Friday, July 10, 2020

IRS.gov has answers about filing, paying and July 15 due date

As the July due date for filing a tax return draws closer, the Internal Revenue Service reminds taxpayers about the many resources available on IRS.gov. Whether on home computers or mobile devices, the number of taxpayers visiting IRS.gov continues to grow year after year.

Easy-to-use tools, available 24 hours a day on the IRS website, have been used more than 1.2 billion times this year.

IRS.gov is home to IRS Free File, "Where's My Refund?", the Tax Withholding Estimator and a host of other convenient applications. Additional help is available in Publication 17, Your Federal Income Tax, available on IRS.gov. Publication 17 is also available as an eBook.

Taxpayers who have yet to file their tax returns should file electronically now and choose direct deposit if they’re getting a refund. Taxpayers who owe for tax year 2019 can pay anytime up to the July 15 due date.

File electronically for free
Taxpayers whose income was $69,000 or less last year are eligible to use the IRS Free File software to do their taxes. Also, regardless of income, any taxpayer who is comfortable preparing their own taxes can use Free File Fillable Forms. Taxpayers can use these electronic versions of IRS tax forms to complete their taxes and file them online. Free File options are available at IRS.gov/freefile.

Get answers to tax questions
Taxpayers can find answers to many of their questions using the Interactive Tax Assistant. It’s a tax law resource that uses a series of questions and responses to help. IRS.gov also has answers to Frequently Asked Questions on a variety of topics. The IRS website also has tax information in: Spanish (Español)Chinese (中文)Korean (한국어)Russian (Pусский)Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt); and Haitian Creole (Kreyòl ayisyen).

"Where's My Refund?"
Taxpayers can easily find the most up-to-date information about their tax refund using the "Where's My Refund?" tool on IRS.gov and on the IRS mobile app, IRS2Go. Within 24 hours after the IRS acknowledges receipt of an electronically filed return, taxpayers can start checking on the status of their refund.

Schedule a payment
Taxpayers can file now and schedule their federal tax payments up to the July 15 due date. They can pay online, by phone or with their mobile device and the IRS2Go app. When paying federal taxes electronically, taxpayers should remember:
  • Electronic payment options are the best way to make a tax payment.
  • They can pay when they e-file by using tax software online.
  • If using a tax preparer, taxpayers should ask the preparer to make the tax payment through an electronic funds withdrawal from a bank account.
  • IRS Direct Pay allows taxpayers to pay online directly from a checking or savings account for free.
  • Taxpayers can choose to pay with a credit card, debit card or digital wallet option through a payment processor. No fees go to the IRS.
  • The IRS2Go app provides mobile-friendly payment options, including Direct Pay and payment processors on mobile devices.
  • Taxpayers may also enroll in the Electronic Federal Tax Payment System and pay online or by phone.
  • They can pay with cash at a retail partner. New locations available.
  • Taxpayers can go to IRS.gov/account to securely access information about their federal tax account. They can view the amount they owe, access their tax records online, review their payment history and view key information for the most recent tax return as originally filed.
Not required to file a tax return? Non-Filers tool available to register for Economic Impact Payments
People who are not normally required to file a tax return and don’t plan to do so can use the Non-Filers tool to get an Economic Impact Payment. The only way they can get this payment is to register with the IRS by using this free tool. Available in both English and Spanish, the tool was developed jointly by the IRS and the Free File Alliance. The registration deadline is Oct. 15, 2020.

More information

Shared from the IRS page

Phase 2 of the Franklin Double Track project making progress

"Teams continue to make progress on Phase 2 of the Franklin Double Track project. Phase 1 was completed ahead of schedule and under budget. 
When all three phases are complete, the entire line will be double-tracked - continuing improvements to performance."
For additional project information and status visit  https://mbta.com/projects/franklin-line-double-track



Shared from Twitter:  https://twitter.com/KeolisBoston/status/1281209931857887232?s=09

Thursday, July 9, 2020

Don White Concert to benefit the Franklin Food Pantry - July 23

The Circle of Friends Coffeehouse is presenting an online concert by Don White, on Thursday, July 23 at 7 PM to benefit the Franklin Food Pantry. Don is an award-winning singer/songwriter, a comedian, an author, and a storyteller. He’s been bringing audiences to laughter and tears for thirty years. He is a Circle of Friends regular whose songs and stories always have our crowds rolling in the aisles. http://www.donwhite.net/
Don White Concert to benefit the Franklin Food Pantry
Don White Concert to benefit the Franklin Food Pantry

Franklin's Jamie Barrett opens the show.

A special surprise guest will be joining Don at the end of the show.

You will be able to view this show on YouTube at https://youtu.be/Zwoc7dXhnpU

There is no fee but donations will be accepted and benefit the Franklin Food Pantry.
Franklin's Jamie Barrett opens the show
Franklin's Jamie Barrett opens the show

The Circle of Friends Coffeehouse is a non-profit organization affiliated with Franklin's First Universalist Society. Please visit  http://www.circlefolk.org/ for more information.

Franklin Federated Church rings the bell Fridays at 7 PM

If you happen to be walking in the vicinity of the Town Common at 7 PM on a Friday night, there is a good chance you will hear the ringing of a steeple bell.

Since April, a small group of volunteers from Franklin Federated Church has rotated the responsibility of ringing the bell every Friday evening.

It is FFC’s weekly reminder to the congregation and the community to continue to remember first responders and all workers who maintain essential services, taking risks every day to create some semblance of normal life and giving hope to all during this pandemic and a sincere thanks to each and every one.

Note: the schedule currently is set for the bell ringing at least through August

Franklin Federated Church rings the bell Fridays at 7 PM
Franklin Federated Church rings the bell Fridays at 7 PM

Senior Center coffee hour - July 16

The latest Senior Coffee Hour is scheduled for July 16 at 8:30 AM. 

State Rep Jeff Roy and Franklin town officials will participate

The Zoom link to attend is https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88465356605?pwd=Nkw3TFNNc29xVlE1T09FYXVXZWJ5dz09


Senior Center coffee hour - July 16
Senior Center coffee hour - July 16


Shared from Twitter
https://twitter.com/TOFranklinMA/status/1280918785168420866?s=09

New FHS principal schedules Google meetings

From FHS' new principal, Joshua Hanna
"I'm looking forward to meeting with Parents, Students and Educators throughout the month of July on Google Meets! 
For anyone interested use this link to sign up:   https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdU3c9KdaqkKHdqRn9SihhKhsWBuODfq_Rfu3hwbdIl7hvN6Q/viewform


Shared from Twitter: 
 https://twitter.com/MrHanna_FHS/status/1280913979456577536?s=09

New FHS principal schedules Google meetings
New FHS principal schedules Google meetings

Reminder: BSO Violinist Plays a Streaming Live Concert - July 12

REMINDER! Join us for a special donation-based concert!

LiveARTS presents Boston Symphony Orchestra violinist VICTOR ROMANUL in a streaming live concert on Zoom!

This Sunday, July 12, 2020 at 3 PM.

If you want to join us for this special donation-based concert, you need to go to our website, liveartsma.org, and order a free ticket.

The Zoom link will be emailed to you at about 24 hours before the concert begins. Tickets are free, but donations are always welcome!


PROGRAM

  • Vieuxtemps: Moderato, Op. 48, No. 12
  • Ernst: Terzetto "A Joachim"
  • Ysaye: Sonata No. 4, "A Fritz Kreisler"
  • Elgar: Etude Caractéristiques No. 5
  • Sauret (Arr. by V. Romanul) Sauret Fantasie
  • Tarrega: Memories of the Alhambra


LiveARTS has been working hard to improve the quality of the sound in these Zoom events. We know you will appreciate the difference!

You can download Zoom using this link: 
Download Zoom  (https://zoom.us/download)

Reminder: BSO Violinist Plays a Streaming Live Concert - July 12
Reminder: BSO Violinist Plays a Streaming Live Concert - July 12

New Fall Classes at Encore Music - register now

Please call (508) 533-7700 to register for private lessons or any of our classes at Encore Music Academy and Recording Studios (http://www.encoremusicacademy.net/)

Check out our flyer for information on some new exciting classes coming this Fall!

Download your copy of the flyer here
https://drive.google.com/file/d/13wzWrC5IilNr490HudMUJRWIUt2XqRFd/view?usp=sharing



Visual Capitalist: "How China’s Plastics Ban Threw Global Recycling into Disarray"

Good overview of the recycling problem created by changes to China's policy. This tells the story of how we got here. How we get out of the problem remains to be seen.


In the News: fraudulent unemployment claims identified; funding required for ballot application mailing

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:
"Massachusetts has recovered more than $158 million from fraudulent unemployment claims after identifying tens of thousands of incidents of fraud since the start of the COVID-19 crisis, officials announced Tuesday. 
Because of the rampant fraud, which officials said is part of a nationwide scheme, new identity verification efforts are being implemented by the Massachusetts Department of Unemployment Assistance. 
DUA officials said the additional measures may “temporarily delay the payment timeframe” for some claims. The agency is working on the verification effort with the Massachusetts State Police, the Department of Corrections, and the National Guard. 
Officials said that personal data stolen in earlier commercial data breaches is being used in the fraud."
Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200707/at-least-158m-in-unemployment-fraud-recovered-by-mass-dua-reveals


"The state’s top election official said Tuesday he can’t mail ballot applications to voters, as required under a time-sensitive new law, until the Legislature approves funding for the bill that Gov. Charlie Baker signed on Monday. 
The law requires Secretary of State William Galvin to send mail-in voting applications by July 15 in order to give voters time to request a ballot for the Sept. 1 primary elections, fill it out, and mail it back in.
“We had hoped to do it by that date. The legislation calls for it. But the Legislature has not sent the money. We can’t pay for the postage. We can’t pay for the printing until we have the postal permit. We can’t buy the permit until we get the money,” he told reporters outside the State House.
Galvin said a $5 million appropriation included in a more than $1 billion Senate spending bill that largely deals with COVID-19 appropriations “would probably get us going.” The House and Senate spending bills differ, and it’s unclear when legislative leaders will agree on a single bill."
Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200707/galvin-waiting-for-funding-to-mail-ballot-applications

In the News: ballot question signature process objected to

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:
"Opponents of a proposed ballot question that would increase access to automobile data formally objected to its eligibility Wednesday, echoing an argument that has so far blocked a congressional candidate from making the ballot in a separate case. 
The Coalition for Safe and Secure Data, a manufacturer-backed group organized to fight the question, submitted a challenge Wednesday that will prompt a state panel to decide whether the proposal can go before voters on Nov. 3. 
In their challenge, the coalition argued that the third-party company used by the campaign disobeyed electronic signature-gathering requirements outlined by the Supreme Judicial Court by storing signatures in a separate file and tracking personal data without notification. 
“The signature gathering effort used by ballot question proponents not only violated public policy and failed to meet the standards outlined by the court, it also put the personal information of more than 24,000 Massachusetts voters at risk for potential misuse, hacking and identity theft,” said Conor Yunits, a spokesperson for the coalition."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200708/auto-repair-question-opponents-file-to-disqualify-question

Wednesday, July 8, 2020

Gov Baker: Prep for Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) (video)

Governor Charlie Baker and Lt. Governor Karyn Polito today joined Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Kathleen Theoharides, Department of Public Health Commissioner Dr. Monica Bharel and local officials to highlight steps the Commonwealth is taking to prepare for Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) this year. Preparedness measures include ongoing and increased surveillance testing, an updated public awareness campaign, and mitigation efforts such as larvicide, spraying, and horse vaccination. The Administration also highlighted its recently-filed legislation that would authorize a coordinated, proactive, statewide approach to mosquito control activities.
Video link = https://youtu.be/Po7IX-j7IBc

New DPH mosquito and tick web page
https://www.mass.gov/mosquitoes-and-ticks





Health Director Cathleen Liberty talks about EEE in January
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/01/fm-196-cathleen-liberty-franklins.html

and more recently about tick borne diseases in May
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/05/fm-271-franklin-health-director.html


Gov Baker press release
https://www.mass.gov/news/baker-polito-administration-highlights-eee-preparedness-measures


THE BLACK BOX Outdoor Concerts to Begin THURSDAY

The shows will take place in the venue's parking lot. 

Masks and social distancing are required in the lobby; typical gathering in the lobby is currently not allowed. 

Two people will be allowed at a time in the rest rooms; please wait six feet apart if there is a line. 

Table groupings will be limited to six. 
Patrons are asked to purchase tickets for their table group in one transaction. 

Patrons will only be seated with family or those with whom they are comfortable socializing. 

Advance ticketing and payment encouraged. 
The Bar will be table service only. 
Shows are one hour.

THE BLACK BOX Outdoor Concerts to Begin THURSDAY
THE BLACK BOX Outdoor Concerts to Begin THURSDAY

St John's Episcopal Church - Outdoor Service - July 19

St John's Episcopal Church to re-gather for Outdoor Worship THIS Sunday, July 12th
St John's Outdoor worship postponed till July 19
We need a little more time to pull together the details. Bring your chair and mask NEXT Sunday (7/19/20) at 10 AM

Bring your own chair and mask for worship on our front lawn.

See you Sunday at 10 AM. We'll still be live streaming on Facebook, as well.


St John's Episcopal Church - Outdoor Service - July 12
St John's Episcopal Church - Outdoor Service - July 12


Purchase Your FY21 Recycling Center Permit and Pre-Pay for Item Drop Off


The Recycling Center is open regular hours for full services. No cash or checks will be accepted.

All residents who wish to use the recycling center for item drop off will need to go online prior to pay the required fee(s). 

The online payment portal for recycling fees is on our Viewpoint site. https://franklinma.viewpointcloud.com/categories/1078 If you do not have a Viewpoint account, please follow the instructions to create one.

A printed slip detailing the fees paid will be required to show proof of payment at the Recycling Center.

No material that includes a fee will be accepted at the Recycling Center without prior payment online with printed receipt.

For a
copy of materials accepted, fees and hours at the Recycling Center and Curbside costs: https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/news/recycling_center_and_curbside_fees_fy21.pdf

For additional information please call 508-553-5500, leave a message and someone will promptly call you back.

Please observe social distancing guidelines.


https://www.franklinma.gov/recycling-solid-waste/news/fy-20-recycling-center-permit-expiration-extended-july-31-2020
https://www.franklinma.gov/recycling-solid-waste/news/fy-20-recycling-center-permit-expiration-extended-july-31-2020



Southeastern MA Veterans' Service Officers Association $500 Scholarship!

Veterans and Family Members Apply Before July 31, 2020

Please find the application for the scholarship here https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/uploads/scholarship_application.pdf

The Southeastern Massachusetts Veterans’ Services Officers Association (SMVSOA) will grant a $500.00 scholarship to be used to help defray education expenses if the following criteria is met:
  • Applicant is a Veteran, the spouse or widow of a Veteran, the child of a Veteranor the grandchild of a Veteran–DD214 required for verification
  • The Veterans’ Service Officer who is sponsoring the nomination is a current member of the SMVSOA
  • Application must be typed and submitted by hard copy; email not accepted
  • Application to include a letter of recommendation from a teacher, guidance counselor or employer
  • Official high school, trade school or college transcript
  • Application is post marked by July 31 of the current year and mailed to Lisa Potts, 210 Central Street, Hingham, MA 02043

Contact Dale Kurtz, Franklin VSO, at (508) 613-1315 for more information

Southeastern MA Veterans' Service Officers Association $500 Scholarship!
Southeastern MA Veterans' Service Officers Association $500 Scholarship!

Franklin Residents: Job Opportunity - Stormwater and Environmental Affairs Superintendent

Job Opportunities

To apply for a vacant position, please submit a resume and cover letter to apply@franklinma.gov.  Please put the job title in the subject line of your email.  

If you do not have a resume, you may send a completed Application for Employment instead.


To receive notifications of all job opportunities in the Town of Franklin, subscribe here (https://www.franklinma.gov/subscribe).

Franklin Residents: Job Opportunity - Stormwater and Environmental Affairs Superintendent
Franklin Residents: Job Opportunity - Stormwater and Environmental Affairs Superintendent

Franklin (MA) School Committee: July 2020 Newsletter

Read the latest "Franklin School Committee News" at this link:

https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-committee/pages/newsletters

Franklin (MA) School Committee: July 2020 Newsletter
Franklin (MA) School Committee: July 2020 Newsletter



Franklin Residents: Community Outreach Hearing - 164 Grove Street - July 16

Community Outreach Hearing - 164 Grove Street
PharmaCannis Massachusetts Inc. (dba Verilife)

Subject: Proposed Marijuana Establishment
Date: 7/16/2020
Time: 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Location: Online via Zoom at the following web address https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87564277718

Presented by:​ PharmaCannis Massachusetts Inc. (dba Verilife)
Proposed address for retail establishment:​ 164 Grove St, Franklin MA 02038

There will be an opportunity for the public to ask questions. To join the online community outreach meeting enter the above listed web address into the address bar at the top of your internet browser and follow the listed instructions on the provided website.



For additional info on the company, visit their webpage https://www.verilife.com/ma

From the Cannabis Control Commission
https://mass-cannabis-control.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/MPL-EXECUTIVE-SUMMARY-PHARMACANNIS-v3.pdf

Shared from the Town of Franklin page
https://www.franklinma.gov/legal-notices/agenda/community-outreach-hearing-164-grove-street-0

In the News: Updates on Peri, Klements

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

Former Franklin High School Principal Paul Peri told Weston School Committee members this week that he is excited to get to work as Weston High School’s new principal, replacing Anthony Parker.

Peri said he has “been thoroughly thrilled and impressed and pleased with the educators, the students, the central office administrators that I’ve met and have worked with in Weston. People have been incredibly kind and welcoming.”

A team of Weston parents, teachers and administrators initially reviewed over 40 resumes for the Weston High School principal opening, interviewing seven candidates and narrowing down to three finalists.

The two other finalists were Weston High School Assistant Principal Kelly Flynn and Somerville High School Assistant Principal Darius Green.

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200703/former-franklin-high-principal-starts-new-job-in-weston



After four years at Franklin High School, Deputy Principal Bill Klements will not be returning to the district in September - and neither will his position.

The role of deputy principal was one of at least 19 positions cut from Franklin Public Schools after the School Committee recently voted to chop $3.4 million from its budget adopted back in April. Those cuts were approved on June 23, bringing the committee’s revised budget to $65,658,500.

The role of deputy principal was the only administrative position cut.

Late last month, Klements was notified by Superintendent of Schools Sara Ahern that the district had decided to eliminate his position due to the budget gap, according to an email he sent to high school staff in late June. His last day with the district was Tuesday, he said.

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200702/franklin-high-vice-principal-victim-of-budget-cuts?

Franklin Residents: Curbside Pickup Updates at the Franklin Public Library


Curbside Pickup Updates at the Franklin Public Library

Curbside Pickup Updates! Patrons can place holds online or by phone. When placing holds by phone, there is a limit of five holds per call. 

Inter Library Loan is now available! You are able to place holds on items throughout the Minuteman Library Network. Search our catalog at find.minlib.net

Once you receive a text or email that your items are ready, visit the Library at the School Street entrance between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM. Monday through Saturday to pick them up! 

In the event of rain, items will be available under an awning near the door. The Library will still be closed to the public, but staff will be available to answer questions by phone and email 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM Monday through Saturday. Please call us at 508-520-4941.

Starting Monday, July 13, Curbside Pickup hours will be extended to 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Saturday. Additionally, staff will be available by phone 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Saturday.

Franklin Residents: Curbside Pickup Updates at the Franklin Public Library
Franklin Residents: Curbside Pickup Updates at the Franklin Public Library

Town of Franklin: July 2020 E-Newsletter

The Town of Franklin Coronavirus Information Portal (https://www.franklinma.gov/home/pages/coronavirus-information-portal) is available on our homepage and is updated frequently to provide our residents and business owners with the latest information and resources. 

Find Franklin specific data, including Department Updates and Procedures (https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/uploads/department_protocols_covid_19_13.pdf) under the "Town of Franklin News" (https://www.franklinma.gov/home/pages/town-franklin-news-and-alerts) button. 

We recently added a "Reopening Resources" (https://www.franklinma.gov/home/pages/reopening-resources) button to house information related to Governor Baker's four phase reentry plan.


  • Find the full newsletter online at the Town of Franklin page
https://www.franklinma.gov/home/pages/newsletter-portal

Town of Franklin: July 2020 E-Newsletter
Town of Franklin: July 2020 E-Newsletter

In the News: "State officials have estimated delays will be reduced by 91 percent with the preferred design"

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

Want to learn more about the upcoming Mass Pike-Interstate-495 interchange reconstruction?

The state Department of Transportation Thursday morning will post a pre-recorded webinar to present the design for the proposed Mass Pike-Interstate-495 interchange project. The webinar is scheduled to be posted at 9 a.m. The webinar can be found at www.mass.gov/massdot-highway-design-public-hearings.

The project team has completed 25% of the designs, according to the state Department of Transportation’s website.

“The purpose of this hearing webinar is to provide the public with the opportunity to become fully acquainted with the proposed I-495/I-90 Interchange Improvements project,” according to a posting on the DOT’s website. “All views and comments submitted in response to the webinar will be reviewed and considered to the maximum extent possible.”
Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200707/state-dot-will-hold-pre-recorded-webinar-thursday-on-pikei-495-interchange-project

Handout for this webinar
https://www.mass.gov/doc/massdot-hearing-handout-hopkinton-westborough-070920/download
 
pre-recorded webinar to present the design for the proposed Mass Pike-Interstate-495 interchange project
pre-recorded webinar to present the design for the proposed Mass Pike-Interstate-495 interchange project

Plastic Bag Prohibition - effective date delayed

In late March, Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker banned reusable bags and lifted local bans on plastic bags at grocery stores and pharmacies as part of his administration's steps to limit the spread of the Coronavirus. 

To comply with this order the Town of Franklin is delaying the start of the plastic bag prohibition which was originally slated to go into effect July 1st, 2020. 

The Plastic Bag Prohibition will go into effect when the Governor lifts the ban on reusable bags, once the ban is lifted the Town will send out a notification with a formal start date for the plastic bag prohibition to begin. 


Shared from the Town of Franklin page:
https://www.franklinma.gov/home/news/update-plastic-bag-prohibition

Plastic Bag Prohibition - effective date delayed
Plastic Bag Prohibition - effective date delayed

Tuesday, July 7, 2020

Franklin Annual Report 2019: Human Resources Department

From the Franklin Annual Report 2019:

Fiscal Year 2019 was a very busy year for the Human Resources Department. The Town continued to experience our “retirement boom” with the departure of Fire Chief Gary McCarraher, former Deputy Fire Chief Paul Sharpe, and of course, the retirement of our fearless leader, Jeff Nutting, after 18 years as our Town Administrator! The show must go on, even without these valued employees, and we are lucky to have Town Administrator Jamie Hellen and new Fire Chief James McLaughlin and Deputy Chiefs Joseph Barbieri and James Klich stepping up to lead us for the foreseeable future.

The Police Department kept us very busy this year with a few retirements as well as the implementation of a new schedule in the Patrol Division. We are now one of a handful of communities in Massachusetts that offer a (“4&4” schedule. The schedule allows our officers to work four (4) ten (10) hour days and then take four (4) consecutive days off. Although the schedule officially started in FY20, we spent a significant portion of FY19 preparing for this adjustment, including adding additional Patrol Officers to the Police Department. As a result of the new schedule and a few other personnel changes, we hired 7 new Patrol Officers and promoted 2 Officers to Sergeant in just one fiscal year.

As a result of the retirements and other movement within the Fire Department, we appointed a new Chief, 2 Deputy Chiefs, 3 Captains, 2 Lieutenants and 5 new Firefighter/Paramedics in FY19 (and the first week of FY20 since Chief McLaughlin started on July 8, 2019).

Between July 1, 2018 and June 30, 2019, the Town also hired a Conservation Agent, an Archivist, an Administrative Assistant in the Town Administrator’s Office, a Clerk the Treasurer’s Office, a Clerk in the DPW, 2 Assistant Youth Services Librarians, 2 Library Assistants, a Town Electrician, 3 Custodians, and 2 Heavy Motor Equipment Operators at the Department of Public Works, and part-time employees in Recreation and the Senior Center. Like in years past, we hired about 30 students to work full-time at the DPW and in Facilities for the summer. These employees were instrumental in getting our schools and school grounds ready for the 2019-2020 school year.

As in years past, Jeff Nutting, Jamie Hellen and I worked closely with the Finance and HR teams from the Franklin

Public Schools and the Insurance Advisory Committee to try to contain the cost of health insurance. We currently provide health insurance to approximately 1200 employees and retirees from both the Town and Schools on our plan. Even a small increase in health insurance premiums can have a huge impact on the total budget.

For the second year in a row, the Town offered a qualified high deductible health insurance plan through Harvard Pilgrim Health Care to our active employees. If an employee moved from the traditional HMO to the high deductible HMO plan, they could save money on the monthly premium in exchange for a slightly higher deductible. This plan change saved the Town money, so we shared some of the savings with the employees by depositing money into each employee’s Health Savings Accounts (HSA). During the open enrollment period, we had 21 additional employees join the High Deductible Plan, bringing our numbers up to about 40 Town employees. These employees saved the Town an additional $19,000. This figure does not include the savings realized by people who joined the plan in FY18 or the additional savings achieved by the School Department. We have received very positive feedback from employees who have joined the high deductible plan and hope that we can continue to experience these savings in future years.

We worked closely with the Human Resources Department for Franklin Public Schools to offer a “Benefits Fair” during our open enrollment period in April. We invited representatives from Harvard Pilgrim and our other insurance vendors to set up tables to provide benefit information to our employees. We had a great turnout and employees were very pleased to have the opportunity to gather additional information and ask questions.

It was a very busy and challenging year, but HR Administrator Sandy Golebiewski and I both enjoyed it. It is very exciting to be part of the hiring team and it has been a pleasure getting to know our new employees and welcoming them to the Town. We look forward to another year of serving the employees and retirees of the Town of Franklin.

Respectfully submitted,

Karen M. Bratt
Human Resources Director


Download your copy of the Annual Report
https://www.franklinma.gov/town-clerk/files/town-franklin-annual-report-2019

Visit the Human Resources Dept online  https://www.franklinma.gov/human-resources

Franklin Annual Report 2019: Human Resources Department
Franklin Annual Report 2019: Human Resources Department

Reminder: We’re Virtual - Kids’ Corner Cooking Camp – Grades 4-7

Registration is open for Virtual Kids’ Corner Cooking Camp – Grades 4-7. Classes will run from Saturday, July 18 through Saturday, August 22

Participation is open to individuals in Franklin and the surrounding region towns.
Originally an after-school and summer camp program, Kids’ Corner Cooking Camp with Sandhya Jain, has shifted its current program to entirely online using Google Meet. These interactive Kids’ Corner cooking classes are set up to show kids (Grades 4-7) how to prepare fun offerings for their family. 

The weekly, one-hour lessons are educational, entertaining, and designed to empower students in the process. And the recipes are healthy and delicious.
For more information, go to www.FranklinLifelongLearning.com and click on Lifelong Community Learning. Or call Lifelong Community Learning at 508-613-1483.

ABOUT US: Lifelong Community Learning is a program of the Franklin Public Schools Lifelong Learning Institute, dedicated to providing diverse and enriched education and experiences for all area residents and children – a resource for all ages.

We’re Virtual - Kids’ Corner Cooking Camp – Grades 4-7
We’re Virtual - Kids’ Corner Cooking Camp – Grades 4-7

"Talking the Blues" - Reflecting on Black Lives Matter

Todd Monjar and Jim Derick discuss their thoughts surrounding the killing of George Floyd and the Black Lives Matter movement


You can listen to this show on Franklin Public Radio, wfpr.fm anywhere via your browser or at 102.9 on the local Franklin FM radio dial.

Thursday = 11:00a/2:00p/8:00pm Talkin’ the Blues – Jim Derick
Exploring the music of the great Blues tradition

Saturday = 5:00p Talkin’ the Blues – Jim Derick
Exploring the music of the great Blues tradition


Audio link = https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-ma4tu-e0105e



Monday, July 6, 2020

Franklin Annual Report 2019: Purchasing Office

From the 2019 Franklin Annual Report:

Over the past year, the Purchasing Office has made a concerted effort to modernize the Department while also assisting Department Heads with a number of significant projects. These projects include a continued focus on improving the Town’s overall utility based infrastructure.

PROCUREMENT CHANGES
The Purchasing Office continues to oversee the implementation of various improvements in the way vendors can access bid documentation. One of the more significant advancements is the change we made to the distribution of plans & specifications. Vendors no longer need to wait for the bid packages to be mailed, emailed, or picked in person. With the web based platform, vendors can download the entire bid package from the Town website, thus improving the accessibility of the documents while at the same time cutting municipal costs in a number of areas.

This change has been very well received, particularly by those doing business with the Town. The upgrades have also further reinforced our continued approach to modernizing the way procurement is handled.

FUNCTION AND OBJECTIVES
The function of the Purchasing Department is to assist other departments in obtaining the highest quality of services and supplies for the best price, all while remaining in compliance with applicable procurement laws. Our objective is to promote fair, prompt and courteous consideration to all suppliers; and observe the highest ethics in all transactions and correspondence.

Respectively submitted: 

John Bugbee
Chief Procurement Officer 
Town of Franklin

Download your copy of the 2019 Annual Report
https://www.franklinma.gov/town-clerk/files/town-franklin-annual-report-2019

Visit the Purchasing Dept online  https://www.franklinma.gov/purchasing

Franklin Annual Report 2019: Purchasing Office
Franklin Annual Report 2019: Purchasing Office

"Talking the Blues" - Epic Blues - Apr 30, 2020

What makes a song "Epic". Jim Derick ad Todd Monjar explore some of their favorite "Epic" songs of all time... with some surprising cover artists.


You can listen to this show on Franklin Public Radio, wfpr.fm anywhere via your browser or at 102.9 on the local Franklin FM radio dial.

Thursday = 11:00a/2:00p/8:00pm Talkin’ the Blues – Jim Derick
Exploring the music of the great Blues tradition

Saturday = 5:00p Talkin’ the Blues – Jim Derick
Exploring the music of the great Blues tradition


Audio file = https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-ekupv-db5f59



Sunday, July 5, 2020

Franklin Annual Report 2019: Planning Board

From the Franklin Annual Report 2019

The Planning Board, as established by MGL. Ch. 41 sec.70, is responsible for 
“…making plans for the development of the municipality, with special reference to proper housing of its inhabitants.” 

The Board is charged with administering the State’s Subdivision Control Law (MGL. 41 Ch.81K) and the local subdivision rules and regulations (Chapter 300). The Board makes recommendations to the Town Council on Zoning By- Law amendments and may at its own discretion adopt new subdivision regulations. The Board is also designated as the permitting authority for various site plan and special permit submittals under the Town’s Zoning Bylaw (Ch. 185). The Board receives recommendations from the Design Review Commission on building design, elevation, and signage for commercial site plan permits, and from the Conservation Commission on wetland related issues, and works closely with the Planning & Community Development and Public Works Departments.

In FY2019, the Planning Board reviewed and issued decisions for several projects throughout the year. One major project the Planning Board approved was a Hotel located at 725 Union Street. The Site Plan and Special Permit proposes a major development, includes 5-story hotel with 100 rooms, indoor pool and associated paved access drive, landscaping, lighting, utilities and stormwater infrastructure.

The Planning Board reviewed and approved a 35,000 sq/ft Marijuana Cultivation building at 105 Constitution Blvd for the use of growing and processing of non-medical marijuana.

The Planning Board received a submittal of a 57-single family subdivision located on Prospect Street. There was also several large scale solar farms proposed on Spring Street, Upper Union Street and Summer Street. Solar farms are permitted through the Planning Board with a Special Permit and Site Plan application.

The Planning Board voted to endorse (5) five 81-P ANR plans, and accepted four (4) Form H - Certificate of Completions. Acceptance of a Form H indicates all work has been completed according to Site Plans or Subdivision Plans previously approved by the Planning Board. The Planning Board also approved (17) seventeen Special Permit applications including the Hotel, Marijuana Cultivation, Solar Farms, a Brewery with Tasting Room and a Distillery. The table below is a summary of Planning Board Activity during the 2019 Fiscal Year.

The Planning Board held public hearings on several proposed Zoning Bylaw changes including changing setbacks for poultry in residential zones and building height changes in the Commercial zone. The Planning Board has also reviewed and recommended a new zoning district, known as Mixed Business Innovation zoning district, which consisted of several properties near the downtown. The new zone allows for more mixed use business and retail, gearing towards the smaller business owners. The Board continues to help property owners make the desired changes and improvements to their properties while fostering responsible growth and development in the Town of Franklin.

The Planning Board typically meets twice a month on Mondays at 7:00 PM in the Municipal Building. All Board meetings are open to the public, and are televised via Community Cable Access.

Planning Board Membership
The Planning Board consists of five members and one associate member. The associate member participates in all hearings but only votes on Special Permits if one of the members is unable to act. The Board members are elected and serve 4-year terms. 

Below is a list of current Planning Board members:
Anthony Padula, Chairman 
Joseph Halligan, Vice Chairman 
John Carroll, Clerk
Gregory Rondeau 
William David, 
Rick Power, Associate Member

Respectfully submitted, 
Anthony Padula, Chairman


Download your copy of the Franklin Annual Report for 2019
https://www.franklinma.gov/town-clerk/files/town-franklin-annual-report-2019

Visit the Planning Board online  https://www.franklinma.gov/planning-board

Franklin Annual Report 2019: Planning Board
Franklin Annual Report 2019: Planning Board

"Talking the Blues" - High Energy Blues - Apr 29, 2020

Jim Derick and Todd Monjar talk high energy blues in this episode

You can listen to this show on Franklin Public Radio, wfpr.fm anywhere via your browser or at 102.9 on the local Franklin FM radio dial.

Thursday = 11:00a/2:00p/8:00pm Talkin’ the Blues – Jim Derick
Exploring the music of the great Blues tradition

Saturday = 5:00p Talkin’ the Blues – Jim Derick
Exploring the music of the great Blues tradition


Audio file = https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-kybek-db5fb0