

In 2024 the Town underwent a comprehensive analysis of all Town fees. On October 16, 2024 with Bylaw Amendment 24-914, the Town Council voted to implement many updates based on changes in state law or state code, changes in market conditions for municipal fees and/or calculations to the costs of service.  

In FY25 the Franklin Public Schools also reviewed and updated various service fees.

Fees will continue to be reviewed on an ongoing basis, however fees cannot be increased enough to eliminate the deficit.

30. How can I learn more about the impact of the override on the schools? 

The Superintendent’s recommended budget presentation contains an overview of the impact of cuts without an override and the potential improvements with an override. It can be found here.  https://core-docs.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/4780/FPSD/5256287/28Jan2025_FY26_Super_Rec_Budget_to_SC.pdf

You can find detailed budget information here ->   https://www.franklinps.net/o/fpsd/page/school-district-budget

31.What if an override does not pass? 

The Town and Schools will need to cut $3,862,672 from the budget. Please review here the possible service reductions to each department for Fiscal Year 2026 if the override is not approved.

32. Can the Town have a lower tax rate for Seniors or other lower-income residents? 

No, but there are programs offered through the Senior Center, Veterans’ Services or Assessor's Office that may help defer costs, if eligible. Please find a guide for senior exemptions here.

Are there exemptions for senior citizens or other taxpayers who are not able to afford this increase?

Yes. The Town of Franklin, through its Community Assistance Program (CAP) in Section 82 of the Town Code and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts offer a variety of exemptions, discounts & resources to qualifying residents. The Assessors also offer Real Estate Exemptions and Deferral programs to qualifying individuals. There is also a senior tax work off program through the senior center. Please contact the Board of Assessor and the Senior Center for guidance with any of these programs. 

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

Stand out rally "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun(Damental) Rights" - May 11

Stand out rally "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun(Damental) Rights" - May 11

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

Franklin's F.X. O’Regan Early Childhood Development Center Hosts 2nd Annual Pop Art Celebration

Superintendent Lucas Giguere and Principal Kimberly Taylor are pleased to share that the F.X. O'Regan Early Childhood Development Center (ECDC) hosted a Pop Art event on Thursday, May 1, celebrating the creativity and hard work of the school's preschool students.

 

The event showcased student artwork created throughout the school year as part of the district's "PreK On My Way" curriculum. Many of the art pieces stemmed from the curriculum's "Let's Create" theme, which includes a study of various artists and encourages hands-on, expressive learning through art.

 

2nd Annual Pop Art Celebration

The artwork was hung on the walls throughout the ECDC, and families also gathered on the playground on a beautiful spring evening, enjoying a chance to socialize and connect. Preschoolers proudly showed off their art, shared popsicles with their friends and interacted with classmates, teachers and family members.

 

"Smiles and excitement were everywhere as our preschoolers shared their artwork with their families and interacted with their friends and teachers," said Principal Taylor. "It truly was a heartwarming evening where our school community came together to celebrate our students."

 

"The 2nd Annual Pop Art celebration was one of the wonderful events organized by our F.X. O'Regan Early Childhood Development Center staff," Superintendent Giguere said. "The event reflected the strong sense of community at ECDC and the District's commitment to fostering creativity, expression and joy in early childhood education."

Shared from -> https://www.franklinps.net/article/2205192

High School Experience Franklin register now before price increase June 11

HSE Franklin (@HseFranklin) posted  Thu, May 08, 2025:

HSE is Aug 5 & 6. 

Register before the price increase on June 11. Register at https://t.co/DqlvmzxqTA   (or directly to https://reg.learningstream.com/view/cal4a.aspx?ek=&ref=&aa=0&sid1=0&sid2=0&as=79&wp=413&tz=0&ms=0&nav=0&cc=0&cat1=0&cat2=0&cat3=0&aid=FPSLLI&rf=&pn=0)

@RMS_Remdawgs @HMMSLightning @sullythehusky @FranklinHS @FPSLearning @FHSPantherbook @FranklinMatters @FranklinPSNews @FPSHealthPE @franklinpolice

 

shared from -> 

https://x.com/HseFranklin/status/1920532315211489527

 Video link ->  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UOOosJD4sI4

La Cantina Winery celebrates its 10 year anniversary

La Cantina Winery celebrates 10 year anniversary

La Cantina Winery is celebrating 10 amazing years and you’re invited to the party of the decade!

Saturday, May 17 | 12PM–10PM Live music | Raffles | Prizes | Special Menu | Nonstop Fun!

We’re bringing the energy, the wine, the food, and the music all that’s missing is YOU!

Let’s raise a glass, and celebrate this incredible milestone together.

Shared from -> https://www.instagram.com/p/DJb5AWlR5wm/

Paint Party Social with Amy Adams at the Franklin Food Pantry - May 21

Come join us for a Paint Party Social. No pressure, all artistic levels welcome. This easy going paint session is a friendly time out with some paint brushes and smiles. Event usually runs 1.5 - 2 hours.

Paint Party Social with Amy Adams
at the Franklin Food Pantry - May 21

This is a wheelchair accessible location, we are accepting Art Pharmacy participants.

Must register online to hold seat. For other accommodations contact Amy Adams at amyadams665@gmail.com . Please note: Seating is limited, there are no refunds for this event.
Purchase tickets -> https://www.paintingvenus.art/event-details/whispering-magnolia

Download flyer as a reminder or to share ->   https://drive.google.com/file/d/1qRmCJUOEIrjcDriu3838wSEaL7BZntej/view?usp=drive_link

House to House for Heroes - Walpole - June 7

Volunteers Needed!

HOUSE TO HOUSE FOR HEROES - WALPOLE VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY - SATURDAY, JUNE 7TH The Norfolk County Sheriff's Office is bringing our successful House to House for Heroes Veteran outreach effort to Walpole! Join us on Saturday, June 7th at 9:00 AM as we go door-to-door to connect with local veterans and distribute packets filled with vital information and resources. Volunteers should meet at 9:00 AM at the Walpole Council on Aging (60 South Street, next to the Walpole police station). This is a meaningful way to give back to those who have served. If you'd like to join us, please sign up using the link below: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0B49A4AA22A1FDC25-56784008-volunteers Let's come together to show our appreciation for Walpole's veterans.

Norfolk County Sheriff's Office | 200 West St | Dedham, MA 02027 US

Franklin Public Radio - wfpr.fm schedule for Saturday, May 10, 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 Saturday

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 for Saturday

What's happening in Franklin, MA: Friday, May 9, 2025 ???

Library & Senior Center events

Friday, May 9

10:00am Knitting Group (Franklin Public Library)

1:00pm Thrifty Threads (Franklin Federated Church)

7:00pm Jamie Barret (live music) (Napper Tandy's)

7:30pm Electric Youth (with Future Shock) (THE BLACK BOX)

For additional details on Library & Senior Center events ->   

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

**  NO Town Meetings today   **

 

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

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-calendar

ZBA listens, Town Administrator attempts to clarify points, on the 444 East Central project (video)

The Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) met as scheduled Thursday night, May 8, 2025. The 444 East Central portion of the meeting begins at 19 minutes into the recording and such is set for the replay here. (You can easily go to the beginning of the video and view the earlier portion if you choose.)

Franklin TV video for replay -> https://www.youtube.com/live/82a99atYf0s?&t=1149

The ZBA page for this 444 East Central project is here -> https://www.franklinma.gov/815/2025-Current-Recent-ZBA-Hearings

The application as submitted on the Town page is here -> https://www.franklinma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/4594/444-East-Central-ZBA-application-comp-permit

Meeting items of note

• Halligan recused himself
• project overview briefly recapped (slides captured below)
• a clerical problem with notice resulted in an agreement between the applicant attorney and the committee, committee not to invoke safe harbor, appplicant not to invoke a constructive grant. The constructive grant would have allowed the applicant to bypass most of the ZBA process
• The application will continue and take some number of months to do so. The next meeting is targeted for June 5, the next after that is July 17
• Due to this negotiation, the peer review process did not start. Traffic will be first up at the next meeting
• Town Administrator Jamie Hellen participating this time, and he explains why, he is participating to explain details around the process and clarify, everybody can hear the record as one
• One sore point (lack of communication from the ZBA Chair and other members after multiple email queries), it was revealed that responding to individual emails is a non-no during the time that the subject is before the Board. It could potentially violate open meeting law. All discussions, responses to questions, need to be in the open meeting.

Slides of the presentation ->  https://photos.app.goo.gl/x5N6EvhwDRUtcRps5

The waivers requested by the project are outlined in Section 8 and contained in this PDF (separated from the full project doc) -> https://drive.google.com/file/d/11lkqa0Hz1VCO_J3utf-5NynwlnPeVPQj/view?usp=drive_link

To support Town Administrator Hellen's statements on water supply, information on the water conservation page should explain ->    https://www.franklinma.gov/628/Water-Conservation 

There is a 3-part podcast series covering the water supply and operations for Franklin from well to our faucets -> https://www.franklinmatters.org/2024/09/town-of-franklin-all-about-water-system.html

There is also a 3-part series on the sewer from our flushes to the Charles River Treatment -> https://www.franklinmatters.org/2024/09/town-of-franklin-all-about-sewer-system.html

444 East Central project