Annual Report Of The Franklin Cultural Council - FY 2021

Note: FY 2021 is last year (July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021). The report was prepared to cover the business for the FY 2021 period. This year’s report FY 2022 (July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022) is in preparation now and is normally available for distribution at the polls for the November election. Updated - 08/15/22

The Franklin Cultural Council (FCC) is a grant-making body that allocates funds for projects and programs in the arts, humanities, and interpretive sciences. The FCC has also chosen to conduct a number of arts-related programs and events throughout the year to support and encourage arts and culture within Franklin.

For FY2021, the FCC again successfully lobbied the Town of Franklin for a steady and level grant- disbursement budget, to support additional programming within the newly demarcated Franklin Cultural District. This additional funding was combined with state- allocated Mass Cultural Council funds—which also saw an increase—allowing the FCC to award a total of

$25,000 in grants supporting 30 arts and cultural events for Franklin residents. These programs included many annual favorites such as performances at the schools and Senior Center, the Middle School Authors Series as well as children’s entertainment at the library. In addition, new programming included hosting weekly music for the Franklin Farmers Market. This was by far one of the most visible representations of our funding this year. The response from the community regarding the new and improved market was overwhelming. Our town common was brimming each Friday with happy community members shopping and enjoying live music.

As was the case for everyone across the Commonwealth and indeed the country, the COVID-19 pandemic had a dramatic impact on the FCC’s programs and events for the fal1 of 2020. The FCC carefully considered the needs of the community and for safe and socially distanced programming. In September and October, the FCC hosted a number of live music performances outside at the Senior Center. Musicians were brought in from the prestigious Berklee College of Music and entertained some of the most vulnerable in our community. Seniors were able to watch from their car, or get up and dance, as many did. Because of the State limitations on large gatherings, two shows were held on each event day to limit the number of participants.

In October, the FCC created a Halloween House Decorating Contest in Franklin. The goals were to offer a distraction to the ongoing pandemic and perhaps some levity and creativity to our community. A surprising 52 houses signed up to compete in the contest and FCC board members drove separately to judge each house. A virtual community map was created and shared far and wide over social media. Winners were chosen and our State Representative, Jeff Roy, kindly handed out awards personally at the winner’s doorsteps. The contest was covered by The Boston Globe and the community has insisted on a “2nd Annual” Halloween House Decorating Contest for 2021.

Once November brought colder weather, all programming moved online. Between November 2020 – April 2021, the FCC hosted ten online “Monday Night Masterclasses”. The masterclasses were hands-on demonstrations of cooking, flower arranging, meditation and paint nights given by professionals in the area. The online classes were given for free to the community and were meant to offer levity and opportunities to be creative during the dark months of a pandemic winter.

We were unable to run the popular spring “Arts Advocacy Day” due to Covid-19. And “ArtWeek”, another well- known statewide event was cancelled indefinitely by the Boch Center.

In September of 2021, the FCC will host the first “Franklin Cultural Festival”. This has been planned on the back of the successful 2019 “Taste of the Arts Festival”. We hope to fill the common with 5,000 participants to enjoy live music and dance, artisan vendors, food trucks and a wine and beer garden. Our late spring plans revolved around getting the parts and pieces of the festival in place.

The FCC continued to grow their social media presence significantly over the past year with regular posts to Facebook and Instagram and by hosting popular online events. Our Facebook page has 1,700 followers and we have worked hard to nurture an engaged audience.

The FCC is looking forward to FY22 and leveraging the momentum we have built over the past few years to serve the community in greater and new ways. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact our lives, we are confirmed in our belief that the arts and culture offer a way through fear and anxiety and toward our shared humanity.

The full Annual Report for 2021 can be found

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/2021_annual_report.pdf

The collection of Annual Reports can be found online

https://www.franklinma.gov/town-clerk/pages/town-franklin-annual-reports

Annual Report Of The Town of Franklin - FY 2021

Franklin TV and wfpr.fm schedule for Monday, Aug 15, 2022

• wfpr.fm or 102.9 on the FM dial = Monday

9 AM 12 PM and 6 PM Talkin’ the Blues – Jim Derick & Todd Monjur
2 hours of awesome blues music, info, interviews

11 AM 2 PM and 8 PM A More Perfect Union – with Dr. Michael Walker-Jones,
Representative Jeff Roy and Dr. Natalia Linos

• Franklin All Access TV - Our Public Access Channel (Comcast 8, Verizon 26) = MONDAY

7:00 am     Battleship Cove: 3D Print Lab 

8:00 am    SAFE Coalition: Youth Sports 

9:00 am     4th of July 2022: Mo Bounce 

12:00 pm    Brook'n'Cookin: Meatballs 

12:30 pm    Sandhya: Eclairs

1:00 pm     Cooking Thyme: Apple Crisp

1:30 pm     Pizzapalooza: Healthy Pizza Crusts

2:00 pm    New England Candlepins: Fall 2019 Show 8

3:00 pm    Candlepin New Generation: Spring 2019 Show 2 

3:30 pm     Physician Focus: Alzheimer's

4:00 pm    ArtWeek: Ed Iannuccilli

5:30 pm     Senior Connection: COVID Updates 

6:30 pm     Veterans' Call: Monuments

7:30 pm     Frank Presents: Kim Driscoll

8:30 pm    Concerts on the Common: Northeast Groove

• Franklin Pride TV - Our Educational Channel (Comcast 96, Verizon 28) = MONDAY

7:00 am Public School Concert: Lifelong Music Pt. 2 05-14-19 

10:00 am Public School Concert: FHS Spring Jazz '22

12:00 pm Public School Concert: MICCA Showcase Pt. 1 03-14-18 

2:00 pm SAFE Coalition: Youth Sports

3:00 pm Battleship Cove: 3D Print Lab

4:00 pm FHS Varsity Field Hockey: v Central Catholic 11-09-21 

6:30 pm FHS Girls Varsity Soccer: v Milford 10-25-21

8:30 pm Cultural District: Brent Selby 

• Franklin Town Hall TV - Our Government Channel (Comcast 11, Verizon 29) = MONDAY

8:00 am Planning Board: 08-08-22

12:00 pm Economic Development 08-10-22

2:00 pm Planning Board: 08-08-22 

Get this week's program guide for Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) online  http://franklin.tv/programguide.pdf  

Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm)

Franklin, MA: Town Council - Agenda - Aug 17, 2022

FRANKLIN TOWN COUNCIL 

Agenda & Meeting Packet 

August 17, 2022 - 7 PM

1. ANNOUNCEMENTS FROM THE CHAIR 

a. 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. 

b. Chair to identify members participating remotely. 

2. CITIZEN COMMENTS 

a. Citizens are welcome to express their views for up to three minutes on a matter that is not on the agenda. The Council will not engage in a dialogue or comment on a matter raised during Citizen Comments. The Town Council will give remarks appropriate consideration and may ask the Town Administrator to review the matter. 

3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES - None Scheduled. 

4. PROCLAMATIONS / RECOGNITIONS 

5. APPOINTMENTS 

a. Cultural Council - Brianna Cummings 

b. Cultural Council - Lauren Sanford 

c. Design Review - Cassandra Bethoney 

d. Design Review - Paul Lopez 

e. Finance Committee - Stephanie Koke 

f. Historical Commission - Scott Mason 

g. Historical Commission - Janice Prentice 

h. Historical Commission - William Lee - Associate 

i. Housing Authority Tenant Seat - Christopher Lennon

6. HEARINGS - 7:00 pm - None Scheduled. 

7. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS 

a. Transfer of Section 12 Restaurant Common Victualer All Alcohol License and Approval of Arthur Tgibedes as the Manager - ACT Hospitality, Inc. d/b/a Box Seats, Located at 391 East Central Street 

8. PRESENTATIONS / DISCUSSION 

a. Discussion: Franklin Cultural Council - Kaye Kelly, Chair, Franklin Cultural Council 

b. Presentation: Green Community Status - Jamie Hellen, Town Administrator & Alecia Alleyne, Assistant to the Town Administrator 

9. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION 

a. Bylaw Amendment 22-881: Chapter 7 Affordable Housing Trust Fund: Add Vice Chair and Clerk Positions, 2nd Reading (Motion to Approve Bylaw Amendment 22-881 - Majority Roll Call Vote) 

b. Bylaw Amendment 22-882: Chapter 4 Admin. of Govt.: Authorize Town Clerk to Make Format Changes, 2nd Reading (Motion to Approve Bylaw Amendment 22-882 - Majority Roll Call Vote) 

c. Bylaw Amendment 22-883: Amendment to Water System Map, 1st reading (Motion to Move Bylaw Amendment 22-883 to Second Reading - Majority Vote) 

d. Resolution 22-56: Gift Acceptance - Police Department (Equipment Donation, 3 Drones and Related Equipment) (Motion to Approve Resolution 22-56 - Majority Vote) 

e. 22-57: Gift Acceptance - Veterans’ Services Dept. ($800), Fire Dept. ($100), Police Dept. ($100) (Motion to Approve Resolution 22-57 - Majority Vote) 

f. Resolution 22-58: Cable Funds in Support of PEG Service and Programming per MGL Ch. 44, §53F3/4 (Motion to Approve Resolution 22-58 - Majority Vote) 

10. TOWN ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT 

11. SUBCOMMITTEE & AD HOC COMMITTEE REPORTS 

a. Capital Budget Subcommittee 

b. Budget Subcommittee 

c. Economic Development Subcommittee 

12. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 

13. COUNCIL COMMENTS 

14. EXECUTIVE SESSION 

15. ADJOURN 

Note: 

Two-Thirds Vote: requires 6 votes 

Majority Vote: requires majority of members present and voting 

Documents released for this agenda can be found online ->   https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/agendas/town_council_agenda_aug_17_2022_0.pdf

Franklin, MA: Town Council - Agenda - Aug 17, 2022

Annual Report Of The Conservation Commission - FY 2021

Note: FY 2021 is last year (July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021). The report was prepared to cover the business for the FY 2021 period. This year’s report FY 2022 (July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022) is in preparation now and is normally available for distribution at the polls for the November election. Updated - 08/15/22

Franklin Conservation Commission is responsible for promoting and protecting the Town of Franklin’s natural resources, and protecting the Town’s wetlands resources.

The Commission is comprised of seven volunteer residents appointed for three year terms by the Town

 

Administrator. Current Commission members have diverse professional experience related to environmental science, biology, engineering, and project management. Because of their different backgrounds, each commissioner is able to offer a different perspective during the review of applications for a wetland permit that ultimately benefits Franklin.

Franklin has continuously been represented at the annual conference of the Massachusetts Association of Conservation Commissions each March, with Commissioners attending classes and workshops and talking with other Commissioners from across the state as well as lawyers, ecologists and engineers active in conservation.

The Department of Planning and Community Development provides administrative and technical support to the Commission.

Permitting of Work within or Adjacent to Wetlands Resources

The majority of the Commission’s attention is directed to administering Massachusetts and Franklin wetland protection laws and regulations. Those laws and regulations require Conservation Commission permits to work in or within 100 feet of a wetland, in the 100 year flood hazard zone, or within 200 feet of a perennial stream.

During FY21 the Conservation Agent reviewed and administratively approved 16 minor buffer zone applications.

During FY21 the Conservation Commission received 32 permit applications to work within areas under their permitting jurisdiction. In addition the Commission issued Certificates of Compliance for previously permitted projects, and granted permit extensions to allow projects to finish. 

Some of the more interesting project applications before the Commission during FY21 include the Maple Hill Subdivision that was approved, the Chilson Park Playground Expansion project that was approved, and the Cottage Street/Cottage Court/Peck Street affordable housing and stream relocation project, which was denied.

DelCarte Conservation Area

The Commission continues to work on the DelCarte Area (aka the Franklin Reservoirs) off of Pleasant Street. There are a series of seven “structures” (six dams that had been originally used for cranberry farming and a stone wall that beavers had dammed) along Miller brook thru the 100+ acre DelCarte Area.

The Commission retained the services of ESS, Inc. to undertake an ecological study to ascertain the flora and fauna viability in the pond and develop a long term management plan. This study, completed in 2015-2016 has given the Town a comprehensive understanding of exactly “what is there” and includes a management plan to help keep the area viable as a true recreational jewel. The first two phases of the plan’s recommendations, the treatment of invasive plant species was undertaken in the spring/summer of 2017-2019. The Town appropriated Capital improvement funds to help implement the next phases of this study in 2019-2020. The pond’s invasive species were treated again throughout the summer of 2021.

The Commission is currently in the process of working with a local boy scout who is proposing adding informational and directional kiosks to the DelCarte area to help hikers better navigate the trails.

The Commission collects application fees for all permits that come before them. These fees paid for, among other things, the studies on the DelCarte recreation area and thus allowed the Commission to truly understand the issues facing the town in maintaining this area for quality recreation.

The Commission plans on holding an Earth Day celebration and clean up at DelCarte on October 16, 2021.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, public hearings are being held in the Council Chambers in a hybrid meeting style that residents and applicants can attend in person, or virtually, via Zoom.

There is a whole lot more to the Conservation Commission section of this annual report but the tables and other info were not easily copied for this format. 

Find the remainder of the Conservation Commission report on page  119

The full Annual Report for 2021 can be found

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/2021_annual_report.pdf

The collection of Annual Reports can be found online

https://www.franklinma.gov/town-clerk/pages/town-franklin-annual-reports

Annual Report Of The Town of Franklin - FY 2021

Annual Report Of Franklin Housing Authority - FY 2021

Note: FY 2021 is last year (July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021). The report was prepared to cover the business for the FY 2021 period. This year’s report FY 2022 (July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022) is in preparation now and is normally available for distribution at the polls for the November election. Updated - 08/15/22

Board Members

The following Officers were duly elected at the annual organizational meeting of the Franklin Housing Authority held on April 12, 2021.

• George A. Danello, Chairman 
• Christopher K. Feeley, Vice Chairperson 
• Peter L. Brunelli, Treasurer
• Diane Padula, Assistant Treasurer 
• Andrew M. Kepple, Commissioner

FHA Staff

Lisa Audette, Executive Director 

Candice Day, Administrative Assistant 

Carole Blanchard, Office Assistant 

Sean Pope, Maintenance Supervisor 

Frank McAvoy, Maintenance Laborer 

James Brunelli, Groundskeeper/Laborer

Julia Schneiderman, Service Coordinator

Retired Maintenance Supervisor

Mike Gilligan was hired by the Franklin Housing Authority in 1988 to the maintenance department. He worked to climb the ranks and became supervisor of the department where he maintained his position for 29 years before retiring. During Mike’s tenure he honorably served many residents to assure that their housing was in compliance with regulations and safe. Mike headed many renovation projects through the years and trained several staff members to skillfully serve our resident with respect and dignity. We wish Mike long and healthy retirement and thank him for his 33 years of service.

Dealing with COVID-19

As the pandemic reared its’ ugly head in the spring of 2020, Franklin Housing Authority aggressively began cleaning and sterilizing all public areas within our developments for the protection of our residents. While many businesses shut down, we remained in place to support our residents and maintain as much stability as possible during the very frightening and uncharted months of unusual turmoil. While we are not out of danger yet, we see light at the end of the tunnel. Much appreciation to Representative Jeff Roy for providing us with ‘impossible to find’ face coverings for our residents during this time. He played a very crucial part in keeping our resident from contracting or spreading this virus. Thanks to our residents for listening to the Governors’ warnings and guidance during this time. It brought many months of loneliness to many of our seniors but the stamina of their compliance kept us safe. Much thanks to our maintenance department for continuing to respond to emergency work orders throughout the pandemic and maintain the buildings and property in a safe manner. Also, office staff adjusted their schedules and work environment to maintain as much continuity as possible. It has not been easy for any them or their families. Their service is highly commendable. Lastly, the unwavering support of Chairman Danello and the FHA Board Members cannot go unnoticed. Board Members were readily available for any need of the agency and always looking out for the best interest of our staff and residents. Their remarkable awareness and action throughout has demonstrated their commitment to the agency. We are very fortunate.

Modernization of the Franklin Housing Authority Properties

A Contract for Financial Assistance from the Department of Housing & Community Development (DHCD) for the purpose of repairing components of the aged agency for their fiscal year ending June 30, 2021 was awarded to the FHA. Several projects are in the works using this very timely and important funding including support beam repairs, fire alarm system and sewer line replacement.

FHA Property

The Franklin Housing Authority manages 161 units of State Aided Elderly/Disabled Housing, 33 units of low income Family Housing and two, 8-unit Group Homes. Additionally, the Housing Authority is responsible for a four-bedroom congregate facility. This program provides a shared living environment for its residents who maintain private bedrooms. Congregate housing was established for residents who are self-reliant, however may need limited additional support.

Franklin Housing Authority also owns two single family homes and one duplex in Franklin. These properties are reserved for lease to low-income persons and afford these families the opportunity to live in a residential neighborhood for an affordable rent.

Managing Agent for Norfolk Housing Authority Franklin Housing Authority has been contracted to manage the Norfolk Housing Authority. By taking on this agreement, we increase the FHA/NHA housing stock by an additional 84 units of public housing. Norfolk is very close logistically and has been the ‘little brother’ to Franklin for many years. We see this opportunity as a benefit to our new Norfolk residents and financially beneficial to both agencies. We look forward to working at the Norfolk Housing Authority and with the NHA Board Members to maintain the beautiful, safe and affordable housing in the Town of Norfolk.

Special Events Noted with Appreciation

Franklin Rotarians were not able to wow or residents with their service during COVID-19. However, they have not forgotten us and are currently planning to resume the previous event schedule at our agency. Much thanks to the Franklin Rotarians for their continued support.

Special Thanks

The Board of Commissioners, Staff and Residents of the Franklin Housing Authority wish to express their thanks and appreciation to the following:

• The Clergy, for continuous support and comfort in the time of need and always.

• Chairman Tom Mercer and all of the Franklin Town Council Members, Town Administrator, Jamie Hellen and their staff for their continued support and assistance.

• Chairman Christopher Vericker and all Franklin’s Municipal Affordable Housing Trust members for having a similar goal as FHA in providing affordable housing to people of lower income.

• Council on Aging, Veterans Agent, SHINE Program and Food Pantry for assisting residents with health care concerns and working with the Authority to recognize needs and provide activities, nourishment and specialized services.

• Franklin Police Department, Police Chief Lynch and the entire Franklin Police Department for continuous concern, attention and response to the needs of the Authority and its Residents.

• Franklin Fire and Rescue, Chief James McLaughlin, Deputy Chief James Klich and Deputy Chief Joseph Barbieri and their Department are always professional and respectful when assisting our residents during a medical time of need.

• Senator Karen Spilka, Senator Rebecca Rausch and Representative Jeffery Roy for their relentless support of the Housing Programs and Bills with the best interest of our town and residents at heart. Also, a huge thank you to Representative Roy for providing our resident with a supply of face covering masks during the pandemic. At the time of need when masks were no where to be found, Rep. Roy came to the rescue.

• Governor Charlie Baker and Lt. Governor Karyn Polito for the support of Massachusetts public housing.

• Norfolk County Sherriff’s Department and Sherriff Jerome McDermott for including FHA in their inmate community service program, their professionalism during evictions and their support of the Franklin Housing Authority.

• Franklin Food Pantry and Executive Director Tina Powderly for the support of the residents of Franklin Housing Authority. Also, much appreciation for placing food pickups in the most convenient places for our residents to manage.

• Saint Mary’s Church, Friends of Franklin and Saint Vincent de Paul for supporting our residents during exceptional times of need.

Through the years, the Franklin community and the housing authority find ways to improve the quality of life for our area seniors, disabled persons and low- income families. With the support of the Commissioners and the community, the Franklin Housing Authority continues to be a wonderful, safe and affordable community housing opportunity.

Respectfully submitted,

Lisa M. Audette, 

Executive Director, PHM, MCPPO 

franklinhousing.org

The full Annual Report for 2021 can be found

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/2021_annual_report.pdf

The collection of Annual Reports can be found online

https://www.franklinma.gov/town-clerk/pages/town-franklin-annual-reports

Annual Report Of The Town of Franklin - FY 2021

Franklin.TV: Citizen Frank - Seeking Political Wisdom & Truth!

by Pete Fasciano, Executive Director 08/14/2022

There are basic truths. Some are the ones you learn in civics class, and they stick with you. A principle often attributed to Thomas Jefferson is one for me.

“An educated citizenry is a vital requisite for our survival as a free people.”

With mid-terms looming, and a number of Massachusetts candidates seeking state offices, Frank Falvey is on the phone, chasing down campaign managers and various assigns to arrange appearances and interviews for Franklin●TV and wfpr●fm.

This last decade has set all-time records for national candidates and office holders to engage in gaslighting, deflection, disinformation and bombast in order to garner attention and votes. They want to win in the worst way – and that’s exactly how they do it. Hollywood writers can’t keep up with the antics of the worst.

Frank Falvey

However, we in Massachusetts are fortunate to have a robust exchange with candidates through our regional and local media. Interviews, debates, and candidates’ own messages let we the people get to know our officials.

We in Massachusetts also have citizens who volunteer – truth seekers like Frank. His tenet is as Jeffersonian a statement as you may find. ‘Seek Wisdom’.

Frank has labored at this noble endeavor long before I have had the good fortune to know him.

Frank is our modern day Diogenes. As we wade into this election season, check out our weekly program guide for Frank’s interviews with state and local candidates. Let us all be the wiser for watching – as Frank Presents….

And – as always –

Thank you for listening to wfpr●fm. 

And, thank you for watching.

Get this week's program guide for Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) online  http://franklin.tv/programguide.pdf  

Franklin School Committee - Aug 9, 2022 meeting recording (video)

The Franklin School Committee met on Tuesday, August 9, 2022. The recording of the meeting is available on YouTube ->  https://youtu.be/EIEoOfK_p3A

The meeting agenda and meeting packet can be found online ->   https://www.franklinps.net/district/meeting-packets/pages/august-9-2022-school-committee-meeting-packet

Note at the time of this posting a couple of the documents that were supposed to be posted after the meeting still are not yet posted to the packet folder.

Renewable Communities 2022 report and resources

Thank you for joining us to celebrate the release of Renewable Communities 2022. The full report can be found on our website at this link: http://bit.ly/RenewableCommunities2022

We also want to give a special thank you to our panel speakers: Eric Burkman, Lori Timmermann, Brendan Linard, and Kate England. We really appreciate them taking the time to attend today's event and speak about the important initiatives that are taking place in their communities. 

Below are some additional resources for municipal action on clean energy and climate change:

• Massachusetts Climate Action Network (MCAN): Municipal light plants

• Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC) and other regional planning agencies: Planning, technical assistance, procurement

• Green Energy Consumers Alliance: Community Choice Energy

• Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC): Solarize-HeatSmart toolkit, grant programs

• Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources (DOER): Green Communities program

You can also find the speaker presentations at this link if you would like to learn more about their programs or get in contact with the speaker for further information.

Speaker presentations -> https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1Hau-pIn-unyhU5LsKTfgRgAkw61IL2g6

Full report on Renewable Communities ->   https://drive.google.com/file/d/14n8SGw5dr99t9zC17LsQ50o7FPHD6cKC/view?usp=sharing

Renewable Communities 2022 report and resources

Annual Report Of The Charles River Pollution Control District - FY 2021

Note: FY 2021 is last year (July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021). The report was prepared to cover the business for the FY 2021 period. This year’s report FY 2022 (July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022) is in preparation now and is normally available for distribution at the polls for the November election. Updated - 08/15/22

During Fiscal Year 2021, the Charles River Pollution Control District’s (District) regional advanced wastewater treatment facility received and treated approximately 1,693 million gallons (4.63 million gallons per day) of raw wastewater, including 9.6 million gallons of septage from the District’s member and customer towns before discharge to the Charles River.

As part of the District’s infiltration and inflow program, the District inspected the Mine Brook Interceptor Subsystem, which included inspecting 99 manholes, and performing closed-circuit television camera (CCTV) and multi-sensor inspections of 28,400 linear feet of pipe for signs of infiltration and inflow. Repair work is scheduled to be completed during FY 2022.

In late 2015, the District entered into a Power Purchase Agreement to receive net-metering credits from a solar array in Carver, Massachusetts. The array has been online since December 2015 and to- date the District has received over $420,000 in net- metering credits.

The District’s Fiscal Year 2022 budget is 1.9% higher than the previous years’ budget. The District’s FY 2022 budget for operations and maintenance is $3,814,850, while the capital projects budget is $2,262,900. Franklin’s share of the operation and maintenance and capital projects budgets are estimated to be $2,103,960 and $1,272,840, respectively.

For more information on the District please check out our website at https://www.charlesriverpcd.org/.

Respectively submitted

Douglas M. Downing, Chairman (Medway) 

David Formato, Vice Chairman (Franklin) 

Mark Cataldo, Clerk (Franklin)

Michael Callahan (Medway) 

Wolfgang Bauer (Franklin)

Charles River Pollution Control District (CRPCD) Officers:

Elizabeth Taglieri, P.E., Executive Director 

John D. Foster, Treasurer

Barbara Maffeo, Executive Secretary

The full Annual Report for 2021 can be found

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/2021_annual_report.pdf

The collection of Annual Reports can be found online

https://www.franklinma.gov/town-clerk/pages/town-franklin-annual-reports

Annual Report Of The Town of Franklin - FY 2021

Annual Report of the Purchasing Department - FY 2021

Note: FY 2021 is last year (July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021). The report was prepared to cover the business for the FY 2021 period. This year’s report FY 2022 (July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022) is in preparation now and is normally available for distribution at the polls for the November election. Updated - 08/15/22

Goals

The Purchasing Department is responsible for preserving and protecting the fiscal resources of the  Town. The Purchasing Office assists other departments in procuring quality goods and services in a fair, competitive, and transparent manner, using objective standards for the selection of contractors and vendors, to ensure fair, impartial, and uniform bidding, contract development and awarding procedures. All purchases are made in accordance with Massachusetts State Laws and Town By-Laws.

Procurement Changes

During Fiscal Year 2021, the Purchasing function seamlessly shifted to a remote model in keeping with COVID-19 safety measures. The Department had already instituted distribution of bid documentation through the Town website. In March 2020, the Department began conducting bid openings remotely with plan holders attending openings via Zoom meetings. In October, 2020, the former Chief Procurement Officer, John Bugbee, left the Town of Franklin to pursue an opportunity in a different town. We are grateful to John for his contributions and wish him continued success. I have worked closely with John since 2015 and am excited to continue to provide a high level of service and expertise

to both our internal and external customers.

Objectives

The Purchasing Department promotes fair, prompt, and courteous consideration to all suppliers. The Department is committed to providing those same standards to our internal customers while ensuring their procurement needs are met in a timely manner. Additionally, the Purchasing Department strives to attain the highest ethical standards in all transactions and correspondence.

Respectfully submitted:

Pamela Vickery

Chief Procurement Officer

Town of Franklin

The full Annual Report for 2021 can be found

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif6896/f/uploads/2021_annual_report.pdf

The collection of Annual Reports can be found online

https://www.franklinma.gov/town-clerk/pages/town-franklin-annual-reports

Annual Report Of The Town of Franklin - FY 2021

Franklin Public Schools: The 2022-2023 school bus routes are now available.

The 2022-2023 school bus routes for Franklin Public Schools are now available.

https://www.franklinps.net/district/transportation/pages/2022-2023-bus-routes

• Please note that Franklin High School and Horace Mann Middle School students will ride separate buses for the 2022-2023 school year.  
• Franklin middle school students attending BFCCPS will ride their district middle school bus in the morning, which will stop at ASMS, HMMS or RMS and then continue on to the Charter School.
• Note that all stop times are approximate;  Students should be waiting outside at the stop at least 5 minutes prior to the bus arrival time.
• BUS PASSES:  Will be available for pick up at your child's school August 22-26.  Please check with your school for the exact schedule for bus pass pickup.

The 2022-2023 school bus routes are now available.

Shared via FPS Twitter -> https://twitter.com/FranklinPSNews/status/1558115259096899585

Congressman Auchincloss: An Update - the last 2 weeks in review (Aug 1 - Aug 12, 2022)

LAST 2 WEEKS IN REVIEW AUGUST 1 - AUGUST 12 I'm your representative in Congress, and I write to keep you informed. On the Hill Inflation Reduction Act: Today, I joined my colleagues in passing the Inflation Reduction Act, which now heads to President Biden's desk to be signed into law. This law is the biggest climate action in history, by any country. It devotes $369 billion for environmental and clean energy provisions. This could cut our greenhouse gas emissions by 37-41 percent by 2030, putting us within reach of Paris Agreement targets. The Inflation Reduction Act also allows Medicare to directly negotiate drug prices and will extend critical Obamacare subsidies to save 13 million Americans approximately $800 annually on health care premiums. EPA Regulatory Authority Act: I recently co-led the EPA Regulatory Authority Act with Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez in response to the Supreme Court's ruling in West Virginia v. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The ruling drew into question the EPA's ability to phase out the power sector's use of fossil fuels. Our bill clarifies that the EPA has the authority to shift our energy sources toward clean energy. Make It in America: I joined my colleagues in passing the bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act in the House, which President Biden signed into law this week. This bill will fund basic and applied science, enhance our geo-economic security, and strengthen America's international competitiveness in engineering and technology. Specifically, the CHIPS and Science Act will boost American semiconductor research, development, and production, with the aim of making us a global leader in semiconductor technology. It will also fund the National Science Foundation's efforts to advance cutting-edge science in hubs across the country. Assault Weapons Ban: I also voted for an assault weapons ban when it passed in the House. As a former Marine, I ate, slept, trained, and patrolled with these weapons for four and a half years – I know that no citizen has the constitutional right to own an assault weapon. I urge the Senate to take up this key piece of legislation to make Americans safer. Free Trade Can Fight Inflation: Last week, I co-authored an op-ed in the Wall Street Journal with Representative Stephanie Murphy about trade. I called on President Biden to repeal or reduce Trump-era tariffs. Economists across the political spectrum agree that international trade lowers prices and expands choices for consumers and that trade deals open markets for American businesses. I am committed to working with all of my colleagues, including those across the aisle, to reduce costs for American consumers and businesses. We can do this while maintaining labor, environmental, and intellectual property standards in trade deal negotiations. Make your voice heard → Let me know below if you support this proposal. Do you support moving away from Trump-era tariffs? Around the Fourth Small Businesses in Wellesley: Last week, along with representatives from the Charles River Regional Chamber, the Town of Wellesley, and The Swellesley Report, I toured some local small businesses in Wellesley that are providing fantastic service to our community. First, I went to We Rock the Spectrum, which is an indoor playground that was founded to provide a place for children of all ability levels to play and grow together. Next, I stopped by the London Harness, which was the first luggage retailer in the country. Finally, I visited Laughing Monk Cafe, which is a new Thai and sushi restaurant, met the staff, and discussed their expansion from their first location in Boston. I even got to debate parking policy, one of my favorite topics as a city councilor. Healthy 3 to 10: Last week, I visited summer camps, joined after-school activity groups, and spoke with parents as part of my Healthy 3-10 Initiative. I want to ensure that all kids have access to enrichment activities after school and during the summer to keep them healthfully engaged. Healthy 3-10 focuses on the vital hours between 3 pm and 10 pm when our kids are not in school. This will help children gain confidence and self-efficacy in and out of the classroom. District Investments: Recently, the House advanced the funding that I requested for our district. These critical funds, much of them directed towards water infrastructure, will empower our cities and towns to guarantee quality municipal services. Investing in infrastructure and getting localities the funds they need to reach their full economic potential will help our District and Commonwealth reach their full potential as a powerhouse of talent and work ethic. Coffee Meet-Ups Across the District: For the remainder of August I'll be hosting a series of meet-ups at coffee shops and restaurants across the Fourth to meet constituents and hear what's on their mind. To RSVP, or to find out more information, please head to this link: Coffee With Your Congressman. Sincerely, Jake WASHINGTON 15 Independence Avenue SE 1524 Longworth HOB Washington, DC 20515 Phone: (202) 225-5931 NEWTON 29 Crafts Street Suite 375 Newton, MA 02458 Phone: (617) 332-3333 ATTLEBORO 8 North Main Steet Suite 200 Attleboro, MA 02703 Phone: (508) 431-1110