The Walpolean

TOWN OF WALPOLE, NEW HAMPSHIRE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

OCTOBER 24, 2024

Selectboard Present:  Cheryl Mayberry, Chair; Steven Dalessio and Carolyn Vose

Staff Present: Jodi Daigle, Administrative Assistant, and Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

Call to Order:  Ms. Mayberry called the Selectboard meeting to order at 6:37 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.

UNANTICIPATED FUNDS DONATION

Following the Public Hearing, Mr. Dalessio moved that the Town of Walpole accept the donation from Pleasant Valley Association Hockey in the amount of $17,995.51 to be used for:

• Financial aid for families in need so that no child is excluded from playing a sport due to financial hardship.
• Purchase of equipment and uniforms as needed for team sports.

Seconded by Ms.  Vose.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Vose and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion passed, and the Town is grateful for the generous donation.  It will be used to ensure all children in Walpole can participate in sports programs.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE

Ms. Vose moved to approve the Accounts Payable Check Register totaling $112,364.99 dated 10/25/2024 including $47,345.35 payment to HealthTrust.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio, and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved. 

PAYROLL

Ms. Vose moved to approve the Payroll Register totaling $32,047.22 dated 10/25/2024 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $6519.69.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio, and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved. 

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES

Selectboard Meeting – October 17, 2024:   Ms. Vose moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of October 17, 2024. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the minutes were approved.

Non-Public Selectboard Session – October 17, 2024:   Ms. Vose moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard meeting of October 17, 2024.  The minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the minutes were approved and sealed.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Ms. Vose brought to the chair’s attention the following committee reports:

• Police Building Committee Meeting – October 16, 2024
• Zoning Board of Adjustment Meeting – October 16, 2024

Ms. Mayberry acknowledged these minutes.

OLD BUSINESS

Pending Further Action:  Parking Policy, Generators, Old North Main and High Street Bridges/Culverts, Houghton Brook Bridge, Reservoir Dam, and ARPA Funding Grants

USDA Grant and ARPA Grant:  Mr. Dalessio is meeting with The Fire Department and USDA and all the associated attorneys tomorrow at 10:00 AM, to create a process for management of the flow of grant funds for the new fire station.  After the meeting, Mr. Dalessio will meet with Mr. Houghton on the ARPA Funding Grants.

Letter to NHDOT District 4:  The First Congregational Church has requested a sign at the junction of Route 12 and South Street.  Mr.  Dalessio moved that the Selectboard endorse the request for a Congregational Church sign at the corner of Route 12 and South Street and that they sign the letter to recommend the sign to the NHDOT District 4.  Seconded by Ms. Vose.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Vose and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved, and the letter was signed.

In-Person Staff Meeting (11/21/2024):  Ms. Mayberry contacted Dr. Gerri King, author of The DUH! Book of Management and Supervision about speaking at the Staff Meeting. Dr. King is booked at the time of the meeting but could be scheduled for a future meeting.  The November 21^st meeting will be used to discuss how budget preparation is going, and especially what warrant articles and future projects they are planning in their departments.

Mr. Hoy is certain Recycling does not need a truck.   They are no longer doing pick-ups, and they rent a truck when one is needed to minimize costs.  A truck for Recycling could be added by the Selectboard later in the budget process if appropriate.

NEW BUSINESS

Encumbrance of Funds Request:  Funds from Warrant Article #3 in the amount of $200,000 are to be used to purchase land for the new Police Station.   When the Warrant Article was written it was not specified that the funds would not lapse so they need to be encumbered.  Mr. Dalessio moved to encumber the $200,000 (purchase order # 242497) for the purchase of the land for the new Police station while the parties finalize the sales agreement.  In addition the encumbrance request was changed to specify Mr. Dalessio as the Chair of the Committee and contact.  Seconded by Ms. Vose.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Vose and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the encumbrance was approved for $200,000 and signed.

Invitation to Bid Flyer and Packet:  By consensus, the Selectboard is good with the $5,000 deposit required for each bid.  The amount is the same as in the past.  Some editing is needed before publishing the flyer – see marked up sample.

Assessing Agreement:  It is time to renew our assessing agreement with Avitar.  After reviewing 1-year and 3-year rates, Mr. Dalessio moved that we sign up for another 1-year agreement with Avitar to continue as our assessor.  Seconded by Ms. Vose.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Vose and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion passed, and the contract was signed.  We should seek other assessors next year.

Donation at the Reuse Center:   As more valuable items are being donated to the Reuse Center, the question is being asked if receipts can be given.  By consensus, a letter/form needs to be created with a description of the donation that is prepared by the Reuse Center, and a place where the donor can enter the value of the item.  The Reuse Center does not determine the value of the item.

Public Notices from the Planning Board:  The Plannning Board will have a hearing for lot line adjustment and subdivision of two properties.  In both cases the Town is an abutter.  One is at Elm Street and Pleasant Street – the Town owns property along Mad Brook.  The other is on Reservoir Road abutting a Town Forest.  By consensus, the Town is not concerned by either.

 However, the Board is concerned about the sloppy notices (one doesn’t describe the initial lot, and in the other the lot size is an acre larger after the transaction) that contain errors and are not even on Town letterhead.  Mr. Dalessio will address the accuracy, proofing and lack of Town letterhead with the Chair of the Planning Board.

NON-PUBLIC BUSINESS RSA 91-A:3 II (c)

Mr. Dalessio moved to enter into Non-Public Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II (c) at 7:23 PM.  Ms. Vose seconded. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Vose and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 8:25 PM.

Mr. Dalessio moved that the Non-Public Session Minutes be sealed. Seconded by Ms. Vose. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Vose and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

Adjournment:  Ms. Mayberry declared the meeting adjourned at 8:25 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

(Note:  These are unapproved Minutes. Corrections will be found in the Minutes of the October 31, 2024 Selectboard meeting.)

Selectboard Present: Cheryl Mayberry, Chair; Steven Dalessio and Carolyn Vose

Staff Present: Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration and Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

Guests Present: Helen Dalbeck and Dale Woodward

Call to Order:  Ms. Mayberry called the Selectboard meeting to order at 6:30 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.

HOOPER TRUSTEES

Ms. Vose moved to enter into the Hooper Trustees meeting at 6:30 PM.  Mr. Dalessio seconded.  With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio, and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved. 

The meeting was reconvened at 7:00 PM.

Ms. Dalbeck left the meeting.  Mr. Woodward arrived.  The following item was moved to the top of the agenda to accommodate a guest.

Congregational Church Sign at Rt. 12 and South Street: Mr. Woodward provided details on the church sign’s location and what the sign will look like. The UCC would like to increase recognition of the Church when people come into town.  The sign is 20” x 30”. It will be on a 2” square metal post that will be 93” high and have a beveled cap.  The sign will be on the north side of South Street.  There is a manhole cover and post above the corner. The sign will be about 10 to 12’ east of the manhole cover to allow for tractor mowing.  The Town will write to NH DOT District 4 to inform them that the sign has been approved by the Selectboard.

Mr. Woodward left the meeting.

PAYROLL

Ms. Vose moved to approve the Payroll Register totaling $31,006.49 dated 10/18/2024 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $6,274.37.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio, and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved. 

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES

Selectboard Meeting – October 10, 2024: Ms. Vose moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of October 10, 2024. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

Non-Public Selectboard Meeting – October 10, 2024:   Ms. Vose moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard session of October 10, 2024.  The minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved and the minutes remain sealed.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Ms. Vose brought to the chair’s attention the following committee reports:

• Walpole Fire District Monthly Meeting – August 7, 2024
• Walpole Fire District Monthly Meeting – September 4, 2024
• Conservation Commission Meeting – October 7, 2024
• Planning Board Meeting – October 8, 2024

Ms. Mayberry acknowledged these minutes.

TIMBER TAX WARRANT AND CERTIFICATION OF YIELD TAXES ASSESSED

Op # 24-461-03, Map and Lot # 011-039-004: Ms. Vose moved to approve the timber taxes assessed and timber warrant for $670.55.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved, and both forms were signed.

BUILDING PERMIT

2024-35, Map and Lot# 010-033-001: Ms. Vose moved to approve Building Permit #2024-35 for Map and Lot # 010-033-001 to construct a 14’ x 33’ living room and sunroom addition. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Vose and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS

Pending Further Action: Parking Policy, Generators, Old North Main and High Street Bridges/Culverts, Houghton Brook Bridge, and ARPA Funding Grants

Reservoir Dam Grant Reimbursement Form: Ms. Mayberry moved that the Town accept the grant reimbursement for $9,077.98 and that Mr. Dalessio sign the form.  Seconded by Ms. Vose.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the grant reimbursement was accepted, and Mr. Dalessio signed the form. 

Draft Purchase and Sale Agreement for New Police Station Land: Mr. Dalessio felt there are too many blanks in this draft.  The Police Station Building Committee is sending it back to the seller. They will handle getting the contract ready.  Mr. Dalessio stated that before the sale can take place, the parcel needs to be sub-divided.  Therefore, the sale probably will not happen this year.

NEW BUSINESS

Appointment Notices to the Recreation Committee: Marilou Blaine and Laurie Harrinton are up for appointment.  This item was tabled.

Purchase Order #242495 for Desktop Computers:   The Town will purchase three desktop computers with monitors for the Selectboard Office and Recycling Center along with a monitor for Town Clerk’s computer. The total cost is $4,150.30.  Ms. Vose moved for we purchase three computers and four monitors plus project fees for a total cost of $4,150.30.  Mr. Dalessio seconded the motion.  With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio, and Ms. Mayberry in favor the motion passed, and purchase order #242495 was signed.

HealthTrust Benefits Renewal Package and Transmittal: There was a 7.4% rate increase.  The Board felt this was a reasonable rate increase. Mr. Dalessio moved that the Chair sign the HealthTrust Transmittal.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Vose and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion passed, and Ms. Mayberry signed the Transmittal.   Mr. Dalessio explained that the Town’s health insurance is pooled with other towns to minimize risk and get better rates.

Two Important School District Dates:   Mr. Dalessio pointed out that there are two important dates:

• October 26 from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the District Offices there will be a workshop for the School Board on the Articles of Agreement.  
• October 28^th at 5:30 PM there will be a School Board meeting in the FMRHS Library to review a draft of the 2025 budget.

ELF Article: The Keene Sentinel ELF publication included an article about Julie Rios of the Bridge Memorial Library.  Ms. Vose explained that Julie was recognized in the ELF for the “Children’s Librarians” program. Children chosen to be librarians put together a display of their choice and serve as junior librarians.  The Selectboard recognizes Mrs. Rios and thanked her for her outstanding service to the children of Walpole.

In-person Staff Meeting on November 21, 2024: Ms. Mayberry will contact Dr. Gerri King, author of The DUH! Book of Management and Supervision to see if she is available.

Recreation Gift: A town resident would like to make a donation to the Town to be used for funding families in need to ensure that everyone can participate in Rec programs and use the Recreation facilities.  There will be a public hearing next week at the Selectboard meeting to determine whether the gift will be accepted.  The Board will determine the best way to manage the funds in NH PDIP.

NON-PUBLIC BUSINESS RSA 91-A:3 II (c)

Ms. Vose moved to enter into Non-Public Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II (c) at 8:07 PM.  Mr. Dalessio seconded. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 8:26 PM. Mr. Dalessio moved that the Non-Public Session Minutes be sealed. Seconded by Ms. Vose. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Vose and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

Adjournment: Ms. Mayberry declared the meeting adjourned at 8:26 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

(Note: These are unapproved Minutes. Corrections will be found in the Minutes of the October 24, 2024 Selectboard meeting.)

Selectboard Present:  Cheryl Mayberry, Chair; Steven Dalessio and Carolyn Vose

Staff Present: Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration, and Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

Guests Present:  Peggy Pschirrer, Paul Looney, Ernie Vose, and Wendy Pelletier

Call to Order:  Ms. Mayberry called the Selectboard meeting to order at 6:31 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.

HOOPER TRUSTEES

Mr.  Dalessio moved to enter into the Hooper Trustees meeting at 6:32 PM.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Vose and Ms.  Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.   

The meeting was reconvened at 6:38 PM.

To accommodate guests wishing to speak to items on the agenda, the Old and New Business were done next.

OLD BUSINESS

Pending Further Action: Parking Policy, Generators, Old North Main and High Street Bridges/Culverts, Houghton Brook Bridge, UCC sign at Rt 12 & South Street

Whipple Hill Road:  Wendy Pelletier of Cardinal Surveying requested that 410 feet of Class VI Road become Class V on Whipple Hill Road.  Her clients would like to subdivide an acre and a half with 200-foot frontage. Extending the Class V Road would eliminate several issues.  Mr. Dalessio explained that to upgrade the road, RSA’s must be followed. This includes adding a warrant article that documents the cost of the road upgrades.  The best way to request a warrant article is a petition signed by twenty-five Walpole registered voters.  There will be a hearing with the rest of the warrant articles.  There will be a betterment assessment on all property owners on the improved section of road. Impacted landowners can prevent the improvements from happening.  Also there needs to be a turnaround for the plow truck. Mr. Vose commented that It would be unreasonable to expect that big truck with the wing and plow to back up that hill.  The Selectboard Office needs the petition by mid-January. Receiving the petition earlier is much better.

Ms. Pelletier left the meeting.

CPNH Renewable Energy Credit Sale and Purchase Agreement:  Paul Looney explained the new contract is not complete.  In order to get the $6,000 refund that the Town is owed, Mr. Looney sent a letter saying Walpole is working with CPCNH.  The contract is still being worked on, but it will be 1-year, renewable and pay at a rate of $35/credit.  The Power Committee is tracking energy generation at the Recycling Center.  Currently half the power goes to Recycling and half to Town Hall.  Mr. Looney will create a budget for the Recycling Center and Town Hall electricity for 2025.  Mr. Dalessio commented that an EV charger may need to be repaired at the Town parking lot. Additionally, the breakeven rate needs to be determined.  Currently there are two charging online location applications reporting that one charger is active and the other is offline.

Ms.  Pschirrer and Mr. Looney left the meeting.

Reservoir Dam Grant Reimbursement Forms:  Ms. Mayberry moved that Mr. Dalessio sign the three reimbursement forms for the Reservoir Dam Grant.  Seconded by Ms. Vose.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion passed, and the three forms were signed. 

Great River Hydro Pilot Request: This request revisited a request from last year.  Because the assessments are set for the 2024 tax year, there is nothing that can be done for almost a year. Mr. Dalessio stated at this point we do not have tax rates or any other information that is needed.  There is nothing that can be done until 2025.  Mrs. Downing will send feedback to Great River Hydro.

Reservoir Dam: Mr. Dalessio stated there would be a design review with DES in a couple of weeks.  Once that is complete, the Town can start the work.  The dam needs to be thicker, and the spillway needs to be wider. 

ARP Grant Funding:   Mr. Dalessio will be meeting with Mark Houghton to work out the contracts for water-sewer projects.  The contracts need to be signed this year to encumber the ARPA Grant funds into next year.

NEW BUSINESS

Zoning Coordinator:  Mr. Vose attended to discuss his thoughts about the position.  It has been easy so far.  His concern is with all the changes being discussed and what they will mean for this position.  Currently Mr. Vose has an advisory position. He looks at what inquirers want to do and helps them know how to do it following the rules.  Mr. Dalessio felt it was not clear when the changes might happen.  Mr. Vose will continue with the job as it is.  If it changes, he will talk to the Board again.

Mr. Vose left the meeting.

Encumbrance for Vent Hood: Mrs. Downing reported that the vent hood repair may not be able to happen this year. However, there is a contract with EE Houghton and the funding had been approved in 2024.  Mr. Dalessio moved to encumber the vent hood repairs in the Town Hall kitchen.  Seconded by Ms. Vose.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Vose and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion passed, and the kitchen vent hood repair funding was encumbered.

The Board complimented Mrs. Downing on an excellent letter containing all the necessary information.  Ms. Mayberry will send it as an example to all the department managers with a reminder they need to encumber funds for projects that will not be completed this year.

Engagement Letter re: AccuFund Support:   A cover letter from Mr. Kreissle and the Brisbane Consulting agreement form were sent to the Board.  Clarity is needed regarding the rate range of$150 – $275 per hour.  Mr. Kreissle is asked to give Brisbane Consulting the existing insurance issue, ask how they would fix it and the cost.  Since more information is needed, the item is tabled until next week.

Ruggerio Processing Facility – Building Permits:  Mrs. Downing reported that there is no permit on file for the pole barn or for the office trailer.  The trailer did not receive a fine.  The Town fined the owner for building the barn without a building permit.  The Selectboard agreed that to make the records complete, a building permit for the pole barn was needed. Mr. Dalessio commented that the property owner said they were not adding a trailer or scale and were only doing site work during Covid. However, both structures have since appeared.  There was a consensus by the Selectboard to clear up the building permits for the existing scale and trailer.  There is a new owner of the business who must pay for the past.  The fine for the lack of a building permit for the office trailer is $1,000.  Mrs. Downing will write a letter explaining the need for the building permits and the fine.   Once it is taken care of, the Town can start working with the new owner of the facility who appears to be cooperative.

Building Permit Forms: Adding language that site prep cannot begin until the building permit is approved to building permit forms was agreed upon by the Selectboard.  Generally, people comply voluntarily, but the form needs clarification.  Mrs. Downing will change the building permit forms to include language that no site preparation is permitted until the Selectboard has approved the building permit.

Political and Other Signage on Town Property:   A verbal and written complaint was received about a negative sign at the junction of North Road, Old Drewsville Road, and Old North Main.   The Selectboard agreed by consensus that no signs are permitted on Town property.  All signs (political and commercial) will be removed from Town property. Signage will be stored at the Police Station for the owners to retrieve.

CPCNH Meeting Notice: The next meeting will be in a hybrid format on October 25, 2024, and will start at 8:00 AM. The Selectboard is to RSVP via Survey Monkey to attend.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE

Ms. Vose moved to approve Accounts Payable totaling $1,109,535.73 dated 10/11/2024.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.  This included a $403,089.15 payment to Bazin Brothers for paving and a monthly $581,631.87 monthly payment to the Fall Mountain Regional School District. The Selectboard requested that the Highway Department send estimates with invoices. Purchase orders need to refer to the budget line item.  There were quotes for the Highway Department before the paving project started. Mr. Dalessio will request them.

PAYROLL

Ms. Vose moved to approve the Payroll Register totaling $31,093.73 dated 10/11/2024and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $6,285.65.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio, and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved. 

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES

Selectboard Meeting – October 2, 2024:  Ms. Vose moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of October 2, 2024.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the minutes were approved.

Non-Public Selectboard Meeting – October 2, 2024:   Ms. Vose moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard meeting of October 2, 2024.  The minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the minutes were approved and are sealed.

ABATEMENTS

Map and Lot # 019-039-000: An internal and external inspection of the property occurred.  Additional edits were applied to the property card.  Ms. Vose moved to approve the abatement for Map and Lot # 019-039-000 for $643.21.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

SOLAR ENERGY EXEMPTION

Map and Lot # 005-002-003: The exemption form had been pending.  New construction updates in the assessing program have now been completed.  Now the solar system is recorded on the tax card and can be exempted from property taxes.  Ms. Vose moved to approve the solar energy exemption for Map and Lot # 005-002-003.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

BUILDING PERMITS

2024-33, Map and Lot# 011-036-000:  Ms. Vose moved to approve Building Permit #2024-33 for Map and Lot # 011-036-000 to construct a 44’ x 24’ two story home.  The prior home was demolished in 2016. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

2024-34, Map and Lot# 014-011-000: Ms. Vose moved to approve Building Permit #2024-34 for Map and Lot # 014-011-000 to construct a 45’ x 40’ one and half story home.  The prior home was destroyed by fire.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

NON-PUBLIC BUSINESS RSA 91-A:3 II (a)

Ms. Vose moved to enter into Non-Public Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II (a) at 8:06 PM.  Mr. Dalessio seconded. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 8:31 PM.

Mr. Dalessio moved that the Non-Public Session Minutes be sealed. Seconded by Ms. Vose. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Vose and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

Adjournment: Ms. Mayberry declared the meeting adjourned at 8:31 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

(Note:  These are unapproved Minutes. Corrections will be found in the Minutes of the October 17, 2024 Selectboard meeting.)

TOWN OF WALPOLE, NEW HAMPSHIRE
MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

OCTOBER 2, 2024

Selectboard Present: Cheryl Mayberry, Chair; Steven Dalessio and Carolyn Vose

Staff Present: Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration, and Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

Call to Order: Ms. Mayberry called the Selectboard meeting to order at 6:30 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.

PAYROLL

Ms. Vose moved to approve the Payroll Register totaling $34,034.77 dated 10/4/2024 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $6,830.75. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio, and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES

Selectboard Meeting – September 26, 2024: Ms. Vose moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of September 26, 2024. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the minutes were approved.

Non-Public Selectboard Session – September 26, 2024: Ms. Vose moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard meeting of September 26, 2024. The minutes will remain sealed. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the minutes were approved, and the minutes are sealed.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Ms. Vose brought to the chair’s attention the following committee reports:

• Planning Board and Zoning Board Joint Workshop – September 24, 2024
• Cemetery Trustees Meeting – September 26, 2024

Ms. Mayberry acknowledged these minutes.

TIMBER INTENTS

Map and Lot # 013-059-000: Ms. Vose moved to approve the intent to harvest timber for Map and Lot # 013-059-000. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the timber intent was approved.

BUILDING PERMIT

2024-31, Map and Lot# 003-076-001: Ms. Vose moved to approve Building Permit #2024-31 for Map and Lot # 003-076-001 to construct a 26’ x 26’ garage. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the building permit was approved.

2024-32, Map and Lot# 003-076-000: Ms. Vose moved to approve Building Permit #2024-32 for Map and Lot #003-076-000 to construct a26’ x 26’ garage. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the building permit was approved.

OLD BUSINESS

Pending Further Action: Parking Policy, Generators, Old North Main and High Street Bridges/Culverts, Houghton Brook Bridge, Reservoir Dam, ARPA Funding Grants, UCC Sign at Rt 12/South Street

Reservoir Dam: We received an update and forwarded it to Steve Doyon at the Dam Bureau.

Letter to Walpole Players: A letter was drafted as requested at a prior meeting. Ms. Downing will confirm that we have their current insurance. Ms. Vose moved the Selectboard approve the letter and sign it. The letter requests the Players no longer practice on Thursday evening starting January 1, 2025, because the overhead noise makes it difficult for the Selectboard to meet. Mr. Dalessio seconded. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion passed, and the letter was signed.

2nd Political Sign Complaint: Another complaint was received about 27 Main Street’s large banner. We need to respond as with the last complaint: the Selectboard has no governance over political signs during election season.

November 20th Informational Meeting – Zoom Option Request: There was a request that Zoom be offered at the November 20th Informational Meeting. The Town doesn’t have all the equipment to Zoom a large meeting. However, we will do our best or we might need to record it and put it on the walpolenh.us website.

Vendor Review Request: The request is for work completed on the west side of Town Hall. Ms. Downing has permission to put a positive review online for the work on the west side of Town Hall.

NEW BUSINESS

Drinking Water Sustainability Grant Reimbursement: Mr. Dalessio needs to sign the reimbursement for $9,829.32. Ms. Mayberry moved we approve the reimbursement and that Mr. Dalessio sign the form. Ms. Vose seconded. With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the reimbursement was approved, and Mr. Dalessio signed the form.

Request to Use Whitcome Rec Area Parking Lot: The request is for the Walpole Elementary School’s Fall Festival and Touch a Truck. This request is consistent with prior agreements and is not inconvenient for the Rec Area. By consensus, use of the parking lot was approved.

WES Halloween Parade and the Bridge at Elm and Main: Can the students and staff cross the closed bridge? The students and staff can cross the bridge during the Halloween Parade as long as the students and staff go behind (on the work side of) the barriers, not on the traffic side.

Tractor Supply Parking Lot Event: Is a permit needed? The vendor is seeking a confirmation of no permit needed. No permit is needed. Ms. Downing will send an email to the vendor.

Adding a Civic Group to Town Hall No-Fee Listing: Can the Hooper Hill Hoppers Snowmobile Club be added to the “no fee” list to use the Town Hall? The Hooper Hill Hoppers can be added to the list for free use of Town Hall. Reminder: If they plan to have alcohol at the Christmas Party, they need to be sure their insurance covers alcohol use.

NON-PUBLIC BUSINESS RSA 91-A:3 II (c)

Ms. Vose moved to enter into Non-Public Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II (c) at 7:02 PM. Mr. Dalessio seconded. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 7:14 PM.

Mr. Dalessio moved that the Non-Public Session Minutes be sealed. Seconded by Ms. Vose. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Vose and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

Adjournment: Ms. Mayberry declared the meeting adjourned at 7:14 PM.

Respectfully submitted,
Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

(Note: These are unapproved Minutes. Corrections will be found in the Minutes of the October
10, 2024 Selectboard meeting.)

TOWN OF WALPOLE, NEW HAMPSHIRE
MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD
SEPTEMBER 26, 2024

Selectboard Present: Cheryl Mayberry, Chair; Steven Dalessio and Carolyn Vose

Staff Present: Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration, and Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

Guests Present: Peggy Pschirrer, Andrew Dey and David Chioffi

Call to Order: Ms. Mayberry called the Selectboard meeting to order at 6:30 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.

The following item from NEW BUSINESS was moved to the top of the agenda to accommodate a
guest.

Utility Poles on the Common: David Chioffi attended because he has questions. What is timeline of moving the remaining lines from the old to the new poles and removing the old poles? The remaining lines need to be transferred to the new poles from the top down. Mrs. Downing is addressing the issue. The top tier has been moved which is the electric line from Liberty Utilities. The second line may be First Light, a commercial fiber service. The third line is Comcast Cable. The last, bottom line is Consolidated Communications (CCI). Each utility will notify the following company when their work is complete. CCI, formerly FairPoint, owns the poles. Mrs. Downing will move the process along. Mr. Chioffi volunteered to help make phone calls to the utilities.

HOOPER TRUSTEES

Mr. Dalessio moved to enter into the Hooper Trustees meeting at 6:42 PM. Ms. Vose seconded. With Mr. Dalessio, and Ms. Vose and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 7:25 PM.

Ms. Pschirrer, Mr. Dey, and Mr. Chioffi left the meeting.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE

Ms. Vose moved to approve Accounts Payable totaling $689,852.31 dated 9/27/2024. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved. This included a $581,631.87 payment to Fall Mountain Regional School District.

Starting in November, payments will be available the first week of the month, not early. Ms. Mayberry will discuss the change with Mr. Kreissle

PAYROLL

Ms. Vose moved to approve the Payroll Register totaling $31,650.32 dated 9/27/2024 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $6,430.12. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio, and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES

Public Informational Meeting – September 19, 2024: Ms. Vose moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of September 19, 2024. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

Selectboard Meeting – September 19, 2024: Ms. Vose moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of September 19, 2024. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

Non-Public Selectboard Meeting – September 19, 2024: Ms. Vose moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard meeting of September 19, 2024. The minutes will remain sealed. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved and the minutes are sealed.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Ms. Vose brought to the chair’s attention the following committee reports:

• Trail Committee Meeting – February 2, 2024
• Trail Committee Meeting – March 13, 2024
• Trail Committee Meeting – April 10, 2024
• Trail Committee Meeting – May 8, 2024
• Trail Committee Meeting – June 12, 2024
• Trail Committee Meeting – July 10, 2024
• Trail Committee Meeting – August 14, 2024
• Police Building Committee Meeting – September 5, 2024
• Library Trustees Meeting – September 17, 2024
• Zoning Board of Adjustment Meeting – September 18, 2024

Ms. Mayberry acknowledged these minutes.

OLD BUSINESS

Pending Further Action: Parking Policy, Generators, Old North Main and High Street Bridges/Culverts, Houghton Brook Bridge, and Reservoir Dam

New Trees on the Common: Thank you to Peter Palmiotto and his team for quickly getting trees and getting them planted. Great Job! Also, thanks to Brad Nash for setting up the automatic watering.

NEW BUSINESS

Refund Request to the Trustees of Trust Funds: The work on the west side of Town Hall is complete. The transfer amount was $19,765. Mr. Dalessio made a motion to direct the Town Facilities Maintenance Fund be used to pay $19,765. for the repairs on the Town Hall.

Seconded by Ms. Vose. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Vose and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion passed.

HealthTrust Medicare Advantage with Prescription Drug Plan Package: HealthTrust has updated their retiree medical package. Currently, there are no Town employees that participate in age 65+ plans. Mr. Dalessio moved to have the Chair sign the agreement. It would only take effect if someone retires and uses the program. Ms. Vose seconded. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Vose and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion passed, and the agreement was signed by Ms. Mayberry.

Appointment Notice for Conservation Commission: Mr. Dalessio made a motion to accept Paul Happ as an Alternate member of the Conservation Commission. Ms. Vose seconded. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Vose and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion passed and Paul Happ is now an Alternate Member on the Commission.

Inspection Notice and OMR for Knapp Cranberry Meadow Dam: The notice will be sent to John Peska who has been trying to get the dam repaired but cannot get a contractor. If Mr. Peska needs anything, he should let the Selectboard Office know.

Emergency Vehicle Weight Limits on Bridges: Signage is to be added by the State. The notice was sent to the Fire Chief and Highway Department. Mr. Dalessio said that the State is posting the signs, but the Town is responsible for the signs once installed.

Primex Workplace Injury Notice: Ms. Mayberry noted that In cases of death or severe injury of an employee while working, there are shorter notification times to Primex and the State DOL.

SWRPC Fall 2024 Meeting Invitation: The meeting will be October 8th and starts at 5:30. The topic is building a brighter housing future. Ms. Mayberry will be there.

Political Signage Complaint: There was a complaint about a sign at 27 Main Street. Political signs during the political season are exempt from regulation due to Freedom of Speech protections. Ms. Mayberry responded to the person who complained and explained the laws.

Tanker Cars near Route 12: A Harrisville resident had safety questions for our environmental officer, which we do not have. There item defaulted to the Selectboard. The inquirer asked, what is the condition of the tank cars and the contents? We have emergency plans, but the cars are on railroad property and the Town has no governance over railroad property. Mrs. Downing will respond and include the phone number for Green Mountain Railroad.

NON-PUBLIC BUSINESS RSA 91-A:3 II (a) (c)

Ms. Vose moved to enter into Non-Public Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II (a) (c) at 7:59 PM. Mr. Dalessio seconded. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 8:31 PM.

Mr. Dalessio moved that the Non-Public Session Minutes be sealed. Seconded by Ms. Vose. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Vose and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

Adjournment: Ms. Mayberry declared the meeting adjourned at 8:31 PM.

Respectfully submitted,
Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

(Note: These are unapproved Minutes. Corrections will be found in the Minutes of the October 2, 2024 Selectboard meeting.)