# Economic Development Workshop 09-17-26

The Economic Development Workshop held on September 17, 2026, by Franklin Town Hall TV brought together multiple town boards and commissions to discuss improving the permitting and approval processes for development projects. The meeting focused heavily on streamlining procedures to make them more efficient and user-friendly, including updating bylaws and regulations, enhancing online application systems, and improving coordination among boards such as planning, zoning, conservation, and design review. Key procurement-related topics included the use of peer review engineering firms (notably Beta Group), challenges with single-vendor reliance, and the potential for expanding vendor options. The discussion also covered the implementation of electronic signatures, legal advertisement timelines, and the possibility of a local historic district study committee. Action items included exploring bylaw changes for council approval, researching home rule petitions to allow administrative variance approvals, and improving online permitting platforms. The meeting concluded with a consensus on the need for clearer definitions in bylaws and better communication to speed up development while maintaining smart growth principles.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Construction & Infrastructure, Professional Services
**Topics:** Digital Infrastructure, Contracting Vehicles
**Published:** September 17, 2026

### Sources
- [Economic Development Workshop 09-17-26](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=no3Jm0lLlT4) - FRANKLIN TOWN HALL TV