The Walpolean

Conducted on “Zoom”                           February 9, 2021                           

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

The Meeting commenced at 4:30 p.m. with Amy doing a roll call of Board members present with a show of hands, and a declaration of attending by themselves alone from each member.    

Approval of Minutes:  The following corrections were made with Kathy’s and Jane’s verbal reports:   

    Treasurer’s Report:  As already approved, Kathy still may move some of the extra money in the Checking Account to the Town’s Account so that the Library will get more interest on its money. 

    Bills: Kathy said the bill from Jenn Burr is for work done last fall.  It is a lot of money but most of the invoice was for new plants and shrubs that she bought. 

     Branch:  Jane said that at the Branch presently, because of the size of the space, it is safe to open for Curbside Service now because of the Pandemic and she did not feel that opening for curbside would be beneficial for patrons. 

Tim moved, Sue seconded, all approved (7-0) the Minutes with corrections. 

Treasurer’s Report:, Kathy had e-mailed the Jan. 2021 report to all Board members.  She noted that since we did not receive Jenn Burr’s bill for work done last year until after the new year, it will appear that we will be over budget in landscaping for 2021, but it evens out because we are under budget in 2020. 

  She said, going forward, we need to make sure vendors get bills to us for work done in the current year by Dec. 1, if possible. 

Bills:   Jane had e-mailed her January ’21 Bills Report to all.  She mentioned the largest amount of $6,016 for New Computers. Also, about the shared subscriptions with the Plainfield Library, remarking that periodicals do get checked out.    She said that subscriptions to the “New York Times” and “Keene Sentinel” have been paused, and that she does not know if the “New York Times” subscription costing $2,000 on-line would get that much use.  She could pick up the Sunday paper at Jake’s instead and it would save on delivery costs. 

 Gail moved, Tim seconded, all approved (7-0) the Treasurer’s and Bills’ reports. 

Old Business:  Jane said she goes to Select Board and Public Services Meetings.  Not much was mentioned about the Library – mostly about Warrant articles.  The Town will provide Broadband service for the Library. Sue asked about Health Insurance in the budget.  Jane said hers is covered thru her husband’s.  Sue also asked why there is a listing of repairs for the Library.  Peg said the money noted there is to go to the Branch.  Jane said there were no questions on the 2020-2021 Budget. 

Plaques:  Gail questioned the disposition of the plaques. Amy said, after talking to Jeanne re, another source for them may be considered and she recommends moving on.  Jeanne, Amy and Gail will address the issue. 

New Business:  Jane had e-mailed her “February Update Library Report” and “January 202l Stats” to all.  Because of the Pandemic, there still is Express and Curb Side Service.  Jane added that it is too soon to open up because of the new COVID variant.  For home-bound patrons, there is more than one volunteer to assist.  Re, Jane does an article for the “Clarion.”  Gail suggested, and Jane agreed, putting info in it about Home Delivery Service. Amy suggested adding more information about COVID.  Jane said it is on the Library’s Facebook page. 

– Programs:   Jane said for the Virtual Bake-Off, nine cakes are had, and to look on the Website to vote.  

– A volunteer, Andrea Vickers-Sivret, will conduct a IEP (Independent Education Plan) workshop on Zoom in March.  Amy said to send her a Thank You note afterwards. 

– Staff Evaluations:  Jane met with two staff (narrative form conducted) and will be done with evaluations by the end of the month.   

–  There will be a “No Cost Training” opportunity on-line from ALA for staff. 

– Staff Sick Leave Policy was discussed at length: Issues of “Unused,” “Accruing,” and  “Pooling.”   In questioning the Town’s Sick Leave Policy, Peg said the Library is different and should set up its own Sick Leave Policy.  Jane said she would feel more comfortable having the Board vote on the adopted Policy.  Sue and Amy indicated Fred Ernst must have been involved previously and to confer with him re.  Amy said she will contact him.  Jean described a paper that Fall Mt. School provided about their Policy, adding that she will see what the School is doing presently and report on it at the March meeting.   

– An e-mail was received from Nancy Shepard’s nephew re a gift to the Library from her estate, but we don’t know the amount yet. Amy recommended talking to him re the gift.  Jane said she will call him.  

Branch:   Jane said that the books are still being worked on and that they are half-way done.  She is waiting to hear re the budget in order to make improvements. Because of Peggy’s strong recommendation, the Commissioners are being asked to consider a Lease. (Amy sent a letter to the North Walpole Commissioners to give an update on what is happening at the Branch). 

– Gail inquired about the extra electrical outlets needed at the Branch and Peggy said she asked about them in a letter to the Commissioners.  Some of the money in the 2021 budget is for improvements like outlets.  Peggy mentioned that the Town is willing to split the costs with the owners of the building.  

Building & Grounds:  Jane talked to Houghton’s Service about the needed exterior light replacement.  She took pictures of it and will take them to Aubuchon’s Hardware re.  Amy said she will talk to her electrician about the light, and Gail recommended talking to Lil DeCoste because she has one in her yard like it. 

Technology:  What to do with the Library’s old computers was questioned.  Brad knows of a place in Keene that will destroy their hard drives and recycle the computers. Jane said she will take care of the issue. 

Friends:  Jane met with Carole Malnati of the Friends re books at the ReUse Center, and asked her to get volunteers for a couple of months to help.  Presently there are plastic bins with lid covers and they can be put outside for recycling.  Jane added that it all seems to be working well. 

Personnel:  Jean said the Personnel Committee needs another member. She explained the procedure of evaluations. Sue offered to join the Committee.   Jean said it is hard to meet physically, so it could be done on Facetime or Zoom   Amy offered to set up Zoom concerning. 

The next Library Board meeting date in March will change to the 16^th because of the Town Meeting to take place on the same day the previous week. 

With no further business to address, Gail moved, Tim seconded, all approved (7-0) to adjourn with a show of hands. 

Faithfully submitted, 

Shirley Capron, Secy. 

COVID by the Numbers—February 14 Edition

And

Second Doses: The Continuing Saga 

Second doses—This Week’s Challenges:  For those who got their first dose before last Sunday, and who were therefore not given a second appointment with their first dose, scheduling continues to be a challenge.  Most slots were still too far out for the timing of the first shot.  Calls to 211 revealed that new time slots were being added daily, but that they could not all be added at once, because VAMS would not support that.  You still have to cancel the later appointment and hope that there is an eariler one, and most people have been able to rebook in an appropriate time slot.  But there is a new wrinkle.  After rescheduling, quite a number of people have received a followup email saying that they had cancelled an appointment without rescheduling, even though they had, indeed rescheduled.  Checking VAMs shows that the rescheduled appointments are still there in the VAMS system.  Go figure.

For those who should have gotten a second appointment with their first dose, again the reviews are mixed.  I was told that for a while, Keene had no white vaccination cards.  Some have been told what day to come back, but have been told to come anytime.  Some have been told to go to VAMS and get a specific time.  Some have been told to come back at the same time as their first appointment, but have been given no confirmation.  Still a few bugs in the system.

And the Numbers:  

Last week, Walpole had 1-4 active cases.  Then we went back up to 7.  As of this writing, we are at 6.  New cases are holding steady—5 again this week.

In Cheshire County, our seven day average of reported cases per 100,000 went from 20.2 down to 15.3 on the 10^th, and then back up to 19.2 as of today.  Active cases in the county went from 122 down to 101, then back up to127.  Sadly, we have lost another 3 citizens to the pandemic.  That is 1 more than last week.

Statewide, the seven-day average of reported cases has gone from 28.4 to 25.7.  Active cases have gone from 3,661 to 3,365.  Hospitalizations have gone from 186 down to 126.  The death toll has gone from 1104 to 1133.

A case of the South African COVID variant has been reported in NH, so there are undoubtedly others.

Please keep on taking good care of yourselves, and each other.  Don’t let down your guard.  Be careful out there.  The numbers are encouraging, but there is still work to do.

Keep well.

~Representative Lucy Weber

603-499-0282

Lwmcv@comcast.net

MARCH 2021 CLARION — DEADLINE 19 FEBRUARY 2021by Ray Boas

A week away and the March Town Meeting issue of the CLARION will close on Friday, 19 February, for all articles and advertisements. Once completed, the files will work their way to the printer, and then into your hands by the first of March.

I have already spent days in preparation looking at what I have received, and will be including for your reading enjoyment. Again, it appears sixteen pages may become the “norm” for awhile until activities may again safely resume and be reported to you.

So, here is your deadline warning, and if you have any questions, do email me – rayboas@comcast.net

TOWN OF WALPOLE

PUBLIC HEARING

2021 ANNUAL BUDGET and WARRANT ARTICLES

FEBRUARY 4, 2021

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

CALL TO ORDER:  Mrs. Pschirrer called this Public Hearing on the 2021 Annual Budget and Warrant Articles to order at 5:30 PM.  This meeting is taking place virtually online via Zoom.  The Selectboard members are in three separate locations. This meeting is being live-streamed on FACT-TV and is being recorded.

Mrs. Pschirrer called for a voice roll call of the Selectboard present:  Cheryl Mayberry was present; Steven Dalessio was present and Peggy Pschirrer was present.  

Mrs. Pschirrer called for a voice roll call of the Staff members present as follows:  Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration, is in the Walpole Town Hall; Meghan Hansson (Interim Town Clerk/Tax Collector), is in the Walpole Town Hall; Regina Borden, Recording Secretary, is by telephone at a separate location.  

Richard Kreisle, Administrator of Finance; Chief Michael Paquette (Police Department); Lt. Justin Sanctuary (Police Department); Ben Hoy (Recycling Director); Michael Rau (Road Agent/Highway Department); Kraig Harlow (Recreation Director); Jane Malmberg (Library Director); Helen Dalbeck (Hooper Institute Executive Director)

Mrs. Pschirrer reported that Mr. Jack Wozmak (Town Moderator) and Mr. Ray Boas (a member of the community and Publisher of the Walpole Clarion) had accessed this Public Hearing.  

If anyone would like to ask a question, raise your hand to be recognized or go to the website and write your question in so that Mrs. Downing will bring it to their attention.  Mrs. Downing will display some documents as they are being discussed.    

Mrs. Pschirrer began by providing an overview of the proposed 2021 Annual Budget and Warrant Articles Public Hearing. Those of you who read the article in the Walpole Clarion will recognize that the Operating Budget is different than listed here tonight.  After January 22^nd when her article was due, some amendments were made.  The correct Operating Budget is $4,151,177 with all to be raised by taxes.  In addition, the Water Fund Operating Budget to be raised by user fees is $189,269.  The Sewer Fund Operating Budget to be raised by user fees is $476,569 and this includes $230,000 bond payments that will be collected over the course of the year.  The Total Warrant is $4,817,011.  For the most part this budget was flat lined by every department, but it includes increases in health care costs of 1.7% (original increase was to be 6.4%).  They received a refund from HealthTrust which they spread among all their users of the insurance plan. Therefore, after they received the rebate,the actual increase is 1.7%; New Hampshire Retirement costs will go up July 1^st, 2021.  This year that represents 25.87% (six months for non-police) and 19.16% for Police.  Salaries were generally increased 2% for all employees (some rounded up).  

There were two changes in Department Heads.  Town Clerk/Tax Collector:  Mrs. Sandy Smith retired as of December 31, 2020.  They gave her a nice Drive-By and Mrs. Meghan Hansson became, by statute, the Interim Town Clerk/Tax Collector who will remain in this job at the same salary as Mrs. Smith until she is elected in her own right which will be March 9, 2021.  At that time, she will have her own salary.  The Police Department will also see a change.  At the end of March, Chief Paquette, who is with us tonight, will step down.  In his place Lt. Justin Sanctuary will take over as the Chief of Police.  This means there are two positions in that department to be filled; this is reflected in the new budget.        

Warrants:    

The Town has an Unassigned Fund Balance that is close to $2,000,000.  From this Unassigned Fund Balance the Selectboard decided to take out $400,000 this year.  

Town Hall – $200,000:  This is set aside for building repairs.  It will include painting Town Hall.  If you drive by and look at Town Hall, you will think “why should we paint that building?” Once the snow melts, Mrs. Pschirrer is inviting you to take a walk around that building.  The back side is in terrible shape; the front side is not great.  They feel it is prudent to paint the building at this time and have bids.  To do all the preparation that includes removing mold, it will cost $89,000.  The Town Hall second floor ceiling has a sag in it.  Some people will remember when the first-floor ceiling had a sag and it collapsed.  They do not want this to happen so have included repairs in the $200,000.  Money is also set aside for the Walpole Library and North Walpole Library which has not had attention paid to it in quite a while.  They want to re-open the North Walpole Library as soon as possible.  This also includes changing the water meter at the Town pool.  This will come out of the Unassigned Fund Balance and not property taxes.

Highway Department – $200,000:  A rotation of purchasing trucks and equipment was started several years ago in the Highway Department.  The $200,000 for the new truck will be comprised of $100,000 from the Unassigned Fund Balance and $100,000 from the Highway Block Grant.  It will not be paid for from property taxes.        

Police Car Loan:  Another rotation of cars is for the Police Department.  A loan was secured from the Mascoma Bank for $38,000.  The first payment is $13,225.76; all payments will come out of General Taxation.

Police Car Equipment:  The Police car equipment will cost $15,000 and will come from General Taxes.

Unassigned Fund Balance:  Mrs. Pschirrer pointed out that three more projects will come out of the Unassigned Fund Balance:  1) Addition to the Highway Garage in the amount of $60,000.  This is necessary for safety reasons; 2) Recycling paving and adding a concrete slab near the compactor – $35,000; and 3) The Pool House needs a new roof – $20,000.  

Capital Reserve Funds:      

Highway Department Capital Reserve Fund:  $25,000 will be put into this fund.  There is $88,000 in this fund but it costs at least $200,000 for a new truck.

Police Department Capital Reserve Fund:  $15,000 will be put into this fund.  At this time there is $15,000 in this fund.  There were more funds in this account. However, after an accident where the cruiser was destroyed, this money was used to replace that car.  There was another accident with a Police car late last night on the icy road when the officer was responding to a call.  Insurance will help cover this car.  In the Selectboard meeting following this Public Hearing, Mrs. Pschirrer will ask Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio to put the insurance money from the first accident back into this Capital Reserve Fund.  The $22,000+ is in the Town’s General Fund at this time.  

Non Budget Related Warrants:

Mrs. Pschirrer pointed out there are Non Budget Related Warrant Articles:

Notice to Dog Owners: This is an amendment to an existing older ordinance that was first accepted in 1992.  The revised Notice includes fines.

Scenic Road:  A petition was received to designate Old Drewsville Road as a Scenic Road.

Carbon Pricing Legislation:  This petition was introduced by Tara Sad.  

Mrs. Pschirrer opened up the Public Hearing to questions, clarifications and/or comments from the public.

Mr. Wozmak did walk around the perimeter of the Town Hall and is glad to see that money budgeted because there are issues with deterioration of the wood near the bottom.  

Mrs. Hansson asked about the Notice to Dog Owners.  Does this elaborate further than the RSAs?  Mrs. Pschirrer replied that it does but it is very specific to Walpole.  The Police can verify the Town has had increased issues with dogs over the past year.  They decided there was a need to reissue that and to “up” the fines for people who are allowing their dogs to run free.  People have been bitten this past year.  Some people are not paying attention to the regulations already in place.  Mrs. Hansson said it would be nice to encourage more people to license their dogs so when someone gets bitten, it is easier to check the records. People coming in from other towns are quick to license their dogs.  Mrs. Pschirrer mentioned the Town Clerk always sends a list of Unlicensed Dogs to the Selectboard once a year.  There could be 100 people who do not license their dogs.

Mr. Boas asked if the Selectboard was going to go over the proposed budget line-by-line.  Mrs. Pschirrer said “no” because they do not usually do that.  Mr. Boas had highlighted some increases and decreases; there are some big percentages.  He would welcome an article on the Dog Ordinance for the Clarion.  Mrs. Pschirrer replied that he would get one.

While walking around the back of the Town Hall, Mr. Wozmak was struck by all the tree moisture on the property line. It is a hefty area and should be opened up.  Mr. Dalessio said the neighboring property owner is steadfast about his property.  Mr. Wozmak noted it is on the Historic Register.  Mrs. Pschirrer mentioned they will have a discussion with the property owner because there is not enough space to erect scaffolding or put up ladders on Town property.  They plan to have the Town property surveyed.  It will be interesting to learn about their actual property line.

Ms. Mayberry reported they worked hard on the Budget and tried to address safety concerns.  Some increases were necessary but basically the Budget is level-funded.  Mr. Dalessio said they are using the Unassigned Fund Balance in the way it was intended.  Mrs. Pschirrer added this was the second year they used this Fund; there is enough money left in the event of a catastrophe.  Replying to a question Ms. Mayberry said the recommended retained balance by the Department of Revenue Administration is 16%.

Relative to the addition to the Highway Garage, Mr. Rau explained they are running out of room.  It will be an extension of the parts and tools room; it will make the garage a safer place with more functional space.  In past years they have just put a roof on the garage.  It will make it a better place to work in.  Mr. Dalessio noted they are putting in heat detectors.  Mr. Rau said at the moment they have no fire protection so they are working with Mr. Mark Houghton on safety features to be added this year.

Mr. Ben Hoy reported they will be paving in the work area. It will make a difference with dust and the new pavement will make it a nice surface to work on.  The concrete will allow them to move the trailer overflowing with trash bags.  Both items are important to the operation of the Recycling Center.

Mrs. Jane Malmberg advised they are working on getting the North Walpole Library open soon.  They plan to expand the hours and the children’s area for programs.  They want to brighten it up with new carpeting and curtains.  Make it welcoming and more of a community center for North Walpole.    

Mrs. Pauline Barnes joined the meeting.  She stated that given the difficult year we have had are there any unexpected positives to the year plus were there any negatives.  Mr. Dalessio advised the extra money they needed to spend for the safety of the employees came from the Federal CARES Act.  Mr. Kreissle said these were for costs over and above our Operating Budget.  Mrs. Pschirrer noted it was all 2020 money.  Mrs. Barnes thought there was another funding program that was passed toward the end of the year.  Mr. Kreissle replied under the Biden Package, the report has funds that will be allocated but the final document has not yet been worked out or passed by Congress.  Ms. Mayberry pointed out there is a CARES allocation for education at this time.  

Mrs. Barnes had some questions on the Brownfields Project.  Mrs. Pschirrer advised that is an entirely separate budget.  It is represented by the EPA Grant of $500,000; $100,000 will come from the DES and when the Town bought the property they negotiated $175,000 which they hold in escrow from the seller of the property.  It will affect the 2022 Town Budget as they will be asking for money to pave that new parking lot.  There will also be a green space with benches where the old red shed sits.  There will also be electric stanchions in the parking lot.  Mrs.Barnes hopes it will be a permeable type of paving.

Town Ballot:

Mrs. Pschirrer advised that Articles #2 and #3 on the Warrant will either be voted on at the polls on March 9^th or voted on by absentee ballots.  They are requests to separate the position of Town Clerk/Tax Collector.  These were combined in 2002.  As the Selectboard evaluated the office of Mrs. Sandy Smith they realized how many extra hours she was working doing extra work by one person with Mrs. Hansson as an assistant.  The Selectboard felt the two positions should be separated.  They will be asking voters to vote “NO” on Article #2 so they can be separated but the RSAs are specific that they cannot be separated until the next election in 2024.  They are asking voters to vote “YES” on Article #3 because it gives the Selectboard the authority to appoint a Tax Collector but not until after 2024.  The Selectboard feels there is enough work for two full-time positions.  They also feel the Tax Collector should be more in-line with the Administrator of Finance because they work together all the time.  It is a complex job.  There will be an article in the next Clarion edition in March.          

Mrs. Pschirrer thanked everyone for attending this meeting.  She also thanked everyone including the department managers who have been working on this budget for several months.  

ADJOURNMENT:  Ms. Mayberry moved to adjourn this Public Hearing.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a voice roll call vote with Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, Public Hearing adjourned at 6:15 PM.

Respectfully submitted, Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

Roll Call: All Planning Board members and other participants are in separate locations. This meeting is being recorded. Present: Chair Jeff Miller, Vice-Chair Dennis Marcom, Clerk Jason Perron, Zoom Host Jeff Harrington, Jeff Colley, Joanna Andros and Select Board Representative Steve Dalessio.

Also present at the meeting were Bill Carmody, who is running in the March election for the open two-year Planning Board seat; Robert Kasper, owner of Walpole Creamery; Jim Clifford, representing NGP Management Dunkin’ . 

Recording: Secretary Marilou Blaine. This meeting is being recorded. These minutes are unapproved and will be reviewed at the March 2021 meeting for corrections, additions and/or omissions.

Meeting coming to order: Mr. Miller called the meeting to order at at 7 pm.

Minutes: Correct spelling: One owner of Watkins Tavern and Inn on Prospect Hill is Steven Lederman. His name was misspelled in the minutes. Mr. Marcom asked that his last name in the Roll Call be corrected from Miller. On page 3, paragraph 5, Mr. Marcom changed he’s to he’d. Mr. Marcom made a motion to accept the minutes as amended. Mr. Harrington seconded the motion and the motion passed. 

Old Business:

Public Hearing:

Walpole Creamery Site Plan: Owner Rob Kasper, 532 Main St., Map 12, Lot 14, commercial district. Remove north side building and four containers. Replace demolish building with same size 16-foot-by-16-foot storage area. Build a 20-by-13-foot enclosed milk trailer bay and extend the east-side roof 6 feet, 30 feet along the east side of the building to cover the existing equipment. The net effect will be to greatly reduce the current northern setback non-conformance created by the containers and vastly improve the exterior appearance of the building. Also, the noise level of the current exterior freezer will be removed and replaced by modern roof-mounted compressors that are more energy efficient. 

Mr. Kasper explained the site plan. He will be removing three 40-foot trailers and one other trailer and demolish the little building to which the trailers are attached. He is replacing the building and will also build a covered milk bay, which is less area than all the trailers combined. This will eliminate some of the non-conforming setback issue and eliminate the huge noise level from the freezers. The noise and blast are towards the apartments in the back of the building, he said. The new freezer will go inside the building and the new compressor is roof-mounted. It is quieter and more energy efficient. A loading dock that moves up and down to load the trucks will be built on the back wall. There will be a 6-foot extension of the east roof creating an overhang. Also in the back of the building, the chicken coop and the building that houses the water tank will be removed and replaced with a concrete pad. This will clean up the look at the back of the building, Mr. Kasper said.

Mr. Dalessio said he liked what Mr. Kasper was doing but he thought Mr. Kasper might need a variance because he was out of compliance with the north setback.

Kasper said the project will be less out of compliance than before because he was removing the trailers. Mr. Dalessio asked if the old building had ever had a variance. Mr. Kasper said he had no idea and that it was before his time. Mr. Perron asked if the new building creates a new setback. Mr. Kasper said that the new plan is on the same footprint. We are rebuilding the building, not expanding the building. Mr. Perron stated that he was staying on the same foundation. Mr. Kasper agreed. 

Mr. Marcom asked about his neighbor JJ Automotive. Do they know what’s going and are they aware of what’s actually happening? he asked. Mr. Kasper said they did and are actually happy about the removal of the trailers because of the noise. All the abutters have been notified. The site plan is actually staying with the frame that exists. With removal of the trailers, especially the one that sticks out,  improves the setback issue slightly. The foundation of the building is the same. Mr. Kasper is owner of the building. It’s the aesthetics that are such an improvement. 

Other visual presentations were elevations of the building from all directions, the parking lot and an aerial view. Scully Architects did the drawings.

Mr. Miller asked if there were any other questions. There being none, he closed the hearing. 

He asked for a motion to discussion. Mr. Marcom said given the discussion on the setback issue and given that the abutter does not have an objection, his concerns were allayed. Both Mr. Miller and Mr. Dalessio said that at some future point Mr. Kasper might want to clean up the setback issue. Mr. Perron made a motion to approve the site plan as presented. Mr. Marcom seconded the motion and the motion passed unanimously. Mr. Dalessio reminded Mr. Kasper he needed to get a building permit.

Public Hearing  (Postponed until March on request of the surveyor.)

Subdivision: Jay Landry two lots into four lots, Map 17, Lots 5 and 5-1, land between Old Keene Rd. and Wentworth Rd. All lots have required 200 feet road frontage and 40,000 square feet, Residential A district. 

The new lots would be:

​ Lot 5.1 – 2.19 acres with 200 feet road frontage on Wentworth Road; 

​ Lot 5-2 – 1.67 acres with 200 feet road frontage on Wentworth Road; 

​ Lot 5-3 – 1.15 acres with 200 feet road frontage on Wentworth Road;

​ and 5-4 – 6.22 acres with 203.61 feet road frontage on Old Keene Road and Wentworth Road.​ ​48.5 feet road frontage on Wentworth Road.

Mr. Miller had a conversation with Walpole’s road agent Mike Rau and Mr. Rau said he is well aware of the subdivision and saw no dramatic impact on the current situation. Also, future owners of the lots in the subdivision have to get a driveway permit from him. Mr. Miller also talked to Surveyor Joe DiBernardo who said that Mr. Landry has hired a hydrologist to address abutters’ concerns. In addition, Cushing & Sons have been contacted about water flow issues and checked on gallons per minute at neighboring sites.

Regarding extending the water and sewer up the hill, Mr. Miller said capacity is not the problem. The cost of putting in a pumping station to get water and sewer to that area is cost prohibitive. Mr. Dalessio added, “it’s not a matter of water capacity or system capacity, it’s just the cost of doing it would be astronomical.” It’s also user-based Mr. Dalessio said. You would need a hundred houses up there to make it cost effective. 

But, Mr. Miller said, the positive thing is that Jay Landry and Joe DiBernardo recognize the concern of abutters  and they are doing everything they can to give the Planning Board and abutters any information regarding the impact on others of the subdivision. 

Mr. Marcom said he also followed up on Mr. Gohl’s remarks with Mark Houghton, who is in charge of the water and sewer departments. Walpole is not out of water, Mr. Marcom said. The problem is elevation – the elevation of the reservoir is the same and is across from the elevation of the subdivision. So gravity won’t do the job. 

Ms. Andros asked if the Planning Board had to consider how much space is taken up with driveway, buildings, paved area impact, when considering runoff.

It was decided that all these types of question should be held until next month at the public hearing.

Request for letter to DES

Jack Franks of Avanru Development requested that the Planning Board send a letter to the NH Department of Environmental Service so his company could have an extension on the Alteration of Terrain permit on the Abenaki Springs project instead of having to apply for a new one. Mr. Franks said regarding Phase 3 of Abenaki Springs about 80 percent of the site work had already been completed. That includes water, sewer and drainage. A letter to DES would mean that Mr. Franks did not have to reapply for a new Alteration of Terrain permit as the extension period for his current permit will be up fairly soon. 

Mr. Miller agreed to write the letter.  Mr. Frank will send Mr. Miller the specifics of the language that is needed. Mr. Dalessio was also fine with Mr. Miller writing the letter.

Request for information: There has been a request for about 10 years of minutes from an individual. Often there is a person in the same room with the individual reading the requested minutes. But with 10 years of minutes, this could be a lengthy time and during Covid, how and where can this be done?. It was decided that the person could read the minutes in a space directly outside of the Town Offices one binder at a time. The minutes were not be removed from the building. The person was to make an appointment with Town Office personnel.

New Dunkin’ : Mr. Jim Clifford of NGP Management said his company operates the Dunkin’ in the Jiffy Mart on Route 12. Mr. Clifford said it was doing well enough to move the business out of that building and have a free-standing building of its own. The company, headquartered in North Reading, MA,  is also in the process of buying the 9-acre parcel of land adjacent to and south of Shaw’s and the Savings Bank of Walpole buildings. The plan is to build a 5,000 square-foot free-standing Dunkin’ at the corner of Route 12 and Upper Walpole in the southern corner. The company is also planning a few smaller retail spaces.

That leaves a lot of space left. How should it be used? One consideration the company is exploring is a solar farm, however Mr. Clifford said the company is not wedded to this idea if the town is dead set against it. At this time, development of Phase 2, development of the entire parcel, is only in the consideration phase.

Mr. Clifford has already approached NHDOT about a curb cut from Route 12 and he said they suggested one as far away from the light, or entrance to North Meadow Plaza, as possible. 

Mr. Marcom asked about how the building might look and suggested Mr. Clifford look at the entire site plan, especially appendix B, when thinking about architectural approaches to the new building. He also mentioned the Savings Bank of Walpole as an exemplar example of what a building should look like. Mr. Clifford said he is aware that communities want a say on local design. In New England there are 125 Dunkin’ and all had a different requirement. We are involved in doing it right and want it to look nice and don’t have a generic box design. New England Dunkins’ have as many varieties of architecture as there are buildings. Dunkin’ doesn’t have one design that it puts in every community. He said he was open to what the town wanted.

Mr. Miller suggested that if there is more building on that parcel of land he may want to connect it with the North Meadow Plaza parking lot. Mr. Clifford said he is planning on getting in touch with the owner.

Mr. Dalessio suggested he also have a conversation with Mark Houghton about water and sewer. The waste water might have some quirks, he said. 

Mr. Clifford said he’d love to hear some feedback on what residents would like to see in that space and how it could be used.

Mr. Dalessio said a gym but Mr. Clifford said a gym is not a red hot business right now. 

Mr. Perron said he should get in touch with the Clarion and maybe through the monthly newsletter he would get some input on what the townspeople wanted.

Workshop: Regarding a workshop, Mr. Miller said the next workshop should be on the Master Plan, but he has to check with facilitator, Southwest Region Planing Commission planner,  Lisa Murphy

Ms. Andros made a motion to adjourn. Mr. Marcom second the motion and the motion carried.

Next meeting March 9, 2020.

Respectfully submitted,

Marilou Blaine 

TOWN OF WALPOLE

SELECTBOARD MEETING AGENDA

February 11, 2021

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 $72,613.85 for checks issued 2/12/21

PAYROLL• Payroll Register totaling $30,723.62 dated 2/12/21 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $5,990.32

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES• Selectboard Minutes – February 4, 2021• Non-Public Selectboard Session Minutes – February 4, 2021• 2021 Budget Public Hearing – February 4, 2021

COMMITTEE REPORTS• Conservation Commission Meeting – February 1, 2021• Hooper Institute Board Meeting – December 2, 2021• Hooper Institute Board Meeting – January 13, 2021• Hooper Institute Board Meeting – February 3, 2021• Walpole Fire District Meeting – December 9, 2021• Walpole Fire District Meeting – January 13, 2021

PROPERTY TAX INTEREST FORGIVENESS• Map and Lot# 029-047-000

PROPERTY TAX REFUNDS• Map and Lot# 012-019-002• Map and Lot# 027-001-006• Map and Lot# 013-044-000

VETERANS’ TAX CREDIT• Map and Lot# 008-009-007• Map and Lot# 008-051-000Re

CURRENT USE• Map and Lot# 005-002-008• Map and Lot# 013-060-001

BUILDING PERMITS• 2021-04 for Map and Lot# 019-002-000• 2021-05 for Map and Lot# 001-003-005

OLD BUSINESS• Class VI Portion of Whipple Hill Road and Snowmobiles• Town Street Lights• Rescind of Cease-and-Desist Letter

Pending Further Actions• Tax Deeded Property Sale, Reservoir Dam Repairs, Emergency Generators, Town Employees and COVID-19 Leave

NEW BUSINESS• Elm Street Curbing• Letter to North Walpole Village District Commissioners• Vachon Clukay 2019 Audit Agreement• The Shopper Legal and Help Wanted Advertising• 2/18/2021 Staff Meeting

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

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

Conducted on “Zoom”                           January 12, 2021                           

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

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:  Jeanne moved, Jean seconded, all approved (8-0) the November ’20 Minutes with a show of hands.  There was no meeting in December 2020. 

Treasurer’s Report:  Kate had e-mailed her report for Nov-Dec ’20.  She said we spent less money than received this past year, and that $421 donations were moved to the checking account, adding that extra funds from the Library Funds were moved into the Town Account as approved previously.   Amy said we should be thinking about spending funds to do something special when the Library reopens.   

Bills:  Jane e-mailed her “December ’20 Bills Report” to all.  Amy questioned newspapers.  Jane said the Library still receives the Sunday “New York Times,” the “Keene Sentinel” and the newly expanded “News Bank” subscription. 

Jeanne questioned the “New York Times” on line and Jane is to investigate it.  Jane said she can pause both the “Keene Sentinel” and “New York Times” (presumably for safety measures re patrons handling of the papers).  Jane said the magazines get quarantined, and that they circulate fairly well.  Presently, she is looking at renewals of them. 

Noting “Jennifer Burr,” Kate mentioned that she gets paid at the end of the year —  not for her labor time — but for what plants she purchased for the Library. 

Jeanne moved, Sue seconded, all approved with a show of hands, both the Treasurer’s and Bills Reports (8-0). 

Old Business:  Jane e-mailed her “2020 –2021 Library Budget Report” to all.  She said her salary does not change.  She asked for more money for staff because of work at the Branch and for a “Cost of living” increase.  There is a lowered mileage cost.  She added that nothing changed much and that there is a two and one-half % increase overall.  Tim inquired about recently retired Fran Moses’ salary.  Jane declared it is spread among other staff because of their adopting Fran’s work. 

She said the Income side lowered. Amy moved, Jeanne seconded, all approved with a show of hands (8-0). 

Jane e-mailed her “2020 Town Report” document to all.  It will be in the Town Report booklet for residents.  Amy and others complimented Jane re.  Jeanne asked if there could be more lines in it about Fran. 

Amy explained the two budgets, saying the Town Budget is tax payment funded for physical operation needs (re the building, etc.), while the Library budget is for general operation, i.e. purchasing of materials. etc.  

Branch:  Jane was complimented for her good reporting about the Branch in the Town Report.  She said 900 books were cataloged and that she goes there to organize books on shelves Fridays. All staff have pitched in to help, and that it was busy around the holidays.  Some staff are working extra hours to help get the Branch organized to open again. 

– People have inquired about plans to open, hoping that it will.  

– Tim inquired if he could help in getting the Branch to move forward, with cataloging.   Previously Amy had mentioned the clause in the Library’s  “Policies of Government” that declares Trustees cannot work as staff.  However in this case, similar to Trustees assisting temporarily with tasks during the Walpole Expansion project, there should be no problem re.  Re, Jane said if one does not intrude on regular staff’s work, it would be okay.  Jane does not think there would be any problem.  Jeanne also approved Tim’s volunteering to help.  

– Peg said the Selectmen met about the budget with a wish list that concerns electrical outlets at the Branch as there are only two now and that the Commissioners would pay for the plugs.  There will also be cost associated with cleaning up, and for replacing the rug, as the scatter rug was removed, and for new signage. Peggy said the Town will go back to the Commissioners to pay for some of the work done on the building (e.g. plugs).  The Select Board is to do it, and that it will be in the budget to be presented to the Town in March. Amy will draft a letter to the Commissioners re.  Peg said we are on safer ground if we have a lease. 

– Jeanne offered a table for the Branch – possibly for computers. 

– Jane feels it is unsafe to open for curbside service now, but to open when people can come in to celebrate opening.  She added we will not know if we will have money to staff it in March or May when it will hopefully open. 

New Business:  Jane e-mailed her “December and Y-T-D Stats” and her “Library Report 1-12-21” to all.  Because of COVID, Jane said operations are slower but people are coming in.  She said that a N.H. Library survey shows there are eleven Library Curbside services, and nine Libraries open in the State.  Sue questioned the proposed Contact Tracing in the Walpole Library.  Jane said staff are still doing it. 

– Jane gave an update on a new service.  Deliveries to homes started this month, and there has been one delivery already. She is anticipating more requests for delivery.  Jeanne said she would put up a sign at “Applewood” for book deliveries. Jane will give Jeanne a flier re. 

Operations:  Amy said she is up for re-election.   Jeanne and Carol’s position will be up for election this year. Tim, now replacing Fred’s position, needs to run for a one year seat as he was appointed to the Board and not elected by the Town. Amy and Peg explained the election process and terms.  Amy put a small article in the December “Clarion” re open Library Trustee positions.  Tim (assuming election this year), Gail and Jean are up for re-election in 2022 and Kathy, Shirley, and Sue in 2023, 

Building & Grounds:  Jane said there was a leak in the ceiling in her office.  Barry examined and repaired it.  Tim thinks it is in part of the new construction.  Jane is to clarify with Barry re. 

– It was mentioned that whoever takes care of the walkway is doing a great job. 

– Jane is working on replacing the light outside.  She called Houghton and is waiting to hear from him re. 

– The back door cannot be unlocked from the outside. There appears to be no key for it.  Gail said to check with Lil DeCoste as she may have one. 

Friends:  There are volunteers working with book donations at the ReUse Center.  Kate said the books should be weeded because of their disposition. After much discussion, Jane recommended sitting down with Carol Malnati of the Friends to discuss the situation.  

With no further business, Gail motioned to adjourn.  Sue seconded, all approved with a show of hands (8-0). 

Faithfully submitted, 

Shirley Capron, Secy. 

The First Congregational Church of Walpole has designated the month of February as Peanut Butter Month.  We are collecting jars of peanut butter to donate to The Fall Mountain Food Shelf.  

 If you would like to add to our “collection”, you can drop it off at the church M-F from 9-12.  Go in by way of the handicapped walkway, and you will see the drop spot in the hallway.

 Thank you for your donations for others in our community.

COVID by the Numbers—February 7 Edition

And

Even More About Those Second Doses 

Second doses:  Another week, another plan.  The word now on when NH will have its own vaccine scheduling program is “before the next phase.”  As the current phase, 1-b contains some 250,000-300,000 individuals, and only 43,888 individuals in phases 1-a and 1-b have received both shots, with another 116,523 having received the first shot, it’s going to be a while yet.  In the meantime, the new plan, as of today, Sunday, is to give everyone a time for the second shot when they get the first shot.  If you are stuck with having received the first shot, and have a date for the second shot far later than the recommended interval, the reports are confusing.  Some people have called 211 and been given an earlier time slot, without having to cancel the later date already scheduled in VAMS.  Others have been told they will have to keep on “checking back” with the VAMS site, and they cannot do that without cancelling their existing date.  Still frustrating.  Stay tuned.

The numbers:

All the numbers this week are encouraging.  

Walpole active cases have gone from 9 cases to under 5.  Once you are under 5 active cases, DHHS only specifies 1-4 cases, to preserve confidentiality.  So we have achieved 1-4 status.  There were 5 new cases in Walpole this week, down from 6 last week.  

In Cheshire County, our seven day average of reported cases per 100,000 is down from 26.3 to 20.2.  Active cases in the county are now down to 122.  Sadly, we have lost another 2 citizens to the pandemic.

Statewide, active cases have gone from 5,238 down to 3,661.  Hospitalizations have gone from 217 to 186.  The death toll now stands at 1104.

Please keep on taking good care of yourselves, and each other.  Be careful out there.  The numbers are encouraging, but there is still work to do.

Keep well.

~Representative Lucy Weber

603-499-0282

Lwmcv@comcast.net

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

CALL TO ORDER:  Mrs. Pschirrer, Chair of the Walpole Selectboard, called this meeting via Zoom to order at 6:30 PM.  She announced that Ms. Cheryl Mayberry and Mr. Steven Dalessio, the other two Selectboard members are also present.  The Selectboard members are in three separate locations.  Mrs. Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration, is in the Walpole Town Hall, and Mrs. Regina Borden, Recording Secretary, is by telephone at a separate location.   This meeting is being live-streamed on FACT-TV and recorded by the Town.

Public comments are to be emailed to Mrs. Downing at the Walpole Town Hall or by calling 603-756-3672.  She will display the agenda.  That will be followed by documents as they are being discussed.

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

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Accounts Payable Check Register in the total amount of $696,178.76 for checks issued January 29, 2021.  This includes a monthly payment of $607,559.42 to Fall Mountain Regional School District.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.  

PAYROLL:

Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Payroll Check Register for the week ending January 23, 2021, in the amount of $29,611.31 for checks dated January 29, 2021, and for the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer in the amount of $5,728.80.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MINUTES – January 21, 2021:  Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of January 21, 2021, as submitted.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the Minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – January 21, 2021:  Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of January 21, 2021, as submitted.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the Minutes were approved.

STAFF MEETING MINUTES – January 21, 2021:  Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Minutes of the Staff Meeting of January 21, 2021, as submitted.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a voice roll call with Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the Minutes were approved.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of the following Committee reports:• North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners Meeting – January 5, 2021;• North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners Meeting – January 12, 2021;• North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners Meeting – January 19, 2021.

WARRANTS:

Warrant for the Collection of Walpole Water Fees:  Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Warrant for the Collection of Walpole Water Fees in the amount of $43,290.09.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

Warrant for the Collection of Walpole Sewer Fees:  Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Warrant for the Collection of Walpole Sewer Fees in the amount of $66,697.60.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

Warrant for the Collection of North Walpole Sewer Fees:  Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Warrant for the Collection of North Walpole Sewer Fees in the amount of $58,592.30.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

TIMBER TAX WARRANT:

MAP and LOT #008-061-001:  Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Warrant for Timber Tax and the Certificate for Yield Taxes Assessed in the amount of $246.04 for the owner(s) of Map and Lot #008-061-001.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.  

PROPERTY TAX INTEREST FORGIVENESS:

MAP and LOT #012-055-02B:  Mr. Dalessio moved to grant the Property Tax Interest Forgiveness in the amount of $45.89 for the owner(s) of Map and Lot #012-055-02B.  This is due to postal mail delivery delays.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

MAP and LOT #s UTIL-FAIR-000 and 020-072-000:  Mr. Dalessio moved to grant the Property Tax Interest Forgiveness in the amount of $60.76 for the owner(s) of Map and Lot #s UTIL-FAIR-000 and 020-072-000.  This is due to postal mail delivery delays.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

MAP and LOT #012-011-001:  Mr. Dalessio moved to grant the Property Tax Interest Forgiveness in the amount of $43.41 for the owner(s) of Map and Lot #012-011-001.  This is due to postal mail delivery delays.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer reported these were all mailed/post marked in early December.

PROPERTY TAX REFUND:

MAP and LOT #008-101-000:  Mr. Dalessio moved to grant the Property Tax Refund in the amount of $7.49 for the owner(s) of Map and Lot #008-101-000.  This is due to an overpayment of taxes.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

VETERANS’ TAX CREDIT:

MAP and LOT #003-034-000:  Mr. Dalessio moved to grant the Veterans’ Tax Credit to the owner(s) of Map and Lot #003-034-000.  This applicant served over 90 days of active duty and was honorably discharged.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS:

2021 General Fund Expenditure Detail Budget:  

Mrs. Pschirrer reported there seems to be an error in the Water and Sewer budgets that need to be changed as follows:  Water: Change $189,265.00 to $188,494.00.  Sewer: Change $476,569.00 to $475,762.00.  These two numbers will be corrected on the Warrant.  

Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the 2021 General Fund Expenditure Detail Budget with the corrections in Water and Sewer and this is subject to Mr. Rich Kreissle’s final review.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

2021 Draft Warrant Articles: 

Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the 2021 Draft Warrant Articles subject to verification of the numbers from Mr. Rich Kreissle.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer advised that they are required by this vote to indicate if they are or are not in favor of all the Articles.  Ms. Mayberry questioned Articles 2 and 3.  Mrs. Pschirrer noted Article 2 and Article 3 will be on the Town ballot; they are not a part of Town Meeting.  Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer vote “NO” on Article 2.  Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer vote “YES” on Article 3.  Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer vote “YES” to Articles 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11,12, 13 and Article 14.  Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer “Abstain” on Petitioned Articles 15 and 16.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.      

Brownfields Project Update:  Mrs. Pschirrer has scheduled a Team meeting tomorrow at 10:30 AM with Mrs. Sarah Downing, Ms. Katy Deng, Mr. Steve Rickerich (consultant), two people from the EPA and Mr. Mike McCluskey from the DES.  Their purpose is to get acquainted with Ms. Deng and to review what they covered in their previous meeting last October.  They have a second meeting scheduled next Tuesday at 11:00 AM with abutters including the Walpole Foundation and Mascoma Bank. They will talk about how they will access the Brownfields area and the RFP to remove the contaminated soil.  

Pending Further Actions:

Town Street Lights, Tax Deeded Property Sale, Houghton Brook Bridge Repair, Reservoir Dam Repairs, Emergency Generators, Town Employees and COVID-19 Leave.  These agenda items will remain on the Pending Further Actions list.

Houghton Brook Bridge Repair:  Mr. Dalessio will generate another purchase order for the Selectboard to process and sign next week.  It will be the master purchase order for the project.  They want to keep all expenditures for this project in one place. Fuss & O’Neill has assigned a project manager to this project.  

Reservoir Dam Repairs:  Mr. Dalessio advised this will probably be considered a High Hazard Dam.  After they get past the DES requirements they will look at options and costs.  They are moving forward.  

NEW BUSINESS:

Appointment Notice:  Ms. Mayberry moved to approve appointing Victoria Gohl as the Interim Deputy Town Clerk/Tax Collector for a period between January 1, 2021 through the 2021 Town Meeting.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a voice roll call vote with Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Dalessio recommended if no one signs up to run for Town Clerk/Tax Collector against Mrs. Meghan Hansson that they begin the training for Victoria Gohl.

Ruggiero Processing Facility Cease and Desist Order:   The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of the Cease and Desist Order for the Ruggiero Processing Facility from Attorney Hockensmith.  Mrs. Pschirrer pointed out that when questions on the Building Permit were first asked in the Selectboard Office, Mrs. Daigle told the caller there had to be a septic design approval and that was received today.  Mr. Rau has to verify that they plan to use the existing road.  The Selectboard Chair will sign this document so it can be taken to the Post Office for mailing.  

US Geological Survey:  A request was received from the US Geological Survey to take soil samples on map and lot #007-007-000 which is land held in conservation; it is adjacent to the eastern portion of the Fanny Mason Forest.  Mrs. Pschirrer read their request but a question that was not answered is if they find the soil is contaminated are they going to declare it a Brownfields area or is it just for their information.  She is not aware of there ever being any activity on that land.  Mr. Dalessio advised Mrs. Alicia Flammia of the Conservation Commission is endorsing this.  Ms. Mayberry did some research, and it appears to be a random sampling.  

Ms. Mayberry moved to authorize the Chair of the Selectboard, Peggy L. Pschirrer, to sign the request from the US Geological Service for a soil sample on map and lot #007-007-000.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a voice roll call vote with Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

2021 TOWN MEETING – March 13, 2021:  Ms. Mayberry was asked about what kind of technology, other than audio, the Selectboard will want at the Walpole Elementary School in the Gymnasium for the 2021 Town Meeting on March 13, 2021, that will start at 1:00 PM.  The Superintendent wanted to confirm this was all set.  Mrs. Pschirrer felt a walk-thru could be scheduled for Friday, March 12^th.  An email will be sent to Mr. Jack Wozmak.  At a previous meeting people came in through the back door; they can check-in there.  All chairs will be set six (6) feet apart.      

FACT-TV:  FACT-TV discontinued filming as this was the end of the regular meeting

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION:

Ms. Mayberry 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.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a voice roll call vote with Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved at 7:00 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:23 PM.

Ms. Mayberry moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of January 28, 2021, will be sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a voice roll call vote with Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.  

ADJOURNMENT:

Ms. Mayberry moved to adjourn this Selectboard meeting.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a voice roll call vote with Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 7:25 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

​​​​​