Franklin, MA: Council on Aging - Senior Center

The Franklin Senior Center offers a wide range of programs, services and activities that serve older adults and disabled individuals by addressing their unmet needs and seeking to improve quality of life. The Center is located at 10 Daniel McCahill Street and is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Town-funded staff includes 2 full-time employees and 3 part-time employees. Other staff includes a part-time Health & Wellness Nurse (grant funded) and a full-time Supportive Day Program Coordinator which is supported through program fees. The Center’s Café and Gift Shop are staffed with volunteers.

The Senior Center offers opportunities for health screening and wellness, nutrition, social service coordination, socialization, recreation, transportation, educational programs, a supportive day program, and volunteer positions.

Highlights

The Senior Center was awarded Innovator of the Year by the Massachusetts Association of Councils on Aging and Senior Center Directors for our Safe & Secure at Home program. This program provides rigorous outreach to frail elders and offers adaptive assistance to homebound, isolated seniors who are at risk for life-threatening falls.

This year two new, evidence-based programs were offered at the Center - My Life, My Health and A Matter of Balance. These wellness programs were designed by Stanford and Boston University respectively, and are being utilized nationally and state-wide to improve health outcomes. Evidence-based programs are a result of planning, implementing and evaluating programs adapted from models that help individuals effectively manage chronic illnesses by gaining skills and adopting beneficial health behaviors. Research supports results of improved health status, decreased health care utilization, and improved health management behaviors for participants in this type of programming. These programs were extremely well received at the Senior Center.

At the request of the Town Council’s Subcommittee on Outreach to the Elderly, the Council on Aging collaborated with the Assessor’s Office in an effort to substantially increase the number of real estate abatement applications for elderly homeowners by assisting elders with their applications. This effort resulted in a 52% increase in abatements being granted to needy elderly residents. Given the grim economic climate, the COA also offered intensive outreach regarding several social benefit programs such as food stamps, fuel assistance, and circuit breaker property tax relief. Senior Center staff and volunteers attended a Diversity Workshop presented by The VNA Network which emphasized respect for diversity and helped develop cultural competency in serving culturally diverse clients.

Also this year, we expanded our intergenerational programming by partnering with the Oak Street School. Each month a class visits the Senior Center and participates in an activity with seniors. Also new this year, Franklin High School art students offered art classes to seniors at the Senior Center. This year, the Senior Center worked with the Police Department to create a Connect CTY database which enables us to inform elderly residents of vital information, or of Center closings due to inclement weather.

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.

For additional information on programs at the Senior Center visit the website:
http://franklinma.virtualtownhall.net/Pages/FranklinMA_Senior/index

The January "Franklin Connection" newsletter can be found here:
http://franklinma.virtualtownhall.net/Pages/FranklinMA_Senior/Jan10connection.pdf

Town Council - Agenda - 1/6/10

A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – December 2, 2009 Regular & Executive Session

B. ANNOUNCEMENTS

C. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS

D. CITIZEN COMMENTS

E. APPOINTMENTS

F. HEARINGS

G. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS
– 99 Restaurant – New Officer & Director

H. PRESENTATIONS/DISCUSSIONS
– Bryan Taberner – Bio-Tech Zoning
– DPW Snowplowing/Sidewalks

I. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS

J. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION

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

Note: The Biotechnology bylaws and permitting process could be an interesting discussion. The set of documents outlining the proposed changes are included in the full agenda package on the Town website: (PDF Document)
http://franklinma.virtualtownhall.net/Pages/FranklinMA_CouncilAgendas/2010tc/01062010agenda.pdf

Senior Center Newsletter

The January 2010 Senior Center Newsletter, The Franklin Connection, is available. You can view it here or download directly from the Town website:
http://franklinma.virtualtownhall.net/Pages/FranklinMA_Senior/Jan10connection.pdf

Discover Simple, Private Sharing at Drop.io

Note: email subscribers will need to click through to the Franklin Matters website to view this document.

In the News - same day voter registration

Being able to walk in on election day and register to vote seems like it would help democracy. But what kind of vote would be cast from someone who with no preparation (i.e. prior registration) can walk in to vote? I am not sure I want that kind of vote.  I don't think it would be an informed vote.

What is the problem that same day registration is trying to address?
If it is increasing participation amongst the voters, then I think there should be other ways to ensure appropriate engagement.

Given the results of the current provisional ballot available to MA residents, I don't think there is enough justification.

Citizens who find their names absent from the registration list can fill out a provisional ballot to be counted later, once it is determined they are eligible to vote.

In the last presidential election, 11,712 provisional ballots were requested but only 3,278 ballots were actually counted, according to Brian McNiff, spokesman for Secretary of State William Galvin's office.

Read the full article in the Milford Daily News here.

What would you suggest we (yes, the big collective "we") do to increase voter engagement?

In the News - casino plus/minus

Bringing casino gambling to MA is on the table and touted with big numbers for jobs and additional revenue. Both the jobs and revenue would be good in a struggling economy but what would the casino really cost the local community? This article in the Milford Daily News attempts to get at some of the other considerations.

Read the full article here

In the Globe: Medway Library

The Boston Globe features an article on the Medway Library regaining state certification. Oddly, it references little about the collaboration and regionalization effort with Franklin; i.e. sharing the Library Director, that was the linchpin in turning around their budget situation.

The ruling affected more than Medway residents. Library patrons in other towns could not order materials from Medway via interlibrary loans. The exception was Franklin, which signed an intermunicipal agreement with Medway in July that called for sharing library services.

 Read the full article in the Sunday Globe here

Absentee Ballots for Jan 19th Available

Absentee Ballot Information:  Absentee ballots are now available in the Town Clerk’s office.  A registered voter who will be unable to vote at the polls on election day due to the following reasons may vote absentee up to 5:00pm Friday, January 15th.  (Due to the holiday, dates have been adjusted by the State)

    * absence from your city or town during normal polling hours; or
    * physical disability preventing you from going to the polling place; or
    * religious belief.

All absentee requests must be made in writing with an original signature (no faxes or e-mails are accepted).  If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to call Deborah L. Pellegri, Town Clerk, at 508-520-4900.              

Attest: Deborah L. Pellegri, CMC, Town Clerk/Election Administrator

Franklin, MA: Recreation Dept.

The Recreation Department is located at 150 Emmons Street. The Recreation Department offers Franklin and Medway residents a variety of programs and events for youths and adults as well as coordination of youth sports organizations and field maintenance. The department operates and schedules activities for Chilson Beach at Beaver Pond, Fletcher Field, Dennis Pisani Field (formally Theron Metcalf), Henry “Ski” Faenza Tot Lot (Nason Street Tot Lot), King Street Memorial Field, Dacey Community Field, and Meadowlark Lane Athletic Fields. The department is also responsible for scheduling the use of all school fields during the summer, when school is not in session.

Additional information about all the Recreation Dept. activities can be found on their website:
http://franklinma.virtualtownhall.net/Pages/FranklinMA_Recreation/index



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.
 

Franklin, MA: HUMAN RESOURCE DEPARTMENT

The business of the Human Resources Department is Customer Service. We provide a wide range of services to employees and citizens of the Town of Franklin.

Once a new employee is selected HR becomes “the benefit place.” The staff makes sure all the paperwork is complete so that individuals will be paid, benefit options are explained, and employees select those which best meet their individual needs. Questions about benefits continue throughout an employee’s time with the Town and continue into retirement. In addition to the mandatory participation in Norfolk Retirement System, or OBRA for part time employees benefits include:

• Life Insurance
• Health Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Section 125 Flexible Spending Accounts
• Short and Long Term Disability plans
• Section 457 Savings Plans

All employees, other than Police and Fire, are covered by Worker’s Compensation, a federally mandated program. Our goal is to prevent accidents and lost time from work, but to protect individuals when there is an incident. This “no fault” insurance is designed to provide income security and medical coverage for individuals injured on the job. The program is insured through Massachusetts Educations and Government Association Workers Compensation Group (MEGA). Human Resources continues to ensure that incident reports are filed timely with MEGA reviewing claims and making payments directly to the employees. We also work with managers and employees across the Town to support safe work practices, so that the frequency and length of workers compensation absences are held to a minimum.

On an annual basis, all benefit programs are reviewed to be sure they comply with Federal and State laws. The current Federal legislative branch is very active, and we are watching developments in time off and insurance regulations. Federal changes may require plan changes at the municipal level.

Health Insurance continues to be a major cost issue for employees, applicants and the Town. The Insurance Advisory Committee actively explores options. Contracts with Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Guardian, and Boston Mutual were looked at in terms of cost and coverage. The goal is to provide benefits that are competitive with the market to attract and keep the right workforce and to provide those quality benefits at the lowest cost possible.

One element of the Health Insurance renewal was a change in Medicare supplement plans. The new plan is integrated with Medicare and benefits from a federal subsidy. Enrollees pay a co-pay for each prescription they fill, but no longer have a quarterly deductible. The plan change reduced the Medex premium retirees pay by 25%.

The HR Department has continued a wellness program, offered by MIIA to the employees of the Town. These have included fitness walking, relaxation techniques, and healthy eating. This program, designed to improve health and fitness will continue next year at no cost to employees or to the Town. Employees were enthusiastic about participation in the zumba dance class and an extended walking program.

As we begin the next year new goals have been set. They include:

• Partner with School HR activities to find service improvements and cost efficiencies.
• Continue to deliver high quality customer service to employees, retirees, and citizens.
• Constantly monitor full range of benefit options. The focus on the Health Insurance Program will continue.
• Identify information which can be best communicated electronically and keep web site current.
• Provide excellent service to and resolve administrative issues arising from municipal health insurance program.
• Facilitate managers using job descriptions and performance evaluations to strengthen organizational and employee performance.
• Review and edit the Personnel Bylaw and related policies and procedures to keep them current and appropriate for use by managers and employees.
• Educate employees on the Sec. 125 Flexible Spending Accounts which are available to them for medical or dependent care costs.
• Support managers and employees in employee relations activities.

We appreciate input from employees and citizens at any time.

Respectfully Submitted

Stephanie McNeil

Human Resources Director

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.

Franklin, MA: Health Dept.

Mission Statement
The Franklin Health Department is charged with protecting the public health and well being of the community, in accordance with federal, state and local public health laws and regulations. To fulfill this responsibility, the Franklin Health Department administers a comprehensive inspection program.


Inspections
The following list identifies the primary components of the department’s inspection program, and the total number of inspections and re-inspections conducted for each component.


* Food Service/Retail Food Inspection………330
* Title V Septic System Plan Review and Installation/Repair Field Inspection, Total Applications…………………………………23
6 New, 17 Repairs, 8 Minor Repairs and Approximately 145 Field Inspections Conducted.
* Chapter II Housing Code Inspection/Reinspections…………………………………..56
* Public Health Nuisance/Odor/Noise Complaint Investigation…………………….28
* Semi-Public Pool/Spa Testing/Inspection and Public Beach Testing……………………48
* Inspection and Licensing of Children’s Recreational Camps………………………….10
* Tanning Salon Inspection..…………………...8
* Manicure/Pedicure Establishment………….. 36


Communicable Disease
As mandated by the State Department of Public Health, health departments must report, investigate and track all communicable disease occurrences in their jurisdictions. The Franklin Health Department has a contract with the Milford Area Visiting Nurses to investigate and follow up reportable communicable diseases that occur in the community.


The following list depicts the reportable illness activity for fiscal year 2008-2009 in number of official cases:
Campylobacter…………………………………..4
Hepatitis A………………………………………0
Hepatitis B………………………………………3
Hepatitis C………………………………………9
Lyme Disease…………………………………..41
Meningitis……………………………………….3
Streptococcus Pneumonia……………………….2
E. Coli…………………………………………...2
Ehrlichiosis………………………………………1
Giardiasis………………………………………...3
Salmonella Enteritis……………………………..3
Bacterial Infection, Avium, Vibrio……………...2
Encephalitis…………………………………….. 1
Cryptosporidiosis………………………………..1
Legionellosis…………………………………….1
Pulmonary TB…………………………………...4
Chicken Pox……………………………………..1
Pertussis……………………………………….…8
Influenza A………………………………………1
Influenza B………………………………………4
Dog Bites……………………………………….10
Cat Bites…………………………………………5
Bat Bites…………………………………………0
H1N1…………………………………………….1
Shigellosis……………………………………….3
TB related………………………………………..3
Streptococcus Pneumoniae………………………1
Yersinia…………………………………………..1

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.

Franklin, MA: Housing Authority

BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
The following Officers were duly elected at the annual organizational meeting of the Franklin Housing Authority held on April 6, 2009.


George A. Danello, Chairman
Christopher K. Feeley, Vice Chairperson
Peter L. Brunelli, Treasurer
Mark A. Teehan, Assistant Treasurer
John R. Padula, Commissioner


FHA STAFF
Lisa M. Collins, Executive Director
Diane Lamoureux, Administrative Assistant
Melva Jackson, Office Clerk
Michael Gilligan, Maintenance Supervisor
William Pizzi, Laborer
Frank McAvoy, Groundskeeper
Anne Ayotte, Service Coordinator



Modernization of the Franklin Housing Authority


The office of the Franklin Housing Authority was renovated to become compliant with the ADA regulation. This project was partially funded by the Department of Community Development and balance was withdrawn from the restricted reserves from the FHA. The great benefit of the renovation is that applicants and residents who are wheelchair or walker dependant are now able to enter the office. Previously, the office was not wheelchair friendly. The sacrifice made to the building to allow this upgrade was the removal of the laundry facilities from the building. Residents who wish to do their laundry on site must now go to one of the FHA’s three other locations. 


FHA Property


The Franklin Housing Authority manages 161 units of State Aided Elderly/Disabled Housing, 33 units of low income Family Housing and an 8-unit Group Home. Additionally, the Housing Authority is responsible for a four bedroom congregate facility. This program provides a shared living environment for its residents who maintain private bedrooms. Congregate housing was established for residents who are self-reliant, however may need limited support. Also, Franklin Housing Authority owns two single family homes in town. These two properties are reserved for lease to low-income families and affords these families the opportunity to reside in a residential neighborhood.


Additionally, Franklin Housing Authority has been awarded $1,250,000 for the development of an additional Chapter 689 housing facility. Chapter 689 housing is reserved for mentally challenged adults and will be overseen by the Department of Mental Retardation. We have secured a suitable site for this development on Plain Street. Further the designer; Winter Street Architects has been approved and has begun the design phase of this development. This development has been approved through the Town of Franklin Zoning Board of Appeals and the Design Commission. Currently, we are experiencing some delays but hope to begin construction in 2010.




Special Events Noted with Appreciation


Saint Mary’s Parish Youth Organization treated FHA residents to an indoor picnic during the summer. Volunteers and youths along with the pastor spread smiles and good cheer to all. Rotary Club members served their annual spaghetti dinner to FHA residents and area seniors complete with all the fixings. Commissioner John Padula was the head Chef and also provided some entertainment. Rotary members cooked, served, entertained and picked up after. Rotarians always comment that the smiles and the kind words of appreciation received make their time and efforts very rewarding. Students and teachers from the Remington/Jefferson schools, with help and support from the Franklin Police Department and parents of students, provided Christmas gifts for Franklin Housing Authority’s young family members through a Secret Santa program for the ninth year running. This group provides gifts along with Christmas spirit that may otherwise be lost. One Franklin family provided a Franklin Housing Authority low-income family with a wonderful Christmas of gifts specifically selected for the family members. The spirit of the holiday was overwhelming for this family. 


Special Thanks


The Board of Commissioners, Staff and Residents of the Franklin Housing Authority wish to express their thanks and appreciation to the following: 


The Clergy, a continuous support and comfort in the time of need and always.


Franklin Senior Association Members:
Mary Chambers, Vice President
Doris Mattison, Treasurer
Betty Picard, Secretary
Beverly Carroll, Sunshine Club 
Evelyn Mucciarone, Member at Large 


This Association plans pizza parties, holiday gatherings, morning coffee and donuts, card parties and many more events for the enjoyment of all Franklin Seniors. 


Chairman Christopher K. Feeley and all of the Franklin Town Council Members, Town Administrator, Jeffrey Nutting and his staff for their continued support and assistance.


Council on Aging, Veterans Agent, SHINE Program and Food Pantry for assisting residents with health care concerns and working with the Authority to recognize needs and provide activities, nourishment and specialized services. 


Franklin Police Department, Chief Williams and Deputy Chief Semerjian for continuous concern, attention and response to the needs of the Authority and its Residents.


Franklin Fire and Rescue, Chief Gary McCarraher and his department are always professional and respectful.


Franklin TRIAD Committee along with the Norfolk County Sheriff’s Office, Sheriff Michael Bollotti and his staff for assisting in identifying the safety concerns of Franklin seniors and planning aggressive strategies to enhance the quality of life of older Franklin residents and for the “Are You OK?” program.


Senator Karen Spilka, Senator Scott Brown, Representative James Vallee and U.S. Representative James McGovern for their relentless support of the Housing Programs and Bills with the best interest of our residents at heart.


Boy Scout Troop 126. Under the leadership of Bill Murphy, Eagle Scout Candidates have worked on their community service projects at the Franklin Housing Authority. Many thanks to Troop 126 for thinking of us while planning your Eagle Scout Projects and best wishes to all Eagle Scouts for a successful future.


Through the years, the community and the housing authority are finding ways to improve the quality of life for our area seniors and low income families. With the support of the Commissioners and the community the Franklin Housing Authority continues to be a great community living opportunity.


Respectfully submitted,
Lisa M. Collins, PHM, Executive Director

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.

Happy New Year 2010

Wishing all the best to all Franklin residents for 2010!

Meeting Summaries - 2009

Meeting Summaries - 2009

• Finance Comm 04/16/09
• Finance Comm 04/21/09
• Finance Comm 04/29/09
• Finance Comm 05/05/09
• Finance Comm 10/06/09
• Finance Comm 12/01/09
• 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
• Financial Plng Comm 10/08/09
• Focus Group Collection
• 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
• School Committee Mtg 07/21/09
• School Committee Mtg 08/11/09
• School Committee Mtg 08/25/09
• School Committee Mtg 09/08/09
• School Committee Mtg 09/22/09
• School Committee Mtg 10/13/09
• School Committee Mtg 10/27/09
• School Committee Mtg 11/17/09
• School Committee Mtg 12/08/09
• School Committee Mtg 12/15/09
• 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
• Town Council Mtg Smry 07/01/09
• Town Council Mtg Smry 07/15/09
• Town Council Mtg Smry 08/05/09
• Town Council Mtg Smry 08/19/09
• Town Council Mtg Smry 09/02/09
• Town Council Mtg Smry 09/16/09
• Town Council Mtg Smry 10/07/09
• Town Council Mtg Smry 10/21/09
• Town Council Mtg Smry 11/04/09
• Town Council Mtg Smry 11/18/09
• Town Council Mtg Smry 12/02/09
• Town Council Mtg Smry 12/09/09
• Town Council Mtg Smry 12/16/09

Meeting Summaries - 2008

Meeting Summaries - 2008

• Financial Planning Comm Minutes
• Financial Plng Comm 09/04/08
• Financial Plng Comm 09/18/08
• Financial Plng Comm 10/02/08
• Financial Plng Comm 10/16/08
• Financial Plng Comm 11/20/08
• Financial Plng Comm 12/04/08
• FINCOM Meeting Summary 4/09/08
• FINCOM Meeting Summary 4/14/08
• FINCOM Meeting Summary 5/6/08
• Joint Council School Meeting 1/9/08
• Override Information Forum 5/28/08
• School Committee Meeting 01/8/08
• School Committee Meeting 02/26/08
• School Committee Meeting 03/11/08
• School Committee Meeting 03/25/08
• School Committee Meeting 04/29/08
• School Committee Meeting 05/13/08
• School Committee Meeting 06/24/08
• School Committee Meeting 07/15/08
• School Committee Meeting 08/26/08
• School Committee Meeting 09/09/08
• School Committee Meeting 10/14/08
• School Committee Meeting 10/28/08
• School Committee Meeting 11/18/08
• School Committee Meeting 12/09/08
• Town Council Mtg Smry 02/06/08
• Town Council Mtg Smry 02/13/08
• Town Council Mtg Smry 03/05/08
• Town Council Mtg Smry 03/19/08
• Town Council Mtg Smry 04/02/08
• Town Council Mtg Smry 04/16/08
• Town Council Mtg Smry 04/30/08
• Town Council Mtg Smry 05/07/08
• Town Council Mtg Smry 06/04/08
• Town Council Mtg Smry 06/18/08
• Town Council Mtg Smry 07/23/08
• Town Council Mtg Smry 09/03/08
• Town Council Mtg Smry 09/17/08
• Town Council Mtg Smry 10/01/08
• Town Council Mtg Smry 10/15/08
• Town Council Mtg Smry 11/05/08
• Town Council Mtg Smry 11/19/08
• Town Council Mtg Smry 12/03/08

Franklin, MA: Fire Prevention

This was another busy year for Fire Prevention. The annual inspection of the all Liquor License holders, 17 Schools, Day Care facilities, Summer Camps and Multifamily houses along with the daily inspections of homes for resale and new construction, service calls, telephone inquiries, LP gas tanks inspection, oil burner inspection, oil tank removals and plans review is almost too much to be handled by one person.

With this increase of service, I feel that this officer is not making an effective attempt at a fire prevention program. In some cases, the property or business owners do not take code violations seriously enough, which requires many return inspections. When I have to return more than once a year it puts the residents of Franklin in harm’s way, and takes away from my other duties. I recommend that the Town adopt a Non-Criminal Fire Code Violation Notice Ticket Books and a fine fee structure. This would allow the department the ability to fine the more serious offenders.

I have increased the number of commercial business inspections along with helping businesses to formulate evacuation plans for their employees. In turn, this has shown an increase in the number of requests for conducted fire drills by this department in occupied business facilities. It is a good sign that employers are concerned with the safety of their employees.

Over the past year I have attended many classes dealing with the changes in the State Building Code, structures and system, evaluating performance based designs and plans review.

I would like to thank the Building Commissioner David Roche, Gus Brown and their staff for their assistance over the past year. Thank you, also, to the dedicated men and women of this department for their assistance in helping me to perform my duties during the past year.

Code compliance and Inspections
Captain Stephen Parchesky, CFI

Bold for my emphasis

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.

Franklin, MA: Fire Department

The Franklin Fire Department is divided into two divisions: Operations and Maintenance, which is the larges and responsible for dispatch, emergency medical services, fire suppression and hazardous materials response. Administration and Support Services is responsible for personnel, budget and finance, training, code compliance and coordinating the Town’s emergency preparedness.

Our Mission

The mission of the Franklin Fire Department is to:

…Have a positive impact in the lives of citizens and visitors of Franklin in their time of crisis by providing compassionate, contemporary, community driven services.
…Safeguard human life from the perils of fire, sudden illness, injury or other emergency medical condition, natural and man-made disasters as well as preserve the environment and property from ensuing destruction.
… Be responsible for a safe, productive and pleasant work environment for our employees, and provide them opportunities to gain new skills and advance their personal career goals.

Operational Objectives

• Initiating advanced life support to patients within 8 minutes of receiving the telephone call at our communications center.
• To access, extricate, treat and transport and transport trauma patients to a level one trauma medical facility within one hour of the occurrence of the injury.
• Interrupt the progression of fires in structures within 8 minutes of open flame ignition.
• To insure response readiness remains greater than 70%.
• Provide safety and survival skills for all school students in grade K through 5 consistent with the Student Awareness Fire Education (SAFE) initiative of the Commonwealth.
• Provide educational opportunities for department members to insure optimal performance and safety.
• To develop and maintain “best practice” to insure personnel and citizen safety.
• Insure fire safety through timely, consistent code compliance services to all external customers.
• Provide all department services in a manner that satisfies the needs of our customers.

Message from the Fire Chief

This year marked a year of continued growth of the department to meet the ever increasing needs of the community. This year saw the leaving of a few employees to pursue different career paths. This included Dispatchers Seth Hagerty and Jeff Quinlan as well as Firefighter Paramedics Ted Flanagan and Andy Joseph. We thank them for their efforts in making the department strong and wish them the best of luck on their future endeavors. Due to the looming budget climate neither Firefighter paramedic position will be replaced. This year also saw the retirement of Virginia “Ginny” McLaughlin. Ginny worked for the Town for more than 20 years working for the DPW and Board of Health and completed her career with the Town in the Fire Department. Her presence in our administrative office will be greatly missed and we wish her health and happiness in her retirement.

This year the department responded to more than 3,400 emergency responses – a decrease of about .4% from last year. This reduction in emergency responses followed the decline in the economy in general and is a typical reaction to downturns in the economy. We thankfully saw a minor reduction (1 less) in fires occurring in occupied buildings.

Additionally, the wet spring and early summer seasons provided a substantial decrease in the number of outside fires normally experienced within the Town In addition to emergency response, the department also continued to expand its fire prevention education activities, providing safety and survival education to the most vulnerable population to fire – our children and seniors. Through the dedicated efforts of SAFE Officer Robert Donovan, the department continued to educate over 100 children per month as well as attend various activities at the Senior Center. Firefighters Tom Carlucci and Keith Darling provide dedicated assistance in completing this important service to our citizens.

The department has also continued to develop our system of regular continuing education for fire-rescue services. Under the Direction of Captain Jim Klich, department members complete a total of over 1,000 hours of continuing fire education as well as over 1,200 hours of emergency medical service training. These regular ongoing classes are augmented by various specialty training attended by members.

In conclusion, I would like to thank the members of the Fire Department and their families for their dedicated efforts in serving the citizens of Franklin. The past several years have been challenging due to the decreasing amount of resources available to provide an increasing demand for services. Throughout this time, department members have continued to strive to provide the best services possible. We should all be proud of their efforts and grateful for such a dedicated and skilled workforce.

Respectfully Submitted,
Gary B. McCarraher, Fire Chief

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.

For additional detail on the Fire Dept, check out their reports found here

For additional information on each fire station and the equipment operating from there, check this link

For answers to the "Frequently Asked Questions" check this link.

Franklin, MA: Finance Committee

Year in Review

Change is inevitable. In a progressive country change is constant. Benjamin Disraeli, British Prime Minister spoke those words in 1867. They ring true in Franklin today. On behalf of the Franklin Finance Committee, it is my pleasure to submit our annual report.

Our fiscal year, which started July 1, 2008, saw much in the way of change. We started the year with three openings on the committee. We were, once again, fortunate to have more volunteers than openings available. We added three very sharp members, Tina Powderly, Juan Rivera & Robert Teixeria. I count myself fortunate to have worked along side all those who served on the committee.

During the year the committee met eleven times. Five of those meetings were focused on the fiscal 2010 budget. We continue to encourage folks to be involved in the budgeting process. And while the council chambers are not overflowing we are encouraged by the questions and emails from interested parties.

Budget Process Changes

There were many unanticipated changes in the budget process this year. Franklin is fortunate to receive nearly forty percent of our funding from state sources, however, delays at the state level can complicate planning at the local level. Changes at the state level can dictate changes at the local level.

The Governor proposed changes in lottery distributions that were additionally changed by the legislators. Legislators proposed and passed several new taxes, all the while delaying any firm estimate of revenue to the town until well into June.

The economy also continues to change. Many residents as well as businesses and municipalities are directly impacted in an economic downturn. So we all continue to squeeze expenses and be creative with ways to maintain services or raise revenues.

Some things that remain constant are limited resources available to provide desired services, committed employees and volunteers willing to serve and Franklin continuing to be a desirable community in which to live.

Financial Planning

Members of the Finance Committee, along with members of Town Council, School Committee and citizens, continue to project and forecast future needs. This process continues to be a moving target, largely due to changes at the State level, however we will continue to reach out, inform residents and receive input from all as the process evolves.

Expect Change

In closing I implore you not only to expect change, but embrace change. I am confident there will be new & different residents who get involved. I am certain there will be budget challenges next fiscal year. I am also convinced that through dialog and debate between elected officials, employees, volunteers and residents changes will be made that continue to serve the best interests of our town.

Respectfully Submitted,
Jim Roche
Chairman, Franklin Finance Committee
Brett Feldman, Vice Chairman
Phyllis Messere, Clerk
Rebecca Cameron
Mark Cataldo
Jack Caulfield
Pat Goldsmith
Craig Maire
Tina Powderly (elected to Town Council on Nov 3, 2009)
Juan Rivera
Robert Teixeira

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.


Note: I would quibble with the statement above that there were "many unanticipated changes in the budget process this year". In the process itself, no. In the dollars that flowed through the process, yes. The amount of money from State and Federal funding was quite fluid this year. The process itself did not change. The Town Administrator and the department heads prepared their budgets, presented them to the Finance Committee for review and approval before the Town Council reviewed and approved the budget for 2010.

For the notes of the Finance Committee meetings reported upon by me, check here:

• Finance Comm 04/16/09
• Finance Comm 04/21/09
• Finance Comm 04/29/09
• Finance Comm 05/05/09
• Finance Comm 10/06/09
• Finance Comm 12/01/09

For the notes of the Financial Planning Committee reported upon by me, check here:

• 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
• Financial Plng Comm 10/08/09

• Focus Group Collection 

Meeting notes archive for 2009

 2009

The collection of meeting notes from calendar year 2009

• Finance Comm 04/16/09
• Finance Comm 04/21/09
• Finance Comm 04/29/09
• Finance Comm 05/05/09
• Finance Comm 10/06/09
• Finance Comm 12/01/09
• 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
• Financial Plng Comm 10/08/09
• Focus Group Collection
• 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
• School Committee Mtg 07/21/09
• School Committee Mtg 08/11/09
• School Committee Mtg 08/25/09
• School Committee Mtg 09/08/09
• School Committee Mtg 09/22/09
• School Committee Mtg 10/13/09
• School Committee Mtg 10/27/09
• School Committee Mtg 11/17/09
• School Committee Mtg 12/08/09
• School Committee Mtg 12/15/09
• 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
• Town Council Mtg Smry 07/01/09
• Town Council Mtg Smry 07/15/09
• Town Council Mtg Smry 08/05/09
• Town Council Mtg Smry 08/19/09
• Town Council Mtg Smry 09/02/09
• Town Council Mtg Smry 09/16/09
• Town Council Mtg Smry 10/07/09
• Town Council Mtg Smry 10/21/09
• Town Council Mtg Smry 11/04/09
• Town Council Mtg Smry 11/18/09
• Town Council Mtg Smry 12/02/09
• Town Council Mtg Smry 12/09/09
• Town Council Mtg Smry 12/16/09

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Franklin, MA: Design Review Commission

The Design Review Commission (DRC) has had numerous projects come before them this year. The Commission is currently composed of Jennifer Peters, Chair; Lenley Rafuse, Vice-Chair; Richard Tobin, Jr., Jill Bedoya and James Esterbrook, as well as associate members, Mark Fitzgerald and Robin Stamp.

This past year, the Commission reviewed several Site Plans as to landscaping and lighting and Building Plans as to elevations, colors and materials, including, the Franklin Housing Authority's Plain Street facility; renovations to the 12-36 East Central Street block; Walgreen's Pharmacy; the landscaping and lighting added to the area between 12-36 East Central Street and Summer Street. Signage and awnings were reviewed and approved for many additional locations, including the above, as well as Rockland Trust, Daddario's Hardware and many more throughout the year.

Work on the Town's new sign by-law has been in progress throughout the year and hopefully will be presented to the Town Council prior to the year end.

Meetings are held at the Franklin Municipal Building, Room 205, 355 East Central Street, at 7:00 p.m. on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month. Meeting times and dates are posted at the Town Clerk’s Office. Meetings are usually less than an hour and a half in length.

Respectfully submitted,
Jennifer Peters, Chair
Design Review Commission

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.

Franklin, MA: Cultural Council

The Franklin Cultural Council is part of a network of 329 Local Cultural Councils serving all 351 cities and towns in the Commonwealth. The Local Cultural Council program is the largest grassroots cultural funding network in the nation, supporting thousands of community-based projects in the arts, sciences and humanities every year. The state legislature provides an annual appropriation to the
Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency, which then allocates funds to each community. We are a volunteer board that believes that the arts, science, and humanities have the power to build a healthier and more vital community in Franklin.

Grants

The Franklin Cultural Council reviewed proposals from artists, organizations, schools, and organizations for arts, humanities, and interpretive science projects. The FY2009 grant awards totaling $10,550 were awarded to twenty-five projects that best provided a public benefit to Franklin residents including the Franklin Art Association, Family Concert Series, Senior Citizen Musical Show,
LiveArts, Concerts on the Common and many more. Various awards to the Franklin Schools were made so that children could enjoy performances by artists such as the Hampstead Players for a production of Prince Caspian, Steps Off Broadway, as well as educational programs including Journey Back in Time’s, “Pioneer Living” Program. The Franklin Cultural Council has also been generously funded by the Town of Franklin in the amount of $2,000. For a complete list of the artists funded this year, please visit our web site at: http://franklinma.virtualtownhall.net/Pages/FranklinMA_BComm/cultural.

If you are interested in applying for a grant from the Franklin Cultural Council, all information and forms are available at www.massculturalcouncil.org. You may also pick up a grant application at the Municipal Building or the Franklin Public Library. Deadline is October 15, 2009 for an application to be submitted to Franklin Cultural Council, PMB 284, 279 East Central Street, Franklin, MA 02038.

Membership

Membership on the Council is open to all Franklin residents that are interested in working for the cultural enrichment of Franklin. Meetings are held monthly (second Monday of the month) from September to June. We welcome and need new members. Please contact Sue Sheridan at 508-533-1917 or email at  FranklinCulture@hotmail.com or P.O. Box 284, 279 East Central St., Franklin, MA 02038 1917 if you are interested in serving in this vital community volunteer activity.

Council members for 2008-09: Amy Kessler Welsh and Nathaniel Packard, Co-Chairs, Jodi Kanadanian, Treasurer, Sue Sheridan, Membership, Kim Rezendes, Secretary, Claire Griffin and Kathy Stankard.

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.

Franklin, MA: DelCarte Conservation Area

The Conservation Commission continued their on-going effort to address deficiencies with the DelCarte Conservation Area dam system (known as the Franklin Reservoir). This area was donated to the Town and offers a network of walking trails along a number of ponds and wooded areas.

The Commission chose PARE Corporation from Foxboro, MA, to conduct a review of the DelCarte Conservation Area, specifically the condition of seven structures in the area. PARE completed their initial Study and presented their findings to the Commission in late 2008. Following the Commission’s review of PARE’s findings, it was determined that an additional phase to the Study, which would focus on three potential repairs options, would be required in order for the Town to determine the most beneficial approach to addressing deficiencies at the Site, while taking into consideration both the environmental sensitivity of the Site and cost to implement the repairs. The Commission anticipates PARE to complete the next phase of the Study and present their findings by end of calendar year 2009.

Update: As 2009 is closing, the update is really more likely to come before the Town Council during Jan-Feb-Mar 2010.

Where is the Delcorte property?
You can find it on Google Maps referenced as the "Franklin Reservoirs"


View Larger Map

Franklin, MA: In house Attorney - Mark G Cerel

The Town has an in-house attorney, Mark G. Cerel. Attorney Cerel has an office in the Town Administration offices and works three days a week. In addition, he attends regular Council sessions and meetings of town boards and commissions on an as-needed basis. His responsibilities include providing legal advice to the Town Administrator and other town officials, review and drafting of legal documents, and representation of the town in negotiations and litigation other than labor-related matters. Having an in-house attorney has enabled town officials to obtain prompt legal review and advice; it has also expedited various town projects which require legal input.

During the past year, Attorney Cerel has continued to be successful not only in resolving actual litigation but also in resolving disputes prior to litigation on terms favorable to the Town; he has also continued to draft proposed legislation and to be involved in contract and real estate negotiations. In addition, he has continued to work with the staff to review and update the Town's zoning and general bylaws.

An in-house attorney plays an essential role in limiting the town’s legal exposure. He assists in resolving matters before they result in legal action and he provides the town with a strong legal presence that discourages people from filing frivolous lawsuits.

The Town Attorney represents the town and is only available to consult with individual residents if the Town Administrator’s prior approval is obtained.

Respectfully submitted,

Mark Cerel
Town Attorney

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.

In the News - social networking, water quality

How towns use social networking sites

from The Milford Daily News News RSS by Krista Perry/Daily News staff

Twitter accounts:

Franklin Police - http://twitter.com/franklinpolice
Franklin Fire - http://twitter.com/FranklinMAfire

Franklin Matters - http://twitter.com/FranklinMatters

A listing of Franklin, MA Twitter accounts: http://twitter.com/GraydonSmith/franklin-ma

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Stepping up water quality efforts in Franklin

from The Milford Daily News News RSS by Ashley Studley/Daily News staff

Four Corners remembered

The Walgreens has made great progress finishing construction and getting ready to open (April, is what I recall but it could be sooner by the looks of it?).

Out front on the triangle of "public space" that they will maintain, there is a historic marker with information on the Four Corners School which stood on the grounds.

A close up of the marker shows this:

When you go by the corner some time, stop and read the history of Four Corners School.