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 #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
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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.
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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.
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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/
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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
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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.
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Jasonâs campaign page https://poulos.house/
Jasonâs position on many issues https://poulos.house/#issues
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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
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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
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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.
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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
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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/
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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
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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.
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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
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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
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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
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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.
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School budget page - https://www.franklinps.net/documents/about-us/school-district-budget(2)/fy2027-budget/860340
One...
FM #1767 - Chalkboard Chat - 06/16/26
This session shares my conversation with School Committee members Reis Hansen and Stephen Karunakaran. We had our discussion in the Franklin TV & Radio Studio on Tuesday, June 16, 2026.
Our conversation covered the following topics from the School Committee meeting of JUne 9, 2026:
Strawberry Stroll, Kickball Tournament, field day, and other events coming upSuperintendent review and evaluation processFacility updates to get to the redistricting, and next steps this summerWorking group report on artificial intelligenceOur conversation runs about 47 minutes. Letâs listen
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School Committee page (with contact info) - https://www.franklinps.ne...
FM #1766 - Franklin (MA) School Cmte Mtg - 06/09/26
This session shares the Franklin (MA) School Committee meeting held on Tuesday, June 9, 2026 at 7:00 PM. 6 members of the Committee participated, 1 absent.
Quick recap
Presentation and discussion on Facilities focused on school projects completed as part of the redistricting, and those left remaining, some of which are funded, some are pending funding and some are for futurePresentation and discussion on the potential intentional implementation of AI as an educational tool as well as how to use AI being taught to the students. The work over the last four months has developed 4 main principles to guide the further...FM #1765 - School Cmte - Policy Subcmte Mtg - 06/09/26
This session shares the Franklin (MA) School Committee Policy Subcmte meeting held on Tuesday, June 9, 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:
discussion on new policy from DESE on seclusion and isolation needs to amend our current policy for implementation effect Aug 2026grant also received to help with training personnel for implementation. Only 1 of many districts to receive a grant suggestion to remove one line that seems to be duplicate with the paragraph...FM #1764 - State Rep Jeff Roy Explains the Audit Issue - 06/11/26
This session shares my conversation with State Representative Jeffrey Roy. We had our discussion virtually via Zoom on Thursday, June 11, 2026.
We talk about
Background on the audit issueWhat info is available today including annual auditsThe Supreme Judicial Court hearing on the Auditor vs. the Attorney GeneralLegislation enhancing the audit process in light of the decisionRecords request process outlinedThe show notes include links to the presentation doc and supporting material.
The recording runs about 47 minutes, so letâs watch and/or listen in.
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Presentation document...
FM #1763 - FM Weekly Outlook & Lookback Combo - 06/14/26
This episode combines the Franklin Public Radio news briefing spots for the week of June 14, 2026.
The outlook for the week ahead June 14 through June 20, 2026The look back at the week that was June 7 through June 13, 2026--------------
The text and links referenced can be found at Franklin Matters Weekly
https://www.franklinmattersweekly.org/2026/06/the-town-of-franklin-has-fy-2027-budget.html
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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 #1762 - Economic Development Subcmte Mtg - 06/04/26
The Economic Development Subcommittee met on Thursday, June 4, 2026 as scheduled. Committee Vice-Chair Morrongiello, Griffith & Malloy were present for this session, Chair LeBlanc was away.
Quick recap:
Cory Shea to talk about the events, Restaurant Week underway, good social interactions, PorchFest on Saturday June 6, about 50 performers and 30+porches; after the music you can also visit a restaurant as the week ends on Saturday.Tricky trying to put the pieces together from a regional aspect for an international event, lots of connections made, lessons learnedMain St will be closed between St Mary's and the Franklin Federated Church. The...FM #1761 - Franklin (MA) Finance Cmte Mtg - 06/03/26
This session shares the Finance Committee meeting conducted Wednesday, June 3, 2026. The Committee meeting opened with 8 members present, 1 remote. All votes were recorded via roll call.
Quick recap:
Motion to recommend the adjusted FY 2027 budget $ 179,284,565 which uses free cash of $1m plus Second
Clarification on going from $2.1 to $1.1 for use of free cash
Passes 9-0 via roll call
Resolution 26-27 MECC Stabilization Transfer to FY27 Operating Budget
Special purpose fund
Moved, second, passes via roll call 9-0
Resolution 26-28 Salary Schedule: Full Time Elected...
FM #1760 - Inaugural Eddie Grant Kickball - 06/05/26
This episode shares my conversation with one of the founders of Franklin Fathers, Chris Stickney. We recorded in the Franklin TV & Radio studio on Friday, June 5, 2026.
Inaugural Eddie Grant Kickball Tournament, Sunday, June 14, 2026Double elimination, teams of 10Food trucks, refreshments, games for kids & familiesFund raising for Franklin Fathers, the American Legion Post, and the Franklin Food PantryThe conversation runs about 20 minutes, letâs listen in
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Register for the Kickball tournament https://forms.gle/LqbaRKZz3kHYKZ9D7!
Franklin Fathers operates from a Facebook page (for now)
https://ww...
