The Walpolean

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

SEPTEMBER 1, 2016

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

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

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Accounts Payable check register in the amount of $116,971.84 for checks dated September 2, 2016. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

PAYROLL:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Payroll voucher for the week ending August 27, 2016, in the amount of $25,118.63 for checks dated September 2, 2016. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $5,327.17 for the week ending August 27, 2016. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – August 25, 2016: Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of August 25, 2016, as submitted. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION #1 – August 25, 2016: Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session #1 of August 25, 2016, as submitted. These Minutes will remain sealed. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION #2 – August 25, 2016: Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session #2 of August 25, 2016, as submitted. These Minutes will remain sealed. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard received and reviewed Minutes of the following meeting:

• Walpole Planning Board Workshop Meeting – August 23, 2016

PUBLIC BUSINESS:

Mr. Bill Daher: Mr. Daher inquired about zoning requirements that would apply to his property off Route 12 if he were to consider some remodeling to a portion of his barn. It would not change the foot-print. Mr. Dalessio pointed out that it is a Commercial District so there are no restrictions. Unless the project is more than $10,000 he might not have to go before the Planning Board for Site Plan approval but it would be a neighborly gesture to have an informational consultation with the Planning Board to make them aware of his plans. It would be subject to a Building Permit from the Selectboard when the time comes.

SUMMARY INVENTORY OF VALUATION:

MS-1: Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve and sign the MS-1, 2016 Summary Inventory of Valuation, document for prevue only. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

MS-IV – Walpole Fire Village District and North Walpole Village: Mrs. Pschirrer moved to allow Mrs. Sarah Downing to sign the MS-VI for the Walpole Fire Village District and the MS-IV for the North Walpole Village. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Dalessio pointed out that the Selectboard feel the “Walpole Fire Village District” should be clarified as the “South Walpole Fire Village District”.

TAX ABATEMENTS:

STATE OF NEW HAMPSHIRE, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION, Church Street / Rt. 12, Map & Lot #027-005-000: Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve and sign the Abatement for Property Taxes for the State of New Hampshire, Department of Transportation, as they do not pay LUCT bills for property taken out of current use by eminent domain from a prior owner in the amount of $320.00. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SONYA A. KISSEL, 1 Hogan Lane, Map & Lot #016-005-MH01: Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve and sign the Abatement for Property Taxes for Sonya A. Kissel in the amount of $72.40 plus any interest accrued. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS:

Employee and Volunteer Appreciation Picnic – Sept. 25: Mrs. Pschirrer moved to allow the Open Container Permit for the consumption of alcoholic beverages to be waived at the Employee and Volunteer Appreciation Picnic to be held on September 25, 2016, from Noon to no later than 6:00 PM. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved. .

Abatement Permission to Rescind. Mr. Dalessio advised that during the July 21, 2016, meeting the Selectboard moved that Mrs. Sarah Downing be given permission to sign all Abatements under $100.00. Mrs. Smith pointed out that in accordance with State law the Selectboard cannot allow the Manager of Administration to sign all Abatements under $100.00.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to withdraw this approval for the Manager of Administration to approve all Abatements under $100.00 but to allow her to sign only the Water and Sewer Abatements under $100.00. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Town Dental Coverage: Mrs. Downing reported that Ms. Melissa Hopf, Representative from the Health Trust, will be able to visit with the Selectboard to make a presentation. Mrs. Pschirrer would like to see something, in writing, preferably ahead of her visit.

Boston Post Cane: Mrs. Downing was asked to do a follow-up with Ms. Charmian Trundle to see if she is willing to be the participant of the Boston Post Cane. If so, ask her what date she would prefer to attend a Selectboard meeting at 6:15 PM. Mr. Ray Boas will be notified of this date and asked to attend to take a photo.

Building and Demolition Permit; Water and Sewer Rate Posting: Mr. Dalessio had no problems with the rates. The Building and Demolition Permit is still a work-in-progress.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve posting the Water and Sewer rates. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved. .

708 Main Street: The Selectboard agreed to take this off the agenda until there is some activity on the property.  

Thornton and Associates Compensation Survey: There was a consensus of the Selectboard to not participate in this Thornton and Associates Compensation Survey as it is lengthy and a lot of it does not pertain to the Town of Walpole.

Mary McMahon – Abatement Appeal: Mrs. Pschirrer had put together a time line with some facts and figures on this Abatement. The Selectboard would like to make arrangements to set the date for the mediation for October 27, 2016.

Sewer Liens: Mrs. Edkins is working on a note regarding the Sewer Liens for the Selectboard. Mr. Dalessio would still like to schedule a meeting with Mrs. Linda Edkins, Mr. Mark Houghton and Mrs. Sandra Smith.

Revised Town Hall Rental Information and Rental Agreements: Mrs. Pschirrer had provided a list of all the not-for-profit groups. Mr. Dalessio noted that they should have the flexibility to add and subtract groups/people on the list. Scheduling of Town facilities goes through this office. Preference should be given to regular and appointed Boards. All renters must complete and sign a Rental Agreement.   The Selectboard reviewed the document for Definitions of User and Renter; Scheduling of Town Facilities; Rental Agreement and Insurance. Under Insurance, number 2, it was agreed to change “request” to “waive” insurance.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the policy on Rental Agreements for the Town of Walpole with the condition that under Insurance, number 2, that “request” be changed to “waive” insurance. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Leases and Contracts: One more contract has been submitted to the Selectboard office. Mr. Dalessio recommended that this now be turned over to Mr. Kreissle as it is a finance function. Mrs. Pschirrer would like someone to find a copy of the Parking Lot Agreement as it comes up for renewal in 2017.

Primex Renewal – January 2017: Mr. Rich Kreissle is working on this Primex renewal.

Town Hall Handyman: This will now be taken off the Agenda as a Handyman has been hired. Quotes for various projects are being worked on.

Ramp Repair Update: This will now be taken off the agenda as a contractor has been awarded the project. Mrs. Downing will do a follow-up with Keene Construction on Friday as it needs to be repaired prior to Primary Election Day. The ramp is a handicapped requirement.

Employee Policy Handbook Update: Mrs. Pschirrer reported that the committee is meeting on September 20^th to continue work on the Handbook Update.

Draft Warrant Article – Elderly Tax Exemption: The Selectboard will work on drafting a Warrant Article for the Elderly Tax Exemptions to be voted on at the next Annual Town Meeting.

Town Seal: This will be removed from the agenda until more research can be done.

NEW BUSINESS:

Walpole Old Home Day Funding Request: The Walpole Old Home Days activities will be held in 2017. Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Walpole Old Home Days Committee request for $2,500.00 subject to Mr. Kreissle, Manager of Finance, reviewing his budget and making a recommendation on which budget line it will be taken from. Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Court Appointed Special Advocates Funding Request: This request from CASA will be given to Mr. Kreissle to be put in the file for the next budget.

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 7:44 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:59 PM.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of September 1, 2016, 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 Mr. Dalessio. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 8:15 PM

ADJOURNMENT:

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

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

TOWN OF WALPOLE

STAFF MEETING

AUGUST 18, 2016

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

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

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.

Police Department: Police Chief Michael Paquette and Sergeant Justin Sanctuary were present. Chief Paquette recognized that both Sgt. Sanctuary and Mrs. Clough put together their new monthly stat report. This report is from July 16, 2016 to August 15, 2016. There were 414 calls for service. They are broken down as follows:

• Public Safety Calls:

Emergency Calls – 48              Administrative – 59                 Citizen Assists – 93

• Motor Vehicle Calls:

Accidents – 13                         MV Stops – 112                       Traffic Safety – 33

• Criminal Investigations:

Drugs/Alcohol – 15     Crimes Against a Person -13    Crimes Against Property – 28

Having 414 calls in one month is quite a lot. Mrs. Pschirrer pointed out that this is a very nice graph but it does not show all the time they actually spend on different calls / investigations; certain offenses require more time than others.   Chief Paquette said Mr. Dalessio has been discussing time; it is difficult to put a figure on everything they do but they can work on that. For example: they may spend ten minutes with one person on a certain incident yet spend a half-hour with another person. Mr. Dalessio noted that the only time that is logged in is at the scene; the other time they spend on this same incident is not logged. They have to figure out how they get that number without people actually sitting at their log books. Another responsibility adds up more time. Time is the next element. Chief Paquette agreed in that it does not log the time they spend after they go back to the station and process the paperwork, etc. They might be working on that when the phone rings and they have to leave to respond to another call; they are quite often in-and-out. When they come back in they have to finalize everything from the first call. It is difficult to keep track of all the time. Mr. Dalessio felt there are techniques they can try. It could take 10-or-12 man hours to process a DWI arrest. Sgt. Sanctuary said it sometimes takes longer as they have to keep coming back to it for little pieces. Chief Paquette and Sgt. Sanctuary can get data from the Dispatch Center. Mr. Dalessio said the new graph looks very good.

Chief Paquette thanked Mr. Rau and the Highway Department crew for doing the fencing at the Police Station and for removing some trees. It was a lot of work. Mr. Dalessio noted the new fencing looks good.

Town Clerk / Tax Collector: Mrs. Smith reported that they have been busy with election issues. Voter registrations, absentee ballot requests, UOCAVA ballots for voters that are overseas. This has been time consuming. They received the absentee ballots on Thursday. They also had the HAVA State Law Election Training here at our Town Hall. Everyone seemed very impressed with our beautiful Town Hall and what a lovely village we have.

They mailed out bills for the Land Use Change Taxes, Gravel Taxes and Yield Taxes. Money has been coming in slowly. They send reminders of small balances that are due because tax payers paid after the due date, they have collected $819.63 in interest and a total collected for the past month of $72,780.15. Interest is always paid first so any balance due can go to lien.

They collected $48,737.00 in vehicle registrations, 342 vehicles were registered, and this is average for this time of year.

Vital Records brought in $68.00; this is for certified copies of Births, Deaths or Marriages. They had three Marriage Licenses the Town receives $7.00 for each license, and this procedure can take from one half to an hour to complete. The State received $43.00 per license.

Dog licenses brought in $107.00 and Meghan is still sending out delinquent notices. A new person in town came in to register her vehicle and brought in the Rabies Certificates for her two dogs, so they registered her vehicle and her dogs! New comers are usually very good about wanting a Dog License.

They registered eight boats in the last month, this brought in $122.28. The larger boats pay more but they tend to have the smaller boats in Walpole. Next year we should do better, we do not make very much money but the customers appreciate the convenience.

They have spent hours trying to register a vehicle for a new resident. They were still working with the lien holder but it finally came in today.

The foot traffic always keeps them busy as do all the phone calls. The property taxes are almost all in. Vehicle registrations might not be as good this year; it runs in cycles.

Primary election is September 13^th. Don’t forget to vote! People can register on Election Day.

Highway Department: Mr. Michael Rau, Road Agent, submitted the following report for July 22, 2016 to August 18, 2016. They started their roadside mowing; that will be taken care of in the next two weeks. They need to recertify some of the crew for culvert replacements.

• A section of the new roof at the Highway Garage is done; it came out good.
• Replaced culverts under Cold River (this took two days), Merriam and Scovill Roads;
• Graded the Drewsville Road (it has heavy traffic – 500 vehicles might go over it on a Saturday)
• Asked by the Commissioners to cut brush on Center Street in North Walpole;
• Cleaned a pipe and catch basin in North Walpole;
• There was a wash-out on March Hill Road by Alice Smith Road that required ditching and grading – the guardrail is back;
• Work was done on Pleasant Street; it should be paved next week;
• Cold patching was done;
• Trucks and equipment were serviced;
• Cleaned catch basins;
• Crushed dumpsters for Recycling Center;
• Did Mowing;
• Cleared brush and trees in the Police Station Yard and did the fencing;
• Cleaned the ditch at the Cemetery;
• Moved books from the Town Hall to North Walpole;
• There will be flashing electronic signs and signs out on Main Street as they will be replacing the culvert that goes across the road and three catch basins near Hicks Machine (Mill Pond). Vehicles will be detoured to go through Houghton’s parking lot. They hope to start August 30^th. Mr. Dalessio asked Mr. Rau to get a notice in the Clarion and Walpolean. It will also be on-line.

Mr. Rau contacted Mr. Randy Rhoades to talk about the bridge by Black Jack Crossing. Mr. Rhoades will send his report to Beaver Tracks who will look at it. He has been working on the Permit by Notification for the March Hill Road and called the DES but they have not responded. Mr. Dalessio thought the Selectboard should make some inquiries to DES.

Library: Ms. Justine Rogers submitted the following report. Things have been going good and they have been very busy.

Summer Reading: 65 kids participated in the reading program. So far 8 have “finished” by reading 20+ hours. This is the last week we’ll be counting hours.

New Library Cards: The new cards have arrived today and they are beautiful. They are working on a services and programs brochure to hand out with new cards to all of their new and existing patrons so they have a better idea of what they offer. They have to coordinate everything with the State Library.

Bookworms Book Club: A few of the 4^th grade boys who come into the library weekly have requested a book club. Their first meeting is next Thursday! So far they have 4 kids interested and the boys who are “in charge” have been hanging flyers up around town.

The roofing company had told her they would begin work at the end of August or early September; she will check with them to confirm their start date.

Stats:

July 2015: 26 days open, 1403 people, 2149 circ, 25 programs, 341 people for programs.

July 2016: 23 days open, 1663 people, 2385 circ, 39 programs, 400 people for programs.

Jan-July 2015 Average: 84 circs per day and 48 people per day.

Jan-July 2016 Average: 89 circs per day and 62 people per day.

Recycling Center: Mr. Paul Colburn submitted reports for the month of July. He referenced the “Daily Weight Report and Year to Date Comparison”. There was an increase in steel cans over the other five years. Some lines are a little off due to various reasons. For example: they now did glass once a week instead of daily which has increased productivity. They no longer take in tubes; in 2012 they had about 2-1/2 tons but they haven’t taken them in for about two years because of the market. OCC/Chip is down a fair amount. Our biggest supplier is commercial but they found other ways to deal with it which is a better deal for them. A good thing is that the markets are up for cardboard; they are now getting the best price in 1-1/2 years. The Annual Forecast is down quite a bit. Mr. Colburn explained the “Five Year Comparison on Recyclables”. The biggest increase is commercial. They have taken in a lot of fluorescent bulbs from TransCanada as they are making a change but this will go down drastically next month. There are a lot of electronics these last two months. July has usually been a good month. Mr. Dalessio noticed an increase in the sale of bags.

Mr. Colburn had two Hooper helpers who are done this week. He did the exit interviews. It was great to have them. They still have compost that is screened and ready to go. He will be meeting with the Walpole Grange Leadership Academy students on Monday, August 29^th at 6:00 PM. They will do a review of what gets done at the Recycling Center. Mrs. Pschirrer noted that they will be at the Highway Department the following week at 6:00 PM. Mr. Dalessio pointed out that they want to do a session with the Library and the Police Department.

Mr. Colburn attended the Cheshire County meeting on August 3^rd. This is a monthly meeting but he does not usually attend all of them. He might go to half of the NRRA meetings. A bus trip is coming up that will go around to the various facilities. If anyone is interested let Mr. Colburn know. They signed the MSW and C+D contract for the next three years and a copy was given to the Selectboard office. He discovered a dead tree between the re-use trailer, the fence and Route 123; he will talk to Mr. Rau about addressing that. He sent in forms to get re-certified. The scales were re-certified today; it needs to be done annually. The WRAP Committee will be putting an ad in the Walpolean and Clarion for new members. They picked up the wood from the Mill Pond area that the Boy Scouts had cleared from the trails.

Chief Anashownee of the Raven & Wolf inter-tribal group, a Native American Group, is looking to set up another clean-up in September at the same place as last time. They want this clean-up to be open to everyone. Mr. Joe Aldrich had looked into who owned that area and found out that it is the Town of Walpole. Chief Paquette said at one time they talked about closing off a part of that area so vehicles could not drive there. Any parking would have to be in the designated lot. Chief Paquette would like to attend the planning meeting with the other parties involved including the Connecticut River Watershed Council and TransCanada. Mr. Colburn pointed out that it costs the Town about $75.00/ton for all the trash that is picked up and then needs to be disposed of. Mr. Dalessio suggested that they move forward with the meeting with Chief Anashownee.

Selectboard Offfice: Mrs. Sarah Downing made the following report:

Meeting with a NH Dept. of Revenue Administration (DRA) – Municipal & Property Division auditors last Friday, 8/12, for several hours. A review of Elderly Tax and non-profit property tax exemption audit work and files was conducted. Training regarding the upcoming MS-1 Report was also conducted.

5 Year Requalification of Veterans’ Tax Credits and Elderly and/or Disabled Exemption:

• Next steps were decided upon for the Elderly Tax Exemption audit. The Selectboard will finalize paperwork at the 8/18/16 Selectboard meeting. This will close out the Elderly Exemption section of the audit.
• For the Veterans’ Tax Credit, the state requires that veterans who have their properties held in trusts or life estates complete a PA-33 form. There are 43 veterans who will be receiving a notice of this change and the form. All veterans who have handed in their forms to date will be receiving their 2016 tax credit; the new form will be required for the 2017 tax year.
• Three non-profit property owners were to be reminded to send in A-9 and one also owed an A-12 financial form and report per the DRA auditors. Calls and e-mails were sent. Only one non-profit educational group owes information as of 8/17/16. Forms must be submitted by 8/24/16 or the exemption shall be removed.
• The DRA auditors will return in late September to review the Veteran’s Tax Credit audit and to start work on updating Current Use files.

MS-1: Follow-up work is underway to finalize any valuations that have changed from the audits being conducted along with property lot line changes and properties being granted a current use before the April 15^th deadline. The MS-1 is due to the state on or before Sept. 1^st. Current Use rates are being updated in Avitar with a software update pending. This form starts the process to set the tax rate by the DRA.

Timber and Excavation Tax Warrants: Reporting for 2015-2016 has been closed out. The tax collector has been sending out billings. One Timber Tax Warrant for 2016-2017 has been posted.

Town Hall Facilities: The ramp and gazebo repair should occur in less than 4 weeks. The ramp should be repaired before the Sept 13^th Primary Election Day. One application has been received for a Town Hall handyman. Several jobs including adding a hand rail and hanging a new projection screen are on the list of things to be installed.

Notices of Pending Sewer Lien: Notices were created by Linda Edkins and signed by the Selectboard. The notices were sent to property owners with outstanding balances. The Selectboard is researching next steps to recover monies owed to the Town.

Tri-fold Flyer: Was finalized and then recently updated. New copies of the flyer are being distributed.

Health Trust Benefits Overview Presentation: Friday, Oct 21^st from 1 – 2 pm in the Town Hall. “All full-time employees are expected to attend”

Sexual and Other Forms of Harassment Training: Scheduled for Friday, Nov. 4^th from 1-2:30 pm for all regular full and part-time employees in the Town Hall. “Attendance is expected. There will be a sign-in-sheet”

Town of Walpole – Employee and Volunteer Appreciation BBQ: The date has been set for Sunday, Sept. 25^th with the event starting at noon in Whitcomb Park. Pit Stop Smokehouse will begin serving lunch at 1pm. An electronic invitation is forthcoming. The rain location will be the main location of the Town Hall. The Planning Committee is seeking the loan a croquet set, bocci balls, and corn hole game with bean bags.

Manager of Finance: Attended a NHMA sponsored webinar entitled, “Federal Overtime Rule and Municipal Governments” with a Selectboard member on Weds., 6/17/16.

Walpole Recreation: Mr. Justin Cassarino was unable to attend this meeting but submitted the following report dated August 18, 2016.

Pool:

• State Inspector came and said everything was great. Chlorine level was high, but explained that we dumped in three 5 gal. tubs of shock the night before because of all of the rain that we had for four days straight. The rain brings the chlorine down, so we needed to get it back up quickly. She said that it wasn’t a problem. Gave a few recommendations, but overall was very happy.
• Head lifeguards have been holding a training every Sunday to practice injury situations. Kids enjoy volunteering to be the “victims”, so they can be strapped to the backboard.
• Community Day was rained out, but for the first hour and a half we had 75 patrons come to the pool. We are rescheduling for Friday, August 19^th. We still have Athens Pizza coming down with their truck to sell food and we are collecting non-perishable food items for the Fall Mountain Food Shelf. Patrons have free access to the pool when they bring in an item. We will also be playing games with prizes and showing a movie at night.
• Pool cover was shipped out on August 18^th, so they can get the proper measurements and create a new one for us.
• Tennis courts will be done at the beginning of September (hopefully), as long as the weather cooperates.

Basketball:

• Season ended last Friday.
• Had a great turn-out for the championship game.
• Players received a free piece of pizza, played a game at halftime, and watched a great championship game.
• Awards were given to the players, parents and coaches were thanked for their commitment to the league, and companies that sponsored a team received a plaque with a team photo to thank them again.

Soccer:

• Will start lining the fields next week.
• Sign-ups will begin the week of Labor Day at the school.
• Had a league meeting with all of the towns that participate in the league to discuss rules and other topics/concerns from last year.

Manager of Finance: Mr. Rich Kreissle handed out a Consolidated Statement of Activity – MTD and YTD as of August 17, 2016 and a Consolidated Statement of Activity – MTD and YTD for 12/31/16.

Proposed 2017 Budget: Mr. Dalessio advised that the Selectboard would like to have proposed budgets (at least the first round) submitted by the next Staff Meeting on September 15, 2016. In the beginning of October the Selectboard will meet on one day to work on all the budgets. In November they will work on capital spending. The goal is to finish by the middle of November. Mr. Kreissle will give the Department Heads worksheets.

Guests: Two guests from the Walpole Grange Leadership Academy attended this meeting.

Adjournment: Mr. Dalessio adjourned this Staff Meeting at 6:12 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

AUGUST 18, 2016

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

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

PUBLIC BUSINESS:

PARK IN NORTH WALPOLE: Mr. Bill Gallagher and Mr. Don Provencher are residents of the Village of North Walpole and also volunteers for the Village. There is a piece of property off Main Street and Center Street that the Town owns but has authorized the Village to build a park. They put in a volley ball game many years ago but there was vandalism and nothing else happened. It was, once again, overgrown with shrubs and grass so they cleaned it out again. There are other things they want to do but need authorization from the Selectboard and maybe get a little help from the Highway Department. They would like to level off a bumpy part, put grass seed down plus fill in an old cistern. They are looking for guidance before moving ahead. They displayed pictures of the park area. Mr. Gallagher mentioned there is an old stone foundation closer to Center Street; they thought about reusing the stones by putting them around the trees; it would hold the bark mulch in place. There are two kiosks by the tunnel that the Town was supposed to maintain as per a 2003 agreement on the tunnel with the railroad. They should be able to maintain this area. There was discussion relative to asking the Road Agent about the culvert and cistern and to look over the area. See if he has any suggestions about clearing around the kiosk. The Selectboard had no objections to Mr. Gallagher and Ms. Provencher contacting Mr. Rau and moving forward but would like them to keep the communication open.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Accounts Payable check register in the amount of $28,411.40 for checks dated August 19, 2016. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

PAYROLL:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Payroll voucher for the week ending August 13, 2016, in the amount of $24,152.31 for checks dated August 19, 2016. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $4,979.33 for the week ending August 13, 2016. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – August 11, 2016: Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of August 11, 2016, 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.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard received and reviewed Minutes of the following meetings:

• Trustees of Trust Funds – February 17, 2016;
• Trustees of Trust Funds – April 22, 2016;
• North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners – August 9, 2016;
• Walpole Planning Board – August 9, 2016;
• Walpole Zoning Board of Adjustment – August 17, 2016.

BUILDING PERMIT:

ROBERT and MARY JANE NARDONE, 104 Barnett Hill Road, Map & Lot #009-053-000: Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve Building Permit #2016-32 for Robert and Mary Jane Nardone to “Construct a 32’ x 50’ new home and 28’ x 36’ garage” at 104 Barnett Hill Road. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

CURRENT USE LAND USE CHANGE TAX (LUCT) WARRANTS:

KENNETH L. BURNS, 388 North Road, Map & Lot #008-076-003: Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Land Use Change Tax for Kenneth L. Burns for the amount of $6,500.00. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve and sign the Tax Collector’s Land Use Change Tax Warrant to Sandra J. Smith, Collector of Taxes for Walpole, NH in said county for Kenneth L. Burns. Map & Lot #008-076-003, in the amount of $6,500.00. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

CURRENT USE APPLICATIONS:

LANE CONSTRUCTION, CORP., Whipple Hill Road, Map & Lot #003-002-000: Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Current Use application for Lane Construction Corp to put 121.3 acres into Current Use. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

EUGENE and GAIL CRAY, Cray Road, Map & Lots #027-010-001 and #027-010-002: Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Current Use application for Eugene and Gail Cray to put 36.15 acres into Current Use. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

ELDERLY and BLIND TAX EXEMPTIONS:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to deny the following Elderly and/or Blind Exemptions from the property tax credit:

• Map & Lot # 029-045-000;
• Map & Lot # 028-119-000;
• Map & Lot # 016-005-000;
• Map & Lot # 020-037-000;
• Map & Lot # 010-043-000;
• Map & Lot # 029-010-000;
• Map & Lot # 028-131-000;
• Map & Lot # 012-050-000;
• Map & Lot # 025-031-000;
• Map & Lot # 028-103-000.

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

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to grant the following Elderly and/or Blind Tax Exemptions for the property tax credit as follows:

• Map & Lot # 028-132-000;
• Map & Lot # 008-002-000;
• Map & Lot # 025-006-000;
• Map & Lot # 028-094-000;
• Map & Lot # 013-028-000.

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

The Selectboard will review and compare income guidelines with other comparable towns to see if the Town of Walpole limits are too low as they have not been changed in quite a few years.

OLD BUSINESS:

Caskin Letter: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the letter to Mr. Roland Caskin on Colonial Drive concerning the water drainage issue. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

2016 Revised Estimated Revenues – 2016 MS-434: Mr. Kreissle had left a packet of various Financial Documents for Review that included the MS-434. These are his best estimates and are based on a 5% decrease. The Selectboard will consider a 7% decrease. Mr. Kreissle checked with both Mrs. Smith and Mr. Colburn about their Revenues. The Selectboard will look at the other numbers. This will be kept on the Agenda and finalized at the next meeting.

Leases and Contracts: One contract came in recently. All the Department Heads have been asked to forward copies of any leases and/or contracts they have so there is a file in the Selectboard Office.

Boston Post Cane: This will remain on the Agenda until the cane is presented to the oldest Walpole resident.

Revised Town Hall Rental Information and Rental Agreements: Mr. Dalessio reported that some towns have created exemptions to the Primex rules. They are giving the authority to the Selectboard to make decisions on rentals. Mr. Dalessio will continue to research and have more information soon.

Town of Walpole DOT Drug Testing Policy: Mrs. Pschirrer will send a new revised version of this policy for the other Selectboard members to review.

708 Main Street: There have been no new developments on this property.

Volunteer Service Statement and Agreement: Mr. Dalessio recommended that they refer to the RSAs on Volunteer Service.

Employee and Volunteer Appreciation Picnic – September 25, 2016: Mrs. Downing reported that the Pit Stop Smoke House is doing the catering. She is looking for games they can use; a croquet set, bocci balls, corn hole game with bean bags, etc.    

Building and Demolition Permit and Water and Sewer Application Forms: Mrs. Downing has been doing research on the Fire Marshall and fire codes. Mr. Dalessio will send this link to the RSAs and other information to her.

Employee Policy Handbook Update: Mrs. Pschirrer advised that the committee is meeting again in September to go over other sections in the handbook. They will have to make decisions on over-time and comp time.

Town Seal: Mrs. Downing displayed a piece of art work of the north end of the Town Hall. It appears to have been used as a part of a Town Seal at one time. They will continue to do research.

Wage Review: This item will be kept on the Agenda for the next meeting.

NEW BUSINESS:

Sub-delegation of Deposit Authority Policy: Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve and sign the Sub-delegation of Deposit Authority Policy. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mary McMahon Abatement Appeal: The Board of Tax and Land Appeals have mandated that the Town meet with Mrs. McMahon to mediate this Appeal. The Selectboard agreed that in the past they have gone with Avitar’s property assessments.

Water and Sewer Bill Collection: Mrs. Pschirrer looked at the RSAs and found that they have three options to handle Water and Sewer Bill Collections. The Selectboard have been discussing the collections of sewer bills in the Village of North Walpole. Mr. Dalessio suggested that they obtain a list of the property owners that have liens on them now and a list of the ones who have made special arrangements. A meeting should be scheduled with Mrs. Linda Edkins and Mr. Mark Houghton for his opinion.

Sexual Harassment Training Certificate: Mr. Justin Cassarino will be excused from attending the Town’s training as he has been certified through the school system.

Town Hall Handyman Application: This was tabled until the next meeting.

Town Construction and Building Repair Contracts: Mr. Dalessio advised that a Certificate of Insurance will be required.

Drug Testing Vendor Proposal: This will remain on the Agenda for future discussion.

Dog Waste in Trash Barrels on Common: At the Safety Committee meeting an employee brought up the fact that when they are emptying the trash barrels on the Common they are now finding dog waste in them. Mr. Dalessio stated that if someone gets it on their hands they need to report it to the office. Plastic bags are not used in these barrels because they fill up with water. Mr. Dalessio told Mr. Rau that the employees should wear gloves when doing this job. The barrels will be removed soon as they are not on the Common during the winter.

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:

Mfr. 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 8:07 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 8:17 PM.

OTHER BUSINESS:

Assessing: Mrs. Downing would like to attend the Assessing 101 Training Session on Wednesday, August 24^th. She will be gone a half day. Mrs. Edkins will be on out of the office; Mr. Kreissle and Mr. Fafara will be in the office. The Selectboard urged her to attend this class.

ADJOURNMENT:

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

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

AUGUST 4, 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 three people in attendance.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:  Mr. Aldrich moved to accept the Accounts Payable check register in the amount of $552,277.04 for checks issued August 5, 2016.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

The above amount includes a monthly payment of $513,448.72 to the Fall Mountain Regional School District.

PAYROLL: Mr. Aldrich moved to accept the Payroll Register for the week ending July 30, 2016, in the amount of $26,731.79 for checks issued August 5, 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 $5,829.95 for the week ending July 30, 2016.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – July 27, 2016:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of July 27, 2016, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Minutes were approved.  Abstained: Mr. Aldrich as he was not present at this meeting.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard received and reviewed Minutes of the following meetings:

• Cold River Advisory Committee – May 26, 2016;
• Walpole Cemetery Trustees – July 23, 2016.

BUILDING PERMIT:

WILLIAM and ELIZABETH SILVERSTEIN, 70 Reservoir Road, Map & Lot #010-033-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to grant Building Permit No. 2016-30 for William and Elizabeth Silverstein to “Construct a 22’ x 22’ Great Room Addition” pending receipt of the Energy Audit approval.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

NOTICES OF INTENT TO CUT WOOD OR TIMBER:

ELISSE McGUIRK LIVING TRUST, Valley Road, Map & Lot #012-076-000:  Mr. Aldrich moved to grant and sign the Notice of Intent to Cut Wood or Timber for Elisse McGuirk / Elisse McGuirk Living Trust off the Valley Road.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

ELISSE McGUIRK LIVING TRUST, 167 Valley Road, Map & Lot 013-015-000:  Mr. Aldrich moved to grant and sign the Notice of Intent to Cut Wood or Timber for Elisse McGuirk / Elisse McGuirk Living Trust off the Valley Road.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

TIMBER TAX WARRANT and YIELD TAXES ASSESSED:

RONNIE KINGSBURY, 125 Kingsbury Lane, Map & Lot #008-120-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Certification of Yield Taxes Assessed for Ronnie Kingsbury in the amount of $866.94.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to submit the Original Warrant Yield Tax Levy to Sandra J. Smith, Collector of Taxes for the Town of Walpole, NH, for Ronnie Kingsbury in the amount of $866.94.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

CURRENT LAND USE CHANGE TAX (LUCT) WARRANTS:

KIMBERLY BOGAR, 286 Old Keene Road, Map & Lot #007-025-000:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve and sign the Land Use Change Tax (LUCT) Warrant for Kimberly Bogar in the amount of $85.00.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

JOSHUA and JAMIE DRUKE, 171 Reservoir Road, Map & Lot #010-028-000:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve and sign the Land Use Change Tax (LUCT) Warrant for Joshua and Jamie Druke in the amount of $400.00.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

STATE OF NEW HAMPSHIRE, Church Street, Map & Lot #027-005-000:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve and sign the Tax Collector’s Land Use Change Tax Warrant to Sandra J. Smith, Collector of Taxes for Walpole, NH, for the State of New Hampshire in the amount of $320.00.  They removed 1.86 acres from Current Use.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS:

North Road:  The Selectboard discussed options regarding the water problems on North Road.  Mrs. Pschirrer will draft a letter to Mr. Caskin outlining the Selectboard’s decision on North Road.

Credit Card Use Policy:  The Selectboard signed this Credit Card Use Policy that was approved during their meeting last week.

South Entrance Handicap Access Railing Repair and Gazebo Repairs Contract: The Selectboard signed the contract with Keene Commercial Construction to do both of these projects.

Revised Town Hall Rental Information and Rental Agreement; Sample Agreement from Primex:  The Selectboard reviewed their revised Town Hall Rental Agreement and the sample agreement received from Primex.  They discussed the Indemnity clause.  Renters will be required to have their own rental insurance; coverage can be obtained from Primex.  Proof of rental insurance will have to be submitted to the Selectboard office before renters are given the key to the Town Hall.  Mr. Dalessio recommended asking Primex about the groups that do not get charged for using the Town Hall; do they still need to carry the insurance.  What if they do not have separate insurance.  Mrs. Downing was asked to formulate the Selectboard questions and submit the list to Primex.  Mr. Dalessio noted that after they receive answers they will have to notify the users of the Town Hall.           

Boston Post Cane Response Update: Mrs. Downing reported that they still have inquiries out to the public for the oldest Walpole resident.

Town of Walpole DOT Drug Testing Policy:  Mrs. Pschirrer has a draft proposal.  There are two existing policies: 1) the Walpole Substance Abuse Policy for non-DOT employees and 2) the Walpole Substance Abuse Policy for DOT employees.  They are almost verbatim in accordance with the federal regulations.  She is proposing that they have one policy and reference the New Hampshire Department of Transportation (DOT) policy because it affects people with CDL licenses.  It details drug testing.  This applies mostly to the Highway Department and Recycling Department.  It also covers people who are on a drug that was prescribed for them which affects their physical ability to work but this must be reported to their supervisor.  Mr. Dalessio recommended that this draft policy be sent out electronically to the Selectboard to review and a decision will be made at the next meeting.

Building and Demolition Permit and Water and Sewer Application Forms:  Mrs. Downing had sent these forms out electronically to the Selectboard for their review.  Mr. Dalessio requested that a copy of the Water and Sewer application form be sent to Mr. Mark Houghton for his input.

708 Main Street:  Ms. Cheryl Mayberry reported that the North Walpole Board of Commissioners talked about this proposed donation to the Town at their last meeting.  The Fire Chief was going to inquire as to whether or not there was any interest in this property and will report back to the Commissioners.

Dog Bite Report:  Mr. Dalessio advised that this dog bite is being handled by the appropriate people.

Volunteer Service Statement and Agreement:  Mrs. Pschirrer will review this Volunteer Service Statement and Agreement and research it in the RSAs.

Employee and Volunteer Appreciation Picnic – September 25^th; need to e-mail a ‘Save the Date’ and Then Quickly Create Invitations: Mrs. Downing is working on the Employee and Volunteer Appreciation Picnic.  The Selectboard will look at the Open Container Ordinance before the picnic.    

Employee Policy Handbook Update: Mrs. Pschirrer has a draft Employee Policy Handbook that will be distributed to the Selectboard for their review.

Leases and Contracts: Mrs. Downing has not heard from the Library as the Librarian has been away.  Mr. Dalessio pointed out that they should keep working on this.

Town Seal:  Mrs. Downing will continue to work on the Town seal.

NEW BUSINESS:

Complete Streets Update:  Ms. Cheryl Mayberry reported on a Transportation Advisory Meeting she attended last Monday.  They went over the Route 12 South corridor.  The Ten-Year Plan was approved by the DOT.  She met with Mr. J.B. Mack of the Southwest Regional Planning Commission as Mary was not in the office.  Their plan is to visit with the Planning Boards to go over the Complete Streets up-date and see if they want to add it to their Town Plans.  Ms. Mayberry attended a meeting that was held in Troy.  The towns need to consider the following; if the crosswalks are in appropriate places, the sidewalks, bicyclists and pedestrians, visibility; should they have a bike path or not, etc.  Consider all flows of transportation and think about changes to their roadway in a complete way.  Swanzey just wrote a Complete Streets Plan; they are about the size of Walpole.  Some wording and policy issues are considered across the board.  Ms. Mayberry plans to attend the Walpole Planning Board meeting when it is scheduled.

2016 Revised Estimated Revenues – 2016 MS-434:  This form needs to be turned into the DRA in September.  Mr. Dalessio thanked Mr. Kreissle for doing a draft for them in August as it allows time to study and make changes if required.  Mr. Kreissle was asked to talk to Mrs. Smith about the Town Clerk’s office and Mr. Paul Colburn about the Recycling Center as it appears revenues are going down in these two departments.  Mr. Dalessio would also like Mr. Mark Houghton to review the Water and Sewer portion of this report.  The Selectboard will look at this again before it is sent into the DRA.  This form helps set the tax rate.

Cemetery Deed for Lots D403 & D404, James and Patti Neal:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Cemetery Deed for the sale of lots D403 and D404 to James and Patti Neal.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Town of Walpole Investment Policy and PDIP: Mr. Dalessio advised that this Town of Walpole Investment Policy and PDIP are well written.  He will talk to Mr. Goins about remembering to make changes when the RSAs are amended.  He will also discuss numbering these documents so they can begin indexing them.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve and sign the Town of Walpole Investment Policy and PDIP as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Welfare Reports:  There was a consensus of the Selectboard to have Mrs. Clough submit written quarterly Welfare reports.  They would like to have her come in once a year at budget time; October would be a good time.

Wage Review:  Mr. Dalessio reported that Municipal Resources, Inc. did a study on organizational issues for the Town a few years ago.  He encouraged Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Aldrich to read this report that is in the Selectboard office.  He feels MRI is the best choice to do this new Salary Review.  They will match up Walpole to other towns of similar size.  It will be a thorough review.  Mr. Dalessio suggested that the study be done for 10-to-15 employees.  Mrs. Pschirrer recommended contacting Primex about doing the study as it might be less expensive than the per person quote from MRI.  Perhaps a labor attorney should be consulted as there are so many new edicts.  Mr. Dalessio recommended that they do their own internal study first and then make a decision on what direction they want to go.  He now has copies of all the job descriptions so will send them over to MRI and have them submit a proposal.

Strength and Honor Foundation Karate:  A request was received to use the Town Hall for classes from the Director of the Strength and Honor Foundation Karate.  There was discussion about the Town Hall being very busy now.  The Selectboard felt it needs to be denied at this time.  Mr. Dalessio suggested having Mrs. Edkins handle this.

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:

Mr. Aldrich moved to recess this Selectboard meeting.  The Selectboard will enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With all in favor, the motion was approved at 8:07 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 8:16 PM.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION:

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

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 8:23 PM.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of August 4, 2016, be sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

OTHER BUSINESS:

Water Rationing: Mr. Dalessio had received calls about water rationing in Cheshire County.  He contacted Mr. Mark Houghton who advised that this is not an issue in Walpole at this point.

ADJOURNMENT:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to adjourn this meeting.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 8:24 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

Sarah Downing also asked that I advise everyone that:

“This coming Selectboard Meeting (Aug. 11^th), the public can attend but there will be no discussion of items with the public since one Selectboard member will be absent this week.  The meeting will start at 5:45.” – Lil

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

JULY 27, 2016

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

BUILDING PERMIT:

HASLAM, 54 Colonial Drive, Map & Lot #021-033-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve Building Permit No. 2016-29 for Michael and Anita Haslam to “Construct a 12’ x 9’ greenhouse” at 54 Colonial Drive.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Accounts Payable check register in the amount of $119,295.73 for checks issued July 29, 2016.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

PAYROLL:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Payroll Register for the week ending July 23, 2016, in the amount of $26,219.70 for checks issued July 29, 2016.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA in the amount of $5,464.45 for the week ending July 23, 2016.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – July 21, 2016:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of July 21, 2016, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

SELECTBOARD STAFF MEETING – July 21, 2016:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the Selectboard Staff Meeting of July 21, 2016, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard received and reviewed Minutes of the following meetings:

• Walpole Conservation Commission – July 11, 2016 *;
• Zoning Board of Adjustment – July 20, 2016.

*Referring to these meeting minutes, Mrs. Pschirrer will talk to the golf course members who have been using pond water for the course.

NOTICE OF INTENTS TO CUT WOOD OR TIMBER – Supplemental:

WILLETT, Ramsey Hill Road, Map & Lot #011-010-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer advised that on April 14^th the Selectboard approved a Notice of Intent to Cut for Kelly and Marcum Willett but they have now submitted a supplemental Intent to Cut as they want to increase the cut from 20 to 30 acres.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Supplemental – Notice of Intent to Cut for Kelly and Marcum Willett.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

TIMBER TAX WARRANTS and YIELD TAXES ASSESSED:

Simonds, 15 Sawmill Lane, Map & Lot #013-034-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Certification of Yield Taxes Assessed for Rita Simonds in the amount of $4,456.24.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Garland Lumber Company, Reservoir Road, Map & Lot 011-002-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Certification of Yield Taxes Assessed for Garland Lumber Company in the amount of $121.03.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mark and Brooke Houghton, Blackjack Crossing, Map & Lot #004-044-002:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Certification of Yield Taxes Assessed for Mark E. and Brooke Houghton in the amount of $10.50.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Original Warrant Timber Tax Levy that will be given to Sandra J. Smith, Collector of Taxes for the Town of Walpole, NH for Rita Simonds, Garland Lumber Company and Mark E. and Brooke Houghton for a total tax amount of $4,587.77.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD LETTER TO BE SIGNED:

Women of Walpole (WOW) Thank You Letter:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve and sign the Thank You letter to Andrea Goins, President of the Women of Walpole, for the microwaves that are in the Town Hall kitchen.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS:

North Road:  The Selectboard had received an email from Mr. Rau on the North Road costs.  Mr. Dalessio mentioned that there were times when the Town provided labor but not materials however they were not for a project this large.  There was a consensus to table this until the next Selectboard meeting when Mr. Aldrich is present.

It was noted that Liberty Utilities took down the “dead” tree by the Johnson House.  The electric company will take down trees when it endangers their lines or they feel it will hit a house when it is near their power lines.

Town Directory Tri-fold:  The Selectboard looked over a revised copy of the Town Directory Tri-fold.  They continue to make changes.  Mr. Alex Fafara has been working on this.  Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer felt this copy looked good.  Mrs. Downing will have one more draft done tomorrow.  They will always be changing and up-dating it.  That is the reason why they will make a limited number each time they print it. There will be an insert of the civic people.

South Entrance Handicap Access Railing Repair / Gazebo Repairs:  Keene Commercial Construction has agreed to do both of these projects for $4,500.00.

Leases and Contracts: Most of the Department Heads have replied that they do not have any.  Mrs. Downing was asked to check with the Library to see if there is something that needs to be renewed year-after-year.  She will continue to work on this.

Clarion Advertising: The Selectboard reviewed the information received on advertising rates in the Clarion.  Mr. Dalessio felt the Town’s rate would be on a case-by-case basis.

Revised Town Hall Rental Information and Rental Agreement:  The Selectboard reviewed the revised Town Hall Rental Information and Rental Agreement.  There will no longer be an additional charge for the tables and chairs.  Mrs. Pschirrer said the prices seem to be okay.  Renters will still have some options.  Mr. Dalessio wanted the agreement to state that renters will not be reimbursed for their deposit if there is damage to the gazebo and they will be responsible for any damages above their deposit.  Mrs. Edkins is doing the edits on this document.  A copy will be sent to Primex for their review.

Boston Post Cane Article:  This is on-hold for a few weeks.

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

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

Building and Demolition Permit Application Information and Form:  Mrs. Edkins has been working on this revision.

Town Seal:  Mrs. Downing did not have an up-date on the Town Seal.

NEW BUSINESS:

Complete Streets Update:  Ms. Cheryl Mayberry expected to be present for this discussion; however she was unable to attend. It will continue to be an agenda item.

Water and Sewer Lien Discharge, 47 Church Street:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to grant the Water and Sewer Lien Discharge for the property at 47 Church Street in North Walpole.  The Chair is authorized to sign this Lien Discharge.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Water and Sewer Lien Discharge, 55 North River Road:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to grant the Water and Sewer Lien Discharge for the property at 55 North River Road.  The Chair is authorized to sign this Lien Discharge.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Water and Sewer Lien Discharge, 4 Bank Drive:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to grant the Water and Sewer Lien Discharge for the property at 4 Bank Drive.  The Chair is authorized to sign this Lien Discharge.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Dog Bite Report:  The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of letters from Mrs. Sandra Smith and Dr. Shaw regarding a dog bite on July 25^th involving a child.  Mr. Dalessio will follow-up with the Police Department tomorrow.

708 Main Street: The Selectboard will consider the offer from Champlain Oil to accept 708 Main Street as a gift.  Mr. Dalessio will check with Mr. Houghton and the North Walpole Commissioners to ask if they foresee any use of the building.

Credit Card Use Policy: Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Credit Card Use Policy.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.  

Volunteer Service Statement and Agreement: Primex had sent a draft Volunteer Service Statement and Agreement.  They recommended that after the Selectboard edits it that they have legal counsel review it.  Mr. Dalessio will look at the RSA and this will be an agenda item for next week.

Employee and Volunteer Appreciation Picnic:  The Selectboard suggested that the picnic be held on Sunday, September 25^th or October 2^nd.  Mrs. Downing mentioned that the Town Hall will have to be available in the event it is a rain day.

North Walpole:  Mrs. Pschirrer advised that the Highway Department does not have enough money to put in concrete sidewalks therefore they will have to be asphalt.  Mr. Rau is working on this with the North Walpole Commissioners.

Mr. Dalessio mentioned that on the corner of Vine and Killeen Street (near Speedy Steve’s Laundromat) there is a big pot hole that opened up recently; it should be taken care of.  Mrs. Pschirrer will bring this to Mr. Rau’s attention.

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to recess the Selectboard meeting.  The Selectboard will enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With all in favor, the motion was approved at 7:34 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:52 PM.

ADJOURNMENT:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to adjourn this meeting.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With all in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 7:53 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

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 Picnic:  Mr. 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, 2016:  Mrs. Downing reported that the Health Trust is coming in on Friday, October 21^st 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 Guidance:  Mr. 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 18^th at 4:00 (Just Before Staff Meeting):  Mrs. Pschirrer advised that there is a Safety Committee meeting on Thursday, August 18^th at 4:00 PM before the Staff Meeting.

Staff Reports:

Walpole Police Department:  Sgt. 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 12^th 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 12^th 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 21^st 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 26^th at 11:30 am and they will be doing a dinner in August.
• New Library Cards: Voting for the photo contest ends today (the 21^st). 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 Collector – Mrs. Sandra Smith was sick and unable to attend but submitted the following report:

They are still trying to catch up.  Taxes were due July 1^st, 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 16^th to July 19^th, 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 11^th 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

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 Procedure:  Mrs. 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 Contracts:  Mr. 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 Advertising:  Mrs. 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 Agreement:  Mrs. 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 19^th but they did not finish the things they wanted to talk about.  They will meet again on September 20^th.  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 20^th.

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

NEW BUSINESS:

Authorization to Approve Abatements Under $100 to Manager of Administration:  Mrs. 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, LLC:  Mr. 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 Form:  Mr. 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 Training:  Mrs. 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

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 Striping:  Mr. 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 Update:  Mr. 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 Repairs:  Mrs. 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 Academy:  Mr. 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:

Clarion:  Mr. 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 Patterns:  Mrs. 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

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 Striping:  Mr. 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 Delarosa:  Mr. 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 Article:  Mr. Dalessio reviewed the ad.  The deadline for feedback will be July 31^st.  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 Advertising:  Mr. Dalessio spoke to Mr. Boas about the Clarion advertising.  Sarah will contact Mr. Boas upon his return.

North Street:  Mr. 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 Policy:  Mrs. 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 Monies:  Mrs. 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 Common:  Mr. 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

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 4^th.

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 Proposal:  Mrs. 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 4^th but will start again the week of July 11^th.

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, 2016:  Mrs. 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 Audit:  Mr. 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 Update:  Mrs. 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 Policy:  Mr. 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 14^th and their Oktoberfest event on September 30^th and October 1^st.  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 14^th and their Oktoberfest event on September 30^th and October 1^st, 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 System:  Mr. 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 Study:  Mr. 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