The Walpolean

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

OCTOBER 15, 2015

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

CALL TO ORDER:  Mr. Dalessio called this Selectboard meeting to order at 6:15 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.  He advised that this meeting is being recorded and asked anyone wishing to speak to identify themselves for the record.  There were five people present in the audience.

PUBLIC BUSINESS:

Building Permit:

Avanru Development, Main Street, Map & Lot #012-013-004: Mr. Dalessio explained that this Building Permit is being modified to show that the up to 67 multi-family housing approved by the Planning Board November 13, 2012 will be built in phases with the first phase being 1 to 21.  Mr. Franks had submitted the set of plans as requested at the last meeting.  When Mr. Franks is ready to start to build 22 to 67 units he will have to come back in for another modification.  Mr. Franks asked if this will be vested for one year.  Mr. Dalessio confirmed that it would go back to the original date this Building Permit was issued therefore he needs to come back in on-or-before April 1^st, 2016.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Permit for Building: 2015-43 modified, 2015-07 – 2014-10A Renewal for the Avanru Development Group, Ltd.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register and manifest in the amount of $88,294.91 for checks dated October 16, 2015.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

PAYROLL:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved  to approve the Payroll voucher for the week ending October 10, 2015, in the amount of $18,886.11 for checks dated October 16, 2015.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $4,067.96 for the week ending October 10, 2015.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – October 8, 2015:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of October 8, 2015, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Minutes were approved.  Mr. Aldrich abstained as he was late coming into the meeting.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – October 8, 2015:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard session of October 8, 2015, 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 –

September 29, October 6, and October 13, 2015;

• Hooper Institute Committee – October 13, 2015; and
• Cold River Local Advisory Committee – August 27, 2015.

The North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners meeting minutes dated October 13, 2015, mentioned that they signed and FAXed the MS535 report to the Department of Revenue Administration (DRA).  Mr. Dalessio mentioned that this was holding up the calculation for the tax rate.

OLD BUSINESS:

Letter From The Keene Sentinel: Delivery of ELF Magazine Within The Town of Walpole:  The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of a letter from the Keene Sentinel, dated October 7, 2015, regarding delivery of the ELF Magazine in the Town of Walpole.  It states that “The Sentinel respects the concerns that were expressed by the residents and have since taken the measures necessary to move the weekly delivery of the publication to utilizing the United States Postal Service”.  Mrs. Pschirrer will draft a response letter.

Food Shelf Advisory Board Meeting: Mrs. Pschirrer has not yet talked to Mr. Montgomery regarding this meeting.

New Hampshire Retirement Audit:  Mrs. Clough has one more thing she will finish tomorrow.  Mr. Kreissle expects they will have it ready next week.

2014 Financial Audit:  Mrs. Clough said Attorney Hockensmith will send the letter requested directly to the auditors.  The Selectboard would like a copy of the letter for the files.  Mrs. Clough left a message for Mr. Kreissle to check with Mr. Greene, auditor, to see if he received the letter.

Letter From Jean Robinson: Sidewalk On West Side of Elm Street:  Mrs. Pschirrer reported that Mr. Symonds from the Highway Department worked on the sidewalk last week; the work has been done.  Mr. Symonds also spoke to Ms. Robinson personally.  Mrs. Clough noted that Ms. Jill Robinson came to the window today and she was pleased with the job that was done on the sidewalk.

Letter to Mr. Lafayette:  Mrs. Pschirrer advised that on September 24^th, 2015, a letter was written to Mr. Lafayette requesting that he dispose of the collection of old appliances such as washing machines, etc. that are accumulating on his property.  He was given a 30-day window to clean it up.  She had a report that his pile is growing.  A follow-up letter will be prepared for the next meeting by Mrs. Pschirrer in the event the situation has not been resolved.

Southwest Region Planning Commission’s Fall Meeting Invitation:  Mr. Aldrich plans to attend this Southwest Region Planning Commission’s Fall Meeting on October 20^th, 2015.

NEW BUSINESS:

Public Hearing Notice: Designating Emergency Lanes:  Mrs. Pschirrer prepared a draft notice of a Public Hearing on the Emergency Lanes.  The three lanes are: Derry Hill Road, Ethan Lane and at the end of Reservoir Road to the access of the Hooper shelter.  She suggested talking to the Conservation Commission and their committee to see if they want anything else included.  Mr. Dalessio recommended that the Public Hearing be set for December 3^rd, 2015, at 5:30 PM.  This is just before their regular meeting on that date.

UNH Cooperative Extension Workshop on Forestry Laws For Municipal Officials:  Mrs. Clough had requested permission to attend this Workshop however they are in Auburn and in Lancaster on November 9^th and 10^th, 2015.   She is going to find out when one will be scheduled closer to Walpole.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to give Mrs. Clough permission to attend one of the UNH Cooperative Extension Workshops on Forestry Laws For Municipal Officials scheduled on November 9^th and 10^th, 2015.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.     

Liberty Utilities Pole License Agreement:  Mr. Terrell had approved and initialed this Liberty Utilities Pole License Agreement request prior to his resigning.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to sign the Pole License as requested.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Cheshire County Commissioners Office Press Release:  The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of the press release that the Cheshire County Commissioners re-financed the prison and saved approximately $1,400,000.00.

Cheshire County Conservation District Annual Meeting Invitation: The Selectboard received an invitation to attend the 70^th Annual Meeting of the Cheshire County Commissioners on November 5^th, 2015.

Planning Board Public Hearing:  Mr. Phil Carroll had brought in information relating to the Ruggiero Facility Public Hearing by the Planning Board.  The Selectboard will pass this information over to Mr. Jeff Miller, Chair of the Planning Board, and Mrs. Myra Mansouri, Chair of the Zoning Board of Adjustment.  Mr. Dalessio will email Mr. Jeff Miller to let him know the Selectboard has concerns about the timing issue because the Planning Board has not yet voted to approve or disapprove this application. 

NON-PUBLIC BUSINESS:

Mr. Aldrich moved to enter into a Non-Public Selectboard Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (a) and (b) Hiring. Mrs. Pschirrer seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with all in favor, the motion was approved at 6:55 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:32 PM.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of October 15, 2015, be sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:

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

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:55 PM.

OTHER BUSINESS:

2015 Budget:  Mr. Dalessio has concerns about the bottom line of the budget. He asked all the Department Heads to talk to Mr. Kreissle if they feel they are going to go over their bottom lines.  It is better to act sooner rather than later.  The Selectboard can make a decision to either freeze all spending other than salaries and necessary expenditures or go to discretionary spending until the end of the year.

Holiday Schedule: The Selectboard set the following Holiday Schedule for their regular meetings.  Only routine business will be conducted.

• Change Thursday, November 26^th to Wednesday, November 25^th, 2015 at 8:00 AM;
• Change Thursday, December 24^th to Wednesday, December 23^rd, 2015 at 8:00 AM;
• Change Thursday, December 31^st to Wednesday, December 30^th, 2015 at 8:00 AM.

ADJOURNMENT:

Mr. Aldrich moved to adjourn this meeting.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved at 8:16 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

OCTOBER 8, 2015

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

CALL TO ORDER:  Mr. Dalessio called this Selectboard meeting to order at 6:00 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.  He advised that this meeting is being recorded and asked anyone wishing to speak to identify themselves for the record.  There were five people present in the audience.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register and manifest in the amount of $28,723.84 for checks dated October 9, 2015.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

PAYROLL:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Payroll voucher for the week ending October 3, 2015, in the amount of $19,147.98 for checks dated October 9, 2015.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $4,141.89 for the week ending October 3, 2015.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – October 1, 2015:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of October 1, 2015, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – October 1, 2015:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of October 1, 2015, as submitted.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard received and reviewed Minutes of the following meetings:

• Conservation Commission, Class 6 Subcommittee Workshop – March 26, 2015; and
• Conservation Commission, Class 6 Subcommittee Workshop – October 5, 2015.

Mrs. Pschirrer advised that the Selectboard should schedule a Public Hearing for the three emergency lanes before the end of the year.  It was agreed to schedule this in December prior to one of their regular Selectboard meetings.  No money for maintenance can be spent on these roads until after the Public Hearing and the Selectboard adopt them.  Emergency lanes will have to be cleaned; it is more labor than materials. The Conservation Commission is discussing putting trails on Class 6 roads but there will have to be further detailed conversations on that.  Enforcement will be needed for mountain bikes, ATVs, etc.

PUBLIC BUSINESS:

JACK FRANKS:  The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of a letter from Mr. Jack Franks’ attorney requesting a split of his Building Permit into two phases.  Mr. Dalessio had no problem with splitting it up but would like a set of plans to be attached to the Building Permit that reflects 21 units. The Building Permit states “for up to 67 units” therefore they will accept this modification.  Mr. Dalessio advised that they will have the paperwork ready to be signed for Mr. Franks at the Selectboard meeting next Thursday.

BUILDING PERMITS:

SAWYER, 632 River Road, Map & Lot #004-001-004:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve Building Permit No. 2015-41 for Joseph and Sonia Sawyer to “Construct a 24’ x 32’ 1 story Wood & Utility Shed”.  This meets all the requirements.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

ENOKIDO & CROUSE, 192 March Hill, Map & Lot #009-033-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer explained that Building Permit No. 2015-42 is for Kashiyo Enokido and Tom Crouse to “Construct a 32’ x 28’ 2 story garage with an efficiency studio guest bedroom”.  This request violates the Zoning Board of Adjustment Ordinance, Article 17.B, which requires a common foundation.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to reject Building Permit No. 2015-42.  The applicants can either talk to the ZBA about a Variance or withdraw their plans.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS:

Food Shelf Advisory Board Meeting:  Mrs. Pschirrer reported that both Mr. Montgomery and Mr. Wilking attended the last meeting but she did not have a report at this time.

Town Ordinance, Procedure and Policy Manual:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Town of Walpole Snow and Ice Removal Policy.  This is an amended policy.  A list of all the plow routes or which employee would operate a specific truck is not attached as it did not seem essential.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Dalessio requested that a copy of the policy be forwarded to Mr. Mike Symonds.  There should be a training record to acknowledge that all employees read and understand it.  It should be posted at the Highway Department.

New Hampshire Retirement Audit:  Mrs. Clough and Mr. Kreissle continue to work on this.

Primex Property Liability Application: Mr. Kreissle has this application therefore it can now be taken off the Agenda.

2014 Financial Audit: A letter was sent to Attorney Hockensmith requesting the information that the auditors have requested from him.

Letter from Cynthia Reeves:  The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of the letter from Ms. Cynthia Reeves, dated October 7, 2015.  A copy will be forwarded to Mrs. Myra Mansouri, Chair of the ZBA.

NEW BUSINESS:

Letter from Jean Robinson, Re: Sidewalks:  A letter was received from Ms. Robinson concerning the sidewalks in her area.  There is a drop-off of about four-to-five inches; they did not finish the work that should have been done to grade the area.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked Mr. Symonds to look at it.  Mr. Dalessio recommended that this should be kept on the agenda as a follow-up item.

SWRPC Annual Fall Meeting:  An invitation was received from the Southwest Region Planning Commission to attend their Fall Meeting at The Inn at East Hill Farm in Troy, NH on Tuesday, October 20, 2015.  This will be kept on the agenda under Old Business.

The Selectboard took a recess from 6:25 to 6:30 PM.

OTHER BUSINESS:

Fall Mountain Region School District:  Mrs. Jamie Teague came into the meeting to request that the Town issue a monthly check to them as soon as possible.  October is usually a difficult financial month.  Mr. Dalessio will request that Mr. Kreissle issue a check tomorrow plus be sure that the last monthly payment due in 2015 be paid before the end of the year.

Mr. Aldrich came into the meeting.

NON-PUBLIC SESSION:

Mr. Aldrich moved to enter into a Non-Public Selectboard Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (a) Personnel and (b) Hiring.  Mrs. Pschirrer seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with all in favor, the motion was approved at 6:44 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:13 PM.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of October 8, 2015, be sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:

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

OTHER BUSINESS (Continued):

New Auditing Company:  Mrs. Pschirrer recommended that they begin to think about a search for a new auditing firm.  Mr. Dalessio will talk about it to Mr. Kreissle tomorrow.

2016 Town Meeting Schedule:  Mrs. Pschirrer suggested that the 2016 Town Meeting Schedule should be posted; maybe put it in the Clarion.  It notes the time-tables for Warrant Articles, etc.

ADJOURNMENT:

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

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

OCTOBER 1, 2015

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

CALL TO ORDER:  Mr. Dalessio called this Selectboard meeting to order at 6:00 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.  He advised that this meeting is being recorded and asked anyone wishing to speak to identify themselves for the record.  There were three people in attendance.

PUBLIC BUSINESS:

There was no Public Business at this meeting.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register and manifest in the amount of $33,879.68 for checks dated October 2, 2015.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

PAYROLL:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Payroll voucher for the week ending September 26, 2015, in the amount of $27,178.65 for checks dated October 2, 2015.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the electronic transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $6,786.50 for the week ending September 26, 2015.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – September 24, 2015:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of September 24, 2015, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Minutes were approved.  Mr. Aldrich abstained as he was not present at this meeting.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – September 24, 2015:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of September 24, 2015, as submitted.  These minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Minutes were approved.  Mr. Aldrich abstained as he was not present at this meeting.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard received and reviewed Minutes of the following meetings:

• Conservation Commission – September 14, 2015;
• North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners – September 22, 2015.

With reference to the Conservation Commission meeting minutes, Mrs. Pschirrer pointed out that there are two Scouts who are doing projects in the Mill Pond area.  The Conservation Commission will be discussing the Class 6 roads in Town at their next meeting on October 5^th at 7:00 PM.

WARRANTS:

TIMBER TAX WARRANT: 

FISHER, Cold River Road, Map & Lot #026-026-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Original Warrant for Timber Tax Levy for the Tax Year April 1, 2015 to March 31, 2016 for Andrea J. Fisher, Operation #150461-05-T, in the amount of $2,157.06.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS:

Letter To Bruce Carruthers, RE: Reeves Gallery Sign:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve and sign the letter dated October 1, 2015, to Mr. Bruce Carruthers regarding a Zoning Board of Adjustment issue on the Reeves Gallery Sign.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Allen Brothers Oil Contract:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve and sign the #2 heating oil contract with Allen Brothers at a fixed rate of $2.049 per gallon to the various locations listed as: Walpole Town Hall, Walpole Police Department, Walpole Town Library, Walpole Fire Department and Walpole Old Town Shop.  Deliveries will be made on a Will Call Basis to: the Hooper Institute, Hooper Mansion, Hooper Cottage and Welfare Fuel Assistance Program.  This fixed rate applies to the total amount of 7500 gallons.  Any amount of gallons that are needed before November 1, 2015 or after April 30, 2016 will be billed at the cash price on the day of delivery.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

The various deliveries will be charged to the appropriate lines in the budget and/or Hooper Trust funds.

Food Shelf Advisory Board Meeting: There will be a meeting of the Fall Mountain Food Shelf Advisory Board on Tuesday, October 6^th at 7:00 PM in the Langdon Municipal Building.  The Selectboard is invited to attend.  Mr. Charlie Montgomery had recommended that the Selectboard appoint a second member from the Town of Walpole to the Advisory Board.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to appoint Mr. Andrew Wilking as the second Town of Walpole representative on the Food Shelf Advisory Board.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Hubbard Farms Barbeque Pit and Right Of Way:  Mr. Dalessio reported that this Agenda item can be deleted for now as it will take Hubbard Farms some time to work out the details.

Town Ordinance, Procedure and Policy Manual: The Selectboard reviewed two new ordinances as the office will be open five days a week.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the two new policies regarding the “Selectboard Hours of Operation”.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the policy which determines that the Selectboard Office will be staffed by a minimum of two people during normal working days.  Any exception must be approved by the Selectboard with a two weeks notice.  This becomes effective January 01, 2016.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer continue to work on the Town Ordinance, Procedure and Policy Manual.  Mrs. Pschirrer will be working on the Winter Parking Ban and Snow Remove policies.

Primex Insurance Company: Mr. Dalessio read through the Primex Insurance Company application and recommended that the Selectboard sign and submit it at this time.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Primex Insurance Company’s application as presented with a note that we will continue to check on the values of the properties and equipment.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Aldrich moved to authorize Mr. Dalessio, Chair, to sign the Primex Insurance Company application.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

New Hampshire Retirement Audit:  Mrs. Clough reported that both she and Mr. Kreissle continue to work on the spread-sheets for the New Hampshire Retirement Audit.  They need to do quite a bit of research and have had to pull old time cards.  It is due on October 16^th.

2014 Financial Audit: Mrs. Clough advised that they are still waiting to receive the 2014 Financial Audit.  The Auditors are waiting for a letter from Attorney Hockensmith; Mr. Dalessio will contact him tomorrow.

NEW BUSINESS:

There was no New Business to come before the Selectboard at this meeting.

NON-PUBLIC BUSINESS:

Mr. Aldrich moved to enter into a Non-Public Selectboard Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (a) Personnel.  Mrs. Pschirrer seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with all in favor, the motion was approved at 6:38 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 6:57 PM.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to seal the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of October 01, 2015.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:

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

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:10 PM.

OTHER BUSINESS:

NOTE OF APPRECIATION:  Mrs. Pschirrer thanked Mrs. Clough and Mrs. Edkins for finding the background material and confirming that old Route 12 was thrown-up so that the Conservation Easement on the Lund property could be completed.

OLD BUSINESS:

TRU NORTH NETWORKING:  Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Clough will meet with the representative from Tru North Networking to do a technical review of the computers and software on October 7^th at 8:00 AM.

ROAD AGENT:  The advertisement for a Road Agent will be revised and advertised again.  The deadline will be October 19^th.

ADJOURNMENT:

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

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

Janet Clough has been out of the office so we got a little behind with the Selectboard Minutes.  Yuu’ll have lots to read as you “Monday Morning Quarterback”! I do thank her for taking time to get us up-to-date. – Lil

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

September 24, 2015

Selectboard Present: Steve Dalessio (Chair), Peggy Pschirrer, Whitney Aldrich (arrived at 7:45pm).

CALL TO ORDER: Mr. Dalessio called this Selectboard meeting to order at 6:00pm in the Walpole Town Hall.  He advised that this meeting is being recorded and asked anyone wishing to speak to identify themselves for the record. There were three people in attendance.

PUBLIC BUSINESS: Dale Woodward, Chairman of the Cemetery Committee requests the use of Cemetery Trust funds for markers.  While there is probably not enough money in interest to stabilize the tombs, he would like to extend the water line in the New Cemetery Section A to spigots in Section C and Section E.  There is no RSA that requires 3 bids, but Mr. Dalessio recommends getting a couple of estimates. Mr. Woodward will return once he has those estimates and the Board will confirm that the appropriate amount is in the Trust funds to cover the expense.

Accounts Payable

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register and manifest in the amount of $14,018.63 for checks dated September 25, 2015. Mr. Dalessio seconded, and the motion passed with all in favor.

Payroll

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Payroll Register in the Amount of $21,949.72 for payments dated 9/25/15 be approved as submitted. Mr. Dalessio seconded, and the motion passed with all in favor.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Payroll Tax Electronic Funds Transfer 15-39 for W/E 9/19/15 in the amount of $5,082.00 be approved as submitted.  Mr. Dalessio seconded, and the motion passed with all in favor.

Selectboard Meeting Minutes

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Selectboard Minutes of September 17, 2015 be approved as presented. Mr. Dalessio seconded, and the motion passed with all in favor. Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Staff Meeting minutes of September 17, 2015 be approved as presented. Mr. Dalessio seconded, and the motion passed with all in favor.  Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Non-Public Selectboard minutes of September 17, 2015 be approved as presented and that they be sealed. Mr. Dalessio seconded, and the motion passed with all in favor

Old Business

1. A letter to Mr. Lafayette regarding Notice to cease dumping has been drafted. Pschirrer moved to send this letter to Richard Lafayette re: illegal dumping. Mr. Dalessio seconded, and the motion passed with all in favor.
2. Town Ordinance, procedure and policy manual- Mrs. Pschirrer has been working on the Snow Removal and Ice Control policy. She recommends removing the wording that itemizes specific routes and naming which driver is on which truck which it does now.  These will be left to the discretion of the Road Agent. A policy on Parking during bad weather should be removed from the Snow Removal policy.  This may need to be a separate policy or even an ordinance requiring Town Vote. The Police Department may already have a Parking policy and Mr. Dalessio will check with them to be sure.
3. Pschirrer moved to approve a letter to Mr. David Zhang of JR Development, LLC. which speaks to the noise factor behind Shaw’s which is unacceptable to the neighborhood when they start work at 3am. Mr. Dalessio seconded, and the motion passed with all in favor.
4. Vacation Rollover requests:
   1. Paul Clark would like to rollover 1 week from anniversary date of October to the summer of 2016
   2. Janet Clough would like to roll 1 week from her 9/9/15 anniversary date to be used before the end of the calendar year
   3. Justin Sanctuary will use one of two rolled weeks before the end of the year and the other in the Spring
   4. Mike Symonds would like to roll 1 week from his 9/6/15 anniversary date to be used before January 1st
   5. Dalessio moved to approve the request for rollovers of vacations. Mrs. Pschirrer seconded, and the motion passed with all in favor.
5. Primex Insurance application is under review by the Selectboard
6. Hubbard Farms Barbeque Pit and Right of Way: Mr. Dalessio spoke to Hubbard Farms and confirmed that the Town will accept the gift of the Barbeque Pit. The Town will pay for the work to create a permanent Right of Way to the Pool. Hubbard Farms will get back to the Board as they progress through the sale of the property, which they expect to have ready for sale the first quarter of next year.

Committee Reports

The Selectboard acknowledges receipt of the minutes of the Zoning Board dated 9/16/15 and the Planning Board’s September 22^nd Workshop. Also received are the Cemetery Trustees minutes.  They have submitted their 2016 budget with a $200 increase which has been forwarded to Rich.

Building Permit

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve Building Permit 2015-40 Map & Lot 011-038, 4 Eaton Road; the Beams wish to construct a one story 14×22’ kitchen addition on the same location as their current deck. Mr. Dalessio seconded, and the motion passed with all in favor.

New Business

1. SWRPC is asking for commitments to purchase the Planning & Land Use Manuals for $10 each. This request has been forwarded to all Boards & Commissions.
2. Ocean State Job Lot asks for permission to stay open from 9am on Thursday Nov 26 through 11pm Friday Nov 27 as they have done in previous years. Mr. Dalessio moved to approve this request. Pschirrer seconded, and the motion passed with all in favor.

Myra Mansouri, ZBA Chair provided updates on several matters:

1. The variance granted to the Art Gallery for signs that were going to be less than 100 feet apart stated that the sign must be 34’ from the center of the road and 12’ from the Unitarian property line. Therefore the current placement of signs is not in accordance with the variance. Dalessio will draft a letter reminding Ms. Reeves of the conditions as indicated by the Zoning Board of Adjustments.
2. Dalessio spoke with Ms. Reeves about the closeness of the statue to the sidewalk. She assured him that it would be gone before winter.  It is her intention that there be a revolving display of sculptures but she would be sure that they were in a safe spot.
3. Regarding junkyards, Ms. Mansouri spoke to Lisa Murphy of SWRPC about potential changes to the Town Junkyard Ordinance (pg 6, Section G, #1, 2, & 3). Also, Attorney Buckley of the NH Municipal Association confirmed that what they have takes precedence and is applicable. The ZBA will work on a warrant for the Town Meeting updating this ordinance. This will be added to the Agenda going forward to keep up with the changes.
4. Mansouri was not pleased with the Planning Board Workshop minutes as presented. She was encouraged to write a letter expressing her opinion.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION:

Mr. Dalessio moved to enter into a Non-Public Selectboard Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (b) Personnel at 6:38pm.  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 6:42 PM.

Recess Selectboard Meeting: Mr. Dalessio moved to recess this Selectboard meeting.  The Selectboard will enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees.  Mrs. Pschirrer seconded, and the motion passed with all in favor at 6:42 PM.

The Regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:48PM.

Mr. Dalessio moved to adjourn this meeting.  Mr. Aldrich seconded, and the motion passed with all in favor at 7:50PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Elaine Heleen, Acting Recording Secretary

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

September 17, 2015

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

CALL TO ORDER: Mr. Dalessio called this Selectboard meeting to order at 6:22pm 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.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION:

Mr. Dalessio moved to enter into a Non-Public Selectboard Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (a) Personnel and (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 6:40 PM. There were two people in attendance.

Myra Mansouri, ZBA Chair, brings several issues to the Selectboard’s attention.

1. Several complaints of Richard Lafayette of County Road/Graves Road dumping washers, dryers, and other machinery on land across from his home lot. A letter will go from the Selectboard to Mr. Lafayette notifying him of the violations of the Junkyard Zoning Ordinance, Article 4 G.
2. The Unitarian Church Board complained of a statue put on their property by the Art Gallery even though the Board has told Ms. Reeves that they did not want the statue installed. They went to the Zoning Board hoping that there would be some type of ordinance that could force her to remove it.  Neither the Zoning Board nor the Town has any such ordinance that would apply. It is the Board’s opinion that this is a civil matter between the Art Gallery and the Unitarian Church.  Another statue in front of the Art Gallery may be too close to the sidewalk.  Dalessio will check to see if there is proper clearance in order to avoid damage by sidewalk snow clearing machines. The Art Gallery had come to the ZBA for a variance for signs that were going to be less than 100 feet apart. When the signs went up, one was only 3 feet from the property line with the Unitarian Church instead of the proper 10 foot setback. The Selectboard will send a letter to Ms. Reeves and Mr. Carruthers (property owner) to either move the sign or return to Zoning Board for another variance.

Accounts Payable

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Accounts Payable check register and manifest in the amount of $560,859.31 for checks dated September 18, 2015. Mr. Aldrich seconded, and the motion passed with all in favor. This includes a check to Fall Mountain Regional School District for $488,319.18.

Payroll

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Payroll Register in the Amount of $21,910.67 for payments dated 9/18/15 be approved as submitted. Mr. Aldrich seconded, and the motion passed with all in favor.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Payroll Tax Electronic Funds Transfer 15-38 for W/E 9/12/15 in the amount of $4,966.86 be approved as submitted.  Mr. Aldrich seconded, and the motion passed with all in favor.

Selectboard Meeting Minutes

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Selectboard Minutes of September 10, 2015 be approved as submitted. Mr. Aldrich seconded, and the motion passed with all in favor.

Committee Reports

The Selectboard acknowledges receipt of the minutes of the Planning Board and Hooper Institute, both dated September 8, 2015; and the North Walpole Village Commissioners report of September 15, 2015. A note on the NW Village minutes questions a missing guardrail on Main Street.  This has already been discussed with the Highway Department.

Building Permit

1. Pschirrer moved to approve Building Permit 2015-38 Map & Lot 016-005-MH01, 1 Hogan Lane for upgrading an existing trailer site, demolishing an old one and putting a new concrete slab in. Mr. Aldrich seconded, and the motion passed with all in favor.
2. Pschirrer moved to approve Building Permit 2015-38 Map & Lot 001-003-001, 19 Industrial Park Drive for Old Dominion Trucking to expand their building. They went to the Planning Board and the Site Plan was approved with conditions on September 8, 2015. Mr. Aldrich seconded, and the motion passed with all in favor.

Old Business

1. Hubbard Farms Barbeque Pit and Right of Way: Mr. Dalessio still has not been able to contact Mrs. Diane Miller. He will continue to attempt to contact her especially in regards to the Right of Way.
2. Town Ordinance, procedure and policy manual – Nothing new to report
3. Primex Insurance application should be ready for the Selectboard next Thursday.
4. NH Retirement System Auditors emailed Janet and she is answering their questions.
5. The Kitchen Committee met and will replace the stoves with a Garland which will be gas with 2 ovens, the fire suppression system that is needed and a hood over it. It will be installed by Melanson. A dishwasher is being donated and will be checked out by Houghton’s before installation. A new refrigerator is still in debate and depends on how much it impacts the cabinets. It is expected that the work will be complete by the end of the year.

New Business

1. Pschirrer moved to accept a Return of Ownership of Cemetery Lot 224 in Section C of the Walpole Cemetery and reimburse the original purchase price of $175 to be divided between the Cemetery Trust Fund and the Town of Walpole. Mr. Aldrich seconded, and the motion passed with all in favor.
2. Aldrich moved to approve the Draft copy of the 2014 Financial Audit. Mrs. Pschirrer seconded, and the motion passed with all in favor.
3. Personnel Requests: Paul Clark request to rollover one week of vacation time to 2016. Mr. Dalessio would like to hold this request until it is known when the rolled week will be used.
4. A letter of complaint was received from Jeffrey & Cathy White that power equipment was being used at North Meadow Plaza at 3:15 am. The Selectboard will send a letter to the owner of the parking lot reminding them of the rules regarding hours of maintenance. The State noise ordinance does not have a time limit but Walpole Police Department tends to use midnight as a limit.
5. A Right to Know workshop will be held in Chesterfield on December 3^rd at 7 pm. Dalessio recommends that Mrs. Clough attend and others as needed.

Recess Selectboard Meeting: Mr. Aldrich moved to recess this Selectboard meeting.  The Selectboard will enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees.  Mrs. Pschirrer seconded, and the motion passed with all in favor at 7:30pm.

The Regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:45PM.

Mrs. Pschirrer will be out of town from September 25 – 30 but will be back for the October 1^st meeting.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to adjourn this meeting.  Mr. Aldrich seconded, and the motion passed with all in favor at 7:46PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Elaine Heleen, Acting Recording Secretary

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

September 10, 2015

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

CALL TO ORDER: Mr. Dalessio called this Selectboard meeting to order at 6:00pm 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

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Accounts Payable check register and manifest in the amount of $20,956.36 for checks dated September 11, 2015. Mr. Aldrich seconded, and the motion passed with all in favor. Mrs. Pschirrer requests that the check to the Auditors be held until the final report is received.

Payroll

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Payroll Register in the Amount of $20,696.93 for payments dated 9/11/15 be approved as submitted. Mr. Aldrich seconded, and the motion passed with all in favor.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Payroll Tax Electronic Funds Transfer 15-37 for W/E 9/5/15 in the amount of $4,755.75 be approved as submitted.  Mr. Aldrich seconded, and the motion passed with all in favor.

Selectboard Meeting Minutes

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Selectboard Minutes of September 3, 2015 be approved as submitted. Mr. Aldrich seconded, and the motion passed with all in favor.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Selectboard Non-Public Minutes of September 3, 2015 be approved as submitted and remain sealed. Mr. Aldrich seconded, and the motion passed with all in favor.

Committee Reports

The Selectboard acknowledges receipt of the North Walpole Village Commissioners report of September 8, 2015. The NH DOT 10yr Plan meeting will be held in Charlestown in September.

Intent to Excavate

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Notice of Intent to Excavate Permit #15-461-07 for Avenru Development from 504 Main Street, Map & Lot 012-013-004.  Mr. Aldrich seconded, and the motion passed with all in favor.

Old Business

1. Hubbard Farms Barbeque Pit and Right of Way: Mr. Dalessio still has not been able to contact Mrs. Diane Miller. He will continue to attempt to contact her.
2. Town Ordinance, procedure and policy manual
   1. Pschirrer moved that the Board rescind the following policies: the Cash Receipts policy, the Payroll policy dated 1996, the Accounts Payable policy dated 4/8/04, the Notice to Dog Owners, and the Purchasing and Procedures policy dated 10/4/01. These are to be rewritten into clear and comprehensive policies. Mr. Aldrich seconded, and the motion passed with all in favor.
   2. Pschirrer moved to accept the policies that have been rewritten: False Alarm Policy, Memorial Acknowledgement, Snow Removal and Ice Control Policy, Solid Waste Fee Schedule, and Emergency Roads or Lanes Policy. Mr. Aldrich seconded, and the motion passed with all in favor.
3. Primex Insurance application is almost ready for submission for quote. Department heads are compiling an inventory of vehicles.6+sss
4. NH Retirement System Audit went back 3 years and found very few issues or questions. The Auditors will be emailing some questions and the Board will respond.
5. NH DOT will be meeting on 9/17 with J. Terrell, M. Houghton, M. Paquette, and some engineers to discuss the washed out bridge on March Hill Road.
6. The Kitchen Committee will be meeting Sept. 17^th at 10:30am

New Business

1. A check was received from Ruggerio to pay the fine for not filing a Building Permit.
2. A compressor for the dry system for the sprinkler has failed. Houghton will be installing a new one and the cost will be around $1,500.
3. Mike Symonds was offered the position of Interim Road Agent until a replacement for retiring Road Agent J. Terrell is hired. It is hoped that Mr. Symonds will apply for the permanent position.

Recess Selectboard Meeting: Mr. Aldrich moved to recess this Selectboard meeting.  The Selectboard will enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees.  Mrs. Pschirrer seconded, and the motion passed with all in favor at 6:39PM.

The Regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:01PM.

Mrs. Pschirrer met with the members of the Highway Department. With Mr. Terrell’s upcoming retirement, they voiced concerns about the changes. More training will be needed.  All employees have at least CDL-B licenses but only one has a CDL-A.  Mrs. Pschirrer will continue to meet with them as needed.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to adjourn this meeting.  Mr. Aldrich seconded, and the motion passed with all in favor at 7:20PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Elaine Heleen, Acting Recording Secretary

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

SEPTEMBER 3, 2015

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

CALL TO ORDER:  Mr. Dalessio called this Selectboard meeting to order at 6:00 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.

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

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 6:54 PM.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to seal the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of September 3, 2015.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register and manifest in the amount of $48,270.25 for checks dated September 4, 2015.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

PAYROLL:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Payroll voucher for the week ending August 29, 2015, in the amount of $21,152.78 for checks dated September 4, 2015.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the electronic transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $4,588.46 for the week ending August 29, 2015.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – August 27, 2015:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of August 27, 2015, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – August 27, 2015:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of August 27, 2015, 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:

• Cold River Local Advisory Committee – July 23, 2015; and
• North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners – September 1, 2015.

BUILDING / DEMOLITION PERMITS:

BUILDING:

TETU, 15 Prospect Hill, Map & Lot #019-050-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to grant Building Permit No. 2015-36 for Bradley Tetu and Hilary Tetu to “Construct a shed dormer on existing home”.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

DEMOLITION and BUILDING:

GOLEC, 151 Alstead Center Road, Map & Lot #015-019-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to grant Building Permit No. 2015-37 for Katherine A. Golec to “Remove a 20’ x 8’ enclosed porch and replace with a 30’ x 8’ enclosed porch”.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

WARRANTS:

LAND USE CHANGE TAX CORRECTION & A-5 LAND USE CHANGE TAX FORM:  Kingsbury, 152 Kingsbury Road, Map & Lot #008-119-000:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to rescind the motion made during the August 27, 2015 meeting, on page 4, to “send the Tax Collector’s Land Use Change Tax to Sandra J. Smith, Collector of Taxes for Walpole, NH in said county for Map #008, Lot #119-000, 152 Kingsbury Road.”  This was for acreage removed from Current Use.  An error was made in the amount.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve sending the Tax Collector’s Land Use Change Tax Warrant to Sandra J. Smith, Collector of Taxes for Walpole, NH in said county for Map #008, Lot #119-000, 152 Kingsbury Road for the amount of $654.00. This represents acreage removed from Current Use.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve and sign the A-5 Land Use Change Tax Form that needs to be submitted to the NH Department of Revenue Administration.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS:

Oil / Propane Contract:  The Selectboard reviewed the Heating Oil and Propane 2015-2016 contracts received from five companies.  There was a consensus to continue with Allen Bros for heating oil and the Keene Gas Company for propane.

Hubbard Farms Barbeque Pit And Right Of Way: Mr. Dalessio has not heard back from Mrs. Diane Miller since his last conversation with her.  He talked with the Primex Insurance Company about the barbeque pit today and was advised that the pit area would have to be clearly identified by “No Trespassing” signs all around it and by using a chain or gate.  By doing this if somebody does go in without authorization they can be arrested.  They should obtain a separate liability insurance policy from everybody that uses it for at least $1,000,000.00.  This is consistent with Hubbard Farms as they require this policy naming them as a co-insurer.  About six people use it every year.  If the Town accepts this area Mrs. Pschirrer recommended that there be a policy that has to be signed by any person/group/organization that uses the pit.  There was a consensus to have Mr. Dalessio contact Mrs. Miller to advise that they are interested.  Hubbard Farms is still in the early stages of a sale for that property.

Town Ordinance, Procedure And Policy Manual:  This will be continued on the next meeting Agenda.

Primex Insurance Company:  Mr. Dalessio gave Mrs. Clough and Mr. Kreissle the new application that needs to be filled out for the Primex Insurance Company.  It should go to them before mid-October when they set the new premiums.  Primex will have an answer back to the Town before December so the premium can be included in the budget.  They are very big on preventative programs and training.

NEW BUSINESS:

Viewing of the Willard Home, 43 Westminster Street:  Mrs. Pschirrer and Mrs. Clough did a walk-thru of the property at the request of Mr. Willard.  In the front section of the home four rooms are clearly a museum with documents and the histories of the Bradley and Willard families.  Mr. Willard wants to create understanding on the value of the home and of the two monuments he has built in memory of Steven Row Bradley.  He is interested in opening up the property to the public.  Mrs. Clough emailed Mrs. Loren Martin at Avitar Associates regarding the possibility of a tax abatement as Mrs. Pschirrer told Mr. Willard that they would look into it.

Letter from NH DOT – Re: Transportation Projects 2017-2026:  The Selectboard received a letter from the Department of Transportation regarding transportation projects planned between 2017-2026 throughout the State of New Hampshire.  The nearest meetings will be held on Friday, September 18^th at Keene Parks and Recreation in Keene at 12:00 and at the Town Hall in Charlestown at 3:00 PM.  Mrs. Pschirrer will try to attend one of the meetings.  A copy will be mailed to Ms. Cheryl Mayberry as she is the Town’s representative on transportation issues.     

Primex Premium Holiday:  The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of a letter from Primex advising that their Board of Trustees approved a Premium Holiday distribution for the Unemployment Compensation Program, based on the financial results from 2014.  The Town of Walpole is eligible to receive a check in the amount of $14,611.63.  The Selectboard approved and signed the letter to Primex to accept this amount in payment of the Premium Holiday.

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:

Mr. Aldrich moved to recess this Selectboard meeting.  The Selectboard will enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved at 7:25 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:40 PM.

OTHER BUSINESS:

Water Department:  Mr. Houghton asked the Selectboard to sign a revised Town of Walpole Water Department Cross-Connection Control Ordinance as the State found a minor error in the previous document.  The Selectboard re-signed the ordinance.

Drewsville Mansion: Mr. Dalessio had asked Mrs. Clough to look into the light that is on the auxiliary building at the Drewsville Mansion.  It comes on every night.  It is so bright that it can be seen at the Drewsville General Store at night.  Mrs. Clough will talk to someone or write a letter.

ADJOURNMENT: Mr. Aldrich moved to adjourn this meeting.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved at 7:46 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

AUGUST 27, 2015

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

CALL TO ORDER:  Mr. Dalessio called this Selectboard meeting to order at 6:00 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 nine people in attendance.

PUBLIC BUSINESS:

TOWNS OF LANGDON And ALSTEAD SELECTBOARD MEMBERS And MR. ALAN JOHNSON And MARY LOU HUFFLING:  Mr. Lou Beam, Selectman from the Town of Langdon, introduced Mr. Ron Batchelder from the Town of Langdon, Mr. Joel McCarty, Selectman from the Town of Alstead, Ms. Mary Lou Huffling, Director of the Fall Mountain Food Shelf and Friendly Meals / Meals-on-Wheels program and Mr. Alan Johnson, Board of Directors for the Food Shelf.  They are present at this meeting to show their support of the Food Shelf and Friendly Meals programs and to make sure the food shelf survives.  They are not asking for any money but wanted to bring to the attention of the Town of Walpole, as well as Charlestown and Acworth, that a situation presents itself that will become problematic on January 1^st, 2017.

At the 2014 Town Meeting it was decided by the voters in the Town of Langdon that they would end tenancy in the municipal building to operate the Food Shelf in three years.  In 2005 they moved from Alstead to Langdon into that facility which services all five towns. They have done an incredible job with providing food for the needy.  In collaboration with the Town of Alstead, who currently provide a place for Friendly Meals, the thought was that they would try to help the Food Shelf and give them direction in securing their future by organizing their Board in such a manner that not only are they focused on raising money for food but focused on coming up with a permanent home for them to continue.  They believe there are people within the five communities who have the expertise to help guide the Food Shelf Board of Directors to help secure a permanent home for them by moving in the proper directions.

Mr. McCarty advised that the Food Shelf / Friendly Meals / Meals-on-Wheels programs provide a significant service to the five communities.  Alstead has a long history of providing infrastructure support.  The programs also have an effect on the towns’ welfare budgets.  The Selectboard want to give encouragement and support but feel there are better ideas out there.  Every town has a few buildings on the tax roles that are surplus.  They need help having the Selectboards identify people in their towns who have expertise to assist and guide.

Mr. Beam pointed out that the Food Shelf has always focused on raising money to feed the needy.  They relied on the various towns to support them by providing space, utilities, etc.  There are many volunteers.  If they are going to secure grants certain things need to be in place in order for that to happen.  The focus has to be on fundraising, etc.  This Advisory Board will then report back to the Selectboards.

Mr. Dalessio advised that the Selectboard read their letter when it came in and appreciate the value of the Food Shelf to the communities.  Mr. Beam noted that the building they are in now is owned by the Town of Langdon; it is 15,000 square feet.  The space now occupied by the Food Shelf is in a deteriorated state that will require a substantial amount of money to renovate it.  They occupy 5,000 square feet.  The meals program operates on Tuesdays and Thursdays in the Alstead Fire Station; they have a Capital Reserve Fund moving toward repairs.  They do not have a deadline on this program.  Right now the Food Shelf is miles away from the Friendly Meals program making it more difficult to operate efficiently.

Mr. Dalessio advised that Mr. Charles Montgomery has agreed to serve on the Advisory Committee representing the Town of Walpole.  Mrs. Pschirrer noted that if more people are needed from Walpole they will reach out to other residents.  Mr. Montgomery is already involved with the Food Shelf.  He read their letter and knows where they are headed.  Mr. McCarty pointed out that the other towns are welcoming to the forming of an Advisory Committee.

Responding to a previous concern expressed by another town, Mr. Johnson did not hesitate to advise that the number of donations / contributors they have from Vermont to the Food Shelf far exceeds the number of people that come for food from Vermont.  They also have generous benefactors who send money from Connecticut, New York or Rhode Island but their residents do not come to the food shelf.

Ms. Huffling pointed out that they need a simple place with a bathroom and utilities; a large room to serve people plus a storage space and a garage with a large door where the trucks can back up to load and un-load.  An individual who grew up in Bellows Falls and now lives in Connecticut has been very supportive financially over the years. He offered $25,000.00 to start a fund and he has other people who will also make donations; it is a positive step. They do not get any Federal or State funds; it has been all through donations for 35 years.  Mr. Beam said they have to establish a goal.  Mr. Dalessio feels that with a goal in place the Town of Walpole will certainly step up-to-the-plate.  A Steering Committee is the right way to go; a group of people to formulate the plans.

It was recommended that the Advisory Committee schedule their first meeting in September.  Due to the time constraints the Food Shelf might have to move into another temporary facility in the interim period but they will continue to plan toward a permanent location.  Mr. Montgomery asked how many people they envision on the committee.  Mr. McCarty sees this committee as rather small- 5-7-9 active members.  The deadline for this committee will be January 1, 2017.  Ideally they will come up with a workable plan, work with Food Shelf Board of Directors and report back to the five towns.  They will not be asked to do fundraising.

Mr. Montgomery questioned if each of the towns has made a commitment?  Mr. McCarty said they have all offered to name someone.  The Town of Langdon feels they have a responsibility to assist and offer support.  Mrs. Pschirrer recommended that one of the first things the committee should discuss is the Agenda and lines of communication.  Ms. Huffling reported that the Food Shelf Board of Directors meets at least quarterly.  They will need help with writing the Grant applications.  Mr. Dalessio said they know people that are grant writers but they might not want to sit on this Advisory Committee.  Different people do different tasks.  Mr. Dalessio summarized that they should feel free to come back to talk to this Selectboard at any time; just contact Mrs. Clough in their office to be on the Agenda.  Mr. Beam advised that both he and Mr. McCarty will meet to discuss their next steps.

The regular Selectboard meeting began at 6:40 PM.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register and manifest in the amount of $48,778.12 for checks dated August 28, 2015.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

PAYROLL:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Payroll voucher for the week ending August 22, 2015, in the amount of $22,394.89 for checks dated August 28, 2015.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the electronic transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $4,905.33 for the week ending August 22, 2015.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

STAFF MEETING – August 20, 2015:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the Staff Meeting of August 20, 2015, subject to asking Mr. Terrell to check the figure of 6.37 miles of paving as indicated on his report.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Minutes were approved.  Mr. Aldrich abstained as he was not present.

SELECTBOARD MEETING – August 20, 2015:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of August 20, 2015, as printed.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Minutes were approved.  Mr. Aldrich abstained as he was not present.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – August 20, 2015:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard session of August 20, 2015, as printed.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Minutes were approved.  Mr. Aldrich abstained as he was not present.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard received and reviewed Minutes of the following meetings:

• North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners – August 25, 2015;
• Walpole Zoning Board of Adjustment – August 19, 2015; and
• Walpole Planning Board, Ruggiero Site Walk Visit – August 17, 2015.

BUILDING / DEMOLITION PERMITS:

BUILDING:

KAPLAN, North Road, Map & Lot #010-039-001:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve Building Permit No. 2015-32 for Wendy Kaplan to “Construct a 60’7” x 45’8” one story home” at 306 North Road.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.   

BENCIVENGA, County Road, Map & Lot #003-034-001: Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve Building Permit No. 2015-35 for Cheryl Bencivenga Rev. Trust / Cheryl & Nicola Bencivenga to “Enclose an existing 20’ x 10’ deck into a mudroom” at 1547 County Road.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

DEMOLITION:

KISSELL, Hogan Lane, Map & Lot #016-005-MH01:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve Demolition Permit No. 2015-34 for Sonya Kissell / Kenneth Ramsey to “Demolish a 60’ x 12’ mobile home” at 1 Hogan Lane.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

INTENT TO CUT WOOD OR TIMBER:

FISHER, Cold River Road, Map & Lot #026-026-000: Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Notice of Intent to Cut Wood or Timber, Supplemental Operation #15-461-08-T, for Andrea Fisher.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.     

TAX WARRANT:

LAND USE CHANGE TAX WARRANT: KINGSBURY, Kingsbury Road, Map & Lot #008-119-000:  Mrs. Clough reported that Mrs. Martin from Avitar Associates did research after Martha Kingsbury transferred land to Mr. William Kingsbury.  He has to pay the Current Use Tax as he did not have 10 or more acres needed for Current Use.  The A-5 form will be completed at a later date.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to send the Tax Collector’s Land Use Change Tax Warrant to Sandra J. Smith, Collector of Taxes for Walpole, NH in said county for Map #008, Lot #119-000, 152 Kingsbury Road.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to enter into a Non-Public Selectboard session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (c) Reputations.  Mr. Aldrich seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with all in favor, the motion was approved at 6:54 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:19 PM.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to seal the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard session of August 27, 2015.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:

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

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:55 PM.  

OLD BUSINESS:

LETTER FROM RUTH VENEZIA: The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of a letter from Ruth Venezia expressing her concern that more has not been done to mark the intersection in question.  Mrs. Pschirrer pointed out that Mr. Terrell said the signs are up.

VETERANS WAR MEMORIAL: Mr. Aldrich approved the wording change to the Veterans War Memorial document.  Mrs. Clough will up-date the form and print it on Town letterhead.

NEW BUSINESS:

BUILDING PERMIT FINE: RUGGIERO PROCESSING FACILITY: Mr. Dalessio pointed out that the Selectboard is aware of the fact that Ruggiero Processing Facility built a pole barn without a Building Permit based on their admission and several Public Hearings.

Mr. Aldrich moved to approve and sign the Notice of Violation for not applying for a Building Permit for the Ruggiero Processing Facility and that they be fined $500.00.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

OIL / PROPANE CONTRACT:  Mrs. Clough obtained information on prices for oil and propane from several companies for the coming year.  The Selectboard asked her to obtain quotes from one more vendor.  This will be an Agenda item for the next meeting.

MS-434 REPORT:  Mr. Dalessio reviewed the MS-434 Report but had a concern on the Revenue proposed by Mrs. Smith for Motor Vehicle Permit fees as it was substantially higher than other years.  The Selectboard agreed that the $770,000.00 be reduced to $625,000.00 which is the 2014 budgeted amount.  Numbers for other departments were also reviewed.  Following a lengthy discussion, it was agreed to leave them as proposed.  Mr. Kreissle will make the necessary changes and the MS-434 Report  will come back before the Selectboard.

MS-1 REPORT:  Mr. Dalessio reported that the good news is that the properties in Town went up a little in value by about $3,000,000.00.

Mr. Aldrich moved to approve and sign the MS-1 Report (Summary Inventory of Evaluation) as presented.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

PRIMEX INSURANCE COMPANY:  Mr. Dalessio received the new forms for changing the Town’s insurance coverage from PLT to Primex.  They can begin to work on the forms shortly.  This will remain on the Agenda under Old Business.

HUBBARD FARMS BARBEQUE PIT AND RIGHT OF WAY: Mr. Dalessio advised that the Hubbard Farms property will be sold.  They are currently working on a sub-division plan so there would no longer be access to the grills.  If the Town is interested in owning this small parcel of land Hubbard Farms could sub-divide that out.  The grills are only used periodically by the Town and School therefore the Selectboard felt that area would have to be fenced in. The other issue is that the road to the pool is not a permanent Right-of-Way.  Mrs. Pschirrer recommended that the Selectboard wait until next week to make a decision on whether or not to own the small piece of property that the grills are on.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to create a Right-of-Way on the Hubbard Farms property.  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 motion was approved at 8:44 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

AUGUST 20, 2015

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

CALL TO ORDER:  Mr. Dalessio called this Selectboard meeting to order at 6:15 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 ten people in attendance.

These are unapproved Minutes.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION:

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

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 6:22 PM.

PUBLIC BUSINESS:  Mr. Jerry Galloway.

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:

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

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 6:38 PM.

PUBLIC BUSINESS (Continued):

RUGGIERO PROCESSING FACILITY:  Mr. Frank Anderson is worried about the on-going process on the Ruggiero Facility.  He feels they are sliding things in like building an illegal barn.  It seems that the Planning Board members feel it is all up to the State.  That is not the case as the Town has the right to deny them the right to do this.  Mrs. Tabatha Anderson submitted a packet of information that included Minutes of previous Planning Board and Zoning Board of Adjustment meetings, the RSA 149-M:9 Permit Required, and a copy of an email between her and Paul Gildersleeve at the Department of Environmental Services.  The RSA information indicates that even “The issuance of a facility permit by the department shall not affect any obligation to obtain local approvals required under all applicable, lawful local ordinances, codes, and regulations not inconsistent with this chapter.  Local land use regulation of facility location shall be presumed lawful if administered in good faith, but such presumption shall not be conclusive.”  Mr. Dalessio feels there are two separate issues.  Ruggiero will probably have to go back to the ZBA for discussion.  Mrs. Mansouri, Chair of the ZBA, said their members have copies of the meeting Minutes from 2011.  The DES is aware of the fact that Ruggiero has to go back to the ZBA for their modifications.  Mrs. Pschirrer was on the ZBA when the conditions were set.  Mr. David Edkins clarified that the Selectboard is saying that Ruggiero needs both – the State and Local Permits.  Mr. Dalessio noted that if the DES says they can do their project and the Town says they will not approve the Site Plan; he is not sure if they can bring trash into their existing facility without doing the modifications.  The Selectboard will deal with the issue of Ruggiero’s illegal building.  The other issue is that if the building is worth less than $10,000.00 because they used all recycled materials it brings the value down.  If they built without a Building Permit they are subject to a $500.00 fine.  The Selectboard now has to validate if Ruggiero put up the building without a Building Permit.  Mr. Dalessio will check with Mr. Jeff Miller, Chair of the PB, to see if they needed a Site Plan Review.  Mr. Dick O’Brien asked for clarification in that Ruggiero said the ZBA gave him a Special Exception on the property.  The land is zoned Industrial with a Special Exception for commercial activities.  The conditions of approval are in the ZBA letter of approval dated February 11, 2011.  Mr. Edkins questioned if they did a Voluntary Merger of the two properties.  The Selectboard were not certain if they merged the two parcels or not but will check on this.  Mr. Dalessio explained that if the second lot is a separate lot of record then the conditions that were granted for the first lot do not apply to the second lot.  Responding to a question from Mr. O’Brien regarding Municipal Solid Waste, Mr. Dalessio noted that the original permit was for construction debris and recyclables.  They have filed for a modification to their DES permit.  The DES had a Public Hearing.  There is still time for the citizens to raise their issues with the ZBA and PB.  Mr. O’Brien advised that, at this time, the Selectboard will discuss the pole barn and there is a gray area as to whether or not the Town has a legal right to stop this project.  Mr. Dalessio said the Selectboard will do their due diligence.  Mrs. Pschirrer summarized that the Selectboard has to do their research, find out when the second lot was purchased, was there a merger of the two lots and then ask the Town attorney for his legal opinion.  They will start the process tomorrow.  The ZBA will not rule on the Site Plan but they will rule on the use of the property.  There are two separate issues.

BOSTON POST CANE: Mrs. Clough advised that Mr. Bushway passed on and his great-grandson, Brian Gay, returned the cane to the office. Mr. Dalessio recommended that an advertisement be placed in the Clarion and Walpolean stating that the Selectboard is looking for the oldest Walpole citizen.  He will ask Mr. Ray Boas about writing a research article on the history of the Boston Post Cane and to help locate the oldest citizen in Walpole.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register and manifest in the amount of $516,008.40 for checks dated August 21, 2015.  This includes a check in the amount of $488,319.18 to the Fall Mountain Regional School District.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

PAYROLL:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Payroll voucher for the week ending August 15, 2015, in the amount of $20,500.19 for checks dated August 21, 2015.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the electronic transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $5,863.23 for the week ending August 15, 2015.  Seconded byu Mr. Dalessio.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – August 13, 2015:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of August 13, 2015, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – August 13, 2015:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of August 13, 2015, as submitted.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard received and reviewed Minutes of the following meeting:

• North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners – August 18, 2015. 

BUILDING PERMITS:

PALMER, Barnett Hill Road, Map & Lot # 009-048-001:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve Building Permit No. 2015-33 for Robert and Margaret Palmer to “Cover front walkway and create a covered parking area by the garage”.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS:

RECREATION CENTER HANDICAP ACCESSIBILITY:  Mrs. Pschirrer reported that Mr. Terrell has the signs and he worked with Mr. Justin Cassarino on where to place them.

TERRA MAP’S:  Mrs. Edkins reported that the new maps, both large and small, are in and have been put in the books.

TOWN ORDINANCE, PROCEDURE AND POLICY MANUAL:  Mr. Dalessio looked at the “Emergency Roads or Lanes”, “Memorial Contributions” and the “Solid Waste Fee Schedule” policies and has no issues with them.  They will be held until the next meeting when Mr. Aldrich is present.  Mrs. Pschirrer met with Mr. Terrell and they went through the “Snow Removal” policy but it has not yet been re-written.

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. Dalessio.  With all in favor, the motion was approved at 7:26 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:48 PM.

ADJOURNMENT:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to adjourn this meeting.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With all in favor, the motion was approved at 7:50 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

I would like to thank the Selectbaord and the Staff for meeting and sharing this information.  I am a firm believer that too much coommunication  is much better than too little. – Lil

TOWN OF WALPOLE

STAFF MEETING

AUGUST 20, 2015

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

Staff Attending:    Police Chief Michael Paquette, Jim Terrell (Highway Department); Justin Cassarino (Recreation Department); Sandra Smith (Town Clerk/Tax Collector); Justine Rogers (Library Director); Rich Kreissle (Bookkeeper); Linda Edkins (Office)

Excused:   Paul Colburn (Recycling Facility); Eloise Clark (Hooper Institute); Mark Houghton (Water / Wastewater Department); Janet Clough (Administrative Assistant)

CALL TO ORDER:  Mr. Dalessio called this Staff Meeting to order at 5:00 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.

Welcome New Team Member:

Mr. Dalessio welcomed Miss Justine Rogers as the new Director at the Library.  He explained that, at this monthly meeting, they talk about things that are beneficial plus they bring new items to the table.  She can then report back to the folks that work for her.  Each department does a brief report that is submitted to the office, in writing, in advance of the meeting to allow time for copies to be made for distribution.

Department Reports:

Highway Department:  Mr. Jim Terrell reported that paving took up a lot of their time but they are finished for the year.  Trucks and equipment were cleaned after the paving.  They have also been doing the following jobs:

• Lawn and Roadside Mowing;
• Finished work on the Salt Shed;
• Installed basketball hoops at the Recreation Park;
• Picked up downed trees;
• Cold patching;
• Hauled in winter sand;
• Fixed fallen headwall.

This year they did 6.379 miles of road paving and 1,458 feet of sidewalk was replaced.

He has been talking with Mr. Warren Stevens who has been working on the red-listed bridges.  Because of the wetlands he has been trying to get permits.  They hoped to get this project done this year however it might not happen without the permits.  He talked to Mr. Randy Rhoades, who has taken over for Mr. Stevens, about doing some drilling for ledge close to the Sheldon Sawyer property.  Mill Pond is red-listed but not a major issue.  March Hill will require a lot of work so they are not looking to get anything fixed this year.  They are not quick fixes.  Mr. Terrell will budget for engineering work.  The salt shed work done this year totaled $29,739.00 which is well under the $50,900.00 budgeted amount.  Mr. Dalessio suggested getting a price to do the second side and if it can be done for the balance of the money budgeted to get it done this year.  If not, get a price for next year.  Mrs. Pschirrer mentioned that they ordered a lot of new signs this year.  Mr. Terrell said the signs are in and they will be installed next week.  Mr. Dalessio advised that the Town got a donation for curbing in front of the Town Hall to the Boas property line.  It is a small job but they want to cover it in the next budget.

Police Department:  Police Chief Paquette reported that arrests have increased.  In July there were: Arrests – 61; Traffic Crashes – 35; Incidents – 102; Calls for Service – 2,121; and Motor Vehicle Stops – 680.  Over-all Old Home Days went well but there were a few Open Container, Disorderly Conduct and Disobeying orders arrests.  The fireworks bring a lot of people to both sides of the river but it is getting better than past years.  They always have to hire more people.  Officers are using their vacation time.  Ms. Katrina Lee has helped him set up a juvenile diversion program for minor offenses vs putting them right in the court system.  They want the County Attorney to approve it; it is looking good.  There are a number of different organizations that will participate.  Waivers will need to be signed by both the youth and parents to participate.  They had the NH State Police Bomb Squad and the US Navy in yesterday to remove some old items from the river.  Periodically divers find items under the bridge.  The items are taken away and the Bomb Squad / US Navy do a mass detonation.  A lot of it is WW II miscellaneous items.  They submitted an application for a grant from Walmart as they need additional equipment for the new cruiser.  Department members completed a Tactical Medical course.  They learned how to treat serious medical issues that they might encounter.  The department has almost completed the Special DUI Details and radar enforcement through the grant.

Walpole False Alarm Policy:  Chief Paquette recommended that after the third alarm the Town increase the fee from $25.00 to $75.00.  The officers quite often get called out in the middle of the night so they need to cover their expenses.  After the sixth time they should increase the fee to $150.00.  After the first alarm the owner gets a courtesy letter.  He would like the Police Department to be able to use discretion when companies put in new alarm systems until the problems are fixed.  Mr. Dalessio referenced the last paragraph.  It would be nice to have a master list of all businesses and residents with alarms.  Mrs. Pschirrer recommended sending a letter to state that they must register and give the Police Department the critical information.  A notice will be sent to the Clarion.

Mr. Dalessio advised that the Selectboard is in the process of reviewing all the ordinances and policies.  Some will be reaffirmed as is, some are outdated and will either be rescinded or re-written.

The Westminster Bridge project will not go out for bid until November.  They were notified of the delay.  Mr. Terrell heard they backed up the paving on Church Street in North Walpole by about two months.

Town Clerk/Tax Collector:  Mr. Dalessio reported that they are in the middle of a major computer network change.  It is a hectic time for Mrs. Smith.  The old equipment is being finicky so this office is not fully up and running with two computers to handle all the vehicle registrations.  He has been busy trying to get all the details in place.  They hired a company called True North Network so it looks like it is now moving forward.  Mrs. Smith should be connected with Virtual Private Network soon as the State mandated they use this system before the end of September.  The State feels this will result in faster transactions.  Mrs. Smith advised that last Thursday they were down from approximately 11:30 am until 4:45 pm; she stayed until after 6:00 pm processing registrations that people had left.  Registrations are now taking a lot longer as they have to check driver’s licenses, etc.  On Tuesday she processed 37 registrations and collected $3,821.00 for the Town and $1,427.00 for the State of NH.  They processed two Marriage Licenses last Tuesday, each one takes over 45 minutes; the Town receives $7.00 and the State receives $43.00 for each license.  The Town Clerk/Tax Collector collected $459,799.87 from January 1^st to July 31^st; collected $25,995.00 from August 1^st to August 18^th and collected $5,215,578.93 from January 1^st to July 31^st.  They collected $31,019.24 during August.  The total uncollected is $673,162.12 as of August 18^th.  This is a small amount compared to most towns.  Some people make regular partial payments.

Dogs are a small part of the revenue.  Chief Paquette reported that they are doing research to hire an Animal Control Officer on a per diem basis.

Recreation Department:  Mr. Justin Cassarino reported that it was a great season at the pool.  He submitted a breakdown of the figures for daily attendance from July 16, 2015 to August 19, 2015; it does not include food.  They are continuing to grow especially this season with non-residents who say our facility / staff is so much more welcoming, the facility is clean and they enjoy their swim.  Twenty+ girls are coming from Keene for their end of the year softball get-together.  They had the State inspection with the water and the inspector said they had one of the best pools he had tested.  Three canopies are up and the public is very happy with them.  Two basketball hoops were installed.  They want to continue to monitor for security.  Mr. Dalessio feels the WiFi should be turned off when they close for the season.  Mr. Cassarino and Mr. Terrell talked about where the handicapped parking signs should go.  People want to bring back the Basketball League next year.  They averaged about 110 spectators.  He is writing an article for the Clarion.  Pool closing will be on Sunday at 5:00 pm and then they will clean and get it ready for the winter season.  The water will be shut off on September 12^th; both Mr. Cassarino and Mr. Houghton will be taking care of this.  Mr. Dalessio mentioned that they talked about starting a Capital Reserve Fund for future projects.  He thanked Mr. Cassarino for doing a great job and having a great year.

Selectboard Office:  The Selectboard reviewed the Selectboard Office Window Activity and Office Phone Activity reports for the period of July 16, 2015 to August 19, 2015.  The office phone was answered 250 times in 26 days and the window activity resulted in 168 people in a 26 day period.  Mr. Dalessio pointed out that they need to evaluate the Town Hall rental fees.  They will consider putting enough data / information on the web site, for example the tax cards, plus having a hand-out in the office to cut down on the office staff time when people are asking questions.  Based on these reports the Selectboard now has enough data to see what they can put in place to make things run smoother.  The web site is getting about 75 people a day.  He estimates making changes in approximately 20 minutes.  Within eight weeks he will turn it over to the office staff.  Department Heads will be able to enter their own information.

Mr. Kreissle will be attending several workshops in September and October.

Recycling Center:  Mr. Paul Colburn was unable to attend this meeting but did submit two reports on the “Daily Weight Report and 5 Year to Date Comparison” on recyclables and a “Summary Monthly Comparison”.

Budget Schedule:  Mr. Dalessio reported that by the second Tuesday of September Mr. Kreissle will have the department reports ready on the spending.  By the third Tuesday of September he would like everybody to have a first shot at the budget.  By the middle of October they would like a first glance on the proposed 2016 budget for the tax rate.  He is more concerned about the expense side rather than salaries, etc.  They want to get an early start and then refine the numbers.  About mid October the Selectboard will start to meet with individual departments.  Warrant Articles should be submitted by the beginning of November.

Safety or Joint Loss Committee:  Mr. Colburn has agreed to head-up this committee.  They will be asking non-advisory folks to be on the committee.  They will probably meet once a month.

The Town will be switching insurance companies next year.  They will want to inspect buildings / equipment to see what they are insuring.  Primex is geared toward preventing accidents.  The Town has to address any problem areas.

Mr. Dalessio thanked everyone for coming to this meeting.  If any questions or concerns come up do not hesitate to contact one of the Selectboard members.

Adjournment:  

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to adjourn this Staff Meeting.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With all in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 6:00 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary