The Walpolean

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 

DECEMBER 6, 2023

Selectboard Present:  Cheryl Mayberry and Steven Dalessio. 

Staff Present: Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration

CALL TO ORDER:  Mr. Dalessio called this Selectboard meeting to order at 6:32 PM. He commented that Peggy Pschirrer would not be present, and then introduced himself, Steve Dalessio, Cheryl Mayberry, and Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration. 

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Accounts Payable totaling $297,056.22 dated 12/08/23; this includes a $80,971 payment to Tenco Industries for the 2021 one-ton truck with funds that were encumbered from a warrant article last year. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

PAYROLL: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Payroll totaling $32,519.85 dated 12/08/23 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $6,776.59. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – November 30, 2023:  Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard Meeting Minutes of November 30, 2023. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD NON-PUBLIC SESSION – November 30, 2023:   Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard Non-Public Session of November 30, 2023. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved. The minutes will remain sealed.

OLD BUSINESS:

Waiver of Municipal Liability for Private Driveway: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Municipal Waiver of Liability for a private driveway on Map and Lot#: 003-001-002 on Whipple Hill Road. The applicants have received approval from the Planning Board to build on a Class VI portion of the road. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved. Ms. Mayberry questioned the wording of the waiver. Mr. Dalessio clarified that when a resident builds on a Class VI road, there is an understanding that the road is not going to be maintained by the Town. He stated the driveway is on a Class VI road. 

Proposed 2024 Sewer Bond Rate Changes: Mr. Dalessio stated he would like to postpone this discussion. Ms. Mayberry stated she only received this information today and did not have sufficient time to review. Mr. Dalessio confirmed that this matter would be tabled until the following week. 

2023 Tax Rate Status: Mr. Dalessio stated that nothing can be signed until Mrs. Pschirrer returns. The Town has not received a preliminary tax rate.

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

Ms. Mayberry moved to enter into Non-Public meeting at 6:47 PM. Mr. Dalessio seconded. With Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting reconvened at 7:04 PM.

The non-public minutes are to remain sealed.

ADJOURNMENT:

Mr. Dalessio declared the meeting adjourned at 7:04 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. She introduced herself, Peggy Pschirrer, Selectboard Chair, Cheryl Mayberry, Steve Dalessio, Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration, and Ahmad Esfahani, Recording Secretary. 

PAYROLL: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Payroll Register totaling $35,863.68 dated 12/01/23 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $7,556.37. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – November 22, 2023:  Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard Meeting Minutes of November 22, 2023. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved. 

SELECTBOARD NON-PUBLIC SESSION – November 22, 2023:   Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard Non-Public Session of November 22, 2023. 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 to the chair’s attention the following committee reports:

     • Hooper Board Meeting Minutes– September 6, 2023

     • Hooper Board Meeting Minutes – October 4, 2023 

     • Hooper Board Meeting Minutes – November 1, 2023 

     • Zoning Board of Adjustment Meeting Minutes – October 18, 2023 

     • Safety Committee Meeting Minutes – November 16, 2023 

Mrs. Pschirrer acknowledged these minutes. 

Letter to Jan Galloway-Leclerc: Mr. Dalessio motioned to accept the letter of appreciation to Jan Galloway-Leclerc for her services as a ZBA member. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved. 

Public Hearing: Mrs. Pschirrer commented that the funds to be discussed in a forthcoming hearing were expected because they were FEMA funds. Mrs. Downing stated that unanticipated is a procedural term because the funds were not listed in the MS-434 form. Ms. Mayberry suggested the wording “for the purpose of reimbursing expenses associated with FEMA”. Mr. Dalessio commented on taking out the word “expenditure” in the hearing notice. Ms. Mayberry asked when the expenses were incurred. Mrs. Pschirrer stated they were incurred in 2021 and early 2022. Mrs. Pschirrer then commented that the auditor suggested holding a public hearing. Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer suggested breaking the hearings into two: one for the FEMA, the other for the highway block grant. The Selectboard reached agreement to hold the public hearing at 6:00 PM.

Selectboard December Meeting: There was a consensus that the Selectboard Meeting dates will be Dec. 5^th, 14^th, 21^st and 28^th.

General and Utility Assessing Quotes: Mrs. Pschirrer stated that there is an Avitar bid to be either a 1-year contract at $26,268 or a 4-year contract at $188,928. Mr. Dalessio suggested doing a 1-year contract and creating a Capital Reserve Fund to save for a longer contract. Mr. Dalessio motion to accept the 1-year assessing contract with Avitar at $26,268. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved. 

The Selectboard reached a consensus to not accept the offer of assessing services for utilities by SansoucyAssociates. 

Website Update: Mr. Dalessio stated he looked at the draft website. There is more information needed. The Selectboard agreed to ask for a timeline to have the website finished.

Pending Further Action: Mrs. Pschirrer stated that even though the Brownfields project is finished, the fence is still going to be put in because the ground is still soft. The cost of the fence is under $5,000 and it will be installed within the next two weeks. 

NEW BUSINESS:

Resident Complaint: Mrs. Pschirrer asked Mrs. Downing to discuss recent discussions with a resident who lives at the end of Whipple Hill Road. Mrs. Downing stated that the residents were unhappy with hunters parking near their property. Mrs. Downing commented that parking is occurring on Rapids Road, and this road borders the residents’ property. Mr. Dalessio stated that if hunters are parking on personal property, it is trespassing. The Selectboard discussed the email and attached images sent by the resident. They deliberated on the locations that hunters may be parking on Rapids Road.

Abatement Appeal Mediation Settlement: Mrs. Pschirrer presented the mediation settlement to the Selectboard for map and lot# 019-040-000. Ms. Mayberry motioned to accept the abatement appeal mediation settlement. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved. 

Terra Map Mapping Services Agreement: Mrs. Pschirrer stated that the cost for the Terra Map Mapping Services Agreement for 1-year limited $2,860. Mr. Dalessio asked that this item be confirmed in next year’s budget. Ms. Mayberry motioned to allow Mrs. Pschirrer to sign to accept the Terra Map Mapping Services Agreement with Avitar for 1-year limited at $2,860. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.  

DRA Portal Access: Ms. Mayberry motioned to allow town Treasurer Steve Varone read-only access to the DRA Portal. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

HOOPER TRUSTEES MEETING:  

Ms. Mayberry moved to enter into 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 reconvened at 7:18 PM. 

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

Ms. Mayberry moved to enter into Non-Public meeting at 7:19 PM. Mr. Dalessio seconded. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting reconvened at 7:45 PM. 

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

ADJOURNMENT:

Mrs. Pschirrer declared the meeting adjourned at 7:46 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Ahmad Esfahani, Recording Secretary

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

Staff Present: Jodi Daigle, Administrative Assistant; Ahmad Esfahani, Recording Secretary 

Others Present: Alicia Savage, Kara Dexter and Peter Dexter

CALL TO ORDER:  Mrs. Pschirrer called this Selectboard meeting to order at 6:26 PM. She introduced herself, Peggy Pschirrer, Selectboard Chair, Cheryl Mayberry, Steve Dalessio, Jodi Daigle, Administrative Assistant, and Ahmad Esfahani, Recording Secretary.

PAYROLL: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Payroll Register totaling $32,099.01 dated 11/17/23 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $6,601.48. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – November 9, 2023:  Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard Meeting Minutes of November 9, 2023. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved. 

SELECTBOARD NON-PUBLIC SESSION – November 9, 2023:   Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard Non-Public Session of November 9, 2023. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved. The minutes will remain sealed.

BUILDING PERMITS:

2023-41, Map and Lot# 010-009-001: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the building permit for Map and Lot# 010-009-001 for a log home, garage, and deck. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS:

Highway Garage Door Claim Quote: Mr. Dalessio motioned to accept the quote to fix the highway garage door of $4,961.49. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. Mr. Dalessio stated that a purchase order would be coming from the highway department. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.

Public Hearings: Mrs. Pschirrer stated that the town has received a one-time highway block grant of $38,603.58. She stated that a public hearing would be needed to accept these funds. 

Streetlight Shields: Mrs. Pschirrer commented on a thank you note from a resident about the installation of a streetlight shield. She stated that the Town has received further correspondence regarding issues with the streetlights. Mr. Dalessio stated that the Town would need to get the pole numbers of those who have already expressed concern.

Sewer Bond Rate: Ms. Daigle stated that she is working on this and that this will be ongoing.

Water Shut Off Agreement: Ms. Mayberry stated she has not met with the North Walpole Commissioners yet to set a date for this meeting as of tonight. 

Graves Road Water Issue: Mr. Dalessio is to look at the problem area. Mr. Dexter questioned the location of the culvert. Ms. Dexter then asked when the Town would address another culvert that places water onto the road in winter. Mr. Dalessio stated he would look at both issues on Graves Road this weekend.

NH DES Permit: Mr. Dalessio stated that the solid waste permit is being transferred from Ruggerio Processing Facility to the pending new owner, Valorize Industries Inc. Mrs. Pschirrer read the letter withthe details of the transfer. 

Recreation Committee Recreation: Mrs. Pschirrer spoke in response to a resignation letter from Evelyn Beliveau of the Recreation Committee. 

Selectboard December Meeting Dates: Ms. Mayberry stated she would have information on December meeting availability tomorrow. 

NEW BUSINESS:

2023 Municipal Assessment Data Certificate: Mrs. Pschirrer stated she received an email regarding this matter earlier this week. Mr. Dalessio motioned to sign the 2023 Municipal Assessment Data Certificate. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.

NH Presidential Primary Date Announcement: Mrs. Pschirrer stated that the New Hampshire presidential primary is scheduled to be 1/23/2024.

Highway Department 911 Form: Mrs. Pschirrer stated that she signed a form this morning for E911 so that the Highway Department can update the Town contacts.

HOOPER TRUSTEES MEETING:  

Ms. Mayberry moved to enter into Hooper Trustees meeting at 6:45 PM. Mr. Dalessio seconded. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting reconvened at 6:49 PM. 

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

Mr. Dalessio moved to enter into Non-Public meeting at 6:52 PM. Ms. Mayberry seconded. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting reconvened at 6:55 PM. 

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

ADJOURNMENT:

Mrs. Pschirrer declared the meeting adjourned at 6:56 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Ahmad Esfahani, Recording Secretary