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By Rob Browne
An empty chair in the Council Chambers. Another in the audience at THE BLACK BOX.
An open seat in the high school bleachers during a game. These settings may seem unrelated, but behind each are people who have given their time to make something possible. Each also offers us an opportunity to take part.
Of course, showing up is not always that simple. Between work, raising your children, caring for family members, and the ordinary demands of everyday life, time is often a commodity in short supply. Serving on a committee or organizing an event requires a commitment that many of us simply cannot make. However, an inability to volunteer regularly should not be mistaken for a lack of interest in our community. There are other ways to take part.
Local government plays a valuable role in shaping the community we share. Understanding how and why decisions are made should be of interest to all of us. Attending a Wednesday evening Town Council meeting, even if only to listen on Zoom, can help you better understand the issues facing Franklin. If you cannot attend live, review the agenda and minutes in the Agenda Center, watch meeting recordings on YouTube, and email the Town Councilors. Public participation is a shared responsibility. Government must make its proceedings accessible and provide opportunities for residents to be heard, while we must take an active interest in the decisions affecting our community.
With Election Day approaching on Tuesday, November 3, we have an opportunity to exercise one of our most fundamental civic responsibilities. I invite every eligible Franklin resident who has not already voted to cast their ballot. Take time to understand the candidates, consider their qualifications and positions, and reflect on how the issues affect not only you, but our broader community. Familiarize yourself with the ballot questions using the red Information for Voters booklet mailed to households or the Secretary of the Commonwealth's online guide. Regardless of your political views, make an informed decision. Civic responsibility does not begin or end on Election Day. Our community needs our continued interest and involvement throughout the year.
Our responsibility to Franklin extends beyond Town Hall and the ballot box. It is also reflected in how we support one another. Whether helping a neighbor, supporting a local cause, or donating time or food to the Franklin Food Pantry, we can contribute in ways that fit our circumstances. Even modest contributions of time and effort can make a meaningful difference when neighbors look out for one another.
Community involvement, however, is not solely about what we contribute to others. It is also about the relationships we build along the way. Organizations like Franklin Fathers and the Franklin Downtown Partnership bring people together around shared interests and provide opportunities for friendship, fellowship, and a sense of belonging. These connections strengthen our ties to Franklin and often encourage us to become involved in new ways.
