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Team Fitness Franklin | 100 Franklin Village Drive | Franklin | MA | 02038
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Friday, April 5, 2013
Look What's Happening at Team Fitness and CrossFit Franklin
Thursday, April 4, 2013
Town Council - 04/03/13
The summary of posts from the Town Council meeting on Wednesday, Apr 3, 2013 can be found here.
Two issues brought out a bunch of citizens to the Council meeting. One group presented a petition to get their road which has not been rebuilt in the 50 years it has existed repaired. The second group was lobbying for improvements to the BJ intersection where since the lights were taken out, the traffic has become more dangerous.
There are no simple solutions to either situation. On the one hand, Franklin needs 45-50 million dollars to get well with its roads. Even if it had the money, all the repairs could not be done at once. On the second problem, the State owns that section of the road and controls what happens there.
The situations will be addressed through the appropriate channels and hopefully we'll be able to report on some progress soon.
In other action at the Council meeting, there were several pieces of zoning bylaw adjustments sent to the Planning Board. These bylaws would permit medical marijuana businesses in specific areas (Forge Park Industrial area, for example). The bylaws would be subject to public hearing, adjustment and eventual approval by the Planning Board before coming back to the Town Council for two public hearings and eventual vote.
The Town Council also approved a payment in lieu of taxes (pilot) agreement with the Franklin TV cable access group.that had been negotiated. It is hoped that other non-profits would develop some similar agreements.
Live reporting - Closing
Live reporting: Legislation
Live reporting: Town Council - Apr 3, 2013
Two issues brought out a bunch of citizens to the Council meeting. One group presented a petition to get their road which has not been rebuilt in the 50 years it has existed repaired. The second group was lobbying for improvements to the BJ intersection where since the lights were taken out, the traffic has become more dangerous.
There are no simple solutions to either situation. On the one hand, Franklin needs 45-50 million dollars to get well with its roads. Even if it had the money, all the repairs could not be done at once. On the second problem, the State owns that section of the road and controls what happens there.
The situations will be addressed through the appropriate channels and hopefully we'll be able to report on some progress soon.
In other action at the Council meeting, there were several pieces of zoning bylaw adjustments sent to the Planning Board. These bylaws would permit medical marijuana businesses in specific areas (Forge Park Industrial area, for example). The bylaws would be subject to public hearing, adjustment and eventual approval by the Planning Board before coming back to the Town Council for two public hearings and eventual vote.
The Town Council also approved a payment in lieu of taxes (pilot) agreement with the Franklin TV cable access group.that had been negotiated. It is hoped that other non-profits would develop some similar agreements.
Live reporting - Closing
Live reporting: Legislation
Live reporting: Town Council - Apr 3, 2013
The text and accompanying pictures for the petition can be found here
MassBudget: the Income Tax in Massachusetts
What are some of the things we accomplish by working together through government?...We educate our children; we build and maintain our roads and transit systems; we provide police and fire protection to keep our towns and cities safe.
To pay for these investments in our people, our communities, and our economic future, we rely primarily on tax revenue. MassBudget's new factsheet, "The Income Tax in Massachusetts," analyzes the major features of the income tax, which is the single largest source of tax revenue in Massachusetts.
"The Income Tax in Massachusetts" is part of a series of MassBudget Tax Factsheets, covering topics from Tax Fairness to the Long-Term Cost of Income Tax Cuts and the Governor's Tax Plan.
See all of our work on TAXES IN MASSACHUSETTS
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Friendly reminders - events today
- The Kindergarten registration takes place today at Horace Mann Middle School. Information on the forms and documents required can be found here
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2013/03/kindergarten-registration.html
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| Parmenter sign |
- Minute to Win It at the Franklin Library for kids 6-12
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2013/04/franklin-library-minute-to-win-it.html
- Life is Good co-founder Bert Jacobs speaks at Dean College Thursday evening at 6:30PM
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2013/04/life-is-good-co-founder-bert-jacobs-at.html
Pour Richard's: Introducing Fat Tuesdays
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Pour Richard's Wine and Spirits | 14 Grove Street | Franklin | MA | 02038
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In the News: Bert Jacobs, best looking dogs
Co-founder of Life is good company to speak at Dean College
The Chief Executive Optimist of Life is good, a Boston-based apparel and accessory company, will tell Dean College students on Thursday that, above all else, owning a business "should be fun."
Franklin's Best Looking Dogs
Franklin’s Best Looking Dog contest winners gathered at the Municipal Building in Franklin on Wednesday.
Note: The Milford Daily News reporter did attend the Town Council meeting on Wednesday. How the editorial decision was made to not share anything from the meeting escapes me. So if you want to find out what happened during the meeting you can find that info here
Live reporting - Closing
Live reporting: Legislation
Live reporting: Town Council - Apr 3, 2013
Wednesday, April 3, 2013
Regent Circle Petition
The petition as presented tonight by the residents of Regent Circle
They presented their petition during the Citizens Comments
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2013/04/live-reporting-town-council-apr-3-2013.html
and stuck around for the discussion during New Business
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2013/04/live-reporting-closing.html
The road condition report as referenced was published earlier this year
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2013/01/franklin-road-conditions-from-worst-to.html
They presented their petition during the Citizens Comments
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2013/04/live-reporting-town-council-apr-3-2013.html
and stuck around for the discussion during New Business
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2013/04/live-reporting-closing.html
The road condition report as referenced was published earlier this year
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2013/01/franklin-road-conditions-from-worst-to.html
Live reporting - Closing
K. TOWN ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT
need to get dates for the budget hearings in May
L. OLD BUSINESS
none
M. NEW BUSINESS
Jeff visited Regent Circle, one of the 20 worst streets according to the study
can we make temporary repairs, yes
we need lots of money to fix the neighborhood, fix the water main as well
even with all the money, we couldn't do it, we are booked solid
I recommended a road repair override for $1.5M
in good years it has been great but in lean years there has been nothing
they need a street and a new water line
the only way we get there is with money
the combination of the road and water line usually get to the list
we'd rather do neighborhoods than one-offs
Steve - my comment would be that several years ago we were the top five, yet now we are further down the line
patched a water main break improperly repaired
my home is kept up, if a realtor would drive down the road, good luck to try and sell
it merits being pushed up the list
we have called in and not gotten results
Kelly - we are booked solid, is there something we can do
Nutting - we can spend small money to get by but need more to do more
the big issue is what are we going to do with the streets
Steve - the temporary repairs are not well made, throwing patch down is not going to hold
Pfeffer - we have only a certain amount of money that we can spend, we can't do it on a piece meal basis
Bissanti - conditions have changed over the years, can we revisit the list to see of some of the scores require shifting
Nutting - the list was just done by an outside engineering firm and it is not six months old. When you're in the top 20 out of 400 streets, that was bad. We went outside to get this down to avoid our internal potential bias
Bissanti - can we send some DPW out to re-valuate this list?
Nutting - even if he moves up two streets, what does it change?
Vallee - we have little money, we'll keep an eye on it
Steve - if we end up doing spot repairs, please don't send out DPW guys
Traffic issue -
Nutting - it is MassHighway issue
I think we can get them out there again. I don't see them putting a light in there
The Chief is well aware of it, we'll get with MassHighway to see what more we can do
Chief - it needs another hard look, I don't know how to tell the state
BJ's has offered to pay for the electricity for the light, the State won't
No one wants to take the ownership
Nutting - The state owns the road
Their standards are based upon the uniform traffic code
Powderly -I don't think anyone is disagreeing with the dangers and the bruses, we are on the side of the residents, there are limits to what we can do, we'll go through the arguments and new facts (new businesses coming)
Jeff Roy - arrives (8:04)
Jones - I am sorry for your accident and the issue
my question Jeff is an expense of the light?
Nutting - 100,000-200,000 to get it installed
it needs to be engineered, that will take time
I don't think the additional businesses will add significant traffic, it would be a deminimus increase
Powderly - in summary we are going to contact the State to redo this
Bissanti - will they take the accidents into consideration
Nutting - give us a couple of weeks to figure it out and we'll keep you posted
Roy - I am sorry I am late for the meeting and discussion, in my role as Rep I was contacted, we are opening an investigation and in touch with MassDOT so we can get everyone involved and get addressed
Diane Martin - re-opening the Regent Circle issue
Bissanti - there is a committee to put up flags when veterans pass on
N. COUNCIL COMMENTS
Mercer - steel continuing to rise, another three-four weeks of erection, then followed by brick installations
received letter from resident, asked to be read note of thanks to Fire Dept and EMTs
Dellorco - we will stay on this and get something done
Powderly - capital budget round two, look at roads in that round? We have a system, if we have that ability I'd like to consider it
Jones - thank to the residents for coming out to express their interests
Franklin Downtown Partnership has announced their events for this year, visit their webpage for the schedule
http://www.franklindowntownpartnership.org/
Bissanti - it is frustrating to me as a citizen and as a businessman it is a difficult time for decisions like this. If we were to go with a dedicated override, you can help us in that regard
Roy - thanks to Councilor Mercer for sharing that letter
Nutting - between 45-50 million would cover the roads,
replacing an existing road you can only borrow for 5 years, the state gives us $900K or $700K and it depends. The problem is it is not consistent. The other streets were where water mains were replaced. Water mains can be paid back over 15-20 years. We have 400 roads
Vallee - it is a fact on how little there is, Winterberry was repaved
O. EXECUTIVE SESSION
Negotiations, Litigation, Real Property, as May Be Required
P. ADJOURN
need to get dates for the budget hearings in May
L. OLD BUSINESS
none
M. NEW BUSINESS
Jeff visited Regent Circle, one of the 20 worst streets according to the study
can we make temporary repairs, yes
we need lots of money to fix the neighborhood, fix the water main as well
even with all the money, we couldn't do it, we are booked solid
I recommended a road repair override for $1.5M
in good years it has been great but in lean years there has been nothing
they need a street and a new water line
the only way we get there is with money
the combination of the road and water line usually get to the list
we'd rather do neighborhoods than one-offs
Steve - my comment would be that several years ago we were the top five, yet now we are further down the line
patched a water main break improperly repaired
my home is kept up, if a realtor would drive down the road, good luck to try and sell
it merits being pushed up the list
we have called in and not gotten results
Kelly - we are booked solid, is there something we can do
Nutting - we can spend small money to get by but need more to do more
the big issue is what are we going to do with the streets
Steve - the temporary repairs are not well made, throwing patch down is not going to hold
Pfeffer - we have only a certain amount of money that we can spend, we can't do it on a piece meal basis
Bissanti - conditions have changed over the years, can we revisit the list to see of some of the scores require shifting
Nutting - the list was just done by an outside engineering firm and it is not six months old. When you're in the top 20 out of 400 streets, that was bad. We went outside to get this down to avoid our internal potential bias
Bissanti - can we send some DPW out to re-valuate this list?
Nutting - even if he moves up two streets, what does it change?
Vallee - we have little money, we'll keep an eye on it
Steve - if we end up doing spot repairs, please don't send out DPW guys
Traffic issue -
Nutting - it is MassHighway issue
I think we can get them out there again. I don't see them putting a light in there
The Chief is well aware of it, we'll get with MassHighway to see what more we can do
Chief - it needs another hard look, I don't know how to tell the state
BJ's has offered to pay for the electricity for the light, the State won't
No one wants to take the ownership
Nutting - The state owns the road
Their standards are based upon the uniform traffic code
Powderly -I don't think anyone is disagreeing with the dangers and the bruses, we are on the side of the residents, there are limits to what we can do, we'll go through the arguments and new facts (new businesses coming)
Jeff Roy - arrives (8:04)
Jones - I am sorry for your accident and the issue
my question Jeff is an expense of the light?
Nutting - 100,000-200,000 to get it installed
it needs to be engineered, that will take time
I don't think the additional businesses will add significant traffic, it would be a deminimus increase
Powderly - in summary we are going to contact the State to redo this
Bissanti - will they take the accidents into consideration
Nutting - give us a couple of weeks to figure it out and we'll keep you posted
Roy - I am sorry I am late for the meeting and discussion, in my role as Rep I was contacted, we are opening an investigation and in touch with MassDOT so we can get everyone involved and get addressed
Diane Martin - re-opening the Regent Circle issue
Bissanti - there is a committee to put up flags when veterans pass on
N. COUNCIL COMMENTS
Mercer - steel continuing to rise, another three-four weeks of erection, then followed by brick installations
received letter from resident, asked to be read note of thanks to Fire Dept and EMTs
Dellorco - we will stay on this and get something done
Powderly - capital budget round two, look at roads in that round? We have a system, if we have that ability I'd like to consider it
Jones - thank to the residents for coming out to express their interests
Franklin Downtown Partnership has announced their events for this year, visit their webpage for the schedule
http://www.franklindowntownpartnership.org/
Bissanti - it is frustrating to me as a citizen and as a businessman it is a difficult time for decisions like this. If we were to go with a dedicated override, you can help us in that regard
Roy - thanks to Councilor Mercer for sharing that letter
Nutting - between 45-50 million would cover the roads,
replacing an existing road you can only borrow for 5 years, the state gives us $900K or $700K and it depends. The problem is it is not consistent. The other streets were where water mains were replaced. Water mains can be paid back over 15-20 years. We have 400 roads
Vallee - it is a fact on how little there is, Winterberry was repaved
O. EXECUTIVE SESSION
Negotiations, Litigation, Real Property, as May Be Required
P. ADJOURN
Live reporting: Legislation
J. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
1. Resolution 13-21: Acceptance of Real Estate Payment Agreement Between Town and Franklin Community Cable Access, Inc., RE: Property at 23 Hutchinson Street
Jeff had negotiated this for payment in lieu of taxes
Powderly: thanks to Jeff and the Board of Directors for doing this
Kelly: I hope many non-profits take note of this and help out
Motion to approve, passed 8-0
2. Resolution 13-22: Long Range Financial Planning Process
Proposal to formalize the
Doug Hardesty, Chair of Long Range Financail Planning Committee
was in place from 2008 to 2012
would like to formalize this process
process was designed around the decisions that were made for this year's budget
cash flow and capital planning require more formal planning
many of the discussions go far beyond the challenges for this current year
the toughest challenges are coming in the future
structural deficit, expenses rising faster than revenues, has occurred over last ten years and will continue
OPEB obligation will continue to grow, will place a further strain
you have the issue of the roads and the condition will only get worse
we no longer have the simple approach of focusing on this year with some thought of the future
the rigorous process is what is outlined in the future
go into the next five years and into the next ten years
mandates a formal deliverable and approved by the town leaders
would ensure that the deliverable actually enumerates the planning or action steps that are required
(note the current five year forecast just published does not contain these steps)
it is not too late to get started with this more deliberate planning process
benefits
1 - in making decisions, will have visibility into real outlook for decision
2 - when you make decisions, an education and awareness process is required, to build credibility, separate the reality from the individual decisions, explained in the context of the whole
Powderly - Doug said it very well, thanks to those who served on the Long Range Committee, it was time well spent. Need to engage everyone in how to fix the problems, the joint budget subcommittee felt it should go through those groups to help inform. The roads would require 4-5M a year to fix and we don't have that money.
Motion to approve, passed 8-0
3. Resolution 13-23: Appropriation: Town Clerk, Poll Workers, Expenses
$12,400 from free cash
Motion to approve as amended, passed 8-0
4. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 13-706: Changes to Chapter 185-5. Zoning Map, Adult Use Overlay District – Referral to Planning Board
motion to refer to planning board, passed 8-0
technical corrections to existing areas, the amendments are meant to clearly delineate the areas which are not currently
5. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 13-707: Changes to Chapter 185-47. Adult Entertainment Establishment Districts – Referral to Planning Board
motion to refer to planning board, passed 8-0
same as above 13-706
6. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 13-708: Changes to Chapter 185-3. Definitions – Referral to Planning Board
motion to refer to planning board, passed 8-0
7. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 13-709: Changes to Chapter 185-4. Districts Enumerated – Referral to Planning Board
motion to refer to planning board, passed 8-0
8. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 13-710: Changes to Chapter 185-5. Zoning Map, Medical Marijuana Use Overlay District – Referral to Planning Board
motion to refer to planning board, passed 8-0
9. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 13-711: Changes to Chapter 185-7. Compliance Required – Referral to Planning Board
motion to refer to planning board, passed 8-0
10. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 13-712: Changes to Chapter 185-49. Medical Marijuana Use Overlay District – Referral to Planning Board
motion to refer to planning board, passed 8-0
Live reporting: Town Council - Apr 3, 2013
Present: Mercer, Dellorco (7:10), Kelly, Powderly, Vallee, Pfeffer, Jones, Bissanti
Absent: Roy
A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
March 6, 2013
motion to approve; approve as amended 7-0
Powderly requested to amend to reflect that the motion was read by
B. ANNOUNCEMENTS
This meeting is being recorded by Franklin TV and shown on Comcast channel 11 and Verizon channel 29. This meeting may be recorded by Franklin Matters.
C. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS
D. CITIZEN COMMENTS
Regent Circle neighborhood residents
not paved in the 30-40 years of the residents
settlement and pavement failures, represent safety hazards
sidewalks not walkable
View Larger Map
Paul Piccillo
grass growing in some of the pot holes on the street
Mike Ipoliti (sic)
seconding road conditions as mentioned
Diane Martin
lived on Regent Circle for 39 years
it is a hazard
Wendy Jackson
regarding major accident at the BJ Intersection
after bridge was put in, flashing light taken down, replaced with stop signs
no other way in or out that intersection
it is an absolute disaster
moved the stop sign at BJ's out further
new office, new gas station coming, commercial signs for sale, it will continue to increase traffic
Maureen Chosen
in accident in Sept 2011, the lights were taken down there
Joe Halligan counted a hundred cars, only 2 stopped there
something else needs to be done before the next accident gets worse
Jennifer
in the accident on Saturday
I didn't know what to expect, 8 month old son in car, car t-boned and rolled three times
can't work for four weeks, is a single mom and that is hard
a simple stop light can help
E. APPOINTMENTS
F. HEARINGS
G. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS
H. PRESENTATIONS/DISCUSSIONS
I. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS
A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
March 6, 2013
motion to approve; approve as amended 7-0
Powderly requested to amend to reflect that the motion was read by
B. ANNOUNCEMENTS
This meeting is being recorded by Franklin TV and shown on Comcast channel 11 and Verizon channel 29. This meeting may be recorded by Franklin Matters.
C. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS
D. CITIZEN COMMENTS
Regent Circle neighborhood residents
not paved in the 30-40 years of the residents
settlement and pavement failures, represent safety hazards
sidewalks not walkable
View Larger Map
Paul Piccillo
grass growing in some of the pot holes on the street
Mike Ipoliti (sic)
seconding road conditions as mentioned
Diane Martin
lived on Regent Circle for 39 years
it is a hazard
Wendy Jackson
regarding major accident at the BJ Intersection
after bridge was put in, flashing light taken down, replaced with stop signs
no other way in or out that intersection
it is an absolute disaster
moved the stop sign at BJ's out further
new office, new gas station coming, commercial signs for sale, it will continue to increase traffic
Maureen Chosen
in accident in Sept 2011, the lights were taken down there
Joe Halligan counted a hundred cars, only 2 stopped there
something else needs to be done before the next accident gets worse
Jennifer
in the accident on Saturday
I didn't know what to expect, 8 month old son in car, car t-boned and rolled three times
can't work for four weeks, is a single mom and that is hard
a simple stop light can help
E. APPOINTMENTS
F. HEARINGS
G. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS
H. PRESENTATIONS/DISCUSSIONS
I. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS
Five Year Fiscal Forecast: The sky is not falling (but it is getting lower)
Franklin Town Administrator Jeff Nutting's letter to the Town Council, School Committee and Finance Committee with the "Five Year Fiscal Forecast: The sky is not falling (but it is getting lower)"
Mosquito spraying scheduled for April
The official notification from Norfolk county on the mosquito spraying to be conducted in April. The target dates are between April 16 and 26th.
Recycling Center open on Tuesday
Effective April 2, 2013 the Recycling Center on Beaver Street will also be open on Tuesdays from 12-3.
The Center will be open on Tuesday through November.
Remember, only Visa, Mastercard, Discover and checks are accepted.
Stickers can be purchased at the
DPW office - 257 Fisher St.,
Town Hall - Clerk's office - 355 East Central St,
the Recycling Center - 445 Beaver St.
and phone by calling 508-553-5500.
This was posted to the Franklin, MA webpage
Franklin Library: Minute to Win It
Minute to Win It
4:26 PM
Posted by Franklin Public Library at
Franklin Public Library - 118 Main Street Franklin MA 02038 - 508.520.4940
In the News: OUI arrest, mosquito spraying
Franklin man arrested on second OUI in 3 years
Helicopter mosquito spraying to take place in April
Officer Louis Marguerite put the pieces together: the car’s underbelly bleeding transmission fluid, the liquid trail, the tire marks right before the sidewalk at the end of Echo Bridge Road.
Helicopter mosquito spraying to take place in April
The Norfolk County Mosquito Control District will be conducting helicopter applications of the biorational larvicide BTI (bacillus thuringiensis israelensis) to control mosquito larvae.
Tuesday, April 2, 2013
Live reporting - Finance Committee - Apr 2, 2013
Present: Smith, Dufur, Feldman, Roche, Dewsnap, Aparo, Huempfner
Absent: Goldsmith, Quinn
Susan Gagner, Jeff Nutting and Jim Dacey (from right to left as you watch the video broadcast)
motion to approve meeting minutes, approve 7-0
Begin by reading the budget line by line, if any one hold a dept that should be acknowledged
those questions can be answered, then they can go and approve the budget as a single item
Holds
Fire Dept
Dufur - recognition for the excellent Fire Dept presentation. Recommending one part-time addition, recognizing the aging of the department, the growth of the community would increase additional pressure on the service level performance. Overall creates a compelling agrument
Roche - one guy will help but...
Nutting - reviewing additional info in regards to the injuries, last Fri had a graduate from the Academy, a second person coming back in July, another person is being planned for hiring in July, yet another anticipated coming back from injury. Not currently in the budget but planning ahead for a disability retirement, exactly when will it happen, hard to say. Increasing three new people will help shift the burden. The runs have not yet increased but it is anticipated they might. 14 -15,000 hours of OT averaged. Need to think about the burden above the salary to cover the benefits and insurances required. It is not easy but we should be able to hold our breath for another year.
Nutting - still don't have a collective bargaining agreement with the Fire Fighters union, about to go to arbitration. Would you save some money via reduction in overtime in short term maybe, but the overall costs salary and benefits is a lot of money
Dufur - it is manageable
Feldman - looking at the outlook, it doesn't get rosier
Nutting - scheduled for 91 tours, with the overtime it gets to about 95 tours. Going to the 24 hour shift has had some effect versus what they did with the 10-14 hour shifts
Motion to approve the budget
general fund 95 million etc.
approved 7-0
motion to approve the budget
enterprise budget 10 million etc.
approved 7-0
Old business - none
New business -
Jeff has submitted a five year forecast "The sky is not falling but it is getting lower"
forecast based upon best estimates, forecast has not really changed over time
"we have eliminated 20% of the workforce"
we don't get 2.5% increase in our revenues
"The only thing that fixes roads is money" I think we need a dedicated override for the roads
it can only be spent on what it was funded for, i.e. roads
as opposed to a general override where it goes to the general funds after the first year
(a copy of the letter will be posted here later)
We are working regionally for safety dispatch, it may come in about 18 months and save us about $100,000. It is the right thing to do and we are doing it. It is hard to get people to come to the table. We share recreation, dog services, and sewer. We tried the library and they left.
Our general fund debt outside of Prop 2.5% is dropping, as our old debt gets paid off. Some of the buildings get paid off over the next couple of years as the high school comes on
I have level funded the state funding and am very concerned about that especially with whatever happens at the Federal level increasing pressures on them
How did the snow and ice come out?
Knock on wood, we should be just under the amount budgeted ($900,000). it is very unpredictable
Has OPEB made it to the state house agenda?
No, it is woefully inadequate. They started on lengthening the requirements for eligibility
Question on auditors report
In the management report, working on a plan to address the recommendations
Fraud risk assessment
Absent: Goldsmith, Quinn
Susan Gagner, Jeff Nutting and Jim Dacey (from right to left as you watch the video broadcast)
motion to approve meeting minutes, approve 7-0
Begin by reading the budget line by line, if any one hold a dept that should be acknowledged
those questions can be answered, then they can go and approve the budget as a single item
Holds
Fire Dept
Dufur - recognition for the excellent Fire Dept presentation. Recommending one part-time addition, recognizing the aging of the department, the growth of the community would increase additional pressure on the service level performance. Overall creates a compelling agrument
Roche - one guy will help but...
Nutting - reviewing additional info in regards to the injuries, last Fri had a graduate from the Academy, a second person coming back in July, another person is being planned for hiring in July, yet another anticipated coming back from injury. Not currently in the budget but planning ahead for a disability retirement, exactly when will it happen, hard to say. Increasing three new people will help shift the burden. The runs have not yet increased but it is anticipated they might. 14 -15,000 hours of OT averaged. Need to think about the burden above the salary to cover the benefits and insurances required. It is not easy but we should be able to hold our breath for another year.
Nutting - still don't have a collective bargaining agreement with the Fire Fighters union, about to go to arbitration. Would you save some money via reduction in overtime in short term maybe, but the overall costs salary and benefits is a lot of money
Dufur - it is manageable
Feldman - looking at the outlook, it doesn't get rosier
Nutting - scheduled for 91 tours, with the overtime it gets to about 95 tours. Going to the 24 hour shift has had some effect versus what they did with the 10-14 hour shifts
Motion to approve the budget
general fund 95 million etc.
approved 7-0
motion to approve the budget
enterprise budget 10 million etc.
approved 7-0
Old business - none
New business -
Jeff has submitted a five year forecast "The sky is not falling but it is getting lower"
forecast based upon best estimates, forecast has not really changed over time
"we have eliminated 20% of the workforce"
we don't get 2.5% increase in our revenues
"The only thing that fixes roads is money" I think we need a dedicated override for the roads
it can only be spent on what it was funded for, i.e. roads
as opposed to a general override where it goes to the general funds after the first year
(a copy of the letter will be posted here later)
We are working regionally for safety dispatch, it may come in about 18 months and save us about $100,000. It is the right thing to do and we are doing it. It is hard to get people to come to the table. We share recreation, dog services, and sewer. We tried the library and they left.
Our general fund debt outside of Prop 2.5% is dropping, as our old debt gets paid off. Some of the buildings get paid off over the next couple of years as the high school comes on
I have level funded the state funding and am very concerned about that especially with whatever happens at the Federal level increasing pressures on them
How did the snow and ice come out?
Knock on wood, we should be just under the amount budgeted ($900,000). it is very unpredictable
Has OPEB made it to the state house agenda?
No, it is woefully inadequate. They started on lengthening the requirements for eligibility
Question on auditors report
In the management report, working on a plan to address the recommendations
Fraud risk assessment
Franklin Fire Dept: FY 2014 Budget Presentation
The presentation document as used by Chief Gary McCarraher and Deputy Chief Paul Sharpe for the budget hearing last week can be viewed here:
The notes from the Budget hearing last week can be found here
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2013/03/live-reporting-finance-committee-budget.html
The notes from the first two budget hearings can be found here
The notes from the Budget hearing last week can be found here
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2013/03/live-reporting-finance-committee-budget.html
The notes from the first two budget hearings can be found here
Rep Roy - April Office Hours
Boston, MA -- State Representative Jeffrey Roy (D-Franklin) announced today that constituent office hours will be held in Medway and Franklin for the Month of April on the following days:
Medway – Saturday, April 6th, 10:00-11:00AM, Coffee Sensations - 116 Main Street Medway, MA
Franklin – Tuesday. April 16th, 8:30-9:30AM, Franklin Senior Center - 10 Daniel McCahill Street Franklin, MA
Medway – Thursday, April 25th, 7:30-8:30AM, Medway Senior Center - 76 Oakland Street Medway, MAChristopher Yancich, his legislative aide, will be accompanying him.
Representative Roy stated that all office hours are open to any residents of Franklin and Medway who may have questions or concerns that they wish to bring to his attention. Walk-ins are welcome, no appointment necessary. He looks forward to hearing from you.
He also invites all constituents to call him at his State House office at (617) 722-2400, stop by Room 134 in the State House, or email him at Jeffrey.Roy@MAhouse.gov.
Hock 5 Rankings Released for Spring Sports
Hock 5 Rankings Released for Spring Sports
http://feedly.com/k/Z4nhNm
http://feedly.com/k/Z4nhNm
As the majority of spring teams open up their 2013 campaigns this week, we have released our Hock 5 Rankings for Baseball, Softball, and Boys and Girls Lacrosse. This is the first time in HockomockSports.com's history we have done Spring Hock 5 rankings.
For baseball, two DI teams - Franklin and Taunton - who met in the playoffs last year battle for the top spot in the preseason poll.Click here for the Baseball Hock 5
In softball, both newcomers Milford and Taunton made the poll, but only one of them was chosen to be the unanimous number one to start the season. Click here for the Softball Hock 5
For boys lacrosse, the Davenport took the majority of the spots in the poll, including the top spot. And in girls lacrosse, the Kelley-Rex took the one, three, and five spots.Click here for the Boys Lacrosse Hock 5Click here for the Girls Lacrosse Hock 5
In the News: STAR, summer camp, Stony Brook
The Franklin Public Schools Summer STAR program has expanded its summer courses and is offering new classes specifically designed for incoming 5th and 6th grade students.http://www.wickedlocal.com/franklin/news/x2082723775/Franklin-STAR-program-expands-summer-courses?rssfeed=true
Registration is now open for summer camp at the Hockomock Area YMCA. All three branches in Foxborough, North Attleboro, and Franklin will hold camp information days on Saturday, April 6, from 9 a.m.-12 p.m.http://www.wickedlocal.com/franklin/news/x2082723755/Hockomock-YMCA-branches-plan-camp-information-days?rssfeed=true
Spring! What more is there to say? Join the naturalists at Stony Brook Wildlife Sanctuary, 108 North St., Norfolk, for a number of exciting programs.http://www.wickedlocal.com/franklin/news/x898158015/Stony-Brook-slates-April-programs?rssfeed=true
Monday, April 1, 2013
Finance Committee - Agenda - Apr 2, 2013
The agenda for the Finance Committee (FinCom) meeting on Tuesday, April 2 is shown below. They will conclude their budget hearings with their vote on the budget. The budget voting doc is not yet posted to the Franklin webpage. When it is, I'll update the link.
Information on the three budget hearings can be found here:
The overall budget summary can be found here
http://franklinma.virtualtownhall.net/Pages/FranklinMA_Admin/FY%202014%20Proposed%20Budget/FY%2014%20Proposed%20Budget.pdf
Information on the three budget hearings can be found here:
- Finance Committee - Budget hearing - 03/28/13
- Finance Committee - Budget hearing - 03/14/13
- Finance Committee - Budget hearing - 03/13/13
The overall budget summary can be found here
http://franklinma.virtualtownhall.net/Pages/FranklinMA_Admin/FY%202014%20Proposed%20Budget/FY%2014%20Proposed%20Budget.pdf
Life is good Co-founder Bert Jacobs at Dean College
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| Life is good |
Life is good Co-founder, Bert Jacobs, brings the good vibes to the Dean College campus as part of the Dean Leadership Institute's Executive Lecture Series. This event is free and open to the public, but you must RSVP by emailing DLI@Dean.edu with the names of people attending.
Location: Dean College Campus Center, 6:30 PM
"a voyage of discovery"
The Milford Daily News has an article on the interns from Dean College working with the Franklin Historical Commission.
Read more: http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/x898157795/Dean-College-student-interns-get-inspired-at-Historical-Museum#ixzz2PChZvF2C
Dean student Alan Procknow presented on the industrial revolution as seen in Franklin, during the Franklin Downtown Partnerships' Holiday Stroll in November 2012. http://www.franklinmatters.org/2012/11/alan-procknow-franklins-industrial.html
"It’s gratifying for the historical commission in that the materials are not just sitting there: people are creating new knowledge," he said, adding "I like it as a history professor because my students are getting some real world experience."
Alan Earls, a member of the commission, said that the intern’s scholarly exuberance freshens up the monotonous inventory process.
"The thought is that students can bring their academic capabilities into it," Earls said. "We welcome the hands and minds."
He added, "We hope to do more with Dean. They have a great history program there and a strong connection with the town."
Read more: http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/x898157795/Dean-College-student-interns-get-inspired-at-Historical-Museum#ixzz2PChZvF2C
Dean student Alan Procknow presented on the industrial revolution as seen in Franklin, during the Franklin Downtown Partnerships' Holiday Stroll in November 2012. http://www.franklinmatters.org/2012/11/alan-procknow-franklins-industrial.html
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