Register O'Donnell Highlights Increased Lending Activity in Norfolk County

	Norfolk County Registry of Deeds
	Register O'Donnell Highlights Increased Lending Activity in Norfolk County A small decrease in Norfolk County real estate transactions was more than offset by an impressive spike in mortgage lending activity during the recently concluded month of July 2019. Register O'Donnell noted, "During July, a total of 1,761 residential and commercial properties were sold in Norfolk County, representing a modest 2% decrease year over year. Inventory issues, particularly the lack of starter homes, are continuing to stifle growth in the Norfolk County real estate market." Total real estate sales volume, both residential and commercial, for the month of July was $893 million, a 16% decrease year over year. This figure was impacted by two commercial real estate sales of $64 million and $96.5 million recorded in July 2018. In addition, the average sales price, again for both residential and commercial properties, was $718,518, a 14% decrease compared to the previous year. "Time will tell," stated O'Donnell, "whether or not these figures portend a thaw in the Norfolk County real estate market." The encouraging news that came out of July's numbers was seen in lending activity. The number of mortgages recorded during the month was 2,950, a significant 28% increase year over year. For the month, total mortgage borrowing jumped by 119% to $2.1 billion. The total borrowing figure was impacted by 2 large residential multi-family mortgages, one in Quincy totaling $426 million and the other recorded against a Franklin property totaling $384 million. O'Donnell noted, "A reduction in mortgage interest rates is having a positive effect on the Norfolk County lending market." Another bright spot was the continuing decline in foreclosure activity, a trend seen for the past few months. A total of 8 foreclosure deeds were processed during July compared to 20 recorded in July 2018, resulting in a 60% decline. In addition, 29 Notice to Foreclose Mortgage recordings, the first step in the foreclosure process, were filed during the month versus 38 recorded in July of 2018, a decline of 24%. "We severely underestimate the effect of foreclosures if we simply look at them as just a bunch of numbers. Foreclosure activity has a human face. Some of our neighbors struggle to pay their monthly mortgage and sometimes fall short through no fault of their own. Families face economic hardships as a result of a sudden job loss or a catastrophic medical event. This is why the Registry of Deeds directs homeowners to the Quincy Community Action Programs at (617)479-8181 x376 and NeighborWorks Housing Solutions at (617)770-2227 x-346 to help anyone who has received a Notice to Foreclose Mortgage from a lending institution. Another option is to contact the Massachusetts Attorney General's Consumer Advocacy and Response Division (CARD) at (617)727-8400," noted O'Donnell. On the consumer front, Homestead recordings were slightly up during the month of July. A total of 1,300 Homesteads were recorded, a 3% increase compared to the previous year. "It is important to remember," noted Register O'Donnell, "that a Homestead is an important tool that provides limited protection against the forced sale of a homeowner's primary residence to satisfy unsecured debt up to 500,000." Register O'Donnell concluded, "Available real estate inventory continues to be a constant source of concern in Norfolk County. It's especially been a problem for first time home buyers attempting to crack the market. However, there is a silver lining in the July real estate statistics and that is based on the optimistic lending numbers we've seen. These figures are very encouraging and tell us reduced interest rates and a robust eastern Massachusetts economy are having a positive effect on the Norfolk County region." 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/or Instagram.com/NorfolkDeeds. The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds is located at 649 High Street in 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 www.norfolkdeeds.org. Residents in need of assistance can contact the Registry of Deeds Customer Service Center via telephone 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: https://www.norfolkdeeds.org

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

Register O'Donnell Highlights Increased Lending Activity in Norfolk County

“Would some kids be ready to vote at 16? Maybe”

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

"When Concord-Carlisle High School senior Una Oljaca visited the Statehouse last spring, she and fellow senior Gretchen Carr had a chance to see where legislators voted, the hearing room where several bills are brought up each day and some of the offices where representatives work.

But the day was about much more than simply taking a tour.

Oljaca and Carr were there to testify alongside state Rep. Tami Gouveia, D-Acton, in support of a bill to allow 17-year-olds to vote in municipal elections in Concord.

The issue is complicated, with engaged teens on one side wanting a place at the table when it comes to electing local and national leaders and adults on the other side not so sure a 16-year-old is experienced enough to make such an important decision."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20190811/would-you-trust-your-16-year-old-in-voting-booth

Voting age varies around the world with most at 18. wikipedia has the listing
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Voting_age

voting age chart showing the majority at 18

Call for Sponsors of the Harlem Wizards vs. Team FPS basketball fund raising event - Nov 22

Harlem Wizards Vs. Franklin Public Schools 

(“Team FPS”)

a Community Basketball Event & Fundraiser

to Benefit Franklin Education Foundation

Opportunity for Sponsorships

WHEN: Friday, November 22, 2019 @ 7:00 PM

WHERE: Tri-County Regional Vocational Technical High School Gymnasium, Franklin, MA

WHAT: The Harlem Wizards will bring their team to Franklin to compete against “Team FPS” for a 2-hour tournament. The Harlem Wizards brand of “Trick Hoops & Alley Oops” entertainment basketball has been packing gyms across the globe for over 50 years! Their show includes amazing slams, world-class tricks, precision teamwork and humor.

WHO: “Team FPS” will include teachers and staff from Franklin Public Schools. We sell out every year with a crowd of 1,200 students, parents and children!

WHY: FEF fundraisers have raised over $350,000 which has been distributed to Franklin Public Schools in the form of special grants. All Franklin Public School staff members are eligible to submit creative, innovative ideas for programs or activities that would not traditionally be funded by tax dollars. To see a list of programs FEF has funded over the years, visit http://www.franklined.org/grants.

OPPORTUNITY FOR SPONSORSHIPS: This is FEF’s largest and most visible fundraiser of the year. Your sponsorship will highlight that your business supports Franklin Public Schools and the larger Franklin community. We have numerous opportunities at various levels to support the fundraiser and promote your business to the Franklin community. The attached flyer provides more details about the event and sponsorship levels. Thank you for considering supporting FEF and FPS!

Sincerely,
Franklin Education Foundation

Down your copy of the Sponsor Letter
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0wjbnXDBhczX1pza2xkY3UxcVVfekVHeFRFVXBsWmVnR2lz/view?usp=sharing

Call for Sponsors of the Harlem Wizards vs. Team FPS  - Nov 22

Franklin, MA: School Committee - Agenda - Aug 13, 2019

Vision Statement

The Franklin Public Schools will foster within its students the knowledge and skills to find and achieve satisfaction in life as productive global citizens.

A G E N D A

“The listing of matters are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair which may be discussed at the meeting. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by law.”

1. Routine Business
a. Review of Agenda
b. Citizen’s Comments

i. In the spirit of open communication, “the School Committee will hear public comment not related to an agenda item at the beginning of each regular School Committee Meeting. The Committee will listen to, but not respond to any comment made. A Committee member may add an agenda item to a future meeting as a result of a citizen comment” – from Policy BEDH

c. FHS Student Representative Comments
d. Superintendent’s Report

2. Guests / Presentations
a. None

3. Discussion / Action Items
a. School Handbooks
I recommend approval of the Franklin Public Schools Student/Family Handbooks as discussed.
b. Policy – 2nd Reading / Adoption
I recommend adoption of the following policies as discussed:

i. BEC – Executive Sessions
ii. BEDG – Minutes
iii. JKAA – Physical Restraint of Students

c. Budget Discussion and Revised Budget
I recommend that the School Committee adopt a revised FY 20 budget of
$64,702,500.

4. Discussion Only Items
a. Summer Professional Development and Curriculum Update

5. Information Matters
a. School Committee Sub-Committee Reports (e.g. Budget; Community Relations; Policy; Transportation; Public Schools Advocacy; Ad Hoc Superintendent’s Evaluation)

b. School Committee Liaison Reports (e.g. Joint PCC; Substance Abuse Task Force; School Wellness Advisory Council [SWAC]; MASC)

6. New Business
a. To discuss any future agenda items

7. Consent Agenda
a. Minutes
I recommend approval of the minutes from the July 23, 2019 School Committee meeting as detailed.
b. End of Year Transfers
I recommend approval of the end-of-year budget transfers as detailed.
c. Surplus Technology Equipment
I recommend declaring the detailed list of technology equipment as surplus.
d. Athletics Donation
I recommend acceptance of a check for $200.00 from the Franklin Newcomers and Friends for participation fees for students who otherwise could not afford for sports, clubs, events, etc.

8. Payment of Bills Dr. Bergen
9. Payroll Mrs. Douglas
10. Correspondence
11. Executive Session

a. Pursuant to M.G.L. c. 30A, §21(a)(2) to conduct strategy sessions in preparation for negotiations with nonunion personnel or to conduct collective bargaining sessions or contract negotiations with nonunion personnel.

12. Adjournment


Meeting agenda
https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/agenda-8-13-19

Documents released for this meeting
https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/pages/august-13-2019-school-committee-packet

Franklin, MA: School Committee - Agenda - Aug 13, 2019

Franklin, MA: Town Council - Agenda - Aug 14, 2019

1. ANNOUNCEMENTS
a.This meeting is being recorded by Franklin TV and show on Comcast channel 11 and Verizon Channel 29. This meeting may be recorded by others.

2. CITIZEN COMMENTS
a.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 Administrator to review the matter.

3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
a. July 24, 2019

4. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS 
​- None

5. APPOINTMENTS
a. Fire Chief Pinning Ceremony
b. Finance Committee, Michael Kasberg

6. HEARINGS ​- None

7. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS
a. The Chateau Restaurant of Franklin, Inc. New All-Alcoholic Beverages Restaurant License, 466King Street

8. PRESENTATIONS/DISCUSSIONS 
- ​None

9. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS
a. Capital Budget Subcommittee
b. Budget Subcommittee
c. Economic Development Subcommittee

10 .LEGISLATION FOR ACTION

• a.Resolution 19-53: Rescind Outdated Bonds ​(Motion to Approve Resolution 19-53 - Majority Vote (5))
• b.Resolution 19-54: Amendment to FY2020 Budget​ (Motion to Approve Resolution 19-54 -Majority Vote (5))
• c.Resolution 19-55: Acceptance of Gift - Council on Aging (​Motion to Approve Resolution 19-55- Majority Vote (5))
• d.Resolution 19-56: Acceptance of Gift - Franklin Senior Center​ (Motion to Approve Resolution19-56 - Majority Vote (5))
• e.Resolution 19-57: Acceptance of Gift - Franklin Fire Department ​(Motion to approve Resolution 19-57 - Majority Vote (5))
• f.Resolution 19-58: Acceptance of Gift - Franklin Police Department ​(Motion to approve Resolution 19-58 - Majority Vote (5))
• g.Sewer Map Amendment 19-844: 225 Plain Street - Sewer System Extension - 1st Reading (Motion to Move Sewer Map Amendment 19-844: 225 Plain Street - Sewer Extension to a Second Reading - Majority Vote (5))

11.TOWN ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT

12. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS

13. COUNCIL COMMENTS

14. EXECUTIVE SESSION 
- ​None Scheduled

15.ADJOURN

Notes: 
Two-Thirds Vote: requires 6 votes
Majority Vote: requires majority of members present and voting

Agenda document
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/agendas/2019-08-14_town_council_agenda.pdf

Full agenda (includes files released for this meeting)
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/franklinma/files/agendas/august_12_2019_tc_full_agenda_0.pdf

Franklin, MA: Town Council - Agenda - Aug 14, 2019

In the News: Red Cross stops mobile blood drives; right to repair proposal coming to ballot in 2020

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

"The Red Cross is tentatively stopping its mobile blood drive operations in central and western Massachusetts, potentially affecting 68 jobs.

“As challenging economic conditions continue in the blood industry, the American Red Cross has made the difficult, tentative decision to discontinue its mobile blood drive operations in central and western Massachusetts,” Kelly Isenor, spokesperson of Red Cross Blood Services Region in Massachusetts, said in a statement. “To ensure long-term sustainability, the Red Cross needs to consolidate its operations in this market to generate greater efficiencies that will deliver cost-effective and reliable products and services for patients in need.”

The Red Cross will continue to collect blood and platelet donations at donation centers in Springfield and Worcester, according to the statement. The organization will also continue to collect blood at donation centers, as well as at community blood drives in the eastern part of the state."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20190810/red-cross-suspends-mobile-blood-drives-in-region-68-jobs-may-be-affected

Red Cross stops mobile blood drives

"Standing in an open bay of his auto repair shop off Beaver Street on Wednesday, Nice Car Care co-owner Jim Norris pointed to just some of the technology necessary to stay afloat in his industry.

There’s the $3,000 “brick” – a tablet-like scanner with a cord that plugs into the beige sedan on which he needed to run diagnostics that morning. The device will look for general problems, but needs a $1,500 upgrade every year.

And if he wants to get more in-depth, Norris turns to vehicle maker-specific software that he subscribes to for about $200 per month.

“We lay out a lot of money just to stay in business,” he said."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20190810/right-to-repair-group-wants-to-give-mass-drivers-access-to-their-cars-real-time-data

https://nicecarcare.com/

Reminder: Fashions of Downton Abbey - Aug 11

We're excited to bring you The Fashions of Downton Abby as our August Second Sunday Speaker Series presentation. Our guest is Karen Antonowicz of Spirits of Fashion. Karen returns to the museum with one of her most popular presentations. 

Are you a fan of Downton Abbey? Would you love to know more about the fashions of the period? If so, join us for an informative presentation about the lives and fashions of the residents of Downton Abbey. Travel with us through time while we explore the styles of 1912, represented in Season 1 of Downton Abbey, through the 1920s, when major changes occurred both in fashion and in society. 

Immerse yourself in Downton Abbey, where we will explore all of the changing fashions of this intriguing period. Karen received her Masters Degree in textiles, fashion merchandising and design. With a concentration in historic costumes from RISD. Karen pours her passion for fashion to this presentation which includes a slide show, clips from the show, costumes and accessories from the Edwardian Era through the 1920s. 

This special presentation is on Sunday, August 11th at 1:10 PM. Arrive on time, seating is limited. The Second Sunday Speaker Series is sponsored by the Friends of the Franklin Historical Museum.

The Franklin Historical Museum is located at 80 West Central Street. We are ADA compliant and admission is always free. Hours of operation are Saturdays 10 AM-1 PM, Sundays 1 PM-4 PM and Thursday evenings 5 PM-8 PM. Come in and discover your history.

Reminder: Fashions of Downton Abbey - Aug 11