Wednesday, November 7, 2012
Tuesday, November 6, 2012
Election results - quick totals
Quick totals from Franklin, MA voters
Obama - 8,589
Romney - 8,549
Brown - 10,721
Warren - 6,683
Bielat - 7,626
Kennedy - 8,937
Eustis - 6,832 + Medway 3,029 = 9,961
Roy - 9,751 + Medway 2,084 = 11,835
Ballot Questions
Q1 = yes - 13,576 no - 1,901
Q2 = yes - 7,958 no - 8,912
Q3 = yes - 10,418 no - 6,319
nonbinding Q4 = yes - 6,524 no - 2,079
nonbinding Q5 = yes - 6,053 no - 2,544
The full precinct totals can be found here:
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2012/11/election-2012-results-by-precinct.html
Obama - 8,589
Romney - 8,549
Brown - 10,721
Warren - 6,683
Bielat - 7,626
Kennedy - 8,937
Eustis - 6,832 + Medway 3,029 = 9,961
Roy - 9,751 + Medway 2,084 = 11,835
Ballot Questions
Q1 = yes - 13,576 no - 1,901
Q2 = yes - 7,958 no - 8,912
Q3 = yes - 10,418 no - 6,319
nonbinding Q4 = yes - 6,524 no - 2,079
nonbinding Q5 = yes - 6,053 no - 2,544
The full precinct totals can be found here:
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2012/11/election-2012-results-by-precinct.html
Election 2012 - Results by Precinct
Here are the official results from Franklin, MA for November 6, 2012.
17,500 voters cast their ballot for an 85% turnout!
17,500 voters cast their ballot for an 85% turnout!
Live reporting - Finance Committee - Nov 6, 2012
Present: Feldman, Goldsmith, Dufour, Quinn, Roche, Dewsnap, Smith
Absent: none
Motion to approve minutes for June meeting, tabled for next time
Leadership selection for new session
Nomination of Jim Roche by Chris Quinn, seconded
Passed unanimously
Nomination of Chris Quinn for Vice Chair, seconded
Passed unanimously
Nomination of Susan Dewsnap for Clerk, seconded
Passed unanimously
Jeff Nutting updates:
In middle of annual audit, should wrap up by end of yer
Dept heads working on budgets, lots of uncertainty
looking to keep flt as much as possible
(lost the use of my "a" key for some reason
tax rate hearing on Nov 28th to set the tax rate for next year
school building bids came in under estimates
public hearing next Weds, Nov 4th 7:00 PM
Library waiver request submitted, last year library budget discussion was different from other budgets
this year the budget increased but we still need a waiver, no decision until Feb 203
hopefully lots of discussions last year with the Commissioners will help this time round
still need to figure out what will efficiently and effectively operate the Library
given the uncertainty in the fiscal view, we do have about 800,000 in excess
state aid brought in about 300,000 more
new growth about 200,000 higher
local receipts coming in higher than anticipated
given the uncertainty, lets' create another stabilization account
60 folks in the School Dept turned over this year, usually around 25-30 could provide some relief but even so they'll have continued pressures
only limitation would be the 2/3 vote to take money via roll call as opposed to majority vote
stabilization account was at one point about 10M with about 6M from a legal settlement
2.5M was used when an override failed
had used a debt stabilization account to manage debt
used a debt overlay account to help balance, no longer available
did have an override of 2.7M but cut 20% of workforce between Town and Schools
reductions in service, 304 municipal now about 240
schools lost about 100 teachers, class sizes rose
can not balance increases on tax revenues, 2.5% increase does not provide enough leeway
no raises also helped saved money, along with increases in co-pay on health insurance
new homes are a loss leader, $5,000 in taxes does not cover the $20,000 expense to educate the two children
Nutting: "I don't ever not see us having a challenging budget"
"all came together for the first time in 5 years to not have to cut jobs"
Gagner: Free cash is a close out from last fiscal year
Roche: part of the urgency is to set the money aside legally or we don't get to touch it for another year.
Quinn: the general stabilization fund is good at about 4.5 to 5% of the operating budget?
Nutting: everyone wants to have some savings but can't have too much as it is the taxpayers money
Nutting: used $00K to repair the cornice that fell off Davis Thayer
Nutting: the addition of this account would modify our policies, we have just started talking about it so it is not set yet
Roche: it doesn't violate any of our fiscal policies but does help us set up for the future
Nutting: this is geared to avoiding having the taxpayer paying more
trust me, there is enough coming down the road for capital needs we will have some need of it
Quinn: we could use some of the extra for a snow budget
Nutting: that is why we keep back some of the free cash to help cover, you're never going to budget for the high, can budget for the average
Quinn: yes, budget for the average, and have something aside for the high
motion to raise and appropriate for the new budget stabilization fund, seconded
Passed unanimously
Nutting: lawsuit between Newton and utilities for how to tax the utility poles, law was changed to determine how to tax, the courts finally decided the suit, need to raise and appropriate the interest to pay the bill, money was set aside but the interest was not collected or set for this
interest rate set at 8% but set forever ago
discussion on overlay versus surplus, not released yet
motion to raise and appropriate $38,000 to pay the utilities
Passed unanimously
Dacey: when we borrowed money last April towards the high school project, received a premium, since this is a debt excluded project, whatever costs and interest are added to the tax levy but the premium is deducted, so this premium needs to be applied against an existing account to properly offset it
Gagner: this is housekeeping financially
motion to transfer from free cash, $1,405 to pay for the high school bands (bonds) (not musical instruments)
Passed unanimously
Deswnap - picked up good point from conference, points we can take offline and review what they mentioned versus what we do, always room to improve
Roche: held in Franklin, good breakout session, good info help every October
Nutting: spoke this year on merging facilities along with Lexington, interesting to see how some are having trouble doing something like what we did with facilities here switching from School to Town support
Nutting: Technology lost a staff person, might need some help sooner than later
Fire Dept with 5 folks out on injury, some new hires haven't been fully trained yet and class is not until next year, so overtime is going up; with reduction in staff, injuries hit you
2 firefighters are down in NJ called up by the federal government
Roche: mentioned to Jeff about getting a recording secretary, we don't have someone but it would be good to have; pretty hard to effectively do so and conduct the meeting; will try to advertise a 2 hour a month job once a month with summers off
A project, to develop a new member packet, what are the policies, phone number listing, mission statement, goals, etc. and a current budget
A project to review all the cash accounts, Jim remiss in sitting with Susan to review
Long range issues need to be picked up from the Long Range Planning Committee
it does happen but it is not formalized in Franklin, roads, sustainability of employment, etc.
Encourage the Chairman to appoint subcommittees to meet with the departments, Police, Fire, DPW and Schools makes a difference when it comes to the budget and decision making
motion to adjourn
Passed unanimously
Absent: none
Motion to approve minutes for June meeting, tabled for next time
Leadership selection for new session
Nomination of Jim Roche by Chris Quinn, seconded
Passed unanimously
Nomination of Chris Quinn for Vice Chair, seconded
Passed unanimously
Nomination of Susan Dewsnap for Clerk, seconded
Passed unanimously
Jeff Nutting updates:
In middle of annual audit, should wrap up by end of yer
Dept heads working on budgets, lots of uncertainty
looking to keep flt as much as possible
tax rate hearing on Nov 28th to set the tax rate for next year
school building bids came in under estimates
public hearing next Weds, Nov 4th 7:00 PM
Library waiver request submitted, last year library budget discussion was different from other budgets
this year the budget increased but we still need a waiver, no decision until Feb 203
hopefully lots of discussions last year with the Commissioners will help this time round
still need to figure out what will efficiently and effectively operate the Library
given the uncertainty in the fiscal view, we do have about 800,000 in excess
state aid brought in about 300,000 more
new growth about 200,000 higher
local receipts coming in higher than anticipated
given the uncertainty, lets' create another stabilization account
60 folks in the School Dept turned over this year, usually around 25-30 could provide some relief but even so they'll have continued pressures
only limitation would be the 2/3 vote to take money via roll call as opposed to majority vote
stabilization account was at one point about 10M with about 6M from a legal settlement
2.5M was used when an override failed
had used a debt stabilization account to manage debt
used a debt overlay account to help balance, no longer available
did have an override of 2.7M but cut 20% of workforce between Town and Schools
reductions in service, 304 municipal now about 240
schools lost about 100 teachers, class sizes rose
can not balance increases on tax revenues, 2.5% increase does not provide enough leeway
no raises also helped saved money, along with increases in co-pay on health insurance
new homes are a loss leader, $5,000 in taxes does not cover the $20,000 expense to educate the two children
Nutting: "I don't ever not see us having a challenging budget"
"all came together for the first time in 5 years to not have to cut jobs"
Gagner: Free cash is a close out from last fiscal year
Roche: part of the urgency is to set the money aside legally or we don't get to touch it for another year.
Quinn: the general stabilization fund is good at about 4.5 to 5% of the operating budget?
Nutting: everyone wants to have some savings but can't have too much as it is the taxpayers money
Nutting: used $00K to repair the cornice that fell off Davis Thayer
Nutting: the addition of this account would modify our policies, we have just started talking about it so it is not set yet
Roche: it doesn't violate any of our fiscal policies but does help us set up for the future
Nutting: this is geared to avoiding having the taxpayer paying more
trust me, there is enough coming down the road for capital needs we will have some need of it
Quinn: we could use some of the extra for a snow budget
Nutting: that is why we keep back some of the free cash to help cover, you're never going to budget for the high, can budget for the average
Quinn: yes, budget for the average, and have something aside for the high
motion to raise and appropriate for the new budget stabilization fund, seconded
Passed unanimously
Nutting: lawsuit between Newton and utilities for how to tax the utility poles, law was changed to determine how to tax, the courts finally decided the suit, need to raise and appropriate the interest to pay the bill, money was set aside but the interest was not collected or set for this
interest rate set at 8% but set forever ago
discussion on overlay versus surplus, not released yet
motion to raise and appropriate $38,000 to pay the utilities
Passed unanimously
Dacey: when we borrowed money last April towards the high school project, received a premium, since this is a debt excluded project, whatever costs and interest are added to the tax levy but the premium is deducted, so this premium needs to be applied against an existing account to properly offset it
Gagner: this is housekeeping financially
motion to transfer from free cash, $1,405 to pay for the high school bands (bonds) (not musical instruments)
Passed unanimously
Deswnap - picked up good point from conference, points we can take offline and review what they mentioned versus what we do, always room to improve
Roche: held in Franklin, good breakout session, good info help every October
Nutting: spoke this year on merging facilities along with Lexington, interesting to see how some are having trouble doing something like what we did with facilities here switching from School to Town support
Nutting: Technology lost a staff person, might need some help sooner than later
Fire Dept with 5 folks out on injury, some new hires haven't been fully trained yet and class is not until next year, so overtime is going up; with reduction in staff, injuries hit you
2 firefighters are down in NJ called up by the federal government
Roche: mentioned to Jeff about getting a recording secretary, we don't have someone but it would be good to have; pretty hard to effectively do so and conduct the meeting; will try to advertise a 2 hour a month job once a month with summers off
A project, to develop a new member packet, what are the policies, phone number listing, mission statement, goals, etc. and a current budget
A project to review all the cash accounts, Jim remiss in sitting with Susan to review
Long range issues need to be picked up from the Long Range Planning Committee
it does happen but it is not formalized in Franklin, roads, sustainability of employment, etc.
Encourage the Chairman to appoint subcommittees to meet with the departments, Police, Fire, DPW and Schools makes a difference when it comes to the budget and decision making
motion to adjourn
Passed unanimously
Franklin votes at the high school
Voting for all of Franklin is at Franklin High School, 218 Oak St, Franklin, MA 02038.
View Larger Map
The polls will open at 6:00 AM and close at 8:00 PM.
-------------
To help summarize the information available to us on the candidates and their positions, I have the following to offer:
Another stabilization fund?
In the normal course of events, Town Council agenda items regarding money usually get to go before the Finance Committee (FinCom) for a vote. The vote becomes part of the record for the Town Council to consider the matter. How the FinCom votes can help determine what the Town Council will do.
Aside from the election as being the major event of today, the FinCom meeting tonight will get to decide on the possible creation of another stabilization account. We already have several accounts in this space. Per the FinCom agenda these are the accounts and current amounts held:
The General Stabilization is supposed to be around 5% of the Town budget as a good fiscal practice as well as Town Council policy.
The OPEB, Senior Center, Recreation Fields, and Fire Truck accounts are all holding money being put aside to accumulate for the time when we will need it. OPEB for the outstanding funding required. The Senior Center for the build out of the 2nd floor. The Recreation fields to re-do the artificial turf fields in a couple of years. The fire truck to purchase a replacement in a few years.
With some extra money over and above what was budgeted for FY 2013, there is now a proposal for an "Operating Budget Stabilization Fund".
Money put aside in this new account would help to offset a future need for an operational override. Yet money from the general stabilization fund had been previously used for this purpose. Why create a separate account? Why not use the one that has been used?
The full FinCom agenda can be found here
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2012/11/finance-committee-agenda-nov-6-2012.html
The full Town Council agenda for Wednesday's meeting can be found here
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2012/11/franklin-ma-town-council-agenda-nov-7.html
Aside from the election as being the major event of today, the FinCom meeting tonight will get to decide on the possible creation of another stabilization account. We already have several accounts in this space. Per the FinCom agenda these are the accounts and current amounts held:
General stabilization: $4,806,571
Public Works: $275,494
Traffic: $4,565
OPEB: $170,253
Senior Center: $150,579
Recreation fields: $150,579
Fire Truck: $75,290
Free cash : $3,580,481
The General Stabilization is supposed to be around 5% of the Town budget as a good fiscal practice as well as Town Council policy.
The OPEB, Senior Center, Recreation Fields, and Fire Truck accounts are all holding money being put aside to accumulate for the time when we will need it. OPEB for the outstanding funding required. The Senior Center for the build out of the 2nd floor. The Recreation fields to re-do the artificial turf fields in a couple of years. The fire truck to purchase a replacement in a few years.
With some extra money over and above what was budgeted for FY 2013, there is now a proposal for an "Operating Budget Stabilization Fund".
The Town Council will vote on Wednesday these two items (among other actions on the agenda)
1. Resolution 12-72: Establishment of an Operating Budget Stabilization Fund
2. Resolution 12-73: Appropriation: Operating Budget Stabilization Fund
Money put aside in this new account would help to offset a future need for an operational override. Yet money from the general stabilization fund had been previously used for this purpose. Why create a separate account? Why not use the one that has been used?
The full FinCom agenda can be found here
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2012/11/finance-committee-agenda-nov-6-2012.html
The full Town Council agenda for Wednesday's meeting can be found here
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2012/11/franklin-ma-town-council-agenda-nov-7.html
Music Boosters Fund Raiser - Thu Nov 8
The Franklin Music Boosters will be holding a fund raiser on Thursday evening from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM at Five Guys. Five Guys will donate a percentage of the purchases during this time to the Music Boosters.
Have a burger and help the Music Boosters!
Additional information on the Franklin Music Boosters can be found on their webpage:
http://www.franklinmusic.org/
Have a burger and help the Music Boosters!
Additional information on the Franklin Music Boosters can be found on their webpage:
http://www.franklinmusic.org/
Monday, November 5, 2012
FHS Girls Varsity game - Tues 6pm @ FHS
Ok Soccer Fans!
Let's keep the momentum going...Franklin HS Girls Varsity game vs. Dartmouth - 6pm - Tues 11/6 at FHS. Each game is getting tougher and this one will be no exception. It's the quarterfinals as there are just 8 teams left in the tournament.
Please come out to support the team...bring blankets, hot cocoa, mittens, and more to keep warm and cheer on the girls! They GREATLY appreciate all the support over the last few games...it has really given them an extra boost during the games to hear and see all the fans!!
GO FRANKLIN!!
November is busy!
Why is it so busy in November? It helps that there are 'short' school weeks.
This week:
No school on Tuesday Nov 6th to reduce traffic on Election Day. Teachers and staff have a professional day.
Next week:
No school on Monday, Nov 12th, Veterans Day.
The following week
Thanksgiving comes with no school Wed/Thu/Fri hence onlythree two days of school!
This week:
No school on Tuesday Nov 6th to reduce traffic on Election Day. Teachers and staff have a professional day.
Next week:
No school on Monday, Nov 12th, Veterans Day.
The following week
Thanksgiving comes with no school Wed/Thu/Fri hence only
Election 2012: What's on the ballot?
While this article leaves out the two non-binding ballot questions, you can get ALL the candidate and ballot question information you need here
http://franklinmattersweekly.blogspot.com/2012/11/its-time-to-vote-nov-6th.html
http://franklinmattersweekly.blogspot.com/2012/11/its-time-to-vote-nov-6th.html
Sent to you by Steve Sherlock via Google Reader:
via The Milford Daily News News RSS by Derek McLean/Daily News staff on 11/4/12
When local residents hit the ballot box on Tuesday, they will all be asked to vote for their choice of president and U.S. senator. Voters in the Massachusetts 4th Middlesex Congressional District will be asked to choose between Democrat Joe Kennedy, Republican Sean Bielat and independent David Rosa to take the U.S. representative seat that is currently being held by Barney Frank.Things you can do from here:
- Subscribe to The Milford Daily News News RSS using Google Reader
- Get started using Google Reader to easily keep up with all your favorite sites
"It’s been a great race"
The position statements have been touted frequently, now it is time to get out the vote. The Milford Daily News reports on a reflection of the campaigns for the 10th Norfolk District by the candidates:
Read more: http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/x1890071984/Roy-Eustis-look-back-on-months-of-campaigning#ixzz2BLLkuhGy
Roy, of Franklin, and Eustis, of Medway, know the district well. Yet both acknowledged that because of the microscope put on it by campaigning, they have learned so much more about the towns and their residents.
"I’ve been to neighborhoods I never knew existed," Roy said. "I’ve made new friends."
This hyper-local election, they say, has been all about going door-to-door. The candidates each boast about having visited with thousands of their would-be constituents. And they have been humbled by the kindness and openness shown to them on the campaign trail.
"It was amazing to me how freely people would share their personal stories and details of struggles they have had — me coming to their door as a stranger," Eustis said. "They were so welcoming and candid in our discussions. They left me more committed than ever to fight to help make their lives better, day to day."
Read more: http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/x1890071984/Roy-Eustis-look-back-on-months-of-campaigning#ixzz2BLLkuhGy
Democracy Amendment Massachusetts (Common Cause Ballot Initiative to overturn Citizens United)
A regular reader sent along this additional information on Ballot Question 4
The Democracy Amendment Ballot Question
9 states – Massachusetts, New Jersey, Connecticut, California, Hawaii, Maryland, New Mexico, Rhode Island, and Vermont – have called for Congress to propose a constitutional amendment.
Over 300 US municipalities have passed resolutions in favor of an amendment, including at least 70 in Massachusetts.
11 state attorneys general, led by Massachusetts's Martha Coakley, have written to Congress urging the passage of an amendment.
22 state attorneys general urged the Court to uphold a Montana law challenging Citizens United.
A dozen versions of an amendment have been introduced by US representatives and senators.
115+ citizens' organizations support a constitutional amendment.
More than 2 million people have signed petitions in support of an amendment.
The Democracy Amendment Ballot Question
Shall the state [senator or representative] from this district be instructed to vote in favor of a resolution calling upon Congress to propose an amendment to the US Constitution affirming that 1) corporations are not entitled to the constitutional rights of human beings, and 2) both Congress and the states may place limits on political contributions and political spending?
Frequently Asked Questions
Who supports a constitutional amendment?
83% of Democrats, 73% of Republicans, and 81% of Independents oppose Citizens United.9 states – Massachusetts, New Jersey, Connecticut, California, Hawaii, Maryland, New Mexico, Rhode Island, and Vermont – have called for Congress to propose a constitutional amendment.
Over 300 US municipalities have passed resolutions in favor of an amendment, including at least 70 in Massachusetts.
11 state attorneys general, led by Massachusetts's Martha Coakley, have written to Congress urging the passage of an amendment.
22 state attorneys general urged the Court to uphold a Montana law challenging Citizens United.
A dozen versions of an amendment have been introduced by US representatives and senators.
115+ citizens' organizations support a constitutional amendment.
More than 2 million people have signed petitions in support of an amendment.
Is a constitutional amendment really necessary?
Yes. Because Citizens United and other decisions are based on the Supreme Court's interpretation of the Constitution, only a constitutional amendment can undo them and ensure that government works for us—not just for corporations and wealthy interests that pay for political campaigns. Read more »Isn't a corporation an association of people? Why shouldn't it have constitutional rights?
To claim that the Bill of Rights applies to "we the corporations" as well as "we the people" is contrary to its original intent and just plain wrong. Read more »Unions, nonprofits, and news organizations are corporations too. Won't a constitutional amendment weaken their voice?
Absolutely not. Non-profit organizations could advocate for the rights of their members long before the courts gave corporations constitutional rights. The Supreme Court has recognized this repeatedly. If a constitutional amendment were passed, we would merely go back to this method of analyzing rights. Read more »Didn't the Massachusetts state legislature already pass a resolution calling for a constitutional amendment?
Yes, in an overwhelming bipartisan victory, both chambers of the Massachusetts legislature passed resolutions calling on Congress for a constitutional amendment. This ballot question is an opportunity for the voters of Massachusetts to reinforce the state legislature's action. Read more »What is the point if the ballot question is non-binding?
Using ballot questions, "We the People" can send a strong message to Congress and other elected officials that we want a constitutional amendment. Even though voter instructions are not legally binding, they have historically carried great force. Read more »What is the process to pass a constitutional amendment?
All 27 amendments to today's US constitution were proposed by a 2/3 vote of both houses of Congress and then ratified by 3/4 of the state legislatures. Alternatively, amendments can be proposed and ratified by a combination of national and state constitutional conventions.What did the Court decide in the Citizens United ruling? How did the Court arrive at Citizens United?
In its 5-4 decision in Citizens United v. Federal Elections Commission (2010), the Supreme Court decided that corporate expenditures in elections constitute constitutionally protected free speech. Read more »What are independent expenditures? How are they different from contributions?
An independent expenditure is spending on behalf of a candidate. A contribution is given directly to a candidate or a candidate's affiliates. Read more »What are SuperPACs?
SuperPACs are political action committees that only make independent expenditures. They can legally accept and spend unlimited donations from individuals, corporations, and unions. Read more »How has Citizens United affected political spending in elections?
The unprecedented special interest funds pumped into the 2010 elections revealed only the tip of the iceberg of campaign finance post-Citizens United. The 2012 election cycle is sure to break all spending records: overall spending in the 2012 election is predicted to reach new heights – more than $8 billion! Read more »Who will be voting on the Democracy Amendment question?
About one-third of Massachusetts voters have a chance to vote on the question in November. Read more »Why does the Democracy Amendment question have different numbers depending on where you vote?
Ballot questions are numbered in the order in which petition signatures were submitted to the Secretary of State. Also, all statewide binding questions, of which there are three in 2012, are numbered first. Read more »Aside from voting "YES," how can I help and where can I get more information?
Tell your friends, family, neighbors, and coworkers about the ballot question. Make sure they are registered to vote by Wednesday October 17 and vote "YES" on Tuesday November 6! Read more »Want to know more? Check out our suggestions for reading and other resources »
Sunday, November 4, 2012
Franklin, MA: Town Council - Agenda - Nov 7, 2012
A. ELECTION OF OFFICERS
B. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
October 3, 2012 Regular Session, October 17 Executive Session
C. ANNOUNCEMENTS
This meeting is being recorded by Franklin TV and shown on Comcast channel 11 and Verizon channel 29. This meeting is also being recorded by Franklin Matters.
D. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS
Citizenship Award
E. CITIZEN COMMENTS
F. APPOINTMENTS
Franklin Community Cable Access Corp. – Board of Directors
(three candidates for two positions: Ken Norman, Rose Turco, Frank Falvey)
Finance Committee - Paul Aparo
G. HEARINGS
H. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS
I. PRESENTATIONS/DISCUSSIONS
Karen Alves, Director, Senior Center
Franklin TV, Ken Norman
J. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS
K. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
1. Resolution 12-72: Establishment of an Operating Budget Stabilization Fund
2. Resolution 12-73: Appropriation: Operating Budget Stabilization Fund
3. Resolution 12-74: Appropriation: Interest – Property Tax
4. Resolution 12-75: Town of Franklin Net Metering Power Purchase Agreement
Authorization
5. Bylaw Amendment 12-694:Amendment to Chapter 82, Appendix A, List of Service Fee
Rates – 2nd Reading
6. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 12-695: Amendment to Chapter 185 §31. Site Plan and Design
Review – Referral to Planning Board
7. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 12-696: Amendment to Chapter 185 §20 Signs. Sign Approvals
– Referral to Planning Board
8. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 12-697: Amendment to Chapter 185 §45 Administration &
Enforcement. Design Review Commission – Referral to Planning Board
L. TOWN ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT
M.OLD BUSINESS
N. NEW BUSINESS
O. COUNCIL COMMENTS
P. EXECUTIVE SESSION
Negotiations, Litigation, Real Property, as May Be Required
Q. ADJOURN
The full set of documents released for this meeting can be found here
http://franklinma.virtualtownhall.net/Pages/FranklinMA_CouncilAgendas/2012%20docs/110712.pdf
Hurricane Relief collection underway
| |||||||
|
November Programs at the Library
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: "Friends of Franklin Library"
Subject: November Programs at the Library
Monday November 5th from 10:30 AM – Noon
--
From: "Friends of Franklin Library"
Subject: November Programs at the Library
How to select eReaders
This program will look at the features of eReaders and help you decide which reader is right for you. Also, included is a demonstration of using the Overdrive service provided by the Minuteman Network and the Franklin Public Library. eBooks can be checked out and downloaded from Overdrive and then transferred to portable devices such as the Nook, Kindle, iPads, and smartphones. The library has both Kindles and Nooks preloaded with books available for circulation.
Monday November 5th from 10:30 AM – Noon
Franklin Public Library Meeting Room
Monday December 3rd from 10:30 – Noon
Franklin Public Library Meeting Room
No registration required.
How to Make Holiday Memories with your Digital Photographs
Digital Photographs make it easy to share albums with family and friends and create cards, calendars, ornaments, and other gifts for the holidays. In this program we will look at free software to edit photos, and sites to upload photos for sharing and ordering a wide array of products. We will also look at transferring images from you camera to the computer and storage options for large file sizes.
Monday November 19th 10:30 AM to Noon
Franklin Public Library Meeting Room
No registration required.
--
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friends of the Franklin Library * P.O. Box 147 * Franklin, MA 02038 * fofl02038@gmail.com
Friends of the Franklin Library * P.O. Box 147 * Franklin, MA 02038 * fofl02038@gmail.com
Saturday, November 3, 2012
12 Days of Donating-Important News From the Elves
|
Boston Globe endorses Rich Eustis
The Boston Globe endorses Rich Eustis:
http://bostonglobe.com/opinion/editorials/2012/11/01/open-seats-give-voters-opportunity-reshape-beacon-hill/qibWAOOqlj5fjcV2Mls6OO/story.html
Note: If some of you were wondering who I would endorse, I do not endorse candidates. In my journalistic role, I share information to help you become an informed voter.
In the 10th Norfolk district, two strong candidates compete for the seat already vacated by Democrat James Vallee. Republican candidate Richard Eustis of Medway lacks the impressive town government experience of Democrat Jeffrey Roy of Franklin. But Eustis, who runs the Bar Advocate Program in Worcester County, offers an intriguing blend of pro-business policies and cost-effective alternatives to incarceration for nonviolent drug offenders.
http://bostonglobe.com/opinion/editorials/2012/11/01/open-seats-give-voters-opportunity-reshape-beacon-hill/qibWAOOqlj5fjcV2Mls6OO/story.html
Note: If some of you were wondering who I would endorse, I do not endorse candidates. In my journalistic role, I share information to help you become an informed voter.
MassDOT Introduces 857-DOT-INFO (857-368-4636)
Sent to you by Steve Sherlock via Google Reader:
via Commonwealth Conversations: Transportation by Klark Jessen on 11/2/12
MassDOT today announced a new telephone number to provide customers easy, direct access to statewide transportation information as part of its internal OneVoice transition.
"We are speaking with one voice throughout MassDOT," said MassDOT Secretary and CEO Richard A. Davey. "It's a voice that is focused on the customer. Maybe you don't know your highway district, nearest airport, bus route or what time the local RMV opens on Thursdays. Today, we are telling our customers all that information is just one call away, 857-DOT-INFO."
In 2009, Transportation Reform integrated stand alone agencies including the Turnpike Authority and MassHighway. Today, MassDOT is comprised of four divisions: the Highway Division, Registry of Motor Vehicles Division, Rail and Transit Division and the Aeronautics Division.
Reform has allowed MassDOT to consolidate functions and see cost savings. The OneVoice telephone transition will result in phone bill and maintenance savings of approximately $422,000 each year.
Registry of Motor Vehicles customers may be familiar with 857-DOT, as the call center transitioned to 857-DOT-8000 earlier this year. For MBTA customers, this new line complements the existing customer service line, 617-222-3200, which remains active.
MassDOT is maximizing existing resources to acquaint the public with 857-DOT-INFO. Customers will notice ads on the MBTA system and on the Highway Division's digital billboard PSA program and inside our RMV offices.
Employees with the new area code and exchange include those working at the State Transportation Building, the Registry of Motor Vehicles Headquarters in Quincy and its Boston branch, as well as MassDOT Highway District 6.
Things you can do from here:
- Subscribe to Commonwealth Conversations: Transportation using Google Reader
- Get started using Google Reader to easily keep up with all your favorite sites
Hurricane Relief
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: "FRANKLIN PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT"
Date: Nov 2, 2012 2:30 PM
Subject: Hurricane Relief
From: "FRANKLIN PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT"
Date: Nov 2, 2012 2:30 PM
Subject: Hurricane Relief
| |||||||
|
Pantherbook: Goodbye Access Road
The School Building Committee has an update scheduled for Weds Nov 14 in the Council Chambers at 7:00 PM.The update will cover the different stages of construction, how the traffic patterns will be affected and where the project is currently. This will be a good time to hear and discuss what is being planned for traffic during the construction that will be taking place for the next two years.
I already have to make my way through the day running on six or sometimes less hours of sleep with all my homework, after school activities and attempting to make time for my social life. Getting up earlier just to get to school is the worst thing anyone could tell me right now.
I am a junior in Franklin and I will not even benefit from the new high school. I do not see the new school as a benefit to me therefore I am frustrated that I will have to wake up earlier just to be able to park in my school!
Even with the access road helping the flow of traffic into the bustling high school in the morning, there is still an overflowing amount of cars piling into the parking lot.
"It takes me long enough to get here with all the traffic in the morning already. I park in H wing so I don't use the access road but I see how many cars go through the road to get to school after dropping off a sibling or something" says Erica Lutazzi, Junior at Franklin High School.
I have to drop off my sibling before I get to school and then use the access as an easy way to get into the senior parking lot. Without the access road I will just be even later arriving, and I get up at 5:45 every morning!
"I am not worried about the access road being shut down but for others it could be an issue" says Lutazzi.
While some students don't see the problem with the road being closed off while the new school is under construction, I see this as another struggle for me to get to school every morning.
What is the faculty going to do to help the overflowing traffic? Do we have to wake up even earlier just to get a parking spot? All I know is I get up early enough and cannot see many other students waking up that much earlier either.
Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.
Sent to you by Steve Sherlock via Google Reader:
via Pantherbook by brittanylandry on 11/2/12
The new school is on it's way and will begin construction in November,but with the access road being cut off by Monday, students are forced to leave earlier in the mornings, resulting in even less sleep for us.I already have to make my way through the day running on six or sometimes less hours of sleep with all my homework, after school activities and attempting to make time for my social life. Getting up earlier just to get to school is the worst thing anyone could tell me right now.
I am a junior in Franklin and I will not even benefit from the new high school. I do not see the new school as a benefit to me therefore I am frustrated that I will have to wake up earlier just to be able to park in my school!
Even with the access road helping the flow of traffic into the bustling high school in the morning, there is still an overflowing amount of cars piling into the parking lot.
"It takes me long enough to get here with all the traffic in the morning already. I park in H wing so I don't use the access road but I see how many cars go through the road to get to school after dropping off a sibling or something" says Erica Lutazzi, Junior at Franklin High School.
I have to drop off my sibling before I get to school and then use the access as an easy way to get into the senior parking lot. Without the access road I will just be even later arriving, and I get up at 5:45 every morning!
"I am not worried about the access road being shut down but for others it could be an issue" says Lutazzi.
While some students don't see the problem with the road being closed off while the new school is under construction, I see this as another struggle for me to get to school every morning.
What is the faculty going to do to help the overflowing traffic? Do we have to wake up even earlier just to get a parking spot? All I know is I get up early enough and cannot see many other students waking up that much earlier either.
Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.
Things you can do from here:
- Subscribe to Pantherbook using Google Reader
- Get started using Google Reader to easily keep up with all your favorite sites
Holiday Stroll - Nov 29th
Plan on coming to downtown Franklin for the Holiday Stroll on Nov 29th, 4:00 to 7:00 PM
Related posts
Related posts
Friday, November 2, 2012
The last Farmers Market for Franklin in 2012
Here it is November 2.
The days are shortening.
We turn the clocks back this weekend.
The last Farmers Market is today.
Where does time go?
Where in Franklin is the Town Common?
View Larger Map
The days are shortening.
We turn the clocks back this weekend.
The last Farmers Market is today.
Where does time go?
Where in Franklin is the Town Common?
View Larger Map
Finance Committee - Agenda - Nov 6, 2012
The Finance Committee is scheduled to meet Tuesday evening at 7:00 PM in the Council Chambers.
The published agenda for this meeting is shown in this document:
The published agenda for this meeting is shown in this document:
Holiday drive set for this month in Franklin
Sent to you by Steve Sherlock via Google Reader:
via The Milford Daily News News RSS by Matt Tota/Daily News staff on 11/1/12
A 35-year-old local business has teamed up with a 163-year-old church to make sure every child in town unwraps some joy this holiday season. On Thursday, Hometown Paint Ace Hardware, at 254 East Central St., and St. Mary's Conference of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, stationed at St. Mary's Parish, began what will be a monthlong gift drive to support needy families.Things you can do from here:
- Subscribe to The Milford Daily News News RSS using Google Reader
- Get started using Google Reader to easily keep up with all your favorite sites
Winslow endorsed Eustis
NORFOLK (October 16, 2012)-- State Representative Dan Winslow (R-Norfolk) today endorsed Rich Eustis for election to the Massachusetts House in the neighboring towns of Franklin and Medway and urged all residents to vote Eustis on November 6. "As the only elected Republican House member who lives in Norfolk County, I need more help to solve problems and get Massachusetts working again," said Winslow. Of particular concern, noted Winslow, is the need to end the one-Party monopoly domination of state government. "The Democrats vote as a bloc nearly 100% of the time with the Speaker and the Speaker doesn't give two hoots about Franklin or Medway," said Winslow. "And when a good Democrat like my friend Jim Valle had the courage to stand up to the machine, they chewed him up and treated him disrespectfully. We shouldn't reward that thuggish behavior by sending another Democrat to the House from this area."
Winslow noted that any Democrat elected would be expected to vote as part of the monopoly or face the consequences. In the past two years, Democrats have voted on a party-line basis as directed by the Speaker in significant votes that Winslow claims have hurt this region. "All or nearly all Democrats voted with the Speaker to kill a proposal to make it easier for homeowners to refinance jumbo mortgages to take advantage of low interest rates; rejected an amendment to allow towns near a casino to receive mitigation payments; shot down a proposal to require utility companies to trim branches away from power lines and to rebate consumers for extended blackouts; rebuffed a proposal to offer consumers a choice of basic health plans that would have reduced the cost of health coverage for individuals and families by at least 25% immediately; crushed a GOP-led effort to update the House ethics rules after the felony conviction of the third Speaker in a row; and evaded a proposal by "studying" it which would have prohibited illegal aliens from receiving public welfare benefits. The Democrats even voted on a party-line with the Speaker against legalizing sparklers on the 4th of July, despite sparklers being legal in 46 states!"
"Rich Eustis is smart, hard working and articulate and would be a great partner to help me get things done in state government," said Winslow. "If people want change, we can't keep sending the same one-Party monopoly back to Beacon Hill and expecting a different result. I enthusiastically endorse Rich for Representative and urge all voters in Franklin and Medway to give him their vote on November 6."
2012 Annual St John's Christmas Fair
This year St. John’s Christmas Fair will be held Saturday, December 1st from 9am - 3pm in the St. John’s Parish Hall located at 237 Pleasant Street in Franklin, MA.
There will be homemade gift baskets, Cookie Walk, pastry table, as well as hot soup and coffee to enjoy.
Pictures with Santa as well as other activities for the kids! Join us for a fun day!
Thursday, November 1, 2012
Casino Night - Nov 3
The Franklin Education Foundation will be holding its annual Casino Night, Saturday, Nov 3
Additional information can be found on the FEF webpage http://www.franklined.org/casino_nights
or Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/events/295237077251757/
"There were trucks in town for four hours, and the liaison didn’t know it"
Oh, there has been progress but it is still a messy process as reported by Milford Daily News:
Read more: http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/x303001718/Officials-furious-with-National-Grid#ixzz2AxjpLztU
Related posts
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2012/10/nationalgrid-power-outage-map-830-pm.html
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2012/10/national-grid-hurricane-sandy-update.html
"For starters, community liaisons don’t interact directly with our crews," she said. "Their role is to sit in the emergency operations center to be that one-on-one contact with the town, not necessarily with our crews."
"In some towns, we still have some bugs to work out about how that data is flowing back from our platforms and to the community liaisons," she said.
Praising her company’s improved response to power failures, Reed said that, as of 2 p.m., the company had restored service to 78 percent of its customers who lost it during Hurricane Sandy.
Read more: http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/x303001718/Officials-furious-with-National-Grid#ixzz2AxjpLztU
Related posts
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2012/10/nationalgrid-power-outage-map-830-pm.html
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2012/10/national-grid-hurricane-sandy-update.html
"focus on talking to voters"
The Milford Daily News has an update on local campaigns and what has been reported on their fund raising and expenses.
Read more: http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/x1890070203/Candidates-kick-in-personal-money-to-win#ixzz2AxgJ7evf
Jeffrey Roy, running against Richard Eustis for the empty 10th Norfolk house seat in Franklin and Medway, since May has donated $18,230 to his own campaign.
"I wanted to spend my time getting out, reaching voters, getting my message out in whatever way I could," he said.
Roy said the money will pay for mailings and newspaper ads. Fundraising this year is hard, he said, because so many presidential, senate and congressional races are happening alongside state races.
Read more: http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/x1890070203/Candidates-kick-in-personal-money-to-win#ixzz2AxgJ7evf
Big Brother Big Sister - collecting Nov 13
The Big Brother Big Sister Foundation is in need of the public's support through donations of lightly used clothing and small household items. They ask, while you clean out your closets to please consider donating your lightly worn clothing to the Foundation.
The Foundation will be collecting donations door to door in Franklin on Tuesday November 13th. To schedule a free curbside pickup, please call 1-800-483-5503 or email donate@bbbsfoundation.org.
Your donations are tax deductible. The Foundation also offers special pickups for electronics recycling and car donations, please contact them for more information or visit www.bbbsfoundation.org.
Your much appreciated donations help support the children in your community.
Eustis endorsed by CLT PAC
"I am honored to be recognized as an advocate for tax relief. I believe that our legislature needs to eliminate waste, fraud and abuse of public funds rather than continue to tax our hard working families at one of the highest rates in the country." Rich Eustis
Franklin Library: How to Select eReaders
Sent to you by Steve Sherlock via Google Reader:
Things you can do from here:
- Subscribe to Franklin Public Library using Google Reader
- Get started using Google Reader to easily keep up with all your favorite sites
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)