Monthly Archives: October 2019

Selectboard Meeting Minute – 10/319

 

Selectboard Present:Steven Dalessio (Chair); Peggy Pschirrer; Cheryl Mayberry

 

CALL TO ORDER:  Mr. Dalessio called this meeting of the Selectboard to order at 6:30 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.  He advised this meeting is being recorded and asked anyone wishing to speak to identify themselves for the record.  There were six visitors in attendance.  

 

PUBLIC BUSINESS:

BROADBAND COMMITTEE PRESENTATION AND REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS:  Mr. Paul Looney, Mr. Rod Bouchard and Mr. Bob Anderson, members of the Broadband Committee, were present.  Mr. Dennis Marcom, Mr. Dick Hill, and Mr. Steve Grenier, also members of the Broadband Committee, were unable to attend.  Mr. Looney distributed copies of the Walpole Broadband Advisory Committee’s, “Making Walpole a Connected Community” PowerPoint Presentation.  We owe a great deal of “Thank You” to Chesterfield and Westmoreland who provided a lot of information. He began with the “Summary” that states the plan is to provide Broadband Internet to the underserved in Walpole.  Chesterfield applied for a $2,000,000 bond over 20 years, but Walpole does not know what our figures will be until they get information from the vendors.  In Chesterfield, it did not require any taxpayer money. However, they did charge a fee to subscribers of $10 maximum/month so the vendor could pay off the bond.  Mr. Looney continued a page-by-page explanation of the information provided.  

 Why Improve Walpole Broadband?  Some people would work more from home if they had this option.  It will help provide small business opportunities and educational opportunities for children.  Telemedicine is becoming more of a service provided by hospitals and this broadband service would enable us to use that service.  Today they feel that the service is not reliable.  About 86% of the Town is underserved.  
 The map on the next page has red dots indicating the Underserved (1729) and blue dots indicating the Served (271).  This is information provided by the vendor based on the committee’s request.  Only one vendor, Consolidated, replied to their request.  This does not include Comcast information because they could not get it.  
 Why are we talking about the Town Bonding to Improve Broadband?  The providers are not making an effort to move broadband into the smaller communities because of the expense.  This is a way for a vendor to get a long-term commitment to build the infrastructure and pay off the bond over time.  They are sending out their Request for Proposals (RFP) to any vendor they can find.  The State felt this was an incentive for vendors to expand.  Walpole is one of approximately 20 towns in NH now looking at bonding for the broadband process.   
 Town Request for Information (RFI):  Chesterfield is further along than anyone else; Westmoreland is right behind them and Walpole is close to them.  Walpole sent their Request for Information (RFI) in August 2019.  The committee is hoping for Selectboard approval to send out their Request for Proposal (RFP) in October 2019 to about seven vendors.  They hope to get bids back by November 7, 2019.  The Committee will look at the RFPs and come back to the Selectboard with their recommendation.  Copies of the RFP were available for review.  The RFP was sent to the Town’s attorney for a review and his opinion was that it looks good.      
 Consolidated Communication Proposal to Chesterfield as an Example:  Consolidated Communications is the vendor Chesterfield chose.  There is a cost if the residence is more than 150-feet from the line ($0.55/ft after that).  Eventually they expect to retire existing copper network.     
 How is this Funded?  (Based on Chesterfield Numbers)Chesterfield received bonds for $2,000,000; Consolidated contributes about $2,500,000.  Bond interest and principal payment guaranteed by Consolidated; no cost to the taxpayer.  RSA 33 states that broadband bonding does not affect a towns ability to bond for other capital expense items.  As the subscriber rate increases, the surcharge will decrease.
 Public Benefit of Broadband Improvements to Walpole. Based on a study at the University of Colorado, broadband improvements will increase the value of a home by 2.5%.  The bond is only to improve the service of the underserved. Mrs. Pschirrer pointed out that the average property value change takes into account the Walpole, North Walpole and Drewsville areas. 

 

Mr. Bob Anderson reported that according to their figures, Comcast covers 72% of the Town.  Mr. Dalessio noted it does not change the value of the Town.  

 

Mr. Looney advised their process will be to send out the RFP.  They will have an informational meeting for the Town.  They are also going to take a survey.  They want to do this electronically, but paper copies will be available. It will be advertised in the Walpole Clarion.  They hope to get information from the residents about their experiences.  After they get the RFPs back, the committee will evaluate, choose the best one and make their recommendation to the Selectboard.  They will then begin the bonding process.  Mr. Bouchard advised that the Bond Bank in NH is set up to issue primarily non-taxable municipal bonds.  Unless we get our application in soon, it could be held up for quite some time.  Non-taxable Bonds take priority.  We need to do our due diligence as quickly as possible.  Mr. Dalessio questioned having a clause in the RFP for a Surety Bond in the event the company fails.  Mr. Looney felt that would be in the contract.  Mr. Looney noted they have to have a Town Warrant Article for the Annual Town Meeting.  

 

Ms. Mayberry noted that their figures indicate 72% of the Town is covered by Comcast.  Her concern is with Consolidated and the level of service they provide.  Maybe they would provide better service with the addition of broadband service?  Ms. Mayberry pointed out that the service we are providing is to the curb.  People may have to look at the cost of improving their service when it connects into their home.  

 

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve and sign the Request for Proposal to improve the broadband service.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessioin favor, the motion was approved.

 

MR. CHIP WOOD:  Mr. Wood asked where the Selectboard is regarding the posting of weight limit signs on the Alstead Center Road for 20/ton.  Mr. Dalessio said it is posted and that is where the weight will stay.  At some time it might be revisited.  There is an alternative way through Alstead that Mr. Wood can use.  Mr. Wood noted the Town sent a letter to a company he is involved in.  It puts a financial burden on this company.  This road is in better condition than many other roads in Town. The culvert was repaired, but the dip has not been repaired. Mr. Wood thinks this is a personal vendetta with the Walpole Road Agent.  Mr. Dalessio said two more letters will be going out. Mr. Wood has rights under the RSA to pursue this.    

 

BUILDING PERMIT 2019-35; LEO BLAIR & JUDITH TRESCHUK:  Mr. Leo Blair had submitted a building permit request to erect a “24’ x 12’ Wooden Shed” at 70 Whitcomb Road.  Mr. Blair explained their house is small. His wife would like to have a shed for her art studio.  Mr. Dalessio advised they looked at this building permit last week and felt a survey is needed. There is a question on how close the shed would be to the next-door lot.  Mr. Blair had gone to the Registry of Deeds in Keene looking for a survey. They could not come up with a survey for anybody in that area except in 1973. Things have changed since then.  A survey will cost $2,500.  Mrs. Pschirrermentioned the Zoning Ordinance has regulations on expansion of non-conforming lots.  Measurements on the Town’s tax card and those on the building permit were re-calculated.  Ms. Mayberry said there is more land down the slope beyond the chain-link fence; they are missing about 90-feet on the building permit.  Mrs. Pschirrer pointed out that every deed has a description of the boundaries. It should be recorded in Keene.  Mr. Dalessio summarized there are inconsistencies. A survey needs to be done to show the boundaries and the position of everything including the house.         

 

BUILDING PERMIT:  Mr. Peter Smith and his Father, Mr. Ralph Smith, had previously talked to the Selectboard about a building permit.  They have run into sewer issues on the private line.  Bensonwood and Chamberlain Machine are meeting with their attorneys to discuss a new sewer line connection.  Mr. Smith will need an easement to connect.  He is not sure what his next step will be.  Mr. Dalessio will confer with Mr. Mark Houghton about this.  Mrs. Pschirrer recommended Mr. Smith contact his attorney.  Mr. Dalessio suggested they wait to see what the outcome is of the Bensonwood/Chamberlain meeting.  He asked Mr. Smith to keep the office updated.

 

DEXPART:  Mr. Peter Dexter and Mrs. Kara Dexter were present.  Mrs. Dexter reported they were told to take 25 vehicles off the property by October 1st.  They did 24 and just took another vehicle off on September 27th.  Mr. Dexter said they would be removing more.  Nine or ten vehicles were moved to the back side of the property so you cannot see them from the front.  Mrs. Dexter advised they priced trees for natural screening but they were more expensive than anticipated.  They intend to do tree planting in the spring.  Mrs. Pschirrer suggested they contact the USDA office in the Industrial Park to obtain trees that will be small and usually reasonable in price.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to give Dexpart permission to do tree plantings in the spring.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.                  

 

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:  

Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Accounts Payable Check Register in the amount of $79,648.19 for checks issued October 4, 2019.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

The above amount includes a $27,210 payment for the new Police Dept. cruiser.

 

PAYROLL:

Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Payroll Check Register for the week ending September 28, 2019, in the amount of $28,067.07 for checks issued October 4, 2019, and the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes in the amount of $5,676.88.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MINUTES – SEPTEMBER 26, 2019:  Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Minutes of the Selectboardmeeting of September 26, 2019, as submitted.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Minutes were approved.

 

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – SEPTEMBER 26, 2019:  Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of September 26, 2019, as submitted.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Minutes were approved.

 

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of the following Committee reports:

 North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners Meeting – September 10, 2019;
 North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners Meeting – September 17, 2019;
 North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners Meeting – September 24, 2019;
 Broadband Committee Meeting – September 18, 2019.

 

BUILDING PERMITS:

2019-35, Leo Blair & Judith Treschuk, 70 Whitcomb Road, Map and Lot #025-010-000: Ms. Mayberry advised this building permit was tabled pending receipt of additional information.  

 

OLD BUSINESS:

Tax Deeded Properties:  Mr. Dalessio reported the two Tax Deeded property letters were drafted by Attorney Hockensmith.  These are 90 day notices.  

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the two letters written by Attorney Hockensmith for the Tax Deeded properties.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved. 

 

Hiring and Exit Procedures:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Hiring and Exit Procedures.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

Air Conditioning for 2nd Floor of Town Hall:  Mr. Dalessio reported the Walpole Players had their meeting to talk about air conditioning on the second floor of the Town Hall.  Mrs. Lisa Bryan pointed out that they are looking at some creative ways to raise money for it.  

 

Town Hall Locks:  Ms. Mayberry moved to approve Mr. Rich Kreissle’s Request for Proposal (RFP) for the Town Hall Locks.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

NH-ENS Non-Emergency Users:   Mrs. Pschirrer moved to authorize Mrs. Sarah Downing to sign the NH Emergency Notification System (NH-ENS) – Authorized Official Form – Non-Emergency Access.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

Trivantus Payroll Service:  The Trivantus Payroll Service has notified the Town that they now have added features for keying Police Department time, pay rates, etc.  There was a consensus of the Selectboard to give them one year working with this one NH town and new service before they will re-consider entering into an agreement with them.  Mrs. Pschirrer will send them an email to this effect.

 

Old Stage Road Letter:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to sign the letter to Daniel and Amy McCabe regarding the Old Stage Road.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.   

 

Alstead Center Road Weight Limit Letters:  Mrs. Pschirrermoved to approve the letters to the Town of Rockingham and Fuzzy Brothers regarding the weight limit posting of the Alstead Center Road.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

It was noted that a similar letter will be sent to Bazin Brothers. If anyone is aware of other trucks/ trucking companies that use the Alstead Center Road, let the Selectboard Office know.

 

Pending Further Actions:

Citizen’s Complaint 2019-02 Letter:  Mr. Dalessio reported there are no updates.

 

Ramsay Hill Right-Of-Way:  Mr. Dalessio tabled this agenda item as there were no updates.

 

New Reuse Center:  Mr. Dalessio tabled this agenda item as there were no updates.

 

NEW BUSINESS:

Broadband Committee Presentation and RFP:  This was presented earlier in this meeting.

 

Lola’s Pizza Beer and Wine License Endorsement:  Ms. Mayberry moved to approve and sign the letter to the NH Liquor Commission to advise that the Town of Walpole Select unanimously voted to grant permission to Alexis Harris, owner of Lola’s Pizza and Subs Inc., to obtain a beer and wine license for her business, Lola’s Pizzaria, located at 16 Church Street, North Walpole, NH.  The Board made no objections to the sale of beer and wine at this restaurant.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.  

 

Primex Secure Member Portal Authorization Form:   Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Chairman of the Selectboard, Steven Dalessio, be authorized to sign the Primex Secure Member Portal Authorization form.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to enter into a Non-Public SelectboardSession pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (a) Personnel.  Ms. Mayberry seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with Mrs. Pschirrer, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved at 8:02 PM.

 

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 8:10 PM.

 

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of October 3, 2019, be sealed.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:

Ms. Mayberry moved to recess this Selectboard meeting.  The Selectboard will enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 8:16 PM

 

OTHER BUSINESS:

Brownfields Clean-Up Project:  Mrs. Pschirrer reported that tomorrow they will receive their Request for Proposals (RFP) for the Brownfields Clean-Up Project at the former Central Plating Company property.  A bid was received from the Monadnock Fence Company. She would like to fence in that area.  Mrs. Pschirrer has been talking to Attorney Hockensmith about transferring the funds.  They could be put it in PDIP where some interest could be earned.  A deposit needs to be sent to Monadnock Fence.  The fence is $4,545.00.  She would like to get it done before winter. Therefore, she asked about paying it out of Town funds and then getting reimbursed; Mr. Dalessioand Ms. Mayberry approved her request.  

 

Charlestown Withdrawal Study Committee:  Mr. Dalessioreported that last night the Charlestown Withdrawal Study Committee voted 7-to-3 to recommend withdrawal from the Fall Mountain Region School District.  There are still many steps to go.        

 

Walpole Conservation Commission Meeting:  Mrs. Pschirrer will attend the next Walpole Conservation Commission meeting next Monday night at 7:00 PM.

 

ADJOURNMENT:

Ms. Mayberry moved to adjourn this Selectboard meeting.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 8:30 PM.

 

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

Articles of Agreement Meeting Minutes – 10/1/19

Minutes of previous meetings have been sketchy – more dialogue than decisions. These give a pretty good synopsis of where the Committee is at and the votes that will be taken next Wednesday at the high school Library. – Lil

Unapproved Minutes to be approved at the next meeting on October 14th

Articles of Agreement Committee Meeting Minutes

Fall Mountain Regional High School Library

October 1, 2019

Craig Vickers called the meeting to order at 5:05. Committee members Rich Nalevanko, Joe Levesque, Brenda Melius, Garret Neil, Lil DeCoste and Becky Sethi were in attendance.

Approval of Minutes: No Minutes were available.

Address voting rights on the committee: The question was raised about who should vote when we are ready to do so. Representation from each town varies. Acworth has 2, Alstead has 2, Charlestown has 4, Langdon has 0, and Walpole has 4 in attendance at the meetings.

Those present agreed that we tried very hard to get equal representation and that goal was never met. We felt that those people who have been in attendance at the meetings have earned the right to be counted as voters ( Brenda, Linda, Rich, Joe, Garret, John, Michael, Alissa, Craig, Peggy and Lil)

All votes to be taken will be announced in advance.

Decisions need to be made on:

– the fairness of the funding method

– can it be made more understandable, ie. Lil’s suggested format

– changes in governance, ie. Peggy’s suggested separate elementary school boards or empowering site-based committees

All decisions we make are only recommendations to the school board. As the elected representatives, they make the final decision.

In general we agreed that clarification is needed that:

Only 20 cents of every tax dollar comes under the Methods of funding. 80 cents is attributable to the town’s direct expense.

Methods language should be simplified with an appendix of details. Our draft can be submitted as a starting point but will need to be verified and refined by Jim Fenn.

Definition is needed of ADM-R and ADM-A. This seems to be creating a great deal of confusion.

Article review provided the following agreement:

Article 1, no change

Article 2, vote will be required

Article 3, change to “responsible for grades Pre-K through 12”

Article 4, Clarification needed regarding “empowered to lease such buildings within the district”

Articles 5&6 have to do with the methods and are numbered with Roman Numerals

Article I needs simplification and clarification as stated above

Article II requires the definition of ADM

Article III transportation issue should be part of the annual report/review by School Board prior to submission of the MS25.

Article IV and any other references to grade levels K-… should be changed to Pre-K…

Article V – what does it mean?

Article VI – can be moved to Appendix

Article VII – more explanation needed

Article VIII – is this done with the signing of the MS25?

Article XI – where is this report? When is it done? Review should include Methods 1 & 2.

Articles 7-12 are fine as is.

Articles 13-17 should be removed

Article 18 is fine

We recommend that the pages be numbered.

Next Agenda (10/4/19)

– Approve Minutes

– Review changes into a working document

– Preliminary votes:

Fairness of methods

Changing articles based on our review

Governance

Respectfully submitted,

Lil DeCoste

Reuse Trailer up for Reuse

Please forgive the headline. Just couldn’t resist! – Lil

Ben Hoy sent the following email:

“Hello Lil,

The town of Walpole would like to put the damaged Reuse Center up for bid. The bid deadline is October 24th, and the entire trailer must be removed from the recycling center by December 31rd.

If you could post this information in the Walpolean it would be greatly appreciated.

 

Music at Stage 33 – 10/13/19

Spike Dogtooth brings their Brattleboro-based free-range acoustic music to Stage 33 Live, 33 Bridge Street in Bellows Falls, VT on Sunday, October 13. Door at 6:00 PM, music at 7:00, suggested $5 donation at the door. There are no presale tickets. The venue’s 40 chairs are first-come first-served, plus standing room. Attendees may bring their own portable seating. There will be space for dancing. More info at stage33live.com

– – –

Spike Dogtooth and Sam Duffy at Stage 33 Live

Festival-jam favorites to play Stage 33 Live

BELLOWS FALLS — Spike Dogtooth plays acoustic music without restriction — bluegrass, Irish, cowgirl-swing, folk, acoustic rock, country blues. The Brattleboro-based band’s core players and revolving crew of guest musicians have developed a loyal following since 1996. Interesting trivia note: They played the first-ever Strolling of the Heifers.

A campground favorite at music festivals over the past 30 years, they’re best known for their legendary all-night jams. This is a rare opportunity to hear them play on a stage that’s inside of a building, showcasing all-original tunes.

At the band’s enthusiastic request, Sam Duffy opens and they’re planning to participate in each other’s sets.

There will be dancing room in front of the stage.

Door at 6:00 PM, music at 7:00 on Sunday, October 13 — a suggested donation of $5 at the door. There are no presale tickets. Seating is limited to 40, first-come first-served. There’s also plenty of standing room; attendees may bring their own camp-style seating if they wish.

The listening event will be recorded and filmed.

Stage 33 Live is located at 33 Bridge Street in Bellows Falls, VT, and documents live performances and presentations of original material on a small stage in a former factory building for downstream audiences. Its listening events are all about honoring the stage — not sticking it in the corner and talking over it. No kitchen, no liquor license, but you can find establishments with those things nearby. Coffee, soda, water, and weird snacks by donation. Find more info about the nonprofit all-volunteer project, and this and other other upcoming events online at stage33live.com

Conservation Commission Meeing Agenda – 10/7/19

AGENDA

 

WALPOLE CONSERVATION COMMISSION MEETING

October 7, 2019

 

Location and Time:  Walpole Town Hall, Downstairs Office at 7:30 PM.

 

1. CALL TO ORDER.

 

2. SEATING OF ALTERNATES.

 

3. REVIEW and APPROVE MINUTES – September 9, 2019.

 

4. PUBLIC BUSINESS:

Report from Chair:

A. Treasury Report.
B. Correspondence.
5. NEW BUSINESS:
A. Alex Barrett – Long View Forest.
B. Jeffry Littleton – Moosewood Ecological.
C. WCC Easement Property List.
D. Second Mill Pond Trail Work Day.

 

6. OLD BUSINESS:
A. Harold Putnam Memorial.
B. Town website.
C. Reservoir Dam Work – Update.
D. Membership.

 

7. OTHER BUSINESS:

 

8. ADJOURNMENT

Conservation Commission Meeting Minutes 9/9/19

 

Members Present: Laura Hayes, Lewis Shelley, Alicia Flammia (Chair), France Menk, Steven Dumont (Recording Secretary)

 

Alternates Present: Peter Palmiotto, Myra Mansouri, Elaine Heleen, 

 

Members Absent: John Peska (Vice Chair), Kelli Wilson, Gary Speed, Jackie Kensen

 

Others Present: Cheryl Mayberry (Selectboard Representative),

 

Call to Order: Alicia called the meeting to order at 7:30 PM. 

 

Seating of Alternates: none required.

 

Laura voted to approve the minutes of August 5, 2019. France seconded. All in favor.

 

Public Business:

1. Treasury: PDIP account balances as follows; Conservation – $132,201.16. Forestry – $36,328.02. Walker Road – $4,461.67. Mason Trust Expendable – $408,072.39, non-expendable – $17,057.27.
2. Correspondence:
a. Jackie and Peter appointment letters.

 

New Business: 

1. Tucker Burr Conservation Agreement: there was an email from a realtor about the Tucker Burr property. There was an easement on the property, but no information on our spreadsheet or on the NH Granite system. It is on our conservation map. Prior to the meeting, the WCC found the paper file in our records. The paperwork is from 2001. It is a conservation agreement, not an easement, between the town and the owner. It was noted the WCC needs to notify NH Granite whenever we enter into an agreement on a property for an easement where we are the main easement holder. The Monadnock Conservancy, for example, notifies the state when they enter into agreements. Sarah Downing asked us if we have a master list of properties which we are the primary easement holder, and what our responsibilities are on those easements. This is why Laura was contracted to develop the database. The WCC is supposed to monitor the Tucker Burr property annually. The property is supposed to be maintained for farm or forest uses. We do not have to submit paperwork to anyone but should write an annual report. The realtor should be able to find the agreement when they do a deed search. Alicia discussed the need to have a master list of easement properties with our responsibilities. This list would be separate from the database Laura has come up with. It could be an annual checklist for the WCC. Need to add an agenda item for next month.
2. NH DOT Church Street Bridge: the state is doing work in 2020, and is asking for any concerns relative to the project, specifically if we have any preferred or priority mitigation efforts that the DOT should use to evaluate their project if there are mitigation steps that need to be taken. Alicia noted that Nashua NH for example has guides for specific types of work. She asked if Walpole has any guidelines. The answer was no. Alicia asked if she should send them our conservation plan? The state is using their own guidelines. They are redecking the bridge. Alicia will respond and let them know we do not have any guidelines.
3. Hooper Forest Invasive Species: Alicia was in contact with Alex about the three remaining rapid assessments. Alicia received one and will forward it. Alex reminded Alicia that if we want to do invasive species removal at Hooper, now is the time to think about scheduling and a budget. Alicia looked back at her notes and saw that we wanted to get an idea of the dam work costs before we address invasive species. Steven added that we also want to look at all the forests and see if there are any priorities or other invasives before we tackle one forest. Lew noted he has sent Alex GPS files of the trails for the Mason Forest. Alex also wants to come in on a quarterly basis and keep us updated and answer any questions. Alicia will contact Alex. Cheryl reminded the WCC that any costs relative to maintenance of the Hooper Forest will come from Hooper funds, not from the WCC. If the WCC needs to cover costs of invasive removal at Hooper and get reimbursed by Hooper that can be looked at. 

 

Old Business:

1. Harold Putnam Memorial: the family is discussing language for the bench.
2. Mill Pond Trail Work Recap: the work was done. All the trail was cleared and some new trail cut. Further work will be needed. Some tread work on the upper end is needed. Maybe another morning of work. This year would be preferable. There is also a massive tree that fell after the WCC did work. Steven mentioned we may want to schedule at least one trail work day annually for every trail that the WCC maintains. 
3. Town Website: Steven mentioned that it sounds as if Ryan will be helping Kelli with the website. France has spoken with Sarah and let her know that she would be willing to do the website for a fee, if Sarah can get her some budget information. She is looking into it.
4. Reservoir Dam Work Update: Fuzzy Brothers are submitting three quotes for the culvert work, for three different options. Partial culvert replacement, slip lining the culvert and a concrete spray epoxy. Estimates should be ready for the next meeting. The permit can be submitted after the scope is decided. Cheryl suggested the estimates get sent out to members ahead of time so they can be looked at.
5. Membership: Duncan needs to write a letter and swear in.

 

Other Business:

1. NH Charitable Foundation Robert P. Hubbard Conservation Commission Conservation Fund: Peter researched the fund. Once a year we will get a report and statement. Last February there was about $225,000.00 in the account. In started in 2001 with $100,000.00. Another $100,000.00 was added in November of 2015. It is a completed gift, which cannot be changed. It is for the purpose of raising money for the WCC. Last year the disbursement was about $7,000.00. In 2019 we got $9,150.00. The disbursement is calculated by a percent averaged over 20 quarters. Any money over the average goes back into the fund. Any money under the average goes to us. Their fee is .07% of the fund value. In 2018 it was about $1,591.00. Over the life of the fund so far the WCC has gotten over $100,000.00. The funds go into the Conservation account. They are sent out in February.
2. Walker Road Property: Peter noticed that he heard the Fletchers are not interested in haying. He mentioned Larry Britton was interested in either haying or putting it back into corn, but needs to know asap. Alicia mentioned Chuck also knows someone interested in haying but is not a town resident. Pete’s Stand is also interested in commercially growing vegetables but Alicia mentioned the need to pay taxes. Alicia asked if we are still interested in keeping it organic. She also asked if we are okay with manure, pesticides and herbicides close to the river. The WCC consensus was that we would like to stay away from that, or at least follow best management practices for activities around wetlands and waterbodies. Lew had an idea for a pollinator garden. He recently worked with a company that did a large pollinator garden in Roxbury. It could include a trail through the flowers, with informational signs, or we could include information on the kiosk. Peter showed pictures. It would be a beautiful idea for the Walpole Gateway. Peter made a motion that the WCC ask Moosewood Ecological for a proposal for a pollinator garden in the upper, middle and lower fields. France seconded. All in favor. On a side note, Lew mentioned the kiosk timbers have been ordered.
3. Tools: Lew noted we need to replace a pair of loppers. Cheryl asked if we had the budget spreadsheet. We had reviewed it earlier this year. There is a line item for tools. Steven made a motion to fund a couple new pairs. France seconded.
4. Town Roads: Lew was discussing the recent issue of an old road in town. Lew installed a gate there in the 80’s because he was told the owners owned both sides of the road and therefore the road. Turns out the road is still a Class 6 road and it cannot be locked. The owners would like to see the road remain locked. However, if it is unlocked it could be classified as a class A or B trail which does have restrictions. A neighbor would like to ride a dirt bike on the road. The selectboard is still trying to determine the classification of the road.

 

Adjournment: At 8:41 Lew made a motion to adjourn the meeting. France seconded. Meeting adjourned.

Next Meeting: Monday, October 7, 2019 at 7:30 PM.

Respectfully submitted; Steven Dumont, Recording Secretary

Note: These are unapproved minutes. Corrections, if any, will be found in the minutes of October 7, 2019.

Craft Crawl 2019

Withdrawal Committee Meeting Minutes – 10/2/19

School Withdrawal Committee 

FMRHS Library

October 2, 2019 6:00 PM

 

Present:  Albert St.Pierre; Lucien Beam; Steven Dalessio; Frank Emig; Alan Dustin; Sarah Vogel; William Stahl; Scott Bushway; Joseph Levesque; Mary Henry


Chairman Mr. St.Pierre called the meeting to order at 6:00 PM. 

 

Motion made to approve the minutes of the September 25, 2019 meeting by Mr. Emig, Second by Mrs. Vogel.  All in favor.  Mr. Levesque abstained.  Minutes are accepted as presented.  

 

Motion made by Albert St.Pierre that the Withdrawal of Charlestown from the Fall Mountain Regional School District is recommended and a plan be created to be presented to the State of NH Board of Education, according to the requirements of RSA 195.  Seconded by Mrs. Vogel.  

 

Mr. Dalessio offered a statement.  “It has become clear that Charlestown, through their Select Board, wants to withdraw from the Fall Mountain School District.  They have tried unsuccessfully for decades to have the apportionment formulas and the articles of agreement changed.  This is a long time coming.  The study process has brought to the table many issues.  Such as local control and better understanding of the cost of education.  These discussions must continue for the betterment of the school district.  Voters, I encourage you to become involved.  Go to school board meetings.  Go to budget hearings.  Go to the Deliberative Session.  That also includes going to your local selectmen asking questions.  Ask the hard questions of your school board reps as well.  Selectmen sitting here at the table, we started working together and I think we should continue that for the betterment of all of our communities.  The vote tonight, if passed, will allow the process to move forward.  Both the NH State Board of Education and the citizens of each of the five member towns must approve the plan before they can move forward.  It seems fair to Charlestown to let the process move forward.  The understanding will be an uphill battle to approve the withdrawal at the polls in March, due to the expected increase in costs for the four remaining towns.  Thank you.”

 

Mr. Levesque asked for clarification of the motion.  Mr. St.Pierre noted that if the motion passes, the committee will continue for the purpose of preparing a plan to send to the NH Board of Education.  The committee has about a month to put a plan together for the state’s review, to be in compliance with the timeline laid out in RSA 195.

 

Mr. Stahl noted another option: If we vote against the plan, we [the committee] can file for an extension.  Mrs. Vogel clarified this as the three options in the RSA.  Yes, No, or Need More Time.  Mr. St.Pierre expressed that the motion was made, but that if the motion is defeated, then someone could offer another motion to include the three options.  Or, an amendment to the current motion could be made.

 

Mr. St.Pierre called for the vote on the motion, alphabetical by town as agreed at the September 25, 2019 meeting.

 

The vote is as follows:

 

Francis C. Emig, Jr., Acworth Select Board n

Sarah Vogel, Acworth School Board n

Alan F. Dustin, Alstead Select Boardy

Joseph A. Levesque, Alstead School Board  y

Albert A. St.Pierre, Charlestown Select Board  y

Scott Bushway, Charlestown School Board  y

Lucien Joseph Beam, Langdon Select Board  y

Mary Henry, Langdon School Board  n

Steven J. Dalessio, Walpole Select Board  y

William K. Stahl, Walpole School Board  n

 

By a vote of 6 to 4, the motion passes.

 

Motion by Mary Henry to ask for an extension of the November date.  Second by Mr. Stahl.

 

Mr. Dalessio asks how long is needed for an extension?  Mrs. Henry does not know, but will not delay past deadline to get the plan before the voters in March.

 

Amendment to the motion made by Mr. Dalessio to set the date of extension to November 15, 2019, if approval of an extension is given by the State of NH BOE.  Mr. Dustin seconds the amendment.  

 

Discussion on the amendment to ask for an extension until 11/15 to present the plan.  Mrs. Vogel asks for original date.  Mrs. Henry clarifies the date as November 1, according to RSA 195.

 

Mrs. Henry requests that legal counsel for the district be allowed to speak to the process.   Mr. St.Pierre asks the committee to vote by a show of hands.  At the board’s majority but not unanimous approval, Mrs. Henry introduced Atty. Gordon Graham of Soule, Leslie, Kidder, Sayward & Lougmann.  Mrs. Henry asked what this committee is charged with reporting to the state of NH? 

 

Atty Graham clarified that RSA 195:26 lists all the elements required by the State of NH.  The Plan must include

 Name of district (or districts) that is withdrawing.  
 Number and Name of grades that are withdrawing.  
 Number, composition, and method of selection of the term of the office of the withdrawing district, as well as the districts in the remaining co-op..  
 Proposed date of operating responsibilities of the new district.  
 The method of apportioning capital expenses among members of the remaining co-op.  
 A plan for the education of all the students in the withdrawing and remaining districts.  
 Including union contracts, transportation, detailed provisions of tuition agreements.  
 Assignment of students for each district in all town’s — which grades in which schools for all schools in the district.  
 Anything else not incompatible with the plan.  

 

Mr Dalessio asked for clarity regarding the School District’s bylaw stating that adopting a change to the articles of agreement requires a ⅔ vote of the five towns,  but a withdrawal requires only 50%.  Atty Graham does not know –  though he would predict that because the change to the Articles of Agreement may be in the withdrawal plan, they would be subject to the simple majority 50% vote.  Mrs. Vogel asked whether each town must vote in the affirmative or a majority of all votes total in the five towns?  Atty Graham states that each town must vote in the affirmative for a withdrawal.  Mrs. Henry clarified that if one town does not vote in the affirmative, the withdrawal would not pass.   Mr. St.Pierre asked for the RSA stating that each town must vote yes.  Atty Graham read from RSA 195:29.   Upon reading the RSA, it was determined that the total vote of the five towns must be a simple majority of 50%.  

 

Discussion to adjust the amendment to the motion for a deadline of December 1, 2019, pending that the State of NH will grant  an extension.  Made by Mr. Dalessio and seconded by Mr. Dustin.  By a vote of 8 in favor, 2 opposed, the motion passes.

 

Original motion to request an extension from the State Board of Education, as made by Mrs. Henry and seconded by Mr. Stahl.  All in favor.  Motion passes.

 

Mr. St.Pierre continued to the next agenda item, asking if the committee is ready to work on a plan.  Mrs. Henry asks if the committee will vote on the plan when it is complete?  Mr. St. Pierre notes that that will be a majority vote.

 

Public comment:

Mr. St.Pierre opened the floor.  Tom Cobb, Charlestown, thanked the members of the board for their dedication and hard work.  He appreciates that the board is allowing the vote to go to the voters.  Mike Patton, Charlestown, questioned if Charlestown withdrawing will save money or if it is a reallocation of money to the remaining towns?  Mr. St.Pierre clarified that a plan will be put together and the committee has numbers to do so.  Mrs. Henry and Mrs. Vogel feel they have hard numbers from the CFO, showing that costs will go up.  Mr. Dalessio spelled out that the finance subcommittee presented drafts of budgets, showing that some things will go up and some will go down as a result of a Charlestown withdrawal.  Only Charlestown has offered a reduction from the proposal by Jim Fenn, CFO.  Mr. Dalessio advised Mr. Patton to have a conversation with the finance subcommittee or the Charlestown Withdrawal Advisory Committee for clarification.  Mr. Emig clarified that the State BOE has to approve the plan before it goes to the voters.  Shelly Andrus, Charlestown, asked that a majority vote of the committee has to approve the plan before it goes to the voters?  Yes, the committee will vote on the plan before the plan goes to the state.  If the State BOE approves the plan, then it will go to the voters.  Mr. Dalessio lays out that the committee will:

 Form a plan
 Vote on the plan
 If the plan is approved, submit the plan to the State of NH BOE
 If the plan is not approved, the minority can submit a plan to the BOE
 On the ballot in March for voter approval

 

Mr. St.Pierre clarified that the minority report may only be filed with the school board of the cooperative, a majority report is filed with the state.  Mrs. Henry asked Atty Graham where the minority report is to be filed.  The Attorney read the statute.  The minority report does not go to the State BOE.  Terry Spilsbury, Charlestown, contended that the statute has two provisions.  One is that if the majority votes yes, which is what occurred, then the majority prepares a plan and files it with the state by the November 1 deadline, unless an extension is obtained.  Those who voted no are entitled to file a dissent with the State BOE.  The other provision is that if the vote was negative, then the minority report would go to the School Board.  In this case, those who voted yes are obligated to prepare the plan and those who voted no are entitled to write a dissent.  Atty Graham called Terry’s interpretation only one interpretation.  Atty Graham feels that their are other interpretations that include that the motion that was approved was to create a plan, not a vote for recommendation for withdrawal.  Mr. Spilsbury requests that Mr. St. Pierre reread the motion.  “Withdrawal of Charlestown from the Fall Mountain Regional School District is recommended and a plan be created to be presented to the State of NH Board of Education, according to the requirements of RSA 195.”  Mrs. Vogel specified that this is the motion created according to the discussion in the September 25, 2019 meeting.  

 

Motion by Mr. Dalessio to reconsider the original motion. Second by Mrs Henry.  Vote is 7 in favor, 3 opposed.  The motion will be reconsidered.  

 

Mr. Bushway asks if we are supposed to be voting on withdrawal or a plan?  Mrs. Henry asks to put forward a plan.

 

Jerry Henry, Langdon, the committee should have had a plan.  Tom Cobb, Charlestown, purpose of this committee is to put together a plan for withdrawal.  Trina Dearborn, Charlestown, original conversation was to create a plan over the summer.

 

Motion made by Mr. Dalessio.  That withdrawal of Charlestown from the FMRSD is recommended.  A plan will be created to be presented to the State of NH BOE according to the requirements of RSA 195, after approval of the FM Withdrawal Committee studying the Charlestown withdrawal proposal.  Second by Mr. Stahl.

 

Mrs. Henry asks to make the motion simpler.  Mr. Dalessio speaks to the hard work that has been put in by the committee to get to this point.  He clarifies that RSA 195 allows the committee to vote on a recommendation to withdraw, and that is what we want to do.  It does not say we have to have a plan in place to recommend withdrawal.  Mr. Beam reinforced that there is elements of a pretty good plan that has already been  presented by Charlestown.  It looks at educational impact and financial impact.  The committee knows what the impact is to all the districts.  There are things Charlestown will take over.  Different proposals have already been looked at.  Mr. Beam felt these were enough to make a recommendation for withdrawal.  Mrs. Henry noted that this committee has no authority over the tuition agreement.  Mr. Beam agreed, but that the committee can go forward.  Mr. Bushway clarifies that if the committee votes for the amended motion, there is another option to defeat the plan before going to the state.  Mr. St.Pierre calls for a rereading of the motion, and then the vote.

 

Francis C. Emig, Jr., Acworth Select Board n

Sarah Vogel, Acworth School Board n

Alan F. Dustin, Alstead Select Boardy

Joseph A. Levesque, Alstead School Board  y

Albert A. St.Pierre, Charlestown Select Board  y

Scott Bushway, Charlestown School Board  y

Lucien Joseph Beam, Langdon Select Board  y

Mary Henry, Langdon School Board  n

Steven J. Dalessio, Walpole Select Board  y

William K. Stahl, Walpole School Board  y

 

 

By a vote of 7 to 3, the motion passes.

 

Mr. St.Pierre asked if the committee can continue to meet Wednesdays?  Yes.  A discussion/comparison of other towns/districts in this situation will be discussed.  Mrs. Vogel will forward the plan put forth from Middleton Farmington to Alissa Bascom to be forwarded out for viewing by the committee.  Is there any objection to the Charlestown plan that was presented earlier this summer being re-presented?  The committee would like to see it again.  A review of the subcommittees will occur.  

 

Mr. Beam would like to understand what areas the board feels they don’t have enough information on? There is already a Tuition proposal and answers to the questions specifically in the RSA.  Is anything else needed for the educational impact?  Mr. Emig noted the impact on the teachers needs to be determined.  A copy of the sick leave buyback and the specific positions and town’s needs to be requested. 

 

Mr. St.Pierre will ask for the extension from the State of NH Board of Education. 

 

Motion to adjourn made by Mr. Dalessio.  Seconded by Mr. Stahl.  All in favor.  Meeting is adjourned at 7:23 pm. 

 

Respectfully submitted,

 

Alissa Bascom

 

Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 9/26/19

Selectboard Present:Steven Dalessio (Chair); Peggy Pschirrer; Cheryl Mayberry

 

CALL TO ORDER:  Mr. Dalessio called this meeting of the Selectboard to order at 6:30 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.  He advised this meeting is being recorded and asked anyone wishing to speak to identify themselves for the record.   There were four visitors in attendance.

 

PUBLIC BUSINESS:

BUILDING PERMIT:  Mr. Ralph Smith advised that his son, Mr. Peter Smith, is his spokesman.  Mr. P. Smith reported that his father and brother went to the Planning Board. They want to convert a garage in back of Mr. R. Smith’s dwelling into a living facility. The conversion allows Mr. P. Smith to be closer to assist his mom and dad. The Planning Board passed it onto the Zoning Board. They approved the two variances.  He now needs to apply for a building permit to allow the construction to start.  Mr. Dalessio mentioned there is a question on the sewer connection.  Mr. P. Smith replied that everybody involved has verbally agreed to the connection. The legal documents are being drawn up. He has talked with Mr. Mark Houghton.  Mr. Dalessio said as soon as that is cleared up, they can come back to apply for their building permit.      

 

DAVID EDKINS and RICHARD O’BRIEN:  Mr. Edkins stated they got the letter from the Selectboard regarding Dexpart, but he is still puzzled by it.  They thought the Selectboard was going to ask Attorney Hockensmith for a “legal opinion” but not a statement beginning with “As a practical matter”.  The solution does not seem to have any basis in State law or our regulations; it just says “don’t worry about the rules”.  This seems to be just a suggestion as a layman from Attorney Hockensmith.  Mr. Dalessio asked how they get beyond “AttorneyClient Privilege”.  There were portions of the document they were not able to share with the public.  Mr. Edkins said but there does not appear to be any legal advice in this.  Mr. Dalessio stated Attorney Hockensmith was unable to go either way.  He did send Attorney Hockensmith photos of the property. He googled earth and got some aerial photos. Mr. Dalessio also sent other information from Mr. Edkins, Mr. O’Brien, Dexpart and the Selectboard.  At the end, this was Attorney Hockensmith’s conclusion.  Mr. Edkins said to sum this up, it is the Selectboard’s determination that there is no junkyard facility included with the Dexpart operation and therefore does not require a permit.  Mr. Dalessio concurred that the Selectboard agrees.  They are enforcing the letter they sent to Dexpart and recently they were sent a reminder letter.  The Selectboard just received a letter from the Dexpart attorney late this afternoon. They have not yet had the opportunity to read it.  Mr. O’Brien said just for the record they may not see the correspondence between the Selectboard and their attorney.  Mr. Dalessio said it is considered “AttorneyClient Privilege”.  Mr. O’Brien noted so they will not tell the Town taxpayers what it says.  Mr. Dalessio noted that is what it implies.  Mr. O’Brien asked if they can see the Selectboard’s correspondence to the attorney.  Mr. Dalessio replied “not at this time”; they will check on this but he has no problem with it.  Mr. O’Brien said okay, if this is the way the Selectboard stands on this.  Their letter of May 23rd stated there are 16 cars, more or less, that are privately owned by the Dexters.  Therefore, it is the Selectboard’s opinion that anybody in Town can have 16 unregistered vehicles on their property if they own it.  Mr. Dalessio questioned “unregistered”in their letter.  Mrs. Pschirrer noted they are not saying that.  This was not addressed to every property owner in Town.  Mr. O’Brien asked what the difference would be.  Mrs. Pschirrer said it depends on the individual and what is going on.  Mr. Dalessio advised they are not going to answer that question right now.  Mr. O’Brien feels they are picking-and-choosing what they want to do.  He referenced RSA 236:112.  This RSA states they can only have two unregistered vehicles on a property.  It is the Selectboard’s opinion that Mr. Dexter can have 12, Mr. Edkins can have 75 and someone else can have 50 vehicles.  Mrs. Pschirrer replied that she

 

Selectboard Meeting –September 26, 2019- Page 2

 

 

will not be cornered by saying that to please Mr. O’Brien.  Mr. Dalessio summarized that all this will be in the minutes of this meeting.  Mr. Edkins asked if Dexpart has made any progress in cleaning up the property.  Mr. Dalessio replied their attorney indicates in his letter that they have already removed 19 vehicles from the property.  Mr. Dalesssio said their agreement indicated October 1st.  Mr. O’Brien said the agreement included movingvehicles to the back of the Dexpart property, which is against Mr. O’Brien’s property line. Mr. Edkins said reducing the size of a junkyard from 116 cars down to 90 cars does not address the issue.  It is still a junkyard with 90 cars.  Mr. O’Brien does not understand how E.W. Salvage – he realizes they crush cars and do different things – needs a junkyard permit. Dexpart is making a living on selling parts off cars.  He does not understand the difference.  He thinks this will go nowhere because you folks will not enforce the rules. Mr. O’Brien advised he is on a mission to clean up the Walpole Industrial Park, that has never been an industrial park.  If this was three miles north of where it is, there would be hell to pay.  It is out-of-control down there.  Mr. Dalessio pointed out that this will all be duly noted in the minutes.  It is their right and privilege to express their opinions/concerns.

 

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Accounts Payable Check Register in the total amount of $18,103.12 for checks issued September 27, 2019.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

There was a consensus of the Selectboard to hold the check in the amount of $10,000 to the Springfield Fence Company pending clarification of the procedure.

 

PAYROLL:  

Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Payroll Check Register for the week ending September 21, 2019, in the amount of $28,548.90 for checks issued September 27, 2019, and the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes in the amount of $5,847.44.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Two payroll tax transfers were signed.

 

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MINUTES – September 19, 2019:  Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of September 19, 2019, as submitted.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Minutes were approved.

 

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – September 19, 2019:  Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard session of September 19, 2019, as submitted.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Minutes were approved.

 

STAFF MEETING – September 19, 2019:  Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Minutes of the Staff Meeting of September 19, 2019, as submitted.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Minutes were approved.

 

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard received and reviewed Minutes of the following meeting:

 Walpole Zoning Board of Adjustment – September 18, 2019.

 

 

Selectboard Meeting –September 26, 2019- Page 3

 

 

TIMBER TAX WARRANT:

MAP and LOT #011-014-000:  Ms. Mayberry moved to approve and sign the Original Warrant, Yield Tax Levy, The State of New Hampshire, for Map and Lot #011-014-000 in the amount of $690.80.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

BUILDING PERMITS:

2011-48 AMENDED, MCG WALPOLE LLC, 504 Main Street, Map and Lot #012-013-000:  Ms. Mayberry moved to grant Building Permit No. 2011-48 for MCG Walpole LLC to “Construct a 1 story 130’ x 70’ commercial retail store front building as approved by the Planning Board on April 9, 2019” at 504 Main Street.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

2019-33, LORRAINE HOLDINGS LLC, 6 Ames Plaza Way & 60 Dearborn Circle, Map and Lot #012-055-021:  Ms. Mayberry moved to grant Building Permit No. 2019-33 for Lorraine Holdings LLC to construct a “60’ x 26’ Two Story Light Commercial/Residential Building as approved by the Planning Board on June 11, 2019”.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

2019-34, VERIZON WIRELESS, 88 Scovill Road, Map and Lot #003-082-CL3: Ms. Mayberry moved to grant Building Permit No. 2019-34 for Verizon Wireless to Replace 12 Antennas on Existing Cell Tower” at 88 Scovill Road.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

2019-35, LEO BLAIR & JUDITH TRESCHUK, 70 Whitcomb Road, Map and Lot #025-010-000:  There was a consensus of the Selectboard to hold Building Permit 2019-35 pending receipt of a survey map of the property.  

 

OLD BUSINESS:

Dexpart: The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of a letter from the Dexpart attorney.  It stated that Dexpart removed 19 cars from the property.     

 

Old Stage Road Type of Discontinuance:  This agenda item was put on-hold pending the letter from Mr. Dalessio.

 

Congratulatory Letter to Chamberlain Machine:  Ms. Mayberry moved to approve and sign the congratulatory letter to Chamberlain Machine acknowledging the National 2019 Small Business Environmental Stewardship Award.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

Hiring and Exit Procedures:  Ms. Mayberry moved to table approval of the Hiring and Exit Procedures until the next meeting.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

MS-1 Update:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve and sign the 2019 MS-1, Walpole Summary Inventory of Valuation.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

Selectboard Meeting –September 26, 2019- Page 4

 

 

Due to solar features being added and then exempted, updated MS-1 and MS-IV were requested by the Department of Revenue Administration (DRA).  Mrs. Downing signed the 2019 MS-1V, Walpole Fire Summary Inventory of Valuation.

 

PENDING FURTHER ACTIONS:

Citizen’s Complaint 2019-03:   Mr. Dalessio acknowledged receipt of Citizen’s Complaint 2019-03.  This issue was taken care of this morning.  The vines and branches were removed from the dead-end sign on Brady and Birch Streets. Bamboo brush was cut off the sides of the road.

 

Citizen’s Complaint 2019-02 Letter:  Mr. Dalessio will draft a response letter.

 

Tax Deeded Properties: Mr. Dalessio continues to work with Attorney Hockensmith about the Tax Deeded Properties.

 

Ramsay Hill Right-of-Way:  This continues to be on-hold as we are waiting for documents from the attorney.

 

New Reuse Center:  Plans are being worked on for the new Reuse Center.

 

Alstead Center Road Weight Limit:   Mr. Dalessio will be giving Mrs. Downing addresses for the letters reminding people of the road weight limit.

 

Air Conditioning for Second Floor of Town Hall:  The Players will be discussing this agenda item.  

 

NH Association of Assessing Officials 2020 Election Ballot: Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Chair of the Selectboard, Steven Dalessio, sign the NH Association of Assessing Officials 2020 Election Ballot.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.     

 

Cemetery Deeds D464 & D465 and D467 & D468:  Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Cemetery Deeds for Lots #D464, D465, D467 and D468.  These lots are being transferred within a family.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

2020 Planning and Land Use Regulation Manual:  New 2020 Planning and Land Use Regulation Manuals will be ordered for Mrs. Pschirrer and Ms. Mayberry.  Mr. Dalessio has a 2019 copy. He will pass on a new one for now.

 

Town Hall Door Locks:  The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of a memo and specifications from Mr. Rich Kreissle regarding new locks/security for the Town Hall.  They are waiting to hear back from Mr. Mark Houghton regarding fire code requirements.  

 

Thanksgiving and Christmas Week Selectboard Meeting Dates:  

Thanksgiving Week:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to change their regular Selectboard meeting from Thursday, November 28th, 2019, at 6:30 PM to Wednesday, November 27th, 2019, at 8:00 AM.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

 

Selectboard Meeting –September 26, 2019- Page 5

 

 

Christmas Week:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Selectboard not have a meeting on Thursday, December 26th, 2019, during the week of Christmas.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

Payroll:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to authorize Mrs. Sarah Downing to approve and sign the Payroll Check Register dated December 27, 2019.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

  

OTHER BUSINESS:

Broadband Committee:   Mrs. Pschirrer reported that the Broadband Committee is not meeting this week.  They would like to come in to a Selectboard meeting on October 3rd to go over their Request for Proposals (RFP).  She recommended they be here at 6:30 PM. Mrs. Pschirrer will email the RFP to Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry ahead of time.  Attorney Hockensmith has approved it.  

 

Brownfields Request for Proposals: Mrs. Pschirrer advised that the deadline for RFPs for the former Central Plating property are due on October 4th, 2019.  

 

Arch Bridge Meeting:  Ms. Mayberry pointed out that if the Broadband Committee attends a meeting on October 3rd that is the same night there will be an NH DOT Arch Bridge presentation in the Town Hall.  This meeting will start at 6:00 PM and is expected to be about a half-hour.

 

Town of Rockingham Select Board:  Ms. Mayberry mentioned the meeting Mr. J.B. Mack would like to schedule with the Town of Rockingham Select Board and the Walpole Selectboard.  They were going to meet to discuss the Vilas Bridge and the Great River Hydro Dam.  The meeting in Rockingham on October 1st was cancelled.  There was a consensus to try to schedule this meeting in Walpole on a Thursday; October 10thwould be first choice. If not agreeable, October 31st could be suggested.  The preferred start time is 5:30 PM. If not workable, try for 6:00 PM.      

 

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION:

Ms. Mayberry moved to enter into a Non-Public Selectboard Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (a) Personnel and (c) Reputations.  Mrs. Pschirrer seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved at 7:48 PM.

 

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:58 PM.

 

Ms. Mayberry moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of September 26, 2019, be sealed.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:

Ms. Mayberry moved to recess this Selectboard meeting.  The Selectboard will enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 8:25 PM.  

 

 

 

Selectboard Meeting –September 26, 2019- Page 6

 

 

ADJOURNMENT:  Ms. Mayberry moved to adjourn this Selectboard meeting.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 8:26 PM.

 

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

Hooper Trustees Meeting Minutes – 9/26/19

Hooper Trustees Present:   Steven Dalessio (Chair); Peggy Pschirrer; Cheryl Mayberry

 

CALL TO ORDER:  Mr. Dalessio called this Hooper Trustees meeting to order at 7:58 PM.  He advised this meeting is being recorded.

 

HOOPER TRUSTEES MINUTES:

HOOPER TRUSTEES MEETING – September 19, 2019:  Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Minutes of the Hooper Trustees meeting of September 19, 2019, as submitted.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Minutes were approved.

 

HOOPER BUSINESS:

Museum Day at the Hooper Institute:  Ms. Mayberry reported it was a good day.  About twenty-five people attended.  They learned how to prepare and press apple cider.  A mixture of apples was donated by Alyson’s.  It was really popular.  There were some hand-made games.  It was a fun day.  There is an impressive Treasure Box out for donations.  Ms. Mayberry stayed, helped clean-up and they had popcorn.

 

Hooper Institute Board Meeting:  Ms. Mayberry plans to attend the next Hooper Institute Board meeting on Tuesday, October 1st.  Mrs. Holly Gowdy has sent out the meeting agenda.  

 

Friends of the Hooper:  Friends of the Hooper gave $5,000 toward the Hooper Institute summer programs.  Mrs. Pschirrer noted they keep some money as they print the new brochures.  They should start planning some fundraisers.

 

Hooper Institute:  The Trustees talked about summer intern programs and looking for sponsorships.  There are grants available. Applications/requests should be submitted.  Ms. Mayberry will talk to Ms. Helen Dalbeck and give her some suggestions.      

 

NON-PUBLIC HOOPER TRUSTEES SESSION:

Ms. Mayberry moved to enter into a Non-Public Hooper Trustees Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (a) Personnel.  Mrs. Pschirrer seconded the motion and on a roll call vote with Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved at 8:15 PM.

The regular Hooper Trustees meeting resumed at 8:24 PM.

 

Ms. Mayberry moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Hooper Trustees Session of September 26, 2019, be sealed.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved. 

 

ADJOURNMENT:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to adjourn this Hooper Trustees meeting.  The Hooper Trustees will return to the Selectboard meeting.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 8:25 PM.

Respectfully submitted, Regina Borden, Recording Secretary