Franklin Matters

Monday, September 4, 2023

Franklin, MA: Agenda for Sep 6, 2023 Town Council Meeting

FRANKLIN TOWN COUNCIL

Agenda & Meeting Packet

September 6, 2023 7:00 PM

Meeting will be held at the Municipal Building

2nd floor, Council Chambers

355 East Central Street

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

a. July 19, 2023 https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/3a._july_19_2023_tc_meeting_minutes_-draft_for_review_1.pdf

4. PROCLAMATIONS / RECOGNITIONS - None Scheduled.

5. APPOINTMENTS

a. Design Review Commission
i. Andrew Pratt
b. Municipal Affordable Housing Trust
i. Jayaprabha Vijayaraghavan
c. Fire Department - New Employee
i. Jack Lennon: Firefighter/Paramedic
d. Fire Department - Promotions
i. Thomas Konieczny: Battalion Chief
ii. Paul Molla: Captain
iii. Laurie Kaye: EMS Captain
iv. Matthew Kelly: Lieutenant
v. Michael Berthiaume: Lieutenant
vi. Jonathan Chalk: Lieutenant

6. PUBLIC HEARINGS - 7:00 PM - None Scheduled.

7. LICENSE TRANSACTIONS - None Scheduled.

8. PRESENTATIONS / DISCUSSION

a. Discussion: Dean College Update - Ken Elmore, President of Dean College
b. Discussion: Tri-County Regional Vocational School Financing
https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/8b._1_-_memo_-_tri_county_school_financing.pdf

9. LEGISLATION FOR ACTION

a. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 23-898: A Zoning Bylaw to Amend the Franklin Town Code at

Chapter 185, Attachment 9, Schedule of Lot, Area, Frontage, Yard and Height Requirements -

Second Reading (Motion to Approve Bylaw Amendment 23-898 - 2/3 Majority Roll Call Vote)

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/9a._23-898_grv.pdf

b. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 23-899: Marijuana Use Overlay District, A Zoning Bylaw Amendment to the Code of the Town of Franklin at Chapter 185, Section 5, Zoning Map - Second Reading (Motion to Approve Bylaw Amendment 23-899 -2/3 Majority Roll Call Vote)

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/9b._23-899_marijuana_overlay.pdf

c. Zoning Bylaw Amendment 23-901: A Zoning Bylaw Amendment to the Code of the Town of

Franklin at Chapter 185, Section 5, Zoning Map (Motion to Refer Zoning Bylaw Amendment 23-901 to the Planning Board - Majority Vote)

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/9c._23-901_-_business_rezone.pdf

d. Resolution 23-49: Authorization for Intermunicipal Agreement with County of Plymouth for County of Plymouth to Provide Parking Ticket Computerization and Processing Services to

Franklin (Motion to Approve Resolution 23-49 - Majority Vote)

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/9d._23-49_ima_parking_tickets.pdf

e. Resolution 23-50: Acceptance of Private Road Covenant with Owner-Developer of Prospect

Hills Estates with Access Road Off Prospect Street (Motion to Approve Resolution 23-50 - Majority Vote)

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/9e_23-50_private_road.pdf

f. Resolution 23-51: Gift Acceptance - Veterans’ Services Dept. ($1,525)

(Motion to Approve Resolution 23-51 - Majority Vote)

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/9f._gift_acceptance.pdf

g. Resolution 23-52: Cable Funds in Support of PEG Service and Programming per MGL Ch. 44, §53F3/4 (Motion to Approve Resolution 23-52 - Majority Vote)

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/9g_peg.pdf

10. TOWN ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT

a. Migrant Housing Update

11. SUBCOMMITTEE & AD HOC COMMITTEE REPORTS

a. Capital Budget Subcommittee
b. Economic Development Subcommittee
c. Budget Subcommittee
d. Master Plan Committee
e. Davis-Thayer Reuse Advisory Committee
f. Police Station Building Committee
g. GATRA Advisory Board

12. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS

13. COUNCIL COMMENTS

14. EXECUTIVE SESSION

a. Considering the purchase, exchange, lease or value of real property, because an open meeting may have a detrimental effect on the negotiating position of the Public Body

15. ADJOURN

Note: Two-Thirds Vote: requires 6 votes

Majority Vote: requires majority of members present and voting

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/agendas/town_council_agenda_-_9.6.23.pdf

Franklin, MA: Agenda for Sep 6, 2023 Town Council Meeting

Franklin, MA: Board of Health Meeting - Sep 6 at 5 PM

BOARD OF HEALTH AGENDA

September 6, 2023

The Board of Health will be conducting the Board of Health meeting at 355 East Central St,

Training room, 3rd floor at 5:00pm. The Public has the option of attending the meeting live at the Town Hall or dial into the meeting using the provided phone number (Cell phone or Landline Required) OR citizens can participate by copying the link (Phone, Computer, or Tablet required).

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

● Reading and acceptance of June 7, 2023 draft meeting minutes

PUBLIC HEARING

● Tobacco Products and Smoking Regulation

NEW BUSINESS

● Impact Melanoma

● Food Summit

● Health Fair

● Metacomet shared service grant regional inspector report (June, July, August)

● Metacomet shared service grant public health nurse report (June, July, August)

● Metacomet shared service grant epidemiologist report (June, July, August)

CITIZENS COMMENTARY

ADJOURNMENT

Agenda doc -> https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/events/boh_agenda_09-06.23_-_google_docs.pdf

Note the FPS Comprehensive Facilities Planning Subcmte meeting is also scheduled for the same date, time and room. Stay tuned, something for one of these meetings will likely change.

Franklin, MA: Board of Health Meeting - Sep 6 at 5 PM

Do you support the Franklin Food Pantry? Yes, now you can wear something to showcase your support!

"The Franklin Food Pantry online store is open with some new items available! We added a microfleece vest, cooler bag, and the commemorative tee in long sleeves. This long sleeve special edition shirt will only be available until September 17^th

Prepare for colder weather (eek!) with sweatshirts, jackets, and hats too!

Here is the link to shop:

https://xpressionprintsinc.printavo.com/merch/franklin-food-pantry/?page=1"

Do you support the Franklin Food Pantry? Yes, now you can wear something to showcase your support!

Back to School at the Registry of Deeds

As the new school year starts and students file into class rooms, Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell takes residents on another educational journey and reminds homeowners and those looking to enter the housing market of the easy and straightforward process of recording land documents at the Registry of Deeds.

“It is back-to-school time for many families, and while students are busy preparing for the academic year ahead, it is also a great opportunity for homeowners and those looking to enter the housing market to become familiar with the process of recording land documents at the Registry of Deeds,” said Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell. “Whether you are a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned homeowner, understanding the importance of properly recording your property transactions can provide peace of mind and protect your investment in the long run.”

Back to School at the Registry of Deeds

Correctly drafted land documents are crucial for maintaining accurate property records at the Registry of Deeds. By familiarizing themselves with this process, residents can protect their property rights and contribute to the overall integrity of the county's land records system.

“By taking the time to educate yourself on this straightforward process, you can ensure that your property rights are secure and that any future transactions go smoothly,” said Register O’Donnell.

The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds is also a depository for over 10 million land documents recorded from the Registry’s beginning in 1793 right up to the present day. This extensive collection of land documents serves as a valuable resource for researchers, title examiners, historians, and anyone interested in tracing the history of land ownership in the county. This depository plays a significant role in preserving the county's rich history for future generations.

“Electronically or in person, whether the document in question is a deed, mortgage, homestead, mortgage discharge, or any other type of land document, Registry staff have been trained to record the documents in as expeditious and accurate a manner as possible, but there are certain basic steps that need to be followed when submitting a land document for recording,” noted O’Donnell.

The document needs to be associated with one of the twenty-eight communities comprising Norfolk County. In addition, the document must be an original; the Registry will not record photocopies or documents submitted via fax. In many cases, land documents require signatures to be notarized before they are recorded.

The formatting standards for land documents must also be followed, including the use of specific font sizes and margins. Additionally, any fees associated with recording the document must be paid at the time of submission. Individuals looking for these specific standards can view them on the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds website, https://www.norfolkdeeds.org/support/document-formatting-standards. Each Register of Deeds retains the discretion to record documents that do not fully comply with these formatting standards, provided that the record created by the Registry is legible and retrievable on standard Registry computer systems.

“It should also be noted that the Registry does not draft land documents. The Registry of Deeds is in the business of recording land documents only. If an individual is unsure if a drafted land document, particularly a deed, is in proper order, it may be prudent to have a lawyer familiar with real estate law review the document for its accuracy. A simple mistake on a deed, for example, could lead to a major problem.”

Another crucial point to keep in mind is that the Commonwealth of Massachusetts has set various fees associated with the recording of land documents at the Registry. Recording fees vary depending on the specific land document type. The Registry’s website: www.norfolkdeeds.org, has a fee schedule that can be consulted for specific recording fee amounts. The Registry accepts checks made out to the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds. The Registry also accepts cash payments.

“Once you have a land document ready for recording and know the fee and type of payment, we offer multiple options for document delivery,” stated O’Donnell.

The options to get an original document and payment to the Registry of Deeds building for recording are via regular mail, Federal Express, or in person at 649 High Street, Dedham, MA.

Register O’Donnell concluded by stating, “Our trained recording staff is more than happy to record your land documents. Land documents are recorded in an expeditious manner once they arrive at the Registry. It should also be noted that institutional users such as lending institutions and law firms have the additional option to submit documents electronically via our two e-file vendors, Simplifile and ePN. Finally, if you have any questions about land documents in general, please call our Customer Service Center at 781-461-6101, Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

To learn more about these and other Registry of Deeds events and initiatives, “like” us on Facebook at facebook.com/norfolkdeeds. Follow us on Twitter and Instagram at @norfolkdeeds.

The Norfolk County Registry of Deeds, located at 649 High St., Dedham, is the principal office for real property in Norfolk County. The Registry is a resource for homeowners, title examiners, mortgage lenders, municipalities, and others with a need for secure, accurate, and accessible land record information. All land record research information can be found on the Registry's website, www.norfolkdeeds.org. Residents in need of assistance can contact the Registry of Deeds Customer Service Center at (781) 461-6101 or email us at registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.org.

Selected FHS football games to watch via HockomockSports.com

Via HockomockSports.com:

With the current setup of the football schedule, it seems like there is a marquee match-up almost every week. The start of the season includes some intriguing non-league clashes that will see top teams from the Hock take on some of the best teams in Massachusetts. As always, the league schedule has a ton of good games and there are even some big non-league tilts sprinkled throughout the later weeks. And with Thanksgiving being a league game, it’s possible we’ll see some de facto championship games on the holiday. We scoured the schedules and came up with these games to keep an eye on this year.

OCTOBER 13TH – CENTRAL CATHOLIC @ FRANKLIN – 7:00

Franklin has a gauntlet of a schedule every year with its Kelley-Rex opponents, but head coach Eian Bain is really putting his squad to the test this year with the Panthers’ non-league slate. Franklin opens at home against Wachusett and then at Brockton (both made the D1 playoffs last year) before taking a trip to Duxbury (2022 D4 state champs and three straight trips to the state final). After a pair of league games against North and Taunton, Franklin welcomes Central Catholic, who was the #3 seed in D1 last year and made it to the state semifinals. We can’t predict Franklin’s record but we know the Panthers will be one of the most battle-tested teams in the state.

OCTOBER 27TH – FRANKLIN @ MILFORD – 7:00

A year ago these rivals split the Kelley-Rex division title and this fall, in the final week of the regular season, their meeting will have heavy implications on who wins it this year. Both teams have followed an upward trajectory under their respective head coaches but both the Panthers and Scarlet Hawks have graduated back-to-back senior classes. That leaves the challenge of developing consistency year in and year out, and it looks like both programs are at that point. This rivalry predates the Hockomock League so there is a lot of history here.

https://hockomocksports.com/hockomock-football-games-to-watch-in-2023/

To subscribe to HockomockSports.com ->

https://hockomocksports.com/sign-up/#utm_source=HockomockSports&utm_medium=HomepageDesktop&utm_campaign=20232024

FHS Panthers

Franklin TV and wfpr.fm schedule for Monday, Sep 4, 2023

wfpr.fm or 102.9 on the FM dial = Monday

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

11 AM 2 PM and 8 PM A More Perfect Union – Discussing American Politics and Current Events - Peter Fasciano, Dr. Michael Walker Jones, Dr. Natalia Linos, State Rep Jeff Roy, and Nick Remissong hold a round table discussion on current events and American politics, bringing about thoughtful conversation, compelling discourse, and a look at what the future might hold for the United States.

Franklin All Access TV - Our Public Access Channel (Comcast 6, Verizon 26) = MONDAY

9:00 am SAFE Coalition: Michelle Palladini

10:00 am 4th of July 2023: The Zajacs

12:00 pm Brook'n'Cookin: Stromboli

12:30 pm Drink Responsibly: La Cantina Winery

1:00 pm Cooking Thyme: Fish

1:30 pm Pizzapalooza: Meat-Lovers Pt. 1

2:00 pm New England Candlepins: Summer 2018 Show 8

3:00 pm Candlepin New Generation: Show 3

3:30 pm Veterans' Call: SHINE

4:30 pm Norfolk County Prevention Coalition: Fire Safety

5:00 pm Physician Focus: Too Much Medicine?

5:30 pm Frank Presents: Caron Grupposo

6:30 pm Winning Ways with the MIAA: Shaun Hart Pt 2

8:00 pm Extended Play Sessions: Season 10 Show 2 - Paul Kelly

9:00 pm Circle of Friends: Tracy Grammer

Franklin Pride TV - Our Educational Channel (Comcast 7, Verizon 28) = MONDAY

8:00 am FHS Girls Varsity Lacrosse: v Bishop Feehan 04-18-23

10:00 am FHS Varsity Volleyball: v North Attleboro 09-22-22

11:30 am Winning Ways with the MIAA: Referee Shortage 2

12:00 pm FHS Boys Varsity Soccer: v Leominster 11-10-22

2:00 pm Public School Event: Lifelong Music Pt. 2 05-13-19

3:30 pm FHS Senior Awards Night 2020

6:00 pm SAFE Coalition: Michelle Palladini

7:00 pm FHS Varsity Field Hockey: v King Philip 09-12-22

9:30 pm Public School Concert: MICCA Showcase Pt. 1 03-14-18

Franklin Town Hall TV - Our Government Channel (Comcast 9, Verizon 29) = MONDAY

8:00 am Planning Board: 08-21-23

11:00 am Davis Thayer Re-Use Advisory: 08-15-23

12:30 pm Police Station Building Committee: 08-23-23

2:00 pm Planning Board: 08-21-23

5:00 pm Master Plan Advisor: 08-23-23

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

Watch Listen Read all things that matter in Franklin MA

Sunday, September 3, 2023

Have you volunteered with FISH of Franklin? Do you know about the 50th celebration? (audio)

FM #1053 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1053 in the series.

This session of the radio show shares my recorded conversation with Barbara Steele, Nancy Rappa and Terry Robbins, all with FISH of Franklin. We had our conversation in the Franklin TV Studio conference room on Tuesday, August 29, 2023.

The FISH of Franklin organization will be celebrating 50 years of community service this coming October 18 at Dean College. A “Save the Date” mailing was sent to the current list of volunteers and those they were able to find records for from prior years. However, they fear they may be missing some. Hence our conversation to get the word out so those who have volunteered in the past 50 years can get on the listing.

Secondly, the FISH of Franklin are also looking for volunteers. We discussed their origin story, how the service they provide has evolved over the years, and that volunteering really is only a commitment for driving or handling the phone calls once a month. We talked of the three blessings for this volunteer effort.

The recording runs about 35 minutes so let’s listen in and learn about the three blessings of volunteering for FISH of Franklin. Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1053-fish-of-franklin-celebrate-50-years-08-29-23

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

FISH of Franklin volunteers provide rides to Franklin neighbors for medical or social service related appointments. You can call 508-528-2121 to arrange a ride or to volunteer

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

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/ or www.franklin.news/

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"

Have you volunteered with FISH of Franklin? Do you know about the 50th celebration? (audio)

Franklin Volunteer Fair - Weds, Sep 13 at THE BLACK BOX

Free for volunteers to figure out who to help

Free for non-profits to share your work to attract volunteers

Non-profits can contact ahardy@fpaconline.com to sign up for a table spot

at THE BLACK BOX, Wednesday, September 13 from 6 to 8 PM.

Franklin Volunteer Fair - Weds, Sep 13 at THE BLACK BOX

Economic Development Subcommittee agenda for Weds, Sep 6 at 5:30 PM

Economic Development Subcommittee

Agenda & Meeting Packet

September 6, 2023 5:30 PM

Meeting will be held at the Municipal Building

Council Chambers, 2nd Floor

355 East Central Street

Agenda:

1. Proposed sidewalk snow removal bylaw and map
a. Revised Map https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/sidewalk_commercial_proposed_v2.pdf

b. Draft Bylaw Proposal https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/1b._23-902_snow_removal_bylaw_draft.pdf

Full agenda doc with remote participation info ->

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/agendas/edc_agenda_9.6.23.pdf

Proposed sidewalk snow removal map

Comprehensive Facilities Planning Subcmte Meeting scheduled for Sep 6 at 5 PM

Franklin Public Schools

Franklin School Committee

Comprehensive Facilities Planning Subcommittee

September 6, 2023 - 5:00 PM

Municipal Building 3rd Floor Training Room

A G E N D A

"The listing of matters are those reasonably anticipated by the Chair which may be discussed at the meeting. Not all items listed may in fact be discussed and other items not listed may also be brought up for discussion to the extent permitted by law."

● Organizational meeting to discuss timeline, process and next steps

Agenda doc -> https://www.franklinps.net/sites/g/files/vyhlif4431/f/agendas/comprehensive_facilities_planning_subcom-9_6_23.pdf

Note the Board of Health Meeting is also scheduled for the same date, time and room. Stay tuned, something for one of these meetings will likely change.

Comprehensive Facilities Planning Subcmte Meeting scheduled for Sep 6 - 5 PM

Franklin TV: Wine, Wine, Wine…

Mark & Kim – 244 episodes and counting.

by Pete Fasciano, Executive Director 09/03/2023

But – here’s the thing. It’s not just about quantity. I’m talkin’ 244 terrific episodes with lots of fun and insightful info. Mark Lenzi and Kim Simone are seriously into it, and as you listen you also get seriously into it along with them. The passion is there, and they love to share it.

“Exploring All Things Wine with You!”

True to the program’s name, they take you into the entire wonderful world of wine; introducing you to wine authors, experts, regions, vintners, vintages, techniques. You name it. They know all about it.

Franklin TV: Wine, Wine, Wine…

Listen to the Wonderful World of Wine every Wednesday at 10a, 2p, and 7p on wfpr●fm 102.9, Franklin Public Radio.

You can also go to our website – wfpr●fm and click on Past Shows. It’s all there – every scintillating episode of The Wonderful World of Wine.

Do you have a passion to share? Perhaps it could be a podcast as well. We can help with that.

Call us. 508–541–4118.

Or email – info@franklin.tv

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

Watch Listen Read all things that matter in Franklin MA

Rausch Report: FY24 Budget Update and Fall Town Halls (August 2023)

View this email in your browser

Dear Neighbor,

I hope you are having a restful and fun August. This month's Rausch Report provides a quick update on the FY24 Budget and our upcoming community town halls happening throughout our district this Fall, plus an opportunity to help inform the design of our next state seal and motto.

Earlier this month, Governor Healey signed into law much of the FY24 budget, which contained several historic investments in environmental protection and preservation, housing, health care, and more, as well as designated funding for our district. Check out just some of the supports for our communities:

FY24 Budget Update

Unfortunately, the Governor vetoed significant funding for critical programs and services, ranging from education and childcare to the workforce and mental health care. I was particularly disappointed to see the complete elimination of funding for Hey Sam, a 100%-successful youth mental health support text line, and the slashing of more than 60% of the funding for nonprofit security grants.

Starting in September, my team and I will be hosting Fall Town Halls throughout the district to discuss the budget and other legislative updates, and chat in person about your questions, comments, and ideas. Wherever you live in the district, you're invited to attend whichever town hall is most convenient for you. We'll be joined by our partners in the House of Representatives and local government. More details on where we are headed are below. I hope to see you there!

One of the things about which I've heard from many of you is the Commonwealth's seal and motto. My colleagues and I enacted a law to change them, and a Special Commission was created to determine the redesign. Now, the Commission wants your input! Please share your thoughts here. The survey is available in multiple languages and should talk only 5-10 minutes to complete. Submit your responses by September 27 for consideration.

Wishing all my fellow parents out there a smooth transition back to school.

Yours in service,

Senator Becca Rausch

This newsletter is shortened for publication here. To read the full set of content, follow this link -> https://mailchi.mp/masenate/monthlynewsletter-17070021