The Walpolean

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

APRIL 6, 2017

 

Selectboard Present:     Peggy Pschirrer (Chair); Steven Dalessio; (Absent: Cheryl Mayberry)

CALL TO ORDER:  Mrs. Pschirrer called this Selectboard meeting to order at 6:30 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.  Ms. Cheryl Mayberry is not present as she is at the Annual Meeting of the North Walpole Village District; this is her last meeting as a Commissioner.  Mrs. Pschirrer advised that this meeting is being recorded and asked anyone wishing to speak to identify themselves for the record.  There were three people in attendance.

 

NON-PUBLIC SESSION:

Mr. Dalessio moved to enter into a Non-Public Selectboard Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (a) Personnel and (c) Reputations.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:03 PM.

Mr. Dalessio moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of April 6, 2017, be sealed.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

 

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Accounts Payable Check Register in the amount of $67,522.48 for checks dated April 7, 2017.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

 

PAYROLL:

Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Payroll Voucher for the week ending April 1, 2017, in the amount of $23,661.25 for checks dated April 7, 2017.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $5,533.36 for the week ending April 1, 2017.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

 

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – March 30, 2017:  Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of March 30, 2017, as submitted.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the Minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – March 30, 2017:  Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of March 30, 2017, as submitted.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the Minutes were approved.

 

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard received and reviewed Minutes of the following meetings:

• North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners – March 21, 2017;
• North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners – March 28, 2017;
• Walpole Planning Board Workshop – March 28, 2017.

The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of a copy of the Annual Report from the North Walpole Village District.

 

ALL VETERANS’ TAX CREDIT:

MAP and LOT #004-029-000:  Mr. Dalessio moved to grant the All Veterans’ Tax Credit in the amount of $500.00 for Map and Lot #004-029-000.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

MAP and LOT #015-014-002:  Mr. Dalessio moved to grant the All Veterans’ Tax Credit in the amount of $500.00 for Map and Lot #015-014-002.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

 

PROPERTY TAX ABATEMENTS:

MAP and LOT #014-011-001:  Mr. Dalessio moved to accept Avitar Associates recommendation to deny this Property Tax Abatement for Map and Lot #014-011-001.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

MAP and LOT #003-040-000:  Mr. Dalessio moved to accept Avitar Associates recommendation to deny this Property Tax Abatement for Map and Lot #003-040-000.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

MAP and LOT #013-035-000:  Mr. Dalessio moved to accept Avitar Associates recommendation to deny this Property Tax Abatement for Map and Lot #013-035-000.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

MAP and LOT #020-048-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer recused herself from voting on this Abatement due to a conflict.  It will be on the Agenda for the next meeting.

MAP and LOT #021-038-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer recused herself from voting on this Abatement due to a conflict.  It will be on the Agenda for the next meeting.

 

GRAVEL TAX WARRANT: 

MAP and LOT #001-016-000:  Mr. Dalessio moved to accept this Original Warrant, Gravel Tax Levy, Tax Year: April 1, 2016 to March 31, 2017, in the amount of $90.56 for Operation numbers – 16-461-05-E and 03-000-00-G for Map and Lot #001-016-000, George R. Graves Revocable Trust.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

 

NOTICE OF INTENT TO EXCAVATE PERMIT:

MAP and LOT #001-016-000:  Mr. Dalessio moved to grant this Notice of Intent to Excavate Permit for Map and Lot #001-016-000 off Old Route 12 North for The George R. Graves Revocable Trust.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

 

OLD BUSINESS:

New Arch Bridge Street Lights: The letter on the New Arch Bridge Street Lights was postponed until the Selectboard meeting next week.

 

Appointment Notice:  The Selectboard signed the Re-Appointment Notice to the Walpole Conservation Commission for Mr. Lew Shelley for a three year term that was approved at the meeting last week.

 

NEW BUSINESS:

Walpole Police Department:  A request was received from the Walpole Police Department to use $2,000 from their Revolving Fund toward the repair cost on the 2011 Cruiser that had major engine trouble.

Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the request from the Walpole Police Department to withdraw funds in the amount of $2,000 from the Revolving Fund to be designated toward the repair costs on the 2011 Cruiser.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

 

Conservation Commission and Hooper Institute Board Appointment Request:

Mr. Dalessio moved to Re-Appoint Mrs. Elaine Heleen to the Walpole Conservation Commission as an alternate member for a three year term.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

There was a consensus to wait on the Appointment request to the Hooper Institute Board for Mrs. Elaine Heleen.  This request will be sent to the Hooper Institute from the Walpole Conservation Commission.  Mr. Lew Shelley is not seeking a re-appointment.

 

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:  Mr. Dalessio moved to recess this Selectboard meeting.  The Selectboard will enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved at 7:19 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:33 PM.

 

NEW BUSINESS (Continued):

Highway Department:  Mrs. Pschirrer reported the Highway Department began their summer hours this week.

 

Adjournment:  Mr. Dalessio moved to adjourn this meeting.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 7:36 PM.

 

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

MARCH 30, 2017

 

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

CALL TO ORDER: Mrs. Pschirrer called this Selectboard meeting to order at 6:30 PM in the Walpole Town Hall. She advised that this meeting is being recorded and asked anyone wishing to speak to identify themselves for the record. There were two Town employees in attendance.

 

ACCOUNTS  PAYABLE:

Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Accounts Payable check register in the amount of $60,094.49 for checks dated March 31, 2017. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mr.s. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

 

PAYROLL:

Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Payroll Register for the week ending March 25, 2017, in the amount of $33,590.25 for checks dated March 31, 2017. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of 8,473.68 for the week ending March 25, 2017. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

 

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING-March 23, 2017: Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of March 23, 2017, as submitted. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the Minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION-March 23, 2017: Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of March 23, 2017. These Minutes will remain sealed. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the Minutes were approved.

 

COMMITTEE  REPORTS:

The Selectboard received and reviewed Minutes of the following meeting:

• Walpole Conservation Commission – March 6,

 

TAX REFUND:

MAP and LOT# 001-009-000:  Ms. Mayberry moved to grant the Property Tax Refund in the amount of $2,248.98 for Map and Lot #001-009-000. This was a duplicate payment by the homeowner and mortgage company. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

 

ELDERLY TAX EXEMPTIONS:

MAP and LOT# 025-031-000: Ms. Mayberry moved to grant the Elderly Tax Exemption for Map and Lot# 025-031-000. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

MAP and LOT# 029-010-000: Ms. Mayberry moved to grant the Elderly Tax Exemption for Map and Lot# 029-010-000. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

 

ALL VETERANS’ TAX CREDIT:

MAP and LOT# 011-026-000: Ms. Mayberry moved to grant the All Veterans’ Tax Credit for Map and Lot# 011-026-000. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

MAP and LOT# 011-026-000: Ms. Mayberry moved to grant the All Veterans’ Tax Credit for Map and Lot# 011-026-000. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

MAP and LOT # 008-074-000: Ms. Mayberry moved to grant the All Veterans’ Tax Credit for Map and Lot# 008-074-000. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

 

BUILDING PERMITS:

TARA STUART, 1252 County Road, Map and Lot# 003-021-000: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve Building Pemut No. 2017-03 for Tara Stuart to do a “Two story addition to Log Home with 10/22/2016 ZBA Variance approval”.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

STEVEN RUDEK, 42 Potato Barn Lane, Map and Lot# 024-006-000: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve Building Permit No. 2017-04 for Steven Rudek to “Construct entry and egress deck with ramp as approved within scope of work by the Planning Board on 11/10/2015”. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

 

OLD BUSINESS:

Fall Mountain Regional School District School Board Letter: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve and sign the letter to the FMRSD regarding the election of School Board members.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved. Ms. Maybeny abstained from the vote.

 

Westberg Property Donation: Ms. Mayberry moved that the Select Board of Walpole, NH intends to accept the Central Plating property, Map 20, Lots 65 and 66 from the Nils Westberg estate so long as the following conditions are met to the satisfaction of the Select Board: The results of Phase II and Phase I Environmental Site Assessment and Analysis of Brownsfield Clean-up / Alternatives / Remedial Action Plan show that the site’s clean-up is feasible using EPA grants and/or gifts/donations. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

 

New Arch Bridge Street Lights: Mr. Dalessio is drafting a letter to be reviewed at the next meeting.

 

NEW BUSINESS:

Thank You Note: The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of a Thank You note from Mrs. Sandy Smith for the flowers and the card signed by everyone.

 

Congratulations and Compliment: Mrs. Myra Mansouri wanted to congratulate Ms. Cheryl Mayberry on her election. She enjoyed working with Ms. Mayberry on the Merger Project. She also congratulated Mr. Michael Rau on his presentation for the new loader at Town Meeting.

 

Citizen’s Report #2017-09: Mr. Jeff White dropped off a letter during the last meeting about a dog that abuts their property. This dog is aggressive, there is incessant barking and quite often is off the leash. Mr. Dalessio recommended sending a letter to the property owner to advise the Selectboard had received this Citizen’s Report and that he discuss this with his tenant. They need to be reminded of the Town’s Leash Law.

Town Hall Rental – Event Insurance Waiver Request: Mr. Dalessio moved to waive the requirement for TULIP Insurance for a Town employee having a birthday party for his one-year old child on April 1st.

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

 

Complete Streets Policy: Mr. Dalessio reported that Southwest Regional Planning Commission is working on this Complete Streets Policy.  Right now the document is for information only.  After SWRPC completes the up-date it will go back to the Planning Board who will conduct a Public Hearing. Following the Public Hearing, if the PB approves it, it will come back before the Selectboard. SWRPC would like to test this during the Old Home Days because there are a large number of people in the Village. Ms. Mayberry will follow-up on this with SWRPC. Mr. Dalessio advised SWRPC received $3,500 for bike racks. The Savings Bank of Walpole claimed a few.  Out of 18 racks about 10 are left. Ms. Mayberry mentioned North Walpole would like some for the Village Park. Mr. Dalessio suggested Ms. Downing co-ordinate the rest of the bike rakes for the Town; 1 for the Drewsville Common, 2 on the Walpole Common, 2 for North Walpole (1 for the Park), 1 by the Town Hall, 1 by the Library and the balance by the pool. There are three options for mounting them: 1) In Ground Racks; 2) Rail Mounted Racks; and 3) Flange Mounted Racks. It would be better to do them all the same. The Town has until April 10th to submit this information.

Mr. Dalessio moved that the Chair, Mrs. Pschirrer, be authorized to sign the Letter of Understanding between the Monadnock Alliance for Sustainable Transportation and the Town of Walpole. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

 

Recognition Program:  Mr. Dalessio would like the Selectboard to have a Recognition Program. Recently nineteen 7th, and 8th graders have earned the opportunity to represent Walpole Elementary School at the National Science Olympiad Tournament in Ohio in May. He thought about inviting them to a Selectboard meeting for recognition and to present them with a Certificate of Achievement. Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer agreed with this suggestion.

 

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION: Ms. Mayberry moved that the Selectboard enter into a Non-Public Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (a) Personnel and (c) Reputations. Mr. Dalessio seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved at 7:10 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:56 PM.

Ms. Maybeny moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of March 30, 2017, be sealed. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

 

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING: Ms. Mayberry moved to recess this Selectboard meeting. The Selectboard will enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved. The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 8:08 PM.

NEW BUSINESS (Continued):

Engineering Program: Ms. Maybeny advised there is a new program called “Young Women in Enginee1ing” that is sponsored by “Northern Heritage Mills”.  The Fall Mountain Regional School District became involved.  The Claremont Recreation Center had a day when they brought in engineers and 5th through 8^th graders for the day and showed them many things. All the schools in the district were involved. They are looking for some place in the Town of Walpole to create community awareness about engineering and develop some interest in it. The goal going forward is to offer this once a year program to girls to offer them this opportunity. It is a good idea. She will bring in more information for the Selectboard. Mr. Dalessio suggested looking into the R.N. Johnson building plus there is a parking area.

 

ADJOURNMENT: Ms. Mayberry moved to adjourn this meeting. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 8:14 PM.

 

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden , Recording Secretary

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

MARCH 23, 2017

 

Selectboard Present:     Steven Dalessio (Chair); Peggy Pschirrer; Cheryl Mayberry

CALL TO ORDER:  Ms. Borden, Recording Secretary called this reorganizational meeting of the Selectboard to order at 6:30 PM.

 

ELECTION OF CHAIR:

Mr. Dalessio moved to nominate Mrs. Pschirrer as the Chair for 2017-18.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  There were no other nominations.  Mrs. Pschirrer accepted the nomination.  With Mr. Dalessio and Mr. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

 

PUBLIC BUSINESS:

Neil Coughlin:  Mr. Coughlin has concerns about the way water and sewer is being billed.  Back in 2014 they started to roll everything together into one number.  Prior to that they were separating out both the water and sewer and then deducted it from the amount the Town was going to raise.  Mr. Dalessio replied the users pay in accordance with their bills.  North Walpole has their own Water Department but they are connected to the Walpole Sewer.  It has been billed separately. There is no budget money in the Walpole budget for water and sewer.  It will benefit the users to have more development/users added to it.  Mrs. Pschirrer said the new bills for water and sewer will be going out soon.  They are going to work on how to be more effective and think to the future.  They are exploring moving the sewer line off the Vilas Bridge to the connection in North Walpole and putting the sewer line under the new bridge.

 

Planning Board:  Mrs. Pschirrer administered the Oath of Office to Mr. Jeffrey White as a member of the Planning Board.

 

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION:

Mr. Dalessio moved to enter into a Non-Public Selectboard Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (a) Personnel, (c) Reputations (e) Pending Claims or Litigation.  Ms. Mayberry seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved at 6:37 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:29 PM.

Mr. Dalessio moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of March 23, 2017, will be sealed.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

 

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register in the amount of $109,912.94 for checks dated March 24, 2017.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer, the motion was approved.

The above amount includes a check in the amount of $77,000 for the Highway Department tractor with side mower as approved at Town Meeting.

 

PAYROLL:

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Payroll register for the week ending March 18, 2017, in the amount of $25,671.31 for checks dated March 24, 2017.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $5,563.37 for the week ending March 18, 2017.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

 

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – March 16, 2017:  Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of March 16, 2017, as submitted.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the Minutes were approved.  Ms. Mayberry abstained  as she was not a Selectboard member at this meeting.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – March 16, 2017:  Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of March 16, 2017, as submitted.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the Minutes were approved.  Ms. Mayberry abstained as she was not a Selectboard member at this meeting.

STAFF MEETING – March 16, 2017:  Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Minutes of the Staff Meeting of March 16, 2017, as submitted.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the Minutes were approved.  Ms. Mayberry abstained as she was not a Selectboard member at this meeting.

WESTBERG PUBLIC HEARING – March 16, 2017:  Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Minutes of the Westberg Public Hearing of March 16, 2017, as submitted.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the Minutes were approved.  Ms. Mayberry abstained as she was not a Selectboard member at this meeting.

 

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard received and reviewed Minutes of the following meeting:

• North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners – March 7, 2017.

 

CERTIFICATION OF YIELD TAXES ASSESSED and TIMBER TAX LEVY:

219 Valley Road, Map and Lot #013-016-001: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve both the Certification of Yield Taxes Assessed and the Original Warrant/Timber Tax Levy in the amount of $423.46 for Map and Lot # 013-016-001.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

 

ELDERLY TAX EXEMPTIONS:

Ms. Mayberry moved to grant Elderly Tax Exemptions for residents who own the following properties:

• Map and Lot #028-119-000:
• Map and Lot #-16-005-MH05:

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

 

ALL VETERANS’ TAX CREDIT:

MAP and LOT # 005-026-000:  Ms. Mayberry moved to grant an All Veterans’ Tax Credit for the resident who resides at Map and Lot # 005-026-000.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

 

BUILDING PERMITS:

Avanru Development Group, Ltd., 504 Main St., Map and Lot #012-013-000:  Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the renewal for Building Permit #2011-48 for Avanru Development Group Ltd to “Construct a 2 story 104’ by 63’2” commercial building as approved by the Planning Board on October 5, 2011”.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer, the motion was approved.

 

Abenaki Springs Phase I LP, 17 Avery Lane, Map and Lot #012-013-004:  Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the renewal for Building Permit #2014-10 for Abenaki Springs Phase I Limited Partners to “Construct multi-family housing as approved by the Planning Board on 11/13/12 and then modified on 10/15/15 for up to 67 multi-family units. “  (Twenty-one units of the 67 allowed have been constructed as Unit 1).  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

 

Abenaki Springs Phase I LP, 17 Avery Lane, Map and Lot # 012-013-004:  Mr. Dalessio recommended that Abenaki Springs be asked to attend a meeting to discuss the renewal of Building Permit #2012-43 to “Construct a multi-family housing building per the approval of the Planning Board on August 10, 2010”.

 

OLD BUSINESS:

Sidewalk Poetry: Mrs. Pschirrer received an email from Alice Fogel.  The Selectboard had previously denied her request to paint poems on sidewalks in Town in April which is National Poetry Month.  Alice Fogel is the NH Poet Laureate.  She was going to use a biodegradable, colorless paint called hydrophobic paint, used to protect concrete and other surfaces from water.  After applying it, it dries invisible-no sheen or anything to show it is there.  But when it rains, everything else except where it has been painted will darken.  If they stencil poems on the sidewalks, they will not show at all until it rains.  Then, it is raining poems.  Ms. Fogel would like to paint the poems on the sidewalk near the Library and by Town Hall.  Keene gave her permission to do this, however, she lives in Walpole so would like this to be her first site and has asked the Selectboard to reconsider their previous decision.  Copies of the two poems, written by two NH poets, were attached to her letter.  Following a discussion Mr. Dalessio proposed a compromise; that the poems be allowed on the walkway and steps going into the Library, as it is a haven for free speech.  Mrs. Pschirrer mentioned the Library is observing National Poetry Month by having readings of poems.  Ms. Mayberry noted that poetry is considered an art.  She is in favor of the compromise but would not have a problem with having them at other locations.

Ms. Mayberry moved to compromise by having Alice Fogel do her biodegradable, colorless paint poems in front of the Library.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer will contact Ms. Fogel to let her know the Selectboard approved the painted poems by the Library but not the Town Hall.

 

New Arch Bridge Street Lights:  Mr. Dalessio reported that the testing process discovered the traffic light and the bridge lights are on two separate meters.  In 2012 the Town decided to turn the lights off. The State DOT notified Liberty Utilities to turn the lights off but that never happened.  In 2016 Liberty Utilities discovered the lights were not turned off and nobody was paying the bill.  With the help of Representative Lucy Weber we can either send a letter to NH DOT requesting they pick up the tab again or the Town decide if they will pay the bill. Estimated cost to keep the lights on is about $1,300/year.  Ms. Mayberry pointed out it is a NH bridge and there is a safety issue if they are turned off.  Mr. Dalessio offered to write that letter.  Mrs. Pschirrer felt the letter needs to state that since 2012 we have seen increased drug problems on that bridge and there is a Warming Shelter on the NH side of the bridge that people walk to; it is dark.  It is our obligation to keep people safe.  Ms. Mayberry mentioned it is hard to see the “Yield” sign during the day let alone at night.  The Selectboard will sign this letter.

 

NEW BUSINESS:

Purchase Order for Highway Tractor:  The Selectboard signed the purchase order for the new Holland tractor for the Highway Department as approved by the voters at Town Meeting.

 

Purchase Order for Highway Loader:  The Selectboard signed the purchase order for the John Deere loader for the Highway Department as approved by 2/3rds of the voters at Town Meeting.

 

MS-636 – Budget of the Town of Walpole:  Mr. Dalessio moved to approve and sign the MS-636, Budget of the Town of Walpole.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

 

MS-232 – Report of Appropriations Actually Voted: Walpole:  Mr. Dalessio moved to approve and sign the MS-232, Report of Appropriations Actually Voted: Walpole.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

 

Fall Mountain Regional School District School Board Letter:  This Agenda item was put on-hold until the next Selectboard meeting.

 

2017 Employee Wage Forms:  Mr. Dalessio moved to approve and sign 38 payroll forms for pay increases that were authorized by acceptance of the budget at Town Meeting.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

 

Cemetery Deed – John Davey:  Mr. Dalessio moved to grant the sale of Cemetery Deed, Lot # D524, for John Davey and heirs.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

 

Police Cruiser Repair:  Mr. Dalessio reported that one of the Police Department cruisers blew an engine and the transmission. The repair bill will be $12,292.27 with a re-manufactured engine with a warranty.   A new engine is not available due to long lead-times.  This vehicle is a 2011 model with approximately 150,000 miles on it.  It was the next one to be replaced next March.  This will deplete their entire maintenance budget for the year but we do not have a choice.  If they request a Special Meeting the department will be without two cruisers for a long time.  They hope to get the new leased vehicle by June but it depends on availability of cars as it is through the State bid process.  It will take 2-to-3 weeks to repair this car.

Mr. Dalessio moved to approve this repair of the police cruiser for a total of $12,292.27; a 2011 Dodge Charger.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

 

Water and Sewer Meeting: The Selectboard will be meeting on April 6^th at 1:00 pm as the Water and Sewer Commissioners.  This meeting will be posted as a Non-Public meeting.  Mr. Kreissle is doing some preliminary work. The focus of this meeting is the next billing and how to set it up in the future.   One goal is how to separate water and sewer by the end of the year.

 

Deputy Fire Warden Appointment Forms:  Mr. Dalessio moved to sign the Deputy Fire Warden Appointment Forms for Thomas Aiken and Duane Fairbank.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

 

2017 Town Meeting Minutes:  The Selectboard had a copy of the Minutes from the 2017 Annual Town Meeting on March 18, 2017.  Mr. Ernie Vose, Moderator, has approved them.  Mrs. Pschirrer noted errors in titles for both Mrs. Sarah Downing and Mr. Rich Kreissle.  Mrs. Downing was called “Administrator’s Assistant” instead of “Manager of Administration” and Mr. Kreissle was called “Finance Clerk” instead of “Manager of Finance”.  Mrs. Smith mentions that Mrs. Pschirrer spoke on the Highway Department budget but Mr. Mike Rau also spoke on this Article.

Mr. Dalessio moved to sign the 2017 Town Meeting Minutes of March 18, 2017.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.  Ms. Mayberry abstained from the vote.

 

Conservation Commission Appointment:  A letter had been received from Mr. Lewis Shelley requesting re-appointment to the Walpole Conservation Commission.

Mr. Dalessio moved to re-appoint Mr. Lewis Shelley to the Walpole Conservation Commission for another three (3) year term.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

 

State Senator Jay Kahn:  The Selectboard approved having State Senator Jay Kahn visit during the April 20^th meeting.

 

Old Home Days Flower Pot:  Mrs. Downing asked if the Selectboard would buy and sponsor a Flower Pot during the Old Home Days celebration.  The Selectboard approved paying for one out of office funds.

 

COMMITTEE LIAISON ASSIGNMENTS:

The Selectboard members will be Liaisons to the following departments:

Mr. Dalessio – Police Department, Hooper Institute and Water and Sewer Department;

Ms. Mayberry – Recycling Facility, Conservation Commission and Planning Board;

Mrs. Pschirrer – Library, Sale of Hooper, Highway Department and Westberg Property;

Mr. Dalessio and/or Mrs. Pschirrer – Recreation Department.

On occasion one member might attend the ZBA meeting.  They might also substitute at meetings when the regular Selectboard liaison member is unable to attend.

 

Letter:  Mrs. Pschirrer noted that Mr. Jeffrey White had given her a letter earlier in this meeting.  This will be an agenda item for next week’s meeting.

 

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:

Mr. Dalessio moved to recess this Selectboard meeting.  The Selectboard will enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved at 8:40 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 8:53 PM.

 

ADJOURNMENT:

Ms. Mayberry moved to adjourn this meeting.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 8:55 PM.

 

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

MARCH 2, 2017

 

Selectboard Present:     Steven Dalessio, Peggy Pschirrer, Whitney Aldrich

CALL TO ORDER:  Mr. Dalessio called this Selectboard meeting to order at 6:35 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.  He advised that this meeting is being recorded and asked anyone wishing to speak to identify themselves for the record.  There were four people in attendance.

 

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:

Mr. Aldrich moved to recess this Selectboard meeting.  The Selectboard will enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Mr. Aldrich, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:00 PM.

 

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Accounts Payable check register in the amount of $97,257.90 for checks dated March 3, 2017.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

PAYROLL:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the payroll register for the week ending February 25, 2017, in the amount of $20,923.24 for checks dated March 3, 2017.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $4,216.83 for the week ending February 25, 2017.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – February 23, 2017:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of February 23, 2017, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – February 23, 2017:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of February 23, 2017, as submitted.  These Minutes will not remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Minutes were approved.

 

TAX REFUND:

MAP and LOT # 030-007-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to grant this Property Tax Refund for Map and Lot # 030-007-000 in the amount of $53.20.  This is due to an overpayment of property taxes.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

NOTICE OF INTENT TO CUT WOOD OR TIMBER:

Donald H. Wood, Jr. Trust, Alstead Center Road, Map and Lot # 026-022-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Notice of Intent to Cut Wood or Timber for Map and Lot # 026-022-000.  This will begin on April 1^st, 2017.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Wood will donate a cord of wood to those in need.  It will be delivered to the Recycling Center for distribution.

 

NEW BUSINESS:

Preliminary 2015 Financial Statements and Auditor’s Opinion:  The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of the preliminary 2015 Financial Statements and Auditor’s Opinion from Mr. Kreissle.  The Selectboard needs an opportunity to read through the documents and it will be an Agenda item for the next meeting.

 

Fairpoint Pole Petition and License:  The placement of this new pole was approved by Mr. Mark Houghton.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Fairpoint request for a new Pole Petition and License on County Road.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

Thank You from Richmond Town Clerk:  Mrs. Downing reported while cleaning out the vault in the basement several old documents were discovered.  The Selectboard Office mailed the 1949 Richmond Town Report to the Town Clerk.  A Thank You card was received from the Richmond Town Clerk, Annette Tokunaga.

 

Town Hall Bulletin Board:  Mrs. Downing has had requests to post flyers on the Town Hall bulletin board.  The Selectboard agreed to continue the policy of this bulletin board being for Town business only.

 

Town Hall Blue Prints of 1917:  While cleaning the basement vault in the Town Hall, Town Hall Blue Prints of 1917 were discovered.  Mr. Dalessio explained that blue prints should not be exposed to light.  For now they should be put back downstairs with something on top of them to flatten them out and for protection.  They could be displayed at the Town Meeting but they should not be put out for permanent display.

 

Clarion Article re: Town Wide Update:  Mrs. Downing felt it would be good to alert property owners of the next steps regarding interior visits to be scheduled in May by the assessors for the revaluation.  Mr. Dalessio agreed but felt it should appear in the Clarion and Walpolean.  Mrs. Downing will run the article by the Selectboard before it is published.

 

North Walpole Lights:  Mr. Dalessio has been discussing the North Walpole lights with Liberty Utilities.  The two lights by Aumand’s Store on the street are a part of the 2012 agreement and the State will continue to pay for them.  The lights on the bridge were to be turned off but they never were.  After talking to both Liberty Utilities and the Department of Transportation nobody knows who owns the traffic light.  Liberty thinks they are connected to the street lights on the bridge.  Options to resolve this are being explored.  Mr. Dalessio will pursue the traffic light.  He tried to reach Representative Lucy Weber to see if she can intervene.  Mr. Dalessio does not feel the Town should have anything to do with the lights on the bridge as the State of NH owns the bridge. He explained this was all a part of a state-wide effort and they turned off a significant number of lights in 2012.  Mr. Aldrich and Police Chief Paquette had attended meetings on the lights back in 2012.

 

NON-PUBLIC SESSION:  Mr. Aldrich moved to enter into a Non-Public Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (a) Personnel.  Mrs. Pschirrer seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with Mr. Aldrich, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved at 7:26 PM.

The regular meeting resumed at 7:57 PM.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard meeting of March 2, 2017, be sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

OTHER BUSINESS:

2017 Town Meeting:

Warrant Articles:  The Selectboard will address the Warrant Articles at Town Meeting as follows:

Article  3:  John Deere Loader – Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Rau;

Article  4:  Budget – Mr. Dalessio;

Article  5:  Repairs and Maintenance of Town Buildings – Mr. Dalessio;

Article  6:  New Holland Tractor/Side Mower – Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Rau;

Article  7:  Walpole Police Department Vehicle – Mr. Dalessio;

Article  8:  Walpole Police Department Vehicle Equipment and Installation – Mr. Dalessio;

Article  9:  Highway Capitol Reserve Fund – Mr. Rau;

Article 10: Police Vehicle Capitol Reserve Fund – Police Chief Paquette;

Article 11: Elderly Exemptions – Mrs. Downing;

Article 12: Veterans’ Tax Credits – Mrs. Downing.

 

Email Etiquette Policy:  Mr. Dalessio will draft an Email Etiquette Policy that will be reviewed by the other Selectboard members.

 

ADJOURNMENT:  Mr. Aldrich moved to adjourn this meeting.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Mr. Aldrich, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 8:05 PM.

 

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

MARCH 16, 2017

 

Selectboard Present:     Steven Dalessio (Chair); Peggy Pschirrer; Whitney Aldrich

 

CALL TO ORDER:  Mr. Dalessio called this Selectboard meeting to order at 6:35 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.  He advised that this meeting is being recorded and asked anyone wishing to speak to identify themselves for the record.  There were three people in attendance.

 

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION:

Mr. Aldrich moved to enter into a Non-Public Selectboard Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (a) Personnel.  Mrs. Pschirrer seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with Mr. Aldrich, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

The regular meeting resumed at 7:09 PM.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of March 16, 2017, be sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Accounts Payable check register in the amount of $575,136.94 for checks dated March 17, 2017.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

The above amount includes a monthly payment in the amount of $535,300.00 to the Fall Mountain Regional School District.

 

PAYROLL:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Payroll Register for the week ending March 11, 2017, in the amount of $22,438.13 for checks dated March 17, 2017.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $4,942.40 for the week ending March 11, 2017.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – March 09, 2017:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of March 09, 2017, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – March 09, 2017:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectbiard Session of March 09, 2017, as submitted.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Minutes were approved.

 

CERTIFICATION OF YIELD TAXES ASSESSED and TIMBER TAX LEVY:

Cummings Catherwood, Jr. and Tucker Gresh, Maple Grove Road, Map and Lot #009-006-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Certification of Yield Taxes Assessed in the amount of $238.37 for Cummings Catherwood, Jr. and Tucker Gresh.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Cummings Catherwood, Jr. and Tucker Gresh, Maple Grove Road, Map and Lot #009-008-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Certification of Yield Taxes Assessed in the amount of $9.78 for Cummings Catherwood, Jr. and Tucker Gresh.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Original Warrant / Yield Tax Levy in the amount of $248.15 for Cummings Catherwood, Jr. and Tucker Gresh for Lots #009-006-000 and #009-008-000.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

NEW BUSINESS:

Annual Post-Closure Report:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to authorize Mr. Steven Dalessio, Chair of the Selectboard, to sign the Annual Post-Closure Report.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

Financial Statements:  Mr. Dalessio acknowledged receipt of the Financial Statements as of March 15, 2017 from Mr. Rich Kreissle.  The figures are looking good.  Only 17.40% of the 2017 budget has been consumed.

 

Town Ordinances:  Mr. Dalessio is concerned with the fact that the Planning Board Site Plan Review Ordinance and the Zoning Ordinance are still not up-dated.  He would like to see this accomplished within two months of approval.  These documents are regularly given out to the public.  It is important that they have current regulations.  Ordinances are not official until copies have been given to the Town Clerk.

 

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:

Mr. Aldrich moved to recess the Selectboard meeting.  The Selectboard will enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Mr. Aldrich, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved at 7:35 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:41 PM.

 

OTHER BUSINESS:

Thank You:  Mr. Dalessio advised that this is Mr. Aldrich’s last Selectboard meeting.  Both he and Mrs. Pschirrer are glad he was willing to come back following the resignation of Mr. Joseph Aldrich.

 

Adjournment:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to adjourn this meeting.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.   With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 7:45 PM.

 

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

TOWN OF WALPOLE

STAFF MEETING

MARCH 16, 2017

 

Selectboard Present:     Steven Dalessio (Chair); Peggy Pschirrer; Whitney Aldrich

 

Staff Present:  Sarah Downing (Manager of Administration); Michael Rau (Road Agent); Sgt. Justin Sanctuary (Police Department); Sandra Smith (Town Clerk-Tax Collector); Paul Colburn (Recycling Center);  Tom Burt  (Recycling Center); Rebecca Whippie (Hooper Institute); Justin Cassarino (Director-Recreation Department)

Guest:  Cheryl Mayberry

Call To Order:  Mr. Dalessio called this Staff Meeting to order at 5:00 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.  He advised this meeting is being recorded.  Justine Rogers, Police Chief Michael Paquette and Mr. Rich Kreissle were unable to attend this meeting.

 

Recycling Center:  Mr. Paul Colburn introduced Mr. Tom Burt, the new Operations Foreman.

Mr. Colburn reported there are three charts.  A new chart as of March 10, 2017 is the “2017 Recycling Revenues – Detail”.  It shows the various Categories, Budgeted amount and Actual amount to-date.  They sell bags to about 11 different stores who make $.02/bag.  The 2017 Budget is $166,350; Actual to-date is $35,235.  Mr. Dalessio recommended Mr. Colburn meet with Mr. Kreissle as he has been working on revisions to the charts.  For clarification they will go back 3 years rather than 5 years on the charts.

Mr. Colburn explained the “5 Year Comparison to Recyclables”.  The years are up-and-down.  The weather has not been favorable this year; there was one day when they did not take in anything.

Mr. Colburn explained the “Daily Weight Report and 5 Year to Date Comparison”.  Year-to-date they are actually up slightly from 2016.

Mr. Colburn and Mr. Burt attended a NRRA meeting.  It was to give Mr. Burt a better picture of what happens to the materials they dispose of.  He needs to meet people from other states and towns.  They took 5,000/lbs of batteries, copper, brass, etc. and made a stop at Schnitzer Steel which was on the way to the meeting.  Cardboard is at $200/ton which is twice what it was last year.  They were going to stop taking apart electronics but now the market turned around so they will continue to do so.  A lot of the work is done by volunteers and students from the schools.

The Annual Facility Report that goes to the State is due by the end of the month; that is being worked on.  Yesterday while plowing the yard to get it ready for today he thought about the fact that this Town facility is only one of two that does not get plowed out by the Town.  The Highway Department helps with sanding.  Thursday is a busy day as North Walpole brings their bags in.  He was short one employee and had only one volunteer.

 

Town Clerk – Tax Collector:  Mrs. Sandra Smith submitted the following report for March.  They have been very busy preparing for the Town election and Town Meeting.  Town elections and meetings always create phone calls and this year is no exception.  All the preparation work has been coming along great.

They collected $447,647.36 in property taxes.  The Town Clerk department collected $55,333.64 since their last staff meeting.

The timber tax bill was printed and mailed.

Mrs. Smith mailed 20 Intent to Deed certified notices, return receipt requested to the property owners that still have outstanding 2014 taxes.  It went along quicker as they used the postage machine in the Selectboard Office rather than stamping the envelopes individually.  These liens were placed in May 2015.  She sent 2014 lien amounts to Total Notice.  They research the Registry of Deeds and notify the Lien Holders that these properties will be deeded on May 17^th if taxes are not paid in full by that date.  All costs of the search and certified notices were added into the amount that these delinquent tax payers have to pay to redeem their properties.  They have also been charged eighteen percent interest since the lien was placed in 2015.

Certified mail with Intent to Lien notices have been sent to approximately 87 tax payers with unpaid 2016 taxes.  These liens will be executed April 19^th for any unpaid 2016 taxes.  At that time the interest changes from 12 percent to 18 percent.  She then sent the information to Total Notice and they do a search of mortgagees and send the mortgage companies notifications within 45 days of the lien being placed.  These procedures and interest amounts are mandated by State law and are very time consuming.  They receive numerous phone calls when they send these notices.

It is important to have all these completed before we begin the new tax billing cycle in May.  Tax bills and envelopes have been ordered so they will be ready for their Warrant.  Their uncollected is very low at $591,194.31.  This figure includes $52,648.71 interest payable to the Town.

 

Recreation Department:  Mr. Cassarino made the following report.

Basketball:

• New uniforms for next season are in.
• Old uniforms will be donated to the Walpole Schools.
• The Rec. Dept. will be meeting with Justin Parrott to come up with a code of conduct for players and parents to sign for all recreation sports.

Pool:

• They have heard from most of the staff that they are coming back.
• He met with the Recreation Committee and they discussed getting rid of the desk help position and making it required to have a lifeguard certification. This will help when there are a lot of swimmers and we can add another guard on deck without calling anyone in.
• Raising the starting rate to $9.50 to compete with local businesses to attract and hold onto workers. This will also help bring their staff together as a team.
• They are looking to do small weekly activities with the community over the summer. Some examples: kickball, wiffle ball, floor hockey, bike rides, etc.
• Community has expressed interest in a pickle ball court. He will get in touch with Wilson and Lawrence to see if they can paint the lines.  They are also looking to add horseshoe pits again.

Summer Basketball:

• They are trying to find people that are interested in refereeing.
• Hoping to add another team this year, since the league has grown each year.

 

Highway Department:  Everyone present gave Mr. Rau and his crew a round of applause for the amazing job they did during the blizzard.  Mr. Rau made the following report for the period of February 16 to March 15, 2017.  He thanked his crew for working up to 28 hours straight during the recent blizzard.  He also thanked Mr. Ryan Melendez from Catamount HD Parts for getting them parts to fix a truck during the storm; that was a big help.  The store was closed but he went in to get them the parts needed to get the truck repaired.  He always treats the Highway Department very well.  Mike, Jim and Mr. Rau have done storms like this one before.  Everyone stepped up-to-the-plate to help out.

When trees come down on wires they do not touch them but do notify Liberty Utilities.  They then clean-up the brush.  They plowed out the boat landing on Route 12 for the Fire Department to do some training but then the power company opened-up the dam so they were unable to do it.

They have also done the following:

• Cold patching;
• Service trucks and equipment;
• Fixed Truck-5 radiator hose and tightened spreader chain;
• Fixed Truck-8 spinner controls, wing, front brakes and chloride tank;
• Fixed Truck-3 spreader chain;
• Fixed AEB1 fuel leak;
• Truck-4 to Reed’s to fix rear springs and air leak;
• Wing snow banks back with grader;
• Cleaned-up the shop yard; flattened out the yard;
• Wind storm of 3/9; they cleared trees from the roads and chipped brush and tree debris;
• Winter weather calls outs: 2/24, 3/3, 3/9, 3/10, 3/14 and 3/15.

Mr. Rau has been getting prices for hot-top for 11 miles but the prices are going up.  Mrs. Pschirrer said even with the increased prices they will try to do at least 10 miles.  Mr. Rau plans to work on Colonial Drive and Cold River Road (by Aubuchon’s Store) this summer.  Cold River Road is less than a mile; it has old pug-mix on it and has big holes.  Mrs. Pschirrer pointed out it is a heavily travelled road.  Mr. Rau had plans to start to look at culverts but then the storm came.

Mr. Dalessio mentioned responsibility for the lights on the Arch Bridge is still pending.  Mr. Rau has an on-site meeting on Monday. The power company is having a tech turn-off the power so they can determine who is responsible for the lights; the State, DES or Town.  The Highway Department plowed-out the Hooper today.  Mr. Jim Terrell brought in some pizzas for the crew during the storm; it was very much appreciated.

 

Selectboard Office:  Mrs. Downing made the following report:

Town Meeting:

• Town Meeting will resume at 1pm on Saturday, March 18^th.
• A slide show of department photos shall be occurring before and after the meeting on the new LCD projector. This will include photos that did not make it into the Annual Report and other extra pictures.
• Cake and decaf coffee will be served at the conclusion of the meeting.

Revaluation Update:

• Property owners that were not available when Avitar assessors visited will be sent a letter in May. This will allow property owners to schedule a time for an Avitar assessor to visit and view the inside areas of their property.
• Phase 3 will be the mailing of a “Notice of Preliminary Assessment Values” to property owners. This notice will be sent in the summer.

There will be several dates that property owners will be able to schedule an appointment to discuss updated property assessments with an Avitar assessor.

• The revaluation will be finalized in the fall. Changes to valuation will be reflected in the fall tax bill.

Town Hall Facilities:

• The display case for the Boston Post Cane was mounted to the wall near the map table. A recognition plaque has been ordered.
• Sorting of materials in the vault in the basement is almost complete. The Historical Society may be able to incorporate several antique ledgers and books into their collection.  They will be seeking grant money to recondition the paper based items.

Water and Sewer:

• Mrs. Linda Edkins made a decision to retire therefore the Water and Sewer Department is being reorganized. Preparation has begun for the next round of water and sewer billing.  The target spring water and sewer billing date is May 1^st per Mr. Mark Houghton.

Human Resources:

• Life, Short-Term and Long-Term Disability benefited summary sheet will be distributed to all full-time employees by department managers for review and reference.

 

Hooper Institute:  Ms. Becky Whippie advised there are not many things going on in the schools this time of the year by both she and Mrs. Clark.  They have been meeting in the High Tunnel.

Mrs. Clark and the 6^th graders are still working in the High Tunnel and recently harvested spinach. Some things are planted in the fall, they go dormant but when it warms up they continue to grow.  The High Tunnel is a remarkable structure and in a perfect spot. They planted pea sprouts; the sprouts can be snipped off and can be put in their salads.

Ms. Whippie mentioned it is maple sugaring season and she has been talking about this with the Pre-K, Kindergarten, 3^rd and 4th grade students.  On Tuesday the 4^th graders will be going to see Ken McGill’s Sugar House.  To wrap-up their winter mammal unit on how they survive, the 1^st grade students have also been tracking these mammals on maps they created.  In the 2^nd grade they have been talking about big and small farms and chickens.  This week she started working on birds, migration is happening again.  It is all a fun unit.

The Songbird Presentation is coming up in April. Posters are up and tickets are for sale.  Tickets will be for sale at the Town Meeting.  Mrs. Pschirrer mentioned this is a fundraiser sponsored by the Friends of the Hooper.  Mr. Chris Remer is the speaker.  He is a world class birder.  This presentation is on how to protect our song-birds.

Ms. Whippie and Mrs. Clark are fine for now but will probably open up the Hooper Institute in April.  There will be an organizational meeting for the Community Gardens in mid-April.

 

Police Department distributed copies of their report for the period of February 16, 2017 through March 15, 2017.  The number of calls for service was 334.

 

• Police Safety Calls:

Emergency Calls – 42              Administrative – 43                 Citizen Assists – 51

• Motor Vehicle Calls:

Accidents – 20                         MV Stops – 62                         Traffic Safety – 18

• Criminal Investigations:

Drugs/Alcohol – 15     Crimes Against a Person – 55  Crimes Against Property – 28

 

Sgt. Sanctuary reported that this is the time of year when calls for service volume are down. This is Officer Landry’s second week.  They are talking to the Sheriff’s Department about grants for drug work.  During the Blizzard they had a few slide-offs that were primarily on State roads.  The new law takes some burden off them for Pistol Permits.

 

New Selectboard Member:  Mr. Dalessio advised that Ms. Cheryl Mayberry is present and will be the next Selectboard member replacing Mr. Whitney Aldrich.  She will be excellent as a member of the Selectboard.

 

Adjournment:  Mr. Dalessio adjourned this Staff Meeting at 5:50 PM.

 

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

TOWN OF WALPOLE

PUBLIC HEARING

MARCH 16, 2017

 

Selectboard Present:     Steven Dalessio (Chair); Peggy Pschirrer; Whitney Aldrich

Others Present:             J.B. Mack (Southwest Regional Planning Commission); Karen Crowley (Walpole Foundation and representing an abutter); Cheryl Mayberry (Commissioner in Village of North Walpole); Sarah Downing (Manager of Administration); Regina Borden (Recording Secretary)

Call To Order:  Mr. Dalessio called this Public Hearing to order at 6:00 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.  He announced this Public Hearing was advertised and duly posted that “The Walpole Selectboard will be holding a Public Hearing Regarding the Donation of Map 20, Lots 65 and 66 from the Estate of Niles Westberg (former site of Central Plating) to the Town of Walpole at 6:00 pm at the Walpole Town Hall”.

A large map of the area was on display.  Smaller copies of the map and minutes of previous public hearings held on January 26, 2017 and March 2, 2017, were available.  Mr. Dalessio turned this public hearing over to Mrs. Pschirrer as she was the first Selectboard member contacted by the Westberg Family and is in charge of this project.

Mrs. Pschirrer advised that in 2002 the Town of Walpole adopted “RSA 41:14-a” which enables the Town to accept this property provided they hold two Public Hearings and have meetings with both the Conservation Commission and Planning Board to get their approval. The Selectboard has done this.  Both the Conservation Commission and Planning Board will write letters of support to accept this project.  Two weeks after the conclusion of this second Public Hearing, the Selectboard can vote as to whether or not to accept this property being offered to them.  This offer came to the Town from the Westberg Estate; they would be happy to give it to the Town for $1.00 as it would enable them to close the Estate.  This is a “Brownsfields” property because of the past contamination.  If the Town takes control of this property, it will blend into the village area.  After all the testing is done and if it meets the requirements, the Town will apply for federal grants to have this property cleaned-up. The area will be refilled with clean soil and put to good economic use by the Town because more parking is needed in the center of town.  That land is basically land-locked at this point. A right-of-way was given to the Walpole Foundation who would like to have discontinued for the safety of their tenants.

Mr. J.B. Mack explained the plan from his perspective.  He thanked everyone for having him attend this public hearing.  He is not a scientist, so any questions about chemistry and other similar items he might have to get back to the Selectboard with answers.  SWRPC has had a Brownsfields Program since 2003.  They have worked with about 15 towns in this region on close to 50 different sites during this time period.  This is a site they were looking at.  Typically when they work with a site they want to see if there is a plan.  They were originally approached by a private entrepreneur in Town who had an interest in purchasing this property for an office building.  He invested a lot of his own money on Phase I and Phase II assessments. But after the Phase II assessment, the State came back and advised there were still some things that needed to be done.  He came to the SWRPC about doing another Phase II assessment but then decided to drop the project.  They worked with Ransom Environment Engineers and Scientists on this Brownsfields Assessment Program including the various monitoring wells and test pits, the locations of those that were tested and sent to laboratories that understand soils and groundwater.  The outcome of those tests was the Phase II environmental assessment. The Town of Walpole has a copy of that report.

They basically found a few things. There is chromium contamination in a confined area.  The State is probably going to require that a future owner remove this.  They also found some nickel and arsenic but not as much as the chromium where the electro-plating was being done on the property. In addition they found some petroleum contaminants on the property in the groundwater.  It was determined during their Phase II assessment that these were associated with the Sunoco gas station on the corner abutting the property.  That is the responsibility of the owner to work with the State to improve those conditions and they have been monitoring them.

Ms. Crowley noted the owner of the gas station just recently did another monitoring well to the west and behind Murray’s building.  Mrs. Pschirrer mentioned the owner of the Sunoco is fairly active in monitoring this.  Mr. Mack said after the consultants finish their Phase II assessment, they will make a recommendation to the Brownsfields Advisory Committee to give them a better understanding of the chromium situation.  This information will tell them how much money would be necessary to remove and replace it with clean fill.  Ransom Consulting presented a new scope of work to the Brownsfields Advisory Committee.  He noted on the map that they plan to do another test pit in a different area to better define the chromium between the two buildings.  Because there is some groundwater contamination, they are proposing it is possible the property will have a Groundwater Management Permit just like the gas station owner.  The sump pumps will also be tested.

Mrs. Pschirrer has a copy of the new scope of work document.  When the Advisory Committee heard the scope of work, and Mrs. Pschirrer was in attendance, they were supportive.  The Advisory Committee wants to be good stewards of their federal dollars. They want to have some sort of assurance that the Town is serious about looking at this property and using the resources they have through the SWRPC to attain one of their goals.  They heard from Mrs. Pschirrer that it would be a parking lot; an asset to the Town.  The Advisory Committee recommended they go through the public hearing process and have letters confirming they would like to move forward with this project.  The SWRPC would then contact Ransom Consulting to move forward with this work as well as develop a Mediation Action Plan that will have alternatives.  It would give the Town an idea as to whether or not the grants would cover their costs.

An EPA grant is typically $200,000 per parcel and, in the past, have been available annually.  SWRPC does this program because there are a lot of Brownsfields properties in this region.  After clean-up, these properties would go back on the tax rolls, provide spaces for new facilities, clean-up the environment, and improve health conditions.  This is a tool towns can use to achieve their goals.  In addition to the scope of work the Advisory Committee is likely ready to approve paying for the Phase I Assessment. The Town would want this completed before they take possession of the property. It would protect the Town from any federal liability associated with the property.  The document has to be less than six months old.  In terms of State liability, they have their own program.  There is an application that SWRPC and/or the State will assist the Town in filling it out at no fees.  This assures the Town they are protected from State liability provided they meet conditions.  It could be a Groundwater Management Permit.  It would require the Town to continue monitoring otherwise they breach the contract.  The State wants to see these things work.  Mrs. Pschirrer feels the DES representative at the meetings seems supportive of this project.

Ms. Crowley asked why the present owners are not responsible for the clean-up of their property.  Mr. Mack said it is because they are not doing anything on the land.  Eventually the State would go after them and require they have a plan to clean-up the property.  The State has limited resources for enforcement.

Mrs. Pschirrer pointed out the Selectboard has two weeks before they vote on the project.  They will immediately send a letter with their decision to at SWRPC.  Mr. Mack noted the Advisory Committee recommends they conditionally vote for acceptance of the property based on the results of the reports.  Mrs. Pschirrer confirmed this will be an Agenda item for their meeting on March 30^th.  Mr. Mack mentioned it is really conditional on Phase II.  Phase I is basically for federal protection for liability.

Ms. Mayberry knows that chromium is a metal that is isolated to the center area but it is not water soluble. By removing the soil, they will be removing the metal.  Mr. Mack confirmed this.  She asked about the groundwater contamination in Phase II and if any are above the federal level.  She assumes some are; for example; contaminants from the gas station.  Arsenic is inorganic.  Mr. Mack read a portion of the Scope of Work that addresses this issue.  Ms. Crowley noted the level of petroleum products was not significant from the gas station.

Mr. Dalessio confirmed the Selectboard is positive about moving forward with this project.

Mr. Dalessio announced that Ms. Cheryl Mayberry is the newly elected Selectboard member who will be replacing Mr. Whitney Aldrich who is retiring.

Mr. Mack mentioned at the last Public Hearing on March 2^nd it stated that SWRPC added $5,000 to their budget for testing on Felicia Phillips property. That figure should have been $500.  He asked Mrs. Pschirrer to obtain permission, in writing, from Ms. Phillips to allow this testing on her property.

 

There being no other public comments, Mr. Dalessio closed this Public Hearing at 6:35 PM.

 

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

 

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

MARCH 9, 2017

 

Selectboard Present:     Steven Dalessio (Chair); Peggy Pschirrer; Whitney Aldrich

CALL TO ORDER:  Mr. Dalessio called this Selectboard meeting to order at 6:30 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.  He advised this meeting is being recorded and asked anyone wishing to speak to identify themselves for the record.  There were three people in attendance.

 

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register in the amount of $53,135.13 for checks dated March 10, 2017.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

PAYROLL:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Payroll register for the week ending March 4, 2017, in the amount of $21,000.90 for checks dated March 10, 2017.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $4,403.65 for the week ending March 4, 2017.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – March 2, 2017:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of March 2, 2017, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Minutes were approved.

 

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD MEETING – March 2, 2017:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard meeting of March 2, 2017, as submitted.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Minutes were approved.

 

PUBLIC HEARING FOR WESTBERG PROPERTY DONATION – March 2, 2017:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the Public Hearing for the Westberg Property Donation of March 2, 2017, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Minutes were approved.

 

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard received and reviewed Minutes of the following meetings:

• North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners – February 28, 2017;
• North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners – March 2, 2017.

In the February 28, 2017, Minutes, Mr. Dalessio noticed that Commissioner Kiniry mentioned there is concern from some residents that a shooting range is being operated on the Fall Mountain area in the power line area.  Concerns are; is it on private property, who is using it and is it a licensed facility?  Mr. Dalessio advised the Police Department had checked on this; it is on private property. The date for the North Walpole Village Budget Hearing is Thursday, March 02, 2017, in the Commissioner’s Office.  The Village Meeting date is Thursday, April 6, 2017, at St. Peter’s Church.

 

CERTIFICATION OF YIELD TAXES ASSESSED and TIMBER TAX LEVY:

Donald H. Wood, Jr. Trust, Alstead Center Road, Map and Lot #015-018-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Certification of Yield Taxes Assessed in the amount of $118.12 for Map and Lot #015-018-000.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Timber Tax Levy in the amount of  $118.12 for Map and Lot #015-018-000.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

BUILDING PERMIT:

Peter Stolley and Christine Holtz, 36 Colonial Drive, Map and Lot #021-036-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to grant Building Permit No. 2017-02, for Peter Stolley and Christine Hultz to “add a woodshed to the rear of the garage”.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

OLD BUSINESS:

Preliminary 2015 Financial Statements and Auditor’s Opinion:  The Selectboard had received and read the Preliminary 2015 Financial Statements and Auditor’s Opinion.  Mr. Dalessio talked to Mr. Tom Goins and Mr. Rich Kreissle about them.  There was discussion pertaining to the Significant Audit Findings.  Some issues were boiler plate and others were already implemented.  The Selectboard will continue to work on resolving the remaining recommendations.

 

NEW BUSINESS:

Cemetery Deeds for Lots D387, D388, D444, D445, D446 and D449:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the sale of Cemetery Deeds for six lots: D387, D388, D444, D445, D446 and D449.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

Conservation Commission Appointment Letter from Lewis Shelley:  The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of the Appointment Letter from the Conservation Commission regarding Lewis Shelley for a three year term.  This letter will be held until after Town Meeting as that is when the Selectboard customarily makes appointments to the various Boards/Commissions.   

 

Town Hall Rentals:  Mrs. Downing asked for clarification for three Town Hall rental requests:

1. Employees Renting the Town Hall for business event: The Selectboard agreed that an employee can use the Town Hall for family use, at no charge, but not to run a business.
2. School District employees or spouse of SAU employee renting Town Hall for a retirement party. The Selectboard approved rental of the Town Hall for this retirement party.  This is for a Walpole resident.
3. Earth Day Group’s request for non-profit use of the Town Hall to show a free film presentation on April 22^nd. Members of this group are Walpole residents and they usually do a clean-up on this day.  There will be no charge for use of the Town Hall.

 

NON-PUBLIC SESSION:

Mr. Aldrich moved to enter into a Non-Public Selectboard Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (c) Reputations.  Mrs. Pschirrer seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with Mr. Aldrich, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved at 6:52 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 6:59 PM.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of March 9, 2017, be sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:

Mr. Aldrich moved to recess this Selectboard meeting.  The Selectboard will enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Mr. Aldrich, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:06 PM.

 

OTHER BUSINESS:

Wood:  Mr. Paul Colburn asked the Selectboard to recognize Mr. Ben Daviss as he originally made the suggestion and donated wood that can be picked-up by people in need.  This is now in the second year at the Recycling Center and it is working out well.

 

Walpole Town Library:  Mrs. Pschirrer reported the Library wants to expand.  Someone who works at the Library found a copy of a design by expanding on the property they currently own.  Mrs. Downing also found a set of drawings.  This is the direction they will plan on going as they have land to expand.  Mrs. Pschirrer noted they have a lot of programs.  They need another bathroom, meeting room and office space.  Mr. Dalessio pointed out when they are ready to move forward they should consider going to the Planning Board with their plans as a courtesy but as a Town building they do not have to do so.  A Building Permit will be required.

 

Adjournment:  Mr. Aldrich moved to adjourn this Selectboard meeting.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Mr. Aldrich, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 7:18 PM.

 

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

 

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

February 23, 2017

 

Selectboard Present: Steve Dalessio (Chair), Peggy Pschirrer, Whitney Aldrich

 

CALL TO ORDER: Mr. Dalessio called this Selectboard meeting to order at 6:30 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.  He advised that this meeting is being recorded and asked anyone wishing to speak to identify themselves for the record.  There were no people in attendance.

Accounts Payable:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register in the amount of $10,936.05 for checks issued February 24, 2017. Mr. Aldrich seconded, and the motion passed with all in favor.

Payroll:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Payroll Register in the amount of $24,335.53 for checks dated 2/24/17 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer in the amount of $5,537.82.  Mr. Aldrich seconded, and the motion passed with all in favor.

 

Selectboard Meeting Minutes:

1. Pschirrer moved to approve the Selectboard Minutes of February 16, 2017. Mr. Aldrich seconded, and the motion passed with all in favor. Mr. Dalessio abstained.
2. Pschirrer moved to approve the 2017 Annual Budget and Warrant Articles Public Hearing which was held February 16, 2017. Mr. Aldrich seconded, and the motion passed with all in favor. Mr. Dalessio abstained.
3. Pschirrer moved to approve the Staff Meeting Minutes of February 16, 2017. Mr. Aldrich seconded, and the motion passed with all in favor.

 

Committee Reports:

The Selectboard acknowledges receipt of the minutes of the Conservation Commission Meeting of February 6, 2017. The Board recognizes the Planning Board minutes of February 14, 2017. It should be noted that Bensonwood renovation on the Edwards Lane property was approved and will include a Farm to Table restaurant to be operated by the Casertas. The Planning Board discussed Mr. Gay’s petition that would amend the North Walpole District Zone Board Ordinances. A Public Hearing will be held on March 14, 2017. The Selectboard also recognizes the Zoning Board of Adjustment Meeting minutes of February 15, 2015.

 

Property Tax Abatement – Refund:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the property tax refund for Map and Lot# 020-021-000 in the amount $9.20.  Mr. Aldrich seconded, and the motion passed with all in favor.

 

Veterans’ Tax Credit:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the application for the Veterans’ Tax Exempt Credit for Map and Lot# 008-110-000. Mr. Aldrich seconded, and the motion passed with all in favor.

 

Building Permits:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Building Permit 2017-01 for Map and Lot#012-004-003 as amended.  Mr. Aldrich seconded, and the motion passed with all in favor.

 

New Business:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Sidewalk Poetry by Alice Fogel.  Mr. Aldrich seconded, but the vote was 1 Yes, 2 No so the motion did not carry.

 

Non-Public Business:

Motion to enter Non-Public Session was made by Mr. Dalessio seconded by Mr. Aldrich for reason of RSA 91A:3, II (a) (d) at 6:41 PM.

Public session reconvened at 7:05 PM.

 

Recess Selectboard Meeting:

Mr. Dalessio moved to recess this Selectboard meeting.  The Selectboard will enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees.  Mr. Aldrich seconded, and the motion passed with all in favor at 7:05 PM.

The Regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:14 PM.

 

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to adjourn this meeting.  Mr. Aldrich seconded, and the motion passed with all in favor at 7:14 PM.

 

Respectfully submitted,

Elaine Heleen, Acting Recording Secretary

 

 

TOWN OF WALPOLE

STAFF MEETING

FEBRUARY 16, 2017

 

Selectboard Present:     Steven Dalessio (Chair); Peggy Pschirrer; Whitney Aldrich

 

Staff Present:               Sarah Downing (Executive-Manager of Administration); Rich Kreissle (Executive-Manager of Finance); Sandra Smith (Town Clerk/Tax Collector); Michael Rau (Road Agent); Michael Paquette (Police Chief); Sgt. Justin Sanctuary (Police Department); Paul Colburn (Recycling Center); Justine Rogers (Librarian); Rebecca Whippie (Hooper Institute)

 

Call To Order:  Mr. Dalessio called this Staff meeting to order at 5:00 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.  He advised this meeting is being recorded.

 

Personnel Policy Handbook:  Mrs. Downing distributed copies of the Personnel Policy Handbook, Revised 2017.  The Department Managers were asked to distribute copies to the employees in their department.  After they have read the document there is an Employee Acknowledgement sheet on the back that all employees need to sign and have it returned to the Selectboard office.  Mr. Dalessio advised employees should read the document but it does not mean they have to agree with it.  If employees would like to have Mrs. Pschirrer attend a department meeting to answer questions she will be happy to do so.

 

Highway Department:  Mr. Rau submitted a report for the period of January 19, 2017 to February 15, 2017.  They have been doing the following work:

• Cold patching;
• Servicing trucks and equipment;
• Fixed Truck-5 plow, tarp arms and starter;
• Fixed Truck-8 Wing and Spinner light;
• Truck-3 had electrical problems;
• Replaced the hydraulic hose on the loader;
• Fixed Truck-3 Oil Pan;
• New air lines in shop;
• Pressure washed all equipment;
• Fixed ABIE Hdy Lift Cylinder;
• Mixed Winter Sand;
• Picked up snow in the Walpole Village as the intersections were getting dangerous;
• Brought signs to the Town Hall for the Boy Scouts;
• Sanded the Recycling Center;
• Crushed dumpsters at the Recycling Center;
• Put up signs at the Police Department;
• Winter Weather call-outs on: 01/22-01/23; 01/24-01/25; 02/01; 02/13-02/14; 02/15.

The department has been short-handed.  They are now plowing and sanding at the Hooper Property and around the Mansion; this had not been a part of their plowing in the past.  Mrs. Pschirrer mentioned the Highway Department had not been asked to nor had they plowed at the Hooper property until she recently asked them to do so.  Mr. Rau has been checking on mail boxes to make sure they are the right height and distance from the roadway in accordance with the Ordinance.  If the boxes do comply but the trucks hit them they will be repaired.  The wings are supposed to be able to go underneath them.  Mrs. Pschirrer said this should be put in the Clarion.  Relative to the Town parking lot, Mr. Rau advised there are too many cars in there day and night.  When there are too many vehicles they leave it and take care of it when they can.  Mr. Dalessio mentioned the plowing looks good.  Mr. Rau noted the guys have been doing a great job with very little sleep.  Ms. Rogers asked if the guys could do the back stairs to the Library when they are doing other clean-up as it is their emergency exit. Mr. Rau said they would do that.

 

Police Department:  Police Chief Michael Paquette distributed copies of their report for the period of January 16, 2017 through February 15, 2017.  The number of calls for service was 405.

• Police Safety Calls:

Emergency Calls – 30              Administrative – 59                 Citizen Assists – 52

• Motor Vehicle Calls:

Accidents – 24                         MV Stops – 105                       Traffic Safety – 40

• Criminal Investigations:

Crimes Against a Person – 39  Crimes Against Property – 40  Drugs/Alcohol – 16

 

He thanked Mr. Rau for cleaning out the back area; everything looks great.  This past month has been up-and-down.  Drug cases were down slightly but there is a new “cocktail” out there therefore they expect more activity.  They already came close to losing someone.  They had a few drug arrests this past week.  The cases consume a lot of their time with investigations and paperwork.  Mr. Dalessio pointed out they have one of the highest conviction rates.  The department is losing an officer as he has taken a position in another town, Dean Wright, but they acquired Roger Landry who has been working part-time and now has accepted the full-time position. Mr. Dalessio mentioned other towns are now recruiting our officers.  With the holiday week-end the State is requiring them to do more radar patrols; cell phone violations, etc.  They continue to be busy as usual.  Sgt. Sanctuary spoke about the increase in burglaries; most of them are due to needing money.  Last night Officer Landry prevented a male from jumping off the bridge.  Mr. Dalessio noted the Selectboard will sign a letter of commendation.

Mr. Dalessio pointed out that the Town is still arguing with Liberty Utilities about the lights on the bridge.  The bridge, lights and sidewalk clearly belong to the State.  It is a safety issue.  He will contact Representative Lucy Weber to see if she will intervene.  Mr. Dalessio is concerned that someone will slip or fall off the walkway onto the road.  Chief Paquette noted there are two crosswalks in that area.  There was discussion pertaining to extending the sidewalk up around the bend/corner.

 

Selectboard Office:  Mrs. Downing provided the following report dated February 16, 2017.

Town Report:

• Electronic file sent to the printer on Tuesday, 2/14/17. Reports to be shipping on or before March 1^st.
• Copies of the Town Report will be available at the Town Hall and other locations such as Jake’s Market, Drewsville Store, Walpole Library, Town Hall plus there is a list of other locations.

Town Meeting:

• Warrant has been posted for Tuesday, March 14^th – ballot voting day for Articles 1 and 2. Polls open at 8am and close at 7pm.  Town Meeting begins at 1pm on March 18^th.
• A slide show of department photos shall be occurring before and after the meeting.
• Cake will be served at the conclusion of the meeting.

Revaluation Meeting:

• On January 25^th, the Selectboard met with the Town’s Department of Revenue (DRA) district supervisor and a representative from Avitar to review the Property Revaluation process.
• In January, Avitar completed measures of properties in Walpole.
• A review of sales information and new building/property improvements is now occurring. The review includes site visits.  This is the second phase of the project.
• Phase 3 will be the mailing of a “notice of Preliminary Assessment Values” to property owners. This notice will be sent in the summer.
• There will be several dates that property owners will be able to schedule an appointment to discuss updated property assessments with an Avitar assessor.
• The revaluation will be finalized in the fall. Changes to valuation will be reflected in the fall tax bill.

Town Hall Facilities:

• The display case for the Boston Post Cane will be mounted within the next few weeks. A plaque is to be ordered with recipient names and other info inscribed.
• Sorting of materials in the vault in the basement has begun. Recycling of non-essential paperwork will happen.  The vault space lacks air circulation which has caused papers and books to be coated with white mold.  Colburn and a number of other people were there to assist.

Water and Sewer:

• B has become the Administrator for Water and Sewer payments and billing. Linda continues to be the coordinator for cemetery lot sales and info.
• Linda will be in the office on Tuesdays and Fridays with increased office hours during high demand periods, i.e. when billings are sent and received.

Wellness Initiative:

• The Town received a $500 check from HealthTrust to be used to offset expenses related to a Wellness Program.
• A Wellness Program Interest Survey will be handed out at the Staff Meeting. If managers could distribute the survey to benefitted employees and return to the Selectboard Office, it would be greatly appreciated.

 

Mr. Kreissle is working on the 1095s.  Employees should have received their W2s.  Mr. Dalessio advised that direct deposits will now be going in on Fridays (which is the regular pay date) rather than Wednesdays.

 

Library:  Ms. Justine Rogers submitted the following report dated February 16, 2017.

• Open 22 days;
• Served 1350 people;
• Circulated 2097 materials;
• Offered 21 programs which served 298 people.

Their average people served for the month of January is the same as last year, but the average circulation is up from 87 per day to 95 per day.

Their Circulation in January was displayed with a colored chart as follows;

• Adult Fiction 33%
• Videos 30%
• Kids Fiction 16%
• Adult Non Fiction 8%
• Kids Non Fiction 4%
• Audio Books 4%
• Magazines 4%

They had a lot of people donate movies this year.  People are appreciative of them. Relative to a statement from Mr. Dalessio about expanding in North Walpole; Ms. Rogers replied that North Walpole does not have a video collection at all.  That is an option.  Both Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer expressed an interest in seeing North Walpole Library open more hours and to expand with computers, etc.

Next Tuesday, February 21^st they are showing Trolls, a new kids’ movie at 11am (since its winter break).

March 14^th they have a screening of the documentary Alice’s Ordinary People at 6:30pm.  The film is about Alice Tregay who was a “heroine of the Civil Rights Movement.”  The Director will also be here to talk about the film.  Mr. Dalessio suggested Ms. Rogers contact Mr. Jack Pratt to let him know about this documentary as he was active during the Civil Rights Movement and might be interest in seeing it.

Mr. Dalessio and Mr. Colburn have talked about putting up a bulletin board at the Recycling Center so Town events/activities can be posted.  He would like to move that along for this spring.  They could even post Town reports.

 

Recycling Center:  Mr. Paul Colburn provided the following report:  It was a slower-than-usual month.  Weather has played a role in this.  People are not coming in with products they charge for.  They are on par for the projections for the year and basically are holding their own on recyclables.  He distributed and explained copies of the “Daily Weight Report and 5 Year to Date Comparison”.  Looking at the Annual Forecast and Annual Estimate they are both pretty close.

With reference to the “5 Year Comparison to Recyclables” they are having an average year.  They now get paid when they take recyclables in as opposed to a few years ago when they would take in recyclables and have to wait for the check.  Mr. Dalessio mentioned at the last budget meeting they talked about budgeted revenue.  Maybe before the next Staff Meeting they can meet with Mr. Kreissle to have something to look at in terms of revenue and the budget.  It helps for the forecast.

Mr. Colburn mentioned they had so much snow they had to shovel off the storage trailers.  He will be taking a class on February 28^th on fluids, maintenance, repairs.  Plowing has been an issue at the Center.  He came in for about five hours on Monday to do it.  Overall things are going well.  They are appreciative of all the Volunteers.

 

Town Clerk-Tax Collector:  Mrs. Sandy Smith provided the following report.  At the last meeting Mrs. Pschirrer asked what “LHS” stood for – Lynn Haas was the original owner and he did municipal billing, etc.  Now LHS sells and maintains ballot counting machines!  LHS = Lynn Haas Systems.

The Town Clerk has been busy this month. Feb. 3^rd was the last day for filing for Town office.  Then they had to send the info to the printer.  They are now waiting for the ballots.

From the last Staff Meeting they collected $86,950.00 for the Town Clerk’s Department.  During that same period they collected $214,091.04 in property taxes.  They now have an uncollected of only $620,280.98.  This is a very small amount.  Our warrants totaled over eleven million dollars.  She just sent out a supplemental bill to TransCanada for the dam.  She did not include that amount in these figures.

Monday, Feb 20^th she will be open 7 A.M. to 10 A.M. for property taxes only!  When she mailed delinquent notices she failed to realize that the 20^th is a holiday!  10 A.M. is the deadline to avoid the lien process.  The intent to lien procedure adds additional fees to the tax amounts.  The tax liens will be executed in late April if not paid in full by that time.

The State of NH Dept of Motor Vehicles is installing a new computer program “Vision” so motor vehicle processing will be “down” State wide from Friday 17 to Wed Feb 22^nd.

Mr. Dalessio explained the supplemental bill to TransCanada for the dam.  Avitar Associates noticed a fairly large disparity in the TransCanada assessment as compared to the DRA assessment.  As per Avitar’s recommendation this supplemental bill was issued as the Towns can go back one year.  TransCanada lawyers are already requesting additional information.

 

Hooper Institute:  Ms. Becky Whippie provided the following report:  There have been a lot of snow days.  Mrs. Clark is working on the same inside activities as her last report.  Ms. Whippie has continued to work with the snow that has included mammals in winter with the 3^rd Grade.  The 4^th Grade visited the Northcotts Woodturning shop to study forest related products.  They also talked about sugaring conditions; cold days and warm nights.  One sugaring house was making maple syrup in January because the conditions were right.  The 2^nd Grade talked about the various types of farming and domestic animals.  Pre-K, Kindergarten and 1^st Grade talked about snow; the temperatures, season, how snow crystals form, hexagon, six branches.  Karen Galloway is on the Hooper Committee and is doing a “Saving Our Songbirds” presentation on April 21^st at 7:00 PM to benefit the Hooper Institute students.  Tickets are $15/each.  Tickets will be available at Galloway Real Estate and other locations in the Village.  Mr. Dalessio will check with Brenda at the Drewsville Store to see if she is willing to sell the tickets.  Checks are to be made out to Friends of the Hooper Institute.  Mr. Dalessio is glad they are doing well.

 

Recreation Department:  Mr. Justine Cassarino was unable to attend but provided the following report:

Basketball:

• Finishing up this week;
• Entered three teams into a tournament in January. Two finished in 1^st place and one finished in 3^rd.  Great sportsmanship and effort from all players, coaches, and fans.
• Purchased new uniforms for next season.
• Old uniforms are going to be donated to the Walpole Elementary School. Toni McDougle (PE Teacher) is going to use them for practice uniforms and for kids that don’t have clothes to change into for class.
• Discussing some new ideas for next season to get kids started at an earlier age. Possibly doing a camp/league for K-2^nd

Pool:

• Send an email out to staff to see who will be returning.
• Will be meeting with the Recreation Committee at the end of the month to discuss wages for WSI instructors. Needs to be higher to get people interested in teaching lessons.  Lessons are very popular to the public, but staff is not willing to pay the cost to become certified and not get much in return.

Other:

• Speaking with Jane Skantze about signage about tobacco free areas for our recreation park.
• Skating rink has been very busy with a lot of happy community members.

 

Adjournment:  Mr. Dalessio adjourned this Staff Meeting at 5:45 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary                                       These are unapproved Minutes.