The Walpolean

 TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

November 13, 2024

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

Staff Present: Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration

Guests Present: Peggy Pschirrer, Paul Looney and Toni McDougle

CALL TO ORDER: Ms. Mayberry called the Selectboard meeting to order at 6:30 PM in the Walpole Town Hall. She introduced herself, Cheryl Mayberry, Selectboard Chair, Steve Dalessio and Carolyn Vose and Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration

CPCNH REC AGREEMENT: The Chair recognized Paul Looney, the Chair of the Walpole Community Power Committee. Mr. Looney explained that the contract the Selectboard was reviewing was similar to the prior contract with a different vendor. The Renewable Energy Credit (REC) contract with CPCNH would be for one year, will auto-renew and offer $35 per REC. Mr. Dalessio asked what the next step would be for the Town. Mr. Looney replied there should not be a need to do anything. Mr. Looney explained how the credits will be recorded and used by CPCNH. The proceeds from the sale of the RECs will offset the purchase price of the solar energy system. Mr. Looney reported that a State refund of $6,000 had been received. Two additional reimbursement grants are being applied for, as planned per the warrant article.

Mr. Dalessio moved to approve that the Chair sign the CPCNH REC Purchase and Sale Agreement for 2024 and 2025.  Seconded by Ms. Vose. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Vose, and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Looney departed the meeting.

HOOPER TRUSTEES:  

Mr. Dalessio moved to enter into the Hooper Trustees meeting at 6:44 PM. Ms. Vose. With Mr. Dalesio, Ms. Vose and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved. 

The meeting was reconvened at 7:01 PM. Mrs. Pschirrer departed the meeting.

RECREATION COMMITTEE: Toni McDougle understood that the Recreation Committee had been dissolved. Ms. Vose explained that going forward, the Recreation Director, Kaian Richards-Wilkes, will have support from a collection of volunteers with different backgrounds, ages and interests. The Recreation Director is developing a master plan for the Whitcomb Recreation Area that will allow space for multiple purposes. Ms. Vose recommended that Ms. McDougle speak with Mr. Richards-Wilkes. Ms. McDougle asked if Ms. Mayberry could assist with finding grants for improving the pickleball courts. Ms. Mayberry thought there were several private and government funded grants available for improving recreation facilities. There was a discussion about a petition warrant article related to pickleball courts. Ms. Mayberry confirmed that the Selectboard decides upon funding sources for articles. Mr. Dalessio put forth the idea of a warrant article using money from grants and/or donations with a portion being Town funded.

Ms. McDougle departed the meeting.

PAYROLL:

Ms. Vose moved to approve the Payroll Register totaling $34,540.37 dated 11/15/24 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $6,675.85.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio, and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved. 

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – November 6, 2024:   Ms. Vose moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of November 6, 2024. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD NON-PUBLIC SESSION – November 6, 2024: Ms. Vose moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard Non-Public Session of November 6, 2024. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

• Walpole Recreation Committee Minutes (approved) – August 19, 2024
• Walpole Recreation Committee Minutes (unapproved) – September 11, 2024
• Walpole Recreation Committee Minutes (unapproved) – October 14, 2024

OLD BUSINESS: 

ARPA Grant Funding: Mr. Dalessio reported that the cost for propane generators for the 3 sewer pump stations should be determined this week. Mr. Dalessio confirmed with Ms. Mayberry that this is a reimbursement grant. Once the contract is signed, the generators will be ordered.

Dog Complaint: Ms. Mayberry stated Officer Merkle is following up about the loose dogs on High Street. The Police Department cannot pre-emptively act regarding potential dog bites. Charges must be made for action to be taken.

2024 Tax Rate: Ms. Mayberry will contact the North Walpole Commissioners to find out how they are progressing with their MS-434 and MS-535 forms. Mr. Kreissle is working with the auditors to complete the Town’s MS-535. The Selectboard agreed that the tax rate setting will continue to be delayed.

NEW BUSINESS:

Recreation Revolving Fund Request: Ms. Vose moved to approve PO# 204574 for $1,499 to Bull Dog Design for basketball jerseys. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio, and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved. Ms. Mayberry asked if sponsors would be reimbursing the cost of the jerseys. Ms. Vose confirmed this would happen.

Request to the Trustees of Trust Funds: Ms. Vose moved to accept the reimbursement request to the Trustees of Trust Funds in the amount of $4,425 from the Fanny Mason Fund for timber harvesting planning and preparation. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

Camping Complaint for Fanny Mason Rest Area: Mr. Dalessio stated he had spoken with Police Chief Sanctuary regarding the issue. The people living in the motor home had lost their housing and were looking for a new living situation in the area. The Selectboard Office received a citizen complaint about the unhealthy impact of the motor home on the rest area. The NH DOT alerted the Town that “No Camping” signs would be installed soon. The request had been made earlier to the DOT by an unknown party.

Tree Lighting on the Drewsville Common: The event is scheduled for Sunday, December 1^st. Mr. Dalessio confirmed that the start time will be 4:30 PM. Santa will arrive in a horse drawn wagon.

Thanksgiving Selectboard Meeting: The Selectboard agreed by consensus not to meet Thanksgiving week. Mrs. Downing was given authorization to sign the Town’s weekly payroll.

Staff Meeting: There will be an in-person Staff Meeting on Nov. 21^st. Mr. Dalessio would like department managers to speak about special requests, changes and projects in each department’s budget.

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

Mr. Dalessio moved to enter into Non-Public Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II (a) (c) at 8:01 PM. Ms. Vose seconded. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Vose and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved. 

The meeting was reconvened at 8:39 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.

HOOPER TRUSTEES:  

Mr. Dalessio moved to reconvene the Hooper Trustees meeting at 8:40 PM. Ms. Vose seconded. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Vose and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved. 

The Selectboard meeting was reconvened at 9:07 PM.

ADJOURNMENT:

Ms. Mayberry declared the meeting adjourned at 9:08 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Sarah Downing, Recording Secretary Pro Tempore

(Note: These are unapproved Minutes. Corrections will be found in the Minutes of the November 21, 2024, Selectboard meeting.)

TOWN OF WALPOLE, NEW HAMPSHIRE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

NOVEMBER 6, 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 and Paul Looney

Call to Order: Mr. Dalessio called the Selectboard meeting to order at 7:00 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.

Town Properties and CPCNH: Mr. Looney, on behalf of the Community Power Committee, requested the Town’s source of electricity be moved to CPCNH. The Town’s contract with Constellation Energy ends in mid-November.  CPCNH can offer us a rate of $0.086 for the remainder of the year, which is better than the quote from Constellation Energy.  Next year CPCNH will have a one-year rate of $0.089, part of which goes into the reserves.  It is expected that two waves of towns/cities will be joining CPCNH in 2025. Therefore, rates will continue to be low for everyone.   Constellation Energy has a rate of $0.0945 for a one-year contract. The Community Power Committee recommended that the Town go with the $0.086 contract for the rest of the year.  Mr. Dalessio moved to approve moving the Town’s electricity supplier from Constellation Energy to CPCNH with a rate of $0.086 until 12/31/2024.  Ms. Vose seconded the motion.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Vose and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved, and the Town will switch to CPCNH as the Town’s electricity supplier.

Mr. Looney reported that the updated contract to sell solar electricity credits arrived today, just before the meeting. It has not been reviewed.  Mr. Looney and Mrs. Pschirrer will be back with the contract next week.

Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Looney left the meeting.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE

Ms. Vose moved to approve the Accounts Payable Check Register totaling $135,027.92 dated 11/08/2024 including $70,082.76 payment to the Village of Bellows Falls for the third quarter sewer usage and bond.  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 $31,447.57 dated 11/08/2024 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $6,332.34.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio, and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the payroll register was approved. 

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES

Selectboard Meeting – October 31, 2024:  Ms. Vose moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of October 31, 2024. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the minutes were approved.

Non-Public Selectboard Meeting – October 31, 2024:  Ms. Vose moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard meeting of October 31, 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:

• Library Trustees Meeting Minutes – October 8, 2024
• Joint Planning Board and Zoning Board of Adjustment Meeting – October 22, 2024

Ms. Mayberry acknowledged these minutes.

BUILDING PERMIT

2024-36, Map and Lot# 011-001-001: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve Building Permit #2024-36 for Map and Lot # 011-001-001 to construct a 38’ x 12’ overhang roof to a garage. Seconded by Ms. Vose. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Vose and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the Building Permit 2024-36 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

Police Station Land Purchase Deposit: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve Purchase Order #201256 to make a $10,000 deposit on the land for the Police Station and the cover letter.  Mr. Dalessio seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio, and Ms.  Vose in favor, the motion passed, and the purchase order and cover letter were signed.

Reservoir Dam Update: Mr. Dalessio reported that NH DES has reached out Fuss & O’Neill.  The DES are nervous about the completion of the contract. The Dam Bureau is contacting Fuss and O’Neill directly to make sure the latest guidelines are followed.  This will ensure that the planning is done correctly.

Petition Warrant Article: There is a question about appropriations being requested within a petition warrant article for pickleball courts.  Per research conducted, only the Selectboard can decide upon funding. Given this information, if a warrant article passes that states where funding will come from, it will not necessarily happen. 

Invitation to Bid: Four properties have been tax-deeded and will be going up for sale by sealed bid on December 4, 2024. The pamphlet has been updated.  Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the invitation to bid on tax-deeded properties.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Vose and Ms. Mayberry in favor the invitation to bid was approved, and the letter was signed.

NEW BUSINESS

Facility Agreement for North Walpole Polling Area:  A form was received from St. Peter’s Catholic Church, which is used for the North Walpole polling area on November 6, 2024, and the Town Election Day on March 11, 2025.  Their insurance vendor also requests a Certificate of Liability.  Mr. Dalessio moved the Town continue to use St. Peter’s Church for voting, complete the form, and provide the Certificate of Liability.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Vose and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion passed, and Ms. Mayberry signed the form. Mrs. Downing will send the Certificate of Liability with the form to All Saints Parish.

Recreation Committee Letter: Ms. Vose moved to accept the letter to the Recreation Committee members.  Mr. Dalessio seconded.  With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the letter was accepted and signed.  Mrs. Downing will email the letter to the committee members.

Payroll Service: Mr. Kreissle sent an email to the Selectboard requesting the Town hire a payroll service. Mr. Kreissle and Mrs. Daigle are having trouble entering benefit time and Colonial Life deductions.  They have a work-around, but it is very clumsy and produces incorrect information on paycheck stubs. There is also an issue with water and sewer invoices.  If the owner has multiple properties and has a credit on one, the credit shows on all the properties. Mrs. Daigle must create manual invoices for these accounts.  AccuFund is not supportive in getting the issues resolved.  The Selectboard agreed by consensus to keep using workarounds until a better financial software system can be found.  The research on possible systems is not yet complete and will take some time.

Ms. Mayberry added that because of the incorrect benefit time printed on payroll stubs, Mrs. Clough in the Police Department is asking for a monthly payroll report with the correct information.  Ms. Mayberry felt this request was reasonable, and Mr. Kreissle needs to send the reports monthly.  A decision on this item is postponed while research on potential alternative systems continues.

Thanksgiving Feast Invitation: The Selectboard and Town Hall Office Staff have been invited to the Thanksgiving Feast at the Walpole School.  The Selectboard Office staff are planning to attend.  Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose have prior commitments.  Mr. Dalessio is uncertain whether he will be able to attend.

HOOPER TRUSTEES

Ms. Mayberry moved to enter into the Hooper Trustees meeting at 8:05 PM.  Mr. Dalessio seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio, and Ms.  Vose in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 8:26 PM.

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

Mr. Dalessio moved to enter into Non-Public Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II (a)(c) at 8:26 PM.  Ms. Vose seconded. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Vose and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 8:43 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.

Ms. Mayberry felt that Election Day went very well because of the hard work and professionalism of everyone involved.  The other Selectboard members agreed with Ms. Mayberry. The Selectboard wished to thank everyone involved: the Supervisors of the Checklist, all the volunteers and paid workers, the Walpole Community Grange and everyone who participated in any way.  Thank you!! 

Adjournment: Ms. Mayberry declared the meeting adjourned at 8:45 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

(Note: These are unapproved Minutes. Corrections will be found in the Minutes of the November 14, 2024 Selectboard meeting.)

TOWN OF WALPOLE, NEW HAMPSHIRE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

OCTOBER 31, 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:  Wes Vickers

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

Boulders at Primary School: Wes Vickers stated the boulders are in place next to the access road down to Primary School.  There will be a gate for the Fire Department and EMS vehicles when they need access to the field.  The school’s fence on the other side of the field, next to the Recreation area, is falling.  Mr. Vickers said it needs to be removed, and boulders put along that area. The Selectboard told Mr. Vickers that the fence is owned by the school.  The Selectboard was agreeable to the fence being removed and boulders added.

Mr. Vickers left the meeting.

PAYROLL

Ms. Vose moved to approve the Payroll Register totaling $32,214.11 dated 11/1/2024 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $6,513.72.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio, and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved. 

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES

Selectboard Meeting – October 24, 2024:  Ms. Vose moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of October 24, 2024. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the minutes were approved.

Non-Public Selectboard Meeting – October 24, 2024:   Ms. Vose moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard meeting of October 24, 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.

Public Hearing – October 24, 2024:   Ms. Vose moved to approve the Minutes of the Public Hearing of October 24, 2024. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the minutes were approved.

WATER AND SEWER WARRANTS

Walpole Water Fees: Ms. Vose moved to approve the warrant for Walpole Water Fees for $53,814.27.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the warrant was approved.

Walpole Sewer Fees:  Ms. Vose moved to approve the warrant for Walpole Sewer Fees totaling $80,000.05.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the warrant was approved.

North Walpole Sewer Fees:  Ms. Vose moved to approve the warrant for North Walpole Sewer Fees for $60,848.58.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the warrant was approved.

OLD BUSINESS

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

Reservoir Dam Update: Mr. Dalessio reported that Fuss and O’Neill have agreed to provide regular updates about the Reservoir Dam project as required by DES.  These meetings will help the project move forward.

ARPA Funding Grants: Mark Houghton will have all the figures by mid-November for generators and pumps for the three sewer pump stations so that contracts can be prepared and the ARPA Grant funds encumbered.  There is an issue at the North Walpole sewer pump station because it is not clear that the Town owns the land under and around the pump station.  The generator may have to go on the roof.  Steve Grenier will be gathering the necessary information.

High Street Dog Bite: Police Chief Sanctuary will be requested to attend a Selectboard Meeting so that the Board can learn more about what it means when someone files a dog complaint or wishes to press charges.  Also, The Selectboard wished to know what can be done if no one reports incidents because of fear of retaliation.

NEW BUSINESS

Cemetery Deed:  Mr. Dalessio moved we accept the deed for Lot D-531.  Seconded by Ms. Vose.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Vose and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion passed, and the deed was signed. 

Savings Bank of Walpole Proclamation: The Savings Bank of Walpole will celebrate its 150^th anniversary on July 2, 2025.  There will be proclamation, and SBW will coordinate with the Board.

State Driveway Permit Received: Mrs. Downing will put a copy in the file and will send a copy to the Planning Board for the land being subdivided off Upper Walpole Road/Rt. 123.

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 6:59 PM.  Mr. Dalessio seconded. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 7:56 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.

TAX RATE: Mrs. Downing reminded the Board that the Town still does not have a tax rate.  Ms. Mayberry noted that Fall Mountain Regional School District has an extension to November 1^st to file their DOE documents.  However, The Town is also waiting for completion of the financial audit and the associated reports.  The issue is that there is a $1.8 million payment due to the Cheshire County in mid-December. The payment must be made on the due date.  Mr. Dalessio commented that without property tax income, this could be an issue. The Town may need to take a tax anticipatory note or TAN.

Adjournment:  Ms. Mayberry declared the meeting adjourned at 8:06 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

(Note:  These are unapproved Minutes. Corrections will be found in the Minutes of the November 6, 2024 Selectboard meeting.)

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.)