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
The collection of Annual Reports can be found online
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| Annual Report Of The Town of Franklin - FY 2021 |
