The Walpolean

 

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

FEBRUARY 16, 2017

 

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

 

CALL TO ORDER:  Mrs. Pschirrer called this Selectboard meeting to order at 7:12 PM.  Prior to this meeting the Public Hearing on the 2017 Annual Budget and Warrant Articles was held.  Mr. Dalessio is absent due to a family matter.  She advised that this meeting is being recorded and asked anyone wishing to speak to identify themselves for the record.  There were two people in attendance.

 

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register in the amount of $581,261.81 for checks dated February 17, 2017.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Aldrich 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 February 11, 2017, in the amount of $24,408.62 for checks dated February 17, 2017.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Aldrich 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 $5,540.58 for the week ending February 11, 2017.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Aldrich in favor, the motion was approved.

 

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – February 9, 2017:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of February 9, 2017, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Aldrich in favor, the Minutes were approved.

 

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – February 9, 2017:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard meeting of February 9, 2017, as submitted.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Aldrich in favor, the Minutes were approved.

 

TAX ABATEMENT:

MAP and LOT # 008-062-00A:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to grant this Property Tax Abatement in the amount of $5.82 for Map and Lot # 008-062-00A for the Tax Year 2016.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Aldrich in favor, the motion was approved.

 

TAX REFUNDS:

MAP and LOT # 011-037-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to grant this Property Tax Refund in the amount of $396.89 for Map and Lot # 011-037-000.  This is the result of an over-payment of 2016 Fall property tax.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Aldrich in favor, the motion was approved.

 

MAP and LOT # 015-035-000: Mrs. Pschirrer moved to grant this Property Tax Refund in the amount of $44.98 for Map and Lot # 015-035-000.  This is the result of an over-payment of 2016 Fall property tax.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Aldrich in favor, the motion was approved.

 

SEWER ABATEMENT – REFUND:

Map and Lot # 028-080-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to grant the Sewer Abatement Refund in the amount of $165.65 for Map and Lot # 028-080-000.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Aldrich in favor, the motion was approved.

 

VETERAN’S TAX CREDIT:

MAP and LOT # 012-044-011:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to grant this Veteran’s Tax Credit for Map and Lot # 012-044-011.  This credit is for a surviving spouse.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Aldrich in favor, the motion was approved.

 

BUILDING PERMIT:

Huntington Realty of Walpole, LLC, 9 Edwards Lane, Map and Lot # 012-004-003:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve Building Permit # 2017-02 for Huntington Realty of Walpole, LLC to build a “Porch addition, outdoor pavilion, parking lot”.  This Site Plan approval was given by the Planning Board at their last meeting.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Aldrich in favor, the Building Permit was approved.

 

OLD BUSINESS:

Letter to Ms. Jean Robinson:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve and sign her response letter to Ms. Jean Robinson regarding the burying of line utilities and removal of telephone/light  poles around the Common.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Aldrich in favor, the motion was approved.

 

NEW BUSINESS:

Cemetery Deed for Lots D502 and D503:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the sale of two Cemetery lots D502 and D503.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Aldrich in favor, the motion was approved.

Citizen’s Report Form from Charles Criss:  The Selectboard discussed the Abatement request for interest on 2016 taxes for Mr. Criss in the amount of $9.20.  This is the result of a mailing issue.  He provided copies of the two envelopes.  The Tax Collector will create an Abatement form.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve this Abatement request for Mr. Cross but it needs to be on the appropriate Abatement form which Mrs. Downing will process.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Aldrich in favor, the motion was approved.

Delinquent Water and Sewer List:  Mrs. Pschirrer advised the Selectboard will postpone decisions on the Delinquent Water and Sewer list provided by Mrs. Edkins as they want to discuss this with Mr. Mark Houghton.  A copy of this list should be sent to him.

 

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:  Mr. Aldrich moved to recess this Selectboard meeting.  The Selectboard will enter into a Hooper Trustees meeting.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Mr. Aldrich and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved at 7:40 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:47 PM.

 

 

ADJOURNMENT:  Mr. Aldrich moved to adjourn this Selectboard meeting.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Mr. Aldrich and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 7:48 PM.

 

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

TOWN OF WALPOLE

 PUBLIC HEARING

2017 ANNUAL BUDGET AND WARRANT ARTICLES

FEBRUARY 16, 2017

 

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

 

CALL TO ORDER:  Mrs. Pschirrer, Acting Chair, called this 2017 Annual Budget and Warrant Articles Public Hearing to order at 6:00 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.  She welcomed everyone.  Mr. Dalessio is not present as his wife is just coming out of surgery for her shoulder following a fall on ice.

 

Proposed Budget:  Mrs. Pschirrer advised it is important for everyone to understand this budget as it is a different type than usual.  The Selectboard started to work on this budget in October meeting with every Department Manager after they had submitted a budget.  They had two full-day meetings. The bottom line was higher than expected.  It is not just the Town budget that impacts the Town’s property taxes but it is also the County taxes (who had their Public Hearing quite a while ago), Fire District and Fall Mountain Regional School District.  The Fire District had their Public Meeting on February 8^th.  On that same night the FMRSD budget was being presented; they represent a big portion of the Town’s tax bill.  There were not many Walpole people there.  The Selectboard have been pretty consistent in giving a 2% increase to employees each year.  A Salary Study was done this past fall because the Selectboard felt we were behind some other communities.  It represents an increase for some Police Department officers, Librarian and Highway Director.

 

Mrs. Pschirrer referenced the “Expenditure Comparison Summary” handout.  The operating fund is $3,729,595 but that figure includes $130,000 an unfunded mandate by the State. This will come from the unassigned fund balance.  It has been ten years since the Town had a full assessment and we are in the process of that revaluation.  Mr. Goins questioned the big increase in Police Special Detail; the 2017 proposed is $20,290 or an increase of 276.93%.  Police Chief Paquette replied that was mostly due to the State funded grants for the radar and extra patrols.  The State gave us quite a bit of money.  The Town pays the officers; they bill the State and the Town gets reimbursed.  It is pretty much a “wash”.  Mr. Kreissle noted this money goes into a Revolving Fund.  Mrs. Pschirrer explained at the last Town Meeting two Revolving Funds were adopted; the Police Department and Recreation Department.  When they want to use those funds they submit a request to the Selectboard.  The Recreation funds come from selling snacks, etc. in the summer time.

 

Mrs. Pschirrer advised this budget includes increases for the insurances.  Liability and Property coverage went up 4.5%, workers compensation is up 5.4%, health insurance is 6%.  Relative to dental coverage, the Town allows $1,000/year for employees and their families. But they do not budget this amount for everybody because past experience shows not all of it is used therefore this has been taken into account.  This is a plan we share with the Fall Mountain Regional School District.  Auditing services, computer up-grades and maintenance for trucks and equipment are included.  The Town now has two people certified to fix brakes and conduct other maintenance on vehicles. We are fortunate to have much of our vehicle repair work done in-house.  There is an increase in the Cemetery budget because some headstones need repairs.

 

Responding to a question from Mr. Ray Boas on the Police Department, Mrs. Pschirrer responded there is a drug problem which requires a tremendous amount of time.  Each time they deal with a juvenile or drug case it could take up to 60 hours of paperwork and transport time plus the officers work their usual shift.

 

All paperwork has to be ready to go to the court each Monday morning.  In Walpole several people have over-dosed. There were two deaths since September as the result of using drugs.  There are constant new “mixes” on the streets.  This opioid problem is all around us.  They also deal with gangs.  The Town will be hiring another police officer.  We cannot expect the Chief and three officers to continue to keep up with everything.  Two police officers have to go with a juvenile when being transported to Manchester.  The court is in Keene.  We need to recognize we have a problem and need to work to resolve that.

 

2017 Warrant Articles:

Article 1.  “To elect the necessary Town officers for their respective terms.”

 

Article 2.  “Are you in favor of the adoption of a Detached Accessory Dwelling Unit zoning ordinance as proposed by the Walpole Planning Board for the Town of Walpole’s Zoning Ordinance as follows:”  (Note: A copy of this proposal will be posted at the polls. A copy of this proposal can be obtained at the Selectboard Office during regular business hours.)

 

Article 3.  “To see if the Town will vote to authorize the Selectboard to enter into a long term lease/purchase agreement in the amount of two hundred twenty-seven thousand four hundred forty-seven dollars and seventy-two cents ($227,447.72) payable over a term of thirty-eight months in four equal payments, for a new John Deere loader for the highway department and to raise and appropriate the sum of fifty-six thousand, eight hundred sixty-two dollars and sixty-eight cents ($56,862.68) for the first year’s payment for that purpose.”

**2/3 ballot vote required**

 

Mrs. Pschirrer explained it seems as if this Article is out of order. However, the Department of Revenue Administration said they should talk about this before the budget.  We have needed a new loader for the last 3-to-4 years but the Selectboard chose to postpone it.  It gets older and continues to need more repairs.  The Selectboard would like to enter into a lease-purchase agreement with the dealer for 38 months to buy the loader at an interest rate of 3-1/2%.  This article does not have an escape clause.  It is important to understand this as it needs a 2/3 ballot vote.  The State DRA refers this to a bond rather than lease.  Mr. Goins negotiated a good deal getting $38,000 for the old loader.  John Deere offers a discount to municipalities plus a municipal interest rate.  The Town will save money in the long run by doing this.  If the Town voters reject this Article it will probably cost close to $50,000 in repairs for the old loader if they do not get the new one.  We need better equipment.  Nortrax / John Deere has always given the Town good service.  If this article passes it will then become a part of the annual operating budget.

 

Article 4.  “To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of four million two hundred nineteen thousand three hundred five dollars ($4,219,305) which represents the three million seven hundred twenty nine thousand five hundred ninety five dollars ($3,729,595) Town Operating Budget of which one hundred thirty thousand dollars ($130,000) to come from the Unassigned Fund Balance and three million five hundred ninety nine thousand five hundred ninety five dollars ($3,599,595) to be raised from general taxation, one hundred eighty two thousand one hundred thirty dollars ($182,130) for the Water Fund Operating Budget and three hundred seven thousand five hundred eighty dollars ($307,580) for the Sewer Operating Budget for the general government of the Town.  Such sum does not include special or individual articles or bonds as otherwise found in the warrant.”

 

This article does not show that there is money coming into the water and sewer departments.  The budget shows expenses but not revenues.  Mr. Aldrich pointed out that water and sewer are paid for by users only.  Because the Water and Sewer Departments are contracted, the Town has to include them in the budget according to the State.  Mrs. Pschirrer mentioned there will be an increase in the sewer fees this year to start planning ahead for projects.  It includes a part of the bond for the sewer treatment plant in Bellows Falls.  We continue to pay our agreed upon share for the operation of the BF Wastewater Treatment Plant.  We have to start to think about how we are going to move our sewer pipes off the Vilas Bridge and install them on the new Arch Bridge.  We have an aging water infrastructure system.

 

Mr. Boas advised there is a 7.15% increase in the operating budget.  Mrs. Pschirrer noted this is with the $130,000 as that pushed up the total increase.

 

Article 5:  “To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of seventy thousand dollars ($70,000) for the repairs and maintenance of Town buildings.  The said funds to come from Unassigned Fund Balance.”

 

Mrs. Pschirrer explained this is to cover another portion of the roof at the Highway Department as only a portion was done last year; some interior work at the Police Department to bring it up to code; the Library needs to replace the air conditioner that no longer functions (this is absolutely necessary for the protection of books, etc.)  plus some new lighting.

 

Article 6:  “To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of seventy-seven thousand dollars (77,000) to purchase a (used) New Holland Tractor/Side Mower for use by the Walpole Highway Department for roadside mowing.”  (Funds to be raised through general taxation)

 

As we drive around Town in the summer time we all see tall invasive plants at every intersection.  In past years we rented equipment to cut it at a cost of $12,000-to-$14,000 for two weeks in the summer. However, we could not schedule in those two weeks.  We are proposing to buy a used tractor that can be used year-round to control the weeds, etc.  It will be money better spent.

 

Article 7:  “To see if the Town of Walpole will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of $31,950 for a vehicle for the Walpole Police Department, and to authorize the issuance of not more than $31,950 through a promissory note with the Savings Bank of Walpole in accordance with the provisions of the Municipal Finance Act (RSA 33) and to authorize the municipal officials to issue and negotiate such bonds or notes and to determine the rate of interest thereon.  Further to raise and appropriate the sum of ten thousand nine hundred seventy five ($10,975) for the first year’s payment.”

**2/3 ballot vote required**

 

Mrs. Pschirrer mentioned we put a lot of hours on our cruisers.  We are trying to save money by borrowing money.  Mr. Goins worked with Chief Paquette and Sgt. Sanctuary on this. They took a different position than in the past. There is a fleet of five cars; some with low and some with high mileage.  They came up with a rotational plan.  The first car could be leased through Ford Motors; their interest rate is 6%.  Mr. Goins checked with the Savings Bank of Walpole; they will do a loan for $30,000 with a promissory note with 3 payments at 3.25% interest.  We would have a new car, then another new car the next year and so forth.  It will take 5 years for five cars but this would be a start.  Mrs. Pschirrer mentioned if the 2/3 ballot vote is approved the cars would be a part of the operating budget the following year. Chief Paquette said about $16,000 was spent on repairs this year.  A lot of the equipment can be moved into the newer car.  We will have qualified vehicles.  After about 4-1/2 years they will still have good cars to trade.  Mr. Vose’s question was; this year we will lease a car and another year we will lease another car so next year will be double.  Chief Paquette said they will be doing some trade-ins.  They may hold one car as a detail and transport car.  In the past they asked for $15,000/year but it was underfunded to buy a cruiser.  Mr. Goins said under the Capitol Reserve Fund after three years they would have enough to buy one car but there are other cars that need maintenance.  They need reliable cars.  By doing this we would be able to flatten out the payments; in the 9^th year cycle they would be caught up.

 

Article 8:  “To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of fifteen thousand dollars ($15,000) to purchase a cage, console, other necessary information and installation in the new police car.  This article is contingent upon the passing of warrant article 7.”

 

This article will outfit the cruiser.  A cruiser must have ancillary items.  It will be moot if Article 7 does not pass.

 

Article 9:  “To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of fifteen thousand dollars ($15,000) to be deposited in the Town of Walpole Highway – Capitol Reserve Fund Account previously established for the purpose of highway equipment.  The said funds to be raised through general taxation.”

 

Mrs. Pschirrer advised that Mr. Mike Rau keeps track of the equipment age and usage.  The next time we need a big truck, we will have some of the money.  Their goal for next year is to return to basic highway maintenance.  The Town has 70 miles plus we plow some State roads that are South Street, Prospect Hill, and a large portion of County Road.  These State roads are in rough shape.  We need to remind the State there is a southwestern portion in the State.

 

Article 10:  “To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of seven thousand dollars ($7,000) to be deposited in the Police Vehicle – Capitol Reserve Fund Account previously established for the purchase of a police vehicle.  The said funds to be raised through general taxation.”

 

Replying to a question, Mr. Goins said there is $38,000 in this account now.  Chief Paquette stressed they do need a new car now.  If Article 7 does not pass the Police Department would have to wait until the next Town Meeting to use the funds in Article 10 unless they call a special Town Meeting.  Mr. Aldrich advised they would have to go to the Superior Court and convince the Judge it is an emergency.”

 

Article 11.  “To see if the Town will vote to modify the elderly exemptions from property tax, based on assessed value, for qualified taxpayers, to be as follows:  for a person 65 years of age up to 75 years, $25,000; for a person 75 years to 80 years, $40,000; for a person 80 years of age or older $50,000.  To qualify, the person must have resided in this state for at least 3 consecutive years preceding April 1 in the year in which the exemption is claimed, own real estate individually or jointly, or if the real estate owned by such person’s spouse, they must have been married for at least five years.  In addition the taxpayer must have net income of not more than $25,000, or if married a combined net income of less than $40,000; and own net assets not in excess of $75,000 excluding the value of the person’s residence.”

 

Mrs. Pschirrer pointed out that this year the Town was audited by the State. A number of elderly residents lost their exemption as they no longer qualified because of an income that was a little over the guidelines.  The existing amounts were adopted in 1997.  This is a reasonable increase. Some of these residents who lost their exemption will be able to reapply and qualify.

 

Article 12.  “To see if the Town will vote to adopt the provisions of RSA 72:28-b, All Veterans’ Tax Credit.  If adopted, the credit will be available to any resident, or the spouse of surviving spouse of any resident, who (1) served not less than 90 days on active service in the armed forces of the United States and (2) was honorably discharged or an officer honorably separated from service and is not eligible for or receiving a credit under RSA 72:28 or RSA 72:35.  If adopted, the credit granted will be $500.00, the same amount as the standard or optional veterans’ tax credit voted by the Town under RSA 72:28.”  Mr. Aldrich noted this will not have a big impact on the tax rate.  Many communities all over the State are looking at adopting this warrant article.

 

Article 13:  “To transact any other business that may legally come before the meeting.”

 

There were 13 people in attendance.

 

Adjournment:  There being no other discussion, Mrs. Pschirrer declared this Public Hearing adjourned at 7:05 PM.

 

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

 

 

_______________________              __________________                        __________________

Steven Dalessio, Chair                         Peggy L. Pschirrer                    Whitney R. Aldrich

 

 

(Note:  These are unapproved Minutes.  Any corrections will be found in the Minutes of the February 23, 2017, Selectboard meeting.)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

FEBRUARY 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 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:

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

The regular meeting resumed at 6:50 PM.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of February 9, 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 approve the Accounts Payable check register in the amount of $43,783.51 for checks dated February 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 February 4, 2017, in the amount of $21,389.98 for checks dated February 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 $4,534.80 for the week ending February 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 – February 2, 2017:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of February 2, 2017, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Minutes were approved.  Mr. Aldrich abstained as he was not present at this meeting.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION #1 – February 2, 2017:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session #1 of February 2, 2017, as submitted.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Minutes were approved.  Mr. Aldrich abstained as he was not present at this meeting.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION #2 – February 2, 2017:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session #2 of February 2, 2017, as submitted.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Minutes were approved.  Mr. Aldrich abstained as he was not present at this meeting.

 

PUBLIC HEARING – Westberg Property – January 26, 2017:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the Public Hearing on the Westberg Property of January 26, 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 – January 10, 2017;
• Trustees of Trust Funds – February 1, 2017.

 

SUPPLEMENTAL TAX WARRANT:

TransCanada Hydro Northeast, Map and Lot # UTIL 00UTIL 00003A:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Selectboard sign the Tax Collector’s Property Tax Supplement Warrant, State of New Hampshire, for TransCanada Hydro Northeast in the amount of $364,269.00.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Dalessio advised that 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. TransCanada lawyers are requesting additional information.

 

OLD BUSINESS:

MS-636:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to adopt the budget and sign form MS-636 for the year 2017.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Warrant Articles:  The Selectboard discussed the order of Articles on the Warrant following a review by the Department of Revenue Administration and their recommendations.  Reference was made to the RSAs. Mr. Dalessio will provide a detailed explanation of Articles 3 and 4 at the Public Hearing on the proposed 2017 Budget.  Mrs. Smith will be asked to contact the Secretary of State for clarification on the placement of these Articles.

 

Article 1 – “To elect the necessary Town officers for their respective terms.”

 

Article 2 – “Zoning Ordinance on Detached Accessory Dwelling Units.”

 

Article 3 – “To see if the Town will vote to authorize the Selectboard to enter into a long term lease/purchase agreement in the amount of two hundred twenty-seven thousand four hundred forty-seven dollars and seventy-two cents ($227,447.72) payable over a term of thirty-eight months in four equal payments, for a new John Deere loader for the highway department and to raise and appropriate the sum of fifty-six thousand, eight hundred sixty-two dollars and sixty-eight cents ($56,862.68) for the first year’s payment for that purpose.”

**2/3 ballot vote required**

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept Article 3.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

Article 4 – “To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of four million two hundred nineteen thousand three hundred five dollars ($4,219,305) which represents the three million seven hundred twenty nine thousand five hundred ninety five dollars ($3,729,595) Town Operating Budget of which one hundred thirty thousand dollars ($130,000) to come from the Unassigned Fund Balance and three million five hundred ninety nine thousand five hundred ninety five dollars ($3,599,595) to be raised from general taxation, one hundred eighty two thousand one hundred thirty dollars ($182,130) for the Water Fund Operating Budget and three hundred seven thousand five hundred eighty dollars ($307,580) for the Sewer Operating Budget for the general government of the Town.  Such sum does not include special or individual articles or bonds as otherwise found in the warrant.”

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept Article 4.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

Article 5 – “To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of seventy thousand dollars ($70,000) for the repairs and maintenance of Town buildings.  The said funds to come from Unassigned Fund Balance.”

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept Article 5.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

Article 6 – “To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of seventy-seven thousand dollars ($77,000) to purchase a (used) New Holland Tractor/Side Mower for use by the Walpole Highway Department for roadside mowing. (Funds to be raised through general taxation).

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept Article 6.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

Article 7 – “To see if the Town of Walpole will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of $31,950 for a vehicle for the Walpole Police Department, and to authorize the issuance of not more than $31,950 through a promissory note with the Savings Bank of Walpole in accordance with the provisions of the Municipal Finance Act (RSA 33) and to authorize the municipal officials to issue and negotiate such bonds or notes and to determine the rate of interest thereon.  Further to raise and appropriate the sum of ten thousand nine hundred seventy five ($10,975) for the first year’s payment.”

**2/3 ballot vote required**

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept Article 7.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

Article 8 – “To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of fifteen thousand dollars ($15,000) to purchase a cage, console, other necessary equipment and installation in the new police car.  This article is contingent upon the passing of warrant article 7.”

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept Article 8.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

Article 9 – “To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of fifteen thousand dollars ($15,000) to be deposited in the Town of Walpole Highway Capitol Reserve Fund Account.  The said funds to be raised through general taxation.”

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept Article 9 with the addition noted below.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Article 9 will be written to match the wording in Article 10 – add “previously established for the purchase of Highway equipment”

 

Article 10 – “To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of seven thousand dollars ($7,000) to be deposited in the Police Vehicle – Capitol Reserve previously established for the purchase of a police vehicle.  The said funds to be raised through general taxation.”

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept Article 10.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

Article 11 – “To see if the Town will vote to modify the elderly exemptions from property tax, based on assessed value, for qualified taxpayers, to be as follows: for a person 65 years of age up to 75 years, $25,000; for a person 75 years to 80 years, $40,000; for a person 80 years of age or older $50,000.  To qualify, the person must have resided in this state for at least 3 consecutive years preceding April 1 in the year in which the exemption is claimed, own real estate individually or jointly, or if the real estate owned by such person’s spouse, they must have been married for at least five years.  In addition the taxpayer must have net income of not more than $25,000, or if married a combined net income of less than $40,000; and own net assets not in excess of $75,000 excluding the value of the person’s residence.”

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept Article 11.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

The Selectboard concurred that the first sentence in Article 12 be changed from “Shall the Town vote to adopt the provisions of RSA 72:28-b, All Veterans’ Tax Credit?” to “To see if the Town will vote to adopt the provisions of RSA 72:28-b, All Veterans’ Tax Credit.”

 

Article 12 – “To see if the Town will vote to adopt the provisions of RSA 72:28-b, All Veterans’ Tax Credit.  If adopted, the credit will be available to any resident, or the spouse or surviving spouse of any resident, who (1) served not less than 90 days on active service in the armed forces of the United States and (2) was honorably discharged or an officer honorably separated from service and is not eligible for or receiving a credit under RSA 72:28 or RSA 72:35.  If adopted, the credit granted will be $500.00, the same amount as the standard or optional veterans’ tax credit voted by the Town under RSA 72:28.”

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept Article 12.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

Article 13 – “To transact any other business that may legally come before the meeting.”

 

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Warrant Articles as corrected.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

NEW BUSINESS:

Decline of Reappointment:  The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of a letter from Tom Beaudry advising that when his term expires this year he will not be seeking reappointment to the Conservation Commission.

Town Hall Rental re: Thanksgiving: Mr. Dalessio feels whoever has been renting it for years should be given the first option.  Mrs. Downing noted there has been a precedent for years that anyone using the Town Hall on Thanksgiving Day can do so at no cost.  Therefore this Walpole family who has used the Town Hall for years on Thanksgiving Day can continue to do so this year at no cost.  Another party also inquired about using the Town Hall on that day.  They will be advised that it is already reserved.

Town Meeting:  The Selectboard approved having a cake and coffee at Town Meeting.  They also authorized buying the LCD projector.  There will be a slide show beginning a half-hour before the meeting and it will run after the meeting is adjourned.  A notice of the meeting will be in the Clarion.

Town Report Update:  Mrs. Downing is almost done with the Town Report.  It is in the process of being proof-read.  Next week the annual Public Hearing on the 2017 Budget will be held on Thursday, February 16^th, at 6:00 PM.

 

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:

Mr. Dalessio moved to recess this Selectboard meeting.  The Selectboard will enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mr. Dalessio, Mr. Aldrich and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved at 7:43 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:49 PM.

 

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 7:50 PM.

 

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

FEBRUARY 2, 2017

 

Selectboard Present:     Steven Dalessio (Chair); Peggy Pschirrer; (Absent – 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 five people in attendance.

 

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION #1:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to enter into a Non-Public Selectboard Session #1 pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (c) Reputations.  Mr. Dalessio seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 6:50 PM.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session #1 of February 2, 2017, be sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Mrs. Pschirrer 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 $89,589.70 for checks dated February 3, 2017.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

PAYROLL:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Payroll voucher for the week ending January 28, 2017, in the amount of $23,983.24 for checks dated February 3, 2017.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Mrs. Pschirrer 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 FICIA taxes in the amount of $5,294.46 for the week ending January 28, 2017.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – January 26, 2017:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of January 26, 2017, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – January 26, 2017:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of January 26, 2017, as submitted.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Minutes were approved.

 

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard received and reviewed Minutes of the following meetings:

• Walpole Conservation Commission – January 9, 2017;
• North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners – January 17, 2017.

Mrs. Pschirrer did a presentation, at the Conservation Commission meeting, on the proposed donation of the Westberg property to the Town.  She will be sending a few changes to the Minutes to the Secretary.

 

PROPERTY TAX REFUNDS:

MAP and LOT #028-013-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to grant the Property Tax Refund in the amount of $12.87 for Map and Lot #028-013-000.  This is an over-payment of the Fall property tax bill.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

MAP and LOT #003-083-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to grant the Property Tax Refund in the amount of $22.68 for Map and Lot #003-083-000.  This is an over-payment of the Fall property tax bill.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

MAP and LOT #012-055-002:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to grant the Property Tax Refund in the amount of $103.27 for Map & Lot #012-055-002.  This is an over-payment of the Fall property tax bill.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

MAP and LOT #019-022-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to grant the Property Tax Refund in the amount of $51.02 for Map and Lot #019-022-000.  This is an over-payment of the Fall property tax bill.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

OLD BUSINESS:

Thank You Note from Kathy dePasquale:  Mrs. Pschirrer read the following note received from Kathy dePasquale:  “Thank you for your reassuring reply – and solution – to the “Middle St. exit issue”.  We look forward to safer days ahead.  We are fortunate in this wonderful town to have such diligent guardians of the public trust. Attention to these things means so much. Warm wishes, Kathy dePasquale.”

Personnel Policy Handbook:  Mrs. Pschirrer went over this Handbook with the Department Managers and there were a few typo changes but no substantive changes.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Personnel Policy Handbook.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer reported that every Department Manager was asked to distribute the Personnel Policy Handbook to their employees.  She will attend a department meeting if there are questions.  There was discussion relative to the Life Insurance coverage.  A list of the employees covered by the Term Life insurance was received.  Unfortunately one employee was not added when hired but it will go back to his date of employment.  After age 65 it decreases in value. Mr. Dalessio would like to have a representative of the agency come in to make a presentation to the Selectboard and full-time employees and to answer questions or, at least, have them provide brochures.

Town Budget:  The Selectboard reviewed the 2017 proposed Town Budget.  Mr. Dalessio will double check on the numbers with Mr. Kreissle. This Warrant Article will be written by Mr. Kreissle.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept $3,729,595.00 as the Operating Budget.  This includes $130,000.00 for Avitar Associates.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Dalessio advised this represents a 3.41% increase in the budget.

Warrant Articles:  Following a review of the 2017 Warrant Articles the Selectboard made a decision to vote on whether or not to accept them next week.  The Warrant Articles will be sent to the Department of Revenue Administration for their comments.  Mrs. Pschirrer felt No. 12 needs to include all the information rather than the shortened version.

 

NEW BUSINESS:

Shane O’Keefe, Interim Municipal Manager of the Town of Rockingham/Village of Bellows Falls:  Mr. Dalessio talked to Mr. O’Keefe.  There was some misinformation that the Vilas Bridge was being discussed with Southwest Regional Planning Commission.  Mr. J.B. Mack at SWRPC is not aware of anything new on the Vilas Bridge.

Release of Information Letter for Financial Auditors:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to authorize the Chair of the Selectboard, Mr. Steve Dalessio, to sign the Release of Information Letter for the Financial Auditors.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

NH License to Sell Pistols and Revolvers for Eric Frink:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to grant and sign the NH License to Sell Pistols and Revolvers for Eric Frink.  He has received permission from the Zoning Board of Adjustment.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Police Revolving Fund Request for Expenditure:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Request for Expenditure from the Walpole Police Department to purchase (1) Decatur Scout, Handheld Radar Unit for the sum of $999.00 from their Revolving Fund.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Map and Lot #026-010-000 Ownership re: National Grid:  Mr. Dalessio recommended this be put on-hold until more research on the matter has been done.   Mrs. Pschirrer suggested this be sent to Attorney Hockensmith for his review.

Citizen Report #2017-6 re: Town Common Utility Poles:  A resident would like to see all telephone poles put underground on the Town Common.  Mr. Dalessio noted it is a good idea but is financially impracticable for the Town to undertake.

 

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to enter into a Non-Public Selectboard Session #2 pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (a) Personnel.  Mr. Dalessio seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved at 7:20 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:28 PM.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session #2 of February 2, 2017, be sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.
 

ADJOURNMENT:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to adjourn this meeting.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With all in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 7:29 PM.

 

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

TOWN OF WALPOLE

PUBLIC HEARING

JANUARY 26, 2017

 

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

Others Present:             Steven Rickerich, Cheryl Mayberry, Ray Boas, Raynie Laware, Karen Crowley; Sarah Downing, Regina Borden

 

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 Nils Westberg (former site of Central Plating) to the Town of Walpole at 6:00 pm at the Walpole Town Hall”

Mr. Dalessio introduced Steven Rickerich of Ransom Environment, Consulting Engineers and Scientists, who will be doing the testing. Mr. Rickerich displayed a large map of the area and distributed smaller copies.  He explained the lay-out of the area.

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 meetings with both the Conservation Commission and Planning Board to get their approval and the Selectboard has done this.  This is the first of two Public Hearings the Selectboard will hold.  This offer came to the Town from the Westberg Estate. They would be happy to give it to the Town for $1.00.  This would enable them to close the Estate.  This is a “Brownfields” property because of the past contamination.  There is a Town easement into the property (driveway beside the former Murray’s Restaurant). Leaning House LLC has an agreement for a right-of-way in another area of Town property.

On January 3^rd, 2017, the Southwest Regional Planning Commission (SWRPC) held a Brownfields meeting in which they agreed to accept this project. They hired Mr. Rickerich to continue doing the research that actually was started a few years ago but then discontinued.

Mr. Rickerich is a professional geologist.  Sanborn had done Phase I and did some work on Phase II.  There concerns were identified at that time and reported to the Department of Environmental Services (DES).  They identified a chromium problem about 13-to-15 feet below grade and also discovered there was nickel on the property.  The nickel area is small about 10 feet.  There were some petroleum contaminants. There was a wastewater pre-treatment facility and from there it went to the Town’s sewer line. It appears to be migrating a little off-site.  There is a groundwater problem. The DES asked for more detailed work but that is when the project ceased.  The soils are sand and then they get into a clay soil.  The water table is above the clay.  The chromium does not appear to be sinking.  They will do borings in different locations.  The sumps are still in the ground and need to be cleaned out.  The Central Plating building is now gone.  They are going to do an investigation and prepare a Remedial Action Plan.  Different options will be considered.  In this case it is mostly dig it up, haul it off and dispose of it. After that is done the Town will have a choice as to whether they want to proceed or not.  He would not recommend the Town take the property over until the State has reviewed and approved the Ransom Environment work.  The DES will over-see it.  They will look at the cost for continued groundwater monitoring.  Approval from the DES will be by letter.

Residential Lot 63 on the plan is the Walpole Foundation property.  Ransom Environment would also need to get permission from them to do some of their work.  The types of contaminants in the groundwater will not affect their building.

Mr. Rickerich mentioned they will be looking for a suite of PFCs (hydrophobic) contaminants that became regulated over the past summer.

There is an opportunity to seek additional funding through the EPA.  There is a Clean-Up Grant and the Town can get up to $200,000 for each of the two sites.  The Town will need these grants and will apply with the assistance of the SWRPC.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if the sewer lines will be capped off.  Mr. Rickerich replied that is a good question because those lines are not being used any more.  Mrs. Pschirrer questioned after the work is done how do they get the approval of the State and Federal Government?  Mr. Rickerich said that grants are not guaranteed.  They usually fund clean-up grants; if they are not approved the first time, the Town could apply again.  Mrs. Pschirrer noted this is right in the middle of the downtown business area.  There is an economical reason why they need the parking lot.  Mr. Rickerich felt a parking lot is good but if it is a part of a development that would help toward receiving a favorable grant review.

Ms. Karen Crowley, Walpole Foundation, asked what the time line will be.  Mr. Rickerich replied at the SWRPC January 3^rd meeting, they got approval to move forward.  They will now do a Site Specific Quality Improvement Plan; it lays out their Scope of Work.  This will now get run by the DES and they will respond with their comments.  After that Ransom has 30 days to review it.  They would start their work probably in March after the snow is gone and generate a report in 4-to-6 weeks.  They expect to be done in July.  That will go to the State and they have a month or two to provide comments.  It could be the end of summer or early fall.  There is another step the Town will have to do, a Phase I, an Environmental Site Assessment.  It would protect the Town from the Federal Government going after the Town.  Phase 1 has to be done within a six month period which is the shelf-life of the Phase.  Ransom Environment will do Phase 1 again before the Town acquires the property.  DES was okay with them doing Phase II now.  It is always possible they will find something Sanborn missed but he is confident of their work.  Mrs. Pschirrer said after that is done the grant period begins in October.  Mr. Rickerich noted they cannot apply for the grants unless they are the owner.  An announcement on the recipients of the grants might not happen until April 2018. In July, Rasom will start the Phase I process. The Selectboard should be conducting some out-reach to get support for the donation from community organizations.

There being no other public comments, Mr. Dalessio closed this Public Hearing at 6:38 PM.

 

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

 

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

JANUARY 26, 2017

 

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

CALL TO ORDER: Mr. Dalessio called this Selectboard meeting to order at 6:40 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 five people in attendance.

 

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE: 

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Accounts Payable check register in the amount of $6,342.74 for checks dated January 27, 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 voucher for the week ending January 21, 2017, in the amount of $24,500.68 for checks dated January 27, 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 $5,368.56 for the week ending January 21, 2017.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – January 19, 2017:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of January 19, 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 – January 19, 2017:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard session of January 19, 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.

STAFF MEETING – January 19, 2017:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the Staff Meeting of January 19, 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:

• Walpole Zoning Board of Adjustment – January 18, 2017;
• Walpole Planning Board Workshop – January 24, 2017.

 

OLD BUSINESS:

Letter to Kathy Depasquale:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to sign the letter to Kathy Depasquale who has concerns on the intersection of Middle Street and Main Street.  The Selectboard asked Road Agent, Mike Rau, to mark parking places on Main Street and leave the required space from the intersection open.  Further, they can put a sign “No parking here to corner”.  Middle Street is a narrow street so parking should be on only one side as emergency vehicles must have easy access to the street.  They can also mark the street for limited parking.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Warrant Articles:  The Selectboard reviewed the Warrant Articles and made minor edits.  Mr. Dalessio will discuss the budget presentation with Mr. Kreissle.

 

NEW BUSINESS:

2017 Budget Summary and Detail Reports:  The Selectboard received and reviewed the 2017 Budget Summary and Detail Reports from Mr. Kreissle.  Mr. Dalessio will review this with him.

Correction Request re: Selectboard Minutes:  Referring to the January 12, 2017, Selectboard Minutes, on page 2, under Warrant Articles:  Mrs. Smith asked for clarification that there is only one Planning Board Warrant Article on Detached Dwelling Units rather than two Articles.  Mr. Jeff Miller, Chair of the Planning Board, will be submitting that Warrant Article and not Sandra Smith or Marilou Blaine.

Concerts on the Green for Summer 2017:  The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of a letter from the Savings Bank of Walpole announcing they are again sponsoring their Concerts on the Green series.  They will begin on Sunday, June 25, 2017 and continue every Sunday thereafter through August 13, 2017.  The first 2017 concert will be sponsored by the Boy Scouts for Old Home Day weekend.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the request from the Savings Bank of Walpole to hold their eight concerts on the Common Green in the summer of 2017.  The Town Hall will be used if there is bad weather.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Eloise Clark – Thank You Note:  The Selectboard received a Thank You note for the $25.00 Holiday gift card that went out to the employees.  Mrs. Pschirrer also got a Thank You from a volunteer.

Citizen’s Report re: Plowing:  A Citizen’s Report was received regarding the sidewalk plow leaving snow at the end of their driveway.  Mr. Rau talked to two people about this.

NH Ten Year Plan (TYP) for DOT:  Ms. Mayberry reported the Town does not have any projects on this NH Ten Year Plan.  There are some on a pending list.  The first week in February the Southwest Regional Planning Commission goes over the list in more detail.  They can submit projects.  It was noted that road conditions on South Street, Prospect Hill and County Road are in very bad condition and they are State roads that should be considered as major roads.  Ms. Mayberry advised that most of the roads in the surrounding area are Class 3 roads.

Primex Feedback re: Bio-hazard Claim: Mrs. Downing reported on a Bio-hazard clean-up claim the Town submitted to Primex.  The bill from ServPro was $2,500 was submitted to Primex who thought that price was high.  A new company was found who would not charge that much and can be used in the future.  Mr. Dalessio mentioned when they need a quick clean-up that department can use ServPro.

 

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 at 7:10 PM.

The regular meeting resumed at 7:51 PM.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Minutes of the Selectboard Non-Public Session of January 26, 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 the 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 at 7:52 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:59 PM.

 

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 8:00 PM.

 

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

JANUARY 19, 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 that 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 accept the Accounts Payable check register in the amount of $613,019.75 for checks dated January 20, 2017.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With three Selectboard members in favor, the motion was approved.

(Note:  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 voucher for the week ending January 14, 2017, in the amount of $20,459.70, for checks dated January 20, 2017.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With three Selectboard members 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 $4,281.89 for the week ending January 14, 2017.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With three Selectboard members in favor, the motion was approved.

 

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – January 12, 2017:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of January 12, 2017, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  Mr. Dalessio noted a change on page 3, Trust Funds, change “Mr. Dalessio looked at the Trust Fund” to “Mr. Dalessio looked at the Capital Reserve Trust Fund”. With three Selectboard members in favor, the Minutes were approved.

 

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard received and reviewed Minutes of the following meetings:

• Walpole Planning Board – January 10, 2017;
• Walpole Fire District Budget Hearing.

Mr. Dalessio noted the Selectboard would make their suggestions for corrections directly to the Walpole Planning Board for their January 10, 2017, meeting minutes.

 

OLD BUSINESS:

Walpole Fire District:  The Walpole Fire District scheduled their Public Hearing on the Budget for Wednesday, February 8^th, 2017 at 7:00 PM at the Walpole Fire Station.

Warrant Articles:  Mr. Dalessio reported the Selectboard and Mr. Kreissle continue to make minor changes and need to finish editing.

Town Hall Rental Fall Mtn. Class of 1997:  It had previously been agreed that the Fall Mtn. Class of 1997 would be required to purchase TULIP insurance coverage for their rental of the Town Hall.  There was a consensus of the Selectboard to charge them the Resident Fee.

Citizen’s “Complaints”:  Mrs. Edkins noted that previously Citizen’s “Complaints” were known as Citizen’s “Reports”.  The Selectboard agreed that this change be made to “Citizen’s Reports”.

 

NEW BUSINESS:

Recreation Committee – Request:  A request was received from Mr. Justin Cassarino, on behalf of the Recreation Committee, to purchase new uniforms for the Winter Basketball League.  The current uniforms are oversized and the screen printing is starting to peel off on both sides.  The total cost for the reversible uniforms is $1,347.  The Recreation Committee all agreed to ask if they could use the Revolving Fund to purchase these uniforms.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to grant permission for the Recreation Committee to purchase new uniforms, as described in their letter, for the Winter Basketball League for the amount of $1,347 and to use their Revolving Fund for payment.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With three Selectboard members in favor, the motion was approved.

Public Hearing on Westberg Property:  The Public Hearing on the Westberg property is scheduled for Thursday, January 26, 2017, at 6:00 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.

Mrs. Pschirrer received a letter from Attorney Mark Iacono, attorney for the Westberg Estate. She would like to send it to Attorney Jeremy Hockensmith to make him aware of this.

Parking Lot:  Mrs. Pschirrer has a copy of the lease on the parking lot from Mascoma Bank but no one has been able to find an up-dated lease that should have occurred in 2012 and now in 2017.  She will continue to pursue resolving this matter.  Mrs. Downing will be asked to start two files; one on the parking lot leases and the second one for the Warranty Deed on the Leaning House property that was given to the Town.

Zoning Board Letters Dated January 2017 (To and From Patricia Rodrigues):  The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of several various documents from Patricia Rodrigues.  This is still a Zoning Board issue.  Mr. Dalessio advised the ZBA made a decision and Ms. Rodrigues (a Westmoreland resident) has the right to go to the Superior Court with it.  Mrs. Pschirrer mentioned the ZBA has sent a letter to Ms. Rodrigues / John Corduff.

EFT Payroll Direct Deposit Dates:  Mr. Dalessio reported that Mr. Rich Kreissle will have to change the procedure for direct deposits of payroll.  They will now have to go in the bank for Friday deposits.  Previously bank deposits were made before paper checks were issued on a Friday.  Both have to be done on the same day.  It is a timing issue for direct deposits. The employees will be given a notice that this will be effective on Friday, February 3^rd, 2017.

Worksheet from USDA-NRCS:  Mrs. Edkins reported this document used to go to the Water Department and Mr. Mark Houghton would sign it and send it back.  Christian Gowdy now uses the area near the river well for organic farming.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to allow the Chair of the Selectboard, Steven Dalessio, to sign this USDA-NRCS form.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With three Selectboard members 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.  Mr. Dalessio seconded the motion.  With three Selectboard members in favor, the motion was approved at 7:03 PM.

 

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 three Selectboard members in favor, the motion was approved.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:56 PM.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of January 19, 2017, be sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With three Selectboard members in favor, the motion was approved.

 

ADJOURNMENT:

Mr. Aldrich moved to adjourn this meeting.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 7:58 PM.

 

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

 

TOWN OF WALPOLE

STAFF MEETING

JANUARY 19, 2017

 

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

Staff Present:               Rich Kreissle (Manager of Finance); Linda Edkins (Assistant Manager of Administration); Michael Rau (Road Agent); Michael Paquette (Police Chief); Sgt. Justin Sanctuary (Police Department); Paul Colburn (Recycling Center); Justine Rogers (Librarian); Sandra Smith (Town Clerk/Tax Collector); 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.

Mr. Dalessio wished everyone a Happy New Year.  He asked the Staff present to think about one thing they would like to accomplish in their group that will happen this coming year.  Mrs. Smith said “credit cards” in the coming year.

 

Hooper Institute:  Ms. Whippie distributed copies of the “Hooper Institute Journal of Lessons by Rebecca Whippie from August 2016 through December 2016”.  The report is from Pre-Kindergarten through Fourth Grade.  Also distributed was the “Director’s Report: Autumn 2016 – Fifth and Sixth Grades”.  Copies of these reports are available in the Selectboard office. Ms. Whippie reported they transitioned from every green and tree to mammals.  Mr. Dalessio asked if they thought about doing adult activities especially on education.  Ms. Whippie replied they did at one time do one-or-two week adult courses.  It is something they will think about.  They harvested rhubarb that she put into a cake.  The teachers said “Wow” that was good cake.  It was well received.  Someone commented that her child liked the Hooper part of the school day best.  The kindergarten class went out today to see if they could find tracks in the snow; dog, fox, squirrel, etc.  They did find and identify some.  Mr. Dalessio pointed out that their programs are going in the right direction.

 

January Report of Town Clerk-Tax Collector:  Mrs. Smith has been very busy closing out 2016 and starting 2017.  Her books were all in balance.  She printed the MS-61 report for the Department of Revenue Administration (DRA) and this is also her Tax Collector’s report for the Annual Town Report.  Mr. Kreissle put it into the Portal for DRA.  He is always very helpful.  We are very lucky to have him.  They used to mail these reports but the State changed the procedure.

Mrs. Smith gave Mrs. Downing her copy of the MS-61, her Town Clerk income report, and a short report for the Town’s Annual Town Report.  Mrs. Downing has been great to work with and they appreciate her calm manner.

Mrs. Downing was out this week and Mrs. Edkins understood that she could not make the staff report deadline, as she was working on the Tax Delinquency Notices.  She was great about letting Mrs. Smith in the office to make coffee to keep her going!

Wednesday, January 18^th, she printed 141 Delinquent letters also known as the Barrington Notices.  This is a nice low number, in the past they have mailed over 200 letters!  This is a State mandated notice to keep the property owners informed.  It provides the unpaid balance for the various warrants, liens, and interest due.  These letters generate a lot of phone calls.  Some people become very upset because it mentions Tax Deeding.  The notice explains that this only pertains to 2014 Liens but people do not seem to notice that.  Meghan and her stuffed the envelopes and she took them to the post office, this is off her “to do” list.  This usually brings in some payments as well as complaints.  They only have 20 parcels on the 2014 lien list.  She believes that most will pay in full before the Deeding date in May.

Intent to Lien Notices will be next month!  These notices have to be sent Certified Mail, return receipt requested, so that will be very time consuming.

Their uncollected property taxes are only $823,026.51 as of today.  They deposited $1,564,578.94 since the last Staff meeting.  They have collected $88,836.61 in January; they also collected $1,114.15 in interest due to late payments of taxes.

The Town Clerk Department has collected $50,239.00 since their last meeting.  Their dog tags should arrive any day.  Some dog owners like a low number and come in right after the New Year to purchase the tag.

The filing period for Town Officers begins Wednesday, January 25^th and ends on Friday, February 3^rd at 5 p.m.  Town Clerks have to be open 3-5 p.m. on the last day of filing.  She ran the ad in the Keene Sentinel on Saturday, January 14^th and it will run again today.  Monday January 30^th, she starts trying to contact board members to remind them the deadline is Friday.  She tries very hard to make certain that they do not have any “blanks” on our ballot as “write-ins” have to be hand counted and can really slow down the process.  She mailed the Memory Cards to LHS and as soon as the filing period is over, she will send them a copy of the upcoming ballot info so they print our ballots and send everything back in time for the March election.

This is a very busy time of year.  She will be glad when Town Meeting is over.   Mrs. Smith advised that she sends out the delinquent in different colors to identify them in different categories.  They have not foreclosed on any properties for a few years.

 

Library Report – January 2017:  Ms. Rogers, Librarian, reported that things are going along well.  They got new phones and now have a message machine.  They continue to work on barcoding.  North Walpole Library had the floors cleaned, furniture rearranged and some new furniture will be coming in (new table, desk and reading chairs).  There will be a new laptop for patrons to use.  The New Hampshire State Library report is due the end of February.

Walpole 2015 stats: Open 296 days, 14056 people, 22022 circ., 2627 people for programs.  AVG: 47 people, 74 circ per day.

Walpole 2016 stats:  Open 288 days, 18378 people, 26597 circ., 4715 people for programs, 2356 website visitors July-December.  AVG: 64 people, 92 circ per day.

Ms. Rogers noted that the Walpole Library has much more resources than the North Walpole Library therefore a lot of people come to the Walpole Library.  Mr. Dalessio acknowledged that she certainly is reaching out to people.  Mrs. Pschirrer mentioned there are no children’s programs in North Walpole.

 

Police Department:  The Walpole Police Department submitted the following report for the period of

December 15, 2016 through January 15, 2017.  The number of calls for service was 460.

• Police Safety Calls:

Emergency Calls – 31              Administrative – 69                 Citizen Assists – 63

• Motor Vehicle Calls:

Accidents – 18                         MV Stops – 192                       Traffic Safety – 26

• Criminal Investigations:

Drugs/Alcohol – 21     Crimes Against a Person – 24  Crimes Against Property – 16

Chief Paquette reported that just before they came into the meeting a stolen utility truck was found; he has some officers working on that.  They are busy doing end of the year work and getting ready for a busy new year.  Mr. Dalessio would like to have a month-by-month report on what the trend is for different categories.  Is it worth continuing a program or discontinuing it?  It tells them something about the community.  Chief Paquette noted that through the grant they acquired from the State, they have to work the roads.  They started to ticket the people through “clip it or ticket” program.  They are enforcing the laws and are averaging one-to-two arrests on each detail.  Drugs are an on-going problem.  Some arrests require many hours of their time.

 

Recycling Center:  Mr. Paul Colburn presented the following report:

He referenced and explained the “Daily Weight Report and 5 Year to Date Comparison”.  The Annual Forecast for this year was 374/ton; the Annual Estimate is 429.01/ton.  He also referenced and explained the “Five Year Comparison to Recyclables”.  The Year Forecast is $30,000; Estimate for the Year is $38,412.  These numbers might be off a little on the average and forecast.  Cardboard is a big item right now. At the beginning of the year it was close to $80/ton but now is $110/ton.  Mr. Dalessio will meet with Mr. Colburn about changing the format of these reports.  He feels they only need to go back 3 years rather than 5 years.

Mr. Dalessio mentioned it would be nice to know what amount of revenue they expect in 2017.  Mr. Colburn does not yet have a goal.  He is in the process of changing the paperwork over from 2016 to 2017 and has been training the other employees on how to do the paperwork.  He expects it will take 4-to-6 weeks for the change-over.  The Highway Department has been coming in and sanding.  The new employee is doing well.  Mr. Colburn would like to have a lunch on Friday so everyone can stop and meet him.  The new company brought in their container to replace the one the Salvation Army took out.  The Center is busy and doing well.

 

Walpole Highway Department:  Mr. Mike Rau, Road Agent, advised the department employees put in more over-time in December than February through April last year.  He gets calls from people inquiring why a certain road was not plowed.  He listens to them and apologizes but they do their best. The crew has seven different routes and they go up to 12 miles.  Each route takes 3-1/2 to 4 hours to do and then the driver turns around and, during a regular storm, the driver goes over it again.  Pre-treating the roads takes about 2-1/2 hours. It is usually 3-1/2 to 5 hours for clean-up because they also do the intersections.  It takes longer to do the back roads.  Hopefully, the equipment does not break down.  If it does they have to split up that route.  Often they are driving 15-to-20 MPH or slower.  Since January 1^st they have been down one man.  Until someone else is hired Mr. Rau has been doing that route.  The Snow Plowing Policy was in the Clarion.  There have been some over-night vehicle parking offenders but the Police Department was notified and they assisted with contacting the owners.  Mrs. Pschirrer mentioned people are very pleased with the sidewalk plowing.   Chief Paquette pointed out they are doing a great job on the roads. Mr. Rau submitted the following report for the period of December 16, 2016 through January 18, 2016:

• Cold patching;
• Serviced trucks and equipment
• Fixed Truck #5 Spinner Solenoid and Starter;
• Fixed Truck #3 Plow Controls;
• Fixed Truck #4 Fuel Tank and Hooked-up the Trail Hitch;
• Scraped Old Drewsville Road with Grader; an average 300 vehicles go over this road every day;
• Winter Weather Call Outs – 17 days.

 

Selectboard Office:  Mrs. Edkins was representing the Selectboard Office in the absence of Mrs. Downing who provided the following report:

Wellness Initiatives:

• A five hundred dollar ($500) check was received by the Manager of Administration from Health Trust at the January 9^th Wellness Coordinators’ Training to initiate a wellness program.
• Survey to determine focus of program will be distributed in January at Personnel Meeting on Tuesday, January 31^st.

2016 Town Report:

• Thank you to those who have sent committee, board, department and civic organization reports, photos and charts.
• Second reminder pending to those who have yet to send materials with firm cut-off date.

Veterans’ Tax Credit Audit:

• NH Department of Revenue (DRA) auditors visited the Selectboard Office on January 12^th. The audit for tax credits and exceptions was completed with no corrections required.
• Current Use files were reviewed by the DRA during the January 12^th Current Use files will require updates and corrections in regards to maps, recreation use credits and deed recording.  This will be a long-term project for the Selectboard Office.
• For those that claim a managed timber exemption under current use, an updated forestry plan will need to be submitted in order to receive the higher discount exemption credit.
• A request from the Selectboard to the DRA to move up the assessment audit to 2017 from 2021 in order to synchronize the tax credit and exemption audit year with the revaluation year has been requested. If granted, all corrections to property values would be completed in the same calendar year.

Assessing Update:

• Several new Veterans’ Tax Credit applications have been processed for 2017.
• The first round of Property Tax Abatement and Current Use applications have been received and are being processed by Avitar Associates on New England.
• The measurement and listing of properties continues after the holiday week break by Avitar assessors.

Public Hearings:

• January 26^th. First hearing for the Westberg Estate property, Westminster Street proposed donation to the Town at 6pm in the Selectboard Office.
• February 9^th. Second hearing for the Westberg Estate property donation to Town at 6pm in the Selectboard Office.
• February 16^th. Budget Hearing at 6pm in main room of Town Hall.

 

Finance Office:  Mr. Rich Kreissle has been working on all the end of the year documents.  In the next week or so he will print out the last Payroll Register for 2016.  Employees will be receiving their W2s.  If an employee feels something is wrong come in to see him.  1095s will be done.  He has to do a lot especially at this time of year to meet all the deadlines.

 

Recreation Department:  Mr. Justin Cassarino was unable to attend this meeting but submitted the following report:

Basketball:

1. Games are going well and every team has been competitive and enjoying themselves.
2. The Recreation Committee and he met with grade 3-4 parents before a game to discuss sportsmanship and being positive role models for the kids. There was an issue with a few parents criticizing our volunteer referees who were 12 and 13 years old.
3. They have entered three teams into the Westminster tournament.
4. Found a local screen printing company that has very good pricing that will work with us, so we do not have to purchase these items with the credit card. The company is Grizzly Graphix in Sheldon, VT.  We will be doing our staff apparel, soccer uniforms and basketball uniforms from this company.

 

Personnel Policy Handbooks:  Mrs. Pschirrer distributed copies of the revised Personnel Policy handbooks.  She requested the Department Heads read them.  The Committee will meet again on January 31^st at 8:30 AM.  After that meeting the handbooks will be given to the employees who will be asked to sign the page to acknowledge receipt.

 

2017 Department Goals:

Police Department – Chief Paquette would like the Town to go on their web-site to up-date and provide more information; he explained some of his recommendations.  He is thankful for the money received last year for roof repairs, cameras, impound area, etc. Mr. Rau helped a lot and Mr. Colburn took a lot of unused items away.  He appreciates all their help.  There is still more to do at the Police Station.  Sgt. Sanctuary would like mobile data terminals in the cruisers.  It will give them more detail.

 

Highway Department – Mr. Rau would like to do more ditching.  Water is one of their biggest issues.

 

Library – Ms. Rogers would like to see them acquire the land behind the Library.  The Library Trustees are working on it.

 

Finance Office:  Mr. Kreissle would like some new software.  Work more with Mr. Goins.

 

Hooper Institute: Ms. Whippie would like to have more teaching materials.  Hooper has land therefore she would like to see the trail expanded.

 

Town Clerk – Tax Collector:  Mrs. Smith would like to have a credit card machine.

 

Water and Sewer – Mrs. Edkins reported there are still problems with processing the water and sewer bills but it went better this time.  The system is old and should be up-graded.  Mr. Kreissle will talk to Mr. Mark Houghton about the Revenues and Expenditures.

 

Selectboard:  Mr. Dalessio advised that the Selectboard is there to support them.  Everything seems to be moving forward in the right direction.  It is all good!

 

Adjournment:  Mr. Dalessio adjourned this Staff Meeting at 6:10 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

JANUARY 12, 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 that 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 accept the Accounts Payable check register in the amount of $120,164.52 for checks dated January 13, 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 voucher for the week ending January 7, 2017, in the amount of $26,389.55 for checks dated January 13, 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 $5,963.77 for the week ending January 7, 2017.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – January 5, 2017:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of January 5, 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 #1 – January 5, 2017:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session #1 of January 5, 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.

EXECUTIVE NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION #2 – January 5, 2017:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the Executive Non-Public Selectboard Session #2 of January 5, 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.

 

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of Minutes of the following meetings:

• Walpole Conservation Commission – December 5, 2016:
• North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners Meeting – December 27, 2016.

 

BUILDING PERMIT:

HUNTINGTON REALTY OF WALPOLE, LLC, 9 Edwards Lane, Map and Lot # 012-004-003:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to renew  existing Building Permit #2012-20 for Huntington Realty of Walpole, LLC, 9 Edwards Lane, Map and Lot #012-004-003 to “Remodel existing 60’ x 40’ shop (no footprint change).  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

VETERANS TAX CREDIT:

MAP and LOT # 003-022-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to grant the Veterans Tax Credit for Map and Lot # 003-022-000.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

NOTICE OF YIELD TAXES ASSESSED:

ROBERT INGRAM, 26 Old Stage Coach Road, Map and Lot # 003-027-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Original Warrant Yield Tax Levy to Sandra J. Smith, Collector of Taxes for the Town of Walpole, and the Certification of Yield Taxes Assessed to the Department of Revenue Administration, for Robert Ingram / Mary Ingram in the amount of $91.55.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

OLD BUSINESS:

Warrant Articles: Mrs. Downing is waiting for a response from Sandra Smith (Town Clerk) and Marilou Blaine (Secretary Planning Board and Zoning Board) on two Articles.  Mr. Dalessio requested that copies of the draft be emailed to the Selectboard as soon as it has been completed so they can proof-read and then accept it.

 

Health Officer Appointment:  Mrs. Downing reported that Dr. Shaw will resign after he finds a replacement.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the appointment of Dr. Charles Shaw as the Health Officer for the Town of Walpole.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

NEW BUSINESS:

Walpole Fire Village District Notification:  Fire Chief Dick Hurlburt came into the meeting.  He advised the Commissioners had a meeting last night.  Mr. Dalessio explained they received a letter from the Department of Revenue Administration (DRA) about the formation of the Walpole Fire Village District.  Mrs. Downing had written a letter in response to the DRA’s inquiry.  Mr. Hurlburt just wanted to make sure somebody was taking care of this matter.  He requested a copy of the letter for the Fire Department’s Minutes Book.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve and sign the letter to the DRA on behalf of the Walpole Fire Village District.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

Request to DRA for Change in Assessment Review:  Mrs. Downing reported that the DRA Auditor was here and recommended the Town write a letter to Mr. Stephan Hamilton at the DRA requesting a change in year for our next assessment review.  Since Walpole had finished an assessment review in 2016, the Town’s next review would be in five years or in 2021.  However, in 2017, the Town of Walpole shall be completing a revaluation of the Town’s properties.  Given that we wish to have consistent property data we would like to request moving up the next assessment review to 2017.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve and sign the letter to Mr. Hamilton, Director of Municipal and Property Division, NH Department of Revenue Administration, to request an assessment review in 2017.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich, Mr. Dalessio in favor, motion was approved.

 

Old Keene Road Citizen Complaint #2017-01:  The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of a citizen’s complaint on the Old Keene Road that a large dead pine tree may fall into the road.  This will be forwarded to Mr. Rau, Road Agent, to look at the tree and report back to the Selectboard.

 

 

Middle Street Citizen Complaint #2017-02:  A citizen’s complaint was received to request there be a “no parking” zone on the west side of Main Street before Middle Street to increase the view of oncoming traffic.  Following a discussion the Selectboard felt this is a valid request. Mr. Rau, Road Agent, will be asked to go through the Village, evaluate all the intersections, and make a recommendation for “no parking” zones where needed for better visibility.  Mrs. Pschirrer will draft a response letter.

 

Event Insurance Waiver Request:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to grant the request to waive the insurance requirement for renting the Town Hall on March 5^th, 2017, for a grandchild’s birthday party where no alcohol will be served.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

Training Cancellation Request:  Mrs. Downing requested permission to cancel a one hour of Primex Training that would take three hours of travel time in order to attend.  This time is needed to complete editing of the Town Report.  The Selectboard approved this request.

 

Town Hall Rental:  A request was received to waive the insurance requirement to rent the Town Hall for a 20^th Class Reunion on August 19, 2017.  There was a consensus of the Selectboard to deny this request per the Town’s Policy; it is not a school event.  They will need to obtain the TULIP insurance coverage.

 

Request for an Interest Waiver:  The Selectboard received a request from a property owner at 91 Church Street in North Walpole to waive interest on a sewer bill as he thinks his bill is too high.  Following a discussion the Selectboard agreed to deny this request.

 

Elm Street:  A letter was received from Mrs. Jen Palmiotto who requested the Selectboard look at the condition of Elm Street.  She is objecting to the speed and traffic on that road.  Trucks are going down the street and driving too fast.  Mrs. Pschirrer will check with Mr. Rau to see if any work is scheduled on Elm Street before Mr. Dalessio responds to Mrs. Palmiotto.

 

Notice:  Mr. Dalessio requested a notice be put out now to remind appointed members of the Boards / Commissions, with terms that are expiring, to send in a letter to the Selectboard office to request re-appointment or advise they no longer wish to be appointed.

 

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, this meeting was recessed at 7:22 PM.

 

SELECTBOARD MEETING (Continued):

Trust Funds:  Mr. Dalessio looked at the Capital Reserve Fund reports and the amount of money we are earning as interest.  He asked Mr. Goins if the funds could be moved to another company.  Mr. Goins mentioned this to Mr. Bob Kimball who called the Cambridge Trust to alert them that the funds might be pulled out and they gave him the same rate as the other company that had been contacted.

 

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 7:42 PM.

 

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

JANUARY 5, 2017

 

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

Guest Present:  Cheryl Mayberry

CALL TO ORDER:  Mr. Dalessio called this Selectboard meeting to order at 6:30 PM.

 

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, (c) Reputations and (d) Acquisition, Sale or Lease of Real or Personal Property.  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 Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:06 PM.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session #1 of January 5, 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 $55,206.82 for checks dated January 6, 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 voucher for the week ending December 31, 2016, in the amount of $24,644.60 for checks dated January 6, 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 $5,861.08 for the week ending December 31, 2016.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – December 29, 2016:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of December 29, 2016, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – December 29, 2016: Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of December 29, 2016, 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.

 

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard received and reviewed Minutes of the following meeting:

• North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners Meeting – December 13, 2016.

 

VETERANS TAX CREDIT:

Map and Lot # 012-045-002:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to grant the Veterans Tax Credit for Map and Lot # 012-045-002, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Map and Lot # 005-005-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to grant the Veterans Tax Credit for Map and Lot # 005-005-000, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

BLIND TAX EXEMPTION:

Map and Lot # 028-091-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to grant the Blind Tax Exemption for Map and Lot # 028-091-000, as submitted.  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 # 015-018-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Notice of Intent to Cut Wood or Timber for Donald H. Wood, Jr. Trust, Alstead Center Road, Map and Lot # 015-018-000.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

OLD BUSINESS:

Personnel Policy Handbook:  Mrs. Pschirrer will make the minor revisions as discussed.  She scheduled a meeting to take this back to the committee members who worked on the revisions from the beginning before bringing it back to the Selectboard for adoption. This meeting was scheduled for January 31, 2017.

Warrant Articles:  The Selectboard continue to work on the 2017 Warrant Articles.  Mr. Dalessio would like to have them done for next week.

Health Officer Appointment:  Mrs. Downing is waiting for Dr. Shaw to return her messages.

 

NEW BUSINESS:

2017 Budget Hearing Notice for Clarion:  The Selectboard approved the 2017 Budget Hearing Notice for the Clarion.

Town Report Timeline of Production:  Mrs. Downing had been asked to do a Town Report Timeline of Production.  It was reviewed and approved by the Selectboard.  Mr. Dalessio is in the process of drafting the Annual Selectboard Report.

 

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 at 7:24 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:29 PM.

 

EXECUTIVE NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION #2:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to enter into an Executive Non-Public Selectboard Session #2 pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (a) Personnel.  Mr. Aldrich seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Minutes of the Executive Non-Public Selectboard Session #2 of January 5, 2017, be sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

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 7:59 PM.

 

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary