If you have not viewed the draft report produced by the committee:
- The Executive Summary report can be found here (PDF)
- The full report can be found here (PDF)
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Financial Plng Comm 05/27/09
The collected posts from the Financial Planning Committee meeting on 5/27/09
If you have not viewed the draft report produced by the committee:
If you have not viewed the draft report produced by the committee:
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Live reporting - FPC - cont'd
Modify the report
Take to Council for 7/1/09
Endorsement of the findings
Consent, approval to come up with a plan
FPC takes lead on next steps
Finalize plan before November election so the candidates can at least talk to it
Reference to J Pfeffer's email feedback
Deb Bartlett to all, then Doug to confirm that the changes have already been incorporated or could be, then Doug to cycle back with her to confirm the report is okay.
June 25th 7:30 PM next meeting
Take to Council for 7/1/09
Endorsement of the findings
Consent, approval to come up with a plan
FPC takes lead on next steps
Finalize plan before November election so the candidates can at least talk to it
Reference to J Pfeffer's email feedback
Deb Bartlett to all, then Doug to confirm that the changes have already been incorporated or could be, then Doug to cycle back with her to confirm the report is okay.
June 25th 7:30 PM next meeting
Live reporting - Financial Planning Committee 5/27/09
Attending: Roche, Bartlett, Nutting, Zollo, Hardesty, Cameron, Wilschek, Kelly, Trahan
Absent: Ogden, Whalen
Approved minutes of 4/23/09
Document located off the Town Administrators page although the Committee is listed as a subcommittee of the Town Council
Discussion on potential schedule for budget, open hearing on 10th, continue it the 11th, and then continue to the 24th. At that point decide upon a number, and go with that. You can adjust later. Especially if the State hasn't made their decision.
Reading some of the citizen feedback via email.
One feedback is better PR on what the Town has done to cut costs.
The problem is real. What are we going to do to get out of this mess?
Short term, finalize the report; let the Town Council, School Committee, FinCom accept the report and then they should set next steps. Probably shouldn't come up with recommendations before they specifically ask us.
Within 2 or 3 key assumptions, this is the number. They can go with that.
Absent: Ogden, Whalen
Approved minutes of 4/23/09
Document located off the Town Administrators page although the Committee is listed as a subcommittee of the Town Council
Discussion on potential schedule for budget, open hearing on 10th, continue it the 11th, and then continue to the 24th. At that point decide upon a number, and go with that. You can adjust later. Especially if the State hasn't made their decision.
Reading some of the citizen feedback via email.
One feedback is better PR on what the Town has done to cut costs.
The problem is real. What are we going to do to get out of this mess?
Short term, finalize the report; let the Town Council, School Committee, FinCom accept the report and then they should set next steps. Probably shouldn't come up with recommendations before they specifically ask us.
Within 2 or 3 key assumptions, this is the number. They can go with that.
School Committee Mtg 05/26/09
This is the collection of live reporting posts from the School Committee meeting of 5/26/09
- Live reporting - New business
- Live reporting - Superintendents report
- Live reporting - Action items
- Live reporting - Acceptable Use Policy
- Live reporting - Detailed Questions FY 2010
- Live reporting - FY 2010 Budget Q and A
- Live reporting - FY 2010
- Live reporting - FY 2010 Budget
- Live reporting - Cafeteria takes deferment
- live reporting - presentations
- Live reporting - School Committee 5/26/09
"very serious fundraising"
Milford Daily News
FRANKLIN —
The Franklin Fourth of July Coalition is seeking the public's help to raise $30,000 for this year's fireworks and parade as well as starter money for next year's celebration.
"In order to keep this tradition alive, it's important that we, as a private group not affiliated with government, get public support," said coalition co-Chairman Michael Walker-Jones.
"This celebration is one of the things that contributes to the quality of life in the Franklin region," he said.
Three major donors the nonprofit organization had been looking to for funds totaling $20,000 are not able to help during the recession, he said.
Read the full article in the Milford Daily News here
"There was no mention"
Milford Daily News
FRANKLIN —
The School Committee last night voted to continue until June 9 its public hearing on the fiscal 2010 budget, wanting to give the public another opportunity to be heard.
School administrators are still waiting to hear from the state about how much local aid and other funding Franklin will receive, said Superintendent Wayne Ogden and Assistant Superintendent Maureen Sabolinski.
To provide the same level of services and teachers as last year, the district needs a budget of $53.8 million, but through reductions in expenses (such as health care premiums, wage freezes for administrators and non-union staff), the district needs $53.29 million, Ogden said.
Administrators expect the district will receive $1.5 million via circuit breaker aid (reimbursement for special education costs), state and federal stimulus funds, what is called "extraordinary relief" for special education costs, and funds for School Choice.
Read the full article in the Milford Daily News here
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Live reporting - New business/Closing
Kelly - The fund raiser for the ECDC, notifications can be found here on Franklin Matters
A big thank you to all the bands for their performance for the Memorial Day parade.
Trahan - to thank the town, it was a wonderful day and a great community effort.
Slight - The cuts in PE/Health, 69% of the kids drink and the first line of defense is activity. Health education is a huge problem..
Ogden - the point is still a string one, it will still be a requirement it but just not as frequently.
Roy - Bob Fahey indicated that the school had participated to a great extent in the fund raising for the monument. We are looking to get them here to recognize their efforts. It might not be until September but Mr Fahey will be here to recognize them.
Motion to go into Executive Session, not to return to public meeting, passed 7-0
A big thank you to all the bands for their performance for the Memorial Day parade.
Trahan - to thank the town, it was a wonderful day and a great community effort.
Slight - The cuts in PE/Health, 69% of the kids drink and the first line of defense is activity. Health education is a huge problem..
Ogden - the point is still a string one, it will still be a requirement it but just not as frequently.
Roy - Bob Fahey indicated that the school had participated to a great extent in the fund raising for the monument. We are looking to get them here to recognize their efforts. It might not be until September but Mr Fahey will be here to recognize them.
Motion to go into Executive Session, not to return to public meeting, passed 7-0
Live reporting - Superintendents report
Preliminary report, shows a possible 10 retirements, four officially have filed the paperwork, the other six have the paperwork but not turned it in yet.
This may give us some flexibility with keeping some staff by using the retirement to avoid a layoff.
This may give us some flexibility with keeping some staff by using the retirement to avoid a layoff.
Live reporting - Action items
4. Action Items
- I recommend to amend the preamble of the existing agreement of the Bi-County Collaborative to include the School Committee of the Town of Walpole, MA. approved 7-0
- I recommend approval of the Parmenter Primary Learning Center field trip to Roger Williams Park, in Providence, RI on June 2, 2009. approved 7-0
- I recommend approval of the 2009-2010 School Committee Meeting Schedule. Amend calendar to July 21st from July 13th approved 7-0
- I recommend approval of the budget transfers as detailed. approved 7-0
- I recommend acceptance of the donation of $5,000.00 to the FHS Science department in memory of Mr. Donald Redpath from the Sanofi Pasteur Company. approved 7-0
- I recommend approval of the request of Peter Light to declare the attached list of additional FHS Library books as surplus. approved 7-0
- I recommend acceptance the following checks for the Franklin High School Scholarships as listed: approved 7-0
1. $500.00 from Alan Guidrey for the Susan E. Guidrey Memorial.
2. $500.00 from Carla & Richard Guidrey for the Susan E. Guidrey Memorial.
3. $500.00 from Philip & Jennifer Guidrey for the Susan E. Guidrey Memorial.
4. $500.00 from Nancy Lovely for the Susan E. Guidrey Memorial.
5. $500.00 from Janet Guidrey for the Susan E. Guidrey Memorial.
6. $5,000.00 from Jessie Lo & Michael Johnson for the Michael N. Johnson Alumni.
- I recommend approval of the RMS Gr. 8 Science field trip to Roger Williams Park Zoo on June 8, 2009 as detailed. approved 7-0
Live reporting - Acceptable Use Policy
The subcommittee will take another crack at this and bring it back
Live reporting - Detailed Questions FY 2010
Armenio - I know this is position related, what impact will this have on the district?
Sabolinski - other districts are adding this position, we are cutting this. That is one impact. We will try and spread some of the reporting around.
Armenio - these are not options, these are requirements
Sabolinski - yes, this will be difficult
Armenio - we're zeroing this out, this will be more of a capital item. When you look at social studies they only went up to the Vietnam War.
Sabolinski - we are replacing books this year that are over a dozen years old.
Cafasso - can you tell me how this is up after years of being down?
Goodman - each school got their allocations and depending upon how they used it at their level, the schools across the board the got the same amount as they got last year, it is their discretion on how they are using it.
Armenio - question on field trips, this was taken out years ago
Goodman - this is a coding issue, all transportation should be in the 3300 series, any non-school to home transportation should be here, so visits between schools, to TriCounty these fall here
Cafasso - Where is this coming from?
Goodman - this is a growth from year to year, there is a contract in place, we have added a bus, some of this is offset with the pay-to-ride fees but this is still underfunded.
Cafasso - This is a philosophical decision that we are not fully funding the cost of the transportation.
Sabolinski - that becomes a bigger philosophical decision when you come to high school sports, those are not fully funded either. the entire population effectively subsidizes the few who use it
Cafasso - my question was designed to see if we were seeing cost increases in the contract?
Rohrbach - Can someone explain what it means?
Waters - We have approx 70 students, a small percent of the total population. There needs are such that we can not provide within the district. Those tuitions can range from 25,000 to 200,000 per student. The total is 3.8 million. We are actually doing better than elsewhere. For a district our size, to have only 70 out of district is good. We have increased programs to keep students within the district here where possible.
Armenio - we are notified of tuition rate increases around Dec 15th?
Waters - The out of district schools can apply for an increase to the State at any time, we have no control over that.
Greydon Smith, citizen - what is our responsibility for special education?
Waters- special education is federally mandated as well as at the State. The students have a right to education, the decisions are made by the team. The number you see is legally mandated.
Citizen - and what is the funding for this?
Ogden - explains that we don't get direct funding for it, the State does participate with "circuit breaker" funds
Goodman - we get reimbursed about 20%
Roy - we have options with what we can do for the public hearing. we can close it for tonight, or continue it to a future date?
Cafasso - I would move to continue the hearing to a future date.
Motion to continue the hearing until June 9th
Passed 6-1
Sabolinski - other districts are adding this position, we are cutting this. That is one impact. We will try and spread some of the reporting around.
Armenio - these are not options, these are requirements
Sabolinski - yes, this will be difficult
Armenio - we're zeroing this out, this will be more of a capital item. When you look at social studies they only went up to the Vietnam War.
Sabolinski - we are replacing books this year that are over a dozen years old.
Cafasso - can you tell me how this is up after years of being down?
Goodman - each school got their allocations and depending upon how they used it at their level, the schools across the board the got the same amount as they got last year, it is their discretion on how they are using it.
Armenio - question on field trips, this was taken out years ago
Goodman - this is a coding issue, all transportation should be in the 3300 series, any non-school to home transportation should be here, so visits between schools, to TriCounty these fall here
Cafasso - Where is this coming from?
Goodman - this is a growth from year to year, there is a contract in place, we have added a bus, some of this is offset with the pay-to-ride fees but this is still underfunded.
Cafasso - This is a philosophical decision that we are not fully funding the cost of the transportation.
Sabolinski - that becomes a bigger philosophical decision when you come to high school sports, those are not fully funded either. the entire population effectively subsidizes the few who use it
Cafasso - my question was designed to see if we were seeing cost increases in the contract?
Rohrbach - Can someone explain what it means?
Waters - We have approx 70 students, a small percent of the total population. There needs are such that we can not provide within the district. Those tuitions can range from 25,000 to 200,000 per student. The total is 3.8 million. We are actually doing better than elsewhere. For a district our size, to have only 70 out of district is good. We have increased programs to keep students within the district here where possible.
Armenio - we are notified of tuition rate increases around Dec 15th?
Waters - The out of district schools can apply for an increase to the State at any time, we have no control over that.
Greydon Smith, citizen - what is our responsibility for special education?
Waters- special education is federally mandated as well as at the State. The students have a right to education, the decisions are made by the team. The number you see is legally mandated.
Citizen - and what is the funding for this?
Ogden - explains that we don't get direct funding for it, the State does participate with "circuit breaker" funds
Goodman - we get reimbursed about 20%
Roy - we have options with what we can do for the public hearing. we can close it for tonight, or continue it to a future date?
Cafasso - I would move to continue the hearing to a future date.
Motion to continue the hearing until June 9th
Passed 6-1
Live reporting - FY 2010 Budget Q and A
Armenio - will the schedule rotate?
Light - we are still working out the details but yes it will rotate
Armenio - fees won't go away, participation may go down, I'm not happy with the fees. What about enrollment?
Light - we are estimating an increase of about 50-75 but things are still in flux
Kelly - The elementary numbers changed from the 3/24/09 presentation, can you explain the difference?
Minkle - The numbers are closer to actual but have been changing; April 30th enrollment, May 15th kindergarten enrollment, with a teacher reduction of 20 (versus 30 prior)
Cafasso - What will happen now with the library space? What will they be used for, how will the students use them?
Sabolinski - Assistance to checkin/checkout books will still exist, teachers can still bring their classes, there just won't be instruction in the library
Cafasso - Hard to predict what extracurriculars will be offered depending upon the teachers remaining and the student interest
Wittcoff - The middle school programs change each year depending upon the teachers and the student interest
Cafasso - Are any left in the district?
Ogden - Yes, elementary level
Cafasso - What is the role of CET in our district?
Wittcoff - They provide support to teachers in instructional practices
Ogden - There is a hope that some of the stimulus funds can be used to restore some of these positions outside of the budget.
Cafasso - Would you like to add anything to this discussion?
Wittcoff - The corner stone of the middle school model is teaming, by teaming, the teachers are sharing the same students. This allows the teachers to share and identify the students for help as required. This level is second only to the elementary level in rate of brain growth. This is a critical period, this model has been in use for 50 years, anything less than this would be a step back in time.
Cafasso - I don't see a fee cap for a family?
Ogden - We did not reach agreement in the subcommittee
Cafasso - I am disappointed with where we are, at a time when the President has announced the first Latino women in an appointment to the Supreme Court, schools are supposed to be the safety net for kids.
Rohrbach - What will PE/Health look like next year?
Ogden - Peter Light (High school principal) has not completed collecting data from the students. I can say it will look different, there will be less. The high school will look more like the elementary model where they get it once a week.
Light - we are still working out the details but yes it will rotate
Armenio - fees won't go away, participation may go down, I'm not happy with the fees. What about enrollment?
Light - we are estimating an increase of about 50-75 but things are still in flux
Kelly - The elementary numbers changed from the 3/24/09 presentation, can you explain the difference?
Minkle - The numbers are closer to actual but have been changing; April 30th enrollment, May 15th kindergarten enrollment, with a teacher reduction of 20 (versus 30 prior)
Cafasso - What will happen now with the library space? What will they be used for, how will the students use them?
Sabolinski - Assistance to checkin/checkout books will still exist, teachers can still bring their classes, there just won't be instruction in the library
Cafasso - Hard to predict what extracurriculars will be offered depending upon the teachers remaining and the student interest
Wittcoff - The middle school programs change each year depending upon the teachers and the student interest
Cafasso - Are any left in the district?
Ogden - Yes, elementary level
Cafasso - What is the role of CET in our district?
Wittcoff - They provide support to teachers in instructional practices
Ogden - There is a hope that some of the stimulus funds can be used to restore some of these positions outside of the budget.
Cafasso - Would you like to add anything to this discussion?
Wittcoff - The corner stone of the middle school model is teaming, by teaming, the teachers are sharing the same students. This allows the teachers to share and identify the students for help as required. This level is second only to the elementary level in rate of brain growth. This is a critical period, this model has been in use for 50 years, anything less than this would be a step back in time.
Cafasso - I don't see a fee cap for a family?
Ogden - We did not reach agreement in the subcommittee
Cafasso - I am disappointed with where we are, at a time when the President has announced the first Latino women in an appointment to the Supreme Court, schools are supposed to be the safety net for kids.
Rohrbach - What will PE/Health look like next year?
Ogden - Peter Light (High school principal) has not completed collecting data from the students. I can say it will look different, there will be less. The high school will look more like the elementary model where they get it once a week.
Live reporting - FY 2010 Discussion
Salary a big chunk
Health care, Transportation, and Out of district tuition account for the bulk of the remaining amount.
Elementary level $210
Middle Schools $225
High School $355
This is the apportionment of the budget on a per pupil basis
Some of the budget line item changes can be directly attributed to these amounts flowing to the schools
Overall reducing 42-25 positions with this budget
High School
Asst Principal, Secretary, Librarian, and four teachers = total of seven positions
Class sizes can remain manageable with a change in the schedule from 7 period rotating to a 6 period schedule. 60 minute per period.
Middle Schools
2 grade 6 teachers
4 grade 7 teachers
4 grade 8 teachers
2 music
1 librarian
1 Math curriculum enhancement teacher
Class sizes remain significantly high
Elementary Schools
18.5 classroom teachers
2.5 librarians
1.2 specialists
Class size will be much increased, 21 of the 30 class groupings will exceed School Committee guidelines
User Activity Fees
As announced previously, the fees will increase over the next three years to bring the fee revenue into a 50/50 support level with the budget assumptions
Athletic fees, pay-to-ride, extracurricular fees are the three areas covered.
Page 9 depicts the fee schedule for the next three years
A calculation of the fees shows a "typical" family with students at the High School could amount to $3,000 per year. This would be about 60% of the average property tax amount.
The budget reduction targeted 3 million has come within 1,489,233.
The Senate budget differs significantly from the House and Governor's budget. That amount is not reflected in the numbers shown here.
Summary
Health care, Transportation, and Out of district tuition account for the bulk of the remaining amount.
Elementary level $210
Middle Schools $225
High School $355
This is the apportionment of the budget on a per pupil basis
Some of the budget line item changes can be directly attributed to these amounts flowing to the schools
Overall reducing 42-25 positions with this budget
High School
Asst Principal, Secretary, Librarian, and four teachers = total of seven positions
Class sizes can remain manageable with a change in the schedule from 7 period rotating to a 6 period schedule. 60 minute per period.
Middle Schools
2 grade 6 teachers
4 grade 7 teachers
4 grade 8 teachers
2 music
1 librarian
1 Math curriculum enhancement teacher
Class sizes remain significantly high
Elementary Schools
18.5 classroom teachers
2.5 librarians
1.2 specialists
Class size will be much increased, 21 of the 30 class groupings will exceed School Committee guidelines
User Activity Fees
As announced previously, the fees will increase over the next three years to bring the fee revenue into a 50/50 support level with the budget assumptions
Athletic fees, pay-to-ride, extracurricular fees are the three areas covered.
Page 9 depicts the fee schedule for the next three years
A calculation of the fees shows a "typical" family with students at the High School could amount to $3,000 per year. This would be about 60% of the average property tax amount.
The budget reduction targeted 3 million has come within 1,489,233.
The Senate budget differs significantly from the House and Governor's budget. That amount is not reflected in the numbers shown here.
Summary
- No late bus
- High school scheduling changes
- Split teams at the Middle Schools
- Larger elementary class sizes
- Programing changes (Music, library, PE/Health)
- Fewer extracurricular activities
Live reporting - FY 2010 Budget
This is the budget document from the packet for the meeting this evening
FY 2010 Budget 5/26/09
View more Microsoft Word documents from Steve Sherlock.
Live reporting - Cafeteria takes deferment
The cafeteria workers voted to take the wage increase deferment for this year.
Live reporting - School Committee 5/26/09
Attending: Armenio, Cafasso, Kelly, Mullen, Roy, Rohrbach, Trahan
Missing: none
1. Routine Business
Citizen’s Comments - none
Review of Agenda - remove warrants from the agenda for tonight
Minutes: I recommend approval of the minutes from the May 12, 2009 School Committee Meeting. Motion to approve, passed 7-0
Payroll Ms. Armenio
FHS Student Representatives
Correspondence: 1. Letter from Ms. Barbara Hiss
Missing: none
1. Routine Business
Citizen’s Comments - none
Review of Agenda - remove warrants from the agenda for tonight
Minutes: I recommend approval of the minutes from the May 12, 2009 School Committee Meeting. Motion to approve, passed 7-0
Payroll Ms. Armenio
FHS Student Representatives
Correspondence: 1. Letter from Ms. Barbara Hiss
live reporting - presentations
Mary Cole - high school track athlete broke the 2 mile record at 11:31
(pictures later)
(pictures later)
"teaching does not end at the bell"
Milford Daily News
FRANKLIN —
With the fate of at least 16 jobs resting on whether the School Committee and teachers union can agree on a proposed wage deferral, teachers' benefits, workloads and contracts have lately become matters of public debate.
Online comments about some recent Daily News stories on the situation have implied teachers are living "the good life," with three months of vacation, six-hour days that end at 3 p.m., and salaries that burden taxpayers.
Others insist teachers are working 80-hour weeks for low pay, and just don't get the respect from the School Committee they deserve for providing an invaluable service.
This differing views have led to the question: What, exactly, is in that 140-page teachers contract?
It is a complex document, said School Committee Chairman Jeffrey Roy.
Read the full article on the teacher's contract in the Milford Daily News here
Note: The article is incorrectly reporting on the teacher "demands" (Bold for my emphasis)
" ... the permanent removal of the requirement for teachers to attend one of five floating after-school meetings."
My analysis covering the back story can be found here
Dedication Program
If you'd like to review the program for the Memorial Day Dedication of the Iraq/Afghanistan monument on the Town Common, you can do that here.
If you missed the ceremony or would like to listen to a replay, you can find the audio for the complete ceremony here
Franklin Veterans Memorial - Dedication Program
View more PowerPoint presentation from Steve Sherlock.
If you missed the ceremony or would like to listen to a replay, you can find the audio for the complete ceremony here
School Committee - Agenda - 5/26/09
Call to order Mr. Roy
Pledge of Allegiance
Moment of Silence
1. Routine Business
Citizen’s Comments
Review of Agenda
Minutes: I recommend approval of the minutes from the May 12, 2009 School Committee Meeting.
Payment of Bills Mr. Kelly
Payroll Ms. Armenio
FHS Student Representatives
Correspondence: 1. Letter from Ms. Barbara Hiss
2. Guests/Presentations
a. FY10 Budget
b. Mary Cole – Track Star
3. Discussion Only Items
FY10 Budget Hearing
First Reading – Acceptable Use Policy
4. Action Items
5. Information Matters
Superintendent’s Report
a. Honorary Diploma
b. Retirements
School Committee Sub-Committee Reports
School Committee Liaison Reports
6. New Business
To discuss future business that may be brought before the School Committee.
7. Executive Session
Contractual Negotiations
8. Adjourn
Pledge of Allegiance
Moment of Silence
1. Routine Business
Citizen’s Comments
Review of Agenda
Minutes: I recommend approval of the minutes from the May 12, 2009 School Committee Meeting.
Payment of Bills Mr. Kelly
Payroll Ms. Armenio
FHS Student Representatives
Correspondence: 1. Letter from Ms. Barbara Hiss
2. Guests/Presentations
a. FY10 Budget
b. Mary Cole – Track Star
3. Discussion Only Items
FY10 Budget Hearing
First Reading – Acceptable Use Policy
4. Action Items
- I recommend to amend the preamble of the existing agreement of the Bi-County Collaborative to include the School Committee of the Town of Walpole, MA.
- I recommend approval of the Parmenter Primary Learning Center field trip to Roger Williams Park, in Providence, RI on June 2, 2009.
- I recommend approval of the 2009-2010 School Committee Meeting Schedule.
- I recommend approval of the budget transfers as detailed.
- I recommend acceptance of the donation of $5,000.00 to the FHS Science department in memory of Mr. Donald Redpath from the Sanofi Pasteur Company.
- I recommend approval of the request of Peter Light to declare the attached list of additional FHS Library books as surplus.
- I recommend acceptance the following checks for the Franklin High School Scholarships as listed:
1. $500.00 from Alan Guidrey for the Susan E. Guidrey Memorial.
2. $500.00 from Carla & Richard Guidrey for the Susan E. Guidrey Memorial.
3. $500.00 from Philip & Jennifer Guidrey for the Susan E. Guidrey Memorial.
4. $500.00 from Nancy Lovely for the Susan E. Guidrey Memorial.
5. $500.00 from Janet Guidrey for the Susan E. Guidrey Memorial.
6. $5,000.00 from Jessie Lo & Michael Johnson for the Michael N. Johnson Alumni.
- I recommend approval of the RMS Gr. 8 Science field trip to Roger Williams Park Zoo on June 8, 2009 as detailed.
5. Information Matters
Superintendent’s Report
a. Honorary Diploma
b. Retirements
School Committee Sub-Committee Reports
School Committee Liaison Reports
6. New Business
To discuss future business that may be brought before the School Committee.
7. Executive Session
Contractual Negotiations
8. Adjourn
Monday, May 25, 2009
Channel 5 Coverage
Hundreds gathered in Franklin Monday to support two families at the dedication of a memorial honoring their sons.Read the full article on the Channel 5 site here
"Their names are inscribed on that monument, and we want people to understand the sacrifice that was made by Shayne and Robert and the sacrifice of their families," said veterans agent Bob Fahey.
For months, three Franklin High School seniors collected hundreds of dollars at lunch. Workers donated materials and their time, and the garden club created a beautiful setting.
Lance Cpl. Shayne Cabino, 19, and Staff Sgt. Robert Pirelli, 29, were both killed in Iraq. They were honored by a community that will never forget their sacrifices.
FM #40 - Memorial Day 2009
With no intro/closing music this time, we jump directly to the ceremony on the Franklin Town Common May 25, 2009.
This is the annual Memorial Day remembrance and the dedication of the new Iraq/Afghanistan monument inscribed for Lance Cpl. Shayne Cabino, and Staff Sgt. Robert R. Pirelli.
You can navigate to a specific section of the ceremony with the listing below.
Time: 48 minutes, 28 seconds
MP3 File
Numbers listed refer to the minutes/seconds of the recording
This is the annual Memorial Day remembrance and the dedication of the new Iraq/Afghanistan monument inscribed for Lance Cpl. Shayne Cabino, and Staff Sgt. Robert R. Pirelli.
You can navigate to a specific section of the ceremony with the listing below.
Time: 48 minutes, 28 seconds
MP3 File
Numbers listed refer to the minutes/seconds of the recording
- Opening Statements
- Invocation – Rev Charles Eastman 00:40
- National Anthem – FHS Band 2:00
- Bob Fahey 3:30
- Chris Feeley 8:30
- Rep Jim Vallee 9:23
- Sen Scott Brown 12:43
- Cabino/Pirelli parents escorted 14:38
- Monument unveiled 15:44
- Moment of silence 17:00
- Jodi Cabino/Nancy Pirelli 19:35
- Story of the monument 23:20
- Dave Roche 25:46
- Monument Committee introductions 30:40
- Dedication – Rev Carol Rosine 33:00
- Placement of wreaths 37:00
- Reading the list of Franklin heroes 41:44
- 21 gun salute 44:25
- Taps 44:45
- Final thanks 46:15
- Benediction – Rev Abraham Waya 47:30
Town Common Memorials
The blue cover of the new memorial will come off during the ceremony immediately following the parade later this morning.
The parade is scheduled to begin at 10:45 AM.
The unveiling should begin approximately 11:15 AM.
Franklin: Oak St Memorial Day performance
Parents, grandparents, family and friends of Oak St gathered on Friday to hear the Memorial Day performance by the entire school.
"much of the school budget is still in the air"
Milford Daily News
FRANKLIN —
The School Committee will begin its public hearing on the budget tomorrow with no idea what the state will award the district, said Superintendent Wayne Ogden.
As of Friday afternoon, the state Senate budget gives Franklin $1.7 million less than the governor's budget, and schools are slated to take about half of that hit.
In total, $1.5 million - including $800,000 in savings from a prospective wage concession from the teacher's union - is in flux in the school budget, Ogden said.
Ogden, School Committee Chairman Jeffrey Roy, and committee member Ed Cafasso said they were surprised at the Senate slashing Franklin's aid.
The meeting will reflect the recent changes in those numbers, Roy said.
Read more about the school budget in the Milford Daily News here
The opportunity to provide direction to the school committee on what you'd approve of for increases in fees and cuts in services begins with the budget hearing opening Tuesday night.
Tell the School Committee what you think.
more teens caught drinking
Milford Daily News
FRANKLIN —
More than a dozen people were arrested Saturday night after police raided a party on Charles Drive, police said.
After receiving a call on Saturday at 11:25 p.m., about loud youths in the area, police responded and arrested 14 people between the ages of 18 and 23.
Read the full article in the Milford Daily News here
It wasn't so long ago that FHS hosted the wonderful presentation on teen drinking and substance abuse (Dec 2008). That evening's message appears to have been wasted.
Events in the schools this week
ASMS - Class of 2009 Reunion (Cafetorium) 5/26/09 4:00 PM
Oak - Kindergarten Information Night 5/27/09 6:30 PM
Keller - Fun Fair 5/27/09 4-6:30 PM
Keller - Kindergarten End of Year Performance (Café) 5/28/09 9:00 AM
JFK - 4th Gr. Expo 5/28/09 8:30-10:30 AM
FHS - Sophomore Banquet (Café) 5/29/09 7-10:30 PM
JFK - 2nd Gr. Family Day 5/29/09 All Day
Check each school website for additional information on these events.
Oak - Kindergarten Information Night 5/27/09 6:30 PM
Keller - Fun Fair 5/27/09 4-6:30 PM
Keller - Kindergarten End of Year Performance (Café) 5/28/09 9:00 AM
JFK - 4th Gr. Expo 5/28/09 8:30-10:30 AM
FHS - Sophomore Banquet (Café) 5/29/09 7-10:30 PM
JFK - 2nd Gr. Family Day 5/29/09 All Day
Check each school website for additional information on these events.
Sunday, May 24, 2009
FM #39-11 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 11 - Final
This recording for Franklin Matters is the eleventh and final part of the special series to replay the discussion at the Franklin Senior Center on May 17 when Governor Deval Patrick conducted his Town Hall Forum.
Time: 7 minutes, 11 seconds
MP3 File
FM #39-10 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 10
FM #39-9 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 9
FM #39-8 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 8
FM #39-7 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 7
FM #39-6 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 6
FM #39-5 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 5
FM #39-4 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 4
FM #39-3 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 3
FM #39-2 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 2
FM #39-1 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 1
Session Notes:
Music intro
My intro
FM #39-11
This internet radio show or podcast for Franklin Matters is number 39-11 in the series.
This segment of the Town Hall Forum conducted by Governor Deval Patrick at the Franklin Senior center on Sunday May 17th continues the second round of Q&A with
I hope you have learned something from listening to one or more of these segments. I have found them very insightful.
here we go
---- ---- ----
This podcast has been a public service provided to my fellow citizens of Franklin, MA
For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.blogspot.com/
If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com
The musical intro and closing is from the Podsafe Music Network
Jon Schmidt - Powerful Exhilarating Piano Music
Time: 7 minutes, 11 seconds
MP3 File
FM #39-10 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 10
FM #39-9 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 9
FM #39-8 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 8
FM #39-7 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 7
FM #39-6 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 6
FM #39-5 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 5
FM #39-4 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 4
FM #39-3 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 3
FM #39-2 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 2
FM #39-1 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 1
Session Notes:
Music intro
My intro
FM #39-11
This internet radio show or podcast for Franklin Matters is number 39-11 in the series.
This segment of the Town Hall Forum conducted by Governor Deval Patrick at the Franklin Senior center on Sunday May 17th continues the second round of Q&A with
unidentified person, moved from Maryland in 1983,
Gov Patrick thinks aggregation of services should be explored, the solution may not the same for every service – then goes into a quick closing comment
I hope you have learned something from listening to one or more of these segments. I have found them very insightful.
here we go
---- ---- ----
This podcast has been a public service provided to my fellow citizens of Franklin, MA
For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.blogspot.com/
If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com
The musical intro and closing is from the Podsafe Music Network
Jon Schmidt - Powerful Exhilarating Piano Music
FM #39-10 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 10
This recording for Franklin Matters is the tenth of a special series to replay the discussion at the Franklin Senior Center on May 17 when Governor Deval Patrick conducted his Town Hall Forum.
Time: 14 minutes, 54 seconds
MP3 File
FM #39-9 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 9
FM #39-8 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 8
FM #39-7 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 7
FM #39-6 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 6
FM #39-5 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 5
FM #39-4 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 4
FM #39-3 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 3
FM #39-2 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 2
FM #39-1 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 1
Session Notes:
Music intro
My intro
FM #39-10
This internet radio show or podcast for Franklin Matters is number 39-10 in the series.
This segment of the Town Hall Forum conducted by Governor Deval Patrick at the Franklin Senior center on Sunday May 17th continues the second round of Q&A with
---- ---- ----
This podcast has been a public service provided to my fellow citizens of Franklin, MA
For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.blogspot.com/
If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com
The musical intro and closing is from the Podsafe Music Network
Jon Schmidt - Powerful Exhilarating Piano Music
Time: 14 minutes, 54 seconds
MP3 File
FM #39-9 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 9
FM #39-8 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 8
FM #39-7 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 7
FM #39-6 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 6
FM #39-5 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 5
FM #39-4 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 4
FM #39-3 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 3
FM #39-2 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 2
FM #39-1 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 1
Session Notes:
Music intro
My intro
FM #39-10
This internet radio show or podcast for Franklin Matters is number 39-10 in the series.
This segment of the Town Hall Forum conducted by Governor Deval Patrick at the Franklin Senior center on Sunday May 17th continues the second round of Q&A with
Paul – these revenue increases are a “no-brainer” to me, casino revenue should be considered, thanks for reaching out (comment part of the video summary)
Sandra – special ed day program currently being cut could cause one of the two job holders to lose their job to provide the care
Jessie – casino and gambling issues have not be given a proper public discussion, for every dollar in revenue to the state costs 3-4 dollars in providing services related to gambling addiction
Gov Patrick closes this segment with his position on the casino/gambling discussion
---- ---- ----
This podcast has been a public service provided to my fellow citizens of Franklin, MA
For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.blogspot.com/
If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com
The musical intro and closing is from the Podsafe Music Network
Jon Schmidt - Powerful Exhilarating Piano Music
FM #39-9 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 9
This recording for Franklin Matters is the ninth of a special series to replay the discussion at the Franklin Senior Center on May 17 when Governor Deval Patrick conducted his Town Hall Forum.
Time: 13 minutes, 49 seconds
MP3 File
FM #39-8 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 8
FM #39-7 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 7
FM #39-6 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 6
FM #39-5 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 5
FM #39-4 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 4
FM #39-3 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 3
FM #39-2 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 2
FM #39-1 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 1
Session Notes:
Music intro
My intro
FM #39-9
This internet radio show or podcast for Franklin Matters is number 39-9 in the series.
This segment of the Town Hall Forum conducted by Governor Deval Patrick at the Franklin Senior center on Sunday May 17th starts a second round of Q&A by picking 5 people. The discussion continues with
Great sound bite from this section, already shared as a “found sherku”
---- ---- ----
This podcast has been a public service provided to my fellow citizens of Franklin, MA
For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.blogspot.com/
If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com
The musical intro and closing is from the Podsafe Music Network
Jon Schmidt - Powerful Exhilarating Piano Music
Time: 13 minutes, 49 seconds
MP3 File
FM #39-8 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 8
FM #39-7 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 7
FM #39-6 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 6
FM #39-5 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 5
FM #39-4 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 4
FM #39-3 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 3
FM #39-2 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 2
FM #39-1 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 1
Session Notes:
Music intro
My intro
FM #39-9
This internet radio show or podcast for Franklin Matters is number 39-9 in the series.
This segment of the Town Hall Forum conducted by Governor Deval Patrick at the Franklin Senior center on Sunday May 17th starts a second round of Q&A by picking 5 people. The discussion continues with
Mary Anne – talking about “community first” vs “kids first”, involve the employee unions in looking at the reforms
Marian – DCR parks can charge more
Gov Patrick talks about the value choice we have made
Chris – talks about Federal money for Rails to Trails
Rep Vallee – jumps in has reached out to Gov Patrick about this
Gov Patrick says “here locally there is some good news coming”
Manasa – beyond taxing, what else can you ask of me, this is a game changer, what can we do to help?
Gov Patrick – I can't thank you enough for asking this question. Suggests cleaning up the parks regularly.
Great sound bite from this section, already shared as a “found sherku”
We better start behaving
Like we are members
Of the same community
---- ---- ----
This podcast has been a public service provided to my fellow citizens of Franklin, MA
For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.blogspot.com/
If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com
The musical intro and closing is from the Podsafe Music Network
Jon Schmidt - Powerful Exhilarating Piano Music
"land conservation outpaced development"
"The ideal situation is to intensify development in smaller areas so there are more acres to permanently protect. That's the way the planning world is thinking right now," said Bryan Taberner, Franklin's planning director. "But you also have the economics of it, and a person has the right to develop their land and there are a lot of issues at play."
Taberner said he thinks the size of houses will plateau because "as we know, a lot of people over-bought and a lot of people are going to be looking to sell and get into something smaller."
Read the full article on the recently updated Audubon Society report on development vs preservation in the Milford Daily News here
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Kodak Digital Camera Found
A Kodak digital camera with a red case was found in the driveway to the Parmenter Elementary School on Wachusetts St on Saturday morning.
It looks like it has been run over. The screen is cracked but it powers on. There are pictures stored on the card.
The camera was left with the Franklin Police Dept on Panther Way and can be claimed there.
It looks like it has been run over. The screen is cracked but it powers on. There are pictures stored on the card.
The camera was left with the Franklin Police Dept on Panther Way and can be claimed there.
"Lawn watering is restricted"
GateHouse News Service
FRANKLIN —
Because of the tremendous increase in the demand for water and state restrictions on the amount of water that can be pumped daily, the town must place mandatory water conservation measures in effect for lawn watering during the summer months, beginning Tuesday, May 26.
The summer Water Conservation Measures are needed to limit the daily demand on the water system in order to ensure that adequate water is available to meet the public health and safety needs of the town. There have been 24-hour periods during which water consumption has been more than twice our average daily water usage for the year.
Read the full article in the Milford Daily News here
I don't buy this logic. The Town Council is considering a sewer rate increase because water usage is down and yet there is a "tremendous increase in the demand for water".
Oh, and you also bury the story on the holiday weekend! Come on.
Sorry guys, it is either one or the other, can't have it both ways.
Nothing To No One
Enjoy this sample of their music:
If you like this, click through to their website to find out more about Noting To No One.
If you like this, click through to their website to find out more about Noting To No One.
Friday, May 22, 2009
FM #39-8 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 8
This recording for Franklin Matters is the eighth of a special series to replay the discussion at the Franklin Senior Center on May 17 when Governor Deval Patrick conducted his Town Hall Forum.
Time: 11 minutes, 58 seconds
MP3 File
This podcast has been a public service provided to my fellow citizens of Franklin, MA
For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.blogspot.com/
If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com
The musical intro and closing is from the Podsafe Music Network
Jon Schmidt - Powerful Exhilarating Piano Music
Time: 11 minutes, 58 seconds
MP3 File
FM #39-7 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 7
FM #39-6 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 6
FM #39-5 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 5
FM #39-4 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 4
FM #39-3 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 3
FM #39-2 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 2
FM #39-1 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 1
Session Notes:
Music intro My intro FM #39-8
This internet radio show or podcast for Franklin Matters is number 39-8 in the series.
This segment of the Town Hall Forum conducted by Governor Deval Patrick at the Franklin Senior center on Sunday May 17th continues the Q&A session with
---- ---- ----Michael Walker Jones – pension reform, the outliers do not represent the
wholeGov Patrick – some of his comments in the video summary come from this
section of the discussion.Rep Vallee chimes in not in an attempt to mediate between two of his friends,
he thinks both are right, pension reform abuses need to be stopped
This podcast has been a public service provided to my fellow citizens of Franklin, MA
For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.blogspot.com/
If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com
The musical intro and closing is from the Podsafe Music Network
Jon Schmidt - Powerful Exhilarating Piano Music
FM #39-7 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 7
This recording for Franklin Matters is the seventh of a special series to replay the discussion at the Franklin Senior Center on May 17 when Governor Deval Patrick conducted his Town Hall Forum.
Time: 13 minutes, 17 seconds
MP3 File
FM #39-6 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 6
FM #39-5 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 5
FM #39-4 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 4
FM #39-3 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 3
FM #39-2 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 2
FM #39-1 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 1
Session Notes:
Music intro My intro FM #39-7
This internet radio show or podcast for Franklin Matters is number 39-7 in the series.
This segment of the Town Hall Forum conducted by Governor Deval Patrick at the Franklin Senior center on Sunday May 17th continues the Q&A session with
Town Council Chairperson Chris Feeley clarifies Max's comment that Franklin if it doesn't meet the net school spending level as determined by the State would be forced to fund the schools from the municipal side of the budget or stand to loose their Chap 70 funds.
Some communities desire to remain isolated and hinder the progress of the rest of the region
---- ---- ----
This podcast has been a public service provided to my fellow citizens of Franklin, MA
For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.blogspot.com/
If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com
The musical intro and closing is from the Podsafe Music Network
Jon Schmidt - Powerful Exhilarating Piano Music
Time: 13 minutes, 17 seconds
MP3 File
FM #39-6 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 6
FM #39-5 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 5
FM #39-4 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 4
FM #39-3 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 3
FM #39-2 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 2
FM #39-1 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 1
Session Notes:
Music intro My intro FM #39-7
This internet radio show or podcast for Franklin Matters is number 39-7 in the series.
This segment of the Town Hall Forum conducted by Governor Deval Patrick at the Franklin Senior center on Sunday May 17th continues the Q&A session with
Jeff – proposal for 5 transportation agencies (1) to reduce costs (2) improve interconnection capabilities
Max – index Prop 2 ½ for inflation, repeal requirement for non-progressive
income tax clause
updating the Chap 70 formula
Town Council Chairperson Chris Feeley clarifies Max's comment that Franklin if it doesn't meet the net school spending level as determined by the State would be forced to fund the schools from the municipal side of the budget or stand to loose their Chap 70 funds.
Some communities desire to remain isolated and hinder the progress of the rest of the region
---- ---- ----
This podcast has been a public service provided to my fellow citizens of Franklin, MA
For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.blogspot.com/
If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com
The musical intro and closing is from the Podsafe Music Network
Jon Schmidt - Powerful Exhilarating Piano Music
FM #39-6 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 6
This recording for Franklin Matters is the sixth of a special series to replay the discussion at the Franklin Senior Center on May 17 when Governor Deval Patrick conducted his Town Hall Forum.
Time: 15 minutes, 8 seconds
MP3 File
FM #39-5 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 5
FM #39-4 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 4
FM #39-3 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 3
FM #39-2 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 2
FM #39-1 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 1
Session Notes:
Music intro My intro FM #39-6
This internet radio show or podcast for Franklin Matters is number 39-6 in the series.
This segment of the Town Hall Forum conducted by Governor Deval Patrick at the Franklin Senior center on Sunday May 17th continues the Q&A session with
Rep Vallee chimes in on property tax relief commending the Gov for being a strong advocate
Gov Patrick concedes we are over reliant on property taxes to support local government. His proposals for additional revenue (1) the gas tax, (2) the hotel and meals tax, (3) removal of the exemption on the telephone pole tax.
We have over 200 911 centers in MA, CA a far bigger state, has only 4, their response time is the same or better than ours. Regionalization here in New England is a third rail. We have to figure out how to combine things.
Here we go ...
---- ---- ----
This podcast has been a public service provided to my fellow citizens of Franklin, MA
For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.blogspot.com/
If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com
The musical intro and closing is from the Podsafe Music Network
Jon Schmidt - Powerful Exhilarating Piano Music
Time: 15 minutes, 8 seconds
MP3 File
FM #39-5 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 5
FM #39-4 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 4
FM #39-3 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 3
FM #39-2 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 2
FM #39-1 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 1
Session Notes:
Music intro My intro FM #39-6
This internet radio show or podcast for Franklin Matters is number 39-6 in the series.
This segment of the Town Hall Forum conducted by Governor Deval Patrick at the Franklin Senior center on Sunday May 17th continues the Q&A session with
Bill – education funding from property taxes is broken system
other unidentified comments touch on the regionalization issue
Rep Vallee chimes in on property tax relief commending the Gov for being a strong advocate
Gov Patrick concedes we are over reliant on property taxes to support local government. His proposals for additional revenue (1) the gas tax, (2) the hotel and meals tax, (3) removal of the exemption on the telephone pole tax.
We have over 200 911 centers in MA, CA a far bigger state, has only 4, their response time is the same or better than ours. Regionalization here in New England is a third rail. We have to figure out how to combine things.
Here we go ...
---- ---- ----
This podcast has been a public service provided to my fellow citizens of Franklin, MA
For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.blogspot.com/
If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com
The musical intro and closing is from the Podsafe Music Network
Jon Schmidt - Powerful Exhilarating Piano Music
FM #39-5 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 5
This recording for Franklin Matters is the fifth of a special series to replay the discussion at the Franklin Senior Center on May 17 when Governor Deval Patrick conducted his Town Hall Forum.
Time: 13 minutes, 49 seconds
MP3 File
FM #39-4 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 4
FM #39-3 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 3
FM #39-2 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 2
FM #39-1 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 1
Session Notes:
Music intro My intro FM #39-5
This internet radio show or podcast for Franklin Matters is number 39-5 in the series.
This segment of the Town Hall Forum conducted by Governor Deval Patrick at the Franklin Senior center on Sunday May 17th continues the Q&A session with
Gov Patrick address the “urban legend” about this roomful of cash at the State House and if you get him in a good mood, it is there for the taking. It is not. “Are you willing to contribute more to the status quo?”
---- ---- ----
This podcast has been a public service provided to my fellow citizens of Franklin, MA
For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.blogspot.com/
If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com
The musical intro and closing is from the Podsafe Music Network
Jon Schmidt - Powerful Exhilarating Piano Music
Time: 13 minutes, 49 seconds
MP3 File
FM #39-4 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 4
FM #39-3 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 3
FM #39-2 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 2
FM #39-1 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 1
Session Notes:
Music intro My intro FM #39-5
This internet radio show or podcast for Franklin Matters is number 39-5 in the series.
This segment of the Town Hall Forum conducted by Governor Deval Patrick at the Franklin Senior center on Sunday May 17th continues the Q&A session with
Christy – concerned about the whole child and Chapter 70 funding
Laura – Mass Academy for Math & Sciences, a cooperative venture with WPI
Gov Patrick address the “urban legend” about this roomful of cash at the State House and if you get him in a good mood, it is there for the taking. It is not. “Are you willing to contribute more to the status quo?”
---- ---- ----
This podcast has been a public service provided to my fellow citizens of Franklin, MA
For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.blogspot.com/
If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com
The musical intro and closing is from the Podsafe Music Network
Jon Schmidt - Powerful Exhilarating Piano Music
FM #39-4 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 4
This recording for Franklin Matters is the fourth of a special series to replay the discussion at the Franklin Senior Center on May 17 when Governor Deval Patrick conducted his Town Hall Forum.
Time: 11 minutes, 49 seconds
MP3 File
FM #39-3 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 3
FM #39-2 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 2
FM #39-1 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 1
Session Notes:
Music intro
My intro
FM #39-4
This internet radio show or podcast for Franklin Matters is number 39-4 in the series.
This segment of the Town Hall Forum conducted by Governor Deval Patrick at the Franklin Senior center on Sunday May 17th continues the Q&A session with
Gov Patrick's response is masterful. Part of his response is also captured in the video summary.
Here we go....
---- ---- ----
This podcast has been a public service provided to my fellow citizens of Franklin, MA
For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.blogspot.com/
If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com
The musical intro and closing is from the Podsafe Music Network
Jon Schmidt - Powerful Exhilarating Piano Music
Time: 11 minutes, 49 seconds
MP3 File
FM #39-3 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 3
FM #39-2 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 2
FM #39-1 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 1
Session Notes:
Music intro
My intro
FM #39-4
This internet radio show or podcast for Franklin Matters is number 39-4 in the series.
This segment of the Town Hall Forum conducted by Governor Deval Patrick at the Franklin Senior center on Sunday May 17th continues the Q&A session with
Ann – special education reimbursement from MedicAid
Jenny – special education advisory council, 64% returns to the schools but not all of it gets to special ed. How about taxing clothing? This was part of the video summary.
Gov Patrick's response is masterful. Part of his response is also captured in the video summary.
Here we go....
---- ---- ----
This podcast has been a public service provided to my fellow citizens of Franklin, MA
For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.blogspot.com/
If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com
The musical intro and closing is from the Podsafe Music Network
Jon Schmidt - Powerful Exhilarating Piano Music
FM #39-3 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 3
This recording for Franklin Matters is the third of a special series to replay the discussion at the Franklin Senior Center on May 17 when Governor Deval Patrick conducted his Town Hall Forum.
Time: 14 minutes, 24 seconds
MP3 File
FM #39-2 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 2
FM #39-1 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 1
Session Notes:
Music intro
My intro
FM #39-3
This internet radio show or podcast for Franklin Matters is number 39-3 in the series.
In this segment, we hear the first questions after the presentation. Gov Patrick moderates the discussion with
This segment has two great sound bites:
One I already turned into a sherku when Gov Patrick was talking of growing up and his Grandmother's saying:
Second, Gov Patrick on the proposed gas tax: “Last summer we sent $4 to OPEC and got nothing for it, here we are talking about 19 cents and getting something for it.”
The Governor closes this segment by picking the next 7 people to get around to in the Forum.
---- ---- ----
This podcast has been a public service provided to my fellow citizens of Franklin, MA
For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.blogspot.com/
If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com
The musical intro and closing is from the Podsafe Music Network
Jon Schmidt - Powerful Exhilarating Piano Music
Time: 14 minutes, 24 seconds
MP3 File
FM #39-2 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 2
FM #39-1 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 1
Session Notes:
Music intro
My intro
FM #39-3
This internet radio show or podcast for Franklin Matters is number 39-3 in the series.
In this segment, we hear the first questions after the presentation. Gov Patrick moderates the discussion with
Wendy – school nurse vs school based health centers
Lynn – Worcester public health service cuts
Alice – dedicated funds remain assigned to the purpose as designated
This segment has two great sound bites:
One I already turned into a sherku when Gov Patrick was talking of growing up and his Grandmother's saying:
My Grandmother forbid us
To say we’re poor; “you’re broke,
Broke is temporary.”
Second, Gov Patrick on the proposed gas tax: “Last summer we sent $4 to OPEC and got nothing for it, here we are talking about 19 cents and getting something for it.”
The Governor closes this segment by picking the next 7 people to get around to in the Forum.
---- ---- ----
This podcast has been a public service provided to my fellow citizens of Franklin, MA
For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.blogspot.com/
If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com
The musical intro and closing is from the Podsafe Music Network
Jon Schmidt - Powerful Exhilarating Piano Music
FM #39-2 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 2
This recording for Franklin Matters is the second of a special series to replay the discussion at the Senior Center on May 17 when Governor Deval Patrick conducted his Town Hall Forum.
Time: 26 minutes, 57 seconds
MP3 File
FM #39-1 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 1
Session Notes:
Music intro
My intro
FM #39-2
This internet radio show or podcast for Franklin Matters is number 39-2 in the series.
This segment of the Town Hall Forum conducted by Governor Deval Patrick replays the presentation. We pick up with the Gov completing his introduction and setting out the ground rules. He turns the mic over to Brendan Ryan, Director of Civic Engagement who takes us through a series of slides.
I intend to synchronize this audio with the actual slides. Synchronizing the audio with the slides will make this segment much easier to listen to as each time they refer to a slide, they don't always read what is on the slide itself. In the meantime, here is the audio.
---- ---- ----
This podcast has been a public service provided to my fellow citizens of Franklin, MA
For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.blogspot.com/
If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com
The musical intro and closing is from the Podsafe Music Network
Jon Schmidt - Powerful Exhilarating Piano Music
Time: 26 minutes, 57 seconds
MP3 File
FM #39-1 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 1
Session Notes:
Music intro
My intro
FM #39-2
This internet radio show or podcast for Franklin Matters is number 39-2 in the series.
This segment of the Town Hall Forum conducted by Governor Deval Patrick replays the presentation. We pick up with the Gov completing his introduction and setting out the ground rules. He turns the mic over to Brendan Ryan, Director of Civic Engagement who takes us through a series of slides.
I intend to synchronize this audio with the actual slides. Synchronizing the audio with the slides will make this segment much easier to listen to as each time they refer to a slide, they don't always read what is on the slide itself. In the meantime, here is the audio.
---- ---- ----
This podcast has been a public service provided to my fellow citizens of Franklin, MA
For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.blogspot.com/
If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com
The musical intro and closing is from the Podsafe Music Network
Jon Schmidt - Powerful Exhilarating Piano Music
FM #39-1 Gov Patrick Town Hall - Part 1
This recording for Franklin Matters is the first of a special series to replay the discussion at the Senior Center on May 17 when Governor Deval Patrick conducted his Town Hall Forum.
Time: 7 minutes, 4 seconds
MP3 File
Session Notes
Music intro
My intro
FM #39-1
This internet radio show or podcast for Franklin Matters is number 39-1 in the series.
This segment will be one of a special series to cover the Town Hall Forum conducted at the Senior Center on Sunday, May 17th by Governor Deval Patrick.
The recording of the full almost two hour session will be broken into segments to make it easier to listen to (time wise). This first segments will picks up with the introduction by Representative Jim Vallee, and then Gov Deval Patrick sets the ground rules for the discussion that follows.
The recording jumps into Rep Vallee's intro. I apologize for missing the welcome remarks by Town Council Chairperson Chris Feeley.
Gov Patrick's ground rules and execution of what follows is a wonderful example of facilitating a respectful discussion.
---- ---- ----
This podcast has been a public service provided to my fellow citizens of Franklin, MA
For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.blogspot.com/
If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com
The musical intro and closing is from the Podsafe Music Network
Jon Schmidt - Powerful Exhilarating Piano Music
Time: 7 minutes, 4 seconds
MP3 File
Session Notes
Music intro
My intro
FM #39-1
This internet radio show or podcast for Franklin Matters is number 39-1 in the series.
This segment will be one of a special series to cover the Town Hall Forum conducted at the Senior Center on Sunday, May 17th by Governor Deval Patrick.
The recording of the full almost two hour session will be broken into segments to make it easier to listen to (time wise). This first segments will picks up with the introduction by Representative Jim Vallee, and then Gov Deval Patrick sets the ground rules for the discussion that follows.
The recording jumps into Rep Vallee's intro. I apologize for missing the welcome remarks by Town Council Chairperson Chris Feeley.
Gov Patrick's ground rules and execution of what follows is a wonderful example of facilitating a respectful discussion.
---- ---- ----
This podcast has been a public service provided to my fellow citizens of Franklin, MA
For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.blogspot.com/
If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com
The musical intro and closing is from the Podsafe Music Network
Jon Schmidt - Powerful Exhilarating Piano Music
Photo essay - 3rd Thursday - Block Party
On a night when the sky was clear
The sun was setting
These guys were concentrating on playing good music
The acoustic section of the group "Nothing to No One" was something to listen to for many
Have something to eat or drink at Cafe Dolce
Come on down to celebrate the next Third Thursday in June!
The sun was setting
These guys were concentrating on playing good music
The acoustic section of the group "Nothing to No One" was something to listen to for many
Have something to eat or drink at Cafe Dolce
Come on down to celebrate the next Third Thursday in June!
Gov Patrick video summary
The Governor has posted his video summary of the Forum at the Senior Center on Sunday, May 17th.
You can view this almost 4 minute video:
I'll have the audio for the full Forum coming out in sections during the day Friday.
You can view this almost 4 minute video:
I'll have the audio for the full Forum coming out in sections during the day Friday.
Governor's visit, summarized; short and sweet
These two sherku were written as a result of Governor Patrick's visit to Franklin's Senior center on Sunday. I am working to publish the audio of the session in sections so if you missed the event, you can still listen to what was said during his visit.
What is a sherku?
This is almost a "found" poem as it an amalgam of Gov Patrick's remarks when he visited Franklin on Sunday (5/17/09).
-----------
What is a sherku?
This is a "found" poem - Governor Patrick said this during his visit to Franklin on Sunday (5/17/09).
Gov Patrick says
Tough state budget choices
Most of these things we will
Pay for sooner or later
What is a sherku?
This is almost a "found" poem as it an amalgam of Gov Patrick's remarks when he visited Franklin on Sunday (5/17/09).
-----------
Gov Patrick says
We better start behaving
Like we are members
Of the same community
What is a sherku?
This is a "found" poem - Governor Patrick said this during his visit to Franklin on Sunday (5/17/09).
"We schedule them one at a time"
GHS
FRANKLIN —
Negotiating teams for the teachers union and School Committee met for more than two hours yesterday in an effort to reach an agreement on a proposed wage deferral, but they haven't gotten there yet.
"We still haven't come to an agreement yet," said School Committee Chairman Jeffrey Roy. "Both sides have stressed we would not discuss the details of negotiations."
Among those in the closed-door meeting: Roy, School Committee members Cora Armenio, Vice Chairwoman Paula Mullen, Franklin Education President Robert McLaughlin, Superintendent Wayne Ogden, Assistant Superintendent Maureen Sabolinski, Oak Street Elementary School Principal Corine Minkle, school Human Resources Director Lisa O'Keefe, school Finance Director Miriam Goodman, as well as an elementary school teacher and a middle school teacher.
To close a gap, the town has teachers for a wage freeze. The union, in return, asked for other concessions, which led to the current stalemate.
Read the full story in the Milford Daily News here
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Block Party -> 4:30 - 8:00 PM Downtown
The Franklin Downtown Partnership announced special activities planned for "Third Thursday" on May 21, 4:30 to 8 p.m.
Join downtown businesses on the third Thursday of every month for special offers, discounts and fun activities for the entire family.
The May theme is a Block Party, featuring acoustical entertainment on the outdoor patio at the newly opened Cafe Dolce and a Beader Night Party at Sara Paan Beads.
Following are the planned activities:
Free live, acoustical entertainment in the outdoor patio and complementary muffins and scones during Third Thursday. Visit http://www.cafedolce.net/ for details.
Sara Paan Beads, 16 East Central St.:
Staff will help customers finish a piece during the "Beader Night Party" and give special demonstrations on creating multi-strand necklaces, loop earrings and more. Refreshments will be served. Visit http://www.maysjewelry.com/ for more details.
Artbeat, The Creativity Store, 9 Summer St.:
Children are invited to meet local author/illustrator Debra Wainwright, who will read from her new book, "That Kind of Dog." Get a signed copy of the story and take a picture with Bramble. Free craft projects can be made while enjoying light refreshments.
Other downtown business will participate in the event.
Town Council Mtg Smry 05/20/09
The collection of posts reported live during the Town Council meeting of 5/20/09 are here:
"not the final word"
Milford Daily News
FRANKLIN —
Just as town officials seemed to have nearly closed a budget gap for next year and avoided widespread layoffs, Franklin stands to lose another $1.7 million in state aid.
Town Administrator Jeffrey Nutting told councilors last night that the Senate budget reduces Franklin's local aid by $1 million, which means the school district's share will be reduced by at least half a million.
Franklin is also slated to receive hundreds of thousands less in stimulus funds and reimbursements for special education costs, he said.
"There is no good news coming out of the Senate budget," Nutting said.
Read the full article in the Milford Daily News here
New England Sports Celebration - 5/31/09
From the Facebook page for the New England Sports Celebration
Come down and help us raise funds for the F.X. O’Regan Early Childhood Development Center PCC. We are planning a fun-filled family day celebrating the proud tradition of New England sports!!
Currently, we have Boston hockey legend TERRY O'REILLY coming down to sign autographs from 2PM-4PM.
Signatures are $15 each with no charge for inscriptions. You are welcome to bring your own items, and we will have a great selection of pictures, pucks and other items available for sale!
Also from 2PM - 4PM, Wally the Green Monster will be visiting to take pictures and sign autographs for his fans for FREE!!!
AND JUST ANNOUNCED - Football Legend STEVE GROGAN will also be available from 2PM-4PM!!! Signatures are $15 each with no charge for inscriptions.
There will be lots of other fun activities for the kids, as well. Cash bar and concessions will be available. did we mention....ADMISSION IS FREE!!!
This is a public event and we want to pack the place - so please feel free to invite anyone you would like!!! A lot more to come on this...
SAVE THE DATE!!
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Live reporting - Councilor Comments
Doak - I want to thanks the Charter Commission for the work they did, there is a lot of good info here that we'll need to get into.
Pfeffer - I thought Gov Patrick did very well with handling the comments, especially with asking for if you don't want this cut, where do we cut?
Nutting - I can't tell you how proud I was of the Senior Center, it was wonderful to have the Governor there
Whalen - Downtown Partnership, general meeting at Dean 8:30 AM
Third Thursday 5/21/09
Strawberry Festival, June 19th
Networking Luncheon, May 27th Golder Room
I'd like to know more about it?
Nutting - The Quinn provides a financial incentive for a degree, town pays half and state pays half; bachelors degree gets a 10% bump, the town puts in 5 and the state puts in 5. If it gets cut, the town side would still be there, the state side wouldn't. Effects folks differently depending upon their rank and their education level, it can be part of their base pay would would affect their detail rate.
Bartlett - Dow e pay any reimbursement for them on the courses themselves?
Nutting - there are 8 collective bargaining agreements, I'd like to get back to you specifically on that. I don't won't to mis-speak
Bartlett - I found it interesting that Gov Patrick has the same issue with explaining the capital vs operating budget problem that we do.
Feeley - It think it should be noted that despite what reported in the Milford Daily News, the town did provide space and was willing to do the retro-fitting necessary for the Franklin Food Pantry.
The Council went into Executive Session for purposes of collective bargaining not to return to open meeting.
(my editorial note: per Joyce Kelly, it was part of the article and the editor cut it out.)
Pfeffer - I thought Gov Patrick did very well with handling the comments, especially with asking for if you don't want this cut, where do we cut?
Nutting - I can't tell you how proud I was of the Senior Center, it was wonderful to have the Governor there
Whalen - Downtown Partnership, general meeting at Dean 8:30 AM
Third Thursday 5/21/09
Strawberry Festival, June 19th
Networking Luncheon, May 27th Golder Room
I'd like to know more about it?
Nutting - The Quinn provides a financial incentive for a degree, town pays half and state pays half; bachelors degree gets a 10% bump, the town puts in 5 and the state puts in 5. If it gets cut, the town side would still be there, the state side wouldn't. Effects folks differently depending upon their rank and their education level, it can be part of their base pay would would affect their detail rate.
Bartlett - Dow e pay any reimbursement for them on the courses themselves?
Nutting - there are 8 collective bargaining agreements, I'd like to get back to you specifically on that. I don't won't to mis-speak
Bartlett - I found it interesting that Gov Patrick has the same issue with explaining the capital vs operating budget problem that we do.
Feeley - It think it should be noted that despite what reported in the Milford Daily News, the town did provide space and was willing to do the retro-fitting necessary for the Franklin Food Pantry.
The Council went into Executive Session for purposes of collective bargaining not to return to open meeting.
(my editorial note: per Joyce Kelly, it was part of the article and the editor cut it out.)
Live reporting - Old/New Business
Vallee - with the Police department taking the wage freeze, the Quinn Bill, and the potential loss of details, what are you planning to do for them?
Nutting - The Quinn bill hasn't been finally decided yet
Nutting - if it is cut, we can have an executive session to review compensation
Nutting - The Quinn bill hasn't been finally decided yet
Nutting - if it is cut, we can have an executive session to review compensation
Live reporting - Administrator update
Nutting - thanks to all for participation, open house at the DPW in conjunction with the Library Book sale.
Third Thursday tomorrow night. Music at Cafe Dolce, other businesses will be participating with arts/crafts, etc.
Marini working with Planning Board to remove fence downtown, put some greenery and benches there
Third Thursday tomorrow night. Music at Cafe Dolce, other businesses will be participating with arts/crafts, etc.
Marini working with Planning Board to remove fence downtown, put some greenery and benches there
Live reporting - Action items
I. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS - None
J. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
Notes: 1 - a house keeping approval to clean up for old bonds, there is no cash involved.
Notes: 2 - this wasn't expected a year ago when you voted to reduce the rates. Water usage down 14%, which reduces sewer rates. Charles River rate increased. Vacancies consume less water. This would be the first rate increase since 2003. We cut the rate 10%, this would actually add that back plus 5%. If consumption doesn't increase, we may still need to adjust again for 2011.
J. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
- Resolution 09-30: Appropriations Amended motion to accept - passed 7-0
- Bylaw Amendment 09-633: Amendment to Sewer Rates motion to move to second reading - passed 7-0
Notes: 1 - a house keeping approval to clean up for old bonds, there is no cash involved.
Notes: 2 - this wasn't expected a year ago when you voted to reduce the rates. Water usage down 14%, which reduces sewer rates. Charles River rate increased. Vacancies consume less water. This would be the first rate increase since 2003. We cut the rate 10%, this would actually add that back plus 5%. If consumption doesn't increase, we may still need to adjust again for 2011.
Live reporting - FY 2010 update
What happened today reduced $1.7 million from the Franklin budget for FY 2010.
The local revenue options were passed but the timing of obtaining that would prevent us from benefiting it for next year.
No indication that the budget will be adopted until late June
We'll need to use the Governor's number which is probably high to begin with.
Bartlett - Hw would we estimate the meals tax?
Nutting - The DOR estimated sometime ago for us. We haven't done anything yet as it isn't real. You couldn't use 100% in the first year to be fiscally prudent. There are all kinds of estimates. The Senate and the House have two different telecom versions which all leads to no definitive answer.
Picture won;t be clear on the Senate side until the end of this week, or next week.
Nutting - the telecom is pretty straight forward as it is a property tax, we have the data.
The local revenue options were passed but the timing of obtaining that would prevent us from benefiting it for next year.
No indication that the budget will be adopted until late June
We'll need to use the Governor's number which is probably high to begin with.
Bartlett - Hw would we estimate the meals tax?
Nutting - The DOR estimated sometime ago for us. We haven't done anything yet as it isn't real. You couldn't use 100% in the first year to be fiscally prudent. There are all kinds of estimates. The Senate and the House have two different telecom versions which all leads to no definitive answer.
Picture won;t be clear on the Senate side until the end of this week, or next week.
Nutting - the telecom is pretty straight forward as it is a property tax, we have the data.
Live reporting - Charter Commission
Paul Cheli - Chair
Larry Benedetto - Vice-Chair
Michael Walker-Jones
Review of prior Charter Commission from 1995
Discussion on how to handle the presentation and questions, resolved to present tonight, allow for review by the Council, the Council can accumulate questions and the committee will return to discuss in more detail at a future time.
Larry Benedetto - Vice-Chair
Michael Walker-Jones
Review of prior Charter Commission from 1995
Discussion on how to handle the presentation and questions, resolved to present tonight, allow for review by the Council, the Council can accumulate questions and the committee will return to discuss in more detail at a future time.
Live reporting - Town Council Mtg 5/20/09
Attending: Whalen, Mason, Vallee, Bartlett, Feeley, Pfeffer, Doak,
Missing: McGann, Zollo
A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – April 15 & May 6, 2009
Motion to approve - Approved 7-0
B. ANNOUNCEMENTS - Dedication of new monument, directly after the parade (approx 11:00 AM). Rain date, 5/31/09
C. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS - none
D. CITIZEN COMMENTS - none
E. APPOINTMENTS none
F. HEARINGS none
G. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS none
Missing: McGann, Zollo
A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – April 15 & May 6, 2009
Motion to approve - Approved 7-0
B. ANNOUNCEMENTS - Dedication of new monument, directly after the parade (approx 11:00 AM). Rain date, 5/31/09
C. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS - none
D. CITIZEN COMMENTS - none
E. APPOINTMENTS none
F. HEARINGS none
G. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS none
"town offers expedited permitting"
Milford Daily News
FRANKLIN —
The state has given Franklin the green light to designate Forge Park, Franklin Industrial Park and Pond Street as economic development sites, said Bryan W. Taberner, Franklin's director of planning and community development.
"With the sluggish economy, the town of Franklin needs to utilize all economic development incentives available to it in order to assist companies looking to settle or expand in the area," Taberner said.
"One of the most attractive incentives that a Massachusetts community can offer businesses is a Tax Increment Finance (TIF) agreement," he said.
Read the full article about the economic development plan in the Milford Daily News here
"a "win-win" for the town and bank"
Milford Daily News
FRANKLIN —
The Franklin Food Pantry, which has been on the verge of homelessness for the past year, has a new home: an entire building owned by Rockland Trust, said Ralph Valente, marketing director for the bank.
On Monday, the pantry's executive director, Linda Pouliot White, and bank officials signed a two-year lease giving the pantry free use of a building at 43 West Central St., across from the new fire station and Rick's Ice Cream.
"They can move in whenever they are ready," Valente said, noting it is slated to open in early June.
Read the full article about the new location for the Franklin Food Pantry in the Milford Daily News here.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
"Marini must refile his application"
Milford Daily News
FRANKLIN —
Developer John Marini withdrew his application for a site plan modification at the request of town officials who said he failed to mention in the document that he added a few partners since his initial request.
The Planning Board last night unanimously voted to accept the withdrawal without prejudice, which means it can be brought up again.
The application was to make improvements to the interior and exterior of the last of his old buildings so that it is presentable while the town waits another three years for Marini to demolish and rebuild 12-26 East Central St.
Marini had asked to delay the project because he was not able to secure financing during the recession.
Read the latest on the Center Commons development downtown in the Milford Daily News here
Block Party - Downtown Franklin 5/21/09
Read the full article online at the Franklin GazetteFRANKLIN - The Franklin Downtown Partnership announced special activities planned for the next "Third Thursday" on May 21, 4:30 to 8 p.m. Join downtown businesses on the third Thursday of every month for special offers, discounts and fun activities for the entire family.
The May theme is a Block Party, featuring acoustical entertainment on the outdoor patio at the newly opened Cafe Dolce and a Beader Night Party at Sara Paan Beads.
Following are the planned activities:
Cafe Dolce, 17 East Central St.: Free live, acoustical entertainment in the outdoor patio and complementary muffins and scones during Third Thursday. Visit www.cafedolce.net for details.
Sara Paan Beads, 16 East Central St.: Staff will help customers finish a piece during the "Beader Night Party" and give special demonstrations on creating multi-strand necklaces, loop earrings and more. Refreshments will be served. Visit www.maysjewelry.com for more details.
Artbeat, The Creativity Store, 9 Summer St.: Children are invited to meet local author/illustrator Debra Wainwright, who will read from her new book, "That Kind of Dog." Get a signed copy of the story and take a picture with Bramble. Free craft projects can be made while enjoying light refreshments.
Other downtown business will participate in the event.
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