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Franklin Matters Radio

Steve Sherlock

What matters in Franklin MA - we follow the money sharing Town & School meetings, community events, and interviews to enable an informed resident & voter

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  • #1851
    Yesterday · 38 min

    FM #1851 - Franklin (MA) Board Of Health Mtg - 11/03/26

    The Franklin, MA Board of Health met on Wednesday, September 2, 2026 at 5 PM as scheduled. All three members participated; 2 in the 3rd floor training room, 1 remotely (with an intermittent audio connection), along with additional representation by the Health Department members (C Liberty, Director; G McNeil). Quick recap: Approval of minutes for October, so moved, second, passes 2-0-1 (1 absent, joined just after vote) Kids vaccine clinic successful, approx 30+ received, comfort dogs were present Discussion on Kratom around potential penalties given the change that it that Federal status for the drug has changed to “restricted” change penalties for Kratom and derivatives, will advertise for meeting in Dec and implement in the new year Next up emergency dispensing site (FHS) in partnership with Police Fire and DPW for holding and conducting the plan Discussion on the need for interpreters, DPH removed the phone access service they had provided that Alicia used regularly; also consider sign language Next up, food violations, trends? temp control, sanitation, usually the same repeat violations; lots of turnover within the food establishments doesn't help keep a stable process; looking at creating training via grant for those involved in food handling Motion to adjourn, passes 3-0, via roll call (and 1 hand signal) The recording runs about 38 minutes, so let’s listen in. -------------- Agenda doc - https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_11042026-2588 My notes in one PDF - https://drive.google.com/file/d/1-B3I14vFnRZVMSPh6j-rvzge3uwtm9gb/view?usp=drive_link ------------- 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 And if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach. We’ll share and show you what and how we do what we do 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"

  • #1850
    Yesterday · 50 min

    FM #1850 - School Cmte - Policy Subcmte Mtg - 11/03/26

    This session shares the Franklin (MA) School Committee Policy Subcmte meeting held on Tuesday, November 3, 2026. All 3 members (Dave Callaghan (Chair), Al Charles, Reis Hansen) participated in the session held in the 3rd floor training room.Dr Tina Rogers, Paula Marano, and Elizabeth Morrison also participated. Quick recap: Discussion on the audit done to confirm what other policies need to be adjusted based upon the recent Freedom to Read Act changes. Using the MASC policies as a guideline, reviewed the proposed changes, approved the 3 to bring to the full Committee for first reading. Internal work on the underlying procedures is still underway ideally to be completed by the time the policies are approved Next up, Patricia Middelman, Treasurer of SEPAC (Special Education Parents Advisory Council) is present to talk about ensuring coverage for special education needs in any policy discussions. The group is coming back to life and will be attempting to have representation at Policy and School Committee meetings going forward. (Editor’s note: this is not just any old group. Per Mass General Law, districts that receive funding for special education are required to have such a group. It had been very active then the past couple of years it went quiet as leadership/membership changed (parents of special ed students aged out of the program). Next up, continuation of the fiscal policy discussion. Complete set would be sent to the Budget Subcommittee for their review and comment, then back to this committee for any final edits before bringing to the full committee likely in December Motion to adjourn, passes 3-0, folks move to Chambers for full School Committee meeting The recording runs about 50 minutes, so let’s listen in. -------------- The meeting agenda can be found -> https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_10132026-2558 My full set of notes taken during the meeting can be found in one PDF -> https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KQwwtCt2nwHOX2ny8ANnYDcVwCxGGsHZ/view?usp=drive_link School Committee Policy manual - https://www.franklinps.net/o/fpsd/page/policy-manual School Committee Subcommittee assignments https://www.franklinps.net/o/fpsd/page/subcommittees-and-liaisons ------------- 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 And if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We’ll share and show you what and how we do what we do 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"

  • #1849
    Tuesday · 39 min

    FM #1849 - Energize Franklin Updates - 10/26/26

    This session shares my conversation with Dave Rittenhouse and Marissa Bovie, both with the Energize Franklin group. We had our discussion virtually on Monday, October 26, 2026. We talk about Energize Franklin What has changed since we last talked Updated webpage Now using Facebook What hasn’t changed Information & testimonials to help Take action steps, small or large The recording runs about 39 minutes, so let’s listen in. -------------- Energize Franklin home page - www.energizefranklin.org/ You can email Dave at dsritt@gmail.com Prior recording (walk through of the Energize page & features) https://www.franklinmatters.org/2023/06/making-sense-of-climate-27-dave-helps.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 And if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We’ll share and show you what and how we do what we do 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"

  • #1848
    Sunday · 4 min

    FM #1848 - FM Weekly Outlook & Lookback Combo - 11/01/26

    This episode combines the Franklin Public Radio news briefing spots for the week of November 01, 2026. The outlook for the week ahead November 01 through November 07, 2026 The look back at the week that was October 25 through October 31, 2026 -------------- The text and links referenced can be found at Franklin Matters Weekly https://www.franklinmattersweekly.org/2026/10/clocks-change-state-election-tuesday.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 And if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We’ll share and show you what and how we do what we do 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"

  • #1847
    Sunday · 21 min

    FM #1847 - Franklin Public Library - Nov2026 Event Highlights - 10/20/26

    This session shares my conversation with Mitzi Gousie, Programming and Outreach Librarian with the Franklin Public Library. We had our discussion virtually on Tuesday, October 20, 2026. We talk about The regular open hours, book sale and holiday scheduling for the month Sunday hours (1:30 to 5 PM) returned in September Book sale weekend Nov 20 & Nov 21 Closed on Nov 11 for Veterans Day Closing early Weds, Nov 25 (2:30pm) Closed Thursday, Nov 26 for Thanksgiving Library event highlights for November 2026 In calendar order rather than by category this time around Registration for those events required should be done through the Town website, Library page. There are nefarious folks trying to convince folks otherwise via Facebook. Be safe, use the official Town and Library pages. The show notes include links to the Library page and to the calendar of events where registration for some of the events is required/recommended. The recording runs about 21 minutes, so let’s listen in. -------------- Mitzi Gousie’s email - mgousie@minlib.net Franklin Public Library page - https://www.franklinma.gov/233/Franklin-Public-Library Library event calendar - https://www.franklinma.gov/942/Calendar-of-Events November 2026 newsletter - https://myemail.constantcontact.com/November-2026-Franklin-Public-Library-News---Events.html?soid=1142311312837&aid=HAqVzsO_rY0 ------------- 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 And if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We’ll share and show you what and how we do what we do 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

  • #1846
    Sunday · 20 min

    FM #1846 - MashUp Remarks - Rep Roy & M Tamasi - 10/27/26

    This session shares individual remarks made by State Rep Jeff Roy and Michael Tamasi, President & CEO of Accurounds at the Annual Manufacturing Awardee Presentation held Tuesday, Oct 27, 2026 at GIllette Stadium. The recording runs about 20 minutes, so let’s listen in. The full listing of awardees and the presentation audio can be found ------------- 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 And if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We’ll share and show you what and how we do what we do 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"

  • #1845
    Sunday · 1 hr 25 min

    FM #1845 - Manufacturing MashUp Awards - 10/27/26

    This session shares the Annual Manufacturing Awardee Presentation held Tuesday, Oct 27, 2026 at GIllette Stadium. State Senator Paul Feeney and State Rep Jeff Roy, co-chairs of the Manufacturing Caucus shared reading and presenting the awards. The list of the awardees can be found https://drive.google.com/file/d/1XvaljLwPg_vElrK2XFP3ZK0jZBAlpEof/view?usp=drive_link The recording runs about 95 minutes, so let’s listen in. ------------- 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 And if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We’ll share and show you what and how we do what we do 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"

  • #1844
    October 30 · 20 min

    FM #1844 - Direct Impact Checking with Safe Coalition - 10/27/26

    This session shares my conversation with Jennifer Levine, Executive Director, SAFE Coalition and Danya Raphael, Vice President, Brand Experience, Direct Federal Credit Union. We had our discussion virtually on Tuesday, October 27, 2026. We talk about Direct Impact Checking Account features Linked to one of 4 non-profits SAFE Coalition PFLAG Greater Boston The Ellie Fund Raising A Reader Massachusetts Importance of listening to serve the community Importance of building relationships The recording runs about 20 minutes, so let’s listen in. -------------- Direct Federal home page - https://www.direct.com Press release on Direct Impact Checking - https://www.direct.com/learn/news/direct-federal-credit-union-launches-direct-impact-checking-turning-everyday-spending-into-community-impact SAFE Coalition home page - https://www.safecoalitionma.org/ ------------- 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 And if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We’ll share and show you what and how we do what we do 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"

  • #1843
    October 28 · 35 min

    FM #1843 - Franklin Senior Center -Nov 2026 Highlights - 10/20/26

    This session shares my conversation with Jillian Rochat, Activities Coordinator and Chasity Cheng, Deputy Director of the Franklin Senior Center. We had our discussion in the Franklin Senior Center on Tuesday, Oct 20, 2026. We talk about All the key event highlights for Nov 2026 Multiple program date changes due to Veterans Day, Nov 11 Tax workoff program forms available at front desk or online Nov 30 Winter Wonderland scheduled for Dec 10 The show notes include links to the Senior Center page, the calendar of events, and to subscribe to the monthly newsletter. The recording runs about 35 minutes, so let’s listen in. -------------- November 2026 newsletter -> https://www.franklinma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/11398/November-2026?bidId= Franklin Senior Center page -> https://www.franklinma.gov/583/Franklin-Senior-Center-Council-on-Aging The newsletter archive page -> https://www.franklinma.gov/585/Connection-Newsletter Senior Center calendar view (just FSC events) -> https://franklinma.gov/calendar.aspx?CID=37&showPastEvents=false Subscribe to the newsletter -> by calling 508-520-4945 My Active Center -> https://myactivecenter.com/ ------------- 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 And if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We’ll share and show you what and how we do what we do 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 it! ------------------ You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"

  • #1842
    October 27 · 28 min

    FM #1842 - Town Clerk on the State Election 2026 - 10/23/26

    This session shares my conversation with Town Clerk Nancy Danello about the 2026 State Election to be held on Tuesday, November 3, 2026. Our conversation covers: Early voting ends on Friday, October 30 Advance depositing scheduled for Oct 31 & Nov 1 (if necessary) Office closed on Tuesday November 3 to conduct the election at Franklin High School gymnasium November 3 election voting hours from 6 AM to 8 PM Unofficial results expected some time after 9 PM Official results not until Nov 18, 2026 Our conversation recording runs about 28 minutes, so let’s listen in -------------- Town Clerk page -> https://www.franklinma.gov/333/Town-Clerk-Elections-Division November 3, 2026 sample ballot -> https://www.franklinma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/11309/NOV-3-SAMPLE-BALLOT ------------- 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"

  • #1841
    October 25 · 3 min

    FM #1841 - FM Weekly Outlook & Lookback Combo - 10/25/26

    This episode combines the Franklin Public Radio news briefing spots for the week of October 25, 2026. The outlook for the week ahead October 25 through October 31, 2026 The look back at the week that was October 18 through October 24, 2026 -------------- The text and links referenced can be found at Franklin Matters Weekly https://www.franklinmattersweekly.org/2026/10/your-couple-of-minutes-view-on-whats.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 And if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We’ll share and show you what and how we do what we do 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"

  • #1840
    October 22 · 10 min

    FM #1840 - Boston Post Cane - L Dolitka - 10/22/26

    This episode shares the Town of Franklin Boston Post Cane presentation to Lydia Dolitka by Town Clerk Nancy Danello. Recognizing Lydia as being the oldest Franklin, MA resident. State Representative Jeff Roy also presented a proclamation from the House of Representatives recognizing Lydia's youthful age. Family and friends gathered for the brief ceremony at Magnolia Heights in Franklin, Ma on Thursday, October 22, 2026. -------------- Wikipedia entry https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Boston_Post -------------- 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 And if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We’ll share and show you what and how we do what we do 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"

  • #1839
    October 21 · 38 min

    FM #1839 - MA State Senator Becca Rausch - 10/14/26

    This session of the radio show shares my conversation with our State Senator Becca Rausch. We had our conversation via the Zoom Conf bridge on Wednesday, October 14, 2026. We cover some legislative updates and close with encouragement to prepare for the ballot questions, be patient, the ballot is 2 full sheets of heavy ballot paper with at least 3 sides of information. The recording runs about 36 minutes, so let’s listen to my conversation with Senator Rausch. -------------- 2026 Ballot Question Primer - https://www.beccarauschma.com/ballotquestions26 Official Website -> https://www.beccarauschma.com/ Campaign Website -> https://www.beccarausch.com/ Senator Rausch MA Legislature page -> https://malegislature.gov/Legislators/Profile/RLR0 Sign up for the Rausch Report Newsletter -> https://www.beccarauschma.com/newsletter -------------- 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 And if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We’ll share and show you what and how we do what we do 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"

  • #1838
    October 19 · 53 min

    FM #1838 - School Cmte - Policy Subcmte Mtg - 10/13/26

    This session shares the Franklin (MA) School Committee Policy Subcmte meeting held on Tuesday, October 13, 2026. All 3 members (Dave Callaghan (Chair), Al Charles, Reis Hansen) participated in the session held in the 3rd floor training room. Superintendent Lucas Giguere and Dr Tina Rogers also participated. Quick recap: discussion on the school grounds, community access allowed but not during school hours; The safety of students and schools takes priority; had been in policy discussion before but unsure of what happened as it never made it to the full committee, cross refs confirmed; vote to move to full Cmte passes 3-0; discussion also on press release and map of where signs are or will be posted to inform the community of access and NOT during school hours review of policy on field trips to create a more standard approach across the levels; links to other policies for extended and overnight field trips; recurring trips get approved by SchCmte also, some by special vote, some in Consent agenda; looking to tighten the language to make it clear; separate the exception clause to make it stand alone more appropriately and not confuse the sentence where it currently is; motion to bring to first read, second, passes 3-0 new business possible in spring a review of the documents required for enrollment confirmation of Franklin residency and have updates periodically, as needed (life changes) with the internal documents aligned with the procedures and process as well as confirming residency auditing the READ act to see how policies align and if any changes are needed, confirming internal procedures also align with the existing or expected policy next up, fiscal policy resource kit as part of review of the policies, helpful for passing along info to new members of the committee; setting expectations; discussion on review of these policies, the oldest not reviewed, minor wordsmithing required; will pick up DBD next time, motion to adjourn, passes 3-0 Meeting adjourns, folks move to Chambers for full School Committee meeting The recording runs about 53 minutes, so let’s listen in. -------------- The meeting agenda can be found -> https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_10132026-2558 My full set of notes taken during the meeting can be found in one PDF -> https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KQwwtCt2nwHOX2ny8ANnYDcVwCxGGsHZ/view?usp=drive_link School Committee Policy manual - https://www.franklinps.net/o/fpsd/page/policy-manual School Committee Subcommittee assignments https://www.franklinps.net/o/fpsd/page/subcommittees-and-liaisons ------------- 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 And if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We’ll share and show you what and how we do what we do 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"

  • #1837
    October 18 · 4 min

    FM #1837 - FM Weekly Outlook & Lookback Combo - 10/18/26

    This episode combines the Franklin Public Radio news briefing spots for the week of October 18, 2026. The outlook for the week ahead October 18 through October 24, 2026 The look back at the week that was October 11 through October 17, 2026 -------------- The text and links referenced can be found at Franklin Matters Weekly https://www.franklinmattersweekly.org/2026/10/early-voting-and-election-preparation.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 And if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We’ll share and show you what and how we do what we do 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"

  • #1836
    October 2 · 1 hr 39 min

    FM #1836 - Franklin (MA) Finance Cmte Mtg - 09/23/26

    This session shares the Finance Committee meeting conducted Wednesday, September 23, 2026. The Committee meeting opened with 8 members present, 1 absent (LoPresti). Quick recap: The meeting is Zoom only this evening Network issues in the TV studio here as well as on Hutchinson St are preventing the cable and YouTube broadcasts. the recording will be processed after the meeting to be broadcast via cable and YouTube Updated during the session, YouTube did get enabled Votes to re-organize the leadership of the committee Nominations for Chair, one received, Ryan Lavorgna, vote passes 8-0-1 (1 absent) 2 nominations for Vice-chair; Jennifer D'Angelo and Tom Sullivan, vote via roll call, Jen wins One nomination for clerk, Tom Sullivan, the vote is 8-0-1 Michelle Monsegur is introduced as the Deputy TA, she will be taking the lead on the finances allowing Jamie to do other planning and development efforts Discussion on the five year forecast, budget update first view to FinCom altho the Joint Budget did get to see this at their August meeting Health care transition is doing well; there are still funds available for claims processing. claims still coming in but at a lesser amount per week, still may see claims in Feb 2027. Also mentions the 'stop loss' policy to cover claims above a certain amount. Can't really get out of the transition until the next fiscal year. The anti-development message in Franklin has won, the Planning Board is canceling meetings as there is nothing in the pipeline, ZBA also canceling meetings due to lack of proposals Next up, fiscal policies up for review. They should be voted on for an October meeting but this is a time for review, revision if needed. Some are guidelines and not really policies for the flexibility point of view. Add language such that it better defines when the policy can be deviated from Jim Lane provides some of his Franklin story as he is the newest member and what he brings to the Committee Future meetings: Oct 14, Oct 28, and Nov 4, Nov 18 on the tax rate workshops, i.e. split vs single tax rate Joint Budget membership stays the same Motion to adjourn, second, passes 8-0-1 The recording runs about 99 mins, let’s listen -------------- The Franklin TV video is available for replay - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9uWibaiJg9c Agenda doc - https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_09232026-2522 My Notes in one PDF - https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ApqplmawvhJIaayvRjWK7VqY3Vjj_xd8/view?usp=drive_link ------------- 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 And if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach. We’ll share and show you what and how we do what we do 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"

  • #1835
    October 1 · 17 min

    FM #1835 - Children's Museum of Franklin Ribbon Cutting- 09/23/26

    This episode shares the audio recording of the ribbon cutting ceremony for the expansion to include 4,000 sq ft of outdoor space at the Children's Museum of Franklin on Wednesday, September 23, 2026. Meg Hagen and Erin Gallagher, founders/co-owners, get the group’s attention. We’re inside the museum as Cottage St is being ground up to repave so being outside for this speaker part of the ceremony would be a problem. They introduce the remaining speakers. After the speakers are complete, we gather outside for the formal ribbon cutting. The recording runs about 17 minutes, let’s listen in -------------- Children’s Museum of Franklin -> https://www.childrensmuseumfranklin.org/ Video of the ribbon cutting - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H2glv6mMDYk Photos of the event -> -------------- 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 And if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We’ll share and show you what and how we do what we do 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"

  • #1834
    September 30 · 30 min

    FM #1834 - 250th Anniversary Cmte Update to Town Council - 09/16/26

    This session shares key segments of the Franklin (MA) Town Council meeting held on Wednesday, September 16, 2026. The Council held this session as scheduled beginning at 6 PM. 9 members participated in Chambers, 1 left not feeling well. The key segments of the meeting recording are divided into 4 parts Part 1 - Franklin Food Pantry Update - Tina Powderly, Executive Director, Franklin Food Pantry; presentation slides https://photos.app.goo.gl/2f1TjPBcXfMxVthM8 Part 2 - State Rep Roy and Senator Rausch with a legislative update Part 3 - Jen Levine with an update from the SAFE Coalition slides being captured to share via photo album - https://photos.app.goo.gl/1rD2MyGQg6hkdjC97g Part 4 - The 250 anniversary celebration committee, the slides captured https://photos.app.goo.gl/bN3cFQPgHFQLCWm46 Quick Recap: The recap and my notes can be found https://www.franklinmatters.org/2026/09/town-council-approve-west-as-police.html ------------ Follow along with the agenda here https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_09162026-2512 The full meeting is available via the FRANKLIN TV video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UfKg2tTQll8& my notes in one PDF - https://drive.google.com/file/d/1WVXQJLaaFx2VZBVvIaNSlHYpN4KVt1PW/view?usp=drive_link Photos of the recognitions and retirements https://photos.app.goo.gl/zj3u5xQ78VKyvEcs6 ------------- 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 And if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We’ll share and show you what and how we do what we do 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"

  • #1833
    September 29 · 57 min

    FM #1833 - SAFE Coalition Update to Town Council - 09/16/26

    This session shares key segments of the Franklin (MA) Town Council meeting held on Wednesday, September 16, 2026. The Council held this session as scheduled beginning at 6 PM. 9 members participated in Chambers, 1 left not feeling well. The key segments of the meeting recording are divided into 4 parts Part 1 - Franklin Food Pantry Update - Tina Powderly, Executive Director, Franklin Food Pantry; presentation slides https://photos.app.goo.gl/2f1TjPBcXfMxVthM8 Part 2 - State Rep Roy and Senator Rausch with a legislative update Part 3 - Jen Levine with an update from the SAFE Coalition slides being captured to share via photo album - https://photos.app.goo.gl/1rD2MyGQg6hkdjC97g Part 4 - The 250 anniversary celebration committee, the slides captured https://photos.app.goo.gl/bN3cFQPgHFQLCWm46 Quick Recap: The recap and my notes can be found https://www.franklinmatters.org/2026/09/town-council-approve-west-as-police.html ------------ Follow along with the agenda here https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_09162026-2512 The full meeting is available via the FRANKLIN TV video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UfKg2tTQll8& my notes in one PDF - https://drive.google.com/file/d/1WVXQJLaaFx2VZBVvIaNSlHYpN4KVt1PW/view?usp=drive_link Photos of the recognitions and retirements https://photos.app.goo.gl/zj3u5xQ78VKyvEcs6 ------------- 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 And if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We’ll share and show you what and how we do what we do 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"

  • #1832
    September 28 · 1 hr 31 min

    FM #1832 - Rep Roy & Senator Rausch Update to Town Council - 09/16/26

    This session shares key segments of the Franklin (MA) Town Council meeting held on Wednesday, September 16, 2026. The Council held this session as scheduled beginning at 6 PM. 9 members participated in Chambers, 1 left not feeling well. The key segments of the meeting recording are divided into 4 parts Part 1 - Franklin Food Pantry Update - Tina Powderly, Executive Director, Franklin Food Pantry; presentation slides https://photos.app.goo.gl/2f1TjPBcXfMxVthM8 Part 2 - State Rep Roy and Senator Rausch with a legislative update Part 3 - Jen Levine with an update from the SAFE Coalition slides being captured to share via photo album - https://photos.app.goo.gl/1rD2MyGQg6hkdjC97g Part 4 - The 250 anniversary celebration committee, the slides captured https://photos.app.goo.gl/bN3cFQPgHFQLCWm46 Quick Recap: The recap and my notes can be found https://www.franklinmatters.org/2026/09/town-council-approve-west-as-police.html ------------ Follow along with the agenda here https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_09162026-2512 The full meeting is available via the FRANKLIN TV video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UfKg2tTQll8& my notes in one PDF - https://drive.google.com/file/d/1WVXQJLaaFx2VZBVvIaNSlHYpN4KVt1PW/view?usp=drive_link Photos of the recognitions and retirements https://photos.app.goo.gl/zj3u5xQ78VKyvEcs6 ------------- 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 And if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We’ll share and show you what and how we do what we do 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"

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