The Walpolean

Tomorrow’s weather doesn’t sound so good for a walk in the woods. It has been decided that it will be next Tuesday, the 27th @ 5:30.

Selectboard Present:      Cheryl Mayberry (Chair); Steven Dalessio; Peggy Pschirrer

CALL TO ORDER:  Ms. Mayberry, Chair of the Walpole Selectboard, called this meeting via Zoom to order at 6:31 PM.  The Selectboard members are in three separate locations.  Also attending this meeting is Mrs. Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration, in the Walpole Town Hall and Mrs. Regina Borden, Recording Secretary, by telephone at a separate location.  This meeting was being recorded. 

Ms. Mayberry called for a voice roll call of the Selectboard present:  Steven Dalessio was present; Peggy Pschirrer was present and Cheryl Mayberry was present.  This meeting will be in accordance with Virtual Meetings, Emergency Order #12, which has been effective since March 2020.

OLD BUSINESS:

VILAS BRIDGE JOINT MEETING:  Ms. Mayberry welcomed the following attendees for this Vilas Bridge discussion:

• Bonnie North – New member of the Rockingham, VT Selectboard;
• Gary Fox – Development Director, Town of Rockingham, VT;
• Sue Westa – Senior Planner for Community Development, Windham Regional Commission-VT;
• Colin Bratton – Transportation Planner, Windham Regional Commission-VT;
• J.B. Mack – Principal Planner at Southwest Region Planning Commission (SWRPC);
• Todd Horner – Senior Planner at Southwest Region Planning Commission (SWRPC);
• Shane O’Keefe – Walpole resident and former Municipal Manager for BF/Rockingham, VT;
• Jeff Miller – Chair of Walpole Planning Board.

Bonnie North is a new member of the Rockingham, VT Selectboard.  They would really like to restart communications for the Vilas Bridge.  They have some ideas that Gary Fox can explain. They are hopeful they will be able to get the two states to work together.  They have already contacted Representative Peter Welch who is interested in working with NH Representative Annie Kuster.  They also asked their Town Manager to contact VT Representative Welch about the Vilas Bridge Community Project Funding Request for $11,000,000.  They are also interested in applying for a BUILD Grant.  This is something that communities can apply for together.  They would like to get some feedback on what the Walpole Selectboard think the prospects are.  She thanked Sue Westa, Colin Bratton and J.B. Mack for attending.

Gary Fox reported that Congressman Welch’s office indicated that he can put in for ten projects in the state.  At this time he is not sure what the top ten will be.  They have not yet worked with New Hampshire  Representative Anne Kuster.  The Vilas Bridge could be one of the top ten projects and they would check with Representative Kuster.  The Vilas Bridge is in for the competition at the House level.  The Rockingham Selectboard voted to submit the Vilas Bridge as a priority project to Congressman Welch and are hoping that Walpole will notify Congresswoman Kuster that it is a priority as well.  If Walpole would encourage their legislator to support this, it would be submitted by Vermont.  New Hanpshire has $5,000,000 in their State Transportation Improvement Plan (STIP) for this Vilas Bridge project.  Instead of asking for $5,000,000 over the 2023-2029 period, they would be asking for $2,750,000 in 2023 and moving up as the project would have to be done in a tighter timeline.  The other reason Congressman Welch’s office said to put this in is that it is a good project.  If it did not meet the top ten, they would put it in the Transportation Infrastructure Bill.  They would be looking for concurrence in both cases.  Ms. Mayberry clarified that Mr. Fox is looking for the Walpole Selectboard to encourage our NH legislators to support the request made by Representative Welch.  Mr. Fox said “yes” and for NH to support the project for the Vilas Bridge with matching funds.  Ms. Mayberry said was it $5,294,032 NH had allocated.

J. B. Mack will double check those numbers as he thought it was about $4,000,000.  Congresswoman Kuster’s office had reached out to the SWRPC office last week about House of Representative’s interest in transportation projects as well.  SWRPC spoke about Vilas Bridge being a high priority need and based on SWRPC’s discussion with Congresswoman Kuster’s staff, it sounded like the legislative staff would be following up with Congressman Welch to discuss the project further. That is good news.  He also wanted to talk about some other research he was doing regarding other opportunities including the BUILD Grant.  Through the BUILD Grant about $15,000,000 was put into the Brattleboro Bridge Project.  There was cooperation between the two states.  The Town of Walpole has been concerned about the sewer line that passes underneath the Vilas Bridge.  He has been looking into something called the Long Island Sound Future Fund which looks to protect the rivers that come down into Long Island Sound.  He is looking into the eligibility of that.  He also asked Todd Horner who works with him at SWRPC about potential economic development-related grant opportunities such as programs through the US Department of Agriculture, Northern Borders Regional Commission and Economic Development Administration.  Gary Fox is aware of the Northern Borders Regional Commission and its grant programs. 

Todd Horner noted there are some grant opportunities.  He explored the earmarks and the potential of including the Vilas Bridge.  The USDA is another potential resource.  There are projects open to funding.  This group will continue to explore funding options. 

Colin Bratton advised that historically the State of VT has determined projects without allowing any input from municipalities.  They are in the process of allowing towns to indicate what they want to get done and get it on the list.  This year it is looking at state highways but next year they will include bridges which will give Rockingham an opportunity to get the Vilas Bridge on the list.    

Mr. Dalessio pointed out that Jeff Miller was instrumental on getting the Westminster Bridge built.  He asked Mr. Miller to speak a few minutes on bridges in NH.  Mr. Miller was unable to unmute.  Mr. Dalessio stated that Jeff Miller told him that the way to go about these things is to have the State Representatives introduce legislation and drive it past the various committee, etc.  That is the answer to the Vilas Bridge.  Get the State Senators involved. The only way this bridge will get done is from the highest levels in both states.  They have to agree that the bridge needs to be fixed.  It has to be Governor-to-Governor.  A letter needs to go to both Governors expressing our concern.  The Walpole long-term goal is still to get the sewer line off the Vilas Bridge and run it off the Arch Bridge. 

Ms. Mayberry asked what are the next steps?  She agrees with Mr. Dalessio that there needs to be an upper-level conversation.  It sounds like the Vermont people present are busy advocating getting something introduced by Congressman Welch.  Gary Fox feels a letter of support/concurrence from the Walpole Selectboard to Congresswoman Kuster.  They might want to include the sewer line in this letter.  Mrs. Pschirrer feels it important to mention the sewer line.  She is happy to support what Bellows Falls/Rockingham is trying to do.  The Walpole Selectboard needs to introduce themselves through SWRPC to Congresswoman Kuster to let her know Walpole has a sewer line system under a bridge that needs to be rebuilt.  Mr. Dalessio is in favor of the supporting document, but Walpole has to get Representative Lucy Weber and Senator Jay Kahn to submit a bill and push it through the various steps in Concord to get it through. 

J.B. Mack feels it is really important to capitalize on what is going on in Washington right now between the earmarks discussion and the infrastructure package.  It is important for Walpole to reach out to Congresswoman Kuster and let her know about their important issue.  Transportation in NH is basically funded with federal dollars.  This bridge is over $10,000,000.  He feels they are comfortable with the current Ten-Year Plan but are watching the dollars going up every year. The Vilas Bridge is 93% NH and 7% VT.  Mr. Dalessio felt somebody should be talking to the NH Department of Transportation (DOT). 

J.B. Mack will check with the Project Manager for the Vilas Bridge to see what she thinks about their ideas. 

Shane O’Keefe has been working with this project since 2013.  This is the time to act on it.  Infrastructure money is expected in the near future.  The project will be subject to federal funding.

Bonnie North felt the Walpole Selectboard should have copies of previous correspondence.  Gary Fox will provide this.  Walpole might mention why they are concerned about the bridge including the sewer line running across it when they reach out to Congresswoman Kuster.  They would like to work together with the Walpole Selectboard to get this bridge open again.  She feels a letter of support is needed from the Walpole Selectboard.  A letter of support to Senator Kahn and Congresswoman Kuster is important.  J.B.Mack is happy to be involved. 

Bonnie North thanked the Selectboard for having them attend this Joint Meeting and they are eager to work with them.  Feel free to reach out to Gary Fox.     

Ms. Mayberry thanked everybody for coming to this meeting and participating in the discussion.                                      

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Accounts Payable Check Register in the total amount of $47,088.94 for checks issued April 9, 2021.  This includes a payment of $23,732.28 to the NH Retirement System.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  Ms. Mayberry asked if there was any discussion.  There was none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

PAYROLL:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Payroll Check Register for the week ending April 3, 2021, in the amount of $27,964.56 for checks dated April 9, 2021, and for the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer in the amount of $5,326.14.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  Ms. Mayberry asked if there was any discussion.  There was none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARDMINUTES – April 1, 2021:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of April 1, 2021, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  Ms. Mayberry requested the following amendment to the Minutes.  On page 1, in her statement for the “Elm Street Water/Sewer and Repaving Project”, change “public hearing” to “public meeting”.  Ms. Mayberry asked if there was any discussion.  There was none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the Amendment to the Minutes, was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of April 1, 2021, with the Amendment made to these Minutes on April 8, 2021.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  Ms. Mayberry asked if there was any discussion.  There was none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the Minutes and Amendment were approved. 

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – April 1, 2021:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of April 1, 2021, as submitted.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  Ms. Mayberry asked if there was any discussion.  There was none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.    

NOTICE OF INTENT TO EXCAVATE:

MAP and LOT #012-073-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Notice of Intent to Excavate for the owner(s) of Map and Lot #012-073-000.  This property is located off the Old Drewsville Road.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  Ms. Mayberry asked if there was any discussion.  There was none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

CURRENT USE:

MAP and LOT #008-088-002:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Notice of Current Use for the owner(s) of Map and Lot #008-088-002.  This is for a newly combined lot off the March Hill Road.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  Ms. Mayberry asked if there was any discussion.  There was none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

BUILDING and DEMOLITION PERMITS:

Permit No. 2021-13, MAP and LOT #018-012-002:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to grant BUILDing Permit No. 2021-13 for the owner(s) of Map and Lot #018-012-002 to add a “16’ x 12’ Screened Room OutBUILDing”.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  Ms. Mayberry asked if there was any discussion.  There was none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

Permit No. 2021-14, MAP and LOT #011-040-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to grant Demolition Permit No. 2021-14 for the owner(s) of Map and Lot #011-040-000 for the “Removal of a collapsed shed.  The removal occurred before April 1, 2021”.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  Ms.  Mayberry asked if there was any discussion.  There was none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

Permit No. 2021-15, MAP and LOT #010-034-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to grant BUILDing Permit No. 2021-15 for the owner(s) of Map and Lot #010-034-000 for the “Construction of a 48’ x 30’ two story Timberpeg Barn/Garage”.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  Mr. Dalessio questioned if they are going to take down the existing barn and, if so, they would need a Demolition Permit.  Ms. Mayberry asked if there was any further discussion.  There was none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

Permit No. 2021-16, MAP and LOT #008-015-007: Mrs. Pschirrer moved to grant BUILDing Permit No. 2021-16 for the owner(s) of Map and Lot #008-015-007 to add a “12’ x 18’ shed”.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  Ms. Mayberry asked if there was any discussion.  There was none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS:

Vilas Bridge Joint Meeting (Continued):  The Selectboard had agreed to do a letter of support for the Vilas Bridge.  Mrs. Pschirrer will prepare the draft letter for review.

Recognition of New Police Chief:  Ms. Mayberry apologized for not announcing last week that the new Walpole Police Chief is Justin Sanctuary.  This was effective April 1, 2021.  He will do an excellent job.  Chief Sanctuary was unable to attend this meeting as he responded to a call.  He has the full support of the Selectboard.  Former Police Chief Michael Paquette will be a Walpole Patrolman.      

Public Meeting for Elm Street Project:  The Selectboard confirmed that the Public Meeting for the Elm Street Project is Wednesday, April 21^st, 2021, at 5:00 PM.  It will be held outside near the Town Hall.  Mr. Dalessio is drafting the letter that will be sent to the abutters.  The letter will also be posted in the two customary locations. 

TrueNorth Networks Invoice for Broadband Installation:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve Purchase Order #657724 for $1,600 to TrueNorth Networks to complete the Broadband Installation Project.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  Ms. Mayberry asked if there were any questions.  There were none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.    

Mr. Dalessio reported there still having problems with email service in the Town Hall.  They will need TrueNorth to come back. Therefore, he will contact them.

Memorial Day Parade:  A request was received from Mr. Whit Aldrich on behalf of the American Legion Post to have a Memorial Day Parade.  Mrs. Pschirrer thought that a few weeks ago they agreed there would not be a Memorial Day Parade for several reasons including the COVID-19 virus and to be able to begin the Water/Sewer Project on Elm Street and Drainage Project on the Common in May rather than wait until June.  Mr. Dalessio reported Mr. Aldrich is fine with whatever decision is made tonight.  Mrs. Pschirrer mentioned the Brownsfield Project was moved back to July 1^st to avoid overlapping the projects.  The Selectboard agreed not to hold the Memorial Day Parade this year for several reasons.       

Pending Further Actions:

Tax Deeded Property Sale, Mill Pond Dam Inspection, Reservoir Dam, Exec. Councilor Warmington Meeting Request

Houghton Brook Bridge:  Mr. Dalessio will have a purchase order ready for next week on the Houghton Brook Bridge.  It will be for the next phase which is the permitting process. 

Reservoir Dam:  Mr. Dalessio reported we have done the study.  The next phase will be for about $5,000; the purchase order will be increased.  The Department of Environmental Services (DES) has not yet weighed in but it appears this will be a “High Hazard” Dam.

North Walpole Library Lease:  Ms. Mayberry advised that two of the North Walpole Commissioners have signed the North Walpole Library Lease.  She offered to pick up and bring it to the Town Hall as soon as it is signed by the third Commissioner.   

NEW BUSINESS:

Letter of Support from EPA Clean-Up Grant:  Mrs. Pschirrer explained that a part of their EPA Clean-Up Grant required that they do a study to see if anything had any historical significance. They determined that it does not but they have to write a letter of support for the work that Ransom Consulting, LLC had done.  The Historical Society had also been asked to write a letter and they have already done this.  What remains has no historical significance at all.  They have old maps of the site.       

Mr. Dalessio moved to approve and sign the letter of support to the US Environmental Protection Association (EPA) regarding the Clean-Up Grant.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  Ms. Mayberry asked if there was any discussion.  There was none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mr. Dalessio, Mrs. Pschirrer and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer advised that people will be coming to look at the site. They removed as much of the Maple tree on the edge of the property as they could.  There was a problem with metal fencing imbedded in the tree.  Funds will come out of the escrow money being held for the clean-up.

Concerts on the Green:  The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of a letter from the Savings Bank of Walpole announcing that they would like to sponsor their Concerts on the Green series on consecutive Sunday evenings beginning at 6:30 pm and concluding at 8:00 pm from June 27, 2021, to August 15, 2021.  Mr. Dalessio stated the work on the Common would have to start before mid-May to be finished by June 27^th.  The road might not have been paved by then. 

Mr.  Dalessio moved to accept the 2021 Concerts on the Green sponsored by the Savings Bank of Walpole.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  Ms. Mayberry asked if there was any discussion.  There was none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mr. Dalessio, Mrs. Pschirrer and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

Clear Divider for TC/TC Office Windows:  The Selectboard had looked at three options for clear dividers (plexiglass) for the Town Clerk/Tax Collector’s office windows that will be between the two service windows. 

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to purchase one ceiling to floor divider and one on-the-shelf divider for the Town Clerk/Tax Collector’s office.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  Ms. Mayberry asked if there was any discussion.  There was none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved. 

Donation Thank You Letter:  The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of a Donation Thank You letter from the Monadnock Family Services.

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to recess this Selectboard meeting.  The Selectboard will enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  Ms. Mayberry asked if there was any discussion.  There was none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved at 7:40 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:56 PM.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION:  Mr. Dalessio moved to enter into a Non-Public Selectboard Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (a) Personnel and (c) Reputations.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  Ms. Mayberry asked if there was any discussion.  There was none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mr. Dalessio, Mrs. Pschirrer and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 8:45 PM.

Mr. Dalessio moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of April 8, 2021, will be sealed.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  Ms. Mayberry asked if there was any discussion.  There was none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mr. Dalessio, Mrs. Pschirrer and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

ADJOURNMENT:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to adjourn this Selectboard meeting.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  Ms. Mayberry asked if there was any discussion.  There was none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, meeting adjourned at 8:46 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

COVID by the Numbers—April 18 Edition

A couple of milestones this week:  The grimmest is that worldwide, we crossed the 3,000,000 mark of number of lives lost to COVID.  Here in NH, a total of more than 90,000 people have had reported cases of COVID.  On a more hopeful note, in the US, over 50% of adults have received at least one dose of vaccine.  In NH, that figure is over 58%, with 24.6% having been fully vaccinated. 

As of Friday, Governor Sununu lifted the statewide mask mandate.  Cities and towns may still have their own mandates, so there will be a patchwork of regulation for a while.

And as of today, anyone over 16 may sign up for a vaccine, anywhere in the country.

It is hard to figure out what to make of the numbers this week.

Statewide last week, the numbers rose from a seven day average of reported cases of just over 31 per 100,000, to an average of 32.4 per 100,000 on the 16^th, before falling back to an average of 29.8 on the 18^th.   We had a high of 552 new cases on the 15^th, and a low of 308 new cases on the 18^th.  Hospitalizations in the state rose from 87 two weeks ago to 110 last week, to 133 this week.   There were 13 new deaths in the state this week, up from 10 last week.

In Cheshire County, the county average of reported cases rose from 14.6 per 100,000 two weeks ago to 17.3 per 100,000 last week, to 19.0 this week.That is still the second best rate in the state.  There were 0 new deaths in Cheshire County this week, and 0 new hospitalizations.  There are 110 reported active cases in the county, up from 99 last week.

In Walpole, we have had only 1 new case this week, the same as last week, and there remain 1-4 reported active cases in town.

So please continue to take good care of yourselves and each other. 

Wear your mask, keep your distance, wash your hands, and keep well.

~Representative Lucy Weber

lwmcv@comcast.net

603 499-0282

Present were: Gail Lahaise, Amy Howard, Kate Nerrie, Jean Kobeski, Susan Johnson, Tim Lester, Bill Ranauro, Jane Malmberg, Peggy Pschirrer, Shirley Capron.    

Absent:  Jeanne Ramey, 

The Meeting commenced at 4:30 p.m. with Amy doing a roll call of members present with a show of hands.    

Approval of Minutes:  Tim moved, Jean seconded, all approved (8-0) the March ’21 Minutes with a show of hands.   

Treasurer’s Report:  On April 8, Kate e-mailed her report for March ’21 to all.   Re, she said she had no comments.  

Bills:  On April 7, Jane e-mailed her March’21 Bills Report to all.  There were no questions re.   Amy moved, Gail seconded, all approved with a show of hands (8-0) both the Treasurer’s and Bills Reports. 

Old Business:  Jane reiterated at length her April Library Report she e-mailed April 8, along with “Monthly Library Statistics” to all.   

– She said $750 was received in memory of Nancy Shepard.

– Library visits and checkouts are increasing.  

– The IEP Workshop went well and hopefully there will be more collaborating re in the future. 

– There will be two adult programs in May; two Wed. evenings in a row:  “Fostering Communities on the Topic of Race.”  The “Cookie Bake Off” is an additional Library program being offered. 

– All are pleased to learn there was no vandalism with the exhibited papers for the “Story Walk” in the North Walpole Park.  S.W. is discontinuing now because of plants in the way, and there may be another spot for it in the future.  

– Fritzie Till, with Jane, will be starting up a Seed Library again, hopefully this spring/summer.   

– Many overdue items exist.  Amy said we encouraged people to keep their borrowed items during the renovation time, and because of the COVID Pandemic.  Jane said she will e-mail and call delinquent borrowers.  Bill inquired about an Amnesty time. Jane said there are no charges when material is returned, just as long as it is.  Tim suggested, when contacting overdue borrowers about returns, to say that he could pick up the overdue material if they could not make it to the Library.  Bill said he could pick up needed returns also.  Both Tim and Bill were thanked for their offer re. 

– Quarantining is comfortable with the staff and it is still being reviewed. 

– Staff consensus was had re opening back up for regular hours in Walpole, spreading out visits, letting kids back in the Kids Room with adults, and older kids on their own, all if they were vaccinated,  

– Jane would like to think more about the Branch opening in June.  Amy said the COVID case rate in N.H. is bad at present, but we might see an improvement in a couple of weeks.  

– Gail inquired about gathering in the Community Room. Jane said meetings are open to the public and that there are no specific guidelines for libraries re.  Peg said we are under the Governor’s mandates and that we may hear more in a couple of weeks.  Amy said we have a month to decide if we meet in the Library for our May meeting, and she will obtain a concensus from all Board members re.  Kate agreed we should wait on deciding. She, Jean and Amy declared their support with Jane’s decision. 

Building & Grounds:  Brad said the light on the pole was working, that it must come on when it gets dark, and that it might not have anything to do with the problem. 

– The locksmith is to come tomorrow about the problem door. 

Tim has experience with locks and said he could help re. 

– Jane is contacting Bellows about the chimney leaking in her office. There have been no new leaks with it wrapped in plastic, but we need to fix it this summer.

– Jeanne is working with Jenn Burr about replacing two trees.  She also is consulting with a road agent re.  Gail inquired as to why two trees are needed.  Amy said Walpole Town is losing trees in certain areas and that it would be nice to have more greenery. 

Old Business:  Amy said that the wording on the recognition plaques needs to be finalized. Shirley will e-mail Amy and Gail with the number of years Rose worked. The plaque for Rose will be hung in the Branch.  

New Business:  Amy filled out the “Trustee Survey” to return to Jane by May 5, or to the State Library as requested. Jean did, and other Trustees will do so also. 

– Electing Officers:  Responding to Amy’s remark about electing officers yearly, Kate said elections of officers and committee members are usually done after Town Meeting in March.  Tim and Peg recommended it be put into the By-laws.  Bill said the Historical Society has it in theirs and he could check re.  Sue said she will investigate those in Massachusetts.  Amy said we can figure out the process for the next Board meeting and that she will draw up a draft policy to put in the By-laws.  

– The annual schedule of Board Meetings was discussed. Amy suggested sticking to the present schedule in the By-laws re. 

– Jane declared that a Library Selection Policy is needed as she cannot find the one that supposedly exists.  She wants to have one in case the Library is challenged, and is happy to work on one that she can present at the Board’s next meeting. 

Operations: There is an orientation for new Trustees and there is a spring meeting that looks good to attend virtually. Info re will be sent to all. 

– Tim and Bill should have the Board’s “Policies of Government.”  Amy will send to all Board members, an electronic copy including the “N.H. Library Trustee Association Handbook,”    

– Amy asked Jean to send to all Board members and to Jane, a new roster of Board Members with their home address, phone number, and e-mail address. 

– Sue inquired about re-opening.  Amy said it would be nice to have an event re and to start thinking about it, remarking “No action now, but an opportunity to return to normalcy.” Tim suggested that when we know when it is safe, to have a Grand Opening. 

With no further business, Amy moved to adjourn, Sue seconded, all approved (8-0) with a show of hands at 5:38 p.m. 

Faithfully submitted, 

Shirley Capron, Secy.

One week away, and now looking towards the fifth month of 2021 – still hard to believe. With care and optimism there may by the end of the year be activities to report here for you to enjoy, but it still appears it will be a quiet summer.

Construction is planned in the village that will be reported on in the May issue, and bridge construction begins next week. A few outdoor activities are in the works, but if you have something to share with the Walpole, North Walpole, and Drewsville community, send you news along by the end of next week, Friday, April 23.

If you have any questions, or desire to advertise, feel free to contact me, thank you, yours, RAY BOAS, Publisher

We will meet at Dexpart, 31 Industrial Park Drive, Walpole at 10am on Sunday, April 25^th. Safety information will be discussed and then we will be broken up into groups with blue bags to attack the litter on the roadside of Route 12 from the pull offs heading north to either South Street or the bridge to Westminster (depending on many volunteers we get, we could go even farther!). Please RSVP so we know how many to expect. Also, please wear a mask and a brightly colored shirt!

This clean up day will be in addition to the clean up day the Walpole Recycling Center will host on Saturday, May 8^th.

Also, please remember that blue bags for litter cleanups done on your own are available at the Walpole Recycling Center. If you see litter, please pick it up and dispose of it properly! Encourage your friends and family to do the same, and, more importantly, to not litter in the first place.

Thank you!

Kara Dexter

volkspete@hotmail.com

Selectboard Present:​Cheryl Mayberry (Chair); Steven Dalessio; Peggy Pschirrer

CALL TO ORDER:  Ms. Mayberry, Chair of the Walpole Selectboard, called this meeting via Zoom to order at 6:30 PM.  The Selectboard members are in three separate locations.  Also attending this meeting is Mrs. Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration, in the Walpole Town Hall and Mrs. Regina Borden, Recording Secretary, by telephone at a separate location.  This meeting was being recorded.  There were four members of the public in attendance.

Ms. Mayberry called for a voice roll call of the Selectboard present:  Steven Dalessio was present; Peggy Pschirrer was present and Cheryl Mayberry was present.  This meeting will be in accordance with Virtual Meetings, Emergency Order #12, which has been effective since March 2020.

OLD BUSINESS:

Elm Street Water/Sewer and Repaving Project:

Ms. Mayberry made the following statement:

“The infrastructure on Elm Street has aged out of its productive life, repair and line replacement has become necessary so the Selectboard has decided to go ahead with the replacement of the water and sewer lines as planned.  The road will also be repaved to its existing footprint with drainage improvements along the Common.  This project was already approved back in 2015, budgeted to be done this year and plans will continue to move forward so as not to interfere with the Brownsfields project.  Once a formal plan has been submitted for the Selectboard to review, the abutters will be invited to weigh in on the project via a public meeting; similar to what was previously done on Pleasant Street.  All other details and considerations that directly affect the project may be brought forth at the public meeting at which time both resident concerns and budgetary limitations will be discussed.  Any and all other concerns relating to Elm Street and the Common may be discussed, budgeted and planned for at a future date.

We appreciate all the residents who have already voiced their opinions and concerns on the Elm Street project but in the absence of a formalized plan, any additional commentary on this topic is considered premature and unnecessary at this time.​Thank You!” 

With that being said the Selectboard agreed to move along with the agenda.  

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Accounts Payable Check Register in the total amount of $484,819.18 for checks issued April 02, 2021.  This includes a final installment payment of $464,025.00 to Consolidated Communications, Inc. for the Broadband Bond.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  Ms. Mayberry asked if there was any discussion.  There was none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.  

PAYROLL:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Payroll Check Register for the week ending March 27, 2021, in the amount of $27,821.75 for checks dated April 02, 2021, and for the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer in the amount of $5,265.66.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  Ms. Mayberry asked if there was any discussion.  There was none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MINUTES – March 25, 2021:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of March 25, 2021, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  Ms. Mayberry asked if there was any discussion.  There was none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the Minutes were approved. 

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION #1 MINUTES – March 25, 2021: Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session #1 of March 25, 2021, as submitted.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  Ms. Mayberry asked if there was any discussion.  There was none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the Minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION #2 MINUTES – March 25, 2021:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session #2 of March 25, 2021, as submitted.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  Ms. Mayberry asked if there was any discussion.  There was none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the Minutes were approved.

STAFF MEETING MINUTES – March 25, 2021:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the Staff Meeting of March 25, 2021, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  Ms. Mayberry asked if there was any discussion.  There was none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the Minutes were approved.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of the following Committee reports:• Walpole Fire District Monthly Meeting – February 10, 2021;• Library Trustees Meeting – March 16, 2021;• North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners – March 16, 2021;• North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners – March 23, 2021.

PROPERTY TAX PENALTY FOREGIVENESS:

MAP and LOT #021-032-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to grant the Property Tax Penalty Foregiveness for the owner(s) of Map and Lot #021-032-000.  The lien notice fee was erroneously applied and needed to be forgiven.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  Ms. Mayberry asked if there was any discussion.  There was none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

BUILDING PERMIT:

Permit #2021-12 – MAP and LOT #005-065-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to grant Building Permit No. 2021-12 for the owner(s) of Map and Lot #005-065-000 to add a “31’ by 17’ Roof Mount Solar Array on Barn”.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  Ms. Mayberry asked if there was any discussion.  There was none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS:

North Walpole Library Lease:  Ms. Mayberry reported that the North Walpole Library Lease has been sent to the North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners and they approved signing the lease during their meeting last Tuesday.  After it is returned, the Selectboard will also sign the lease. 

April 13, 2021 Planning Board Meeting re: Town Hall: Ms.  Mayberry advised the Planning Board has requested having an in-person meeting in the Town Hall on April 13, 2021.  Mr. Dalessio has no concerns providing they follow all the mask and social distance requirements.  Mrs. Pschirrer does not have any concerns except if one of their members feels uncomfortable, is there a way they can call in?  Mr. Dalessio replied “yes” they can call in.  Mr. Dalessio suggested that any elected/appointed Board / Commission can have an in-person meeting at their discretion.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if they are ready to start renting the Town Hall.  Mr. Dalessio said “no” it should be open to just elected/appointed Boards and/or Commissions.  Mrs. Pschirrer pointed out the Governor’s Emergency Orders are still in effect.  Mr. Dalessio added they will all have to follow the regulations of wearing a mask, social distancing, washing hands, and sanitizing. Mrs. Pschirrer and Ms. Mayberry concurred.

FMRHS Prom at Whitcomb Recreation Park:  Ms. Mayberry reported the Fall Mountain Regional High School Prom is scheduled for May 15th from 7:00-to-10:00 PM.  They are expecting about 200 attendees.  Mrs. Pschirrer is concerned with the large number of people. They cannot require it but effective tomorrow many of those students are eligible to sign up to be vaccinated and that would help.  They will be in close proximity; they will be dancing.  In her conversation with Mr. Kraig Harlow, Recreation Director, the students are also considering another location but it is not their first choice as they like the access to the Recreation Park bathrooms.  Mr. Dalessio is concerned with the number of people.  They can rent portable bathrooms for the FMRHS fields.  There was a consensus of the Selectboard to deny this request.  Mrs. Pschirrer will let Mr. Harlow know of their decision.  Ms. Mayberry will notify the Superintendent. 

Thank You Letter for Use of Walpole Elementary School Gym:  Mrs.  Pschirrer moved to approve and sign the Thank You letter for Use of the Walpole Elementary School Gym for the Annual Town Meeting on March 13, 2021.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  Ms. Mayberry asked if there was any discussion.  There was none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.                   

Pending Further Actions:

Tax Deeded Property Sale, Houghton Brook Bridge, Mill Pond Dam Inspection, Reservoir Dam:  Mr. Dalessio had no up-dated information.  Vilas Bridge Joint Meeting:  The Joint Meeting is scheduled for April 8, 2021, at 6:30 PM.  Executive Councilor Warmington Meeting Request:  No response has been received.  These items will remain on the Pending Further Actions list. 

NEW BUSINESS:

Cemetery Deed:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Cemetery Deed for the sale of two lots D563 and D564.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  Ms. Mayberry asked if there was any discussion.  There was none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved. 

Vaccinations:  Mrs. Pschirrer had sent out a notice to Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry to review.  It was to encourage Town employees to get their vaccinations.  They saw no issues with sending out this notice. Therefore, Mrs. Downing was asked to distribute it to all employees.    

April Basketball and Summer Basketball Camps:  Mrs. Pschirrer advised that Mr. Kraig Harlow is eager to have some vacation time basketball workshops.  School vacation begins in two weeks.  He would also like to advertise summer basketball camps.  Doing this during vacation time gives kids something to do outside.  Mr. Dalessio had no problem as long as he follows the guidelines.  Mrs. Pschirrer approves it; it is outside in fresh air, doing an organized sport as long as guidelines are followed. There was a consensus of the Selectboard to approve April Basketball and Summer Basketball Camps.

Donation Thank You Letters:  Ms. Mayberry acknowledged Thank You letters from the Southwestern Community Services (SCS), from the YMCA for Camp Takodah and from the Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA).    

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to recess this Selectboard meeting.  The Selectboard will enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  Ms. Mayberry asked if there was any discussion.  There was none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved at 6:55 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 6:59 PM.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION:

Mr. Dalessio moved to enter into a Non-Public Selectboard Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (a) Personnel and (c) Reputations.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  Ms. Mayberry asked if there was any discussion.  There was none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mr. Dalessio, Mrs. Pschirrer and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:26 PM.

Mr. Dalessio moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of April 01, 2021, will be sealed.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  Ms. Mayberry asked if there was any discussion.  There was none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mr. Dalessio, Mrs. Pschirrer and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

ADJOURNMENT: Mrs. Pschirrer moved to adjourn this Selectboard meeting.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  Ms. Mayberry asked if there was any discussion.  There was none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the meeting adjourned at 7:28 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

SELECTBOARD MEETING AGENDA

Starting at 6:30 PM via Zoom and may be live-streamed on FACT-TV

SELECTBOARD MEETING

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE

• Accounts Payable Check Register in the total amount of $648,659.42 for checks issued 4/16/21

PAYROLL•

Payroll Register totaling $37,887.28 dated 4/16/21 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $7,976.62

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES•

Selectboard Minutes – April 8, 2021•

Non-Public Selectboard Session Minutes – April 8, 2021

COMMITTEE REPORTS

• North Walpole Village District Commissioners’ Meeting – March 30, 2021

Conservation Commission – April 5, 2021

EXCAVATION INTENTS

Map and Lot# 001-016-002

NH DOT Rt.12 Project 14747

TIMBER INTENTS

Map and Lot# 027-008-000

OLD BUSINESS

North Walpole Library Lease

Elm St. Project – Notification to Abutters Letter

Houghton Brook ARM Grant and Scope of Services Agreement

Recreation Pool House Replacement Roof Bids

Vachon Clukay Representation Letter for Tax Collector Audit

Letters to State and US Representative re: Vilas Bridge Repair

Walk in Walpole with Exec. Councilor Warmington

Tax Pre-Payments

OHRV Signage Request for Whipple Hill Road

Central Plating Brownsfields Project Update

Pending Further Actions

Tax Deeded Property Sale, Mill Pond Dam Inspection, Reservoir Dam, Vilas Bridge Joint Meeting

NEW BUSINESS

Vachon Clukay 2020 Audit Engagement Letter

Donation Thank You Letter

HOOPER TRUSTEES MEETING

HOOPER TRUSTEES MINUTES• Hooper Trustees Meeting – April 1, 2021• Hooper Trustees Meeting – April 8, 2021

HOOPER BUSINESS

Reimbursement to the Town of Walpole from the Hooper Maintenance Fund

Reimbursement to the Town of Walpole from the Hooper Educational Fund

HOOPER NON-PUBLIC BUSINESS: RSA 91-A:3 II

SELECTBOARD MEETING – continued

NON-PUBLIC BUSINESS: RSA 91-A:3 II (a)

**Any recording, audio or visual, and/or other devices must be declared at the beginning of the meeting**

TOWN OF WALPOLE

FIRE HYDRANT FLUSHING

The fire hydrants covering South Walpole will be flushed Monday, April 19, 2021 thru Tuesday, April 20, 2021.  Residents may experience discolored water when first running the water during this time. Please run the water for five minutes until clear before using. If the water does not clear after the five minutes you may contact the Water and Sewer Department at (603) 756-3672.  Thank you for your patience during this necessary work.

The Walpole Water Department

COVID by the Numbers—April 11 Edition

Statewide, the numbers have risen from a seven day average of reported cases of just over 28 per 100,000, to an average of just over 31 per 100,000.  On two days this week, there are over 500 new cases reported in NH.  Hospitalizations in the state rose from 87 to 110 just this week alone, There were 10 new deaths in the state this week.

In Cheshire County, the county average of reported cases rose from 14.6 to 17.3 per 100,000.  That is still the second best rate in the state, behind Sullivan County which is at 16.2.  Strafford County is the current hot spot, with an  average of 45.3 cases per 100,000.  There were 0 new deaths in Cheshire County this week, and only 1 new hospitalization.  There are 99reported active cases in the county.

In Walpole, we have had only 1 new case this week, and there remain 1-4reported active cases in town.

Today, it was reported that NH has seen 3 reported cases of COVID in persons who were fully vaccinated.  Please remember that vaccination is NOT 100% against transmission of the disease.  A few vaccinated people will still contract the disease.  And the person who contracts the disease may be asymptomatic, and never know they have the disease, which increases the chance that they might pass it on to others, unknowingly.

So please continue to take good care of yourselves and each other, and keep well.  

~Representative Lucy Weber

lwmcv@comcast.net

603 499-0282