"now is the time to promote economic development in the downtown"

"With the downtown streetscape project set to end this summer, members of the Franklin Downtown Partnership looked at the needs of the area. 

The partnership discussed the matter at its meeting last week, noting that the project is scheduled to finish in July. 

Deputy Town Administrator Jamie Hellen told the membership that the town has already started the planning process. A recent review of capital needs, he said, included an item for downtown decorations, lights and banners. 

Planning Department members said the downtown streetlights would have banners attached to them, and that discussions as to their designs would begin shortly."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160306/future-of-downtown-franklin-considered

A walk around the building at 150 Emmons St

green screen and fencing added to the site

construction vehicles ready to work on the demolition

the entrance

future site of the Horace Mann statue and green space

long view of the building

the other entrance

While we shared the story that the road work will resume in April, the downtown will change significantly in a couple of ways before then. 

• The building at 150 Emmons St will be coming down. 
• The new marquee at THE BLACK BOX is scheduled to be installed this week.

the new light poles have holders for banners

Norfolk County Registry of Deeds: Register O'Donnell Reports on Feb 2016 Real Estate Activity

	Norfolk County Registry of Deeds
	Register O'Donnell Reports on Feb 2016 Real Estate Activity Improved weather from a year ago and a one-day leap year bonus helped propel the Norfolk County real estate market to solid gains in February 2016. Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell noted, "The month of February saw a 12% increase in the number of land documents recorded compared to the same time period in 2015. Most significantly, the total number of deeds recorded increased by 20% from 870 to 1,042 compared to the previous February. While the weather and leap year were significant factors, I would also argue that this data reflects the vibrancy of Norfolk County's real estate market." In addition to the increased deed transactions, the total volume of commercial and residential sales also increased by a significant 55% coming in at $519 million. Also, the average sales price of Norfolk County commercial and residential property rose by 23% to $907,950. "These numbers clearly say it all, that Norfolk County remains a destination location to live and work," noted the Register. The mortgage market was mixed for the month of February, showing a very slight dip in mortgages recorded, but a significant increase in overall mortgage financing. "The total number of mortgages recorded fell by 3% to 1,911 compared to the same time period in 2015. While this number is hard to assess given all the other positive data, the reduction may be the result of a slight uptick in mortgage rates and also the continuing impact that the new disclosure rules are having on the length of real estate closings. "However, February 2016 also saw a 63% increase in total mortgage financing, coming in at $1.3 billion. This increase was partly attributable to a $479 million mortgage recorded against a property in Norwood," noted the Register. In February, Homestead recordings increased by 19%. O'Donnell reiterated the importance of the Homestead Act. "A Homestead provides limited protection against the forced sale of an individual's primary residence to satisfy unsecured debt up to $500,000. Details on the Homestead Act can be found on our website, www.norfolkdeeds.org. I urge homeowners to consider this vital consumer protection. February data wasn't all sunshine according to Register O'Donnell. A total of 30 foreclosure deeds were recorded last month compared to 25 filings in the previous year, resulting in a 20% increase. This increase was partly attributable to lending institutions that are continuing to work through delinquent mortgages, dating back in some cases to the 2008 recession. More troubling was the continuing increases seen in Notice to Foreclose Mortgage recordings, the first step in the foreclosure process. At total of 55 Notice to Foreclose Mortgages were filed in February compared to 41 in February 2015. "These filings are a clear indication that while the eastern Massachusetts economy remains strong, many of our neighbors continue to face economic hardship," stated O'Donnell. The Registry of Deeds continues to work with Quincy Community Action Programs and Neighbor Works Southern Mass to help homeowners who have received a Notice to Foreclose Mortgage. Another option for homeowners facing challenges meeting their monthly mortgage payments is to contact the Attorney General's HomeCorps program. Register O'Donnell concluded, "While there were unique variables that impacted the February real estate market in Norfolk County, it is my contention that these figures provide unmistakable evidence that the economy remains strong and there is a decent pool of buyers and sellers in the housing market. With that said, one thing we need to continue to do is keep a close eye on real estate inventory. Any reduction could result in a slowdown. Overall, I am pleased the Norfolk County real estate market came through the long days of winter in good shape. I am cautiously looking forward to a strong spring season." To learn more about these and other Registry of Deeds events and initiatives, like us at facebook.com/NorfolkDeeds or follow us on twitter.com/NorfolkDeeds. The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds, located at 649 High Street, 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, accessible land record information. Residents in need of assistance can contact the Registry of Deeds Customer Service Center at (781) 461-6101, or on the web at www.norfolkdeeds.org. Register William P. O'Donnell Norfolk County Registry of Deeds email: registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.org phone: 781-234-3336 web: http://www.norfolkdeeds.org

Norfolk County Registry of Deeds, 649 High Street, Dedham,, MA 02026-1831 Sent by registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.org in collaboration with Try it free today

screen grab of Norfolk Deeds webpage

Kingsbury Ponds makes the Boston Globe, Franklin residents start their own petition

The Kingsbury Pond issue has reached the Boston Globe:

"Mark Gilmore’s patio once overlooked a soothing expanse of spring-fed water in a state-protected “great pond.” These days, Gilmore looks out at a lengthening stretch of rock-strewn dirt. 

Kingsbury Pond, once 26 acres, is now closer to a 9-acre puddle. And angry residents who live on its wooded shores are quick to name a culprit: the neighboring town of Franklin, which operates a nearby well that sucks up hundreds of thousands of gallons of groundwater every day.

“It’s starting to get scary. You can’t just suck a pond dry,” said Gilmore, who like many neighbors thinks Franklin is siphoning water from an aquifer that should be filling Kingsbury Pond. “This is the lowest that anybody has seen it — ever.” 

But where the pond’s admirers see a water-guzzling goliath next door, Franklin officials and some environmentalists see something more benign: a dry 2015 that lowered water levels across Massachusetts."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.bostonglobe.com/metro/2016/03/05/towns-square-off-great-pond-turns-into-puddle/NeswM5a5gLi9XA4SzoKzNM/story.html

Kingsbury Pond, Norfolk

• It was reported earlier about the Kingsbury Pond area residents starting a petition online.

http://www.franklinmatters.org/2015/12/save-kingsbury-pond-petition-underway.html

• Franklin residents have started their own petition in support of finding a solution

https://www.change.org/p/franklin-dpw-director-robert-brutus-cantoreggi-franklin-ma-residents-wanting-to-save-kingsbury-pond?recruiter=436433650&utm_source=share_petition&utm_medium=copylink

Summer Classes for Budding Scientists - Register Now

Franklin Public Schools  ~ Lifelong Learning Institute We have a variety of summer classes  for your budding scientist! Nature Detectives for entering grades 1, 2 July 11 to 15, 8:30 am to 12:30 pm Jefferson Elementary School We will be doing a variety of nature activities such as nature walks, scavenger hunts, collecting leaves, art projects, and nature games.   Out of This World for entering grades 1, 2, 3 July 18 to 22, 8:30 am to 12:30 pm Jefferson Elementary School Come and learn about outer space as we explore the moon, the solar system and constellations.  We will read stories, play games and do crafts. Let's Get Growing for entering grades K, 1, 2 July 25 to 29, 8:30 am to 12:30 pm Jefferson Elementary School Our gardening fun basics will include hands-on activities with soil, seeds, flowers, vegetables, worms, ladybugs, water, weather and more Nature Outdoors for entering grades 1, 2 August 1 to 5, 8:30 am to 12:30 pm Jefferson Elementary School Head on out into the great outdoors for some fun and adventure. Explore the world of nature and learn a few camping skills along the way. Who knows what we might discover! Registration is Open! FPS, Lifelong Learning|  508-553-4814|  Email

Forward this email FPS- Lifelong Learning | 355 East Central Street | Franklin | MA | 02038

Franklin, MA: Town Council - Agenda - March 9, 2016

A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES

B. ANNOUNCEMENTS 

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

C. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS

D. CITIZEN COMMENTS 

– Citizens are welcome to express their views for up to five minutes on a matter that is not on the Agenda. The Council will not engage in a dialogue or comment on a matter raised during Citizen Comments. The Town Council will give remarks appropriate consideration and may ask the Town Administrator to review the matter.

E. APPOINTMENTS

F. HEARINGS

G. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS

H. PRESENTATIONS/DISCUSSIONS

1. 2015 Audit – Melanson Heath, Auditors
2. Mandatory Alcohol Awareness Training for Licensees

I. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS

J. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION

1. Resolution 16-11: Declaration of Town-Owned Land on Grove Street (Portion of Former Nu-Style Property) as Surplus and Available for Disposition
2. Resolution 16-12: Authorization for Municipal Aggregation of Electricity
3. Resolution 16-13: Appropriation: Town Administrator: Insurance Recovery Account – 28123490
4. Resolution 16-14: Appropriation: Records Management – Assessors
5. Bylaw Amendment 16-755: Chapter 179, Water – 1st Reading
6. Bylaw Amendment 16-756: Chapter 170 Vehicles and Traffic Article X Winter
7. Storm Overnight Parking – 1st Reading

K. TOWN ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT

L. OLD BUSINESS

M.NEW BUSINESS

N. COUNCIL COMMENTS

O. EXECUTIVE SESSION 
- Pending or threatened litigation
1. Proposed Excelon expansion of Medway electric generating facility pending before Energy Facilities Siting Board.
2. Proposed Spectra gas transmission line through Franklin.

P. ADJOURN

The documents released for this agenda can be found here
http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_CouncilAgendas/2016%20Complete/03092016.pdf

Franklin Municipal Building

Valedictorian and Salutatorian for the Tri-County Regional Class of 2016 Announced

Superintendent-Director Stephen F. Dockray is pleased to announce the Valedictorian and Salutatorian for the Tri-County Regional Class of 2016. Jennifer Bowness, of North Attleborough, has been named Valedictorian, and Thomas Vagnini, of Medfield, has been named Salutatorian.

“We are extremely fortunate to count Jennifer and Tom as students and future alumni of Tri-County,” said Superintendent-Director Dockray. “I am certain that both of these students will be extremely successful in whatever career path they choose.”

Jennifer achieved a 4.45 GPA by mastering a rigorous academic schedule that included Advanced Placement Physics, Statistics, and Literature and Composition. The Medical Careers student maintains several professional certifications and is committed to expanding her knowledge of the field through professional experience. She previously held positions at Golden Pond Assisted Living, Milford Hospital, Medway Country Manor Nursing, and the Wrentham Developmental Center, to name a few.

In addition to being an excellent student, Jennifer is also a gifted athlete. She was captain of Tri-County's Cross Country team for two years and a member of the Track and Field team for four years.

As a member of the National Honor Society, Jennifer devotes herself to community service projects. Her volunteer efforts include working at an animal shelter for the past four years, participating in Homeless Awareness Weekend, and helping out at the Central Congregational Church.

In December, Jennifer was selected as this year's recipient of the Massachusetts Association of School Superintendents (MASS) Certificate of Academic Excellence. The certificate is awarded each year to a student of excellent academic standing who has made significant contributions to the Tri-County community.

Thomas Vagnini maintains a 4.38 GPA and has taken Advanced Placement Language and Composition, Calculus, and Physics I. As a student in Tri-County’s Engineering Technology program, Tom participates in several prestigious programs. During his junior year, Tom was a member of Tri-County’s HUNCH (High School Students United with NASA to Create Hardware) team. In April 2015, Tom and his teammates traveled to Houston to present their prototype of a microgravity scale to NASA officials. Tom designed the scale’s frame on a 3D printer. His design won first place in the national Stratasys Extreme Redesign Challenge.

Tom has been a leader on the school’s First Robotics team since his sophomore year, a member of the Math Team during his sophomore year and senior year, and a member of the National Honor Society since his junior year.

In addition to his love of Engineering, Tom is also an avid runner. He has been a member of the Cross Country and Track teams since his freshman year and was named Co-Captain of the Cross Country team in 2015.

Both students plan to continue on in their fields of study in college.

As Valedictorian and Salutatorian, Jennifer and Thomas will help to lead the procession at their Graduation Ceremony, scheduled for Sunday, June 5.

From L to R: Bowness, Dockrey and Vagnini

For more about Tri-County, visit them on the internet at   http://www.tri-county.us/

FHS Boys Hockey advance to D1 South Semifinals

"The biggest difference between Franklin and Walpole might not have even been something that happened on the ice on Saturday night. 

Instead, one extra day of rest might have been enough to push Franklin to a 1-0 win over the Rebels and into the D1 South Semifinal. Franklin beat Wellesley on Wednesday night and Walpole picked up a shootout win over Archies on Thursday to meet one another in the quarterfinals. 

“It was a good physical game and from here on out that’s what you’re going to get,” Franklin head coach Chris Spillane said. “Walpole just came off a really physical, exhausting game on Thursday night. I think us having that extra day of rest, being able to go watch them play, and have two practices and sort of going easy in them knowing this would be a tough game, I think that was a little bit of a benefit for us. They were sort of gassing out there, the schedule definitely worked to our benefit.”

Continue reading the article online
http://www.hockomocksports.com/franklin-hockey-edges-walpole-to-advance-to-d1-south-semis/

(Ryan Lanigan/Photo)