The Walpolean

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

APRIL 25, 2013

 Selectboard Present:     Jamie Teague (Chair); Chas Street; (Absent: Whitney Aldrich)

 CALL TO ORDER:  Mrs. Teague called this Selectboard meeting to order at 7:02 PM in the Walpole Town Hall with two people present in the audience.

These are unapproved Minutes.

PUBLIC BUSINESS:

TARA SAD:  Mrs. Sad reported that the clean-up she organized last Saturday resulted in a collection of 200 bags of trash, 33 tires, 183 pounds of mixed metals and a toilet.  There were 60 volunteers and the weather was wonderful.

Mrs. Sad advised that Dave Westover is going to do a 5-K run to benefit the Boston Marathon families on Saturday, May 11^th.  He plans to start at the Scoop Shop and run along the trail.  Mrs. Sad contacted the NH Division of Trails for their permission to run on the trail, as it is State land, but they require liability insurance coverage in the amount of $2,000,000.  Therefore Mrs. Sad asked if the Town would be willing to share this insurance requirement with Mr. Westover.  The Selectboard was not opposed to the idea but felt it best to contact the Town’s insurance carrier to ask about a rider and what the cost for Tulip coverage would be for $1,000,000.  They will have an answer for Mrs. Sad at the next meeting.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Mr. Street moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register and manifest in the amount of $36,173,23.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Street moved to approve the request from North Walpole to transfer their funds in the amount of $150,000 to the North Walpole Village District.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

PAYROLL:

Mr. Street moved to approve the payroll voucher for the week ending April 20, 2013, for checks dated April 26, 2013, for gross wages in the amount of $17,891.68.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Street moved to approve the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $4,121.03.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – April 18, 2013:  Mr. Street moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of April 18, 2013, as printed.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard received and reviewed the following meeting minutes:

• North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners – April 23, 2013; and
• Zoning Board of Adjustment – April 17, 2013.

VETERAN’S CREDIT:

LYNCH, Cold River Road, Map & Lot #026-028-000:  Mr. Street moved to grant the Veteran’s Credit for Linda Nichols-Lynch at 135 Cold River Road, Map & Lot #026-028-000.  This is based on her husband’s military service.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

CURRENT USE:

LYNCH, Cold River Road, Map & Lot #026-028-000:  Mr. Street moved to approve the application for Current Use for Linda Nicholas-Lynch, Map & Lot #026-028-000, to put 24.5 acres of her 29.0 acres into Current Use as submitted.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

TIMBER TAX WARRANT AND CERTIFICATION OF YIELD TAXES:

GALLOWAY, Rapids Road, Map & Lot #002-012-000:  Mr. Street moved to approve the Original Warrant for the Timber Tax Levy in the amount of $85.02 for Jan Galloway Leclerc.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

DANIELS, Reservoir Road, Map & Lot #010-034-000:  Mr. Street moved to approve the Original Warrant for the Timber Tax Levy in the amount of $707.28 for Randall Daniels.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Street moved to approve the Certification of Yield Taxes – Intent Filed During Tax Year: April 1, 2012 to March 31, 2013, for Jan Galloway Leclerc and Randall Daniels as noted above for the Original Warrants for the Timber Tax Levy.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  With all in favor, motion was approved.

ABATEMENTS – SEWER:

BROOKS, Green Road, Map & Lot #029-048-000:  Mr. Street moved to grant the Notice of Sewer Abatement for Joe Brooks in the amount of $440.50 at 25 Green Road.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

ABATEMENTS – PROPERTY TAX:

SAWYER, Old Keene Road, Map & Lot #004-016-000:  Mr. Street moved that the request for a Property Tax Abatement for Sheldon Sawyer, at 439 Old Keene Road be denied.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

WALPOLE TRACTOR LLC, Red Barn Lane, Map & Lot #012-013-002:  Mr. Street moved that the request for a Property Tax Abatement for Walpole Tractor, LLC at Red Barn Lane be denied.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

PINKERTON, Maple Street, Map & Lot #028-071-000:  Mr. Street moved to grant the request for a Property Tax Abatement for Amy Pinkerton at 5 Maple Street as recommended by Avitar Associates.  This change reduces the assessment from $87,000 to $64,900 and an Abatement in the amount of  $577.44 plus interest be approved on the $22,100 value difference.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

ZANELLA, Upper Walpole Road, Map & Lot #012-026-000:  Mr. Street moved to grant the request for a Property Tax Abatement for Steven A. Zanella at 269 Upper Walpole Road as recommended by Avitar Associates.  This revisions reduces the assessment from $376,500 to $263,700 and an Abatement in the amount of $2,525.03 plus interest be approved on the $112, 800 value difference.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SHANNON, Barnett Hill Road, Map & Lot #009-049-000:  Mr. Street moved to grant the request for a Property Tax Abatement for William A. Shannon and Carolyn A. Shannon at 93 Barnett Hill Road as recommended by Avitar Associates.  This change reduces their assessment from $381,500 to $361,500 and an Abatement in the amount of $447.79 plus interest be approved on the 20,000 value difference.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

NEW BUSINESS:

PERSONNEL FORMS:  Mr. Street moved to approve the new hourly salaries for the part-time officers as submitted by Police Chief Paquette.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  With all in favor, the  motion was approved.

ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT SECRETARY:  Mr. Street moved to approve the appointment of Marie L. Blaine as the Recording Secretary to the ZBA.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS:

LAND USE STUDY COMMITTEE:  The Selectboard advised that Steve Dalessio will attend the next meeting to discuss the formation of the Land Use Study Committee, describe the objectives and how the committee will operate.

EQUALIZATION MEETING:  Mr. Street and Mr. Aldrich plan to attend the meeting on Equalization on April 30^th.

REVISED EMPLOYEE HANDBOOKS:  Mr. Street moved that the revised Employee Handbooks will be distributed on May 1^st and will have an effective date of June 1^st, 2013.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

FLAMMIA v TOWN OF WALPOLE:  Mrs. Teague advised that the Selectboard want to advise that the Flammia v Town of Walpole decision came in.  The Planning Board decision for Avanru Development Group was upheld by the court.

NON-PUBLIC SESSION:

Mr. Street moved to enter into a Non-Public Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (a) Personnel.  Mrs. Teague seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with all in favor, the motion was approved.  The time was 8:11 PM.

The regular meeting resumed at 8:29 PM.  No announcements were made.

ADJOURNMENT:

Mr. Street moved to adjourn this Selectboard meeting.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.  The time was 8:37 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

___________________________

Jamie J. Teague, Chair

___________________________

Chas G. Street

___________________________

Whitney R. Aldrich

(Note:  These are unapproved Minutes.  Corrections, if necessary, will be found in the Minutes of the May 2, 2013, Selectboard meeting.)

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

APRIL 18, 2013

Selectboard Present:     Jamie Teague (Chair); Chas Street; Whitney Aldrich

CALL TO ORDER:  Mrs. Teague called the Selectboard meeting to order at 7:02 PM in the Walpole Town Hall with one person present in the audience.

These are unapproved Minutes.

PUBLIC BUSINESS:

There was no public business at this meeting.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Mr. Street moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register and manifest, dated April 19, 2013, in the amount of $51,674.07.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

PAYROLL:

Mr. Street moved to approve the payroll voucher for the week ending April 13, 2013, for checks dated April 19, 2013, for gross wages in the amount of $18,135.95.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Street moved to approve the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $4,254.13.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – April 11, 2013:  Mr. Street moved to approve the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of April 11, 2013, as printed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

SELECTBOARD NON-PUBLIC SESSION – April 11, 2013:  Mr. Street moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of April 11, 2013, as printed.  The Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  She requested that a copy be forwarded to Mr. Terrell.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard received and reviewed the following meeting minutes:

• Walpole Fire District – February 11, 2013;
• Walpole Fire District – March 13, 2013;
• North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners – April 16, 2013;
• Walpole Planning Board – April 9, 2013.

CURRENT USE APPLICATION:

BENIK, Merriam Road, Map & Lot #003-059-000:  Mr. Street moved that the request from Peter Benik to put 10 acres of his 11.23 acres into Current Use be approved.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

BUILDING PERMIT:

WALLACE and CURVEN, Westminster Street, Map & Lot #020-014-000:  Mr. Street moved to approve Building Permit No. 2013-09 for Kristyn Wallace and Christofer Curven to “Demolish and Rebuild the 52’ x 51’ L shaped addition and garage currently attached to home (same footprint)”, at 48 Westminster Street.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

NOTICE OF INTENT TO CUT WOOD OR TIMBER:

GALLOWAY, off Rapids Road, Map & Lot #002-012-000:  Mr. Street moved to grant the Notice of Intent to Cut Wood or Timber, #12-461-02-T, for Jan Galloway Leclerc off Rapids Road as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

ABATEMENTS:

WATER:  Mr. Street moved to grant the following Water Abatements:

• Wellstone Associates, 5 Maplewood Circle, Map & Lot #024-014-000;  in the amount of $400.00;
• Wellstone Associates, 13 Maplewood Circle, Map & Lot #024-014-002; in the amount of $600.00;
• Wellstone Associates, 21 Maplewood Circle, Map & Lot #024-014-003; in the amount of $400.00;

Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SEWER:  Mr. Street moved to grant the following Sewer Abatement:

• R. Kasper Real Estate, 54 Main Street, Map & Lot #021-014-000; in the amount of $225.00.

Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

PROPERTY TAX:  Mr. Street moved to approve the following denials for Property Tax Abatements:

• Thayer, River Road, Map & Lot #004-001-001;
• Lester, Wentworth Road, Map & Lot #001-015-004;
• Gunnerson, North Road, Map & Lot #021-030-000;
• Chickering, River Road, Map & Lot #001-019-000;
• Juris, Phipps Road, Map & Lot #010-017-000;
• Dunbar, County Road, Map & Lot #017-016-000;
• Smith, March Hill, Map & Lot #009-037-000 and Map & Lot #011-050-005;
• North Walpole Village Housing, Kinary & Merchant Streets, Map & Lot #028-011-000 and Map & Lot #028-102-000;
• Gorham, Church Street, Map & Lot #030-026-000;
• Figmic, Wentworth Road, Map & Lot #005-002-005;
• Edkins, Main Street, Map & Lot #012-059-000.

Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

NEW BUSINESS:

Trust Fund Administration Seminar:  The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of a notice for a Trust Fund Administration Seminar to be held at various dates and locations.  The three Selectboard members will plan to attend the session on Wednesday, May 29^th in Concord, NH.

“Run for Boston” Request:  A memo was received from Stacie Gay to advise that she is organizing a “Run for Boston” for this Saturday.  The runners will meet on the Common at 9:00 AM and complete a 3 mile run in honor of the victims of Monday’s tragedy.  The Selectboard did not have a problem with the concept provided that she contact Police Chief Paquette to discuss the plans and route with him.

Vacation Time:  The Selectboard approved a request from Mr. Terrell to take vacation time.

Bonding for Roads:  The Selectboard talked about Bonding for Roads during the spring when the roads are posted for specific weight limits.  Consideration will also be given to attaching a note to the Intent to Cut Wood or Timber forms that the Selectboard will reserve the right to request a Bond to protect the roads.  Mr. Terrell’s name will be put on the form for his comments.

Summer Work Schedule for the Office:  Mrs. Clough talked to the Selectboard about the office employees working out a four day work week for the summer months.

Water and Sewer Collections:  Mrs. Clough distributed a list of the water and sewer collections for delinquent accounts to-date.  This is the result of shut-off notices being sent out recently.  It was noted that the Selectboard will continue to take appropriate action to collect these delinquencies.

Walpole Grange::  Mr. Street advised that the Walpole Grange Awards went well last Tuesday night.  There were 60-to-75 people in attendance.  It was a very nice event.  Honorees were recognized in seven categories.

OLD BUSINESS:

Department of Transportation Project Update:  A notice was received from J.B. Mack, Planner at the Southwest Region Planning Commission with the project ranking orders set by the Transportation Advisory Committee. The Vilas Bridge project has been moved down the list beyond the funding parameters provided by the NH DOT. Therefore, it is expected to not be on the 2015-2024 Project Evaluation List for the State of NH. The Selectboard will keep everyone posted on future decisions and will continue to fight to keep it on the list.

Appointments and Oaths: 

Conservation Commission:  Mr. Street moved that Gary Speed be re-appointed to the Walpole Conservation Commission for a three year term.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

The Selectboard advised that Jan Galloway Leclerc has declined being re-appointed to the Conservation Commission therefore one position is open.

Recreation Committee:  Mr. Street moved that Kerry Pickering and Sarah Manning be re-appointed to the Walpole Recreation Committee for three year terms.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

WRAP Committee:  Mr. Street moved that Dodie Ransome and Fritze Till be re-appointed to the Walpole WRAP Committee for three year terms.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Benefits for the Town Clerk/Tax Collector:   Mrs. Clough stated that she has spoken with the Town Clerk / Tax Collector, Sandra Smith regarding an attendance record.  The Town Clerk / Tax Collector position is an elected official, however she currently is in the employee’s benefit package There was a consensus of the Selectboard to have Mrs. Clough write a letter to Mrs. Smith, on behalf of the Selectboard, to state that this is required in keeping with the policy of the Town’s insurance carrier and in keeping with the policy for the other employees she should also keep a calendar of the days worked, on sick leave or on vacation.

RECESS SELCTBOARD MEETING:  Mr. Aldrich moved to recess this Selectboard meeting.  The Selectboard will enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.  The time was 8:16 PM.

The regular meeting resumed at 8:22 PM.

Mrs. Teague called the recessed Selectboard meeting back to order.

ADJOURNMENT: 

Mr. Aldrich moved to adjourn this Selectboard meeting.  Seconded by Mr. Street.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.  The time was 8:24 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

__________________________

Jamie J. Teague, Chair

__________________________

Chas G. Street

__________________________

Whitney R. Aldrich

(Note:  These are unapproved Minutes.  Corrections, if necessary, will be found in the Minutes of the April 25, 2013, Selectboard meeting.)

 TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

APRIL 11, 201

Selectboard Present:     Jamie Teague (Chair); Chas Street, Whitney Aldrich

 CALL TO ORDER:  Mrs. Teague called the Selectboard meeting to order at 6:04 PM in the Walpole Town Hall with five people present in the audience.

These are unapproved Minutes.

PUBLIC BUSINESS:

SOUTHWEST REGIONAL PLANNING COMMISSION:  J.B. Mack, Planner at the SWRPC, and Cheryl Mayberry, the Town’s representative to the SWRPC Transportation Board and also a Commissioner for the North Walpole Village District, were present to follow-up on a previous meeting that Ms. Mayberry had with the Selectboard a few weeks ago.  Mr. Mack reported that the SWRPC provides input into the State’s Ten Year Plan that is reviewed every two years and approved by the Governor and the Legislators.  The SWRPC continues to advocate for the Vilas Bridge and the Route 12 Project in Charlestown.  They are dealing with 24 projects at this time.  Population is looked at as that is where the growth is but consideration is also given to maintenance.  A statistical analysis on the most dangerous and worst areas in the State is conducted.

Tonight he is here to talk about two locations of concern in the Town.  They are the intersection at the North Meadow Plaza and Route 12 plus the intersection at Route 123 and the Walpole Road.  The NH Department of Transportation has safety funds so these areas are worth looking into.  Mr. Terrell explained that the State did look at the Route 123 and Walpole Road intersection and as a result some new signage was put up.  They were looking into getting money to shave the bank down but there were no records of accidents so that did not occur.  Mr. Mack noted that they would have to complete a Road Safety Audit.  It is getting people with different expertise to look at the intersection to gather data and having recommendations on what can be done to make improvements.  They would look at short term cost improvements.  The Town would be a part of the planning as the Department of Transportation will not move forward without the support of the Town.  The last average traffic count that was done in 2010 showed 2,000 vehicles a day on the Upper Walpole Road.  Mrs. Teague suggested that a video could be made of the traffic flow during a busy time of the day; perhaps it could be made on a Saturday to observe the traffic going to the Recycling Facility.  Mr. Mack suggested that, as a first step, they talk to the Police Department and Sheriff’s Department to get some accident data from them on both locations.  SWRPC will do a traffic count and put the application together.  Ms. Mayberry will be the liaison between SWRPC and the Town.

Mr. Terrell noted that the State has the control over the curb cuts along Route 12.  There was a consensus of the Selectboard to add Mr. Terrell to the check list for his input on Building Permits for commercial buildings.  He already approves Driveway Permits for residential units.

Mr. Mack and Ms. Mayberry left the meeting at 6:50 PM.

NON-PUBLIC SESSION:

Mr. Street moved to enter into a Non-Public Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (a) Personnel.  Mr. Aldrich seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with all in favor, the motion was approved.

The regular meeting resumed at 7:04 PM.  No announcements were made.

HIGHWAY DEPARTMENT – Jim Terrell:  Mr. Terrell reported that the basketball hoop for the Drewsville Common is coming on Monday.  He felt they should have direction from somebody in that area when it is time to put it up.  The Selectboard recommended that he contact Kerry Pickering.

Mr. Terrell advised that there is a Liberty Elm tree that was planted on the Drewsville Common but it is not growing.  They were thinking about digging it up and planting it someplace else on the Common to try to save it.  It is now close to the store but between some bigger trees.  The Selectboard suggested that he contact Sue Hunkler to assist in finding an appropriate place to move it to.

RECYCLING FACILITY – PAUL COLBURN:  Mr. Colburn reported that this has been a slower month than usual.  The next WRAP Committee meeting will be next Thursday.  They are looking to get permission to send out letters to the school coordinators.  There is a Northeast Regional Resource Association convention in June.  TransCanada has asked that the Recycling Facility can invoice them.  They have a person that is doing community service so he has done a lot of catch-up work like raking and painting.  They had trouble with the waste oil heat today but they diagnosed it, had the part for it so it was repaired and is working.  A new “Welcome” banner was needed so they got one on e-bay.  Mr. Colburn distributed copies of paperwork on the “Daily Weight Report and 5 Year to Date Comparison”, a “2013 Summary Quarterly Comparison – 1^st Quarter Ending March 31, 2013”, “2013 Summary Monthly Comparison – 3 Month ending March 30, 2013”and a chart on “A Safety Issue is Brought Forward”.  To bring in more money the employees and volunteers are breaking-down the various units that come in, like air conditioners.  On February 22^nd a load of 2,855 pounds was sent out and the Town was reimbursed $2,569.50.

Earth Day will be observed on Saturday, April 20^th.  Everyone will meet at the Recycling Facility.  Tara Sad is in charge of this project.  She contacted Mr. Terrell about where the areas are that need the clean-up the most.  There will be a representative present from the company that provides the bags.

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:  Mr. Aldrich moved to recess the Selectboard meeting.  The Selectboard will enter into a Hooper Trustees Meeting.  Seconded by Mr. Street.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.  The time was 7:26 PM.

Mrs. Teague called the recessed Selectboard meeting back to order at 8:06 PM.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE: 

Mr. Street moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register and manifest in the amount of $515,525.95.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

It was noted that $483,288.72 of the above amount is a monthly payment to the Fall Mountain Regional School District.

Mr. Street moved to approve the voided check register for check No. 60950.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

PAYROLL:

Mr. Street moved to approve the payroll voucher for the week ending April 6, 2013, for checks dated April 12, 2013, for gross wages in the amount of $18,010.02.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Street moved to approve the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $4,130.18.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD NON-PUBLIC SESSION – March 28, 2013:  Mr. Street moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard Non-Public Session of March 28, 2013, as printed.  The Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mr. Street and Mr. Aldrich in favor, the Minutes were approved.  Mrs. Teague abstained as she was not present at this meeting.

SELECTBOARD MEETING – April 4, 2013:  Mr. Street moved to approve the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of April 4, 2013, as printed.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

SELECTBOARD NON-PUBLIC SESSION #1 – April 4, 2013:  Mr. Street moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard Non-Public Session #1 of April 4, 2013, as printed.  The Minutes will remain sealed until the end of January 2014.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  With Mr. Street and Mrs. Teague in favor, the Minutes were approved.  Mr. Aldrich abstained as he was not present during this session.

SELECTBOARD NON-PUBLIC SESSION #2 – April 4, 2013:  Mr. Street moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard Non-Public Session #2 of April 4, 2013, as printed.  The Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard received and reviewed the following meeting Minutes:

• Planning Board Workshop Session – March 26, 2013;
• Hooper Study Committee Meeting – March 18, 2013; and
• Conservation Commission Meeting – April 1, 2013.

BUILDING PERMIT:

HARRINGTON, Westminster Street, Map & Lot # 020-012-000:  Mr. Street moved to grant Building Permit #2013-08 for Jeffrey & Laurie Harrington to “Construct a 36’ x 28’ 2 Story Garage” at 76 Westminster Street, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

ELDERLY EXEMPTIONS:

MACK, Rogers Lane, Map & Lot #020-037-000:  Mr. Street moved to grant an Property Tax Elderly Exemption for Verna Mack.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

NOTICE OF INTENT TO EXCAVATE:

COLD RIVER MATERIALS:  Mr. Street moved to approve the Notices of Intent to Excavate for Cold River Materials at the following locations, as submitted:

1)      Whitcomb Road, Map & Lot #014-013-000 – No. 13-461-01;

2)      Whipple Hill Road, Map & Lot #003-002-000 – No. 13-461-02; and

3)      Whitcomb Road, Map & Lot #015-011-000 – No. 13-461-03.

Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

GRAVES, Wentworth Road, Map & Lot #001-016-000:  Mr. Street moved to approve the Notice of Intent to Excavate for George Graves, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

TIMBER TAX WARRANT & CERTIFICATION OF YIELD TAXES ASSESSED:

HUBBARD, Levi Lane, Map & Lot #010-019-000 – Cut #12-461-18:  Mr. Street moved to approve the Certification of Yield Taxes Assessed in the amount of $125.94 for Dale Hubbard.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SHAW, Old Keene Road, Map & Lot # 016-013-000 – Cut #12-461-23:  Mr. Street moved to approve the Certification of Yield Taxes Assessed in the amount of $80.46 for Charles Shaw.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

BEER, Old Keene Road, Map & Lot #016-014-000 – Cut #12-461-21:  Mr. Street moved to approve the Certification of Yield Taxes Assessed in the amount of $577.82 for Josiah Beer.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

WARRANT TIMBER TAX LEVY:  Mr. Street moved to approve the Original Warrant for Timber Tax Levy, dated April 11, 2013, for the State of New Hampshire in the amount of $784.22 for Dale Hubbard, Charles Shaw and Josiah Beer.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

GRAVEL TAX WARRANT:

GRAVES, Wentworth Road, Map & Lot #001-016-000 – Cut #12-461-06:  Mr. Street moved to approve the Excavation Tax Assessment per RSA 72-B in the amount of $244.05 for George R. Graves.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

COLD RIVER MATERIALS:  Mr. Street moved to approve the Excavation Tax Assessment per RSA 72-B for Cold River Materials as follows:

1)      Whipple Hill Road, Map & Lot #003-002-000, Cut #12-461-05 – $0.00;

2)      Whitcomb Road, Map & Lot #014-013-000, Cut #12-461-03 – $89.94;

3)      Whitcomb Road, Map & Lot #015-011-000 – $2,152.88.

Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

WARRANT GRAVEL TAX LEVY:  Mr. Street moved to approve the Original Warrant for Gravel Tax Levy, dated April 11, 2013, for the State of New Hampshire in the amount of $2,486.88 for George R. Graves and three for Cold River Materials.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

NEW BUSINESS:

NOTICE FROM THE TOWN OF WESTMORELAND:  A notice was received from the Town of Westmoreland, Zoning Board of Adjustment, that there will be a hearing on Wednesday, April 27, 2013, at the Westmoreland Town Hall concerning a request by Graves Trucking, Inc. for a Special Exception.  The applicant proposes to excavate bedrock at the property located off Old Route 12 North, Map 17, Lots 28/29 in the Commercial/Industrial and Rural Residential zones.

LETTER FROM SULLIVAN COUNTY ATTORNEY:  The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of a letter from the Sullivan County Attorney, David S. Park, bestowing gratitude on Officer Justin Sanctuary for his generous cooperation and assistance regarding a bail revocation matter in their court on April 2, 2013.  Mr. Aldrich requested that a copy of this letter be attached to the Minutes and that it be filed in Officer Sanctuary’s personnel file.

MS-2:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve and sign the MS-2 (Report of Appropriations Actually Voted) for the State of NH.  Seconded by Mr. Street.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS:

ARTICLE IN KEENE SENTINEL:   The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of a copy of the recent article in the Keene Sentinel.  They would like to make it known that the Building Permit they approved for the Avanru Development Group was for the first approved project of 48 – two bedroom units.

HIGHWAY SAFETY PROJECT APPROVAL:  The Selectboard received a copy of the letter from the NH Highway Safety Agency to Police Chief Paquette advising that their contract for “Walpole Enforcement Patrols” has been officially approved by them.

EMPLOYEE MANUAL:  The Selectboard will be reviewing the revisions to the Employee Manual and plan to sign it during their meeting on April 25^th following a review by the Town Attorney.  It will be distributed to the employees on May 1^st.

COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS: 

Hooper Institute Committee:  Mr. Aldrich moved to re-appoint Jacqueline Kensen, Rebecca Sethi and Nick Zachary to the Hooper Institute Committee for three year terms.  Seconded by Mr. Street.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Conservation Commission:  Mr. Street moved to re-appoint Peter Palmiotto as an alternate member on the Conservation Commission for a three year term.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

NON-PUBLIC SESSION:

Employee Evaluations:  Mrs. Teague moved to table the employee evaluations for one week.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

ADJOURNMENT:

Mr. Street moved to adjourn this meeting.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.  The time was 9:19 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

__________________________

Jamie J. Teague, Chair

__________________________

Chas G. Street

__________________________

Whitney R. Aldrich

(Note:  These are unapproved Minutes.  Corrections, if necessary, will be found in the Minutes of the April 18, 2013, Selectboard meeting.)

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

APRIL 4, 2013

Selectboard Present:     Jamie Teague (Chair); Chas Street; (Whitney Aldrich – late)

 CALL TO ORDER:  Mrs. Teague called the Selectboard meeting to order at 7:00 PM in the Walpole Town Hall with ten people present in the audience.

These are unapproved Minutes.

PUBLIC BUSINESS:

NON-PUBLIC SESSION:  Mr. Street moved to enter into a Non-Public Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (a) Personnel.  Mrs. Teague seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with all in favor, the motion was approved.

The regular meeting resumed at 7:24 PM.  No announcements were made.

Mr. Aldrich came into the meeting.

PUBLIC BUSINESS:

ABUTTERS OF THE PROPOSED PLAYGROUND:  Seven concerned abutters of the proposed playground on Washington Street, across from the Common, were present.  Mr. Charlie Lennon read their letter to the Selectboard as a result of their hearing indirectly that construction of a playground has been proposed on the lot owned by Eleven Westminster Street LLC.  The lot contains the Savings Bank of Walpole, the Walpole Clinic, a busy parking lot and a gazebo.  They asked that:  1) A public hearing be held so all concerned residents have an opportunity to learn what the actual plans for the playground involve, and the opportunity to voice their opinions as to the appropriateness of a playground on this site, and, 2) A Site Plan Review be done by the Planning Board, in light of the change in use proposed for this project.  The letter was submitted by Sheila and Charlie Lennon, Ellie and Fred Ernst, Carole and John Cramer and Fred Dill.  They plan to attend the next Planning Board meeting.  Mrs. Teague advised that now that the Selectboard is aware of this proposed project and the concerns of the abutters they will ask Mrs. Clough to contact the property owners to inquire about the project and to obtain a legal opinion from the Local Government Center.  When the legal opinion is received it will be shared with the abutters.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE: 

Mr. Street moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register and manifest in the amount of $123,073.85.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

It was noted that $43,000.00 is the payment for Article 5 for the purchase of the Highway roller.

PAYROLL:

Mr. Street moved to approve the payroll voucher for the week ending March 30, 2013, for checks dated April 5, 2013, for gross wages in the amount of $19,925.86.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Street moved to approve the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $4,451.55.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Street moved to approve the FICA tax payment in the amount of $1,679.78.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING – March 21, 2013:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Minutes of the March 21, 2013, Selectboard meeting, as printed.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  With Mr. Aldrich and Mrs. Teague in favor, the Minutes were approved.  Mr. Street abstained as he was not present at this meeting.

SELECTBOARD MEETING – March 28, 2013:  Mr. Street moved to approve the Minutes of the March 28, 2013, Selectboard meeting, as printed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mr. Street and Mr. Aldrich in favor, the Minutes were approved.  Mrs. Teague abstained as she was not present at this meeting.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – March 28, 2013:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard session of March 28, 2013, as printed.  The Minutes will remain sealed until this matter is resolved.  Seconded by Mr. Street.  With Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Street in favor, the Minutes were approved.  Mrs. Teague abstained as she was not present at this session.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard received and reviewed the following meeting Minutes:

• Hooper Institute – March 26, 2013;
• Conservation Commission – March 4, 2013;
• North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners – April 2, 2013.

Mr. Aldrich left the meeting for a short period of time.

BUILDING PERMITS:

MICHAUD, Wentworth Road, Map & Lot #008-009-008:  Mrs. Teague moved to grant Building Permit No. 2013-06 for Jeffrey J. Michaud to “Enclose a 16’ x 14’ deck into a sun porch”.  Seconded by Mr. Street.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

CRAVEN, (Terrapin Moise, LLC), Reservoir Road, Map & Lot #010-026-002:  Mr. Street moved to grant Building Permit No. 2013-07 for Sidney Craven (Terrapin Moise, LLC) to “Construct a 120’ x 50’ Garage with Suite and a 4 Bedroom Home” pending receipt of Septic System approval.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

WARRANTS:

TIMBER TAX:  MERRIAM FARM, Inc., Merriam Road, Map & Lot #003-050-000:  Mr. Street moved to approve the Certification of Yield Taxes Assessed – Intent Filed During Tax Year: April 1, 2012 to March 31, 2013 – and the Warrant for Timber Tax Levy in the amount of $75.16 for Timber Cut #12-461-16  for Merriam Farms, Inc.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

NEW BUSINESS:

JUNK YARD PERMIT:  Mr. Street moved to grant the Town of Walpole License to E.W. Salvage to Operate a Junk Yard on Valley Road from March 25, 2013 to March 24, 2014.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

WALPOLE SCHOOL REQUEST:  Mr. Street moved to approve the request from the Walpole School to use the Walpole Common on Monday, June 17, 2013, at 6:30 PM for their eighth grade graduating class ceremony and to utilize the entire Town Hall for their graduation party immediately following the ceremony.  There will be no charge for the rental.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

DISCHARGE OF MORTGAGE REQUEST:  Mr. Street moved to approve the request from Southwestern Community Services, Inc. and its affiliated entity, Drewsville Carriage House Limited Partnership to discharge the mortgage that was given to secure the Community Development Block Grant funds which the Town of Walpole made available to develop this project in 1997.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

ROUTE 12 PROJECT INFORMATION:  The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of the letter from DeLucca Fence Company, Inc. advising that their work will begin on April 1, 2013, on the Route 12 project for new guardrails.  Work should be completed prior to the June 28, 2013, completion date.

OLD BUSINESS:

PROCLAMATION:  This Agenda item was put “on-hold” until the next regular meeting.

Mr. Aldrich came back into the meeting.

COMMITTEE VACANCIES:  The list of Committee Vacancies has been posted.  The vacancies are as follows:

• Walpole Recycling Action Committee: Two (2), Three Year Term Seats;
• Hooper Institute Committee:  Three (3), Three Year Term Seats;
• Recreation Committee:  Two (2), Three Year Term Seats;
• Conservation Commission Alternate:  Two (2) Member Three Year Term Seats and One (1), Alternate Three Year Term Seat.

Any Walpole, North Walpole or Drewsville resident interested in volunteering should forward a letter of interest along with relevant experience to the Town of Walpole Selectboard by Tuesday, April 9, 2013.  Letters of interest can be emailed to jclough@walpolenh.us, faxed to (603) 756-9209 or mailed to Town of Walpole Selectboard Office, attn: Janet Clough, PO Box 729, Walpole, NH 03608.  If there are questions, please feel free to contact the Selectboard office.

Committee appointments will be made after the deadline has passed and the Selectboard have had the opportunity to review the letters of interest.

MEETING WITH SWRPC:  The Selectboard will be meeting with the Southwest Regional Planning Commission representatives on Thursday, April 11^th at 6:00 PM in the Walpole Town Hall. 

EQUALIZATION MEETING:  The New Hampshire Municipal Association and Cheshire County are offering an informational session “Understanding the Equalization Process and the Impact on County Taxes” for Cheshire County municipal, county and state officials to help in understanding the equalization process and how it impacts shared property taxes, particularly county taxes.  It is scheduled for Tuesday, April 30, 2013, in the Training Room at Cheshire County Department of Corrections in Keene, NH.

EMPLOYEE HANDBOOK:  Mrs. Clough distributed draft copies of the Employee Handbook with requested revisions to the Selectboard for their review.  The revised handbooks should be ready for distribution on May 1^st.

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:  Mr. Street moved to recess the Selectboard meeting.  The Selectboard will enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.  The time was 8:21 PM.

The regular meeting resumed at 8:28 PM.

Mrs. Teague called the recessed Selectboard meeting back to order.

NON-PUBLIC SESSION:

Mr. Street moved to enter into a Non-Public Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (a) Personnel.  Mr. Aldrich seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with all in favor, the motion was approved.  The time was 8:29 PM.

The regular meeting resumed at 8:46 PM.  No announcements were made.

ADJOURNMENT:

Mr. Street moved to adjourn this meeting.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.  The time was 8:47 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

____________________________

Jamie J. Teague, Chair

____________________________

Chas G. Street

____________________________

Whitney R. Aldrich

(Note:  These are unapproved Minutes.  Corrections, if necessary, will be found in the Minutes of the April 11, 2013, Selectboard meeting.)

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

MARCH 21, 2013

Selectboard Present:     Whitney Aldrich (Chair); Jamie Teague; (Absent: Chas Street)

These are unapproved Minutes.

 CALL TO ORDER:  Ms. Borden called this Selectboard meeting to order at 7:46 PM in the Walpole Town Hall with two people present in the audience.  Prior to this meeting the Selectboard attended the Walpole Fire District meeting.

ELECTION OF 2013 CHAIRPERSON:  Mr. Aldrich nominated Mrs. Teague as the Chairperson for 2013.  Mrs. Teague moved to nominate Mr. Aldrich as the Chairperson but Mr. Aldrich declined.  Mr. Aldrich moved to cease nominations and that the secretary cast one vote for Mrs. Teague.  With all in favor, Mrs. Teague was elected the 2013 Chairperson.  Mrs. Teague accepted the nomination but asked Mr. Aldrich to Chair this meeting.

PUBLIC BUSINESS:

BEN NORTHCOTT:  Mr. Northcott has some concerns about the road postings this year.  He pointed out that almost all the roads in Walpole are posted but there are two roads that are not posted now – Brewery Road and Industrial Drive.  Copies of State Statutes 231:191 Maximum Weight Limits and 266:17 Weighing of Vehicles were reviewed.  He advised that there are no scales within ten miles of Walpole.  Mr. Northcott requested that if the postings remain that they can request an amount for a Bond so they can haul on Valley Road.  The Town has to figure out an amount.  The Selectboard will ask Jim Terrell to attend the next Selectboard meeting to discuss the valid points raised.  Mr. Northcott noted that last fall he asked if they would be entitled to a refund for a percentage of the registration because they cannot run their trucks during this period when the roads are posted.  Trucks that are not restricted pay the same amount for registrations that he does.  The Selectboard will take this under consideration.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Mrs. Teague moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register and manifest in the amount of $36,666.62.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Teague moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register for a reissued check No. 058611 that had a stale date.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

PAYROLL:

Mrs. Teague moved to approve the payroll voucher for the week ending March 16, 2013, for checks dated March 22, 2013, for gross wages in the amount of $17,217.68.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Teague moved to approve the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $4,003.46.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – March 14, 2013:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of March 14, 2013, as printed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Teague moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard meeting of March 14, 2013, as printed.  The Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard received and reviewed the following committee reports:

• Walpole Recreation Committee – February 17, 2013; and
• Walpole Recreation Committee – March 17, 2013.

ABATEMENT – WATER:

APPLEWOOD REALTY TRUST, School Street, Map and Lot #021-004-000:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve the Refund for Water in the amount of $2,305.00 for Applewood Realty Trust.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

INTENT TO CUT WOOD OR TIMBER:

HARDWICK, Church Street, Map & Lot # 027-005-000:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve the Notice of Intent to Cut Wood or Timber, No. 12-461-22-T, for H.H. Investments, LLC.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

NEW BUSINESS:

NH HIGHWAY SAFETY GRANT:  Mrs. Teague moved to authorize Mr. Aldrich to sign the Highway Safety Project application.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

CONWAY OFFICE CONTRACT:   Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the contract to purchase two copiers (one for the upstairs office and one for the downstairs office) from Conway Office Products, LLC that includes a Maintenance Agreement.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

PROCLAMATION REQUEST:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve the “Proclamation for the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children National Missing Children’s Day on May 25, 2013”.  This is a continuing effort to prevent the abduction and sexual exploitation of children.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

PERSONNEL REQUESTS – TRAINING:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve Mrs. Clough’s request to attend an “Office Professionals” training class on April 17, 2013 and a “Benefits Administrator Workshop” on April 25, 2013.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

TOWN EMPLOYEE RATE FORMS:  Mrs. Teague moved to sign the Town Employee Rate Increase forms for 2013.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

LIEN DISCHARGE:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve and sign the Lien Discharge for sewer usage.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

TRANSPORTATION – SOUTHWEST REGION PLANNING COMMISSION:  Mr. J.B. Mack, Senior Planner at the SWRPC, and Cheryl Mayberry, North Walpole Commissioner and the Town’s representative to the Transportation Committee at SWRPC, will attend the Selectboard’s meeting on April 11^th at 6:00 PM to address two highway projects that the Selectboard discussed with Ms. Mayberry at a previous meeting.

ADJOURNMENT:

Mrs. Teague moved to adjourn this meeting.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.  The time was 9:13 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

____________________________

Whitney R. Aldrich, Chair

____________________________

Jamie J. Teague

___________________________

Chas G. Street

(Note:  These are unapproved Minutes.  Corrections, if necessary, will be found in the Minutes of the March 28, 2013, Selectboard meeting.)

Did you miss the world premier last month at the Bellows Falls Opera House of UPSTAGED created by Walpole resident Gail Golec and filmed by Jacob Stradling and edited by Alex Stradling? Requested by many, a second showing will be held at the Walpole Town Hall, Walpole, NH, on Wednesday, May 22nd. Doors will open at 7 PM and the film will begin at 7:20. Admission is FREE.

The story follows the exploits of a failed theater actor/director/producer from NYC (Harold Howard-Hartwell) who, after his last show flops, decides to leave the city behind and settle in a small farming town in New Hampshire. His ultimate plan is to make the town over into an artists’ colony, garnering him the fame and respect he so desperately desires. But first he needs to get the town on board with his plan. To that end, he decides he needs to produce a play, casting the townspeople to show them that theater can be a great experience. Here in his new town, Harold believes he will finally be a big fish in a small pond, however he soon learns that the pond is more like a fish bowl and he realizes as auditions for the play get underway, he is unprepared to deal with the variety of personalities in this small town.

UPSTAGED was filmed over the course of 10 months, using locations in Walpole (town hall), Acworth (Acworth Store) and Saxton River, VT (Pleasant Valley Brewery) and starring local actors from the Walpole Players (Mike Wright, Sarah Manning, Ray Boas, Fran Kemp, Carolyn Norback, Tara Sad, Jean Kobeski, Kathy Reilly, John Luther, Jim Baucom, Tom Winmill, Peter Eisenstadter, Jordan Mitchell-Love, Seth Lauritsen, Gwen Edson and Gail Golec).
For more information call 603 756-4545 or 603 756-3790.

The TASTING ROOM and GIFT SHOP at WALPOLE MTN. VIEW WINERY at BARNETT HILL VINEYARD are reopening this Friday, May 24, 5-7 pm.

They’ll be open every weekend – Fridays 5-7, Saturdays 12-6, and Sundays 1-6. In November and December the hours will be shortened, so check their website (www.bhvineyard.com) once the cooler weather arrives.

For the Memorial Day Weekend Holiday that is coming up, they’ll also be open Monday, 5/27, 1-5:00 pm.

The season will open with tastings of 24 fine grape wines that are 100% estate grown in their Barnett Hill Vineyard. The selection includes reds, whites, blushes, and blends with sweetness levels from the driest dry through late harvest dessert sweet!

Visit their gift shop with beautiful and delicious locally-made and wine-related products, as well as a selection of NH/VT cheeses to enjoy during your tastings. The spectacular mountain vistas and vineyard views are enjoyed by townsfolk and tourists alike. Whether it’s the first time you’ll be trying wine, or have traveled the world tasting wines, the experience is worth the four-mile trip up the hill from downtown Walpole.

They do accept reservations for private tastings and event rental opportunities.

Features FMRHS Artists in May/June: Tyler Brown, RoseAlaina Leone, and Allura Lincoln

The Walpole Artisans are proud to announce their second annual Student Show, featuring Fall Mountain Regional High School art students in May/June at their Cooperative Gallery on 52 Main Street in Walpole. Three students have been selected for their artwork which will be on display from May 19th-June 15th. There will be an Artist Reception on Wednesday, May 22nd, 5:30-7 pm. Please visit the gallery, meet the artists and discuss their work and inspiration, while enjoying hors d’oeuvres!

Tyler Brown is a FMRHS senior from Acworth, who has always enjoyed art classes. “I just simply enjoy making art that derives directly from my imagination. I’ve also always had an eye for detail (in things besides art as well), so that contributes to my style as an artist.” He plans to attend college at the Universal Technical Institute in Norwood, MA, in the fall.

RoseAlaina Leone, a senior from Walpole, was exposed to photography at an early age with parents interested in photography. She has grown to appreciate the medium which has become an enjoyable hobby for her. “I really enjoy capturing spontaneous moments with my pictures; a happy moment between friends, the funny face of a child, or a small moment of beauty in the natural world. A camera is a way to preserve moments and memories, and I try my best to do them justice.” She plans to attend college in the fall, majoring in anthropology or psychology, but plans to keep up her photography as well.

Allura Lincoln, a senior from Alstead, loves to make art for the joy of it. She enjoys blending things and warping a point of view. “When I’m creating a piece of work outside of a class setting, I usually work straight through until it’s done. I get very absorbed in what I’m doing. When I’m taking pictures, I usually like to capture the essence of a person or the area. I get very excited about it.” Allura plans on attending MassArt in the fall, majoring in photography.

We invite you to the Walpole Artisans Cooperative to support our local youth talent this month including the Artist Reception on May 22nd. If you can’t make the reception, we look forward to your visit another time during the month-long exhibition.

The Cooperative now offers a wide variety of products showcasing a talented group of local artists who specialize in many different mediums. A variety of artwork is available including paintings, photography, prints, handmade cards, decorative and functional woodworking, ceramics, blown glass, jewelry, dolls, metal sculpture, and more!

The Walpole Artisans Cooperative is now open from Monday 11am-2:30pm; Tuesday –Saturday 10am-5pm, and Sunday 11am-4pm. New Members will be accepted through a juried process. Interested artisans should contact the Cooperative at (603) 756-3020 or stop in during business hours, to pick up an application. We are located at 52 Main Street, Walpole, NH.

Carolyn Norback in “Tourists Accommodated” was a deaf old aunt who dropped in some irrelevant but localized and humorous lines from time to time.  In case you missed the play, no need to miss all the fun.

Aunt Jane:   Bill Perron is a-taking his winter underwear off this week.  I heard Dutchie say she was going to have to wash them just this one week more before summer and she was glad of it.

Aunt Jane:   Cows are out again, I see. Bob Graves’ fences are queer, always let their cows out.

Aunt Jane:   They say Paul Tole has bought himself a new car, but I don’t believe a word of it.  The old one wa’n’t  more than five years old.

Aunt Jane:   Well, Joel and Emmeline say they’re goin’ to get married and Tommy Murray is a-doing the catering – and high time, too.

Aunt Jane:   Farmstead Farms is a-selling strawberry preserves to city people and a-asking thirty cents a jar – a nawful price, I call it.

Aunt Jane:   Well, what do you think? That red cow of Sheldon Sawyer’s is sick again.

Aunt Jane:   Well, Malnotti’s calf got out again last night and this time he run out on the railroad bridge and got all four legs through the ties. Linda Edkin saw him just in the nick of time and telephoned down to the Depot to hold the morning train till they could get him out.

Aunt Jane:   Sandy Smith was just a-tellin” her daughter that Janet Clough had a post card from that fellow that was here selling books last week, and he said……….