Category Archives: SELECTBOARD

Staff Meeting Minutes – 7/21/16

If you sometimes wonder just what our town employees do, these notes from the last Staff Meeting describe it well.  i, for one, would like to thank them all! – Lil

TOWN OF WALPOLE

STAFF MEETING

JULY 21, 2016

 

Select Board Present:  Steven Dalessio (Chair); Peggy Pschirrer; (Joseph Aldrich – late)

Staff Present:               Sarah Downing (Executive – Manager of Administration); Rich Kreissle (Executive – Manager of Finance); Justin Cassarino (Recreation Department); Michael Rau (Road Agent); Paul Colburn (Recycling Center); Sergeant Justin Sanctuary (Police Department); Justine Rogers (Librarian)

Staff Absent:               Sandra Smith (Town Clerk/Tax Collector); Eloise Clark (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.

Employee Appreciation PicnicMr. Dalessio noted that in past years the Employee Appreciation Dinner was held in December. He asked if the Department Heads want to continue with a dinner in December or have a picnic in the summer?   Mrs. Downing and Mrs. Smith are busy with tax bills and payments in December.  Mr. Rau mentioned that quite often the Highway Department cannot attend the dinner in December due to a storm.  Mr. Kreissle said people quite often have cabin fever in the middle of winter; we could have something then.  Most employees are busy with the holiday season.  Mr. Dalessio suggested having a picnic at the pool area from 5:30 to 8:30 pm.  He put this in Mrs. Downing’s hands to form the committee and work out the details.  Mrs. Pschirrer recommended that it be catered.  Suggestions were a pig roast plus a variety of other options including vegetarian options.  The pool will be open plus there will be badminton, croquet and other fun activities.

Job Descriptions For Salary Survey: Mr. Dalessio thanked everybody for getting in their job descriptions.  This gets the Select Board closer to their goal of doing a salary study this year.

Health Trust Benefit Review – October 21, 2016Mrs. Downing reported that the Health Trust is coming in on Friday, October 21st at 1:00 PM in the Town Hall and they will bring in packets for everyone.  The Select Board would like 100% attendance; all eligible employees should try to come in.  Even people that are not covered are welcome to attend.  Mrs. Downing had brochures on the “Spice of Life” and “Wellness” flyers.

Credit Card Use GuidanceMr. Kreissle had been asked to develop a Credit Card Policy that was handed out at this meeting.  It includes the responsibility of using and documenting the information.  They were doing a lot of this but it was not written down.  This will insure that the credit cards are being used properly and that documentation is being provided to him on a timely basis.  If there is a dispute the responsible person for resolving that is the Department Head themselves.  Mr. Kreissle would not know the particulars of that purchase.  He continued to explain the terms/conditions in the policy.  He talked about the issue they had recently developed with the First National Bank of Omaha and how it was resolved.  The Town’s limit is $10,000 spread out over six cards.  The program allows the Town to maintain controls over amounts and types of purchases.  Mr. Dalessio explained that the purpose of the credit cards was so the Department Heads would not have to use their personal credit cards and then have to wait to be reimbursed if there was an emergency on a week-end or they needed to purchase supplies at a grocery store where the Town did not have an account.  They were not meant for everyday purchases.

Safety Committee Meeting – August 18th at 4:00 (Just Before Staff Meeting):  Mrs. Pschirrer advised that there is a Safety Committee meeting on Thursday, August 18th at 4:00 PM before the Staff Meeting.

Staff Reports:

Walpole Police DepartmentSgt. Justin Sanctuary provided the monthly status report for the period June 16, 2016 to July 21, 2016.

Department Business:

  • They appreciate all the Community Support they have been receiving considering the police issues happening throughout the country. People have sent in emails telling the officers how much they appreciate them and they have dropped off coffee and donuts.
  • Security cameras have been partially installed; they are up-and-running.
  • Received permission from North Walpole Commissioners for the perimeter fence; this will start in August;
  • Westminster Bridge project has been pushed out, possibly this fall, no start date yet;
  • They did a walk through the Abenaki Spring Building. It was good to get the lay-out of the land.

Calls / Investigations:

  • Calls for service: 308;
  • They have water safety equipment in the cruisers; it is good to have that available. Recently there was an incident with a kayaker.
  • Request for speed enforcement, primarily on the newly paved sections of road;
  • Worked with US Marshalls capturing wanted subject;
  • There were two commercial burglaries;
  • Warrants were issued for theft and driving offenses.

Training:

  • Conducted annual Stop-Stick training.

Questions:

  • Purchase Order Procedures? Kreissle replied that they need to work on that.

Handicap Parking Sign Posting (265:73-a):

  • Sanctuary pointed out that there are two handicapped spots; the one by the Town Hall has a sign but the second one by the church does not have a sign. They cannot enforce who parks there unless there are signs.  Mr. Rau will put the missing sign up.  It was noted that by St. John’s Church they also need two signs as the markings are just on the street.

Mr. Dalessio would like to look over the pie-chart before it goes to the Clarion for publication.

 

Highway Department – Mr. Rau submitted the Walpole Highway Department report for the period June 16, 2016 to July 21, 2016.

  • Did Cold Patching;
  • Serviced trucks and equipment;
  • Cleaned catch basins;
  • Crushed dumpsters for Recycling Center;
  • Did Mowing;
  • Worked on Pleasant Street;
  • Paved the Police Impound area;
  • Paved the Wentworth Road Cut;
  • Fixed Truck-5 – Water Pump and Broken Ramp;
  • Put bridge closed signs up on Seward Road and several other signs; he will take pictures that need to be sent to the State;
  • Fixed the dam on East Street in North Walpole to avoid leaking;
  • Fixed loader steering column;
  • Worked on chloride spraying system;
  • Paved 6 miles of road in North Walpole and Walpole combined.

 

Mr. Rau was asked to do a Road Paving Evaluation.  Following is his report:

The last time the roads were paved in North Walpole was in the late 80s to early 90s when the sewer was put in.  He would estimate that the roads will not have to be paved again for 15 years.

In Walpole they paved several different roads.  Some have been paved within the last 7-to-10 years.  Drewsville Road and Phipps Road should last 6-to-8 years.  North Road should be paved in 4-to-6 years due to the heavy traffic.

Meetinghouse Road and Wilson Road were paved about 15 years ago.  These are low traffic roads that should last 10 years, possibly more.

Most of the roads in Town do not have a good road base so that affects the surface.  By paving the way they we’re just trying to preserve what we have and maintain safe travel because to rebuild the road from the bottom up would cost a considerable amount of money.

They have around 60 miles of paved roads in Walpole and North Walpole combined; they try to pay about 6-or-7 miles a year but that can fluctuate with the cost of asphalt.  It would take them at least 10 years or so to pave every road in Town.  This year he hopes to do about 8-miles due to the low cost of asphalt.

It is hard to predict how long a road will last due to the different traffic counts and patterns that change over the years.  Weather and other factors are also considered; if we have a considerably bad winter roads are affected in different ways.

Mr. Rau wanted to acknowledge the help they have been receiving from the Town of Alstead and Town of Westmoreland with the use of their trucks to help pave.  This has worked out well.

Mr. Rau also submitted an “Equipment Evaluation”.  It includes information on the Make, Model, Year, Miles/Hours and Replacement date.    Responding to a question by Mr. Dalessio, Mr. Rau replied that he will look into if there is a certain way they can determine a way to keep their trucks/equipment for a certain length of time.

Mr. Rau advised that they will be starting their roof repair; they will be able to add-on with the less expensive quote.  Mr. Dalessio said to make sure they have the roofer’s Certificate of Insurance.

 

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

Pool:

  • Staff and committee members helped clear the broken canopy frames;
  • They were able to get one new canopy top under the warranty;
  • Purchased three small canopies to put around the pool;
  • Lifeguards participated in a training with Mr. Mark Houghton and the Fire Department last Thursday. The staff practiced the proper way to remove patrons from the pool under certain circumstances, CPR, etc.  This will be run by the Head Lifeguards and supervised by Mr. Cassarino.  Staff is required to attend at least half of these for the rest of the summer. Mr. Cassarino will be holding situation training for the staff every Sunday at 6:00 pm; this will be run by him.
  • Pool has been VERY busy and everyone has been expressing how clean the pool and facility is looking;
  • Continuing to do employee of the week to push the staff to go above and beyond;
  • Thank you to the Highway Department for cleaning up the inside part of the pool area and taking the fallen tree branch.
  • Wanted to thank the Recycling Department for coming in every Thursday to take away all the recycling and trash, etc. They continue to give them more bins, as needed.
  • Need to get signs for the handicap parking. Cars are just driving all around the park, which makes it unsafe for the kids that are running around that area.  More directional signs are needed because folks see it as a big loop.  Roping off the area was suggested by Mr. Rau.  Sanctuary felt they could check the area periodically.
  • Tennis players would like handicapped parking by the courts.

Basketball:

  • This is going great; they had 75 participants;
  • Full of excited kids, coaches and fans.
  • August 12th is Championship night (pizza, music, games);
  • Possibly doing a movie night to go along with the Championship night.

Mr. Alex Fafara did a great job with their chart; different categories have been separated.  They have been extremely busy.  Their money from fees, food and beverages is going into the Revolving Fund.

 

Selectboard Office – Mrs. Downing provided the following report:

  • 5 Year Requalification of Veterans’ Tax Credits and Elderly and/or Disabled Exemption: A mailing to approximately 50 veterans requesting DD214 or other discharge forms was sent with high response from 6/23-30/16.  There are 7 veterans who have yet to submit all forms; final reminder sent.
  • A meeting with a NH Dept. of Revenue Administration – Municipal & Property Division auditor is to occur on Friday, August 12th at 9:00 am.
  • The Timber Tax Appraiser visited the Selectboard Office on Friday, 7/15. A review of the Timber Intent, Report and Tax Warrant process was conducted.  They were cleaning up the 2015 reports.
  • Town Hall Facilities. Two large microwaves were donated by the Women of Walpole (WOW) to the Town Hall kitchen.  This will be a feature in the Clarion.  The dishwasher will be installed at a later date.  The search for bids related to gazebo and entrance ramp repairs continues.  A request to adopt donated file cabinets in the basement has been given.  Do any departments need additional metal filing cabinets?
  • Cemetery Lot Sales: Have been brisk with Linda Edkins processing 5 deeds within a two week period (6/30 – 7/14/16).
  • Tri-fold flyer: Several drafts and proofs of a flyer listing contacts for town departments, boards, committees and civic organizations have occurred. We are asking department managers to review the flyer to ensure a thorough proofing before we print copies for public distribution.  Mayberry mentioned that they do not have the Selectboard meetings on the schedule.  Ms. Rogers pointed out that the Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts are on the flyer but the Girl Scouts are not.  They will be added. Mr. Dalessio recommended that Mrs. Downing check to be sure the contact people are correct.  Also the Library Staff Meetings do not need to be on the flyer; it will free up space for something else.
  • Health Trust: The Benefits and Wellness advisors visited the Select Board Office on Monday, 7/18/16.  The following has been proposed and agreed to at the Personnel Meeting:  “One hour presentation on October 21st beginning at 1pm in the Town Hall to explain health care benefits that are available to Town employees.  ** All full-time employees are expected to attend**
  • Primex: A 1.5 hour training is being scheduled for all (part and full-time) employees to attend in early November or December. The training will cover all forms of harassment.  **Attendance is expected with an RSVP being required**.  Dalessio noted that a sign-up sheet will be required.  Mrs. Pschirrer said to schedule it on a Friday in November or December.
  • Staff Meeting Handouts: Going forward, department reports that are received on or by noon the Wednesday before a Thursday Staff Meeting will be sent as a pdf for attendees to print or view on their mobile devices.
  • Manager of Finance: Will be reviewing the draft Town of Walpole Credit Card Use Policy.

 

Library – Ms. Justine Rogers submitted the following report:

  • Summer Reading: Going strong! 60 kids are participating by keeping track of time spent reading and earning prizes.  Some programs have been well attended, like our traveling maker space program, and others not so well attended, but that’s a norm for summer.
  • Summer Program: Today they had a Wildlife Encounters  program today.  About 63 kids and 20 adults attended.  The Walpole Village School brought in their students; their theme for the week was Exploring the Jungle so this program was perfect for them.
  • Cook Book Challenge Group: Our first lunch last month was a hit! They had 12 chefs and a delicious meal.  Their next lunch is the 26th at 11:30 am and they will be doing a dinner in August.
  • New Library Cards: Voting for the photo contest ends today (the 21st). They had 14 submissions.  They will count up the votes tomorrow morning and announce a winner.  Rogers will order the new cards on Monday and hopefully they will have them in a few weeks.  They are also working on a brochure to hand out to patrons with their new cards that explains some of their services and programs.
  • Web-Site: Their web-site is up and running but still a work-in-progress.  In June 3 people got from the Town’s web-site to the Library web-site.
  • Book Sale: The Book Sale will be on Halloween week-end.  They will happily take books, videos, etc. but no encyclopedias.  They are sorting on Wednesday mornings from 9-10:00 am.

Stats:

June 2015: 26 days open, 1233 people, 2138 circ, 25 programs, 205 people for programs;

June 2016: 26 days open, 1639 people, 2316 circ., 42 programs, 501 people for programs;

Jan-June 2015 average: 84 circs per day and 47 people per day;

Jan-June 2016 average: 86 circs per day and 60 people per day;

June 2016 North Walpole: 30 hours open, 72 people, 246 circ.

June 2015 North Walpole: 68 people, 210 circ.

 

Recycling Center – Mr. Paul Colburn submitted the following report:

Mr. Colburn reported that this was an average month.   He referenced the “Daily Weight Report and 5 Year to Date Comparison”; the total year-to-date is 32.78/tons.  Although they have been declining this month indications are that the percentage is less than in the past.  They used to have tubes from LenTex but there is not a good market so they stopped taking that in.  Mr. Dalessio noted that it is declining because of the change in the market.  With reference to the “Five Year Comparison on Recyclables” Mr. Colburn advised that electronics is up.  They took in just under $1,600 on fluorescent lights; most of this came from Hubbard’s.  Commercial is a big part of what they do with Revenue and Recyclables.  There has been an increase in cardboard; metals hit a plateau but they are going up a bit.  Hopefully the trend will turn around.

 

They had visitors from Cypress; one from the Turkey side and the other from the Greek side.  He gave them a tour and they did some recycling as they are interested in recycling.  They have two Hooper Institute youth; they each have 100 hours.  Hopefully the building repairs will start next week.  They have access to fire proof file cabinets; if anyone needs any contact Mr. Colburn.  (Mr. Aldrich came into the meeting).  It is vacation time.  The baler does not like the heat so they are looking at putting a cooler on it.  Compost has been selling at about $15/cubic yard; total to-date is about $200.00.

 

Tax Clerk / Tax CollectorMrs. Sandra Smith was sick and unable to attend but submitted the following report:

They are still trying to catch up.  Taxes were due July 1st, bills are still being paid.  They are still answering questions, a few people did not notice the due date, and therefore, their payments were not correct.  They are sending letters to let them know the outstanding balance.

From June 16th to July 19th, they collected $3,337,594.50 on our Spring Warrant.  They have $400,527.45 outstanding – which is very low!  Our 2015 Tax Lien has an uncollected balance of $208,092.57.  Year to date they have collected $5,472,332.83 in taxes and $62,334.63 in interest!

The Town Clerk has collected $78,267.53 since our last staff meeting.  $75,647.41 for registration fees, $168.12 in boat registrations, $400.50 in dog license fees.  Vital records $52.00.  They processed 5 marriage licenses, the town received $35.00 and the State of NH will receive $215.00.  The Town’s share is $7.00 and the State receives $43.00 of each Marriage License, approx.. 45 minutes for each license.

Working on Job descriptions, took quite a bit of time.  She had samples from other towns and modified theirs.  They kept our descriptions to two to four pages as other towns have done.

Meghan has sent out new dog registration reminders; these are new dogs to Walpole.  We receive copies of Rabies Certificates from the NH vets and Meghan is keying into our system and following up with letters.  They are still receiving calls regarding deceased dogs and other dogs that no longer reside in Walpole.

They are already working on the upcoming elections.  They will have Election Law Training, Thursday, August 11th here in Walpole.  Meghan is working on absentee ballots for Servicemen.  There are two Saturdays that they have to be in the office to check on e-mail requests from UOCAVA voters, these are Military personnel and oversea citizens.

Adjournment:  Mr. Dalessio adjourned this Staff Meeting at 6:15 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

 

Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 7/21/16

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

JULY 21, 2016

 

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

CALL TO ORDER:  Mr. Dalessio called this Selectboard meeting to order at 6:30 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.  Prior to this meeting the Selectboard had a monthly meeting with the Staff.  He advised that this meeting is being recorded and asked anyone wishing to speak to identify themselves for the record.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Mr. Aldrich moved to accept the Accounts Payable check register in the amount of $85,014.20 for checks dated July 22, 2016.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

PAYROLL:

Mr. Aldrich moved to accept the Payroll voucher for the week ending July 16, 2016, in the amount of $24,987.00 for checks dated July 22, 2016.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Aldrich moved to accept the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA in the amount of $5,260.34 for the week ending July 16, 2016.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – July 14, 2016:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of July 14, 2016, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – July 14, 2016:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of July 14, 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:

  • North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners – July 12, 2016;
  • North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners – June 28, 2016.

REFUND – PROPERTY:

DUNCAN WATSON, 594 Cold River Road, Map & Lot #025-012-000:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Property Tax Refund in the amount of $3,482.00 for Duncan Watson.  This is the result of a double payment.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

DUNCAN WATSON, Cold River Road, Map & Lot #025-012-001:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Property Tax Refund in the amount of $470.00 for Duncan Watson.  This is the result of a double payment.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

REFUND – WATER and SEWER:

DENNIS PELLIGRINO, 40 Main Street, Map & Lot #021-013-000:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Refund for Water in the amount of $50.00 and Sewer in the amount of $50.00 for Dennis Pelligrino.  This is the result of an overpayment.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

 

OLD BUSINESS:

Town Directory Tri-fold:  The Selectboard had reviewed the draft of the Town Directory Tri-fold during the Staff Meeting.  This will be kept on the Agenda.

South Entrance Handicap Access Railing Repair: One quote was received from Keene Commercial Construction in the amount of $950.00.  Mr. Dalessio pointed out that they tried to get more than one quote but they were unable to do so.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the quote from Keene Commercial Construction to repair the South Entrance Handicap access Railing Repair in the amount of $950.00.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Gazebo Repairs: Two quotes were received as follows:  1) Peter Kenney in the amount of $3,722.00 and 2) Keene Commercial Construction in the amount of $3,950.00.  Mr. Dalessio suggested that they offer Keene Commercial Construction the projects for the Gazebo repairs and the South Entrance Handicap Access Railing Repair for the total amount of $4,500.00.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to offer Keene Commercial Construction the two jobs for a total of $4,500.00.  Should they reject this offer he will be asked to only do the South Entrance Handicap Access Railing Repair.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Dalessio pointed out that they still need to find an on-call handy-man for small projects.

Pool Deposit Procedure and Draft Office Deposit ProcedureMrs. Downing reported that this procedure is still being worked on.  Copies will be emailed to the Selectboard when it is finished.  Mr. Dalessio can come in to test the procedure when complete.

Leases and ContractsMr. Dalessio asked Mrs. Downing to email out a memo to Department Heads asking if they have any leases and/or contracts and, if so, when will they expire.  A copy should be provided to the Selectboard office.  He asked that either Mr. Kreissle or Mrs. Downing find out if the Town is allowed to do a multi-year lease.  The voters approve the budget at the Annual Town Meeting.  It could be a non-lapsing article.  The Selectboard would like to know what they have to do if a decision is made to pursue a lease-purchase agreement.

Clarion AdvertisingMrs. Pschirrer wants to be clear as to what is advertising and what is considered Town news.  Mrs. Downing will contact Mr. Ray Boas on his return.

Revised Town Hall Rental Information and Rental AgreementMrs. Pschirrer advised that Mrs. Edkins has the forms and is working on them.  It should be finished by next week.

Boston Post Cane Article: The article on the Boston Post Cane will be in next month’s Clarion.  A decision on the recipient will be the first week in September.

Employee Policy Handbook Update: Mrs. Pschirrer advised that the committee met on July 19th but they did not finish the things they wanted to talk about.  They will meet again on September 20th.  One issue they looked at was the holidays.  They want to continue to list the holidays but there was discussion about a floating holiday.  The group decided they would like to take off Martin Luther King Day / Civil Rights Day.  Some departments feel they do not have equal treatment because the federal government has mandated all these holidays on a Monday.  There are budget implications for some departments.  Mr. Dalessio noted that at the beginning of each year the Selectboard sets the floating holiday for that year.  It could be the Friday after Thanksgiving Day.  He recommended asking other towns for their holiday schedules for comparison purposes.  Mrs. Pschirrer suggested to the Department Heads that the Selectboard Office would be putting out a calendar, probably in December; it will indicate when these holidays would fall.  It would also include the dates for committee meetings, etc.  Meetings are always subject to change but they would have a guideline.  Mrs. Pschirrer will deliver this message to the Department Heads on September 20th.

Town of Walpole DOT Drug Testing PolicyMrs. Pschirrer is working on this Drug Testing Policy.

NEW BUSINESS:

Authorization to Approve Abatements Under $100 to Manager of AdministrationMrs. Pschirrer moved that the Manager of Administration be given permission to approve Abatements under $100.00 and in her absence the permission is given to the Manager of Finance.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Welfare Report from Janet Clough of Edson Grout, LLCMr. Dalessio expected that Mrs. Clough would be present at this meeting to submit a Welfare Report.  Mr. Dalessio talked to her and Mrs. Edkins and they feel there is an increase in applications.

Building and Demolition Permit Application Information and FormMr. Dalessio has no issues with the changes that were made to the Building and Demolition Permit application to get it up-dated to current standards.  He is uncomfortable with having the water rates in the Building Permit.  Mrs. Pschirrer agrees in that it is not applicable.  There could be a separate sheet with this information, include sprinkler systems, water and sewer hook-ups, etc.  Mrs. Pschirrer feels the water and sewer rates should be posted in the hallway.  Mr. Dalessio recommended that the document state that all commercial buildings are subject to the Planning Board Site Plan Review before a Building Permit will be issued.

Town Seal: Mrs. Downing found a Town seal.  Mr. Rau found an old Town decal in the garage.  Mr. Dalessio asked if it has to go through the State; is there a process for establishing a Town seal or can they just be made up by the Town.  Mrs. Pschirrer suggested having a contest similar to the Library; people voted on various pictures.  Local artists could submit something.  Mrs. Downing was asked to set up a contest.  She will check with Mr. Boas to see if he can find something in the past history of the Town about a Town seal.

Sexual Harassment TrainingMrs. Downing mentioned that Primex asked if they are requesting this training because of some kind of history.  Mrs. Pschirrer replied that the Personnel manual states this will be done every year.  It will be on general harassment and will be mandatory for all employees to attend.

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:

Mrs. Pschirrer 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 7:22 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:32 PM.

OTHER BUSINESS:

Cemetery Lot Sales:  Mrs. Pschirrer pointed out that the 2016 budget still indicates $2,000 for the Cemetery Lot sales yet the Selectboard had approved several sales of cemetery lots earlier this year.     Mr. Dalessio asked Mrs. Downing to bring Mr. Kreissle and Mrs. Edkins together to ask if all the vouchers for the Cemetery Deeds have been posted since the first of the year.    

CHANGE DATE FOR NEXT SELECTBOARD MEETING:

The Selectboard agreed to change the date for their next Selectboard meeting from Thursday, July 28, 2016, to Wednesday, July 27, 2016, at 6:30 PM.  This is due to a conflict with another meeting.

Mrs. Pschirrer will be unable to attend the Selectboard meeting on August 11, 2016.   There will be no Public Business at this meeting.

ADJOURNMENT:

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

 

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 7/7/16

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

JULY 7, 2016

 

Selectboard Present:  Steven Dalessio (Chair); Peggy Pschirrer; Joseph 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:

Mr. Aldrich moved to accept the Accounts Payable check register in the amount of $16,310.95 for checks dated July 8, 2016.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

PAYROLL:

Mr. Aldrich moved to accept the Payroll voucher for the week ending July 2, 2016, in the amount of $27,914.97 for checks dated July 8, 2016.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Aldrich moved to accept the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $5,806.48 for the week ending July 2, 2016.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – June 30, 2016: Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of June 30, 2016, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – June 30, 2016:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of June 30, 2016, as submitted.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

OLD BUSINESS:

North Street Visit: Mrs. Pschirrer made the following report on the Selectboard visit to North Street:

“Town of Walpole

Select Board

Notes, July 6, 2016

 

Present:  Steve Dalessio, Chair, Joe Aldrich, Peggy Pschirrer, Mike Rau, Road Agent, and Roland Caskins, resident of 14 Colonial Drive, Walpole.

The Select Board along with Mike Rau, Road Agent, viewed the property of Roland Caskins, 14 Colonial Drive, Walpole to assess water issues on the property.

The group made the following observations: washout of driveway, evidence that water from the hillside is pushing inward the house foundation which is concrete block and some natural trenching made by water flow from up and behind the house location.

The group discussed the following options: removing soil from the sloping hillside above what appears to be a water induced natural small trench, adding large, almost boulder size rock in several layers, digging a ditch lined with rock which would direct water down a ditch alongside the driveway.

At the end of the driveway the culvert already there would be increased in size at the end of the driveway and water would be directed toward a larger gulley across Colonial Drive.

Road Agent was to develop estimates for materials and the time needed to do each of the two options under discussion.

The Question remains: may we work on private property; is there a safety issue involved.

Peggy Pschirrer”

Relative to the rotted tree near the Johnson property, Mr. Dalessio noted that it is in the Town’s right-of-way but it is not leaning toward the road.  It is a small tree.  The Select Board is waiting for Mr. Rau to get some numbers to remove it and then they will address this tree issue.

Pleasant Street Signage and StripingMr. and Mrs. Neary were unable to attend this meeting.  Mr. Dalessio will draft a letter to finalize the Pleasant Street Signage and Striping.  He recommended they purchase a sign that states “Shared” to be posted at the end of the roadway.

Draft Thank You Letters for Summer Rec Sponsors:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Thank You letter to Mr. John Watson for his efforts in clearing the pool water.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Downing will contact Mr. Cassarino for names and addresses for the other Summer Rec sponsors.

South Entrance Handicap Access Railing Repair:  The Selectboard is waiting for recommendations from Mr. John Davis of Diversified Precast.

Town Hall Kitchen Dishwasher UpdateMr. Mark Houghton would like to delay installing the kitchen dishwasher until after the summer due to his work schedule.  Mr. Dalessio just wants it installed before the end of this year.  Mrs. Pschirrer reported that the microwaves will be in the Town Hall next week.

Gazebo RepairsMrs. Downing is waiting for estimates from two people she had contacted.

Boston Post Cane:  An email was sent to Mr. Ray Boas to ask that he put an ad in the Clarion for the oldest Walpole resident. However, he has not yet responded.

Employee Policy Handbook Update Mrs. Pschirrer continues to work on this handbook update.

Town of Walpole DOT Drug Testing Policy: Mrs. Pschirrer continues to work on the Drug Testing Policy.

Town Directory Tri-fold:  Mrs. Downing had a rough draft of a Tri-fold Town Directory for the Selectboard to review and provide feedback.  This is a work in-progress.  Mrs. Pschirrer suggested the organizations be listed with a contact.  Put some color in it.  Mrs. Downing will continue to work on it and bring it back for another review.

 

Draft Pre-Deposit Procedure for Town Pool Monies:  Mrs. Downing presented a draft for a procedure to handle the Town Pool monies.  Mr. Goins makes the deposits.  Mr. Dalessio suggested that at the top of the form it should state that the person working with it should have knowledge of Microsoft Excel.       

Revised Town Hall Rental Information and Rental Agreement: Mrs. Downing and Mrs. Edkins have been working on revising the Town Hall rental information and Rental Agreement.  The deposit was changed from $50 to $200.  Mr. Dalessio recommended that when it is finalized it needs to be sent to Primex for a review as they want an Event/Rental Policy for every renter.  Primex will have an issue with alcoholic beverages in the Town Hall.  Their focus is prevention.  Anytime a renter enters into a Rental Agreement Primex wants to see that agreement in advance of the rental.  Renters can go on the Primex web-site to print out information on their Event/Rental Policy as they will need their own insurance.  Mrs. Pschirrer mentioned her changes to the Gazebo/Band Stand.  Some language was added under alterations; if this is not adhered to, the renter will lose their deposit.  Mr. Dalessio said groups that are recognized as Town organizations will be listed on the Town insurance policy.  There should be an approved list of non-profits in Town who can use the Town Hall at no charge but everybody else should pay.

NEW BUSINESS:

Paul Beliveau Eagle Scout Letter:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the letter of congratulations to Paul Beliveau for reaching his accomplishment of Eagle Scout.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

PLT Workers’ Compensation Open Loss Run Report:  The Selectboard reviewed the PLT Workers’ Compensation Open Loss Run Report.

Walpole Grange Leadership AcademyMr. Dalessio advised that there is a National Contest to create a new promotion.  Mr. Leo Watson volunteered to put that together.  Last night he video-taped some of the Leadership meeting.

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 (e) Pending Claims or Litigation.  Mr. Aldrich seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with all in favor, the motion was approved at 7:26 PM.

The regular meeting resumed at 7:41 PM.

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

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:

Mrs. Pschirrer 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.

OTHER BUSINESS:

ClarionMr. Dalessio mentioned that the Town is beginning to consume a lot of space in the Clarion.  Mr. Boas had been giving us free space but it is costing him money for an extra page so it is time to start paying.  Mr. Dalessio asked Mrs. Downing to meet with Mr. Boas to see how he wants to handle it.

Contracts and Leases:  Mrs. Pschirrer recommended that they start making a list of contracts and leases so they can anticipate what will be coming up in the future.

Traffic PatternsMrs. Pschirrer would also like them to think about traffic patterns.  The Selectboard will be hearing from the Mascoma Bank as they start to change things.  Westminster Street is often blocked by big delivery trucks.  Mr. Dalessio will ask Police Chief Paquette to have an officer check the area during the day; it is a safety issue.  Chief Paquette will be asked to make a recommendation.

ADJOURNMENT:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to adjourn this meeting.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 8:08 PM.

 

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

 

Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 7/14/16

The Selectboard Meeting for Thursday, July 28th is moving to Wednesday, July 27th. The change is due to a meeting conflict for the Selectboard Chair. The meeting time is 6:30 pm. Selectboard Meetings occur in the Selectboard Office of the Town Hall.

*All are welcome to attend*

 

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

JULY 14, 2016

 

Selectboard Present:     Steven Dalessio (Chair); Peggy Pschirrer; Joseph 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.

PUBLIC BUSINESS:

Pleasant Street Signage and StripingMr. Jack Neary and Mrs. Neary were present.  Mr. Neary acknowledged receipt of the letter but they were unable to attend the last couple of Selectboard meetings.  He hoped it was not too late to propose the following: 1) That the lines would not look good on the street therefore they thought maybe a sign would be a better solution.  He displayed a picture of the proposed sign “Slow – Pedestrian Traffic” and will donate the sign to the Town.  Mr. Dalessio noted that they would consider this sign if the other sign for “Shared Space” was not already ordered.  When people see signs for “Shared Space” they are much more cautious.  Mr. Aldrich pointed out that even if they had ordered the sign they could put up both; Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer agreed.  2) Mr. and Mrs. Neary are not in favor of the white painted lines on the north and south sides of Pleasant Street ; he thinks the street would look better with no lines at all.  Mrs. Pschirrer said it defines the edge of the road.  They planned on doing it to avoid having vehicles parked on the grass.  Mr. Dalessio will talk to Mr. Rau and others about the white lines.  The actual placement of the “No Parking” signs will be left up to Mr. Rau. Mr. Neary summarized that they hope things work out on Pleasant Street.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Mr. Aldrich moved to accept the Accounts Payable check register in the amount of $756,419.57 for checks dated July 15, 2016.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

The above amount includes the monthly payment in the amount of $513,448.73 to the Fall Mountain Regional School District.

Mr. Dalessio reported that Mr. Kreissle will establish the policy and guidelines for use of the credit cards.  These were intended for the Departments Heads to use on week-ends for needed supplies and small supplies purchased at local vendors so they would not have to use their own credit cards.

PAYROLL:

Mr. Aldrich moved to accept the Payroll voucher for the week ending July 9, 2016, in the amount of $23,861.40 for checks dated July 15, 2016.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Aldrich moved to accept the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA in the amount of $4,984.21 for the week ending July 9, 2016.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

 

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – July 7, 2016:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of July 7, 2016, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the minutes were approved. 

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – July 7, 2016:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of July 7, 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 Conservation Commission – June 6, 2016;
  • Walpole Planning Board – July 12, 2016. (There will be no monthly Workshop in July.)

BUILDING PERMITS:

MacCLAREN and SINK, Map & Lot #019-045-000:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve and sign Building Permit No. 2016-27 for Jon A. MacClaren and Chris B. Sink to “Construct a 36’ x 24’, 1 story, 3-car garage” at 16 Union Street.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

DeSIMONE, Map & Lot #012-027-000:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve and sign Building Permit No. 2016-28 for Lois B. DeSimone to “Construct a 31’ x 8’ roof over a concrete patio” at 258 Upper Walpole Road.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

 

TIMBER TAX WARRANTS and YIELD TAXES ASSESSED:

McGUIRK, Map & Lot #005-026-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Certification of Yield Taxes Assessed for the Tax Year April 1, 2015 to March 31, 2016, in the amount of $687.48, Operation #15-461-09-T, for Paul McGuirk.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

GALLOWAY LeCLERC, Map & Lot #002-012-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Certification of Yield Taxes Assessed for the Tax Year April 1, 2015 to March 31, 2016, in the amount of $42.00, Operation #15-461-10-T, for Jan Galloway LeClerc.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

NEAL, Map & Lot #008-053-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Certification of Yield Taxes Assessed for the Tax Year April 1, 2015 to March 31, 2016, in the amount of $375.69, Operation #15-461-16-T, for Christine Gage Neal.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

WOOD, Map & Lot #011-031-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Certification of Yield Taxes Assessed for the Tax Year April 1,2015 to March 31, 2016, in the amount of $82.06, Operation #15-461-17-T, for Ricky Wood.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

TIMBER TAX WARRANT:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Original Warrant, Timber Tax Levy for the Tax Year April 1, 2015 to March 31, 2016, in the amount of $1,187.23.  This is sent to Sandra J. Smith, Collector of Taxes for the Town of Walpole.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

 

OLD BUSINESS:

Thank You Letters for Summer Rec Basketball Sponsors: 

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve and sign the Thank You letter to Mr. Richard Senerchia, Athens Pizza, for his support of the Recreation Department’s summer basketball program.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

 

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve and sign the Thank You letter to Ms. Kristyn Wallace, Applied Bolting, for their support of the Recreation Department’s summer basketball program.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve and sign the Thank You letter to Mr. George Tsitsonis, Diamond Pizza, for his support of the Recreation Department’s summer basketball program.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve and sign the Thank You letter to Ms. Sarah McClellan, Chroma Technology Corp., for their support of the Recreation Department’s summer basketball program.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Town Directory Tri-fold: The Selectboard reviewed the draft copy of the Town Directory Tri-fold.  Mrs. Downing would like to take them to the next Staff Meeting for the Department Heads to look over.  This is a work-in-progress.

 

PUBLIC BUSINESS (Continued):

Mr. Jessie DelarosaMr. Delarosa had been reading the news reports about the Vilas Bridge and came to the meeting to hear about the status of the Vilas Bridge from this side of the river.  He felt some people do not understand the situation to-date.  Mr. Dalessio advised that the Town of Walpole has been operating without a formal agreement with the Village of Bellow Falls and their Wastewater Treatment Facility for about ten years.  A new agreement is ready to sign. However, the Village of Bellows Falls would like to couple the signing of this agreement in exchange for Walpole taking a more active role in the repair of the Vilas Bridge.  The Walpole Selectboard stated that they were not going to get into the repair, maintenance or ownership of the bridge as it is a matter for the State of New Hampshire and State of Vermont to address.  It is not a municipality issue to resolve. To-date the only thing the Walpole Selectboard has done is to authorize their Water/Wastewater Department to begin preliminary engineering to move the wastewater line off the Vilas Bridge to connect to Green Street in North Walpole and then go over the Arch Bridge.  That infrastructure is already there but needs to be up-graded.  Walpole has been assured by both the Vermont and New Hampshire DES that the Village of Bellows Falls cannot shut off the waste line.  Mr. Dalessio said the opening or closing of the bridge stands as a political matter.  The Walpole Selectboard made a decision to stay out of this and to pursue moving the line away from the bridge.  It is the prudent thing to do.  We will get the studies done and figure how much the cost will be.  Walpole has been assured by people of knowledge that there is no immediate danger.  We pay our bills on time even with no agreement.  Walpole is 27% of the Bellows Falls revenue for the Wastewater Treatment Plant. The Walpole Selectboard has talked to their Representatives who have taken this to the State level but they have not gotten the support/funding for the Vilas Bridge.  The State feels this area has two bridges open for crossing the river; a third bridge is not needed.  The Westminster Bridge is scheduled to be repaired this year.  Mr. Dalessio reported that Mr. Mark Houghton and Mr. Joe DiBernardo will meet next week to start the survey work to move the wastewater line.

Town Hall Kitchen’s New Microwave Ovens: Mrs. Downing reported that the microwaves are arriving tomorrow.

Boston Post Cane ArticleMr. Dalessio reviewed the ad.  The deadline for feedback will be July 31st.  A display case for the cane will be purchased; it will be presented to the recipient but kept in the Town Hall.

Revised Town Hall Rental Information and Rental Agreement: Mrs. Pschirrer moved ahead with proposed pricing for rental agreements in the Town Hall.  A number of issues have been raised.  There will be no difference in rates for the seasons; fuel costs were included year-round.  Mr. Dalessio recommended making the wedding package include the Town Hall, Gazebo and Common.  Non-residential rates will be higher.  There was a discussion about Non-Profit organizations.  Mrs. Pschirrer was making a list of these organizations.  The Selectboard will review the list and look at the criteria for Walpole based groups.  There will be no deposit for several groups unless they use the kitchen.  There will be a surcharge for use of the kitchen to help repay some of the renovation money that was put into the kitchen.  Mr. Dalessio advised that when this document is finalized it needs to be sent to Primex for their review.

Clarion AdvertisingMr. Dalessio spoke to Mr. Boas about the Clarion advertising.  Sarah will contact Mr. Boas upon his return.

North StreetMr. Dalessio mentioned that if they have a group of trees that need to be taken down in one day they will include the tree on North Road but they will not spend $900 for one tree at this time.

Leases and Contracts:  The Department Heads will be asked if they have leases and/or contracts.  Mr. Dalessio will bring this up at the next Staff Meeting.

Gazebo Repairs Mrs. Downing is still working on getting quotes; this is a small job therefore difficult to get quotes.  Keene Commerial Construction is going to submit a bid.

South Entrance Handicap Access Railing Repair:  Keene Commercial Construction will submit a bid to do the job.

Employee Policy Handbook Update: Mrs. Pschirrer has a draft of the Employee Policy Handbook. She will e-mail it to Mr. Dalessio and Mr. Aldrich after her meeting with the Personnel Committee on Tuesday.  Mr. Dalessio would like to run it by a labor attorney and Primex.

Town of Walpole DOT Drug Testing PolicyMrs. Pschirrer started to work on this Drug Testing Policy.  It has to be compatible with the Employee Policy Handbook.

Draft Pre-Deposit Procedure for Town Pool MoniesMrs. Downing will have the draft of the new procedure ready for the next meeting.

 

NEW BUSINESS:

Cemetery Deed, Lot #525 for Wesley J. Davey:  Mr. Aldrich moved to sign the Cemetery Deed for Lot #525 for Wesley J. Davey.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Cemetery Deed, Lot #540 for Jason S. Fitz:  Mr. Aldrich moved to sign the Cemetery Deed for Lot #540 for Jason S. Fitz.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Cemetery Deed, Lot #413 for Sally Kenyon Stevens: Mr. Aldrich moved to sign the Cemetery Deed for Lot #413 for Sally Kenyon Stevens.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Dalessio recommended they follow-up with Mr. Kreissle to be sure the money from the sale of these Cemetery Deeds goes into the Cemetery Trust as well as most recent deeds. 

Citizen Complaint #2016-19 from Bill Baldasaro – Re: Brush Trimming:  A copy of this Citizen Complaint was forwarded to Mr. Rau.  It is for brush trimming on North Main Street in North Walpole.

Citizen Complaint #2016-20 from Doris Goguen – Re: Brush Trimming:  A copy of this Citizen Complaint was forwarded to Mr. Rau.  It is for brush trimming where High Street meets School Street and at the top of Old North Main Street.

Drewsville CommonMr. Dalessio wants to bring the garbage on the Drewsville Common to Mr. Rau’s attention.  It should be done on a regular basis.  If liners were put in the barrels there is someone who volunteered to take it to the Recycling Center.

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 (e) Pending Claims or Litigation.  Mr. Aldrich seconded the motion and, on a roll call cote with all in favor, the motion was approved at 7:50 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 8:09 PM.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard session of July 14, 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.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 8:17 PM.

 

ADJOURNMENT:

Mr. Dalessio moved to adjourn this Selectboard meeting.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 8:18 PM.

 

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 6/23/16

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

JUNE 23, 2016

 

Selectboard Present:  Steven Dalessio (Chair); Peggy Pschirrer; Joseph 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 six people in attendance.

PUBLIC BUSINESS:

MEETING WITH MYRA MANSOURI:  Mrs. Myra Mansouri (Chair), Mrs. Jan Galloway-LeClerc and Mr. Robert Anderson were present from the ZBA.  Mrs. Mansouri explained that when the ZBA met on Wednesday and Mr. Dalessio asked the question about what the next step was in the process; he said they may appeal for a rehearing in 30 days and then it goes to the Selectboard.  However Mr. Dalessio then contacted Mr. Tom Crouse to correct his statement that Mr. Crouse’s next step would be to go to Superior Court.  Mr. Anderson received the following legal opinion from the New Hampshire Municipal Association: “When an applicant is aggrieved by a decision of the ZBA denying a variance, the applicant first files a motion for rehearing under RSA 677:2.  If the ZBA does not grant the rehearing, or rehears the case and again denies the variance, then the applicant may appeal to the Superior Court under RSA 677:4.  This is also described in detail in the OEP ZBA handbook.”  Mr. Dalessio pointed out that Mr. Crouse would have to come to the Selectboard office within 30 days to file his motion for a rehearing in writing.  He suggested that the ZBA send Mr. Crouse an email to advise that at the meeting they were not sure about the next step and outline the correct process.

Mr. Dalessio recommended that they do not destroy the recordings of meetings as, on occasion, attorneys want a transcript of the minutes.  Minutes summarize the meeting; it is not a word-by-word document.  Mrs. Pschirrer stressed that it is essential that they preserve recordings of their meetings.  Mrs. Mansouri will contact Mrs. Marilou Blaine to advise that recordings need to be preserved.  Mr. Dalessio mentioned the Selectboard will look into a PA system as sometimes the discussion on the recordings is difficult to hear especially comments from the audience.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Mr. Aldrich moved to accept the Accounts Payable check register in the amount of $46,506.55 for checks dated June 24, 2016.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

PAYROLL:

Mr. Aldrich moved to accept the Payroll voucher for the week ending June 18, 2016, in the amount of $21,821.19 for checks dated June 24, 2016.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Aldrich moved to accept the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA in the amount of $4,751.61 for the week ending June 18, 2016.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

TOWN OF WALPOLE STAFF MEETING – June 16, 2016:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the Town of Walpole Staff meeting of June 16, 2016, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.  

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – June 16, 2016:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of June 16, 2016, as submitted.  These Minutes will not 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 Planning Board – June 12, 2016;
  • Hooper Institute Committee – June 14, 2016.

BUILDING PERMIT:

CAILA PALMER, 290 Valley Road, Map & Lot #013-007-000:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve and sign Building Permit No. 2016-25 for Caila Palmer to “Construct a 104’l/6” x 28’ 10-1/4”, 1 Story Home” at 290 Valley Road, as submitted.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

PROPERTY TAX ABATEMENTS:

NH PUBLIC RADIO – Forms to Sign; Approved at April 27, 2016, Selectboard Meeting:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to sign the Property Tax Abatements for the NH Public Radio that were previously approved during the April 27, 2016, meeting.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Dalessio requested that Mrs. Downing research ownership of this tower.  Several documents identify different owners.  The Selectboard will then request a break-down of the companies transmitting from that tower for tax purposes.

OLD BUSINESS:

North Street Run-off Water Plan: Mrs. Pschirrer asked Mr. Rau to talk to them about a solution to do the ditching near the Caskin property, down North Street and that an estimate will be needed before proceeding.  Mr. Rau felt with the Highway Department doing the work and for the material it will cost approximately $3,500 to $5,000.  They will need a lot of seven-inch rock.  A culvert will be needed and the culvert across Colonial Road needs to be up-graded.  The engineer made a similar suggestion.  Mr. Rau proceeded to explain the water flow and diverting the water in that area to keep it channeled.  They will never solve all the drainage problems but try to avoid further damage.  Mr. Dalessio explained that if water from the Town road is damaging private property the Town can go in to make repairs with an agreement.  The other option is a Warrant Article to do the other side of North Road which would be much more expensive. Following their discussion there was a consensus of the Selectboard and Mr. Rau to contact Mr. Caskin to schedule a site walk of his property the week of July 4th.

Mr. Dalessio got a call from Sergeant Justin Sanctuary who wanted to thank Mr. Rau for paving Russell Street and the impound area.  Mr. Rau advised that they had enough mix left over to also do Cray Road, Brady Street, Capron Street and Oak Street, finished Burt Street and the cut where the wash-out was in North Walpole.

Pleasant Street Signage and Striping ProposalMrs. Pschirrer asked Mr. Rau about Pleasant Street and the striping project.  Mr. Rau replied that the water line project is complete.  The street will be paved and they will paint a white line on the north side of the street to show where the driving area is.  It will improve safety but will not be designated as a walking area.

 

Mr. Rau went to Colonial Drive to find a leaning tree; he found one but it would not endanger the road or traffic.  The Selectboard and Mr. Rau will look for the tree when they do the site walk in that area.

The Selectboard mentioned that the railing going into the Town Hall will be repaired soon by an independent contractor.  Mr. Rau reported that the Highway Department will do some trimming of bushes around the Town Hall.  They will not do any paving the week of July 4th but will start again the week of July 11th.

NON-PUBLIC SESSION:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to enter into a Non-Public 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 at 7:20 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:27 PM.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Session of June 23, 2016, be sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Dog Licensing Report – June 23, 2016Mrs. Downing reported that the Town Clerk’s office did an initial mailing to everyone on the Unlicensed Dog List.  Some people paid for the dog license; some advised that they no longer have the dogs.  Mrs. Downing was asked to get a copy of that letter for the Selectboard’s information.  What is the deadline, the penalty and fee?  The Selectboard felt that Mrs. Smith should proceed to handle this as she has in the past.

Gazebo Repairs: Mrs. Downing reported that one quote was received but she will seek one more quote.

Written Response to Police Station Safety AuditMr. Dalessio drafted the letter to respond to the Police Station Safety Audit.  He will have it ready for signatures next week.

New Hampshire RSA Books: Mrs. Downing advised that one set (31 volumes) of the RSA books is $676.00.  This includes updates.  The last set was purchased in 2006.  A CD is for only one user.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to buy one set of the RSA books (31 volumes) for $676.00 that includes updates.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.  Mr. Aldrich was opposed as the RSAs are available on-line.

Employee Policy Handbook UpdateMrs. Pschirrer and the committee continue to work on the Employee Policy Handbook Update.  Mr. Dalessio pointed out that nothing that goes on in that committee has been approved so they should not try to implement any of the revisions until the Selectboard has signed off in full or in part.  Mrs. Pschirrer noted that they have only implemented the 30 days probationary period instead of the one year probationary period.

Procedure Manual:  Copies of the Procedure Manual that Mrs. Clough created for Mrs. Downing were distributed to the Selectboard.

Town of Walpole non-DOT Testing PolicyMr. Dalessio read through the Non-DOT Testing Policy but it is confusing therefore the Selectboard will work on it over the next couple of months.  Mr. Dalessio would re-write it as the Town of Walpole Testing Policy rather than the Non-DOT Testing Policy.  The DOT and the Town should have one drug testing policy.  Mrs. Pschirrer will work on the re-write policy.  They should reference the DOT testing.

 

NEW BUSINESS:

ZBA, Oath of Office – Judy Trow: Mrs. Trow is filling the unexpired term of Mr. Ernie Vose on the ZBA until the next Town election on March 2017.  The Selectboard signed the appointment document for Mrs. Judy Trow.

ZBA, Oath of Appointment – Thomas Murray (Alternate):  Mr. Murray will be filling the unexpired term of Mrs. Trow as an alternate member on the ZBA from June 2016 to Town Meeting in March 2018.  The Selectboard signed the appointment document for Mr. Thomas Murray.

Thank You Letter from Southwestern Community Services:  The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of a Thank You letter from the Southwestern Community Services for the Town’s annual donation.

Invitation to Appreciation Mixer on July 13, 2016, Sponsored by Great Falls Regional Chamber of Commerce:  The Selectboard received an invitation to an Appreciation Mixer on July 13, 2016, from 5:30 to 7:00 PM at the Waypoint Center in Bellows Falls, VT.  This is sponsored by the Great Falls Regional Chamber of Commerce.

The Restaurant at Burdick’s Celebrations:  July 14 and September 30-October 1, 2016:  A letter was received from the Restaurant at Burdick’s to advise that they have celebrations that occur outside under a tent.  These celebrations often include outdoor music and other activities.  This year they are looking to host Bastille Day on July 14th and their Oktoberfest event on September 30th and October 1st.  Their activities are always contained to the tent located in front of the Restaurant entrance at Main Street.  In recognition of those that live close by they are looking to start these events no earlier than 11:30 am and will end no later than 9:00 pm.  They are requesting approval in writing from the Selectman to be able to serve alcohol (beer and wine) outside under the tent.  Mr. Dalessio mentioned that these are their annual events.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to permit the Restaurant at Burdick’s to hold their Bastille Day on July 14th and their Oktoberfest event on September 30th and October 1st, 2016, and that food, beer and wine may be served outside under the tent.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

South Entrance Handicap Access Railing Repair: Mrs. Downing will call a railing contractor to look at the handicap access railing at the south entrance to the Town Hall and obtain an estimate.

Computer SystemMr. Dalessio advised that battery back-ups for all the computers in the office and the Town Clerk’s office will be about $1,000.00.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve purchasing the back-up batteries for all of the computers in the offices.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Fire Department:  Mr. Dalessio pointed out that a letter was received from the Fire Department on the Abenaki Springs building.  There are some issues and concerns with the building.  This letter will be attached to the Building Permit.

Personnel Forms:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Selectboard accept and sign the Personnel forms for one police officer and for all the summer students that have been hired to work at the Hooper Institute and Town pool.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved. 

Salary Review StudyMr. Dalessio noted that at the beginning of the budget season they committed to do a salary review study.  He talked to two companies that will do it for us but they want copies of the job descriptions for all the departments.  He would not include the Directors at this time as they will be separate; they will start with the hourly employees.  Mrs. Pschirrer told the Directors that they need a job description for each employee because they will not be able to do Performance Reviews with one.  Mr. Dalessio said if they do not get this information in by the end of July the study will not be done this year.  When the Selectboard get closer to being ready, the chosen company will come in and do a presentation but the background work needs to be done first.

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 8:00 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 8:25 PM.

ADJOURNMENT:  Mr. Aldrich moved to adjourn this meeting.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 8: 26 PM.

 

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

 

Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 6/30/16

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

JUNE 30, 2016

 

Selectboard Present:  Steven Dalessio (Chair); Peggy Pschirrer; Joseph 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 two people in attendance.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Mr. Aldrich moved to accept the Accounts Payable check register in the amount of $219,025.56 for checks dated July 1, 2016.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

PAYROLL:

Mr. Aldrich moved to accept the Payroll voucher for the week ending June 25, 2016, in the amount of $25,834.26 for checks dated July 1, 2016.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Aldrich moved to accept the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $5,476.75 for the week ending June 25, 2016.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – June 16, 2016:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of June 16, 2016, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING – June 23, 2016:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of June 23, 2016, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – June 23, 2016:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of June 23, 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 Zoning Board of Adjustment – June 16, 2016;
  • Walpole Planning Board Workshop – June 28, 2016.

BUILDING PERMIT:

PUTNAM FAMILY REVOCABLE TRUST, 768 Valley Road, Map & Lot #011-043-004:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve Building Permit No. 2016-26 for the Putnam Family Revocable Trust / Bruce A. & Tammie F. Putnam to “Demolish an existing 12’ x 8’ Sugarhouse and construct a new 14’ x 32’ 1 story Sugarhouse with storage loft in back half”, as submitted.  This Building Permit replaces No. 2016-10.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

 

ABATEMENT – Property:

78 WHITCOMB ROAD, LLC, PO Box 276, Map & Lot #025-009-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Notice of Property Tax Abatement for 78 Whitcomb Road, LLC in the amount of $109.40.  This is to abate interest on 2015 taxes.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

TIMBER TAX WARRANTS and YIELD TAXES ASSESSED:

WALPOLE D and D, 97 Reservoir Road, Map & Lot #008-015-009:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Original Warrant for Timber Tax Levy and Certification of Yield Taxes Assessed for Walpole D and D, Inc. in the amount of $34.21.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

WALPOLE D and D, 97 Reservoir Road, Map & Lot #008-015-001:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Original Warrant for Timber Tax Levy and Certification of Yield Taxes Assessed for Walpole D and D, Inc. in the amount of $329.64.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

BERNARD SHERWIN, 220 County Road, Map & Lot #008-042-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Original Warrant for Timber Tax Levy and Certification of Yield Taxes Assessed for Bernard Sherwin in the amount of $620.83. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

ORIGINAL WARRANT TIMBER TAX LEVY:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Original Warrant Timber Tax Levy in the total amount of $984.68 for the following:

  • Walpole D and D, Map & Lot #008-015-009;
  • Walpole D and D, Map & Lot #008-015-001;
  • Bernard Sherwin, Map & Lot #008-042-000;

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

OLD BUSINESS:

Written Response to Police Station Safety Audit:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve and sign the letter to the State of New Hampshire, Department of Labor, with reference to FID #20358779, written June 30, 2016, pointing out that the Town has corrected all the violations that Inspector Perry found at the Police Station.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Pleasant Street Signage and StripingMr. Neary was unable to attend this meeting but will be back next week.  Mrs. Pschirrer felt it was clear to Mr. Rau that the Town will add striping at the edge of the road but there will be no sidewalk on Pleasant Street.

Gazebo Repairs: Mrs. Downing is in the process of waiting for other quotes for repairs to the Gazebo.  The Selectboard discussed additional damage that occurred from a recent rental.  They did not have permission to take a section down or put steps in.  Their deposit will not be returned.

Mr. Dalessio moved to increase the deposit for rentals of the Town Hall and Gazebo from $50.00 to $200.00.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

The Selectboard discussed adding a $50.00 surcharge for use of the kitchen to recover some of the renovation costs however no decision was made at this time.

Town Hall Kitchen:  Mrs. Pschirrer advised that Mrs. Andrea Goins emailed her to report that the Women of Walpole would like to contribute $400.00 toward the purchase of two home-type (not commercial) micro-waves.  They would buy them and bring them to the Town Hall if the Selectboard would approve this.

Mr. Dalessio moved to approve having the Women of Walpole buy two micro-waves for the Town Hall kitchen.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Dalessio mentioned that they have to ask Mr. Mark Houghton about the purchase of a commercial dishwasher for the kitchen as the funds need to be spent this year.

South Entrance Handicap Access Railing Repair: The Selectboard is waiting for quotes for the repairs to the railing.

Employee Policy Handbook Update:  Mrs. Pschirrer continues to work on this project.

Town of Walpole non-DOT Drug Testing Policy: Mr. Dalessio is working on a Drug Testing policy.

North Road:  The Selectboard scheduled a site walk with Mr. Caskins on North Road for Wednesday, July 6th at 4:30 PM.

NEW BUSINESS:

Credit Cards Accounts Administrator Letter: Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve and sign the letter that the Selectboard makes Mr. Rich W. Kreissle the administrator for the Town’s credit cards held by the Department Directors.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Cemetery Deed, Lot D515 for Keith Sanctuary:  Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Cemetery Deed for Lot D515 for Keith Sanctuary.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Cemetery Deed, Lot D443 for William and Myong-Hee Skofield: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Cemetery Deed for Lot D443 for William and Myong-Hee Skofield.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

2016 Forest Fire Warden Deputy / Reappointments:  Mr. Dalessio moved to re-appoint Mr. William E. Houghton as the Forest Fire Warden and to re-appoint the following Deputy Forest Fire Wardens:  Harry Boynton, Michael Flynn, Arthur (Jay) French III, Steven Grenier, Edward C. Hasselman, Mark E. Houghton, and Richard Hurlburt plus the appointment of William Crawford.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Boston Post Cane – New Recipient:  The Selectboard talked about running an ad in the Clarion and Walpolean to advise that they are looking for the oldest Walpole resident.  This resident will be the new recipient of the Boston Post Cane. If interested, contact the Selectboard office with your name and date of birth.  The ad will also include a note asking if anyone’s relative had been the recipient in the past that they notify the Selectboard office.  The Selectboard would like to have a plaque in the Town Hall with their names on it.

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, (b) Hiring and (e) Pending Claims or Litigation.  Mr. Aldrich seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote by all in favor, the motion was approved at 7:06 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:14 PM.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of June 30, 2016, will be sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:

Mrs. Pschirrer 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 7:30 PM.

OTHER BUSINESS:

Vilas Bridge and the Town of Walpole Wastewater Mr. Dalessio would say there is no immediate concern on the part of the Selectboard that our wastewater will stop flowing across the Vilas Bridge but the Selectboard does think it is prudent that they take steps to move the wastewater lines from going across the Vilas Bridge.  The Selectboard will look for alternatives.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to request that Mr. Mark Houghton begin preliminary engineering on connecting South Walpole Force Main to North Walpole Collection System.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

ADJOURNMENT:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to adjourn this meeting.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 7:34 PM.

 

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 6/16/16

When I received these minutes they came with this explanation from Sarah Downing, “Due to a computer malfunction, we only have the first set of minutes for June 16th. Initially, these were non-public minutes to be sealed. However, after review at last week’s meeting, it was deemed that these shall be public minutes.”  The hope is that Elaine Heleen’s computer gets fixed soon so we will have the remining minutes from the 16th. – Lil 

TOWN OF WALPOLE

PUBLIC SELECTBOARD MINUTES

June 16, 2016

 

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

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION:

Mr. Dalessio moved to enter into a Non-Public Selectboard Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (j) Consideration of Financial Information at 6:34pm.  Mr. Aldrich seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with all in favor, the motion was approved.

Thomas Goins gives the Town Treasurer’s Update.

  • Cash transactions in the general fund are filed in a binder matching cash deposits and cash disbursements to original source documents thereby satisfying compliance issues.
  • From the binder, it is easy to reconcile SBW bank statements on a monthly basis. The Treasure then reports to the Finance Director to support his reconciliation of the cash account in the general ledger.
  • The Treasurer and Finance Clerk are working toward balancing out the cash flow.
  • Vauchon & Clukey, a new auditing group was hired with a discount of $1,600.
  • The Treasurer has 3 goals:
    • Compliance
    • Collateralize the General Fund
    • Finalize the Walpole Investment Policy
  • Goins attended the NH Government Finance Officers Association annual meeting on May 5-6th.
  • The Treasurer met with JoAnn Klatskin, representative of PFM Asset Management, LLC on 6/10/16. She is an administrator for the NH Public Deposit Investment Pool (PDIP). This investment pool has much better rates of returns as compared with banking options. More discussion will come in the future.
  • The Treasurer’s Bond is covered by Primex and so Indemnification is in compliance.
  • The Treasurer would like to provide a quarterly report and asks the SelectBoard to give input to what they would like to see on that report.
  • It is agreed that the time is not yet right for Procurement Cards
  • A draft of the Investment Policy was given to the SelectBoard members for review.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to adjourn this session.  Mr. Aldrich seconded, and the motion passed with all in favor at 7:16 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Elaine Heleen, Acting Recording Secretary

 

Selectboard Meetin Minutes – 6/2/16

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

JUNE 2, 2016

 

Selectboard Present:  Steven Dalessio (Chair); Peggy Pschirrer, Joseph 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 seven people in attendance.

 

BUILDING PERMIT:

HUGH and STEPHANIE MONTGOMERY, 153 Ramsey Hill Road, Map & Lot #010-038-001:  Mrs. Montgomery was present to respond to any concerns the Selectboard might have as this was put on-hold during their last meeting.  There was a question as to the location of the shed and their Current Use land.

Mr. Aldrich moved to approve and sign Building Permit #2016-23 for Hugh and Stephanie Montgomery to “Construct a 18’ x 14’ garden shed”, as submitted.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

 

PUBLIC BUSINESS:

OLD KEENE ROAD INTERNET SERVICE:  Mr. Paul Looney was present to advise that where he lives he does not get any wireless service and very little internet and cable service.  He distributed copies of a “Realtor Mag, Study: Speedy Internet Boosts Home Values” and provided explanations for the various sections he had tagged.  It states that Broadband has become a home shopper’s must have.  In fact, the speed of internet service is even having an influence on American’s biggest purchase – Their Homes. President Obama has a Federal Communications Commission to give more subsidies to the same big companies that have largely failed to invest in the networks we need.  Unfortunately a lot of this funding is not going to rural areas but rather things like increasing DSL service.  Affordable, reliable access to high speed broadband is critical for U.S. economic growth and competitiveness.  Mr. Looney has to use a dish for TV; a lot of people are now using their internet for TV service.  Some communities in this area have taken advantage of super-fast fiber-optic internet.  New Hampshire Fast Roads’ mission is to extend powerful broadband to the rural communities of western New Hampshire.  It is all around us but does not go through us.  It is expensive; about $40,000.00/mile.

Mr. Dalessio suggested that he might want to contact the County Commissioners.  Quite a while ago Mr. Jack Pratt (former Commissioner) came into a Selectboard meeting to advise that they were working to bring it through the Route 12 corridor; looping it around Walpole and going back toward Surry, etc.  Mr. Peter Graves is now Walpole’s representative to the County Commissioners.  The handout included a copy of a letter from Carol Miller, Director of Broadband Technology in Concord, NH, who provided Mr. Looney with a copy of a one-page Walpole Cable Franchise Agreement (Comcast) that the Town of Walpole Selectboard signed with Blodgett Appliance Co., Inc. of Alstead, NH, to bring a television signal to the inhabitants of the North Walpole Village Corporation, dated September 8, 1953.  At that time the only service provided was TV.  Mr. Looney asked the Selectboard to research this agreement to see if the citizens of Walpole are being serviced by this.  Mr. Dalessio noted that it was the North Walpole Village Corporation.  Mr. Looney feels that if Walpole is going to keep up with changes they need to study some of this.  He would be willing to reach out to businesses and other people in the community to do a study to look at their options.  He will reach out to Carol Miller to ask if she would come to a future meeting.  Mr. Dalessio advised that the Selectboard would welcome and support his assistance to chair a committee or group to look at it as they are interested in exploring options.  He suggested that Mr. Looney contact the Southwest Regional Planning Commission.

 

PLEASANT STREET ROAD AND SIDEWALKMr. and Mrs. Jack Neary were present.  Mr. Neary explained that they were unable to attend the neighborhood meeting last week due to a family medical emergency.  He thought he had the Selectboard ready to agree on the necessity of a sidewalk for safety reasons but it appears that has now changed.  He feels there is room for a two-foot black-top sidewalk on the north side of the street.  His proposal is to put it on the opposite side of the street where people rarely park.  He is proposing it start where the cement sidewalk stops right now; give them a safety zone.  Mrs. Pschirrer pointed out that his neighbors were quite unanimous in that they wanted the sidewalk removed; they wanted parking and they did not want or need a sidewalk.  Mr. Dalessio pointed out that one of the problems with putting in the sidewalk is that they could not put in a two-foot sidewalk as they have to be done according to current DOT standards.  Mr. Neary requested that this situation be re-opened.  Mrs. Pschirrer reported that in addition to the workmen who answered numerous questions there were 13 residents in attendance at that meeting; only two families were not present (one of which was Mr. and Mrs. Neary).  She quizzed people thoroughly about the sidewalk and they were unanimous about not wanting one.  Mr. Neary noted that it is his right to have services on the street.  Mrs. Pschirrer replied that majority rules; one person cannot make a decision for the neighborhood.  Mr. Neary referenced the Warrant Article of 2008.  Mr. Dalessio pointed out that the decision to not put the sidewalk in was made after the meeting with the neighborhood folks.  Mrs. Pschirrer mentioned that there is no money in the budget for a sidewalk and she suggested that he put together a Petition for a sidewalk and have it signed by the property owners on the street.  Mr. Dalessio suggested he coordinate a meeting with all his neighbors and if there is a new consensus that goes beyond the previous official meeting the Selectboard will entertain it.  Mr. Neary asked for another meeting rather than the Selectboard stating this matter is closed.  The Selectboard agreed that another meeting will have the same results.  Mr. Dalessio said these neighbors want the sidewalk taken out to give them more space to park their vehicles.  Mr. Neary pointed out that they just came in to ask for another meeting but that was denied.  He will now consult with an attorney.

 

NORTH STREET RUN-OFF WATER PLANMr. Wayne Wallace asked if the Selectboard had received any options to resolve the run-off water problems on North Street.  Mrs. Pschirrer replied that they had received a report with three options from Mr. Fellows.  She outlined these options.  The most expensive one would probably require a Warrant Article in 2017 that would be voted on by the Town.  It would require an engineer’s study, more detail and estimates to do the project.  Mr. Wallace’s main concern is that the water coming off his property is damaging the property below him.  The Town should handle their own water.  Mr. Dalessio explained that they are looking at ways to handle the Town’s water problem on North Road.  The Selectboard advised that the Town is not allowed to do work on private property.  Mrs. Pschirrer mentioned they are looking at solutions and have more homework to do.  Mr. Wallace was given a copy of Mr. Fellows’ report. Mr. Dalessio feels there are a few things they could look at to try to reduce the water pressure situation a little.

 

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Mr. Aldrich moved to accept the Accounts Payable Check Register in the amount of $24,570.92 for checks dated June 3, 2016.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

 

PAYROLL:

Mr. Aldrich moved to accept the Payroll voucher for the week ending May 28, 2016, in the amount of $21,854.89 for checks dated June 3, 2016.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

 

Mr. Aldrich moved to accept the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $4,634.15 for the week ending May 28, 2016.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

 

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – May 5, 2016:  Mrs. Pschirrer pointed out that the Selectboard had previously approved the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of May 5, 2016, but then it was pointed out to them that there was an error pertaining to their conversation about ADUs.  On page 3, the last sentence should read:  “The Selectboard feels that the Zoning Board and Planning Board needs to address this as a community; they should not stay with a common foundation” instead of “they should stay with a common foundation”.  The Minutes will reflect this change.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that Mr. Dalessio post a notice in the Walpolean as follows:  “The Selectboard fully endorses the concept of detached auxiliary dwelling units and encourages the implementation of Section X of Senate Bill 146 which allows a town to set their own standards for detached dwelling units by both Zoning and Planning”.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

 

SELECTBOARD MEETING – May 26, 2016:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of May 26, 2016, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

 

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – May 26, 2016:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of May 26, 2016.  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:

  • Cold River Advisory Committee Meeting – April 28, 2016;
  • Walpole Conservation Commission Meeting – May 2, 2016.

 

NOTICE OF INTENT TO CUT WOOD OR TIMBER:

WOOD, Rick and Beverly, 5 Woodland Road, Map & Lot #011-031-000: Mr. Aldrich moved to sign the Notice of Intent to Cut Wood or Timber for Ricky and Beryl Wood off Walpole Valley Road, as submitted.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

 

OLD BUSINESS:

Primex Schedule of Exposures SummaryMrs. Downing reported that this is coming together.  Mr. Dalessio recommended that they give the Department Heads until Tuesday and then they will send the summary back to Primex as is.  They can make changes during the course of the year.  An up-date will be done every year.  On July 1st the Walpole Fire Department will no longer be covered under the Town’s insurance policy for Workers Compensation.  The North Walpole Village District will no longer be covered under the Town’s policy for Property Liability and Workers Compensation insurance coverage.  Primex has submitted insurance packages to both the Walpole Fire Department and the North Walpole Village District.  This change is because they both have different EIN numbers; they are different entities.   At the end of June 2016 Mrs. Downing will request that PLT run a report on what claims are still open for their files.

 

Hazard Waste and Drinking Water Informational MailingMrs. Downing will contact Five (5) Maples about a cost to do the bulk mailing.

Employee Policy Handbook Update:  Mrs. Pschirrer continues to work on this update.

Grant Curbing Gift: Mr. Dalessio left a message for Mr. Boas to return his call to talk about this but he has not yet done so.

 

NEW BUSINESS:

Thank You Letter from The Community Kitchen, Inc.:  The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of the Thank You letter from The Community Kitchen, Inc. for their gift of $1,000.00.  In their letter they advised that 1,007 residents from Walpole were provided meals and food boxes during the past year.

Thank You Letter from The American Red Cross of NH and VT Region:  The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of the Thank You letter from the American Red Cross of NH and VT Region for the Town’s gift of $2,300.00.

Complete Streets Policy Development Workshop:  A notice was received from the Southwest Regional Planning Commission that there will be a Complete Streets Policy Development Workshop.  Most of this will apply to City of Keene streets.  The Selectboard do not plan to attend.

Native American Clean-up Debriefing Meeting:  Mr. Dalessio cannot attend the clean-up debriefing meeting but Mr. Aldrich will attend.

APC Unit Quote for Tax Collector and Town Clerk’s OfficeMr. Dalessio reported that the computer battery died in the TC/TX’s office.  He called True North to get it straightened out.  They sent a quote for back-up batteries for all the PCs; it is about $400.00.  The biggest piece is that the back-up on the server is not adequate for the new server so he is looking at options; the cost is about $480.00.  By the next meeting he will have all the details worked out.  The total package should be less than $1,000.00.

Non-DOT Drug PolicyMrs. Downing explained that this was a part of the Youth check-list.  Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio wanted more time to review it.

 

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 (c) Reputations.  Mr. Aldrich seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with all in favor, the motion was approved at 7:45 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 8:20 PM.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of June 2, 2016, be sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

 

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:

Mrs. Pschirrer 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 8:38 PM.

 

OTHER BUSINESS:

GazeboMr. Phelps will be asked if he could do the repairs to the Gazebo.

Highway Department Mrs. Pschirrer met with the Road Agent today to discuss lights.  He is calling the utility company today.  She asked Mr. Rau to specifically mention the Russell Street lights.  Mrs. Pschirrer also talked to him about a crosswalk by the Drewsville Store but it is on a State road.  The process is that the Selectboard would have to approve it and Petition the State.  Brenda Damaziak at the store would like a crosswalk from the Village Common to the store; the school bus stops on the Common side so she would like the youth to have a safe passage across the road.  It is a dangerous intersection.  Mr. Dalessio noted that Mrs. Damaziak is also having a problem now that the gas pumps have been removed.  Vehicles coming around the corner are cutting the corner short and going across her property.  She is thinking about putting whiskey barrels with flowers out to slow down the traffic.  Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Rau also talked about equipment.  He is going to buy a sprayer when he can; it is less than $4,000.00.  They are also looking for a new mower; right now they are using a homeowner mower.  It was noted that each year for two weeks we rent a roadside mower at a cost of $20,000.00/year.

Selectboard OfficeMr. Dalessio asked Mr. Kreissle to add a monthly report for Income.  He will look at adding that.  They will then have a good financial report each month.

Walpole Leadership Academy:  Mr. Dalessio mentioned that the Walpole Leadership Academy students will be attending the Selectboard meeting next week on Wednesday, June 8th at 6:00 PM.  The Selectboard will talk about their jobs and what they do.

DARE ProgramMr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer will be attending the DARE Program on June 7th at 11:30 AM.  .

Safety Committee MeetingMr. Dalessio pointed out that they need to schedule a Safety Committee meeting.

Staff Meeting:  The next Staff meeting is scheduled for Thursday, June 16th at 5:00 PM.

 

ADJOURNMENT:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to adjourn this meeting.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 8:50 PM.

 

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

Selectboard Meeting Minutes Session #2 – 6/8/16

Sarah Downing forwarded these additional minutes that were no longer being considered sealed minutes. – Lil

 

TOWN OF WALPOLE

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION #2

JUNE 8, 2016

 

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

Call To Order:  Mr. Dalessio called this Non-Public Selectboard Session to order at 8:10 PM.

Reputations:  The Selectboard had received copies of the Engineer’s report on the Vilas Bridge that was done in March 2016.  Mrs. Downing was asked to send a copy to Ms. Cheryl Mayberry.  After Mr. Dalessio read the report he talked to Mr. Mark Houghton about it as he had concerns.  He asked Mr. Houghton if he felt the Town of Rockingham Selectboard and Village of Bellows Falls Trustees would panic after they read the report and Mr. Houghton said he did too.  The bridge is deteriorating a lot faster than they anticipated.  Mr. Houghton is reviewing the emergency plan.  If something would happen they would immediately shut down the sewer flow and transport with trucks to Bellows Falls and/or the second plan is to trench to Green Street where there is a manhole they could connect to and it would go across the Arch Bridge.  He will contact the DES and keep the Selectboard informed.  FairPoint also has cables underneath the bridge.  Mr. Dalessio does not feel they will see much activity on their agreement in the near future.  They do not plan on attending the Rockingham/Bellows Falls Joint Meeting on June 14, 2016.

The Zoning Board of Adjustment will be meeting on Wednesday, June 15th.  The Walpole Leadership Academy students will be attending this meeting.  Mr. Dalessio will email the Fink letter to Mrs. Pschirrer for delivery to Mrs. Mansouri.

Adjournment:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to adjourn this Non-Public Selectboard Session. Mr. Aldrich seconded the motion, on a roll call vote with all in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 8:20 PM.

 

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 6/8/16

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

JUNE 8, 2016

 

Selectboard Present:     Steven Dalessio (Chair); Peggy Pschirrer; Joseph 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 sixteen people in attendance.

Mr. Dalessio advised that the Selectboard will provide explanations of the various Agenda items, as they are presented, for the Walpole Leadership Academy students.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE: 

Mr. Aldrich moved to accept the Accounts Payable check register in the amount of $305,915.16 for checks dated June 10, 2016.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Aldrich advised that this includes two distributions to the Walpole Fire District in the amounts of $100,000.00 and $175,000.00.

PAYROLL:

Mr. Aldrich moved to accept the Payroll voucher for the week ending June 4, 2016, in the amount of $22,138.11 for checks dated June 10, 2016.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Aldrich moved to accept the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $4,932.99 for the week ending June 4, 2016.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – June 2, 2016:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of June 2, 2016, as presented.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – June 2, 2016:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of June 2, 2016, as presented.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

BUILDING PERMITS:

JAMES and KATHLEEN WHITON, 100 March Hill Road, Map & Lot #009-012-002-3:  Mr. Aldrich moved to grant Building Permit No. 2016-24 for James and Kathleen Whiton to “Construct a 24’ x 24’ Garage”, as submitted.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

ABATEMENTS and REFUNDS – Property:

SICHLING, 30 Cray Road, North Walpole, Map & Lot #028-124-001:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve and sign the Notice of Property Tax Abatement Refund in the amount of $1,504.00 for Laura Sichling.  This was billed in error.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SUPPLEMENTAL TAX WARRANT: 

JOANNE L. GAY, 2011 Living Trust, North Walpole, Map & Lot #028-124-001:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve and sign the Supplemental Tax Warrant, Tax Year 2016 1st Issue, Town of Walpole, State of New Hampshire, for Gay 2011 Trustee, Joanne L. Gay, Trustee in the amount of $1,504.00.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS:

Hooper Institute Youth Employee Job DescriptionsMr. Dalessio noted that the State is watching towns carefully.  Last year we did not have job descriptions for all the youth.  They do a lot of different jobs and are Town employees but their salaries are reimbursed from the Hooper Trust.  Mrs. Eloise Clark provided the job descriptions; copies went to the mentors so they know what the youth can and cannot do.

Mr. Aldrich moved to accept the job descriptions for the Hooper Institute Youth. Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Hazard Waste and Drinking Water – Informational MailingMrs. Downing is waiting for a quote for doing the mailing.  Mr. Dalessio advised that the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services requires that the Town send out a notice to all of the people on the water system about the Hazard Waste and Drinking Water.  It gives helpful tips on protecting the water.

Employee Policy Handbook Update: Mrs. Pschirrer mentioned that they have a meeting coming up on June 14th at 8:30 AM.  Mr. Dalessio said this is a large project as the Employee Policy Handbook had not been up-dated in a number of years.  When it was written the last time not all the Department Directors were invited to participate.

Grant Curbing GiftMr. Dalessio pointed out that they are still looking into this.  The gift was for materials to extend the granite from the church to the Boas driveway but the job itself is expensive for the installation.  The person knows we may give the gift back.  The Selectboard will take one more look at the project to see if they can find someone to do it.  Restoring the landscaping is expensive.

Town of Walpole Non-DOT Drug Testing Policy: The Selectboard has not yet looked thoroughly at this.  This policy turned up but they had not seen it before.

Gazebo Repairs: Mrs. Downing reported that Mr. Phelps will create a quote this week.  A donation for a maintenance fund had been given to the Town to make repairs.  Mr. Dalessio mentioned that the flags are getting torn up so they should be replaced.

NEW BUSINESS:

Oath of Office – Dean Wright, Full-time Police OfficerMr. Dalessio announced that it is a pleasure to let people know that we have hired Dean Wright as a full-time Police Officer.  He had been working part-time for the department for some time and is certified.  Officer Noah Sanctuary who had been with the department for about three years has resigned and is working for the State Police.  We are not increasing the staff.   It costs about $9,000.00 to get an officer certified therefore it is a benefit to the Town if the officer is certified.

Mr. Aldrich moved to sign the Oath Of Office for Dean Wright.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Garland Lumber Co. – Contract Extension:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve and sign the Timber Sale Agreement Extension between the Town of Walpole and Garland Lumber Co., Inc. pertaining to the sale of stumpage from the Walpole Watershed Town Forest; it was entered into on November 2014 and is extended to expire on March 31, 2017.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Responding to a question Mr. Aldrich advised that they started this harvest last year but could not complete it because the ground thawed sooner than anticipated.  This extends the agreement by one year.

Town of Walpole Facebook PageMr. Aldrich talked about creating a Facebook page.  He feels there are three levels:  1) Have it operate as a bulletin board; 2) Have it for private messages; and 3) Comments are allowed.  He asked for opinions on how they would like to see it.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked how it would be an advantage because we have a web-site.  Mr. Aldrich feels a Facebook page would be easier to maintain; it is a place to communicate.  He wanted to have the discussion.  A student felt it is okay to post controversial items but not offensive ones. Mrs. Pschirrer has reservations about doing it at all.  She would rather focus on our web-site.  Mr. Dalessio is the operator of the web-site but it is a great opportunity for somebody to volunteer to take it over.  It is easy to maintain.  Following the discussion Mr. Dalessio suggested that they hold-off on the Facebook page for now.  The concern is that there will be too many places where there is information and it all has to be maintained.  It might be a good place for the Leadership Academy to test it and see what they can do with it.

Citizen’s Report Form – Town Clerk/Tax Collector Hour Information: Mr. Dalessio noted that another thing the Selectboard instituted about a year ago was a Citizen’s Report Form.  If someone calls in or comes to the window and is not happy about something their report will go on one of these forms.  It allows the Selectboard to track the issue through its process.  Each month they look through the binder to see what the status is until it is resolved.

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:

Mrs. Pschirrer 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 7:15 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:23 PM.

 

OLD BUSINSS (Continued):

JACK and NANCY NEARYMr. and Mrs. Jack Neary submitted a proposal to the Selectboard for their consideration as a safer alternative on Pleasant Street.  Mr. Dalessio explained that the Town is working on Pleasant Street to replace the old water main; it will then be re-paved.  The sidewalks on the south side of the street were in deplorable condition.  The question came up as to what to do with the sidewalks.  A meeting was held on the street with all the neighbors, unfortunately Mr. and Mrs. Neary could not be there due to a medical emergency, and a decision was made to take out the sidewalks and widen the street.  Mr. and Mrs. Neary would like to see the sidewalks restored but it is not in the picture at the moment therefore Mr. Neary is proposing that they put a “No Parking” sign on the north side so vehicles do not park on both sides of the street.  There should be some striping of lines marking a walking area adjacent to the lawn on the north side.  Mr. Dalessio feels they should discuss this proposal with Mr. Mike Rau, Road Agent, and Police Chief Paquette.  They will get back to Mr. and Mrs. Neary as it appears to be a good idea.

Mr. Dalessio advised that this concludes the Public meeting.  The time was 7:39 PM.  He looks forward to seeing the Walpole Leadership Academy students at the Planning Board meeting on June 14, 2016.

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 (c) Reputations.  Mr. Aldrich 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 7:62 PM.

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

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:

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

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 8:08 PM.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD MEETING #2:

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

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 8:21 PM.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session #2 of June 8, 2016, be sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

ADJOURNMENT:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to adjourn this meeting.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 8:22 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary