The Walpolean

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

DECEMBER 29, 2016

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.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE: 

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Accounts Payable check register in the amount of $139,248.57 for checks dated December 30, 2016.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

PAYROLL: 

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Payroll voucher for the week ending December 24, 2016, in the amount of $25,982.38 for checks dated December 30, 2016.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all 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 $5,928.37 for the week ending December 24, 2016.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – December 22, 2016:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of December 22, 2016, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – December 22, 2016:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of December 22, 2016, as submitted.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

SELECTBOARD SESSION – October 24, 2016:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the Selectboard Session of October 24, 2016, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

VETERANS TAX CREDIT:

Map and Lot # 011-017-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to grant the Veterans Tax Credit for Map and Lot # 011-017-000:  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Map & Lot # 012-055-017:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to grant the Veterans Tax Credit and Veterans Disability Credit for Map and Lot # 012-055-017.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Map & Lot # 028-091-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to grant the Veterans Disability Tax Credit for Map and Lot # 028-091-000.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

NOTICE OF INTENT TO CUT WOOD OR TIMBER:

Cummins Catherwood, Jr. and Tucker Gresh, 329 Maple Grove Road, Map and Lot # 009-006-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Notice of Intent to Cut Wood or Timber for Cummins Catherwood, Jr. and Tucker Gresh, off 329 Maple Grove Road, Map and Lot # 009-006-000, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Cummins Catherwood, Jr. and Tucker Gresh, Maple Grove Road, Map and Lot # 009-008-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Notice of Intent to Cut Wood or Timber for Cummins Catherwood, Jr. and Tucker Gresh, off Maple Grove Road, Map and Lot # 009-008-000, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS:

Personnel Policy Handbook:  There was a consensus to keep the Personnel Policy Handbook on-hold until the next meeting.  It will be kept on the Agenda.

Draft Warrant Articles:  The Selectboard plan to finalize the Warrant Articles during the next regular meeting.  During the Planning Board meeting on January 10^th, 2017, the members should finish the Accessory Dwelling Unit Warrant Article.  After all the Articles have been received the Selectboard will organize the Warrant.

NEW BUSINESS:

HealthTrust Application and Membership Agreement:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to authorize the Chair, Steven Dalessio, to sign the HealthTrust application and Membership Agreement.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to authorize the Chair, Steven Dalessio, to adopt and sign the HealthTrust Certificate of Authorizing Resolution.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

HealthTrust Cobra Administrative Services Agreement:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to authorize the Chair, Steven Dalessio, to sign the HealthTrust Cobra Administrative Services Agreement.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

HealthTrust Retiree Billing Administrative Services Agreement:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to authorize the Chair, Steven Dalessio, to sign the HealthTrust Retiree Billing Administrative Services Agreement.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

FairPoint Pole and/or Buried Conduit Agreement:  Mr. Dalessio reported that Mr. Mike Rau, Road Agent, agrees the FairPoint pole exists.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Selectboard sign the FairPoint Pole and/or Buried Conduit Agreement.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Veterans Memorial – Snow Clearing: A citizen filed a complaint regarding shoveling snow by the Veterans’ Memorial.  Mrs. Pschirrer will ask Mr. Rau to have someone shovel this area after all the other areas have been cleaned up after a storm.

Health Officer Appointment:  Mrs. Downing was unable to contact Dr. Shaw but left a message to ask if he will accept another Health Officer appointment as it has expired.

CDFA Notice of Block Grant Application Deadlines:  The Selectboard received a letter from the Community Development Finance Authority (CDFA).  Mr. Dalessio attended one of their meetings last year.  He suggested sending a copy to the Planning Board and to Mr. Mark Houghton at the Water/Sewer Department to see if they have an interest in applying for some of the grants being offered.

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 and (d) Acquisition,. Sale or Lease of Real or Personal Property:  Mr. Aldrich seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with all in favor, the motion was approved at 6:56 PM.

The regular meeting resumed at 7:04 PM.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of December 29, 2016, will be sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all 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 all in favor, the motion was approved at 7:05 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:18 PM.

OTHER BUSINESS:

2017 Proposed Budget and Warrant Articles Public Hearing:  The 2017 Proposed Budget and Warrant Articles Public Hearing is scheduled for February 16, 2017, at 6:00 PM.  Prior to this Public Hearing the Selectboard will hold their monthly Staff Meeting from 5:00-6:00 PM.  Following the Public Hearing the Selectboard will hold their regular weekly meeting. There will be no Public Business.  The dates to file candidacy with the Town Clerk are January 25^th to February 3^rd, 2017.

ADJOURNMENT:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to adjourn this Selectboard meeting.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 7:35 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

T’is the season!  Fall Mountain School District Budget Hearing is this Wednesday at 5:30 at FMRHS Library.  The Deliberative Session is 2/8/17 in the auditorium.

TOWN OF WALPOLE SELECTBOARD

NOTICE OF PUBLIC

2017 BUDGET HEARING

In accordance with the provisions in RSA 32:5, the Walpole Selectboard will hold a public hearing on the 2017 Town operating budget to solicit public comment on Feb. 16, 2017 at 6 p.m. in the Walpole Town Hall at 34 Elm Street.

The weekly Selectboard Meeting will follow with no public business to be discussed.

If you have special needs covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or are unable to attend and have comments and/or questions related to the budget, contact the Selectboard Office by phone at 603-756-3672 or by e-mail to sdowning@walpolenh.us

TOWN OF WALPOLE

STAFF MEETING

DECEMBER 15, 2016

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

Staff Present:               Sarah Downing (Executive-Manager of Administration); Michael Rau (Road Agent); Sergeant 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 that this meeting is being recorded.

Selectboard Office:  Mrs. Downing made the following report:

Assessing Update:

• Assessors from Avitar Associates continue visiting properties in Walpole to measure buildings and other taxable features. They are now downtown.  They do not work in very cold weather so will be back on Monday.
• For those not at home during the initial visit by the assessors, a letter with Avitar Associates’ contact information will be sent to arrange appointments to view building interiors. They say it is going well and most people are allowing them to go into their homes.
• If property owners have questions or concerns, please call Selectboard Office for assistance.
• Walpole’s Equalization Ratio has been set at 104.5%. Dalessio explained the Equalization Ratio is the different between what properties are assessed for and what they are selling for.  Walpole properties are now selling 4-1/2% below the assessed value.
• The Selectboard Office is accepting Property Abatement, Veteran Tax Credit and Elderly Exemption forms now that the fall tax bills have been posted.

Water and Sewer Billing:

• Water and sewer payment processing was busy through the end of November into early December.
• Research work continues to provide documentation for the financial auditors.

Department of Revenue Administration:

• The NH Department of Revenue (DRA) auditors will be returning on Friday, Jan. 6, 2017 to finalize the audit of the Town’s Veterans Tax Credit files.
• “Current Use Criteria and Rules” workshop was held on Tuesday, Nov. 29^th in the Town Hall.

Town Hall Facilities:

The following repairs are in process:

• Dishwasher being installed in kitchen and hot water heater in the basement.
• Reorganizing and addition of new and existing plaques and framed notices in stairwell and hallway area outside the Selectboard office.

Town Hall Rentals and Reservations:

• For those wishing to hold yearly events, it is best to place these reservations a year in advance. The Selectboard Office will not hold dates without verbal notice and follow-up applications shortly thereafter.

Town Report of 2016:

• Department reports are due on or by Friday, Dec. 30^th.
• Written reports to be submitted as MS Word documents so they can be edited for grammar, spelling and other formatting corrections.
• We will accept pictures, however we cannot guarantee all photo submissions will be accepted.
• Excel and pdf files of charts are also expected from some departments, boards and commissions. Dalessio added they would like to keep the reports down to one or two pages.  Whenever possible show progress.  They need everybody’s cooperation to get reports in on a timely manner.

Town Clerk-Tax Collector: Mrs. Sandra Smith submitted her Report for December 15^th, 2016.

They have had a very busy month.  They mailed property tax bills, November 17^th, with the help of Terry Jo Terrell and Meghan, everything went pretty smooth.

Some bills were returned due to incorrect addresses.  The Post Office is pretty precise in what they consider an address.  This takes time to resend, etc.

They collected $70,005.91 for the Town Clerk Department – $68,558.41 was collected in auto registrations.  The balances are fees, vital records, dog licenses, a boat registration, and a bad check fee.  She does not believe they have any bad checks outstanding.

The Tax Department as usual, brings in the most of the Town’s income.  They have collected three million, three hundred eighty-eight thousand, one hundred twenty-three dollars and sixty-two cents!  This is not counting what they are posting today.

Their “Fall” Warrant was for five million, seven hundred seventy thousand, and four hundred eighty-seven dollars.  They have collected more than half of that.  Their balance as of today is approximately Two million, three hundred eighty-two thousand.  Their total uncollected as of Wednesday was Two million, eight hundred twenty nine thousand, five hundred ninety-two dollars and eight cents!

Mr. Dalessio explained that the Fall Mountain Regional School District takes $533,000+/month; every six months that is three million+/-.  It does not include money that will be going to the County of $1,144,000.  Mrs. Pschirrer advised that the State is continuing to push more and more expenses onto the towns in terms of education, highways, etc.

Mrs. Smith continued:  Taxpayers are complaining about the increase in taxes.

They have been working on checks not written correctly and processing refunds for over payments.  This is very time consuming.

Mrs. Smith will be glad when this year is behind us!

Highway Department:  Mr. Mike Rau provided the following report on work they have done.  Many of the items on the list they fixed themselves therefore very little work had to be sent out.

• Cold patching;
• Serviced trucks and equipment;
• Dug out culverts with backhoe to clean them before winter;
• Poured concrete around the water shut-off in North Walpole;
• Fixed Truck-1 – Water pump belt;
• Fixed Truck-3 and Truck-5 – Inner dump cylinders;
• Fixed Truck-5 – Spreader chain;

• Fixed Truck-4 – Air leak;
• Fixed Truck-3 – Plow Hydraulics;
• Viking fixed Truck-7 hydraulic valve body;
• Truck-2 went to Leon’s Auto Center to get front end work done;
• Truck-9 – Replaced the rear brake pads;
• Truck-8 – Fixed spinner late and replaced clutch for hydraulic pump;
• Truck-3 – Changed cutting-edge on plow;
• Put on spots on trucks;
• Winterized rollers and stored them;
• Installed chains on Kubota;
• Installed wheels and chains on ABEI;
• Prep work was done at the shop for the new shed;
• Moved the shed at the Police Department that will help with the plowing;
• New doors were installed at the shop and Old Town Shop;
• Rice Tree Services cut trees on Wentworth Road and in the park on Main St.;
• Graded Old Drewsville Road and Carpenter Hill Road;
• Ditched Green Road with the backhoe;
• Covered up graffiti at the Old Town Shop; it needs expensive paint to go over concrete;
• Worked on slide in sander;
• Put out winter sand out for residents; a pile is at Christian Hollow, Wentworth Road, the Old Town Shop, at the Shop, in North Walpole and at the Recycling Center.
• Sanded dirt roads on November 29;
• Salt and sanded roads on December 5;
• Plowed, salted and sanded during snow storm on December 12;
• Crushed dumpsters for the Recycling Center;
• Discussed loader and roadside mower pricing with Mr. Tom Goins who talked to sales people.

Mr. Rau will be tracking the storm for Saturday and possibly a mix on Sunday.

Library:  Ms. Justine Rogers provided the following report:

Nov 2015: 23 Days open, 1195 people, 1581 circ., 33 programs, 295 people for programs

2015 Jan-Nov Average 47 people & 75 circ. Per day.

Nov 2016:  21 Days open, 1430 people, 2264 circ., 32 programs, 316 people for programs, 312 website visitors

2016 Jan-Nov Average 64 people and 92 circ. Per day.

New Barcodes:  The State library required them to change over to 14 digit patron barcodes (new library cards) when they migrated to their system this past spring.  Somehow it was not communicated that we also have to change over to 14 digit material barcodes.  Thankfully they had the money left in our technology budget and she ordered 30,000 barcodes.  This is not a difficult task, but certainly a time consuming one.  The staff is willing to spend a weekend getting the majority of the collection done if there’s pizza and music involved!

New 2017 Programs:  They have been hearing from patrons that they would like to see some new programs next year.  They are working on a lunch time program where patrons can bring their lunch and they will stream an episode of The Crown on Netflix each week.  They are also looking at an evening fiction book club and a passive puzzle program where they will have a puzzle set up on the table in the front room for people to work on for 2 minutes or 2 hours.

They also have a Story Time series with the Grafton Museum lined up for 2017.  They had some grant money from the summer left over so they’ll be doing monthly themed programs for a few libraries in the area.  They will be here the last Wednesday of each month January through May at our regularly scheduled story time at 10am.

The North Walpole Library is getting their floors done today and tomorrow.  They will also be getting some new furniture that was donated.

Mr. Dalessio acknowledged receipt of and read a letter from Mrs. Peg Dion to the Selectboard.  “It is the time of year to express gratitude for a good job well done and faithful service.  Since participating in the Walpole Leadership Academy her appreciation has grown for the service you all render to our town. She wanted to commend Paul Colburn and his crew at the Recycling Center for their hard work in keeping costs down while assisting us in all our recycling efforts.  Thank you to the Town officials and all the departments and a very Happy Holiday Season.”

Mr. Dalessio reported that all the students at the Walpole Leadership Academy were impressed with what the departments and boards were accomplishing.  Congratulations to all.

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/tons but the Annual Estimate as of the end of last month was 403/tons (about 28/tons more than forecast).  The figures show that they are doing pretty well compared to the prior five years.  They have not done tubes since 2011/2012 as the markets had dropped.  As of November they increased over the two previous years on what they took in. They are getting banana boxes back; two trailer loads were received on Tuesday.  Mr. Colburn mentioned it is strenuous on them being short one full time person but they have been doing what needs to be done.

Mr. Colburn referenced and explained the “Five Year Comparison on Recyclables”.  This report indicates they have been going up-and-down.  In November the returnables were $603.73 which is the lowest of the five years.  They are not slowing down on returnables but rather he has been unable to deliver them to the vendor and hopes to make a trip tomorrow.  He is paid on delivery.

They continue to be busy.  They are still getting young people in.  This is a service to get them back into society.  It has worked out well.  They had three deliveries of wood and there were three pick-ups.  The Walpole Recycling Center is now on Facebook.  There was an issue with the oil furnace; adjustments were made by a service person.  Avitar Associates was there this afternoon.  The Salvation Army took out their containers as they did not have enough volume but another company is putting in a container next week.  Everything will go over-seas.  A tire on the truck had to be repaired.  Mr. Colburn had a call from a company that wanted to know if they would take care of boxes of used office paper.  To-date about one-and-a-half ton was received; this is about one-quarter of the total; more will be coming. Mr. Colburn has been doing his own plowing.  Everything else has been going smooth.  They do have volunteers.

Hooper Institute:  Ms. Rebecca Whippie advised they have closed-up and winterized the Hooper Institute.  They do not plan on opening up until the spring.  She provided the following report.

Mrs. Eloise Clark is finishing up the soils unit and working on Conifers and Evergreens.

After the last meeting Ms. Whippie did a small program before Thanksgiving on the reintroduction of Eastern Turkeys to the State.  They were reintroduced here in Walpole, NH.  The students were excited about this.

1^st Grade:  Mashed potatoes;

4^th Grade:  They had a squash feast; they made pumpkin pancakes, squash muffins, pumpkin butter, maple butternut squash, spaghetti squash and fried zucchini squash.  There is adult monitoring but the students do everything themselves.

Evergreens and Conifers:  They played matching games; detectives with clues, searches outside for different evergreens, matching cones to conifer branches.  Ms. Whippie usually does all the cutting but the children did cut white pine on one sunny afternoon.

1^st Grade:  Foraged for cones.

3^rd Grade: Foraged for white pine cuttings;

Projects = Ornaments using nature found items.

Pre-K and K – Balsam fir sachet

1^st Grade – Evergreen arrangement

2^nd Grade – Printed note cards

3^rd Grade – Evergreen centerpieces in tuna cans

4^th Grade – Swags of balsam fir.

Mr. Dalessio pointed out they are doing all good things with the students.

Police Department:  Sergeant Sanctuary submitted the following report.  Number of calls for service for the period of November 16, 2016 to December 13, 2016 was 306.

• Public Safety Calls:

Emergency Calls – 29              Administrative – 45                 Citizen Assists – 54

• Motor Vehicle Calls:

Accidents – 11                         MV Stops – 65                         Traffic Safety – 17

• Criminal Investigations:

Drugs/Alcohol – 26     Crimes Against a Person – 34  Crimes Against Property – 25

Sgt. Sanctuary advised their accidents were down.  During these last storms they had no calls resulting from accidents.  He reported on the number of recent drug related incidents.  They are getting Mrs. Clough more involved with criminal related activities.  She will be doing follow-ups and referring people to counseling, etc.  There are people coming in looking for help; she is pointing them in the right direction.  All this is very time consuming.  He met with Mr. Tom Goins to talk about budget related issues.  Mr. Kreissle has also been a big help to them on budgeting.  Mr. Dalessio feels it is good to have everybody working together and using their expertise as they move along.  It is support for the department heads.  Two officers are finishing up their annual training on mental health.

Adjournment:  Mr. Dalessio wished everyone a safe Holiday Season.  This Staff Meeting was adjourned at 5:52 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

DECEMBER 15, 2016

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 #1:

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

The regular meeting resumed at 6:37 PM.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session #1 of December 15, 2016, be sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Accounts Payable check register in the amount of $1,530,894.30 for checks dated December 16, 2016.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

The above amount includes one check for the County Tax in the amount of $1,424,623.00.

PAYROLL:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Payroll voucher for the week ending December 10, 2016, in the amount of $23,252.06 for checks dated December 16, 2016.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all 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 $4,924.05 for the week ending December 10, 2016.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Dalessio mentioned Mr. Kreissle should look at the W-2 forms as the laws have changed.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – December 8, 2016:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of December 8, 2016, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – December 8, 2016:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of December 8, 2016, as submitted.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – December 12, 2016:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of December 12, 2016, as submitted.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard received and reviewed Minutes of the following meetings:

• Walpole Planning Board Meeting – December 13, 2016;
• Connecticut River Joint Commission, Wantastiquet Subcommittee Annual Report – 2016.

NOTICE OF INTENT TO CUT WOOD OR TIMBER:

DALE HUBBARD, Old Drewsville Road, Map and Lot #010-022-001:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Notice of Intent to Cut Wood or Timber for Mr. Dale Hubbard.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

DALE HUBBARD, 21 Levi Lane, Map and Lot #010-019-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Notice of Intent to Cut Wood or Timber for Mr. Dale Hubbard.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

TIMBER YIELD TAX LEVY:

ELISSE McGUIRK, 167 Valley Road, Map and Lot #013-015-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Certification of Yield Taxes Assessed for the Tax Year April 1, 2016 to March 31, 2017 for Elisse McGuirk in the amount of $3,396.36.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

ELISSE McGUIRK, Valley Road, Map and Lot #012-076-000: Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Certification of Yield Taxes Assessed for the Tax Year April 1, 2016 to March 31, 2017 for Elisse McGuirk in the amount of $724.72.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

WARRANT – YIELD TAX LEVY:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Original Warrant, Yield Tax Levy, in the amount of $4,121.08.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

PROPERTY TAX REFUND:

MAP and LOT #001-015-006:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to grant the Property Tax Refund in the amount of $4,107.00 for the Tax Year 2016 for Map and Lot #001-015-006.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SEWER LEVY:  

TAX COLLECTORS WARRANT – Sewer Levy:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Tax Collectors Warrant, Sewer Levy, State of New Hampshire to Sandra J. Smith, Collector of Taxes for Walpole, New Hampshire in said county in the amount of Four Thousand Ninety Dollars and 86 Cents ($4,090.86) and with interest at twelve (12%) percent per annum from December 15, 2015 thereafter all sums not paid on or before that date. And we further order you to remit all monies collected to the Town Treasurer, or to the Town Treasurer’s designee as provided by RSA 41:29, VI at least on a weekly basis, or daily whenever receipts total One Thousand Five Hundred Dollars ($1,500.00) or more.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS:

DRAFT WARRANT ARTICLE re: ELDERLY TAX EXEMPTION: This Agenda item was put on-hold until the next meeting to allow time for additional research.

NEW BUSINESS: 

2017 Town Budget:  Mr. Kreissle gave the Selectboard a package with up-to-date information on the 2017 Town Budget.  It includes monthly reports on the General Fund, Water/Sewer, Revenues, and the Hooper.  The total budget at this time is $3,919,563.00 which is a 4.61% increase and about a

.3% decrease over last year’s budget.  It does not include Warrant Articles.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the 2017 budget as presented.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Kreissle also provided a proposed list of Warrant Articles that was reviewed.  Total of Warrants as shown (assuming the leasing of loader) $470,700 ($458,700 assuming the purchasing of the loader is outright).  The Highway Loader (Capital Lease) Warrant will be sent to the DRA to be sure the wording is legal.  Mrs. Pschirrer mentioned if a new loader is not purchased the Town will be spending a lot of money on repairs as it should have been purchased about four years ago.

The Town will not need to apply for a Tax Anticipation Note (TAN) as previously discussed.  Right now they are about 14% under budget.  The check in the amount of $513,448.73 to the Fall Mountain Regional School District will be released this Friday.

A $4,700 variance in sewer is holding up the Town’s audit.  The auditors suspect it goes back to a previous audit a few years ago. However they want to resolve it.

At the Public Hearing on the 2017 proposed Budget, Mr. Dalessio would like to show the increase on the planned budget vs the actual spending.  It is actually a zero based budget.

Cemetery Deed for Howard and Judy Putnam:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to grant the Cemetery Deed for Lot #474 to Howard and Judy Putnam.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Fire Warden Invoice:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve and authorize the Chair, Steven Dalessio, to sign the Fire Warden Invoice in the amount of $753.00 to the State of NH for reimbursement of the fire on Elm Street on December 5, 2016.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Thank You Notes:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve and sign the Thank You note to Mr. Charles Montgomery for his work on the Fall Mountain Food Shelf Advisory Committee and to the Women of Walpole for the Christmas wreaths.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Thank You Letter from FMEEA:  Mr. Dalessio acknowledged receipt of the Thank You letter from the Fall Mountain Educational Endowment Association.  They have re-booked the Town Hall for Saturday, November 18, 2017.

Thank You Note from Hurlburts and Lobers:  A Thank You note was received from the Hurlburts and Lobers.

Same Day Voter Registration Law: The Selectboard recognized receipt of a letter from the Jaffrey Town Moderator who wants them to talk about Same Day Voter Registration Law.    

Revaluation Meeting with DRA and Avitar:  The Selectboard asked Mrs. Downing to schedule the Revaluation Meeting the week of January 24^th, 2017, preferably in the evening or no earlier than 2:00-to-3:00 PM.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION #2:

Mr. Aldrich moved to enter into a Non-Public Selectboard Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (d) Acquisition, Sale or Lease of Real or Personal Property.  Mrs. Pschirrer seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with all in favor, the motion was approved at 7:34 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:52 PM.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Minutes of the December 15, 2016, Non-Public Selectboard Session #2 be sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

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 all in favor, the motion was approved.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:57 PM.

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

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

DECEMBER 8, 2016

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.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register in the amount of $39,756.33 for checks dated December 9, 2016.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

PAYROLL:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Payroll voucher for the week ending December 3, 2016, in the amount of $21,020.06 for checks dated December 9, 2016.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all 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 $4,411.27 for the week ending December 3, 2016.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – December 1, 2016:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of December 1, 2016, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – December 1, 2016:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard meeting of December 1, 2016, as submitted.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the minutes were approved.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard received and reviewed Minutes of the following meeting:

• Walpole Conservation Commission – November 7, 2016.

PROPERTY TAX REFUND:

Map and Lot # 005-028-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to grant the Property Tax Refund in the amount of $454.25.  This overpayment of property taxes was made by the escrow company.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

TIMBER YIELD TAX LEVY:

GALLOWAY REV. TRUST, Rapids Road, Map and Lot # 002-013-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Timber Yield Tax Levy in the amount of $2,997.63 for the Galloway Rev. Trust 2004.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SUPPLEMENTAL TAX WARRANT:

HOOPER TRUST, 166 Prospect Hill Road, Map and Lot # 008-061-000: Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Tax Collector’s Property Tax Supplement Warrant in the amount of $112.00 for the Meeting House West LLC golf course on the George I. Hooper property.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

NEW BUSINESS:

2016 Equalization Process:  Mr. Dalessio acknowledged receipt of the 2016 Equalization Municipal Assessment Data Certificate from the Department of Revenue Administration.  The equalization rate came in at 104.5%.

Mr. Aldrich moved to give Avitar Associates permission to up-load the equalization data.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

1. Clark Abatement Appeal Settlement: The Selectboard received a letter from Avitar Associates advising that a settlement appeal has been reached with Mr. Patrick Clark. If the Selectboard concurs, an abatement needs to be processed for 2015 on the $84,066 value difference and for 2016 on the $84,100 value difference.  Mr. Clark has agreed to this settlement.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the settlement between the Town of Walpole and Mr. Patrick Clark as recommended by Avitar Associates in the amount of $84,066 for 2015 and $84,100 for 2016.  This property is on Valley Road.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Cash Objective Chart: Mr. Kreissle provided the Selectboard with an update on the cash assessment to the end of the year.

Fall Mountain Food Shelf and Friendly Meals Program:  Mrs. Pschirrer met with Mr. Charles Montgomery, the Town’s representative to the Advisory Committee, at his request. The Advisory Committee has been able to negotiate a lease so the Food Shelf will be able to remain in Langdon for five years.  The committee members are working to try to persuade the Board to be more active and positive in terms of where they will house the Food Shelf and not wait until the fifth year.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked him to put their annual request for funds in writing.  The Town has been giving them $2,000 for the Fall Mountain Food Shelf and $1,000 for the Friendly Meals Program.  They have numbers for the significant amount of people they see on a regular basis.  Mrs. Pschirrer thanked Mr. Montgomery for serving the Town on this Advisory Committee.

Women of Walpole:  Mrs. Pschirrer thanked the Women of Walpole for putting up holiday wreaths in Town.

Property Tax Payment Agreements: The Selectboard had asked Mrs. Sandy Smith to look into the payment agreements.  Mrs. Smith replied that both agreements worked out fine.

Multi-date Town Hall Rental:  A request was received from the Southern NH/VT Idol to use the Town Hall for five consecutive Saturdays in September into October 2017.  Mr. Dalessio noted that they give back to the community.  The proceeds would benefit the Walpole Historical Society, Fall Mountain Food Pantry and Our Place.  There will need to be insurance coverage for the five consecutive Saturdays.

Mudders:  Mr. Aldrich was approached by two residents who wanted to know about putting in a key lock box on Derry Hill Road to keep out the vehicles (pick-up trucks that are “souped” up) that destroy the road.   Mr. Aldrich told Mr. Franks he could put up gates but not lock them which will not solve the problem.  Derry Hill is classified as a Class VI emergency lane.  Mr. Aldrich noted these emergency lanes are maintained for that purpose but if we have these vehicles going in there and destroying the road/area the road cannot be accessed for emergencies.  Mr. Aldrich brought this to the attention of the Conservation Commission at their last meeting.  There is a need to catch these people and have them pay for the damages.  Mr. Dalessio will talk to Police Chief Paquette about this.  

Tax Anticipation Note:  Mr. Kreissle would like to send a letter to the Savings Bank of Walpole stating that the Town may be considering taking out a Tax Anticipation Note.

Mr. Aldrich moved to sign the letter of intent for a Tax Anticipation Note to the Savings Bank of Walpole.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Church Street Lights:  Mr. Dalessio looked at the lights on the bridge and they are on.  In 2012 it looked like the lights on the bridge should have been shut off but nothing happened since then.  Mr. Aldrich and Chief Paquette attended that DOT meeting in 2012.  Mr. Dalessio referenced the letter in 2012; it does not mention where the five original lights were.  He does not think the bridge lights were ever discussed with the State.  The only two lights the Town would have to take over would be the two on the corner; they are on a State road.  Mr. Dalessio felt they should notify Liberty Utilities that based on the information in the Selectboard’s possession the two lights are the responsibility of the NH Department of Transportation because they both are on State roads.  He will draft a letter to Liberty Utilities.

Selectboard Meeting:  The Selectboard will be meeting in a Non-Public Session on Monday, December 12^th, 2016, at 10:00 AM.  Mr. Kreissle will also be attending this meeting.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION:

Mr. Aldrich moved to enter into a Non-Public Selectboard Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (d) Acquisition, Sale or Lease of Real or Personal Property.  Mr. Aldrich seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with all in favor, the motion was approved at 7:05 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:20 PM.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard session of December 8, 2016, will be sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:

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

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:24 PM.

ADJOURNMENT:

Mr. Aldrich moved to adjourn this meeting.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 7:25 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

DECEMBER 1, 2016

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

CALL TO ORDER:  Mr. Dalessio called this 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 approve the Accounts Payable check register in the amount of $122,083.89 for checks dated December 2, 2016.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

PAYROLL:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Payroll voucher for the week ending November 26, 2016, in the amount of $21,326.50 for checks dated December 2, 2016.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all 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 $4,458.55 for the week ending November 26, 2016.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – November 23, 2016:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of November 23, 2016, with the deletion of four words on page 2.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the minutes were approved.

WALPOLE STAFF MEETING – November 17, 2016:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the Walpole Staff Meeting of November 17, 2016, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard received and reviewed Minutes of the following meetings:

• Walpole Planning Board Workshop – November 22, 2016;
• North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners – November 22, 2016;
• North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners – November 29, 2016.

PROPERTY TAX REFUNDS:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Property Tax Refund for the overpayment of property taxes in the amount of $356.00 on Map and Lot # 015-029-000.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Property Tax Refund for the overpayment of property taxes in the amount of $13.79 on Map and Lot # 019-035-000.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Property Tax Refund for the overpayment of property taxes in the amount of $90.00 on Map and Lot # 008-050-000 .  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

PROPERTY TAX ABATEMENTS:

78 WHITCOMB ROAD LLC, Map and Lot #025-009-000: Mrs. Pschirrer moved to grant this Property Tax Abatement for 78 Whitcomb Road LLC, for interest on 2016 taxes in the amount of $72.14.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

THOMAS D. BENTLEY, Map and Lot #003-068-001:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to grant this Property Tax Abatement for Thomas D. Bentley in the amount of $791.00.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Dalessio requested that Mrs. Sandra Smith, Tax Collector, provide an up-date on the Property Tax Agreements to see if everybody is making payments in a timely manner.

SUPPLEMENTAL TAX WARRANT: 

CLIFFORD S. and WILHELMINA PETERS, Map and Lot #003-068-001:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to grant this Supplemental Tax Warrant for the second issue to Clifford S. and Wilhelmina Peters in the amount of $791.00.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

NEW BUSINESS:

Tax Collector Report:  Mr. Dalessio reported that Mrs. Sandra Smith, Tax Collector, collected $902,318.27 for Property Taxes for the period of November 1 to November 30, 2016.

Church Street Lights:  Mr. Dalessio advised there were street lights on Church Street in North Walpole but at some point-in-time the State decided they would no longer pay the electric bill.  The lights were kept on but now the State is asking the Town to pay the bill plus pay bills back to 2014.  Mr. Aldrich provided some history in that several years ago the State wanted to shut off some lights in Town to save money.  The Selectboard, at that time, advised the State that the sidewalk was on the south side of the bridge therefore people had to cross the bridge on the N.H. side; it is a safety issue as many people do walk in that area.  The State then agreed to leave them on.  When turning to go onto the bridge in North Walpole you have to be very careful of pedestrians because it is very dark.  Ms. Cheryl Mayberry, North Walpole Commissioner, noticed the lights were out but thought new bulbs were needed.  Mr. Aldrich felt the Selectboard should write a letter to the NH Department of Transportation explaining that not having any lights on Church Street presents a safety hazard for pedestrians including children.  It is a NH State bridge and a NH State highway.  There was discussion relative to inviting the State Representatives in to talk about this safety issue.  Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer would like the opportunity to look at this intersection when it is dark therefore this will remain on the Agenda until the meeting next week.

SAU Payment Schedule:  Mr. Kreissle had submitted some notes on the SAU Payment Schedule.  He is waiting for a call-back from Mr. Finn at the Fall Mountain Regional School District.  It indicates there will be an approximate $12,000 monthly increase.  Mr. Kreissle will continue to inquire about the reason for this increase.

Cash Objectives Diagram:  Mr. Kreissle gave the Selectboard a diagram on Cash Objectives through the end of the year.  It points out that tax payments are needed.  They are due December 19^th.

Broadband Research Feedback: An e-mail was received from Mr. Paul Looney who thinks they could meet with FairPoint and Comcast to negotiate for the expansion of Broadband and better coverage.  He would like to know if there is a newer contract since the 1950 one; a copy of the 1950 contract will be sent to him and Mrs. Downing will research to see if there is a more recent one.  Mr. Dalessio advised that the Selectboard will support Mr. Looney’s efforts.

Citizen Feedback Letter re: Elderly Tax Exemption:  The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of a letter from a resident regarding the Elderly Tax Exemption and her concerns regarding property tax increases.  Mr. Dalessio pointed out that the Selectboard will be putting in a Warrant Article to increase the limits for the Elderly Tax Exemption.

Right-to-Know Law: Mr. Dalessio advised there is a need to come up with a fee schedule for making copies of recordings and documents, supplies, etc.  The Town is entitled to a reasonable reimbursement for expenses under the Right-to-Know rules.  Mrs. Pschirrer mentioned they cannot charge for staff time but can for providing copies of other documents.  Mrs. Downing will do some research on suggested fees.

Selectboard Postings:  There was a consensus of the Selectboard to add the following statement to the bottom of the Selectboard Agendas:  “Any recording, audio or visual, and/or other devices must be declared at the beginning of the meeting”.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION:

Mr. Aldrich moved to enter into a Non-Public Selectboard Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (d) Acquisition, Sale or Lease of Real or Personal Property.  Mrs. Pschirrer seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with all in favor, the motion was approved at 7:16 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:35 PM.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of December 1, 2016, be sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

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 all in favor, the motion was approved at 7:36 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:46 PM.

ADJOURNMENT:

Mr. Aldrich moved to adjourn this Selectboard meeting.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the meeting adjourned at 7:47 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

NOVEMBER 23, 2016

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 no visitors present.

PAYROLL:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Payroll voucher for the week ending November 19, 2016, in the amount of $22,391.25 for checks dated November 25, 2016.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all 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 $4,263.97 for the week ending November 19, 2016.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – November 17, 2016:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of November 17, 2016, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – November 17, 2016:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of November 17, 2016, as submitted.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard received and reviewed Minutes of the following meetings:

• Walpole Cemetery Trustees Meeting – November 12, 2016;
• Walpole Zoning Board of Adjustment – November 16, 2016.

Mr. Dalessio noted there were a number of people who attended the Zoning Board of Adjustment meeting with Patricia Rodrigues and John Corduff residents of Westmoreland; non Walpole residents.

NOTICE OF INTENT TO CUT WOOD OR TIMBER:

PAUL GALLOWAY, Cochran Road, Map & Lot #006-017-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Notice of Intent to Cut Wood or Timber for Paul Galloway, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS:

Wage Review:  There was a consensus of the Selectboard to schedule a Non-Public Session on Monday, December 12, 2016, at 8:30 AM in the Conference Room at the E.E. Houghton building to discuss (a) Personnel.  The MRI invoice for the Wage Review will be put-on-hold until after this meeting on December 12, 2016.

NEW BUSINESS:

Right-to-Know Request: A request was received from Ms. Rodrigues for a copy of the tape and minutes from the Selectboard meeting of November 17, 2016.  It was noted that the Recording Secretary’s minutes do not have to be available until 5 business days following the meeting.  Ms. Downing was asked to call Ms. Rodrigues on Monday, November 28, 2016 to let her know the copy of the recording and meeting minutes will be ready to be picked up on a specific day at the Selectboard office.

Recording Devices for Board Minutes:  The Selectboard will research the best way to archive meeting minutes going forward.

Town Hall Rentals re: Board Members and Elected Officials:  Mrs. Downing had a request to hold a date for a Town Hall rental for a wedding in September 2017.  The Selectboard agreed to hold the date for a while but if another request is received for the same date Mrs. Downing will call this official and ask if they will use the Town Hall or not.

Onsite Drug Testing:  The Selectboard discussed a proposal from a company to do onsite drug testing.  The Selectboard agreed they would only be interested in the onsite drug testing if this company will do testing for the pool and Hooper employees all at the same time rather than having them go to Keene.  Mrs. Downing will also ask for a quote.

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 all in favor, the motion was approved at 6:58 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:05 PM.

NEW BUSINESS: 

NH Municipal Conference:  Mr. Dalessio attended this conference.  It was mentioned there will be more State changes coming.

Warrant Articles: Mr. Dalessio pointed out that Warrant Articles add to the budget; might be 5-10% each year.  Voters need to look at the budgets for the County, Fire District and Schools.  The State education funding is going down.  There are many items the Selectboard cannot control.  They continued a conversation about the budget process and tax rates.  There is a need to talk about all this at the Annual Town Budget and Warrant Public Hearing.

ADJOURNMENT:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to adjourn this meeting.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 7:24 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

NOVEMBER 17, 2016

Selectboard Present:     Steven Dalessio; 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 fifteen people in attendance.

PUBLIC BUSINESS:

WHIPPLE HILL – Gravel Pit:  Mr. Dalessio advised that the Selectboard invited Mr. Gary Patch, Cold River Materials, to give his perspective on the Whipple Hill, Gravel Pit, matter; what agreements are in place and what is the status of the property.  Mr. Patch said this property has been a resource enjoyed by many for generations.  Communities in the area had used it since Arthur Whitcomb owned it. It is a big unbroken block of wooded area between the Cold River property, LeClerc’s property and other abutters.  There are some accessible roads that run through the property.  It is used for hiking, biking, hunting, etc.  He has been in charge of the property for 20 years now. Presently he is plant manager of Cold River Materials and is responsible for this property.  Most of it was recently put into current use.

Recently a new neighbor, Mrs. Barbara Spivey, contacted the Walpole Police Department, Mr. Patch and the Walpole Selectboard about having problems with excessive shooting in the pit.  They rarely use the pit but still keep it active and permitted.  Mr. Patch asked Police Chief Paquette to have Mrs. Spivey call him.  Mr. Patch went down to the pit, he listened to her concerns and they talked about options.  He informed Mrs. Spivey that he had no intentions of posting all the property because it is a resource enjoyed by many people.  Mrs. Spivey told Mr. Patch that she was not against hunting but was against the shooting. He asked her to call him when there was excessive shooting and he would immediately come to the pit.  When he did an inspection during hunting season the shooting was not on Cold River property but rather LeClerc’s property.  Semi-automatic rifles were being used.  He then walked over to the pit and spoke to some people who were there.  He is trying to keep the peace with everybody as he understands Mrs. Spivey’s concerns.  He does not want a shooting range on this property.  There was some shooting in one of the two corn fields.  All of this excessive gun shooting may not be coming from this property.  Mr. Dalessio did inform the LeClerc’s about the shooting on their property and they were not aware of it but they will look into it.

Mr. Patch wondered why this went to the Selectboard meeting because the Town of Walpole has no governing power over what Cold River Materials does on their property.  Mr. Dalessio noted that this is correct but when there is a citizen complaint, the Selectboard likes to do their due diligence on it.  His concern was the combination of shooting and alcohol so they asked the police department to substantiate this. However, they have not observed a combination of both in that area.  Mr. Patch said in his 20 years as manager, he never had a complaint on shooting; maybe it has elevated.  Relative to alcohol, Mr. Patch has never seen a beer can in the pit.

Mr. McLaughlin said in his 25 years of living there, he has witnessed alcohol.  At the end of each hunting season, he goes around and picks up all the beer cans.  He thinks they can find a solution by working together.  There was a discussion relative to the type of rifles that are being shot there.

Mr. Anthony Frye said they are present at this meeting to find a solution.  It has been a family tradition to use the property for hunting.  Mr. Patch spoke to Mr. Ted Walski from the NH Department of Fish and Game about the rumors that Mrs. Spivey put a stop on the hunting of pheasants but she did not.  Fish and Game stopped stocking them because the pheasants are very expensive. Mrs. Spivey pointed out that they have nothing against hunters but are opposed to just shooting in the pit.  Mr. Dalessio noted that pheasant hunting is not an issue tonight and asked that the discussion cease.

Several people agreed that it was always a safe place to go ride a bike, shoot or use it for other recreational purposes.  Nobody wants to change that.  They never bothered anybody.  Mr. Dalessio summarized that this decision is up to the landowner.  The Town of Walpole does not have a specific noise ordinance.  Mr. Hewes clarified that the Police Department will respond if a property owner calls in but they cannot respond to third party callers.  Mr. Patch proposed to Mrs. Spivey that he would like to handle this himself.  If she has a situation, Mrs. Spivey should call him and he will immediately respond.  Mr. Dalessio felt the two landowners could work together to keep this under control.

Mr. Michael Beam advised that a landowner has put up a locked gate on the Old Stage Road.  Mr. Dalessio noted that the RSA is clear about locked gates on Class 6 roads.  They will take a look at it as they were not familiar with the gate.

PATRICIA RODRIGUES and JOHN CORDUFF:  Ms. Rodrigues, a resident of Westmoreland, asked the Selectboard if they had received their copy of the letter she had sent to the Zoning Board of Adjustment (ZBA).  She then distributed a copy of that letter, dated November 16, 2016, and read it for the record.  She has looked through the Walpole Ordinances and rules regulating excavation.  For clarification Mr. Dalessio stated that the Town of Walpole ZBA or the Planning Board does not issue any permits for blasting.  Ms. Rodrigues was to have been notified of any blasting by either the Police Chief or Fire Chief at least 24 hours in advance as mandated by law and this did not happen.  Mr. Dalessio said the Chief then talked to the owners.  Ms. Rodrigues will be notified in the future.  At least for now, the blasting has been resolved.  The Alteration of Terrain Permit gives the right to blast.  The Town of Walpole has no enforcement officers. The Selectboard is not qualified to go down into the pit and say they are blasting more than they should. They rely on the DES (Department of Environmental Services) to do their inspections in accordance with their permits. This information has been given to the ZBA; this is in their prevue; they will have to answer those questions, not the Selectboard’s.

Mrs. Rodriguez referenced Section 12 of the zoning ordinance that states that “it shall be the duty of the Selectboard”.  Part II says that the Selectboard are the enforcers. Mr. Dalessio pointed out that the Selectboard will ask the Zoning Board of Adjustment (ZBA) to respond to this letter. If they find that this is all well-founded, correct, and if there is a violation, the Selectboard will take the necessary steps.  The experts in the Town of Walpole are the ZBA members. Ms. Pam Clark, a resident of Westmoreland, said this has been going on for over three years; it was presented to the ZBA and the Planning Board in this town.  Mrs. Pschirrer pointed out that it is the Westmoreland side that sets the hours of operation.  They have a letter from Westmoreland that sets standards for this operation. Ms. Rodrigues replied that lately it has been on the Walpole side. Mr. Dalessio explained that this first became their issue about two weeks ago when Ms. Rodrigues and Mr. Corduff came in about the hours of operation. The Selectboard did inquire and got a letter from Westmoreland.  This is the first list of concise things that he has seen. A letter of deficiency does not necessarily require action from the Town of Walpole. Mr. Dalessio noted that they have taken action to clarify the tax cards.  The rail trail cut is a state matter.  Mrs. Pschirrer summarized that they received a copy of the letter, they will read it to verify the information and then they will talk to the ZBA. They will then respond to Ms. Rodrigues. Mr. Dalessio pointed out that they have her letter and the ZBA also has Ms. Rodrigues’ letter.  The Selectboard will ask the ZBA to answer all the questions, do their homework and they will come up with answers. It all has to be verified and researched before they can answer any questions. It could take a month or two as the ZBA only meets once a month.

Ms. Rodrigues said she had previously asked for the hours of operation in Walpole.  Mr. Dalessio replied that they got the hours from the Town of Westmoreland for her and the Town of Walpole hours are the same as Westmoreland’s.  If there is a violation of hours, Ms. Rodrigues should call the Police Department. Mr. Dalessio asked Ms. Rodrigues to please call Mrs. Sarah Downing to ask to be put on future Selectboard agendas.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Accounts Payable check register in the amount of $153,101.19 for checks dated November 18, 2016.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

(Note: This holds in abeyance the check to the Fall Mountain Regional School District until taxes come in.)

PAYROLL:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Payroll voucher for the week ending November 12, 2016, in the amount of $22,280.59 for checks dated November 18, 2016.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrrer moved to accept the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $4,680.90 for the week ending November 12, 2016.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – November 10, 2016:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of November 10, 2016, with the following addition under Graves Gravel Pit: after “Mrs. Rodrigues” add “a Westmoreland, NH resident”.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard received and reviewed Minutes of the following meetings:

• Walpole Planning Board – November 9, 2016;
• North Walpole Zoning Board of Adjustment – November 10, 2016.

VETERANS’ TAX CREDIT:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Veterans’ Tax Credit for Map and Lot # 007-008-000.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS:

ZBA Appointment RSA 673:12:  Mr. Dalessio advised that a change needed to be made to the October 27, 2016 motion under “Tom Murray – ZBA Appointment Notice” as follows:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Stelectboard acknowledge the ZBA appointment of Thomas Murray as a regular member for a period of five months beginning November 16, 2016 through the 2017 Town Meeting.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Wage Review:  Mr. Dalessio would like to wait another week before signing this report.

NEW BUSINESS:

Health Trust – Summary of Benefits and Coverage Agreement:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to authorize the Chair, Mr. Steven Dalessio, to sign the Summary of Benefits and Coverage Agreement for the Health Trust.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Avitar Tax Map Agreement:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve that the Chair of the Selectboard, Mr. Steven Dalessio, sign the Avitar Tax Map Agreement document for three years.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Highway Requests for 2016:  Mrs. Pschirrer reported that Mr. Rau has enough money in the Maintenance Fund to build a shed that will be used to keep their yard in order and equipment under cover.

A bid came in from Mr. Barry Kilburn of Alstead for a shed at $8,200.  Payment will be made in mid-December.  The Highway Department has about $8,000 left in paving and they would like to spend it on gravel.  $10,000/year never gives them enough to do all the work.  Mr. Dalessio and Mr. Aldrich approved these requests.

Budget – Police Department:  Mr. Dalessio advised that when they built the budget they put in for a full time police officer.  He feels they can pull three months out of the full time officer line because they will not hire anyone until at least April 1^st, 2017.

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 all in favor, the motion was approved at 8:05 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 8:09 PM.

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

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of November 17, 2016, be sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all 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 8:20 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

TOWN OF WALPOLE

STAFF MEETING

NOVEMBER 17, 2016

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

Staff Present:               Sarah Downing (Executive – Manager of Administration); Michael Rau (Road Agent); Police Chief Michael Paquette (Police Department); Paul Colburn (Recycling Center); Justine Rogers (Librarian); Justin Cassarino (Recreation Director); Rebecca Whippie (Hooper Institute)

Guest:  Cheryl Mayberry

Call to Order:  Mr. Dalessio called this staff meeting to order at 4:00 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.  He advised that this meeting is being recorded.

Highway Department:  Mr. Rau reported they have been cleaning out and marking culverts as this is done regularly. They were able to help clear-out the area that a few individuals in North Walpole are trying to make into a park.  It is nice to see them taking an interest in doing this.  He gave them some old granite blocks, seed and mulch.  Chief Paquette said the area looks good.  Mr. Dalessio asked Ms. Mayberry to mention this help to the North Walpole Commissioners. Some sidewalks in North Walpole were paved.  Mr. Rau was there helping and learning.  The Fuzzy Brothers did a nice job.  For the period October 21, 2016 to November 16, 2016, they also did the following work:

• Cold patching;
• Serviced trucks and equipment;
• Cleaned catch basins;
• Closed the fountain;
• Paved Watkins Hill Road; Filled in driveways on Watkins Hill Road;
• Fixed the thermostat on truck-10;
• Ditch work was done on all dirt roads;
• Crushed dumpsters for Recycling Center;
• Mulched and picked-up leaves;
• Fixed door rails on the chipper;
• Fixed the step on the grader and made shield for hydraulic valves;
• The DES paper work is done and was accepted by DES for the March Hill bridge. He is waiting for the DES inspection.
• Cleaned the East Street dam – the beavers are still there. Rau talked to Mr. Speed about trapping them again and he will do it this month or in December.
• Worked on loader specs and pricing;
• Total miles paved this year was 8.3 – two more miles than last year;
• Oil undercoated the trucks

Mrs. Pschirrer mentioned that people who drive over Watkins Hill Road and March Hill Road but live on other roads want their roads done as well.  Mr. Dalessio asked them to cold patch some of the potholes along the Alstead Center Road as he is concerned about the winter.  Big trucks are still going through there.  Mr. Rau said it is posted but sometimes they still go over that road.  Mr. Rau and Mr. Thompson went to an air brake training class and are now certified to work on them.  It was an after-hours class.  Mr. Dalessio advised that when someone takes their own time to attend a training class they should be given something out of the stipend line as recognition for doing this.  Mr. Rau hopes they will attend more classes next year.  Everything is going well.  They are ready for winter.  The Selectboard noted that two employees, Ken Silva and Ken Thompson, came in 4^th out of 12 at the New England Regional Plowing Rally.

Selectboard Office:  Mrs. Downing made the following report:

Assessing Update:

• Fall 2016 warrant was signed by the Selectboard and delivered to the Tax Collector’s Office.
• A printed notice of the town-wide property evaluation project will be included in the tax bill envelopes. New Hampshire municipalities are required by RSA to conduct a revaluation every 5 years.
• Assessors from Avitar Associates have begun visiting properties in North Walpole to measure buildings and other taxable features.
• If no one is home, Avitar assessors will simply measure the exterior of all structures. If the owner is home and willing the assessor will do an interior inspection. After the initial visit, taxpayers will receive a letter with Avitar Associates’ contact information for arranging interior home inspections.
• If property owners have questions or concerns, please call Selectboard Office for assistance.
• Equalization assessment data is being reviewed by Avitar and is due to the state in mid-December in order to set the equalization rate for the Town.

Water and Sewer Billing:

• Fall billing was posted Oct. 26^th;
• Over 58 payments have been hand-delivered to the Selectboard Office; this number does not include payments received through the mail.
• Thanks to Linda Edkins, Bryan Wetherby and Alex Fafara for their efforts in gathering meter readings, importing data, double checking accounts, creating invoices and preparing invoices for mailing. Linda was pleased with how everything moved through the process.
• Overall payment activity has been active which is keeping Linda busy with processing payments and deposits several times a week.

Department of Revenue Administration:

• The NH Department of Revenue (DRA) auditors will be returning in December to finalize the audit of the Town’s Veterans’ Tax Credit files.
• The Town Hall will be hosting site for a DRA sponsored workshop entitled “Current Use Criteria and Rules” on Tuesday, Nov. 29^th from 9am to 1pm. Smith, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mrs. Downing will be attending this workshop.

Town Hall Facilities:

The following repairs occurred:

• Replacement of stained and damaged ceiling tiles;
• Handrail added to basement stairway;
• Sprinkler repair of air leaks/pipes in system (2^nd visit).

Town Hall Rentals and Reservations:

• Researching simplified approach to main door lock, chair and table storage so it is safer and easier to do;
• High use of Town Hall continues through the end of December.

Holiday Gift Cards:

• Will be distributed via department managers to all regular full-time and part-time employees in mid-December. Mr. Dalessio mentioned that for those who are willing to give up their gift cards, Mrs. Janet Clough will accept them and give them to the Town’s welfare people.

Boston Post Cane:

Following this meeting the Boston Post Cane will be presented to Charmian Trundle in honor of being the oldest resident in Town.  There will be a reception with cake and light refreshments.

Recycling Center:  Mr. Paul Colburn made the following report for the month of October:

He referenced and explained the “Daily Weight Report and Year to Date Comparison”.  Mixed Paper is doing well as they are putting in milk cartons and getting a lot of books from the school.  Electronics are higher compared to other years.  They no longer take tubes because of the markets and no longer weigh glass.  They were down with cardboard but are now getting banana boxes from Mr. Gs.  These boxes are in demand as they are strong and used by many people.  The second report is the “Five Year Comparison on Recyclables”.  The Recycling Center charges for these items because they have to pay to dispose of them.  The year’s Forecast was $30,000; Estimated Year is $41,000.  Historically October is one of their better months.  Next month he will be short-handed therefore not able to make as many trips as usual.  The number of trips has a lot to do with commercial materials.  The furniture factory brought in about 15 mattresses which they broke down into box springs, wood, metal, etc.

Mr. Colburn started a fire wood program.  People can bring wood they do not need into the Center and people who need it can come in to pick it up.  Mr. Ben Daviss and Mr. Jackson brought in the first loads. There is a need for this service but Mr. Colburn is not sure how much wood will be brought in.

Ms. Heather Collins is up-dating their website.  Last week the Alstead School came in with 47 students and chaperones.  They were broken up into three groups.  One sorted materials that came in from the school program, another took off the book binders and the other group was given a tour.  They then switched so each group spent some time doing each of the tasks.  It worked out well.  They took pictures that will be put on the website and maybe put in the Town Report.  The teacher said when the students got off the bus they asked when they could come back again.

LaValley’s is bringing in a few loads of metal.  It will increase revenue.  They are looking to change the lights in the Center over to LEDs but will stay within their budget.  Mr. Dalessio advised the Selectboard would like to not have discretionary spending that has to be paid before mid-December.  They have to pay the County and make a monthly payment to the Fall Mountain Regional School District.  After tax payments come in they will be back on-line.  Right now they are watching cash management.  Mr. Colburn is missing the roll-off they use for metals; they expect it will be returned soon.  Whitcomb Construction has agreed to take care of the beavers on the tree line.

Recreation Department:  Mr. Justin Cassarino provided the following report:

Pool:

• Pool cover was delivered and put on. New holes were drilled in some spots to fit the new cover.
• Can we dispose of the two old covers to free up space for the Highway Department? Mr. Rau said they were there when he started. Dalessio recommended he get approval from the Recreation Committee to dispose of them.
• Water was shut off after the Tennis Club was to hold their tournament. However, it ended up raining, so they had to cancel the tournament.

Basketball:

• 44 participants;
• Not enough girls signed up for the 5/6 team, so one is playing at Alstead, one is on the 5/6 boy’s team, and one decided not to play;
• Looking into new uniforms. The ones that were ordered four years ago are way too big. Need to get youth sizes.

Tennis:

• Looking into getting new wind screens from Wilson and Lawrence for the tennis courts. They have a certain material that they are trying to get rid of so they are going to give us a deal on them.

Soccer:

• Will be taking down the goals this weekend. Trying to get rid of the old goals to families who are interested.

Library:  Ms. Justine Rogers submitted the following report:

Walpole October 2015: 27 Days open, 1321 people, 1778 circ, 29 programs, 228 people for programs.

2015 January to October Averaged 47 people and 78 circ per day.

Walpole October 2016: 25 Days open, 1732 people, 2144 circ, 37 programs, 357 people for programs, 461 website visitors.

2016 January to October Average 64 people and 91 circ per day.

Working on a speaker series for 2017.  There is a grant they are working on through the New Hampshire Humanities that non-profits can apply for.

Food for Fines 21^st-23^rd.  Bring in non-perishables.  1 food item = up to $1 of late fines waived.  It was very successful and a lot of lost items were brought back.

New volunteer opportunity they are trying to get off the ground: delivering books to home bound patrons.  They will be putting an article in the Clarion and on the Walpolean to hopefully get some volunteers interested.  They will do a meeting for the volunteers in January to get some planning done.

Automating North Walpole has been stalled a bit by the State Library.  New timeline is to have it done by March 2017.   They are the first in the State trying to automate their branch library.

Friends of the Library Book Sale was awesome as they made about $6,600.  At the end of the Book Sale they have a truck pick up the books that do not sell.  This year they had more books than would fit into the truck.  Other volunteers offered to take those books.  Mr. Dalessio pointed out that there is no carry-over of books yet they always have thousands to sell.  Ms. Rogers mentioned that Pam Howard’s family and friends made donations to the Friends of the Library.  The gifts came in just under $4,000.  The family asked to have a bench put in out front of the Library with a small plaque. Ms. Rogers will let the Library Board know the Selctboard approved this request.

Hooper Institute:  Ms. Rebecca (Becky) Whippie provided the following report for the period of October 20 to November 17, 2016:

Eloise Clark:  The 5^th grade has been working on Soils Unit.  The 6^th grade has been working on the Forestry Unit.  During “flex” time, mid-day students have volunteered as an elective to help out with the harvest at the WES garden with Eloise.  They harvested 104 pounds of butternut squash and donated that to the Food Shelf.  Out of a total of 240-250 pounds of butternut squash about 150 pounds has or will be used in the WES lunch program.  Also a 5 pound bucket of Brussel sprouts were picked and have already been eaten in the lunch program in just one day.  They also have been closing up the gardens.

Becky Whippie:  Pre-Kindergarten – In the last month they talked about earthworms, pumpkin parts, mammal definition.  They have been doing an activity called “Red squirrel vs grey squirrel” and studying Ladybug life cycles.

Kindergarten – They have been studying Pumpkin Science – weighing, measuring, record and drawing what they have picked in the WPS garden.  Garden closing activities are being done.  Cranberry botany – made cranberry sauce and tasted it.

First Grade – Compost review, adding greens, browns and manure to the mix.  One afternoon they did seed saving of garlic, chives and zinnias.  They packaged their dried chives for gifts to go home. They cleaned the popcorn bed and got it ready for the spring.  Today they peeled and mashed their garden potatoes harvested earlier this fall and ate them.

Second Grade – Cleared and added green materials to corn and green bean beds in the garden to add nutrients to the soil for next spring. Soil sort: Looked for organisms.  Looked for sand, silt, clay and gravel and organic/biotic matter.

Third Grade – Tree I.D. challenge used I.D. booklets they made to identify numbered trees in NWS garden; 10 varieties.  Some looked to see what they had in their own yards.  Harvested and grated carrots, made two carrot cakes together, baked them and tasted the cakes the next day.

Fourth Grade – Visited Walpole Valley Farm with 4-D and Brookfield Farm with 4-M students.  Mulched two garden beds. Talked about squash uses, identified different sorts of winter keepers vs summer squash.

Police Department:  Police Chief Michael Paquette submitted a chart for the period of October 16, 2016 through November 15, 2016.  There were 413 calls for service.  They are broken down as follows:

• Public Safety Calls:

Emergency Calls – 35              Administrative – 45                 Citizen Assists – 67

• Motor Vehicle Calls:

Accidents – 17                                     MV Stops – 138                       Traffic Safety – 41

• Criminal Investigations:

Drugs/Alcohol – 18     Crimes Against a Person – 25  Crimes Against Property – 17

Chief Paquette talked about the on-going drug activity in the area.  Handling cases is very time consuming; they take 80-to-90% of their time.  With DARE Programs and police presence they hope it will help educate the youth.  Mrs. Pschirrer recommended they talk about having a program with parents to do some drug education.  The Police Department acquired the DUI Grant.  As a result the motor vehicle stops number is up.  This will give them quite a bit of money from the State as the result of collecting fines.  The County was awarded a Drug Addiction Grant for over $30,000.  It is for all full time departments doing surveillance work except for Keene who received a separate grant; it will start in December.  They can add about 150 additional calls for service but for brief, minor issues.  The Cub Scouts visited the Police Station and the Girl Scouts will be coming; the children really enjoy this.  They sit in the cruisers and get to know the officers are approachable; do not be afraid of them.  They had the “Drug Take Back”; many people came to the station to drop off their drugs. The front lobby now has fortified glass; a section of the roof was done.  Mr. Rau has been helpful with doing some work. Mr. Colburn has helped with the Diversion Program.  Chief Paquette has been talking with Mr. Sam Jacobs at the Middle School.  He would like to be able to sit down with a small group of students and have lunch with them. This would be in all the schools including Charlestown and Alstead; some of their own officers would participate.  The DARE Program was cancelled for the winter but there might be another one in March.  The Police Departments from the five towns are assisting the schools while their resource officer is out.  Students are aware of the officers’ presence in the schools.

Mr. Dalessio advised that everyone is doing a great job.  Let’s keep up the good work!

Adjournment:  Mr. Dalessio adjourned this Staff Meeting at 5:08 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

NOVEMBER 3, 2016

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 four people in attendance.

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 all in favor, the motion was approved.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:06 PM.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Accounts Payable check register in the amount of $46,457.92 for checks dated November 4, 2016.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

PAYROLL:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Payroll voucher for the week ending October 29, 2016, in the amount of $22,431.85 for checks dated November 4, 2016.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all 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 $5,004.77 for the week ending October 29, 2016.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – October 27, 2016:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of October 27, 2016, with the following amendment on page 4:  Delete: “There was discussion to approve the handyman having the authority to charge items up to $100 at LaValley’s Building Supply” to “The Selectboard decided it was not appropriate to have non-Town employees charge items.  The Selectboard prefer they purchase items and then be reimbursed by the Town.”  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, minutes were approved.

VETERANS’ TAX CREDITS:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve and sign the following documents for Veterans’ Tax Credits:

PA-29s:

• Map and Lot # 028-119-000;
• Map and Lot # 020-037-000.

Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

ABATEMENTS and REFUNDS – Property:

McMAHON REVOCABLE TRUST OF 2012, 58 Adams Lane, Map & Lot #003-001-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Refund for Property Taxes in the amount of $988.61 for McMahon Revocable Trust of 2012.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS:

Whipple Hill Road:  Mrs. Downing had a conversation with Mr. Gary Patch, Cold River Materials, who advised that he did speak to a group using the gravel pit for target practice and there was another group on the Galloway land.  Mr. Dalessio gave this information to the Police Department and Jan Galloway LeClerc.  Mr. Patch will call Mrs. Barbara Spivey to let her know about his visit to the pit.  He will be attending the November 17^th Selectboard meeting.  Mr. Dalessio does not feel there is an appropriate place to put a gate that does not interfere with the traffic or public right-of-way.  There is a locked gate across the gravel pit and signs are posted.

Wage Review:  Mr. Dalessio feels they should be seeing the Wage Review shortly.

NEW BUSINESS:

MS-434R Approval:  Mr. Dalessio advised that the Selectboard got some paperwork from Mr. Kreissle.  There was discussion pertaining to whether or not to take money from the Unassigned Fund Balance to reduce the property taxes.   They have taken it down to $750,000 in the past.  Mr. Dalessio suggested taking it down to $986,556 or about 7%.; that leaves close to $1,000,000 as a buffer for emergencies.

Mr. Aldrich moved to use 7% of the Unassigned Fund Balance to reduce the tax rate for 2017.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Preliminary Tax Rate Analysis:  Mr. Dalessio will pass the above information onto Mr. Kreissle to prepare the paperwork for the Selectboard’s signatures.  The Selectboard will come in and sign the paperwork before next Thursday.  After that Mr. Kreissle will send it to the Department of Revenue Administration and they will set the official tax rate.

Revaluation Memo:  Mrs. Downing reported that Mrs. Smith is working on this.  Avitar Associates wants us to put a note in with the tax bills to start preparing property owners for the revaluation process.

Water and Sewer Liens:  Mr. Dalessio wants to talk to Mrs. Edkins about the water and sewer liens before they move forward.  He asked that she write a note to let them know where she is regarding this process.

Current Use Workshop:  Mrs. Downing reported that there will be a Current Use Workshop on November 29^th from 9:00 am to 12:00-or-1:00 PM here in the Town Hall.  She has sent notices inviting other boards to attend.  Mrs. Pschirrer plans to attend.

Town Hall Rentals:  Mr. Dalessio pointed out that if they are going to continue renting the Town Hall they need to keep it simple.  The main door to the Town Hall is not simple to lock.  People think they locked the door but they have not.  He suggested a dead-bolt lock.  If they want people to use the chairs and put them back they need better racks.  The racks we have now are not safe; they need to be simple.  This also applies to the tables; the racks need to be replaced so they are safe.  Mrs. Pschirrer recommended that they have someone on-call who will come in to sweep the floors between events.  They will need to charge accordingly.  Everyone and/or groups that use the Town Hall have to fill out a form.  There is a need to know who is in the building.  In case of an emergency they need to know how many people are here; who is the contact person.  Events need to be put in the reservation book even if it is a group that meets there regularly.  If more than one event is scheduled in on the same day consideration needs to be given to set-up and clean-up time so they do not interfere with each other.  Mr. Dalessio mentioned that the Selectboard needs to establish a cut-off time for events.  He would like to see some proposals on the lock and racks in the next two weeks.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION:

Mr. Aldrich moved to enter into a Non-Public Selectboard Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (d) Acquisition, Sale or Lease of Real or Personal Property.  Mrs. Pschirrer seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with all in favor, the motion was approved at 7:42 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:55 PM.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of November 3, 2016, be sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

OTHER BUSINESS:

2017 Budget:  Mr. Dalessio mentioned that they need to start thinking about Warrants.  They want the Elderly Tax Credit on a Warrant.  All the building roofs and other repairs will be put together in a Warrant similar to 2016 that worked out well.  In a week or two they will discuss Warrants.

Planning Board:  Next Tuesday, November 8^th is the first Public Hearing on the Detached Accessory Dwelling Units (DADU).

Preliminary Budget:  Mr. Kreissle has published the preliminary budget for review.

Highway Department:  Mrs. Pschirrer reported that Mr. Rau just did some sidewalks in North Walpole.  They will start paving at Christian Hollow.  He is working with Mr. Mark Houghton.  Mrs. Pschirrer felt the State did not do a good job on County Road.  The project on March Hill has been approved therefore will come off the red-list.  Ken Silva and Ken Thompson of the Highway Department came in fourth at the Regional Plowing Rally in Massachusetts.

Traffic Study – Southwest Regional Planning Commission:  Ms. Cheryl Mayberry got an email from Mr. J.B. Mack about the traffic study.  They do not find anything about the section of Route 12 near Shaw’s Store that Mr. Ben Daviss mentioned; there is not enough data.  He sent her some maps to look at showing Whitcomb Road, March Hill and two other roads where there were accidents and fatalities.  He suggested they reach out to Police Chief Paquette to see what he has for data.  She forwarded the approved minutes from the Complete Streets to SW Regional Planning.  Mr. Dalessio is pleased to be working with the Southwest Regional Planning Commission and Ms. Mayberry.  Mr. Dalessio acknowledged that the Walpole Planning Board has taken a role in one of them.

Sexual Harassment Seminar:  Tomorrow is the mandatory Sexual Harassment Awareness Seminar for all employees in the Town Hall at 1:00 PM.

ADJOURNMENT:

Mr. Aldrich moved to adjourn this meeting.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 8:06 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary