MassBudget: Two New Fact Sheets on Paid Family Medical Leave

Studies analyze leave in Mass and other states

MassBudget    Information.    Participation.  Massachusetts Budget and Policy Center    Democracy. Two New Fact Sheets Examine Paid Family and Medical Leave Two new fact sheets released today from MassBudget examine what Massachusetts residents do now in the absence of a statewide Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) program, and examine what we can learn from other states that have enacted statewide PFML. When they have a child, need to care for an ill family member, or are ill themselves, Massachusetts workers often can't afford to take extended leave with a total loss of wages. Existing laws can help eligible employees to take shorter-term paid leave or ensure the right to longer-term unpaid leave if they can afford it. But workers have fewer options if they can't afford more than a short duration without their wages. The first research report, Family and Medical Leave in Massachusetts: A Current Snapshot, authored by economists Randy Albelda from the University of Massachusetts Boston and Alan Clayton-Matthews from Northeastern University, develop a simulation model that estimates how many Massachusetts residents need and take a leave to cope with a serious illness, pregnancy or a new child. The study finds, for instance, that about 12 percent of Massachusetts workers take a medical or family leave annually, but about a quarter of them take a shorter leave than they need and a slightly larger number of workers who need leave do not take it. Most other industrialized countries and four U.S. states have found another way. California, New Jersey, Rhode Island, and (starting in 2018) New York use insurance-style programs that replace a portion of workers' wages. This enables workers to take time off to address a serious personal or family health condition or to care for a new child. MassBudget's new fact sheet What We Can Learn from Other States' Experiences with Paid Family and Medical Leave examines evidence on the impact of these programs on families and businesses. Current Statewide Paid Family and Medical Leave Programs Weeks of Family Leave Weeks of Own-Health Leave (incl. pregnancy) Maximum Wage Replacement California 6 52 55% New Jersey 6 26 66% Rhode Island 4 30 60% New York 8 (rising to 12 by 2021) 26 50% (rising to 67% by 2021) You can read MassBudget's short explainers on how workers in Massachusetts currently cope (HERE) and the experience of other states (HERE). See also MassBudget's previous fact sheet sorting out how PFML differs from other related policies (HERE) and our FAQ: Paid Family & Medical Leave (HERE). You can also read the complete recent report by economists Randy Albelda and Alan Clayton-Matthews issued by UMass Boston's Center for Social Policy and Center for Women in Politics and Public Policy (HERE). The Massachusetts Budget and Policy Center (MassBudget) produces policy research, analysis, and data-driven recommendations focused on improving the lives of low- and middle-income children and adults, strengthening our state's economy, and enhancing the quality of life in Massachusetts. MASSACHUSETTS BUDGET AND POLICY CENTER 15 COURT SQUARE, SUITE 700 BOSTON, MA 02108

Sent by nberger@massbudget.org in collaboration with Try it free today

“We are truly fortunate to have such devoted and compassionate volunteers”

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin

"Volunteers donated more than 4,500 hours of service to the Pantry last year. They work directly with clients in the pantry store, pick up food from local grocers and farms and deliver it to the pantry, as well as stock and organize shelves, and assist with the mobile pantry and Healthy Futures Market. The pantry relies on more than 70 volunteers each month to fulfill all of the operational responsibilities. "

For information: franklinfoodpantry.org/give-help/volunteer.

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160527/franklin-food-pantry-honors-volunteers

franklinfoodpantry.org/

Upcoming Events in Franklin, MA Area: FRI 5/27/16 - THU 6/2/16

FRIDAY 5/27/16
9-11am   Memorial Day Breakfast at Elks Lodge
6:30pm   Art Night Uncorked at the Franklin Art Center

SATURDAY 5/28/16
9am-12pm   Seedling Sale at King Street Community Garden

SUNDAY 5/29/16
9am-12pm   Seedling Sale at King Street Community Garden

MONDAY 5/30/16
10:30am   Memorial Day Parade (starts at Depot St/Dean Bank)

TUESDAY 5/31/16
1:30pm   Knitting Circle for Adults at Franklin Public Library (25 Kenwood Circle)

WEDNESDAY 6/1/16
7:30pm   Laughter Yoga at FUSF

THURSDAY 6/2/16
10am-12pm   Dean Children’s Center Exploration Open House (144 School Street)

For all the Town of Franklin Public Meetings click HERE.

For event details click HERE.

*If you have any suggestions or events for the calendar, please email Renata@BetterLivingRE.com

"Incrementalism really is the way - the budget is more sustainable that way."

"After discussion on the staffing levels of local public safety departments, the Town Council voted to approve a $116.4 million operating budget for fiscal year 2017. 

The figure - a 2.5 percent increase over the $113.6 fiscal year 2016 budget - features $104.6 million to town departments and $11.8 million for the water, sewer and solid waste disposal enterprise funds. 

The council approved the budget Thursday night after the second of its two hearings on the topic. During the hearing, Police Chief Stephan Semerjian and Fire Chief Gary McCarraher discussed their department budgets of $5.1 million and $5.2 million, respectively."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160526/franklin-town-council-approves-116m-budget

• The budget document can be found here

http://www.franklinmatters.org/2016/05/franklin-ma-town-council-budget-hearing.html

Franklin Municipal Building

In the News: annual Trout Derby scheduled, 2-day art instruction

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin

"The Franklin Rod and Gun Club will hold its annual Trout Derby from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. June 4 at Uncus Pond, 49 Florence St. 

The event costs $10 for adults and $5 for ages 12 and younger. Awards for adults will include a choice of Red Sox tickets or money prizes for the three heaviest trout, one prize per person. The kids prizes will be trophies for the three heaviest trout. 

Breakfast will be served from 7 to 10 a.m. Lunch will also be provided.
The rain date is June 5."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160527/franklin-rod-amp-gun-club-to-hold-trout-derby

"Franklin Art Center, 391 E. Central St., will conduct a two-day Introduction to Impressionist Oil Painting from 6:30 to 9 p.m. June 14 and 21. 

Full color painting is an approach to seeing and painting color and light. The techniques used in the workshops are the results of practice utilizing the color theory of Charles Hawthorne, noted impressionist of Cape Cod School of Art. Techniques are used to get students to think only in terms of color and color effects. Therefore, painting with a palette knife is used, but brushes will also be allowed."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160527/franklin-art-center-to-host-2-day-workshop

Franklin Art Center

FHS baseball, softball, and boys tennis teams top Oliver Ames on Thursday

Baseball

• Franklin, 7 vs. Hopkinton, 3 – Final 

– Seven different Panthers recorded an RBI as the Panthers advanced to the finals of the Pedroli Tournament to play Lincoln-Sudbury. Nick Santucci went 2-4 with a double, a run scored and an RBI, Josh Macchi went 1-3 with a run scored and an RBI, Mike Skaza was 3-4 with a double, two runs scored and an RBI, Jason Ulrickson was 3-4 with an RBI, Joe Corsi had a hit, two runs and an RBI, Brad Jarosz went 1-1 with an RBI and Alex Bissanti had an RBI and a run scored. Ryan Hodgkins added three hits for Franklin, including a double, and scored a run. Sophomore Jake Noviello got the win on the mound, allowing a pair of runs in five innings of work, striking out seven. Ryan Morse had a scoreless inning in relief for the Panthers.

Softball

• Oliver Ames, 3 @ Franklin, 8 – Final

Boys Tennis

• Oliver Ames, 0 @ Franklin, 5 – Final 

– The Panthers picked up their 15th win of the season, winning four of the five matches in straight sets. Rahul Herur fought back at first singles after dropping to first set to get a 2-6, 6-1, 6-2 win at first singles, Eli Brooks won 6-2, 6-2 at second singles and Dan Barrow won 6-2, 6-4 at third singles. Tom Mancini and James Johnston won 6-0, 6-1 at first doubles and Tyler DiPalma and Derek Wu won 6-0, 6-1 at second singles.

Girls Tennis

• Franklin, 2 @ Oliver Ames, 3 – Final 

– The Tigers punched their ticket to the postseason for the first time in over two decades behind a sweep in doubles play and one singles win. Sarah Leger won 7-5, 6-0 at third singles, Lark Warner and Valeria Tueme won 6-3, 6-0 at first singles and Claudia Ferrara and Rachel Stryke notched a 7-5, 6-1 at second doubles. Franklin’s Hannah Sweeney won 6-1, 6-0 at first singles and Anna Humphreys won 6-3, 6-1 at second singles.

For all the results around the Hockomock League on Thursday
http://hockomocksports.com/thursdays-schedule-scoreboard-052616/

FHS Panthers

Mass Senate Passes Fiscal Year 2017 Budget

The Senate voted today on a $39.558 billion budget for Fiscal Year 2017, investing in key areas related to local aid, education, children's health and safety, housing, health and human services, workforce training and economic development. The budget limits the use of one-time revenue sources and directs $211M to the state's Stabilization Fund to continue to rebuild this financial safety net, an ongoing Senate priority.

"With this budget, the Senate reinforces our commitment to education at every level and provides our children, families and communities with the tools they need to overcome adversity, adapt to economic uncertainty and remain strong," said Senator Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland), Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. "This budget works to promote self-sufficiency among low income families, connect people with safe, stable housing, improve public health and advance our highly educated, skilled and creative workforce. I am grateful to my Senate colleagues for advancing priorities for their constituents and engaging in thoughtful debate this week. We should all be proud that this budget invests for resilience and the Commonwealth's future success, while remaining fiscally responsible and continuing to build the state's Rainy Day Fund."

"It is crucial for us as a Commonwealth to come together to build resilient communities, and that's what this budget works to do. It starts with giving children a great public education from early childhood through college," said Senate President Stan Rosenberg (D-Amherst). "This budget also strengthens our communities with increased local aid, better housing, environmental protections, and workforce training. I commend Chair Spilka for providing a path to maintain our fiscal footing while pushing for a stronger future."

"Tonight, we send forth from the Senate Chamber a budget that responds to important priorities like combatting the opioid crisis, supporting K-12 education, strengthening our councils on aging and protecting children, while at the same time maintaining fiscal discipline to reduce reliance on one-time expenditures, resist the temptation to increase taxes, and mitigate reliance on one-time revenue fixes," said Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr (R- Gloucester).

"After careful deliberation, the Senate has passed a thoughtful budget that both reflects the shared priorities of the Senate and addresses the pressing needs of our communities," said Senator Sal DiDomenico (D-Everett), Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. "I have no doubt that this budget will be far reaching in its efforts to create a strong and resilient Commonwealth through its strategic investments in some of our state's most critical services and programs. I am particularly proud of this budget's targeted investments for our children and families, many of which are consistent with the Senate's Kids First Initiative. I now look forward to working with our colleagues in the House to craft a final compromise budget that continues moving our Commonwealth forward."

"Chairwoman Spilka and the Senate Ways and Means staff have put in a tremendous amount of work during this process. With their leadership, we have come out of this debate with an even better version of the state budget despite having begun with extremely limited revenue, " said Senator Pat Jehlen (D-Somerville), Assistant Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. "This budget increases aid for crucial programs and services for residents all over the Commonwealth, addressing funding inadequacies in the arts, education, elder affairs, disability services, and programs that help the homeless community. We increased funding for the Massachusetts Cultural Council. We eliminated district determined measures from the educator evaluation system. We passed amendments that pilot home care services for the near poor and provide behavioral health services to adults over 60. And we have increased funding for both the Mass Commission for Deaf and Hard of Hearing and critical programs such as RAFT and MRVP."

The Senate's budget takes a holistic approach to early childhood education and care and elementary and secondary education, with a focus on building family and community relationships.

• $4.63B in Chapter 70 education aid, a $116.1M increase benefiting every school district, including a minimum increase of $55 per pupil and 85% effort reduction.
• $10M for salary increases to early education providers.
• $2.5M for Youth At-Risk Matching Grants to community youth organizations, including Boys & Girls Clubs and YMCAs.
• $2M for new preschool expansion grants to expand high-quality preschool programs that prepare young children for future educational success.
• $750K for the Mentoring Matching Grant program.

The Senate included landmark language to overhaul the Chapter 70 formula to fund Massachusetts school districts more fairly and adequately in the future. As recommended by the Foundation Budget Review Commission (FBRC) last year, the new formula better accounts for school districts' rising health insurance costs and the high cost of educating students with special needs, English Language Learners and low income students. The budget also establishes a taskforce to identify the most accurate way of counting low income students and requires the House, Senate and Administration to determine a schedule for funding the FBRC's recommendations.

The Senate budget also invests in children's mental health, safety and welfare in an effort to ensure all children grow up in a supportive environment.

• $223.5M for Department of Children and Families Social Workers, allowing DCF to hire an additional 100 social workers and 125 social worker technicians, moving closer to an 18:1 caseload ratio.
• $88.2M for Children's Mental Health Services, including $3.6M for the Massachusetts Child Psychiatry Access Project and $50K for an Early Childhood Mental Health Partnership.
• $12.5M for Family Resource Centers providing crucial mental health, substance abuse treatment and family support services.
• $1M for the Office of the Child Advocate and language to increase its independence to further its mission to protect the health, safety and well-being of children under the care of the Commonwealth.

In order to strengthen families, the Senate's budget invests in programs to connect individuals, families and vulnerable populations with housing and supportive services.

• $100M for the Massachusetts Rental Voucher Program, allowing for 350 to 400 new rental assistance vouchers.
• $44.8M for assistance for homeless individuals.
• $13M for Residential Assistance for Families in Transition, including $500K to serve families with children under the age of 21, elders, persons with disabilities and unaccompanied youth.
• $6.2M for the Alternative Housing Voucher Program to provide nearly 200 new vouchers for low income people with disabilities and help them transition from nursing homes to independent housing.
• $2M for housing and supportive services for unaccompanied homeless youth.

The Senate's budget also makes targeted investments to support low income families and promote self-sufficiency, including an increase in the Department of Transitional Assistance clothing allowance from $200 per child to $250 per child, $2.6M for a new transportation benefit for approximately 10,000 participants in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Employment and Training Program and $18M for the Massachusetts Emergency Food Assistance Program. The budget invests $1M in a new common application portal to help families enroll in MassHealth, SNAP nutrition and other state benefits in one streamlined process.

The Senate's budget increases funding for health and human services in a range of areas to improve access to high quality health care and enhance services for individuals with disabilities, seniors and other vulnerable groups that are often under-served.

• $136.4M for substance abuse prevention and treatment, allowing for 150 new residential treatment beds and other lifesaving programs, and $2M for the Substance Abuse Services Trust Fund supporting detox, clinical stabilization, residential treatment, outpatient treatment and counseling services.
• $28.1M for Elder Protective Services to enhance efforts to investigate cases of elder abuse or neglect.
• $20.5M for wages for direct care staff of nursing homes.
• $14.1M for local Councils on Aging, increasing the formula grant to $10 per senior per year and strengthening local senior center community programming and services.
• $13.9M to fully fund Turning 22 Services for the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind and Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission, and $8M for the Department of Developmental Services Turning 22 program to help young people with disabilities transition to the adult services system.
• $1.1M for a pilot program to expand eligibility for the state's home care program to support more seniors aging in place.

The Senate's budget invests in the 351 cities and towns across the Commonwealth to strengthen local services and build healthy, safe and resilient communities.

• $1.02B for Unrestricted General Government Aid (UGGA) for municipal investments in education, public safety, roads and bridges and health care.
• $281.1M to fully fund the Special Education Circuit Breaker to reimburse school districts for high costs of educating students with disabilities at the full 75% reimbursement rate.
• $90M to mitigate the financial impact on school districts when students leave to attend charter schools.
• $84.1M for Regional Transit Authorities.
• $61M for Regional School Transportation reimbursements to offset 73% of the transportation costs of students attending regional schools.
• $15M for the Massachusetts Cultural Council to support the state's thriving creative economy.
• $8M for Shannon Grants for gang violence prevention and intervention programs.

The Senate also adopted an amendment limiting MBTA fare increases to 5% every two years to ensure Massachusetts residents have access to affordable public transportation.

Continuing the Senate's ongoing criminal justice reform efforts, the budget includes several investments and policy initiatives to improve access to justice, including $1.2M to expand the Housing Court to serve all residents across the state, $18M for civil legal aid for low income residents and $1.5M for Prisoners' Legal Services. The budget also waives probation fees for juvenile offenders and gives judges the discretion to impose probation fees for other offenders.

The budget invests in workforce training, economic development and public higher education to prepare Massachusetts students and residents to join the workforce and ensure the Commonwealth's economy continues to grow and lead.

• $521.3M for the University of Massachusetts, a $20.5M increase over FY 2016 funding, in addition to the new flexibility provided by tuition retention.
• $281.7M for the fifteen community colleges and $258.4M for the nine state universities across the Commonwealth, reflecting a combined increase of $24.4M over FY 2016 funding levels.
• $31M for the Adult Basic Education program to reduce the waitlist for adult education and connect adults with skills they need to join the workforce.
• $11.5M for wages for the Youth-At-Risk Summer Jobs program and $3.2M for School to Career Connecting Activities, a public-private partnership linking high school students with job training and mentoring opportunities.
• $4M for Workforce Competitiveness Grants for training and education for unemployed and under-employed workers.
• $3M for the Innovation Institute at the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative to foster a favorable environment for the development and growth of technology and innovation clusters across the state.
• $350K for a new public-private partnership matching grant program to establish college savings accounts for children in grades 7 through 12, encouraging low income students to pursue higher education and helping to close income and racial educational attainment gaps.

The Senate budget also includes a provision to move the state into compliance with the federal REAL ID law, allowing Massachusetts residents to access federal buildings and board airplanes after the state's waiver expires in October.

A Conference Committee will now work out the differences between the Senate budget and the version passed by the House of Representatives in April. Fiscal Year 2017 begins on July 1, 2016.

• The MA Capital Budget was released recently

http://www.mass.gov/governor/press-office/press-releases/fy2016/admin-releases-2-19-billion-fy17-capital-budget-plan.html

• For additional details on the Senate Budget FY 2017

https://malegislature.gov/Budget/FY2017/Senate

In the News: looking for gently used musical instruments, Rotary club to hold pasta supper

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin

"International Arts Foundation, a Franklin nonprofit, is looking for donations of new art supplies and small, gently used musical instruments. 

Guitars, violins, and wind instruments are especially appreciated. All donations are tax-deductible. Pickup can be arranged. 

This organization gives underprivileged kids new art supplies, musical instruments and dance equipment free of charge. 

For more information, visit givekidsthearts.org or call 508-507-8209."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160526/arts-foundation-seeking-instrument-donations

Give Kids the Arts

"The Franklin Rotary Club International will host its 25th annual pasta supper at 5 p.m. June 9 at Central Park Terrace Hall, 1000 Central Park Terrace. All senior citizens are welcome to attend this annual event. 

The event is free. 

Seniors will not only enjoy a meal, they will also be entertained by Franklin native Tony Dale. Dale has performed at locations in California and Cape Cod."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160526/franklin-rotary-club-to-host-pasta-supper

LIve reporting: Budget Hearing #2 - May 26

meeting resumes to continue the budget hearing


F. HEARINGS
– 7:10 PM Budget:FY 2017 Budget Hearing

The budget document can be found here
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2016/05/franklin-ma-town-council-budget-hearing.html

Holds
210 - Police  (Vallee)
220 - Fire (Vallee)
fire expenses (Mercer)

Vallee - question on why no increase in personnel when in a survey we compared to other communities, the other towns must know something we don't know to have more people than we do

Semerjian - Any dept head would want more, you can't just add people and not be able to pay them

Vallee - you submitted for one policeman and I don't think that is adequate

Padula - rephrases question

Semerjian - if we put someone on, and don't have the fear of losing them, you could press harder. We are very fortunate in this communities. We work it the best way we can to make sure we do it within the constraints. There is a whole year to discuss this and nothing has been done since, and we're in the same situation.

Pfeffer - if you need some people, you need to come to the Council and let us work with the Town Administrator

Vallee - what is the problem with 3 ambulances?
McCarragher - We have staff for 7x24 for two not three

Vallee - how many did you request?
McCarragher - I asked to grow the budget for a period of 3-4 years so we could begin to staff the 3rd ambulance 10 hours, and then more and more. Incremental is really the way to grow the budget

Vallee - your responsibility is to do what is right

Pfeffer - How much overtime?
About 300K, but you're not going to reduce that?

Padula - does it take more time for an out of time to respond?
Absolutely,

Padula - we're doing our jobs but we want to look into this more closely

Mercer - last year you gave us some numbers
McCarragher - 1.5 per bed, up to 1.8

Mercer - have these facilities put more of a burden on the ambulance staffing
McCarragher - other communities are looking to bench mark off our numbers too

McCarragher - very few communities do use private ambulances, and it is going lower

hearing closed

J. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
1. Resolution 16-33:Adoption of the FY 2017 Budget
Jones abstaining from vote (due to employment at Tri-County (which is part of the budget))

motion to approve FY 2017 budget of $116,417,305
via roll call, passed 8-1 (Jones abstain)

Motion to adjourn, passed

Live reporting: Town Council - Budget Hearing #2 - May 26, 2016

Present: Pellegri, Padula, Mercer, Vallee, Kelly, Pfeffer, Bissanti, Dellorco, Jones
Absent:  none


A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
no minutes for approval this evening

B. ANNOUNCEMENTS
– This meeting is being recorded by Franklin TV and shown on Comcast channel 11 and Verizon channel 29. This meeting may be recorded by others.

C. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS
none

D. CITIZEN COMMENTS
none

E. APPOINTMENTS
none

G. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS
none

H. PRESENTATIONS/DISCUSSIONS
none

I. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS
none

K. TOWN ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT
none

L. OLD BUSINESS
none

M. NEW BUSINESS
none

N. COUNCIL COMMENTS
Pfeffer - parade on Monday
all the scout troops present, and schools have their bands march

Pellegri - Veterans Breakfast in the morning at the Elks

recess until 7:10 for budget hearing to resume

Paving preparations started

The grinding up of the top level of pavement happened overnight. The section from Ruggles to the bridge has been ground down the 1-2 inches that is normally done before putting down new pavement. The utility covers are now sticking up and will be a challenge to tires until the new pavement is laid down.

sidewalk work continues in front of the Berry Building

the Cottage and East Central/Main St intersection has been ground down

the grinding overnight ended at the bridge

Voices of Franklin: Jim Hill - "Pipe Dreams"

Pipe Dreams

When I was a child in the 1950s my parents and grandparents bought new homes with gas heat. Since then I’ve lived in several other homes with gas. Like most of my generation natural gas has been part of our lives for a long time. So what’s wrong with that? 

Well the more I learn the more it concerns me. The very word “natural” implies that it must be good for us, but arsenic is natural too. Even the commercials look beautiful and squeaky clean, so it must be good. Right? 

But, if we dig deeper, the truth is revealed. The commercials are so effective that I sometimes forget that natural gas (NG) is a fossil fuel and that it’s really methane and that when leaked increases global warming. Or that most domestic gas is extracted by fracking, a method that uses high pressure chemical infused water to fracture shale polluting air, water, and linked to earthquakes. 

The natural gas industry tells us that fracking is safe and that it’s producing all the gas we could possibly need. They’re excited. This could produce immense profits especially when it’s exported. But what will it cost us and is there really a NG shortage due to a lack of more pipelines? Why did we have a shortage in 2014 but not in 2015. After all 2015 was colder. 

Carol Churchill at Distrigas, the company that ships liquefied natural gas into Boston, told me that her company can supply all the gas New England needs during peak demand winter days without adding pipelines. She also says the problem in 2014 was that electric utilities didn’t have enough contracts for LNG to cover peak times and in 2015 they did. 

Electric companies now imply that that the sky will fall without a pipeline. Another obscure issue is that the new pipelines will be used to export fracked gas from Nova Scotia. Spectra Energy of Houston, the pipeline builder, denies this, but here’s the evidence. Fracking is really big in Pennsylvania, home of the Marcellus shale fields. To get the fracked gas to Nova Scotia it would travel through an 889 mile pipeline that runs from Dracut through Maine. 

The proposed pipeline through Franklin and eight other towns would dramatically increase NG that would travel under Boston Harbor to Beverly on to Dracut. Spectra has already received permission to reverse the direction from Dracut to reach the Maritime Provinces. 

The following excerpt was posted by Sutherland LNG on Feb 9, 2016. 

“Bear Head LNG and Pieridae Energy each announced that the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has granted them separate authority to export as LNG gas imported from the United States to each company’s proposed liquefaction and LNG export terminal in Nova Scotia, Canada. DOE’s orders authorize Bear Head LNG and Pieridae Energy to export the LNG produced from gas imported into Canada from the United States via pipeline to countries that do not have a Free Trade Agreement with the United States.” 

Once the pipeline gas hits the world market where prices are much higher our costs will rise negating any implied savings. In addition, Eversource and National Grid expect electric rate payers to pay a $3 billion tariff on their electric bills to pay for the project. 

Eversouce has a 40% interest in the project and National Grid has a 20% interest. Basically they want to sell their gas to themselves and have us pay for it. Sweet deal for them and their shareholders. They get the profit, we assume the risk. 

According to Representative Roy, if 17% of the worst of the 20,000+ Massachusetts leaks were repaired we could save 40% of escaped gas reducing our bills and decreasing global warming. Isn’t this a better idea? 

But these companies have no motivation to fix leaks because consumers pay for the escaped gas. Yes, demand for electricity will increase, but fortunately offshore wind, solar and Quebec hydroelectricity are renewable options that will easily satisfy our future needs. 

According to the Attorney General’s independent study there’s no need for additional pipelines if we increase conservation efforts and improve demand response. Yes, we can save money and the planet without more NG. So why would we want to pay for the pipeline and more for fracked gas? This gas may be natural but so is arsenic.

James F Hill, Franklin

No Spectra gas pipeline sign on a Franklin lawn

FHS girls lacrosse tops Milford

Girls Lacrosse

• Milford, 3 @ Franklin, 21 – Final 

– Sophomore Kate Morse found the back of the cage twice and had four draw controls for the Panthers. Abby Egan added two goals and two assists and Shannon D’Arcangelo registered a hat trick in the win.

Boys Lacrosse

• Franklin, 7 vs. Dover-Sherborn, 8 – Final

For all the results around the Hockomock League on Wednesday

http://hockomocksports.com/wednesdays-schedule-scoreboard-052516/

FHS Panthers

Franklin School for the Performing Arts - Open House - May 31

The Franklin School for the Performing Arts (FSPA) will hold an Open House from 4-8 p.m. at 38 Main Street in Franklin. The community is invited to meet FSPA faculty and staff, observe classes and rehearsals, tour the facility and learn about the school’s programs in music, dance and drama. 

Whether for recreational interest or serious study, prospective students and families will have the opportunity to hear about performing arts classes for all ages and experience levels. Registration is ongoing for all summer and fall programs. Beginners are welcome and encouraged. 

For more information, call FSPA at (508) 528-8668. Visit online at www.fspaonline.com.

Franklin School for the Performing Arts

In the News: firefighters graduate, HMMS update to School Committee

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin

"Chief Gary McCarraher is pleased to announce that three Franklin firefighters graduated from the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy recently. 

Nicholas Garland, 34, of Franklin; Christian Mills, 30, of Taunton; and Keith Schnabel, age 40, of Wrentham were three out of 24 graduates from the 243th class of the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy’s 45-day Career Recruit Firefighting Training Program. A ceremony was held at the Department of Fire Services in Stow on May 20. 

All three firefighters have been with the Franklin Fire Department since March 7. They completed a two-week orientation at the department before their class began at the academy on March 21."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160525/franklin-firefighters-graduate

Franklin Fire Dept

"Educators from Horace Mann Middle School spoke at this week's School Committee meeting about preparing their students for change and grooming them to be leaders. 

Principal Rebecca Motte, Assistant Principal Mary Cotillo, reading specialist Erin O'Leary and a number of Horace Mann students gave a presentation to the committee about their efforts over the past school year. 

The talk included a video - intended to prepare fifth-grade students for their transition to middle school - in which a student asked his peers about common sources of anxiety the shift engenders. The hope, the presenters said, is to create a welcoming environment for new students."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160526/franklin-school-committee-hears-horace-mann-highlights

Team O'Neil Fundraiser for Chris B O'Neil Children's Fund - Jun 17

TO BENEFIT THE CHRIS B. O’NEIL CHILDREN’S FUND

JUNE 17, 2016 = 7PM TO MIDNIGHT 

• Silent Auction 
• 50/50, Squares, etc. 
• Photo Booth 
• Dancing and more ...

FRANKLIN ELKS LODGE 
1077 Pond St, Franklin 

$50 donation/ticket Register Online Only! 
Only 200 Tickets available! 
To donate visit website https://trooperchrisboneilchildrensfund.org/

or Facebook  https://www.facebook.com/trooperchrisboneil

TO BENEFIT THE CHRIS B. O’NEIL CHILDREN’S FUND

In the News: 2-way traffic coming to downtown, school explores growing hydroponic plants

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin

"The town has begun its efforts to inform local drivers of the upcoming change to two-way traffic in the downtown. 

The change, slated to take place in late June, will be the result of the two-year downtown streetscape project, and will affect West Central, Emmons and Main streets. 

Deputy Town Administrator Jamie Hellen said local officials will be looking to inform the public through a wide-ranging campaign. 

"We'll be doing weekly posts on social media, as well as the traditional channels," he said, adding that local newspapers and websites had been approached about the change."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160524/franklin-informing-residents-of-traffic-changeover

work continues along Main St putting in curbing and new sidewalks in advance of redoing the road surface and then changing the traffic from one way to two way in June

"Officials from Parmenter Elementary School shared the lessons learned through a third-grade hydroponic gardening program. 

The program - new at Parmenter this year - was chosen to illustrate the school's approach to creating learning experiences for its students. The school's three third-grade teachers gave a presentation on the matter at Tuesday's School Committee meeting. 

Teacher Edward Tighe said that when students were first shown the hydroponic equipment, they did not know what it was. 

"It has been an amazing four months of discovery - not just for the students, but us teachers as well," he said. "We've made many mistakes, the kids have seen those mistakes and we've worked together to come up with solutions."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160524/franklin-garden-advances-science-learning

LET'S LAUGH TODAY in Franklin is on Wednesday, June 1st

LET'S LAUGH TODAY in Franklin is on Wednesday, June 1st !

laughter yoga

Experience the health benefits of joyful laughter on Wednesday, June 1st (and every first Wednesday of the month except in July and August)) from 7:30pm to 8:30pm at the Meetinghouse of the First Universalist Society in Franklin, 262 Chestnut Street, Franklin. 

Laughter Yoga is a unique and playful practice that does not rely on humor, jokes or comedy. Laughter Yoga will have you smiling frequently and laughing heartily. It can strengthen the immune system, combat the negative effects of stress, and is a powerful antidote to depression and anxiety. 

LET'S LAUGH TODAY in Franklin is on Wednesday, June 1st

Any age and any level of physical ability can participate in this uplifting experience! New laughers are always welcomed! $5 donation to the church, $10 maximum per family. Please bring your water bottle because laughing can be dehydrating. Led by Certified Laughter Yoga Teachers, Linda and Bill Hamaker. 

If you have any questions, just call them at 508-660-2223 or e-mail billandlinda@letslaughtoday.com. See more information and other opportunities to laugh at www.letslaughtoday.com.

FHS Boys Lacrosse completes Hockomock League season unbeaten

Boys Lacrosse

• Franklin, 19 @ Milford, 1 – Final 

– Franklin posted an undefeated league record for the season straight season. (Overall record is 12-4)

Girls Lacrosse

• Franklin, 5 @ Westwood, 15 – Final 

– Kendall Reardon and Kenzie Pleshaw each scored two goals for the Panthers and Emily Spath scored one.


For all the results around the Hockomock League on Tuesday
http://hockomocksports.com/tuesdays-schedule-scoreboard-052416/

FHS Panthers

Live reporting: Discussion items to Closing

3. Discussion Only Items

Policy – First Readings

• IHBA-R - Programs for Students with Disabilities

policy with an "R" indicates the regulation
upon legal review shortening and simplifying the language
similar to parent handbook

• IHBHA - Alternative School Programs

also reviewed by legal council, updated language to bring to current regulations
to meet needs of diverse needs of students

• IJOAB - Extended Field Trips

added finger printing as a requirement in addition to CORI for volunteers on overnight trips
added language to enable the Superintendent to cancel the trip for the safety of the students

4. Action Items

a. I recommend moving the following Policies to a second reading at the next School Committee meeting:

IHBA-R - Programs for Students with Disabilities
IHBHA - Alternative School Programs
IJOAB - Extended Field Trips

motion to move to second reading, seconded, passed 6-0

b. I recommend acceptance of a check for $150.00 from various donors for the FHS Castelline Scholarship.

motion to move to second reading, seconded, passed 6-0

5. Information Matters

Superintendent’s Report

• New director of music - Diane Plouffe

a coordinated effort with multiple stakeholder groups involved
end result the candidate was among us

Senior project culminating events on Weds
Awards night Thursday
Graduation next week

• met with the Charter School last week to review their plans for the future

• Central office went as a team to a conf to participate in "return on investment"

there will be more to come, are what we spending our dollars on really helping what we need for/from the students
did bring a different perspective to the business approach
learning ways to analyze the data

School Committee Sub-Committee Reports
a. Policy Sub Committee

School Committee Liaison Reports

• school committee coffees being held, three more scheduled

attendance is growing at the sessions

6. New Business
To discuss future business that may be brought before the School Committee.

consider better survey on school calendar to have data for next time

as this is mid-term, what is staus on progress to goals
Superintendent Sabolinski to provide


7. Motion to Adjourn
– Dr. O’Malley