The Walpolean

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

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

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION #1:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to enter into a Non-Public SelectboardSession #1 pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (c) Reputations.  Ms. Mayberry seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with Mrs. Pschirrer, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved at 6:31 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 6:45 PM.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session #1 of November 21, 2019, be sealed.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Accounts Payable Check Register in the amount of $196,370.08 for checks issued November 22, 2019.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

The above amount includes a payment of $136,800 to the Walpole Fire District for operating expenses under Warrant Article 5.  

PAYROLL:

Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Payroll Check Register for the week ending November 16, 2019, in the amount of $25,563.96 for checks issued November 22, 2019, and the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes in the amount of $5,069.96.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MINUTES – November 14, 2019:  Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Minutes of the Selectboardmeeting of November 14, 2019, as submitted.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – November 14, 2019:  Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of November 14, 2019, as submitted.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  Mrs. Pschirrer advised that the Selectboard had previously agreed that the portion of this Non-Public Selectboard Session of November 14, 2019, relative to the Ramsay Hill Road Right-of-Way would be released.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrerand Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Ms. Mayberry moved to unseal the following portion of the Non-Public Selectboard Session Minutes of November 14, 2019, as follows:  “Ramsay Hill Road Right-of-Way:  Mr. Neil Coughlin and Mrs. Judy Coughlin were present.  Mr. Dalessio explained the Selectboard discussed this Ramsay Hill Road Right-of-Way issue many times.  They determined that the Coughlin’s did not lose any frontage.  The Selectboard sent it to Attorney Hockensmith for an opinion.  He came back with the definition of frontage.  Their frontage is on the Town property and is frontage on the Class 6 road.  Mr. Dalessio explained this on the Town map.  Their line was on the stone wall and then moved back to the east. All this is frontage.  Mr. Dalessio noted if they were required to give it back, they would have done so. But looking at everything, including the deeds, it just moved back, away from the stone wall.  The Selectboard felt it was appropriate to seek a legal opinion.  Attorney Hockensmith advised they did not lose frontage.  Mr. Coughlin would like something in writing.  Mr. Dalessio replied but there is nothing to change.  The meeting minutes will document this conversation.  Mr. Coughlin mentioned that 10-to-15 years from now this road could continue.  Mrs. Pschirrer noted that the Class 6 could turn into a Class 5 road.  Mrs. Pschirrer mentioned they have to sign a waiver of liability if building on a Class 6 road.  Mr. Coughlin pointed out that they have a lot that could be subdivided.  Mr. and Mrs. Montgomery have land beyond them and the Hubbard’s have land further down.  Mr. Dalessio said they will state the boundaries are per the 1987 map.  Mr. Coughlin is happy with the measurements on that map and felt it should match the original documents.  Mr. Dalessio confirmed that the quit claim deed was found.  Mr. and Mrs. Coughlin left the Non-Public meeting.” Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessioin favor, the motion was approved.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of the following Committee reports:  

NOTICE OF INTENT TO CUT WOOD OR TIMBER:

MAP and LOT #012-044-500:  Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Notice of Intent to Cut Wood or Timber on property located off of Upper Walpole Road.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessioin favor, the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS:

Broadband Committee:   The Selectboard met previously with Mr. Anderson and Mr. Bouchard of the Broadband Committee.

Water and Sewer Receipts to Date:  The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of the report from Mrs. Daigle regarding Water and Sewer Receipts to Date.  Total receipts for Quarter 3 – 2019 Billing are $87,401.63 or 48.9%.  Bills are due on November 30, 2019.

EPA Clean-up Grant Update:  Mrs. Pschirrer reported that the attorney is working on the EPA Clean-up Grant, contract and other required documents. 

Pending Further Actions:

New Reuse Center Plans:  This continues to be a work-in-progress.  

Ramsay Hill Road Right-Of-Way:  Mr. Dalessio advised that this has been resolved.  

Tax Deeded Properties:  The Selectboard will continue to move forward with the sale of two tax deeded properties in January 2020, by sealed bids.

NEW BUSINESS:

11 Merchant Street:  Mr. Terry Roth, owner of 5 and 9 Merchant Street, had contacted the Selectboard office regarding his concerns with the abutting property.  He was advised to contact the North Walpole Village Board of Commissioners. Ms. Mayberry advised the Chair of the Commissioners will work with the Zoning Administrator to inspect the property and also work with the Fire and Police Chiefs.

Recreation Revolving Fund Request:  Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the request of Justin Cassarino and the Recreation Committee to issue a check to Spencer’s Place in the amount of $1,012.86 for catering the Murder Mystery dinner.  These funds are to be taken out of their Revolving Fund account.   Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Cassarino talked about when a bill can be submitted for payment and/or when a purchase order needs to be processed.  Mr. Dalessio clarified that it is acceptable for a letter/bill for the Revolving Fund but there needs to be a purchase order for the regular budget.

NH DES Draft Permit to Operate an Asphalt Plant:  The comment period for the NH Department of Environmental Services (DES) Permit to Operate an Asphalt Plant (Cold River Materials) is December 16, 2019.  There was a consensus of the Selectboard to not make any comments as this permit is required for a change to the new owner.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION #2:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to enter into a Non-Public SelectboardSession #2 pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (a) Personnel and (b) Hiring.  Ms. Mayberry seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with Mrs. Pschirrer, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved at 7:05 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:25 PM.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session #2 of November 21, 2019, be sealed.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:

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

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:50 PM.

OTHER BUSINESS:

Next Selectboard Meeting:  The next regular Selectboardmeeting on Thursday, November 28, 2019, at 6:30 PM has been re-scheduled to Wednesday, November 27, 2019, at 8:00 AM.  This is due to the Thanksgiving Day holiday.

Drewsville Common – Holiday Tree Lighting:  Mr. Dalessio announced that the Holiday Tree Lighting event on the Drewsville Common will be on Sunday, December 1st at 6:00 pm.  It is exciting for children as Santa Claus arrives. There will be hot chocolate and candy canes for attendees.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to allow the Drewsville community to use the Drewsville Common for their Holiday tree lighting and festivities.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Dalessio mentioned in the spring they want to replace the holiday tree as it is time to do so.  A replacement tree has been donated.

North Walpole Village Park:  Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Cassarino talked about the light at the North Walpole Village Park.  The Commissioners were questioning the position of the fence. There was communication between Mrs. Diane Harty and Mr. Cassarino about putting news items on the Walpole Recreation Department web page.  The Park Committee has been putting them on their North Walpole Forum page.  Ms. Mayberry asked Mr. Cassarino to notify Mrs. Harty to clarify that news items should also be posted on the Walpole Recreation page as the NW Village Park is on Town land.        

ADJOURNMENT:

Ms. Mayberry moved to adjourn this Selectboard meeting.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 7:58 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

Your December issue of the CLARION is now on-line, for you to see. By clicking on the link below you can take a look, and also share with out of town friends by providing them the link. 

But even more exciting is, thanks to my son Gary’s help this weekend, THE WALPOLE CLARION is now on Facebook with more news and updates weekly
please click here to visit, follow, and share

CLICK ON THIS LINK FOR THE DECEMBER ISSUE

Again with the holidays coming, the deadline for the January 2020 issue is 20 December. Mark your calendars and get your articles (and ads) in early to share with the Walpole, North Walpole, and Drewsville community. Thank you

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year – yours, RAY, Publisher

I wanted to call your attention to a statement near the end of the Zoning Board Minutes. If, like me, you didn’t realize it, Ernie Vose is retiring at Town Moderator after Town Meeting this year. His twenty years of service have been admirable and he sure will be missed. Thank you, Ernie. – Lil

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

CALL TO ORDER:  Mr. Dalessio called this Hooper Trustees meeting to order at 7:30 PM.  He advised this meeting is being recorded.

HOOPER TRUSTEES MINUTES:

HOOPER TRUSTEES MEETING – November 7, 2019:  Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Minutes of the Hooper Trustees meeting of November 7, 2019, as submitted.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessioin favor, the Minutes were approved.

HOOPER BUSINESS:

Hooper Institute Board:  Ms. Mayberry will follow-up with Mrs. Gowdy regarding the letter to be sent to the Hooper Trustees requesting permission to withdraw funds from Cambridge Trust that will then be deposited in the PDIP account.  

ADJOURNMENT:

Ms. Mayberry moved to adjourn this Hooper Trustees meeting.  The Hooper Trustees will return to the Selectboard meeting.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 7:36 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

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

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

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to enter into a Non-Public Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (a) Personnel, (b) Hiringand (l) Consideration of Legal Advice.  Ms. Mayberry seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with Mrs. Pschirrer, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

The regular meeting resumed at 6:55 PM.

Ms. Mayberry moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of November 14, 2019, will be sealed.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:  

Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Accounts Payable Check Register for the Drummond Woodsum invoice in the amount of $798.72.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Accounts Payable Check Register in the amount of $596,567.92 for checks issued November 15, 2019.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

The above amount includes a monthly payment of $563,787.00 to the Fall Mountain Regional School District.

PAYROLL:

Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Payroll Check Register for the week ending November 9, 2019, in the amount of $27,536.11 for checks issued November 15, 2019, and the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes in the amount of $5,532.19.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MINUTES – November 7, 2019:  Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of November 7, 2019, as submitted.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – November 7, 2019:  Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of November 7, 2019, as submitted.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Minutes were approved.

WALPOLE / ROCKINGHAM JOINT SELECTBOARD MEETING – November 7, 2019:  Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Minutes of the Walpole / Rockingham Joint Selectboard meeting of November 7, 2019, as submitted.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Minutes were approved.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of the following Committee reports:

October 8, 15, 22 and 29, 2019;

BUILDING PERMIT:  

Permit No. 2019-13:  Abenaki Springs Phase II L.P., 17 Avery Lane, Map and Lot #012-013-004:  Ms. Mayberry moved to grant Building Permit No. 2019-43 for Abenaki Springs Phase II L.P. to build a “24’ x 30’ Maintenance Garage” at 17 Avery Lane.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS:

New Locks for Town Hall:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the proposal from ARComm to replace the locks for Town Hall.  The amount is not to exceed $28,000.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

New Reuse Center Plans:  Mr. Dalessio reported the damaged trailer is gone at the Recycling Center.  He suggested asking Mr. Ben Hoy to call Mr. Barry Bellows and Griffin Construction to get some preliminary quotes for a replacement.  Ms. Mayberry will talk to Mr. Hoy about this.     

Tax Deeded Properties: Mrs. Downing reported that neither of the two former property owners responded to the Tax Deeded letters.  They now have 14 days to make a request to remove anything left on the properties. The first sale date could be January 5, 2020.  There was a consensus that when the Selectboard proceeds with the sales that it be done by sealed bids that will be opened by them.  Mrs. Smith, Town Clerk/Tax Collector, does not have an exact amount due because of the accruing interest.  Therefore, an estimated amount on a certain date after the first of 2020 will be used.

NEW BUSINESS:

Tax Rate:  The Selectboard received preliminary information on a tax rate from Mr. Rich Kreissle.  A choice will need to be made on an overlay. Mrs. Downing expects to have a warrant for taxes ready for the next Selectboard meeting.    

Gazebo Damage:  Mr. Dalessio reported there has been a lot of damage to the Gazebo.  Mrs. Downing reported that 21 spindles were broken off and hidden under the Gazebo.  The railing and some lattice was broken.  It might have all been done at the same time possibly by a group of pre-teens who have been seen in the area.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked the Police Department to drive by more often.  She will write a news article regarding the damage for the Clarion to make people aware of what happened.     

Thank You Note:  Acknowledgement was made of a Thank You note from Ms. Deb Clark for the card and flowers.  

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to recess this Selectboard meeting.  The Selectboard will enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved at 7:30 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:36 PM.

OTHER BUSINESS:

NH Municipal Association Conference:  Mr. Dalessio, Mrs. Pschirrer, and Mrs. Downing attended the two-day NH Municipal Association Conference earlier this week.  There was general discussion of the conference and sharing information on various seminars they attended.  

ADJOURNMENT:

Ms. Mayberry moved to adjourn this Selectboard meeting.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 7:50 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

Present: Board Members: Chair Jan Galloway Leclerc, Judy Trow, Tom Murray, Pauline Barnes.Alternates: Don Sellarole, Ernie Vose. Absent: Bob Anderson, Vice-Chair Myra Mansouri. 

Recording: Marilou Blaine. These minutes are unapproved and will be reviewed at the regular December 2019 meeting for corrections, additions and/or omissions.

Roll Call: Ms. Leclerc called the meeting to order at 7 pm. One Board member was absent so Mr. Sellarole agreed to fill in. Board member Ms. Mansouri came in late and took her place on the Board.

Minutes:  Ms. Trow made a motion to accept the minutes as written. Mr. Murray seconded the motion and the motion carried.

New Business:

Variance: Leo Blair – Drewsville – house behind the Drewsville store. Mr. Blair wants to build a she shed for his wife. He said the terrain of the property is a problem. It is very steep in back of his house.

Mr. Blair did not come to the meeting because he is finally moving into the house this week. He expressed hope he will be at the December or January 2020 meeting.

Marcus Lowell – Boggy Meadow Farms – 104 River Road South, rural/ag district – Mr. Lowell explained that Boggy Meadow was a long-standing dairy farm with dairy barns, cheese barns, pepper barns, cornfields, etc. He’s been working with Royal Holmes, who has a farm on the other side of the Connecticut River. He has recently moved 250 heifers into a new barn and hopes to renovate the milking parlor and turn it into an active farm. The milking parlor is in need of new equipment. If the plan moves forward, he would need two full-time employees to turn it into a 24-hour operation. Mr. Lowell proposed putting a mobile home amongst the barns in the barnyard so the cows would have 24-hour supervision. The mobile home would be 14-feet-by-56-feet or perhaps a double wide, which would increase the length by 20 feet. There is a 1795 home on the property, plus a silo and several other barns. Mr. Lowell showed a picture from Google Earth showing the barns and house and he drew on the map where he wanted to put the mobile home. The home has a long-term rent and is really not suited for the employees, Mr. Lowell said.

Mr. Sellarole asked about a septic. Mr. Lowell said he would either tie into the current system or build a new one. Power and water are already there. Ms. Mansouri asked about the size of the septic. Mr. Lowell said there were two septic systems on the property. He would have to check it out for size. 

Ms. Leclerc explained the ordinance that says only one residence per lot. But, she added, it makes sense to put a residence so close to the milking parlor and dairy barn because a farmer wants his employees near the cows. Dairy farming is also a purpose of the rural/ag district, Ms. Leclerc said. Mr. Vose mentioned a subdivision of an acre, but added, since they want the home so close to the animals that wouldn’t work.

Ms. Barnes said there’s a very strong incentive from the state to encourage farming. Agriculture isbeneficial to communities and should not be unreasonably limited in use by planning and zoning boards, she said. Ms. Trow asked about adding onto the house. Mr. Lowell said it is the oldest house on the property and didn’t think it would be the right answer to the problem. Mr. Murray asked why put it in the middle of the barnyard. What about somewhere nearby but not right in front of the equipment barn. Mr. Lowell said he would think about it. 

In the end, it was determined Mr. Lowell would need a variance. Ms. Trow made a motion to have a public hearing for his request in December. Ms. Mansouri seconded the motion and the motion carried. 

Chris Northcott, 104 Cheney Road, rural/ag district. Chris Northcott wants to build a house on his  property on Cheney Road, a Class VI road, while living in a cabin. The proposed house would be 100 feet behind the cabin. When the house is completed, Mr. Northcott would demolish the cabin. He asked for a timetable of the end of next summer. The Board agreed and asked the secretary to send Mr. Northcott a letter. If he couldn’t finish by the end of summer, Mr. Northcott had to come back to the Zoning Board.

Avanru Development Group – signage for Abenaki Springs, commercial district, Map 12, Lot 13-4. Mr. Jack Franks asked for a one-sided, 3-foot-by-6-foot sign at the entrance to the Abenaki Springs apartments on Avery Lane. It would have four Led lights mounted inside the roof frame. It would say “The Residences at Abenaki Springs” and, at the bottom of the sign in much smaller letters, “An Avanru Development Property.”  The sign would have a small 12-inch-by-60-inch board under it saying “Leasing Inquiries, The Hodges Companies, 1-800-742-4686.” The sign would be placed several feet from the turn onto Avery Lane, before where the trash is collected. Ms. Trow made a motion to accept the request for the sign, which conforms to the ordinance. The motion was seconded and it carried.

RSA 36:54-57 Developments of Regional Impact. How does it affect the ZBA? 

Ms. Leclerc called the NH Municipal Association and she said, according to what she heard, we have had nothing that has had a regional impact. It is more of a common sense thing. Ms. Barnes said regional impact should be part of the Board’s thinking when the board has a Public Hearing for a variance. She suggested it might be in the form of a question for the applicant on the variance application. Someone thought it was somrthing that the Board should consider and the applicant might not even understand what regional impact meant. It was decided that regional impact would be mentioned on the application to remind the Board to consider regional impact at a public hearing when considering a variance.

Mr. Vose resigns as Moderator – Mr. Ernie Vose said this Town Meeting would be his last and that the Town would be looking for a new moderator. He has been a moderator for the town for 20 years.

Anyone interested must file for the position between January 22 and January 31 with the Town Clerk.

Final vote on Bylaws – There were a couple of minor changes to the Bylaws. The Board vote to approve the amended them with the new changes.

The Board had a motion to adjourn. The motion was seconded and it carried.

Respectfully yours,

Marilou Blaine

ZBA Secretary

NORTH WALPOLE VILLAGE DISTRICT

Minutes of the Board of Commissioners

   Patrick Kiniry Melissa Colburn Celeste Aumand

Office Tel: 603-445-2453

Commissioners:   Patrick Kiniry, Melissa Colburn, Celeste Aumand

Attendees:  Bill Crawford, Fire; Bob McGuirk, Water

Patrick Kiniry was not in attendance at tonight’s meeting.

Commissioner’s Meeting called to order at 7:05 pm, November 12, 2019. 

Minutes of November 05, 2019, Motion by Com Colburn, Seconded by Com Aumand to approve Minutes as written. Two in favor.

FIRE:

Chief presented two invoices one for $150.00 and one for $8,369 for the ORV which is on order.  Chief requested permission to park/store the new ORV in the storage/garage with the snow thrower and lawn mower.  Motion by Com Aumand, seconded by Com Colburn to use the storage/garage for the ORV until such time as other space became available.  Two in Favor.

Chief presented a copy of his May 6, 2016 Site Plan Inspection of Mr. Gay’s property on Len-Tex Lane, which shows requirements that Chief Crawford noted needed to be adhered to.  A copy of this report was given to Mr. Gay at that time.  Chief Crawford noted at tonight’s meeting that there were some questions as to the lack of compliance with these requirements.

Next Tuesday Chief Crawford may attend the meeting of UVRESA in Fairlee, VT and not make the Commissioner’s Meeting.

Chief noted that new firefighter, Randy Rumrill was a Certified Diver and was interested in joining the Water Rescue Task Force based in Swanzey, as a member of the NW Fire Department.   Chief would like to know if the Primex Insurance would cover Mr. Rumrill when he was on call with WRTF.

Greg Gay noted that he was looking for a letter from the Commissioners giving him permission to proceed with his new office building project at Len-Tex Lane.  Chief Crawford noted that he needed to meet with Mr. Gay and review not only his plans for the project but to answer some questions regarding his previous project.   They will meet on Monday, November 18, 2016 at a time to be determined.

WATER:

Bob noted that Keene Gas filled the propane tank on Mountain View and fixed a leak at the propane tank next to the generator on Russell Street.

Reviewed 3rd quarter test results received from Nelson.

Took 4th quarter tests results and sent out today.

MISC:

Motion by Com Aumand, seconded by Com Colburn to adjourn the meeting at 8:20pm, alltwo in favor. 

Meeting Adjourned at 8:20PM.

______________________________________

Respectfully Submitted,

William H. Moses

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

CALL TO ORDER:  Mr. Dalessio called this Hooper Trustees meeting to order at 9:03 PM.  He advised this meeting is being recorded.

HOOPER TRUSTEES MINUTES:

HOOPER TRUSTEES MEETING – October 31, 2019:  Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Minutes of the Hooper Trustees meeting of October 31, 2019, as submitted.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessioin favor, the Minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC HOOPER TRUSTEES SESSION – October 31, 2019:  Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Hooper Trustees Session of October 31, 2019, as submitted.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Minutes were approved.

HOOPER BUSINESS:

Hooper Institute Board:  Ms. Mayberry attended the Hooper Institute Board meeting held earlier this week.  Mr. Bob Kimball was there and provided advice on their funds.  He talked about opening their checking account.  Ms. Galloway will need a letter from the Selectboard to do this.  Mrs. Gowdy will write the letter and the Treasurer will look into opening the checking account.  There was discussion about fundraising.  A vote will be taken on their budget during the December meeting.  Ms. Dalbeck distributed copies of her report with plans for next year.  

Fundraising:  Ms. Dalbeck asked Mrs. Pschirrer for a list of sponsors for fundraising.  Mrs. Pschirrer will plan to meet with her soon to go over the list.    

ADJOURNMENT:

Ms. Mayberry moved to adjourn this meeting.  The Hooper Trustees will return to the Selectboard meeting.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 9:16 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

TOWN OF WALPOLE

JOINT MEETING

TOWN OF WALPOLE SELECTBOARD

TOWN OF ROCKINGHAM SELECTBOARD

NOVEMBER 7, 2019

The following Selectboard members and invited guests were present:

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

Rockingham Selectboard:  Peter Golec (Chair); Susan Hammond; Stefan Golec

Also Present:    Wendy Harrison – Town of Rockingham – Town Manager 

    J.B. Mack – Southwest Region Planning Commission 

    Susan Westa – Windham Regional Commission

CALL TO ORDER:  Mr. Dalessio called this Joint Meeting to order at 6:30 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.  The Walpole Selectboard is hosting this Joint Meeting with the Rockingham Selectboard.  This meeting is being recorded.  He introduced everyone and turned this meeting over to Mr. J.B. Mack.

Mr. Mack thanked everyone for attending this meeting.  He began with some background information.  Windham Regional Commission is based in Brattleboro and serves Windham County areas.  Southwest Region Planning Commission serves both Vermont and New Hampshire. For a long time they have been hearing there is a need and interest to address the Vilas Bridge. About a year ago they brought Planning Board members together to talk about getting the two towns together to discuss issues of mutual concern. The Vilas Bridge was one mutual issue however, there are other issues to address as well. Subsequent to that first meeting there were other joint Planning Board meetings. They found other issues like workforce housing, economic development, the Vilas Bridge and recreational projects that could benefit both towns.  Issues that came to the surface to focus on were a united way for the two towns to work together, how to move forward and take advantage of the re-licensing of the Great River Hydro Dam.  They thought it important to have the elected officials in both communities meet to discuss these issues.  Ms. Susan Westa and he offered to facilitate the conversation and also to provide the latest information they know about these two issues.  

Mr. Mack provided two packets of information.  One packet was the New Hampshire Department of Transportation 2021-2030 Ten Year Plan on the Vilas Bridge Rehabilitation Over TheConnecticut River and the second packet included Excerpts from the Connecticut River Conservancy Recreation Survey Summary.  He felt they could start with discussion on the Vilas Bridge.

Vilas Bridge:  Mr. Mack explained that the NH Department of Transportation (DOT) develops a Ten Year Plan; it is a list of all the projects in NH that the State intends to work on over a 10 Year period and where the funding is going to come from to pay for these projects.  The Vilas Bridge was in the previous 10 Year Plan and is also in this one.  This is a draft plan that will be going before Governor Sununu and then the Legislature. They think the bridge will stay in this plan.  The first page states “50% funding needed from other sources”.  Over the years the Vilas Bridge has fallen lower on the list because of the enormous number of bridges that need rehabilitation.  He understands the NH DOT has approached Vtrans in Vermont about doing the 50-50 cost share.  NH owns rights to the Connecticut River so they are required by law to pay for everything to the high water mark (about 73%) on the VT side of the river.  A lot of people want to see this bridge come back.  A great deal of economic activity in the downtown area on the VT side has been lost and residents in Walpole have expressed an interest in seeing the bridge open again. Truck traffic will be diverted when repairs are being made to the Arch Bridge.  Truck traffic will have to go as far north as Charlestown-Springfield to cross that bridge.  With this meeting they hope to start a conversation on strategies they can take to have a more united voice.  

Mr. S. Golec pointed out that there is a sewer line that runs across the river underneath the Vilas Bridge.  It is a big issue.  Walpole has been talking about moving the line and running it by the Five Star Beverage Store and across the Arch Bridge.  He did not see this mentioned in the report.  Mr. Mack agreed that it is not but they realize it is an issue.  Mr. Dalessio said this sewer line is the environmental impact.  Nobody is pushing this issue but if that line breaks it becomes a catastrophic issue with the River.  The bridge presents both economic and environmental impacts. Walpole has done some surveying and pre-engineering work on moving the line through Green Street in North Walpole.  There are obstacles though with the railroad tracks and the ledge.  Mrs. Pschirrer mentioned the line also runs up State Highway 12.  Mr. Dalessio added from an environmental stand-point it should be on top.  We need to be prepared in the event something does happen to that sewer line.  

Mr. Mack asked if there is potential to get VT to pay more toward the rehabilitation.  Mr. S. Golec mentioned the Hinsdale Bridge.  Mr. Mack explained that was a Grant project for Brattleboro-Hinsdale.  Mrs. Pschirrer feels they could make the same economic case for the Vilas Bridge.  Mr. Mack stated that typically the State takes the lead on those Grants. There was discussion regarding the fact that the Vilas Bridge is the only bridge on the list as 50% funded.  Mr. Mack explained on page one of the Ten Year Plan “NON-PAR (other)” means the funding will come from another source.  Both the Federal and the States are feeling the crunch for infrastructure monies. Total estimate for the Vilas Bridge is $10,228,550.  NH is prepared to pay $5,100,000.  A starting point is good communication betweenWalpole and Rockingham.  The Planning Commissions have talked about several ideas.  One suggestion was to do an Economic Study to show the economic benefits.  Have factual data that shows the value of the bridge to the two states.  If it indicates it is more beneficial to VT maybe they would get the Legislature in VT to take another look at it.  Mrs. Pschirrer mentioned they discussed this recently with Senator Jay Kahn.  Walpole has to start talking about the environmental impact and the Connecticut River.  NH tends to feel the Vilas Bridge is more beneficial to the economy for the State of VT and that is why they are holding back.  Mr. Mack advised they had a GASIT meeting in Keene on this Ten Year Plan and Representative Lucy Weber did support the Vilas Bridge and encouraged them to support and fund it.  Mr. Dalessio feels it will be settled Governor to Governor.

Mrs. Wendy Harrison mentioned the Northern Borders Program.  Is Mr. Mack working with that group? Mr. Mack replied not yet.  It is an entity that promotes economic development for the northern states.  Cheshire County recently became a part of that.  This is a newer opportunity that just came into play as a potential funding source. Mrs. Harrison said it could become a part of a match.  Mr. Mack said there were some projects in Cheshire County that did happen through this program.

At this time the meeting was opened to the public.  

Mr. Gary Fox from Rockingham advised that for local funds such as the Northern Borders Program there is a case with economic development projects on the Island in Bellows Falls.  The Vilas Bridge opens onto that area.  This area lost the paper industry in 1985 and the mill was recently demolished.  Because of the loss of the paper industry the area would qualify for a Forestry Grant.  The only problem is the funds are available for shovel ready projects.  Mr. Dalessio noted the funds would be going to a State infrastructure not a local infrastructure.  Mr. Mack feels NH sees this bridge as a liability rather than an asset.  If the towns ever wanted to take the Vilas and Arch Bridges the State would give them up but he would not recommend doingthis.  The Vilas Bridge deck is in really bad shape.  Some recent inspections found that the spandrel columns are deteriorating significantly.  He referenced Load Rating calculations in the Ten Year Plan graph.  In the past there was discussion about why not having a pedestrian bridge only.  The NH engineers said this would be almost the same as having trucks on it.  They would have to plan on a big party being held on the bridge.  It is not a viable option.  

Mrs. Deborah Wright, President of the Village of Bellows Falls Board of Trustees, advised there does not seem to be any consideration given to the fact that the Vilas Bridge is an historic bridge.  Mrs. Harrison felt the engineering might be done in 2023.  Will NH still do this work if they do not have the other 50% funding.  Mr. Mack will check on this.  Mrs. Harrison felt it would be good to have a date for when the other 50% funding source would be required for the project to move forward.  

Mr. Mack summarized that they heard ideas including going after Grants and pushing the environmental aspect.  Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Harrison will work together on drafting a joint letter stressing the economic and environmental sides for rehabilitation of the Vilas Bridge.  Mrs. Harrison pointed out that the Village of Bellows Falls Trustees would be interested in signing on as well.  Mutual Aid and the Fire and Police Departments have expressed concern because of getting blocked off by a train or traffic congestion on the Arch Bridge. Mr. Dalessio said this is a good start. Rockingham will take the lead. 

Mrs. Pschirrer mentioned the Town of Walpole has the oldest population in Cheshire County.  They are not attracting younger people.  We will have economic problems in 10-to-15 years from now.  A resident mentioned the train station.  We should have trains that go to Boston, Maine, etc.  That would attract more people.  Mr. Mack said there have been some up-grades to the rails in VT and Massachusetts.  They are expecting growth with Montreal to Boston trains.  A resident spoke about developing trails.  Some trails could be opened up to more recreational activities including bikers.  

Great River Hydro:  Mr. Mack advised another issue that came up was the Great River Hydro as they are re-licensing their dams.  The community can weigh-in on recreational opportunities along the River.  The towns with two voices could work together.  He had printed copies of sections relevant to the Walpole and Rockingham areas from the Excerpts from a Connecticut River Conservancy Recreation Survey Summary.  These are ideas from local citizens.  There is a copy of a letter from the Connecticut River Conservancy to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission about their interpretation of that survey and the kinds of things they would like to see happen during the re-licensing. Talking with residents in Rockingham and Walpole he heard about the Herrick’s Cove boat launch and picnic area and having better portage areas.  There are areas where access to the River could be improved.  Mr. Fox said some time ago a Kayaking Company was looking at the River.  Mrs. Pschirrer added there could be more mountain bike trails.  Mr. Dalessio noted they could have a marketing campaign for tourism.  They could find enough people to form a committee to work on a trails development program.  Walpole recently acquired a piece of property that might add to this program.  Mr. Mack suggested they work together.  

Lighting on Arch Bridge:  Ms. Susan Hammond mentioned the issue of lighting on the Arch Bridge.    Mr. Dalessio said the NH DOT stated there has not been an accident or an injury therefore they do not see a need for lighting.  Mrs. Pschirrer noted but it is dark.  A lot of pedestrians cross it at all hours of the day/night.  Ms. Hammond feels there has to be funding available plus solar lights could be researched.  Mrs. Harrison will email Mr. Dalessio about the lights.  

Warming Shelter:  Mrs. Wright reported that the Warming Shelter will no longer be in North Walpole.  It will now be in a building next to the former Big Red Barn on Route 5 in Westminster.                      

There were 15 members of the public in attendance.  There being no other comments, Mr. Dalessio closed this Joint Meeting at 7:22 PM.  Following a brief recess, the Walpole Selectboard will begin their regular scheduled meeting.