Franklin council adopts digital-first newsletter with opt-in mailed copies

The City of Franklin Common Council on Jan. 6 adopted a change in the city’s newsletter distribution, selecting a digital-first model and directing staff to provide printed newsletters only to residents who opt in.

Councilors framed the decision around cost, timeliness and access. Alderman Eichmann emphasized that the council never intended to eliminate the newsletter entirely and noted the pragmatic shift toward more digital communication: "It was never going to be printed; it was just a matter of how it was going to be distributed" (she clarified that printed distribution would persist for residents who opt in). Some aldermen argued the newsletter content is not timely in a quarterly format and suggested more frequent digital postings. Several members supported mailing one final notice in the next newsletter explaining the opt-in process and directed staff to survey available printers once the number of printed copies is known.

The council's motion adopted "option 2," which the motion language paired with direction to the director of administration that, upon determining how many printed newsletters will be required, staff should survey printing vendors and report costs to the council. The motion passed by voice vote.

Public commenters earlier in the meeting urged continuing blanket mailing, particularly for seniors and residents who lack internet access. Mayor Nelson and councilors said staff will maintain printed copies at city facilities and asked staff to implement an outreach plan so residents know how to opt in for mailed copies.

Next steps: the city will include opt-in instructions in the next newsletter and the director of administration will compile printing estimates for council review once opt-in demand is known.