Franklin Matters

What's happening in Franklin, MA: Sunday, August 16, 2026 ???

2026-08-16T07:00:00.000-04:00

Sunday, August 16

Franklin Lions Clothing Drive active through Aug 22 https://www.franklinmatters.org/2026/07/the-franklin-lions-conducting-clothing.html

8:00am Falmouth Road Race (Falmouth, MA, USA)

8:30am Metacomet/White Barn Farm Hike (White Barn Farm)

12:00pm Gilly's House Summerfest 2026 (Wrentham Fairgrounds)

1:00pm Sunday Funday (Fairmount Fruit Farm)

1:00pm Franklin Historical Museum (always free)

1:00pm Revolutionaries in White: A Look Across Three Centuries of Bridal Fashion

*** NO Town Meetings today ***

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Find the full Community event calendar https://bit.ly/FranklinCommunityCalendar

If you have an event to add to the calendar, you can use the form to submit it for publication: https://bit.ly/Submit2Calendar

The Town meeting calendar is found https://www.franklinma.gov/Calendar.aspx

The School district calendar is found https://franklinpublicschooldistrictma.sites.thrillshare.com/o/fpsd/page/school-calendar

Franklin Food Pantry Releases FY26 Impact Report: 28% Rise in Overall Need as Child Hunger Surges 35%

2026-08-16T06:50:00.000-04:00

The Franklin Food Pantry released its annual impact report for Fiscal Year 2026, revealing a dramatic increase in demand for food assistance across the local community. Over the past fiscal year, the total number of individuals relying on The Pantry climbed 28% to 2,411 people, while the number of children receiving food assistance from The Pantry jumped by 35%.

In total, Franklin Food Pantry’s programs and services were accessed 32,873 times during FY26. Demonstrating the persistent nature of current economic hardship, more than half of all registered clients visited The Pantry three or more times a month to meet their household grocery needs.

The substantial rise in local demand reflects broader state and national trends. Since July 2025, more than 61,000 children in Massachusetts have lost access to crucial Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits following the enactment of federal legislation (One Big Beautiful Bill Act H.R.1). This reduction in federal nutrition support has resulted in hundreds of local families turning to food pantries for food assistance.

"The numbers from this past fiscal year reflect both an alarming rise in food insecurity within our community and the extraordinary generosity of the people in Franklin," said Tina Powderly, Executive Director of the Franklin Food Pantry. "This past year, our neighbors turned to us in record numbers—and through the hard work and overwhelming support of our donors, partners, staff, and volunteers, we were able to ensure everyone had access to healthy food.”

To meet the unprecedented demand, The Pantry distributed 816,610 pounds of food—a 30% increase over last year—including 186,536 pounds of recovered healthy, fresh food that would have otherwise been discarded. Through outreach programs, The Pantry provided 4,134 weekend food backpacks to Franklin Public School students, delivered 3,394 grocery bags to medically homebound residents, supplied 2,032 bags across four mobile pantry sites, and distributed 1,075 Thanksgiving and winter holiday meals. These massive efforts were powered by 568 dedicated volunteers who gave 15,351 hours of service.

Amidst a year of record need, the Greater Boston Food Bank (GBFB) honored the Franklin Food Pantry as its Agency Partner of the Year, celebrating its extraordinary efforts to expand regional food access. GBFB also designated The Pantry as a Healthy Pantry Leader in recognition of its steadfast commitment to client dignity and nutrition and offering balanced foods and a client-centered shopping experience through intentional sourcing, distribution, and community programming.

“Even during exceptionally difficult times, the power of our community keeps us moving forward," said Powderly, "It inspires everything we do and ensures no neighbor has to face food insecurity alone."

For more information about the Franklin Food Pantry, or to receive food assistance, please visit www.franklinfoodpantry.org, or call 508-528-3115.

About Franklin Food Pantry, Inc.

The Franklin Food Pantry, Inc. offers food assistance, household necessities, and resource referrals to more than 2,411 individuals per year. The Pantry relies on donations and grants to purchase items and pay for daily operations, and partnerships with The Greater Boston Food Bank, Spoonfuls, and local grocery stores to achieve greater buying power and lower costs. Programs include Inside Shopping, Curbside Distribution, Emergency Food Boxes, Mobile Pantries, Home Delivery, Kids’ Snack Bags, Weekend Backpacks, Holiday Meals and the SNAP match at Franklin Farmers Market.

The Pantry is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization in good standing in Massachusetts, recognized by Charity Navigator as a Four-Star Charity, and awarded GuideStar’s Platinum Transparency ranking. The Pantry is located at 341 W Central St. in Franklin, MA on Route 140. Please visit www.franklinfoodpantry.org, or on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn for more information.

Franklin TV: Last Call – Block Party

2026-08-16T06:40:00.000-04:00

It’s Happening. August 29th at Our Studio

by Pete Fasciano, Executive Director 08/16/2026

Our Annual Open Board Meeting will take place as our neighborhood block party. Come to our our 23 Hutchinson St. studios.

Join us, Saturday, August 29th at 3:00pm. If you plan to attend, please RSVP by August 21 to: info@franklin.tv

It’s open to all Franklin businesses and residents. We’ll meet-and-greet and enjoy the day starting at 3:00pm. Come hungry and enjoy great food and all the fixin’s – along with tunes and fun.

You can also tour our studios and learn about Franklin●TV and wfpr●fm. We’ll also briefly review the past year’s progress and plans for the future. At our meeting you may cast your vote for new and/or renewing board positions.

Excerpt from our bylaws: (Available on our website.)

Section 15. Election of Director by the Membership (a) Members shall be notified by the Clerk of the election of a director by the Membership at the Annual Meeting. Said notice shall be in accordance with the notice provisions of Section 4 of this Article IV. (b) Any eligible voting Member may be nominated for election to the position of Director by:

(i) Written notification to the Clerk no later than seven (7) days prior to Annual Meeting; or (ii) By nomination from the floor of the Annual Meeting made and seconded by no less than three (3) eligible voting members.

Thanks to our board members who contribute their time and energy to help make Franklin●TV all that a public access TV studio can be. If you would like to become involved either as a volunteer or to create your own TV or radio programs at Franklin●TV and wfpr●fm, just send an email to: info@franklin.tv with your contact information. You can also call us to explore your ideas. 508-541-4118.

Please join us at our Franklin●TV event. Come meet, greet, chow down, have fun, and learn all about local TV and radio in Franklin.

See you then.

And – as always –

Thank you for watching.
Thanks for listening to wfpr●fm,
and staying informed at Franklin●news.

Get this week's program guide for Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) online http://franklin.tv/programguide.pdf

Ask SAFE : What is "AA"?

2026-08-16T06:30:00.000-04:00

Each week, a SAFE Licensed Clinical Social Worker answers questions about mental health, substance use recovery, wellness, and more.

👇Check out this week’s Q&A!

Q: What is “AA”?

A: Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is a free, peer-led program for people who want to stop drinking. Members work through the Twelve Steps and support each other in a safe, anonymous setting. It’s one of several paths to recovery.

AA began in the 1930s with an emphasis (not requirement) on abstinence, mutual support, spiritual growth, and personal accountability. The steps typically involve admitting powerlessness over the addiction, seeking help from a higher power, making amends for past behaviors, and helping others in recovery.

https://www.aa.org/

Ben Speaks is offering three supportive opportunities for parents and families grieving the loss of a child

2026-08-16T06:20:00.000-04:00

There is no one way to grieve. And there is no one way to heal.

This fall, Ben Speaks is offering three supportive opportunities for parents and families grieving the loss of a child.

🌿 MOVE & CONNECT

Walk alongside other bereaved parents and family members through our Grief Movement Community in Holliston. Link to register: https://www.emotion-mc.org/events/gmc-ma-holliston-ben-speaks

✨ RESTORE & RECEIVE

Experience a deeply relaxing Sound Bath, meditation, and hands-on Reiki in Uxbridge.

Link to register: https://benspeaks.aidaform.com/soundhealing

💙 RECOVER

Join our 8-week Survive to Thrive Grief Recovery Program from the comfort and privacy of your home via Zoom.

Link to register: https://benspeaks.aidaform.com/grief-recovery

Whether you need to move your body, quiet your nervous system, work through unresolved grief, or simply be with people who understand, there is a place for you here.

You don't have to choose the "right" kind of grief support.

Choose what speaks to your heart right now.

All three opportunities are offered at no direct cost to participants, thanks to the generous support of The Parmenter Foundation and our community partners.

💛 Please share. You never know which grieving parent or family member may be searching for exactly this kind of support.

TOGETHER WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE!

St John's Episcopal: We invite you to join us for Kick-off Sunday; September 13

2026-08-16T06:10:00.000-04:00

This is the beginning of our Program Year, when we welcome back our choir (and perhaps some parishioners) from Summer vacation, offer a special blessing for teachers and students beginning the new school year, and enjoy a cookout after worship.

If you’ve been thinking about checking us out, this will be a good day to do it. If you haven’t been here in a while, welcome back.

Everyone is invited, every Sunday!

St John’s Episcopal Church, 237 Pleasant Street, Franklin

For more information:

Call 508-528-2387
Email Rector@StJohnsFranklinMA.org
See our website at www.stjohnsfranklinma.org

Franklin Public Radio - wfpr.fm schedule for Sunday, August 16, 2026

2026-08-16T05:55:00.000-04:00

Yes, Franklin has its own radio station -> wfpr.fm.

Franklin Public Radio has a schedule full of the locally produced shows that fill our air waves.

It is available anywhere, anytime at wfpr.fm or in the local Franklin, MA area at 102.9 on the FM dial.

Tune in to listen to the following: (see image)

Get this week's program guide for Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) online http://franklin.tv/programguide.pdf

Reminder: Morning Hike at White Barn Farm, Tomorrow 8:30 AM

2026-08-15T22:30:00.000-04:00

via Metacomet Land Trust (MLT):

Stretch your legs with MLT on an early morning walk in the woods tomorrow!

Our second in the MLT/White Barn Farm hike series is Sunday at 8:30 AM. The hike will start at the farmstand, travel through the recently protected White Barn Farm woods to adjacent town land and continue up Knuckup Hill and then a loop around Trout Pond on the way back.

The hike will be about 2-3 miles with a couple of steep sections.

Stick around after the hike to socialize at the farm and enjoy coffee or breakfast from The Kitchen | White Barn Farm. We enjoyed delicious quiche and coffee after the July hike.

We hope to see you there!

Shared from - https://mailchi.mp/89bf01479e10/thank-you-for-your-gift-to-conservation-14203947?

What's happening in Franklin, MA: Saturday, August 15, 2026 ???

2026-08-15T07:00:00.000-04:00

Saturday, August 15

Franklin Lions Clothing Drive active through Aug 22 https://www.franklinmatters.org/2026/07/the-franklin-lions-conducting-clothing.html

9:00am Blood Drive (Teddy Gallagher's Irish Pub)

9:00am Thrifty Threads (Franklin Federated Church)

9:00am Fallen Hero: Jules Perret & Robert R. Pirelli (Veterans Walkway, Franklin Town Common)

9:00am Library Book sale (Franklin Public Library)

10:00am Franklin Historical Museum (always free)

10:00am Revolutionaries in White: A Look Across Three Centuries of Bridal Fashion

10:00am Maloney Farm & Forest (visit, pop up shop) (90 Daniels St)

10:00am Rise Up (Franklin United Methodist Church)

10:00am Town Council Office Hours (Franklin Public Library)

10:30am Messtival! (Franklin Public Library)

1:00pm Library books by the bag sale (Franklin Public Library)

8:00pm Karaoke at The Raillery (Raillery Public House)

8:00pm A Starry Night (live music - ticketed event) (THE BLACK BOX)

*** Town Meetings today ***

Town Council Open Office Hours

Saturday, August 15 Time: 10:00 AM

No agenda for this open discussion session

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Find the full Community event calendar https://bit.ly/FranklinCommunityCalendar

If you have an event to add to the calendar, you can use the form to submit it for publication: https://bit.ly/Submit2Calendar

The Town meeting calendar is found https://www.franklinma.gov/Calendar.aspx

The School district calendar is found https://franklinpublicschooldistrictma.sites.thrillshare.com/o/fpsd/page/school-calendar

Fallen Hero Recognition: Jules E. Perret & Robert R. Pirelli - Aug 15, 2026 at 9 AM

2026-08-15T06:55:00.000-04:00

Memorial event today (8/15/26) at 9 AM on the Town Common Veterans Walkway to honor Jules E. Perret & Robert R. Pirelli.

This program will include the placing of a Memorial Wreath for the day, the playing of Taps, a salute from those present, and a reading of whatever history may be available for that veteran. This is a way of keeping the memory of that veteran alive.

Fallen Hero: Private Jules E. Perret, U.S. Army

Private Jules E. Perret, U.S. Army, was born on November 12, 1907 son of Jules and Maria Perret. Jules lived with his parents and three sisters at 29 Washington Street.

Jules was a well known sportsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing. For many years he was an active member and tireless worker of the Franklin Rod and Gun Club. He did much towards the construction of the then new club house at Uncas Pond. Before volunteering to go into the service, Jules worked as a weaver in Canton, MA.

Jules entered the service on October 12, 1943 and trained at Camp Croft, South Carolina. Pvt Jules E. Perret went overseas in March of 1944, first seeing action in North Africa and later serving in Italy where he met his death on August 15, 1944 in a vehicular accident.

Pvt Jules E. Perret, U.S. Army, was 36 years old at the time of his death while serving his country in World War II.

Fallen Hero: Private Perret

Fallen Hero: Staff Sgt. Robert R. Pirelli

"Pirelli, a decorated Green Beret with the 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne), based in Fort Carson, Colo., was killed by enemy fire in the Diyala Province of Iraq on Aug. 15, 2007.

Around 8 p.m., Vallee and Rick Sullivan, deputy commissioner of the Conservation and Recreation Department, will speak briefly and dedicate the arena to Pirelli. State Sen. Scott Brown, R-Wrentham, Sen. Karen Spilka, D-Ashland, and Pirelli's parents, Nancy and Robert Pirelli, will also be on hand.

Pirelli, a 1996 Franklin High graduate, was one of two seniors to win a Booster Club scholarship, and graduated from Northeastern University with a degree in criminal justice.

"He grew up playing hockey and was on the varsity hockey team. He was an avid hockey player, and his dad was a hockey coach. He was an amazing guy, quite a young man," O'Conner said.

Pirelli joined the Army in December 2003.

He earned two Good Conduct Medals, a National Defense Service Medal, an Iraq Campaign Medal, a Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, a Non-commissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon, an Army Service Ribbon, an Overseas Service Ribbon, a Combat Infantry Badge, a Parachutist Badge, and a Special Forces Badge."

Shared from -> https://www.milforddailynews.com/story/news/2008/02/19/town-to-dedicate-rink-to/41320877007/

The schedule of Fallen Heroes for the year on one page (PDF)

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1tlyiAK18owM81p8aJs1vhKc3p2bIK1cv/view?usp=drive_link

Talking with a couple of "Super Kids" (audio)

2026-08-15T06:50:00.000-04:00

FM #1798 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1798 in the series.

Two young authors came to the Franklin TV & Radio Studio on Tuesday, August 4, 2026 to talk about their new book, “Super Kids”. You get to meet TJ Bowser and Christopher Charles and hear their story about this book, the first of a series.

We talk about

Their goal
Their collaborative writing process
And to “not give up”

Our conversation runs about 15 minutes.

Audio link - https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1798-talking-with-super-kids-08-04-26/

—-----------

You can buy the book on Amazon

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0H6CN33PZ

The book/authors website https://sites.google.com/view/superkids-book/super-kids

--------------

We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) or 102.9 on the Franklin area radio dial.

This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but we can't do it alone. We can always use your help.

How can you help?

If you can use the information that you find here, please tell your friends and neighbors
If you don't like something here, please let me know
And if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We’ll share and show you what and how we do what we do

Through this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.

For additional information, please visit www.franklin.news/ or www.Franklinmatters.org/

If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com

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

I hope you enjoy!

------------------

You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"

Franklin Fire Department Promotes Mike Berthiaume to Captain

2026-08-15T06:45:00.000-04:00

TOWN OF FRANKLIN | 355 East Central St., Franklin, MA 02038

Franklin Fire Department Promotes

Mike Berthiaume to Captain

The Franklin Fire Department is pleased to announce the promotion of Mike Berthiaume to captain.

Captain Berthiaume was promoted to captain in July 2026 and serves as captain of Group 3 at Station 2.

Captain Berthiaume joined the Franklin Fire Department in May 2015 as a firefighter/paramedic. He was promoted to lieutenant in July 2023 and began serving as acting captain in October 2025 before being permanently promoted to captain in July 2026.

Throughout his career with the Franklin Fire Department, Captain Berthiaume has served as a field training officer and assistant fire investigator. He is certified as a Fire Officer I/II, Incident Safety Officer and Hazardous Materials Operational Level Responder.

Prior to joining the Franklin Fire Department, Captain Berthiaume served for two years as a firefighter/paramedic with the Town of Bourne. While serving in Bourne, he was awarded the Massachusetts State Medal of Valor in 2015 for his actions during an active shooter incident. He also served as a call lieutenant with the Amherst Fire Department.

Captain Berthiaume holds a master’s degree in emergency services management from Columbia Southern University and a bachelor’s degree from the University of Massachusetts Amherst.

“I’m thankful for the opportunity to take on this role and for everyone who has supported me along the way,” said Captain Berthiaume. “I’m proud to continue serving the Franklin community alongside such a dedicated group of people.”

The Franklin Fire Department congratulates Captain Berthiaume on his promotion and thanks him for his continued service and leadership within the department and the Franklin community.

Visit the Town of Franklin website for news and community updates:

News and Announcements

—Stay informed and connected with the Town of Franklin—

Town of Franklin | 355 E Central St, | Franklin, MA 02038 US

Volunteers still needed to help SAFE with flag planting for International Overdose Awareness Day

2026-08-15T06:40:00.000-04:00

On August 31, communities around the world mark International Overdose Awareness Day, remembering those we've lost to overdose and working to reduce the stigma surrounding drug-related deaths.

This year, SAFE will work with community members to place memorial flags across the county. Sign up to help: tinyurl.com/safeoad

• Place flags: Saturday, August 29, 9 to 11 a.m.
• Remove flags: Tuesday, September 1, 9 to 10 a.m.

Anyone can help, and all are welcome!

Shared from - https://www.instagram.com/p/DbY49FIDxGy/

Bike & Helmet Safety event... September 12

2026-08-15T06:35:00.000-04:00

Bike & Helmet Safety event... September 12

The Boston Foundation: "The Power of Mass ECHOS: Facing the Numbers So We Can Change Them"

2026-08-15T06:30:00.000-04:00

via The Boston Foundation:

"Yesterday (8/12/26), the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston published Family Wealth in Massachusetts, drawn from the 2025 Massachusetts Economic Conditions and Household Opportunity Survey, known as Mass ECHOS. It gives us something unprecedented: an honest, region-specific accounting of where Massachusetts families stand today, and a shared foundation of evidence for building something more equitable tomorrow.

On our blog, TBF President and CEO Lee Pelton looks at some of the key findings from the data – the documentation of extensive disparities in wealth across race, educational attainment, and homeownership status – and why facing these numbers is so important in our work to change them, and change outcomes for the economic well-being of all Massachusetts residents.

These gaps weren’t created by accident, and they won’t be dismantled by accident either. They require the perseverance and collaboration of partners committed to advocating for change and for repair – and making philanthropy an effective vehicle for social change. This reliable, granular data on wealth by race, education, and geography provide us unprecedented insights into wealth gaps in the state to spark these informed conversations and the sustained, cross-sector work that leads to the collaborative solutions we need to shape a more equitable Massachusetts."

Download the full report: https://www.bostonfed.org/publications/one-time-pubs/mass-echos.aspx

Read The Boston Foundation announcement:

https://www.tbf.org/blog/2026/august/the-power-of-mass-echos

Boston Globe article: https://www.bostonglobe.com/2026/08/14/metro/racial-wealth-gap-homeownership/

Maloney Farm & Forest opens for visits & pop up shop - Aug 15

2026-08-15T06:20:00.000-04:00

via Maloney Farm & Forest

"Come by for a visit and meet the animals.

We are opening up our home from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM to invite you to come by and meet our rescue farm animals. We currently have 4 pigs, 5 goats, 2 turkeys, 8 bunnies, 21 ducks (including 3 ducklings) and 26 chickens. 

We will also be doing a pop up shop for Kiley’s Creations and More Farm Than Fancy.

*All proceeds from the More Farm Than Fancy line go directly back to caring for the animals we rescue."

shared from https://www.facebook.com/share/p/14jTLMzxpma/

Note: If you don't get a chance to visit, we were able to take a video tour this week. Should be able to share the video visit in a couple of weeks.

Blood Drive at Teddy Gallagher's - Saturday, Aug 15 (check for open slots)

2026-08-15T06:10:00.000-04:00

via Teddy Gallagher's Irish Pub

"Teddy’s is honored to host the Boston Children’s Blood Mobile this Saturday for a very special event.

In memory of Aubrey, a very special Franklin Elementary school student, we will have the Blood Mobile here for donations.

Please check prior for openings.

Every year the slots have been completely booked. Thank you all. "

Shared from - https://www.facebook.com/share/p/19UyQxDQAf/

Well Informed Facts from Poynter Institute "to help you separate medical breakthroughs from marketing hype and scientific findings from viral fiction"

2026-08-15T06:00:00.000-04:00

"When it comes to you and your family's health, you deserve the facts. 🩺 ✨️

Well Informed is a @politifact and @poynter_institute project to help you separate medical breakthroughs from marketing hype and scientific findings from viral fiction.

We dive into topics that affect daily life, from food safety to vaccine research to the fine print on vitamin supplement bottles. Our mission is simple: Provide evidence-based answers so you can make informed decisions.

🔗 Follow us at @wellinformedfacts across social media. Send us your health questions. And read our stories at the link in bio."

Linktree - https://linktr.ee/wellinformedfacts

The text based stories - https://politifact.com/well-informed/

Franklin Public Radio - wfpr.fm schedule for Saturday, August 15, 2026

2026-08-15T05:55:00.000-04:00

Yes, Franklin has it's own radio station -> wfpr.fm

Franklin Public Radio has a brand new schedule for the locally produced shows that fill our air waves.

It is available anywhere, anytime at wfpr.fm or in the local Franklin, MA area at 102.9 on the FM dial.

Tune in to listen to the following: (see image)

Get this week's program guide for Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) online http://franklin.tv/programguide.pdf

What's happening in Franklin, MA: Friday, August 14, 2026 ???

2026-08-14T06:00:00.000-04:00

Friday, August 14

Franklin Lions Clothing Drive active through Aug 22 https://www.franklinmatters.org/2026/07/the-franklin-lions-conducting-clothing.html

10:00am Knitting Group (Franklin Public Library)

1:00pm Thrifty Threads (Franklin Federated Church)

1:00pm Book Sale (Franklin Public Library)

2:00pm Farmers Market (Franklin Town Common)

3:00pm Bus 14 (live music) (Franklin Town Common)

5:30pm The Reminiscents (live music) (Franklin Town Common)

8:00pm Turn the Page: A Bob Seger Tribute (THE BLACK BOX)

https://www.franklinma.gov/942/Calendar-of-Events" border="0" data-original-height="328" data-original-width="1073" height="122" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizFcZwr9aNzAiJi2tcW7FBfSUBQGxz73UzcmczZSFTvNuQbX-SvKWKkQbqG_TfwVk25-hmTj_XpB9XUrJwMGdhvWHCTk3jq4BtjyLnvYyGhQv2EMSuz9DhkeL0ptmBa7ViwLY6-uke3lCeoHLKvU6C0crirk5_AWXgM4_DjGHEzVhqFZVRRBkP66NKBWw/w400-h122/20260810_FPL_WeekOf.png" style="border-color: currentcolor; border-image: none; border-style: none; border-width: medium; position: relative;" title="For additional details on Library events -> https://www.franklinma.gov/942/Calendar-of-Events" width="400" />

For additional details on Library events -> https://www.franklinma.gov/942/Calendar-of-Events

https://www.franklinma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/9890" border="0" data-original-height="305" data-original-width="729" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaXu7_jJSsNUPsJchQxwBIWOIE34T5PN-z4JqeQ-oQrnF0FmYOeVljl9TlZjvK3ngdfEhhK3zKqNFOfyGznrtQk8ScoUdUh8lOiBq53jjNN6Pj-NKvR7ZcNx8GI2ax4SPSLu2E5lDlnDF9wDgDqxACT7XLBeE4BiOciHwZS_a8LD2RZ-7oDw-YUpF3Law/w400-h168/20260810_FSC_Weekof.jpg" style="border-color: currentcolor; border-image: none; border-style: none; border-width: medium; position: relative;" title="For additional details on Senior Center events -> https://www.franklinma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/9890" width="400" />

For additional details on Senior Center events ->

https://www.franklinma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/9890

*** NO Town Meetings today ***

---------

Find the full Community event calendar https://bit.ly/FranklinCommunityCalendar

If you have an event to add to the calendar, you can use the form to submit it for publication: https://bit.ly/Submit2Calendar

The Town meeting calendar is found https://www.franklinma.gov/Calendar.aspx

The School district calendar is found https://franklinpublicschooldistrictma.sites.thrillshare.com/o/fpsd/page/school-calendar

Want to know the vendor lineup for the Franklin Farmers Market, Friday, August 14 ??

2026-08-14T05:55:00.000-04:00

"See you at the Franklin Farmers Market this Friday!

Join us on Friday, Augst 14, from 2–6 PM on the Town Common for another afternoon of local shopping, fresh food, and community. This week's market features 40+ local vendors, Concerts on the Common, and food trucks from @wanderingcheers , @tcscoops , and @cousinsmainelobster

Whether you're stocking up on fresh produce, picking up handmade goods, or just stopping by to enjoy the afternoon, there's something for everyone.

Take a look through this week's vendor lineup and start planning your visit. We can't wait to see you there!"

Shared from - https://www.instagram.com/p/DcAFq3mjEgs/

Franklin Town Council Approves Town Administrator Contract

2026-08-14T05:50:00.000-04:00

On Wednesday, August 12, the Franklin Town Council voted 5-4 to approve a new employment contract for Town Administrator Jamie Hellen. Hellen’s contract is extended through June 30, 2030.

As required by law, the contract negotiations were conducted in executive session before the Council voted on the resolution to approve in open session.

“I believe Jamie has demonstrated strong leadership and a deep commitment to the Town of Franklin,” said Town Council Chair Robert Dellorco. “He has helped keep the Town focused on the important work in front of us and has developed an exceptional staff culture. I’m pleased to support his contract and look forward to what we can continue to accomplish together over the next four years.”

Town Council Vice Chair Gene Grella, who voted against the contract, said his vote was not a reﬂection of his assessment of Hellen's work as Town Administrator or the work of the Town staff.

“We all have respect for Jamie and the work he has done over the past 11 years,” said Vice Chair Grella. “The four Councilors who voted against the contract had concerns with the process, timing and approach taken with the contract extension and modiﬁcation.”

Town Council Clerk Ted Cormier-Leger, a veteran of the Council, also added his support for extending his contract.

“Having served on the Town Council and worked with Jamie over the past ﬁve years, I’ve had the opportunity to see ﬁrsthand his leadership and commitment to Franklin,” said Clerk Cormier-Leger. “He has built strong relationships with our departments, employees, community stakeholders and the Council. I believe that extending his contract is in the best interest of our organization.”

In 2026, Hellen is completing his 11th year as an employee in Franklin. He served as the Town’s ﬁrst ever Deputy Town Administrator between Jan. 2016 to May of 2019 when he ofﬁcially took the reins from previous Town Administrator, Jeff Nutting. Together, Nutting and Hellen have provided stable executive leadership for 25 years in Franklin.

“I’m grateful and honored for the opportunity to continue serving the Town of Franklin and for the conﬁdence placed in me by the Town Council,” said Town Administrator Hellen. “I’m proud of the work our staff and volunteers accomplish every day. I look forward to continuing to work within the community to build on the progress we’ve made and focus on the priorities ahead.”

Hellen’s contact extension and modiﬁcation highlighted only a handful of changes:

● The contract term was extended through June 30, 2026;

● He received no additional compensation, nor did Hellen request any increase in pay, as the salary is within the market. The compensation has already been approved in the FY27 budget;

● The vehicle allowance for work travel was increased to $5,000 annually from

$3,500 annually, which is to reﬂect the inﬂation related cost increases of travel since 2019;

● Removal of required language for the Deputy Town Administrator; and

● Notiﬁcation of resignation was increased from 30 days to 90 days notice.

For more information, visit the Town Administrator webpage on the Town of Franklin’s website. https://www.franklinma.gov/159/Administrator

Read the approved Town Administrator’s contract for additional details.

https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/7471/Town-Administrator-Employment-Contract---August-12-2026?bidId=

Prior Contract - https://drive.google.com/file/d/1BMWZzUI0T84tNYwAI0nfH4Pmwo5dsMOL/view?usp=drive_link

Joint Budget Subcmte in healthy discussion seems to coalesce on 3 goals (video)

2026-08-14T05:45:00.000-04:00

The Joint Budget Subcommittee met as scheduled on Thursday, August 14. 10 of the 11 members were present in Chambers for the session (Grella absent).

Franklin TV video is available for replay - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_PITPcwF6Lg

Meeting agenda - https://www.franklinma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_08132026-2445

Quick recap

TA Jamie Hellen provides a budget update https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/10586/3a-MEMO---FY27-Update-and-Five-Year-Forecast-
five year forecast more accurate based on the process https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/10582/03b-1-Five-Year-Fiscal-Forecast---Control-Summary-Forecast
Discussion on goals https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/10588/04-JBSC-2026-27-Goals
Consensus developed around three goals;, in my kitchen english wording - (1) education/awareness of the Town finances (2) alignment on the structural deficit for 3 years (3) potential solutions or strategy to resolve such deficit in that time. Additional wordsmithing being done by the committee for review at next session, no date available for next session

My notes captured during the session

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1UzwDKCfD_wh4wmgQdqZDH101egZACz-j/view?usp=drive_link

Metacomet Public Health Alliance Community Baby Shower scheduled in 2 locations !!!

2026-08-14T05:40:00.000-04:00

We’re excited to share information about the upcoming Metacomet Public Health Alliance Community Baby Shower!

All are welcome—including mothers, families, dads, grandparents, and caregivers.

Tuesday, August 18, 2026
4:00–6:00 PM
Wrentham Senior Center
400 Taunton Street, Wrentham, MA

Tuesday, August 25, 2026
4:00–6:00 PM
Norfolk Public Library
2 Liberty Place, Norfolk, MA

What to Expect:

Free baby supplies and giveaways (while supplies last), including:

Diapers
Wipes
Formula
Pacifiers
Baby items

Enjoy refreshments, car seat installations and safety checks, community resources, support for expectant parents, and resources for families and caregivers.

Please feel free to share this information with families and community members who may benefit!

DelCarte Ponds to Be Treated 8/14/26

2026-08-14T05:35:00.000-04:00

The Franklin Conservation Commission has authorized the treatment of invasive aquatic vegetation at Upper and Lower DelCarte Ponds. Chemical treatment will commence on August 14th.

Water use restrictions will be in place on August 14th.

Please refrain from using these waters until August 15th, 2026.

This chemical treatment is being conducted pursuant to permit #WM04-0001697 issued by MassDEP and Order of Conditions for DEP#CE159-1137 issued by the Franklin Conservation Commission.

For more information, please call the Conservation department at 508-520-4929.

Yes, prior treatment was also conducted July 30

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2026/07/delcarte-ponds-to-be-treated-july-30.html

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