Town Council approves two new Zoning Board members amid heated public debate over litigation and process.
Franklin Town Council unanimously ratifies two new Zoning Board members after contentious public debate. The council approved Isabella Carter, a licensed structural engineer, for a term through June 30, 2026, and Jennifer Williams, a licensed architect and Planning Board veteran, for a term through
Town Council · Meeting of January 21, 2026
Franklin Town Council unanimously ratifies two new Zoning Board members after contentious public debate. The council approved Isabella Carter, a licensed structural engineer, for a term through June 30, 2026, and Jennifer Williams, a licensed architect and Planning Board veteran, for a term through June 30, 2028. Town Administrator Jamie Hellen cited the board's recruitment challenges and praised outgoing members Archie Acevedo and Bruce Hunchard for their combined 56 years of service.
Residents including ZBA associate member Joseph Halligan and former Conservation Commissioner Jeff Livingstone objected that sitting alternates should have been promoted, and Councilor Jane Callaway-Tripp expressed concern about appointing Williams while the Planning Board faced pending litigation. Director of Public Works Brutus Cantoreggi presented a sobering infrastructure overview: the town faces $217.7 million in total planned repairs, with only $67.7 million funded and $85.7 million unfunded, warning that road conditions will deteriorate to "D" grade without sustained investment.
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Source: the Town Council meeting of January 21, 2026, compiled from the official minutes.
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