In the News: new orders to combat COVID-19; School District to decide Davis Thayer and maybe more

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

"In an effort to quell rising COVID-19 cases across the state, Gov. Charlie Baker issued new orders Monday afternoon that will put a curfew on some businesses, require face coverings in all public spaces and limit the size of in-person gatherings.

Baker announced the new measures on Monday in an attempt to curb COVID-19 cases, which he said are up by 278% since Labor Day. Hospitalizations are up 145% in that same period.

“Too many of us have become complacent in our daily lives ... If we do nothing and stay on the track we’re on now, we’ll create a capacity issue (in hospitals) by the end of the year,” Baker said. “It’s our hope to encourage people to act responsibly. ... We can’t afford to continue to do what we’ve been doing.”

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)

https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20201102/baker-orders-face-masks-in-public-and-930-pm-closing-time-for-many-businesses-rollback-comes-as-covid-counts-increase-in-massachusetts?rssfeed=true 

 

"An architecture firm hired by Franklin Public School officials to evaluate closing Davis Thayer Elementary School last year recently came back to them with data indicating that they should also think about closing another school, too.

Or merging two schools to create a district-wide middle school.

Architect Craig Olsen from Kaestle Boos Associates presented a comprehensive facilities analysis report to the Franklin School Committee on Oct. 27, reviewing the viability of closing Davis Thayer Elementary.

If no changes are made to any of the schools, Olsen said all of them will continue to operate under capacity, will be financially burdened by costs to maintain those underutilized facilities and would suffer “reduced educational adequacy in schools built prior to 1996.” 

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)

https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20201102/franklin-school-officials-should-consider-closing-davis-thayer-elementary-but-its-not-only-school-they-need-to-address-according-to-architects-report?rssfeed=true

 

Cobi Frongillo Energizes His Base and Connects with Franklin Residents

Franklin special election Town Council candidate Cobi Frongillo kept his campaign momentum rolling on Saturday, October 31st, with a rally held at the Franklin Town Common. Volunteers and interested citizens showed up to munch on Fairmount Farm’s cider donuts and hear Frongillo speak on a chilly Halloween morning. “It was great seeing so much energy for local politics,” said Cobi Frongillo. “We look forward to a great turnout in the special election on December 5th.”

After the gathering, volunteers took to the neighborhoods of Franklin to deliver Frongillo’s handwritten letters to residents, introducing Frongillo’s history in service and vision for the community. A core tenet of Frongillo’s vision is an expansion of local civic engagement.

 

 

Cobi Frongillo Energizes His Base

Frongillo spoke to the crowd about the importance of local government, especially in an age of political unrest. “Local government is the best way for citizens to affect change in their community. Local government is what opens schools, plows roads, and supports business in Franklin. We have an opportunity this December to ensure Franklin’s local government truly represents and engages all residents in it's political process,” said Frongillo at the Common.

Frongillo drew on his extensive experience volunteering in Franklin and his academic background in public policy, with his research efforts recently earning him acknowledgements in the 2020 book “Hometown Inequality: Race, Class, and Representation in American Local Politics.”

En route to receiving his Master’s in Public Policy from the University of Massachusetts- Amherst in 2019, Frongillo also authored reports on the sustainable economic development of Downtown Franklin and municipal energy aggregation programs like the one starting in Franklin this month.

 

rally held at the Franklin Town Common

 

You can learn more about Cobi Frongillo’s campaign and vision on his website (cobifrongillo.com), Facebook page (facebook.com/Frongillo4Franklin), and Twitter account (@FrongilloCobi).

 

Reason#5 to #ThinkFranklinFirst

"Reason#5: Local businesses create local jobs! Consistently supporting small businesses helps them to thrive! As they grow and expand, they often need more help, which means new local employment opportunities!" #ThinkFranklinFirst #ItMatters #KeepItLocal #ShopLocal

 

Shared from Twitter: https://twitter.com/TOFranklinMA/status/1323375235622731779

 

Reason#5 to #ThinkFranklinFirst

CommonWealth Magazine: mail voting may remain; abortion access up for discussion during lame duck session

From CommonWealth Magazine we share an article of interest for Franklin:

"Because of the coronavirus pandemic, Massachusetts allowed no-excuse mail-in voting for the first time this year as well as expanded early voting – and millions of voters took advantage.

By Saturday evening, 2.28 million voters had cast their ballots, either by mail or in person – a number equivalent to more than two-thirds of all ballots cast in the 2016 election.

For Pam Wilmot, vice president of state operations for Common Cause, said that is all the proof needed to retain no-excuse mail-in voting going forward. “This process works, and we should absolutely make it permanent,” Wilmot said.

Wilmot and state Sen. Barry Finegold, an Andover Democrat who chairs the Legislature’s Joint Committee on Election Laws, joined The Codcast to talk about the changes to voting made in this year’s elections and the implications for future elections."'

Continue reading article online  https://commonwealthmagazine.org/the-download/mail-in-voting-may-be-here-to-stay-2/

 

"MASSACHUSETTS HOUSE SPEAKER Robert DeLeo and Senate President Karen Spilka announced on Monday that the two branches will take up abortion access legislation during the lame duck session that runs until the end of the year.

“We are very concerned that Massachusetts’ women’s reproductive rights are under threat at the national level,” said DeLeo and Spilka in a joint statement. “We are therefore committed to debate measures in the House and Senate this session that would remove barriers to women’s reproductive health options and protect the concepts enshrined in Roe v. Wade.”

It is not clear what removing barriers means specifically, but it’s likely the legislation would deal with at least some of the provisions in the so-called ROE Act, which would expand access to abortion, require health insurance coverage for abortions to be covered for low-income residents not eligible for MassHealth, and allow for abortions after 24 weeks in cases where the fetus has been diagnosed with a fatal birth defect. Current law only allows abortions to occur after 24 weeks when the life of the mother is at risk."

Continue reading article online  https://commonwealthmagazine.org/state-government/deleo-spilka-promise-abortion-debate-in-lame-duck-session/

Baker-Polito Administration Announces Targeted Measures To Curb Rising COVID-19 Cases

"Today we are taking several targeted measures to curb rising #COVID19MA cases + hospitalizations.

Our goal is to disrupt this trend now, so the Commonwealth can keep our economy + schools open and prevent the need to roll back to Phase I or II."

➡️ MORE: https://t.co/FCUWR035Vf

Shared from Twitter

https://t.co/fYR37s58P0

 

Gov Baker press conf video link:  https://youtu.be/O5JMSqEuNJE

Targeted Measures To Curb Rising COVID-19 Cases

Franklin Voters: Election 2020 reminders

The early voting period completed Friday (Oct 30) at noon time.

 
If you have not sent in your mail ballot, please drop it off at the Municipal Building in the drive through (from 8 AM to 8 PM) or leave it in the dropbox at the Municipal Building.

If you plan on voting in person, all precincts vote in one location: Franklin High School. Parking should be available. It is a professional development day for the district, teachers may be around but no students.

Poll hours are from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM. (Note: this is a change as most prior elections open at 6 AM but not this time. Plan accordingly.)

According to the Town Clerk, more than 50% of the registered Franklin voters have already cast their ballots (via mail or early vote) so while it will be busy (10,000 plus voters anticipated) it shouldn't be too crazy.

If you need information to prepare to cast an informed vote, the Franklin voters guide can be found here:  https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/10/franklin-community-voting-guide.html

Info on Ballot Question 3 - Community Preservation Act can be found here

https://www.cpaforfranklin.org/

The "election collection" of all the posts from the Primary through today can be found here:  https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/08/2020-election-collection.html

If you want to "track your ballot"   https://www.sec.state.ma.us/wheredoivotema/track/trackmyballot.aspx

Drive through hours posted
https://www.franklinma.gov/home/news/extended-drive-thru-hours-begin-friday-october-9th

voting booths at FHS, taken during an observation period this weekend

If you do have vision problems, there is a special machine to help you. Check with one of the election workers as you enter the high school 

there is a special machine to help you if you have vision problems

 

FM #379 SchoolComm Davis Thayer FA Mtg - 10/29/20 (audio)

FM #379 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 379 in the series. 

This session shares the Franklin, MA Davis Thayer Facility Analysis Subcommittee meeting held on Thursday, Oct 29, 2020. The meeting was conducted via conference bridge to adhere to the ‘social distancing’ requirements of this pandemic period.

Quick Recap:

• Meeting opened 7 minutes late. Prior meeting minutes approved.
• Review of current step by step process and where they are, now in Phase 2 of Stage 1 (see chart)
• Specialized programs conducted at DT and Parmenter not part of the analysis and should be considered. Concern over turnkey reference. Appearing to rush into keeping the mentioned Nov 4 community information night (when it will have conflict with the Town Council meeting, and won’t be able to be broadcast).
• Discussion around the work of this committee to complete in their term (before Nov 2021) and work of another ‘long term’ committee as separate.
• Discussion on questionnaire, what it captures, what does success look like, and communications around that survey and for the meeting itself

The show notes contain links to the meeting agenda and to the presentation document.

The recording runs about 64 minutes, so let’s listen to the Davis Thayer Facility Analysis Subcommittee meeting of Oct 29, 2020.  

Audio file =  https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-379-schoolcomm-davis-thayer-fa-mtg-10-29-20

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

Agenda doc      https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/agendas/agenda_dt_subcom_10.29.2020_1.docx 

Comprehensive Facility Analysis presentation doc
https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-committee/files/facilities-analysis-presentation-10-27-20 

Facility Assessment report doc
https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-committee/files/facilities-assessment-report 

My notes from the meeting
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/11/davis-thayer-facility-analysis.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 #379 SchoolComm Davis Thayer FA Mtg - 10/29/20 (audio)

FM #378 School Comm Workshop - Digital Learning Integrationist Demo - 10/28/20 (audio)

FM #378 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 378 in the series. 

This session shares the Franklin, MA School Committee workshop with the primary purpose to observe a Digital Learning Integrationist Demo on Wednesday, Oct 28, 2020. 

The meeting was conducted in a hybrid format: some of the School Committee and Central Office personnel were in the Council Chambers, the remainder of the Committee and DLI personnel were remote via conference bridge, all to adhere to the ‘social distancing’ requirements of this pandemic period.

I have requested a copy of the presentation which was shared with one of the School Committee members to  help them follow along but have not yet received the doc. While viewing the screen images would be helpful, the conversation is more important hence this audio file.

The recording runs about 62 minutes so let’s listen to DLI demo of the School Committee workshop of Oct 28, 2020. (Note: the workshop started late and the trial and tribulations of getting folks connected was not copied here in the audio recording.)   Audio file = https://www.hipcast.com/podcast/Hy6KBt1K

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

Agenda doc  https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/agendas/scagenda-dli_workshop_10-28-20.pdf 

Photos captured during the demo  https://photos.app.goo.gl/URDTd2cn8MU89inK8 (not many as I am expecting the presentation copy)

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

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"

Digital Learning Integrationist Demo - 10/28/20 (audio)

“It offers outdoor recreation and healthy exercise"

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

"For years, a steep hill along the Southern New England Trunkline Trail in Franklin severed the path, leading hikers and bikers to climb the hurdle and cross private property to get back on.

Rep. Jeffrey Roy, D-Franklin said he knew he’d get funding to fix that in 2016.

Roy, an avid cyclist and veteran rider in the annual Pan-Massachusetts Challenge, took Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Matthew Beaton for a bike ride on the path one day to show him first-hand what residents were dealing with.

Before reaching the hill, located on Prospect Street, Roy told Beaton that he was going to walk up it with his bike. Beaton said he’d ride up it."

https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20201101/tunnel-bridging-troublesome-gap-along-southern-new-england-trunkline-trail-snett-has-been-reconfigured-and-is-open-once-again?rssfeed=true

MA DCR SNETT Link  https://www.mass.gov/locations/southern-new-england-trunkline-trail

Rail Trail Committee page  https://www.franklinbellinghamrailtrail.org/

Photos from a walk on the SNETT in 2013
https://www.flickr.com/photos/steve_sherlock/sets/72157636043702445/

And from a recent walk n October, actually the day the new tree identification signs were posted
https://photos.app.goo.gl/QqxR9VQA3VxhTbz48

autumn screen from a break in the treeline along the trail in Bellingham

“The holidays need to look and feel very different this year”

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

"Holidays will need to look different this year, state officials said as they recommended Thanksgiving celebrations be held virtually or limited to one household to minimize COVID-19 transmission risks.

“The science on this one’s pretty clear — gathering in groups indoors for an extended period of time with family and friends is likely the worst possible scenario for spreading the virus,” Gov. Charlie Baker said during a recent press conference.

Pointing to rising COVID-19 case numbers among Massachusetts residents under age 30, Baker again said people should stop hosting parties and other large social gatherings. He urged younger people, who may not experience severe symptoms of the respiratory disease, to think about the relatives they might infect, the health care workers gearing up for a second surge, and the children whose ability to attend in-person school hinges on the rate of virus spread.

Baker said his own Thanksgiving celebration this year will be “immediate family, and that’s it,” and said all families should “think long and hard about the well-being of your loved ones before you make your plans.”

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required) 

https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20201101/baker-limited-turkey-day-is-way-to-go?rssfeed=true

The DPH guidance for Thanksgiving and the holidays

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/10/thanksgiving-during-covid-19.html

Thanksgiving during COVID-19

Davis Thayer Facility Analysis Subcommittee - meeting Recap - Oct 29, 2020

Quick Recap:

• Meeting opened 7 minutes late. Prior meeting minutes approved.
• Review of current step by step process and where they are, now in Phase 2 of Stage 1 (see chart)
• Specialized programs conducted at DT and Parmenter not part of the analysis and should be considered. Concern over turnkey reference. Appearing to rush into keeping the mentioned Nov 4 community information night (when it will have conflict with the Town Council meeting, and won’t be able to be broadcast).
• Discussion around the work of this committee to complete in their term (before Nov 2021) and work of another ‘long term’ committee as separate.
• Discussion on questionnaire, what it captures, what does success look like, and communications around that survey and for the meeting itself

Photos captured during the meeting and shared via Twitter can be found in the album  https://photos.app.goo.gl/GUQ66am5yDzRxzUA6

Agenda doc https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/agendas/agenda_dt_subcom_10.29.2020_1.docx 

Comprehensive Facility Analysis presentation doc

https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-committee/files/facilities-analysis-presentation-10-27-20 

Facility Assessment report doc

https://www.franklinps.net/district/school-committee/files/facilities-assessment-report 

 
----

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  #dtfa1029

https://twitter.com/search?q=%23dtfa1029&src=typeahead_click

 

• Real time reporting ready for facility analysis subcommittee meeting (when it starts) #dtfa1029
• Meeting opens at 6:07 PM, approved minutes of 9/30/20 meeting 3-0 via roll call Stage one of phase 1 complete with receipt of reports #dtfa1029
• For reference, the process of step by step (no timeline) #dtfa1029
• Specialized programs currently at DT and Parmenter not included in the report which are important considerations. There is a need for a broader analysis and plan, hesitant to do so without some further discussion on the Parmenter program #dtfa1029
• Turnkey reference makes it seem like it would be simpler than it is. #dtfa1029 awaiting update on demographics from McKibbens to see what he forecast vs. what did happen as of Oct 1. Will be interesting to watch along with housing market activity
• Discussion on complete report out to SchComm before next Nov when the SchComm membership may change. #dtfa1029 very luxurious to meet once a month, should be able to move quicker from here. All depends upon the real state of the pandemic as next year goes
• Maybe able to start putting dates to the steps in the plan moving forward to the decision. Ability to keep the DT folks together is an advantage. #dtfa1029 segway to questionnaire, when to start it, keep it open for a period before closing. Cover letter req'd to frame study
• Discussion on how to determine the end date, when do they have a representative sample of the various groups for the stats; 50% student/family, 50% staff, and 10% community in general. #dtfa1029
• Discussion on info session for next Weds, Nov 4 (would be in conflict with Town Council) same time to start 7 PM, target ending 8:15. #dfta1029 start with demographics, overview not study received, next steps on recommendations, etc.
• #dtfa1029 use of 'chat' (not within Zoom) to enable question capture and used for web page updates. Discussion on use of webinar vs meeting, webinar overly formal, if all could fit in living room with a beverage, that would be great
• Meeting info out Friday, questionnaire goes out Monday, can then follow up at meeting on Weds at meeting #dtfa1029 schedule audio session for radio update. Meeting adjourns via roll call vote 3-0 catch you all next time!

 

Davis Thayer Facility Analysis Subcommittee - meeting Recap - Oct 29, 2020

Franklin Public Schools: FHS Hybrid Start Delayed 2 Weeks - to Nov 16, 2020

November 1, 2020

Dear Franklin High School Faculty/Staff and Families,

We are disappointed to share that despite the excitement, preparation, and planning to welcome students to FHS for hybrid instruction, this transition will be delayed by two weeks as a result of a public health concern related to an underage drinking party that occurred last evening. We have consulted with our local health department in making this decision.

The administration learned of an indoor party that occurred last evening at a home where approximately 25-50 high school students had attended. Information from the Franklin Police, who broke up the party, identified a small number of students who had been in attendance, however many attendees scattered and we are unable to identify everyone.

Attendees were not wearing masks and were not social distancing. This behavior puts everyone at Franklin High School at risk and we have no choice but to remain in the remote setting for another two weeks, until Monday, November 16, 2020. This includes students who were in person last week.

Students in the STRIVE program will attend in person and will not be remote. FHS faculty and staff will still report to the school building. FHS athletic practices and games will be cancelled for two weeks.

Our preschool will remain in person and our K-8 schools will remain in a hybrid instructional model. However, if your child attended this party and has younger siblings, for the health and safety of all, we urge you to keep those children at home over the next two weeks. Remote instruction will be provided.

We know that there will be many students and families who share our disappointment and frustration. It doesn’t feel fair that the behavior of a small number has such a detrimental effect on the entire high school community. We know that there are many students who are eager to return and we are similarly eager to see them in our halls and classrooms.

Many, many hours have been spent adjusting schedules, planning lessons, and physically preparing our high school facility for safe in person instruction. Having students attend school in person requires a commitment on everyone’s part to follow the health and safety practices of wearing masks, washing hands, maintaining physical distancing, keeping gathering sizes small, and not taking unnecessary risks.

Sincerely,

Sara Ahern                               Josh Hanna
Superintendent of Schools               FHS Principal

photo of FHS taken in the sunny snow on Saturday

Franklin, MA: Town Council - Agenda - Nov 4, 2020

"The public will NOT be permitted to enter the building or participate in person. Only pre-approved participants on the meeting agenda will be allowed to enter the Building and participate in person. Residents can attend and participate via the “ZOOM” Platform."

"A NOTE TO RESIDENTS: Due to the continued concerns regarding the COVID-19 virus and Governor Baker’s declared State of Emergency, we will be conducting a remote/virtual Town Council Meeting for all public access and participation. 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. If residents are just interested in watching the meeting it will also be live-streamed by Franklin TV and shown on Comcast Channel 11 and Verizon Channel 29."

1. ELECTION OF OFFICERS    

Town Council Chair, Vice Chair, Clerk

 

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. APPROVAL OF MINUTES   

None Scheduled

 

5. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS   

None Scheduled

 

6. APPOINTMENTS   

None Scheduled

 

7. HEARINGS - 7:10pm   

None Scheduled

 

8. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS   

None Scheduled

 

9. PRESENTATIONS/DISCUSSIONS   

a. Temporary Town Clerk - Nancy Danello

b. Think Franklin First - Anne Marie Tracey

c. Town Council Goals midterm update

 

10. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS   

a. Capital Budget Subcommittee

b. Budget Subcommittee

c. Economic Development Subcommittee

 

11. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION   

11a. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION   

Resolution 20-63: Acceptance Of Grant Of Utility (Drainage) Access and Maintenance Easement on Lot 78a, Mine Brook Estates Subdivision (Motion to Approve Resolution 20-63 - Majority Vote)  https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/web_2_easement_20-63.pdf

 

11b. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION   

Resolution 20-64: Town Council Authorization Pursuant To G.L. Chapter 44, Section 70 For Town to Execute Memorandum of Understanding and Otherwise to Participate in Federal Government Reimbursement Program for Foster Care Transportation (Motion to Approve Resolution 20-64 - Majority Vote)  https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/web_3_foster_care_20-64.pdf

 

11c. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION   

Bylaw Amendment 20-863: Chapter 82, Municipal Service Fees - Temporary reduction in Municipal Service Fees for Common Victualer All Alcohol and Wine & Malt Licenses for the 2021 License Renewal Season - First Reading (Motion to Move Bylaw Amendment 20-863 to a second reading - Majority Roll Call Vote)  https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/mai/files/web_4_fees_20-863.pdf

 

12. TOWN ADMINISTRATOR'S REPORT   

a. COVID-19 Update

b. Board of Health Catering & Food Trucks Update

 

13. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS   

 

14. COUNCIL COMMENTS   

 

15. EXECUTIVE SESSION   

None Scheduled

 

ADJOURN   

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

PDF version of the agenda can be found https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif591/f/agendas/november_4_tc_agenda.pdf

Meeting packet page on the Town of Franklin  https://www.franklinma.gov/town-council/agenda/november-4-town-council-agenda

 

Franklin, MA: Town Council - Agenda - Nov 4, 2020

The Franklin & Bellingham Rail Trail Committee - marks the tunnel opening

The journey to upgrade the abandoned railroad path in Franklin & Bellingham began in December of 2008 when a representative of the Franklin Odd Fellows sat in on a meeting of the Grand Trunk Trailblazers in Thompson, CT and offered to be Franklin’s representative as the most easterly of (6) towns making up the Southern New England Trunkline Trail (SNETT) from Franklin to the Connecticut border. 

The towns from East to West are Franklin, Bellingham, Blackstone, Millville, Uxbridge, Douglas.  The grassroots committee that was formed in January of 2009 was called the Franklin Citizens Rail Trail Committee, but that was later changed to the Franklin & Bellingham Rail Trail Committee (FBRTC) when Bellingham members joined the committee and we saw a need to expand.  

By December of 2009, the rail trail committee had secured an Opinion of Probable Cost from Pare Engineering in Lincoln, RI to improve the overgrown railroad right of way into a multipurpose walking and biking trail with a tunnel at the Prospect St. crossing.   For the next 11 years the committee advocated, fundraised and continually worked to obtain grants and petitioned our state government for funds to improve the SNETT.  

Both towns of Franklin & Bellingham have been active participants in the process adding parking lots and signage at road crossings.   The town of Bellingham made a significant contribution by burying a town waterline on the path and getting a significant portion of the Bellingham section completed to a finished grade.  The high point of the committee’s effort has been the funding and construction of the tunnel at Prospect St.  

State Rep. Jeff Roy and State Senators Karen Spilka and Richard Ross signed on to an initial Bond Bill that included the necessary funding for the trail and tunnel.  State Rep. Mike Soter of Bellingham, the Bellingham Planning Committee and Franklin Town Administrators Jeff Nutting and Jamie Hellen of Franklin have also been active participants.  

The committee is also grateful for the thousands of runners who have supported our 9 years of fundraiser road races and the numerous corporate donors who gave us much needed annual financial support and for the Town of Franklin for allowing us to use the Remington School for our Road Race site.  

The committee is also very grateful for all of the advice, support and “boots on the ground” manpower that we received over the years from the Department of Conservation (DCR) and we certainly understand that whatever success we’ve had as a grassroots committee would not have been possible without their full cooperation and support.

**  Written by Dave Labonte, original member of the FBRTC. 

For more about the FBRTC    https://www.franklinbellinghamrailtrail.org/

In @TOFranklinMA The new SNETT tunnel was celebrated on Friday. @KarenSpilka @jeffroy @BeccaRauschMA   @Gannett       Look for upcoming  @laurenwhy_ @milforddaily story.  

 

Photo gallery here: https://t.co/f8i5BWGgOZ  

Shared from Twitter: https://t.co/fZnxTQEVLE

Additional photos from Rep Jeff Roy on Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/534850033/posts/10164157069840034/

photo from Rep Jeff Roy on Facebook

 

“The common thread is the energy and innovation we see in these public ‘palaces’ of knowledge"

From the Massachusetts Municipal Association (MMA) 

"The Library Land Project announced on Oct. 22 that it has received its 501(c)(3) designation from the IRS and formed a board of directors.

These two developments will help further the project’s mission to explore, document and promote public libraries in order to educate people about the important role these institutions play in our communities.

Founders Adam Zand and Greg Peverill-Conti met at the Newton Free Library and launched the first Library Legislative Day in March 2019.

“We came to appreciate what incredible ‘opportunity engines’ libraries are in our communities,” said Peverill-Conti, the project’s executive director. “Sadly, many people have wildly outdated perceptions of these institutions. We want to update and expand the way people think of public libraries.”

Continue reading the article online
https://www.mma.org/library-land-project-begins-new-chapter-as-nonprofit-organization/

For more about the Library Land Project, visit their webpage  https://librarylandproject.org/

“The common thread is the energy and innovation we see in these public ‘palaces’ of knowledge"

November VIRTUAL Veterans Coffee Social - Nov 4

November VIRTUAL Veterans Coffee Social

Join us! Wednesday, November 4 at 10:00 AM

HELLO VETERANS!

It's hard to believe November (and Election Day!) is right around the corner! As most of you know, the Franklin Senior Center is still closed to the public. Dale and Debra continue to work from home and the office on alternating days.

We hope you and your families are remaining healthy and safe by wearing face coverings and observing social distancing guidelines when out in public. Remember to wash your hands thoroughly after going to the store or appointments. Keeping hand sanitizer in your car is a good idea too!

Flu shots are available at local pharmacies. If you're over 65, you may want to call ahead to be sure your pharmacy has the high-dose influenza vaccine in stock.

The Veterans' Office will be hosting our monthly coffee social via Zoom on Wednesday, November 4 at 10:00 AM

We hope you can join us for veterans' updates and conversation with fellow veterans! Feel free to extend the invitation to other veterans who may not be on our contact list.

If you have not participated in a Zoom call yet, you'll need to download the Zoom app on your device before joining us.

Here is the log-in information for the November 2020 meeting only:

Join Zoom via URL: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89494755344

Call in number: 1-929-205-6099

Enter Meeting ID: 894 9475 5344 and press #

For more information, contact the Veterans Services Office at: (508) 613-1315.

We look forward to chatting with you at the November Coffee Social!

November VIRTUAL Veterans Coffee Social - Nov 4

Planning Board Public Hearing - 515 W Central St - Day Care Facility - Nov 16

In accordance with the Town of Franklin Zoning By-Laws, the Franklin Planning Board will hold a Remote public hearing on Monday, November 16, 2020 at 7:15 PM, for a Site Plan Modification application at 515 West Central Street in Franklin, MA prepared by Guerriere & Halnon, Franklin, MA, Inc. and submitted to the Department of Planning & Community Development on October 26, 2020, by Franklin Learning LLC, 206 Great Road, Littleton, MA.

The property is located in the Commercial II Zoning District (Assessors Map 270 Lot 029.2) on West Central Street. The applicant is proposing to construct a 2-story day care facility within 5,250 sq/ft and a 3,790 sq/ft playground, associated utilities,  parking accommodations, drainage and landscaping.

The hearing will provide an open forum for the discussion. This meeting will be done remotely via the “ZOOM” platform. Residents can visit the Town Website (Franklinma.gov) and click on the Town Calendar for up to date information on how to access the meeting.

For the complete legal notification of this meeting

https://www.franklinma.gov/legal-notices/agenda/public-hearing-notice-515-west-central-street

To access records and files for this project, please go to https://www.franklinma.gov/planning-board/pages/515-west-central-street

 

515 W Central St - Day Care Facility - Nov 16

Keep It Local - Support Franklin Businesses

As part of its Keep It Local - Support Franklin Businesses campaign, the Franklin Downtown Partnership is distributing these signs to local businesses. Please look for these signs on businesses doors or windows and support our local establishments!

Keep It Local - Support Franklin Businesses

Shared from the Franklin Downtown Partnership page
https://www.franklindowntownpartnership.org/2020/10/look-for-keep-it-local-signs.html

Note: Franklin Matters/Steve Sherlock is a individual member of the partnership and proud supporter

#ThinkFranklinFirst

50+ Program session: Fall Workshop Series - Session #5 You are a STAR! - Nov 10

Fall Workshop Series - Session #5
You are a STAR!
Your Quantifiable Achievements give You the Edge
 Tuesday, Nov 10th from 10:00 am – 12 pm

*Virtual Doors open at 9:45 am*
The session will start promptly at 10 am

PRESENTER: Debbi Hope, Hope Associates, LLC
CO-HOST: Melody L. Beach, Melody L. Beach Consulting Group
Host: Susan Drevitch Kelly-50+ Program Director/Founder

In this session, you will learn how to create your achievement statements using the STAR technique: Situation, Task, Action, Result. These quantifiable achievements are the "launch pad" to a great resume, creative success story, effective cover letter and successful interview!

Accomplishment statements are by far the most critical part of a resume. This is a way for you to highlight your strongest accomplishments that are most relevant to the career you are pursuing. They will highlight the "Will-Do" aspects of your experience and demonstrate your ability to make an impact on the company you work for. You will be able to create a results-oriented resume versus a basic accounting of what you did and timelines ("Can-Do").

Bring your most current resume and get ready to get creative and beat the competition.

If you are NEW to the 50+ program and have never attended any sessions, Registration is Required. .  Use this hyperlink to register; select Webinar Series and complete the rest of the form. Upon receipt, you will receive an email with a Zoom link to attend the event.

Download flyer as reminder:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/11og15hRxi4nBS5HE2XBxo-PN8PsKOGuJ/view?usp=sharing

Session #5 You are a STAR! - Nov 10