School Committee reluctantly approves budget cuts 6/23/20

As with most meetings in this pandemic period, I took my notes via Twitter during the meeting reporting in real-time via the virtual session.

The Twitter hashtag can be found online #sc0623
https://twitter.com/hashtag/sc0623?src=hashtag_click

• Real time reporting underway for school Committee meeting 6/23/20 #sc0623 all present, although one (Keenan) wasn't on for roll call but was on for pledge.
• First up, superintendent's report: response protocol for hate/bias developed, staff training, time for study of students and families, engage in difficult conversation, #sc0623 reading anchor text as prelude to retreat this summer
• Seal of bi-literacy at FHS will be a credential to help mark work in this area, expanded work and materials in elementary, 'world of difference' effective at middle levels #sc0623 continuing to examine practice, "can't be perfect but striving to be better"
• Looking to engage on this across the community of Franklin; Extended school year beginning July, plan to be shared by week end, DESE sent guidance, in person as 'feasible' anticipating additional guidance #sc0623
• Slideshow of art work by teacher to be included in superintendent notes on Wednesday, #sc0623
• Moving to discuss/action item - revised budget up for vote, https://franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/disc-action-revised-budget working towards this # for several weeks, no changes in spreadsheet, all made reluctantly
• 2 K teachers added back due to enrollment, total FTE still 19.5 #sc0623 music and clubs limited for middle due to coming back from closure and distance restriction, not eliminated, reduced. Do still anticipate a local aid reduction later this summer at state level
• Chorus, band and athletics still on table for future reductions is the state cuts come through, #sc0623 working through DESE guidance on music programs. Motion, second Q speech/language others would have to pick up 'slack' Q what implications for non approval?
• Concern about decisions to be made with hiring, etc but at some point need a decision where the cuts would be made. "Everything is painful" reacting to bottom line # we see. #sc0623 Q on 1/12 budget, doesn't apply here per Town guidance. This is not the last go round
• I understand the budget is not what you want to see but it is what we have. #sc0623 class size at FHS depends upon the courses and selections, likely 25-28 maybe low 20's Q was asked of other Town depts if they had enough $s; was not asked of Sara last week
• This is not related to COVID-19, we had our numbers before that happened, the funding levels are not at where they need to be for the schools. #sc0623 Q on SPED cuts, we will need some help in the fall, these were made after a review of the student IEPs
• Sara "I don't want to say it is without impact but it is not unreasonable." (Could also say that they were insufficient to begin with and get worse with this) #sc0623 Student Opportunity Act is pending, possibly not likely to happen this year
• Q out of district placements costs could be much higher; if so we will need to figure it out in the moment, but this is what we have now. #sc0623 can't foresee specific actions today, but we'll have options to work with.
• Q on administrator possible cuts vs. teachers non-admin impact is 3% vs. admin is 4-5%; public comment, stay within 3 mins, please do not repeat what has been said. Donna Grady, this is a Town wide problem, not just a school problem #sc0623 raises a series of budget line Qs
• Q on substitutes amount of increase? Concern on deputy cut at FHS, he is the senior person with knowledge of the building and staff
• Comment on equity of cuts to protect the most vulnerable. Q on FHS deputy, a personnel issue and can't discuss. Vote via roll call 6-1 (Keenan no)
• MASC resolution; 45 SchCom have approved https://franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/disc-action-b-resolution-state-funding #sc0623 related to https://franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/files/disc-action-c-resolution-covid-era
• Motion on first, seconded, vote via roll call 7-0 #sc0623
• Second resolution via FEF, moved, seconded, vote via roll call 5-1-1 (D'Angelo abstain, MJ no) #sc0623 "sure it is resolved but how is the state going to provide the funding when it is not there"
• Next up; anti-racism resolution received so much feedback from Community; let's take it back, incorporate and bring back to Committee for vote but not tonight #sc0623 worthwhile to check with the local resources. The subcommittee meetings are open
• Last action item on agenda for FHS 2020 student activity account; future events of the class, plans for future gathering, they have extra money due to the closure that prevented earlier expenses #sc0623 vote via roll call 7-0
• Facilities Analysis subcommittee has a survey for review before sending out to Community. Bergen reads official policy on facility retirement. Policy link https://franklinps.net/district/school-committee-policy-manual/pages/fcb-retirement-facilities #sc0623 important to read! Guide the subcommittee work plan
• Some qualitative questions, should be taken that way. Broaden the DT question, i.e. other family members in other schools, and class size. Q so broad, could be interpreted so many ways; may tweak to narrow responses #sc0623 what is point if asking if it doesn't tell us something
• Calendar for SchComm meetings, revisit? Is one enough for July? Timing for retreat? There is plenty to do. 7/14 and 7/28 for SchComm meetings. Look at time in August hopefully in person. #sc0623 based upon status, how much are we spending for off-site? Nothing
• Budget Subcommittee meeting 6/17 saw the cuts tonight. MASC - Community relations, tentative July 6, 3 pm; Facilities analysis - June 11 drafted survey, email address for subcommittee, analysis in final report due from consultant, one piece of study. #sc0623
• Both sides (closing DT, complete study) have points, we will follow the policy and not make a quick decision. The plan and steps are outlined and we'll keep it. Web link https://franklinps.net/district/school-committee/links/davis-thayer-facilities-analysis no recommendation at this time
• When can we expect report? Sent email today, don't know. want to have principals review this before going to subcommittee. Subcommittee gathers info and proposes to full Committee for vote, if we deem excess, then Town Council gets to decide but not until then #sc0623
• Superintendent eval, in process. PCC all done for year; someone for FEF to represent SchComm (Denise by acclimation), can coach for the Wizards game! #sc0623 move along to new business, more budget depending upon info, school re-opening, policy, annual report draft
• Consent agenda up for approval; vote via roll call, passes 7-0 #sc0623
• Motion to enter executive session, via roll call passes 7-0 not to return to open meeting
• That completes this night, catch you all next time! #sc0623 oh, and BTW Town Council meets Weds 6/24, ask them for more money for the schools, or at least ask why they won't?

screen capture of SchComm virtual meeting 6/24/20

Superintendent Sara Ahern provides update during meeting 6/24/20

School Committee Policy Manual: FCB - Retirement of Facilities

From the Franklin (MA) School Committee Policy Manual, the text of the "Retirement of Facilities" policy


"When a school building becomes inadequate by virtue of age, condition, size of site, lack of need, or other overriding limitations, and cannot reasonably and economically be brought up to the current educational standards, the building should be considered for a comprehensive closing study. The Superintendent will recommend to the Franklin School Committee which facilities appear to justify further analysis.

The School Committee may seek both professional advice and the advice of the community in making its recommendations as to the retirement of any school facility. This will permit the public, which originally acquired the property, to benefit from its recycling or retirement.

A closing study will include direct involvement by those neighborhoods considered in the study and will be concerned with all or some of the following factors:

1. Age and current physical condition of the facilities, its operating systems, and program facilities.
2. Adequacy of site, location, access, surrounding development, traffic patterns, and other environmental conditions.
3. Reassignment of children, including alternative plans according to Committee policy.
4. Transportation factors, including numbers of children bussed, time, distance, and safety.
5. Alternative uses of the building.
6. Cost/Savings

• a. Personnel
• b. Plant Operation
• c. Transportation
• d. Capital Investment
• e. Alternative Use

7. Continuity of instructional and community programs."

Find the text of this and other School Committee policies online 
https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-committee-policy-manual/pages/fcb-retirement-facilities

Once the School Committee has deemed a facility to be retired, then and only then would the Town Council be in position to make a decision. (aside from individual councilors would likely be involved as stakeholders during the School Committee process)

ladybug on the grounds near the entrance to Davis Thayer Elementary School

Franklin Residents: Tree work scheduled for NationalGrid's powerlines

"ABC Tree will be doing routine 5-year cycle tree maintenance on National Grid's power lines. The work is expected to start on June 25 and continue through Sept. 30.

If you have any questions, contact ABC Tree representative Saul Gaona at (#832-506-5049) s.gaonaabctree@gmail.com."

Shared from Twitter: https://twitter.com/TOFranklinMA/status/1275473296453181440?s=09

Franklin Residents: Tree work scheduled for NationalGrid's powerlines

A Message from Karen on Racial Justice

Greetings, I hope your families are safe, healthy, and well during these challenging times. We are at a history-making moment in our Commonwealth, not only because of unfolding events surrounding racial justice, but also out of the recognition—and frustration—that we've been here too many times before. I know this is a time for not just words, but for action. I have learned that this sentiment is shared by many of you from conversations with community leaders of color, colleagues and individuals who experienced the power and trauma of being a part of recent protests. I want you to know that I stand with the thousands in Framingham, Ashland, Natick, Medway, Franklin, Hopkinton, and Holliston who have come together to listen, amplify the voices of communities of color, and grieve for the murders of Rayshard Brooks, George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, and the long list of other Black Americans who died because of racism. The Massachusetts State Senate is ready to answer the call for true change. We are committed to decisive action this session to begin dismantling systemic racism. Last week, I met with members of the Massachusetts Black and Latino Legislative Caucus to discuss police reform and racial justice legislation. It was a productive discussion that captured the gravity of the moment and solidified our shared commitment to send strong legislation to the governor's desk. Prior to that meeting, I formed a Senate Working Group on Racial Justice, which will serve as the driving force behind our legislative approach. The advisory group, which has already met twice, is chaired by Senator Sonia Chang-Diaz, a member of the Massachusetts Black and Latino Legislative Caucus, and Senate President Pro Tempore William Brownsberger. I have tasked these Senators with reviewing current legislation, vetting new ideas and recommending action on policing tactics, such as use of force, and racial equity. We are also working to combat racial disparities in our health-care system, which were dramatically exposed by the COVID-19 crisis. Earlier this month I was excited to see our efforts to establish a Diversity Task Force signed into law. The task force will make recommendations to the legislature to address health disparities for underserved and underrepresented populations. The law will also dramatically expand the amount of publicly available COVID-19 data. I would like to thank you for continually holding me and other state leaders accountable as we move forward in this effort to create a more just and equal Commonwealth. I urge you to please continue to reach out, share your story and raise your voice. Please don't hesitate to contact my office at Karen.Spilka@masenate.gov or calling 617-722-1500. For Senate news and updates, please subscribe to my YouTube channel for my weekly video messages or visit my website karenspilka.com. Regards, Karen Senate President Second Middlesex and Norfolk karenspilka.com   ‌  ‌  ‌  ‌

Senate President Karen E. Spilka | Massachusetts State House, Room 332, Boston, MA 02133 Sent by karen.spilka@masenate.gov in collaboration with Try email marketing for free today!

Town Council is scheduled to vote on an increase in Franklin's water rate

From The Guardian, coincidentally a study on water rates in the US. The Town Council is scheduled to vote on an increase in Franklin's water rate Wednesday night, June 24.

"Millions of ordinary Americans are facing rising and unaffordable bills for running water, and risk being disconnected or losing their homes if they cannot pay, a landmark Guardian investigation has found.

Exclusive analysis of 12 US cities shows the combined price of water and sewage increased by an average of 80% between 2010 and 2018, with more than two-fifths of residents in some cities living in neighbourhoods with unaffordable bills.

In the first nationwide research of its kind, our findings reveal the painful impact of America’s expanding water poverty crisis as aging infrastructure, environmental clean-ups, changing demographics and the climate emergency fuel exponential price hikes in almost every corner of the US."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2020/jun/23/millions-of-americans-cant-afford-water-bills-rise



5d. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
Bylaw Amendment 20-855: Chapter 82, Water Fee Increase - First Reading (Motion to move Bylaw Amendment 20-855 to a second reading - Majority Roll Call Vote) https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/5d._20-855_water_fees.pdf

Get a copy of the Legislation for action here:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1HFE0DFHlQre7pU-_xUyefUGqmf-38Qps/view?usp=sharing

construction underway on Grove St to replace the pump station for wells 3-6

Franklin Residents: a message from the Treasurer/Collector on bill pay options

The FY2021, 1st Quarter Real Estate, and Personal Property Tax Bills will be mailed out on July 1, 2020. The due date for these bills is August 3, 2020.

A few reminders for payment options:

• You can pay online at https://www.franklinma.gov/files/
• If you choose to mail your payment, please be sure to include the remittance copy with your check.
• If you use your Online Banking to pay your bills, please remember to reference the bill number(s) you are paying.
• The dropbox/drive up is available at the Municipal Building as well.

Thank you!

 

a message from the Treasurer/Collector on bill pay options

FTC Issues Staff Report on Made in USA Workshop, Seeks Comment on Related Proposed Rulemaking for Labeling Rule

Rule would apply to unqualified Made in USA claims made on product labels

The Federal Trade Commission today issued a staff report on an FTC workshop on Made in USA claims that was held last fall, and a notice of proposed rulemaking for a Made in USA Labeling Rule (proposed Rule).

The proposed Rule will apply to product labels making Made in USA and other unqualified U.S.-origin claims. The proposed Rule incorporates guidance set forth in the Commission's previous Decisions and Orders and its 1997 Enforcement Policy Statement on U.S. Origin Claims (https://www.ftc.gov/public-statements/1997/12/enforcement-policy-statement-us-origin-claims).

Consistent with this guidance, the proposed Rule will prohibit marketers from including unqualified Made in USA claims on labels unless: 1) final assembly or processing of the product occurs in the United States; 2) all significant processing that goes into the product occurs in the United States; and 3) all or virtually all ingredients or components of the product are made and sourced in the United States.

The proposed Rule also covers labels making unqualified Made in USA claims appearing in mail order catalogs or mail order advertising. The proposed Rule does not supersede, alter, or affect any other federal or state statute or regulation relating to country-of-origin labels. The proposed Rule will make civil penalties available to deter violations.

"Whether a product is actually 'Made in the USA' is an important issue for consumers, manufacturers, retailers, and American workers," said Andrew Smith, Director of the FTC's Bureau of Consumer Protection. "We welcome comments from all stakeholders to inform our rulemaking effort."

According to the staff report, the Made in USA workshop last fall sought to enhance the agency's understanding of consumer perception of Made in USA claims and consider whether the Made in USA enforcement program can be improved. Public comments and input from the workshop's panelists addressed three general topics: consumer perception of Made in USA claims, concerns about the FTC's current enforcement approach, and potential changes to the FTC's enforcement strategy.

According to the staff report, only one panelist provided survey evidence on how consumers understand Made in USA claims. Citing a 2013 study, the panelist noted that almost three in five Americans agree that "Made in America" means that all parts of a product, including any natural resources it contains, originated in the United States, and a third of consumers believe that 100 percent of a product must originate in a country for that product to be called "made" in that country.

The staff report states that this evidence supports the guidance in the FTC's Enforcement Policy Statement on U.S. Origin Claims that at least a significant minority of consumers are likely to be deceived by an unqualified Made in USA claim for a product incorporating more than a trivial amount of foreign content.

The Commission vote to issue the staff report was 5-0. The Commission vote approving publication of the proposed Made in USA Labeling Rule in the Federal Register was 4-1, with Commissioner Noah Joshua Phillips voting no and issuing a dissenting statement (https://www.ftc.gov/system/files/documents/public_statements/1577103/p074204musaphillipsstatementrev.pdf) . Commissioner Rohit Chopra issued a separate statement (https://www.ftc.gov/system/files/documents/public_statements/1577107/p074204musachoprastatementrev.pdf), as did Commissioner Christine S. Wilson (https://www.ftc.gov/system/files/documents/public_statements/1577099/p074204musawilsonstatementrev.pdf).

The proposed Rule will be published in the Federal Register shortly. Instructions for submitting comments appear in the published document. The FTC will consider all timely and responsive public comments it receives in accordance with those instructions. Once processed, comments will be posted on Regulations.gov (https://www.regulations.gov/).

The Federal Trade Commission works to promote competition, and protect and educate consumers. You can learn more about consumer topics and file a consumer complaint online or by calling 1-877-FTC-HELP (382-4357). Like the FTC on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, read our blogs, and subscribe to press releases for the latest FTC news and resources.

Shared from 
https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/press-releases/2020/06/ftc-issues-staff-report-on-made-in-usa-workshop

FTC Issues Staff Report on Made in USA Workshop

Franklin Residents: Beech St construction June 25

Good morning Franklin,

DPW will be working with a contractor to install a pipe across Beech St this Thursday, June 25. The work will be near the brook crossing, close to house number 33. Beech St will be closed to thru traffic and the work should only take one day. 

A detour will be set up directing traffic onto Pine St and Pond St. 

Thank you!

Franklin Residents: Beech St construction June 25

Franklin, MA: Town Council - Agenda - June 24, 2020

Agenda: Meeting Date June 24, 2020

A NOTE TO RESIDENTS: 

Due to the growing concerns regarding the COVID-19 virus, we will be conducting a remote/virtual Town Council Meeting. In an effort to ensure citizen engagement and comply with open meeting law regulations, citizens will be able to dial into the meeting using the provided phone number (Cell phone or Landline Required) OR citizens can participate by clicking on the attached link (Phone, Computer, or Tablet required). The attached link and phone number will be active for the duration of the meeting for citizens to ask questions/voice concerns.

Link to access meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84282580447
Call-In Phone Number: Call 1-929-205-6099 and enter Meeting ID # 842 8258 0447 --Then press #


1. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 

2. 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 others.

 3. CITIZEN 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 Administrator to review the matter.

4. APPOINTMENTS
Annual Reappointments

5. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
5a. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
Resolution 20-33 : Expenditure Limits for FY 2021 on Departmental Revolving Funds Established by Franklin Town Code Chapter 73, as provided in G.L. Chapter 44 Section 53E1/2, as Amended (Motion to Approve Resolution 20-33 - Majority Roll Call Vote)  https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/5a._20-33_revolving_funds.pdf

5b. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
Resolution 20-38: Acceptance of G.L. Ch. 60, Section 15B and the Establishment of a Tax Title Collection Revolving Fund for Treasurer-Collector (Motion to Approve Resolution 20-38 - Majority Roll Call Vote)  https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/5b._20-38_tax_title_revolving_fund.pdf

5c. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
Resolution 20-39: Establishment of the Metacomet Emergency Communication Center (MECC) Stabilization Fund (Motion to Approve Resolution 20-39 - Two Thirds (⅔) Majority Roll Call Vote)  https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/5c._20-39_mecc_stabilization_fund.pdf

5d. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
Bylaw Amendment 20-855: Chapter 82, Water Fee Increase - First Reading (Motion to move Bylaw Amendment 20-855 to a second reading - Majority Roll Call Vote)  https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/5d._20-855_water_fees.pdf

5e. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
Resolution 20-40: Salary Schedule: Full-Time Elected Official - Town Clerk (Motion to Approve Resolution 20-40 - Majority Roll Call Vote)  https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/5e._20-40_clerks_salary.pdf

5f. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
Resolution 20-41: Ratification of the Memorandum of Agreement between the Franklin Police Association employees and the Town of Franklin (Motion to approve Resolution 20-41 - Majority Roll Call Vote)  https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/5f._20-41_police_association_contract.pdf

5g. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
Resolution 20-35: FY20 Capital Plan Round 2 (Motion to Approve Resolution 20-35 - Majority Roll Call Vote)  https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/5g._20-35_fy20_capital_plan_round_2.pdf

5h. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
Resolution 20-32: FY20 Appropriation Transfers (Motion to Approve Resolution 20-32 - Majority Roll Call Vote)  https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/5h._20-32_fy20_appropriation_transfers.pdf

5i. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION
Resolution 20-34: Authorize Town Administrator to Grant Temporary Expansion Licenses (Motion to Approve Resolution 20-34 - Majority Roll Call Vote) https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/5i._20-34_authoroze_ta_to_grant_temp._expansion_licenses.pdf

6. TOWN ADMINISTRATOR'S REPORT 

7. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 

8. COUNCIL COMMENTS 

ADJOURN

Note:

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

The agenda and released docs in one PDF format
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/agendas/06-24-20_town_council_agenda.pdf

All docs also found on the Town of Franklin page
https://www.franklinma.gov/town-council/agenda/june-24-town-council-meeting-remote

Franklin, MA: Town Council - Agenda - June 24, 2020

COVID-19 Health Equity Advisory Group Recommendations

DPH Commissioner Monica Bharel convened the COVID-19 Health Equity Advisory Group to advise DPH on the needs of communities and populations disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Read the group’s recommendations: http://ow.ly/A61U50Adk8k #covid19MA

For more info on the Health Equity Advisory Group
https://www.mass.gov/orgs/covid-19-health-equity-advisory-group

Health Equity Advisory Group Recommendations 06-19-2020 from Franklin Matters

Franklin Public Schools: Summer Reading and Summer Math Information

Below are summer reading & math learning  links, by grade level, for all Franklin Public Schools students, who will be entering Grades 1 - 12 in the fall.

Elementary Schools
Elementary Summer 2020 Reading Grades 1 - 5 (multi page document)
Elementary Summer 2020 Math 


Middle Schools
Middle School Summer 2020 Reading 

Summer Math parent letter for student's transitioning from Grade 5 to 6
Summer Math parent letter for student's transitioning from Grade 6 to 7
Summer Math parent letter for student transitioning from Grade 7 to 8

High School
Franklin High School Summer 2020 Reading

All links shared from the Town of Franklin schools page

https://www.franklinps.net/district/office-teaching-and-learning/pages/fps-summer-2020-learning-opportunites-grades-1-12

Franklin Public Schools: Summer Reading and Summer Math Information

FM #305 Town Council Budget Hearing 02 6/18/20 (audio)

FM #305 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 305 in the series.

This session of the radio show shares the second of two Franklin (MA) Town Council budget hearings. Both budget hearings were held outdoor at the FHS football field (Pisini Stadium). Both hearings were broadcast live via WFPR.FM radio (102.9 on the local dial). The outdoor meetings were conducted to observe all the ‘social distancing’ requirements of this pandemic period.

The show notes contain links to the agenda and document packet for this hearing. They also contain my notes captured during the meeting.

The recording runs approx 2 hours and 15 minutes, so let’s list to the second budget hearing for FY 2021 held June 18

Audio file = https://www.hipcast.com/podcast/HBPJG917



--------------

FY 2021 budget info
https://www.franklinma.gov/town-budget/pages/fy2021-budget-materials

Agenda for budget hearing #2
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/06/franklin-ma-town-council-budget-hearing_17.html

Notes from the budget hearing #2
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/06/town-council-budget-hearing-2-recap.html

--------------

We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) or 102.9 on the Franklin area radio dial.

This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but we can't do it alone. We can always use your help.

How can you help?

• If you can use the information that you find here, please tell your friends and neighbors
• If you don't like something here, please let me know

Through this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.

For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/
If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com

The music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana" c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.

I hope you enjoy!
------------------

You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"

FM #305 Town Council Budget Hearing 02 6/18/20

FM #304 Town Council Budget Hearing 01 6/17/20 (audio)

FM #304 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 304 in the series.

This session of the radio show shares the first of two Franklin (MA) Town Council budget hearings. Both budget hearings were held outdoor at the FHS football field (Pisini Stadium). Both hearings were broadcast live via WFPR.FM radio (102.9 on the local dial). The outdoor meetings were conducted to observe all the ‘social distancing’ requirements of this pandemic period.

The show notes contain links to the agenda and document packet for this hearing. They also contain my notes captured during the meeting.

The recording runs approx 3 hours and 15 minutes, so let’s list to the first budget hearing for FY 2021 held June 17

Audio link = https://www.hipcast.com/podcast/HWlgqYM7



--------------

FY 2021 budget info
https://www.franklinma.gov/town-budget/pages/fy2021-budget-materials

Agenda for budget hearing #1
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/06/franklin-ma-town-council-budget-hearing.html

Notes from the budget hearing #1
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/06/real-time-reporting-town-council-budget.html

--------------

We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) or 102.9 on the Franklin area radio dial.

This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but we can't do it alone. We can always use your help.

How can you help?

• If you can use the information that you find here, please tell your friends and neighbors
• If you don't like something here, please let me know

Through this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.

For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/
If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com

The music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana" c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.

I hope you enjoy!
------------------

You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"

FM #304 Town Council Budget Hearing 01 6/17/20