The Walpolean

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

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

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, Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration, and Ahmad Esfahani, Recording Secretary.  

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Accounts Payable totaling $1,533,633.95 for checks dated 1/26/24. This includes two payments to Fall Mt. Regional School District for December 2023 and January 2024 billings. 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 $36,775.17 dated 1/26/24 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $8,077.01. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES – January 11, 2024: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Selectboard Meeting minutes of January 11, 2024. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD NON-PUBLIC MEETING MINUTES – January 11, 2024: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Selectboard Non-Public Meeting minutes of January 11, 2024. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved. The minutes will remain sealed. 

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES – January 18, 2024: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Selectboard Meeting minutes of January 18, 2024. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD NON-PUBLIC MEETING MINUTES – January 18, 2024: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Selectboard Non-Public Meeting minutes of January 18, 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.

   • North Walpole Village Commissioners’ Meeting Minutes – December 26, 2023

   • North Walpole Village Commissioners’ Meeting Minutes – January 2, 2024

   • North Walpole Village Commissioners’ Meeting Minutes – January 10, 2024

   • North Walpole Village Commissioners’ Meeting Minutes – January 17, 2024

   • Conservation Commission Meeting Minutes – January 8, 2024

   • Library Trustees Meeting Minutes – January 9. 2024

   • Planning Board Meeting Minutes – January 9, 2024

   • Zoning Board of Adjustment Meeting Minutes – January 17, 2024

The chair acknowledged these minutes. 

SOLAR ENERGY EXEMPTION: 

Map and Lot# 017-008-001: Mr. Dalessio motioned to approve the solar energy exemption for Map and Lot# 017-008-001. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.

BUILDING PERMITS: 

2024-02, Map and Lot# 004-047-000: Mr. Dalessio motioned to approve the building permit for Map and Lot# 004-047-000 to construct a 24’ x 20’ one car garage addition. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS:

2024 Draft Warrant Articles: Mrs. Pschirrer pointed to a revision of a 2024 warrant article #3 to include the line “$200,000 plus/minus 2.6 acres of land from Ballpark Realty LLC.”  She then made corrections to warrant article #4 to increase the total funds from $330,000 to $400,000. Mr. Dalessio commented that the $400,000 is to come from Highway Block Grant funds, and he revised the descriptive language to reflect the work to be done. Mrs. Pschirrer then revised warrant article #5 to remove the language “with a window installation”.  Warrant #7 was revised to include funds for a boiler in the sum of $40,000.

Pending Further Action: Mr. Dalessio updated the Board that he has been in contact with Fuss & O’Neil with a request that they make a presentation of the status of their projects.

NEW BUSINESS:

Cemetery Deed: Ms. Mayberry motioned to accept cemetery deeds D584 and D585 in the amount of $400 each. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.

E.E. Houghton Contract: Mr. Dalessio motioned to allow the chair to sign the contract to E.E. Houghton contract agreement as related to First Net/AT&T. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.

2013 Sewer Lien: Mrs. Pschirrer reflected a property owner bringing to the Town’s attention an existing lien. Mrs. Pschirrer found consensus with the Selectboard members present that the property owner would be responsible for the $543.02 sewer lien with 3% interest applied, for a total of $741.64. It was agreed that the tax collector would take care of this lien. 

Recreation Committee Member Resignation: Mrs. Pschirrer pointed to a letter from David Kuniholm resigning from the Recreation Committee. Consensus of the Selectboard was reached to accept this letter.

Selectboard Meeting Date for Next Week: After some discussion, Mrs. Pschirrer stated that next week’s Selectboard meeting would remain scheduled for 2/01/2024 at the regular time of 6:30 PM. 

HOOPER TRUSTEES MEETING:

Ms. Mayberry moved to enter into the Hooper Trustees meeting at 7:00 PM. Mr. Dalessio seconded. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting reconvened at 7:03 PM. 

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

Ms. Mayberry moved to enter into Non-Public meeting at 7:04 PM. Mr. Dalessio seconded. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting reconvened at 7:42 PM. 

Mrs. Pschirrer declared the nonpublic minutes would be sealed. 

Ms. Mayberry motioned to raise the per employee dental amount from $1,000 to $1,200 for dental benefits. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

ADJOURNMENT:

Mrs. Pschirrer declared the meeting adjourned at 7:44 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Ahmad Esfahani, Recording Secretary 

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Selectboard Present:  Peggy Pschirrer, Chair; Cheryl Mayberry; Steve Dalessio

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

Others Present: Janet Clough

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

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

Ms. Mayberry moved to enter into Non-Public meeting at 6:31 PM. Mr. Dalessio seconded. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting reconvened at 7:22 PM. 

Mrs. Pschirrer declared the nonpublic minutes would be sealed. 

PAYROLL: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Payroll Register totaling $32,981.62 dated 1/19/2024and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $7,395.98. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

REFUND: 

Map and Lot# 029-005-000: Mr. Dalessio motioned to approve the refund for Map and Lot# 029-005-000 for $99.00. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.

Map and Lot# 018-001-000: Mr. Dalessio motioned to approve the refund for Map and Lot# 018-001-000 for $2,224.00. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.

Map and Lot# 029-005-000: Mr. Dalessio motioned to approve the refund for Map and Lot# 012-068-000 for $25.00. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS:

Meeting with SAU29: Mrs. Pschirrer stated that SAU 29 has scheduled their visit for 2/1/2024 at 8:00 AM. 

School Warrant Article: Mrs. Pschirrer commented that she received a response from Attorney Hockensmith stating that the schoolboard or the Town can establish a committee to leave a school district. 

2024 Draft Warrant Articles: Mrs. Pschirrer reviewed RSA 195.25 as it relates to a town forming anadvisory committee to explore the possibility of leaving a school district. Discussion of the articles of agreement took place. The wording of the proposed warrant article was worked upon by those present. 

HOOPER TRUSTEES MEETING:  

Ms. Mayberry moved to enter into the Hooper Trustees meeting at 7:40 PM. Mr. Dalessio seconded. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting reconvened at 7:53 PM. 

NEW BUSINESS:

The Selectboard discussed revisions to the Town’s welfare guidelines, to be updated by 6/2024. A consensus was reached that the welfare officer should present quarterly reports to the Selectboard. 

ADJOURNMENT:

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

Respectfully submitted,

Ahmad Esfahani, Recording Secretary

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

Staff Present: Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration

Others Present: Steve Varone, Peter Graves and Joanna Andros

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

NEW BUSINESS:

Meeting with SAU 29: Mr. Varone stated that an invitation has been sent from Keene. He advised the Selectboard de-politicize the matter, with just the three of the Selectboard going. The Selectboard stated they would prefer Mr. Varone attend the meeting with them. An agreement was reached to request 1/25/2024 in the morning for a meeting with SAU 29 with, 2/1/2024 being the backup date. Discussion of the Town’s assigned school district took place, in which an analysis of the geographic proximity compared to Fall Mountain and Keene High Schools. Mrs. Pschirrer commented on the increasing education costs and declining enrollments across the state. Mr. Graves discussed his personal experience with SAU 60.  

Public Comment: Mr. Graves asked if Mrs. Pschirrer would be running for Selectboard. She stated that she would not be. Mr. Graves asked about the severance pay of a previous Town employee. Mr. Graves asked the date of the Budget Hearing. Mrs. Pschirrer responded that this was scheduled for 2/8/2024 at 5:30 PM. Mr. Graves asked about the police station. Mr. Dalessio stated that the town is considering purchasing property to build the new police station. Mr. Graves stated that he would prefer less of a surplus in the Town budget. Mr. Graves asked why the Highway Department should have a surplus; to which Mr. Dalessio responded that the budget must allow for an unknown amount of overtime during winter months.

Ms. Andros spoke to ongoing projects on the list from the Selectboard agenda. Mr. Dalessio stated that the bridge and school projects are presently in engineering. Ms. Andros stated her concern about trees along the banks of the Mad Brook. Mr. Dalessio explained that DES has stated the natural flow of the stream/river must be upheld, in spite of the effects of high water-flow. Ms. Andros sees collapsed culverts and other places caving in, and asked if a private owner could do anything about erosion on their property. Ms. Andros spoke to her concerns over “global warming” affecting the Town’s budget, and how it should be included within the Master Plan.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Accounts Payable totaling $1,110,830.33 dated 1/12/24. This includes a $700,531.17 payment to Fall Mt. Regional School District for November billing. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

Ms. Mayberry motioned to release the December payment to Fall Mt. Regional School District in the amount of $700,531.17. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

PAYROLL: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Payroll Register totaling $30,835.02 dated 1/12/24 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $6,535.68. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES, January 3, 2024: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve of the Selectboard Meeting minutes of January 3, 2024. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD NON-PUBLIC MEETING MINUTES, January 3, 2024: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve of the Selectboard Non-Public Meeting minutes as amended of January 3, 2024. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved. The minutes will remain sealed. 

ABATEMENT AND REFUND: 

Map and Lot# 028-161-000: Mr. Dalessio motioned to approve the abatement and refund for Map and Lot# 028-161-000 for $1,004. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.

SUPPLEMENTAL TAX WARRANT: 

Map and Lot# 028-161-000: Mr. Dalessio motioned to approve the supplemental tax warrant for Map and Lot# 028-161-000 for $1,004. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.

REFUND: 

Map and Lot# 027-001-006: Mr. Dalessio motioned to approve the refund for Map and Lot# 027-001-006 for $13.10. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.

Map and Lot# 008-088-001: Mr. Dalessio motioned to approve the refund for Map and Lot# 008-088001 for $8,913.00. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.

SOLAR ENERGY EXEMPTION: 

Map and Lot# 008-009-011: Mr. Dalessio motioned to approve the solar energy exemption for Map and Lot# 008-009-011. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.

Map and Lot# 010-020-000: Mr. Dalessio motioned to approve the solar energy exemption for Map and Lot# 010-020-000. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.

Map and Lot# 030-008-000: Mr. Dalessio motioned to approve the solar energy exemption for Map and Lot# 030-008-000. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.

CURRENT USE: 

Map and Lot# 011-043-002: Mr. Dalessio motioned to accept the current use assessment for Map and Lot# 011-043-002. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.

TIMBER INTENT: 

Map and Lot# 003-074-001: Mr. Dalessio motioned to approve the timber intent for Map and Lot# 003-074-001. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS:

Selectboard Meeting date: Mrs. Pschirrer confirmed that 1/18/2024 would be the date of the next Selectboard meeting. 

NEW BUSINESS:

Request to Trustees of Trust Funds: Mr. Dalessio motioned to issue a check for $1,025 from the Fanny Mason Fund to reimburse the Town for expenditures for cleaning Route 12 rest areas. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

Closed Landfill Report: Mrs. Downing commented in the report there are certain elements, like iron and manganese, which are higher. The water table at the landfill was higher than normal for this round of testing.

Request to Use the Town Hall: Mrs. Pschirrer stated there was a request from Monadnock United Way to use the Town Hall for no fee. Mrs. Pschirrer commented that this organization would be added to the list of organizations which can use the Town Hall without a fee.

SWRPC WINTER MEETING: Mrs. Pschirrer stated that 2/13/2024 will be the next SWRPC meeting. 

Mrs. Pschirrer commented that the Selectboard received a thank you letter from the Town librarian. 

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

Ms. Mayberry moved to enter into the Non-Public meeting at 7:26 PM. Mr. Dalessio seconded. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting reconvened at 8:32 PM. 

Mrs. Pschirrer declared the nonpublic minutes would be sealed. 

ADJOURNMENT:

Mrs. Pschirrer declared the meeting adjourned at 8:32 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Ahmad Esfahani, Recording Secretary

WALPOLE 

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

JANUARY 3, 2024

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

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

Others Present: Jeff Miller

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, Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration, and Ahmad Esfahani, Recording Secretary. She also commented that Jeff Miller was present as a member of the public.

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

Ms. Mayberry moved to enter into Non-Public meeting at 6:30 PM. Mr. Dalessio seconded. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting reconvened at 7:03 PM. 

Mrs. Pschirrer declared the nonpublic minutes would be sealed. 

PAYROLL: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Payroll Register totaling $31,852.89 dated 1/06/2024and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $6,726.42. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – December 28, 2023:  Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard Meeting Minutes of December 28, 2023. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer, the motion was approved. 

SELECTBOARD NON-PUBLIC SESSION – December 28, 2023:   Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the corrected Minutes of the Selectboard Non-Public Session of December 28, 2023. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer, the motion was approved. The minutes will remain sealed.

WARRANTS: 

Water Tax Lien for Walpole: Mr. Dalessio motioned to accept Walpole water tax lien for $576.57. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.

Sewer Tax Lien for Walpole: Mr. Dalessio motioned to accept Walpole sewer tax lien for $899.08. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.

Sewer Tax for North Walpole: Mr. Dalessio motioned to accept North Walpole sewer tax for $11,959.91. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.

PROPERTY TAX REFUNDS: 

Map and Lot# 023-008-000: Mr. Dalessio motioned to accept the refund in the amount of $7.00 for Map and Lot# 023-008-000. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.

Map and Lot# 029-047-000: Mr. Dalessio motioned to accept the refund in the amount of $2,871.00 for Map and Lot# 029-047-000. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.

Map and Lot# 029-048-000: Mr. Dalessio motioned to accept the refund in the amount of $11.18 for Map and Lot# 023-048-000. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.

VETERANS’ CREDIT: 

Map and Lot# 005-051-000: Mr. Dalessio motioned to accept the All Veterans’ Property Tax Credit for Map and Lot# 005-051-000. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.

Map and Lot# 016-005-MH01: Mr. Dalessio motioned to accept the Veterans’ Property Tax Credit for Map and Lot# 016-005-MH01. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.

SOLAR ENERGY EXEMPTION: 

Map and Lot# 005-051-000: Mr. Dalessio motioned to accept the Solar Energy Property Tax Exemption for Map and Lot# 005-051-000. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.

Map and Lot# 011-056-000: Mr. Dalessio motioned to accept the Solar Energy Property Tax Exemption for Map and Lot# 011-056-000. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.

TIMBER INTENT: 

Map and Lot# 010-034-000: Mr. Dalessio motioned to accept the Timber Intent for Map and Lot# 010-034-000 for a lot located off of Reservoir Road. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.

BUILDING PERMITS: 

2024-01, Map and Lot# 003-058-000: Mr. Dalessio motioned to accept the building permit for Map and Lot# 003-058-000 to construct a 16’ x 10’ shed. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS:

Topic/Training for 2/16/2024 Staff Meeting: Mrs. Pschirrer commented that there is a public hearing scheduled for 2/08/2024 which will require all department managers to be present to discuss the budget. Mrs. Pschirrer stated that this meeting could be considered their meeting for the month, and that the department managers should speak about their budgets at that meeting. Ms. Mayberry stated that the department managers should get a copy of the budget that is received by the Selectboard, so that they can prepare their narratives. Mr. Dalessio spoke to certain conditions of agreeing to this proposal. Mr. Dalessio commented that the meeting on 2/08/2024 would begin at 5:30 PM. 

North Walpole: Ms. Mayberry stated that a meeting with the North Walpole Commissioners could be scheduled after a water shut off proposal is drawn up. The Selectboard agreed to set this meeting sometime in February. 

NEW BUSINESS:

Additional Public Hearing: Mrs. Pschirrer about asked about holding a public hearing to present information about the progress of the proposed new police station. Mr. Dalessio stated that this meeting would be scheduled after the Town Meeting. 

HOOPER TRUSTEES MEETING:  

Ms. Mayberry moved to enter into Hooper Trustees meeting at 7:28 PM. Mr. Dalessio seconded. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting reconvened at 7:34 PM. 

ADJOURNMENT:

Mrs. Pschirrer declared the meeting adjourned at 7:35 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Ahmad Esfahani, Recording Secretary 

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

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

CALL TO ORDER:  Mrs. Pschirrer called this Selectboard meeting to order at 6:30 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. She commented that there was no member of the public present. 

PAYROLL: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Payroll Register totaling $31,521.04 dated 12/29/23 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $6,782.64. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – December 21, 2023:  Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard Meeting Minutes of December 21, 2023. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer, the motion was approved. 

SELECTBOARD NON-PUBLIC SESSION – December 21, 2023:   Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard Non-Public Session of December 21, 2023. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer, the motion was approved. The minutes will remain sealed.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

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

     • North Walpole Village District Meeting Minutes– November 21, 2023

     • North Walpole Village District Meeting Minutes– November 28, 2023

     • North Walpole Village District Meeting Minutes– December 5, 2023

     • North Walpole Village District Meeting Minutes– December 12, 2023

     • North Walpole Village District Meeting Minutes– December 19, 2023

     • Zoning Board of Adjustment Meeting Minutes– December 20, 2023

Mr. Dalessio commented on errors in the Zoning Board of Adjustment minutes. Mrs. Pschirrer also commented that she found errors in these minutes.  Mrs. Pschirrer acknowledged these minutes.

WARRANTS: 

Map and Lot# 012-013-004: Mr. Dalessio motioned to accept the Supplemental Tax Warrant in the amount of $15,839 for Map and Lot# 012-013-004. The adjustment is due to a Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) filing. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.

VETERANS’ CREDIT: 

Map and Lot# 024-024-000: Mr. Dalessio motioned to accept the Veterans’ credit for Map and Lot# 024-024-000. The applicant was honorably discharged and served over 90 days of active duty during a time of conflict. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.

SOLAR ENERGY EXEMPTION: 

Map and Lot# 007-022-000: Mr. Dalessio motioned to accept the solar energy exemption for Map and Lot# 007-022-000. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS:

Agreement Form with M. Petrovick Architects, PLLC: Mr. Dalessio motioned to allow the chair to sign the AIA Agreement for the architect Michael Petrovick to perform concept work. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.

Police Building Committee January Meeting Date: Mrs. Pschirrer stated that 1/16/2024 at 6:30 pm would be the tentative new date for the police building committee meeting. Mrs. Pschirrer will confirm that Petrovick Architects and other committee members are available on this date.

Reservoir Road: Mrs. Pschirrer commented that the Town received an email from the Town forester which expressed concern with logging trucks creating deep ruts on the class VI portion of Reservoir Road. Mr. Dalessio advised Mrs. Downing to call and speak with the landowner regarding the road and the work that is being done.

Closed Landfill Garage: Mrs. Pschirrer commented that Mark Houghton, Fire Chief, had confirmed that the Walpole Fire Department (WFD) would like to use the closed landfill garage for storage. Consensus of the Selectboard was to allow this to be done. The sealed bill sale will be delayed until further notice.

Topic/Training for February 16, 2024 Staff Meeting: Mrs. Pschirrer stated that this topic would be tabled two weeks from today.

NEW BUSINESS:

Recording Secretary Resignation: Mrs. Pschirrer confirmed receipt of a letter of resignation from Jean Kobeski for the Conservation Commission.

Request to sell Map and Lot# 009-023-002: Mrs. Pschirrer commented that there has been an expression of interest in purchasing land that is presently owned by the Town. Mrs. Downing stated that this piece of land is landlocked. The Selectboard agreed to sell this property by sealed bid. Mrs. Downing stated she would respond to the interested party.

Liberty Utilities Letter: Mrs. Pschirrer stated she spoke to Liberty Utilities on repeated errors they have been making. Liberty Utilities requested a written confirmation from the Town of Mrs. Pschirrer’s home address. Ms. Mayberry motioned to sign the letter to Liberty Utilities to correct the error of Mrs. Pschirrer’s address in Walpole. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

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

Ms. Mayberry moved to enter into Non-Public meeting at 6:46 PM. Mr. Dalessio seconded. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting reconvened at 7:27 PM. 

Mrs. Pschirrer declared the Non-Public meeting minutes sealed. 

ADJOURNMENT:

Mrs. Pschirrer declared the meeting adjourned at 7:27 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Ahmad Esfahani, Recording Secretary

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

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

Others Present: Michael Hayes, Paul Looney and Dave Worth

PUBLIC HEARING:  Mrs. Pschirrer called the public hearings to order at 6:15 PM. She introduced herself, Peggy Pschirrer, Selectboard Chair, Cheryl Mayberry, Steve Dalessio, Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration, and Ahmad Esfahani, Recording Secretary. She commented that two members of the public were also in attendance: Paul Looney and Michael Hayes. She stated that the Selectboard was holding a public meeting for unanticipated bridge funds per House Bill #2 in the amount of $26,937.05. She commented that there was no public comment.

Mrs. Pschirrer closed the public hearings at 6:16 PM.

Ms. Mayberry motioned to accept the unanticipated one-time bridge payment in the amount of $26,937.05. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

CALL TO ORDER:  Mrs. Pschirrer called this Selectboard meeting to order at 6:17 PM. 

OLD BUSINESS:

Recreation Committee: Mrs. Pschirrer asked Mr. Hayes to explain why he wished to meet with the Selectboard. Mr. Hayes said he was present to submit his letter of interest in being a member of the Recreation Committee. Mr. Hayes had reference letters from Toni McDougle and Jeff Miller. Mr. Hayes’ interest is pickleball, and that diversity of interest on the Recreation Committee is a good thing. He commented that the minutes of the Recreation Committee are not posted in a timely manner. Mr. Hayes would volunteer to be the secretary of the Recreation Committee. Mrs. Pschirrer stated that the Selectboard does not appoint members to the committee. Ms. Mayberry said that the December meeting was canceled, with the next scheduled meeting on 1/13/2024. Mr. Hayes asked if the minutes from the last meeting were posted. He has not seen the minutes approved in over a year. Mr. Hayes stated that he captures audio recordings of meetings. Ms. Mayberry there was no formal approval of previous meeting minutes during the Recreation Committee Meeting because the group did not have a quorum. Mr. Hayes stated that he is not going away, whether he is appointed to the committee or not. Ms. Mayberry responded that two other people submitted letters of interest to be on the committee. Mrs. Pschirrer stated that the committee decides how many members it will have. The materials Mr. Hayes brought in will be forwarded to the chair of the Recreation Committee. Ms. Mayberry stated she reviewed the appropriate process with Kraig Harlow and Scott Rodenhauser. Mr. Dalessio reviewed the appointment process for Mr. Hayes.

Community Power Committee: Mr. Paul Looney reflected on the committee’s original goals which included adopting statements such as reaching 100% renewable energy. Mr. Looney brought forth the idea of placing solar on the existing building at the Recycling Center. He reflected on the pole barn being built which had a better orientation to the sun. The roof of the pole barn is metal, which should last longer than the main building’s roof. He stated that several vendors, including “Solar” Dave Worth, (who joined the meeting at 6:30 PM) had made proposals regarding the installation of solar panels. Mr. Looney reflected on the kilowatts used by specific Town buildings in the previous year. The energy generated by the solar energy system at the Recycling Center would first go to the Center, with the remainder going to the Town Hall. Mr. Looney reflected on a grant by the Department of Energy (DOE) that would be announced in 2024. There are projected savings of $107,864.61 over the life of the system. Mr. Dalessio commented that the placement of inverters should be included in the quote. Mr. Looney and Mr. Worth said that their replacement was not included in the quote presented. Mr. Worth stated that an extended warranty over twelve years could be purchased, or the Town could plan on purchasing replacement inverters when they need replacing. Mr. Dalessio asked if bifacial panels were considered. Mr. Worth stated that he did not know what a bifacial panel was. Mr. Dalessio explained the process by which bifacial panels work. Mr. Worth stated that he would look into bifacial panels. Mr. Looney commented that because the panels would be installed so close to the roof that bifacial panels may not be practical. 

Mr. Looney stated that if a warrant is written for this project, the warrant should pay for itself. Mrs. Pschirrer clarified that this would only be over time. Mr. Looney stated that the Town would be asked for approximately $50,000 from the unassigned fund balance. Mr. Dalessio suggested that a quarterly report of the proposed savings should be planned to hold those advocating accountability. Mr. Dalessio asked why water and sewer were not included in the net metering. Mr. Looney responded that water and sewer expenses are not paid by the Town but are paid by the users. Mr. Worth commented that the solar system would be monitored. Mr. Looney stated that there is some shade on the pole barn roof, and that several trees would need to be taken down. He commented that the committee would have to verify the owner of the property. Mr. Dalessio asked what would happen to the proposal if approval to remove the trees was not given. Mr. Looney responded that it would reduce the amount of electricity generated. Mrs. Pschirrer commented that Mr. Looney has worked very hard on this project. Mr. Looney asked what the next steps would be. Mrs. Pschirrer stated that a public meeting will be held wherein warrants will be discussed. 

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Accounts Payable Check Register totaling $2,321,542.06 dated 12/22/23. This check includes a $1,834,787 payment to Cheshire County. 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 $31,335.97 dated 12/22/23 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $6,581.85. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the supplemental Payroll Register totaling $2,707.20 dated 12/22/23 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $414.20. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – December 14, 2023:  Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard Meeting Minutes of December 14, 2023. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer, the motion was approved. 

SELECTBOARD NON-PUBLIC SESSION – December 14, 2023:   Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard Non-Public Session of December 14, 2023. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer, the motion was approved. The minutes will remain sealed.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

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

     • Planning Board Meeting Minutes– December 12, 2023

Mrs. Pschirrer acknowledged these minutes.

WARRANTS: 

Map and Lot# 003-082-CL8: Mr. Dalessio motioned to accept the Supplemental Tax Warrant in the amount of $4,601. The owner of this property did not qualify for the charitable exemption in 2023. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.

ABATEMENTS: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the abatements of: 

• $551 for Map and Lot# 03-082-CL8,

• $3,277 for Map and Lot# 014-005-000,

• $944 for Map and Lot# 028-105-000,

• $125 for Map and Lot# 017-005-001,

• $155 for Map and Lot# 017-005-002,

• $135 for Map and Lot# 017-005-003, and

• $238 for Map and Lot# 017-005-004. 

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

REFUNDS:

Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the refunds of: 

• $8 for Map and Lot# 007-022-000,

• $98 for Map and Lot# 017-012-000,

• $14 for Map and Lot# 008-066-000,

• $64.02 for Map and Lot# 028-119-000.,

• $17 for Map and Lot# 027-004-001,

• $8 for Map and Lot# 001-003-006,

• $125 for Map and Lot# 017-005-001, and

• $528 for Map and Lot# 017-005-02,03,04. 

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

TIMBER INTENTS:

Map and Lot# 008-062-000: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the timber intent for Map and Lot# 008-062-000. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS:

Closed Landfill Landscape Management Proposal: Mr. Dalessio motioned to accept the proposal from Connecticut Valley Yard Works to maintain the landscape for the closed landfill in the amount of $3,000. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.

Request to the Trustees of Trust Funds: Ms. Mayberry motioned to accept the request of the Trustees of Trust Funds to reimburse the Town for the expense of $5038.60 for the bandstand gazebo roof replacement. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.

Proposed 2024 Sewer Bond Rate Changes: Mr. Dalessio motioned to accept the new sewer rates utilizing option #2 with a flat rate as proposed at the budget meeting. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.

NEW BUSINESS:

Closed Landfill Garage: Mrs. Pschirrer commenced a discussion on what to do with the closed landfill garage building. Mr. Dalessio commented that it should be put up for sealed bid. The Selectboard reached consensus to put the building out to sealed bid. Mr. Dalessio asked that the building be offered to the Water and Sewer Department. The Highway and Police Departments were not interested in moving the building.

January Selectboard Meeting Dates: Discussion commenced on the planning of January Selectboard meetings. The Selectboard agreed to move the first week of January’s meeting to January 3^rd. The Town 2024 Budget Hearing will be February 8, 2024, at 5:30 P.M. The Selectboard Meeting will follow at the end of that meeting.

Topic/Training for 2/15/2024 Staff Meeting: Mrs. Pschirrer stated further consideration would be given to the topic for the February 15th Staff meeting. This topic will be revisited at the next meeting. 

HOOPER TRUSTEES MEETING:  

Ms. Mayberry moved to enter into Hooper Trustees meeting at 7:30 PM. Mr. Dalessio seconded. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting reconvened at 7:41 PM. 

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

Ms. Mayberry moved to enter into Non-Public meeting at 7:41 p.m. Mr. Dalessio seconded. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting reconvened at 7:56 PM. 

Mrs. Pschirrer declared the Non-Public meeting minutes sealed. 

ADJOURNMENT:

Mrs. Pschirrer declared the meeting adjourned at 7:57 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Ahmad Esfahani, Recording Secretary