Franklin, MA: Town Council - Agenda - June 20, 2018

The published agenda and documents for the Franklin Town Council meeting scheduled for Wednesday, June 20, 2018

(Note: where there are active links in the agenda item, it will take you to the associated document)

You can also find the full set of documents in one PDF

http://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/news/june_20_agenda_pdf.pdf

Agenda Item	Summary
A. Approval of Minutes - June 6, 2018	A. Approval of Minutes - June 6, 2018
B. Announcements	B. Announcements - This meeting is being recorded by Franklin TV and shown on Comcast channel 11 and Verizon channel 29. This meeting may also be recorded by others.
C. Proclamations/Recognitions	C. Proclamations/Recognitions
D. Citizens Comments	D. Citizens Comments - Citizens are welcome to express their views for up to five minutes on a matter that is not on the Agenda. The Council will not engage in a dialogue or comment on a matter raised during Citizen Comments. The Town Council will give remarks appropriate consideration and may ask the Town Administraor to review the matter.
E. Appointments	E. Appointments - Charles River Polution Control District
F. Hearings	F. Hearings 1. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 18-802: Zoning Map Changes From Commercial II, or Rural Residential II & Single Family Residential IV, to Rural Residential II or Single Family REsidential IV, an Area on or Near Edwards, Raymond, and Beaver Streets 2. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 18-803: Zoning Map Changes from Industrial, or Industrial, or Industrial & Single Family Residential IV, or Industrial & RuralResidentialI , or Rural Residential I, to Single Family Residential IV or Industrial and Area on or Near Fisher, Hayward, and McCarthy Streets 3. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 18-804: Zoning Map Changes from Single Family Residential III & Single Family Residential IV, to Single Family Residential iii or Single Family Residential  IV & Single Family Residential IV,, an Area on or Near Washington, Arlington, and James Streets 4. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 18-805: Changes to Section 185-21 Parking, Loading, and Driveway Requirements
G. License Transactions	G. License Transactions
H. Presentations/Discussions - Electric Youth	H. Presentations/Discussions - Electric Youth
I. Subcommittee Reports	I. Subcommittee Reports 1. Capital 2. Budget 3. EDC
J. Legislation for Action	J. Legislation for Action 1. Bylaw Amendment 18-814: Chapter 125, Peace and Good Order - 1st Reading (Motion to Move Bylaw Amendment 18-814 to a 2nd Reading - Majority Vote (5)) 2. Resolution 18-30: Additional Designations of "Special Municipal Employee" Under State Ethics  Law ( Motion to Move Resolution 18-31, Majority Vote (5)) 3. Resolution 18-31: Appropriation: Town-Wide Operational Risk Assessment FY 18(Motion to Move Resolution 18-31, Majority Vote (5)) 4. Resolution 18-32: Appropriation: Sidewalk Tractor FY 18 (Motion to Move Resolution 18-32, Majority Vote (5)) 5. Resolution 18-33: Appropriation Roads (Motion to Move resolution 18-22, Majority Vote (5)) 6. Resolution 18-34: Appropriation: Fire department Salaries Supplemental appropriation FY 18 (Motion to Move Resolution 18-34, Majority Vote (5)) 7. Resolution 18-35: Appropriation: Debt Service Supplemental Appropriation FY 18(Motion to Move resolution 18-35, Majority Vote (5)) 8. Resolution 18-36: Acceptance of Gift of Unimproved Land On Easterly Side of Grove Street, Franklin (Motion to Move Resolution 18-36, Majority Vote (5)) 9. Resolution 18-37: Zoning Bylaw Amendment 18-802:  Zoning Map Changes from Commervial II, or Rural Residential II & Single Family Residential IV to Rural Residential II or Single Family Residential IV, an Area on or Near Edwards, Raymond, and Beaver Streets - 1st Reading (Motion to move Zoning Bylaw Amendment 18-802 to a 2nd Reading - Majority Vote (5)) 10. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 18-803:Zoning Map Changes from Industrial, or Industrial & Single Family Residential IV, or Indusrial & Rural Residential I, or Rural Residential I, to Single Family Residential Iv or Industrial an Area on or Near Fisher, Hayward, and McCarthy Streets. (Motion to Move Soing Bylaw Amendment 18-803 to a 2nd Reading - Majority Vote (5)) 11. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 18-804: Zoning Map Changes from Single Family Residential III & Dingle Family Residential IV,  to Single Family Residential III or Single family Residenial IV, an Area on or Near Washington, Arlington, and James Streets -1st Reading (Motion to Move Zoning Bylaw Amendment 180894 to a 2nd Reading - Majority Vote (5)) 12. Changes to Section 185-21 Parking, Loading, and Driveway Requirements - 1st Reading (Motion to Move Zoning Bylaw Amendment 18-805 to a 2nd Reading - Majority Vote (5)) 13. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 18-815: Changes to Dimensional regulations for Commercial I Zoning District - Referral to Planning Board (Motion to refer Zoning Bylaw Amendment 18-815 to the Planning Board - Majority Vote (5)) 14. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 18-816: Poultry Use Regulations - Referral to  Planning Board (Motion to refer Zoning Bylaw Amendment 18-816 to the Planning Board - Majority Vote (5))
K. Town Administrator's Report	K. Town Administrator's Report
L. Future Agenda Items	L. Future Agenda Items
M. Council Comments	M. Council Comments
N. Executive Session	N. Executive Session - Relative to the Opioid Litigation
Adjourn	Meeting Adjourn

Town of Franklin (MA): Budget Collection - FY 2019

"Fireworks cost about $20,000 and is paid for purely with donations from local businesses and residents"

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

"A classic 4th of July tradition will return to the first town in the United States to be named after the founding father Ben Franklin. 

A fireworks display will be shot off from the field in the back of Franklin High School on July 3 at 9:30 p.m., and joins the annual carnival that be held at the town common starting June 29. Though there is no parade again, the Fourth of July Commission has its hopes up that the event will return next year. 

The town common will be packed with carnival rides, live entertainment, food booths, and town vendors for the holiday stretch. 

Commission Chairman Joe Carmignani said that this was an important event to keep alive. 

“We wanted this tradition to keep going,” Carmignani said. “It’s great for families and kids that aren’t able to go away for the 4th of July holiday.”

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20180617/fourth-of-july-fireworks-in-franklin-are-back

will the spinning apple ride return this year? We'll see!

Make your contribution to the 4th of July celebration online

https://www.franklin4th.com/

Register O'Donnell Reports Low Inventory Drives May Real Estate Activity

	Norfolk County Registry of Deeds
	Register O'Donnell Reports Low Inventory Drives May Real Estate Activity Mirroring trends seen across the United States, Norfolk County experienced reduced real estate sales for the month of May. Additionally, the reduced number of available housing stock inventory caused buyers to bid up real estate prices for both residential and commercial properties. Register of Deeds William P. O'Donnell noted, "During the month of May, Norfolk County real estate sales totaled 1,631 compared to 1,706 in May 2017. These reduced real estate sales figures tell us there is a spirited competition for a limited number of properties. The result is an increase in both average sale price and total sales volume. It's good news for property sellers, but bad news for those trying to buy, especially for first-time homeowners." The average sales price for May, combining both residential and commercial sales, was $837,777, a 9% increase compared to the previous year. Total dollar real estate sales volume increased by 6% for the month, coming in at $902 million. "If we continue to see low real estate inventory levels, there is no reason to believe that higher price increases will not continue," noted O'Donnell. Regarding lending activity, a total of 2,348 mortgages were recorded during May, a 3% decrease from the previous year. However, total mortgage financing for the month was $1.7 billion, a whopping 55% increase year over year. This figure was impacted by a $325 million commercial mortgage taken out against a Holbrook property. Register O'Donnell noted another new trend that can be an obstacle for potential homeowners. "We have seen a recent uptick in mortgage rates. It will be interesting to see the impact that it has on the overall lending market, especially if mortgage rates rise above 5%." During May, Norfolk County homeowners continued to take advantage of the Homestead Act. A total of 1,106 Homesteads were filed during the month, a 4% decrease compared to the previous May. "The Homestead Act," stated the Register, "provides limited protection against the forced sale of a homeowner's primary residence to satisfy unsecured debt up to $500,000." Foreclosure activity for the month of May was a mixed bag. The good news was the number of foreclosure deeds recorded in Norfolk County was 16, a 27% decrease year over year. However, the total number of Notice to Foreclose Mortgage recordings, the first step in the foreclosure process was 67, an increase of 11%. The Register once again noted the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds continues to work with Quincy Community Action Programs, 617-479-8181 x376, and NeighborWorks Southern Mass, 508-587-0950 to help homeowners who have received a Notice to Foreclose Mortgage document. A third option is to contact the Massachusetts Attorney General's Consumer Advocacy and Response Division (CARD) at 617-727-8400. Register O'Donnell concluded, "We are once again seeing the impact that low inventory has on the overall real estate market. Without an influx of available housing stock, these trends will likely continue." 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 and instagram.com/NorfolkDeeds. The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds is located at 649 High Street, Dedham. The Registry is a resource for homeowners, title examiners, mortgage lenders, municipalities and others with a need for secure, accurate, accessible land record information. All land record research information can be found on the Registry's website at www.norfolkdeeds.org. Residents in need of assistance can contact the Registry of Deeds Customer Service Center at (781) 461-6101, or email us at registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.org. Register William P. O'Donnell Norfolk County Registry of Deeds email: registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.org phone: 781-234-3336 web: http://www.norfolkdeeds.org

Norfolk County Registry of Deeds, 649 High Street, Dedham,, MA 02026-1831 Sent by registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.org in collaboration with Try it free today

Last Call to Celebrate Norfolk Deeds Registry’s 225th Birthday

Franklin, MA: Joint Budget Subcommittee Agenda - June 18

June 18, 2018 - 7:30 AM

3rd Floor Training Room

Municipal Building

355 East Central Street

Agenda
1. FY 2020 and Beyond Budget Overview



Who is the "Joint Budget Subcommittee Meeting"? 
The committee is comprised of members of the Town Council, School Committee and Finance Committee supported by members of the Town Administration.

Why get started on the FY 2020 budget now?
If you recall the passage of the FY 2019 budget (which covers from July 1, 2018 to June 30, 2019) is starting out with a funding deficit of approx $1.4M as that amount was used from the Debt Stabilization fund to avoid a significant cut or an override this year. There is no way to avoid a serious discussion about what Franklin wants to do for the next budget. Hence, they are starting now.

Franklin voters have two realistic choices. (1) Let the Town Council and School Committee make significant cuts to existing services OR (2) consider an override to appropriately fund the operational expenses of Franklin. This is why the discussion is starting with the Joint Budget Committee. They get to start working out the details on what to bring forward for our eventual decision.

Pay attention to the FY 2020 budget discussion. 
It will have a major effect on our daily lives and when the time rolls around to vote for it (assuming we do an override), you will have been informed, and had a chance to make your case.


The agenda can be found online
http://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/agendas/joint_budget_subcommittee_meeting_agenda.pdf

The FY 2019 budget collection can be found here
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2018/04/town-of-franklin-ma-budget-collection.html

Franklin, MA: Joint Budget Subcommittee Agenda - June 18

Town of Franklin Applies for Cultural District Status to the State of Massachusetts

Thanks to a multi-year effort by the Town of Franklin and a group of its citizens, an official application to establish a Franklin Cultural District was submitted to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts through the offices of the Massachusetts Cultural Council on June 8, 2018. The Franklin Cultural District (FCD) will be a demarcated region within the town that encompasses the cultural facilities, activities, and assets that lie in a compact, walkable area. 

Franklin’s vibrant cultural atmosphere is already home to the nation’s first public library, the Franklin Historical Museum, Dean College School of the Arts, over 25 other performing and visual arts and dance studios, and a variety of restaurants and cafes. Establishment of the FCD will likely attract additional arts and cultural organizations in the future, driving economic development.

Cultural District status will make the FCD eligible for a variety of state grant programs, state economic development opportunities and monies, strategic planning and historic preservation assistance, and marketing through the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism.

"Arts and Culture have become an extremely important and vibrant economic engine for the Town of Franklin," says Deputy Town Administrator Jamie Hellen. "Designating the Town as an official Cultural District will only enhance those opportunities and establish Franklin as the premier arts and cultural hub in the southern MetroWest region.”

https://twitter.com/franklinculture

This effort has been years in the planning, beginning with the Franklin Cultural District Steering Committee, who were tasked with gauging interest in the project and starting the organizational efforts necessary to begin the application process. The Steering Committee met with potential partners, the Massachusetts Cultural Council (MCC), and Town of Franklin administrators to determine the needs, geographic area and types of businesses to be included, and the roles and responsibilities of the District itself. 

That Committee went on to create the Franklin Cultural Festival, which ran for three years and created a strong basis amongst the partners and evidence for the State of the vigor of the arts and culture community in Franklin. A preliminary site visit with the MCC and the Town resulted in a decision to move forward with the formal cultural district application.

On June 28, 2017, the Franklin Town Council passed Resolution 17-45, which endorsed the FCD’s cultural district goals, namely to “attract artists and cultural enterprises; encourage business and job development; establish the district as a tourist destination; preserve and reuse historic buildings; enhance property values; and foster local cultural development.”

In November 2017, seven Franklin residents were appointed to the Franklin Cultural District Committee, an official Town committee which took over for the initial Steering Committee, to make the formal application to the State and then oversee the new district. Part of the application included letters of endorsement and intent from the many cultural assets in town, establishing them as official partners of the District, including the Franklin Public Schools, Dean College, Franklin Downtown Partnership, the Franklin School for the Performing Arts, Franklin Performing Arts Company/THE BLACK BOX, the Franklin Historical Museum, the Franklin Art Association, the Franklin Cultural Council, and many more. Some of the partners were involved in the FCD initiative from the very beginning, others, such as Drummer’s Studio, Encore Music Academy and Feet in Motion School of Dance, have signed on more recently as the momentum for establishment of the District increased.

During the first quarter of 2018, the Franklin Cultural District’s Goals were refined during Cultural District Committee public meetings. These Goals combine the aims for the State's cultural districts, existing planning initiatives (including Franklin’s 2013 Master Plan cultural resources goals and objectives), and input from Committee partners. The FCD partners will meet with the Committee quarterly, starting June 19, to discuss marketing, cross-promotional events between the partners, and ways to enhance the District. An FCD website, complete with a local arts calendar, is being established to provide a single source of arts and cultural information for town residents and visitors.

The application filed on June 8, 2018, included narrative on the FCD's goals, marketing plans, partners, cultural assets, and State-required metrics to measure the FCD's impact, as well as the official FCD map. In addition, hundreds of pages of supplemental materials were submitted showing examples of arts and cultural events and programming within the proposed District.Once the MCC has reviewed the application, a site visit will be scheduled with the Town, the FCD committee and the FCD partners. Only then will the State render a verdict on the application.

To learn more about the Franklin Cultural District, their partners, and upcoming activities and events, visit their website at www.franklinculturaldistrict.org, or follow them on Facebook(www.facebook.com/FranklinCultureMA), Twitter (@FranklinCulture), and Instagram(@franklinculture).

Children of Eden - at FHS - Jun 22 - 23

Children of Eden
Presented by The Theatre Institute and Theatre at the Hockomock Area YMCA

Franklin High School
Friday, June 22nd 7:00 PM
Saturday, June 23rd 1:00 PM and 7:00 PM

"From musical theatre greats, Stephen Schwartz and John Caird, comes a joyous and inspirational musical about parents, children and faith... not to mention centuries of unresolved family business! Schwartz himself describes the show as one of his favorites he has written. We hope you'll join us to see this amazing cast sing some incredible music!"

For more about the show you can read here https://www.mtishows.com/children-of-eden or
here  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Children_of_Eden

Download the flyer here
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0wjbnXDBhczdkZGQkdsX2JfSjJNYy1CbURmMGhiWDBzRHBZ/view?usp=sharing

Children of Eden - at FHS - Jun 22 - 23

In the News: Wayland to see school start time alternatives; MetroWest student Film Festival starts

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

"After years of discussion, the (Wayland, MA) School Committee will finally have a choice of possible solutions for a later start time at the middle and high schools. 

The discussion dates back to at least 2004, when a town task force concluded students aren’t getting enough sleep, but that getting to the point of a later start time is “complicated.” 

Superintendent Arthur Unobskey is expected to present the solutions at Monday’s School Committee meeting. 

“I anticipate the School Committee will choose one of the options,” Unobskey told the Daily News. 

Options will call for an 8:30 or 8:45 a.m. start time at the middle and high school. Currently, the opening bell is 7:35 at the middle school and 7:30 at the high school."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20180617/wayland-school-committee-to-see-options-for-school-start-times

Franklin also has a School Start Times Advisory Committee working to put a similar proposal together. If accepted it would be start no earlier than Sep 2019. The link to the Committee's page for meeting agendas, research, etc. 
http://franklinschool.vt-s.net/pages/FranklinCom_StartTimeAdvCom

"The next Martin Scorsese or Steven Spielberg could be among us, and a new film festival next spring could be where they’re found. 

It’s billed as the first film festival for students in MetroWest, and it’s appropriately called the MetroWest Student Film Festival. 

It’s coming next April 4-7 to The Center for the Arts in Natick (TCAN), 14 Summer St., and organizers said it will be an annual event. 

“It gives young people an opportunity to showcase their talents and passion for the arts,” said Kerry Fraser, marketing coordinator for TCAN."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20180617/student-film-festival-coming-to-metrowest

FHS baseball plays in the Super 8 final Monday, June 18

In the Super 8 tournament, Franklin, the lowest seed to make it to the final, is also the only team left with no losses. Central Catholic needs to beat FHS twice while Franklin can win outright with a single victory on Monday.

Super8 Championship teams are set: Franklin vs Central Catholic. Monday night, 7pm at Campenelli Stadium in Brockton. As a double elimination tournament, CC will have to defeat Franklin twice to win the title. #LETSGO @FHSCoachZBrown @FranklinHSNews @HockomockSports

— FranklinAthletics (@FHSSports) June 16, 2018

Complete MIAA bracket info can be found online http://miaa.statebrackets.com/tmenu.cfm?tid=4853

MIAA Super 8 or Div 1A  bracket for 2018

School Committee Newsletter- June 2018

You can also find and read the School Committee newsletter
https://www.smore.com/5utvw

Cultural District Meeting Agenda - Jun 19

The Town's new Cultural District Committee has been holding regular committee meetings since January 2018; they're working hard on a variety of issues including refining district goals, marketing, and editing sections of the the Town's Cultural District application.

FYI - The Town's Cultural District application was submitted to the State on June 8th; hopefully Mass Cultural Council will be doing their application review and holding a site visit this summer.

One of the Cultural District Committee's most important responsibilities is managing and continuing to build the Town's Cultural District Partnership. You've all worked to build this Partnership, and I know you all understand the importance of working together closely.

The Town's Cultural District Committee is holding their first Cultural District Partnership Meeting on June 19th at 7:30. If at all possible each partnering organization should send at least one individual to represent their interests.

Attached is the meeting agenda. I hope to see you next week. Please invite anyone that may have an interest. This is a public meeting; all are welcome.



Bryan W. Taberner, AICP
Director of Planning and Community Development
355 East Central Street
Franklin, MA 02038-1352
Phone: 508-520-4907
Fax: 508-520-4906
Email: btaberner@franklinma.gov



The agenda for the meeting
http://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/agendas/cdc_meeting_agenda_-_june_19_2018.pdf

Cultural District Meeting - Jun 19

Blackstone River Theatre - Summer Solstice Festival is Saturday, June 16

We have an AMAZING line-up of musicians this year!

You asked for a nice day ... and you will HAVE IT! It is looking like a beautiful, sunny day in the mid-80s!

This is truly going to be an incredible festival and we really hope you will join us. For the cost of a single concert ticket, you can see many world-class musicians and dancers over the course of an 8-hour day!

Full website & schedule: www.riverfolk.org/brtssf

SEE PREVIEW OF THIS YEAR'S FESTIVAL!




Please LIKE us on Facebook AND share with your friends ... word of mouth is BRT's best friend!  https://www.facebook.com/BlackstoneRiverTheatre

Blackstone River Theatre - Summer Solstice Festival is Saturday, June 16

Get out to the ball game with Encore Music - July 28

Come join us for a fun summer evening at the ballpark and help raise money for a good cause!

50% of the proceeds from ticket sales through this link (below) will go towards the Encore Music Education Foundation, Inc., a 501(c3) not-for-profit organization, who’s mission is to provide merit-based and need-based scholarships and subsidies to deserving students and programs of music everywhere.

WHEN = July 28th, 2018 6:15 PM

WHERE = McCoy Stadium
1 Columbus Ave, Pawtucket, RI 02860


TO BUY TICKETS:
Scan the QR code or go to TicketReturn.com and log on using:

User ID: EMEF
Password: pawsox

https://drive.google.com/file/d/14HZ-LpxITvPmmsARhKxOVbNgzH4KCyhb/view?usp=sharing

Get out to the ball game with Encore Music - July 28

“We need purchase, possession and use laws, but no one wants to talk about it.”

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

"The effort to increase the tobacco sales age limit to 21 years will undoubtedly cut into the revenue of convenience stores, including the 7-Eleven in Quincy that Dennis Lane has owned for 44 years. 

The loss would be unfortunate for business, he said, but it’s not why he’s against increasing the age. 

“Raising age limits redefines the age that somebody becomes an adult,” said Lane, who doesn’t smoke. “If you’re adult enough to pick up a rifle and protect this country, then you’re obviously adult enough to make the decision about whether or not to smoke.” 

As Massachusetts inches closer to becoming one of a handful of states in which - like alcohol - you must be at least 21 years old to buy a pack of cigarettes, debate has ensued related to health, personal freedom and shared responsibility."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20180615/as-massachusetts-mulls-changing-smoking-age-to-21-questions-remain

Upcoming Events in Franklin, MA: FRI 6/15/18 - THU 6/21/18

FRIDAY 6/15/18
10am-12pm   Knitting Group @ Franklin Public Library
12-6pm   Farmers Market @ Town Common
5:30pm   Heart with Hope Restorative Yoga (for parents and loved ones of those suffering from addiction) @ Sacred Tree Yoga, Norfolk
6pm (FRI)-6am (SAT)   Relay for Life of Western Norfolk County @ Medway Middle School, 45 Holliston St
7pm   Yoga for Recovery @ Sacred Tree Yoga, Norfolk

SATURDAY 6/16/18
9am-3pm   Book Sale @ Franklin Public Library
10am-1pm   Franklin Historical Museum Open
3pm   PJ’s Service Dog Benefit plus Touch-a-Truck (Franklin and Wrentham Fire and Wrentham PD) @ American Legion, Wrentham
7:30pm   Electric Youth 2018 Bon Voyage Concert @ The Black Box

SUNDAY 6/17/18
9am-12pm   Bag Sale @ Franklin Public Library
1-4pm   Franklin Historical Museum Open

MONDAY 6/18/18
10:30am   Move Along @ Franklin Public Library
11am   Toddler Playgroup @ Franklin Public Library
3pm   Monday Crafternoons @ Franklin Public Library

TUESDAY 6/19/18
10:30am   Get Ready for Kindergarten @ Franklin Public Library
11:15am   Toddler Playgroup @ Franklin Public Library

WEDNESDAY 6/20/18
10:30am   Terrific Toddlers @ Franklin Public Library
11am   Toddler Playgroup @ Franklin Public Library
4pm   Construction Junction @ Franklin Public Library
5pm   Book Bites @ Franklin Public Library
7pm   Town Council meeting @ Municipal Building

THURSDAY 6/21/18
9:30am   Baby Tummy Time @ Franklin Public Library
10:30am   Story and Craft @ Franklin Public Library
11:15am   Toddler Playgroup @ Franklin Public Library
1pm   Kindness Rocks Project (painting) @ Franklin Senior Center
5-8pm   Franklin Historical Museum Open
7pm   Healing Hearts Community Support Group @ Franklin YMCA

For the Town of Franklin Public Calendar click HERE.

For all other events and Franklin happenings click HERE.

*To submit an event for the Community Calendar, please use this FORM

Next Steps to clean up BJAT, LLC on Fisher St

From the US EPA:

Site Description:
The BJAT, LLC (BJAT) Site located at 300 Fisher Street in Franklin, MA was historically used for industrial operations including the manufacture of rubber and plastic products. The property has not been active since 1985. Investigations have found contaminants in soil, groundwater, sediment, and surface water. The Site was added to the National Priorities List (NPL), often referred to as the EPA Superfund list, in September 2015, making it eligible for long-term cleanup action under the federal Superfund program.

Next Steps:
In June, with oversight from EPA’s On-Scene Coordinator (OSC), BJAT is expected to begin a Removal Action which will address hazardous substances present in soil and drum waste for the purpose of reducing risk to human health and the environment. Concurrently, EPA’s Remedial Project Manager will begin a study known as a Remedial Investigation (RI). The RI will identify the nature and extent of Site contamination and the potential human health and environmental risks that the Site may pose. 

The results of this study will be used to develop a Feasibility Study (FS) which will identify what long-term cleanup measures may be appropriate to address human health and ecological risk at the Site. The RI/FS is expected to be completed in three or more years and the findings of the RI will be presented in the Proposed Plan for cleanup. In addition, EPA will determine if any additional immediate response actions need to be conducted to address any imminent hazards that are identified by sample collection efforts.

The short-term work that will be conducted during the Removal Action includes: excavation, sampling, staging and covering of drums and other containers, waste and approximately 2,114 tons of contaminated soil; treatment of excavated soil on-site if appropriate; excavation of a limited number of test pits; air monitoring; and off-site shipment of waste, excavated soil, and other contaminated items that may be encountered for disposal, treatment, re-use or recycling.

BJAT will generally work during daylight hours. The Removal Action is expected to take 3 to 6 months. Throughout the work day, BJAT will be monitoring air at the Site for the safety of site workers and the surrounding community. One may expect to see heavy equipment, workers in white suits, and trucks occasionally which may have a slight effect on traffic. Vehicle and truck traffic to and from the site will be limited to Fisher Street and the primary road, West Central Street (i.e., Route 140). Some hazardous materials will be secured on site temporarily while awaiting shipment offsite to an EPA-approved facility.



You can download the full copy from the Town of Franklin page
http://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/news/bjat_final_pdf_removal_fact_sheet_june_2018.pdf





Learn More about the Latest EPA News & Events in New England(https://www.epa.gov/aboutepa/epa-region-1-new-england)

Follow EPA New England on Twitter (http://twitter.com/epanewengland)

Connect with EPA New England on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/EPARegion1)

Related links from the Franklin Matters archives

• Live reporting from the Town Council meeting July 2014

http://www.franklinmatters.org/2014/07/live-reporting-epa-300-fisher-st.html

• DEP and EPA presentation to Town Council, July 2014

http://www.franklinmatters.org/2014/07/300-fisher-st-ma-dep-epa-presentation.html

• Map showing property location within Franklin

http://www.franklinmatters.org/2014/07/300-fisher-st-map.html

http://twitter.com/epanewengland

"they just keep grinding, they keep believing"

Joe Clark, HockomockSports.com Student Reporter, has the complete recap of the FHS baseball win in the Super 8 tournament by 6-5 in 10 innings.

"Once Franklin scored the tying run in the top of the 9th inning during Thursday’s MIAA Super 8 semi-final against Central Catholic, and got two quick outs in the bottom of the inning, the game seemed primed for extra innings. 

But Central Catholic’s next batter, Vanderbilt-commit Dom Keegan, had other ideas, as he sent a ball high off the wall in left-center field before coasting into third with a triple. Steve Hajjar was hit by a pitch, which set the stage for Mike Borrelli. 

Borrelli grounded to shortstop, but the throw was wide and looked like it would get by Franklin first baseman Steve Luttazi and give Central a walk-off win. Instead, Luttazi made an incredible pick and held the bag, retiring Borrelli and keeping Franklin alive. 

The Panthers capitalized, scoring two runs in the top of the tenth, and winning 6-5, to advance to the Super Eight Final."

Continue reading the article online
https://hockomocksports.com/franklin-baseball-rallies-to-punch-ticket-to-super-8-final/

Click here for a photo gallery from this game.
https://hockomocksports.smugmug.com/20172018/Spring-2018/Franklin-Central-Catholic-Baseball-06-14-18/

Franklin players celebrate after recording the final out to beat Central Catholic and advance to the Super 8 Final. (Ryan Lanigan/HockomockSports.com)

“People are pretty excited about this"

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

"The Franklin Cultural Council applied to the Massachusetts Cultural Council for the final approval of the Franklin Cultural District after years of planning. 

The district will help highlight the cultural and historical parts of downtown along with helping to grow the arts and business aspects of the community, according to Deputy Town Administer Jaime Hellen. 

“There is already a vibrant arts and culture scene in Franklin and this is a continuation of that,” Hellen said. “We wanted to maintain Franklin as the premier arts and cultural area of the southern MetroWest region.” 

The Massachusetts Cultural Council’s Cultural Districts Initiative was launched in April 2011. About 45 cities and towns contain cultural districts, according to the state’s website."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20180611/franklin-applies-for-state-recognition-of-cultural-district

Thanks @milforddaily ! But article clarification: The Cultural Coucil is a separate entity (although we support). We are the Cultural District Committee. And unfortunately no Cultural Festival this year with establishing district and time constraints.https://t.co/fWk0khS9vP

— Franklin Culture (@franklinculture) June 14, 2018

“People are pretty excited about this"

"many towns once used the river as a source power"

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

"Bellingham resident and author Marjorie Turner Hollman has just completed the third in her “Easy Walks” local trail guide series, Easy Walks and Paddles in the Ten Mile River Watershed, this time in partnership with the Ten Mile River Watershed Council. 

Members of the Ten Mile River Watershed Council worked together with Hollman to create this guide to 39 outdoor spaces in the towns that host the river. The series now covers 34 towns in south central and southeastern Massachusetts, and three Rhode Island towns along Massachusetts’ southern border -- more than 120 trails in all. 

Looking for places to walk with your family and/or friends, or with your dog? Hoping to spend time in the outdoors on a trail that is handicapped friendly? Want to find a new place to walk that is right around the corner from where you live? Or maybe you have a canoe or kayak but don’t know how to find safe canoe launches. 

Find information to satisfy all these needs, and more, with maps to each trail head, in each of the books in the series."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
http://franklin.wickedlocal.com/news/20180612/local-author-completes-easy-walks-trail-guide-series

https://www.amazon.com/Easy-Walks-Paddles-River-Watershed-ebook/dp/B07CVPQPPS

Marjorie's other books in the series

http://www.franklinmatters.org/2016/08/2nd-edition-of-easy-walks-in-ma-now.html

http://www.franklinmatters.org/2015/04/more-easy-walks-in-massachusetts.html

Franklin Cultural District Meeting - June 19

The Franklin Cultural District Committee has completed the cultural district application and has recently submitted it to the state for approval.The committee would like to invite you to our first quarterly partnership meeting. The meeting will be held on Tuesday, June 19th at 7:30 PM in the Franklin Senior Center.

At this meeting will present an overview of our work to date and also share several exciting possibilities for the future. We look forward to working together to promote the arts and the economic growth of downtown Franklin.

Please join us on June 19th!

https://twitter.com/franklinculture

Fatherly figures - US Census data stats

Getting ready for Father's Day, here is an info graphic with some stats from the US Census.

Fatherly figures - US Census data stats

The first presidential proclamation honoring fathers was issued in 1966 when President Lyndon Johnson designated the third Sunday in June as Father’s Day. Father’s Day has been celebrated annually since 1972 when President Richard Nixon signed the public law that made it permanent.

Also, click here for a collection of statistics on fathers.
https://www.census.gov/newsroom/stories/2018/fathers-day.html

Franklin Odd Fellows - Cornhole Tournament - June 23

WHEN: June 23, 2018 - 2 PM

WHERE: William F. Ray Lodge 330 West Central St. Franklin, MA 02038

HOW: Sign Up! Up to (4) two person teams will be able to compete at the same time in a "Double Elimination" style tournament.

HOW MUCH: The cost for each person to enter the tournament will be $10.00 and you must sign up with a partner, no singles allowed. If your team loses the first game, you will be entered into the loser's bracket and you will be allowed to continue for another game. In either the winner's or the loser's bracket, if you keep on winning - you will keep on advancing until there are only two teams left to compete for the Grand Prize.

BONUS: Included in the entry fee price will be our end of the year barbecue/ cookout with all the fixins.

Franklin Odd Fellows - Cornhole Tournament - June 23

https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0wjbnXDBhczaXBCTS13bGJPSGhwazYxbUVTMUZnc2JHTE1j/view?usp=sharing