This session of the radio show shares our “Town Council Quarterbacking” with Town Council Chair Tom Mercer. We had our conversation via the Zoom Conference Bridge on Thursday, November 21, 2023.  

• ok, what just happened? 

• What does it mean for Franklin residents and taxpayers?

Topics for this session

• The Elks Riders presented a check for $2000 to the Town and were recognized for their generosity
• The tax rate public hearing was held and after a brief presentation, followed by clarification questions from Councilors and community members, the Council vote to accept the rate at 11.62, down from 11.79 (due to the increased assessed valuation of the residential, commercial. and industrial properties in Town)
• Several zoning bylaw modifications were referred to the Planning Board. Once they review and respond, the measure will come back to the Council for public hearing and two readings before official vote to implement as proposed or modified
• Town Administrator Jamie Hellen outlined the alignment of stars to enable the start of the purchase of the unused rail bed from CSX to extend the SNETT rail trail to the Crossing and access to downtown Franklin. The process still requires multiple approvals including at the Federal level but this could be very beneficial for economic development
• Resolution 24-72: Local Acceptance of G.L. Chapter 59, Section 5, Clause 22I; moved, second, discussion. The Hero Act added a new provision effective July 1, 2025. This is a Local acceptance statue enabling annual cost of living adjustments. The measure passed 9-0
• Resolution 24-73: Local Acceptance of G.L. Chapter 59, Section 5, Clause 41C As Amended By Chapter 184, Section 51 Of The Acts of 2002; Moved, second, discussion; reduces required age from 70 to 65, increases ceiling on income levels, broadens ownership status, effectively beneficial for seniors that met these requirements. Thanks to recommendation from Max Morrongiello made earlier this year

The recording runs about 31 minutes. Let’s listen to my conversation with Tom as we recap the Council meeting of Wednesday, November 20, 2024

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Franklin TV video ->  https://www.youtube.com/live/LbYhD3Ak3-4?t=137 

The Town Council full agenda doc ->   https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/agendas/tc_agenda_nov_20_2024.pdf 

My set of notes in one PDF ->   https://drive.google.com/file/d/1FEABusbIglE2ocUlB9eKZfgBa2U2q00h/view?usp=drive_link 

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The music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana"  c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.

I hope you enjoy!

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