Sunday, January 17, 2010
Franklin, MA: Department of Public Works (part 1)
The Department of Public Works (DPW) provides a wide range of services to the residents of
Franklin. It is organized into eight (8) divisions:
1. Administration
2. Engineering
3. Highway (including Highway Maintenance and Construction, Central Motors, Snow
and Ice Control)
4. Park and Grounds (Parks; School Grounds Maintenance and Forestry/Insect Control)
5. Water (including ground water withdrawals, water treatment and distribution)
6. Sewer
7. Solid Waste and Recycling (including the operation of the Beaver St. Station)
8. Street Lighting
ADMINISTRATIVE DIVISION
The major functions of the Administrative Division include developing capital projects, long range planning, intergovernmental relations and compliance, grant writing, processing various private construction permits, drain layer licenses, DPW- purchasing, budgeting, accounting and payroll, and water/sewer/trash billing, sprinkler/hydrant billing and cross connection billing.
Capital Projects
The Administrative Division in conjunction with Engineering and the operating divisions develop major capital projects.
Design, permitting, bidding of I-495 Exit 16 Interchange has been completed.
Construction at this sight will commence fall 2009.
An extensive interview process was held and the engineering firm, Weston and Sampson was selected to work with the Town for the improved design of the Downtown area. Options and ideas are being considered to make the “Triangle” area more pedestrian and business friendly. Considerations include providing two-way traffic on route 140 again, underground utilities, period lighting, planters, sidewalk and cross brickwork, curbing and parking improvements and an improved transition with Dean College. The Town is still waiting for Funds to be released for this project. It is anticipated that “Survey work” will commence in fall 2009. Design work continued on Pleasant and Lincoln Streets, and survey work was undertaken on Grove Street.
The DPW continues to initiate, forecast, design, plan, fund and permit long-range projects with construction phased in over the next three to four years. Progress on specific capital construction projects is outlined in the respective Divisions’ portion of this report.
It is important to note, that many of these projects are preformed “in-house” without “bidding out” complete projects to “outside contractors”. To plan, design, permit, and construct these projects “in-house” is a very arduous and requires a lot of coordination and cooperation between each DPW Division and other Municipal Departments. By doing many of these projects this way, the Public Works Department is able to save substantial amounts of money that can be used on other capital improvement projects.
Operational
The DPW was slightly re-organized last year. With the Public Works being tasked with the additional responsibility of maintaining all outside areas of school buildings and associated fields, a “Park and Grounds” division was created in D.P.W. All though no new employees were hired, it was felt to improve and standardize conditions of Town properties, one division and manager should be responsible. The new Park and Grounds Division is responsible for the outside maintenance of all Town of Franklin buildings whether a School, the Town Municipal Building, water stations, parks, etc.
Grant Writing
The Town received a $130K grant for Storm Water Improvements and a $5K grant for recycling programs. Much of the credit for the Town’s success in obtaining highway funding and other grants goes to the Town’s legislative delegation, including Rep. Jim Vallee, Sen. Scott Brown, Sen. Karen Spilka and Congressmen James McGovern.
Permits and Long Range Planning
The Town successfully was able to mitigate a Water Management Act Permit with Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (D.E.P.) that covers “Permitted” water use. This permit governs how much water the Town can use annually. D.E.P. had proposed radical changes without recognizing all the work and monies that the Town has spent in the past to improve the infrastructure of the distribution system. The State has also failed to recognize the significant past and future growth of the Town and the conservation efforts of all the residents of the Town of Franklin particularly during the summer months. The Town of Franklin submitted a more realistic permit plan and was able to negotiate a solution that recognized the Town of Franklin as a leader in water conservation that meets the future growth needs of Franklin. The Town of Franklin continues to take a lead and work with other area Towns to insure that the region’s water supplies are protected.
The Town of Franklin continues to follow and implement the new “Phase II” Storm Water Permits as required by the E.P.A. Phase II required the Town to highly regulate and monitor storm water throughout the Town. The Department will continue to refine and improve adopted regulation to continue to improve the Storm Water in Franklin.
Long range planning is critical in the area of Public Works and must be accomplished consistently in order to ensure that the Town’s water, sewer and roads can support the needs of our residents. The Town’s Master Plan, the 1993 Water Distribution System Study, Sewer System Evaluation Study and the Sewer System Master Plan studies are important sources of planning information, which are utilized to support this planning effort. In October 2001, Tata & Howard of Westborough completed the distribution system update to the 1993 Water Master Plan. This identified approximately $40M in water system needs. The ‘20/20’ plan allows the Town to address the most critical of these needs.
Even though the Town of Franklin presently has a long-term trash disposal contract with Wheelabrator Corporation in Millbury The DPW continues to “look outside the box” to improve town wide recycling and collection procedures. The Town is in the process of negotiating a new long-term trash-hauling contract with various contractors. All options are being considered for collection, including “pay as you throw”, single stream, automation and any combination of them. We continue to work with the School Department and the Recycling Committee to reduce the amount of tonnage into the “Waste Stream” and increase recycling.
The DPW continues to work with both D.E.P. and the Massachusetts Department of Recreation and Conservation to facilitate the final closing and capping of the Beaver Street Landfill Site.
Hails and Farewells
The Department was fortunate to add the following people to its staff last year: Mr. Carlos Rebelo as the new Park and Grounds Superintendent, Mr. Alan Tetreault to the Highway Department. Mr. Robert Costanza, Mr. John Bedoya, Ms. Ann Durham and Mr. Philip Vondras transferred from the School department into the new Parks Division. Ms. Valerie Carrachino joined the office staff.
With gains, there are always losses. The greatest loss of the Department was the retirement of Mr. Phillip Brunelli as the Superintendent of Highway Department. Phil had a long career with the Department and moved up the ranks to “Superintendent”. Above all, Phil was a great “Snow Boss”. During the winter months, the roads in Franklin were always safest and best around with Phil running the snow program. Ms. Denise Zambrowski, the Town’s Environmental Affairs Coordinator, left for job opportunity in the “Private Sector”. Ms. Yvonne Tran was laid off as a result of budget cuts.
Thanks
As the Director, I as always owe many thanks to my staff that make this whole department work and serve all residents in a timely manner. Everyone is committed to providing extraordinary service to the Town in the most cost-effective manner possible. The Town Engineer Mr. William Yadisernia, Office Manager Mrs. Paula Lombardi, Deputy Director of Operations Mr. Anthony Mucciarone, Water and Sewer Superintendent Mr. Alfred Boone, Highway Superintendent Mr. Kenneth Gormley, Park and Grounds Superintendent Carlos Rebelo, G.I.S. Coordinator Mr. James Esterbrook and Engineering Aid Mr. Warren Groth are all dedicated professionals that put in so much extra time and effort to make this Department a success. The Town and I are very fortunate to have such talented individuals to work with. I would also like to thank Linda Feeley, Paula Juarez, Sandy Wedge, Faith Flaherty and Valerie Carrachino who support the Administration Division. These individuals respond quickly and with courtesy to hundreds of requests for assistance and information throughout the year.
I would especially like to thank the “Crew” and the mechanics that work out of the D.P.W. garage. These are the ladies and gentlemen that are not always seen but provide the day-to-day services that are taken for granted. They pump, treat and deliver safe drinking water, they care for parks and ball fields, and they maintain the roadways, repair and sustain not only Public Work’s vehicles but also all Town owned vehicles and handle all our wastes. They are always available, day and night, working long hours to assist in any emergency situation whether it is snow removal, water breaks, sewer backups, wind/electric storms, flooding, etc. They are all extremely professional and dedicated to their jobs; I cannot thank them enough.
Respectfully submitted,
Robert A. Cantoreggi II
Director of Public Works
Paula M. Lombardi
Office Manager
From the 2009 Town of Franklin Annual Report. This is available in a printed version at the Municipal Building or online at the Town website here. Additional departments of the DPW will be reproduced here soon.
You can visit the DPW pages on the Town website here
http://franklinma.virtualtownhall.net/Pages/FranklinMA_DPW/index
Franklin, MA: Franklin Public Library
Committed to Excellence in Customer Service
Community Vision Statement
Franklin strives to create a welcoming community:
Alive with a sense of neighborhood
Committed to the delivery of the highest quality education and lifelong learning opportunities
With a desire to maintain the welcoming character of a New England town and a vibrant downtown center
Where all residents can find convenient access to strong municipal services and enjoy a sense of security and physical safety
Where the professional and business community can find support and growth
Where residents accept and value their diversity and work collectively to enhance the well being of the community and
The library is regarded as the place for innovation, entertainment and information.
We value:
Customer service excellence
The people we serve, their opinions, capabilities, needs and interests
Freedom of expression and the free flow of ideas
Equitable access to library resources and services
Creative solutions and innovation
Our proud history and rich heritage
Our skilled and knowledgeable staff
Note: This was written in mid-year 2009. The work on the exterior of the library building was completed. Work on the interior will be on the capital funds listing awaiting priority.Building on Solid Accomplishments
Through strategic planning, targeted service delivery, enhanced technology, productive staff and collaborations with other Town departments, the Franklin Public Library has accomplished large and small improvements in both external and internal operations in the past and current fiscal years. This report is sprinkled with a few of the countless positive comments we receive from a very grateful public. Our customers are many and varied in their needs. They comprise the very young, seniors and many in-betweens. Some come in daily to read the newspapers and magazines, while others come for computing, access to the Internet and electronic databases, quiet study, participate in book discussions, instruction, attend programs, place requests or check items from a vast collection of over 99,000 books, audio books, books on CDs, music CDs, DVDs, games and etc. They also appreciate the fact that they can obtain items from other libraries in a timely manner. In FY09 Franklin residents borrowed 4000 items from other libraries. The positive effect on the many that use library resources and services can better be summed in the words of one satisfied customer “I would be orphaned without this Library.”
Work on securing the building envelope is almost complete. The Town’s Facilities Department was very instrumental in this regard. The installation of security cameras and security access points now provides patrons with a greater sense of security. Entrances are welcoming. Interior spaces are warm, inviting and comfortable with many designated quiet spaces and collaboration areas for groups that are not necessary quiet. Many of our customers are very pleased and have enormous praise for the two contrasting yet complementary environments. An environment with accommodation for all: quiet havens and learning spaces for people who just sit and think or do computing, read a book, or magazine, or newspaper, or write. There are areas for active engagement with others such as studying in groups, conversation groups, instruction sessions and much more.
The Friends of the Franklin Library has been instrumental in updating and upgrading the appearance of the Library with classic furnishings and ergonomic workstations. While we wait for phase two of the renovation project, small steps to restore the original splendor of 1904 are underway.
We have replaced the oblong tables in the reference room with round mahogany ones and the tall shelving blocking the view of the murals with much lower shelves. This has changed the feel of the reference room, created more space for the entire magazine/ newspaper section and added to the grandeur of the lobby. Additionally, round tables are more conducive to group study. The Library patrons are genuinely thankful for our vast collections, responsive services and the comfortable surroundings. This description by a patron of the new magazine area by the fireplace reflects the general mood. “I have always appreciated your collection of magazines but this new setting is so relaxed. It makes you want to kick your shoes off and just stay in the library forever”.
Usage
13,416 reference questions were answered by librarians at the Reference and circulation desks. Customers made 213,781 visits to the Library. The Library filled 43,314 Interlibrary Loan request.
Circulation Statistics
The Library continued to experience extraordinary increases in use. Library stats, usually considered a key indicator of success are a fitting tribute to an exceptional and hardworking staff. They paint a glowing picture of our overall performance and point to a thriving, vibrant and relevant public institution. Big jumps in circulation, 12%, were the norm in the last fiscal year. From July – November of 2008, circulation rose again another 21% putting the Library on the top 10 increases in circulation in the State, on the front page of the Boston Globe (January 4th) and also on the front page of the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners newsletter.
From the 2009 Town of Franklin Annual Report. This is available in a printed version at the Municipal Building or online at the Town website here.The Future
Once again, the Library faces an uncertain future. The library staff is committed to maintaining fundamental library services. However, significant cuts of the Library’s budget unravel much of what has been accomplished in the last five years. America’s Star Libraries have one common denominator – secured funding. Dedicated library funding translates into a better collection, more computers, more public programs, and more hours open, all of which contribute to outstanding public library service.
The Library website can be found within the Town website here
http://franklinma.virtualtownhall.net/Pages/FranklinMA_Library/index
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Survey says "Keep plowing"
The recent poll question closed Friday night with the following results:
Should the Town consider saving money by plowing the streets less well than they currently do?
Yes - 5
No - 14
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These results will be added to the results of the prior polls conducted here.If you have a suggestion for a poll, please let me know.
School Dept fiscal review comes out clean and with praise (updated)
Based upon feedback from School Committee Chair Jeff Roy, the following, originally published on Thursday Jan 14th, has been updated.
It was not too long ago, it seemed like every time you turned around, something or someone was chipping away at the block of trust that citizens had in Franklin's government. The low point probably occurred just before Thanksgiving 2007. The School Committee released information that irregularities in the School budget had been discovered by the Town Comptroller. This appeared to be a "classic release bad news before the holiday move". However, this was not a story to be buried. This was the most serious of several incidents that had residents of Franklin questioning who they could trust. The January 9 2008 Town Council meeting was actually a joint one as the Town Council sat along with the School Committee to hear the auditors present the details of their findings.
It was not too long ago, it seemed like every time you turned around, something or someone was chipping away at the block of trust that citizens had in Franklin's government. The low point probably occurred just before Thanksgiving 2007. The School Committee released information that irregularities in the School budget had been discovered by the Town Comptroller. This appeared to be a "classic release bad news before the holiday move". However, this was not a story to be buried. This was the most serious of several incidents that had residents of Franklin questioning who they could trust. The January 9 2008 Town Council meeting was actually a joint one as the Town Council sat along with the School Committee to hear the auditors present the details of their findings.
Sorry to have brought the bad news back up but I want to put this real good news in the proper perspective. The Town (including the Schools) budget has been audited since then by the Town's regular auditors and the results have come up clean. Policy and procedures have been revised and implemented to improve the financial operations with appropriate checks and balances. The "trust" issue from a budget perspective should have been put to rest.
If someone was still looking for another source to confirm the Town auditor's findings, I think we have one. The School Department was recently the subject of a "fiscal review" by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) and received praise for their operations.
If someone was still looking for another source to confirm the Town auditor's findings, I think we have one. The School Department was recently the subject of a "fiscal review" by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) and received praise for their operations.
The Franklin Public School has done well in maintaining a comprehensive system of written internal policies and procedures relative to its operations of the School Business office. Implementation of a comprehensive system of internal controls ensures that funds are expended in compliance with state and federal regulations and are used for the intended purposes of the grant.
Franklin Public Schools has a number of best practices being performed. Management and other department personnel should be commended for not holding credit cards in the name of Franklin Public Schools.
Additionally, the school district does not have an administrative petty cash fund, while most districts find this a necessity; Franklin Public Schools has done well in eliminating this potentially risky practice.
The credit for this commendation goes to the work of Miriam Goodman who came into this role specifically to address the problems and create good practices. Kudos to the School Committee for the hiring process that resulted in approval of Miriam for Business Administrator.
Miriam has done great work, she shows integrity in her work and the Town is better off for it.
Thank you Miriam!
The full text of the letter is shown below:
Note: email subscribers will need to click through to the web site to read the document.
Friday, January 15, 2010
Watertown Multi-Use Path Construction Set
This should be of interest to Franklin area walking enthusiasts, in particular the Franklin Citizens Rail Trail Committee:
Governor Deval Patrick today announced construction of a multi-use path and intersection improvements in Watertown will move forward this spring.
The Charles River/Alewife Connector project in Watertown will construct a multi-use path along an abandoned rail corridor, left, from School Street to the Arlington Street intersection at Nichols Avenue, Coolidge Hill Road and Crawford Street, with a spur connecting the new path to Arsenal Street across from the Watertown Mall parking lot.
The $847,000 project will include removal of existing railroad rails and ties followed by construction of a ten-foot wide asphalt path with grass shoulders over a distance of approximately two-thirds of a mile.
In addition, a $1.4 million project approved in late December will resurface the intersections of Spring and Summer, Mount Auburn and Summer, and Arlington and Nichols at the eastern limit of the new multi-use path, including new traffic sensing devices and more accessible sidewalks with wheelchair ramps.
Sent to you by Steve Sherlock via Google Reader:
via Commonwealth Conversations: Transportation by Klark Jessen on 1/15/10
Governor Deval Patrick today announced construction of a multi-use path and intersection improvements in Watertown will move forward this spring.The Charles River/Alewife Connector project in Watertown will construct a multi-use path along an abandoned rail corridor, left, from School Street to the Arlington Street intersection at Nichols Avenue, Coolidge Hill Road and Crawford Street, with a spur connecting the new path to Arsenal Street across from the Watertown Mall parking lot.
The $847,000 project will include removal of existing railroad rails and ties followed by construction of a ten-foot wide asphalt path with grass shoulders over a distance of approximately two-thirds of a mile.
In addition, a $1.4 million project approved in late December will resurface the intersections of Spring and Summer, Mount Auburn and Summer, and Arlington and Nichols at the eastern limit of the new multi-use path, including new traffic sensing devices and more accessible sidewalks with wheelchair ramps.
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In the News - two connections with Haiti
Recent candidate for Board of Health, Koren Kanadanian, is on his way to Haiti
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Communications with four members New England Chapel which operates in Franklin have been confirmed.
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Franklin man rushes to the rescue
from The Milford Daily News News RSS------
Communications with four members New England Chapel which operates in Franklin have been confirmed.
Hearing from loved ones in Haiti
from The Milford Daily News News RSS------
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Audit comes out clean and with praise
The text of this posted was updated and replaced by the text here:
http://franklinmatters.blogspot.com/2010/01/school-dept-fiscal-review-comes-out.html
http://franklinmatters.blogspot.com/2010/01/school-dept-fiscal-review-comes-out.html
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
School Committee Mtg 01/12/10
The collection of live reporting from the School Committee meeting of Jan 12, 2010 can be found here. The order is in reverse order of the meeting, earliest points of the meeting on the bottom of this listing, ending points of the meeting on the top.
Teen Angels pledge can be found here http://franklinmatters.blogspot.com/2010/01/teen-angels-pledge-text-think-send.html
- Live reporting - Information matters
- Live reporting - Action items
- Live reporting - Budget desires
- Live reporting - Race To The Top Program
- Live reporting - Discussion only items
- Live reporting - World Challenge
- Live reporting - Teen Angels
- Live reporting - Best Buddies
- Live reporting - Recognitions
- Live reporting - School Committee Mtg
Teenangels - Pledge "Text ... Think ... Send"
The pledge as presented at the School Committee meeting Jan 12, 2010 along with some background information on the local chapter of Teenangels can be found in this document.
TeenAngel Notes Pledge
The remainder of the Teenangels presentation was covered in this
http://franklinmatters.blogspot.com/2010/01/live-reporting-teen-angels.html
Note: email subscribers will need to click through to the Franklin Matters website to view the document.
TeenAngel Notes Pledge
The remainder of the Teenangels presentation was covered in this
http://franklinmatters.blogspot.com/2010/01/live-reporting-teen-angels.html
Note: email subscribers will need to click through to the Franklin Matters website to view the document.
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Live reporting - Information matters/Closing
5. Information Matters
Superintendent’s Report
a. Race To The Top (covered already)
b. H1N1 approx 1200 residents attended the recent clinic
c. DESE Financial Review
When the DESE visited they also did a financial audit. Miriam had only a few hours of notice. They liked the policies and procedures put into place. Thanks to Miriam for the credibility and integrity for the procedures you have put into place to make the Business office a success.
d. Snow Fallout / Sidewalks
School Committee Sub-Committee Reports
Cafasso - T Raposa gathering options on a web site solution, would be good to have as part of the budget discussions
School Committee Liaison Reports
Trahan on Community Health Council - this committee has been taking on important topics and would encourage parents to come forward and take part. Thanks to Lisa Keohane for her work with the Teen Angels.
6. New Business
To discuss future business that may be brought before the School Committee.
Trahan - April 29th - FEF Trivia Bee - themed for a focus on history
motion to move to executive session, not to return to open meeting
passed 7-0 by roll call
Superintendent’s Report
a. Race To The Top (covered already)
b. H1N1 approx 1200 residents attended the recent clinic
c. DESE Financial Review
When the DESE visited they also did a financial audit. Miriam had only a few hours of notice. They liked the policies and procedures put into place. Thanks to Miriam for the credibility and integrity for the procedures you have put into place to make the Business office a success.
d. Snow Fallout / Sidewalks
School Committee Sub-Committee Reports
Cafasso - T Raposa gathering options on a web site solution, would be good to have as part of the budget discussions
School Committee Liaison Reports
Trahan on Community Health Council - this committee has been taking on important topics and would encourage parents to come forward and take part. Thanks to Lisa Keohane for her work with the Teen Angels.
6. New Business
To discuss future business that may be brought before the School Committee.
Trahan - April 29th - FEF Trivia Bee - themed for a focus on history
motion to move to executive session, not to return to open meeting
passed 7-0 by roll call
Live reporting - Action items
4. Action Items
a. I recommend acceptance of a check for $300.85 from Barnes & Noble for the Horace Mann for In-house enrichment. motion to approve, passed 7-0
b. I recommend acceptance of the donation of 3 cameras & a Recorder/VCR valued at $2496.48 from Mr. Robert Salzberg of Resh, Inc. for the Davis Thayer Elementary School. motion to approve, passed 7-0
c. I recommend approval of the proposed trip to Peru in June/July 2011 as detailed. motion to approve, passed 6-0 (Mullen abstained)
d. I recommend adoption of Policy BIBA – School Committee Conferences, Conventions & Workshops. motion to approve, passed 7-0
e. I recommend adoption of Policy BID – School Committee Member Compensation & Expenses motion to approve, passed 7-0
f. I recommend adoption of Policy BGF –Suspension of Policies. motion to approve, passed 7-0
g. I recommend adoption of Policy DJA – Purchasing Authority. motion to approve, passed 7-0
h. I recommend acceptance of a check for $1877.32 from Lifetouch for the Remington Gift Account for supplies. motion to approve, passed 7-0
i. I recommend acceptance of a check for $250.00 from Maura Schaeffer-Tobin for the Jacqueline A Schaeffer Memorial Theatre Arts Scholarship Fund at the FHS. motion to approve, passed 7-0
j. I recommend approval of the request of Brad Sidwell for the recurring field trip for the FHS Wrestling Team Competition in Eason, PA from 1/22-23/2010 as detailed. motion to approve, passed 7-0
k. I recommend acceptance of two checks for $414.29 and $70.96 (totaling $485.25) from Follett for Library & Supplemental Curriculum Materials for the JF Kennedy Elementary School. motion to approve, passed 7-0
l. I recommend acceptance of the Best Buddies Grants as detailed. motion to approve, passed 7-0
m. I recommend acceptance of a check for $200.00 from the Franklin Democratic Town Committee for the FHS Young Democrats’ Club. motion to approve, passed 7-0
n. I recommend that Franklin not participate in the Race To The Top Program. motion to approve, passed 7-0
o. I recommend approval of the request of the HMMS Ski Club for their recurring trip to Mt. Sunapee, NH on January 23, 2010 as detailed. motion to approve, passed 7-0
p. I recommend approval of the request of Ms. Neal for 5 ALP students to travel to the RI Rock Wall in Lincoln, RI to participate in a leadership program with the YMCA. motion to approve, passed 7-0
a. I recommend acceptance of a check for $300.85 from Barnes & Noble for the Horace Mann for In-house enrichment. motion to approve, passed 7-0
b. I recommend acceptance of the donation of 3 cameras & a Recorder/VCR valued at $2496.48 from Mr. Robert Salzberg of Resh, Inc. for the Davis Thayer Elementary School. motion to approve, passed 7-0
c. I recommend approval of the proposed trip to Peru in June/July 2011 as detailed. motion to approve, passed 6-0 (Mullen abstained)
d. I recommend adoption of Policy BIBA – School Committee Conferences, Conventions & Workshops. motion to approve, passed 7-0
e. I recommend adoption of Policy BID – School Committee Member Compensation & Expenses motion to approve, passed 7-0
f. I recommend adoption of Policy BGF –Suspension of Policies. motion to approve, passed 7-0
g. I recommend adoption of Policy DJA – Purchasing Authority. motion to approve, passed 7-0
h. I recommend acceptance of a check for $1877.32 from Lifetouch for the Remington Gift Account for supplies. motion to approve, passed 7-0
i. I recommend acceptance of a check for $250.00 from Maura Schaeffer-Tobin for the Jacqueline A Schaeffer Memorial Theatre Arts Scholarship Fund at the FHS. motion to approve, passed 7-0
j. I recommend approval of the request of Brad Sidwell for the recurring field trip for the FHS Wrestling Team Competition in Eason, PA from 1/22-23/2010 as detailed. motion to approve, passed 7-0
k. I recommend acceptance of two checks for $414.29 and $70.96 (totaling $485.25) from Follett for Library & Supplemental Curriculum Materials for the JF Kennedy Elementary School. motion to approve, passed 7-0
l. I recommend acceptance of the Best Buddies Grants as detailed. motion to approve, passed 7-0
m. I recommend acceptance of a check for $200.00 from the Franklin Democratic Town Committee for the FHS Young Democrats’ Club. motion to approve, passed 7-0
n. I recommend that Franklin not participate in the Race To The Top Program. motion to approve, passed 7-0
o. I recommend approval of the request of the HMMS Ski Club for their recurring trip to Mt. Sunapee, NH on January 23, 2010 as detailed. motion to approve, passed 7-0
p. I recommend approval of the request of Ms. Neal for 5 ALP students to travel to the RI Rock Wall in Lincoln, RI to participate in a leadership program with the YMCA. motion to approve, passed 7-0
Live reporting - Budget desires
Mullen - would like to see a listing of the cuts made in the last ten years
one page summary that gets repeated at each budget discussion (my idea, yea!)
Trahan - there are so many changes and be clear about what is coming forward
Cafasso - the decade of cuts list would be good. Miriam had put together a great apples to apples comparison to provide some context to the budget. Enrollment corresponding to the budget years. Some historical data on the cost drivers, i.e insurance, special ed, transportation, etc. Recap on how this current years budget was funded?
Rohrbach - the process will discuss a level service vs. a level funded budget. In the past we have also discussed philosophies that should be discussed. We should have a general discussion on what our approach should be. The decisions will be virtiually impossible as we have already cut so much.
Roy - district statistics, # of teachers, # of students, # of schools, decrease in staff vs. increase in students, information on when the schools came on line, per pupil expenditures per the State numbers. Need to begin putting on the table what options are available to bridge budget gaps. Need to share that early on, it is not just cutting bodies. Reviewing the cost saving measures already implemented. Helpful to highlight some of the great things that are happening at the schools, programs, strengths, what makes Franklin a high performing district?
Cafasso - show MCAS or SAT or graduation rates to show barometers of student achievement, the staff have been good about that performance without much resources
one page summary that gets repeated at each budget discussion (my idea, yea!)
Trahan - there are so many changes and be clear about what is coming forward
Cafasso - the decade of cuts list would be good. Miriam had put together a great apples to apples comparison to provide some context to the budget. Enrollment corresponding to the budget years. Some historical data on the cost drivers, i.e insurance, special ed, transportation, etc. Recap on how this current years budget was funded?
Rohrbach - the process will discuss a level service vs. a level funded budget. In the past we have also discussed philosophies that should be discussed. We should have a general discussion on what our approach should be. The decisions will be virtiually impossible as we have already cut so much.
Roy - district statistics, # of teachers, # of students, # of schools, decrease in staff vs. increase in students, information on when the schools came on line, per pupil expenditures per the State numbers. Need to begin putting on the table what options are available to bridge budget gaps. Need to share that early on, it is not just cutting bodies. Reviewing the cost saving measures already implemented. Helpful to highlight some of the great things that are happening at the schools, programs, strengths, what makes Franklin a high performing district?
Cafasso - show MCAS or SAT or graduation rates to show barometers of student achievement, the staff have been good about that performance without much resources
Live reporting - Race To The Top Program
The Race To The Top Program
if school districts in MA would like to apply, the application would need to be submitted by midnight Wednesday 1/13/10.
approx. $19,000 possible available
MTA has signed off on the Memorandum of Understanding
36 districts have committed thus far to proceed
there was an indication of significant funding early on, but realistically $19,000 won't go very far.
The investment of accountability may not cover the amount
recommendation to not pursue at this time
the money would be for new initiatives
the bulk of the money would be targeted to under-performing districts (which we are not)
According to the latest ranking we are rated 1, the districts rated 4 or 5 would get the bulk of the money
vocational, charter and 36 public school districts have committed thus far
The funding and administrative support are unrealistic given our challenges with a level funded budgeted.
if school districts in MA would like to apply, the application would need to be submitted by midnight Wednesday 1/13/10.
approx. $19,000 possible available
MTA has signed off on the Memorandum of Understanding
36 districts have committed thus far to proceed
there was an indication of significant funding early on, but realistically $19,000 won't go very far.
The investment of accountability may not cover the amount
recommendation to not pursue at this time
the money would be for new initiatives
the bulk of the money would be targeted to under-performing districts (which we are not)
According to the latest ranking we are rated 1, the districts rated 4 or 5 would get the bulk of the money
vocational, charter and 36 public school districts have committed thus far
The funding and administrative support are unrealistic given our challenges with a level funded budgeted.
Live reporting - Discussion only items
3. Discussion Only Items
Policy - Regulation of Motor Vehicle Idling on School Grounds
Sally information came from MA Assoc of Superintendents
attempting to improve school campus air quality, i.e. buses and autos
signage to be posted once approved
The transportation companies were trained and implemented in 2008
Cars in a queue are exempt from the policy
Another unfunded mandate
How many and how much for the signs? Would have to study to see the placement across the District.
Would make sense to have a discussion with Chief Williams to if it would make sense to enforce?
Policy - First Readings
* ACE – Non-Discrimination on the basis of Disability
motion to move policy to second reading, passed 7-0
* ADA – School District Goals and Objectives
motion to move policy to second reading, passed 7-0
Policy – Second Readings
BIBA – School Committee Conferences, Conventions & Workshops
BID – School Committee Member Compensation & Expenses
BGF – Suspension of Policies
DJA – Purchasing Authority
to be addressed in action items later on the agenda
Policy - Regulation of Motor Vehicle Idling on School Grounds
Sally information came from MA Assoc of Superintendents
attempting to improve school campus air quality, i.e. buses and autos
signage to be posted once approved
The transportation companies were trained and implemented in 2008
Cars in a queue are exempt from the policy
Another unfunded mandate
How many and how much for the signs? Would have to study to see the placement across the District.
Would make sense to have a discussion with Chief Williams to if it would make sense to enforce?
Policy - First Readings
* ACE – Non-Discrimination on the basis of Disability
motion to move policy to second reading, passed 7-0
* ADA – School District Goals and Objectives
motion to move policy to second reading, passed 7-0
Policy – Second Readings
BIBA – School Committee Conferences, Conventions & Workshops
BID – School Committee Member Compensation & Expenses
BGF – Suspension of Policies
DJA – Purchasing Authority
to be addressed in action items later on the agenda
Live reporting - World Challenge
d. FHS World Challenge – Trip to Peru
1. Peter Light, Chelsea Barnard, Dana Harts - Advisor from World Challenge
introduction to program, a high value program
4 week overseas expedition
1 week climatization
1 week service
1 week trek
1 week reflection
extensive safety measures for the students when they travel
The World Challenge website can be found here http://www.wcexpeditions.com/
7 minute video from World Challenge highlighting features of the teacher/student prepared trip, safety measures, etc.
Video from teachers point of view:
Video from students point of view:
Safety starts with the students first.
Offered to freshman and sophomores so they would travel as rising juniors or seniors
Takes seventeen months to prepare; used for planning, fund raising, etc.
Experienced guide accompanies each teacher and student group
Safety and support centralized in Operations Centre in UK
Story of insurance coverage for medical emergencies; one student five years ago had a case of appendicitis on the approach to Mt Kilimanjaro. He was flown to medical help in Nairobi, his mother was flown to join him before flying both back to the states after three days of medical treatment there.
Trip planning is fully risk assessed before leaving.
Money management: trip is an all inclusive package. 3 day training expedition along the Appalachian Trail training in preparation for the expedition to Peru.
Teamwork and cooperation enhanced during the trek.
Living in a village and seeing what life is like in a different world.
Trip cost would be approximately $6,000 per students.
World Challenge will provide some fund raising ideas and a framework to work to and manage a budget.
Live reporting - Teen Angels
c. Community Health Council / Middle School Teen Angels
1. Lisa Keohane, Sharon Jackson / Students
official chapter of wiredsafety.org/
chapter to address cyberbullying
students were recommended by their principals across the middle schools
17 students, some seventh and eight grade
eight graders will take their training and create a chapter at the high school
The PBS show referenced by Jeff Roy can be found here:
http://www.pbs.org/parents/raisinggirls/girlslife/
The pledge text can be found here:
http://franklinmatters.blogspot.com/2010/01/teen-angels-pledge-text-think-send.html
1. Lisa Keohane, Sharon Jackson / Students
official chapter of wiredsafety.org/
chapter to address cyberbullying
students were recommended by their principals across the middle schools
17 students, some seventh and eight grade
eight graders will take their training and create a chapter at the high school
The PBS show referenced by Jeff Roy can be found here:
http://www.pbs.org/parents/raisinggirls/girlslife/
The pledge text can be found here:
http://franklinmatters.blogspot.com/2010/01/teen-angels-pledge-text-think-send.html
Live reporting - Best Buddies
b. Best Buddies Grant Awards
1. Sue Streeter, Mark Berthiaume
Franklin High School
1) Awarded to Applicants: Erin Miller and Miriam Connolly, in the amount of $295 for: Field Trip to Pump It Up
The Best Buddies (BB) FHS Chapter will take a trip to Pump It Up, Franklin, MA for 3 staff and up to 25 Buddies and Peer Buddies.
2) Awarded to Applicant: Erin Miller, in the amount of $1,050 for: The 2nd Annual Best Buddies Prom
The BB FHS Chapter will host its second annual Prom at the Adirondack Club in Franklin in March, 2010. The chapter will invite students from the BB high school chapters at Easton, Norton, Milford and Foxboro. The Franklin chapter will charge visiting students for tickets; grant funds are to cover all other associated costs. Estimated attendance is 80 people.
3) Awarded to Applicant: Erin Miller, in the amount of: $1,000 for: Presentation by Team Hoyt
The BB FHS Chapter will invite Rick and Dick Hoyt, of “Team Hoyt”, to speak to FHS population.
4) Awarded to Applicants: Erin Miller and Miriam Connolly, in the amount of $1,275 for: Field Trip to Special Olympics Track Meet
The BB FHS Chapter will participate in the Special Olympics track meet at North Attleboro High School in May, 2010. The trip would involve students from BB at FHS and Annie Sullivan Middle School as well as the students enrolled in the “Introduction to Developmental Disabilities” class at FHS. Grant to cover all associated costs.
5) Awarded to Applicant: Erin Miller, in the amount of $400 for: BB Year-End Dinner
The FHS BB student officers and their 1:1 buddies will celebrate their developing friendships at a year-end dinner in June, 2010.
6) Awarded to Applicant: Erin Miller, in the amount of $400 for: Breakfast/Lunch Gift Cards
The FHS BB student officers and their 1:1 buddies will receive gift cards to afford them an opportunity to get together for breakfast or lunch to help further their friendships beyond the classroom.
7) Awarded to Applicants: Erin Miller and Miriam Connolly, in the amount of $500 for: Cinema Tickets
The FHS BB student officers and their 1:1 buddies will receive cinema tickets to provide them with an opportunity to get together for a movie to help further their friendships beyond the classroom.
Annie Sullivan Middle School
1) Awarded to Applicants: Marilee Gleason, Jonathan Mello and Elizabeth Hawk, in the amount of $400 for: Field Trip to Pump It Up
The Best Buddies (BB) ASMS Chapter will take a trip to Pump It Up, Franklin, MA for 6 staff and up to 70 Buddies and Peer Buddies.
2) Awarded to Applicants: Marilee Gleason, Jonathan Mello and Elizabeth Hawk, in the amount of $130 for: Field Trip – Bowling
The ASMS BB officers and their 1:1 buddies will go bowling after school.
3) Awarded to Applicants: Marilee Gleason, Jonathan Mello and Elizabeth Hawk, in the amount of $482.50 for: BB Club PE Equipment
The ASMS BB Chapter will purchase PE equipment to be used for its weekly club activities.
4) Awarded to Applicants: Marilee Gleason, Jonathan Mello and Elizabeth Hawk, in the amount of $250 for: Social/Language Field Trips
The ASMS BB Chapter will make several outings to local community business for the purpose of increasing social/language opportunities.
total over $6,000
1. Sue Streeter, Mark Berthiaume
Franklin High School
1) Awarded to Applicants: Erin Miller and Miriam Connolly, in the amount of $295 for: Field Trip to Pump It Up
The Best Buddies (BB) FHS Chapter will take a trip to Pump It Up, Franklin, MA for 3 staff and up to 25 Buddies and Peer Buddies.
2) Awarded to Applicant: Erin Miller, in the amount of $1,050 for: The 2nd Annual Best Buddies Prom
The BB FHS Chapter will host its second annual Prom at the Adirondack Club in Franklin in March, 2010. The chapter will invite students from the BB high school chapters at Easton, Norton, Milford and Foxboro. The Franklin chapter will charge visiting students for tickets; grant funds are to cover all other associated costs. Estimated attendance is 80 people.
3) Awarded to Applicant: Erin Miller, in the amount of: $1,000 for: Presentation by Team Hoyt
The BB FHS Chapter will invite Rick and Dick Hoyt, of “Team Hoyt”, to speak to FHS population.
4) Awarded to Applicants: Erin Miller and Miriam Connolly, in the amount of $1,275 for: Field Trip to Special Olympics Track Meet
The BB FHS Chapter will participate in the Special Olympics track meet at North Attleboro High School in May, 2010. The trip would involve students from BB at FHS and Annie Sullivan Middle School as well as the students enrolled in the “Introduction to Developmental Disabilities” class at FHS. Grant to cover all associated costs.
5) Awarded to Applicant: Erin Miller, in the amount of $400 for: BB Year-End Dinner
The FHS BB student officers and their 1:1 buddies will celebrate their developing friendships at a year-end dinner in June, 2010.
6) Awarded to Applicant: Erin Miller, in the amount of $400 for: Breakfast/Lunch Gift Cards
The FHS BB student officers and their 1:1 buddies will receive gift cards to afford them an opportunity to get together for breakfast or lunch to help further their friendships beyond the classroom.
7) Awarded to Applicants: Erin Miller and Miriam Connolly, in the amount of $500 for: Cinema Tickets
The FHS BB student officers and their 1:1 buddies will receive cinema tickets to provide them with an opportunity to get together for a movie to help further their friendships beyond the classroom.
Annie Sullivan Middle School
1) Awarded to Applicants: Marilee Gleason, Jonathan Mello and Elizabeth Hawk, in the amount of $400 for: Field Trip to Pump It Up
The Best Buddies (BB) ASMS Chapter will take a trip to Pump It Up, Franklin, MA for 6 staff and up to 70 Buddies and Peer Buddies.
2) Awarded to Applicants: Marilee Gleason, Jonathan Mello and Elizabeth Hawk, in the amount of $130 for: Field Trip – Bowling
The ASMS BB officers and their 1:1 buddies will go bowling after school.
3) Awarded to Applicants: Marilee Gleason, Jonathan Mello and Elizabeth Hawk, in the amount of $482.50 for: BB Club PE Equipment
The ASMS BB Chapter will purchase PE equipment to be used for its weekly club activities.
4) Awarded to Applicants: Marilee Gleason, Jonathan Mello and Elizabeth Hawk, in the amount of $250 for: Social/Language Field Trips
The ASMS BB Chapter will make several outings to local community business for the purpose of increasing social/language opportunities.
total over $6,000
Live reporting - Recognitions
2. Guests/Presentations
a. War Memorial Recognition
1. DT – Anna Kelley/Gr. 5
2. Jefferson – Judi Johnson/Teacher, Beth Raffin/ PCC Pres., Mikayla/Gr. 2 & Trevor/Gr. 4
3. Keller – Ruthann McHugh/Teacher, Collin Kane/ Student Council & Andrew Purdy/ Student Council
4. Oak St – Katelyn Pokorny/Gr. 5
5. Parmenter – Aprile Albertelli Teacher/Judi Bassignani Principal, Dominic Giardini/Gr.6, Nicholas Gnaman/Gr.5, & Alexa Cornetta/Gr. 4
6. HMMS – Rob Vacca/Teacher
7. ASMS – Ashley Gatchell/Gr. 8
8. RMS – Kathy Goodwin/Teacher
9. FHS – Vince Pellegri & Andrew Travers - graduates
a. War Memorial Recognition
1. DT – Anna Kelley/Gr. 5
2. Jefferson – Judi Johnson/Teacher, Beth Raffin/ PCC Pres., Mikayla/Gr. 2 & Trevor/Gr. 4
3. Keller – Ruthann McHugh/Teacher, Collin Kane/ Student Council & Andrew Purdy/ Student Council
4. Oak St – Katelyn Pokorny/Gr. 5
5. Parmenter – Aprile Albertelli Teacher/Judi Bassignani Principal, Dominic Giardini/Gr.6, Nicholas Gnaman/Gr.5, & Alexa Cornetta/Gr. 4
6. HMMS – Rob Vacca/Teacher
7. ASMS – Ashley Gatchell/Gr. 8
8. RMS – Kathy Goodwin/Teacher
9. FHS – Vince Pellegri & Andrew Travers - graduates
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