Live reporting - Action items

J. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION

1. Resolution 09-48: Authorization to Hold Bonfire Motion to Approve 8-0
   
2. Resolution 09-49: Appropriation: Renovation of Horace Mann Museum Motion to Approve 7-1

Notes -
Item #2
Vallee - this was approved by the Council in 2001 as part of the 20/20 plan?
Nutting - yes, that is corrected

Alan Earls, Del Arnold representing the Historical Commission. The full membership of the Historical Commission are in attendance tonight.

It is time to consider a new role for the museum. Permanent displays, rotating displays, providing a fresh experience throughout the year, no-longer a case of "been there done that".

The opportunities are almost unlimited. Partner with local groups to displays, small concerts, etc.

Centrally located, now can be a good fit with the local business community. This will require additional volunteers and training but is can and should be done.

The renovations themselves are important to the artifacts. Working with the architect worked to obtain what we need not what we would like to have to minimize costs. Improve the lighting for the displays. Additional power outlets being added to provide flexibility on the main floor.

Storage on the lower floor will remain there. Items already moved from the Washington St location. Work is underway to complete the catalog effort.

Working with Downtown Partnership to be included in the Third Thursday events currently underway.

Mason - multiple questions to clarify the condition of the artifacts
Arnold - yes, we have lost items of clothing over a hundred years old that were not properly protected, some photos have deteriorated, we would like to get into the new space to be able to provide better protection as well as get into a process of making copies and displaying the copies keeping the originals in a protected space.

Zollo - Where are we compared to other localities?
Arnold - We have a pretty good collection, maybe not the top but amongst the top.

Total project cost $710,000 including all contingencies
Bartlett - to do this completely, this is a fair request with minimal costing
It would be better to set aside the Four Corners money for the High School
I could support the $210,000 already provided

McGann - What is the cost components from the contracts?
Nutting - biggest cost is the HVAC, electrical (about $300,000) and replacing the windows

Zollo - this is small compared to the High School project, this has a learning component, not materially large enough to compare to the High School

Pfeffer - We are the home to the first public library, we are the birthplace of Horace Mann the father of education, we have said we were going to do this, not doing it to pass an override next year is not good thinking

Mason - I am in support of this project

Whalen - they are talking about apples and oranges, the scale is vastly different in dollars, the opportunity cost is vast

Feely - none of this money can be used

Bartlett - no, all others yes; motion approved 7-1

Live reporting - Planning & Community Development

Brian Taberner and Beth Dahlstrom

The presentation that was used for this portion of the meeting can be found here

Preliminary work for an update to the Master Plan

• will put a committee together to help implement with public imput

Zoning Bylaws

• Uses accessory to dwellings (Home occupation)
• Signs
• Commercial 1 Zoning District

Later in FY 2010

• minor changes to Subdivision regulations
• minor changes to Plan Review Bylaw
• Exploring need for Wind Turbine and Mural bylaws

Operational guidelines
Create a community where entrepreneurs will want to settle and raise their families

Town Owned Properties

Nu-Style property
what to do next needs to be determined

Four Corners (no longer Town owned)
building demolished and construction underway for Walgreens

Pond St Property
consultant working on studies, designated as Priority Development Site (PDS) and Economic Opportunity Area (EOA)

Business attraction and retainage
highlight Franklin's community assets

Working with Downtown Partnership on the downtown plan
Bartlett - Where are we with the downtown, this has been in planning for years?
Nutting - we are waiting upon the state approval for the contract, we are hopeful that this fall the design and public process would begin

4 interns have provided over 60 hours of good work for us for free since the beginning of the year

Zollo - best case when would the downtown project be completed?
Nutting - 3 years
Taberner - 3 years is very realistic at this point, we have been doing as much as we can

Live reporting - Water Q&A

Vallee - why do you use chlorine?
Brutus - good long explanation, use to avoid potential 2 point per million, smallest amount to use, so it is constantly being run

Vallee - would you be better off replacing the asbestos pipes?
Brutus - the pipes are actually lined with asbestos, we have done that where we can.

Vallee - can you put in sidewalk when you do the road
Brutus - we don't have the funds for that, the driveway aprons kill us because of the hand work involved.

Bartlett - help me understand how this town or any town come to a reservoir or a tank?
Brutus - You need a place for a reservoir, we have a great water aquifer to pump from so the tanks make the most sense.

Bartlett - we have had some much rain this year, it is hard to explain why we still have a water restriction
Nutting - every year in perpetuity, we will have a restriction due to our permit not due to the water coming down as rain

Vallee - does the State limit us to how much we can pump?
Brutus - Yes, we are permitted to draw water, our water bans are later than most others.

Live reporting - License hearings

G. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS:

New License – The Alumni Club : motion to accept, approved 7-0, 1 absent, 1 recused (Feely)

Pledge of License - Three : motion to accept, approved 8-0

Live reporting - Water update

H. PRESENTATIONS/DISCUSSIONS
Water & Sewer Update – Brutus Cantoreggi

Water funds generated are used only for water expenses not for other operational departments in the Town. $4.9 million enterprise budget for FY 2010

Almost 1 billion gallons of water pumped last year, the year before was actually over 1 billion.

Fluoride added and a small amount of chlorine added to improve the quality of water.

In 2002 there were 126 tests were conducted. In 2008, there were 626 tests conducted, and testing expense increased from $10,000 (2002) to $55,000 in 2008.

The old permit was for 4.1 MGD, the new permit is for 3.64 MGD. (MGD = million gallons per day)

Reduced consumption (about 400,000 MGD) equates to reduced water revenue.

In the 20/20 capital plan for the water improvements there were

• new water treatment plant
• replaced over 15 miles of water main
• 90% replacement of residential water meters, 100% replacement of commercial
• renovation of existing wells
  

Goals/Plans for future

Continue water main replacement

• Emmons and Main Sts (next year)
• Sahlin Circle (next year)
• Lincoln St (multiple phases)

Life-cycle repair and renovations for Wells 3, 7, 8
Permitting approval for Pump #12
Replacement of FIP Water Tank

Live reporting - Town Council 7/15/09

Attending: Whalen, Mason, Vallee, Bartlett, Feely, Pfeffer, McGann, Zollo
Missing: Doak

A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES - none

B. ANNOUNCEMENTS - none

C. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS - none

D. CITIZEN COMMENTS - none

E. APPOINTMENTS - none

"biotechnology companies in general tend to offer well-paying jobs"

"It means we accept biotechnology in the community. We're trying to attract biotech in the community, because any such company will increase the assessed value of property, which means more tax revenue and jobs for the town," said Taberner.

Read the full article about Franklin's economic development efforts to attract business in the Milford Daily News here

Harvest Festival - Sunday, Sept. 20

"This is much, much bigger than the Strawberry Festival - double the size, at least." said Lisa Piana, partnership executive director. "It's an event that people now put on their calendar, and vendors start calling in March and April," to reserve booths, as the partnership tries to avoid having competing vendors, said Piana.

Read the full article about the preparations for the Harvest Festival in the Milford Daily News here

Franklin Road Projects

Be sure to check out the notice from the DPW about road work being done around town this summer. You can check the street listing here

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS AT GOLDMARK FEDERAL CREDIT UNION

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS AT GOLDMARK FEDERAL CREDIT UNION

The United Regional Chamber of Commerce has organized a Business After Hours on Tues., Aug. 11 at Goldmark Federal Credit Union, 155 Pleasant St. in Attleboro. The business networking event will run from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. The cost is $5 for members and $10 for non-members. Register by calling 508-222-0801.

The United Regional Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit, business support organization serving the communities of Attleboro, Bellingham, Blackstone, Foxborough, Franklin, Mansfield, Medfield, Medway, Millis, Norfolk, North Attleborough, Norton, Plainville, Rehoboth, Seekonk, and Wrentham.

teacher layoff number resolved

There will be no teachers laid off except four gym teachers, all the librarians, and a data analyst, Roy said.

Read the full article about the school budget in the Milford Daily News here.

"first step in regionalizing"

Deciding which capital projects should get funded every year is "a difficult balancing act," but the museum renovation is a priority, said Councilor Stephen Whalen.

Read the full article about the agenda for the Town Council meeting in the Milford Daily News

Town Council - Agenda - 7/15/09

A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES

B. ANNOUNCEMENTS

C. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS

D. CITIZEN COMMENTS

E. APPOINTMENTS

F, HEARINGS

G. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS:

New License – The Alumni Club
Pledge of License - Three

H. PRESENTATIONS/DISCUSSIONS

Water & Sewer Update – Brutus Cantoreggi
Planning – Bryan Taberner

I. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS

J. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION

1. Resolution 09-48: Authorization to Hold Bonfire
2. Resolution 09-49: Appropriation: Renovation of Horace Mann Museum
3. Resolution 09-50: Increase of Local Excise Tax on Hotels and Other Public Lodgings
4. Resolution 09-51: Acceptance of G.L. Chapter 64L, Section 2 Authorizing Local Option Meals Excise
5. Resolution 09-52: Authorization for Intermunicipal Agreement for Library Services with
6. Resolution 09-53 : Transfer funds for Worker CompensationTown of Medway

K. TOWN ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT

L. OLD BUSINESS

M. NEW BUSINESS

N. COUNCIL COMMENTS

O. EXECUTIVE SESSION – Negotiations, Litigation, Real Property, as May Be Required

P. ADJOURN

"people shouldn't be critical of spending capital funds on the building"

If approved by Town Council, most of the funding - $400,000 - would come from the sale of the former Four Corners School, another $50,000 would come from the Senior Center building account, and the remainder from new hotel tax revenue.

By law, all funds received by a town from the sale of capital assets, such as Four Corners, can only be used for other capital expenses, not operating expenses, officials said.

Read the full article about Franklin's efforts to renovate the museum in the Milford Daily News here

"Forge Park as a priority development site"

"The stronger the message we send out to the business community that you can get both streamlined permitting and possibly tax incremental financing (a prerequisite for larger tax breaks from the state), the better for attracting folks," Nutting said.

Read the full article about the priority development effort in the Milford Daily News here.

3rd Thursday - July 16th

On Thursday, July 16th, the Franklin Downtown Partnership presents its monthly Third Thursday event. Hosted in July by Rick’s Restaurant and Salon Sorella, and sponsored by Middlesex Savings Bank, the event will feature Obi’s Boys performing timeless and traditional bluegrass favorites, along with ice cream, giveaways, and open houses by Franklin Downtown members.

Salon Sorella will give away free beach balls and sun awareness sample packs, and will hold a free drawing for sun-safe airbrush tanning. Artbeat, the Creativity Store, will offer free face painting and balloons from 4:30 to 6 pm, along with lemonade and cookies. Sarapaan is holding an open house at their new location next to Café Dolce, and Emma’s Quilt Cupboard & Sewing Machines will preview their broad selection of Christmas fabric, samples, and decorations.

In addition, Pretty is Pink will offer 20% off all Vera Bradley purchases along with bubbly and treats, and Jane’s Frames will host an artists’ reception featuring local artists James McCue and Robert Collins. Bob Collins will discuss the compositional elements of landscape, as well as how and why artists design landscapes while he works with acrylics on canvas. Refreshments will be served.

Franklin Downtown Partnership, Inc. is a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering greater vitality in the downtown commercial district and to serve as a vehicle for public policy discourse. The Partnership sees Franklin’s downtown as the heart of the community. The Partnership’s mission is to lessen the burden of local government through public improvement activities, which combat community deterioration, preserve the historic downtown character and educate the public about the architecture and history of the area. The Partnership office is located at 9 east Central Street. For more information you can contact Executive Director, Lisa Piana at (774)571-3109 or at downtown.franklin@yahoo.com

Middlesex Savings Bank, a $4.0 billion financial institution, is one of the largest independent community banks in Massachusetts. Headquartered in Natick, the bank has over 600 employees in 25 towns and offers a full range of personal and business financial services.

Live music at Cafe Dolce

From BJ, Dave, and Lisa at Cafe Dolce comes the following info:

Join us this Friday, July 10th from 6pm-9pm as Cafe Dolce once again proudly presents Patrick "the Piano Man" Durkin (http://www.patrickdurkin.com) playing live music in our Cafe! All who were in attendance at last week's performance seemed to have thoroughly enjoyed this lively evening of music and dance, and we hope you will stop by tomorrow night!

In addition, this Saturday, July 11th fom 6:30pm-8:30pm, Cafe Dolce presents The Underground Cats (www.theundergroundcats.com), a high energy and very unique Rock n' Roll Band!

Long term planning report

Did you ever review the Financial Planning Committee's report?

Did you miss the Information Forum held on April 27, 2009 in the Mercer Auditorium at Horace Mann?

There is no time like the present then to catch up to this important report. You can find the report in the details of my live reporting from the presentation and discussion on April 27th.

You can also view the 2 hour and 12 minute session on the Town website.

This topic is important to understand. The financial issues that Franklin faces will not go away anytime soon. The Town Council will finalize the FY 2010 budget either on July 15th or an August meeting. The Finance Committee has already approved the hotel and meals tax which will help Franklin obtain a new source of revenue. The revenue gained will not solve our problems. The revenue is estimated to be less than $500,000 per year but every bit helps.

The School Committee meeting on July 21st will finalize their budget for this year. What will be the final number of teachers cut this year?

"We have a great revenue opportunity"

By Joyce Kelly/Daily News staff

Milford Daily News

Posted Jul 08, 2009 @ 12:38 AM

---

FRANKLIN —

At Town Administrator Jeffrey D. Nutting's urging, the Finance Committee last night unanimously voted to recommend Town Council spend $500,000 to renovate the new historic museum.

Nutting suggested the council transfer $50,000 from the Senior Center Building account, use $50,000 from hotel tax revenue, and $400,000 from the sale of the former Four Corners School.

Read the full article about Tuesday's Finance Committee meeting in the Milford Daily News here

Town Council Mtg 07/01/09

Delayed reporting via a review of the video archive on the Town website

----

Attending: Whalen, Mason, Valle, Bartlett, Feeley, Pfeffer, Doak, Zollo
Missing: McGann

----

recognition for the Veterans Memorial Committee
Bob Fahey, Bob Gannon, Ken Norman, Charles Oteri, Steve Williams, Robert (Brutus) Cantoreggi, Dave Roche, Franklin DPW, Franklin Garden Club

----

Charter Commission Report

Presenting: Paul Cheli, Michael Walker Jones, Larry Benedetto

A question from Deb Bartlett on the comparison between the information supporting the recommendation of changing the Town Treasurer from an elected position to an appointed position versus the lack of similar information for the Town Clerk sparked a long discussion that eventually still did not answer her question. Would the commission add information so that the folks reading the report could come to a valid understanding of the duties of the Town Clerk?

The discussion instead resulted in the Commission members pledging several times that the current elected officials perform outstandingly well for Franklin. The fact remains that once elected, there is nothing written anywhere that actually requires them to perform their duties or furthermore to allow either the Town Administrator or the Town Council to take corrective action prior to the next election.

The discussion revealed that while there is substantial information about the technical requirements, qualifications and state certifications for the Town Treasurer, there are not similar items for the Town Clerk. Hence the recommendation for the Town Treasurer to be changed to an appointed position and the Town Clerk to remain as an elected position.

These and other items in the Charter Commissions report will now be the subject of a new sub-committee to work the report into a format (primarily adding the legal language required) for the report to be submitted to the State Legislature. Assuming the Legislature votes to accept the recommendations, then the citizens of Franklin would then be required to vote to accept the recommendations before they actually became law. According to Jeff Nutting at the meeting, this could be more than a two year process.

One other item of significant discussion was staggering the terms of the Town Council and School Committee. I encourage you to view at least this section of the Town Council meeting. The segment lasts just over an hour but it is well worth understanding the positions and arguments pro/con. These items will help determine Franklin's future.

You can view the Town Council meeting in the video archive here

You can review the full detail of the Charter Commission report (PDF) here

The Milford Daily News got around to writing about this portion of last week's meeting with an article today here

Shades IN Place - Ribbon cutting - 7/16/09

The United Regional Chamber of Commerce is organizing a ribbon cutting event at Shades IN Place, 76 Grove St., Franklin on Thurs., July 16 at 11 a.m. The ribbon cutting marks the grand opening of Shades IN Place new showroom. Established in 2006, Shades IN Place is a custom window treatment installation company that also offers a "Shop At Home" service. The business is owned and operated by Roger Magalhaes.

The United Regional Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit, business support organization serving the communities of Attleboro, Bellingham, Blackstone, Foxborough, Franklin, Mansfield, Medfield, Medway, Millis, Norfolk, North Attleborough, Norton, Plainville, Rehoboth, Seekonk, and Wrentham.

Town Council archives

My notes from the Town Council meetings held during 2009 can be found here

• Town Council Mtg Smry 01/07/09
• Town Council Mtg Smry 01/21/09
• Town Council Mtg Smry 02/04/09
• Town Council Mtg Smry 02/11/09
• Town Council Mtg Smry 03/04/09
• Town Council Mtg Smry 03/18/09
• Town Council Mtg Smry 04/01/09
• Town Council Mtg Smry 04/15/09
• Town Council Mtg Smry 05/06/09
• Town Council Mtg Smry 05/20/09
• Town Council Mtg Smry 06/03/09
• Town Council Mtg Smry 06/10/09
• Town Council Mtg Smry 06/11/09

The notes from Council meetings during 2008 can be found along the far right column of Franklin Matters.

The video archive on the Town website has many meetings readily accessible here. You can pull up the meeting and choose to watch the whole meeting or skip to specific sections of the agenda.

School Committee Archives

My notes from the School Committee meetings from 2009 can be found here

• School Committee Mtg 01/13/09
• School Committee Mtg 01/27/09
• School Committee Mtg 02/10/09
• School Committee Mtg 02/24/09
• School Committee Mtg 03/10/09
• School Committee Mtg 03/24/09
• School Committee Mtg 04/14/09
• School Committee Mtg 04/28/09
• School Committee Mtg 05/12/09
• School Committee Mtg 05/26/09
• School Committee Mtg 06/09/09
• School Committee Mtg 06/23/09

In the right column on Franklin Matters, you can find the meeting notes for the School Committee meetings during 2008.

The video archive on the Town website has many meetings readily accessible here. You can pull up the meeting and choose to watch the whole meeting or skip to specific sections of the agenda.

Finance Committee archives

My notes from the Finance Committee meetings for the FY 2010 budget hearings can be found here

• Finance Comm 04/16/09
• Finance Comm 04/21/09
• Finance Comm 04/29/09
• Finance Comm 05/05/09

The video archive on the Town website has many meetings readily accessible here. You can pull up the meeting and choose to watch the whole meeting or skip to specific sections of the agenda.

Financial Planning Committee archives

Feel free to utilize the archives here.

The long range plan produced by the Financial Planning Committee is available on the Town website in two versions: the Executive summary is here (PDF) and the full report is here (PDF).

My notes from the Financial Planning Committee meetings earlier this year:

• Financial Plng Comm 01/15/09
• Financial Plng Comm 02/05/09
• Financial Plng Comm 02/19/09
• Financial Plng Comm 03/05/09
• Financial Plng Comm 03/12/09
• Financial Plng Comm 03/26/09
• Financial Plng Comm 04/02/09
• Financial Plng Comm 04/23/09
• Financial Plng Comm 05/27/09
• Focus Group Collection

Sunday Schedule

Sunday July 5

1-7 p.m.: Everything open

1- 2:30 p.m.: Parade

3-7 p.m.: Children's activities

3-5 p.m.: Interfaith music concert

6 p.m.: Franklin Idol winners announced

7 p.m.: Closing ceremonies (Raffle drawings and lowering of flag)

4th of July - Schedule

Children's Day

9 a.m.: Road race registration

10 a.m.-10 p.m.: Everything open

10 a.m.: Children's road race

11 a.m.: Adult road race

11 a.m.-7 p.m.: Children's activities

12-12:45 p.m.: Jamie Barrett performs

12:45-2 p.m.: Okey Dokey DJ

2-4 p.m.: Franklin Idol under 14

4-6:30 p.m.: Franklin Idol 15 and up

7-10 p.m.: Corvairs

Happy 4th of July

I wish you all a most happy and safe 4th of July.





Thanks to Spell with Flickr

Celebrating Franklin

Why reprint the Administrator's messages from September 2008, January and February of 2009?

Did you read them the first time they were published?

Maybe not.

Did you read them now?

Hopefully.

As we get into the 4th of July weekend, "celebrating Franklin", let's look around us and see what is we really are celebrating.

Let's also take some time to think about how we want to continue to live here.

• What services will we dig into our pockets to pay for?
• What services can we afford to live without?

The Town budget used to support the 4th of July. For many years local folks took it upon themselves to create the parade, party, and fireworks. The latest iteration of the 4th of July committee has no under taken a year round fund raising effort to maintain this traditional celebration.

Other services around Town are supported by other similar organizational efforts of people passionate enough to continue a "tradition". These organizations raise money in a variety of methods but ultimately, we, the citizens of Franklin do contribute. The Town can raise money via taxes and other fees, or the organizations can raise money from our contributions. We ares still supporting what happens here.

The long range plan produced by the Financial Planning Committee is available on the Town website in two versions: the Executive summary is here (PDF) and the full report is here (PDF).

Please take time during this wonderful weekend to review the reports.

Please make time in the coming months to make you participation in Town Council, School Committee and other important meetings more of the "contact" sport that Jeff mentioned. Show up.
Put in an appearance (or two).
Become informed.

There will be an election later this year to select Town Council and School Committee. There will likely be a special election in 2010 to consider an override to provide additional funds to support the day-today operations of Franklin that we are celebrating this weekend.

Do not let a day go by without becoming more informed.
Your vote will count.

Administrator's Message - Sep 17, 2008

A Message from the Administrator

Before you know it, fall will turn into budget season. Next year’s budget continues to hold many challenges. The Town Council has appointed a special adhoc committee to look at the next 3-5 years and try and predict the town’s fiscal plight. The committee plans to hold public hearings and ask for citizens’ input into the age-old question of services versus taxes. While we have been blessed with very generous amounts of state aid over the last 15 years, (thank you Representative Vallee) we cannot rely on the State for the same commitment in the future. Our choices are: ask the legislature to allow for local option taxes, change the tax laws to escape the over reliance on the property tax, or ask the citizens to increase their commitment above the Proposition 2 ½ limits allowed by law. I can already hear folk’s saying, “What about living within your means?” “Why can’t the town live within the revenue available?” “Why do you always ask us for more money?” Well, we can live within our means if you want a lot less “local government”. I have pointed out many times that we don’t control the cost of energy, health insurance premiums, or pensions. Collective bargaining, public bid, prevailing wage laws, and unfunded mandates all drive up the cost and size of government and make it difficult to control costs. There is little support for regionalization of services or consolidation of governments. Federal and State education mandates drive up the cost of education. Also, we can’t ignore our aging infrastructure. We have to update the nearly 40-year-old high school and some of the other schools, the Library needs repairs, and our roads and sidewalks constantly need repairing and updating.

There are no easy answers. We hope for citizens’ input. As we struggle to define the balance between taxes and services, we reach out to the citizens to give us their opinions and help us to decide what is best for all. This is your government. We need your participation at public meetings and hearings and on every Election Day. Your quality of life, protection of property values, and commitment to the next generation is in your hands. Please don’t sit on the sidelines. Watching on TV, reading newspapers, commenting on blogs & websites is fine, but your local government is a “contact sport” and we need to see you and hear you. We ask for your participation in defining what kind of community that you wish to belong to. Please call, write, visit or email me with questions and comments.

Sincerely,
Jeff Nutting
Town Administrator

“As we must account for every idle word, so must we account for every idle silence” – Benjamin Franklin.

Franklin 4th of July - Event Schedule

Sent to you by Steve Sherlock via Google Reader:

Franklin 4th of July celebration schedule

via Wicked Local Franklin News RSS by GateHouse Media, Inc. on 6/25/09

The town's 4th of July Celebration Committee is gearing up for the town's annual Independence Day festivities on the town common, which begin next Wednesday and run through July 5. Below find the schedule of events.

Wednesday July 1

6-10 p.m.: Booths (optional) and rides open; Okey Dokey DJ.

Thursday July 2

6-10 p.m.: Booths and rides open (no children's entertainment)

7-1o p.m.: Local youth bands

10 p.m.: Fireworks at Franklin High School, Oak Street (Rain date: Monday, July 6)

Friday July 3

10 a.m.-10 p.m.: Everything Open

10 a.m.: Children's parade at town common

11 a.m.-7 p.m.: Children's activities

12-2 p.m.: Okey Dokey DJ

2-5 p.m.: Random Play

5:30-6:30 p.m.: Okey Dokey DJ

7-10 p.m.: Digger Dawg

Saturday July 4

Children's Day

9 a.m.: Road race registration

10 a.m.-10 p.m.: Everything open

10 a.m.: Children's road race

11 a.m.: Adult road race

11 a.m.-7 p.m.: Children's activities

12-12:45 p.m.: Jamie Barrett performs

12:45-2 p.m.: Okey Dokey DJ

2-4 p.m.: Franklin Idol under 14

4-6:30 p.m.: Franklin Idol 15 and up

7-10 p.m.: Corvairs

Sunday July 5

1-7 p.m.: Everything open

1- 2:30 p.m.: Parade

3-7 p.m.: Children's activities

3-5 p.m.: Interfaith music concert

6 p.m.: Franklin Idol winners announced

7 p.m.: Closing ceremonies (Raffle drawings and lowering of flag)

CHILDREN'S ACTIVITIES

Friday July 3: Children's parade at 10 a.m., Parrot Lady at 11 a.m., Lunch with Elmo at 12 p.m., SpongeBob Craft at 1 p.m., Cinderella Story at 2 p.m., Photo with Elmo at 3 p.m., Creature Teachers from 4-7 p.m.

Saturday July 4: Children's road race at 10 a.m., Photo with SpongeBob at 11 a.m., Lunch with Cinderella at 12 p.m., Story with Elmo at 1 p.m., Franklin Idol (under 14) 2-4 p.m.; Princess Photos, 4 p.m., Dinner with Super Heroes, 5 p.m., Snow White Story, 6 p.m.

Sunday July 5: Parade, 1-2:30 p.m., Regal Reptile from 3-5 p.m., Super Hero Phohtos at 5 p.m., Snow White Craft at 6 p.m., Franklin Idol winners announced at 6 p.m.

Things you can do from here:

• Subscribe to Wicked Local Franklin News RSS using Google Reader
• Get started using Google Reader to easily keep up with all your favorite sites

Concerts on the Common

Beginning Wednesday, July 8th, Concerts on the Common will be held.

There will be a program for children from 6:00 PM to 6:30 PM followed by the concert from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM.

The full schedule of musical performers can be found on the Town website (PDF)

Administrator's Message - Jan 6, 2009

A Message from the Administrator

What do you get for your property tax dollars and municipal fees? Some may say “not much” I think you get a great community to live and raise a family. The schools provide high quality public education and serve as the hope for the next generation. We have first class public safety departments, an effective and hard working DPW, a wonderful Library, a nice Senior Center that assists our older generations and an overall high quality of life.

In recent years we have begun to upgrade the water and sewer systems and have paved many poor roads along the way. We built or expanded three schools in the last 12 years, replaced the fire station, DPW garage, senior center, municipal building, and added recreational fields. I know that some citizens think if we did not make those improvements we would not have fiscal problems, but I can tell you we would still be struggling to make ends meet. We are not much different than other communities. Fixed costs rise faster than revenues. In response, we have cut the work force and reduced services.

The solid education system, great municipal services, and nice facilities all help protect your property values. It is hard to believe it when the property values are declining, but over the long run it will prove to be true. We will continue to look for ways to squeeze tax dollars and still provide quality services. It sure looks like we are all going to be caught in a financial struggle for awhile. The good news is we have been down this road before. It is no fun, but usually things right themselves over time. The State government has been able to help us out through tough times in the past, but they are facing an uphill battle without a new revenue source to meet their obligations.

If the state government cannot help financially, they can provide local government more control over our destiny. Changes to the laws that govern health insurance, pensions, bidding requirements, and laws governing employee issues are among a few areas that would help us over the long run. We will work closely with our elected representatives and senators to craft reforms that are fair and effective. It will not be easy but challenging times bring opportunities to address difficult challenges.

Those changes will not help us with the anticipated financial problem we will face in fiscal year 2010. In recent times we have been cutting budgets and services or looking for more tax revenue. I anticipate that FY 2010 will be not different. I will do my best to keep you informed of all the issues as we approach next spring and the annual fiscal dilemma.

Respectfully,
Jeff Nutting

Without continual growth and progress, such words as improvement, achievement, and success have no meaning. ~Benjamin Franklin

Administrator's Message - Feb 5, 2009

A Message from the Administrator

Punxsutawney Phil reportedly saw his shadow on February 2. If you believe Phil, we are in for six more weeks of winter. That is unfortunate, in my opinion. However, New Englanders understand, perhaps better than some, that changing seasons parallel the cycle of life. We know and are comforted by the knowledge that winter will slowly yield its icy grip to reveal the rebirth of spring. While we clear snow from our driveways, slip and slide on ice-covered everything, and fight the bitter cold, we understand that somewhere in our future, the beautiful colors and warmer, longer sunshine –filled days of spring will follow.

The economy mirrors our seasons. Whether it is the revolving seasons or the current state of our economy, we know that “change happens” and on a regular basis. When the economic forecast is calling for cold bleak times, the eternal hope that is recovery seems so far away. But as are the changing seasons, the economy is cyclical. 2009 will be an economically challenging year for the nation. Daily forecasts reveal more bleak economic news. With job losses, mortgage foreclosures, and disappearing savings and retirement funds plus soaring energy and food costs and rising debt, we are certainly in the winter of our economic cycle.

There is “good news” and that is what New Englanders know well: things will eventually get better. While it seems that winter is longer than spring and summer, and bad times last longer than good times, they are both part of a continual cycle.

Franklin will follow a similar path. We face difficult choices. We will be saddened to lose hard working, dedicated employees through jobs cuts, we will suffer reduced municipal services and a changing school system. Yet, working together, united as a community, we will weather this storm. We will do our best to continue to ensure public safety and public services. We will educate our children and support all our residents. You, the citizens, I am confident, will unite to support and encourage each other.

Spring is coming, and so will better times. The Staff and I and your elected officials remain dedicated to serving you, the citizens of Franklin.

Respectfully,
Jeff Nutting

“There are two ways of being happy: We must either diminish our wants or augment our means - either may do - the result is the same and it is for each man to decide for himself and to do that which happens to be easier.” ~Benjamin Franklin

Town Council - Agenda - 7/1/09

A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – June 3, 2009, June 10 & 11 Budget Hearings

B. ANNOUNCEMENTS

C. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS

• Franklin Veterans Memorial Foundation

D. CITIZEN COMMENTS

E. APPOINTMENTS

* Council on Aging
* Cultural Council
* School Building Committee

F. HEARINGS

G. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS

H. PRESENTATIONS/DISCUSSIONS

• Charter Commission Report
• Update of FY 2010 Budget

I. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS

J. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION

1. Resolution 09-45: Grant of Utility Easement – Upper Union Street
2. Resolution 09-46: Rescission of Library Authorization
3. Resolution 09-47: Purchase of Land off Mechanic Street
4. Bylaw Amendment 09-633: Amendment to Sewer Rates- 2nd Reading

K. TOWN ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT

L. OLD BUSINESS

M. NEW BUSINESS

N. COUNCIL COMMENTS

O. EXECUTIVE SESSION – Negotiations, Litigation, Real Property, as May Be Required

P. ADJOURN

"be part of the Putnam family"

By Joyce Kelly/Daily News staff

Milford Daily News

Posted Jun 30, 2009 @ 01:04 AM

---

FRANKLIN —

Putnam Investments will shut down its Franklin facility by year's end, but will offer "virtually all" of its 500-plus employees jobs at the company's Andover and Boston locations, said a company spokesman.

The company made the announcement to employees yesterday morning.

Putnam will phase out use of the Franklin facility at 100 Financial Park, which it is renting, "in an orderly way" now through December, said the spokesman, Jon Goldstein.

"It's really about space consolidation. This is really about Putnam optimizing its facilities to best serve clients and best position us for future growth," Goldstein said.

Assistant Town Administrator Maxine Kinhart, who worked for Putnam in Franklin years ago, called the closing "devastating."

Read the full article about the Putnam facility closing in the Milford Daily News here.

Farmer's Market

The Framer's Market operates every Friday on the Town Common from noon to 6:00 PM.



The market will not operate on Friday July 3rd but will return on Friday July 10th.

"They've done a lot for the town"

By Joyce Kelly/Daily News staff

Milford Daily News

Posted Jun 28, 2009 @ 11:33 PM

---

FRANKLIN —

Town Clerk Deborah L. Pellegri and former Lions Club President Charles Oteri will lead Franklin's Fourth of July parade as grand marshals.

Pellegri and Oteri, a Vietnam War veteran, have kept the parade afloat in years when the town couldn't do it, said Michael Kelly, co-chairman of the Fourth of July Coalition.

A large contingent of veterans will be right behind the grand marshals, said coalition secretary Warren Revell.

The parade, whose theme is "Celebrate Franklin," will start at 1 p.m. at the intersection of Cross Street and Milliken Avenue on Sunday.

Read the full article in the Milford Daily News here

For additional information on 4th of July visit the new website

"great for sharing ideas with fellow educators"

By Heather McCarron/Daily News staff

GHS

Posted Jun 27, 2009 @ 11:53 PM

---

FRANKLIN —

If Jim Schliefke ever had the chance to go to space, he'd jump at the chance.

"I'd definitely go," he said this week , affirming the declaration with a nod.

It was a courageous statement coming from someone who, just the week before, had crash-landed the space shuttle in water.

But then, it was only his first landing, clarified the nine-year Horace Mann Middle School science teacher as he sat in his classroom recalling the incident - and nobody was hurt.

It was all part of a simulation, with Schliefke cast as space shuttle pilot, at the Space Academy for Educators, a program offered at Space Camp.

The Franklin resident was among 16 educators from around the globe who spent a week in astronaut-style training, and discovering new ways to inspire their students.

Read the full article about Space Camp in the Milford Daily News

The article announcing Jim Schliefke's trip can be found here

"encouraged residents to conserve water"

By Lindsay Corcoran, Daily News Correspondent

GHS

Posted Jun 27, 2009 @ 11:36 PM

---

After weeks of rainy weather, many residents may wonder why their towns are instituting water bans.

Franklin, Hudson, Ashland, Holliston, Hopkinton, Medway, Wayland and Southborough have all implemented bans on outdoor water usage for various reasons.

A reason for many of the bans is a requirement by the Department of Environmental Protection, which oversees public water supply use in Massachusetts, that towns with public water systems maintain certain usage limits.

"If (the town) has a permit from us, they are going to be doing some kind of restriction year in and year out," said Duane LeVangie, chief of the DEP's Water Management Program.

....

Franklin gets its water from 12 wells and implements a water ban every year, usually from Memorial Day to Labor Day, with an option to extend the ban if supplies are low.

"We have every intention of lifting the ban on time this year," said Robert Cantoreggi, Franklin's director of public works. "All of the (rain) this year is helping a lot."

Read the full article in the Milford Daily News

Looking for your help

Train depot building gone

Additional photos from my phone camera (hence lesser quality).

The empty concrete platform



Breaking up the concrete platform



Repeating questions from yesterday's post:

Does anyone know when this building was last in operation?

Did anyone have relatives who worked there loading freight to/from the trains?

Franklin 4th of July celebration schedule

Sent to you by Steve Sherlock via Google Reader:

Franklin 4th of July celebration schedule

via Wicked Local Franklin News RSS by GateHouse Media, Inc. on 6/25/09

The town's 4th of July Celebration Committee is gearing up for the town's annual Independence Day festivities on the town common, which begin next Wednesday and run through July 5. Below find the schedule of events.

Wednesday July 1

6-10 p.m.: Booths (optional) and rides open; Okey Dokey DJ.

Thursday July 2

6-10 p.m.: Booths and rides open (no children's entertainment)

7-1o p.m.: Local youth bands

10 p.m.: Fireworks at Franklin High School, Oak Street (Rain date: Monday, July 6)

Friday July 3

10 a.m.-10 p.m.: Everything Open

10 a.m.: Children's parade at town common

11 a.m.-7 p.m.: Children's activities

12-2 p.m.: Okey Dokey DJ

2-5 p.m.: Random Play

5:30-6:30 p.m.: Okey Dokey DJ

7-10 p.m.: Digger Dawg

Saturday July 4

Children's Day

9 a.m.: Road race registration

10 a.m.-10 p.m.: Everything open

10 a.m.: Children's road race

11 a.m.: Adult road race

11 a.m.-7 p.m.: Children's activities

12-12:45 p.m.: Jamie Barrett performs

12:45-2 p.m.: Okey Dokey DJ

2-4 p.m.: Franklin Idol under 14

4-6:30 p.m.: Franklin Idol 15 and up

7-10 p.m.: Corvairs

Sunday July 5

1-7 p.m.: Everything open

1- 2:30 p.m.: Parade

3-7 p.m.: Children's activities

3-5 p.m.: Interfaith music concert

6 p.m.: Franklin Idol winners announced

7 p.m.: Closing ceremonies (Raffle drawings and lowering of flag)

CHILDREN'S ACTIVITIES

Friday July 3: Children's parade at 10 a.m., Parrot Lady at 11 a.m., Lunch with Elmo at 12 p.m., SpongeBob Craft at 1 p.m., Cinderella Story at 2 p.m., Photo with Elmo at 3 p.m., Creature Teachers from 4-7 p.m.

Saturday July 4: Children's road race at 10 a.m., Photo with SpongeBob at 11 a.m., Lunch with Cinderella at 12 p.m., Story with Elmo at 1 p.m., Franklin Idol (under 14) 2-4 p.m.; Princess Photos, 4 p.m., Dinner with Super Heroes, 5 p.m., Snow White Story, 6 p.m.

Sunday July 5: Parade, 1-2:30 p.m., Regal Reptile from 3-5 p.m., Super Hero Phohtos at 5 p.m., Snow White Craft at 6 p.m., Franklin Idol winners announced at 6 p.m.

Things you can do from here:

• Subscribe to Wicked Local Franklin News RSS using Google Reader
• Get started using Google Reader to easily keep up with all your favorite sites

Franklin: train depot eye sore no more

Franklin: train depot eye sore no more, originally uploaded by shersteve.

The old and falling apart railroad building next to the Agway on Cottage Street near the corner of Union is no longer.

The demolition crew was working on breaking up the concrete foundation on Friday. What remained of the red painted boards were in some large dumpsters waiting to be trucked away.

I have an interest in the old days and particularly in the way things were done. I managed to work in a steel mill in RI for a couple of summers between college before the mill closed.

Does anyone know when this building was last in operation?

Did anyone have relatives who worked there loading freight to/from the trains?

"designed to give them experience"

By Nick O'Malley/Daily News correspondent

Milford Daily News

Posted Jun 26, 2009 @ 10:55 PM

Last update Jun 26, 2009 @ 11:43 PM

---

FRANKLIN —

In response to the deflating summer job market for teenagers, the Bernon Family Branch YCMA is starting a new training program to help teens become more marketable.

The Teen Corps volunteer workplace skills program will train teenagers who had planned to get jobs this summer, but who have been unable since many companies have stopped hiring - particularly inexperienced teens for summer-only work, according to the program's coordinator, Christina Puleo.

"We put this program together in response to the lack of jobs in the area for teens," Puleo said. "I actually have had a couple of parents that have called me that planned for their children to get jobs and they've said many of those jobs have gone to adults."

Read the full article about this youth program in the Milford Daily News here

Commuter rail seeks customer feedback

In an effort to be more responsive to customers, the Massachusetts Bay Commuter Railroad today introduced a program to solicit feedback from customers and to better inform management on all areas of performance including fare collection, cleanliness and on-time performance.

In a press release, Richard A. Davey, general manager of the commuter railroad, said, "It is critical that we hear from customers about our performance and that we remain accountable through providing accessible performance statistics are to riders.

"By putting our on-time performance on the internet and in stations, we will ensure riders have every opportunity to know about our efforts to provide safe and reliable commuter rail service."

The commuter rail company is asking customers to grade performance, by signing up to take part in a week-long electronic survey about the service they have experienced on their train. Customers completing this survey will be entered into a drawing to win a free monthly pass. As part of its customer information efforts, the company will post monthly on-time performance numbers online at www.mbcr.net and at South, Back Bay and North stations.

This is the latest MBCR effort to better understand the service their customers receive and to provide customers with easily accessible performance records for all commuter rail trains operated by MBCR on behalf of the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA), Davey said.

The program is part of MBCR's ongoing effort to raise awareness of the company's goal to achieve at least 95 percent on-time average performance throughout the system and to improve the traveling experience.

MBCR operates and maintains the fifth largest commuter rail network in the United States under a contract with the MBTA. MBCR provides service to 40 million passengers a year in nearly 80 cities and towns in Massachusetts, as well as Providence, R.I.

This was originally posted on the Franklin/Wicked Local Gazette

My 2 cents: If the MBCR/MBTA really wants to listen to the riders, all they need to do is pay attention to what the riders are already saying on their blogs or in Facebook, Twitter, etc. about the performance. Even Clever Commute is a better peer-based information delivery system on what is hapening with the schedule than the current T-Alerts.

Cafe Dolce offers catering

Cafe Dolce, the new coffee shop in downtown Franklin is expanding into catering. Open since April, Cafe Dolce has established a good morning and lunch business. After 3:00 PM, things tend to get quieter. Catering is one way to leverage the business operation that owners BJ Carlucci and Dave Purpura are exploring. They have promoted Lisa Hall to Director of Catering to focus on this effort.

Lisa has a good background in catering and event planning. She started her first operation (Little Feast Catering and Events) as a part-time effort and grew the business to a full time profitable operation. She operated in New York City beginning in 1991 and then in Burlington, VT. She relocated to Holliston early this year, where she answered a Craigslist ad for Cafe Dolce. Her email response lead to an interview and to being hired. Lisa was behind the counter when Cafe Dolce opened.

Lisa and I sat down at Cafe Dolce recently to review her plans. A meeting, event, or party for 10 or more is what Lisa will look to help you with. She is looking to use the sandwiches and salads that Cafe Dolce offers as the starting point. The customized menu would include food for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It can be extended as far and wide (within reason) as necessary to create a great experience.

She wants to make the presentation appropriate for a catered event by serving in fine crafted wicker baskets in addition to trays. Call Lisa and she will work out the menu together with you. What is the occasion? How many people? What special dietary requirements are there?

Lisa hesitates to provide per item pricing for catering. “Say you have had the Cranberry Turkey Breast Panini and wanted to serve that at your event. You don't need to order 10 individual paninis for the group. I prefer to price for the total quantity of the food provided rather than by the piece. This method will work out better for you in the long run,” she explains. There is a formula to determine how much food per person would be required adjusting to cover portions for any kids.

When asked who she considers her competition, Lisa answered that, “I really don't worry about the competition. We are here to provide the distinct Cafe Dolce difference. Good food, pleasant presentation, priced to meet your needs.”

The catering package can either be delivered or picked up. Depending upon the type of drop off, or drop-off/setup, there may be a delivery charge included. You could also rent the space at Cafe Dolce to hold your event.

When your next catering event comes up, consider contacting Lisa Hall, Director of Catering at 774-571-1805 or via email at dolce dot catering at live dot com.


Note: Cafe Dolce is also exploring social media tools to spread the word on what they do and to help communicate with their customers and fans. You can join Cafe Dolce on Facebook here


Prior writing about Cafe Dolce:

1. My talk with BJ and Dave prior to opening
2. My write up about the opening
3. Picture slide show from the grand opening

"It's all about information"

By Joyce Kelly/Daily News staff

Milford Daily News

Posted Jun 25, 2009 @ 11:54 PM

---

FRANKLIN —

Bent on getting their message out regarding the town's precarious finances, the long-range financial planning committee is considering hitting the streets to personally deliver their report to residents.

Hand-delivering the report instead of mailing it would also act as a symbolic gesture, showing how the town is willing to go the extra mile to save money, Doug Hardesty, the group's vice chairman, said at a committee meeting last night.

Getting the 34-page report to every resident should be a top priority, said Councilor Stephen Whalen, a member of the committee.

Among other topics, the report analyzes Franklin's recurring fiscal deficit and a few starting points for fixing the problem.

Next year, the town is looking at a $6 million deficit, Whalen said.

Read the full article about the Financial Planning Committee meeting in the Milford Daily News here.

"go after cars that are unlocked"

By Joyce Kelly/Daily News staff

Milford Daily News

Posted Jun 25, 2009 @ 12:43 AM

Last update Jun 25, 2009 @ 12:58 AM

---

When the economy goes south, thieves come out - or the desperation that lures otherwise law-abiding people to crime, area police say.

Franklin Deputy Police Chief Stephan Semerjian believes the upswing in car break-ins this year can be attributed, at least in part, to the recession.

Since March, Franklin neighborhoods have been hit with batches of car break-ins and vandalism, with dozens of residents reporting thefts or attempted thefts for the past three weekends, he said.

"Kids probably have less to do, and want more and they don't have the funds, so this is what they do," Semerjian said.

Read the full article about car break-ins in the Milford Daily News here

"We need to let parents know, nothing is a done deal yet"

By Joyce Kelly/Daily News staff

Milford Daily News

Posted Jun 24, 2009 @ 12:28 AM

---

FRANKLIN —

The school district will rehire 21 to 23 teachers who received pink slips this spring, said Assistant Superintendent Maureen Sabolinski, but another 40 jobs are still in limbo.

School leaders had been hoping to bring back more of the 60 educators who received notice of possibly being laid off this fall, but the state Legislature's budget threw a monkey wrench in that plan, said School Committee Chairman Jeffrey Roy.

Roy said the state has cut Franklin's Chapter 70 school aid by 2 percent, or by $574,000, and its stimulus funds by $219,000.

And on Monday, Sabolinski learned that the town's circuit breaker reimbursement is going to be reduced by $275,000, for a total loss of nearly $1.1 million, Roy said. Circuit breaker money is for extraordinary special education expenses.

School Committee member Cora Armenio said she is frustrated that information regarding local aid "is changing hourly."

Read the full article in the Milford Daily News here

Read all the live reporting from the School Committee meeting here

"It's really the Medway-Franklin library"

By Joyce Kelly/Daily News staff

Milford Daily News

Posted Jun 23, 2009 @ 08:30 PM

---

MEDWAY —

Franklin's library director will take on a second directorship at Medway Public Library next month, the first step in regionalization efforts between the two towns, said Selectman Dennis Crowley.

In three separate votes, Medway Town Meeting opted to appropriate money for its library, to hire Franklin Public Library Director Felicia Oti as Medway's library director, and regionalization costs, Crowley said.

The separate votes were intended to protect funding for the library, in case the town voted down regionalization, he said.

Oti will work 16 hours per week for Medway, and her duties are still to be determined, Crowley said, "but she will be the library director for the town of Medway."

"This really is all about regionalization. Cities and towns can't continue, with taxes (as they are), to be the lone wolf any longer. We need to find a way to cut overhead," Crowley said.

read the full article on the regionalization effort for the library in the Milford Daily News

We were the first public library in the USA, we might as well be the first regional library in MA.

School Committee Mtg 06/23/09

This is the collection of live reporting from the School Committee meeting held on Tuesday, June 23, 2009.

• Live reporting - Closing
• Live reporting - Superintendent update
• Live reporting - action items
• Live reporting - Audit actions, budget, FY 10
• Live reporting - Community Health Council update
• Live reporting - Presentations
• Live reporting - School Committee Meeting

Live reporting - Closing

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

Cafasso - compliments to the Teachers union for accepting the sacrifice, to the negotiating committees for working out the deal. Now that that has been completed there are somethings that have been on my mind. The School District is under intense stress about time, no less responsibilities. Tried to avoid reductions in staff but haven't been able to. It is all about time, the teachers are seeking what they need, the principals are seeking to fulfill their needs. I urge the Administration and the Committee to make an interested based, collaborative discussion to discuss budget savings, to see what can be done. Pursue an interest based problems to resolve rather than looking to strike certain language. There has been a lot of rhetoric. We need to change our mindset to come around to the new reality.

One thing I found upsetting were the personal attacks on the Committee Chair. I will not put up with these. Jeff ROy has done more for this committee, this district than anyone. For people to hide behind their anonymous comments in chat rooms and blogs, I do not approve it.

Roy - a note of thanks from Patrick Slight
Trahan - we got personal notes from Brittany McLeod

Sabolinski - thank you, this is our last meeting for the school year, thankyou for all you do for the kids and the community.

7. Executive Session
Contractual Negotiations - motion to enter, not to return to public session
approved 6-0

Live reporting - Superintendent update

Superintendent’s Report

• MSBA - letters provided to Town Administrator, Building Committee has been established, feasibility study to be funded by Town Council, project manager to be on the approved listing from the State, if we go a different way it would need to be justified
  
• Stimulus Money - were counting on $448,000 now down to 218,000; may not comeback as the foundation money total had been reduced and the stimulus money was to help bring us to the foundation level
  
• Special Education - Supreme court case on Special Ed funding is interesting and troubling
  

Live reporting - action items

4. Action Items

1. I recommend acceptance of three checks from the Remington PCC totaling $376.76 for field trips as detailed. motion to accept, approved 6-0
   
2. I recommend acceptance of the donation of the installation of a flagpole from the 5th grade students for the Parmenter Elementary School. motion to accept, approved 6-0
3. I recommend acceptance of a check for $800.00 from the ASMS PCC for buses for an 8th grade field trip. motion to accept, approved 5-0, 1 abstention (Rhorbach)
   
4. I recommend adoption of the Town-School Agreement as detailed. motion to accept, approved 6-0
5. I recommend acceptance of a Japanese Maple Tree from the FHS Young Democrats Club. motion to accept, approved 6-0
6. I recommend approval of Budget Transfers as detailed. motion to accept, approved 6-0

Live reporting - Audit actions, budget, FY 10

3. Discussion Only Items

• Town – School Agreement
• Budget to Actual
• FY10 Budget

Notes on #1

Goodman - review of the agreement between the Town and School to formalize and eliminate the forensic audit recommendation.

For example; custodial expenses by the Town for the schools behalf have been formalized to be charged appropriately. The Technology staff is paid initially by the Schools and charged across to the Town. Both sides should be reviewing this agreement on an annual basis.

The end of year report will be used to calculate the "net school spending" amount that the State uses to track how well we are doing. As referenced during the budget discussions, this amount is getting close to the State minimum required level.

Rohrbach - where does the Charter School fit in?
Goodman - it is a factor on the Town side for the "net school spending" calculation. Let me get a better analysis of how it fits. It is a pass through charge that we don't control.

Sabolinski - we think this is a fair representation of the operations and shared expenses between the Town and Schools.

Cafasso - You're coming up on a year?
Goodman - just over a year, we have a good healthy working relationship and I look to see it maintained.
Cafasso - Thank you, I feel more comfortable with the finances you have presented this past year.

Rohrbach - it is great to have this down and documented, it will be a good reference for future.

#3 - State level updates
Chapter 70 cut 2%
Stimulus funds were also cut
Town needs to determine how to split/absorb the cuts between the Town and Schools
Circuit breaker reduced from 60% to around 38-42% that's another $274,000 cut
Since these numbers are still fluid, the budget sub-committee needs to continue to review and await some unanswered questions before making final decisions

Cafasso - we need to see a kind of menu of items and associated dollars that could be considered.

Roy - with the Teachers agreement we were getting down to about 500,000

Sabolinski - it looks like we can add back about 23 positions based upon money that is confirmed and not changing.

Sherlock - I am a little confused. Is the 800,000 shortage Jeff Nutting had referenced now closer to the 1.1 million just discussed, or if this was in addition to the 800,000. If I understand it correctly, it is now closer to a 1.1 million short fall to the total Franklin budget. It remains to be see how it gets split between the Town and Schools.

Roy - good point, there were 60 notified, based on the numbers this far, approx 23 may be able to be returned leaving still 40-plus would be lost positions

My explanation added after the meeting: The School Committee and Administration were talking of adding teachers back based upon the consideration that 60 had been notified and were being cut. I had been working from a difference reference point. So if the School Committee had gotten their piece of the budget shortfall reduced to about 500,000 and the Town now needs to split the 1.1 million (up from the 800,000 previously discussed), then the School side could end up with another 550,000 to look to adjust the budget to cover. Coincidentally, that works out to be about 1 million to cover which could mean those teachers (that Sabolinski mentioned) aren't coming back. With such a fluid situation, all I can say is stay tuned in.

Armenio - parents should plan on program fees could still be increased and additional programs could still be cut until we have that final number.

Trahan - I agree we should keep things open until we have a final number, they should stay tuned.

Live reporting - Community Health Council update

Community Health Council Update – Michele Kingsland-Smith

Community Health Council: Year In Review 2009

View more OpenOffice presentations from Steve Sherlock.

Here is the summary report that Michele referenced as providing to the School Committee:

Discover Simple, Private Sharing at Drop.io

#

Live reporting - Presentations

2. Guests/Presentations

• Sam Scoba – Chosen All-American by the USLA (United States Lacrosse Association) and Hockomock League MVP
  
  
  
  
• Plaque for Senior Project – Sascha B. Werner

Live reporting - School Committee Meeting

Attending: Armenio, Cafasso, Kelly, Roy, Rohrbach, Trahan
Missing: Mullen


1. Routine Business

• Citizen’s Comments - none
  
• Review of Agenda
• Minutes: I recommend approval of the minutes from the June 9, 2009 School Committee Meeting. approved 6-0
  
• Payment of Bills - Mr. Kelly
• Payroll - Ms. Armenio
  
• FHS Student Representatives - none
  
• Correspondence: Letter from FSC to Mr. Peter Light

This needs a caption

are these

Secret burial pods?

What would you say?

This needs a caption: Secret burial pods? or?, originally uploaded by shersteve.