Wednesday, June 8, 2016

Norfolk County Registry of Deeds Reports Solid Real Estate Results for May



Norfolk County Registry of Deeds

Register O'Donnell Reports Solid Real Estate Results for May

Spring roared in like a lion when it came to May real estate sales in Norfolk County, according to Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell.

The Register noted, "For the month of May, a total of 1,554 property transactions, both residential and commercial, were recorded in Norfolk County. This activity represented a 7% increase from the previous May. In addition, the total dollar volume of residential and commercial real estate transactions was $682 million, an impressive 13% increase year over year. These are encouraging numbers and point to continued momentum in the real estate market."

Results were however mixed for lending activity. "May 2016 saw 2,814 mortgages recorded against Norfolk County property, representing a 5% increase over the previous May. However, the total dollar amount borrowed during May 2016 was actually a decrease of 5% from May 2015. While these numbers may appear contradictory, I would remind readers that this figure can be significantly impacted by just a small number of commercial loans," stated O'Donnell.

Last month's statistics clearly indicate that Norfolk County homeowners continue to take advantage of the Homestead Act, an important consumer tool. For the month of May, a total of 1,114 Homesteads were recorded, a 12% increase from last May. A Homestead provides limited protection against the forced sale of an individual's primary residence to satisfy unsecured debt up to $500,000.

Foreclosure activity continued to be a cause of some concern during May 2016. The total number of Notices to Foreclose Mortgage recordings, the first step in the foreclosure process, came in at 84 compared to 63 in May 2015. Foreclosure deed recordings, the final step in the foreclosure process, were flat. A total of 22 foreclosure deeds were processed in May compared to 25 in May of 2015.

O'Donnell noted, "There is no question that some of this foreclosure activity stems from the economic downturn that took place between 2008 and 2009. There is also no question that some of our neighbors are facing economic hardship today. The Registry is proud to partner with Quincy Community Action Programs at (617) 479-8181 x-376 and Neighbor Works Southern Mass at (508) 598-0950 to help anyone who has received a Notice to Foreclose Mortgage from a lender. Another option for consumers is to call the Massachusetts Attorney General's HomeCorps program at (617) 573-5333."

Register O'Donnell concluded, "May was a solid month for real estate activity in Norfolk County. The strong eastern Massachusetts economy is clearly the driving force behind these results. While the Federal Reserve is again talking about raising interest rates in June or July, I am confident that both the real estate and lending markets will withstand this potential increase. My primary concern is that real estate inventory levels do not slip. Overall, given May's current data, I am cautiously optimistic that the real estate market will continue on a favorable trend in Norfolk County through the summer months."

To learn more about these and other Registry of Deeds events and initiatives, like us at facebook.com/NorfolkDeeds or follow us on twitter.com/NorfolkDeeds.

The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds, located at 649 High Street, Dedham, is the principal office for real property in Norfolk County. The Registry is a resource for homeowners, title examiners, mortgage lenders, municipalities and others with a need for secure, accurate, accessible land record information. Residents in need of assistance can contact the Registry of Deeds Customer Service Center at (781) 461-6101, or on the web at www.norfolkdeeds.org.


Register William P. O'Donnell
Norfolk County Registry of Deeds

phone: 781-234-3336

Sent by registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.org in collaboration with
Constant Contact

Downtown Project Update - #33 - 2 way traffic likely after the 4th of July

It is now anticipated that the Two-Way Traffic system in downtown will take effect after the Fourth of July and the annual parade and festival. The Town will continue to keep residents and downtown businesses informed when a specific date has been identified. The Town will have five electronic boards and plenty of signage when the actual date takes effect. 
The construction crews plan to begin paving late this week (at night after 8:00 PM) and anticipate two days next week, the week of June 13th. 
Tomorrow (Wednesday) and early Thursday of this week should have the brick sidewalks completed on the Century 21 side of the downtown sidewalks. 
If anyone has a question, please feel free to reach out to the DPW Director, Brutus Cantoreggi or Town Engineer, Michael Maglio at 508-553-5500 or Jeffrey Nutting, Town Administrator at 508-520-4949.

new brick walkways downtown
new brick walkways downtown

In the News: Tri-County safety day, Franklin 5K, suspended license

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"A Tri-County Regional Vocational Technical High School program has begun a "Public Safety Days" initiative, aimed at helping students make good decisions. 
The event, which kicked off Tuesday, is held by the school's Legal and Protective Services program. It invites students from Tri-County's other programs to take part in a series of activities relating to safety. 
"We're kind of new - my oldest kids are juniors," said Heidi Bastien, an instructor in the program. "We held the first Public Safety Days last year in the gym. We did a public service announcement and had some activities."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160607/franklin-tri-county-hosts-public-safety-days


"The Hockomock YMCA will hold the Franklin 5K walk/run family event from 10 a.m. to noon June 26 at 628 Washington St. 
Now in its 12th year, this community event supports programs for children with disabilities at the YMCA. The event is free. 
The race, formerly called Run for Bob, was started by Kris and Kayla Biagiotti in memory of Kayla’s dad Bob Biagiotti and his belief that no child should be left on the sidelines. Kris continues her advocacy through this event. Inspired by Team Hoyt, Kris and Kayla (The K Girls) became the first mother/daughter team to finish the Boston Marathon in 2013."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160607/hockomock-ymca-to-hold-franklin-5k-walkrun


"Reports from the state Executive Office of Elder Affairs indicate a Franklin assisted living facility violated several state regulations and failed to submit timely reports of stolen painkillers and resident injuries. 
According to the results of a Freedom of Information Act request, there are several documented instances of the facility, The Estate at Franklin, not complying with state regulations as well as lost and injured patients. 
The facility had its assisted living certification suspended by the state Executive office of Elder Affairs (EOEA) on Feb. 5 due to several incidents at the facility dating back to November of 2015."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160607/stolen-meds-injured-patients-led-to-suspension-of-franklin-elder-care-facility-license

Tuesday, June 7, 2016

The Franklin 5K invites the community to run on June 26

The YMCA is pleased to announce the return of the Franklin 5K walk/run family event, which will be held on Sunday, June 26. Now in its twelfth year, this fun community event supports programs for children with disabilities at the Y.

The race will take place at Remington Jefferson School and the scenic surrounding neighborhood at 628 Washington Street in Franklin. Free activities for families will take place from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Franklin 5K - June 26
Franklin 5K - June 26

The race, formerly called Run for Bob, was started by Kris and Kayla Biagiotti in memory of Kayla’s dad Bob Biagiotti and his belief that no child should be left on the sidelines. Kris continues her advocacy through this event. Inspired by Team Hoyt, Kris and Kayla (The K Girls) achieved the incredible accomplishment of being the first mother/daughter team to finish the Boston Marathon in 2013. But it was not easy. Kris and Kayla were 50 yards from the finish line when the first bomb went off, and instead of raising their hands in victory, they were forced to shield themselves from flying shrapnel. A month later, they got to cross the finish line and receive their medals at The Franklin 5K. The race has raised more than $80,000 over the past several years to benefit children with special needs.

“The Hockomock Area YMCA is to be commended for creating such a wonderful program for the youth in the communities it serves,” said Dick Hoyt upon receipt of the Legends Award in 2012 at the Y’s Legends Ball, the annual gala at the Hockomock Area YMCA raising funds for the Integration Initiative. The initiative was born 11 years ago at the Hockmomock Y out of an emerging need in our community to provide inclusive programs for children with special needs and their typically developing peers.

Register today at hockymca.org. Cost is $25, but will increase to $30 after June 10. Medals will be awarded to the top 3 men’s and women’s finishers from several age categories and all participants will receive a finisher medal. On the day of the event, walk-in registration will be offered starting at 9:00am. Pre-event bib pickup will be offered. The 5K will start at 10:00am.

Free family activities include: Kids Fun Run, inflatable obstacle course, refreshments, games, DJ entertainment, and more.

Thank you to event sponsors Ashworth Awards, Bay State Physical Therapy, Design Elements for Business, and the Rodman Ride for Kids. Questions, please contact Sr. Director of Youth Programming Tim Shaw at 774-235-2746 or tims@hockymca.org.


About The Hockomock Area YMCA

Where Cause Meets Community. At the Hockomock Area YMCA, strengthening community is our cause. The Hockomock Area YMCA is an organization of men, women, and children sharing a commitment to nurture the potential of kids, promote healthy living, and foster a sense of social responsibility.

With over 31,000 members, the YMCA is committed to partnering and collaborating with others to create and deliver lasting personal and social change in the 15 communities they are privileged to serve. The Hockomock Area YMCA is a not-for-profit charitable community driven organization with facilities in North Attleboro, Foxboro, Franklin, and the Mansfield Arts & Education Center. For more information, visit hockymca.org.

FHS boys lacrosse and both tennis teams end playoff runs

From Sunday:

Last season, the Franklin boys’ lacrosse team reached its first ever sectional semifinal after upsetting perennial power Xaverian at Pisini Field. On Sunday, a much younger Franklin team faced the same opponent at the same stage of the tournament, but in a different venue and with a much different final result. 
The Panthers started well, but once the Hawks clicked on offense Franklin had little answer for a team that has found its footing (and its health) in recent weeks and is once again among the contenders for a Div. 1 title. 
Xaverian pulled away in the second half and knocked out the Panthers 18-11, despite five goals and three assists from senior attacker Austin Kent, who was recently selected as the Hockomock League MVP. 
“They were flat out better than us,” said Franklin coach Lou Verrochi. “[Sophomore goalie] Connor [O’Rourke] saw a lot of rubber today and…they’re just really good. They’re unselfish, they find the one more, they did all the things we’ve been preaching all year long.”

Continue reading the write up online
http://hockomocksports.com/franklin-boys-lacrosse-run-ends-xaverian-quarterfinals/

Austin Kent scored five goals and had three assists in the quarterfinal loss to Xaverian. (Josh Perry/HockomockSports.com)
Austin Kent scored five goals and had three assists in the quarterfinal loss to Xaverian. (Josh Perry/HockomockSports.com)

From Saturday

  • #18 Franklin, 1 @ #2 Sharon, 4 – Final 
– Sharon won second and third singles as well as second doubles in straight sets without dropping a game to advance in the tournament. Nupur Shulka won 6-0, 6-0 at second singles and Emily Wen won 6-0, 6-0 at third singles. The team of Katie Merport and Rithica Neti won 6-0, 6-0 at third singles. Pooja Puttigampala and Michal Kondratiev won 6-1, 6-2 at first doubles. Franklin’s Hannah Sweeney won 7-5, 6-2 at first singles.
http://hockomocksports.com/saturdays-schedule-scoreboard-060416/

Photos from the Sharon Franklin tennis match can be found
https://hockomocksports.smugmug.com/20152016/Spring-2016/Sharon-Franklin-Girls-Tennis-6/


From Monday


Boys Tennis
D1 South

  • #4 Franklin, 0 vs. #5 Wellesley, 5 – Final


For all the Hockomock results on Monday
http://hockomocksports.com/mondays-schedule-scoreboard-060616/

Franklin School for the Performing Arts (FSPA) - Open Houses = Jun 8 and 23

Franklin School for the Performing Arts (FSPA) will hold Open Houses for prospective students and families on Wednesday, June 8 and Thursday, June 23 from 4-8 p.m. at 38 Main Street in downtown Franklin. The community is invited to tour the facilities, speak with faculty and staff, and learn more about FSPA programs in music, dance, and drama. Prospective students are also encouraged to try a complimentary class.
Franklin School for the Performing Arts
FSPA


Founded in 1985 by Director Raye Lynn Mercer, FSPA has been dedicated to the enjoyment of the arts for all ages and to the artistic growth and development of young people. The school offers an extensive roster of classes in all dance disciplines, acting, musical theater, voice, and instrumental instruction, whether for recreational enjoyment or serious study. FSPA is also home to the Little Music School, an innovative program that teaches children as young as 18 months to play the piano. 

Performance is an integral part of an FSPA education and the school offers a year-round calendar of opportunities, including musicals, plays, voice and instrumental recitals, opera scenes, acoustic coffee houses, musical theater showcases, summer theater, ballet and dance company performances, and the school’s signature Spring Concert. THE BLACK BOX, the home of the Franklin Performing Arts Company (FPAC), is located just behind the school and provides a professional venue for FSPA student productions. Many FSPA students also participate, by audition, in FPAC’s annual season of shows.

Registration for summer and fall sessions is ongoing. Beginners are welcome and encouraged. For more information, including summer brochure or fall class schedule and catalogue, call (508) 528-8668 or visit online at www.FSPAonline.com.

Monday, June 6, 2016

Franklin, MA: Town Council - Agenda - June 8, 2016

The agenda and associated documents released for the Town Council meeting on Wednesday, June 8 can be found here. Note the PDF document contains links to the individual supporting documents.







This was shared from the Town of Franklin webpage
http://town.franklin.ma.us/Pages/FranklinMA_News/0240EC63-000F8513


brick being laid on the sidewalks downtown
brick being laid on the sidewalks downtown

Now accepting applications for Newcomers 2016 Craft Fair!

The 43rd Annual Franklin Newcomers and Friends Craft Fair will be held on Saturday, November 5, 2016 from 9:00 am until 3:00 pm, at the Tri-County Regional Vocational High School in Franklin, MA. Our craft fair is a tradition for the Town of Franklin and several local charities benefit from the funds raised by this annual event.

We are now accepting applications for our 2016 Craft Fair! If you would like to be considered for this year’s fair, please send in your application by the due date of July 1st. Please note that our craft fair is for HAND MADE items only, no resale vendors please! To apply, download our Craft Fair Application and Contract 2016.

Please review the Contract for Exhibit Space carefully and keep it for your records. We ask that you mail your completed and signed Application for Exhibit Space with your check or money order and the following high-quality photographs:
  • At least one of your exhibit/display booth showing your current major & minor craft
  • At least one of you at work creating your current major craft
  • At least one high-quality close-up picture of your current major and minor craft

Only applications submitted with the above information will be accepted and juried. All items must be handmade and no vendors will be allowed. If you would like us to return your photographs and other promotional materials, please include a self-addressed stamped envelope with enough postage to cover the cost to mail them. If you do not provide an envelope with sufficient postage, we will not be able to return them to you.

For further information, please contact craftfair@franklinnewcomers.com

Franklin Newcomers and Friends
Franklin Newcomers and Friends

Craft Fair Application and Contract 2016



Honors Night held at Tri-County


Tri-County Regional Vocational Technical High School celebrated the achievements of 250 students during the school's 25th annual Honors Night on Wednesday, June 1.

Awards were handed out for outstanding performance in career programs and academic courses, Honor Roll, community service, service to school organizations, four years of perfect attendance, and overall contributions to the school.

Several graduating seniors received awards for their many contributions to Tri-County. Nicholas Wotton, of Franklin, was nominated by school administrators for the Massachusetts Vocational Association Secondary Achievement Award. Elizabeth Ryan, of North Attleborough, was nominated for the Massachusetts Vocational Association Non-Traditional Achievement Award, as well as the Daughters of the American Revolution Good Citizen Award. Jennifer Bowness, of North Attleborough, was chosen by Superintendent Stephen Dockray to receive the Massachusetts Association of School Superintendents Award. Aaron McLean, of Bellingham, received the Massachusetts Secondary School Administrators Association Award. McLean and Morgan Gould, of North Attleborough, were also recognized for their outstanding athletic achievements.

Five members of the Class of 2016 were lauded for maintaining perfect attendance through all four years of high school. Those students included Melyssa Cappuccio, of Franklin, Laura Covell, of Plainville, Samuel Lacasse and Nicholas Pereira, both of North Attleborough, and Nicholas Wotton.

Students from each grade level were carefully selected to receive the Cougar Culture Award based on their exemplary achievements in areas of scholarship, leadership, character and service. Grade 9 recipients were Emma Mangiacotti, of Medfield, and Shannon Zogalis, of North Attleborough. Carolyn Kiely, of North Attleborough, and Isabella Leonardi, of Plainville, were chosen as the recipients from grade 10. Zachary Keeler, of Bellingham, and Katherine Pensak, of Walpole, represented grade 11. Shaina Flanagan, of Norfolk, and Tyler Thomas, of North Attleborough were the final Cougar Culture recipients from the Class of 2016.

In addition to recognizing students, Tri-County administrators thanked two representatives from EMC Corporation for their many contributions to the school. Jamie Patterson and Joey Richard were co-recipients of the Tri-County 2016 Community Service Award. Patterson and Richard host Tri-County students as part of the Cooperative Education Program. EMC has hosted more than 50 Tri-County students to date, and often asks those students to return for college internships. The corporation hands out four $1,000 scholarships annually to graduates of Tri-County.

Tri-County RVTHS, located at 147 Pond Street in Franklin, is a recipient of the High Schools That Work Gold Achievement Award and serves the communities of Franklin, Medfield, Medway, Millis, Norfolk, North Attleborough, Plainville, Seekonk, Sherborn, Walpole, and Wrentham.


EMC Corporation’s Jamie Patterson (left) and Joey Richard (right) received the Tri-County 2016 Community Service Award from Cooperative Education Director Mary-Ellen MacLeod for their contributions to the Tri-County community.
EMC Corporation’s Jamie Patterson (left) and Joey Richard (right) received the Tri-County 2016 Community Service Award from Cooperative Education Director Mary-Ellen MacLeod for their contributions to the Tri-County community.
Recipients of the Cougar Culture Award pose with Tri-County Principal Michael Procaccini after Honors Night on Wednesday, June 1. Top row (from left to right): Zachary Keeler, of Bellingham, Carolyn Kiely, of North Attleborough, Principal Michael Procaccini, and Tyler Thomas, of North Attleborough. Bottom row (from left to right): Shannon Zogalis, of North Attleborough, Shaina Flanagan, of Norfolk, Isabella Leonardi, of Plainville, and Katherine Pensak, of Walpole. Not pictured: Emma Mangiacotti, of Medfield.
Recipients of the Cougar Culture Award pose with Tri-County Principal Michael Procaccini after Honors Night on Wednesday, June 1. Top row (from left to right): Zachary Keeler, of Bellingham, Carolyn Kiely, of North Attleborough, Principal Michael Procaccini, and Tyler Thomas, of North Attleborough. Bottom row (from left to right): Shannon Zogalis, of North Attleborough, Shaina Flanagan, of Norfolk, Isabella Leonardi, of Plainville, and Katherine Pensak, of Walpole. Not pictured: Emma Mangiacotti, of Medfield.

Sunday, June 5, 2016

The TC Insider - Graduation - June 5







JUNE 3


Honors Night

Congratulations to the nearly 250 students who received awards at the school's 25th annual Honors Night held Wednesday, June 1. A full list of honorees is available here.

The Tee Off for Tri-County

The fourth annual Tee Off for Tri-County is just one week from today. Thank you to everyone who registered to golf or who donated to the event. We look forward to seeing you on the green!

An Important Graduation Update

Graduation is Sunday, June 5, at 12 p.m. In the event of inclement weather, the graduation ceremony will be held in the gymnasium. Each graduate has received three tickets. Due to the limited capacity, no one will be allowed into the indoor ceremony without a ticket. Thank you for understanding.

If you are the parent/guardian of a graduate, your child received further instructions during today's senior check-out. Please discuss those instructions with them.





Upcoming Events

Graduation
Sunday, June 5, 12 p.m.

Tee Off for Tri-County
Friday, June 10, 12 p.m. start




About The TC Insider

The TC Insider is a biweekly newsletter for the families of Tri-County students.













Tri-County RVTHS
147 Pond Street
Franklin, MA 02038
www.tri-county.us
508-528-5400








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tri-county webpage image
tri-county webpage image

"particularly excited about no longer having to visit the laundromat"

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"Seniors in Tri-County Regional Vocational Technical High School's carpentry, electrical, and plumbing and hydronic heating programs received a sweet ending to their Franklin home construction project on May 27. 
The group received a large sheet cake and thank you notes from the family who purchased the home, located on Beaver Court in Franklin. Maxx, the 4-year-old who will be living in the home, listed all of the reasons why he is grateful for his new residence. He was particularly excited about no longer having to visit the laundromat with his family."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160604/tri-county-regional-seniors-build-house

Franklin officials honored Carpentry students and instructor Jeremy Barstow  for their construction of a three-bedroom, two-bathroom Ranch on Beaver Court.
Franklin officials honored Carpentry students and instructor Jeremy Barstow  for their
construction of a three-bedroom, two-bathroom Ranch on Beaver Court.


  • Tri-County students recognized by the Town Council for their work on the house

http://www.franklinmatters.org/2015/05/franklin-town-council-honored-students.html



  • Article marking the completion of the house (with photos)

http://www.franklinmatters.org/2015/06/this-class-has-left-indelible-mark-on.html

"Our community looks out for all our citizens"

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:
"An enthusiastic group gathered on the Franklin Public Library lawn Friday morning to celebrate a project that will expand the building. 
Members of that crowd - including Town Council members, librarians, municipal officials and project leaders - took turns shoveling in a ceremonial groundbreaking for what is expected to be a year-long, $10.5 million project."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20160603/franklin-officials-break-ground-for-library-addition

Town Councilors Tom Mercer, Matt Kelly, Judy Pfeffer and Deputy Town Administrator Jamie Hellen
Town Councilors Tom Mercer, Matt Kelly, Judy Pfeffer and Deputy Town Administrator Jamie Hellen (Town of Franklin Facebook photo)

(Town of Franklin Facebook photo)
(Town of Franklin Facebook photo)


  • Additional info on the temporary location can be found here

http://www.franklinmatters.org/2016/03/multiple-updates-on-franklin-library.html

http://www.franklinmatters.org/2016/04/franklin-library-reopens-may-2-at-25.html



  • Additional info on the plans for the renovation can be found here

http://town.franklin.ma.us/pages/FranklinMA_TownLibraryNews/022B40F2-000F8513.0/LibraryAddition0827.pdf



Franklin Rock Walk - June 18th


Hi Steve,

We've crossed paths at a number of different points along the way, particularly through my involvement with Franklin history and historical commemoration. 

I'm also involved in the New England geology scene and I'm offering a unique program at 10 a.m. on Saturday, June 18th. We will be exploring the Franklin State Forest, and the geology of Franklin, meeting up in the YMCA parking lot. 

If you could add this event to your calendar or let people know about it on Franklin Matters, that would be tremendous!

Best,

Eamon McCarthy Earls

a trail in the Franklin Town Forest off Summer St (not where the rock walk is scheduled to take place)
a trail in the Franklin Town Forest off Summer St (not where the rock walk is scheduled to take place)

Senator Ross: May 2016 State House Update



Senator Richard J. Ross, State House Update, May 2016
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State Senator Richard J. Ross (R-Wrentham) proudly serving the Norfolk, Bristol and Middlesex District.

State House
Room 419
Boston, MA 02133

Ph: 617-722-1555
Fax: 617-722-1054
Email:richard.ross@masenate.gov
Dear Friends,

After months of hearings and meetings with constituents, the Senate passed the FY17 budget unanimously. Now the differences between the House and Senate budgets will be worked out in a conference committee so that a budget is passed before July 1st.

This month was also one where we honored the memories of those who sacrificed everything for our freedom.

Please read/share my newsletter for a rundown on what is included in the budget as well as what has been happening across my district.

Sincerely,
SENATE PASSES FY17 BUDGET
On Thursday May 26th I voted in support of a $39.558 billion budget for the Fiscal Year 2017. The FY17 budget makes critical investments in areas related to local aid, education, children's health and safety, housing, health and human services, workforce training and economic development, and combating the opioid epidemic, among others.  The budget limits the use of one-time revenue sources and directs $211M to the state's Stabilization Fund, prioritizing fiscal responsibility and this critical safety net for the Commonwealth.

The FY17 budget is one that clearly puts the people of the Commonwealth first and I was proud to vote in favor of it. By investing in our cities and towns and our children and families, we are ensuring the long-term success of our constituents and the Commonwealth. The budget we passed, while not perfect, is a fiscally prudent step in the right direction to provide working families with the tools and opportunities they need to thrive.

The FY17 budget demonstrates a clear commitment to cities and towns across Massachusetts with measures that aim to strengthen local services and build strong and sustainable communities including:
  • $4.63B in Chapter 70 education aid, a $116.1M increase benefiting every school district, including a minimum increase of $55 per pupil and 85% effort reduction.
  • $1.02B for Unrestricted General Government Aid (UGGA) for municipal investments in education, public safety, roads and bridges and health care.
  • $281.1M to fully fund the Special Education Circuit Breaker to reimburse school districts for high costs of educating students with disabilities at the full 75% reimbursement rate.
The budget also increases funding for health and human services in a range of areas to improve access to high quality health care and enhance services for individuals with disabilities, seniors and other vulnerable groups that are often under-served including:
  • $136.4M for substance abuse prevention and treatment, allowing for 150 new residential treatment beds and other lifesaving programs, and $2M for the Substance Abuse Services Trust Fund supporting detox, clinical stabilization, residential treatment, outpatient treatment and counseling services.
  • $14.1M for local Councils on Aging, increasing the formula grant to $10 per senior per year and strengthening local senior center community programming and services.
  • $13.9M to fully fund Turning 22 Services for the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind and Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission, and $8M for the Department of Developmental Services Turning 22 program to help young people with disabilities transition to the adult services system.
Several proposals I supported were adopted by the Senate, such as increases in funding for the Children's Advocacy Center of Bristol County, funding for host communities of correctional facilities, efforts to support people with developmental disabilities, as well as initiatives to tackle veteran homelessness in Massachusetts. Additionally, I successfully advocated for a $2 million increase for regional school transportation funding which will largely benefit students and families in my district, including the King Philip Regional School District and the Dover-Sherborn School District.

A Conference Committee will now work out the differences between the Senate budget and the version passed by the House of Representatives in April. Fiscal Year 2017 begins on July 1, 2016.


The newsletter was edited to shorten for publication here, you can view the full newsletter with the following link -->> View this email in your browser