Franklin Matters Radio
What matters in Franklin MA - we follow the money sharing Town & School meetings, community events, and interviews to enable an informed resident & voter
FM #1807 - School Cmte Mtg - 08/25/26
This session shares the Franklin (MA) School Committee meeting held on Tuesday, August 25, 2026 at 7:00 PM. 6 of the 7 members were present; 1 participated remotely (O'Sullivan) (hence all votes were via roll call), 1 member absent (Callaghan).
Quick recap
New administrators and Central office personnel were introduced and photos taken to share with the communityHuman Resources provided a hiring update, in a better position now with 17 openings than the prior 3 years, some of the openings are in the process of being fulfilledReview of the changes to the school handbooks for the high school, middle school, elementary and ECDC. Mostly minor...FM #1806 - FM Weekly Outlook & Lookback Combo - 08/30/26
This episode combines the Franklin Public Radio news briefing spots for the week of August 30, 2026.
The outlook for the week ahead August 30 through September 5, 2026The look back at the week that was August 23 through August 29, 2026--------------
The text and links referenced can be found at Franklin Matters Weekly
https://www.franklinmattersweekly.org/2026/08/september-opens-with-host-of-meetings.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...
FM #1805 - Voices Of Franklin - 08/18/26
This session shares the Voices of Franklin session held on Tuesday, August 18, 2026 at the Franklin Senior Center. Yes, there can be important conversations between the generations. This shares the first of a series of "Voices of Franklin.â
Coordinated by Franklin Interact Club, Franklin Rotary Club, Franklin Senior Center, and Franklin Recreation. Held at the Franklin Senior Center and the audio recording was made by Franklin TV.
About a dozen seniors and about 15 high school students gathered for a few games, some lunch (and conversation) then, the center piece discussion of the day.
A de...
FM #1804 - Franklin (MA) School Cmte Mtg - 08/11/26
This session shares the Franklin (MA) School Committee meeting held on Tuesday, August 11, 2026 at 7:00 PM. 6 members of the Committee participated, 6 in person, 1 remote.
Quick recap
The Superintendent Report provides updates on multiple items; planning for Sept, transportation, hiring status (positions open, a better view to be provided next time), work on facilities progressing. Ms Melotti out on maternity leave, Dr Bob Dutch back to fill in while she is out, important school start dates on webpage - https://www.franklinps.net/o/fpsd/page/school-calendars/ Joint presentation and updates on summer learning from Student Services and...FM #1803 - Franklin Senior Center Sept 2026 Event Highlights - 08/19/26
This session shares my conversation with Chasity Cheng, Deputy Director and Jillian Rochat, Activities Coordinator. We had our discussion in the Franklin Senior Center on Wednesday, August 19, 2026.
We talk about
All the key event highlights for Sept 2026Change in fitness class on Tue/Thu to ensure safety of participants, limited to first 35 Senior Center Yard Sale - Saturday, Sept 12Nominations for Stella Jeon Silver Spirit Award close Sept 22First Senior Center Art Gallery - Sep 24Senior Expo scheduled for Oct 2, programs canceled for the afternoon of Oct 1 to prepare for the ExpoThe show...
FM #1802 - Franklin Public Library Sept 2026 Event Highlights - 08/22/26
This session shares my conversation with Mitzi Gousie, Programming and Outreach Librarian with the Franklin Public Library. We had our discussion virtually on Saturday, August 22, 2026.
We talk about
Reviewed the regular open hours, book sale and holiday scheduling for the monthSunday hours (1:30 to 5 PM) return on September 13Book sale weekend Sep 18 & Sep 19 Library event highlights for September 2026In calendar order rather than by category this time aroundRegistration for those events required should be done through the Town website, Library page. There are nefarious folks trying to convince folks otherwise via Facebook...
FM #1801 - FM Weekly Outlook & Lookback Combo - 08/23/26
This episode combines the Franklin Public Radio news briefing spots for the week of August 23, 2026.
The outlook for the week ahead August 23 through August 29, 2026The look back at the week that was August 16 through August 22, 2026--------------
The text and links referenced can be found at Franklin Matters Weekly
https://www.franklinmattersweekly.org/2026/08/last-week-of-august-light-on-meetings.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...
FM #1800 - Talk Franklin - 08 /17/26
This session of the radio show shares our âTalk Franklinâ discussion with Town Administrator Jamie Hellen. We recorded our conversation virtually via Zoom on Monday, August 17, 2026.
Key topics
Mid-summer statusTown Council & contract extensionA validated budget for FY 2027Joint Budget working on a strategyMore topics comingSept 2Town available land and facilitiesSept 16Legislative update with Senator Rausch & Rep RoyPresentations by Food Pantry, SAFE Coalition, 250th CelebrationSept 3Police station building committeeEconomic Development Split tax workshopsUMass students study on downtownThe recording runs about 37 minutes. Letâs listen to our conversation.
--------------
Town of Frankl...
FM #1799 - FM Weekly Outlook & Lookback Combo - 08/16/26
This episode combines the Franklin Public Radio news briefing spots for the week of August 16, 2026.
The outlook for the week ahead August 16 through August 22, 2026The look back at the week that was August 9 through August 15, 2026--------------
The text and links referenced can be found at Franklin Matters Weekly
https://www.franklinmattersweekly.org/2026/08/a-relatively-quiet-week-ahead-lets.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...
FM #1798 - Talking With Super Kids - 08/04/26
Two young authors came to the Franklin TV & Radio Studio on Tuesday, August 4, 2026 to talk about their new book, âSuper Kidsâ. You get to meet TJ Bowser and Christopher Charles and hear their story about this book, the first of a series.
We talk about
Their goalTheir collaborative writing processAnd to ânot give upâOur conversation runs about 15 minutes.
â-----------
You can buy the book on Amazon
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0H6CN33PZ
The book/authors website https://sites.google.com/view/superkids-book/super-kids...
FM #1797 - Franklin (MA) Town Council Mtg - 08/12/26
This session shares the Franklin (MA) Town Council meeting held on Wednesday, August 12, 2026. The Council conducted this session as scheduled beginning at 6 PM. All 9 members participated in Chambers.
The Council voted to enter Executive Session immediately and about 4 hours later returned to open session, voting to return to open session before the recording was enabled.
This post Executive Session portion was successfully broadcast to cable subscribers and to YouTube but unavailable for Zoom.
Recap:
There was only one action item on the agenda, to negotiate the Town Administrator contract in Executive...
FM #1796 - Franklin (MA) School Cmte - Policy Subcmte Mtg - 08/11/26
This session shares the Franklin (MA) School Committee Policy Subcmte meeting held on Tuesday, August 11, 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 and Paula Marano also participated.
Quick recap:
comment for discussion on page 3 of the restraint policy, suggestion to better clarify the separation of what is or isn't allowed by state and or here in Franklin; should be run by P Marano to confirm discussion on proposed adult meal price from $4.75 to $5.75at FHS higher utilization and a good...FM #1795 - Horace Mann Legacy Subcmte Mtg - 08/10/26
This session shares the exclusive audio from the Horace Mann Legacy Subcommittee Meeting held on Monday, August 10, 2026. The meeting was held in the 3rd floor training room.
The recording runs about 75 minutes, so letâs listen in.
--------------
Meeting agenda
https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_08042026-2436
My notes in one PDF
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1w37wBgM4rHwGkXX5ZF6Kdod5ujkWMLXR/view?usp=drive_link
Horace Mann Statue unveiled in 2017. The dedication post contains the audio of the event, including the FS...
FM #1794 - FM Weekly Outlook & Lookback Combo - 08/09/26
This episode combines the Franklin Public Radio news briefing spots for the week of August 9, 2026.
The outlook for the week ahead August 9 through August 15, 2026The look back at the week that was August 2 through August 8, 2026--------------
The text and links referenced can be found at Franklin Matters Weekly
https://www.franklinmattersweekly.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...
FM #1793 - Franklin Commission On Disability Mtg - 08/06/26
This episode shares the Franklin Commission on Disability Meeting held on August 6, 2026 at the Franklin Senior Center. 8 of the 9 members were present, (M Furilla absent).
Quick recap:
Discussion brainstorming ideas for potential use of their annual budget along with the use of the fees accumulated from parking fines paid by those violating accessibility spaces.Approved use of funds ($100) to obtain membership in Downtown Partnership to gain booth space for the Harvest FestivalDiscussion on purchase of Disability Pride Flag, would also need to adjust the current flag bylaw (https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/1107/2024-Town-Council-Flag-Policy-PDF?bidId=)Discussion...FM #1792 - Economic Development Subcmte Mtg - 08/04/26
The Economic Development Subcommittee met on Tuesday, August 4, 2026 as scheduled. Committee Chair LeBlanc, members Morrongiello, Malloy & Griffith were present for this session.
Quick recap:
Discussion and update on the UMass Boston study of downtown to be conducted over 2 semesters of the college year. Final number of students involved to be determined when classes begin in September. Coordinate to have them meet the Committee (either in person, or virtually) early one (Sept or October).update: the Depot Plaza hearing at the Planning Board has changed from 8/10 to 8/24. the application was withdrawn for a technical change and resubmitted...FM #1791 - Franklin Interact - 08/03/26
This session shares my conversation with Syed Azhar of the Franklin Interact Club on Monday, August 3, 2026. Our conversation was conducted in the Franklin TV & Radio studios.
The Franklin Interact Club is a service club for teens (high school & middle school) in the Franklin area sponsored by the Franklin Rotary. You must be a Franklin resident and between the ages of 12 to 18 to be a member.
The show notes provide links to their web page, social accounts, email, etc.
Special event at the Senior Center, Tuesday, August 18
Coordinated with Franklin Recreation and the...FM #1790 - FM Weekly Outlook & Lookback Combo - 08/02/26
This episode combines the Franklin Public Radio news briefing spots for the week of August 2, 2026.
The outlook for the week ahead August 2 through August 8, 2026The look back at the week that was July 26 through August 1, 2026--------------
The text and links referenced can be found at Franklin Matters Weekly
https://www.franklinmattersweekly.org/2026/08/another-short-list-of-meetings-yet.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...
FM #1789 -Jason Poulos Candidate 4th Congressional District - 07/27/26
This session shares my conversation with Jason Poulos, candidate for the 4th Congressional District in the September Democratic Primary. We had our discussion virtually on Monday, July 27, 2026.
We talk about
Jasonâs background and reason to runWe cover issues like
AI and jobsData center control measuresVoting rightsMedicare for allIncreasing affordable housingThe recording runs about 36 minutes, so letâs listen in.
--------------
Jasonâs campaign page https://poulos.house/
Jasonâs position on many issues https://poulos.house/#issues
-------------
We are n...
FM #1788 - Excess Sewer Capcity segment at the Town Council Mtg - 07/22/26
This session shares the Franklin (MA) Town Council meeting held on Wednesday, July 22, 2026. The Council held this session as scheduled beginning at 6 PM. All 9 members participated in Chambers. The Council voted to extend the meeting 1 hour and fortunately finished before that time.
The full meeting can be viewed on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mliO20lR8Cc
The three key sections of presentation & discussion are shared via audio here:
1788 - Excess Sewer Capacity presentation from Charles River, including Medway & Millis representatives as well as the extended discussion to be continued Sept 2...
FM #1787 - 300 Fisher St segment of the Town Council Mtg- 07/22/26
This session shares the Franklin (MA) Town Council meeting held on Wednesday, July 22, 2026. The Council held this session as scheduled beginning at 6 PM. All 9 members participated in Chambers. The Council voted to extend the meeting 1 hour and fortunately finished before that time.
The full meeting can be viewed on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mliO20lR8Cc
The three key sections of presentation & discussion are shared via audio here:
1787 - The 300 Fisher St presentation by the EPA and resulting discussion. The recording runs about 54 minutes
b. 300 Fisher Street
<...FM #1786 - FY 2025 Audit Report at the Town Council Mtg - 07/22/26
This session shares the Franklin (MA) Town Council meeting held on Wednesday, July 22, 2026. The Council held this session as scheduled beginning at 6 PM. All 9 members participated in Chambers. The Council voted to extend the meeting 1 hour and fortunately finished before that time.
The full meeting can be viewed on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mliO20lR8Cc
The three key sections of presentation & discussion are shared via audio here:
1786 - The FY 25 Audit report presentation and discussion. The recording runs about 25 minutes.
11. PRESENTATIONS / DISCUSSION -
a. Presentation...
FM #1785 - Franklin (MA) Library Events for August 2026 - 07/21/26
This session shares my conversation with Mitzi Gousie, Programming and Outreach Librarian with the Franklin Public Library. We had our discussion virtually on Tuesday, July 21, 2026.
We talk about
Reviewed the regular open hours, book sale and holiday scheduling for the monthBook sale weekend Aug 14 & Aug 15 Library events for August 2026In calendar order rather than by category this time aroundRegistration 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.
<...FM #1784 - Economic Development Subcmte Mtg - 07/23/26
The Economic Development Subcommittee met on Thursday, June 23, 2026 as scheduled. Committee Chair LeBlanc, members Morrongiello, Malloy were present for this session, Griffith was absent.
Quick recap:
Director of Assessors Kevin Doyle read a prepared statement for the record outlining the assessment processQuestions from the committee membersthe focus of the discussion on new growth is due to its impact on the financial revenue available above 2.5% (and the levy limit)really to better understand the valuation process and how to make improvements as possiblequestion on a possible timeline for a permit through to the assessment and re-evaluation; response...FM #1783 - FM Weekly Outlook & Lookback Combo - 07/26/26
This episode combines the Franklin Public Radio news briefing spots for the week of July 26, 2026.
The outlook for the week ahead July 26 through August 1, 2026The look back at the week that was July 19 through July 25, 2026--------------
The text and links referenced can be found at Franklin Matters Weekly
https://www.franklinmattersweekly.org/2026/07/only-2-meetings-this-coming-week-gives.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...
FM #1782 - Town Council Communications Subcmte Mtg - 07/15/26
This session shares the Town Council Communications Subcommittee Meeting. The meeting was held in the Council Chambers at the Municipal Building on Wednesday, July 15, 2026.
Subcommittee Chair Caroline Griffith, members Jane Callaway-Tripp, Max Morrongiello, and Gene Grella also participated. Town Administrator Jamie Hellen, Operations Manager Julie McCann and Director of Communications & Community Engagement Liz Kalaijian participated.
Quick recap:
The joint email response policy was approved by the subcommittee to bring to the full Council as amended (4-0 vote)The vote on social media guidelines for elected & appointed officials as amended was also approved to send...FM #1781 - Franklin (MA) School Cmte Mtg - 06/23/26
This session shares the Franklin (MA) School Committee meeting held on Tuesday, June 23, 2026 at 7:00 PM. 6 members of the Committee participated, 5 in person, 1 remote, and 1 absent.
Quick recap
After opening the meeting, the Committee entered Executive Session for about 15 minutes returning to open session. In open session, they voted to approve Cafeteria Workers, Secretaries and Van Drivers Unions Contracts by a 6-0-1 roll call vote (1 absent)Voted to send policy JKAA - Prevention Criteria for use of Physical Restraint, Seclusion and Time-outs for Students to a second reading, via 6-0-1 roll call vote (1 absent)Voted...FM #1780 - Franklin Senior Ctr - August 2026 Highlights - 07/22/26
This session shares my conversation with Jillian Rochat, Activities Coordinator. We had our discussion in the Franklin TV Studio on Wednesday, July 22, 2026.
We talk about
All the key event highlights for August 2026Nominations for Stella Jeon Silver Spirit Award opens August 3 2 more dates for the summer concerts in August; the 3rd and the 10thFirst Senior Center Art Gallery - Sep 24Senior Expo scheduled for Oct 2The show notes include links to the Senior Center page, the calendar of events, and to subscribe to the monthly newsletter.
The recording runs about 27 minutes, so...
FM #1779 - FM Weekly Outlook & Lookback Combo - 07/19/26
This episode combines the Franklin Public Radio news briefing spots for the week of July 19, 2026.
The outlook for the week ahead July 19 through July 25, 2026The look back at the week that was July 12 through July 18, 2026--------------
The text and links referenced can be found at Franklin Matters Weekly
https://www.franklinmattersweekly.org/2026/07/design-review-meeting-scheduled-to.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...
FM #1778 - Horace Mann Legacy Mtg - 07/13/26
This session shares the exclusive audio from the Horace Mann Legacy Subcommittee Meeting held on Monday, July 13, 2026. The meeting was held in the 3rd floor training room.
The recording runs about 62 minutes, so letâs listen in.
--------------
Meeting agenda
https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_07132026-2401
My notes in one PDF
https://drive.google.com/file/d/11J-yJbzxMfv9e7G0IOUHFQ_Ouj6Q5xY9/view?usp=drive_link
Horace Mann trifold used beginning at Strawberry Stroll
https://drive.google.com/file/d...
FM #1777 - FM Weekly Outlook & Lookback Combo - 07/12/26
This episode combines the Franklin Public Radio news briefing spots for the week of July 12, 2026.
The outlook for the week ahead July 12 through July 18, 2026The look back at the week that was July 5 through July 11, 2026--------------
The text and links referenced can be found at Franklin Matters Weekly
https://www.franklinmattersweekly.org/2026/07/light-meeting-schedule-continues-week.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...
FM #1776 - Franklin Public Library July 2026 Highlights - 06/23/26
This session shares my conversation with Mitzi Gousie, Programming and Outreach Librarian with the Franklin Public Library. We had our discussion virtually on Tuesday, June 23, 2026.
We talk about
Reviewed the regular open hours, book sale and holiday scheduling for the monthLimited services during regular hours on Friday, July 3Closed all day Saturday, July 4 for the holiday Library events for July 2026In calendar order rather than by category this time aroundNote: Updated after we recorded this, the Sunday hours will return in September 2026.
Registration for those events required should be done through...
FM #1775 - FM Weekly Outlook & Lookback Combo - 07/05/26
This episode combines the Franklin Public Radio news briefing spots for the week of July 5, 2026.
The outlook for the week ahead July 5 through July 11, 2026The look back at the week that was June 28 through July 4, 2026--------------
The text and links referenced can be found at Franklin Matters Weekly
https://www.franklinmattersweekly.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...
FM #1774 - FM Weekly Outlook & Lookback Combo - 06/28/26
This episode combines the Franklin Public Radio news briefing spots for the week of June 28, 2026.
The outlook for the week ahead June 28 through July 4, 2026The look back at the week that was June 21 through June 27, 2026--------------
The text and links referenced can be found at Franklin Matters Weekly
https://www.franklinmattersweekly.org/2026/06/franklin-is-off-to-great-start-to.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...
FM #1773 - Franklin Senior Ctr - July 2026 Highlights - 06/17/26
This session shares my conversation with Jillian Rochat, Activities Coordinator. We had our discussion in the Franklin TV Studio on Wednesday, June 17, 2026.
We talk about
All the key event highlights for July 2026Senior Center closed Friday, July 3 for the 4th of JulyDates for the summer concerts on select Mondays in July/AugustThe show notes include links to the Senior Center page, the calendar of events, and to subscribe to the monthly newsletter.
The recording runs about 29 minutes, so letâs listen in.
--------------
Franklin Senior Center page ->...
FM #1772 - Franklin (MA) Town Council Mtg - 06/17/26
This session shares the Franklin (MA) Town Council meeting held on Wednesday, June 17, 2026. The Council held this session as scheduled beginning at 6 PM. All 9 members participated in Chambers.
The meeting recording runs about 1 hours and 40 minutes
--------------
Franklin TV video available for replay - https://www.youtube.com/live/7ofs1YHsfj8?&t=66
The agenda and documents released for this session - https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_06172026-2368
My notes in one PDF - https://drive.google.com/file/d/1RUd2GRsw73fPm4FS9hC690X-hR_aIM4s...
FM #1771 - Franklin (MA) Town Council Mtg - 06/10/26
This session shares the Franklin (MA) Town Council meeting held on Wednesday, June 10, 2026. The Council held this session as scheduled beginning at 6 PM. All 9 members participated in Chambers.
The meeting recording runs about 4 hours and 45 minutes
--------------
Franklin TV video is available for replay https://www.youtube.com/live/qrKpQCBSomk?&t=170
The agenda and associated materials can be found - https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_06102026-2357
My notes in one PDF can be found - https://drive.google.com...
FM #1770 - FM Weekly Outlook & Lookback Combo - 06/21/26
This episode combines the Franklin Public Radio news briefing spots for the week of June 21, 2026.
The outlook for the week ahead June 21 through June 27, 2026The look back at the week that was June 14 through June 20, 2026--------------
The text and links referenced can be found at Franklin Matters Weekly
https://www.franklinmattersweekly.org/2026/06/the-budget-is-behind-us-summer-is.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...
FM #1769 - Town Council Quarterbacking - 06/18/26
This session of the radio show shares our âTown Council Quarterbackingâ with Town Councilor Michael LeBlanc. We had our conversation in person at the Franklin TV & Radio Studios on Thursday, June 18, 2026. Our conversation condensed the Town Council meetings of June 17 and June 10, 2026. Yes, in reverse order.
We focus on two questions:
ok, what just happened? What does it mean for Franklin residents and taxpayers?We cover the following key topics
June 17 meetingSwearing of backfill new hiresBudget closeout for FY 2026June 10FY 2027 budget approved by 6-3 voteCapital budget approved by 9-0CPA funding approved 7-2 v...FM #1768 - Franklin Public Schools 2025-26 School Year Closeout - 06/15/26
This session of the radio show shares my discussion with School Superintendent Lucas Giguere and Operations Director Colin Boisvert. We recorded our conversation in the FPS Central office conference room on Monday, June 15, 2026.
Key topics
Closing out the 2025-2026 school yearSchool budget complete, summer work back to ânormalâSummer projects across the schools to get ready for SeptemberReflections on last summer, plans for summer 2026The recording runs about 35 minutes. Letâs listen to our conversation.
--------------
School budget page - https://www.franklinps.net/documents/about-us/school-district-budget(2)/fy2027-budget/860340
One...
