Franklin Town public meetings in 2025

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will consider a draft decision to deny a building permit for a proposed 264-unit multi-family development at 444 East Central Street, because the applicant lacks a required Comprehensive Permit from the ZBA. The board will also hear citizen comments and approve prior meeting minutes.

• 6:30 PM hearing on 444 East Central Street (TAG Central LLC) — applicant seeks building permit for 264-unit multi-family development; draft decision to deny permit without a Comprehensive Permit from the ZBA

Pole Petition Hearing

The Town Administrator will hold a public hearing on December 22, 2025, regarding National Grid and Verizon's petition to install a new joint pole (Plan #31043119) at 740 King Street, Franklin, MA. The hearing allows abutters and citizens to comment on the proposed installation.

• Public hearing on pole petition for new joint pole #71-50 at 740 King Street
• Proposed pole location about 80 feet southwest of existing pole #71 at 740 King Street
• Hearing conducted by Town Administrator via Zoom and in-person at Municipal Building

Charles River Pollution Control District (CRPCD)

The Charles River Pollution Control District will discuss the final 2025 NPDES permit. The board may vote on whether to file an appeal concerning the permit’s summer flow limit of 4.5 MGD.

• Update and discussion on the Final 2025 NPDES Permit
• Potential vote to file an appeal of the Final 2025 NPDES Permit regarding the Summer Flow Limit of 4.5 MGD

Legal Notices

The Town Administrator will hold a public hearing on December 22, 2025, regarding a joint pole petition from National Grid and Verizon to install a new utility pole approximately 80 feet southwest of the existing pole at 740 King Street. The hearing is open to in-person and remote participation via Zoom. The petition is filed under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 166, Section 22.

• Public hearing on pole petition Plan #31043119
• Proposal: Install new JO Pole #71-50 near 740 King Street
• Parties: National Grid and Verizon New England, Inc.
• Remote participation available via Zoom (ID: 878 0083 4636)
• More info: Franklinma.gov or 508-520-4949

School Committee

The Horace Mann Legacy Sub Committee will discuss and vote on a proposed community engagement framework, including an outreach letter and survey, to guide public participation. The meeting also includes a review of the subcommittee's advisory role and a discussion of inclusive outreach strategies.

• Action item: Vote on proposed outreach letter and survey for community participation
• Discussion of criteria and principles for community member participation
• Review of subcommittee charge and advisory relationship to School Committee
• Proposed timeline for outreach and selection of community participants

Council on Aging

The Franklin Council on Aging will meet to discuss committee membership, board meeting times, and a new member's welcome. The agenda includes a report on a $21,725.73 estate donation and reviews of senior center policies.

• Estate donation of $21,725.73
• Welcome of new board member Kit Brady
• Discussion of committee membership and board meeting times
• Review of Senior Center Policies & Procedures
• Invitation for new housing director to speak in January

Franklin's 250th Anniversary Celebration Committee

The Franklin 250th Anniversary Celebration Committee will vote on creating subcommittees for OML compliance, branding/communication, events, and budgeting/fundraising. They will also discuss gala and parade dates, review the first two sections of the FY26 budget, and consider JC survey results. Future meeting cadence and location will be determined.

• Vote on creating subcommittees: OML Compliance, Branding/Communication, Events (Gala, Parade), Budgeting/Fundraising
• Discussion of gala dates and parade/fireworks date
• Review of first two sections of FY26 budget by Branding/Communication subcommittee
• Review of JC survey results
• Discussion of FY26 budget by Budgeting/Fundraising subcommittee

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will meet to review a variance request for a property at 33 Elm Street. The applicant is seeking to build a home that does not meet minimum frontage and side yard setback requirements.

• Variance request for 33 Elm Street regarding 123.92’ of frontage (200’ required) and a 26.5’ right side yard setback (40’ required)

Town Council

The Town Council will vote on Resolution 25-83 to accept gifts totaling $113,509.35 for the Veterans Services, Senior Center, and Police departments. They will also discuss the snow removal plan, social equity policy, town charter, and a citizen satisfaction survey indicating the town is headed in the wrong direction. Annual alcohol license renewals for 2026 and a Council on Aging appointment are also on the agenda.

• Resolution 25-83: Accept gifts for Veterans Services ($91,072.88), Senior Center ($21,725.73), Police Dept. ($710.74)
• Annual alcohol license renewals for 2026 (attached list)
• Snow presentation by DPW Director Brutus Cantoreggi and Highway/Grounds Superintendent Carlos Rebelo
• Discussion of citizen satisfaction survey showing the town is headed in the wrong direction
• Appointment of Christopher (Kit) Brady to the Council on Aging

Franklin's 250th Anniversary Celebration Committee

The 250th Anniversary Celebration Committee will hear announcements from the executive committee, including a brief review of a meeting with the town attorney. The subcommittee will then discuss identifying items for the FY26 $50,000 earmark and prepare a presentation for the full committee meeting scheduled for December 18, 2025.

• Announcements from the executive committee, including review of town attorney meeting
• Identify items for the FY26 $50K earmark
• Prepare presentation for full committee meeting on 12/18

Design Review Commission

The Design Review Commission will review new business items including a Taco Bell at 420 West Central Street and Pour Richards at 835 West Central Street. The commission will also consider officer appointments, propose meeting dates for 2026, and approve minutes from November 25, 2025.

• 420 West Central Street – Taco Bell design review
• 835 West Central Street – Pour Richards design review
• Officer appointments
• 2026 proposed meeting dates
• Meeting minutes approval (November 25, 2025)

Franklin's 250th Anniversary Celebration Committee

The Subcommittee on Events & Logistics is meeting to review the second draft of the overall event calendar. The group will discuss specific plans for galas, a parade, and firework displays to prepare a presentation for the full committee on December 18.

• Review of event calendar draft from 12/4 meeting
• Discussion of galas, parade, and firework displays
• Review of Town Attorney guidance regarding subcommittees

School Committee

The Franklin School Committee's Community Relations Sub Committee will meet virtually to discuss its purpose, review previous activities, and plan for the January meeting. No votes or concrete decisions are expected; the meeting is administrative and procedural.

• Discussion of committee purpose and previous activities
• Planning for January 2026 meeting

Planning Board

The Franklin Planning Board will hold a public hearing on a special permit and site plan application for GlenPharmer, LLC at 860-862 West Central Street. A continued hearing for the definitive subdivision at 47 Partridge Street (Donovan Estates) is also on the agenda. The board will also consider endorsement for 380 King Street and approve prior meeting minutes.

• Public hearing: Special permit & site plan for 860-862 West Central St (GlenPharmer, LLC)
• Continued hearing: Definitive subdivision at 47 Partridge Street (Donovan Estates)
• Endorsement of 380 King Street
• Approval of minutes from November 3 and November 17, 2025

Legal Notices

The Franklin Planning Board will hold a public hearing regarding a Special Permit and Site Plan submitted by GlenPharma, LLC. The request concerns sign illumination at 860-862 West Central St.

• Special Permit and Site Plan for 860-862 West Central St
• Special Permit request under Chapter 185-20 (c)(3) Signs-Illumination

Municipal Affordable Housing Trust

The Franklin Municipal Affordable Housing Trust board will appoint officers, hear two presentations, and consider motions to use Trust funds for projects at 30 Palomino Drive and 24 Shayne Road. The meeting will also set proposed dates for 2026 meetings and review minutes from prior sessions.

• Officer appointments
• Presentation on South Franklin Congregational Meeting House project by Kimberley Thomas, CEO of Old Colony Habitat for Humanity
• Presentation on new affordable housing resale forms and process by Morena Zelaya, Director of Planning & Community Development
• Motions to use Trust funds for 30 Palomino Drive and 24 Shayne Road
• Adoption of 2026 proposed meeting dates

Charles River Pollution Control District (CRPCD)

The Charles River Pollution Control District will consider approving third quarter operations, maintenance, and capital project assessments totaling $950,020. The board will also review preliminary FY 2027 budget estimates and a copper evaluation report.

• Approval of FY 2026 assessments: Franklin ($553,510), Medway ($198,050), Millis ($114,170), and Bellingham ($84,290)
• Update on Preliminary Estimates for FY 2027 Budget
• Approval of Warrant 26-06
• Engineer's update on Copper Evaluation
• Report on November 2025 sewer connections in Bellingham and Millis

Cultural District Committee

The committee will review and approve previous meeting minutes, receive updates on the MCC FY2026 Cultural District Investment Grant status, a proposed outdoor gallery, a potential Wind Phone location, and Artsy Box maintenance. The Department of Arts, Culture & Creative Economy will provide final details for the A-Wreath-of-Franklin event and discuss language for cultural investment grants. Unfinished and new business sections are listed but contain no specific items.

• Review and approval of November 24, 2025 meeting minutes
• MCC FY2026 Cultural District Investment Grant Status update
• FCD Outdoor Gallery Proposal
• Wind Phone – potential location discussion
• A-Wreath-of-Franklin final update before event on 12/13/25

Benjamin Franklin Classical Charter Public School

The Board of Trustees will meet to review and vote on minutes from the November 3 meeting. The session includes updates from the Executive Director, faculty representative, and BFEF, followed by committee reports and an executive session.

• Vote on meeting minutes from 11/3

Historical Commission

The Franklin Historical Commission will discuss rules for the museum to earn money, following a Dec. 9 meeting with Kerri Bertone and Linda Darling, and a partnership with Dean College Business School for business planning. Other topics include ADA access matching funds, exhibit updates, and events for 2026.

• Update on Dec. 9 meeting with Kerri Bertone and Linda Darling to establish rules for museum revenue generation
• Dean College Business School to assist museum with business planning and development in spring semester
• Commissioner Jamie open to seeking matching funds for ADA access at the museum
• Plans to boost Revolution and Horace Mann stories starting in 2026
• Music programs and ongoing exhibit updates scheduled for 2026

The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the December 10, 2025 meeting. It accepted a new exhibit procedure, approved changes to the Old Congregational Meeting House, and voted to deaccession a paper cutter, an old television, and red TJ Maxx display cabinets. The meeting was adjourned unanimously at 7:03 PM.

• Approved December 10, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted new exhibit procedure (unanimous)
• Accepted changes to Old Congregational Meeting House (unanimous)
• Deaccessioned large paper cutter, old television, and red TJ Maxx display cabinets (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will meet to discuss a Technology Capital presentation by Technology Director Tim Rapoza. The body will also approve minutes from the October 22, 2025, meeting and plan future agenda items.

• Technology Capital Presentation by Tim Rapoza
• Approval of October 22, 2025 meeting minutes
• Discussion of January 14, 2026 meeting regarding the economics of development
• Scheduling of Budget Hearings for April 6, 7, 8, and 9, 2026

The Finance Committee approved the minutes from the October 22 2025 meeting by unanimous roll‑call vote. The committee then adjourned the meeting, also by unanimous vote. No other motions were voted on; a technology department presentation was given and future agenda dates were set.

• Approved October 22, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

School Committee

The Franklin School Committee will consider approving capital requests and endorsing a Chapter 70 funding letter. A budget update and enrollment snapshot are also presented. The committee will vote on accepting gifts totaling $2,664.58 and approving a new student activity account.

• Vote on capital requests for approval (no dollar amount specified)
• Endorsement of the FPS Chapter 70 Funding Letter
• Budget update from the Office of Student Services program model
• Acceptance of $2,525.00 gift from Lincoln Street PCC for field trips
• FHS enrollment snapshot and monthly financial report

School Committee

The Franklin School Committee Budget Subcommittee will meet to preview the FY27 budget. This is a preliminary discussion of the upcoming fiscal year's school spending plan. No formal votes are anticipated at this meeting.

• Preview of the FY27 school budget

School Committee

The Policy Subcommittee is meeting to review school policies and procedures. The committee will discuss new policy revisions regarding MS CTE and ECDC tuition fees.

• Review of approved policies IKE (Graduation Requirements) and IKFE (Competency Determination)
• Discussion of new policy revision: MS CTE
• Discussion of new policy revision: ECDC Tuition Fees

Housing Authority

The Franklin Housing Authority will hear updates on the Norfolk HA laundry room/office project and recent maintenance staff hires. Commissioners will also receive a report on insurance for safety consultation services and approve the 2026 meeting schedule.

• Laundry room construction 100% complete; office portion not started
• One maintenance staff hired December 8; second starts December 22
• Safety consultation services provided by Worcester Housing Authority, pending insurance response
• Christmas Luncheon scheduled December 11, 12:00-2:00pm
• Annual Plan meeting set for January 12, 2026

The Franklin Housing Authority Board approved the meeting minutes from November 10, 2025, the November 2025 accounts payable of $148,294.11, and credit‑card purchases of $842.24. The Board also accepted the Director’s Report and the October 2025 operating statements. The meeting was adjourned at 5:21 PM.

• Approved November 10, 2025 meeting minutes (all in favor)
• Approved November 2025 accounts payable of $148,294.11 (all in favor)
• Approved November 2025 credit‑card purchases of $842.24 (all in favor)
• Accepted Director’s Report as presented (all in favor)
• Accepted October 2025 operating statements as presented (all in favor)
• Adjourned the regular meeting at 5:21 PM (all in favor)

Franklin's 250th Anniversary Celebration Committee

The Franklin 250th Anniversary Celebration Committee will approve the November 20, 2025 meeting minutes and discuss feedback on its mission/vision draft. Subcommittees will report on branding, communication, budgeting, and fundraising efforts. The meeting also includes announcements, future agenda planning, and member comments.

• Approval of minutes from the November 20, 2025 meeting
• Discussion of feedback on the mission/vision draft
• Branding/Communication subcommittee report on brand framing, survey, website domain and WIX plan
• Budgeting/Fundraising subcommittee report
• Announcements and planning of future agenda items

The 250th Anniversary Celebration Committee unanimously approved the November 20, 2025 minutes. The draft mission and vision document was approved by vote, with members suggesting minor additions and revisions. No other substantive actions were decided at this meeting.

• Approved November 20, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved draft mission/vision document (vote)

Franklin Commission on Disability

The Franklin Commission on Disability will narrow its top two goals from a list of intentions, events, and education. Members will also discuss updates to a resource document and an 'Accessibility in Franklin' document, adding more locations. New business includes reviewing Massachusetts Office on Disability trainings and a new Architectural Access Board noncompliance notice.

• Narrow down COD goals to top two priorities
• Discuss updates to Resource document (check links and phone numbers)
• Add more locations to 'Accessibility in Franklin' document
• Review Massachusetts Office on Disability (MOD) trainings and recordings
• Review new Architectural Access Board noncompliance notice

The Franklin Commission on Disability accepted the prior meeting minutes and discussed plans for 2026, including education, training, and event participation. They updated resource contacts and noted a new mailbox at town hall. No motions were voted on or formal actions approved.

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will consider an application for a building permit for a 264-unit multi-family development at 444 East Central Street. The building permit has been denied without a Comprehensive Permit from the ZBA. The meeting will be held remotely with no public participation allowed.

• 444 East Central Street – TAG Central LLC seeks a building permit for a 264-unit multi-family development; permit denied without a Comprehensive Permit from the ZBA

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will consider a request from TAG Central LLC for a Comprehensive Permit. This permit is required after a building permit for a 264-unit multi-family development was denied.

• Comprehensive Permit application for 264-unit multi-family development at 444 East Central Street by TAG Central LLC

The board approved the November 20, 2025 meeting minutes unanimously (Acevedo‑YES; Lang‑YES; Hunchard‑YES). The building permit for the 264‑unit development at 444 East Central Street was denied because a comprehensive permit has not been issued. The board also approved a motion to require fully shielded cut‑off luminaires with a maximum color temperature of 3,000 K (Acevedo‑YES; Lang‑YES; Hunchard‑YES).

• Approved November 20, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Denied building permit for 264‑unit project at 444 East Central St (no vote recorded)
• Approved lighting condition: fully shielded downlights ≤3000 K (unanimous)

Town Council

The Council holds a public hearing on the FY26 property tax classification and votes on five resolutions to set the residential factor, open space exemption, small business exemption, residential property exemption, and senior means tested exemption. The proposed tax rate drops from $11.62 to $11.42 per $1,000, while the average single-family assessment rises to $731,400. The Council also considers appointments to the 250th Anniversary Celebration Committee and receives a five-year fiscal forecast.

• Resolution 25-76: Set residential factor (proposed at 1.0)
• Resolution 25-77: Decide on open space exemption
• Resolution 25-78: Decide on small business exemption
• Resolution 25-79: Decide on residential property exemption
• Resolution 25-80: Decide on senior means tested exemption

The council ratified the appointment of Maureen Brennan as a member of Franklin’s 250th Anniversary Celebration Committee, with a vote of 9‑0. The council also ratified the committee’s officer slate—Jayson Joyce as chair, Robert Browne as vice chair, Alan Earls as clerk, and Charleen Belcher as treasurer—by a 9‑0 vote.

• Appointed Maureen Brennan to 250th Anniversary Celebration Committee (9-0)
• Ratified officers for committee: Jayson Joyce chair, Robert Browne vice chair, Alan Earls clerk, Charleen Belcher treasurer (9-0)

Board of Health

The Board of Health will hold a public hearing on proposed amendments to regulations restricting the sale of tobacco products. The board will also discuss oral nicotine pouches and set meeting dates for 2026. Citizen comments and approval of previous minutes are also on the agenda.

• Public hearing on Restricting the Sale of Tobacco Products Regulations amendments
• Discussion of oral nicotine pouches
• Set Board of Health meeting dates for 2026
• Reports from Metacomet shared service grant regional health agent and public health nurse
• Approval of November 5, 2025 minutes

The Board of Health approved the November 5, 2025 minutes with amendment. It accepted the 2026 meeting dates, opened and later closed a public hearing, and adopted proposed amendments to tobacco regulations that set distance limits for permit holders near schools and cap nicotine pouch strength at 6 mg. The meeting was adjourned.

• Approved November 5, 2025 minutes (amended) – Yes-3
• Accepted 2026 Board of Health meeting dates – Yes-3
• Opened public hearing – Yes-3
• Accepted tobacco regulation amendments (500‑ft grandfather rule, 1000‑ft new rule, 6 mg limit) – Yes-3
• Closed public hearing – Yes-3
• Adjourned meeting – Yes-3

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will hold a final discussion on tax options in preparation for the Tax Hearing at 6:00 PM. They will also review the FY2026 workflow status, certification, tax rate, and commitment. The agenda includes handling motor vehicle excise, personal property, boat excise, and real estate abatements and letters. An executive session under Purpose 7 is scheduled for confidential matters.

• Final discussion on tax options for Tax Hearing at 6:00 PM
• FY2026 workflow, certification, tax rate, and commitment status
• Motor Vehicle Excise Tax abatement denials and monthly letters
• Personal Property abatements and monthly letters
• Real Estate abatements, exemptions, and ATB appeals

The Franklin Board of Assessors approved RE Chapterland applications for the owners Calnan, Garboski, Hamblen & White, Koshivas, and Lembo. It denied a RE exemption for 15 Old Forge Hill Rd. It approved RE exemptions for a list of residential properties including Daniels St, Highbank Rd, Highland St, Janie Ave, Jordan Rd, Meadow Pkwy, North Park St, Oak St, Pine St, Pleasant St, Pond St, Symmes Rd, and Uncas Brook ROW. The board adjourned and scheduled its next meeting for March 30, 2026.

• Approved RE Chapterland for owners Calnan, Garboski, Hamblen & White, Koshivas, Lembo
• Denied RE exemption for 15 Old Forge Hill Rd
• Approved RE exemption for 85 Daniels St
• Approved RE exemption for 69 Highbank Rd
• Approved RE exemption for 23 Highland St
• Approved RE exemption for 7 Janie Ave
• Approved RE exemption for 90 Jordan Rd
• Approved RE exemptions for additional properties (18 Meadow Pkwy, 31 North Park St, 35 Oak St, 48 Pine St, 118 Pleasant St, 928 Pond St, 8 Symmes Rd, 20 Uncas Brook ROW)

Legal Notices

The Franklin Board of Health will hold a public hearing and final vote on proposed amendments to the town's Sale of Tobacco Products regulations (Chapter 262-22). The amendments would add language to the Statement of Purpose, Definitions, and multiple sections, as well as a new section. Residents may attend in person or via Google Meet and provide input.

• Public hearing on amending Restricting the Sale of Tobacco Products Regulations
• Readings and final votes on adopting amendments to Chapter 262-22
• New language added to sections 262-4, 262-5(7), 262-5(8), and 262-18
• New section to be inserted between 262-6 and 262-7
• Meeting at 5:00 PM on December 3, 2025, Municipal Building, 355 E. Central Street

Legal Notices

The Franklin Town Council will hold a public hearing on December 3, 2025, to discuss allocating the local property tax levy among five property classes for Fiscal Year 2026. The Council must adopt a Residential Factor and select the percentage of the levy to be borne by Commercial, Industrial, and Personal Property classes. Taxpayers may present oral or written information on their views.

• Public hearing on FY2026 property tax classification
• Discussion of allocating levy among five property classes (Residential, Commercial, Industrial, Personal Property, and Open Space)
• Council must adopt a Residential Factor
• Selection of percentage of levy for Commercial, Industrial, and Personal Property
• Hearing on December 3, 2025 at 6:00 pm in Council Chambers and via Zoom

Massachusetts Strategic Health Group

The Massachusetts Strategic Health Group board will hear a report on GLP-1 medication costs and may vote on using Abacus Services for management. They will also review financial reports, updates on regional JPAs, member deficit payments, and Aetna renewal for January 1, 2026. An executive session is planned to discuss litigation strategy with withdrawn participants.

• Report on GLP-1 medications and possible vote on Abacus Services
• Discussion on unassigned costs
• Monthly financial report from Ken Lombardi
• Status reports on regional JPAs, FY '25 deficit payments, and Aetna Fall River/MSHG renewal
• Executive session on litigation strategy with withdrawn participants

Cultural Council

The Franklin Cultural Council will hold a meeting to discuss financial updates, review a program and operations budget request, and vote on FY26 grant approvals. The agenda consists of standard procedural items with no specific dollar amounts or project names mentioned.

• FY26 grants approval vote
• Program and operations budget request presentation
• Financial report and update

The Cultural Council approved 31 grants for FY26 totaling $41,000. Several members recused themselves from specific grant approvals (#14, #18, #20, #46, #60). A motion to adjourn the meeting at 8:50 was seconded and carried.

• Approved FY26 grants: 31 grants totaling $41,000.00
• Motion to adjourn the meeting at 8:50 passed

Design Review Commission

The Design Review Commission will consider applications for properties at 13 Main Street, 13 West Central Street, and 76 Chestnut Street. The meeting will also include approval of minutes from October 28, 2025. The commission is deciding on design review submissions for these commercial tenants.

• 13 Main Street - Woodstock Building Associates application
• 13 West Central Street - Mac n Shake application
• 76 Chestnut Street - MyEyeDr. application
• Approval of October 28, 2025 meeting minutes

The Design Review Commission voted to approve the sign packages submitted for 13 Main Street, 13 West Central Street, and 76 Chestnut Street. Each approval recorded a 4‑yes, 0‑no, 1‑absent vote. The commission also approved the October 28, 2025 meeting minutes and then adjourned the November 25 meeting.

• Approved sign package for 13 Main Street (4-0-1)
• Approved sign package for 13 West Central Street (4-0-1)
• Approved sign package for 76 Chestnut Street (4-0-1)
• Approved October 28, 2025 meeting minutes (3-0-1-1)
• Adjourned the November 25 meeting (4-0-1)

Recreation Advisory Board

The Recreation Advisory Board will convene to approve minutes, hear public comments, and discuss updates on town fields, recreation programs, and the Fletcher Fund. The meeting is scheduled for Monday, November 24, 2025, at 7 PM.

• Approval of previous meeting minutes
• Public comments period
• Fields and playgrounds discussion
• Recreation program update
• Fletcher Fund update

The Recreation Advisory Board approved a $20,000 allocation from the Fletcher Fund to construct a dual batting cage between the Senior League Field and the Pee Wee Baseball Fields at Fletcher Field Park. The minutes from the previous meeting were approved as read. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved $20,000 Fletcher Fund allocation for dual batting cage (motion passed)
• Approved previous meeting minutes as read

Cultural Council

The Franklin Cultural Council will meet to receive a financial report and review grant applications numbered 51 through 75. No other substantive actions or discussions are listed on the agenda.

• Review of grant applications 51-75 for local cultural projects

The council reported that the Cultural District lacks funds to award grants. John asked Cory to provide a list of projected events for future grant planning. The council revisited the grant "maybe" list and made cuts as needed. A motion to adjourn the meeting at 8:50 was seconded and carried.

• Made cuts to grant "maybe" list (no vote tally recorded)
• Motion to adjourn at 8:50 passed (motion seconded)

Agricultural Commission

The Franklin Agricultural Commission will first approve the minutes from its October 27, 2025 meeting. It will then discuss new business proposals to add educational content to the commission’s Facebook page and to create a PowerPoint presentation. Old business includes a final update on the Adin Estates property at 543 Union Street, a status report on the commission brochure, steps toward designating Franklin as a “Right‑to‑Farm” town, and a vision for a future canning/food‑processing center.

• Approval of minutes from the October 27, 2025 meeting
• Proposal to add new educational content to the Agricultural Commission Facebook page
• Proposal to develop a PowerPoint presentation for the commission
• Final update on “Adin Estates” – 543 Union Street, Franklin, MA
• Discussion of next steps toward making Franklin a “Right‑to‑Farm” town

The minutes from the October meeting were unanimously accepted. The commission assigned Jen, Matt and Marian to gather farm information for a new brochure and to work with the GIS Director and GIS Specialist on the brochure and a digital story map. The commission also agreed to meet the Town Administrator in the new year to discuss Right‑to‑Farm, a future canning center, and land use of Schmidt’s farm, and to consult Jamie H. about options for a local food‑processing center.

• Unanimously accepted the October meeting minutes
• Assigned Jen, Matt, and Marian to collect material for the new agricultural brochure
• Committed to work with GIS Director Kate Hinckley and GIS Specialist Natalie Regan‑Lampert on the brochure and digital story map
• Planned to meet the Town Administrator in the new year to discuss Right‑to‑Farm, a future canning center, and Schmidt’s farm land use
• Agreed to discuss food‑processing center options with Jamie H.

Library Board of Directors

The Franklin Public Library Board of Directors will hold a regular meeting with discussion items including strategic planning and increasing revenue, as outlined in the Library Director's Report. The agenda also includes public comment, approval of minutes, and setting the next meeting date.

• Library Director's Report includes discussion on strategic planning
• Library Director's Report includes discussion on increasing revenue
• Public comment period for non-agenda library concerns (3 minutes per person)
• Approval of prior meeting minutes
• Next meeting scheduled for January 26, 2026

The Library Board of Directors approved the minutes from the October meeting. No other formal actions or votes were recorded during the November 24 session. The board discussed reports, upcoming plans, and revenue ideas but did not make additional decisions.

• Approved October meeting minutes

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging will hear a presentation from Kim Thomas, CEO of Old Colony Habitat for Humanity. The board will also interview a new board candidate, Christopher (Kit) Brady, and discuss future board votes and committee memberships that were tabled from the October agenda. Additional items include updates on the strategic plan, nursing volunteer coverage, and planning for the Winter Wonderland event.

• Presentation by Kim Thomas, CEO of Old Colony Habitat for Humanity
• Board candidate interview with Christopher (Kit) Brady
• Discussion of future board votes and disagreements (tabled from October)
• Review of strategic plan staffing and nursing volunteer insurance coverage
• Planning for Winter Wonderland event by Program Committee

Franklin's 250th Anniversary Celebration Committee

The Franklin 250th Anniversary Celebration Committee will elect a chair, vice-chair, clerk, and treasurer. Members will also discuss the status of a $50,000 state grant and obtain legal guidance for celebration activities. The committee plans to research how nearby towns (Easton, Wrentham, Mansfield) organized their anniversaries.

• Election of committee officers (chair, vice-chair, clerk, treasurer)
• Status of $50,000 state grant for anniversary planning
• Legal guidance under MGL Chapter 44 Section 53I for celebrations
• Research into Easton 300th, Wrentham 350th, and Mansfield 250th celebrations
• Countdown to March 2, 2028 – 833 days until the town's 250th anniversary

The 250th Anniversary Celebration Committee elected Jayson Joyce as Chair (unanimous with one abstention), Robert Brown as Vice Chair, Alan Earls as Clerk, and Charleen Belcher as Treasurer (all unanimous). By common consent the committee set its next meetings for Dec. 4 and Dec. 18 at 7 p.m. in the Municipal Building Training Room.

• Elected Jayson Joyce as Chair (unanimous, one abstention)
• Elected Robert Brown as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Alan Earls as Clerk (unanimous)
• Elected Charleen Belcher as Treasurer (unanimous)
• Scheduled future meetings for Dec. 4 and Dec. 18 at 7 p.m. in Municipal Building Training Room (consensus)

Franklin Commission on Disability

The Franklin Commission on Disability will meet via Zoom to discuss decorating a tree for the Senior Center.

• Discussion regarding decorating a tree for the Senior Center

The Franklin Commission on Disability decided on the decorations and responsibilities for the upcoming tree‑decorating event at the Senior Center. They set a meeting for 3 p.m. on December 4, 2025 to carry out the decorating and noted that volunteers are needed. No other actions were taken.

• Decided on decorations and responsibilities for Senior Center tree decorating
• Scheduled decorating meeting for Dec 4 2025 at 3 p.m.

Bi-County Collaborative

The Board of Directors will vote to approve the minutes from the October 23, 2025 meeting. It will consider employee appointments, resignations and leaves of absence, and vote on the FY25 Annual Report. A business office update will include a discussion of the FY27 budget development process. Routine matters such as payroll and bill warrants will also be approved.

• Approval of minutes from the Board meeting on October 23, 2025 (vote required)
• Vote on employee appointments, resignations and leaves of absence
• Vote on the FY25 Annual Report
• FY27 budget development process and update presented by the Director of Finance & Operations
• Approval of payroll warrants and bill warrants

Bi-County Collaborative

The Board of Trustees will vote on approving minutes from December 12, 2024, and review the Trust Investment Policy. They will also receive the BICO OPEB Trust Activity Report for 2025, projected annual benefit payments, and total PRIT Fund returns. The agenda is largely procedural, focused on investment oversight and routine approvals.

• Approval of minutes from December 12, 2024 (vote required)
• Review of Trust Investment Policy
• BICO OPEB Trust Activity Report 2025
• Projected annual benefit payments
• Total PRIT Fund returns

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will review a request for a Comprehensive Permit for a large multi-family project. The board will also hear a variance request for a single-family home and a modification request for Madalene Village.

• Comprehensive Permit request for a 264 unit multi-family development at 444 East Central Street
• Variance request for a single family home at 33 Elm Street regarding frontage and side yard setback
• Minor Modification Request for Madalene Village including a fire truck turnaround

The board unanimously approved the November 6, 2025 meeting minutes. It voted unanimously to deem the Madalene Village modification an insubstantial change, allowing the applicant to proceed with negotiations and updated plans. The board also unanimously voted to continue the public hearing on the 3 Elm Street variance request to December 18, 2025 at 7:30 PM. No other items were decided.

• Approved November 6, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Declared Madalene Village modification an insubstantial change (unanimous)
• Continued public hearing for 3 Elm Street to Dec 18, 2025, 7:30 PM (unanimous)

Town Council

The Franklin Town Council will vote on several resolutions, including adopting participation in the Group Insurance Commission and reducing the General Fund appropriation for FY26. Councilors will also vote to formally withdraw the town's support for the proposed Chapter 40B affordable housing project at 444 East Central Street. Additional items include setting the 2026 meeting schedule and accepting gifts for the Fire Department ($1,000) and Veterans Services Department ($1,175). The meeting also includes routine approvals of prior minutes and appointments to local committees.

• Resolution 25-71: Adopt MGL Chapter 32B, Section 21‑23 for participation in the Group Insurance Commission
• Resolution 25-72: General Fund appropriation reductions for FY26
• Resolution 25-73: Withdraw support for proposed Chapter 40B affordable housing project at 444 East Central Street
• Resolution 25-74: Adopt 2026 schedule of Town Council meetings
• Resolution 25-75: Gift acceptance – Fire Department $1,000, Veterans Services Department $1,175

The council voted 9-0 to approve the October 22 and October 29, 2025 meeting minutes. They also ratified appointments to the Cultural Council, Finance Committee, and Historical Commission with a unanimous 9-0 vote. A resolution to adopt state law for joining the Group Insurance Commission was considered, but the vote outcome was not recorded.

• Approved October 22, 2025 meeting minutes (Yes-9, No-0)
• Approved October 29, 2025 meeting minutes (Yes-9, No-0)
• Ratified appointments to Cultural Council, Finance Committee, Historical Commission (Yes-9, No-0)
• Considered Resolution 25-71 to adopt MGL Chapter 32B Section 21-23 for Group Insurance Commission participation (outcome not recorded)

Cultural Council

The Franklin Cultural Council will meet to review grant applications and present a financial report. The meeting is scheduled for November 19, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. in the Training room of the Franklin Municipal Building.

• Review of grant applications 27-50
• Financial report presentation
• Meeting location: Training room, Franklin Municipal Building

The council welcomed new member Elizabeth O’Day and noted that Ben Levy remains a council member. The financial report said the Massachusetts Cultural Council approved district funds, providing $15,000 in grants. A motion to adjourn was made, seconded, and the meeting was adjourned at 8:55 p.m.

• Motion to adjourn adopted (no vote tally recorded)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will review and discuss the FY 2026 workflow status, certification completion, and tax rate setting. They will also consider tax options and address routine abatements, exemptions, and appeals for motor vehicle excise, personal property, boat excise, and real estate. The meeting includes approval of prior minutes and an executive session for confidential matters.

• Discussion of tax options and FY 2026 tax rate status
• Motor vehicle excise tax abatement denials and monthly letters
• Personal property abatements and monthly letters
• Real estate abatements, exemptions, and Appellate Tax Board appeals
• Executive session for confidential abatement and exemption matters

The Board of Assessors approved a large number of property tax exemptions for dozens of addresses and denied exemptions for three specific properties. It also denied a tax deferral request for 69 Highbank Rd. The meeting concluded with the Board scheduling its next session for December 3, 2025.

• Approved tax exemptions for multiple properties (e.g., 9 Acorn Pl, 4 Applewood Ln, 300 Chestnut St, etc.)
• Denied tax exemptions for 214 Conlyn Ave, 23 Lost Horse Trail, and 80 Moore Ave
• Denied a tax deferral request for 69 Highbank Rd

School Committee

The Franklin School Committee will hold a second reading and vote on adopting two policies: IKF - Graduation Requirements and IKFE - Competency Determinations. The meeting also includes routine business such as approving minutes and accepting an $800 gift from the Lincoln St. 3-5 PCC for field trips. The committee will elect a chair and vice chair, and discuss inclement weather procedures and district goals.

• Second reading and adoption of policies IKF (Graduation Requirements) and IKFE (Competency Determinations)
• Election of Chair and Vice Chair after swearing in new members
• Acceptance of $800.00 gift from Lincoln St. 3-5 PCC for field trips
• Deferral of Payment of Bills and Payroll to December 9, 2025
• Discussion of inclement weather notice and district/superintendent goals

School Committee

The Franklin School Committee will hold a second reading and vote on adoption of two policies: IKF (Graduation Requirements) and IKFE (Competency Determinations). The meeting also includes organizational items such as swearing in new members and electing a chair and vice chair. A consent agenda item accepts an $800 gift from the Lincoln St. 3-5 PCC for field trips.

• Second reading and adoption of policies IKF (Graduation Requirements) and IKFE (Competency Determinations)
• Organizational meeting: swearing in new members and election of chair and vice chair
• Consent agenda: acceptance of $800 gift from Lincoln St. 3-5 PCC for field trips
• Discussion of inclement weather notice and review of District/Superintendent's goals
• ACCEPT Quarterly Update (discussion only)

School Committee

The School Committee is meeting for a MASC Workshop. No other specific agenda items are listed.

• MASC Workshop

Recreation Advisory Board

The Recreation Advisory Board will meet to receive updates on recreation programs and the Fletcher Fund. The board will also discuss fields and playgrounds.

• Fields and playgrounds update
• Recreation program update
• Fletcher Fund update

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a public hearing for the initial review of a definitive subdivision plan at 47 Partridge Street (Donovan Estates). They will also acknowledge the withdrawal of a special permit and site plan application for 860-862 West Central Street (GlenPharma, LLC). General business includes election of officers, approval of 81-P signature, setting 2026 meeting dates, and a lot release for 7 Chris Drive.

• Public hearing for definitive subdivision at 47 Partridge Street (Donovan Estates)
• Withdrawal of special permit & site plan for 860-862 West Central Street (GlenPharma, LLC)
• Election of officers for the Planning Board
• Approval of 81-P signature (certifying subdivision plan compliance)
• Lot release for 7 Chris Drive

The board elected Jay Mello as Vice Chair, Christopher Stickney as Clerk, and confirmed Gregory Rondeau as Chair. It approved the 81‑P ANR signing authority, accepted 2026 meeting dates, and released the lot at 7 Chris Drive so the house can be sold. The board also waived the filing fee for a withdrawn GlenPharma special‑permit application, granted waivers for the 47 Partridge Street subdivision, and postponed that subdivision decision to Dec. 15, 2025.

• Elected Jay Mello as Vice Chair (5‑0)
• Elected Christopher Stickney as Clerk (5‑0)
• Elected Gregory Rondeau as Chair (5‑0)
• Approved Chair Rondeau as 81‑P ANR signing authority (5‑0)
• Accepted 2026 Planning Board meeting dates (5‑0)
• Approved lot release for 7 Chris Drive (5‑0)
• Released withdrawal and waived fee for GlenPharma special‑permit application (5‑0)
• Waived reading requirements for 47 Partridge Street subdivision (5‑0)

Legal Notices

The Franklin Planning Board will hold a public hearing regarding a Definitive Subdivision application for 'Donovan Estates'. The board will consider a proposal to create an 8-lot subdivision at 47 Partridge Street.

• Public hearing for 'Donovan Estates' 8-lot subdivision at 47 Partridge Street

Cultural Council

The Franklin Cultural Council will meet to approve previous meeting minutes, hear a financial report, and review 26 grant applications for local cultural projects.

• Approval of September and October meeting minutes
• Financial report from Nicole Horsman
• Review of grant applications 1 through 26

The Cultural Council unanimously approved the September and October meeting minutes. It established three grant‑application categories—Yes, Maybe, and No—and set a Dec 31, 2025 deadline for last‑year recipients to request reimbursement. The council will contact the Franklin Cultural District about possible funding for requests within the district. A motion to adjourn was seconded and carried.

• Approved September and October minutes (unanimous)
• Established three grant categories: Yes, Maybe, No
• Set Dec 31, 2025 deadline for prior‑year grant recipients to request reimbursement
• Decided to reach out to Franklin Cultural District for possible funding
• Motion to adjourn passed

Charles River Pollution Control District (CRPCD)

The Charles River Pollution Control District will discuss FY 2027 health insurance and vote on joining the Massachusetts Group Insurance Commission. The board will also consider an amendment to an on-call SCADA agreement with CDM Smith.

• Vote to join the Massachusetts Group Insurance Commission (GIC)
• Vote on Amendment #10 for On-Call SCADA Agreement with CDM Smith
• Approval of Warrant 26-05 for O&M and Capital expenses
• Discussion on FY 2027 Health Insurance

The board voted unanimously to accept M.G.L. Chapter 32B and join the Massachusetts Group Insurance Commission, effective July 1, 2026. It also approved Amendment #10 to increase the SCADA agreement limit by $60,000 and extend its end date to April 24, 2027. The monthly budget warrant was adopted, and the minutes from the October meeting were approved. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved joining Massachusetts Group Insurance Commission (unanimous yes vote)
• Approved Amendment #10 for SCADA agreement, raising limit by $60,000 and extending end date to 4/24/2027 (unanimous yes vote)
• Approved Warrant #26-05 with O&M $308,930.38 and Capital Projects $18,104.00 (unanimous yes vote)
• Approved October 16, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous yes vote)
• Adjourned the November 13, 2025 meeting (unanimous yes vote)

Benjamin Franklin Classical Charter Public School

The Board of Trustees will meet to review district data and receive updates from school leadership and various committees. The meeting includes a vote on the October 9 meeting minutes and concludes with an executive session.

• Vote on meeting minutes from 10/9
• District Data Review
• BOT Goals Update
• Committee updates for DEIB, Facilities, Finance, Governance, HR, and Mission

Legal Notices

The Franklin Conservation Commission will hold a hybrid public hearing regarding a Notice of Intent for a construction project. The commission will discuss a proposal to build a single-family dwelling, pool, and pool house.

• Proposed construction of a single-family dwelling, pool, and pool house at 80 Spring Street
• Review of 7,550 square feet of proposed work within the 100-foot Buffer Zone to Bordering Vegetated Wetlands

Town Council

The Franklin Town Council will swear in its members, elect a chair, vice‑chair and clerk, and vote on adopting Resolution 25‑71, which formalizes the town’s Procedures Manual. The meeting also includes a council orientation covering budget, ethics and town charter topics, and reports from several subcommittees. No other formal actions are scheduled.

• Swearing‑in of Town Council members
• Election of Chair, Vice‑Chair and Clerk
• Adoption of Resolution 25‑71 – Procedures Manual of Franklin Town Council
• Town Council orientation presentation (budget, ethics, charter, etc.)
• Reports from Capital Budget, Economic Development, Joint Budget and Police Station Building subcommittees

The council elected Robert Dellorco as Chair (9‑0) and Gene Grella as Vice Chair (5‑4). Ted Cormier‑Leger was chosen as Clerk (9‑0) and Caroline Griffith was appointed Interim Clerk (9‑0). The council also adopted the Procedures Manual (Resolution 25‑71) unanimously (9‑0).

• Elected Robert Dellorco as Chair (Yes‑9, No‑0)
• Elected Gene Grella as Vice Chair (Grella‑5, Ojukwu‑4)
• Elected Ted Cormier‑Leger as Clerk (Yes‑9, No‑0)
• Appointed Caroline Griffith as Interim Clerk (Yes‑9, No‑0)
• Adopted Procedures Manual of Franklin Town Council (Resolution 25‑71) (Yes‑9, No‑0)

Historical Commission

The Franklin Historical Commission is meeting to approve minutes from October and discuss new business, including a request from Habitat for Humanity for minor roof modifications at 760 Washington Street. The commission will also receive updates on museum operations, subcommittee reports, and upcoming events.

• Habitat for Humanity requests approval for minor roof changes at 760 Washington Street: two ventilation pipes behind the steeple and an additional stack vent
• Discussion of rules and processes for the museum to earn money, with consultation from Attorney Cerel
• Dean College Business School visited to explore potential marketing and business assistance
• Uniform exhibit created by Jan, Mary, and Randy; hosted a small group of veterans
• Capacity crowd for Jeff Belanger event with strong donations

The commission approved the minutes from the October 8 and October 30 meetings unanimously. It also voted unanimously to approve Habitat for Humanity's request to install two ventilation pipes and an additional stack vent on the museum roof. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously at 6:58 PM.

• Approved October 8 and October 30 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Habitat for Humanity ventilation pipe installation (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Housing Authority

The Board of Commissioners will review October accounts payable and operating statements. The meeting includes updates on the Norfolk HA laundry room and office project, as well as staffing and delinquency reports.

• Laundry Room/Office Project construction update (laundry room 85% complete)
• Staffing update regarding maintenance staff candidate offer letter
• Project Thanksgiving scheduled for November 13
• Safety Consultation Services provided by Worcester Housing Authority
• Discussion on washer machine drainpipes and tenant garbage totes

The board approved the October 2025 accounts payable of $126,456.75 and credit‑card purchases of $6,493.48. It accepted the Director’s Report, the September operating statements, and added Brian Drainville to future agendas. The board also approved repair of washer‑room drainpipes and accepted $2,600 in donations for the Thanksgiving event. An executive session was held to discuss litigation strategy before returning to open session.

• Approved October 2025 accounts payable of $126,456.75 (all in favor)
• Approved October 2025 credit‑card purchases of $6,493.48 (all in favor)
• Accepted the Director’s Report as presented (all in favor)
• Accepted the September 2025 operating statements (all in favor)
• Added Brian Drainville to future board meeting agendas (all in favor)
• Approved repair of washer‑room drainpipes (all in favor)
• Accepted donations totaling $2,600 for Thanksgiving event (all in favor)
• Entered and exited an executive session to discuss litigation (all in favor)

Franklin Commission on Disability

The Franklin Commission on Disability will discuss updates to an accessibility resource document and a separate “Accessibility in Franklin” document, as well as plans for accessible trails at Schmidt Farm. The meeting includes public comment and announcements from the chair, including a report on the MBTA ceremony. No votes or binding decisions are listed; items are under discussion only.

• Discussion of accessible trails at Schmidt Farm
• Review of proposed updates to the Resource Document (attachment)
• Discussion of the “Accessibility in Franklin” Document (attachment)
• Announcements: MBTA Ceremony report and attending other Commissions on Disability
• Presentation of the Arts & Culture Accessibility Hub (artsaccesshub.org)

The commission voted to accept the October 2nd meeting minutes. It approved categories for the resource document, decided to include name, website, and phone number, and approved categories and descriptors for the "Accessibility in Franklin" document, adding allergy information for food locations. The commission also voted to accept the invitation to decorate a holiday tree at the Senior Center and scheduled a follow‑up Zoom meeting on November 20.

• Accepted minutes of October 2nd meeting (motion carried)
• Approved categories for the Resource document
• Decided to include name, website, and phone number in the Resource document
• Approved categories and descriptors for the "Accessibility in Franklin" document, adding allergy info to food locations
• Voted to accept invitation to decorate holiday tree for Senior Center (Zoom meeting set for 11/20 at 4 pm)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Franklin Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on a variance request for a proposed detached accessory dwelling unit (ADU) with garage at 7 Concord Street. The applicants seek a variance to allow a 10-foot side yard setback where 21.8 feet is required. The board will also vote on meeting minutes from October 23, 2025.

• Public hearing: Jason & Courtney Reilly seek variance to build 24x36 detached ADU with garage at 7 Concord Street
• Variance needed for 10-ft side yard setback vs required 21.8 ft
• Approval of meeting minutes from October 23, 2025

The Zoning Board of Appeals unanimously approved a variance for Jason and Courtney Reilly to build a 24’ × 36’ detached ADU with a garage at 7 Concord Street, providing a 12‑foot side‑yard setback relief. The Board also unanimously closed the public hearing on the application. In addition, the Board approved the October 23, 2025 meeting minutes and adjourned the session.

• Granted variance for 7 Concord St ADU (12‑ft setback relief) – unanimous (Whitmore, Lang, Hunchard)
• Closed public hearing – unanimous
• Approved October 23, 2025 meeting minutes – unanimous (Whitmore, Lang, Hunchard)
• Adjourned meeting – unanimous (Whitmore, Lang, Hunchard)

Legal Notices

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing to consider a variance request for a property at 7 Concord Street. The applicant seeks to build a detached accessory dwelling unit (ADU) with a garage that does not meet side yard setback requirements.

• Variance request for a 24’ x 36’ detached ADU with garage at 7 Concord Street
• Proposed building distance of 10’ from right side yard setback where 21.8’ is required

Board of Health

The Franklin Board of Health will reorganize, appoint a tobacco control agent, and discuss amendments to tobacco regulations. The meeting will also include approval of past minutes and reports on shared service grants.

• Approval of May 19, June 4, and July 23, 2025 minutes
• Board reorganization
• Appointment of MHOA as tobacco control agent
• Discussion on tobacco regulation amendments
• Reports on Metacomet shared service grants

The Board approved the June 4 and July 23, 2025 meeting minutes. It reorganized leadership, naming Kim Mu‑Chow Chair and Jeff Harris Vice Chair. The Board voted to approve the Massachusetts Health Office Association as the town’s tobacco control agent. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved June 4, 2025 minutes (Yes-2, No-0, Abstain-1)
• Approved July 23, 2025 minutes (Yes-2, No-0, Abstain-1)
• Designated Kim Mu‑Chow Chair (Yes-3, No-0)
• Designated Jeff Harris Vice Chair (Yes-2, No-0)
• Approved MHOA as tobacco control agent (Yes-3, No-0)
• Adjourned meeting (Yes-3, No-0)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will meet to approve minutes from the previous meeting and discuss the 'Deep Dive Series' technology capital presentation. The committee will also set the agenda for future meetings.

• Approval of October 22, 2025 meeting minutes
• Technology Capital Presentation (postponed)
• Future agenda items discussion
• Next meeting scheduled for December 10, 2025

Board of Assessors

The Franklin Board of Assessors will meet to discuss tax options and the current status of FY2026 workflow and certification completion. They will also consider motor vehicle excise, personal property, and real estate abatements, as well as enter executive session for confidential matters. The meeting includes approval of minutes from previous sessions.

• Discussion on tax options for the current fiscal year
• FY2026 workflow status and certification completion update
• Motor vehicle excise tax abatement denials and monthly letters
• Personal property abatements and monthly letters
• Real estate abatements, exemptions, and ATB appeals

The Franklin Town Board of Assessors met on November 5, 2025. In an executive session the board reviewed and approved Chapter 61, 61A and 61B real‑estate applications. It also approved Chapterland designations and a series of property tax exemptions for the listed addresses. No other substantive actions were recorded.

• Approved Chapter 61 real‑estate applications (executive session)
• Approved Chapter 61A real‑estate applications (executive session)
• Approved Chapter 61B real‑estate applications (executive session)
• Approved Chapterland designations for listed properties
• Approved tax exemptions for listed properties

Massachusetts Strategic Health Group

The Massachusetts Strategic Health Group board is meeting on November 4, 2025, to discuss financial reports, deficit payments, and operational matters. A key item is a discussion regarding operational concerns with PPI and a possible vote to terminate the contract. Other topics include Aetna rates, GLP-1 medications, and a policy on releasing trust data.

• Discussion and possible vote to terminate PPI
• Monthly Financial Report
• Discussion of FY '25 Deficit Payments
• Discussion of Aetna rates and options to mitigate increases
• Report regarding GLP-1 Medications

School Committee

The Horace Mann Legacy Subcommittee of the Franklin School Committee is set to discuss its mission statement, short‑term goals, long‑term goals, guardrails, and committee composition. The agenda notes that items listed are anticipated but not guaranteed to be covered, and additional topics may arise as permitted by law.

• Define the Mission Statement
• Short‑Term Goals
• Long‑Term Goals
• Guardrails
• Committee Composition

Pole Petition Hearing

This is a continued public hearing on an application by Tri-County Regional Vocational Technical High School for a temporary license to store 12,000 gallons of propane in twelve above-ground tanks at 147 Pond Street, Franklin. The propane is needed for temporary heat during the new high school construction. The Franklin Fire Department has approved a safety plan submitted by contractor Consiglio Construction, and propane supplier Dileo Gas will monitor the tanks 24/7.

• Application for temporary propane storage license by Tri-County School District at 147 Pond St.
• Twelve 1,000-gallon above-ground tanks totaling 12,000 gallons stored in four locations with three tanks each.
• Tanks protected by 3-ft-high concrete Jersey barriers with 3-ft spacing; safety plan approved by Franklin Fire Department.
• Continuous monitoring by Dileo Gas; hearing continued from October 29, 2025.

Planning Board

The Planning Board will conduct public hearings regarding a subdivision at 543 Union St and a special permit for GlenPharma, LLC at 860-862 West Central St. The board will also issue decisions on projects at Forge Parkway Lot 2 and 380 King Street.

• Public hearing: Definitive Subdivision at 543 Union St (Adin Estates)
• Public hearing: Special Permit & Site Plan Application for GlenPharma, LLC at 860-862 West Central St
• Decision: Forge Parkway Lot 2
• Decision: 380 King Street
• Final Form H: 157 Cottage Street

The Board approved the Forge Parkway Lot 2 project with three drainage and setback waivers (5-0-0). It also approved two waivers and the site plan for 380 King Street, adding three special conditions, each with a 5-0-0 vote. The Final Form H for 157 Cottage Street and the field change for 275 Washington Street were each approved unanimously (5-0-0). Meeting minutes for October 6 and October 20 were likewise approved (5-0-0).

• Approved Forge Parkway Lot 2 with three waivers (5-0-0)
• Approved parking waiver for 380 King Street (59 spaces) (5-0-0)
• Approved stormwater waiver for 380 King Street (HDPE piping) (5-0-0)
• Approved 380 King Street site plan with three special conditions (5-0-0)
• Approved Final Form H for 157 Cottage Street (5-0-0)
• Approved field change for 275 Washington Street per fire department letter (5-0-0)
• Approved meeting minutes for October 6 and October 20, 2025 (5-0-0)

Historical Commission

The Franklin Historical Commission will meet to discuss and vote on recommending the appointment of a new commissioner. No other substantive business is listed on the agenda.

• Discuss and vote on recommending appointment of a commissioner

Town Council

The Franklin Town Council will consider several actions, including ratifying two volunteer appointments, holding a public hearing on license modifications for Dharma Bhakti Corporation d/b/a Liquor World, and voting on multiple resolutions. Key resolutions include gift acceptance amounts of $2,000 and $10,480 for the Veterans’ Services Department, adoption of a cannabis licensing approval process with a social equity policy, and setting expenditure limits for FY2026 electric vehicle charging station funds. The meeting also includes license transactions for a farmer-winery market license and other agenda items.

• Ratify appointment of Jennifer Sweeney to the Agricultural Commission (term until June 30, 2026)
• Ratify appointment of Roberta Trahan to the Council on Aging (term until June 30, 2027)
• Public hearing on multiple modifications to a Section 15 Package Store license for Dharma Bhakti Corporation d/b/a Liquor World at 365 West Central Street
• Resolution 25-70: Adopt cannabis licensing local approval process and cannabis social equity policy
• Resolution 25-67: Set FY2026 expenditure limits for departmental revolving funds for electric vehicle charging stations

The council met on October 29, 2025 at the Municipal Building. The meeting included announcements about the upcoming Wreath of Franklin art program, election information, school committee updates, and several resident comments. No formal motions, approvals, or votes were recorded.

Economic Development Subcommittee

The Economic Development Subcommittee will consider approval of the minutes from its meetings held between 2021 and 2025. Councilor comments will follow the approval. The meeting will then be adjourned.

• Approval of minutes for 2021 meetings (March 3, June 16, July 21)
• Approval of minutes for 2022 meeting (April 6)
• Approval of minutes for 2023 meetings (January 4, January 25, February 22, March 1, March 22, May 3, June 7, June 21, August 16, August 23, September 6, October 18, November 1)
• Approval of minutes for 2024 meetings (January 31, March 13, April 10, May 1, May 23, September 18, October 16, November 13, November 20, December 11, December 18)
• Approval of minutes for 2025 meetings (January 8, February 26, May 21)

Pole Petition Hearing

The Town Administrator will hold a public hearing regarding an application to store propane at 147 Pond St. The propane is intended for temporary winter heat while a new high school is under construction.

• Application for a License to Store Propane at 147 Pond St.
• Proposed storage of twelve 1,000-gallon above-ground tanks
• Total aggregate quantity of 12,000 gallons of propane
• Proposed storage in four locations with three tanks per location

Legal Notices

The Town Administrator will hold a public hearing to consider an application from the Tri-County School District. The application seeks a license to store propane at 147 Pond Street.

• Application for storage of twelve 1,000-gallon above-ground propane tanks
• Total aggregate quantity of 12,000 gallons of propane
• Public hearing at 355 East Central Street on October 29, 2025

Hennep

The town of Franklin will hold a Community Outreach Meeting on October 28, 2025, to discuss a proposed Marijuana Research Establishment. The meeting will be held at the Franklin Senior Center and will provide an opportunity for the public to ask questions.

• Public meeting scheduled for October 28, 2025, at 5:30 PM
• Proposed Marijuana Research Establishment location: 160 Grove Street
• Meeting location: Franklin Senior Center, 10 Daniel McCahill St

Design Review Commission

The commission approved the meeting minutes from August 12, August 26, and September 9, 2025. It also approved the sign package for Haven Hot Chicken at 477 West Central Street, including channel letters and a pylon sign. No other business was acted upon.

• Approval of sign package for Haven Hot Chicken – 477 West Central Street (channel letters and pylon sign)
• Approval of meeting minutes for August 12, August 26, and September 9, 2025
• New business applications listed: 950 Chestnut Street – Flooring America; 9 Forge Parkway – i Automation

The commission approved the sign package for Flooring America at 950 Chestnut Street, with a 4‑yes, 0‑no vote (one member absent). It also approved the sign package for iAutomation at 9 Forge Parkway, again by a 4‑yes, 0‑no vote (one absent). The September 23, 2025 meeting minutes were approved and the session was adjourned.

• Approved sign package for 950 Chestnut Street (Flooring America) – vote 4-0-1
• Approved sign package for 9 Forge Parkway (iAutomation) – vote 4-0-1
• Approved September 23, 2025 meeting minutes – vote 4-0-1
• Adjourned meeting – vote 4-0-1

School Committee

The Franklin School Committee Budget Sub Committee will meet to discuss the FY27 budget preview and planning.

• FY27 Budget Preview and Planning

School Committee

The Franklin School Committee will discuss moving two policies—Graduation Requirements (IKF) and Competency Determinations (IKFE)—to a second reading, and vote on the Superintendent's Goals. The committee will also accept donations totaling $4,457 from the Gridiron Club and Theater Boosters. Routine business, reports, and an executive session on collective bargaining are also on the agenda.

• Policy first readings for IKF (Graduation Requirements) and IKFE (Competency Determinations) moving to second reading
• Approval of Superintendent's Goals
• Acceptance of $2,000 from Gridiron Club for athletic supplies
• Acceptance of $2,457 from Theater Boosters for enrichment
• Executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy

Cultural Council

The Franklin Cultural Council will vote on funding for FY26 grants and a request from the Franklin Children's Museum (Artsy Box) at its October 27 meeting. Other business includes a request from the Franklin Historic Commission, approving past meeting minutes, and scheduling future meetings.

• Funding decision for FY26 grants
• Artsy Box funding request from Franklin Children's Museum
• Request from Franklin Historic Commission
• Approval of August and September meeting minutes
• Update on A-Wreath-of-Franklin 2025

The Cultural Council voted unanimously to allow the Historic Commission to use a $500 grant for a project related to its original purpose, with funds to be spent by June 30, 2026. The council also approved a $1,500 allocation from the operating budget to paint the utility box in front of the Franklin Children’s Museum. Upcoming meeting dates for November and December were set, and the meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved Historic Commission $500 grant use plan (unanimous)
• Approved $1,500 Artsy Box painting funding for Franklin Children’s Museum (unanimous)
• Set November 13, 19, 24 and December 2 meeting dates
• Motion to adjourn passed (unanimous)

Agricultural Commission

The Agricultural Commission will meet with Pete Westover of Conservation Works to discuss technical support and new powers for town commissions. The body will also review the possibility of making Franklin a Right-to-Farm town and a canning/food processing center.

• Discussion on making Franklin a Right-to-Farm town
• Proposal for a Canning/Food Processing Center in Franklin
• Update on Adin Estates at 543 Union Street
• Review of Agricultural Commission Brochure and Franklin Farm Information Booklet
• Recap of Pumpkin-Fest at Farmer's Market held 10-10-25

The Franklin Agricultural Commission accepted the minutes from the August meeting by unanimous vote. The committee discussed steps to pursue right‑to‑farm status, new powers for agricultural commissions, and a potential community food‑processing center, but no votes were taken on those items. Updates were given on the Adin Estates development and on creating promotional materials. The meeting adjourned at 8:21 p.m.

• Accepted August meeting minutes (unanimous)

Library Board of Directors

The Franklin Public Library Board of Directors will meet to approve minutes and receive a report from the Library Director. The agenda includes a discussion on increasing revenue and the approach to accepting donations, as well as a strategic planning needs analysis.

• Approval of previous meeting minutes
• Library Director's report on services and programming
• Strategic planning needs analysis report
• Discussion on increasing library revenue
• Discussion on approach to accepting donations

The Library Board approved the minutes from the September meeting. No other formal actions were taken; the board discussed budget ideas, service issues, and upcoming programs but did not vote on them.

• Approved September meeting minutes (no vote tally provided)

Bi-County Collaborative

The Board of Directors will meet to review the FY25 independent audit and determine surplus funds. The board will also consider votes on PRISM grant awards, donations, and employee appointments.

• Acceptance of FY25 Independent Audit
• Determination of Surplus Funds per 60 CMR 50.07
• PRISM Grant Awards
• Acceptance of Donations
• Employee appointments, resignations, and leaves of absence

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings on three items. The largest is a comprehensive permit request for a 264-unit multi-family development at 444 East Central Street. Two variance requests are also on the agenda: a 100-foot monopole tower at 1034 Pond Street and a single-family home at 33 Elm Street with insufficient frontage and setback. The board will also approve meeting minutes from September 4 and 25.

• 264-unit multi-family development at 444 East Central Street (TAG Central LLC) – comprehensive permit, $27,400 hearing fee
• 100-foot monopole wireless tower at 1034 Pond Street (Vertex Towers LLC) – variance for rear yard setback
• Single-family home at 33 Elm Street (G. David Iverson, Trustee) – variance for frontage (123.92 ft vs. 200 ft required) and right side setback (26.5 ft vs. 40 ft required)
• Approval of September 4 and September 25, 2025 meeting minutes

The Zoning Board of Appeals denied the building permit for the proposed 100‑ft wireless communications tower at 1034 Pond Street because the applicant did not receive a use or dimensional variance. No variance was granted. The decision was made after hearing the applicant’s presentation and public comments.

• Denied building permit for wireless tower at 1034 Pond Street (no variance granted)

Legal Notices

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing regarding a variance request for a wireless communication facility. The board will determine if the project can proceed despite not meeting rear yard setback requirements.

• Variance request for a 100-foot monopole tower at 1034 Pond Street
• Proposed 35'x60' fenced compound
• Request to bypass rear yard setback requirements

Town Council

The Franklin Town Council meeting will consider several items including approval of minutes, proclamations, and appointments. Public hearings will be held on new and modified alcoholic‑beverage licenses for Kings Brick Oven Pizza & Pub at 370 King Street and for Liquor World at 365 West Central Street. Councilors will vote on multiple resolutions, notably Resolution 25-64 to authorize borrowing for the town’s Stormwater Asset Management Plan and Resolution 25-63 to increase the size of the 250th Anniversary Celebration Committee. The agenda also includes adoption of the Schmidt Farm and Maple Hill Master Plans and several zoning bylaw amendments for the Crossing Neighborhood district.

• New Section 12 restaurant alcoholic‑beverage license for BMRG LLC d/b/a Kings Brick Oven Pizza & Pub, 370 King Street (License Transaction #7a)
• Modifications to Section 15 package‑store license for Dharma Bhakti Corp. d/b/a Liquor World, 365 West Central Street (License Transaction #7b)
• Resolution 25-64: Authorize borrowing to fund the Franklin Stormwater Asset Management Plan (⅔ majority vote required)
• Resolution 25-63: Increase the maximum number of members on the 250th Anniversary Celebration Committee (majority vote)
• Adoption of the Schmidt Farm and Maple Hill Master Plans (Resolution 25-66, majority vote)

The Town Council voted 9-0 to adopt Resolution 25-63, increasing the maximum number of members on Franklin’s 250th Anniversary Celebration Committee. The Council also ratified the appointed members for that committee by a 9-0 vote. In addition, the September 3 and September 17, 2025 meeting minutes were approved unanimously.

• Approved Resolution 25-63 to increase max members on 250th Anniversary Committee (9-0)
• Ratified appointments to 250th Anniversary Celebration Committee (9-0)
• Approved September 3, 2025 meeting minutes (9-0)
• Approved September 17, 2025 meeting minutes (9-0)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will vote on a resolution setting a $200,000 expenditure limit for the Electric Charging Station revolving fund. They will also review a five-year fiscal forecast projecting a $1.9 million deficit for FY27, along with updates on stabilization accounts, budget vs. actuals, and a technology capital presentation. The meeting includes swearing in new members and electing officers.

• Resolution 25-67 to set $200,000 expenditure limit for Electric Charging Station revolving fund
• Five-year fiscal forecast projects $1.9 million deficit for FY27
• Town Administrator to present fiscal forecast and 'A Perfect Storm' municipal pressures overview
• Technology Capital presentation by Technology Director Tim Rapoza
• Standing updates: Stabilization account balances, budget vs. actuals as of 9/30/2025, and fees revenue by department

The committee elected George Conley as Chair, Natalie Riley as Vice Chair, and Lauren Nagel as Clerk. It approved the August 11, 2025 meeting minutes unanimously. Members recommended Resolution 2567 establishing a revolving fund for electric‑vehicle charging stations with a $200,000 expenditure limit, which passed unanimously. The technology capital presentation was postponed to a future meeting.

• Elected George Conley as Finance Committee Chair (passed)
• Elected Natalie Riley as Finance Committee Vice Chair (passed)
• Elected Lauren Nagel as Finance Committee Clerk (passed)
• Approved August 11, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Recommended Resolution 2567 to create EV charging station revolving fund with $200,000 limit (unanimous voice vote)
• Postponed Technology Capital Presentation to a future meeting
• Motion to adjourn passed (unanimous voice vote)

Municipal Affordable Housing Trust

The Municipal Affordable Housing Trust board will meet on Oct. 20, 2025, in a hybrid format. The agenda lists a motion related to the Franklin Ridge Closing as the sole substantive item. The meeting is open to residents via Zoom or in person at the Franklin Municipal Building.

• Motion related to Franklin Ridge Closing

The trustees voted 4‑0 to approve a motion authorizing Town Administrator Jamie Hellen to sign the Quit Claim Deed for Franklin Ridge and execute all related documents. The motion was made by Christopher Feely and seconded by Kimberly Mu‑Chow. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously at 9:11 am.

• Authorized Town Administrator to sign Quit Claim Deed for Franklin Ridge (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:11 am (unanimous)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will approve minutes from August 2025 and discuss FY 2026 workflow and tax rates. The agenda includes items regarding motor vehicle, personal property, and real estate abatements, exemptions, and appeals.

• Approval of August 18, 2025 Regular & Executive Session minutes
• Discussion of FY 2026 workflow and tax rate planning
• Motor vehicle excise tax abatement denials and monthly letters
• Personal property abatements and monthly letters
• Real estate abatements, exemptions, and ATB appeals

In an Executive Session, the Board of Assessors voted 3‑0 to approve RE Chapterland applications for the owners Cook, Hearn, Klibanoff, Labastie, Maplegate, Palladini, and Smitsville Farm. The Board also voted unanimously to enter Executive Session and later reconvene the Open Session. The meeting was adjourned and the next meeting was set for November 5, 2025 at 4:30 PM.

• Approved RE Chapterland application for Cook (3‑0)
• Approved RE Chapterland application for Hearn (3‑0)
• Approved RE Chapterland application for Klibanoff (3‑0)
• Approved RE Chapterland application for Labastie (3‑0)
• Approved RE Chapterland application for Maplegate (3‑0)
• Approved RE Chapterland application for Palladini (3‑0)
• Approved RE Chapterland application for Smitsville Farm (3‑0)
• Voted to enter Executive Session (3‑0) and later reconvene Open Session (3‑0)

Housing Authority

The Franklin Housing Authority Board will discuss a proposal for a salary increase for Brian Drainville and consider acquiring safety consultation services from the Worcester Housing Authority. The board will also receive updates on a construction project and approve routine financial items.

• Proposal for salary increase for Brian Drainville
• Safety Consultation Services from Worcester Housing Authority
• Laundry Room/Office Project construction update (laundry room 50% complete)
• Accounts Payable for September 2025 and Capital One Charges
• Project Thanksgiving scheduled for November 13, 2025

The board approved routine financial items, including the September 22 minutes, accounts payable, and $5,205.68 in credit card purchases, and accepted the Director's Report. It also approved a salary increase for facilities director Brian Drainville. A safety consultation service was tabled, and the board entered and exited an executive session before adjourning.

• Approved September 22, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved accounts payable (unanimous)
• Approved credit card purchases totaling $5,205.68 (unanimous)
• Accepted Director's Report (unanimous)
• Approved salary increase for Brian Drainville (unanimous)
• Safety Consultation Services tabled for next month
• Entered Executive Session (unanimous)
• Returned to Open Session (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Franklin Planning Board will hold public hearings on four site plan applications, including a definitive subdivision at 543 Union St (Adin Estates) and a continued special permit for GlenPharma at 860-862 West Central St. General business includes endorsements of two ANR plans at 60 Earl's Way and 1 Paddock Lane. The meeting is open to in-person and remote participation.

• Public hearing on definitive subdivision at 543 Union St (Adin Estates)
• Continued special permit & site plan for GlenPharma LLC at 860-862 West Central St
• Site plan application for Forge Parkway Lot 2
• Site plan application for 380 King St
• Endorsement of ANR plans: 60 Earl's Way and 1 Paddock Lane

The board voted 4‑0‑1 to approve the 81‑P ANR for 60 Earl’s Way and the 81‑P ANR for 1 Paddock Lane. It also voted 4‑0‑1 to endorse the 60 Earl’s Way plan. Two items were continued to a later date: the Adin Estates subdivision at 543 Union Street and the GlenPharma special permit at 860‑862 West Central Street, each with a 4‑0‑1 vote.

• Approved 81‑P ANR for 60 Earl’s Way (4‑Yes, 0‑No, 1‑Absent)
• Approved 81‑P ANR for 1 Paddock Lane (4‑Yes, 0‑No, 1‑Absent)
• Endorsed 60 Earl’s Way (4‑Yes, 0‑No, 1‑Absent)
• Continued 543 Union Street (Adin Estates) subdivision to Nov 3, 2025 (4‑Yes, 0‑No, 1‑Absent)
• Continued 860‑862 West Central St (GlenPharma, LLC) special permit to Nov 3, 2025 (4‑Yes, 0‑No, 1‑Absent)

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging will meet to conduct a board candidate interview and discuss committee memberships. The body will also review the strategic plan and senior center policies and procedures.

• Board candidate interview for Roberta Trahan
• Review of finalized Senior Center Policies & Procedures
• Discussion of two open board positions following Bob Kaufman's resignation
• Winter Wonderland planning by the Program Committee
• Proposal to invite the new housing director to a future meeting

The council approved the minutes from September 19, 2025 after a motion by Lyn O’Brien and a second by Tina Powderly. Several reports and business items—including the FOFE Liaison report, old business, new business, committee reports, and the interview for an open position—were tabled to the next meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 2:50 pm following a motion by Lyn O’Brien and a second by Kim Mu‑Chow.

• Approved September 19, 2025 minutes (motion by Lyn O’Brien, second by Tina Powderly)
• Tabled FOFE Liaison Report to next meeting
• Tabled Old Business to next meeting
• Tabled New Business to next meeting
• Tabled Committee Reports to next meeting
• Tabled Interview for Council on Aging open position to next meeting
• Adjourned meeting at 2:50 pm (motion by Lyn O’Brien, second by Kim Mu‑Chow)

Charles River Pollution Control District (CRPCD)

The Charles River Pollution Control District Board will hear updates on a MassDEP GAP Energy Grant for the Aeration System Upgrade and Transformer Replacement Project and on OPEB valuation results. They will also consider approval of Warrant 26-04 for operations and capital expenditures with undisclosed amounts. Reports will cover industrial pretreatment SOPs, UST compliance, September sewer connections (Franklin multi-unit 6,600 gpd; Medway 7 homes 3,080 gpd), and NPDES permit compliance for July and September 2025.

• MassDEP GAP Energy Grant update for aeration system upgrade and transformer replacement
• Approval of Warrant 26-04: O&M and Capital (amounts redacted in agenda)
• September 2025 sewer connections: Franklin multi-unit 6,600 gpd, Medway 7 homes 3,080 gpd
• NPDES Permit Compliance Report for July and September 2025
• Update on SCADA Server Project and UPS for Server Rack

The board unanimously approved Warrant #26-04, allocating $418,761.23 for operations and $51,025.87 for capital projects. The September 10, 2025 meeting minutes were also approved and forwarded to attendees. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

• Approved Warrant #26-04 authorizing $418,761.23 O&M and $51,025.87 capital projects (unanimous)
• Approved September 10, 2025 meeting minutes and forwarded to attendees (unanimous)
• Adjourned the October 16, 2025 meeting (unanimous)

Legal Notices

The Franklin Conservation Commission will conduct a hybrid public hearing on October 16, 2025 at 7:06 PM. The hearing will consider a Notice of Intent to install an updated stormwater collection system, including manholes and upgraded catch basins, at 1199 West Central Street. The proposed work covers 6,655 sf within a 200‑foot Riverfront Area to Mine Brook and 7,492 sf within a 100‑foot buffer to bordering vegetated wetlands. The meeting will be accessible both via Zoom and in person at the Municipal Building.

• Installation of updated stormwater collection system with manholes and catch basins
• 6,655 sf of work within 200‑foot Riverfront Area to Mine Brook
• 7,492 sf of work within 100‑foot buffer zone to bordering vegetated wetlands
• Project located at 1199 West Central Street, Industrial and Business Zoning Districts
• Hybrid public hearing (Zoom and in‑person) on October 16, 2025 at 7:06 PM

Legal Notices

The Conservation Commission will hold a hybrid public hearing regarding an after-the-fact Notice of Intent. The discussion concerns emergency stabilization of a stone headwall and culvert performed by the Department of Public Works.

• Public hearing for emergency work at 12 Nicholas Drive along Prospect Street
• Review of headwall stone replacement and sediment removal in Bordering Vegetated Wetlands
• Review of stormwater pipe reinforcement within the 200-foot Riverfront Area

Legal Notices

The Franklin Town Council will hold a second reading and final vote on four bylaw amendments. These include extending sewer and water service to a two-lot subdivision on Symphony Drive, establishing a $100 health service fee for commercial kitchens, and allowing non-profit organizations to place collection containers on their property. Public input is invited during the meeting.

• Extend sewer main 250 feet for subdivision at 218-020-000 Symphony Drive
• Extend water main with two new services for same subdivision
• Add $100 health service fee for residential commercial kitchens
• Allow non-profits to place collection containers on their property
• Second reading and final vote on all four amendments

Legal Notices

The Franklin Town Council will hold a public hearing on October 15, 2025, to consider BMRG LLC's application for a new Section 12 Restaurant All Alcoholic Beverages License for Kings Brick Oven Pizza & Pub at 370 King St. The hearing will allow public input during the Town Council meeting at 7:00 PM in the Municipal Building and via Zoom.

• Applicant: BMRG LLC d/b/a Kings Brick Oven Pizza & Pub
• Location: 370 King Street, Franklin
• License type: New Section 12 Restaurant All Alcoholic Beverages License
• Public hearing during Town Council meeting on October 15, 2025 at 7:00 PM
• Opportunity for public input at the hearing

Legal Notices

The Franklin Town Council will hold a public hearing on an application by Dharma Bhakti Corporation d/b/a Liquor World to modify its Section 15 Package Store All Alcoholic Beverages License. The proposed changes include a new license manager, changes to officers/directors, and a change of stock. The hearing will occur at the municipal building and via Zoom, with public input invited.

• Change of license manager for Liquor World
• Change of officers/directors for Liquor World
• Change of stock for Liquor World

School Committee

The School Committee will meet to handle routine business and review reports from the Superintendent and various sub-committees. The meeting includes a scheduled executive session to discuss bargaining strategies for several employee units.

• Acceptance of $800.00 from the Lincoln St 3-5 PCC for field trips
• Approval of Student Activity Clubs
• Executive session regarding collective bargaining with FEA, Van Drivers, Cafeteria, ESP/LPN, and Secretaries units
• Presentations from the Franklin Food Pantry and a Club Update

School Committee

The Franklin School Committee's Policy Subcommittee will meet to discuss two new policies: IKF on Graduation Requirements and IKFE on Competency Determination. No other business is listed. The meeting is open to the public in person and via Zoom.

• IKF: Graduation Requirement (new policy)
• IKFE: Competency Determination (new policy)

Municipal Affordable Housing Trust

The Municipal Affordable Housing Trust voted unanimously to recommend Shannon Nisbett for membership. The Trust also voted to postpone elections for Chair and other positions for 60 days until the board reaches a full seven members. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous vote at 3:19 pm.

• Recommend Shannon Nisbett for Trust membership – approved unanimously
• Postpone elections for Chair and other positions for 60 days – approved unanimously
• Adjourn meeting – approved unanimously

Municipal Affordable Housing Trust

The Municipal Affordable Housing Trust voted to postpone elections for Chair and other positions for 60 days until the board reaches seven members. The Trust also voted unanimously to recommend Shannon Nisbett for appointment as a Trust member. The meeting was then adjourned at 3:19 pm.

• Postpone election of Chair and other positions for 60 days (unanimous)
• Recommend Shannon Nisbett for appointment to the Trust (unanimous)
• Adjourn meeting at 3:19 pm (unanimous)
• Schedule next meeting for Oct 16 at 4:00 pm to address deed signing

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will not hold a meeting on October 9, 2025. The next regular meeting is scheduled for October 23, 2025. No items were discussed or decided.

Benjamin Franklin Classical Charter Public School

The Board of Trustees will review the financial audit, discuss the executive director evaluation process and tool, and review bylaws. A disaster recovery plan is also on the agenda. Public comment is open at the start.

• Review and vote on meeting minutes from September 11
• Financial audit review
• Executive director evaluation process and tool
• Bylaws review
• Disaster recovery plan

Historical Commission

The Franklin Historical Commission will review minutes, receive updates on events (e.g., Historical Huddle, Juglaris Centennial Reception), and prepare for upcoming presentations to the Town Council on the Museum 2.0 initiative and potential historic districts. The commission also plans to vote on revised Habitat for Humanity requests (shed & fencing) and may enter executive session to discuss the Mary Olsson Award and nomination of a new commissioner.

• Presentation to Town Council on Museum 2.0 initiative (Oct 15)
• Presentation to Town Council on Historic Districts (Oct 15)
• Revised Habitat for Humanity requests for approval (Shed & Fencing 2)
• Nomination of a new commissioner (executive session)
• Mary Olsson Award for 2025 (executive session)

The commission unanimously approved the September 10, 2025 minutes. A motion to fund the November 16 LiveArts show failed with a 1‑3 vote. The commission unanimously approved habitat work on a shed and fencing, named Joe Landry the 2025 Mary Olsson Award winner, and adjourned the meeting at 7:21 PM.

• September 10 minutes approved unanimously
• Funding for Nov 16 LiveArts show denied (1‑3)
• Habitat work on shed and fencing approved unanimously
• Joe Landry named 2025 Mary Olsson Award winner (unanimous)
• Commission moved to Executive Session at 7:34 PM
• Meeting adjourned unanimously at 7:21 PM

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a public hearing on a site plan application for 380 King Street. The board will also consider a lot release on Depoto Drive and approve meeting minutes from September 22, 2025.

• Public hearing for site plan application at 380 King St
• Lot release consideration for Depoto Drive
• Approval of meeting minutes from September 22, 2025

The Planning Board voted unanimously to approve the lot release request for 4 Depoto Drive. It also approved the September 22, 2025 meeting minutes. The public hearing on the 380 King Street site plan was continued to October 20, 2025. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved lot release for 4 Depoto Drive (5-0-0)
• Approved September 22, 2025 meeting minutes (5-0-0)
• Continued public hearing for 380 King Street site plan to Oct 20, 2025 (5-0-0)
• Adjourned the Planning Board meeting (5-0-0)

Franklin Commission on Disability

The Commission on Disability will meet to review goals, business cards, and resource documents. Members will discuss whether to increase the number of committee members and brainstorm future initiatives.

• Review of 'Accessibility in Franklin' document
• Discussion on increasing the number of COD members
• Review and approval of business cards
• Discussion of Resource document
• Brainstorming for future events and initiatives

The commission accepted the September 4, 2025 meeting minutes. Members agreed to distribute the proposed Commission Expectations. A new business card design was approved by a majority vote.

• Accepted September 4, 2025 minutes (motion passed)
• Approved distribution of Commission Expectations (all agreed)
• Approved business card design (majority vote)

Board of Health

The Franklin Board of Health will meet to discuss a tobacco regulation amendment, receive updates on the Metacomet Baby Shower, and hear reports from the Metacomet shared service grant regional health agent and public health nurse. The meeting also includes approval of minutes from three prior meetings.

• Tobacco regulation amendment discussion
• Metacomet Baby Shower update
• Metacomet shared service grant regional health agent report
• Metacomet shared service grant public health nurse report
• Approval of minutes from May 19, June 4, and July 23, 2025

School Committee

The Franklin School Committee will hold a regular meeting on September 30, 2025, with routine business including approval of minutes, payment of bills, and a $500 gift acceptance. The main action item is approval of student clubs and activities. The committee will also enter executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy with multiple employee units.

• Approval of student clubs and activities for the 2025-26 school year
• Acceptance of $500.00 gift from Linda Walsh for supplemental supplies/curriculum materials
• Executive session to discuss strategy with FEA, Van Drivers, Cafeteria, ESP/LPN, and Secretaries bargaining units

Housing Authority

The Franklin Housing Authority will vote on a resolution to authorize the chairman to sign documents for a $500,000 loan from Dean Cooperative Bank. The loan is secured by a first mortgage on properties at 245 Daniels Street and 57-59 Ruggles Street. The meeting is a special meeting held via Zoom.

• Resolution to authorize signing loan documents for $500,000 from Dean Cooperative Bank, secured by mortgages on 245 Daniels Street and 57-59 Ruggles Street

The Franklin Housing Authority Board considered a motion to let Chairman George A. Danello sign all documents for a $500,000 line of credit with Dean Cooperative Bank. The motion was made by Commissioner Christopher Feeley and seconded by Commissioner Andrew M. Kepple. A roll‑call vote was taken, but the minutes do not record the outcome. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

• Considered authorizing Chairman to sign line of credit documents (vote outcome not recorded)
• Adjourned special meeting unanimously

Cultural Council

The Cultural Council will meet to review the grants process and receive an update from the Office of Arts, Culture & the Creative Economy. The body will also debrief on the Harvest Fest and discuss the A-Wreath-of-Franklin project.

• Review and approval of August 2025 minutes
• Harvest Fest debrief
• Update on Franklin’s Office of Arts, Culture & the Creative Economy
• Discussion of A-Wreath-of-Franklin committee and ideas
• Grants process review

The Cultural Council approved a commitment to award $18,100 in grants and kept the grant portal open through October 16. It decided that the next meeting will be held on October 27. The council also agreed to form a committee for the A‑Wreath‑of‑Franklin event and to review the August minutes at that October meeting.

• Committed to award $18,100 in grants
• Grant portal will remain open through October 16
• Set October 27 as date for the next meeting
• Agreed to form a committee for the A‑Wreath‑of‑Franklin event
• Will review August 2025 minutes at the October meeting

Agricultural Commission

The Franklin Agricultural Commission will discuss and possibly act on making Franklin a Right-to-Farm town. They will also plan a pumpkin weigh-in and decorating event for October 10 and receive updates on the Adin Estates property at 543 Union Street. Additional items include a brochure project with the GIS director and grants for a community canning/food preservation center. The meeting is held online via Zoom.

• Discussion of making Franklin a Right-to-Farm Town
• Planning for October 10 Farmer's Market pumpkin weigh-in and decorating event
• Update on Adin Estates at 543 Union Street
• Agricultural Commission brochure and Franklin Farm information booklet with GIS director Kate Hinckley
• Franklin Canning/Food Preservation Center grant exploration

The Agricultural Commission approved inviting Sarah Sperry and Pete Westover of Conservation Works to a future meeting for technical assistance on making Franklin a Right‑to‑Farm town. It also approved spending $54.35 for paints and paper plates for the October 10 pumpkin event. The commission agreed to work with GIS specialist Kate Hinckley to update promotional materials and to add a community produce processing facility to the agenda for the next meeting with Conservation Works.

• Invited Sarah Sperry and Pete Westover to guide Right‑to‑Farm process (unanimous)
• Approved $54.35 spend for pumpkin event supplies (unanimous)
• Agreed to work with GIS specialist Kate Hinckley on promotional materials (unanimous)
• Added community produce processing facility to agenda for next Conservation Works meeting (consensus)
• Accepted August meeting minutes (unanimous)

School Committee

The Franklin School Committee's Community Relations Sub Committee is meeting to discuss the Harvest Festival event. No other business is listed on the agenda.

• Discussion of the Harvest Festival event in Downtown Franklin

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Franklin Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings on three items: a variance for a single-family home at 33 Elm Street, a special permit for earth removal at parcels on West Central Street and Panther Way, and a comprehensive permit for a 264-unit multi-family development at 444 East Central Street. The board will also consider approving minutes from its August 28 meeting.

• 33 Elm Street: variance for 123.92 ft of frontage where 200 ft required, and 26.5 ft side yard where 40 ft required
• West Central Street & Panther Way: special permit to conduct earth removal exceeding 1,000 cubic yards
• 444 East Central Street: comprehensive permit for a 264-unit multi-family development, with a $27,400 hearing fee
• Public hearing fees: $200 (Elm St), $350 (earth removal), $27,400 (multi-family)
• Mailing costs listed: $261.60 (Elm St), $3,557.76 (earth removal), $287.76 (multi-family)

The board unanimously continued the 33 Elm Street hearing to Oct. 23, 2025. It then unanimously closed the public hearing. The board unanimously approved a Special Permit allowing up to 99,000 cubic yards of earth removal on parcels 270‑28, 038 and 39 West Central Street and Panther Way, with specific conditions. Finally, the board unanimously denied a building permit for the 444 East Central Street 264‑unit multifamily proposal.

• Continued 33 Elm Street hearing to Oct. 23, 2025 (unanimous)
• Closed the public hearing (unanimous)
• Approved Special Permit for earth removal up to 99,000 cu yd on West Central Street parcels, with conditions (unanimous)
• Denied building permit for 444 East Central Street 264‑unit development without Comprehensive Permit (unanimous)

Town Council

The Town Council will meet to enter an executive session. The body will discuss contract negotiations with the Town Administrator and will not reconvene in open session.

• Executive session regarding contract negotiations with non-union personnel: Town Administrator

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Franklin Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a continued public hearing on a balloon test to assess potential building heights at 444 East Central Street, filed by TAG Central LLC. The hearing includes a balloon test scheduled for 4:00 PM. Filing and mailing fees of $27,400.00 and $287.76 respectively are noted in the agenda.

• Public hearing continued for balloon test at 444 East Central Street (TAG Central LLC)
• Balloon test of potential building heights scheduled for 4:00 PM
• Filing fee: $27,400.00; mailing cost: $287.76

Design Review Commission

The Design Review Commission will consider a sign application for Haven Hot Chicken at 477 West Central Street, proposing front-lit or halo-lit channel letters on a fascia-update pylon. The meeting will also approve minutes from previous meetings. No other items are on the agenda.

• Haven Hot Chicken sign proposal: front-lit/halo lit channel letter set to fascia-update pylon at 477 West Central Street
• Approval of minutes from August 12, 2026, August 26, 2025, and September 9, 2025

The commission voted 5‑0 to approve the sign package for Haven Hot Chicken at 477 West Central Street. It also approved the August 12, August 26, and September 9, 2025 meeting minutes with a spelling correction for Ms. Natarajan. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved Haven Hot Chicken sign package (5-0)
• Approved August 12, August 26, and September 9, 2025 minutes with name correction (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Pole Petition Hearing

The Town Administrator will hold a public hearing on two underground petitions: National Grid requests to install underground primary wire on Kimberlee Ave, and Verizon requests to lay conduit on Kimberlee Ave. The hearing is on September 23, 2025 at 11:00 AM in the Franklin Municipal Building, with remote participation available.

• National Grid petition #31154592: install 2 sections of ~230 ft underground primary wire from existing Pad 3-99 to new Pad 4-99 at 41 Kimberlee Ave.
• Verizon petition #1A7Y4JW: place one four-inch conduit about 165 ft along Kimberlee Ave from existing hand hole HH3 to new hand hole HH1 at the southwest end of new Balsam Lane.
• Meeting will be held in person at 355 East Central Street, 3rd Floor Training Room, with Zoom and phone access.
• Notice to abutters published as required by Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 166, Section 22.

Housing Authority

The Franklin Housing Authority Board of Commissioners will hold a regular meeting to approve minutes, accounts payable for three months, and Capital One charges. Updates include the Norfolk HA managing agency's laundry room/office project under construction, a staff retirement, tree removal on a parcel, and plans for Project Thanksgiving. The agenda is largely procedural with operational updates.

• Accounts payable for June, July, and August 2025 and Capital One charges for May through August 2025
• Norfolk HA update: Laundry room/office project in construction
• Old business: Tree removal on a parcel
• New business: Project Thanksgiving
• Executive session (closed to public) listed for adjournment

The board approved the accounts payable for June, July and August 2025 totaling $835,858.62 and approved credit‑card purchases of $18,566.73. It also approved the Director’s Report, the August 2025 operating statements, and the Project Thanksgiving initiative. The commissioners entered an executive session to discuss real‑property matters, then returned to open session and adjourned the meeting.

• Approved accounts payable for June‑August 2025 totaling $835,858.62 (all in favor)
• Approved credit‑card purchases for May‑August 2025 totaling $18,566.73 (all in favor)
• Recused Commissioner Kepple from accounts payable matters (all in favor)
• Approved Project Thanksgiving (all in favor)
• Accepted Director’s Report as presented (all in favor)
• Accepted August 2025 operating statements as presented (all in favor)
• Entered executive session to consider purchase, exchange, lease, or value of real property (motion passed)
• Returned to open session (motion passed)

Planning Board

The Franklin Planning Board will hold public hearings on four items, including site plans, a definitive subdivision, and a special permit. They will also consider zoning bylaw amendments (25-929 through 25-934) affecting The Crossing Neighborhood, and decide on Panther Way Senior Village. General business includes final approval for 19 Cottage Street and approving meeting minutes.

• Continued site plan hearing for 380 King St
• Definitive subdivision review for 543 Union St (Adin Estates)
• Special permit & site plan application for 860-862 West Central St (GlenPharma, LLC)
• Zoning bylaw amendments 25-929 through 25-934 for The Crossing Neighborhood
• Decision on Panther Way Senior Village

The board unanimously approved the Final Form H site plan for 19 Cottage Street, allowing increased parking. It also approved all 11 waivers requested for the Panther Way Senior Village project, with each of the seven special permit criteria receiving a 5‑yes vote. The minutes from the July‑September meetings were approved. The public hearing for 380 King Street was continued to October 6, 2025, and the Union Street subdivision was tabled for further review.

• Approved Final Form H for 19 Cottage Street (5-0-0)
• Approved 11 waivers for Panther Way Senior Village (5-0-0)
• Approved all seven special permit criteria for Panther Way Senior Village (5-0 each)
• Approved July‑September 2025 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Continued public hearing for 380 King Street to Oct 6, 2025 (5-0-0)
• Deferred decision on 543 Union Street subdivision (item continued)

Legal Notices

The Franklin Planning Board will hold a public hearing on September 22, 2025, for a Special Permit and Site Plan application submitted by GlenPharma, LLC for property at 860-862 West Central Street in the Business Zoning District. The permit is sought under Chapter 185-20(c)(3) for sign illumination. The board may vote to continue the hearing if needed.

• Public hearing for Special Permit and Site Plan at 860-862 West Central St
• Applicant: GlenPharma, LLC
• Zoning: Business District (Map 271, Lot 019)
• Request: sign illumination permit under Chapter 185-20(c)(3)
• Hearing date: September 22, 2025, at 7:00 PM in Town Council Chambers

Council on Aging

The Franklin Council on Aging will review old business items such as the strategic plan and nurse update, then move to new business including future board votes and a staff appreciation committee. Committee reports will cover budget scheduling, senior center policy review, a possible vaccine clinic, and planning for a Winter Wonderland event. The meeting also includes a director’s report on grants, facility changes, and staffing updates.

• Future board votes (new business)
• Open board position (Nominating Committee)
• Budget Committee to set October meeting
• Expo Committee considering a vaccine clinic (dates TBD 10/10, 10/17)
• Program Committee planning Winter Wonderland

The council approved the August 15, 2025 minutes. The Strategic Plan was carried over to next month. The Expo vaccine clinic was set for October 10 and 17. Upcoming items include a budget meeting in October, bylaw updates next month, and a new housing director arrival.

• Approved August 15, 2025 minutes (motion by Kim Mu‑Chow, second by Tina Powderly)
• Carried Strategic Plan to next month
• Scheduled Expo vaccine clinic for Oct. 10 and Oct. 17
• Planned budget meeting for October
• Planned bylaw updates for next month
• Noted new housing director is scheduled to arrive
• Motion to adjourn passed at 3:07 pm (motion by Kim Mu‑Chow, second by Phyllis Malcolm)

Town Council

The Town Council will hold public hearings on a series of zoning bylaw amendments to create the Crossing Neighborhood Zoning District and to regulate residential commercial kitchens. The council will also consider first readings for these and other bylaw amendments, ratify appointments to the Community Preservation Committee and Conservation Commission, and swear in three new police officers. Among other actions, the council will vote on resolutions for early voting, an inter-municipal agreement for a school resource officer, acceptance of easements, and a $150 gift to the Senior Center.

• Public hearings on seven zoning amendments to establish the Crossing Neighborhood Zoning District (25-929 through 25-934).
• Public hearing on two zoning amendments to define and regulate Residential Commercial Kitchens (25-938, 25-939).
• Resolution 25-59: authorization for inter-municipal agreement with Tri-County Regional Vocational Technical High School for a School Resource Officer.
• First readings of bylaws amending sewer and water system maps for Symphony Drive (25-943, 25-944).
• Appointments of Wayne Simarrian to Community Preservation Committee and Matthew Stoltz to Conservation Commission.

Council voted to move two zoning bylaw amendments (25-938 and 25-939) allowing residential commercial kitchens to a second reading, passing unanimously (7‑0, 2 absent). The council also ratified appointments of Wayne Simarrian to the Community Preservation Committee and Matthew Stoltz to the Conservation Commission, also passing 7‑0, 2 absent.

• Approved Zoning Bylaw Amendment 25-938 (Residential Commercial Kitchens) to second reading – Yes 7, No 0, Absent 2
• Approved Zoning Bylaw Amendment 25-939 (Residential Commercial Kitchens) to second reading – Yes 7, No 0, Absent 2
• Ratified appointment of Wayne Simarrian to Community Preservation Committee (term expires June 30, 2026) – Yes 7, No 0, Absent 2
• Ratified appointment of Matthew Stoltz to Conservation Commission (term expires June 30, 2028) – Yes 7, No 0, Absent 2

Recreation Advisory Board

The Franklin Recreation Advisory Board will meet on September 15, 2025 at 7:00 PM at 235 Wachusett Street. The agenda includes public comments, approval of minutes, updates on fields and playgrounds, recreation programs, and the Fletcher Fund, as well as new and old business items. The board will also hold a discussion period and set the date for the next meeting.

• Fields and playgrounds
• Recreation program update
• Fletcher Fund update
• New business
• Old business

Library Board of Directors

The Franklin Public Library Board of Directors will review reports on staffing and the 250 Anniversary Celebration Committee. The board will discuss methods for increasing revenue and the approach for strategic planning.

• Feasibility of renting the Reading Room for commercial filming, photography, and weddings
• Approach for soliciting gifts
• Strategic planning approach
• Summer Reading Program updates

The Library Board approved the minutes from the June meeting. No other motions were adopted; the board discussed website calendar updates, eBook pricing, AI use for the strategic plan, Friends of the Library budget, a donation policy, and upcoming programs, but these items were not decided.

• Approved June meeting minutes

Bi-County Collaborative

The Board of Directors will consider a vote to reorganize the board. They will also approve minutes from May 15 and June 12, 2025, and discuss employee appointments, enrollment data, instructional focus, and financial updates. Additional items include updates on facilities projects, transportation programs, and routine payroll and bill approvals.

• Vote on Board Reorganization
• Approval of May 15, 2025 Board meeting minutes (vote required)
• Approval of June 12, 2025 Board meeting minutes (vote required)
• Vote on employee appointments, resignations, and leaves of absence
• Discussion of Johnson School AC Project and AMS Program at Easton Middle School

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals meeting scheduled for September 11, 2025, has been cancelled. The next meeting is scheduled for September 25, 2025. This notice is purely procedural.

Historical Commission

The Franklin Historical Commission will approve minutes from previous meetings and discuss various old and new business items. Key topics include a continuation of the Museum Redesign, three Habitat for Humanity requests for approvals (HVAC, shed/fencing, exterior locks), and a probable presentation to the Town Council on Historic districts in October, along with the 250th kickoff. The commission may also go into executive session to nominate a new commissioner.

• Museum Redesign – continued discussion
• Probable presentation to Town Council on Historic districts and 250th kickoff
• Three Habitat for Humanity requests for approvals (HVAC, Shed & Fencing, exterior locks)
• Nomination of a new commissioner (possible executive session)

The Franklin Historical Commission met on Oct. 8, 2025 and reviewed reports, upcoming events, and project ideas. No motions were approved, denied, or voted on. Items discussed included museum events, a new Little Free History Library, and plans for future presentations.

Charles River Pollution Control District (CRPCD)

The Charles River Pollution Control District will discuss updates on aeration system upgrades and approve Second Quarter O&M and Capital Projects assessments for FY 2026 totaling $2,220,640. The board will also vote on Warrant 26-03 and review the Executive Director's report on sewer connections and NPDES compliance.

• Approval of Second Quarter O&M and Capital Projects Assessments for FY 2026 ($2,220,640)
• Approval of Warrant 26-03
• Update on Aeration System Upgrade and Transformer Replacement Project
• Update on SCADA Server Project and UPS for Server Rack
• Update on Heating Oil Tank Upgrade

The Charles River Pollution Control District unanimously approved the second‑quarter operating and capital assessments for FY 2026, totaling $2,220,640. It also unanimously approved Warrant #26-03 covering $272,295.91 in O&M and $42,956.50 in capital projects. The August 21, 2025 meeting minutes were approved, with Commissioner Cataldo abstaining, and the meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved FY 2026 O&M & capital assessments ($901,700 O&M, $1,318,940 capital, $2,220,640 total) – unanimous
• Approved Warrant #26-03 (O&M $272,295.91, Capital $42,956.50) – unanimous
• Approved August 21, 2025 meeting minutes – unanimous (Cataldo abstained)
• Adjourned the monthly meeting – unanimous

Design Review Commission

The Design Review Commission is meeting to review several signage applications submitted by local businesses. Items include signage for Temple Etz, Karl Storz, Storo Pack, Fastsigns Woburn at 290 Beaver Street, and a location at 380 King Street. No other business is on the agenda.

• Temple Etz signage application
• Karl Storz signage application (14290)
• Storo Pack signage application (14298)
• Fastsigns Woburn signage at 290 Beaver Street
• Signage at 380 King Street

The commission approved four sign packages for Temple Etz, Karl Storz, Storo Pack, and a monument sign, each with a 3‑Yes, 0‑No vote. It also voted to recommend the design and facade for the 30‑unit Franklin Crossing condo at 380 King Street, also by a 3‑Yes, 0‑No vote. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved sign package for Temple Etz, 186 Beaver Street (3-0)
• Approved sign package for Karl Storz, 1376 West Central Street (3-0)
• Approved sign package for Storo Pack, 165 Grove Street (3-0)
• Approved sign package for monument sign, 290 Beaver Street (3-0)
• Recommended design/facade for Franklin Crossing condo, 380 King Street (3-0)

School Committee

The Franklin School Committee will consider approval of the 2025‑26 District Improvement Plan and the improvement plans for the ECDC, elementary, middle, and high schools. It will also vote on a request for a Portugal/Lisbon field trip for Franklin High School students scheduled for April 17‑25, 2027. The meeting includes routine business, guest presentations, and citizen comments before adjourning.

• Approval of Portugal/Lisbon field trip request for FHS students (April 17‑25, 2027)
• Approval of the 2025‑26 District Improvement Plan
• Approval of the 2025‑26 ECDC School Improvement Plan
• Approval of the 2025‑26 Elementary School Improvement Plan
• Approval of the 2025‑26 Franklin Middle School Improvement Plan

Planning Board

The Franklin Planning Board will hold public hearings on zoning bylaw amendments 25-929 through 25-934 affecting The Crossing Neighborhood. It will also hear amendments 25-938 and 25-939 concerning residential commercial kitchens. The board will review a special permit and site plan application for Panther Way Senior Village and a site plan for Forge Parkway Lot 2. General business includes a partial Form H for 157 Cottage Street.

• Zoning ByLaw Amendments 25-929‑934 – The Crossing Neighborhood
• Zoning ByLaw Amendments 25-938 & 25-939 – Residential Commercial Kitchens
• Panther Way Senior Village – Special Permit & Site Plan Application
• Forge Parkway Lot 2 – Site Plan
• General Business: Partial Form H – 157 Cottage Street

The Board voted 5‑0 to approve the Partial Form H for 157 Cottage Street, allowing the children’s museum to occupy the building. The public hearing for the Panther Way Senior Village special permit was closed by a 5‑0 vote. The Forge Parkway Lot 2 site plan was waived for reading and then continued to the October 6 meeting, each by 5‑0 votes. A motion to waive the reading of several zoning bylaw amendments also passed 5‑0.

• Approved Partial Form H for 157 Cottage Street (5-0-0)
• Closed public hearing for Panther Way Senior Village special permit (5-0-0)
• Waived reading of Forge Parkway Lot 2 site plan application (5-0-0)
• Continued Forge Parkway Lot 2 site plan to Oct 6, 2025 (5-0-0)
• Waived reading of Zoning Bylaw Amendments 25-929 through 25-934 (5-0-0)

Legal Notices

The Franklin Planning Board will hold a public hearing on September 8, 2025, to consider a site plan application from Camford Property Group for constructing an office and warehouse building with parking, stormwater management, utilities, and landscaping at Lot 2 Forge Parkway in the Industrial Zoning District. The board may vote on the plan or continue the hearing.

• Property: Lot 2 Forge Parkway (Assessors Map 272 Lot 001) in Industrial Zoning District
• Applicant: Camford Property Group, Inc., Franklin, MA
• Proposal: Construct office and warehouse building with associated parking, stormwater, utilities, landscaping
• Plan prepared by United Consultants, Inc., Wrentham, MA
• Public hearing at Town Hall and remotely; written notice only

Franklin Commission on Disability

The Commission on Disability will meet to receive a presentation on the Behavioral Health HelpLine. Members will also discuss a resource document and review a draft for business cards.

• Update on handicap parking funds
• Behavioral Health HelpLine (BHHL) presentation
• Review of Resource Document
• Approval of business card draft

The board accepted the minutes from the August 7, 2025 meeting. It decided to continue holding meetings at the senior center because of better parking. Magnets for the commission were unanimously approved, and business cards will be revised and presented at the next meeting. The proposed t‑shirt design was approved.

• Accepted minutes of 8/7/2025 meeting (approved)
• Continued meeting location at senior center (approved)
• Magnets approved unanimously
• Business cards to be edited and presented at next meeting (pending)
• T‑shirt design approved

Legal Notices

The Franklin Conservation Commission will hold a hybrid public hearing on September 4, 2025 to consider a Notice of Intent filed by Kelly Cardoza of Avalon Consulting Group for Steve Brennan of Franklin Country Club, Inc. The proposal seeks to expand the existing clubhouse, modify the 5th tee complex, and conduct vista pruning. The project involves work in Bordering Vegetated Wetlands, a bank area, buffer zones, and the 200‑foot Riverfront Area at 672 East Central Street. The hearing will be conducted via Zoom and in‑person in the Council Chambers, allowing residents to comment.

• Expansion of the existing Franklin Country Club clubhouse
• Modifications to the 5th tee complex and vista pruning
• 1,876 sf of work in Bordering Vegetated Wetlands and 160 lf of bank native plantings
• 40,723 sf of work in the 100‑foot Buffer Zone (including No Disturbance and Buffer Zones)
• 38,935 sf of work in the 200‑foot Riverfront Area

Town Council

The Town Council will consider adopting a Local Initiative Program 'Friendly 40B' policy (tabled from July 23), a traffic code amendment, and resolutions on gifts and cable funds. They will also recognize retirements of Fire Chief James McLaughlin and Police Sergeant Michael Campanelli, promote a police sergeant, appoint a new Fire Chief, and hear updates from the Franklin Food Pantry and Norfolk County Sheriff's Office.

• Resolution 25-50: Adoption of Local Initiative Program 'Friendly 40B' Policy (tabled from July 23)
• Bylaw Amendment 25-942: Second reading to amend Chapter 170 (Vehicles and Traffic)
• Resolution 25-56: Acceptance of gifts — $750 for Veteran's Services, $100 for Senior Center
• Resolution 25-57: Approval of cable funds in support of PEG service and programming
• Proclamations and appointments: Hunger Action Month; retirement of Fire Chief James McLaughlin and Police Sgt. Michael Campanelli; promotion of Police Sgt. Joseph MacLean; appointment of Charles Allen as Fire Chief

The council called the meeting to order, announced upcoming elections, a veterans benefits discussion, the Arts and Culture Symposium, and the Downtown Harvest Festival. An update on the Zoning Board of Appeals and related applications was provided, and several residents voiced concerns. No approvals, denials, or votes were documented in the minutes.

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission will review and vote on two change requests from Habitat for Humanity. These requests concern the selection of decking materials and gutter/downspout choices for the rehabilitation of the Old South Meeting House.

• Vote on Habitat for Humanity change requests for decking materials at Old South Meeting House
• Vote on Habitat for Humanity change requests for gutter/downspout choices at Old South Meeting House

The commission voted to accept Habitat for Humanity’s change requests for decking materials (Version 2) and gutter/downspout choices for the Old South Meeting House rehabilitation. The motion was made by Jan Prentices, seconded by Randy LaRosa, and approved unanimously by roll call. No discussion was held.

• Accepted Habitat for Humanity decking and gutter change requests for Old South Meeting House (unanimous)

Board of Health

The Franklin Board of Health will meet on September 3, 2025 to consider several public‑health matters. Items include a discussion on prohibiting the sale of Kratom products and nitrate “poppers,” an amendment to tobacco regulations, and the appointment of a 2026 Tobacco Control Agent. The board will also receive updates on the Metacomet shared‑service grant, including reports on a regional health agent and a public‑health nurse, as well as a community baby‑shower event. The meeting will conclude with a public comment period.

• Prohibiting sale of Kratom products and nitrate “poppers” (discussion)
• Tobacco regulation amendment (discussion)
• 2026 Tobacco Control Agent (discussion)
• Metacomet shared service grant regional health agent report
• Metacomet shared service grant public health nurse report

Legal Notices

The Franklin Town Council will hold a second reading and final vote on a bylaw amendment to prohibit parking along both sides of Lewis Street for 100 feet from East Central Street. Public input will be accepted during the meeting.

• Second reading and final vote on Bylaw Amendment 25-942 to amend Chapter 170 (Vehicles and Traffic) prohibiting parking on Lewis Street for 100 ft from East Central Street

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings on several variance and special permit requests, including a 264-unit multi-family development requiring a comprehensive permit. Other items include a request to build a single-family home with insufficient frontage at 33 Elm Street, a porch extension too close to the setback at 28 Queen Street, and earth removal exceeding 1,000 cubic yards at parcels on West Central Street and Panther Way. The board will also discuss a minor modification for the previously approved Franklin Ridge senior affordable housing project and approve July 31 meeting minutes.

• 444 East Central Street – TAG Central LLC seeks a comprehensive permit for a 264-unit multi-family development (filed 2/28/25; hearing fee $27,400).
• 33 Elm Street – G. David Iverson seeks a variance to build a single-family home with 124 ft of frontage where 200 ft is required and a 26.5 ft side setback where 40 ft is required.
• West Central Street and Panther Way – applicant seeks a special permit for earth removal exceeding 1,000 cubic yards (filed 12/26/24; hearing fee $350, mailing $3,557.76).
• 28 Queen Street – Samuel Williams seeks a variance to construct a porch extension 22.1 ft from the setback where 30 ft is required.
• Franklin Ridge – minor modification request for a previously approved 60-unit affordable senior rental housing project (approved Jan 13, 2020).

The Zoning Board of Appeals voted unanimously to treat the requested minor modification to the Franklin Ridge senior‑housing project as an insubstantial change, so no public hearing is required. The board denied building permits for 33 Elm Street and for an earth‑removal request, and both hearings were continued to September 25, 2025 by unanimous votes. A variance request for 28 Queen Street was rejected after a 2‑1 vote, falling short of the three affirmative votes needed for approval.

• Deemed Franklin Ridge modification insubstantial (unanimous)
• Denied building permit for 33 Elm Street (no variance required)
• Continued public hearing for 33 Elm Street to Sep 25, 2025 (unanimous)
• Denied earth removal permit for parcels 270‑28, 038 and 39 West Central Street (no special permit)
• Continued public hearing for earth removal to Sep 25, 2025 (unanimous)
• Motion to close public hearing for 28 Queen Street denied (unanimous)
• Motion to take 28 Queen Street variance under advisement failed (2‑1)
• Variance for 28 Queen Street rejected (2‑1, needs 3 affirmative votes)

Police Station Building Subcommittee

The Police Station Building Subcommittee will approve minutes from four prior meetings. The Owner’s Project Manager will present the project website launch, announce three open‑house dates (Sept 13, Sept 23, Oct 5 2025), outline the programming study, site‑selection analysis, and preliminary design samples with construction budgets. The committee will then discuss next steps and set future meeting dates before adjourning.

• Approve minutes from Oct 30 2024, Nov 14 2024, Feb 25 2025, Aug 6 2025
• OPM presentation: project website launch
• Open‑house dates: Sep 13 2025 1 PM, Sep 23 2025 6 PM, Oct 5 2025 6 PM
• Site‑selection analysis and evaluation of potential sites
• Preliminary sample designs and construction budget estimates

Agricultural Commission

The Franklin Agricultural Commission will vote on adopting a Right‑to‑Farm designation for the town. It will also discuss an upcoming farmer’s market event on October 10 and receive updates on the Adin Estates property, a new agricultural brochure, and grant funding for a community canning and cider press facility.

• Consideration of a Right‑to‑Farm designation for Franklin, MA
• October 10 farmer’s market event: pumpkin weigh‑in and decorating
• Update on the Adin Estates project at 543 Union Street
• Review of the Agricultural Commission brochure and Franklin Farm Information Booklet
• Discussion of grants for the Franklin Canning/Food Preservation Center and cider press

The Agricultural Commission unanimously accepted the June and July meeting minutes. It announced that the commission will host the annual October Pumpkin Weigh‑in and Pumpkin Decorating events, providing paints, brushes, decorations and a scale. The discussion on the Franklin Canning Center was tabled until all four members are present.

• Accepted June and July minutes (unanimous)
• Planned October Pumpkin Weigh‑in and Pumpkin Decorating events
• Committed to supply paints, brushes, decorations and a scale for the events
• Tabled Franklin Canning Center discussion until full attendance

Massachusetts Strategic Health Group

The Massachusetts Strategic Health Group will discuss financial reports, payment requirements, and insurance rates. The board may vote on demand notices for specific members and the appointment of special counsel for retiree withdrawals.

• Demand notices for Acushnet ($666,100.93), Oxford ($382,653.13), CES ($27,595.99), and Tri-County RSD ($480,500.49)
• Possible vote on NFP recommendations regarding GLP medications
• Proposal to require monthly bills be paid via ACH within 5 days of receipt
• Discussion of Aetna rates and options to mitigate increases
• Possible appointment of D.M. Moschos as special counsel for retiree withdrawals

Design Review Commission

The commission unanimously approved the sign package for Franklin Optimum Hypnotherapy at 13 Main Street. It also voted 4‑0 to continue the Franklin Crossing condo project hearing until September 9, 2025 to discuss the shed roof and façade. The meeting was adjourned by a 3‑0 vote.

• Approved sign package for Franklin Optimum Hypnotherapy (4-0)
• Continued Franklin Crossing condo hearing to Sept 9, 2025 (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

School Committee

The Franklin School Committee will vote to approve family handbooks for the 2025-26 school year and designate the Oak Street and Panther Way campus as the Horace Mann Campus. The meeting will also include routine business, new hires updates, and a consent agenda for previous minutes.

• Approval of 2025-26 Family Handbooks (ECDC, Elementary, Middle, FHS)
• Designation of Horace Mann Campus on Oak Street and Panther Way
• Creation of Horace Mann Legacy Subcommittee
• Approval of August 12, 2025 School Committee minutes
• New Hires Update presentation

Cultural Council

The council will discuss the Harvest Festival scheduled for Saturday, September 27, 2025, with a rain‑date on Sunday, September 28, 2025. They will review the event timing (12 PM–5 PM) and the required set‑up and clean‑up responsibilities before and after the festival. Additional items include a financial update, cultural updates, and planning for the 2025 symposium and FY26 priorities.

• Harvest Festival 2025: September 27 (12 PM–5 PM) with rain‑date September 28 (12 PM–5 PM)
• Set‑up and clean‑up duties before and after the Harvest Festival
• Financial update presented by Nicole and John
• Symposium 2025 updates for September 18‑19
• FY26 priorities and meeting schedule

The Cultural Council voted to adopt the proposed wording changes to the grant application process, including removing the phrase “Removing Barriers” and updating “preserving cultural heritage” to “embracing cultural heritage.” The meeting was then adjourned at 9:00 PM by unanimous vote. The council also agreed that John Ristaino will submit the names of prospective members to the Town Administrator for approval.

• Approved grant‑application wording changes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:00 PM (unanimous)
• John Ristaino to submit prospective member names to Town Administrator
• Assign a council member to shepherd each grant recipient

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold public hearings on five applications: a continued special permit and site plan for Panther Way Senior Village, site plans for 60 Earls Way and 380 King St, a definitive subdivision at 543 Union St (Adin Estates), and a definitive subdivision modification at Sunken Meadow Rd (Cranberry Estates). The board will also consider an endorsement for 800 Chestnut St and a partial Form H for 160 Grove St.

• Continued public hearing: Panther Way Senior Village special permit and site plan
• Public hearing: site plan application for 60 Earls Way
• Public hearing: definitive subdivision for 543 Union St (Adin Estates)
• Public hearing: definitive subdivision modification for Sunken Meadow Rd (Cranberry Estates)
• General business: endorsement for 800 Chestnut St

The board unanimously endorsed the site plan for 800 Chestnut Street and approved a Partial Form H for 160 Grove Street. It voted to continue the Panther Way Senior Village special permit to the September 8 meeting. It also closed the public hearing, approved four waivers, and approved the site plan for 60 Earls Way, each by a 5‑0‑0 vote.

• Endorsed 800 Chestnut Street site plan (5-0-0)
• Approved Partial Form H for 160 Grove Street (5-0-0)
• Continued Panther Way Senior Village special permit to Sep 8, 2025 (5-0-0)
• Closed public hearing for 60 Earls Way site plan (5-0-0)
• Approved four waivers for 60 Earls Way (5-0-0)
• Approved 60 Earls Way site plan application (5-0-0)

Legal Notices

The Franklin Planning Board will hold a public hearing regarding a Definitive Subdivision Modification for Cranberry Meadows. The applicant proposes adding approximately 35 feet of pavement to connect the road to the Bellingham Town Line.

• Public hearing for Cranberry Meadows Definitive Subdivision Modification Plan
• Proposed addition of approximately 35 feet of pavement at the end of Sunken Meadow Road
• Project location: Rural Residential I Zoning District (Assessors Map 223 Lots 37, 38 and 39)

Charles River Pollution Control District (CRPCD)

The Charles River Pollution Control District will hold its monthly meeting on August 21, 2025. The board will discuss a proposed aeration system upgrade and an energy incentive program, approve Warrant 26-02 for operations and capital expenditures, and hear reports from the engineer and executive director.

• Discussion on aeration system upgrade and energy incentive
• Approval of Warrant 26-02 (O&M $XXX,XXX, Capital $XXX,XXX)
• Sewer connections report: Franklin 4 homes (1,760 gpd), Millis 2 homes and 1 commercial (770 gpd combined)
• NPDES Permit Compliance Report for July 2025
• Update on SCADA Server Project and UPS for Server Rack

The board approved Warrant #26-02 covering $362,934.52 for operations and maintenance and $21,174.74 for capital projects. The July 23, 2025 meeting minutes were approved, with Commissioner Downing abstaining. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously. No formal action was taken on the aeration system upgrade discussion.

• Approved Warrant #26-02 for $362,934.52 O&M and $21,174.74 capital (unanimous)
• Approved July 23, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous, Downing abstained)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Legal Notices

The Franklin Conservation Commission will hold a hybrid public hearing on a Notice of Intent for construction of an office and warehouse building on Lot 2 Forge Parkway. The project includes work within the 100-foot Buffer Zone to Bordering Vegetated Wetlands. The hearing provides an open forum for discussion.

• Applicant: Camford Property Group, Inc., represented by Richard Goodreau of United Consultants
• Project includes office/warehouse building with utilities, stormwater management, landscaping, and retaining walls
• 22,332 square feet of work within the 100-foot Buffer Zone to BVW (5,061 sf in 25-50 ft zone; 17,271 sf in 50-100 ft zone)
• Location: Lot 2 Forge Parkway, Map 272, Lot 001, Business Zoning District

Board of Health

The Norfolk County Mosquito Control District Commission will hold a meeting via Zoom to discuss and vote on several items. Key actions include approval of July meeting minutes, consideration of the FY2026 budget overview, and a vote to re-approve the shift differential policy originally from 1999. Commissioners will also receive updates on arbovirus activity, pending legislative bills, and electric vehicle fleet initiatives.

• Vote on approval of minutes from July 16, 2025 meeting
• Budget overview for closing FY2025 and start of FY2026
• Vote to re-approve shift differential policy language (original policy from May 1999)
• Arbovirus updates
• Update on pending legislative bills related to mosquito control

Board of Assessors

The Franklin Board of Assessors will approve minutes from four prior meetings, receive an update on appraiser staffing, and discuss the FY2026 workflow status and planning for tax rate completion. They will also consider motor vehicle excise abatements, personal property abatements, real estate abatements and exemptions, and enter executive session for confidential matters. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific dollar amounts or policy votes listed.

• Approval of minutes from December 2024, January 2025, March 20 and March 28, 2025
• Update on appraiser staffing
• FY2026 workflow and tax rate planning
• Motor vehicle excise tax abatement denials
• Real estate abatements, exemptions, and ATB appeals

The Board approved the minutes from meetings held in December 2024, January 2025, March 2025, and March 2025. It announced the hiring of Renee Chen as the new town appraiser to fill the vacancy left by Susan Reagan's retirement. The proposed full‑time administrative assistant position was removed from the FY 2026 budget after the June 2025 override ballot failed. The meeting was adjourned with the next session scheduled for October 20, 2025.

• Approved minutes from four prior meetings (no vote tally recorded)
• Hired Renee Chen as town appraiser to fill vacancy
• Removed full‑time administrative assistant position from FY 2026 budget (due to ballot failure)
• No executive session held
• Adjourned meeting and set next meeting for October 20, 2025 at 5:30 PM

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging will interview Kit Brady for an open board position and discuss the Strategic Plan. The group will also review correspondence regarding a Catalano Estate check totaling $21,725.73.

• Interview Kit Brady for open Board Position
• Catalano Estate check notification: $21,725.73
• Strategic Plan discussion pending seat fills
• Community and Wellness Nurse update
• Expo Committee to resume in 2026

The council approved the July 18, 2025 meeting minutes. The Helping Hands grant was denied and a donation for a nurse position was not accepted. Future printing of reports and agendas will be reduced, the budget report will be prepared quarterly, and the Expo Committee was postponed to next year.

• Approved July 18, 2025 minutes (motion by Kim Mu‑Chow, seconded by Phyllis Malcom, Tina Powderly abstained)
• Denied Helping Hands grant
• Rejected nurse donation
• Reduced future printing of reports, agenda, etc.
• Set budget report to be completed quarterly
• Postponed Expo Committee to next year

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Franklin Zoning Board of Appeals has cancelled its meeting scheduled for August 14, 2025. The next meeting is set for August 28, 2025.

Benjamin Franklin Classical Charter Public School

The Benjamin Franklin Classical Charter Public School Board of Trustees will discuss and potentially vote on executive director and board goals, review the accountability plan, and examine MAP data. The meeting includes public comment and approval of prior meeting minutes.

• Review and vote on meeting minutes from July 24
• Executive Director update and goal-setting
• Board goals discussion
• Accountability plan review
• MAP (Measure of Academic Progress) data presentation

Town Council

The Town Council will consider a FY26 budget amendment (Resolution 25-52) to address a $231,152 reduction in state aid, with options to split cuts between town and schools. They will also vote on a pledge of license for Santa Fe Burrito Grill's alcoholic beverages license, ratify committee appointments, and hold a first reading of a bylaw amendment on vehicles and traffic.

• FY26 Budget Amendment (Resolution 25-52) to adjust for $231,152 state aid loss
• Pledge of License for Santa Fe Burrito Grill at 28 West Central Street (Section 12 All Alcoholic Beverages)
• Appointments: 5 returning CPC members, James Lane to Council on Aging, Kyle Galvin to Design Review Commission
• First Reading of Bylaw Amendment 25-942 (Chapter 170 Vehicles and Traffic)
• Acceptance of gifts: $1,571 for Senior Center, $970 for Library, $90 for Historical Museum

The council voted 9-0 to approve a Section 12 alcoholic beverages restaurant license for Santa Fe Burrito Grill, LLC at 28 West Central Street. It also ratified the annual appointments to town boards and commissions with a 9-0 vote. A FY26 budget update was presented, and no public hearings were scheduled.

• Approved Section 12 alcohol license for Santa Fe Burrito Grill, LLC (Yes-9, No-0)
• Ratified annual appointments to town boards and commissions (Yes-9, No-0)
• Presented FY26 budget update (no vote recorded)
• No public hearings scheduled for the meeting

Historical Commission

The Franklin Historical Commission will discuss the administrators’ proposal to close the Museum next fiscal year as a cost‑saving measure. Other agenda items include requests for input on a telecom installation at 82 W. Central, ongoing museum redesign plans, a VHS digitization project, and representation on the town’s 250th anniversary committee.

• Administrators’ proposal to close the Museum next FY to save money
• EBI Consulting invitation to comment on telecom installation at 82 W. Central (FUMC)
• Museum redesign – continued
• VHS Digitization Project meeting
• Commission representation on 250th Committee

The Franklin Historical Commission unanimously appointed Alan Earls as its representative on the 250th Committee. The commission also unanimously approved two alteration requests: a door replacement and a driveway paving plan for the museum. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Appointed Alan Earls as representative on 250th Committee (unanimous)
• Approved door replacement alteration request (unanimous)
• Approved driveway paving alteration request (unanimous)

Design Review Commission

The Franklin Design Review Commission will review multiple sign permit applications for properties on King, Central, Emmons, Union, Lincoln, Old West Central, Washington, and Cottage Streets. The agenda also includes approval of draft minutes from June 24 and July 8, 2025.

• Sign application at 380 King Street
• Sign application at 28 East Central Street
• Sign application at 82 Emmons Street
• Sign application at 305 Union Street (two applications for Building J)
• Sign applications at 465 Lincoln Street, 648 Old West Central Street, 823 Washington Street, 370 King Street, 346 Union Street, and 16 Cottage Street

School Committee

The School Committee will review summer learning and moving updates and the 2024 Annual Report draft. The body is also asked to accept a gift for in-house enrichment following the dissolution of the Franklin Education Foundation.

• Acceptance of $167,557.47 from the dissolution of the Franklin Education Foundation
• Review of 2024 Annual Report Draft
• Summer Learning Review by Paula Marano and Patty Gay
• Summer Move Update by Colin Boisvert

Finance Committee

The Franklin Finance Committee will consider and vote on FY26 budget amendments, comparing Model A and Model B, which reflect different override scenarios. They will also receive a five-year fiscal forecast from the Town Administrator as part of the "Deep Dive Series." Additionally, the committee will approve minutes from four previous meetings and review updates on the stabilization account and local receipts.

• FY26 Budget Amendments with Model A and Model B comparison and voting resolutions
• Five-Year Fiscal Forecast and Five-Year Departmental Forecast from Town Administrator
• Approval of minutes from April 28, April 29, May 1, and June 11, 2025
• Stabilization Account Report and Municipal Local Receipts Reports as of June 30, 2025
• Future agenda items: September 10 (Deep Dive: Technology) and other dates through December

The committee approved the meeting minutes for April 28, April 29, May 1 and June 11, 2025. It voted unanimously to recommend Model B, which restores two paramedic positions and a third ambulance, to the Town Council as a FY26 budget amendment. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous voice vote.

• Approved April 28‑June 11, 2025 meeting minutes (passed)
• Recommended Model B FY26 budget amendment to Town Council (unanimous voice vote)
• Motion to adjourn passed (unanimous voice vote)

Planning Board

The August 11, 2025, Planning Board meeting has been cancelled. The next meeting is scheduled for August 25, 2025.

Legal Notices

The Franklin Planning Board will hold a public hearing regarding a Definitive Subdivision Plan titled “Adin Estates.” The board will consider a proposal to build a 6-lot single family subdivision and a request for a sidewalk waiver.

• Definitive Subdivision Plan “Adin Estates” at 543 Union Street
• Proposal to construct a 6-lot single family subdivision
• Waiver request under Chapter 185 Section 300-13(A)(1) to allow 1 sidewalk instead of 2

Legal Notices

The Franklin Planning Board will hold a public hearing on August 11, 2025 to consider a series of zoning by‑law amendments (25‑929 through 25‑934). The amendments would add a new Crossing Neighborhood (CN) district, change the zoning map for parcels in Industrial, Single Family Residential IV and Commercial I districts to CN, and modify use regulations, lot requirements, parking, signs, sidewalks and design review provisions. The Town Council will later hold a related hearing on September 17, 2025.

• Amendment 25‑929 adds the Crossing Neighborhood district to the list of zoning districts.
• Amendment 25‑930 changes the zoning map for 0.654 acre of industrial land, 2.44+ acres of single‑family residential IV land, and 36.47+ acres of commercial I land to the Crossing Neighborhood district (specific parcel numbers listed).
• Amendment 25‑931 updates use regulations in Attachments 2‑8 of the zoning code.
• Amendment 25‑932 adds new lot, area, frontage, yard and height requirements for the CN district.
• Amendment 25‑933 revises parking, loading and driveway requirements for the CN district.

Legal Notices

The Planning Board and Town Council are holding public hearings to amend Chapter 185 of the Town Code. The proposed changes would define and regulate 'Residential Commercial Kitchens' as an accessory use.

• Amendment 25-938: Defines Residential Commercial Kitchens for off-premises food production
• Amendment 25-938: Prohibits public sewer connection for Residential Commercial Kitchens, requiring on-site septic
• Amendment 25-939: Updates the Use Regulations Schedule Part VII for accessory uses
• Public hearing by Planning Board on August 11, 2025, at 7:00 PM
• Public hearing by Town Council on September 17, 2025, at 7:00 PM

Franklin Commission on Disability

The Franklin Commission on Persons with Disability will meet on August 7, 2025 at 4:00 pm in the community center at 1000 Central Park Terrace. The agenda includes approval of the previous meeting’s minutes and a period for public comments. Old business items are updates on a possible committee title change, a logo color change, and a possible change of the monthly meeting location. New business consists of a discussion of committee expectations, and the next meeting will feature a BHHL presentation and discussions of a resource document and an “Accessibility in Franklin” document.

• Approve previous meeting minutes
• Update on possible committee title change
• Update on committee logo color change
• Discussion on change of monthly meeting location
• Committee expectations (new business)

The board approved the minutes from the July 10, 2025 meeting. It voted to adopt the name “Franklin Commission on Disability” and to approve a gold logo for the commission. Proposals to increase the number of members, to address handicap‑parking funds, and to establish a backup meeting protocol were all tabled for future discussion.

• Accepted July 10, 2025 meeting minutes (majority vote)
• Adopted name “Franklin Commission on Disability” (majority vote)
• Approved gold commission logo (majority vote)

Pole Petition Hearing

The Town Administrator will hold a public hearing on two pole petitions from National Grid. The company requests permission to install a total of five new utility poles along Spring Street to serve adjacent lots. Residents may attend in person or remotely via Zoom.

• Plan #31072136: Install poles #28 and #29 on Spring Street, with pole 28 150' from existing pole 27 and pole 29 50' from pole 28.
• Plan #31072140: Install poles #25 (with anchor), #26, and #27 on Spring Street, with pole 25 110' from existing pole 24 and each subsequent pole 150' apart.
• Both plans include new overhead wires and anchors as shown on attached maps.
• Public hearing scheduled for August 7, 2025 at 10:00 AM in the Municipal Building, with remote access via Zoom or phone.

Legal Notices

The Town Administrator will hold a public hearing on two pole petitions from National Grid to install new utility poles on Spring Street. The hearing will take place on August 7, 2025, at 10:00 am in the Council Chambers. Residents may attend in person or via Zoom.

• Pole Petition #31072136: Install 2 SO poles (#28, #29) with anchors on Spring Street
• Pole Petition #31072140: Install 3 SO poles (#25, #26, #27) with anchor on Spring Street

Police Station Building Subcommittee

The Police Station Building Committee is touring the Franklin Police Station at 911 Panther Way. The public is invited to attend in person. Additional public tours are planned for September and October. No decisions or proposals are on the agenda.

• Committee and public tour of the Franklin Police Station at 911 Panther Way

The committee met on August 6, 2025, toured the police station at 911 Panther Way, and discussed offering similar open‑house tours in the fall. No formal actions, approvals, or denials were recorded.

Housing Authority

The Board of Commissioners will hold a special meeting to review a tree removal project. The meeting also includes a roll call and an open session.

• Tree Removal Project Review

The board entered an executive session to discuss litigation strategy and then returned to open session. It approved retaining Secure Legal Services to address a land dispute, deed issues, neighboring land matters, and to negotiate an adjusted contractor contract. The board also authorized Vice Chair Feeley to speak with the neighboring property owner about the dispute and adjourned the meeting. All motions passed unanimously.

• Entered Executive Session under G.L. c. 30a, s. 21(a)(3) (unanimous)
• Returned to Open Session (unanimous)
• Approved hiring Secure Legal Services for land dispute and contract negotiation (unanimous)
• Authorized Vice Chair Feeley to speak with abutter regarding dispute (unanimous)
• Adjourned the Special Meeting (unanimous)

Agricultural Commission

The Franklin Agricultural Committee will meet via Zoom on July 31, 2025, to consider a Definitive Subdivision Plan titled 'Adin Estates' for a property at 355 East Central Street. This is the only substantive item on the agenda, likely involving a review of the subdivision's impact on agricultural land.

• Review of Definitive Subdivision Plan 'Adin Estates' at 355 East Central Street

The Agricultural Commission decided to send its members to the August 11 public hearing to speak against the proposed 6‑lot subdivision on Gianetti’s Blueberry Farm. It also agreed to notify all Franklin farmers about the proposal and encourage them to attend the hearing. No vote tally was recorded.

• Send commission members to the August 11 public hearing to oppose the subdivision
• Notify all Franklin farmers about the subdivision proposal and encourage attendance

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hear public hearings for four applicants seeking variances or special permits for construction and development projects. The board will also approve minutes from previous meetings.

• 50 Woodview Way: Applicant seeks to install 21 double-sided banners
• 28 Queen Street: Applicant seeks porch extension 22.1' from yard setback
• West Central Street and Panther Way: Applicant seeks earth removal over 1,000 cubic yards
• 444 East Central Street: Applicant seeks comprehensive permit for 264-unit multi-family development
• Approval of June 5 and July 17, 2025 meeting minutes

The Zoning Board of Appeals voted unanimously to grant a variance allowing The Sign Center to install twenty‑one 36‑in × 21‑in double‑sided light‑post banners at 50 Woodview Way, to be placed 135 in above grade and contingent on approval from the Franklin Design Review. The board also unanimously closed the public hearing on that application. The board unanimously continued the public hearings for the porch variance at 28 Queen Street and for the earth‑removal request on parcels on West Central Street and Panther Way to August 28, 2025. Additionally, the board approved the June 5 and July 17, 2025 meeting minutes and approved the 2026 meeting dates and filing deadlines, all by unanimous or affirmative votes.

• Approved variance for 50 Woodview Way to install 21 double‑sided banners (unanimous)
• Closed public hearing for 50 Woodview Way variance (unanimous)
• Continued public hearing for 28 Queen Street porch variance to Aug 28 2025 (unanimous)
• Continued public hearing for West Central Street & Panther Way earth‑removal to Aug 28 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved June 5 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved July 17 2025 meeting minutes (vote: Yes)
• Approved 2026 meeting dates and filing deadlines (unanimous)

Legal Notices

The Franklin Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing to consider a variance request. The applicant is seeking permission to install 21 double-sided banners at a property in the Industrial zoning district.

• Variance request for 21 double-sided banners at 50 Woodview Way (Map 274, Lot 008)

Massachusetts Strategic Health Group

The Massachusetts Strategic Health Group will elect a chair and vice chair, approve minutes, and hear a monthly financial report. Key discussions include a potential vote on risk sharing among members, requiring ACH payments, and a possible double premium payment to improve cash flow.

• Election of chair and vice chair
• Monthly financial report and format for FY '26
• Status of GLP-1 medications in Massachusetts
• Risk sharing among MSHG members – presentation and possible vote
• Discussion and possible vote on requiring ACH payments and double premium payment

Planning Board

The Franklin Planning Board will conduct public hearings on site plan applications for Panther Way Senior Village, 60 Earls Way, 380 King Street (continued), and 800 Chestnut. General business includes appointing a CPC member, endorsing plans for 157 Cottage Street and 151 Grove Street, and approving prior meeting minutes.

• Panther Way Senior Village – special permit and site plan review
• 60 Earls Way – site plan application
• 380 King Street – site plan application (continued hearing)
• 800 Chestnut – site plan application
• Endorsements for 157 Cottage Street and 151 Grove Street

The board appointed Jay Mello to the Community Preservation Committee and unanimously endorsed two projects: 157 Cottage Street (Franklin Children’s Museum) and 151 Grove Street (storage unit). It approved the June 2 and June 30 meeting minutes. The board voted to continue the Panther Way Senior Village special permit and site plan to August 25, 2025, and the 380 King Street site plan to August 11, 2025.

• Appointed Jay Mello to Community Preservation Committee (5-0-0)
• Endorsed 157 Cottage Street project (5-0-0)
• Endorsed 151 Grove Street special permit (5-0-0)
• Approved June 2 & June 30, 2025 meeting minutes (5-0-0)
• Continued Panther Way Senior Village permit to Aug 25, 2025 (5-0-0)
• Continued 380 King Street site plan to Aug 11, 2025 (5-0-0)

Historical Commission

The Franklin Historical Commission will review a change request from Habitat for Humanity regarding the selection of specific window models for the rehabilitation of the Old South Meeting House. The commission will then vote to approve or disapprove the request.

• Habitat for Humanity change request for window models at Old South Meeting House rehab
• Vote to approve or disapprove window conformance with prior guidance

The commission reviewed the Habitat for Humanity Preservation Restriction Agreement for 762 Washington St and recorded no objections. A motion to approve the alteration requests for window replacement was made, seconded, and passed with all members voting in favor. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

• Approved Alteration Requests for 762 Washington St (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Benjamin Franklin Classical Charter Public School

This is a largely procedural meeting of the Benjamin Franklin Classical Charter Public School Board of Trustees. Items include reviewing and voting on past meeting minutes, onboarding new trustees, setting board and executive director goals, and approving the 2025-2026 meeting calendar. No major policy changes or financial decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Review and vote on meeting minutes from 6/10 and executive session 5/22
• Board overview of 2025-2026 handbook
• Discussion and approval of board goals and ED goals
• Approve 2025-2026 Board of Trustees meeting calendar

Town Council

The Town Council will hold public hearings on alcohol licenses and vote on several resolutions, including FY26 Community Preservation funds and a 'Friendly 40B' affordable housing policy. The body will also consider multiple zoning amendments related to a new Crossing Neighborhood Zoning District and residential commercial kitchens.

• Proposed affordable housing project at 202 Washington Street
• New alcohol license for Kojo Asian Fusion LLC at 28 East Central Street
• Location change for The Little Shop of Olive Oils license at 5 Main St.
• Referral of Crossing Neighborhood Zoning District amendments to the Planning Board
• Acceptance of gifts for Senior Center ($1,646), Fire Department ($1,025), Police ($1,000), and Veterans’ Services ($400)

The council approved the June 4 and June 18, 2025 meeting minutes unanimously. It ratified the annual appointments to boards and committees with a 9‑0 vote. The council also approved a new Section 12 restaurant alcoholic beverages license for Kojo Asian Fusion and a location change for The Little Shop of Olive Oils, each by a 9‑0 vote.

• Approved June 4 2025 meeting minutes (9‑0)
• Approved June 18 2025 meeting minutes (9‑0)
• Ratified annual board and committee appointments (9‑0)
• Approved New Section 12 restaurant liquor license for Kojo Asian Fusion, manager Xiao Xia Zhang (9‑0)
• Approved change of location for The Little Shop of Olive Oils Section 15 license (9‑0)

Board of Health

The Franklin Board of Health will discuss and potentially approve a local upgrade for the property at 31 Greystone Road. The meeting also includes approval of previous minutes and an opportunity for public commentary.

• Local upgrade approval for 31 Greystone Road

The Board of Health approved a local upgrade request to repair the septic system at 31 Greystone Rd. The motion passed with a unanimous 2‑0 vote from Members Mu‑Chow and Harris. The meeting was then adjourned by a 2‑0 vote.

• Approved local septic upgrade request for 31 Greystone Rd (2-0)
• Adjourned meeting (2-0)

Charles River Pollution Control District (CRPCD)

The Charles River Pollution Control District will vote on two warrants totaling approximately $937,000 for operations and capital projects, consider a request for an additional operator, and vote on updates to the Financial Policies and Procedures Manual. The board will also discuss SCADA security, receive an engineer’s report on landfill gas monitoring and the Garelick Farms report, and hear the executive director’s report covering June 2025 sewer connections, NPDES permit compliance, and updates on infrastructure projects.

• Vote on Warrant 25-13: $340,349.42 (O&M) and $12,632.09 (Capital)
• Vote on Warrant 26-01: $459,998.61 (O&M) and $124,000.00 (Capital)
• Discussion and vote on updates to the Financial Policies and Procedures Manual
• Sewer connections in June 2025: Franklin (5 homes including multi-units, 2,640 gpd; 1 multi-unit 26 units/30 bedrooms, 3,300 gpd) and Medway (2 homes, 660 gpd)
• Update on Request for Qualifications for Force Main Redundancy Alternatives Analysis

Commissioners voted unanimously to approve the request for an additional operator. They also approved updates to the Financial Policies and Procedures Manual and two budget warrants covering operating and capital costs. The June 11, 2025 meeting minutes were approved and the meeting was adjourned.

• Approve request for an additional operator (unanimous)
• Approve updates to Financial Policies and Procedures Manual (unanimous)
• Approve Warrant #25-13: O&M $340,349.42; Capital Projects $12,632.09 (unanimous)
• Approve Warrant #26-01: O&M $459,998.61; Capital Projects $124,000.00 (unanimous)
• Approve June 11, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous; Chairman abstained)
• Approve adjournment of the meeting (unanimous)

Charles River Pollution Control District (CRPCD)

This meeting notice lists the dates and times for the Charles River Pollution Control District's monthly meetings from July through December 2025. No substantive agenda items are provided; the notice is purely procedural.

Legal Notices

The Franklin Town Council will hold a second reading and final vote on two bylaw amendments related to electric vehicle charging stations. Bylaw Amendment 25-936 establishes an Electric Vehicle Charging Station Revolving Fund. Bylaw Amendment 25-937 adds a fee of 35 cents per kWh for charging. The public may provide input during the meeting.

• Second reading and final vote on Bylaw Amendment 25-936 (new EV Charging Station Revolving Fund)
• Second reading and final vote on Bylaw Amendment 25-937 (35¢/kWh fee for EV charging)
• Public input opportunity during the July 23, 2025 meeting
• Meeting at 355 E. Central Street, Municipal Building, 2nd Floor Council Chambers, and via Zoom

Legal Notices

The Franklin Town Council will hold a public hearing to consider an application from The Little Shop of Olive Oils Inc. The business is requesting to move its Section 15 Wine and Malt Beverages Package Store License from 5 Main Street to 9 Main Street.

• Public hearing for Section 15 Wine and Malt Beverages Package Store License location change from 5 Main Street to 9 Main Street

Legal Notices

The Franklin Town Council will hold a public hearing on July 23, 2025, to consider a new Section 12 Restaurant All Alcoholic Beverages License for Kojo Asian Fusion LLC, doing business as Kojo, at 28 East Central Street. The hearing begins at 6:00 pm in the Municipal Building council chambers and via Zoom, with an opportunity for public input.

• Application for a new Section 12 Restaurant All Alcoholic Beverages License by Kojo Asian Fusion LLC at 28 East Central Street

Design Review Commission

The Design Review Commission will meet to review sign applications for several local addresses. The commission will also review draft minutes from June 24 and July 8, 2025.

• Sign application for 380 King Street
• Sign application for 28 East Central Street
• Sign application for 305 Union Street
• Sign application for 305 Union Street (Building J)
• Sign application for 465 Lincoln Street

Council on Aging

The Franklin Council on Aging will meet to conduct candidate interviews for two open board positions and discuss the strategic plan. The agenda also includes routine updates from the director, committees, and the FOFE liaison.

• Candidate interviews for two open board positions
• Discussion of the strategic plan, to be addressed when seats are filled
• Reports from Budget, Bylaw, Expo, Housing, Nominating, Program, and Supportive Day committees
• Supportive Day Committee to review attendance policies

The council approved the minutes from the June 20 meeting and accepted the Director’s Report. The strategic plan was placed on hold with no action taken. James Lane was unanimously accepted as the new COA board nominee. The meeting was adjourned at 2:40 p.m.

• Minutes of June 20, 2025 approved
• Director’s Report accepted
• Strategic Plan placed on hold (no action)
• James Lane accepted as COA board nominee (unanimous)
• Meeting adjourned at 2:40 p.m.

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals has rescheduled its July 17 meeting to July 31, 2025. All four public hearings are continued to that date, including a comprehensive permit for a 264-unit multi-family development at 444 East Central Street, variances for a porch extension at 28 Queen Street and a single-family home at 33 Elm Street, and a special permit for earth removal at West Central Street/Panther Way. The board will also approve the June 5, 2025 meeting minutes.

• 28 Queen Street – variance for porch extension 22.1 ft from yard setback (30 ft required); hearing fee $200, mailing $252.88
• Parcels 270-28, 038, 39 West Central Street/Panther Way – special permit for earth removal over 1,000 cubic yards; hearing fee $350, mailing $3,557.76, advertising $145.14
• 33 Elm Street – variance for single-family home frontage 123.92 ft (200 ft required) and right side yard setback 26.5 ft (40 ft required); hearing fee $200, mailing $261.60
• 444 East Central Street – comprehensive permit for 264-unit multi-family development; hearing fee $27,400, mailing $287.76
• Approval of June 5, 2025 meeting minutes

The meeting opened at 7:30 PM, but a lack of quorum forced the board to close and continue later. The board denied a porch‑extension permit for 28 Queen Street because the required setback variance was not granted. It also denied permits for the West Central Street parcels, 33 Elm Street, and 444 East Central Street, each lacking the required variance or special permit.

• Denied building permit for 28 Queen Street (no variance)
• Denied building permit for parcels 270‑28, 038 and 39 West Central Street and Panther Way (no special permit)
• Denied building permit for 33 Elm Street (no variance)
• Denied building permit for 444 East Central Street (no comprehensive permit)

Legal Notices

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing to consider a variance request for a property at 28 Queen Street. The applicant is seeking permission to build a porch extension that does not meet the required front yard setback.

• Variance request for porch extension at 28 Queen Street (Map 268, Lot 187)
• Request to allow a 22.1’ front yard setback where 30’ is required

Economic Development Subcommittee

The Economic Development Subcommittee will discuss and consider recommending to the full Town Council six zoning bylaw amendments to create the Crossing Neighborhood Zoning District along Union Street. The subcommittee will also discuss eliminating "Use Variances" from the Zoning Board of Appeals' authority, receive a 2026 World Cup preparation update, and review 2024-25 goals.

• Discussion of Zoning Bylaw Amendments 25-929 through 25-934 to create the Crossing Neighborhood Zoning District, covering purpose, map changes, use regulations, dimensional requirements, parking, and other sections
• Proposed rezoning of parcels along Union Street from Commercial I, Industrial, and Single-Family IV to the new district
• Discussion and recommendation on eliminating "Use Variances" from the Zoning Board of Appeals authority
• Update on 2026 World Cup preparation
• Review of 2024-25 Town Council/Administrator EDC goals including Master Plan, Housing Production Plan, and Franklin For All

OPEB Board of Trustees

The Other Post-Employment Benefits (OPEB) Board of Trustees is meeting to review the trust's investments. The agenda contains only a review of investments and adjournment, with no specific decisions or proposals listed.

• Review of OPEB trust investments

Franklin Commission on Disability

The Franklin Commission on Persons with Disabilities will meet to discuss old business including a future Disability Expo, and new business such as appointing new administrators, welcoming a new member, and setting upcoming meeting dates. The agenda is largely procedural with no specific financial or policy decisions listed.

• Discussion of future Disability Expo
• Appointment of new Commission administrators
• Welcome of a new Commission member
• Setting upcoming meeting dates, location, and time

The board voted to accept the minutes from the June 5, 2025 meeting, and the motion carried. No other actions were formally decided; the remaining agenda items were discussed but not resolved.

• Accepted June 5, 2025 meeting minutes (motion carried)

Historical Commission

The Franklin Historical Commission will consider a beta test of new museum technology for the Sudheer Apte Museum and review the final accounting for fiscal year 2025 along with the budget proposal for fiscal year 2026. It will also discuss upcoming events, the planned EV charger at Forge Park Station, and other community preservation items.

• Review and vote on beta testing of Sudheer Apte Museum technology
• Expenses and final accounting for FY 25 and budget proposal for FY 26
• Inspection of 121 Grove Street scheduled for July 2
• Correspondence from Engineering Co. about a planned EV charger at Forge Park Station
• Ribbon Cutting at Old South on June 18

The Franklin Historical Commission approved the June 11 minutes and accepted a draft mural policy to forward to Town Council. It also adopted a beta software proposal for an interactive storytelling device, nominated Jan Prentice as Vice‑Chair, and approved a plan for minor and major changes to the Old South Congregational Meeting House. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved June 11, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted draft mural policy to be forwarded to Town Council (unanimous)
• Adopted Sudheer’s beta software proposal for interactive storytelling device (unanimous)
• Nominated Jan Prentice as Vice‑Chair (unanimous)
• Approved alteration request plan for Old South Congregational Meeting House (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:55 PM (unanimous)

Design Review Commission

The Design Review Commission will meet virtually to review applications for replacing existing signs at several businesses, including Asian Fusion at 28 East Central St.

• Review sign replacement for Asian Fusion at 28 East Central St.
• Review sign replacement for Rome Restaurant at 4 East Central St.
• Review sign replacement for Tavern on Central at 391 East Central St.
• Review sign replacement for St John's at 237 Pleasant St.
• Review sign replacement for Koyo at 23 East Central St.

The commission unanimously approved sign packages for Rome Restaurant at 4 East Central Street, Tavern on Central at 391 East Central Street, and St. John’s at 237 Pleasant Street. Each motion passed with a 4‑yes, 0‑no vote. The Koyo sign request was discussed but not voted on.

• Approved Rome Restaurant sign replacement (4-0)
• Approved Tavern on Central sign replacement (4-0)
• Approved St. John’s sign replacement (4-0)
• Koyo sign request discussed, no vote taken

Municipal Affordable Housing Trust

The board voted 5-0-0 to accept the Right of Reverter as drafted and to authorize Chair Chris Vericker to sign the document. The reverter will be recorded to strengthen lender confidence for the affordable housing project. The meeting was adjourned unanimously at 2:22 pm.

• Accepted Right of Reverter as drafted; authorized Chair Chris Vericker to sign (5-0-0)
• Adjourned meeting unanimously (5-0-0)

Agricultural Commission

The Franklin Agricultural Commission will meet on June 30, 2025 via Zoom. They plan to approve May meeting minutes, welcome a new member, and discuss the annual Zucchini Race scheduled for August 22. The commission will also review its mission statement and brainstorm ways to encourage residents to buy local food. An update on the future Community Produce Canning Center is on the agenda.

• Welcome new Agricultural Commission member Matt Stolz
• Planning the annual Zucchini Race for August 22 at the Franklin Summer Farmer's Market
• Review mission statement and brainstorm on encouraging local food purchases
• Update on the future Community Produce Canning Center

The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the May meeting. Members then discussed several ideas to better align activities with the commission's mission, including creating a farm flyer, promoting farms on social media, encouraging restaurant sourcing, publishing a produce calendar, and hosting farm‑to‑table events. No formal actions or votes were taken on those ideas.

• Accepted May meeting minutes (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Franklin Planning Board will hold public hearings for site plan applications at Panther Way Senior Village, 60 Earls Way, 380 King Street, and 800 Chestnut. The board will also discuss bond reduction for Acorn Hill Estates, street acceptance for J Victor Lane, and a covenant release for Partridge Farms Phase I.

• Panther Way Senior Village - Special Permit & Site Plan Application
• 380 King Street - Site Plan Application - INITIAL HEARING
• 800 Chestnut - Site Plan Application - INITIAL HEARING
• Bond Reduction: Acorn Hill Estates (J Victor Lane)
• Street Acceptance: J Victor Lane

The board continued the bond reduction and street acceptance for Acorn Hill Estates to July 14, 2025. It approved the covenant release for Partridge Farms Phase I and approved the Partial Form H for 70, 72, 88 & 94 East Central Street. Several other items were continued to July 14, 2025, and the reading for the 380 King Street site plan was waived.

• Approved Partial Form H for 70, 72, 88 & 94 East Central Street (4-0-0)
• Approved Covenant Release for Partridge Farms Phase I, 49 Hancock Road (5-0-0)
• Continued Bond Reduction for Acorn Hill Estates to July 14, 2025 (5-0-0)
• Continued Street Acceptance for J Victor Lane to July 14, 2025 (5-0-0)
• Continued Panther Way Senior Village Special Permit to July 14, 2025 (5-0-0)
• Continued 60 Earls Way Site Plan to July 14, 2025 (5-0-0)
• Waived reading for 380 King Street Site Plan (5-0-0)

Legal Notices

The Franklin Planning Board will hold a public hearing on June 30, 2025 at 7:00 PM to consider a site plan for a 30-unit residential building with parking, utilities, and drainage at 370 and 380 King Street. The property is in the Commercial II Zoning District. The applicant is Union Crossing Realty Trust, and the plan was submitted by Narragansett Engineering. This is the only written notice of the hearing.

• Public hearing on site plan for '380 King Street Condominiums'
• 30-unit residential building proposed at 370 and 380 King Street
• Property in Commercial II Zoning District (Assessors Map 303 Lots 41, 42, 43)
• Applicant: Union Crossing Realty Trust, Franklin, MA
• Plan prepared by Narragansett Engineering, Inc.

Legal Notices

The Franklin Planning Board will hold a public hearing to review a site plan for the Adirondack Club Parking Lot. SRA Realty Group, LLC is proposing to expand an existing parking lot at a property located in the Industrial Zoning District.

• Public hearing for Site Plan 'Adirondack Club Parking Lot' at 800 Chestnut Street

School Committee

This meeting is solely to consider appointing Jennifer D'Angelo to the Tri-County Regional Vocational Technical School Committee. No other business is on the agenda.

• Appointment of Jennifer D'Angelo to the Tri-County Regional Vocational Technical School Committee

Legal Notices

The Franklin Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing on a Notice of Intent for demolition of an existing building and hazardous material abatement at 21 Grove Street, with site restoration including erosion controls. The project involves approximately 10,260 square feet of work within the 100-foot buffer zone to bordering vegetated wetlands, and about 2,001 square feet within the 200-foot riverfront area. The hearing is under the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act and will allow public comment.

• Demolition and hazardous material abatement at 21 Grove Street (Map 276, Lot 022, Industrial Zone)
• Approximately 10,260 sq ft of work in the 100-foot buffer zone to Bordering Vegetated Wetlands
• Approximately 2,001 sq ft of work in the 200-foot Riverfront Area, including 58 ft along inland bank
• Site restoration with temporary erosion and sediment controls
• Hybrid hearing (Zoom and in-person) with public comment opportunity

Design Review Commission

The Franklin Design Review Commission will review two sign applications: one at 22 National Drive and one at 8 Forge Parkway. The commission will also consider draft minutes from its May 27 and June 10, 2025 meetings.

• Sign application 290-006-DR-SIGNAP-22 at 22 National Drive
• Sign application 275-001-DR-SIGNAP-8 at 8 Forge Parkway
• Approval of draft minutes from May 27, 2025
• Approval of draft minutes from June 10, 2025

The commission approved the sign package for Ferguson with a condition that any existing wall sign be removed, voting 4-0. The sign package for Advocates was also approved unanimously. The commission nominated Andrew Pratt as vice chair, also by a 4-0 vote. Minutes from the May 27 and June 10 meetings were approved, and the meeting was adjourned.

• Approved Ferguson sign package with removal condition (4-0)
• Approved Advocates sign package (4-0)
• Approved May 27 and June 10 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Nominated Andrew Pratt as vice chair (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

School Committee

The School Committee will consider approvals for student travel, the disposition and restructuring of student activity accounts, and the FY25-26 user fees. The body will also review executive session minutes for declassification and declare certain curriculum resources as surplus.

• Approval of FY25-26 User Fees
• DECA trip to Arlington, VA (November 21-23, 2025)
• Girls Basketball trip to Augusta and Portland, ME (December 26-27, 2025)
• Opening of Franklin Middle School Student activity accounts and closing of existing MS accounts
• Declaration of curriculum resources and supplies as surplus

School Committee

The Franklin School Committee Policy Subcommittee will meet to distribute and discuss several approved safety-related policies (EB, EBB, EBC, EBCD). The main agenda item is a new discussion on reviewing user fees for fiscal year 2026.

• Distribution of approved Safety Program policy (EB)
• Distribution of approved First Aid policy (EBB)
• Distribution of approved Emergency Plans policy (EBC)
• Distribution of approved Emergency Closings policy (EBCD)
• New discussion: Review of FY26 User Fees

Library Board of Directors

The Library Board of Directors will meet to receive reports from the Library Director. Discussions will include the FY26 budget, the Summer Reading Program, and general library services and programming.

• FY26 Budget update
• Summer Reading Program update
• Library Services & Programming update

The Library Board approved the minutes from the May 2025 meeting. No other motions were voted on; the board discussed reports on budgeting, the Minuteman app, and upcoming programs but took no further actions.

• Approved May meeting minutes

Council on Aging

The Franklin Council on Aging will discuss the anonymous $26,164 donation designated for a Health and Wellness Nurse. The meeting will also review the organization’s budget, including a new fee schedule set to take effect July 1, 2025, and consider the strategic plan. Additionally, members will address open board positions, officer elections, and committee assignments.

• Anonymous donation of $26,164 earmarked for Health and Wellness Nurse
• Open Board Positions (1 open now, 1 open 6/30/25)
• Officer Elections
• Budget Review (new fee schedule effective July 1, 2025)
• Strategic Plan discussion

The council approved the minutes from the May 16, 2025 meeting. A motion to write a thank‑you letter refusing the $26,164 donation earmarked for the Health & Wellness Nurse was approved. The council accepted a new slate of officers, naming Phyllis Malcolm as Vice Chair, Faith Flaherty as Secretary, and adding Elizabeth Sawyer as a new member. Lyn O’Brien was renominated as Chair.

• Approved minutes of May 16, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved motion to write a thank‑you letter refusing the $26,164 donation (unanimous)
• Approved new officer slate: Vice Chair Phyllis Malcolm, Secretary Faith Flaherty, New Member Elizabeth Sawyer (unanimous)
• Renominated Lyn O’Brien as Chair (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Franklin Zoning Board of Appeals has cancelled its June 19, 2025 meeting. The next scheduled meeting is July 17, 2025. No business was conducted.

Town Council

The council will hear a presentation on the Polco National Community Survey results and consider resolutions to establish a 250th Anniversary Celebration Committee, approve FY25 budget transfers, and adjust revolving fund expenditure limits. Following an executive session on collective bargaining, the council will vote to ratify new collective bargaining agreements with the Library, DPW, Custodians, Public Facilities, Firefighters, Police Association, and Police Sergeants unions.

• Presentation of Polco National Community Survey results by Sonya Wytinck
• Resolution 25-38: Establish Franklin's 250th Anniversary Celebration Committee
• Resolution 25-39: FY25 budget transfers
• Resolution 25-40: Increased expenditure limits for FY2026 on certain revolving funds
• Ratification of collective bargaining agreements with 7 town unions (Library, DPW, Custodians, Public Facilities, Firefighters, Police Association, Police Sergeants)

The Town Council approved the minutes from the May 22, 2025 meeting. It ratified the appointments of Elizabeth Sawyer to the Council on Aging and Cheryl Fisher to the Disability Commission. The council also approved a Farmer‑Winery Farmers Market license for La Cantina Winery. All three actions passed with an 8‑yes, 0‑no vote and one absent councilor.

• Approved May 22, 2025 meeting minutes (Yes-8, No-0, Absent-1)
• Ratified appointment of Elizabeth Sawyer to Council on Aging (Yes-8, No-0, Absent-1)
• Ratified appointment of Cheryl Fisher to Disability Commission (Yes-8, No-0, Absent-1)
• Approved Farmer‑Winery Farmers Market license for La Cantina Winery (Yes-8, No-0, Absent-1)

Legal Notices

The Town of Franklin will hold a public meeting on June 17, 2025 to review the Draft Analysis of Brownfields Cleanup Alternatives (ABCA) for the former Nu-Style Jewelry Factory site at 21 Grove Street. The draft plan is available for public inspection from May 30 to June 30, 2025. Written comments on the proposed cleanup will be accepted until 4:00 PM on June 30, 2025.

• Public meeting scheduled for June 17, 2025 at 6:00 PM at Franklin Municipal Building
• Draft ABCA available online and in hard copy at Town Hall from May 30 to June 30
• Comments may be submitted electronically or by mail through June 30, 2025
• Site is a former jewelry factory with EPA brownfields cleanup process underway

Planning Board

The Planning Board will discuss a minor modification for Maplegate South and an Assessor's Plan (ANR) for 121 Grove Street. The board will also review meeting minutes from April and May. An executive session is scheduled to discuss litigation strategy regarding Suejo Corp vs Franklin Planning Board.

• Minor Modification – Maplegate South
• 81-P ANR – 121 Grove Street
• Executive session regarding Suejo Corp vs Franklin Planning Board litigation

School Committee

The Franklin School Committee Community Relations Sub Committee is meeting to discuss the Strawberry Stroll. The agenda contains no other specific items for decision or discussion.

• Strawberry Stroll

Bi-County Collaborative

The Bi-County Collaborative Board of Directors will vote on the appointment of a Treasurer, as proposed by Executive Director Mrs. Jeanne Sullivan. The meeting consists of this single action item before adjournment.

• Appointment of Treasurer - vote required

Charles River Pollution Control District (CRPCD)

The Charles River Pollution Control District will elect officers (Chairman, Vice Chairman, Clerk) and appoint an Executive Director, Executive Secretary, and Treasurer. The board will discuss district finances, including stabilization balances and a specific amount of $404,739. The meeting is scheduled for May 7, 2025 in the conference room.

• Election of Chairman, Vice Chairman, and Clerk
• Appointments of Executive Director, Executive Secretary, and Treasurer
• Discussion of stabilization balances (general, infiltration, OPEB trust)
• Discussion of an amount of $404,739
• Reference to 66 Village Street, Medway, MA 02053

The board unanimously elected David C. Formato as Chairman, Ted Kenney as Vice Chairman, and Mark Cataldo as Clerk. The existing Executive Director, Executive Secretary, and Treasurer were reaffirmed by unanimous vote. The board also unanimously approved moving $404,739 from FY 2024 surplus into the General Stabilization Account for upcoming capital projects.

• Elected David C. Formato as Chairman (unanimously approved)
• Elected Ted Kenney as Vice Chairman (unanimously approved)
• Elected Mark Cataldo as Clerk (unanimously approved)
• Reappointed Elizabeth Taglieri as Executive Director (unanimously approved)
• Reappointed Barbara W. Maffeo as Executive Secretary (unanimously approved)
• Reappointed John Foster as Treasurer (unanimously approved)
• Moved $404,739 FY 2024 surplus into General Stabilization Fund (unanimously approved)
• Adjourned the 2025 Annual Meeting (unanimously approved)

Legal Notices

The Franklin Conservation Commission will hold a hybrid public hearing on June 12, 2025, to consider an ANRAD filed by Steve Dexter for Virginia Dellorco. The proposal seeks to determine the boundaries of Bordering Vegetated Wetlands and the 100-foot buffer zone at 731 King Street (Map 313, Lot 43). The hearing will allow public comment both in-person and via Zoom.

• Abbreviated Notice of Resource Area Delineation (ANRAD) for 731 King Street
• Applicant: Virginia Dellorco, represented by Steve Dexter of Colonial Engineering
• Property location: Map 313, Lot 43, Single Family III Zone
• Hybrid hearing: in-person at Council Chambers, 355 East Central Street, and via Zoom
• Public comment period open during the hearing

Historical Commission

The Franklin Historical Commission will meet on June 11, 2025. Items include a status update on proposed Historic District legislation, review of Mary Olsson plaque text, and a June 18 ground breaking at Old South. The commission will also discuss mural policy updates, end-of-year finances, and possible revival of the vice-chair position.

• Status of Historic District legislation (discussion)
• Mary Olsson Plaque verbiage review
• Ground Breaking at Old South on June 18
• Mural policy status update
• Expenses and final accounting for FY

The commission unanimously approved the May 14, 2025 meeting minutes. A motion to make Mary O’Leary an Associate Member was passed unanimously. The proposal to appoint a Vice Chair was tabled for the next meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 7:47 PM by unanimous vote.

• Approved May 14, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Mary O’Leary as Associate Member (unanimous)
• Tabled Vice Chair appointment vote (postponed)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:47 PM (unanimous)

Board of Health

The Commission will discuss budget overviews for FY 2025 and FY 2026. The meeting includes updates on field work, legislative bills, and fleet initiatives.

• Approval of May 5th, 2025 meeting minutes
• FY 2025 and FY 2026 budget overviews
• Year-to-date field work overview
• EV first and fleet rightsizing initiatives from OVM
• EEA IT Migration updates

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will receive a Technology Capital presentation from Technology Director Tim Rapoza, approve minutes from three prior meetings, and get an update on the Stabilization Account. No votes on the budget or other major decisions are scheduled for this meeting.

• Technology Capital 'Deep Dive' presentation by Director Tim Rapoza
• Approval of minutes from April 28, April 29, and May 1, 2025
• Standing update on the Stabilization Account

The committee voted to delay the IT presentation and discussion to a later date this fall so new members can attend. The motion was moved by Vice Chair Riley, seconded by Clerk Corbosiero, and passed unanimously 6-0. The meeting was then adjourned by a unanimous 6-0 vote.

• Postponed IT presentation to later this fall (6-0)
• Adjourned meeting (6-0)

Charles River Pollution Control District (CRPCD)

The Charles River Pollution Control District Board will discuss and vote on several financial items, including a transfer of $90,928 from the I/I Stabilization Fund to the General Operating Account for infiltration/inflow CCTV and MSI inspection work on SBI and BSI. They will also consider a Cost of Living Adjustment for FY 2026, transfer $30,000 to the OPEB Trust Fund, and approve first quarter O&M and capital assessments totaling $1,615,030 for member towns Bellingham, Franklin, Medway, and Millis.

• Vote to transfer $90,928 from I/I Stabilization Fund for CCTV and MSI inspections on SBI and BSI
• Discussion and vote on FY 2026 Cost of Living Adjustment
• Vote to transfer $30,000 to the OPEB Trust Fund
• Approval of first quarter FY 2026 assessments: Bellingham $138,670, Franklin $950,580, Medway $331,670, Millis $194,110
• Discussion on request for an additional operator

The board voted unanimously to implement a 3% cost‑of‑living adjustment for FY 2026, split into two 1.5% increments. It also approved several fund transfers, updates to the OPEB investment policy, and the FY 2026 operating and capital assessments. All agenda items were approved without dissent, and the meeting minutes were adopted.

• Approved 3% Cost‑of‑Living Adjustment for FY 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved $30,000 transfer to OPEB Trust Fund (unanimous)
• Approved update to OPEB Investment Policy Statement (unanimous)
• Approved $90,928 transfer from I/I Stabilization Fund to Operating Account (unanimous)
• Approved $200,000 transfer for SCADA Server Upgrade (unanimous)
• Approved FY 2026 first‑quarter O&M and capital assessments for member towns (unanimous)
• Approved Warrant #25‑12 covering $389,889.17 O&M and $214,999.66 capital projects (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from May 11, 2025 meeting (unanimous)

Design Review Commission

The Franklin Town Design Review Commission will meet on June 10, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. The agenda includes a design package for 22 National Drive (document 290-006-DR‑SIGNAP) and draft minutes from the May 13, 2025 meeting. No specific actions or decisions are detailed in the agenda.

The commission voted 5‑0 to table the sign package for 22 National Drive, postponing the decision. It also approved the May 13, 2025 meeting minutes by a 5‑0 vote. Finally, the July 8, 2025 meeting was cancelled by unanimous vote.

• Table sign package for 22 National Drive (5-0)
• Approve May 13, 2025 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Cancel July 8, 2025 meeting (5-0)

School Committee

The Franklin School Committee will consider ratifying the Franklin Education collective bargaining agreement covering 9/1/25 through 8/31/28. It will also vote on the FY26 final budget totaling $78,309,495 and approve the superintendent's composite evaluation for the 2024‑2025 school year. Additional items include accepting several field‑trip gifts and declaring surplus curriculum resources.

• FY26 final budget approval – $78,309,495
• Ratification of FEA contract – term 9/1/25‑8/31/28
• Accept Parmenter PCC gift – $2,500.00 for field trips
• Accept Franklin Music Boosters gift – $1,800.00 for field trips
• Accept Horace Mann PCC gift – $1,350.00 for field trips

School Committee

The Franklin School Committee Budget Subcommittee is meeting to review the final FY26 budget recommendation. No specific dollar amounts or proposals are listed on the agenda.

• Review of Final FY26 Budget Recommendation

Benjamin Franklin Classical Charter Public School

The Benjamin Franklin Classical Charter Public School Board of Trustees will vote on new board applicants, elect officers for the upcoming academic year, and discuss the Executive Director's work agreement. Other agenda items include overnight field trips and a mission survey. Public comment is scheduled at the start.

• Vote on Board of Trustees applicants for AY 2025-26
• Election of BoT officers for AY 2025-26
• Discussion and vote on Executive Director work agreement
• Review of overnight field trip proposals
• Presentation of mission survey results

Franklin Commission on Disability

The Commission on Persons with Disabilities will meet to discuss the 2025 Disability Expo. The board will also welcome a new member.

• Review of 2025 Disability Expo
• Introduction of new board member

The board accepted the minutes from the April 3, 2025 meeting. It assigned new commission administrators, naming Ali Rheaume as Chair, Lauren Sanford as Vice Chair, and Kelly Quinlan as Clerk. The board also discussed the upcoming Disability Expo and participation in the Franklin Harvest Festival, but no decisions were made on those items.

• Assigned new commission administrators: Ali Rheaume as Chair, Lauren Sanford as Vice Chair, Kelly Quinlan as Clerk

School Committee

The Franklin School Committee is meeting primarily to enter executive session to discuss strategy and conduct collective bargaining with the FEA, Van Drivers, Cafeteria, ESP/LPN, and Secretaries units. No public votes or policy decisions are scheduled; the agenda is limited to contractual negotiations.

• Executive session under M.G.L. c. 30A, §21(a)(3) to discuss collective bargaining strategy with five union units
• Executive session under M.G.L. c. 30A, §21(a)(2) to conduct collective bargaining sessions with the same units

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings on three property requests. These include a large multi-family development, a residential variance for a single-family home, and a permit for earth removal.

• Comprehensive Permit for a 264 unit multi-family development at 444 East Central Street
• Variance for a single family home at 33 Elm Street regarding frontage and side yard setback
• Special Permit for earth removal exceeding 1,000 cubic yards at Parcels 270-28, 038 and 39 West Central Street and Panther Way
• Approval of May 8, 2025 meeting minutes

The Board denied the building permit for a 264‑unit multi‑family project at 444 East Central Street because a comprehensive permit is required. It also denied permits for earth removal on West Central Street and a single‑family home on Elm Street for lacking the required special permit or variance. The Board unanimously voted to continue the public hearings for all three applications to July 17, 2025.

• Denied building permit for 264‑unit development at 444 East Central Street (no vote recorded)
• Denied earth‑removal permit for parcels 270‑28, 038 and 39 West Central Street (no vote recorded)
• Denied single‑family home permit at 33 Elm Street (no vote recorded)
• Continued public hearing for West Central Street parcels to July 17, 2025 – unanimous
• Continued public hearing for 33 Elm Street to July 17, 2025 – unanimous
• Approved May 8, 2025 meeting minutes – unanimous

Town Council

The Franklin Town Council will continue the FY26 budget public hearing and then vote on the annual operating budget appropriations. Several related resolutions and bylaw amendments are also up for action, including changes to EV charging station revolving funds and fees, a snow and ice fund transfer, road repair and PFAS remediation appropriations, and a zoning bylaw amendment for the floodplain district.

• FY26 Town Council Annual Operating Budget vote (Option A & B comparison provided)
• Resolution 25-21: Salary Schedule for full-time Town Clerk
• Bylaw Amendment 25-936: Amend Chapter 73 (Departmental Revolving Funds) for EV charging stations - first reading
• Bylaw Amendment 25-937: Amend Chapter 82 (Municipal Service Fees) for EV charging stations - first reading
• Resolution 25-34: Appropriation of funds from receipts reserved for PFAS remediation

The council voted to approve the May 7, 2025 meeting minutes with a 9‑yes, 0‑no tally. It also approved the May 21, 2025 meeting minutes with the same 9‑yes, 0‑no vote. No other motions, proclamations, or appointments were recorded.

• Approved May 7, 2025 meeting minutes (9-0)
• Approved May 21, 2025 meeting minutes (9-0)

Board of Health

The Board of Health will meet to discuss tobacco regulations and hear an appeal regarding tobacco permit holder violations. The board will also receive updates on the Healthy Brain Expo and regional health reports.

• Tobacco permit holders violation appeal
• Tobacco regulation amendment discussion
• Healthy Brain Expo update
• Metacomet shared service grant regional health agent report
• Metacomet shared service grant public health nurse report

The Board of Health approved the minutes from the April 2 and May 19, 2025 meetings. It voted to suspend the tobacco permits of Moonlight Smoke Shop and Smiley’s Gas for five consecutive business days, starting June 6, 2025. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved April 2, 2025 meeting minutes (2-0 vote)
• Approved May 19, 2025 meeting minutes (2-0 vote)
• Approved 5‑day tobacco permit suspension for Moonlight Smoke Shop (2-0 vote)
• Approved 5‑day tobacco permit suspension for Smiley’s Gas (2-0 vote)
• Adjourned meeting (2-0 vote)

Massachusetts Strategic Health Group

The Massachusetts Strategic Health Group board will discuss updates on deficits owed by Oxford ($1,331,165), Acushnet ($1,086,014), and Tri-County ($1,108,876), including a $400,000 payment received from Tri-County. The board may vote to take action against Oxford and Acushnet for non-payment. This meeting focuses on financial enforcement and payment schedules.

• Update and possible vote on action against Oxford for $1,331,165 deficit as of April 30, 2025
• Update and possible vote on action against Acushnet for $1,086,014 deficit as of April 30, 2025
• Confirmation of $400,000 payment from Tri-County on May 29, 2025, toward its $1,108,876 deficit
• Discussion of a payment schedule for Tri-County's remaining deficit

School Committee

The Superintendent’s Evaluation Sub Committee will meet to discuss evaluation submissions from School Committee members. The agenda includes only this discussion item, with no votes or specific actions listed.

• Discussion of superintendent evaluation submissions from School Committee members

Planning Board

The Franklin Planning Board will hold public hearings on four site plan and special permit applications, including Panther Way Senior Village and 151 Grove Street, and will consider endorsements for 15 Liberty Way and 124-126 Grove Street, plus a final Form H for O'Brien Estates.

• Public hearing for Panther Way Senior Village — Special Permit & Site Plan Application
• Public hearing for 151 Grove Street — Special Permit & Site Plan Application
• Public hearing for 157 Cottage Street — Site Plan Application
• Public hearing for 60 Earls Way — Site Plan Application (First Hearing)
• Endorsements for 15 Liberty Way and 124-126 Grove Street; Final Form H for O'Brien Estates

The Board endorsed the site plans for 15 Liberty Way and 124‑126 Grove Street, each with a 4‑Yes, 0‑No, 1‑Absent vote. It approved the Final Form H for O’Brien Estates also by a 4‑Yes, 0‑No, 1‑Absent vote. The Panther Way Senior Village application was continued to June 30, 2025 with a 4‑Yes, 0‑No, 1‑Absent vote. The Board then closed the public hearing for 151 Grove Street, approved a waiver for a cape cod berm, and adopted the listed conditions for the special permit, each by a 4‑Yes, 0‑No, 1‑Absent vote.

• Endorsed 15 Liberty Way site plan (4-0-1)
• Endorsed 124-126 Grove Street site plan (4-0-1)
• Approved Final Form H for O’Brien Estates (4-0-1)
• Continued Panther Way Senior Village application to June 30, 2025 (4-0-1)
• Closed public hearing for 151 Grove Street special permit (4-0-1)
• Approved waiver for cape cod berm at 151 Grove Street (4-0-1)
• Approved conditions for 151 Grove Street special permit (4-0-1)

Legal Notices

The Franklin Planning Board will hold a public hearing on Monday, June 2, 2025, to consider a site plan for a new warehouse building at 60 Earls Way. The proposal includes parking, utility connections, a septic system, stormwater management, and an access road. The property is in the Industrial Zoning District. The board may vote to continue the hearing to a later date.

• Public hearing for site plan '60 Earls Way' for a new warehouse building
• Property at 60 Earls Way, Assessors Map 246 Lot 5 and Map 247 Lots 1 & 2
• Applicant: LGK, LLC; plan prepared by United Consultants, Inc.
• Proposed features: parking, utilities, septic system, stormwater management, access road

School Committee

The Franklin School Committee Community Relations Sub Committee will meet virtually to discuss the planning of the Strawberry Stroll and review upcoming newsletters.

• Strawberry Stroll Planning
• Upcoming Newsletters

Legal Notices

The Franklin Conservation Commission will hold a hybrid public hearing on a Notice of Intent for proposed regrading of a backyard to a vegetated slope at 260 Daniels Street, including plantings and erosion control. The work involves approximately 1,170 square feet within the 100-foot Buffer Zone to Bordering Vegetated Wetlands, plus previously unpermitted activities totaling about 5,460 square feet in the same buffer zone. The hearing will discuss whether to permit the work under the Wetlands Protection Act.

• Proposed regrading of backyard at 260 Daniels Street (Map 219, Lot 168) in Rural Residential II Zone
• Approximately 1,170 sf of work within the 100-foot Buffer Zone to BVW, including 652 sf in the 25-50 ft zone and 518 sf in 50-100 ft zone
• Previously unpermitted activities within the buffer zone totaling approximately 5,460 sf (344 sf in 25-50 ft zone, 5,116 sf in 50-100 ft zone)
• Application filed by Dale MacKinnon (Guerriere & Halnon) on behalf of Dianne Raymondi
• Hybrid meeting via Zoom and in-person at Franklin Municipal Building, 355 East Central Street

School Committee

The Franklin School Committee Community Relations Sub Committee will meet virtually on May 28, 2025, to plan the Strawberry Stroll event and discuss upcoming newsletters. No major decisions or budget items are on the agenda.

• Strawberry Stroll planning
• Upcoming newsletters discussion

Massachusetts Strategic Health Group

The Massachusetts Strategic Health Group will discuss and vote on stopping payments to Oxford and Acushnet due to unpaid deficits. The board will also review meeting minutes, financial reports, and updates on a transition to HPHC.

• Vote to stop paying claims for Oxford and Acushnet
• Discussion on Tri-County Regional Vocational Technical High's $400,000 down payment
• Approval of April 29th, 2025 meeting minutes
• Finance Director Report
• Updates on transition to HPHC

Design Review Commission

The commission approved the Tropical Smoothie Café sign package with a condition that the pylon's white backing be opaque, voting 5‑0. It recommended the facade, landscape, and lighting plans for the Children’s Museum of Franklin, voting 4‑0‑1 with one abstention. The May 13, 2025 meeting minutes were approved 5‑0, and the meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved Tropical Smoothie Café sign package with opaque pylon backing (5-0)
• Recommended Children’s Museum facade, landscape, and lighting plan (4-0-1)
• Approved May 13, 2025 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

School Committee

The Franklin School Committee will approve the minutes from the May 13, 2025 meeting, consider a request for a music student trip to New York City on April 17‑18, 2026, and vote on accepting three monetary gifts for school programs. The agenda includes routine business, guest presentations, and a consent agenda with these items.

• Approval of minutes from the May 13, 2025 School Committee meeting
• Approval of request for Diane Plouffe to take music students to New York City (April 17‑18, 2026) for an opera and a Broadway play
• Acceptance of $11.91 from Ohiopyle Prints for in‑house enrichment at Franklin High School
• Acceptance of $369.39 from Vi5ion Inc. for supplemental supplies at Keller
• Acceptance of $1,700.00 from Oak St. PCC for field trips

Town Council

The Town Council will conduct a public hearing on the FY26 annual operating budget, including the Town Administrator's recommended budget and the Franklin Public School District budget. The body will also consider several liquor license transfers and modifications.

• FY26 Town Council Annual Operating Budget Hearing
• License modification for Franklin Shed, LLC (340 East Central St.)
• License transfer and location change for DeVita’s Market, LLC (198 East Central St.)
• License transfer and location change for Table & Vine, Inc. (348 East Central St.)
• Resolution 25-31: Acceptance of $180 gift for the Senior Center

The council unanimously approved the April 30, 2025 meeting minutes (7-0, 2 absent). It also unanimously approved Franklin Shed, LLC d/b/a The Shed request to change LLC managers and ownership interests (7-0, 2 absent). No other motions were decided during this meeting.

• Approved April 30, 2025 meeting minutes (Yes-7, No-0, Absent-2)
• Approved Franklin Shed LLC license modification (Yes-7, No-0, Absent-2)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals has no items on the agenda for the May 22, 2025 meeting. The next meeting is scheduled for June 5, 2025.

Benjamin Franklin Classical Charter Public School

The Benjamin Franklin Classical Charter Public School Board of Trustees will meet to review the Executive Director's performance and discuss overnight field trips. The board will also receive updates from six standing committees.

• ED Performance Review
• Discussion of overnight field trips
• Committee updates for DEIB, Facilities, Finance, Governance, HR, and Mission

Legal Notices

The Franklin Town Council is holding two public hearings on May 21 and 22, 2025 to discuss the proposed FY2026 budget. The total recommended budget is $168,078,746, an increase from the FY2025 budget of $159,375,310. Key categories include Education ($83,448,285), Public Safety ($17,384,579), and General Government ($14,337,886). Enterprise funds for water, sewer, solid waste, and stormwater total $17,966,681.

• Proposed FY2026 total budget $168,078,746 (up from $159,375,310)
• Education budget recommended at $83,448,285
• Public Safety recommended at $17,384,579
• Debt & Interest increased to $7,364,856 from $6,057,087
• Enterprise funds total $17,966,681 (water, sewer, solid waste, stormwater)

Legal Notices

The Franklin Town Council will hold a public hearing during its meeting on Thursday, May 22, 2025 at 7:00 pm. The hearing will consider an application by Franklin Shed, LLC d/b/a The Shed to modify its Section 12 Restaurant All Alcoholic Beverages License, including a change of LLC managers and a change of ownership (beneficial membership interest). The meeting will be at the Municipal Building, 2nd floor Council Chambers, 355 E. Central Street, and via Zoom, with an opportunity for public input. Residents can review details on the town website or contact the Town Administrator’s Office at (508) 520‑4949.

• Modification of Section 12 Restaurant All Alcoholic Beverages License for Franklin Shed, LLC d/b/a The Shed
• Change of LLC managers for the license holder
• Change of ownership (beneficial membership interest) for the license holder

Legal Notices

The Franklin Town Council will hold a public hearing on May 22, 2025, to consider transferring a Section 15 all-alcoholic-beverages package store license from DeVita's Inc. d/b/a DeVita's Market (198 East Central Street) to Table & Vine, Inc. (348 East Central Street), including relocation of the license. Public input will be accepted during the hearing, which is held in person and via Zoom.

• Transfer of package store license from DeVita's Market (198 East Central St.) to Table & Vine (348 East Central St.)
• Public hearing scheduled for May 22, 2025, at 7:00 PM
• Meeting location: Municipal Building, 2nd floor Council Chambers, 355 E. Central St., and via Zoom
• Opportunity for public input during the hearing

Legal Notices

The Franklin Town Council will hold a public hearing on May 22, 2025, to consider transferring a Section 15 Wine & Malt Beverages Package Store License from Table & Vine, Inc. to DeVitas Market, LLC d/b/a DeVita’s Market, and relocating it from 348 East Central Street to 198 East Central Street. The hearing includes an opportunity for public input.

• Transfer of Section 15 Wine & Malt Beverages Package Store License to DeVita’s Market
• Relocation of license from 348 East Central Street to 198 East Central Street
• Current license holder: Table & Vine, Inc.
• Applicant: DeVitas Market, LLC d/b/a DeVita’s Market, principal place at 1 Newell Drive
• Public hearing at 7:00 PM in Town Council Chambers and via Zoom

Town Council

The Franklin Town Council will hold a public hearing on the proposed FY26 annual operating budget of $168,078,746. The budget assumes voter approval of a June 3 override; if the override fails, a revised budget with reductions will be submitted. Final council approval is anticipated on June 4, 2025, after the special election.

• Total General Fund budget proposed at $150,112,064, up from $142,357,539 in FY25
• Education budget recommended at $83,448,285 (FY25: $80,448,675)
• Public Safety budget at $17,384,579 (FY25: $16,896,415)
• General Government budget at $14,337,886 (FY25: $13,681,261)
• Budget contingent on passage of June 3 override; menu of reductions available if override fails

The council opened the FY26 Town Council Annual Operating Budget hearing and invited public comment. Members discussed the upcoming budget vote scheduled for June 4 and provided updates on municipal electricity rates and town staff compensation. No motions were adopted or votes taken during this meeting.

Economic Development Subcommittee

The Economic Development Subcommittee is discussing three proposed bylaw amendments to allow and regulate residential commercial kitchens. These kitchens would be limited to homes with private septic systems and prohibited for those on public sewers. The body will decide whether to recommend these changes to the full Town Council.

• Zoning Bylaw Amendment 25-9X1: Adds a definition for Residential Commercial Kitchen
• Zoning Bylaw Amendment 25-9X2: Adds Shared-use Commercial Kitchen to the Use Regulation Schedule
• Bylaw Amendment 25-9X3: Proposed $100 service fee for Residential Commercial Kitchens

The subcommittee approved Zoning By-law Amendment 25-9X1, adding a definition for Residential Commercial Kitchen that permits them only on septic systems. It also passed Amendment 25-9X2, allowing Residential Commercial Kitchen as an accessory use in residential districts. Finally, Amendment 25-9X3 was approved, creating a $100 permit application fee for these kitchens. All motions passed by voice vote.

• Approved Zoning By-law Amendment 25-9X1 defining Residential Commercial Kitchen (voice vote, passed)
• Approved Zoning By-law Amendment 25-9X2 adding Residential Commercial Kitchen as allowed accessory use (voice vote, passed)
• Approved By-law Amendment 25-9X3 adding $100 permit fee for Residential Commercial Kitchen (voice vote, passed)
• Adjourned meeting (voice vote, passed)

Legal Notices

The Franklin Town Council will hold public hearings on the proposed FY 2026 budget on May 21 and May 22, 2025. The proposed total budget is $168,078,746, an increase from the FY 2025 total of $159,375,310. The hearings will be held in person at the Council Chambers in the Franklin Municipal Building and remotely via Zoom.

• Public hearings on FY26 budget (May 21-22)
• FY26 General Fund budget: $150,112,064
• FY26 Education budget: $83,448,285
• FY26 Debt & Interest budget: $7,364,856
• FY26 Total All Budgets: $168,078,746

Board of Health

The Norfolk County Regional Emergency Planning Committee will meet to discuss old business and the status of grants. The meeting involves representatives from 16 towns, including Franklin.

• Discussion of grants status

Recreation Advisory Board

The Franklin Recreation Advisory Board will meet to approve previous minutes, hear public comments, and receive updates on town fields and playgrounds, recreation programs, and the Fletcher Fund. No specific decisions or proposals are listed; the agenda is largely procedural with discussion items.

• Fields and playgrounds update
• Recreation program update
• Fletcher Fund update
• New business and old business items
• General discussion period

The Recreation Advisory Board approved the minutes from the February 24, 2025 meeting with a unanimous vote. No public comments were received. The board provided updates on spring sports, field conditions, and program activities, but no further actions were taken.

• Approved February 24, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Board of Health

The Board of Health will hold a discussion on residential commercial kitchens. This is a new business item, with no votes or decisions scheduled. Public participation is available via Google Meet or phone.

• Residential commercial kitchen discussion

The board discussed a proposed zoning‑by‑law amendment (25-9X1) to allow residential kitchens with on‑site subsurface sewage disposal, but no vote was taken on the amendment. A motion to adjourn was made by Mu‑Chow, seconded by Harris, and passed unanimously (2‑0).

• Adjourned meeting (2-0 vote)

Agricultural Commission

The Agricultural Commission will meet to welcome a new member and plan an event for the Franklin Summer Farmer’s Market opening day. The body will also discuss the Earth Day/Tri-Town Farm Fest and provide an update on a Community Produce Canning Center.

• Welcome of new member Matt Stolz
• Planning for Franklin Summer Farmer’s Market opening day event
• Review of Earth Day/Tri-Town Farm Fest
• Update on Community Produce Canning Center

The Franklin Agricultural Commission unanimously accepted the minutes from the April meeting. No other formal actions were voted on; the committee discussed interest in a community food preservation center and planned activities for the farmer's market opening and related events.

• Accepted April meeting minutes (unanimous)

Library Board of Directors

The Franklin Public Library Board will hold a public comment period, approve the previous meeting's minutes, and hear reports from board members and the library director. The director's report includes a programming update on the Summer Reading Program, information on a Community Preservation Grant, and details about a Tommaso Juglaris exhibit. No decisions beyond routine approvals are listed.

• Public comment period (up to three minutes per patron)
• Approval of previous meeting minutes
• Library Director’s report – Summer Reading Program update
• Library Director’s report – Community Preservation Grant
• Library Director’s report – Tommaso Juglaris exhibit

The Board approved the minutes from the March meeting. No other resolutions, approvals, or denials were recorded. The next meeting is scheduled for June 23, 2025, where budget updates and program plans will be discussed.

• Approved March meeting minutes

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging is meeting to review correspondence regarding trust donations and address open board positions. The body will also discuss upcoming medical training sessions and receive reports from various committees.

• Donation of $2,989.98 from The Robert Catalano Living Trust
• Donation of $1,500 from Trust the Light Foundation for Respite Care
• Hands only CPR training scheduled for July 17, 2025
• Stop the Bleed training scheduled for August 12, 2025
• Open board seats for Jan Jewett and Ken Norman

The council approved the minutes of the last meeting after a motion by Ken Norman and a second by Faith Flaherty. No other substantive actions were decided at this meeting. The agenda included reports, upcoming training dates, and notices of open board positions.

• Approved minutes of previous meeting (motion by Ken Norman, seconded by Faith Flaherty)

Historical Commission

The Franklin Historical Commission will consider approving rehab features for the Old South Meeting House presented by Habitat for Humanity, discuss and potentially vote on a mural policy, and review a proposal to close the museum in August for exhibit rearrangement. The agenda also includes an archivist update on proposed deaccessions in the museum basement and a request to host an Indian Independence Day ceremony outside.

• Review and approve Habitat for Humanity rehab features on Old South Meeting House
• Discussion and potential vote on Mural Policy
• Archivist update on proposed deaccessions in museum basement
• Proposal to close Museum in August for exhibit rearrangement
• Request from KP Sompally for Indian Independence Day ceremony outside

The Historical Commission approved the April 9, 2025 minutes and appointed Brandon Carrico as an Associate Member, both by unanimous vote. Commissioners also voted unanimously to close the museum for two weeks at the end of August for inventory and housekeeping. The commission agreed to co‑sponsor an October event honoring artist Tommaso Juglaris and to host a Dean College intern in the fall.

• Approved April 9, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Appointed Brandon Carrico as Associate Member (unanimous)
• Closed museum for two weeks in late August for inventory (unanimous)
• Approved funds for the library (Community Preservation Committee)
• Acquired a new museum amplifier
• Committed to co‑sponsor October event honoring Tommaso Juglaris
• Will host a Dean College intern in the fall
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Historical Commission

The Franklin Historical Commission will consider approving Habitat for Humanity's rehab features on the Old South Mtg Hse. Commissioners will also discuss and potentially vote on a mural policy. Other business includes a proposal to close the museum in August for exhibit rearrangement and a request for an Indian Independence Day ceremony.

• Review and approve Habitat for Humanity rehab features on Old South Mtg Hse
• Discussion and potential vote on Mural Policy
• Proposal to close Museum in August for exhibit rearrangement
• Request from KP Sompally for brief Indian Independence Day ceremony outside museum
• Strawberry Stroll event on June 13 with planted strawberry patch and decorations

The Historical Commission approved the April 9, 2025 minutes and appointed Brandon Carrico as an Associate Member, both unanimously. It also approved a two‑week museum closure at the end of August for inventory and housekeeping, again unanimously. Additional actions included acquiring a new amplifier, approving library funding, and planning an October event honoring artist Tommaso Juglaris.

• Approved April 9, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Appointed Brandon Carrico as Associate Member (unanimous)
• Approved two‑week museum closure in late August for inventory (unanimous)
• Approved library funding by Community Preservation Committee (approval recorded)
• Acquired new museum amplifier (action taken)
• Planned co‑sponsorship of October event honoring Tommaso Juglaris (planned)
• Requested additional volunteers for commission workload (call for volunteers)

Cultural Council

The Franklin Cultural Council meeting will review and approve the April meeting minutes, receive a financial update, and discuss updates from the Franklin Cultural District and upcoming events. The council will vote on FY26 grant priorities and elect a treasurer and secretary for the next fiscal year.

• Approval of April meeting minutes
• Financial update presentation
• Decision on FY26 grant priorities
• Election of treasurer and secretary for FY26

Design Review Commission

The Design Review Commission will consider a proposal to install new branding signage for the Halstead Franklin Luxury Apartments at 50 Woodview Way. The proposed work includes an aluminum pan sign, a HDU topper with a routed circle, and two double-sided lightpost signs. The commission will also vote on approval of the March 25, 2025 meeting minutes.

• Proposed aluminum pan sign (53”H x 134”W) mounted to existing cabinet at 50 Woodview Way
• Proposed 42”H x 60”W HDU topper with routed circle and aluminum “H” letter
• Installation of two 36”H x 22”W double-sided vinyl lightpost signs
• Approval of minutes from March 25, 2025 meeting

The Design Review Commission voted 4‑0 to approve the replacement of the existing 60 sq ft sign at 50 Woodview Way, excluding the proposed topper. The same vote also rejected the topper portion of the monument sign and the additional light‑post signs. The commission noted the applicant will need a variance for the topper and the light‑post signs. The meeting minutes from March 25, 2025 were approved and the meeting was adjourned.

• Approved 60 sq ft sign replacement (4-0)
• Rejected topper portion of monument sign (4-0)
• Rejected light‑post signs (4-0)
• Approved March 25, 2025 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

School Committee

The Policy Subcommittee will distribute approved policies regarding nondiscrimination on the basis of sex. Members will discuss policies for naming facilities and memorial commemorations, as well as several proposed revisions to safety and orientation policies.

• Distribution of approved policy ACA (Nondiscrimination on the basis of Sex)
• Discussion of policy FF (Naming Facilities) and KCDA (Memorial Commemorations)
• Discussion of User Fees 2025
• Review of safety policies: EB (Safety Program), EBB (First Aid), EBC (Emergency Plans), and EBCD (Emergency Closings)
• Discussion of policy BIA (New School Committee Member Orientation)

School Committee

The Franklin School Committee will discuss the FY26 Budget Executive Summary, which notes a structural deficit. The agenda also includes a traffic update, a discussion on naming the Horace Mann building, and a presentation of evidence for the Superintendent's evaluation. The committee will vote on appointments to the BICO and ACCEPT boards for 2025-26 and will enter executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy.

• Discussion of FY26 Budget Executive Summary with structural deficit
• Traffic update presentation
• Horace Mann naming discussion
• Appointment of Lucas Giguere to BICO board for 2025-26
• Appointment of Lucas Giguere to ACCEPT board for 2025-26

Housing Authority

The Board will certify financial statements and tenant accounts receivable for March 2025, approve accounts payable for April 2025, and receive a Community Preservation Committee update. New business includes adopting revised 2025 income limits and Fair Market Rents, a no-cost time extension for window sills, and certifications for lead paint compliance and the Top 5 report. The Director of Facilities has resigned.

• Certificate of Final Completion approved for the Window Replacement Project
• Resignation of the Director of Facilities noted
• 2025 Revised Income Limits and 2025 Fair Market Rents proposed
• Certification of financial statements and operating statements for FYE March 2025
• Certification of Compliance with Lead Paint Laws and Top 5 Report

The Franklin Housing Authority Board approved the 2025 income limits and fair market rents as presented. It also approved several financial items, including April accounts payable of $168,939.51 and March credit‑card purchases of $3,616.38. The board certified compliance with lead‑paint regulations, approved a change order for a window‑sill project, and authorized health‑incentive payments totaling $7,500 to two employees. Vice Chairman Feeley was appointed as the authority’s designee to the Community Preservation Committee.

• Accepted minutes of prior meetings (April 17, April 21, May 1, Executive Session) – all in favor
• Approved April 2025 accounts payable of $168,939.51 – all in favor
• Approved March 2025 credit‑card purchases of $3,616.38 – all in favor
• Approved 2025 Income Limits and Fair Market Rents – all in favor
• Approved Change Order for window‑sill extension (50‑day extension) – all in favor
• Certified compliance with Lead Paint Laws – all in favor
• Appointed Vice Chairman Feeley as FHA designee to the Community Preservation Committee – motion carried (4 in favor, 1 abstention)
• Authorized health incentive payments of $5,000 and $2,500 to two employees – all in favor

Recreation Advisory Board

The Recreation Advisory Board will meet to receive updates on recreation programs and the Fletcher Fund. The agenda also includes discussions regarding fields and playgrounds.

• Fields and playgrounds update
• Recreation program update
• Fletcher Fund update

Pole Petition Hearing

The Franklin Town Board is holding a public hearing on May 12, 2025, to consider National Grid's petition to construct underground electric conduits and install a new pull box on Amy's Way, on town property between lots for 3 and 5 Amy's Way.

• Plan #31131139: National Grid seeks to install underground electric conduits and a pull box on Amy's Way, Franklin.

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold public hearings for several site plan applications and modifications. The board will also consider a modification for Maplegate Solar and a withdrawal request for a project on Union Street.

• 151 Grove Street: Special Permit & Site Plan Application
• 157 Cottage Street: Initial Site Plan Application
• 759 Union Street: Site Plan Application Withdrawal Request
• 124-126 Grove Street: Site Plan Modification
• Maplegate Solar: Modification

The Planning Board approved a language change for the Maplegate Solar project on both parcels. It accepted the withdrawal of the 759 Union Street site‑plan application. The Board postponed the 151 Grove Street special permit and site‑plan review until June 2, 2025. It also waived the reading of the 157 Cottage Street site‑plan application.

• Approved Maplegate Solar modification (4‑Yes, 0‑No, 1‑Absent)
• Accepted withdrawal of 759 Union Street site‑plan application (4‑Yes, 0‑No, 1‑Absent)
• Continued 151 Grove Street special permit & site‑plan to June 2, 2025 (4‑Yes, 0‑No, 1‑Absent)
• Waived reading of 157 Cottage Street site‑plan application (4‑Yes, 0‑No, 1‑Absent)

Legal Notices

The Franklin Planning Board will discuss a site plan submitted by 157 Cottage Street, LLC. The proposal involves reconstructing the existing parking lot, landscaping, and stormwater management at 157 Cottage Street.

• Public hearing for site plan at 157 Cottage Street (Assessors Map 287 Lot 44)

Board of Health

The Commission will discuss budget projections for FY 2025 and cost-of-living adjustments based on municipal survey results. The meeting includes overviews of field work and the implementation of electric vehicle and fleet rightsizing initiatives.

• FY 2025 budget projections
• COLA consideration based on municipal survey results
• Field work overview
• EV first and fleet rightsizing initiatives from OVM
• Status of pending mosquito control legislative bills

Franklin Commission on Disability

The Franklin Commission on Persons with Disabilities will hold a regular meeting with minimal substantive items. The board will review the 2025 Disability Expo in old business and welcome a new member in new business. No correspondence was received.

• Review of the 2025 Disability Expo
• Welcome new commission member

Pole Petition Hearing

The town will hold a hearing regarding a petition from National Grid and Verizon New England, Inc. The companies are seeking permission to install a joint pole and associated fixtures on a public way.

• Plan # 31039632: Installation of one JO pole approximately 50 feet east of pole 8 at 90 East Central Street

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals holds public hearings on two building permit denials. The first is for a 264-unit multifamily development at 444 East Central Street by TAG Central LLC, which requires a Comprehensive Permit. The second is to convert the South Franklin Congregational Meeting House at 762 Washington Street into a single-family home by Old Colony Habitat for Humanity, requiring a Special Permit. The board will also approve minutes from April 24.

• Public hearing for 264-unit multifamily development at 444 East Central Street (TAG Central LLC)
• Public hearing to convert South Franklin Congregational Meeting House at 762 Washington Street to single-family home (Old Colony Habitat for Humanity)
• Hearing fee of $27,400.00 for the multifamily project
• Hearing fee of $400.00 for the meeting house conversion
• Approval of April 24, 2025 meeting minutes

The board approved the April 24 meeting minutes (2 Yes, 0 No, 1 Abstain). It denied a building permit for 444 Kast Central Street and for 444 East Central Street because a comprehensive permit was missing. The board closed the public hearing and unanimously granted a Special Permit for 762 Washington Street, allowing Old Colony Habitat for Humanity to convert the South Franklin Congregational Meeting House into a single‑family home.

• Approve April 24, 2025 meeting minutes (2‑Yes, 0‑No, 1‑Abstain)
• Deny building permit for 444 Kast Central Street (no vote recorded)
• Deny building permit for 444 East Central Street (no vote recorded)
• Close public hearing (unanimous)
• Grant Special Permit for 762 Washington Street to Old Colony Habitat for Humanity (unanimous)

Benjamin Franklin Classical Charter Public School

The Benjamin Franklin Classical Charter Public School Board of Trustees will hold a regular meeting on May 8, 2025. Items include updates from the Executive Director and Head of School, a finance onboarding presentation, discussion of overnight field trips, and board nominations for the 2025-2026 school year. The board will also set goals for the Executive Director and its own committees.

• Review and vote on April 10 meeting minutes
• Finance Onboarding Deck presentation
• Discussion of overnight field trips
• Board of Trustees nominations and officer positions for AY 25-26
• Setting of ED and BOT goals

Legal Notices

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on May 8, 2025, for a comprehensive permit requested by TAG Central LLC to construct a 264-unit multi-family development at 444 East Central Street. The building permit was denied without a comprehensive permit from the ZBA.

• Applicant TAG Central LLC seeks comprehensive permit for 264-unit multi-family development
• Property at 444 East Central Street (Map 284, Lot 066) in Commercial II zoning district
• Building permit was denied without a comprehensive permit from the ZBA
• Public hearing accessible in person and via Zoom at 7:35pm

Legal Notices

The Franklin Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing regarding a special permit request. Old Colony Habitat for Humanity is seeking to convert the South Franklin Congregational Meeting House into a single family home.

• Special Permit request for 762 Washington Street (Map 322, Lot 050)

Town Council

The Franklin Town Council will hold a public hearing and vote on a new all-alcoholic beverages license for Mirchi Indian Cuisine at 14 East Central Street, as well as a first reading of a zoning bylaw amendment to update the floodplain district (Chapter 185, Section 24). They will also vote on a resolution to extend the time for the automatic reverter on former town-owned land off Panther Way conveyed to the affordable housing trust, and second readings of two zoning amendments defining and allowing shared-use commercial kitchens. A presentation on the FY24 financial audit and the swearing-in of a new police officer are also on the agenda.

• Public hearing and license transaction for new Section 12 all-alcoholic beverages license for Mirchi Indian Cuisine at 14 East Central Street
• First reading of Zoning Bylaw Amendment 25-935 to amend Chapter 185, Section 24 (Floodplain District)
• Resolution 25-28 to extend the time period for the automatic reverter in the deed of former town-owned land off Panther Way conveyed to the Franklin Municipal Affordable Housing Trust Fund
• Second readings of Zoning Bylaw Amendments 25-927 and 25-928 to define and allow shared-use commercial kitchens
• Swearing-in of new police officer Tyler Hosley and recognition of Chief Nicholas Palmieri as new Upton Police Chief

The May 7, 2025 Town Council meeting in Franklin, MA included announcements, citizen comments, and recognitions such as the swearing‑in of a new police officer. No minutes were approved and no votes or formal approvals were recorded.

Board of Health

The Franklin Board of Health will meet on May 14, 2025, to discuss several new business items including proposed amendments to bodywork and tobacco regulations, a residential kitchen discussion, and updates on a health fair and local cable TV programming. The board will also receive reports from the Metacomet shared service grant regional health agent and public health nurse.

• Bodywork regulation amendment discussion
• Tobacco regulation amendment discussion
• Residential kitchen discussion
• Metacomet shared service grant regional health agent report
• Metacomet shared service grant public health nurse report

Board of Health

The Franklin Board of Health will meet on May 7, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. via Google Meet and in person. The agenda includes discussion of proposed amendments to bodywork and tobacco regulations, a residential kitchen issue, a health fair, and updates on local media and shared‑service grants. The meeting will also allow public commentary before adjourning.

• Bodywork regulation amendment discussion
• Tobacco regulation amendment discussion
• Residential kitchen discussion
• Health Fair discussion
• Metacomet shared service grant reports

Charles River Pollution Control District (CRPCD)

The Charles River Pollution Control District will discuss and vote on Amendment #9 for the on-call SCADA agreement with CDM Smith, receive updates on the NPDES permit and sewer connections, and approve Warrant 25-11. In the annual meeting, officers will be elected, and the board will discuss district finances and vote on using $404,739 in surplus monies from FY2024.

• Discussion and vote on Amendment #9 for On-Call SCADA Agreement with CDM Smith
• Approval of Warrant 25-11 (O&M and Capital amounts partially redacted)
• Update on Force Main Redundancy Alternatives Analysis RFQ
• Election of Officers (Chairman, Vice Chairman, Clerk)
• Discussion and vote on Surplus Monies from FY2024 ($404,739)

The board voted unanimously to approve Amendment #9, raising the CDM Smith SCADA agreement limit by $25,000. It also approved Warrant #25-11 for $226,145.19 in operations and $37,399.18 in capital projects. The April 10, 2025 meeting minutes were approved, and the meeting was adjourned.

• Approved Amendment #9 to increase CDM Smith SCADA contract limit by $25,000 (unanimous)
• Approved Warrant #25-11: O&M $226,145.19, Capital Projects $37,399.18 (unanimous)
• Approved April 10, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous)

Legal Notices

The Franklin Town Council will hold a public hearing to consider an application for a new Section 12 Restaurant All Alcoholic Beverages License. The request is for Kaushik Restaurants, Inc. d/b/a Mirchi Indian Cuisine.

• Public hearing for Section 12 Restaurant All Alcoholic Beverages License for Mirchi Indian Cuisine at 14 E. Central St.

School Committee

The Franklin School Committee will meet in an executive session to discuss strategy for upcoming collective bargaining with several employee groups. The session is called under Massachusetts law to keep bargaining positions confidential. No other agenda items are listed beyond the executive session.

• Executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy with FEA, Van Drivers, Cafeteria, ESP/LPN, and Secretaries units
• Executive session to conduct collective bargaining sessions with the same employee groups

Community Preservation Committee

The committee is holding its annual public hearing to gather resident suggestions for Community Preservation Act projects. The body will discuss the FY26 proposed budget and a slate of specific funding resolutions for town projects.

• FY26 Project Slate: Schmidt Farm Debt/Interest ($323,750) and Maple Hill Debt/Interest ($252,818)
• FY26 Project Slate: School Playgrounds redistricting ($181,623)
• FY26 Project Slate: Library Historic Hall Repairs ($80,000) and Sports Fields Wall Padding ($40,000)
• FY26 Project Resolution 25-27: Franklin United Methodist Church ($105,245)
• FY26 Project Slate: Repair 1949 Fire Engine ($20,000) and Open Space & Recreation Plan Supplement ($14,600)

School Committee

The Franklin School Committee Community Relations Sub Committee will meet virtually to discuss newsletter planning, override content, magnetic calendar selection, and Strawberry Stroll planning. These are discussion items; no votes or decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Newsletter Planning
• Override Content
• Magnetic Calendar Selection
• Strawberry Stroll Planning

Legal Notices

The Franklin Community Preservation Committee will hold its annual public hearing on May 5, 2025, to discuss the town's needs, possibilities, and resources regarding community preservation and the use of Community Preservation Act (CPA) funds. The hearing is required by statute and provides an opportunity for public input. It will be held in person at the Municipal Building and via Zoom.

• Annual public hearing required by the Community Preservation Act
• Discussion of Franklin's community preservation needs and available CPA funds
• Public input opportunity on CPA-funded projects and priorities
• Held in person at 355 E. Central St., 2nd floor Council Chambers, and via Zoom

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will continue its hearing on the FY26 Town Administrator Operating Budget, totaling $168,078,746. The budget assumes passage of a June 3 override; if not approved, a revised budget with reductions will be submitted. The committee will also recommend resolutions including the FY26 budget adoption, a salary schedule for the Town Clerk ($114,150), expenditure limits for revolving funds, a $200,000 snow and ice transfer, and a $1,252,231.87 water line project transfer from Water Enterprise Fund retained earnings.

• FY26 budget total $168,078,746, contingent on June 3 override vote
• Transfer of $1,252,231.87 from Water Enterprise Fund retained earnings to water line capital project
• Transfer of $200,000 to Snow and Ice Stabilization Fund from FY25 snow and ice budget
• Salary schedule for Town Clerk set at $114,150 for FY26
• Expenditure limits set for departmental revolving funds including Senior Center, Fire Training, and Community Policing

The committee approved the FY2026 budget totaling $168,078,746. It also adopted a Town Clerk salary of $114,150 for FY26, set expenditure limits for several revolving funds, transferred $200,000 to the Snow & Ice Stabilization Account, and moved $1,252,231.87 from the Water Enterprise Fund to the Water Line Capital Project. All motions passed unanimously.

• Adopt FY2026 budget of $168,078,746 (unanimous)
• Approve Town Clerk salary $114,150 for FY26 (unanimous)
• Set FY26 revolving fund limits: Senior Center $125k, Supportive Day $100k, Facilities $100k, Fire Rescue $10k, Community Policing $25k (unanimous)
• Transfer $200,000 from FY25 Snow & Ice budget to Snow & Ice Stabilization Account (unanimous)
• Transfer $1,252,231.87 from Water Enterprise Fund retained earnings to Water Line Project (unanimous)
• Adjourn meeting (unanimous)

Housing Authority

The Franklin Housing Authority board will hold a special meeting on May 1, 2025. After roll call and an open session, commissioners will discuss the Executive Director’s contract. The meeting will close with adjournment. An executive‑session portion is scheduled to plan negotiations with non‑union personnel.