The Walpolean

Selectboard Present:  Peggy Pschirrer, Chair; Cheryl Mayberry and Steven Dalessio

Staff Present: Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration and Carolyn Vose

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

PAYROLL:

Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Payroll Register totaling $30,626.61dated 3/15/24 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $6,100.72.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved. 

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

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

SELECTBOARD NON-PUBLIC SESSION – March 6, 2024:  Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard Non-Public Session of March 6, 2024. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved. The minutes are to remain sealed. 

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

Mr. Dalessio brought to the chair’s attention the following committee reports:

• Walpole Fire District Monthly Meeting – December 6, 2023

• Walpole Fire District Monthly Meeting – January 10, 2024

• Walpole Fire District Monthly Meeting – February 7, 2024

• Recreation Committee Meeting – November 8, 2023

• Recreation Committee Meeting – January 10, 2024

• Police Building Committee Meeting – February 20, 2024

• Conservation Committee Meeting – March 4, 2024

     Mrs. Pschirrer acknowledged these minutes. 

ABATEMENTS:

Map and Lot# 014-011-000: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the abatement of $404.00 for Map and Lot# 014-011-000. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved. This abatement is part of a prorated assessment because of house fire.

REFUNDS:

Map and Lot# 025-007-000: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the refund for Map and Lot# 025-007-000for $8.61. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

Map and Lot# 028–103-000: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the refund for Map and Lot# 028-103-000$19.11. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

VETERANS’ CREDIT

Map and Lot# 028–048-000: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Veterans’ Credit for Map and Lot# 028-048-000. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

SOLAR ENERGY EXEMPTION

Map and Lot# 008–114-000: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Solar Energy Exemption for Map and Lot# 008-114-000. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

TIMBER INTENT

Map and Lot# 003-076-000: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Intent to Cut Timber for Map and Lot# 003-076-000. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved. This lot will be accessed from County Road.

OLD BUSINESS: 

Constellation Electricity Rate Quote:  Mrs. Pschirrer reviewed the Constellation quote which had various rates based on the length of the contract. The current Constellation contract will not end until November/December of 2024. There was a consensus of the Board to wait until closer to the end of the current contract to review the electricity rates at that time. Mr. Dalessio noted that the CPCNH rates are lower than the current quote.

Utility Discontinuance Agreement: Mrs. Pschirrer recounted that the PUC (Public Utility Commission) had responded to the Selectboard’s letter with feedback that the water and sewer utilities for Walpole and North Walpole were not bound by the PUC’s rules since they are not public utilities. The Selectboard was in consensus to implement the agreement immediately. Sewer users that have not paid their sewer bills could have their water shut off due to non-payment after notification. Mrs. Pschirrer stated that water would not be cut off during the wintertime.

Parking Ordinance: Mrs. Pschirrer plans to continue working on the wording of an updated ordinance that she has started.

NEW BUSINESS:

Accufund Services Quote:  Mr. Dalessio explained that the water department is switching over to new meter readers. With the change, software updates need to be completed in Accufund.  Ms. Mayberry asked if a new meter reader had been purchased for North Walpole’s water department. Mr. Dalessio replied affirmatively. It was confirmed that 4 meter readers had been purchased.

Ms. Tara Sad enters that meeting at 6:51 PM.

Mr. Dalessio moved to have the Selectboard chair sign the AccuFund Service Agreement for $800. Ms. Mayberry seconded. Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

Tenco Purchase Order: Mr. Dalessio explained the Highway Department had been in ongoing discussions with Tenco, which is a company that outfits the Highway dump trucks. There was an invoice for a 2022 installation that was never paid. It was determined the bill was for a stainless-steel bed that was moved from an old truck to a new truck. Mr. Dalessio moved to sign purchase order# 630673 for $11, 858 for the Tenco Install with funds to come from the Highway Block Grant. Mr. Dalessio. Ms. Mayberry seconded. Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

Emergency Calls: Mrs. Pschirrer explained that about a week ago, she had received an email from a citizen who stated that a tree was blocking two thirds of March Hill Road. The resident had been trying to reach someone to make them aware of the situation but could not reach anyone. Eventually, Keene Dispatch assisted the resident. Mrs. Pschirrer had recommended the resident call 911 to reach a dispatcher. The Police Chief and the Fire Chief agreed that this would be the best course of action for when a tree is blocking a road. Mrs. Pschirrer wondered how this message could be communicated to the community. Mr. Dalessio added that the 911 service is a way to contact the Police Department and Fire District for any reason. Mrs. Pschirrer will include information in her Clarion article to promote the use of 911 for all types of emergencies.

FMRSD Facilities Committee: Mrs. Pschirrer read a memo from FMRSD (Fall Mountain Regional School District) that they are putting together a facilities committee to do a strategic plan. Interested parties are to send a letter of intent to the school district no later than March 22^nd.

HOOPER TRUSTEES:  

Ms. Mayberry moved to enter into the Hooper Trustees meeting at 7:06 PM. Mr. Dalessio seconded. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 7:15 PM. Ms. Vose and Ms. Sad departed the meeting.

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

Ms. Mayberry moved to enter into Non-Public Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II (a) (e) at 7:16 PM. Mr. Dalessio seconded. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 7:50 PM.

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

Town Meeting: The Selectboard discussed specific warrant articles that will be presented at the TownMeeting on March 16^th.

ADJOURNMENT:

Mrs. Pschirrer declared the meeting adjourned at 8:00 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Sarah Downing, Recording Secretary Pro Tempore

Selectboard Present:  Peggy L. Pschirrer, Chair; Cheryl Mayberry and Steven Dalessio

Staff Present: Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration; Ahmad Esfahani, Recording Secretary

Others Present: David Edkins and Carolyn Vose

CALL TO ORDER:  Mrs. Pschirrer called this Selectboard meeting to order at 5:00 PM in the Town Hall. She introduced herself, Peggy Pschirrer, Selectboard Chair, Cheryl Mayberry, Steve Dalessio, Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration, and Ahmad Esfahani, Recording Secretary. 

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Accounts Payable Check Register totaling $790,811.66 dated 3/08/24. This includes a $700,531.13 monthly payment to Fall Mountain Regional School District. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

PAYROLL: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Payroll Register totaling $32,395.02 dated 3/08/24 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $6,640.07. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES – February 29, 2024: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Selectboard Meeting minutes of February 29, 2024. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD NON-PUBLIC MEETING MINUTES – February 29, 2024: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Selectboard Non-Public Meeting minutes of February 29, 2024. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved. The minutes are to remain sealed.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

Mr. Dalessio brought the following committee reports to the chair’s attention.

   •​Planning Board and Zoning Board of Adjustment Joint Meeting – February 27, 2024

Mrs. Pschirrer acknowledged the report.

ABATEMENTS: 

Map and Lot# 001-017-000:  Mr. Dalessio motioned to deny the abatement for Map and Lot# 001-017-000. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.

REFUNDS: 

Map and Lot# 012-055-002:  Mr. Dalessio motioned to approve the refund for Map and Lot# 012-055-002 for $23.76. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.

Map and Lot# 028-054-000:  Mr. Dalessio motioned to approve the refund for Map and Lot# 028-054-000 for $19.61. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.

BUILDING PERMITS: 

2024-06, Map and Lot# 019-022-000:  Mr. Dalessio motioned to approve the building permit for Map and Lot# 019-022-000 to add a 903 sq. ft. roof mount solar array. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.

2024-07, Map and Lot# 008-080-000:  Mr. Dalessio motioned to approve the building permit for Map and Lot# 008-080-000 to construct a 15’ x 10’ playhouse/cabin. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.

NEW BUSINESS

Staff Resignation: Mrs. Pschirrer announced a letter of resignation had been received by Vicki Gohl, the deputy Town Clerk and Tax Collector.

Health Officer Reports: Two reports have been received from Dr. Gasgoyne, the Health Officer. Mrs. Pschirrer stated that the Health Officer has been busy dealing with complaints from tenants about rodent infestation, mold problems and lead paint issues.

OLD BUSINESS

Pending Further Action: Mr. Dalessio stated that they are starting to file for expense reimbursements for the Reservoir Dam work that has already been done.

HOOPER TRUSTEES MEETING:  

Mr. Dalessio moved to enter into Hooper Trustees meeting at 5:13 PM. Mrs. Pschirrer seconded. With Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting reconvened at 5:29 PM. 

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

Mr. Dalessio moved to enter into Non-Public meeting at 5:31 PM. Mrs. Pschirrer seconded. With Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting reconvened at 6:08 PM. 

Mrs. Pschirrer declared the nonpublic minutes would be sealed. 

ADJOURNMENT:

Mrs. Pschirrer declared the meeting adjourned at 6:09 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Ahmad Esfahani, Recording Secretary

Yesterday, the Selectboard discovered an error in the 2024 Town Budget that was presented at the public hearing on February 8, 2024. That budget has already been printed in the Town’s annual report and posted in accordance with RSA 39:5.

A quick call to the DRA assured the Selectboard that the budget may be amended at Town Meeting, March 16, 2024.  That is what Selectboard will do. New copies of the budget will be available at Town Hall, on the Town’swebsite and be distributed at Town Meeting.

The Warrant Article #2 for the 2024 budget will now read as follows:

To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of five million four hundred eighty-eight thousand, four hundred thirty-four dollars ($5,488,434) which represents four million seven hundred twelve thousand thirty-three dollars ($4,712,033) for the Town Operating Budget to be raised from general taxation; two hundredtwenty thousand, three hundred twenty-seven dollars ($220,327) for the Water Operating Budget and for five hundred fifty-six thousand seventy-four dollars ($556,074) for the Sewer Operating Budget which includes one hundred eighty thousand dollars ($180,000) for bond assessments. Such sum does not include any special or individual articles found in the warrant.

The changes are in bold. They represent a 3.85% increase in budget which was the percentage presented atthe 2024 Budget Public Meeting.

The Selectboard regrets the error which would have represented a 5.06% increase to the 2024 Town Budget which was never our intention, nor our plan.

Selectboard Present:  Peggy L Pschirrer, Chair; Cheryl Mayberry and Steven Dalessio

CALL TO ORDER:  Mrs. Pschirrer called this meeting of the Selectboard to order at 6:28 PM in the first-floor meeting room of the Walpole Town Hall. There were five representatives from National Grid including Kaytlynn Monroe, Rebecca Walkley, Jason Magoon (forestry) Corey Schutzman (environmental) and Bethany Rocha. Also present were Patrick Kiniry and Katherine Kopij and Rose Bolio from the North Walpole Village District and John Peska from the Conservation Commission.

RIVER VALLEY RELIABILTY PROJECT:  Kaytlynn Monroe of Hilltop Public Solutions introduced herself. She has been contracted by National Grid to work on this project. Bethany Rocha of National Grid, who focuses on outreach, reviewed the agenda of the history, project scope, benefits, etc.The transmission line runs from the Bellows Falls substation to the Wilder substation. Ms. Rocha explained that the W149 Transmission line was placed in service in 1948. Work would be done in National Grid’s existing right-of-way (ROW). Ms. Monroe reviewed the map. Walpole has the smallest section of the line. Ms. Rocha said there are 509 aging structures being replaced with 26 structures being replaced in Walpole over a 2 mile stretch of the ROW. The line will remain active during the project. There will be trees and vegetation removed where necessary. Ms. Monroe spoke to project benefits which include added property tax revenue. This line has significant trouble with tree contact and lightning strikes. Jason Magoon said that there would not be a drastic removal of trees in the North Walpole right-of-way. Ms. Monroe stated it was appropriately 7 acres of tree removal.

The project schedule began in the fall of 2023 with notifications, project website, local meeting, etc. There will be additional presentations as the project progresses. Construction and restoration will occur between Dec. 2026 to March 2030, which is subject to change. Mrs. Pschirrer asked about the notices. Ms. Rocha stated that abutters within 500 feet of the ROW were sent notices. Ms. Monroe explained there is a dedicated hotline number to call for any question or concerns. Ms. Mayberry asked if the project was occurring in North Walpole Village District. The map confirmed the line runs north along the westside of Fall Mountain. Ms. Schutzman explained the multitude of permits required for this large project. There would be time of year restrictions to protect the tri-color bats. Ms. Walkley spoke to the permitting path being either at the local or state citing process. Mr. Dalessio commented that the Town does not have a permitting process for such a large-scale project. The Town will rely on the State to grant the various permits. There was a discussion of the access points to the ROW. Ms. Monroe stated there will be more notifications and presentations as the project progresses to keep the community informed. Mr. Peska asked if the presenters were familiar with the bio-diversity study being conducted by Mr. Persad of Liberty Utilities. Mr. Magoon was familiar with the study. The study is not currently monitored this section of powerline.

At 6:59 PM the Selctboard paused to move into the Selectboard Office to continue the meeting. At 7:03 PM the Selectboard Meeting resumed.

NORTH WALPOLE UTILITY DISCONTINUANCE OF SERVICE AGREEMENT WITH WALPOLE WATER UTILITY: Mr. Kiniry explained that the shut off or on fee had increased to $30 for each action. Mrs. Pschirrer noted that no one would have their water shut off during the winter months. There was a discussion of the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) rules. Ms. Mayberry commented that if the utilities cannot recoup their costs, other users end up paying. There will be multiple notices before the water service is shut off. Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the North Walpole Utility Discountenance of Service Agreement with Walpole Water Utility.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalesio, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the Minutes were approved. The North Walpole Commissioners had approved the agreement at an earlier commissioners’ meeting.

At 7:15 PM, the North Walpole Village District Commissioners and Treasurer leave the meeting.

PAYROLL:

Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Payroll Check Register for the week ending February 10, 2024, in the amount of $31,290.00dated February 16, 2024, and for the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer in the amount of $6,181.44.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – February 8, 2024:  Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of February 8, 2024, as submitted. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrerin favor, the Minutes were approved.

2024 TOWN BUDGET HEARING – February 8, 2024:  Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Minutes of the 2024 Town Budget Hearing of February 8, 2024, as submitted. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the Minutes were approved.

SELECTBOARD NON-PUBLIC SESSION – February 8, 2024:  Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Minutes of the Selectboard Non-Public Session of February 8, 2024, as submitted. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the Minutes were approved. The minutes are to remain sealed.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

Mr. Dalessio moved to acknowledge the following board/committee/board meeting minutes:

• Trustees of Trust Funds Meeting –February 1, 2024

The chair so recognized.

REFUNDS:

Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the property tax refund for map and lot# 004-032-000 for $69.61. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the property tax refund for map and lot# 011-004-000 for $8.93. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the property tax refund for map and lot# 028-121-000 for $99.45. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the property tax refund for map and lot# 030-039-000 for $29.95. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

BLIND PROPERTY EXEMPTION:

Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the blind exemption for map and lot# 028-132-000. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS:

Pending Further Actions:  Parking Policy, Generators, School and Old North Main Bridges/Culverts, School Street Drainage Project, Phase 3 Power for Industrial Drive and Bensonwood, Houghton Brook Bridge, Dog Ordinance

Selectboard Operational Guidelines: There was a consensus to table this item until next week’s meeting.

Meeting with SAU 29: A date and time to meet is still pending for the meeting.

NEW BUSINESS:

Encumbering Funds Requests for Police Cruiser and Equipment: There was a consensus to table this item to next week. Research is being conducted regarding a purchase order for these items.

Groundwater Management Permit: Ms. Mayberry moved for the chair to sign the Groundwater Management Permit for the former Central Plating Brownfields site. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio, and Mrs. Pschirrerin favor, the motion was approved.

Letters to Eagle Scouts: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve Eagle Scout letters for Braden and Thomas Haefner. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

HOOPER TRUSTEES MEETING:

Ms. Mayberry moved to enter into a Hooper Trustees Meeting.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer. With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved at 7:29 PM.

The Selectboard Meeting resumed at 7:43 PM.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION:

Ms. Mayberry moved to enter into a Non-Public Selectboard Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (e) Legal at 7:43 PM.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer. Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved. These minutes are to remain sealed.

The regular Selectboard meeting reconvened at 7:50 PM.

Mrs. Pschirrer requested that the minutes remain sealed.

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 7:51 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Sarah Downing, Recording Secretary Pro Tempore

​​​​​​

Selectboard Present:  Peggy Pschirrer, Chair; Cheryl Mayberry and Steven Dalessio

Staff Present: Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration; Ahmad Esfahani, Recording Secretary

Others Present: Jocelyn Barrett of Great River Hydro; Mark Houghton, Fire Chief

CALL TO ORDER:  Mrs. Pschirrer called this Selectboard meeting to order at 7:05 PM in the Selectboard Office of the Town Hall. She introduced herself, Peggy Pschirrer, Selectboard Chair, Cheryl Mayberry, Steve Dalessio, Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration, and Ahmad Esfahani, Recording Secretary.  

OLD BUSINESS:

Great River Hydro PILOT: Mrs. Pschirrer announced that Jocelyn Barrett from Great River Hydro was present. Ms. Barrett stated she was in attendance to introduce herself and to suggest a Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) agreement with the Town. Mr. Dalessio commented on his concern that the future for tax increases is unknown. He described the projected increases in various taxes and stated his reluctance in doing a PILOT at the present time. 

NEW BUSINESS:

Walpole Fire and EMS Building Renovation Presentation: Chief Houghton stated he was present to inform the Selectboard of a proposal to renovate the Fire Station. He presented visuals in explanation of the intended renovations and described the areas of need within the present Fire Station building structure. He fielded questions from the Selectboard in the presentation of the floorplan. Chief Houghton stated that the present department is completely on call and that the proposed renovations may allow for overnight and full-time staff. Chief Houghton believes that the Walpole Fire and EMS District will only need to bond $827,000. Mr. Dalessio asked how the grant accounting would be managed. Chief Houghton responded that it would be handled within the Fire District. Ms. Mayberry suggested that Chief Houghton clarify on the map where the renovations would be relevant to the adjacent streets. Chief Houghton said that the square footage would be increasing from 9,683 to 15,538.  

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Accounts Payable Check Register totaling $798,113.86 dated 2/09/24. This includes a $700,531.13 monthly payment to Fall Mountain Regional School District. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

PAYROLL: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Payroll Register totaling $31,562.86 dated 2/9/24 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $6,552.35. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES, February 1, 2024: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Selectboard Meeting minutes of February 1, 2024. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD NON-PUBLIC MEETING MINUTES, February 1, 2024: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Selectboard Non-Public Meeting minutes of February 1, 2024. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved. The minutes will remain sealed. 

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

Mr. Dalessio brought the following committee reports to the chair’s attention.

   •​Police Building Committee Meeting – January 22, 2024

Mrs. Pschirrer acknowledged these reports.

REFUNDS: 

Map and Lot# 003-082-000:  Mr. Dalessio motioned to approve the refund for Map and Lot# 003-082-000 for NH Public Radio’s third payment for 2022 taxes. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.

ABATEMENTS: 

Map and Lot# 03-082-000:  Mr. Dalessio motioned to approve the abatement for Map and Lot# 03-082-000 or $1,079.95 related to the interest. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberryand Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.

TIMBER TAX WARRANT: 

Op# 23-461-07 for Map and Lot# 013-057-000:  Mr. Dalessio motioned to approve the timber taxwarrant for Op# 23-461-07 for Map and Lot# 013-057-000 for $4,942.68. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS:

2024 Warrant Article Listing: Mrs. Pschirrer stated that the Selectboard has a new warrant to sign. A last-minute petition warrant article was submitted which would ask the Town to adopt a policy that all voting be done by paper ballot with the ballots being hand-counted. She commented that this is a movement that is happening all over the State. Mr. Dalessio motioned to sign the 2024 warrant article listing as presented. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.

Letter to Kara Dexter: By consensus the Selectboard approved the letter to Kara Dexter. 

Fuss & O’Neill Proposal for Engineering Services: Mrs. Pschirrer motioned to have Mr. Dalessio sign the letter of agreement with Fuss & O’Neill for Reservoir Dam engineering services for $393,440 to be reimbursed to the Town from a grant. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mrs. Pschirrer, Ms. Mayberryand Mr. Dalessio in favor the motion was approved.

Graffiti: Mrs. Pschirrer stated that the graffiti was discussed at a recent conservation meeting. Chief Sanctuary has been made aware of the issue. The small gazebo that has been painted with graffiti which has been painted over. 

Houghton Brook Bridge Update: Mr. Dalessio stated that they are still working on the design.

Union and School Streets Drainage Project: Mr. Dalessio stated that the final plans for the project have been completed. He stated that the Town can get moving on this, but the final costs have not been received yet. 

NEW BUSINESS:

Walpole Fire District Hearing Dates for the Budget and Bond is Feb. 22^nd: Mrs. Pschirrer stated that the Fire District Public Hearing is 2/22/2024 at 7:00 PM. 

MS-636: Ms. Mayberry motioned to sign the MS-636. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Mayberry,Mr. Dalessio, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.

Encumbering Funds Request: By consensus the Selectboard agreed that $250,000 from Article 6 for the new 6-wheel truck be encumbered. 

Selectboard Operational Guidelines: Mr. Dalessio stated that before Mrs. Pschirrer leaves the Selectboard, the guidelines should be reviewed. This item was tabled until the next meeting. 

River Valley Transmission Line Upgrade: Mrs. Pschirrer stated that five representatives from National Grid will be present on 2/15/2024 to present on the River Valley Transmission Line upgrade.

Selectboard Meeting Date: The Selectboard agreed to meet on 3/6/2024 and for all the first Wednesdays of the month going forward.

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

Ms. Mayberry moved to enter into Non-Public meeting at 8:24 p.m. Mr. Dalessio seconded. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting reconvened at 8:25 PM. 

Mrs. Pschirrer declared the nonpublic minutes would be sealed. 

HOOPER TRUSTEES MEETING:  

Ms. Mayberry moved to enter into Hooper Trustees meeting at 8:25 PM. Mr. Dalessio seconded. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting reconvened at 8:31 PM. 

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

Mr. Dalessio moved to enter into Non-Public Session at 8:31 PM. Ms. Mayberry seconded. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 8:40 PM. 

Mrs. Pschirrer declared the non-public minutes would be sealed. 

Recycling: Ms. Mayberry stated that the Recycling Department would like to host a 2/17/2024 outdoor movie night for volunteers. Consensus of the Selectboard was to accept this request. 

ADJOURNMENT:

Mrs. Pschirrer declared the meeting adjourned at 8:43 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Ahmad Esfahani, Recording Secretary 

Selectboard Present:  Peggy Pschirrer, Chair; Cheryl Mayberry and Steven Dalessio

Staff Present: Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration; Ahmad Esfahani, Recording Secretary, Rich Kreissle, Manager of Finance; Mike Symonds, Road Agent; Justin Sanctuary, Police Chief; Ben Hoy, Recycling Dept. Manager; Jane Malmberg, Library Director; Meghan Hansson, Town Clerk and Tax Collector and Kraig Harlow, Recreation Director.

Others Present: Steve Varone, Treasurer; Paul Looney, Walpole Community Power Chair and over 35 members of the public.

CALL TO ORDER:  Mrs. Pschirrer called this meeting to order at 5:30 PM in the main meeting room of the Town Hall.

PRESENTATION: Mrs. Pschirrer discussed the format of the Budget Hearing, and noted how she would be calling on department managers to speak on their respective budgets. She informed those in attendance of the 3/16/2024 Town Meeting, wherein the warrants will be voted upon. Mrs. Pschirrer explained the process of working on the 2024 budget beginning the previous September, with meetings with department managers in December. Mrs. Pschirrer called attention to the 2024 budget being $4,766,717, up 3.84% from the previous year. She explained how health care costs increased by 15.6%, and that the general salary increase for Town staff is 3%. 

Mrs. Pschirrer spoke in relation to a warrant article that asks permission to buy 2.6 +/- acres of land for $200,000 coming from the unassigned fund balance. The land would be the site of a new police station.

Chief Sanctuary introduced himself to those in attendance. He briefly discussed the history of exploring the relocation of the Walpole Police Station. He commented that the most affordable option was to purchase land and build a new police station. Chief Sanctuary explained how the station would be centrally located and would assist in overall police response to calls for service. The land to be purchased has access to Upper Walpole Valley Road. Mr. Aldrich asked for further details. Mr. Dalessio stated that a building study committee was formed prior to COVID, and after reconvening and detailed discussions, it was determined that a new building was required. Mr. Dalessio commented that land is scarce in Walpole where the Town would want to build a new police station. Mr. Boas asked the Town about the rate per acre the Town is paying in comparison to what Dunkin Donuts paid. Mr. Dalessio responded that the Town wants to do borings on the site to ensure that a police station can be built upon that site. It was explained that the $200,000 is not the amount to be paid for the property alone.  It also covers additional costs associated with the purchase of the land for a new station. Ms. Bowry asked what was going to go in the building under discussion. Mr. Dalessio stated that potentially in September information will be available to share. Mr. Dalessio stated that architect Michael Petrovick has been hired to do a space study and conceptual drawings. 

Mr. Basora asked if there would be net proceeds from selling the existing station. Mr. Dalessio commented that the building may be contaminated, and that questions must be answered before any decision can be made on selling the current building. Mr. Aldrich stated his concerns that he has never called the police in the 46 years he has lived in Town and wondered if a new station was needed. Chief Sanctuary stated that he would allow interested people to tour the station and go for a ride-a-long with an officer. Mr. Therrien commented that he has called the police since moving to Town and they were very helpful.

Ms. Andros asked about the design of the building, and asked if there are any designs. Chief Sanctuary stated that a design has not been created, but needs for the building have been identified. Mrs. Pschirrer clarified that at the Women of Walpole (WOW) that Ms. Andros attended, observations of necessary design elements were discussed, but not actual specific designs.

Mrs. Sommer stated that people are hearing about a wish-list and that this is troubling people. Mr. Dalessio stated that if there are questions or concerns, he would make time to meet with residents. 

Mrs. Pschirrer then began discussions on Town Hall repairs to the west side of the building. Mrs. Downing spoke to Warrant Article #5. She stated that the Town received two quotes. The best quote was from Jancewicz and Son which is a Walpole based contractor. Mr. Tom Aldrich stated that he was concerned about the term “raise” in the warrant’s wording. Mrs. Pschirrer clarified that warrant articles are sent to the State for review, and that bureaucratic protocols of appropriate language must be followed. 

Mr. Kreissle introduced himself to those in attendance and explained the nature of the unassigned fund balance as being: 1. Revenue generated by taxation and 2. Subtract the actual amount of the budget, and the excess goes towards the unassigned fund balance. Mr. Kreissle stated that the present unassigned fund balance is $2,173,455. 

Mr. Walters asked if we should try to lower our tax rate if the unassigned fund balance is high. Mr. Walters stated that the cost of his property tax per month is more than his mortgage. Increased property taxes are a hardship for his family. Mr. Walters asked how much more revenue was generated. Mr. Kreissle stated that the average collection rate is about 96-97%. Mr. Kreissle explained the use of the unassigned fund balance for road repairs after the floods in recent years. Mr. Therrien commented that the value of the houses increased 65%, which affected property tax bills. Mr. Kreissle stated that in the finance budget, there is a separate budget for the tax collector. 

Mrs. Pschirrer invited Mike Symonds to speak to a Highway Block Grant. Mr. Symonds introduced himself as the Road Agent for Walpole. He stated that the highway department would like to mill a section of Main Street from the entrance of the school to the entrance of Agway. Main Street is showing wear. Mr. Symonds stated that the Town has not line painted in two years. Sidewalks within town also need repair. Ms. Epstein asked if there was a date chosen for School Street drainage work. Mr. Dalessio responded that he has just seen the plans for the School Street work, and that it will be discussed in the upcoming Selectboard meeting. Mrs. Pschirrer asked Mr. Symonds if any other streets in Town would be paved. Mr. Symonds identified work to be done on Valley Road, Green Road of North Walpole, Hooper Road, and Alice Smith Road. 

Mr. Paul Looney, chair of the Walpole Community Power Committee, and Mr. Hoy of the Recycling Center spoke about the proposal to add solar panels at the Recycling Center. Mr. Looney discussed the process of putting solar panels on the new storage building. Mr. Looney stated that the 80 panels would generate 40,000 kilowatt hours per year, which would be shared with the Walpole Town Hall. He stated that the vendor with the lowest cost was chosen. Based on estimates, the system will pay for itself in 6.5 years. He commented that the ability for a panel to generate power becomes reduced at 25 years. Mr. Hoy stated that the new storage building’s roof was adjusted for the installation of solar panels. Mr. Varone asked for dollar value savings per year from this installation. Mr. Looney answered with approximately $8,000 a year. Mr. Varone asked for further calculations to include the cost of decommissioning and disposal of the panels. Mr. Varone stated that using the concept of opportunity costs, the estimates presented may need to be looked at. Mr. Hoy explained that the Town of Walpole takes recycling seriously. Mr. Palmiotto added that there is the environmental benefit from adding solar panels. They will produce clean energy.

Mrs. Pschirrer explained the Town balances of the municipal, highway, police, town wide assessment, and recycling capital reserve funds. She spoke to how much the Town will be asking residents to consider increasing each reserve fund balance. Every five years the Town must complete a town-wide assessment, and a new capital reserve fund has been put forward for consideration. 

Mrs. Pschirrer spoke of the importance of attending the upcoming town meeting. 

Mr. Wes Vickers asked if discussion of Article #11 could take place. He suggested that the Select board speak to the Town attorney about the overcharging that was disclosed in the previous night’s school district deliberative session. Can the Town seek a refund after the fiscal year has ended? Mr. Vickers stated that the Town has zero control over Walpole Elementary School. He highly recommends that the Town establish this preliminary committee to explore alternative options to the present school structure. The school district does plan on changing the articles of agreement. Mr. Varone stated that this discussion is about doing what is best for Walpole and having local control and autonomy in decision-making. Mr. Varone spoke about the options eligible for consideration if the committee were to be formed. 

Mrs. Pschirrer briefly commented upon a petition warrant concerning removing electronic voting machines and moving to solely hand counting paper ballots.

ADJOURNMENT:

Mrs. Pschirrer declared the meeting adjourned at 6:50 PM.