The Walpolean

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

CALL TO ORDER:  Mr. Dalessio called this Selectboard meeting to order at 6:30 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.  This meeting was being recorded.

Mr. Dalessio called for a voice roll call of the Selectboard present.  Peggy Pschirrer was present; Cheryl Mayberry was present; and Steven Dalessio, Chair, was present.  Also present was Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration, and Regina Borden, Recording Secretary.  There were no members of the public in attendance.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Accounts Payable Check Register in the total amount of $559,652.74 for checks issued May 20, 2022.  This includes a monthly payment in the amount of $529,226.92 to the Fall Mountain Region School District.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

PAYROLL:

Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Payroll Check Register for the week ending May 14, 2022, in the amount of $29,107.55 dated May 20, 2022, and for the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer in the amount of $5,870.51.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – May 12, 2022: Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of May 12, 2022, as submitted.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION #1 – May 12, 2022:  Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session #1 of May 12, 2022, 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.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION #2 – May 12, 2022:  Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session #2 of May 12, 2022, 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 REPORT:      

The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of the following Committee report:

• Walpole Planning Board Meeting Minutes – May 10, 2022.

BUILDING PERMITS:

Permit #2022-15, MAP and LOT #021-035-000:  Ms. Mayberry moved to grant Building Permit No. 2022-15 for the owner(s) of Map and Lot #021-035-000 to construct a “654 sq ft Garage Addition & a 12’ x 16’ Sunroom”.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Permit #2022-16, MAP and LOT #011-056-000:  Ms. Mayberry moved to grant Building Permit #2022-16 for the owner(s) of Map and Lot #011-056-000 to construct a “38’ x 28’ Roof Mount Solar Array on Barn”.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Permit #2022-17, MAP and LOT #005-044-003:  Ms. Mayberry moved to grant Building Permit #2022-17 for the owner(s) of Map and Lot #005-044-003 to construct a “58’ x 58’ Single Story Home”.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Permit #2022-18, MAP and LOT #011-033-002:  Ms. Mayberry moved to grant Building Permit #2022-18 for the owner(s) of Map and Lot #011-033-002 to construct a “120’ x 50’ Two Story Barn”.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS:

Meeting on Common With Tree Company:  The Selectboard will meet with Mr. Hartmann on Thursday, June 2^nd at 5:00 PM to do a walk around the Common to inspect the trees.

Pending Further Actions:

Generators, Reservoir Dam, Houghton Brook Bridge, Parking Ordinance, Three Phase Power for Industrial Park Drive and Bensonwood.  There were no new up-dates at this meeting.

NEW BUSINESS:

Five Town Meeting:  There will be a Five Town Meeting scheduled for Friday, May 20^th, 2022, in Charlestown, NH.  Mr. Dalessio is planning to attend.  Ms. Mayberry will try to attend.  Mrs. Pschirrer will be unable to attend.    

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to recess this Selectboard meeting.  The Selectboard will enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved at 6:43 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting reconvened at 7:12 PM.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to enter into a Non-Public Selectboard Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (a) Personnel and (b) Hiring.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved at 7:12 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting reconvened at 7:34 PM.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of May 19, 2022, will be sealed.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

ADJOURNMENT:

Ms. Mayberry moved to adjourn this Selectboard meeting.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  Mr. Dalessio asked if there was any further discussion.  There was none.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 7:35 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

                                                                     

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

Staff Present:                Sarah Downing (Manager of Administration); Ben Hoy (Recycling Director); Michael Rau (Road Agent/Highway Director); Justin Sanctuary (Police Chief); Jane Malmberg (Library Director); Meghan Hansson (Town Clerk/Tax Collector)

Excused:           Rich Kreissle (Administrator of Finance); Kraig Harlow (Recreation Director); Helen Dalbeck (Hooper Institute Executive Director)

CALL TO ORDER:  Mr. Dalessio called this Staff Meeting to order at 5:00 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.  This meeting was being recorded.

Highway Department:  Mr. Mike Rau had submitted his May 2022 report as follows:

• 2021 Flood Damages – He has completed and submitted all Category A damages from the July 2021 flooding to FEMA and it has been approved for federal funding.  A total of $19,854.88 will be awarded to the Town for this particular category thus far; this figure is the federal share which covers 90% of costs.  Repairing flood sites has been a top priory as it is crucial to prevent any further deterioration in these areas, since any new or further damage (washouts, erosion, etc.) sustained will not qualify for funding.
• Culverts were ordered in March. However, due to supply shortages, replacement work is being placed on hold until further notice.
• Quotes have been obtained for asphalt and paving work.  They will be using All State Construction, Inc.  Dates for paving are still undetermined.
• Road sweeping has been done in both Walpole and North Walpole.

Mr. Rau thinks they are about half-way through the list of projects from the 2021 flooding; some were large and some were small.  They are still waiting for the plastic culverts to arrive.  He asked Arlington Paving, All States and Bazin Bros about paving on Hillcrest Road in North Walpole.  They will go with All State Construction at $83/ton which is $13/ton more than last year.  They are bidding in the $90+/ton price-range. We did the bidding just in time.  They will finish March Hill.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if they will be painting the sides of those roads.  Mr. Rau responded “yes” that is on the schedule.       

Police Department:  Police Chief Justin Sanctuary did not have a written report to submit this month.  Chief Sanctuary reported he is working on some grant applications.  From 2017 to 2021 they had a 30% reduction in motor vehicle accidents but a 50% increase in citations.  It was interesting to look at.  Two thousand and twenty (2020) was low.  Ms. Mayberry mentioned some people worked from home during the COVID pandemic.  Per the radar sign by the school, an average of 880 vehicles a day went by it.  The average speed was 30 MPH.  He explained that the unit provides other information.  They are still doing some detail work in Town.  Liberty Utilities work on the power lines is being funded by them.  Mr. Dalessio advised that the Town ordered two solar speed signs. One will be placed on Hillcrest Road by the school in North Walpole.  Chief Sanctuary pointed out that the Police Department has new police signs so people can find them whether they are coming from the north or the south.             

Walpole Town Library:  Mrs. Jane Malmberg provided the following written report dated May 2022.

Foot traffic and checkouts of material continue to increase in North Walpole which is great news.

Building:

She has reached out to several masons regarding the work they need on the chimney.  One of them has done a site visit and is working on a proposal for the board to review.  She has heard from another who is interested, but she is waiting to hear when he would be available for a site visit.  Work has begun on the new front door for the main library.  They have received their new AED unit which was funded by a grant from the Walpole Savings Bank.  She is working on setting up training for their staff.

Friends:

The Friends of the Walpole Town Library will be holding their plant sale this year at the Reuse Center.  They are asking people to contact them before bringing donations of plants to the Reuse Center.  They will not be accepting donations at the library.

Programming:

April was a busy program month.  They hosted the first Great Decisions discussion group, “Ask a Muslim Anything”, a Recycling Program with Ben Hoy, and a kids’ vacation movie.  Julie has moved outside for story times starting in May, weather permitting (inside on rainy/chilly days).

They have some special programs planned for summer reading that will begin the week of Old Home Days.  The first is an adult kick-off program, “Introduction to Beekeeping” with Ross Conrad, who owns Dancing Bee Gardens in Vermont.  They will also have a kids’ kickoff program, “Tiny Creatures”, with Wildlife Encounters.  Julie and Jane are planning a hybrid Geocaching/Scavenger Hunt program in collaboration with the Hooper Institute, the Walpole Recreation Dept., The Walpole Historical Society.  The North Walpole Park, and Distant Hill Nature Trail.  They will introduce a program for reluctant readers, “Read to a Dog”.  A patron from Walpole has a trained and certified service dog and will be bringing him to the library to read one-on-one with children ages 5-16.  They are excited about these programs.

Staff:

Chris conducted a book shelving training for their volunteers, some of whom have not had training for several years.

Jane attended a workshop put on by the State Library on preparing for Book/Program challenges.  It was an informative and helpful session.  She also joined the Membership Committee of the New England Library Association and the newly re-formed Intellectual Freedom Committee of the New Hampshire Library Association.  Both committees meet regularly via Zoom.  

Monthly Library Statistics – Bridge Memorial Library and the North Walpole Library are available in the Selectboard Office.

Town Clerk/Tax Collector’s Office:  Mrs. Meghan Hansson submitted the following report dated May 19, 2022:

• Since last month (mid April), the Town Clerk collected over $93,700 dollars, $70,126 of which belongs to the Town.
• Since their last meeting, they have registered 527 vehicles and 27 boats.  During the month of April 173 registrations were done online.  Also, 24 dogs had their licenses renewed online.
• Already, 76 motor vehicles have been done online since the beginning of May and 5 dogs. 
• Attached was a monthly plot of registrations per month for the last two years.  They are only halfway through May; so, the May number (see green line) will continue to rise.
• They are starting to think about the State Primary this coming fall.  Filing for candidates will be June 1^st through June 10^th.
• Taxes collected since their last meeting amount to approximately $138,000.
• Some liens have been paid off and released, but they still have 27 properties liened (fewer owners as some owners have multiple properties).
• Only two properties have the potential to be deeded this year, although they expect they will probably be paid before that happens.
• They received the warrant for the spring 2022 taxes this past week.  Bills are printed and being stuffed into envelopes.  Expected mail date is Monday, May 23.
• They have come to the conclusion that they could better serve their residents and operate more efficiently with a more robust website that allowed residents to garner information and perform transactions right from the homepage.  Features could include a banner headline, a calendar, direct communication links, and push notifications.  It could transform to fit seamlessly to mobile devices for people that want to interface on the go.  It could be made ADA compliant.  Certainly, other town departments would benefit from the ease of communicating with the public and making certain transactions available remotely.  Many NH towns use the one Mrs. Hansson and Mrs. Gohl researched.  People would be able to find information themselves.  Mrs. Hansson displayed a brochure; towns can pick-and-choose what they want on their website.

Ms. Mayberry mentioned there is the cost that is not in the budget and even if the Selectboard agreed to make the change, there would be no new website until next year.  Mr. Dalessio is concerned with expansion of transactions.  Mrs. Pschirrer wanted everyone to keep in mind that we don’t have a lot of computer literate people in Town; a quarter of their population is aging rapidly and they like to make phone calls to talk to a human voice.  They are more comfortable doing this than going to a website that can be confusing with too much colorful information.  Mrs. Hansson explained that they would always be open to telephone calls. A lot of working people only have limited time.  Mr. Dalessio summarized that they will take it under consideration.

Walpole Recycling Staff Meeting May:  Mr. Ben Hoy submitted the following written report:

• With the help of Keefe Harrison and members of the Recycling Partnership, they have begun recycling #5 plastics!  They are one of the pioneers of pure #5 plastic recycling in the State of New Hampshire.  Keefe is a resident of Walpole and was a keynote speaker at the recent NRRA conference. She gave Walpole Recycling kudos for recycling #5’s.
• Members of Walpole Recycling attended the NRRA annual conference.  There are several vendors there and he was able to develop business relationships during the conference.  They have had an oil leak in their new max pak horizontal baler.  He had a baler company check out the leak, and they gave him a substantial estimate for repair.  He ran into a baler repair man at a booth at the NRRA conference, and they are working on the baler as he is writing this report.  The repair man working on the baler does not believe the damage is anywhere near what the other company quoted us.  In other words, fingers crossed on a swift and inexpensive repair to the max pak baler!!
• He ordered the paper shredder through WB Mason.  HSM is the manufacturer of the paper shredder, and has held up the delivery of the shredder because they need documentation of their electrical service in the building.  Mark Houghton submitted the electrical specification form today, and they are awaiting word from HSM on a shipment date.  There have been many inquiries on the status of the paper shredder.  They are hoping the paper shredder will arrive and be installed within the month at Walpole Recycling.
• Mike Rau is picking up a dump truck load of compost from Windham County Solid Waste facility in Brattleboro, VT.  The compost will be sold at Walpole recycling for $3 per 5 gallon bucket or $45 per rounded bobcat bucket load as we have in the past.  This compost is composed of food scraps from Monadnock Food Coop, Keene State College, and many other reputable food outlets.  Anyone can have success growing plants with this compost.
• Last week Mr. Hoy sold a truck load of metal and they made $9,100 for the Recycling Center.

Purchase Order Policy:  Sarah Downing had distributed copies of the “Purchase Order Policy”.  Mr. Dalessio explained that during Staff Meetings over the next couple of months they want “Procedures” to make things more accurate and simpler.  Purchase orders and invoices have to match up; they need the same numbers to match up.  If they find a mistake in the accounting process, they have to go back and fix it.  He asked if everybody had looked at this new policy.

Mr. Rau’s concern is “Purchase orders whose amounts exceed $5,000.00 are required to be submitted to the Selectboard prior to the item being purchased”.  If he has a truck that needs to be repaired for $6,000 does he have to wait for Selectboard approval before he has the truck repaired?  This would also apply to certain purchases.  Ms. Mayberry felt a truck repair was an expense not a purchase.  Checking with his liaison would suffice.  Mr. Dalessio said he could write a purchase order stating “not to exceed $$”.  Just drop it off for his signature. They do not want to slow the process down.  It is for clarity. Be sure to get your receipts in when you have charged on the Town’s credit card.  Mr. Kreissle does not want late charges. 

Mrs. Downing wanted to thank Jodi Daigle and Rich Kreissle for covering for her while she was on vacation for two weeks.  She also advised that this Staff Meeting will be the last one for Regina as she will be retiring.  She started working as the Recording Secretary on February 1, 1996.  Mr. Dalessio noted that she served them well for many years and they certainly appreciate it.                    

Walpole Recreation:  Kraig Harlow was unable to attend this meeting but submitted the following written report:

Benches/Trash Can Holders:

• Jarrod Atkins from Bellows Falls finished his Eagle Scout project and delivered four benches and two trash can holders.
• The wood for the project was donated and Walpole Recreation only paid for the bolts and the water sealer.
• Walpole Recreation would like to raffle one of the benches off to help purchase new soccer goals at the North Walpole School fields.

Pool:

• The pool should be opening on June 15^th and will host Walpole School for their annual field day and open to the public the weekend of June 17^th.
• Mark Houghton has been working with Stephanie Greene and Ralph Fico on locating the leak within the pool.
• Stephanie is actively seeking to hire new lifeguards; we have 7 lifeguards returning.

Pool House:

• Outside the pool house, a “take a book – leave a book” house was installed.
• The Walpole Library donated books for kids to take and read.
• They have received a quote for the pool house by Associated Concrete Coatings LLC to repair the floor and add a duraflex coating to the floor at $15,450.
• They also received a quote from Gerald’s Painting in Bellows Falls, VT to paint the pool house and touch up some of the building for $2,000.
• Walpole Recreation is to pay for these repairs through the warrant article.

Basketball:

• Brad Nash is currently helping paint the light poles and installing new LED lights at the park with the help of Mark Houghton.
• Summer Basketball sign-ups begin May 19^th at 6pm and will happen every Thursday for the next four weeks.
• They are expecting roughly 75 to 100 kids to sign-up for the program this year.

Community Events:

• Their first movie night will be in June 10^th at North Walpole Park and it will be “Space Jam: A New Legacy”.

Polls/Surveys:

• They have received some feedback about installing more pickleball courts, adding cornhole and board games to the Parks and Recreation program.

Hooper Institute:  Helen Dalbeck was unable to attend this meeting but submitted the following report:

School Programs and School Gardens:  Bark, buds, flowers and tree ID plus seeds, composting, soil prep and garden planning.  Seed planting is underway in the younger grades plus creating original farm designs in 2^nd grade.  They are dreaming up and designing their ideal farms.  What is a watershed and river mapping are lessons in 6^th grade, in preparation for their June River trip (June 9 and 10).  5^th grade is deep into stream salamanders, migrating fish and fish anatomy.

Summer Camps:  Registrations are coming in for all sessions.  Woodworking Camp is now full (Jul 18-21) and the other camps, Summer Day Camp and Adventure Camp (sessions are June 27-30 and July 5-8) will take registrations until June 1^st or until they are full.

High School Work Program:  Students have been interviewed and five are accepted into the summer program.  Paperwork commences plus a one-on-one interview with their new mentors.

Outreach and Marketing:  May and June Clarion submissions plus many Facebook posts; monthly school newsletter, posters for May and June events plus fundraising.  She looks forward to presenting at the May 18^th “Women of Walpole” meeting, local outreach at its best.

Walpole Community Garden:  There are 16 members and 43 beds in the community garden.  The group has decided to also have a tent at OHD, for outreach and exposure plus to support the Hooper mission and programs.  Membership fees are mostly in and the work in the gardens has begun.  They hosted a Master Gardeners Class on April 28 here at the Hooper Institute that focused on the community gardens.  22 people attended the afternoon session.

Administration:  Seth Andrews is their newest board member. Ann Monette will attend their June meeting to try them out.  Ann is a longtime community gardener.  Seth is a high school science teacher in Keene.

Special Events, Programs, and Friends:  She hosted an afternoon tea for the Walpole Community Garden members on Apr 23 plus crafted in the morning for the OHD tent.  GL Hooper’s Birthday Party was last Saturday, May 14.  It was a small but sweet gathering.  Bill Perron (George) gave a really nice speech; the two teams of Morris dancers were really fun, lots of singing, crown making and cake!  Thanks to all the bakers and flower donations, both of which helped make the day special.

The Flower CSA subscription forms are being organized and publicized in June Clarion.  She has three subscriptions already promised and she plans on selling 10, at $120 each for the season.  She is looking for some helpers on Friday mornings to cut and prep flowers and create the bouquets.

Development/Fundraising:  This is “The Year of the Hooper Institute”.  The town wide mailing was mailed and donations have been coming in.  We’ve received $25,000 from The Walpole Foundation and two garden grants for $750.  So far, the Hooper Birthday Fund has received $43,398.  She continues to write and mail letters to large donors and is on the look-out for grant and foundation monies.  Stay tuned.  They will continue to raise funds beyond the birthday fund and Old Home Days Alumni Tent with the 2^nd Annual Fall Festival, a Fall Annual Appeal, Giving Tuesday and an end of the year push for donations.

Other news:  The new cloth tote bags have arrived, selling for $20/bag.

The Year of the Hooper Institute: 2022 Calendar Old Home Days

February – Winter Fun Day 2/12/22 plus kick off of GH Hooper Birthday Fundraising Campaign.

April – Earth Day Celebration at the Hooper 4/23/22 9-10 am Woods Walk 10am – 12pm Crafting for Old Home Day Alumni Tent; Opening Day Walpole Community Garden 1 pm 4/23/22.

May – George Hooper Birthday Party 5/14/21 11am – 1pm.  Parking at the Watkins Inn and Tavern.

June – Birthday campaign will wrap up by July 1; Old Home Days Hooper Institute Alumni Display on June 25, Town Common; 6^th grade River Trip (June 9 and 10); 2 weeks Hooper Day Camp and 2 weeks Adventure Camp (overflow into July). 

July – High Summer School Work Program; 1 week Woodworking Camp; 6 weeks Flower Bouquet CSA begins: Presentation Night for HS Work Program and Hooper Scholarship Recipients.

August – High School Work Program, Flower CSA.

September – Flower CSA ends; 2^nd Annual Fall Festival kicks off our Annual Giving Appeal.

October – Garlic Saturday; Walpole Community Garden Closing Day and Gathering.

November – Thanksgiving Farmers Market; GIVING TUESDAY.

December – Wreath-making Workshops, End of Year Appeal.

ADJOURNMENT:

Mr. Dalessio thanked everyone for coming to this meeting.  He adjourned this Staff Meeting at 6:00 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

Remember that line up starts at 10:30 in front of the Unitarian Church and starts at 11:00.

The “Great Decisions” public forum will meet again in the Walpole Town Library on Monday, June 6, at 6:00 p.m. 

Last month we heard an inspiring report from Peter Stolley and Dennis Marcom, who volunteered at World Central Kitchen in Medyka, Poland. This NGO (wck.org) has prepared more than 16 million highly nutritious meals for Ukrainian refugees since the beginning of the war. Another international agency that has set up camp in Medyka is Sauveteurs Sans Frontières (SSF) “Rescuers Without Borders” (sauveteurs.org), an NGO providing medical relief. Polish Humanitarian Action (pah.org.pl) has been supporting Ukrainian refugees since 2014, staffed by volunteers who gave it high marks. 

This month we will begin with a 30-minute “Master Class” from the Foreign Policy Association on demographic changes around the globe, the undeniable reality of migration, the impact of immigration on population growth and decline. This presentation will be available to Zoom participants simultaneously with everyone in attendance in the Hubbard Meeting Room at the library.

We will then hear from a number of people who are working with refugees and asylum seekers here in the USA. A discussion of US immigration policy and practices along the border will follow. In response to the recent massacre in Buffalo, NY, we will include the so-called “great replacement” theory among related topics. The relevant reading is “Changing Demographics in the world” by Joseph Chamie, found in the “Great Decisions Briefing Book” at the library or available via email from Library Director Jane Malmberg. 

“Great Decisions” is a non-partisan, grassroots public forum that began in 1954 under the auspices of the Foreign Policy Association. All are welcome to attend in person or via Zoom. The Zoom link is available by request from Library Director Jane Malmberg: jmalmberg@walpoletownlibrary.org. 

Join us on Monday, June 6, at 6:00 p.m. for another great discussion. For more information on this program, visit fpa.org/greatdecisions.

Subject: RE: CHARLESTOWN Route 12 Repair Update – May 23, 2022

Charlestown Route 12 Repair Update – May 23, 2022

Dear Elected Officials for Charlestown, Walpole, and Claremont: 

PAVING TODAY!  

Last week the final cross pipe and drainage blanket were installed.  The fine grading was completed over the weekend.  (Attached photo 5/21.)  And we are so pleased to tell you that Casella is paving today! (Attached photo 5/23.)  

Priority has been placed on opening two lanes for the holiday weekend, requiring that cleanup work be performed during the next week or two.  The guardrail is expected to be installed on Thursday and is necessary to open the roadway on Friday, May 27, 2022.  

After the holiday weekend, the roadway will be reduced to one lane or closed at times with traffic control to allow for site cleanup and the removal of materials.  

With thanks for your cooperative spirit during the Charlestown Route 12 repairs,

My Best,

Kathy

Kathleen Mulcahey-Hampson

Legislative Liaison

Senior Hearings Examiner, NHDOT

If you haven’t had a chance yet to check out the Library Plant Sale at the Walpole Reuse Center, please stop in and have a look the next time you’re at the Recycling Center (Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, 8am to 4pm). The sale will continue throughout the growing season.

We are gratefully accepting plant donations through the spring and summer months. If you need help digging plants to donate, we can help with that. Please call 603-439-7778 to arrange drop-off of plants. Our space for plants at the Reuse Center is limited.

We continue to have a great selection of books for sale at the Reuse Center. The book sale there is also ongoing. In addition, we are in the process of planning our large annual Book Sale at Walpole School, which will be held October 28 – 30. Due to limited book space at the Reuse Center, we request that you save your book donations at home for now, instead of bringing them to the Reuse Center. There will be several August dates (TBD) when we will accept book donations at the “Chicken Coop” behind the Hungry Diner.

As always, thank you so much for supporting the Walpole Library! The monies that are raised through the Friends of the Library help fund the cost of books, museum passes, movie licenses, and library programs.

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

CALL TO ORDER:  Mr. Dalessio called this Selectboard meeting to order at 6:30 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.  This meeting was being recorded.

Mr. Dalessio called for a voice roll call of the Selectboard present:  Peggy Pschirrer was present; Cheryl Mayberry was present; and Steven Dalessio, Chair, was present.  Also present was Jodi Daigle, Water & Sewer Clerk and Administrative Assistant, and Regina Borden, Recording Secretary. There were three members of the public in attendance:  Joe Ruggiero, Ernie Vose and Jan Galloway-Leclerc.

OLD BUSINESS:

ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT – Maps:  Mrs. Leclerc, Chair of the ZBA, talked to Mr. Peter Palmiotto who is looking into the following: The only thing wrong on the map is it does not include the Commercial District going back further.  She asked him about moving the title and legend over to one side so no lots will be covered over.  He is also looking into that and will get back to her. 

NEW BUSINESS:

RUGGIERO PROCESSING FACILITY:  Mr. Joe Ruggiero advised they will be moving forward on a volume increase.  He talked to Mr. Mark Houghton about it.  There will not be any more trash on-site but there will be one more trailer in use each day.  Right now he is at about three-quarters of his capacity.  Mr. Dalessio pointed out that this will be a change with the Department of Environmental Services (DES).  Mr. Ruggiero said the facility will have the same amount of trash.   Right now he has one trailer come in to take out material but eventually he would like to use two trailers.  It will not increase any of his traffic.   He cannot find CDL drivers so will use bigger trucks.  Mr. Dalessio asked if he will eventually finish the other project.  Mr. Ruggiero wants to put the office up but he does not want to invest in it until he is sure someone will be there.  COVID slowed down the building but it is still in his future plans. Mrs. Pschirrer asked if he had replaced the access driveway.  Mr. Ruggiero did do that.  Mr. Dalessio asked if the facility is affected by the lack of three-phase power.  Mr. Ruggiero said he is but they cannot seem to get it in their budgets to bring it in.  It is costly.  Mr. Dalessio noted they are looking for Grants but not much is available for this service.              

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION #1:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to enter into a Non-Public Selectboard Session #1 pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (c) Reputations.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved at 6:39 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting reconvened at 7:09 PM.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session #1 of May 12, 2022, will be sealed.  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 total amount of $469,057.00 for checks issued May 13, 2022.  This includes a payment in the amount of $275,000 to the Walpole Fire District.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

PAYROLL:

Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Payroll Check Register for the week ending May 07, 2022, in the amount of $30,195.19 dated May 13, 2022, and for the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer in the amount of $6,080.10.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – May 5, 2022:  Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of May 5, 2022, as submitted.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Minutes were approved.

COMMITTEE REPORT:

The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of the following Committee report:

• Walpole Conservation Commission Meeting – May 2, 2022.

WARRANT:

Spring Property Taxes:  Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Warrant for the Property Tax Levy, Spring Property Taxes, in the amount of $5,891,363.00.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS:

North Walpole Library Lease:  Mr. Dalessio reported that the North Walpole Library Lease was signed by the North Walpole Village Board of Commissioners.  A copy will be given to the North Walpole Village Board of Commissioners, Mr. Rich Kreissle and one will be kept in the Selectboard Office.

PENDING FURTHER ACTIONS:

Generators, Trees on the Common, Reservoir Dam, Houghton Brook Bridge, Parking Ordinance, Power for Industrial Park Drive and Bensonwood:

Trees on the Common:  Mr. Hartmann had suggested doing the walk around the Common on Thursday, May 26^th, however Mrs. Pschirrer would not be able to attend.  Mr. Dalessio would like everyone to be there.  Mrs. Daigle had emailed Mr. Hartmann to see what other Thursdays he will be available but she has not yet received a reply.

Houghton Brook Bridge:  Mr. Dalessio reported they are waiting to go out for Bid but waiting for Mr. Graves to give them the Right-of-Way so they do not have to build a temporary bridge. 

NEW BUSINESS (Continued):

Revolving Fund Request:  Police Chief Sanctuary wanted Mrs. Pschirrer to present his proposal to buy an unmanned aerial vehicle or a drone.  It is for the public’s safety.  At this point there are no laws on the use of drones.  They cannot be used as evidence but the Police Department has had many calls to houses with potential suicides.  It would be very useful if they had a drone.  It could fly around the house to see where certain people are.  They hover around 100-to-200 feet and have terrific cameras.  It would be very useful for them to buy a drone to meet their needs.  They cost about $14,000.  When you are trained to use this drone a license is needed with the FAA.  Officer Josh Healy would be trained however Mrs. Pschirrer suggested that more than one person should be trained and have a license.  It can be used to check properties when asked by people who are away; there would be safety issues when they are asked to check the River.  Somebody could call and think there is a body in the River but it might only be a jacket floating out there.  Recently the Bellows Falls Police were searching for a person and the Walpole Police got involved.  It ended up with the Walpole police officer going into the River on the VT side; it took them a while to find that person.  With the infrared lights they would have found him faster and no one would have had to go into the River.  A Walpole officer was in the River as well as a Bellows Falls officer.  The drone he is interested in comes with three batteries.  There might be $4,000 available from the Police Association who is promoting the use of drones.  They will also be used to look for marijuana fields.  He is excited about the potential of using it.  Other departments are using them more frequently.  Mr. Dalessio did not see a problem with it.  They should check with the Town’s liability insurance carrier.  Mrs. Pschirrer noted that Chief Sanctuary feels it could be enormously useful as they have suicide calls and/or would be used when they are searching for someone.  She does not believe there is a cost for the training.  They have enough money in their Revolving Fund.  Chief Sanctuary felt it would be useful for the Fire Department as well.                       

Procedures/Policies: This will be discussed during the next Staff Meeting on May 19, 2022. 

Wage and Classification Study:  The Selectboard will meet in a Non-Public Session on Tuesday, May 17, 2022, at 6:00 PM, to discuss the Wage and Classification Study that was recently completed.  Mr. Dalessio will send out a spreadsheet.  He will be researching more information prior to this meeting. 

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION #2:

Ms. Mayberry moved to enter into a Non-Public Selectboard Session #2 to discuss (a) Personnel and (b) Hiring.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved at 7:27 PM.

The regular meeting reconvened at 8:02 PM.

Ms. Mayberry moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session #2 of May 12, 2022, will be sealed.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

ADJOURNMENT:

Ms. Mayberry moved to adjourn this Selectboard meeting.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  Mr. Dalessio asked if there was any additional discussion.  There was none.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 8:03 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

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

CALL TO ORDER:  Mr. Dalessio called this Selectboard meeting to order at 6:30 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.  This meeting was being recorded.

Mr. Dalessio called for a voice roll call of the Selectboard present:  Peggy Pschirrer was present; Cheryl Mayberry was present; and Steven Dalessio, Chair, was present. Also present was Jodi Daigle, Water & Sewer Clerk and Administrative Assistant, and Regina Borden, Recording Secretary.  There were three members of the public in attendance:  Will Grossman, Wendy Grossman and Bob Mallett.

OLD BUSINESS:

Rails to Trails:  Will Grossman and Wendy Grossman were present to continue discussing updated information on the Rail Trail RTP Grant.  Cheshire County, as fiscal sponsor of the RTP Grant, is asking the Selectboard to sign a Memorandum of Understanding to define the roles of the County and the Town in implementing the grant.  Yesterday they received an email from Suzanne Bansley, from the County, regarding some issues with the revised Memorandum of Understand (MOU) Between County of Cheshire and Town of Walpole. Mrs. Pschirrer noted this was a Grant that had been approved earlier.  Mrs. Grossman advised that the County cannot implement the Grant without the MOU.  Will and Wendy Grossman are concerned with a number of issues.  Previously she had distributed copies of: 1) County’s Original Draft of the MOU; 2) Proposed Walpole Revised Draft of the MOU, 3) Letter of Commitment; and 4) RTP Grant Application. Mrs. Pschirrer understood from the Walpole Conservation Commission and the letter that Cheryl Mayberry signed on June 3, 2021, to the NH Bureau of Trails that this was to be a Walpole Project.  The Grossmans and Mr. Dumont were to keep the Town apprised of progress on the project and they were to serve as volunteer project managers.  The County was going to write the Grant.  If the grant was awarded, the Town would contribute up to $20,000 from the Fanny Mason Trust Fund to meet the required 20% total project match.  The 20% is applicable to what they use for the project.  Mrs. Grossman fixed the document to make it comfortable for them to accept it; Draft WMG 4/22/22, was reviewed.  She had not yet sent this in to the County.  The Selectboard felt Mrs. Grossman should send in this draft.  Mr. Dalessio mentioned if they really want the Town of Walpole to take responsibility for this project do not allow the other groups to come in.  Mrs. Pschirrer suggested on page 1, sixth paragraph, they keep: “whereby the County will serve as fiscal sponsor for rail trail grants in the Monadnock region facilitated by the MRRTC” but delete “and the MRRTC will usually, but not always, serve as project manager to implement those grants”.  Then send the MOU to Ms. Bansley.  On page 2, Town of Walpole, Steven Dumont will remain.  Rich Kreissle should be indicated as the Manager of Finance for the Town. Ms. Mayberry felt they should ask for the Waiver as offered by Ms. Bansley.  Mrs. Grossman pointed out that, as an option, the Town could move forward for the Grant without the County.  The Grossmans received preliminary approval for the Grant back in September. Ms. Mayberry pointed out that they will not get the cash until all the parties are in agreement and have signed the documents.  Mrs. Grossman clarified the process.  Mrs. Pschirrer recommended they send the revised MOU to the County because that is what they discussed with the Town of Walpole Selectboard and state they are ready to discuss it with Ms. Bansley when she is ready to do so.  On page 5, Mr. Dalessio would strike out all of 3.g.; everyone was in agreement.  Will and Wendy Grossman left the meeting.                               

BUILDING PERMITS:

Permit #2022-14, MAP and LOT #012-013-3UI:  Mr. Bob Mallett, representing the applicant, Red Barn Lane, LLC, was present to answer any questions about their Building Permit.  Ms. Mayberry had questions.  There was a list of conditions for the Building Permit that he might have discussed with Mr. Mark Houghton.  Mr. Mallett did not have the list with him but he understood they were discussed during the Planning Board meeting.  It was the turning radius on site, fire hydrant and sewer connection.  He did have a conversation with Mr. Houghton yesterday as he had a few concerns.  He was willing to let the Building Permit get approved so they could start.  Mr. Dalessio advised they would like to mark on the Building Permit that it is being issued and that the conditions noted on the Alterations of Terrain Permit as well as the conditions of the Fire and EMS have to be met prior to or during construction.  Mr. Mallett said the general contractor will have to follow these conditions.               

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to grant Building Permit #2022-14 for the owner(s) of Map and Lot #012-013-004 with the conditions as stated by the Fire Marshall, the Fire / EMS, Alterations of Terrain Permit and general requirements be met either before or during the construction of the project.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Permit #2022-10 Renewal, MAP and LOT #012-013-004: Ms. Mayberry moved to grant Building Permit #2022-10 Renewal, for the owner(s) of Map and Lot #012-013-004, Abenaki Springs Phase I & II Limited Partners.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer. 

Ms. Mayberry mentioned they had talked about not renewing permits that existed for an extended period of time.  This permit is eight years old.  They need to work on this.  Mrs. Pschirrer noted they did not state when this would happen.  Mr. Dalessio felt they would need to do some research on this one. 

Vote:  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.     

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Accounts Payable Check Register in the total amount of $136,640.85 for checks issued May 6, 2022.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

PAYROLL:

Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Payroll Check Register for the week ending April 30, 2022, in the amount of $28,687.10 dated May 6, 2022, and for the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer in the amount of $6,017.39.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – April 28, 2022:  Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of April 28, 2022, as submitted.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the Minutes were approved.  Mr. Dalessio abstained from this vote as he was not present at this meeting.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – April 28, 2022:  Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of April 28, 2022, as submitted.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the Minutes were approved.  Mr. Dalessio abstained from this vote as he was not present at this meeting.

NOTICE OF INTENT TO EXCAVATE: 

MAP and LOT #014-013-000 & MAP and LOT #015-011-000:  Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Notices of Intent to Excavate for the owner(s) of Map and Lots #014-013-000 on Brewery Road and #015-011-000 on Brewery Road /  Route 123.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

WARRANT FOR GRAVEL TAX LEVY: 

MAP and LOT #014-013-000 & MAP and LOT #015-011-000:  Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Warrant for a Gravel Tax Levy for the owner(s) of Map and Lot #014-013-000 and Map and Lot #015-011-000 in the amount of $4,885.54.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.   

OLD BUSINESS (Continued):

Estimate for Tree Work on Common:  The Selectboard had received an estimate for tree work on the Common from Joe Hartmann for the amount of $14,250.  The Selectboard asked Mrs. Daigle to contact Mr. Hartmann to see if he is available next week to walk the Common with them, possibly next Thursday about 5:00 pm, to discuss what this work would cover.

PENDING FURTHER ACTIONS:

Generators, Wooden Chairs in the Town Hall, Trees on the Common, Walpole Players Posters, Reservoir Dam, Houghton Brook Bridge, Parking Ordinance, Three Phase Power for Industrial Park Drive and Bensonwood:  Mr. Dalessio recommended they delete the Wooden Chairs in the Town Hall as they will be on the Common “For Sale” during the Old Home Days activities and the Walpole Players Posters as they have not come back to discuss this at another meeting.

Houghton Brook Bridge:  Mr. Dalessio reported that this work on the Houghton Brook Bridge stopped until they are able to meet with Mr. Graves for his Right-of-Way.  If he no longer wants to give the Town this Right-of-Way they will have to find an alternative.

NEW BUSINESS:

Approve a Resolution to Open a Bank Account:  Mrs. Pschirrer advised this approval is for a Resolution to open a bank account at Mascoma Bank to handle the electric charging stations on the new parking lot.  The Town Treasurer will have to sign as well as two members of the Selectboard.

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve opening the account with the Mascoma Bank and to authorize Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer as signees.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.   

Revolving Fund Request:  A request was received from Kraig Harlow and the Recreation Committee to use $250 of their revolving fund to purchase materials for new park benches and trash can holders.  Jared Atkin will build and assemble them for his Eagle Scout badge.

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Recreation Committee request to use $250 of their revolving fund to purchase materials for new park benches and trash can holders.  Jared Atkin will build and assemble them for his Eagle Scout badge.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Agenda for Directors Meeting: Mrs. Pschirrer mentioned there are so many things that keep popping up at the Directors Meetings but she thought they should talk about Procedures which is universal for everybody.  They could also review monthly reports.  Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry agreed.

Thank You Letter:  The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of a Thank You letter from the River Valley Seniors at Home for the Town’s donation of $1,500.

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 at 8:02 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting reconvened at 8:04 PM.

ADJOURNMENT:

Ms. Mayberry moved to adjourn this Selectboard meeting.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  Mr. Dalessio asked if there was any additional discussion.  There was none.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 8:05 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

           There is a location change for the Memorial Day  Parade scheduled for Monday May 30th. Line up will be in front on the Unitarian Church. The Fire Dept will line up on Union St. like they have in the past. Line up starts at 10:30 . 

Debbie Pawelczyk and Steve Delassio