Category Archives: SELECTBOARD

Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 1/21/16

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

JANUARY 21, 2016

 

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

 

CALL TO ORDER:  Mr. Dalessio called this Selectboard meeting to order at 6:15 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.  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.  There were six people in attendance.

PUBLIC BUSINESS:

TARA SAD: Mrs. Tara Sad and Mr. Ray Boas were present.  Mrs. Sad explained that the Historical Society is making plans for a special event.  Mrs. Sad thought it would be a great idea to include a walk to the Louisa May Alcott Falls. Unfortunately since 2005 this area is not suitable for walking, there is no longer a bridge, and no pathways as they were all washed out.  This property was deeded to the Town in the 1930s for the sole purpose of recreation, a park for the Town’s people and it should be maintained.  They distributed copies of the background history of the Academy Ravine Recreational Area and Bellows Knapp Memorial Trail that was written by William Beer in June 1976.  She requested that the Selectboard give approval to have work done on the property to open up the trails so it can be usable once again. Most work will be done with volunteers.  Mrs. Sad talked to Mr. Tom Beaudry and Mr. Lew Shelley of the Conservation Commission; last month the Conservation Commission talked about doing this work.  Mr. Shelley is qualified, a resident of the Town and could do the work but would like to be paid.  There is a question as to whether he can be hired by the Town if he is on the Conservation Commission.  Is it a conflict of interest? Mrs. Sad envisions fixing this area up to the foot of the falls; there could be a picnic area with a view.  Mr. Dalessio felt that because the property is Town-owned it could fall under the work done by the Conservation Commission.  They have money for this specific type of work; that is not an issue.  Mr. Boas advised that the Historical Society was recently gifted with Louisa May Alcott’s petticoat that she wore when she was 14 years old; it will be a piece of their exhibit.  The Falls were her favorite place.  Mr. Dalessio feels it is a great idea.  Mrs. Sad noted that in 1976 when the work was done for the Bi-centennial the cost was $2,500; they had a Warrant to do the work.  She would hope that the Town would let them use some smaller equipment that might be needed.  Mrs. Pschirrer recommended that they ask the Conservation Commission to fund it up to $5,000.00.  There was discussion relative to getting a quote from Mr. Shelley and someone else; perhaps from the Monadnock Conservancy as they also do a lot of trail work.

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 and (b) Hiring.  Mrs. Pschirrer seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with all in favor, the motion was approved at 6:30 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 6:56 PM.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of January 21, 2016, be sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

PUBLIC BUSINESS (Continued):

PHIL HICKS:  Mr. Hicks was present to discuss the Pleasant Valley Hockey Club and to ask why their funding was taken out of the 2016 budget.  They were funded by the Town since 1980.  The President of the Club received an email from Mr. Justin Cassarino of the Recreation Department informing him that their funding was going to be used for the ice skating rink instead of the Hockey Club.  The Selectboard had not been informed of this change in the budget or of the email.  Mr. Dalessio mentioned that the Selectboard had expressed concern that the Hockey Club only had a few youth from Walpole as members.  They felt it better to fund a few Walpole youth rather than the entire league.  Mr. Hicks explained that the number varies year-to-year.  They offer scholarships.  Mr. Hicks started this program in Walpole but they now play at Vermont Academy.  They have two teams; one is a traveling team and the other team does not travel.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked for some background on the league and the numbers of youth from Walpole; information for the file.  By researching paperwork on the proposed budget the Selectboard discovered that the Hockey Club was in the Recreation Department budget for $500.00 but the Recreation Department renamed the line item to maintenance of the ice skating rink.  Mr. Dalessio will follow-up and talk to Mr. Cassarino about this reallocate of funds.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register and manifest in the amount of $120,388.86 for checks dated January 22, 2016.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

PAYROLL:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Payroll voucher for the week ending January 16, 2016, in the amount of $22,063.54 for checks dated January 22, 2016.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $5,083.00 for the week ending January 16, 2016.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

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

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION #2– January 14, 2016:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session #2 of January 14, 2016, as submitted.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION #1 – January 14, 2016:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to table the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session #1 of January 14, 2016 until the next Selectboard meeting on January 28, 2016.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard received and reviewed Minutes of the following meeting:

  • Planning Board – January 12, 2016.

It was noted that the heading should indicate that they are minutes from the “Walpole Planning Board” rather than “Walpole Town Hall”.  Mr. Dalessio will mention this change at the next Planning Board meeting.

NOTICE OF INTENT TO CUT WOOD OR TIMBER:

 

Simonds, Sawmill Lane, Map & Lot #013-034-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Notice of Intent to Cut Wood or Timber, No. 15-461-06-T, off Sawmill Lane for Rita Simonds.  This is a supplement to the previous Intent to Cut to increase the amount to be cut.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS:

Updated Primex Membership Application:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to authorize the Selectboard Chair, Mr. Steven Dalessio, to sign the final Primex Membership Agreement to be effective July 1, 2016.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Dalessio received an email from Primex asking if the Selectboard want to change their renewal effective date from July 1st to January 1st.  It would be in line with the budget.  They would pay for six months in 2016 and start a new full year on January 1, 2017.  It would be nice to have everything renew at the same time.  The Selectboard will take this under advisement.        

Southwest Regional Planning Commission Nomination:  Mr. Aldrich moved to appoint Alicia Flammia to fill a vacancy on the Southwest Regional Planning Commission, Natural Resource Advisory Board.  Such office will be for a period of three years; January 21, 2016 through Town Meeting, March 2019.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Citizens Report Form – Nancy Sloan:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to sign and send the letter to Nancy Sloan, dated January 21st, acknowledging all her concerns and comments about the ditch on her abutter’s property.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

NH Department of Labor Audit and Inspection Report:  Mr. Dalessio advised that this will be ready for review next week.  He has all the responses so can start to fill in the report.

2016 Warrant Articles:  The Warrant Articles are all set.  One change was the increased amount for the pool repairs from $25,000 to $30,000.

Special Selectboard Meeting:  A notice was posted that the Selectboard will have a Special Non-Public Meeting on January 22, 2016, at 10:30 AM at the E.E. Houghton building.

Department Reports for the 2015 Town Report:  Mrs. Pschirrer proof-read all the reports and there are just minor typographical things that she will give to Mrs. Clough.  Mr. Dalessio is working on the Selectboard Report.

Server Update:  Mr. Dalessio reported that the server update will be done in early February.  Mrs. Smith’s computer is on order.  The plan is to get all the office computers working together and then bring this new computer into the network.  This project is still on-target.

Town Ordinance, Procedure and Policy Manual:  This is an on-going project for the Selectboard.

NEW BUSINESS:

NH Department of Revenue Administration; Community Action Report: Mrs. Pschirrer explained that the DRA will come in to be sure everything is being done properly.  It includes a review of the Veteran’s Exemptions, Elderly Exemptions, etc.  Mrs. Edkins advised that it was in the report that Mrs. Clough did.  It occurs every five years.

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:  Mr. Aldrich moved to recess this Selectboard meeting.  The Selectboard will enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved at 7:38 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 8:05 PM.

OFFICE VACANCY:  Mr. Dalessio advised that there is a vacancy in the office for a 20 hour a week part-time position.

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

 

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 1/14/16

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

JANUARY 14, 2016

 

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

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

 

PUBLIC BUSINESS:

  1. MARK RUESSWICK – Building Permit: Mr. Dalessio explained that during the Selectboard meeting last week questions were raised as the Building Permit application was missing some information. There is nothing on it about where the solar panels will be placed and where is the drainage ditch.  Mr. Ruesswick sketched this information in on the plan.  When he bought the property there was an existing swale, when he put in the driveway the swale was brought all the way down the property line.  He clarified where it was and where it is now.  In the spring the swale is wet but in the fall it is dry.  He will be extending the swale 20-feet.  There was a concern that the swale drains on the Sloane property however Mr. Ruesswick clarified that there is a steep slope and any water ends up draining into the field.  Mr. Ruesswick has a house and a workshop on his property known as Lot #2.  If approved, eventually he will shield the panels from view either with a fence or plantings.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve Building Permit #2015-52, Map and Lot #009-048-000, 64 Barnett Hill Road, for Mark and Deborah Ruesswick to “Construct 4 sets 24’ x 8’ high Solar Panels”.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

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 and (b) Hiring.  Mrs. Pschirrer seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with all in favor, the motion was approved at 6:08 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:11 PM.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session #1 of January 14, 2016, be sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register and manifest in the amount of $563,621.38 for checks dated January 15, 2016.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

It was noted that the above amount includes a monthly payment in the amount of $533,448.73 to the Fall Mountain Regional School District.

PAYROLL:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Payroll voucher for the week ending January 9, 2016, in the amount of $20,912.85 for checks dated January 15, 2016.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $4,446.96 for the week ending January 9, 2016.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

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

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – January 7, 2016:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of January 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:

  • Hooper Institute Committee – January 12, 2016;
  • North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners – January 12, 2016;
  • WRAP Committee – December 20, 2015.

Mrs. Pschirrer reported that the Hooper Institute will not be having a Winter Festival because there are not enough volunteers.  Mr. Aldrich noted the lack of snow.  Mr. Dalessio pointed out that they need more people on their Board.

OLD BUSINESS:

Hubbard BBQ Pit: Mr. Dalessio advised that the Town received the Deed from Hubbard LLC regarding the BBQ Pit.

Mr. Aldrich moved to accept the Deed without Covenance from Hubbard LLC for the BBQ Pit area.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Clough was asked to contact Hubbard, LLC to let them know that the Selectboard moved to accept the Deed as presented.  Hubbard LLC also sent the Town a copy of the BBQ reservation form they used; if the Town will use this form, it will be put on the Town letterhead.

NH Department of Labor Audit and Inspection Report Response Form:  Mrs. Clough typed up the response for the Labor Audit.  Mr. Dalessio pointed out that now they will begin responding to each of the categories.  He will work on that.  Mr. Colburn will go out to look at various locations/items to see if everything was taken care of.  The Police Station needs an eye wash station; it will be the same unit that the Recycling Facility has.  Mr. Travis Kemp will do the maintenance work needed in this building.

Town Hall Building: Mr. Dalessio reported that on Monday night a Boy Scout slid across the floor in the Meeting Room and when he reached the wall he could not stop in time and put his hand through the wall.  Repairs have been made and it will be painted as soon as the color can be matched.

Citizens Report Form – Nancy Sloan:  Following the discussion with Mr. Ruesswick, Mr. Dalessio pointed out that he is only going to extend the ditch another 20-feet.  Mrs. Pschirrer will draft a letter to Ms. Sloan to advise that the Selectboard reviewed this issue and that Mr. Ruesswick is not in any violation of the Town regulations.

Town Ordinance, Procedure and Policy Manual:  This project will be continued next month.

2016 Warrant Articles:  Mr. Dalessio advised that a quote was received in the amount of $30,000.00 for the repairs to the pump and filtration system in the pool. There will be a meeting of the Recreation Department, Mr. Mark Houghton, Mr. Justin Cassarino, Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Dalessio to talk about what needs to be done to go forward.  The other Warrant Articles have remained the same.

Planning Board:  The Petition for a Public Hearing on the expansion of the Ruggiero Processing Facility was approved by the Planning Board.  The scheduled date is January 26th, 2016.

Department Reports for the 2015 Town Report:  The Selectboard will proof-read the Department Reports for the 2015 Town Report.  Mr. Dalessio will write the draft for the Selectboard’s report that will be reviewed by Mr. Aldrich and Mrs. Pschirrer.

NEW BUSINESS:

Email from Ray Boas, Welcome Sign Competition:  Mr. Dalessio reported that Mr. Ray Boas advised that the competition for the Welcome Sign has been cancelled.

Southwest Regional Planning Commission Nomination:  Mrs. Clough questioned the Town’s nominations to the Southwest Regional Planning Commission.  They received nothing from the SWRPC about an appointment but received a letter from the Walpole Conservation Commission requesting that the Selectboard appoint Alicia Flammia to the position as Peter Palmiotto has resigned.  The Conservation Commission has voted for her to fill the position.  Mrs. Clough called SWRPC requesting information on SWRPC Advisory Boards and Commmittees, and who is representing Walpole on the different Boards and/or Committees. She had no record of Mr. Palmiotto serving as the Conservation Commission representative to the SWRPC.  She has asked for something in writing.  Mr. Dalessio felt that Mr. Ben Daviss has been one of the representatives for several years.  Ms. Cheryl Mayberry is on their Transportation Committee.  Mrs. Clough is waiting for a response from SWRPC.

Trustees of Trust Funds:  Mrs. Pschirrer reported that Ms. Karen Galloway has agreed to replace Mr. Tom Goins as a Trustee of Trust Funds to be effective immediately and then she will run for that office.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to appoint Ms. Karen Galloway to the position as the Trustee of Trust Funds until the next Town Meeting.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Aldrich stepped off the Selectboard for the next item:

American Legion:  Mr. Aldrich is the Commander of the American Legion.  They meet in the downstairs meeting room and have a framed Charter they would like to hang on the wall but did not want to do it without permission from the Selectboard.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to permit the American Legion Post to hang their Charter on the wall in the downstairs meeting room in the Town Hall.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Aldrich resumed his seat on the Selectboard.

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:

Mr. Aldrich moved to recess this Selectboard meeting.  The Selectboard will enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved at 7:42 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 8:02 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 8:20 PM.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session #2 of January 14, 2016, be sealed.   Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

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

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

 

 

 

Planning Board Public Notice

In case you missed this in The Keene Sentinel, Marilou Blaine asked me to post this here in the Walpolean. – Lil

 

The Walpole Planning Board will hold a special meeting on Tuesday, January 26, 2016 at 7:00 pm. in the Walpole Town Hall to hear a petition  from the townspeople to be placed on the warrant in March, 2016.

To see if the Town of Walpole will vote in favor of amending the current Zoning Board Ordinance as follows:

Add under Article IV General Provisions Section N Recycling and Transfer Stations:

a.  In addition to the current Town recycling center at 207 Whitcomb Road, Route 123, Walpole, New Hampshire, recycling centers and/or transfer stations shall be permitted uses in the Industrial Zone subject to meeting the Town’s site plan review regulations and shall be submitted to the Planning Board for site review; provided such facilities are owned or operated by the Town for the transfer and/or recycling of solid waste generated in the Town and provided further that the recycling center or transfer stations is owned and operated by the Town or by a Regional Solid Wast District whose ownership and operation thereof is governed by and agreement entered into pursuant to RSA 149-M24.

All interested parties are encouraged to attend.  if you are unabe to attend, you may respond in writing to the Walpole Planning Board, PO Box 729, Wlaple, NH 03608 prior to the meeting.  Final action on the appliation may be taken by the Plannig Board following the Public Hearing.  The application and signatures on the petition are available for public inspection in the Walpole Town Hall during regular business hours.

Minutes of the Meetings are posted inside the Town Hall, on the bulletin board outside Walpole Grocery and the town website: http://www.walpolenh.us

Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 1/7/16

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

JANUARY 7, 2016

 

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

 

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

 

PUBLIC BUSINESS:

Town Treasurer – Mr. Ray Boas:  Mr. Dalessio received and read a letter, dated January 6, 2016, from Mr. Ray Boas.  Mr. Boas submitted his resignation as Town Treasurer to be effective at the close of business on January 6, 2016.  He explained that he has taken on many additional responsibilities impinging upon his time and, as a result, has not been able to accomplish what he set out to do in assuming the position.  Mr. Boas will look forward to continuing to work with the Selectboard and Selectboard office in his mission of keeping the Town well informed via the Clarion, and making it a quality publication. (A copy of his letter is attached to the Minutes.)

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the resignation of Mr. Ray Boas and to express appreciation for the time Mr. Boas served as the Town Treasurer.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Aldrich moved to appoint Mr. Tom Goins as the Town Treasurer until the next Town election in March 2016.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Accounts Payable Check Register in the amount of $95,934.04 for checks dated January 08, 2016.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

PAYROLL:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Payroll voucher for the week ending January 02, 2016, in the amount of $19,609.74 for checks dated January 08, 2016.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $4,347.00 for the week ending January 02, 2016.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – December 30, 2015: Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of December 30, 2015, as submitted.  Mr. Aldrich seconded the motion with the following correction: Page 2, under Recess Selectboard meeting, change “Mr. Whitney moved” to “Mr. Aldrich moved”.  With all in favor, the minutes with correction were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – December 30, 2015: Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of December 30, 2015, as submitted.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the minutes were approved.

 

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard received and reviewed Minutes of the following meetings:

  • North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners – December 29, 2015; and
  • North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners – January 05, 2016.

Mr. Dalessio noted that in the minutes of the January 05, 2016, North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners meeting, the Commissioners got a copy of the Department of Labor Inspection Report and they are looking at it.  The Department of Labor is asking for responses by January 21st, 2016.

BUILDING PERMIT:

RUESSWICK, Barnett Hill Road, Map & Lot #009-048-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to table Building Permit #2015-52 for Mark and Deborah Ruesswick to “Construct 4 sets 24’ x 8’ high Solar Panels” at 64 Barnett Hill Road until complete details are submitted on the drainage ditch.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

NOTICE OF INTENT TO CUT WOOD OR TIMBER:

CUMMINS CATHERWOOD, Maple Grove Road, Map & Lot #009-008-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Notice of Intent to Cut Wood or Timber, Operation #15-461-13-T, for Cummins Catherwood, Jr., off Maple Grove Road.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

CUMMINS CATHERWOOD, Maple Grove Road, Map & Lot #009-006-000: Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Notice of Intent to Cut Wood or Timber, Operation #15-461-14-T, for Cummins Catherwood, Jr., off Maple Grove Road.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

HOUGHTON, Blackjack Crossing, Map & Lot #004-044-002:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Notice of Intent to Cut Wood or Timber, Operation #15-461-15-T, for Mark E. Houghton and Brooke W. Houghton, off Blackjack Crossing.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS:

Walpole Library Building: Mrs. Pschirrer moved to authorize Mr. Steven Dalessio, Chair of the Selectboard, to sign the contract with the ABS Company for asbestos remediation in the Walpole Library.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

NH Department of Labor Audit and Inspection Report: Mr. Dalessio asked Mrs. Clough to start formulating a response to address the administrative part of the report.  The re-establishment of the Joint Loss Safety Committee is one of the biggest issues.  A meeting needs to be scheduled. He sent a letter to Ms. Cheryl Mayberry in North Walpole as the response is required by January 21st.  The Audit and Inspection Report need to be submitted by February 5th.  Mr. Dalessio will check on some equipment; we should be in good shape.  It is possible that we might hear from an Enforcement Officer.  Mr. Dalessio will talk to Mr. Mark Houghton as the Fire Department has quite a few things that need to be fixed.  The response does not need to show completion but they need to start moving on all the issues.

Walpole’s Oldest Citizen Update: Mrs. Edkins spoke to Mrs. Ciccalone.  She does not want to accept the Boston Cane.  The Selectboard agreed to keep the cane in the office in a suitable case.  The plaque will have her name on it; it will also be kept in the office.

Town Ordinance, Procedure and Policy Manual: The Selectboard will continue working on this project next month.

2016 Warrant Articles:  The draft copy of the 2016 Warrant Articles was reviewed by the Selectboard.  Mr. Dalessio is concerned with the Article for the pool repairs as they are still waiting for information from Mr. Justin Cassarino on the Pump and Filtration System.  Mr. Dalessio suggested that the Recreation Committee, Mr. Mark Houghton and Mr. Cassarino meet with the Selectboard to talk about this in detail as soon as possible.  New State regulations need to be taken into consideration.  Mrs. Clough advised that Mr. Kreissle is preparing the Warrant to be sent to the State right after the Public Hearing on February 4th.  Mrs. Pschirrer talked with Mr. Rau, Highway Superintendent, about the Warrant Article to start a Highway Capital Reserve account and asked that he put together an inventory of all their vehicle-type equipment.  Right now the weakest expensive piece of equipment they have is the loader.  There was discussion relative to purchasing the Police Department cruiser; at one time there had been a plan for replacement of vehicles.  The Selectboard will vote on the 2016 Warrant Articles during their meeting next week.

NEW BUSINESS:

Comcast: Mr. Ray Boas had sent out some emails regarding Comcast and the local FACT-TV channel 8.  Mr. Stradling of FACT-TV in Bellows Falls thought that Comcast was giving the Town money that was supposed to be used for the expansion of this broadcasting.  They talked to Mrs. Sandy Smith who confirmed that the Town did receive revenue from Comcast however it was tax money on their equipment, poles, etc.  There has been discussion relative to FACT-TV Channel 8 expanding into Walpole; it is broadcast in North Walpole. A question is if the users in Walpole are willing to pay more for this channel.  There was a consensus to let Comcast users decide what they want.  If a group wants to research this matter the Selectboard had no objections.

Citizens Report Form – Nancy Sloan:  The Selectboard looked at the Citizens Report form from Nancy Sloan and the pictures she submitted of the Ruesswick ditch to redirect their water.

Town of Walpole Election Vacancies Notice: Mrs. Sandra Smith, Town Clerk-Tax Collector, has published and posted the Town of Walpole Election Vacancies and it is on the web-site.  The following officers will be elected at the Town Election to be held Tuesday, March 8, 2016:

1  Selectman                            Three Year Term

1  Moderator                            Two Year Term

1  Trustee of Trust Funds         Three Year Term

1  Supervisor of Checklists      Two Year Term

1  Supervisor of Checklist       Six Year Term

2  Planning Board Members     Three Year Term

2  Zoning Board Members       Three Year Term

3  Library Trustees                   Three Year Term

1  Cemetery Trustee                 Three Year Term

 

The filing period for these offices is January 20 through January 29, 2016.  Those interested may file at the Town Clerk’s office during the following office hours: Monday 7 a.m. – 4 p.m. Tuesday 7 a.m. – 7 p.m., Wednesday 7 a.m. – 8 a.m. (one hour) Thursday 7 a.m. – 4 p.m.  Per State Law the Town Clerk’s office will be open Friday, January 29th, 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. for filing only.   

City of Keene, Household Hazardous Waste Collection Letter of Commitment: A letter was received from the City of Keene advising that they are in their 9th year of their program consisting of 24 Household Hazardous Waste Collections per year.  This year’s letter of commitment is due back to them by January 15, 2016.  The Walpole 2016-2017 Fixed Cost (Participation in all twenty-four (24) collections) is $4,494.00.

Mr. Aldrich moved to authorize, Mr. Paul Colburn, to sign the Letter of Commitment for Household Hazardous Waste Collection Project, 2016-2017 Series.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Department Reports for the 2015 Town Report: Mrs. Clough has collected some Department Reports for the 2015 Town Report as well as many nice pictures.  The Selectboard will proof-read the reports.  Mr. Dalessio will work on the Selectboard’s report and have the draft ready for the next regular meeting.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD BUSINESS:

Mr. Aldrich moved to enter into a Non-Public Selectboard Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (a) Personnel and (b) Hiring.  Mrs. Pschirrer seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with all in favor, the motion was approved at 7:10 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:35 PM.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of January 07, 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 Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:54 PM.

OTHER BUSINESS:

2016 Budget:  Mr. Dalessio will continue to work with Mr. Kreissle to close out the 2015 Budget and to finalize the 2016 proposed Budget and Warrant Articles.

Walpole Library:  Mrs. Pschirrer will attend the Library meeting on Tuesday.  She will introduce the idea of a three year long-range plan.  Miss Rogers has been putting together some statistics that Mrs. Pschirrer would like the Board members to look at and think about where they want to be in three years from now.

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

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 12/30/15

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

DECEMBER 30, 2015

 

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

CALL TO ORDER:  Mr. Dalessio called this Selectboard meeting to order at 8:00 AM 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.

PAYROLL: Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Payroll voucher for the week ending December 26, 2015, in the amount of $14,596.01 for checks dated January 01, 2016.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $3,897.05 for the week ending December 26, 2015.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – December 23, 2015:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of December 23, 2015, with the following correction:  Page 3, under Library, third line, change “Mr. Mark Houghton contacted ABS” to “Mr. Mark Houghton recommended contacting ABS”.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the Minutes and correction were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – December 23, 2015:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of December 23, 2015, as submitted.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard received and reviewed Minutes of the following meeting:

  • North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners – December 22, 2015.

ABATEMENTS – Water/Sewer:

Hicks Machine, Maplewood Circle, Map & Lot #023-014-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to grant the Abatement for Water in the amount of $2,024.00 and Sewer in the amount of $1,847.55 for Hicks Machine.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

WARRANTS – LAND USE CHANGE TAX WARRANT and DRA for A-5:

Kaplan, North Road, Map & Lot #010-039-000: Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the New Hampshire Department of Revenue Administration Land Use Change Tax A-5 and the Tax Collector’s Land Use Change Tax Warrant in the amount of $7,000.00 for Wendy Kaplan.  This is for removal of 2.650 acres from Current Use.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS:

Primex; Workers Comp and Property Liability Insurances:  Mr. Dalessio reported that the Selectboard met with Primex.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the proposal presented to the Selectboard on December 28, 2015, from Primex, New Hampshire Public Risk Management Exchange, and to authorize, Mr. Steven Dalessio, Chair of the Selectboard, to sign the contract.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

 

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard Special Meeting of December 28, 2015, with Primex, as presented.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

Police Request from the Town of Alstead:  Police Chief Paquette has taken care of this.

Walpole’s Oldest Citizen Update:  Mrs. Clough advised that Mrs. Agnes Ciccalone will call her back to set up a date and time for the presentation of the Boston Cane.

Letter to the Cheshire County Commissioners:  Mrs. Pschirrer is waiting for additional information from Police Chief Paquette.

Town Ordinance, Procedure and Policy Manual:  This is a work in-progress project for the Selectboard.

2015 Budget: Mr. Kreissle will have a report ready next week on the 2015 budget figures for the Selectboard’s review.

2016 Budget:  Last week the Selectboard voted to approve the 2016 General Fund.  Work is being done on the 2016 Warrant Articles by Mrs. Clough.  It should be ready next week.

True North:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the True North contract summary in the amount of $8,303.84 and that the Chair, Mr. Steven Dalessio, be authorized to sign this contract on behalf of the Town of Walpole.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

NEW BUSINESS:

Supervisor of the Checklist Vacancy:  The North Walpole Supervisor of the Checklist, Mrs. Genevieve Gallagher, has retired.  Mr. Gary McCormick was appointed to replace her as of December 29, 2015.

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, (b) Hiring and (c) Reputations.  Mrs. Pschirrer seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with all in favor, the motion was approved at 8:34 AM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 8:57 AM.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of December 30, 2015, be sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

NEW BUSINESS (Continued):

Highway Department:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to advise that Mr. Michael Rau has accepted the position as the Highway Department Interim Road Agent to be effective January 4, 2016.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:

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

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 9:29 AM.

PUBLIC HEARING – 2016 ANNUAL BUDGET AND WARRANT ARTICLES:  The Public Hearing on the 2016 Annual Budget and Warrant Articles will be held on Thursday, February 4th, 2016, at 6:30 PM.  The regular Selectboard meeting will start at 5:00 PM on this date.

ADJOURNMENT:  Mr. Aldrich moved to adjourn this meeting.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 9:30 AM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 12/17/15

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

DECEMBER 17, 2015

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

CALL TO ORDER:  Mr. Dalessio called this Selectboard meeting to order at 6:20 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.

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 and (b) Hiring.  Mrs. Pschirrer seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with all in favor, the motion was approved.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 6:46 PM.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard session of December 17, 2015, be sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register and manifest in the amount of $1,865,885.07 for checks dated for December 15, 2015 and December 18, 2015.  This includes a check to the Cheshire County for a tax payment and the NH Retirement payment in the amount of $1,341,493.23.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

PAYROLL:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Payroll voucher for for the week ending December 12, 2015, in the amount of $19,227.07 for checks dated December 18, 2015.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the electronic payroll fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $4,053.18 for the week ending December 12, 2015.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – December 10, 2015:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of December 10, 2015, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION #1 – December 10, 2015:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard session #1 of December 10, 2015, as submitted.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION #2 – December 10, 2015:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard session #2 of December 10, 2015, as submitted.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

 

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard received and reviewed Minutes of the following meetings:

  • Cold River Local Advisory Committee – October 22, 2015;
  • Walpole Conservation Commission – December 7, 2015; and
  • WRAP Committee – November 12, 2015.

BUILDING PERMIT:

RUESSWICK, 64 Barnett Hill Road, Map & Lot #009-048-000:  Building Permit No. 2015-52 was received from Mark and Deborah Ruesswick to “Construct 4 sets 24’ x 8’ high Solar Panels” at 64 Barnett Hill Road.  There was a consensus of the Selectboard that, based on what the applicants submitted, they will require a sketch and map.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to table this Building Permit until the application is complete.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

REFUNDS:

Tax Overpayments:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Tax Overpayments that resulted in a total of $7,279.89 as follows:

  • Boylan, Map & Lot #008-021-000;
  • Allen, Map & Lot #020-029-000;
  • Haynes, Map & Lot #028-097-000;
  • Lynch, Map & Lot #009-033-02-01;
  • Provencher, Map & Lot #003-084-005;
  • Gay, Map & Lot #030-075-000;
  • Checchi, Map & Lot #015-029-001;
  • Vieser, Lois J. Rev. Trust, Map & Lot #003-030-000.

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

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:

Mr. Aldrich moved to recess this Selectboard meeting.  The Selectboard will enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved at 7:00 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:42 PM.

OTHER BUSINESS:

Planning and Zoning Packets:  Mr. Dalessio and Mr. Jeff Miller discussed creating and having packets available to give out when requested.  They would include the up-to-date Zoning Ordinance, Site Plan Review and Subdivision Ordinance.

OLD BUSINESS:

Letter to Adam Terrell: The Selectboard signed the Thank You letter to Adam Terrell.

ACCUFUND HR Module Acceptance Notice:  Mr. Dalessio reported that a few weeks ago the Selectboard voted to purchase this software.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to authorize the Chair, Steven Dalessio, to sign the ACCUFUND Human Resources Module Acceptance Notice.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

 

Health Insurance:  Mrs. Clough had distributed information on the percentage the employees have been contributing for Health Insurance. The contribution was not raised in a couple of years.  In 2015 the employees have been contributing 11.5%; an increase to 12-1/2% is 1%.  Mr. Dalessio noted that the Town’s increase is 3.4%. 

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Selectboard set the employee’s contribution percentage for Health Insurance at 12-1/2% in 2016.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to authorize the Chair of the Selectboard, Steven Dalessio, to sign the Health Insurance document.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Primex: Workers Comp and Property Liability Insurances:  Mr. Dalessio and Mr. Kreissle looked at the Primex proposal and the rates are approximately 8% higher than the PLT rates were.  They want to come in to meet with the Selectboard on Monday, December 28th at 10:00 am to review the rates and go over numbers in detail.  The Workers Comp experience mod-factor came down a little.  We might be eligible for some discounts in the future but some work needs to be done to get the discounts.

Police Request from the Town of Alstead:  This Agenda item will be deleted as Chief Paquette took care of it.

Walpole’s Oldest Citizen Update:  After the first of the year the Selectboard will make a presentation of the Boston Cane to Walpole’s Oldest Citizen either in this office or her home.

Letter to the Cheshire County Commissioners:  Mrs. Pschirrer is waiting for additional information from Chief Paquette.

Town Ordinance, Procedure and Policy Manual: This is an on-going project.

2016 Budget:  The Selectboard reviewed the proposed 2016 Budget.  Mr. Kreissle will be asked to research why electricity has gone up so much.  Mr. Dalessio asked Mr. Kreissle to email the Department Heads to ask for copies of any contracts they have.

NEW BUSINESS:

2015 Sales to Assessment Ratio Analysis and Data Certificate:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to sign the 2015 Equalization Municipal Assessment Data Certificate for the Department of Revenue Administration.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

2016 Warrant Articles: The Selectboard is considering the following items as Capital Outlay:

  • Pool Filters – $25,000.00;
  • Highway Building Wall – $50,000.00;
  • Police Cruiser and Up-Dating of Other Cruisers – $60,000.00;
  • Security Renovations and Building Roofs – $88,000.00.

Total – $223,000.00.

This could be taken out of the Reserve Fund.  There will be no other Warrant Articles.

Mr. Dalessio would like to see a five-year plan on equipment from the Highway Department.

Next Meeting – December 23, 2015:

The next Selectboard meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, December 23rd, 2015 at 8:00 AM.  There will be no Public Business.

Meeting – December 30, 2015:  The last Selectboard meeting of 2015 will be held on December 30th, 2015, at 8:00 AM.  There will be no Public Business.

ADJOURNMENT:    

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to adjourn this meeting.  Mr. Aldrich seconded the motion.  With all in favor, the meeting adjourned at 9:10 PM.

 

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

 

Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 12/23/16

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

DECEMBER 23, 2015

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

CALL TO ORDER:  Mr. Dalessio called this Selectboard meeting to order at 8:00 AM 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.

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:

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

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 8:53 AM.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register and manifest in the amount of $96,946.66 for checks dated December 25, 2015.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the purchase of snow-blower attachment for the Recycling Center and the computer server for the office.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

PAYROLL:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Payroll voucher for the week ending December 19, 2015, in the amount of $18,673.15 for checks dated December 25, 2015.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $3,974.68 for the week ending December 19, 2015.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

STAFF MEETING – December 17, 2015:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the Staff Meeting of December 17, 2015, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the Minutes were approved. 

SELECTBOARD MEETING – December 17, 2015:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of December 17, 2015, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – December 17, 2015:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of December 17, 2015, as submitted.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard received and reviewed Minutes of the following meeting:

  • Walpole Zoning Board of Adjustment – December 16, 2015. 

BUILDING PERMITS:

RUESSWICK, 64 Barnett Hill Road, Map & Lot #009-048-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve Building Permit No. 2015-52 for Mark and Deborah Ruesswick to “Construct 4 sets 24’ x 8’ high Solar Panels” at 64 Barnett Hill Road.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

B&H REALTY OF WALPOLE, Industrial Drive, Map & Lot #001-003-03-3:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve Building Permit No. 2015-53 for B&H Realty of Walpole to “Construct an 80’ x 40’ 1 story equipment shed (closed on three sides)” on Lanbro Lane.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

The Selectboard discussed sending B&H Realty of Walpole a letter to advise that they are being fined $500.00 as they started their building prior to obtaining their Building Permit.

ABATEMENTS:

Property Tax:

78 Whitcomb Road, Whitcomb Road, Map & Lot #025-009-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Notice of Property Tax Abatement for 78 Whitcomb Road, LLC in the amount of $74.53.  This is to abate the interest on 2015 taxes.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

REFUNDS:

Tax Overpayments:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Tax Overpayments that resulted in a total of $1,473.00 as follows:

  • Waite, Colonial Banking, Main St., Map & Lot #028-149-000;
  • Hodgkins & Sons, Industrial Drive, Map & Lot #001-010-000;
  • Commonwealth Construction, Church St., Map & Lot #027-003-000;
  • Waite, Lereta LLC, Main St., Map & Lot #028-149-000l

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

OLD BUSINESS:

Primex, Workers Comp and Property Liability Insurances:  Mr. Dalessio mentioned that there is a meeting with Primex on Monday, December 28th at 10:00 AM.  Their representative will answer questions before the Selectboard sign the new insurance agreement.

2015 Budget:  The Selectboard talked about the fact that the Town should end their 2015 budget within the bottom line.  There might be a small surplus but there are still bills coming in and another week to go.

2016 Budget: Mr. Dalessio has been working with Mr. Kreissle on the 2016 Budget and, after making some adjustments, the proposed budget was brought down to a 4.7% increase.

Proposed Warrant Articles are:

Repair of the Pump and Filters – $25,000.00 – Mr. Cassarino is still working on the final amount.

Repair of Town Buildings – $88,000.00;

Purchase new Police cruiser and Up-grade the existing cars – $58,000.00

These will be taken from the Reserve Fund Balance – Total $171,000.00

Replacement of the Salt Shed Wall – $50,000.00.  Following a discussion there was a consensus to change this to taxes as they are finishing what they started this year.  It was understood that this would be a two-year project.

Police Car Reserve Fund – $15,000.00

Purchase Electric Forklift and Accessories for the Recycling Center – $10,000.00;

Highway Department Reserve Fund – $15,000.00

Reserve Fund – Total – $90,000.00.

Mr. Aldrich moved to establish the 2016 General Fund budget at $3,459,299.00.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Warrant Articles:  The following Warrant Articles will be presented:

  1. To see if the town will vote to establish a revolving fund pursuant to RSA 31-95-h, for the purchase of police equipment and training. All revenues received for police special details and fines will be deposited into the fund, and the money in the fund shall be allowed to accumulate from year to year, and shall not be considered part of the town’s general fund balance.  The town treasurer shall have custody of all moneys in the fund, and shall pay out the same only upon order of the governing body and no further approval is required by the legislative body to expend.  Such funds may be expended only for the purpose for which the fund was created.
  2. To see if the town will vote to establish a Recreation Revolving Fund pursuant to RSA 35-B:2 II. The money received from fees and charges for recreation services and facilities shall be allowed to accumulate from year to year, and shall not be considered to be part of the general fund unassigned fund balance.  The treasurer shall have custody of all monies in the fund, and shall pay out the same only upon order of the recreation or park commission or other board or body designated by the local legislative body (no further legislative body approval required).  These funds may be expended only for recreation purposes as stated in RSA 35-B, and no expenditure shall be made in such a way as to require the expenditure of other funds that have not been appropriated for that purpose.

NEW BUSINESS:

Letter from Bellows Falls: Re: Sewer Line Under the Vilas Bridge: A letter was received from the Town of Rockingham / Village of Bellows Falls regarding the Vilas Bridge and the sewer line that runs under it.  The Selectboard will hold their discussion until next year.  Mr. Dalessio suggested they bring Mr. Mark Houghton, Mrs. Tara Sad and Mrs. Lucy Weber in on the discussion.

Library:  Mrs. Pschirrer reported that last Monday when removing old flooring in the Library they discovered broken tile therefore the project was stopped pending advice on how to proceed.  The Library was closed at that point.  Mr. Mark Houghton recommended ABS Advanced Building Company. Jeanne Ramey and Peggy Pschirrer both called the company whose representative will meet with the Selectboard and Library personnel today, Wednesday, December 23, 2015 at 10:00 a.m., to examine the floor and suggest a remediation plan which will include using RPF Company as an air quality test company. The Selectboard approved paying the employees up to the end of the year as they did not cause this.  If the project takes longer to complete than anticipated the Selectboard will re-consider this.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to pay the employees through the end of this year and it will be reconsidered when they know what the extent of the remediation will take.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

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, (b) Hiring and (c) Reputations.  Mrs. Pschirrer seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with all in favor, the motion was approved at 9:45 AM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 9:56 AM.

Next Meeting:  The next meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, December 30, 2015, at 8:00 AM. An Agenda item will be to review the Hooper Institute proposed budget.

ADJOURNMENT:

Mr. Aldrich moved to adjourn this meeting.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 9:58 AM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 12/10/15

TOWN OF WALPOLE
MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD
DECEMBER 10, 2015

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

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

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 and (c) Reputations. Mrs. Pschirrer seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with all in favor, the motion was approved at 6:02 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 6:52 PM.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session #1 of December 10, 2015, be sealed. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

PUBLIC BUSINESS:
ERNIE VOSE: Mr. Vose requested that the Selectboard keep the Cheshire County YMCA in the budget as the funding supports Camp Dakota and the American Heritage Tour. The Selectboard pointed out that this has been funded in the past and is in the Town Report under Other Cultures. Mr. Vose will submit a letter requesting that this funding continue in 2016. Mrs. Pschirrer asked Mr. Vose to write a short report of their activities for the Town Report as it is directed for the youth.

Mr. Vose provides rides for the Red Cross several times a month; mostly for medical rides for Walpole residents. The Town of Walpole has supported this in the past. As of July 1st, 2016, the Contoocook Valley Transportation Company will be overseeing this program as the Red Cross is discontinuing this service. They would like to come in to talk to the Selectboard. The Selectboard would like them to attend a meeting but preferably not until after the budget process is finalized. Mr. Dalessio advised that the Town will need to fund the Red Cross for at least the first six months of 2016 therefore they will keep this Rural Rides Program in the budget for now.

Mr. Dalessio pointed out that agencies need to send an invoice for their funding each year after it has been approved by the voters. To-date the Fall Mountain Emergency Food Shelf, Fall Mountain Friendly Meals, Our Place Drop In Center and the Age In Motion have not requested their 2015 funds.

JACK FRANKS: Mr. Franks provided clarification on some of the documents he needs to submit. He had originally given plans to both the Town and Fire Department but since that time they had to re-work the plans to comply with the financing. The sprinkler plan is complete and the fire alarm plan is nearly complete. The Selectboard saw the email from Mr. Herb Hurlburt. Mr. Dalessio then called Mr. Franks and recommended that he call Mr. Hurlburt, electrician, to explain the delay. Mr. Franks needs to up-date Mr. Hurlburt, to work with him and establish a time frame.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:
Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register and manifest in the amount of $15,756.69 for checks dated December 11, 2015. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.
Selectboard Meeting –December 10, 2015- Page 2

PAYROLL:
Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Payroll voucher for the week ending December 5, 2015, in the amount of $19,997.69 for checks dated December 11, 2015. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $4,244.29 for the week ending December 5, 2015. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:
SELECTBOARD MEETING – December 3, 2015: Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of December 3, 2015, as submitted. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the two Public Hearings for the Gift of Property and the Designating of Emergency Lanes on December 3, 2015, as submitted. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION #1 – December 3, 2015: Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session #1 of December 3, 2015, as submitted. These Minutes will remain sealed. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION #2 – December 3, 2015: Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session #2 of December 3, 2015, as submitted. These Minutes will remain sealed. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:
The Selectboard received and reviewed Minutes of the following meetings:
North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners – December 1, 2015; and
North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners – December 8, 2015.

ABATEMENT REFUND:
DAHER, Peter Stand Lane, Map & Lot #012-012-005: Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Property Tax Abatement in the amount of $288.33 for Mr. William Daher. This property assessment was decreased in 2014 but the 2015 tax bill did not reflect this. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS:
Police Request from the Town of Alstead: Mr. Dalessio advised that Police Chief Paquette has handled this; it will be done on a case-by-case basis therefore this Agenda item is closed.

Walpole’s Oldest Citizen Update: Mrs. Clough left a message for Mrs. Agnes Ciccalone but she has not yet returned the call.

Letter to the Cheshire County Commissioners: Mrs. Pschirrer is waiting for additional information from Police Chief Paquette to complete the letter.

Town Ordinance, Procedure and Policy Manual: This is an on-going project.

2016 Budget: Mr. Dalessio reported that they are getting closer to finalizing the 2016 proposed budget. He will have Mr. Kreissle put together a final draft for next week. Some adjustments are still being made to lower bottom lines by Department Heads. They would like to get it below 5%. Mr. Dalessio will write the first draft of the Capital. Mr. Kreissle provided the spending figures as of December 9th. The 2015 budget was too tight; it was the minimum to run the Town on. Next week the Selectboard will review the budget figures on a line-by-line basis.

Mrs. Clough advised that the kitchen work should be completed this week or next week. She submitted and explained her revised budget numbers; some items were deleted.

NEW BUSINESS:
Citizens Reports: The Selectboard looked at the Citizens Report book. There were ten reports to-date. Mrs. Clough felt the only outstanding one was from Mr. Crouse on the painting of lines on March Hill Road. Mr. Simonds felt it would cost less than $500.00 to paint the line down the center of the road; it is a safety issue. Mr. Dalessio felt they would deal with each request on a case-by-case basis. Mrs. Pschirrer received two comments; she asked the people to come in to complete the form but their reply was that they were telling her. 1) Ms. Judy Daniels: On North Street near Reservoir Road, on the left hand side of the road, there are pine trees that have grown considerably and they are now a potential hazard as people are coming up North Road and turning onto Reservoir Road. 2) Mrs. Myra Mansouri and Mrs. Cindy Westover: Another report was that the pile of items on Mr. Lafayette’s property has grown. Mrs. Pschirrer feels it has remained about the same size. A suggestion was that he could put up a fence to shield the pile of items. 3) Mr. Jerry Galloway: Concerned about Mr. Lafayette dumping excavated material on his property. Mr. Dalessio looked at the area and felt a small amount of gravel had been moved on the property. It is not a junk yard. The Selectboard will read through the Zoning Ordinance to see if there are any violations. Mr. Dalessio felt that even if people do not want to come in to fill out a report the staff should complete a form for the record. The Selectboard will look at the Citizens Report book on the last meeting of each month starting in January 2016 unless something major comes up.

2016 Warrant Articles: The 2016 Warrant Articles will be drafted for next week.

Petitioned Warrant Articles: One Petitioned Warrant Article was received for a Zoning change. Mrs. Clough will check the signatures to be sure they are Town of Walpole voters. Mr. Dalessio emailed a copy of this to Mr. Jeff Miller and to the Town Attorney. The Selectboard cannot ask that a Public Hearing be held on this Petitioned Warrant Article. The RSA states that at the next scheduled Planning Board meeting the members will decide when the Public Hearing will be. A Special PB Meeting might have to be scheduled on January 5th, 2016, to meet the time frame. There was a consensus of the Selectboard to ask Attorney Hockensmith for a legal opinion. Mrs. Clough was asked to send a copy of the State mandated dates to comply with the law to Mr. Jeff Miller.

Tax Rate: The Selectboard received the Tax Rates for both Walpole and North Walpole from 2005 to 2015. Mrs. Meghan Hansson in the Town Clerk’s office did this research.

State Election Law Training: A notice was received on the State Election Law Training. The closest training will be held in Keene on Tuesday, January 16th, 2016, from 9:00 to 11:30 AM.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD BUSINESS:
Mr. Aldrich moved to enter into a Non-Public Selectboard Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (a) Personnel and (b) Hiring. Mrs. Pschirrer seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with all in favor, the motion was approved at 8:04 PM.
The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 8:19 PM.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of December 10, 2015, be sealed. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

OTHER BUSINESS:
Holiday Celebration and Appreciation Night: Mrs. Clough reminded the Selectboard that the Holiday Celebration and Appreciation Night is Saturday, December 19th, starting at 5:00 PM.

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

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 8:43 PM.

OTHER BUSINESS:
Eagle Scout: Mr. Dalessio advised that Paul Beliveau is on his way to becoming an Eagle Scout. Mr. Dalessio was his district meeting when they approved his project to do some repair work on the snowmobile trails in town. Mr. Dalessio was assigned as Paul’s coach.

Gazebo: Mrs. Clough thanked Adam Terrell for decorating the Gazebo by himself. Mrs. Pschirrer will write him a Thank You note. Mr. Dalessio advised that Mr. Terrell is a Life Scout. His Eagle project will be working on the Mill Pond trail.

ADJOURNMENT:
Mr. Aldrich moved to adjourn this meeting. Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer. With all in favor, this meeting was adjourned at 8:48 PM.

Respectfully submitted,
Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 12/3/15

TOWN OF WALPOLE
MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD
DECEMBER 3, 2015

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

CALL TO ORDER: Mr. Dalessio called this Selectboard meeting to order at 5:10 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 present in the audience.
These are unapproved Minutes.

PUBLIC HEARING – Gift of Property:
Mr. Dalessio called this Public Hearing to order at 5:15 PM. He read the following notice as advertised and posted:
“The Select Board of Walpole has called a Public Hearing in accordance RSA 31-95:-e. on December 3. 2015 at 5:15 p.m. for the purpose of discussing the gift of a BBQ Pit and land, Map 22, Lot 5, to be attached to the Town Recreation Area, adjacent to the Walpole Middle School, from Hubbard Farms, 195 Main Street.

All Walpole residents are invited to attend and comment on the proposed acceptance of this gift.”

Mr. Dalessio advised that the Selectboard received a letter from Mark H. Barnes, CEO, Hubbard, LLC confirming that they will gift the Bar-B-Que property located on 195 Main Street in fee simple to the Town of Walpole. The Bar-B-Que pit and 0.333 acres of land surrounding the pit are shown on their attached survey plat. This will be annexed to Map 22, Lot 1. Upon written notice from the Selectboard that the Town will accept this donation, they will have a deed drafted and forwarded to the Selectboard for review prior to final execution.

Mr. Dalessio pointed out that with this gift the Town will have a permanent right-of-way through the Hubbard Farms, LLC property to the Recreation (pool) area.

There were no comments from the Public. Mr. Dalessio closed this Public Hearing at 5:20 PM.

SELECTBOARD MEETING (Continued):
Mr. Aldrich moved to accept this gift of a BBQ Pit and land, Map 22, Lot 5, from Hubbard Farms, LLC. Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

PUBLIC HEARING – Designating Emergency Lanes:
Mr. Dalessio called this Public Hearing to order at 5:30 PM. He read the following notice as advertised and posted.

“The Walpole Selectboard has called a Public Hearing for December 3, 2015 at 5:30 p.m. in accordance with RSA 231:59-A which requires a public hearing prior to designating Emergency Lanes.

The Fire Department of the Town of Walpole has requested the following be designated Emergency Lanes for purposes of safety: Derry Hill Road, Eaton Lane, and the end of Reservoir Road to the Hooper Institute shelter. Access to forested area, the Boy Scout Camp and the Hooper Shelter will allow the Walpole Fire Department and EMS to operate in any emergency situation.

Emergency Lanes so designed shall be maintained by the Highway department to ensure access for fire vehicles and ambulances.

All abutters to Derry Hill Road, Eaton Lane and the end of Reservoir Road are urged to attend to voice opinions and ask any questions concerning the designation of the emergency lanes. Written comments will be accepted in the Selectboard Office prior to the meeting.”

Mr. John Peska and Mr. Lew Shelley, members of the Conservation Commission, were in attendance. Members of the Fire Department were unable to attend as this is their regular training night.

Mr. Dalessio read the one letter received from John and Linda Burrows. They advised that over the years there have been many attempts to stop traffic from proceeding over this Class 6 Town Road (Reservoir Road from the Pratt residence toward Boy Scout Shelter). There are piles of dirt in the middle of the Right-of-Way (R.O.W.), Vehicle parked in such a manner as to block the R.O.W., and Fruit trees planted in the R.O.W. They feel that this problem needs to be addressed along with possible improvement to the Class 6 R.O.W. They are in favor of improving these Class 6 roads for the safety of all. They requested that this be read at the hearing.

Mr. Peska pointed out that the original objective of the sub-committee was to get everybody involved (Fire Police, all emergency responders and public works); know the conditions of those roads and prioritize them. They could look into obtaining Grant monies after they identified the ones that had potential for recreational use. Their original meeting was held on March 26, 2014, and a total of 16 roads was identified by members of that committee. They met again on October 5th, 2015. He understands from the Fire Department and Police Department that there were two roads they were concerned with for public safety purposes, those two roads should be prioritized and research done to find out what needed to be done to have them designated as emergency lanes. Mr. Shelley pointed out that this sub-committee was also to inventory the roads for conservation and recreational uses as well.

Mr. Mark Houghton, Fire Department, came into the meeting. He confirmed that the roads they are concerned with are the Derry Hill Road and Reservoir Road as far as the Hooper shelter. Mr. Houghton said they are also concerned with Eaton Road (from Valley Road to the Boy Scout Camp). He never heard of an “Eaten Road” as it was always known as “Eaton Road”. Mr. Shelley questioned where these roads end; they know where they start. Land owners in the Derry Hill area have complained about not being able to access their properties because of recreational vehicles damaging the road. Mr. Houghton agrees that it is damaged however it was good to Cochrane Lane; past that it was impassable. Mr. Shelley felt if it is considered an emergency lane it will create more access / problems. Mr. Houghton mentioned the difficulty they have when fighting brush fires in that area; there are a lot of woods there. There have been some significant accidents in that region. After these roads have been designed as Emergency Lanes the Town can maintain them. They are not allowed to spend money on Class 6 roads. After looking at the Town map, it was determined that Derry Hill ends at the intersection where French Road comes into it; it starts at Watkins Hill Road.

Mrs. Pschirrer advised that, if approved, a notice will be in the next Clarion advising that these three Class 6 roads have been designed as Emergency Lanes.

There were no other public comments. Mr. Dalessio closed this Public Hearing at 5:55 PM.

REGULAR SELECTBOARD MEETING (Continued):
Mr. Dalessio moved to designate emergency lanes as follows: 1) Derry Hill Road to the intersection of French Road; 2) Eaton Lane; and 3) the end of Hooper Lane to the end of Reservoir at the Hooper shelter. Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

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

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 6:30 PM.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard session #1 of December 3, 2015, be sealed. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:
Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register and manifest in the amount of $192,399.15 for checks dated December 4, 2015. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

PAYROLL:
Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Payroll voucher for the week ending November 28, 2015, in the amount of $20,563.24 for checks dated December 4, 2015. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $4,167.45 for the week ending November 28, 2015. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:
SELECTBOARD MEETING – November 25, 2015: Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of November 25, 2015, as submitted. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:
The Selectboard received and reviewed the following minutes:
Conservation Commission – November 2, 2015; and
North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners – November 24, 2015.

BUILDING PERMIT:
MUCHMORE, Sand Hill Road, Map & Lot #012-044-022: Mrs. Pschirrer moved to grant Building Permit #2015-51 for Michael H. Muchmore, to “Construct a 28’ x 24’ 1 story out building / shed”, at 21 Sand Hill Road. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS:
Disability Insurance Application: Mr. Aldrich moved that the Chair be authorized to sign the Disability Insurance application. Secondec by Mrs. Pschirrer. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Meeting With Primex: Mrs. Pschirrer reported that they met with Primex on Tuesday. Mr. Aldrich advised that it was a good meeting and informational. Mrs. Pschirrer found it very instructive. She
learned some things that she was not aware of. The Primex representative was specific on his direction; he raised some interesting issues. Mr. Dalessio noted that their message is consistent. Mrs. Pschirrer told the representative that the Selectboard had a lot of training they wanted the employees to do. Mr. Aldrich said he was pleased with the monthly Staff Meetings. They need to appoint a Safety Committee who will meet quarterly; the members need to be rotated. Mr. Dalessio will send out some material for Mr. Aldrich and Mrs. Pschirrer to look at plus a Safety manual. During the January Staff meeting they will discuss this and how they will implement it. It will involve everyone including the Fire Department, Hooper Institute and Library. The Selectboard has work to do on these issues.

Police Request From The Town of Alstead: Police Chief Paquette spoke to Mr. Joel McCarthy, Selectman in the Town of Alstead. It was agreed that Walpole will assist but it will be on a case-by-case basis. Chief Paquette will not commit to anything consistent; it will be an extended courtesy. This can now be taken off the weekly agenda.

Walpole’s Oldest Citizen: The Selectboard announced that Mrs. Agnes Ciccalone is the Town of Walpole’s oldest citizen. Mrs. Clough will be asked to contact her to congratulate her and to see if she prefers to have the Selectboard present the cane to her at her home or would she prefer coming into the office on a Thursday evening for the presentation. It was agreed to present Mrs. Ciccalone with a framed certificate but the Boston Cane will be kept in a case in the Town Hall. There will be a plaque in the Town Hall with the recipients’ names on it.

Letter To The Cheshire County Commissioners: Mr. Dalessio talked to Chief Paquette about scaling down his information; simplify it, so the letter can be sent to the Cheshire County Commissioners.

Town Ordinance, Procedure and Policy Manual: The Selectboard continue to work on this project.

NEW BUSINESS:
Deputy Warden Appointment Form: Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Appointment of William Crawford as the Deputy Forest Fire Warden. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Forest Fire Warden Bill: Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the NH Forest Fire Report / Bill in the amount of $870.00. Mr. Houghton, Warden, has issued 290 Fire Permits at $3.00/each. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

2016 Budget: Mr. Kreissle had provided worksheets on the 2015 budget as of November 30, 2015. The Selectboard reviewed the proposed 2016 Budget. Their goal is to keep the bottom line at no more than a 4% increase yet enable the Department Heads to have what is necessary to operate plus to do needed maintenance to buildings, roads, etc. Roof repairs are needed for the Library, Pool Building, and Police Department building. The Selectboard will meet again with several Department Heads to go over their proposed budgets. They discussed options to achieve their goal. What is the best way to use their funds. They will continue to work out the details. Mrs. Pschirrer wanted it noted that the word “special” has been misspelled in the budget consistently therefore it needs to be corrected; it is not “specal”.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD MEETING #2:
Mr. Aldrich moved to enter into a Non-Public Selectboard Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (a) Personnel. Mrs. Pschirrer seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with all in favor, the motion was approved at 7:04 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:36 PM.

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

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

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:49 PM.

ADJOURNMENT:
Mr. Aldrich moved to adjourn this meeting. Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer. With all in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 7:50 PM.

Respectfully submitted,
Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 11/25/15

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

NOVEMBER 25, 2015

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

CALL TO ORDER:  Mr. Dalessio called this Selectboard meeting to order at 8:00 AM in the Walpole Town Hall.  He advised that this meeting is being recorded and asked anyone wishing to speak to identify themselves for the record.  There were two people in attendance.

PAYROLL:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Payroll voucher for the week ending November 21, 2015, in the amount of $19,441.88 for checks dated November 25, 2015.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the electronic payroll fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $4,167.45 for the week ending November 21, 2015.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – November 19, 2015: Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of November 19, 2015, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

STAFF MEETING – November 19, 2015: Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the Staff Meeting of November 19, 2015, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – November 19, 2015:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of November 19, 2015, as submitted.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard received and reviewed Minutes of the following meetings:

  • Hooper Institute Committee – November 10, 2015;
  • Walpole Zoning Board of Adjustment – November 18, 2015;
  • North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners – November 17, 2015.

Mr. Dalessio mentioned that in the Zoning Board of Adjustment minutes they talked about Avanru Development Group getting a full service traffic light that will go in at Red Barn Lane.  Mr. Franks stated that the traffic light and proper lanes and striping of lanes have already been approved by the NH Department of Transportation.

NOTICE OF INTENT TO CUT WOOD OR TIMBER:

PAUL, 80 High Street, Map & Lot #010-045-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to grant the Notice of Intent to Cut Wood or Timber for Ryan R. Paul, Operation #15-461-12-T, off High and North Streets.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

WARRANTS: 

WALPOLE WATER FEES:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Town of Walpole, Warrant, For The Collection of Walpole Water Fees in the amount of $80,439.66 with interest at twelve percent (12%) per year computed from due date.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

WALPOLE SEWER FEES: Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Town of Walpole, Warrant, For The Collection of Walpole Water Fees in the amount of $47,198.35 with interest at twelve percent (12%) per year computed from due date.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

NORTH WALPOLE SEWER FEES:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Town of Walpole, Warrant, For The Collection of North Walpole Sewer Fees in the amount of $37,953.69 with interest at twelve percent (12%) per year computed from due date.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS:

Water & Sewer Billing Update:  Mrs. Clough reported that the Water and Sewer bills are finished. North Walpole was mailed Monday and Walpole will be mailed today.

Employee Disability Insurance: Mrs. Clough advised that a 14-day elimination period is being proposed rather than the 3-day elimination period they now have.  Employees cannot collect disability until the fourth day.  If the change is made they cannot collect disability until the fifteenth day.  They will have to use their vacation and/or sick time until the disability insurance begins.  There is a big cost savings by making the change.  In Walpole they roll over up to 240 hours of sick time.  The insurance representative recommends moving to Boston Mutual for the 14-day elimination period.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to change the Employee Disability Insurance to Boston Mutual and the Town will continue to roll over sick time.  They will also move to a 14-day elimination period.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Meeting with Primex:  Mr. Dalessio reported that there will be a meeting with Primex on Tuesday, December 1st at 1:00 PM.  It is a pre-assessment audit.  Department Heads were encouraged to clean-up clutter and straighten out their buildings / areas.  Be prepared.  OSHA and Safety manuals should be available.  Mr. Dalessio will be unable to attend however Mr. Aldrich and Mrs. Pschirrer will attend.

Police Request From The Town of Alstead: Police Chief Paquette has not yet contacted the Selectboard at the Town of Alstead but plans to do so.

Walpole’s Oldest Citizen: The Selectboard will announce Walpole’s Oldest Citizen on Thursday, December 3rd.

Letter to the Cheshire County Commissioners:  Mrs. Pschirrer is waiting for Police Chief Paquette to provide some information before she can finish the letter.

Public Hearing; Designating Emergency Lanes:  This Public Hearing is scheduled for Thursday, December 3rd.

Public Hearing, Acceptance of Land:  Mr. Dalessio was not sure if this Public Hearing on the Acceptance of Land will be held on December 3rd.  Hubbard Farms in Walpole had to contact the owner in France to be sure they have the authority to move forward with donation of land to the Town.

Town Ordinance, Procedure and Policy Manual: This is an on-going Selectboard project.

 

NEW BUSINESS:

Hooper Hill Hoppers Request:  A request was received from Marcia Galloway of the Hooper Hill Hoppers to change corridor #5.  This trail runs thru the Reservoir Lot.  They want to move the trail 250’ to skirt a muddy/wet area.  They are checking with the Conservancy as well.

Mr. Aldrich moved to approve this request subject to the approval of the Monadnock Conservancy.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Employee Holiday Dinner:  Mrs. Clough has a price from Lisai’s Catering to do the Employee Holiday Dinner.  Last year 130 people attended.  Mrs. Clough will ask an area church if they would be interested in providing pies.  The Town will do the coffee, tea and other non-alcoholic beverages.  Mrs. Clough will be in charge of decorating.  The Selectboard approved giving gift cards from Shaw’s to the employees.  The Town averages about 40 employees.

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:

Mr. Aldrich moved to recess this Selectboard meeting.  The Selectboard will enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved at 8:32 AM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 8:51 AM

ADJOURNMENT:  Mr. Aldrich moved to adjourn this meeting.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 8:52 AM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary