The Walpolean

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

CALL TO ORDER:  Mrs. Pschirrer, Chair of the Walpole Selectboard, called this meeting to order at 6:30 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.  She introduced Ms. Cheryl Mayberry and Mr. Steven Dalessio, the other two Selectboard members.  Mrs. Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration, and Mrs. Regina Borden, Recording Secretary, are also in attendance.  This meeting was being recorded.  There were no members of the public in attendance.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Accounts Payable Check Register in the total amount of $24,589.47 for checks issued November 6, 2020.  This includes a payment to E.E. Houghton in the amount of $6,787.04 for water/sewer operations and Town building maintenance.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  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 October 31, 2020, in the amount of $31,151.53 for checks dated November 6, 2020, and for the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer in the amount of $6,509.62.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MINUTES – October 29, 2020:  Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of October 29, 2020, as submitted.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the Minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – October 29, 2020:  Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of October 29, 2020, as submitted.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the Minutes were approved.

TIMBER TAX WARRANT:

CERTIFICATION of YIELD TAXES ASSESSED For MAPand LOT #027-006-000:  Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Certification of Yield Taxes Assessed for Map and Lot #027-006-000, Operation Number 20-461-001-T, in the amount of $2,239.72.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

TIMBER YIELD TAX LEVY For MAP and LOT #027-006-000: Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Timber Yield Tax Levy for Map and Lot #027-006-000 in the amount of $2,239.72.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

BUILDING PERMIT:

Building Permit #2020-48; MAP and LOT #012-059-001:  Mr. Dalessio moved to grant Building Permit No. 2020-48 for the owners of Map and Lot #012-059-001 to build a “10’ x 12’ Shed”.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS:

2020 Preliminary Tax Rate:  The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of the 2020 Preliminary Tax Rate from the NH Department of Revenue Administration (DRA).  A decision needs to be made today so Mr. Rich Kreissle can respond to the DRA tomorrow for the overlay and amount of money the Selectboard wishes to withhold to use.  The Unassigned Fund Balance is $2,136,701.  This is slightly less than last year but not a significant difference.  Last year they retained 17% or the maximum.  The minimum they can keep is 5%.  For two years in a row they have retained a similar overlay of $61,192.  At this time they do not know what the disparity between the sale prices of properties and their assessed value is, but they do know that properties are selling above their assessed values.  Mrs. Pschirrer noted that last year they kept $400,000 which they allocated to various things the Town needed.  They are retaining the maximum allowed.  Mrs. Sandra Smith is anxious because she hopes by next Thursday the Selectboard will sign the warrant so she can process and mail tax bills the following Monday.    

Mr. Dalessio moved to do the same as last year which is to use $400,000 of the Unassigned Fund Balance of $2,136,701 to be used for various needs in the Town and stay with the same overlay.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

Reservoir Dam Repairs:  There is a meeting scheduled for tomorrow (Friday) at 1:00 PM with Fuss and O’Neill.

Pending Further Actions:

Quote for Pool Roof:  Mrs. Pschirrer reported that they cannot find any notes that indicate the pool roof was to be a part of the 2020 Article for Town building repairs. Therefore, she suggested it go into the 2021 Budget as it cannot get done until the spring.  Ms. Mayberry is agreeable to having it go into the 2021 Budget.

Sewer Bond Fees:  Mr. Dalessio advised they will run a model as they want to be sure there will be enough money to pay for the bond and reduce the user fee a little bit.  It is being worked on.

Town Street Lights:  Mrs. Pschirrer spoke with Mr. Steven Grenier about the Town street lights. He is happy to work on this project.

Tax Deeded Property Sale:  This item will remain on the agenda.

Houghton Brook Bridge Repair and Grant: Mr. Dalessio hopes to have an update tomorrow.  

NEW BUSINESS:

MRRTC Support Request:  Mrs. Pschirrer reported that theMonadnock Regional Rail Trail Collaborative (MRRTC) would like to have the Town’s endorsement on what they want to do.  They made a presentation to the Conservation Commission last Monday.  Ms. Mayberry feels it will be continued at the December meeting of the Conservation Commission.  At this point they are asking for support; there are no financial obligations.  Mrs. Pschirrer will draft a letter of support for what the MRRTC would like to do and bring it back to the next Selectboard meeting.

HealthTrust Annual Meeting and Board Elections:  A notice was received from the HealthTrust that their Annual Member Meeting & Board Elections will still be held on December 1, 2020, but it will now be a virtual format as NH continues to deal with the impacts of COVID-19.  

Mr. Dalessio moved to allow Mrs. Sarah Downing to represent the Town of Walpole at the Annual Meeting and Board Elections of the HealthTrust.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Dalessio moved to authorize the Selectboard Chair, Peggy L. Pschirrer, to sign the Certificate of Authorizing Resolution to confirm that Mrs. Sarah Downing is authorized to vote on behalf of the Town of Walpole.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, motion was approved.  

Yoga Classes in Town Hall:  Mrs. Pschirrer reported a request was received from Kate Kim, a certified yoga instructor, to use the Town Hall to teach yoga classes.  There will be no set fee but donations would be accepted that she would then give to an organization in Town.  Participants would wear masks and be asked to sign COVID-19 waivers.  Ms. Mayberry would be fine with this.  In yoga they use mats on the floor rather than tables and chairs.  Mr. Dalessio would be uncomfortable with the number of users (groups) using the Town Hall.  Mrs. Pschirrer noted the Town’s Boards/Committees also meet in this room.  Mr. Brad Nash has to sanitize the room after each use.  Mrs. Pschirrer pointed out that at some time the Selectboard might have to consider going back to Zoom meetings given increases in COVID-19 cases.  They will have to alert the Town Boards/Committees of the possibility of going back to Zoom meetings.  People are becoming more nervous now that everyone is moving indoors due to the weather.  There was a consensus to ask Mrs. Kim to return in the spring because now is not a good time for the Selectboard to allow another group to use the Town Hall.      

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.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a roll call vote with Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved at 7:02 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:13 PM.

Ms. Mayberry moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of November 5, 2020, will be sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, motion was approved.

OTHER BUSINESS:    

Veterans’ Day:  Mrs. Pschirrer announced that next Wednesday, November 11^th, 2020, is Veterans’ Day.  The Selectboard Office and other Town departments will be closed to observe this Holiday.

COVID-19:  Dr. Charles Shaw and Ms. France Menk came into the meeting.  Dr. Shaw explained they have been working on signage.  Ms. Menk displayed sketches of buttons and magnets, T-shirts and signs for outside of business/stores, the schools, etc.  Mrs. Pschirrer noted many stores have their own signs.  These are to remind everyone to “Wear Masks”, “Social Distancing” and “Washing Hands”.  They thought the T-shirts should be a pale color so the lettering stands out.  Dr. Shaw mentioned that Mr. Jacobs was concerned about parents showing up at the school fields with many of them were not wearing masks.  Mrs. Pschirrer would like to see similar signs on the Westminster Street field as soon as it is used for winter activities.  She asked about funds to pay for these items.  The Town has used the CARES money the Town was allocated.  There was discussion about the Conservation Commission having money as well as the welfare account.  Ms. Menk felt the T-shirts would be sold. Mrs. Pschirrer suggested the buttons state “I Wear A Mask”. Everyone attending approved.  She felt for $1,000 they could buy a lot.  Ms. Mayberry felt they could use welfare funds. A couple of signs should go to the Recycling Center as they are using handmade signs at this time.  Dr. Shaw suggested that they do more research on prices and come back to the next Selectboard meeting.        

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.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 7:30 PM.  

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden

DECEMBER 2020 CLARION – CLOSING DATE REMINDER FOR YOUby Ray Boas

I advertised the closing day for the December issue of the CLARION as November 20, but the printer, due to the Thanksgiving Holiday, asked if I could have the files for printing to them on November 20. So, if you have something for the December issue, please get it to me sometime on Thursday the 19th so I can get the files to the printer, so I can have the hardcopy CLARION in your hands by the 1st.

Most all of my contributors are many days early, so this should not be a problem. But if submitting something, please do get it to me as soon as possible. Likewise, if you are thinking of advertising for the first time, please email or call me so I can make sure you are included in the last issue for this calendar year.

AGAIN – love to have your inputs a day earlier on the 19th — should not be a problem for you since about everyone is always days before the published closing date. Thank you so much, Wear your mask and stay well, yours, RAY BOAS, Publisher

We know ir’s late but some days are like that! If you’ve been waiting, here is tonight’s agenda. -Lil

TOWN OF WALPOLE

SELECTBOARD MEETING AGENDA

November 12, 2020

SELECTBOARD MEETING

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE• Accounts Payable Check Register in the total amount of $60,268.59 for checks issued 11/13/2020

PAYROLL• Payroll Register totaling $33,741.01 dated 11/13/2020 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $6,151.34

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES• Selectboard Minutes – November 5, 2020• Non-Public Selectboard Session – November 5, 2020

COMMITTEE REPORTS• Conservation Commission Meeting – November 2, 2020• Hooper Institute Board Meeting – November 4, 2020

OLD BUSINESS• ATV/Off Road Vehicles on Class V and VI Roads• Promotional items re: COVID-19 Education• 2020 Preliminary Tax Rate• MRRTC Support Letter

Pending Further Actions• Sewer Bond Fees, Town Street Lights, Tax Deeded Property Sale, Houghton Brook Bridge Repair and Grant,Reservoir Dam Repairs

NEW BUSINESS• Moose Plate Grant’s Certificate of Municipality

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**

This coming Saturday November 14th, BSA Scouts will be at the following locations from 9 to 12 to collect non-perishable food and monetary donations to benefit the Fall Mountain Food Shelf.  We also accept pet food (dog and cat only) because when people can’t afford pet food they feed the pets their own food.

Please No Glass or Frozen foods. Please take the time to come and donate to this great cause.  Locations are the Walpole Post Office,  Tractor Supply,  Discount Food Warehouse,  and the Walpole Recycling Center.

COVID by the Numbers—November 7 Edition

Here is what has happened since my last report, at the end of October.

On November 7, there were 9 new cases confirmed in Cheshire County, more than on any other day so far.  There were no new cases on the 1^st, but in the last 6 days, there have been 35 new cases confirmed in the county. The number of currently active confirmed cases in Cheshire County have increased from 31 to 50.  Currently, the active cases are in  Rindge (16) Keene(12) Jaffrey(5) and the following towns with 1-4 each—Westmoreland, Chesterfield, Hinsdale, Winchester, Swanzey, Harrisville, and Dublin.  The 7 day average of cases per 100,000, 3.2 as of October 29, was 5.6 as of November 5.

Statewide, the number of new cases per day topped 200 in each of the last 3 days.  Statewide hospitalizations, which were at 42 at the end of November, dipped to 38 on the 1^st of November, but rose to 49 on Nov. 7^th.  And 6 more of our citizens have died this week.

None of this is good news.  Cheshire County, which still has the lowest average rate of daily confirmed infections, went from having an average 0.6 infections a day just a month ago to 5.6 a day now.  Coos County, which had the lowest rates all through the spring, now has an average of 36.2 cases per day per 100,000. The numbers of actual cases are not that large, of course, because Coos County does not have 100,000 people in it, but if their rates can go up this shockingly, so can ours.  All signals are that there is ever more community spread, some of it from people who are asymptomatic and who have no way to know they have the disease.

One thing I have noticed recently is that people, masked and unmasked, are far less careful than they were to keep the six foot distance.  It is difficult, because most of us want to engage with other people, but measure it out, and try to observe that distance with all people not of your household.

Wear your mask, even when distancing.

Keep your distance, even when wearing your mask.

Wash your hands.

And keep well.

~Representative Lucy Weber

lwmcv@comcast.net

603 499 0282

~Lucy

Members Present: Alicia Flammia, John Peska, Laura Hayes, Lew Shelley, France Menk, Steven Dumont, Cheryl Mayberry, Selectboard Representative, Peggy Pschirrer, Selectboard member, Jean Kobeski, Recording Secretary

Members Absent:  Jackie Kensen

Alternates Present:  None

Visitor:  Mike Kowalczyk, Michael Nerrie, Marsha Galloway

Call to Order:  Alicia called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m. at Walpole Town Hall.

Review and Approval of Minutes: Alicia was asked by Holly Gowdy to amend the October 5 minutes to state that the field at Walker Road is not good for agriculture in its current state. With this addition, Laura moved; John seconded, and all approved acceptance of the October 5 minutes. 

Correspondence: Alicia presented an invoice for $12.99 for materials for the Gateway to be paid from the Walker Road account. John moved; Laura seconded, and all approved payment.

Treasury:  Forestry Account – $30, 818.84

                  Conservation Account – $142,745.52

​      Walker Road Account -$3,363.72

​    

New Business

MRRTC Presentation:  Mike Kowalczyk of the Monadnock Regional Rail Trail Collaborative (MRRTC) made a presentation about this organization, whose mission is to restore and maintain the Cheshire, Ashuelot, and Fort Hill rail trails throughout the Monadnock region. He explained the benefits of maintaining these trails are numerous: provides economic activity in the towns where they are located, increases tourism, provides bike trails, increases healthy activities, preserves ecosystems, and reduces air pollution.

Mike provided a brief history of the Rail Trail, which is administered by the NH Bureau of Trails. He outlined which are improved, unimproved, and under restoration and showed detailed maps of each trail. The Cheshire Rail Trail plan includes restoration and maintenance from the NH/MA state line near Winchendon to the state line near Bellows Falls. Trail length is 43 miles. The Ashuelot Rail Trail plan includes trail restoration from Emerald Street in Keene, NH, to Hinsdale, NH, the trail’s end. Trail length is 21.75 miles. The Fort Hill Trail is unplanned at this time.

Mike explained that restoration means the trails are being made suitable for recreational snowmobiling.

Trails need to have working drainage ditches, culverts, a 14’ wide crushed stone surface, and gates at road crossings. Maintenance includes removing trees and brush from trails, keeping culverts working, unclogging ditches, and repairing trail surfaces.

Mike outlined nine pieces of the project:  1. make plans, 2. secure funding, 3. gain municipality commitment, 4. resolve private encroachment, 5. gain federal and state commitment, 6. create maintenance plans, 7. put together working teams (volunteers), 8. create a cost estimate spreadsheet, and 9. find matching funds.

France asked if there is some way the MRRTC communicates needs.  See their website at monadnockrailtrails.org. She asked if there is a policy of hanging signs on the trails. Mike said they put signs on a 4×4 post off to the side of the trail so maintenance equipment can pass. They do not hang signs on trees. France thanked him for the work that has been done in Walpole.

Marsha Galloway explained that snowmobile clubs are taking care of railroad beds for the winter. Mike stated volunteers are needed to run maintenance equipment in the summer and snowmobile clubs will do winter maintenance. She asked Mike if there are any ideas how to cross the Cold River, making a connection with Bellows Falls. Mike answered not yet.

Steven asked when the gates will open. Mike explained the DOT follows Bureau of Trails mandates. 

ROW – Michael Nerrie:  Michael, John, Peter, and others met with National Grid  to discuss ROW. Michael stated he has a grant from NSCS to do a wildlife plan for his entire property. He believes a natural resource inventory should be done in order to decide where energies should be put in managing the wildlife. Michael said he will contact Antioch students to do a survey and they can help manage the ROW with mowing and herbicides. They all can work with National Grid and tell National Grid how they would like it managed.

Michael stated he read the WCC 2006 Plan and asked if WCC could initiate action for wildlife on the plan. Alicia asked how the WCC can take action on the plan and it was suggested that they talk first with Peter Palmiotto, who was at the National Grid meeting. It was decided at that meeting first step would be the natural resource inventory.

Bellam Farm – Christmas Trees:  Alicia received an email from Holly Gowdy, who owns property near a well site. She asked if they should keep mowing. They have a conservation easement  and she wonders if they can grow Christmas trees. Alicia wants to know how close the area is to the well field and if this requires herbicides, pesticides, and/or fertilizers.

Lew said it would be an effective ways to use the property. Though it would take at least 7 years to harvest the first trees, this would be a lucrative opportunity for them.

Alicia stated Holly would like to attend a WCC meeting to discuss this.

WCC Meeting Time:  Alicia said she heard members talking about changing the start time of the WCC monthly meetings. Laura and France suggested 7:00. John reminded the group that other town organizations start their meetings at 7:00. Steven moved; France seconded, and all voted in favor of starting WCC monthly meetings at 7:00 p.m. beginning in December.

Public Forum:  Alicia referenced her email to the group about her meeting with the professional facilitator. The facilitator suggested putting comment boxes around town with specific framed questions about camping, Walker Road, etc. Surveys could be put up at the kiosk. Then gather the comments and sift them into themes to discuss at the public forum. 

Alicia asked how the WCC could connect with the community before the forum. She asked the group to think of questions to ask and locations for comment boxes for next month’s meeting.

Alicia said she is meeting this Wednesday with a facilitator who can help frame some questions, decide where to put the boxes, collate the comments, and lead the meeting.

Alicia asked if they should hire a facilitator for the forum. Lew stated they have the funds; Alicia said this person would be objective. France said it would be good to hire a facilitator so they can do it right. Alicia said she would get more information. Lew suggested having a small group work with her, so they have a tentative plan to present at the December meeting. Alicia said she would send out an email after her meeting and set that up.

Old Business

Trail Committee:  Steven said he had seven responses to his article in the Clarion asking for community members to join the Trail Committee. 

Trail Maps:  Alicia said the SW Regional Planning Commission will take the map files and make up the maps. Just decide on the desired format and intent of the map. They will do it at a cost of $50/hour for members. Alicia said turnaround time is quick.

Laura said Antioch can do it less expensively, but since SW Regional Planning was so quick to respond, they might be a good choice.  John stated they have discussed this so often, go with SW Regional Planning and get it done quickly. There are other maps; maybe they could ask Antioch to do those later.

Alicia suggested having individual trail maps done now and larger maps showing all trails later. France suggested having an individual trail map on one side and a small version of the region on the back.

Lew volunteered to help Alicia with maps.

Dates for Blazing Trails:  Steven said all trails need to be marked. Lew said the Conservancy has maps that would be helpful and said they may have already marked some of the property. Laura, Steven, Alicia, Kara, France, and Lew volunteered to help. Steven said he would send an email with guidelines for marking. Lew suggested painting 3×5 inch rectangles.

Tree marking will take place Sunday, November 8. Meet at Town Hall at 10:00 a.m.  Steven will get the latex enamel exterior paint and brushes. 

Reservoir Dam:  Fuss and O’Neill sent a letter to the town and Houghton with concerns about the new engineer. John said they have done everything in the letter of efficiency.  The new engineer has put the dam in a higher hazard category than earlier assessed. There will be a meeting on Friday to figure out how to proceed. 

John said he would send a copy of the F & O letter to the membership.

Other Business

Trail Maintenance:  Steven is putting the Trail Committee together, including those who volunteered in response to his article. Lew has tools and will give them to Steven. Lew cautioned that they maintain existing trails before creating new ones.

Adjournment:  John moved; France seconded, and all voted to adjourn the meeting at 9:10 p.m.

The next meeting will be December 7 at 7:00 p.m.* Note new starting time.

Respectfully Submitted,

Jean Kobeski, Recording Secretary

*** These minutes are in draft form until approved by the Commission in December.

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

CALL TO ORDER:  Mrs. Pschirrer, Chair of the Walpole Selectboard, called this meeting to order at 6:30 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.  She introduced Selectboard member Mr. Steven Dalessio.  Ms. Cheryl Mayberry, the other Selectboard member, will be a little late.  Mrs. Jodi Daigle, Water & Sewer Clerk and Administrative Assistant, was in attendance. There was one resident present in the audience: Mr. John Peska.

PUBLIC HEARING –Adoption of the Town of Walpole Emergency Operations Plan–Update 2020:

Mrs. Pschirrer called this Public Hearing for the Adoption of the Town of Walpole Emergency Operations Plan – Update 2020 – to order at 6:31 PM on the First Floor Meeting Room of the Town Hall.  “The purpose of the hearing is to discuss the adoption of the Town of Walpole Emergency Operations Plan Update 2020.  Residents may read the conditionally approved plan at the Town Hall during normal business hours prior to the public hearing.”  

Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any comments to be made.  Mr. Peska noted it is a sound document.

Mr. Dalessio moved that the Selectboard accept this Town of Walpole Emergency Operations Plan – Update 2020 – and to authorize the Chair of the Selectboard, Peggy L. Pschirrer, to sign this document on October 29, 2020.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  With Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer announced that this document is available for viewing in the Walpole Town Hall during normal business hours.  Mrs. Pschirrer closed this Public Hearing at 6:34 PM.  

Mrs. Pschirrer opened the regular Selectboard meeting.

OLD BUSINESS:

Reservoir Dam Repairs:  Mr. Dalessio advised that the report from Fuss & O’Neill, dated October 20, 2020, was received and distributed to Mr. Mark Houghton, Mr. John Peska and the Selectboard members.  It looks like the process of getting to the repairs will be a long and expensive.  Fuss & O’Neill has this on-hold for now; they are not doing any work on it.  There are a number of options they can talk about; that is where they are at today.  Mr. Peska clarified they went from an initial estimate of $30,000-to-$40,000 to complete some repairs as listed in the Department of Environmental Services (DES) Deficiency Reports.  As a result of the recent characterization, they are now facing a DES change of status.  The work extends beyond the dam area itself; to North Road and School Street.  This work would exceed $420,000.  He had sent out an email stating that all the work they did on the dam so far was to clean up the spillway, removal of some trees the DES had requested, they brush-hog it regularly (at least once a year), etc.  The longer they proceed with this, it will become more expensive.  Mr. Dalessio agrees with those statements.  He believes they need to meet to discuss what their next steps should be going forward.  Mr. Peska advised that the Conservation Commission did discuss the possibility of removing the dam. However, it was determined that the dam held a high recreational benefit.  The sentiment was that the Town would keep and maintain it, but that was under a different set of rules and estimates.  Mrs. Pschirrer agreed it was at a different price at that point.  She feels there needs to be another meeting.  Mr. Dalessio will do an email to find out everybody’s availability.  He will contact Mr. Mark Houghton tomorrow.      

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Accounts Payable Check Register in the total amount of $166,368.82 for checks issued October 30, 2020.  This includes a payment of $88,420.68 to the Village of Bellows Falls. Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions.  There were none.  With Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

PAYROLL:

Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Payroll Check Register for the week ending October 24, 2020, in the amount of $33,307.62 for checks dated October 30, 2020, and for the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer in the amount of $6,740.50.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  With Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MINUTES – October 22, 2020:  Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of October 22, 2020, as submitted.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  With Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the Minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – October 22, 2020: Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard session of October 22, 2020, as submitted.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  With Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the Minutes were approved.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of the following Committee reports:• Library Board of Trustees Meeting – October 13, 2020;• Zoning Board of Adjustment Meeting – October 21, 2020.

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 $53,506.31.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  With Mr. Dalessio 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 $74,699.47.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  With Mr. Dalessio 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 $63,702.67.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  With Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

BUILDING PERMIT:

Building Permit #2020-47, MAP and LOT #012-057-000: Mr. Dalessio moved to grant Building Permit #2020-47, for the owners of Map and Lot #012-057-000 to build an “Additional Garage, Loading Dock & Rooms in Egg Center Totaling 6,340 Sq Ft”.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  With Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS (Continued):

Town Street Lights:  Mrs. Pschirrer acknowledged receipt of an email from Mr. Steve Grenier regarding his research on Town street lights.  He is aware of the concerns of some people who had approached Mrs. Pschirrer about the new lights being too bright, etc.  Mrs. Pschirrer feels the lights can be controlled so they will not bother any people.  They could be directed down.  They are needed in some areas.  If people want to know what they would look like, they can be seen in the parking lot of the Walpole Chocolate Factory on Main Street.  If they were to approve this change, Mr. Dalessio suggested it could be paid for out of the Highway Block Grant funds.  Mrs. Pschirrer pointed out that this change will save the Town money and will be more efficient in terms of lighting patterns around Town where they need them.  

Mr. Dalessio moved to authorize Mr. Steve Grenier to act on behalf of the Town and to obtain a contract with Liberty Utilities for the Selectboard to review.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  With Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.     

Ms. Cheryl Mayberry came into the meeting.

Sewer Bond Fees:  Mr. Dalessio has been discussing the “Sewer Bond Payment Based on Units of Water” with Mrs. Jodi Daigle in the office.  What they looked at last week is no longer valid.  They are going to run a model based on the last quarter’s billing.  The goal is to pay the bond and the excess sewer bond payments would go into the PDIP account for use against future bond costs.  Mr. Dalessio explained they will come back to this in a few weeks after more research has been done and revised numbers have been calculated.

Houghton Brook Bridge Repair and Grant:  Mrs. Pschirrer reported the Selectboard has not yet received an official decision as to whether their request for a grant was accepted or rejected.  This will continue to be on-hold.

Thanksgiving Market on Town Common:  Mrs. Pschirrer advised that the Farmers’ Market had originally asked about using the Town Hall for a Thanksgiving Market. However, they have decided to have it on the Town Common on Saturday, November 21^st, 2020, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM.  If the weather turns stormy, they might have to cancel the event.  At this point they have eight confirmed vendors.  There may be some craft vendors as all local holiday bazaars have been cancelled.  Mrs. Pschirrer noted this is an informational item. The Selectboard will ask that the vendors wear masks and maintain social distancing.

Mrs. Pschirrer will write a short article to be posted and put in the Clarion and on the Walpolean that all events to be on the Town Common should be scheduled in the Town Office.  This is just for informational purposes and to avoid a duplication of events on the same day and time.

Pending Further Actions:

Quote for Pool Roof:  Ms. Mayberry has not yet received a quote for the pool building roof.

NEW BUSINESS:

Selectboard Meetings Dates re: Holidays: Mrs. Pschirrer requested they look at the Holidays and change regular meeting dates and times.  There was a consensus to make the following changes:• Thanksgiving:  Change from Thursday, November 26 at 6:30 PM to Wednesday, November 25, 2020 at 9:00 AM;• Christmas:  Change from Thursday, December 24 at 6:30 PM to Wednesday, December 23, 2020 at 9:00 AM;• New Year’s:  Change from Thursday, December 31 at 6:30 PM to Tuesday, December 29, 2020 at 5:30 PM.

Selectboard Budget Meeting with Department Managers:  There was a consensus to schedule this meeting for Friday, December 11^th, 2020, at 8:30 AM.

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

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:24 PM.  

Ms. Mayberry moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of October 29, 2020, will be sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  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.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 7:25 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

(Transcribed from Recorder)

TOWN OF WALPOLE

SELECTBOARD MEETING AGENDA

November 5, 2020

SELECTBOARD MEETING

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE• Accounts Payable Check Register in the total amount of $24,589.47 for checks issued 11/06/2020

PAYROLL• Payroll Register totaling $31,151.53 dated 11/06/2020 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $6,509.62

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES• Selectboard Minutes – October 29, 2020• Non-Public Selectboard Session – October 29, 2020

TIMBER TAX WARRANT• Certification of Yield Taxes Assessed for Map and Lot# 027-006-000• Timber Yield Tax Levy for Map and Lot# 027-006-000

BUILDING PERMITS• 2020-48, Map and Lot# 012-059-001

OLD BUSINESS• 2020 Preliminary Tax Rate• Reservoir Dam Repairs

Pending Further Actions• Quote for Pool Roof, Sewer Bond Fees, Town Street Lights, Tax Deeded Property Sale, Houghton Brook Bridge Repair and Grant

NEW BUSINESS• MRRTC Support Request• HealthTrust Annual Meeting and Board Elections• Yoga Classes in Town Hall

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**

This is a wonderful project and an incredible amount of work without the need for the extra precautions that need to be taken this year. Thanks so much to Jeanne Cloues and Marcia Weil for taking it on. – Lil

The Walpole Community Giving Tree Project is getting underway again. 

This project helps financially stressed families provide holiday gifts for their children ages birth-18 (or older if still in high school).  Participating families must be residents of the Walpole township (Walpole, North Walpole, and

Due to the current concern for public health and safety, this project will proceed a bit differently this year.  We already received requests from families with the help of the local schools.  Now we need to get the requests out to potential “shoppers” in the community who would like to help.

From NOVEMBER 8-15 only, tags will be available at the following locations during their regular business hours:  First Congregational Church (M-F 9-12, go to back door by ramp), St. Peter’s Church (during service hours), the Walpole library, Spencer’s Place, Savings Bank of Walpole on Westminster St, and Mascoma Bank. 

Tags will be attached to a bulletin board so people will only touch the tags they wish to take.  You will fill out your contact information on one half of the perforated tag and leave it in the container.  Take the other half of the tag as your “shopping” list, and then attach it very securely to the gift before you return it. 

Gifts may be returned to any of the above locations until the last day of November. Gifts should NOT BE WRAPPED this year.

If you wish to help but are not comfortable with shopping this year, there are 2 other options.  You may choose a tag and leave the whole tag and a donation in an envelope in the tag container, and someone will do the shopping for you.  Or, you can just leave a donation to help purchase gifts for tags that are unclaimed.  Every little bit helps!

Once we collect all the gifts they will be “quarantined” for a week before we sort them all, and then they will be “quarantined” again before families come to pick them up.

This is a wonderful project that helps to brighten the holiday season for many of our local families, and we appreciate everyone’s help so that it can happen during this unusual year.

If you have any questions, you may contact us at weilcloues@comcast.net.
Happy holidays to you and yours!  Please stay safe and healthy!Jeanne Cloues and Marcia Weil, project organizers

I had a lovely email from my friend, Sally Reeves that she asked me to share. I also wanted to add that it should be noted that this year was new experience for everyone, but first time moderator, Jack Wozmak, certainly rose to the occasion. I’m sure it also made Sandy Smith even happier that it was her last after 40 years on the job! Quite a way to start and/or end a career! – Lil

Yesterday was a very exciting day—we got to vote.

This is by way of an attempt to convey my gratitude to all the wonderfully faithful Walpoleans who make the voting experiencein our town a very real pleasure.

I was struck again yesterday by the atmosphere in the Town Hall: well organized, cheerful, calm, safe, yet with a tangible buzz of the excitement for the reason we were in that place. You are an excellent team.

Thank you all!
Sally Reeves