This session of the radio show shares our “Town Council Quarterbacking” with Town Councilor Max Morrongiello. We had our conversation in person at the Franklin TV & Radio Studios on Monday, March 30, 2026. Our conversation condensed the Town Council meeting of Wednesday, March 17, 2026.
We focus on two questions:
- ok, what just happened?
- What does it mean for Franklin residents and taxpayers?
We cover the following key topics
- Presentation on the Chapter 70 Program - Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE)
- Appointment to the Finance Committee: Tom Sullivan, Passes 8-0-1
- Legislation for Action (all votes passed by 8-0-1)
- Resolution 26-16: Approval for Request for Statements of Interest for Development of a Strategic Plan
- Resolution 26-17: Town Council’s Support of FY27 State Budget Priorities
- Resolution 26-18: Town Council Support for H. 4297, An Act relative to the Lowell Mason Act to mandate a percentage of Chapter 70 funds for Arts Education Programs
- Resolution 26-19: Request for Special Legislation Re: Increase in Local (Hotel) Excise Tax
The conversation runs about 25 minutes. Let’s listen in
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Franklin TV video is available for replay - https://www.youtube.com/live/vMw9RSzLJGI?&t=70
The agenda doc - https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_03182026-2193
Photos of the slides presented in one album - https://photos.app.goo.gl/WrHjvm6PcK5z2SPq6
The DESE presentation is available -
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1ZXyBdwq4EvQANLOM5qceeoId0ssrKQPU/edit?usp=drive_link&ouid=101938843903614700481&rtpof=true&sd=true
My notes in one PDF document - https://drive.google.com/file/d/17c0hL9XH3aIn4vXRq8daYRfGFS3HPriQ/view?usp=drive_link
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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!
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