Franklin's Event Outlook: Feb 26 - Mar 4, 2021

The last February weekend (Yay!). Storywalk at DelCarte continues. The Winter Farmers Market on Saturday and LiveARTS concert on Sunday are the key highlights.

 
Friday, February 26
February StoryWalk at DelCarte Reservation

Saturday, February 27
February StoryWalk at DelCarte Reservation

10:00am = Winter Farmers Market

Sunday, February 28
February StoryWalk at DelCarte Reservation
1:00pm = Historical Museum (open and free admission)
3:00pm = LiveARTS: Amy Porter, Flute

Monday, March 1
February StoryWalk at DelCarte Reservation
First Day of Women's History Month

Tuesday, March 2
February StoryWalk at DelCarte Reservation

6:30pm = School Committee Legislative Forum

Wednesday, March 3
February StoryWalk at DelCarte Reservation
7:30pm =  Let’s Laugh Today is Free on ZOOM!

Thursday, March 4
 February StoryWalk at DelCarte Reservation
7:00pm = 350 Mass Greater Franklin Node

Find the full calendar  https://www.franklinmatters.org/p/blog-page.html

If you have an event to add to the calendar, you can use the form to submit it for publication:  https://forms.gle/oPdi8X3ZbHHyrHzo6

The Town meeting calendar is found  https://www.franklinma.gov/calendar

The School district meeting calendar is found   https://www.franklinps.net/calendar-by-event-type/26

 

Community Calendar

Finance Committee meeting recap - Feb 24, 2021 - ambulance rates, fire truck life cycle; debt overview

Quick Recap:

• Quick overview of the ambulance rates and rationale behind them from Chief McLaughlin
  
• Overview of the recent truck purchase process and the life cycle of trucks on the front line, in reserve and eventual disposition as surplus
• Great overview of the debt and borrowing status for Franklin, heard previously at the Town Council meeting but great info on exclusions and non-excluded debt and how it is fiscally planned for and managed; the Town has a great credit rating which confirms the overall fiscal prudence shown by the Town
• Discussion on future topics including adding two sessions to the budget hearing cycle (now four meetings instead of two)
  

Photos captured during the meeting and shared via Twitter can be found in one album   https://photos.app.goo.gl/XN9xZuqRLw5vtcY88

 

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As with most meetings in this pandemic period, I took my notes via Twitter during the meeting reporting in real-time via the virtual session.

 

The Twitter hashtag can be found online  #fincom0224

https://twitter.com/search?q=%23fincom0224&src=typeahead_click

• Real time reporting underway for the Finance Committee meeting #fincom0224 agenda doc linked here has the connection info https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/agendas/fincom_agenda_02-24-21_updated.pdf
• Fire Chief McLaughlin talks to the proposed ambulance rate increases up for second approval at Town Council meeting next week #fincom0224
• Majority of transportation is ALS1, second BLS and least used is ALS2. Have talked with a company about their frequency of usage. Trying to avoid overuse and making sure it is an appropriate use. 87-88% is about norm for collection rates #fincom0224
• BLS is basic life support, ALS1 medication, cardiac monitor; ALS2 is a more critical level of service... #fincom0224 billing and allowable rates set outside via Medicare etc. We stay within allowable.
• The two trucks are from Greenwood in N Attleboro, to offset the service costs of two trucks in reserve to get them inspected. These new ones are coming at a great deal for us, great discount and good value. #fincom0224 the trucks will also enable ISO 1 level rating ...
• If you recall, they had reached level 2 last year. 15 in frontline and 5-7 years in reserve is a good ballpark lifecycle. Q is the rusted rail unique to Pierce. They rectified that in 2018 but that doesn't help this one. #fincom0224 ISO 1 will enable to save business ...
• Could be up to 3.5% savings going up the to level 1 for the businesses insurance rates. #fincom0224 moving to the debt and borrowing presentation (also in the doc link shared earlier)
• Kerri Bertone presenting #fincom0224
• Most recent interest rate 1.33% a good sign of our high rating and great fiscal management #fincom0224 non-excluded debt (like the Library, Senior Center, etc. ) Vs. excluded debt mostly school buildings (FHS)
• Some of the 15M authorization will not ever be used. Example, the windows for the Municipal bldg was est at 1.3m and bid came in at about 500k, so we'll use free cash rather than borrow. Chrome books were also part of above but those were covered via the COVID funds #fincom0224
• Would use lease purchase if a benefit but there is a middle man and we don't always get the best price via going directly to the finance. We are set up to borrow for our benefit. #fincom0224 worthy discussion on the current 2.2% vs policy of 3.5% and thought behind it
• Police station is likely to be a debt exclusion. Will use bans to out together some of the projects to bond as a package. Saves us the issuance cost and with good rates gets us the lowest cost benefit #fincom0224 what will it take to get to AAA?
• A regular discussion with the bonders, it is less but a factor of the marker place. #fincom0224 interesting story on Hudson and net interest and DOR changed rules because of it. Refunding is the resident equivalent of refinancing a mortgage, our rates are so low we won't...
• see that for some time, interest if at 6% would make sense to reduced to 1 or 2 ... If we are already at 1 or 2 but how low can you go. #fincom0224 Stabilization funds update - 10 year history of new growth coming in the next meeting
• Town Administrator Jamie Hellen updating a review of the comparable stabilization funds #fincom0224 currently $8m in OPEB fund. Some Communities do stick out from the others. Natick has a plan for a fund to cover for a 3 yr downturn based upon a % of their state aid
• Would be a good discussion point for an overall planning point. Ultimately how were we able to manage? We did put something aside when it was good, key priorities. #fincom0224 need to be fiscally prudent.
• Discussion on budget hearings to be spread over four nights, worked well last time; #fincom0224 capital plan? had held off due to other items in the mix, less free cash overall, snow/ice eating into free cash with weather this year. General operations metrics, etc.
• #fincom0224 April 4 nights would be budget hearings, OPEB report in April, stormwater coming in budget, facility coming, UGVI at FHS is the only public school with that service; Motion to adjourn, second, passes 8-0 That's all for tonight, catch you next time!

 

Finance Committee meeting recap - Feb 24, 2021 - ambulance rates, fire truck life cycle; debt overview

Town of Franklin: Update on the State of Massachusetts Reopening Process

Find sector-specific guidance

An Update on the State of Massachusetts Reopening Process NEW UPDATES ON FEBRUARY 25, 2021:   Thursday at 1:00 PM, Governor Baker, Lt. Governor Polito, and Secretary Kennealy made several announcements pertaining to the state's reopening process and sector-specific guidance. These include: Phase 3, Step 2:  Effective March 1st, the Commonwealth will move forward into Phase 3, Step 2. This will reopen: Indoor performance venues such as concert halls, theaters, and other indoor performance spaces Open at 50% capacity with 500 person max Indoor recreational activities with greater potential for contact: laser tag, roller skating, trampolines, obstacle courses Open at 50% capacity Updated Capacity Limits:  Effective March 1st the following industries will increase to 50% capacity. Employees will be exempt from capacity restrictions in all of these industries: Arcades & Other Indoor and Outdoor Recreation Businesses Close Contact Personal Services Driving and Flight Schools Fitness Centers and Health Clubs Golf Facilities (indoor) Libraries Operators of Lodging (common spaces) Museums, Cultural & Historic Facilities, Guided Tours Office Spaces Places of Worship Sectors not Otherwise Addressed Theaters and Performance Venues Relevant EEA Industries – Youth sports spectators etc. The following industries remain unaffected by capacity limits:  Drive-in movie theaters  Construction  Laboratories  Manufacturing Additional Guidance Changes: Effective March 1st, Restaurants will no longer be subject to a % seated capacity limit and their capacity is limited only by the requirement of 6 feet between tables  Musical performances allowed in restaurants (with appropriate distancing)  90-minute time limit on tables stays in place  Limit of no more than 6 per table stays in place  Food courts remain closed Effective March 1st, Fitting rooms may open in all retail businesses Gatherings Limit:  Effective March 22nd, subject to public health data, the gatherings limit will increase for event venues and public settings, but will stay the same in private settings: Event Venues and Public Settings: 100 indoor 150 outdoor Private Settings (such as private residences): 10 indoors 25 outdoors Phase 4, Step 1:  Effective March 22nd, subject to public health data, the Commonwealth will move into Phase 4, Step 1: Indoor and outdoor stadiums, arenas, and ballparks will reopen with a 12% capacity limit  A large venue is defined as having a capacity of 5,000 or more  Venues with capacity under 5,000 are subject to the Indoor and Outdoor Performance Venue guidance Large venues will be required to submit a safety plan to the Department of Public Health Overnight Camps will be allowed to open for Summer 2021 Exhibition and Convention Halls may reopen, subject to gathering limits and event rules Dance floors may open at weddings and events only All other Phase 4 industries will not be able to open until a future reopening step. Those include: Road races, street festivals, and parades, and fairs Amusement parks, theme parks, outdoor water parks Indoor water parks and indoor/outdoor ball pits Saunas, hot-tubs, steam rooms at fitness centers, health clubs, and other facilities Beer gardens/ breweries/ wineries/ distilleries Bars, dance clubs, and nightclubs—venues offering entertainment, beverages, or dancing and not providing seated food service Updated guidance can be found at www.mass.gov/reopening. This information is posted on our website at https://www.franklinma.gov/home/pages/reopening-resources Town of Franklin | www.franklinma.gov   ‌

Town of Franklin | 355 East Central Street, Franklin, MA 02038 Sent by traceya@franklinps.net powered by Try email marketing for free today!

School Committee meeting 2/23/2021 - recap - Kennedy School, vaccine status update, ventilation updates

Quick Recap:

• From the Superintendent's Report - info on Davis Thayer coming this week, concerned about DESE status and getting students back to in person schooling, working details; lunches and transportation biggest hurdles to work out
  
• Kennedy Elementary School made their presentation
• Vaccine update provided by Town Administrator Jamie Hellen, Cathy Liberty and Fire Chief McLaughlin; we are ready to deliver but are awaiting supply from the State
• There was an extensive update on the installation of UVGI filters and other room filters and how effective they are 

Photos captured during the meeting and shared via Twitter can be found in one album  https://photos.app.goo.gl/nbQRysFGMgEF4owE7

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As with most meetings in this pandemic period, I took my notes via Twitter during the meeting reporting in real-time via the virtual session.
 
The Twitter hashtag can be found online  #schcom0223
https://twitter.com/search?q=%23schcom0223&src=typeahead_click

• Franklin (MA) SchComm meeting coming up at 7. I am getting ready for it, are you? https://franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/agenda-2-23-21 Agenda and connection info in doc. #schcom0223
• Updates on vaccinations from Health Dept and Town Administrator on tap along with Kennedy Elem presentation and the other 'usual updates'. #schcom0223
• Meeting opens with standard statement on open meeting during executive order #schcom0223
• Keenan and D'Angelo not yet present for opening, up to 55 via Zoom, another 8 via Livestream and unknown # via Comcast/Verizon #schcom0223

Citizens Comment

• Citizens comments open #schcom0223 parent advocating for FHS reduction in cohorts, and more in person education, and reduce distance from 6' to 3' ... Next parent (with poor connection) matter is urgent to be addressed, mental health of kids. Pool testing shd not be in classroom
• FHS representative providing updates on electives, a new podcasting class, AP classes thinking about AP exams, virtual game night Thursday; model congress underway also #schcom0223 Diversity club posting on Black History month

Superintendent's report

• #schcom0223 Superintendent's report - back from vacation, kudos for snow removal to DPW and Facilities appreciate the communication and work. Parent survey closed yesterday on the social distancing comfort and safety. Parents would still have option for kids remote this year
• #schcom0223 FYI up to 100 via Zoom, emails coming in from parents for remote option as well as advocating to get in person. Franklin can chart its own path. Supt Ahern acknowledges on a personal note she is concerned for the students she has a senior at home, aware of the issues
• Many logistics to work through, esp with lunch periods and bus transportation, both take time to work through, but we'll get there. #schcom0223 Davis Thayer notification coming this week, group forming on transition, volunteers looked for. MCAS schedule has be adjusted ...
• ... while #schcom0223 did pass memo in fall to advocate for delay of MCAS but it is a Federal and State requirement. Member frustrated with push to 'in person' when teachers are not prioritized for vaccine. MCAS draft calendar not yet finalized. Tied to cohort question ...

Kennedy Elementary School Highlights

• John F. Kennedy Elementary School Highlights - Dr. Linda Ashley, Principal; Dr. Sarravy Connolly, Assistant Principal presenting https://franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/sc_meeting_2_23.pdf #schcom0223 photos
• #schcom0223 photos
• #schcom0223 video clip plays
• #schcom0223 (BTW Keenan and D'Angelo did arrive in time to comment on Supt report) highlight on morning report
• #schcom0223 who thought of this hybrid model? Teaching kids at home and in person at the same time? 2 way Communication is critical. Esp with parents. Lots of back and forth. 1st grade teacher speaks via video embedded
• #schcom0223 2 sets of materials for each student, one for home, one for in school (required duplication!); Partner program at Kennedy; another video from a teacher, special ed this time
• Core values are not just a poster on the wall, they are used and lived daily #schcom0223 (down to 98 via Zoom now, was as high as 107) staff wellness is a concern, teachers do need to get vaccinated, it will remove a level of stress. Hybrid can be isolating as so much is reqd
• #schcom0223 had to keep the award quiet until the announcement was official in Dec 2020
• Testing scores and closing the achievement gap were key to winning the award. #schcom0223 (video clip playing but embedded in presentation too small to see) last slide
• #schcom0223 partner program initially funded with an earmark from Sen President Spills and now funded within budget for Franklin students within the district and served at Parmenter and Kennedy. Does also save vs what it would cost for sending out of district.

 Vaccine and pandemic updates

• Moving to vaccine and pandemic updates on multiple topics Town Administrator Jamie Hellen leads, followed by Cathy Liberty and Fire Chief McLaughlin on virus status. "We all want it, supply is the biggest problem" less than 6% of MA has received both doses #schcom0223
• Currently approx 30K per day, so we are far away from making real headway. #schcom0223 decentralized approach is preferred by Jamie. Will need to take a more local distribution network, esp if there are multiple updates along the way
• #schcom0223 Health Director Cathleen Liberty updates on the clinic for first responders held at FHS, did also assist Milford Reg Hosp with their prep. Folks at Magnolia Hgts almost fell thru cracks, spun to recover. Housing authority on deck
• #schcom0223 DPH not accepting allocations requests as of March 1. Chief McLaughlin updates on the clinic held here. Able willing and ready to deliver locally. Have 30 vaccinators certified and ready to deliver, did 200/day at clinic; can do more but need the supply
• #schcom0223 used the same gym footprint for election so folks would be familiar with it. We are frustrated too cause we could do more but we are not enabled to. It could change, if it does, we are ready.
• #schcom0223 we fought hard to get the FHS gym set up, it was designed for such and as a disaster site. We got everything but the vaccines themselves. Our legislative team is also working on our behalf. We have lists via Senior Center, we have worked on transportation for them
• #schcom0223 Q still working network to obtain vaccines but supply remains the issue. Q do we know how we are doing with Franklin specific population? Pieces of numbers but not a complete picture. Q what about where the teachers are? (The math says with 1 M before ...
• ... teachers; with vaccine supply at 100k/week it will take time like 8-10 weeks, unless supplies increase). #schcom0223 so assuming supply does increase, it may still be Apr/May
• #schcom0223 MA vaccination sites are getting the priority (Gillette, Fenway, et al), even those other communities getting the 100 allocation they are serving anyone not just their locals.
• #schcom0223 where is the J&J vaccine in the pipeline? Hasn't been submitted for approval yet. It will help once approved. Senior Center is reaching out and helping particularly the over 75. Legislative oversight hearing on Thursday, more info likely at the Forum March 2

Ventilation updates

• #schcom0223 Jamie and Mike D'angelo to talk about the ventilation and updates at the facilities. UVGI is not a standard but it is quite helpful. It is an anxious time, not just in the pandemic but due to the overall uncertainty.
• Kickoff meeting in Apr 2020 for FHS system and just completed last week. Large store of disinfectant to clean our buildings daily #schcom0223
• UVGI is not new, used in the 40' to fight tuberculosis. #schcom0223 see the slide for the K factor
• #schcom0223 delayed by capturing photos of the slides on the ventilation and filter work either completed or underway. Will share the folder collection of the photos as Twitter limits only a couple per tweet.
• filters have life expectancy of about a year, would be part of the summer work to be replaced with school out. Moving to new topic: refund on lunch balances for FHS seniors, motion seconded, passes 7-0 via roll call #schcom0223
• Reopening update #schcom0223 https://franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/uploads/reopening_schools_status_update_feb_18_2020-2021.pdf Learning time data submit to state still meeting requirements, pool testing continues to evolve, begin at Oak/Horace Mann before going elsewhere, FAQs coming
• #schcom0223 transportation guidance updated before vacation, distancing reqs changed. DESE info shared here before https://www.franklinmatters.org/2021/02/dese-updates-transportation-guidance.html
• #schcom0223 bus open windows recommended, data in report released by DESE, evaluation of CDC guidance also just released as an update.

Public Comment through to closing/Executive Session

• Public comment period, if nothing prior mentioned, please pass. #schcom0223 Q could Cold Chain be capitalized to bring vaccine quicker to teachers. Info matters: budget meeting Mar 3; get involved in budget hearings as they are scheduled. Forum 3/2 at 6:30 PM
• Policy meeting Thurs, #schcom0223 Substance abuse task force to be sharing info resources available for mental health issues, take the stigma away. Touting Safe Coalition as a resource locally. SWAC meeting Mar 13 SchComm next meeting first pass at budget consent agenda...
• Motion, second passes via roll call 7-0 for consent agenda Motion to adjourn to executive session not to return to open meeting #schcom0223 so that's all for tonight, catch you next time!
• So the photo folder of the slides shared tonight as promised ... https://photos.app.goo.gl/nbQRysFGMgEF4owE7 enjoy! #schcom0223

 

UVGI is not new

Franklin High School: Important Information and Dates

Important Information and Dates

Winter 2020

• Do you think you have missed our mass notifications? Please click here to view our Mass Notification archive. The most recent notifications are at the top of the page, chronologically.
• Hybrid Bell Schedule for all students, including new Wednesday schedule
• Hybrid Cohort Schedule  This schedule is for Semester 2 
• COVID Pooled Testing Information-click HERE
• Senior Graduation Caps and Gowns: Click here for Jostens video and link to order by February 12th to avoid late fee
• View FHS Virtual Art Show HERE
• Franklin Public Schools School Re-Opening website click HERE to view
• Principal's Page<< watch Mr. Hanna's video updates 
• FHS Students having troubles with your Chromebook or need technical help? Go to THIS PAGE for technology support

FHS calendar at a glance

2021-2022 Course Request window by grade:

  March 1-7             Class of 2024
  March 8-14           Class of 2023
  March 15-21         Class of 2022

March 3          - Half day of school PD Day

March 8          - COVID Pooled testing begins (see above for information link)

March 31        - Half day of school PD Day

April 2              -No School Good Friday

 

 

Snow Days:

1. Tuesday, February 2nd 

 

Franklin High School: Important Information and Dates

Did you know that MA State Seal of Biliteracy program is at FHS?

📣 Attention FHS Students! @FranklinHS is participating in the MA State Seal of Biliteracy!  Show off your language skills by earning this certification.

Join our Google Classroom page for more information.

@MrHanna_FHS @FHSGuid @FranklinPSNews @FHSPantherbook @fhspanthertv

Shared from Twitter: https://twitter.com/LevansFHS/status/1364924220086640643

Did you know that MA State Seal of Biliteracy program is at FHS?

Town of Franklin, MA: Community Preservation Committee Meeting - March 2

Community Preservation Committee Meeting

Agenda & Meeting Packet

March 2, 2021 = 5:00 PM

 

Agenda:

1.    Organize: Chair, Vice-Chair, and Clerk
2.    Next Steps & Committee responsibilities
3.    Committee meeting schedule

Recommended Committee Homework & Reading:
1.    Open Space & Recreation Plan

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/uploads/updated_osrp.pdf
 

2.    Community Preservation Act Coalition

https://www.communitypreservation.org/
 

3.    Master Plan & Master Plan Update

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/uploads/2013plan.pdf

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/uploads/masterplan_update_materials.pdf
 

4.    Franklin Ridge Senior Housing Development

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/uploads/19-31_franklin_ridge_senior_housing.pdf

5.    South Franklin Congregational Meeting House Report

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/uploads/20-0930_sfmh_existing_conditions_report_issued_2.pdf
 

6.    Historical Museum website and Instagram

https://www.franklinmuseum1778.com/       https://www.instagram.com/franklinhistoricalmuseum

7.    Affordable Housing Profile

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/uploads/housing_development_update_-_edc_meeting_-_20210112_1.pdf

8.    Most Current Housing Production Plan

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/uploads/ahs.pdf

 

Full agenda doc and connection info  https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/agendas/2021-3-2_cpc_agenda.pdf

Community Preservation Committee Meeting - March 2