Frequently Asked Questions

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15 cents per kWh is the contracted energy supply rate through Franklin's municipal aggregation agreement with Dynegy Energy.  This agreement and rate will expire in November 2025.

13.9 cents per kWh is the contracted rate through Franklin's agreement with First Point Power, which commences in November 2025 and expires in November 2028.

You can check if you’re enrolled by looking at your National Grid or Eversource electric bill; the name of your Supplier is listed under "Supply Services".   

As of the date of your October 2025 meter reads, if you are enrolled, "Dynegy Energy" will be named as your supplier. As of the date of your November 2025 meter reads, if you are enrolled, "First Point Power" will be named as your supplier.  Alternatively, you can call Colonial Power Group at (866) 485-5858 ext. 1 to inquire about your enrollment status.

Residents and business owners who were already enrolled in Franklin’s Community Choice Power Supply Program as of 9/15/25 will be automatically re-enrolled when the new agreement with First Point Power takes effect, with the standard product (63% renewable energy) at the new rate of 13.9 cents per kWh. These residents and business owners should have received an informational postcard from Colonial Power Group in early October 2025. The postcard included the contact information for First Point Power, instructions on how to select the locally sourced 100% renewable energy product at a rate of 16.6 cents per kWh instead of the standard product, how to opt-out of the program, and other important details. Here is a link to the postcard for National Grid customers, and here is a link to the postcard for Eversource customers.

Residents and business owners who were not already enrolled in Franklin’s Community Choice Power Supply Program as of 9/15/25 will need to opt into the program if interested in participating.  

To opt into the program, please visit colonialpowergroup.com/franklin or call First Point Power at (888) 875-1711

If you change any piece of information on your national grid account (including the name the account is under), National Grid will close your existing account and open a new one.  With your new account you will not be automatically enrolled in the municipal aggregation program, and will instead default to National Grid's Basic Service.  National Grid / Eversource will not notify you of this so please be aware that you must opt back in to the Municipal Aggregation Program by following the instructions provided in response to the "How do I enroll?".

There are no fees to opt in or opt out. You are able to OPT-IN or OPT-OUT from the Municipal Aggregation / Community Choice Power Supply Program at any time and as often as you choose. However, anyone switching from a contract with another third-party supplier may be subject to penalties or early termination fees charged by that supplier.

If you are currently enrolled and no longer wish to participate you must OPT-OUT by visiting colonialpowergroup.com/franklin, click the OPT-OUT button and follow the instructions specified or call First Point Power at (888) 875-1711. The Town of Franklin cannot process OPT-OUT or OPT-IN. 

If you have Solar Panels on your residence or business or have joined a community solar project the Net metering and on-bill credits will work the same way with this program. You will continue to receive your net metering or on-bill credits while benefiting from the aggregation rate on your electricity. The Local Utility will continue to post your net metering or on-bill credits to your electric bill at your Local Utility's Basic Service rate.

Solar Panel And Community Solar Consumers will continue to receive net metering or on-bill credits while receiving electricity supply under the Program and the value of these credits will not be altered by participating in the Program.

For more detailed information or any questions please contact Dynegy Energy Services at 866-220-5696 or visit Colonial Power Group

Nexamp Solar Farm

Aside from the Community Choice Power Supply Program the Town of Franklin has worked with Nexamp to ensure that a portion of their farm on Spring Street be reserved for Franklin residents. Subscribers will receive credits on their National Grid electric bill for the energy produced by their solar farm at a special discount rate of 15%.

Openings were on a first-come, first-served basis, and the Franklin farm is now filled! However, Residents of Franklin can still enroll in one of their other National Grid projects at the standard 12.5% discount rate for Massachusetts.

The NEXamp savings for the Solar Farm on Spring Street program works concurrently with the Community Choice Power Supply Program and you could see financial benefits from both combined.

Nexamp Solar Farm letter to Residents (PDF)

For more information on Nexamp locally shared community solar farm please call 800-945-5124.

Open burning is regulated by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, with the open burning season conducted from January 15th through May 1st of each year. Our Burning Permit Application Process has gone computerized. To obtain a burning permit you can visit Town of Franklin website. Once you obtain your permit, you may burn any allowable day during the season, between the hours of 10 am and 4 pm. You must call for permission to burn. There are restrictions on what is permissible to burn. You need a permit each year and it is valid for the whole season.

According to Massachusetts General Laws (MGL) (Chapter 148 Section 26F) all buildings or structures occupied in whole or in part for residential purposes upon the sale or transfer, shall be equipped by the seller with approved smoke alarms/MGL Chapter 148 section 26F. An operating smoke alarm is required on every habitable level, including the basement. Finished attic spaces also need smoke detector coverage.

No, the fire department does not have the capacity to recharge fire extinguishers. According to Massachusetts General Law, we are not permitted to recommend the services of companies to perform services. Therefore, if you need a fire extinguisher recharged, we recommend you consul the business directory in your telephone book or online search for fire extinguisher companies.

We recommend that you test your alarms on a monthly basis. You can do this with most alarms by pressing the test button for a few seconds. This is also a good time to discuss and review your home fire exit plan with those who live with you.

A tour of any fire station can be arranged by calling our business telephone number 508-528-2323, select option 6. Our SAFE Officer, Doug Perro, is responsible for public education and can arrange for your tour.

No!

The propane cylinders still have product in them and should be disposed of properly. If you wish to dispose of a propane cylinder you must first insure that it is empty, then remove the control valve and rinse the tank with water. Once this is complete, you may bring the cylinder to the transfer station on Beaver Street.

No. Current State law does not require the homeowner to remove an underground storage tank for home heating oil. Tanks must be removed if they have been identified as leaking or if they have not been used in the previous 24 months. The oil can only be used for heating the building and domestic hot water. If the tank supplies fuel for other equipment such as an emergency generator, other guidelines become effective. The tank can remain in place but must meet requirements for corrosion protection and annual testing for leaks. However, if you are selling your home, you must remove the tank prior to obtaining a Smoke Detector and Carbon Monoxide Detector Compliance Certificate.

The Franklin Fire Department operates the emergency ambulance services, with all of our staff having some degree of emergency medical training, most certified at the paramedic level. During a medical emergency minutes, in fact seconds count! The response of the closest emergency vehicle to your emergency brings trained firefighter emergency medical technicians (EMTs) and paramedics to your home within minutes. Emergency life saving equipment such as oxygen, semi-automatic defibrillator and other medical equipment are carried on the fire engine for use by these trained firefighters. Additional staff on a fire engine also provides rapid assistance in cases it is necessary to have extra trained personnel to assist in moving stretchers through buildings, particularly when stairways or slippery conditions are encountered. This helps to reduce to department personnel handling unwieldy stretchers and heavy patients. It is also necessary to have more than two people perform certain treatments such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation and other advanced life support functions while moving a patient. At traffic accidents the fire engine personnel assist in keeping the area safe if there are fuel spills, and help in extricating the person from the wreckage.

Come in person to the library with a photo ID and proof of your current address. A driver's license is sufficient.

Children's cards are issued when the child is accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who has proper ID.

You can also apply for a temporary card online.

Yes! The Minuteman Library Network App is available at the Apple App Store, Google Play and the Amazon App Store. The app puts your library card and your library in your pocket!

Just follow this link for easy instructions!

The most efficient and reliable way to check out materials is to have your card. If you do not have it with you, a picture ID is acceptable. Other Minuteman Library Network (MLN) libraries may require a card.

As a Massachusetts resident and a member of the Minuteman Library Network, your card provides access to materials at more than forty libraries. With your card number and a PIN our catalog is available online. From home you may access databases, reserve museum passes, request materials, keep a reading history, view your own account, download ebooks and audiobooks, stream music and videos, and more!

The Planning Board must hold a public hearing on almost every item before it: for example, before adopting or amending subdivision control rules and regulations, subdivision reviews, and site plan reviews. Notice of the hearing must include the date, time, place, and subject matter and must be published in a newspaper once in each of two successive weeks with the first publication being not less than fourteen days before the date of the hearing.

Also known as an "81-p plan" or "Form A plan", it is a type of land division which does not require a formal review process by the Planning Board. Generally, all lots shown on an ANR plan must have frontage on an existing public way, except in the case of land transfers between properties. The plan is then entitled to endorsement by the Planning Board as "Approval Not Required" without notification of abutters or a public hearing. The plan is then recorded at the Registry of Deeds.

A subdivision is the division of a tract of land into 2 or more lots, which generally requires the creation of 1 or more roads. The Planning Board, in a public hearing, reviews subdivision plans, notice for which is given in the newspaper and to abutters within 300 feet of the project. The Planning Board reviews subdivision plans to ensure the adequacy of the new roads, drainage, utilities, and lots being created. The Planning Board has only limited authority over the construction and placement of buildings within subdivisions.

A site plan shows the footprint of a building, or group of buildings, with associated utilities and parking. The Planning Board requires site plan review for projects that involve the alteration, construction, or change of use of any structure, other than a single-family or two-family dwelling. The site plan process requires a public hearing and notification of abutters, except for projects which the Planning Board authorizes for "limited" site plan review, which does not require a public hearing or notification.

The Planning Board has sixty days to hold a public hearing following the submission of a complete site plan application. A public hearing is advertised and held within that timeframe, with notification of abutters (except in the case of a limited review). Following the close of the public hearing, the Planning Board has thirty days to make a decision.

The town has Plan Review two weeks before the scheduled Planning Board meeting. These include the Planning Department Staff, Town Engineer, Building Commissioner, Conservation Commission Staff, Board of Health Agent, and a Fire Department representative who provide their comments and opinions to one another and the applicant.

When do you need a permit? Permits are typically required for the following, but remember to check with the department as some towns require permits for other construction activity.

What is the permit process? The process is generally the same for building, wiring and plumbing. In addition, fire prevention and sprinkler permits will also require the Input and approval of the local fire department

• Additions
• New Construction
• Alarm Systems
• Parking Areas
• Decks/sheds
• Plumbing/Electrical Systems
• Demolitions
• Prefabricated Structures
• Fireplace/Wood Stoves
• Roofing/Siding
• Insulation
• Swimming Pools
• Mechanical Systems
• Temporary Structures

Step One: A preliminary meeting to encourage discussion and review of what you propose to do.

Step Two: Submit the application and documentation to the department. You may need to consult with other town departments and boards and committees for their approval.

Step Three: Consideration and review of all applications, documents, and plans against all applicable codes, rules and regulations.

Step Four: Decision from the inspector. Your application may be approved or denied. There are appeal processes that will be explained to you if denied.

Step Five: Inspection of the work in progress. Each phase must be inspected for completeness and for compliance with the construction documents and State Building Code.

Step Six: Final acceptance and/or the issuance of occupancy permit, if required.

Construction is now complete!

You are the homeowner or the business owner. You have invested time and energy and a substantial sum of money into your investment. You will be relying on the structural safety of the building that surrounds you each day, at home and at work. Research your investment before and not after your purchase.

Find out if there are outstanding code violations or zoning violations on the property. "Buyer beware" is an old saying, however, it is very much evident when a problem arises later. Has all the work that has been done at the building been permitted and approved by the local officials? Are there records to substantiate this? Has a 21E assessment ever been done of the property? Is asbestos present?

Problems can be avoided if you do homework, first. Engineers, architects and other professional personnel may be needed if the work was done illegally or in violation of any codes. Your investment could be in serious jeopardy if the building is not in compliance.

Fill out these forms

• Birth
• Death
• Marriage

Dog License FAQ (PDF)

Important Information Regarding Elections and Voting Page

Dog Licenses page

Yes - If your vote by mail ballot has not been received back to the Town Clerk's Office, you may still appear to vote in person at the polls on Election Day or at an early voting site. These voters will be required to complete additional paperwork and will need to show an ID. Should your mail in ballot be received after you voted early in person or at the polls on Election Day that ballot will be rejected and will not be counted

No - If a vote by mail ballot has already been received back by the Town Clerk's Office. A returned vote by mail ballot is considered cast and you will not be eligible to vote by mail, early in person or in person at the polls on Election Day.

No - If you appeared to vote early in person your ballot will be considered cast and you will not be eligible to vote by mail, or in person at the polls on Election Day. Voting in Person at the Polls after submitting an early ballot is prohibited as outlined in 950 CMR 4 7.19.

All vote by mail and early voting in person ballots will be kept secured in the Town Clerk's vault until Election Day. On Election Day the secured bins containing the ballots will then be transported to the High School by the Police.

A Notice of Advanced Removal of Early Voted Ballots from Envelopes and Advanced Depositing of Early Voted Ballots will be posted with the Secretary of the Commonwealths Office and also on the Town of Franklin's website. A warrant will also be posted throughout various locations in Town if the Clerk so chooses to perform any of the advanced opening and depositing options.

A business certificate is the registration of a business that is being conducted and is located within the Town of Franklin. It is commonly referred to as a " DBA" or "Doing Business As" certificate. A business certificate essentially creates a public record of the name and address of the owner(s) of a business.

A business certificate primarily allows consumers and/or creditors to identify the names of the actual owners of a business. This information is a public record and is furnished to the Massachusetts Department of Revenue under the authority of Mass. G.L. 62C, S 49a.

Your filing of a business certificate at the local Town Clerk's office does not protect your name or reserve it as does a corporate filing or a trademark registration (which is done through the State). It also does not give you permission to operate a business in the town - it only registers your name. In order to legally operate a business in the town you must get the appropriate permits, licenses, variances, etc., that are required by the issuing departments of the town.

Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 110, §5 states that any person conducting business in the Commonwealth under any title or business name other than the real name of the person conducting the business, whether individually or as a partner, shall file a certificate in the office of the clerk where an office of any such person or partnership may be situated.

Any corporation doing business in a name other than its corporate name must also file. The certificate must be completed and filed by a corporate officer.

Under Chapter 110, Section 6 a business certificate is not required if a corporation is doing business in its true corporate name, or if a partnership is doing business under any title which includes the true surname of any partner. Certain other associations and partnerships may also be exempt (refer to above citation for details.

Business Certificates (New or Renewals) $50

A business certificate is in full force and effect for four years from the date of issue. A new filing must be made every four years as long as the business is being conducted.

Please contact the Town Clerk's Office if any of the following occurs before the expiration of the business certificate.

• Business is discontinued
• One or more of the persons named on the certificate is withdrawn or retired from the business
• One or more of the persons named on the certificate dies
• One or more of the persons named on the certificate has a change in residence
• The location where the business is conducted changes

If you are changing the name of your business you may be required to discontinue the old business and then open a new business.

The requirement to file a business certificate is a State Law (MGL Chapter 110, §5). Violators of these provisions shall be subject to a fine of not more than three hundred ($300) dollars for each month during which said violation continues.

No. However, you must provide a copy upon request.

Yes. The business certificates are on file with the Town Clerk's Office until one year after expiration, and may be viewed by anyone making a request. Copies are available for a fee in accordance with Public Records Laws.

For further information about filing a business certificate in Franklin contact the Town Clerk's Office via email or call 508-520-4900. The Town Clerks Office will not offer legal advice or interpretation of the laws.

• DBA Certificate Filing
• Online Application

Honorably discharged Veterans of all United States Armed Forces including the Air Force, Army, Navy, Marines and Coast Guard as well as the Air Force Reserve, Army Reserve, Navy Reserve, Marine Corps Reserve, Coast Guard Reserve and National Guard.

Approved Veterans can shop the online exchanges including ShopMyExchange.com. Shopping with the Exchange online gives you access to exclusive military pricing and offers, tax-free shopping and more. This is a lifelong benefit that will be extended to all who discharge honorably from service.

The Department of Defense announced this benefit in January 2017 and it became effective on November 11, 2017.

Online with any of the military exchanges. This benefit does not grant installation access.

To recognize and honor your service, make your life better and improve the overall military community. Expanding online shopping privileges strengthens funding of military Quality-of-Life programs including Army Child Development Centers, Youth Programs and Fitness Centers, Air Force Outdoor Recreation programs, affordable school lunches for Warfighters' children overseas, combat uniforms below cost and more.

On October 19, 2016, the Franklin Town Council accepted the provisions of a new state law that allows the Town of Franklin to establish a Municipal Veterans' Assistance Fund.

The funds raised will go toward three approved uses outlined in the state law - food, transportation, fuel assistance (heat and oil) - to assist Veterans in need within the Town of Franklin.

Unfortunately, housing costs are not allowed under the law and the Town of Franklin cannot pay direct costs towards housing. If you need housing assistance, we encourage you to still contact the Veterans' Officer to discuss other possible assistance.

Yes. It is important to note that 100% of the funds received go directly into Franklin Veterans' pockets. Surviving spouses of Veterans may also qualify for assistance. The overhead and administration of this fund are done through the Franklin Veterans' Officer, which is in the Town's annual operating budget.

There are three ways to make a donation:

1. Online at the UniPay website.
2. Check/Money Order. Please send payments to:
   
   Franklin Municipal Veterans' Assistance Fund
   10 Daniel McCahill Street
   Franklin, MA 02038.
   
   Make checks or money orders payable to: Franklin Municipal Veterans' Assistance Fund
3. In-person: Please visit the Veterans' Services Department at the Franklin Senior Center to make a donation in person.

This fund is managed by the Franklin Veterans' Officer with oversight and authority by the Town Administrator.

Funds are distributed to qualifying Franklin Veterans through the Town's Veterans' Services Officer.

Call the Veterans' Services Office at: 508-613-1315 for details and an application.

To make a donation to the Franklin Municipal Veterans' Assistance Fund, please visit the Unipay website.

This can be done by completing the steps:

1. Gather the name of the selling property owner, the buying property owner, the address of the property and the date of the closing.
2. Visit https://franklinma.portal.opengov.com/categories/1078 to request a final water reading online 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Appointments can be made Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 2 PM (Appointment times during summer hours differ slightly).
3. Once a request is submitted, and if the home is 20 years or older, a DPW staff member will reach out within 2 business days to schedule an appointment for our technician to enter the home before the closing.
4. A $100 fee per account is due at the time of request (with at least 48 hours notice). With less than 48 hours notice, the fee is $200 per account.
5. It is also recommended that you contact the Treasurer/Collector Office to check for any outstanding balances.

Submit a request online or call the Department of Public Works Administration Office at 508-553-5500. Please provide the pole number or street address nearest the streetlight and nearest crossroad if possible.

Your contractor must call us for a meter installation appointment. Before a meter can be installed we must have the utility ties (measurements for the water line) to the property from the contractor who installed the water line.

For additional information refer to the latest edition of the Information Mailer. These items may also be taken to the Beaver Street Recycle Station throughout the year.

The Beaver Street Recycling Center is open Friday and Saturday from 8 am to 3 pm, Tuesdays 12 pm to 3 pm, Sundays 9 am to 1 pm, April through November.

For additional information please refer to the latest information mailer which can be found on the Information Mailer.

Call the Department of Public Works Administration Office at 508-553-5500 for a sign replacement. Please be aware that some street signs may be under the responsibility of the developer for replacement as the street is not under the custody of the town.

The town is responsible for the water lines in the road and up to the edge of the property. The property owner is responsible for the water line onto their property and into their house.

There may be several reasons: a new rate change, outside water use or internal leaks such as a running toilet or a dripping faucet. Leak Detection and water conservation kits are available free-of-charge from the Department of Public Works (DPW). Please stop into our administration office or contact us for additional information.

These items are picked up on Thursdays by appointment only. You can schedule your pickup by calling Waste Management at 800-972-4545, some items may have an associated fee. Calls must be made by 3 pm on Tuesday for a Thursday pickup. 

Call the Department of Public Works (DPW) at 508-553-5500 to report your address or the location or the tree. The town will look into the matter and will trim or remove the tree if deemed necessary. The town is only responsible for trees located within the public right-of-way and will follow the guidelines set forth in the Public Shade Tree Law.

Get details on the Water Conservation page.

The Health Department has on file septic design plans, system as-built plans, and/or copies of Title V inspection reports which can aid the homeowner in locating septic system components.

A septic tank requires pumping generally every 2 years. By removing solids, sludge, and greases, you provide more liquid volume in the tank and also ensure that solids do not leave the tank and enter the leaching system. For additional maintenance and care information, please see the Septic System Informational Flyer (PDF).

Per the Massachusetts State Septic Regulation 310 CMR 15.000, most commonly known as Title V, septic systems require inspection upon transfer of title to the facility served by the system. An inspection conducted up to three years before the time of transfer may be used if the inspection report is accompanied by system pumping records demonstrating that the system has been pumped at least once per year during that time.

The Franklin Health Department does not license Title V Inspectors. These professionals obtain their inspection authority and are licensed by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection. To locate an inspector one should google search septic systems/septic inspectors/repair. The Franklin Health Department does license septic system installers and maintains a current of list licensed installers which is available to the public upon request.

Franklin recycles about 40,000 pounds a year of rigid plastic that includes Little Tikes© items, trash barrels and containers.

Please see the Recycling Center webpage for more information.

For 2 months starting in November 2019 to the end of the year Franklin picked up 37,000 pounds of clothing.

Based on this we could see over 100,000 pounds in 2020!

The school superintendent determines the opening, closing or delayed opening of school during snow and ice storms.

Yes. Trash should be placed so it does not hinder the street plows or sidewalk plows.

The situation is unavoidable. The plows remove the snow from curb to curb for maximum clearance of the roadway. This provides for maximum drainage and public safety.

No. The roads are always plowed first. Only certain sidewalks are plowed when the storm has ended.

Yes. Snowplowing and removal are difficult; parked cars on the roadways not only increase the number of hazards, but also the time it takes to remove the snow.

Yes. Major roadways and hills are a top priority.

No. A Town bylaw restricts this act. Additionally, such action may bring liability if an accident should occur. This also increases the town's costs for snow operations.

No. The utility applies to every property in Town. Whether or not all of the rainwater that falls on your property stays on your property - the Town of Franklin is still required to abide by the MS4 permit. The Municipal Small Separate Sewer System Permit is an unfunded Federal Mandate. While funds for this effort were traditionally allocated to the Highway Department from the General Fund, the costs associated with the requirements are increasing exponentially. This is why the Town adopted a stormwater utility. It is no longer feasible and is not sustainable to draw these funds from the General Fund. Street sweeping and catch basin cleaning must be enhanced - additional tasks include: 

• Catchment investigations
• Outfall testing
• Installation of infrastructure
• Detention basin maintenance
• Lining of drain pipes
• Retrofits of existing infrastructure
• Etc.

This is a community-based solution to a community-based problem.

Yes. They are subject to the stormwater utility, just as they are subject to paying for water, sewer, trash and recycling.

No. The stormwater utility applies to all parcels in town. There are no exemptions. Separately, there are:

• Credits (eligible infrastructure for stormwater storage and treatment)
• Abatements (corrections for improperly calculated Impervious Area)

Visit the Impervious Area Map. Scroll through the map, or enter your property in the Search Bar.

You are not. This is a utility, not a tax. As a Utility, it applies to all parcels in Town. There are no exemptions. Therefore, commercial and industrial properties will be billed accordingly. The utility also applies to educational institutions and religious organizations, which would have not been billed if this were a tax.

The bills for condominiums will be sent to the owner of the land associated with the condominium. The land-owner will collect the funds as they see fit.

The Stormwater Credit manual (PDF) is posted online. Overall, residents and businesses are eligible for up to 50% credit off of their Stormwater Utility Bill. There is a 25% credit for stormwater "treatment" and 25% for stormwater "storage." Details of such can be found in the Credit Manual.

The stormwater utility fee will appear on your regular utility bill, which is sent out quarterly.

Please complete an Impervious Area Abatement application online and the DPW will be in contact with you. Contact the DPW Administration Building. A site-visit will be conducted. "Do we have your permission to enter your property to conduct the site-visit?"

No, it does not. Whether or not all of the rainwater that falls on your property stays on your property - the Town of Franklin is still required to abide by the MS4 permit. While these funds traditionally were allocated to the Highway Department from the General Fund, the costs associated with the requirements are increasing exponentially. This is why the Town adopted a Stormwater Utility. Street sweeping and catch basin cleaning must be enhanced. There are many other tasks that must be accomplished to abide by the permit: Catchment investigations, outfall testing, installation of infrastructure, detention basin maintenance, lining of drain pipes, repairs of existing infrastructure, etc. This is a community-based solution to a community-based problem.

Rain barrels (generally made out of a 55 gallon food-grade barrel) collect the water that runs off of the rooftops of buildings typically by way of a gutter or downspout. The water collected is ideal for watering garden or lawns, as well as other household chores such as washing cars or windows.

Rain barrels are a great tool to conserve water and reduce stormwater runoff. During the summer months, outdoor tasks such as watering lawns and gardens typically make up about 40% of household water use. With seasonal droughts, restrictions and bans on lawn watering, and the increasing cost of water, it makes sense to use rain water instead of municipal water for outdoor uses as it results in significant cost savings for residents. Unless it is collected, rain water runs off impervious surfaces, such as roofs and pavement, gathering pollutants which often end up in local streams, rivers, pond, lakes and marine waters. Keeping and using rain water on your property helps reduce pollution, erosion and improves local watershed health. For additional information on the benefits of rain barrels, check out the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) website.

Our Fall 2024 program is now open! Visit the Great American Rain Barrel website to purchase your rain barrel. Deadline for ordering is September 8th and pickup will be at the Department of Public Works (DPW) Admin Building (257 Fisher Street) on September 18th from 4 to 6 pm.

Stormwater Control Measures are permanent structures that are designed, constructed, and maintained to prevent flooding and remove pollutants present in stormwater runoff before they are transported to our waterbodies and drinking water reservoirs.

Stormwater picks up litter, sand, bacteria, oil, and other pollutants as it flows over the land, and it carries these pollutants to our streams, ponds, and wetlands. Runoff from paved surfaces like roads, parking lots, and rooftops may contribute large amounts of these pollutants into stormwater.

Stormwater Control Measures are important because they capture runoff and remove some of the pollutants before they can impact water quality. In Franklin, there are almost 300 municipally owned Stormwater Control Measures and 130 privately owned Stormwater Control Measures. Combined, and if properly maintained, they can remove approximately 500 pounds of total phosphorus from stormwater per year. Phosphorus pollution is an important contributor to water quality impacts and can cause harmful algal blooms, fish kills, and make pets and other animals sick if they drink contaminated water.

In addition to total phosphorus removal, many of these Stormwater Control Measures capture and treat other common stormwater pollutants.

The most frequent types of Stormwater Control Measures in Franklin include:

• Detention Basins (PNG)
• Infiltration Basins (PNG)
• Wet Ponds (PNG)
• Gravel/Constructed Wetlands (PNG)
• Porous Pavement (PNG)
• Vegetated Swales (PNG)
• Rain Gardens (PNG)

A cross-connection is any temporary or permanent connection between a public water system or consumer's potable (i.e., drinking) water system and any source or system containing non-potable water or other substances. An example is the piping between a public water system or consumer's potable water system and an auxiliary water system, cooling system, or irrigation system.

Backflow is the undesirable reversal of flow of non-potable water or other substances through a cross-connection and into the piping of a public water system or consumer's potable water system. There are two types of backflow: 

• Backpressure backflow
• Backsiphonage

Backpressure backflow is backflow caused by a downstream pressure that is greater than the upstream or supply pressure in a public water system or consumer's potable water system. Backpressure (i.e., downstream pressure that is greater than the potable water supply pressure) can result from an increase in downstream pressure, a reduction in the potable water supply pressure, or a combination of both. Increases in downstream pressure can be created by pumps, temperature increases in boilers, etc. Reductions in potable water supply pressure occur whenever the amount of water being used exceeds the amount of water being supplied, such as during water line flushing, fire fighting, or breaks in water mains.

Backsiphonage is backflow caused by a negative pressure (i.e., a vacuum ~ or partial vacuum) in a Public water system or consumer's potable water system. The effect is similar to drinking water through a straw. Backsiphonage can occur when there is a stoppage of water supply due to nearby fire fighting, a break in a water main, etc.

Backflow into a public water system can pollute or contaminate the water in that system (i.e., backflow into a public water system can make the water in that system unusable or unsafe to drink), and each water supplier has a responsibility to provide water that is usable and safe to drink under all foreseeable circumstances. Furthermore, consumers generally have absolute faith that water delivered to them through a public water system is always safe to drink. For these reasons, each water supplier must take reasonable precautions to protect its public water system against backflow.

Water suppliers usually do not have the authority or capability to repeatedly inspect every consumer's premises for cross-connections and backflow protection. Alternatively, each water supplier should ensure that a proper backflow preventer is installed and maintained at the water service connection to each system or premises that poses a significant hazard to the public water system. Generally, this would include the water service connection to each dedicated fire protection system or irrigation piping system and the water service connection to each of the following types of premises:

1. Premises with an auxiliary or reclaimed water system
2. Industrial, medical, laboratory, marine or other facilities where objectionable substances are handled in a way that could cause pollution or contamination of the public water system
3. Premises exempt from the State Plumbing Code and premises where an internal backflow preventer required under the State Plumbing Code is not properly installed or maintained
4. Classified or restricted facilities; and (S) tall buildings. Each water supplier should also ensure that a proper backflow preventer is installed and maintained at each water loading station owned or operated by the water supplier.
   
   
   

A backflow preventer is a means or mechanism to prevent backflow. The basic means of preventing backflow is an air gap, which either eliminates a cross-connection or provides a barrier to backflow. The basic mechanism for preventing backflow is a mechanical backflow preventer, which provides a physical barrier to backflow. The principal types of mechanical backflow preventer are the reduced-pressure principle assembly, the pressure vacuum breaker assembly, and the double check valve assembly. A secondary type of mechanical backflow preventer is the residential dual check valve.

An air gap is a vertical, physical separation between the end of a water supply outlet and the flood-level rim of a receiving vessel. This separation must be at least twice the diameter of the water supply outlet and never less than one inch. An air gap is considered the maximum protection available against backpressure backflow or backsiphonage but is not always practical and can easily be bypassed.

An RP is a mechanical backflow preventer that consists of two independently acting, spring-loaded check valves with a hydraulically operating, mechanically independent, spring-loaded pressure differential relief valve between the check valves and below the first check valve. It includes shutoff valves at each end of the assembly and is equipped with test cocks. An RP is effective against backpressure backflow and backsiphonage and may be used to isolate health or non-health hazards.

A PVB is a mechanical backflow preventer that consists of an independently acting, spring-loaded check valve and an independently acting, spring-loaded, air inlet valve on the discharge side of the check valve. It includes shutoff valves at each end of the assembly and is equipped with test cocks. A PVB may be used to isolate health or non-health hazards but is effective against backsiphonage only.

A DC is a mechanical backflow preventer that consists of two independently acting, spring-loaded check valves. It includes shutoff valves at each end of the assembly and is equipped with test cocks. A DC is effective against backpressure backflow and backsiphonage but should be used to isolate only non-health hazards.

An RDC is similar to a DC in that it is a mechanical backflow preventer consisting of two independently acting, spring-loaded check valves. However, it usually does not include shutoff valves, may or may not be equipped with test cocks or ports, and is generally less reliable than a DC. An RDC is effective against backpressure backflow and backsiphonage but should be used to isolate only non-health hazards and is intended for use only in water service connections to single-family homes.

Mechanical backflow preventers have internal seals, springs, and moving parts that are subject to fouling, wear, or fatigue. Also, mechanical backflow preventers and air gaps can be bypassed. Therefore, all backflow preventers have to be tested periodically to ensure that they are functioning properly. A visual check of air gaps is sufficient, but mechanical backflow preventers have to be tested with properly calibrated gauge equipment.

One excellent reference manual is the ninth (1993) edition of the University of Southern California's Manual of Cross-Connection Control, which is available from the:
Foundation for Cross- Connection Control and Hydraulic Research
University of Southern California
KAP-200 University Park MC-2531
Los Angeles, CA 90089-2531

Phone: 213-740-2032

Foundation for Cross-Connection Control and Hydraulic Research Website

Another excellent reference manual is the second (1990) edition of the American Water Works Association's (AWWA's) Manual M14, Recommended Practice for Backflow Prevention and Cross-Connection Control, which is available from:
The AWWA Bookstore
6666 W Quincy Avenue
Denver, CO 80235

Phone: 800-926-7337

American Water Works Association Website

No. Discolored water is not a health threat even though it is not very appealing to drink. The discoloration is the result of naturally occurring iron in the water. Even very low levels of iron can color the water.

If you experience discolored water, the first step is to determine if your hot water is discolored or your cold water is discolored. If only your hot water is discolored, then you may have an issue with your hot water heater and you should contact a plumber. If your cold water is discolored, then the issue may be a result of a disturbance in our distribution system and you should take the following steps:

Flush your water from a faucet that does not have a screen (like the bathtub or outside spigot) until you get clear water. If it is still discolored after several minutes of flushing, you may need to wait a couple of hours until the sediment settles, and the water in the main clears. Then try flushing again. If it does not clear within a few hours, please call our office at 508-520-4910.

When the water is discolored, it is recommended to not do laundry or run the hot water (to prevent sediment getting into your hot water tank). If it is necessary to do laundry, use stain remover or a regular detergent with the wash. Use of chlorine bleach is not recommended, as this could make the situation worse.

To make an appointment please click this link:

https://townoffranklinpassportacceptancefacility.as.me/

Click on Bid Postings, located on the LH side of the Purchasing page.  You will be prompted to enter your contact information and will be able to download bid specifications and plans.

By entering your contact information, the Town is able to notify you should an addendum be issued for an upcoming bid or RFP.  

Click on Bid Postings, located on the LH side of the Purchasing page.  At the top of the page, you can enter your email address so that you will be notified when a bid or proposal is posted.

By passing an override, the Town can assess taxes in excess of the automatic annual 2.5% increase and any increase due to new growth.  An override results in a permanent increase in the levy limit and allows the Town to fund services and programs we believe the community expects and desires.

Proposition 2 ½ is a state law that was enacted in 1980. It limits the total amount of property taxes that a city or town can assess each year. The “levy limit” or total tax amount a town is allowed to collect cannot increase by more than 2.5% per year, plus the impact of new growth, unless there is a vote to override this limit. Individual tax bills are impacted by changes to the relative value of residential and commercial properties and localized changes in real estate values. However, if the town had no new construction in a given year AND all of the real estate in town increased in value by exactly the same amount, say 10%, then every property tax bill would increase by 2.5% the following year. See an example below.

While an override results in a permanent tax increase that is used to fund recurring operational expenses, debt exclusions result in a temporary tax increase to pay the debt service from bonding for a specific capital project, such as building a new school. For debt exclusions, the debt service costs are added to the levy limit for the life of the debt only (typically between 10-30 years). Thus, unlike overrides, debt exclusions do not become part of the base used to calculate future years’ levy limits.

The amount of the override is $3,862,672 and it is to fix the Town’s Structural Budget Deficit in order to provide level service, meaning the same level of service the Town is providing today. 

The $3,862,672 will be used to fix the structural deficit. This funding allows the Town to maintain “Level Service”, meaning the same staffing and expenses as the current fiscal year. 

The two minor exceptions:

• One administrative assistant request by the elected Board of Assessors. Half of this request was offset by the elimination of a part-time position in town Human Resources. 
• Eight restored FPS positions that were cut in the FY25 budget for Account 300 Franklin Public Schools. 

Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) at 2.5%: 

• Municipal estimated cost of a $610,000 increase over FY25. 
• School FEA Unit A Cost 2.5% COLA. Estimated $1,381,594 increase over FY25.

Account 300 Franklin Public Schools: $2.9 million increase or a $3.8% over FY25. 

Municipal Line item 910 Benefits Budget:

• Town and school employees and the town will see a health insurance increase of 14.5%. 
• Norfolk County Pension Assessment - $558,045 or 7%, increase over FY25. 
• All municipal health insurance related line items combined to increase 19%.

Based on the FY25 Tax Rate of $11.62 and the FY25 Certified Median Single Family House Value of $679,449, a $3,862,672 million override would increase the average residential tax bill $312.00 for the FY26 tax year, in addition to the normal annual increase allowed under Proposition 2 ½. The average tax bill increase in FY25 was $226 (current fiscal year). Prop 2 ½ combined with the $3,862,672 override results in a $538 increase annually.

If the override passes, the tax impact in subsequent years reverts back to the levy amount under Proposition 2 1/2 subject to valuation by the assessor.

The actual increase for each homeowner is based on the assessment for the home. You can also use the calculator on the Department of Revenue (DOR) website to perform calculations. 

Disclaimer: The FY26 tax rate is not established until November/December of 2025. The Board of Assessors will not have an actual dollar figure on the baseline Proposition 2 ½ figure until the tax rate is established. Projecting data on a tax rate establishment in 8 or 9 months is not advantageous. Staff use FY25 to illustrate the tax impact on families and households to offer a more accurate projection of their property tax increases with an override.

The new tax rate is not set until December 2025. If an override passes on June 3, 2025, preliminary tax bills will go out in the summer and fall of 2025 and actuals will be reflected on the January 2026 and April 2026 tax bills. These bills will reflect the override increase plus 2.5%.  

After Fiscal Year 2026, annual increases would again be limited by Proposition 2 ½, but the override amount would be included in the new baseline.

All budget materials are on the Town website on the budget page - https://www.franklinma.gov/168/Town-Budgets

The language of the ballot question is as follows:

“Shall the Town of Franklin be allowed to assess an additional three million, eight hundred sixty two thousand, six hundred seventy two dollars ($3,862,672) in real estate and personal property taxes for the purpose of the municipal and school operating budgets for which monies from this assessment will be used for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2025?” 

The above question will be the only question on the ballot, and it is a Yes or No question.

The special election will be held on June 3, 2025 from 6AM to 8PM @ Franklin High School, 218 Oak Street. All mail in ballots must be received in the Clerk’s Office, Town of Franklin Municipal Building, 355 E Central St, Franklin, MA 02038 by 8:00PM on 6/3 in order to be counted.

The last day to register to vote is Saturday May 24th from 9AM to 5PM at the Town Clerk’s Office (Town of Franklin Municipal Building, 355 E Central St, Franklin, MA 02038) or online at https://www.sec.state.ma.us/OVR/

Yes. Early Voting will commence on Thursday, May 15th through Friday, May 30th, during normal business hours which are Mon., Tues., Thurs. from 8AM to 4PM, Wednesday, 8AM to 6PM and Friday from 8AM to 1PM. There will also be one (1) weekend day which is scheduled for Saturday, May 24th, from 9AM to 3PM in the Clerk’s Office Only - Town of Franklin Municipal Building, 355 E Central St, Franklin, MA 02038.

Yes, Vote-by-Mail or “absentee” ballots are available, but they must be requested by the voter. If you would like to receive a Vote-by-Mail application please contact the Clerk’s office at 508-528-7900 or click on the following link:  https://www.sec.state.ma.us/divisions/elections/languages/vote-by-mail-applications.htm

The Town Clerk’s office will be able to absorb the cost of this special election, which is estimated to cost approximately $30,000.

All voters who are registered to vote in Franklin are eligible to vote. To verify your registration, use this link:  https://www.sec.state.ma.us/voterregistrationsearch/

New growth refers to new construction or other improvements that add to the tax base allowing for an increase in the total tax amount. If a new subdivision of houses is built in an empty field, the extra real estate value of those houses is added to the amount that may be taxed (the levy limit). 

An override is a permanent increase in taxes. It would remain in place unless there was a subsequent underride vote.

Yes, both residential and commercial taxes will increase at the same rate.

The average residential tax bill in Franklin is lower than that in many neighboring communities. Please visit the Division of Local Services website for detailed information on tax bills for communities across Massachusetts.

The community has been made aware of the ongoing structural financial deficit transpiring over the years. Please find budget documents here illustrating numerous cautionary budget narratives. As you will see, Town and School Administrations have deftly documented the declining financial trends for years and this news should come as no surprise to anyone. 

The last two years of inflation have exacerbated costs and the Town has seen significant increases in shared costs and very limited options for supplementing the budget with one-time money. Increases in fixed costs such as health insurance, retirement, and debt service are using virtually the entire increase in revenues.

A structural deficit occurs when expenses are increasing faster than revenues. For the past several years, Franklin’s expenses have been larger than incoming revenues. This deficit has been addressed each year with budget cuts and use of one-time sources of money. Without a significant increase in revenue, the town’s structural deficit will only continue to get worse.

Property tax is one of the largest revenue streams available to the town, and increases in property tax are limited by Proposition 2 ½. Additionally, the funding that local communities receive from the state has not kept pace with costs. On the cost side of the equation, the town is faced with skyrocketing inflation and many unfunded mandates, particularly for education. The costs to educate students have been rising quickly. Finally, health insurance and retirement costs generally increase each year at a rate higher than the increase in revenues.

“Free Cash” is the state’s term for money left over from previous fiscal years. There may be extra money because a department doesn’t spend its entire budget or because revenues are slightly higher than anticipated. Each year, in the fall, the state certifies the amount of free cash from the previous year. In recent years (FY18, FY19 & FY25), Franklin has been using free cash to supplement the operating budget for the next budget year. If free cash is available, best fiscal practice is to use that money for one-time expenses and small capital items, not to supplement the operating budget. Over time, this should reduce dependence on borrowing and lower debt service expenses.

No. Proposition 2 ½ limits the total amount of taxes that can be collected, even if property values increase. If all properties in town doubled in value, the tax rate would need to be reduced by half. The total amount of the tax levy would not change. Note that cities and towns are required to measure and inspect properties every  ten years or more often if there is an appeal, a building permit, or a sale. State DOR onsite reviewed Revaluations occur every 5 years, while Interim Year Market Updates are performed annually every other year. This is unrelated to any budget deficits. The only impact that the re-assessment would have on tax revenues is that some additional new growth may be found as part of this process. If there are new decks or other improvements that had not previously been reported to the town, that added value would be treated as new growth with respect to Proposition 2 ½. 

No. Cities and towns are required to have balanced budgets and are not allowed to borrow money to support operational budgets. 

Yes, but that would leave the Town in a very precarious financial situation. There is currently roughly $7.1 million in our stabilization accounts. If the Town were to spend all of that to close the budget deficit next year, that would leave the town without a financial safety net. The Town Council and Finance Committee have been working on updating the financial policies for the town. They have agreed to strive for a minimum balance of 5% of Non-Enterprise Budgets in our stabilization funds. In addition to providing for emergencies, healthy balances in our reserve accounts helps the Town to maintain our AAA bond rating. A strong bond rating is important when the town needs to borrow money. Towns with the highest bond ratings pay the lowest interest rates on the money they borrow. 

Yes. As has been stated the Town has very little ability to create revenue streams, the state greatly limits our ability in this area. 

The state sets limits on how much we can increase fees and what additional taxes (like meals taxes) we are able to assess. Fees must be reasonable as a method to pay for the costs of services and not as a method to raise revenue to pay for general town services.  

In 2024 the Town underwent a comprehensive analysis of all Town fees. On October 16, 2024 with Bylaw Amendment 24-914, the Town Council voted to implement many updates based on changes in state law or state code, changes in market conditions for municipal fees and/or calculations to the costs of service.  

In FY25 the Franklin Public Schools also reviewed and updated various service fees.

Fees will continue to be reviewed on an ongoing basis, however fees cannot be increased enough to eliminate the deficit.

The Superintendent’s recommended budget presentation contains an overview of the impact of cuts without an override and the potential improvements with an override. It can be found here.

You can find detailed budget information here.

The Town and Schools will need to cut $3,862,672 from the budget. Please review here the possible service reductions to each department for Fiscal Year 2026 if the override is not approved.

No, but there are programs offered through the Senior Center, Veterans’ Services or Assessor's Office that may help defer costs, if eligible. Please find a guide for senior exemptions here.

Are there exemptions for senior citizens or other taxpayers who are not able to afford this increase?

Yes. The Town of Franklin, through its Community Assistance Program (CAP) in Section 82 of the Town Code and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts offer a variety of exemptions, discounts & resources to qualifying residents. The Assessors also offer Real Estate Exemptions and Deferral programs to qualifying individuals. There is also a senior tax work off program through the senior center. Please contact the Board of Assessor and the Senior Center for guidance with any of these programs. 

A bond rating is a credit rating; it determines the interest rate the Town pays when it borrows money for various projects. The stronger the bond rating the lower interest rate the Town pays (just like your own credit rating). The difference between the top rating which is our current rating (AAA) and a lower rating amounts to several million dollars in savings for a project the size of a new police station. If our credit rating were to drop a project like a new police station or new school would cost several million dollars more.

The following projects may need to go before the Town for a debt exclusion vote. All of these projects are currently in the very beginning stages of design. No dates or timeline have been scheduled. Estimated vote will be in 2-3 years. Illustrated costs are basic, high level estimates. With altering global economics, these figures will certainly evolve. 

• Police Station - estimate $25-$30 million
• Remington Jefferson - estimate $10 million
• Horace Mann Roof - estimate $2 million

In addition to the cost of a potential override, residents will see added cost increases in other areas in FY26. Below please find a list of previously authorized increases:

• An 8% Water increase to pay for PFAS implementation and water main replacements in the amount of $35.00.
• A 13% Sewer Rate increase to replace the 109-year old Beaver Street Interceptor in the amount of $62.00.
• Voters approved debt exclusion for the new Tri-County Vocational School in the amount of $120.00.

For more information concerning the Town, please contact Town Administrator Jamie Hellen at jhellen@franklinma.gov

For more information concerning the Schools, please contact Superintendent Lucas Giguere at giguerel@franklinps.net

For more information concerning the special election, please contact Town Clerk Nancy Danello at ndanello@franklinma.gov

A $6.8 million dollar override was considered last year and did not pass. This lower amount of $3,862,672 keeps the budget at level service and came from the Joint Budget Subcommittee listening sessions discussions.  The Town Council decided to give residents the opportunity to vote on an override budget that would maintain level services across all departments.

Franklin last approved an override in Fiscal Year 2008 in the amount of $2,700,000. The Town put override ballot questions before the voters in 1991, 1997, 2005, and 2025 and none of them passed. Please find historic ballot question information on the DLS website.

Each year municipal Assessors assess personal property taxes on all taxable personal property within each community. Personal property includes merchandise, furniture, machinery, equipment, etc. but there are a number of exemptions. Please note that Personal Property in your domicile is Exempt; also note that Registered Motor Vehicles are not included in Personal Property, but are subject to a separate Motor Vehicle Excise Tax.  For more information, please see Personal Property Taxation FAQs.

A successful override will be added to the total tax levy to be borne by all taxable real and personal property.  In FY 2025, the valuation and therefore the tax percent portions are as follows as shown on our MA DOR Tax Rate Recapitulation sheet:

Property Class

Residential                  81.0280

Commercial                   6.5317

Industrial                        9.3477

Personal                        3.0926

(business assets)

Total                           100.0000

Residential, commercial and industrial development can increase the tax base, leading to more revenue in the town operating budget. However, this revenue may not be “received” within the tax base for weeks or months up to a year. It is not in the form of a payment, but rather through the valuation of the assessed properties. Each individual development, or parcel improvement, made to a property (such as a redevelopment), is unique and is assessed on an individual parcel basis. Any current, proposed, or permitted development will not help the overall FY 2026 budget deficit.  Only the additional qualifying physical improvements in place since July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025 may contribute to the tax levy base, and the annual estimate of this amount has already been factored into the FY 2026 budget work.

In accordance with the provisions of Proposition 2 ½ Massachusetts uses a mechanism called "New Growth" to account for the increased tax revenue from new construction, qualifying renovations (not repairs), and added personal property (taxable business assets) which are then added to the annual tax levy. The Town is required to have the MA DOR certify its New Growth and its full valuation annually prior to setting the Tax Rate.  New development can lead to higher property valuations, resulting in more tax revenue for municipalities, however, market level value changes do not contribute to growth. Municipalities do add the increase in tax revenue due to New Growth to their Tax Levy Limit, effectively increasing the amount they can collect in taxes. While new development can provide a much-needed boost to municipal revenue, it's crucial to carefully manage the associated costs and ensure that municipalities can effectively meet the needs of any population growth. The time to define the estimated valuation, estimated tax levy revenue and potential costs to the town (schools, infrastructure, public safety, etc.) of a proposed development is during the project’s public hearing process.

Oftentimes, a developer is required to compensate the town in the form of mitigation to address impacts of the project.  The Town may have revenue from those conditions, but these monies are not included in the town operating budget. The Town Planning Board, Zoning Board of Appeals, and Conservation Commission all work with applicants on project mitigation during the public hearing process and these monies are spent under strict restrictions through a special revenue account.

Typically, during a permitting hearing for a project, a proponent may have estimated information on project revenue generation or costs to the town (schools, infrastructure, etc). However, a community never actually knows what the project valuation, revenue or costs are going to be until reality occurs. Market forces play a significant role. Furthermore, a project may be permitted, but may not actually break ground for years, experience delays, or the project may be phased in over several years, or even decades. Hence, the revenue from a project does not materialize until there is work in progress, “occupancy” and/or by discovery during state-mandated assessor property evaluations.  Some development may not get captured for several years depending on the circumstances.

The Assessors’ Office can be reached through their FranklinMA.gov website for more detailed information. The Board Members or the Staff would be happy to discuss property assessment.  They may be contacted by assessors@franklinma.gov email and/or by phone (508-520-4920) during normal business hours.