The Walpolean

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

CALL TO ORDER:  Mrs. Pschirrer called this Selectboard Meeting to order at 6:30 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.  She advised this meeting is being recorded and asked anyone wishing to speak to identify themselves for the record.  There was one member of the public in attendance.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION:

Mr. Dalessio moved that the Selectboard enter into a Non-Public Selectboard Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (a) Personnel and (c) Reputations.  Ms. Mayberry seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

The regular meeting resumed at 6:50 PM.

Ms. Mayberry moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of February 1, 2018, be sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Accounts Payable check register in the amount of $69,009.23 for checks dated February 2, 2018.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

PAYROLL:

Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Payroll Register for the week ending January 27, 2018, in the amount of $24,148.81 for checks dated February 2, 2018.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.  

Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $4,870.84 for the week ending January 27, 2018.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – January 25, 2018:  Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of January 25, 2018, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the Minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – January 25, 2018:  Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of January 25, 2018, as submitted.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the Minutes were approved.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard received and reviewed minutes of the following meetings:

• Walpole Fire District Meeting – December 12, 2017;

• Walpole Fire District Meeting – January 10, 2018;

• Walpole Conservation Meeting – January 8, 2018.

WATER and SEWER WARRANTS:

NORTH WALPOLE SEWER FEES: Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Town of Walpole Warrant for The Collection of North Walpole Sewer Fees – The State of New Hampshire – in the amount of $45,409.67.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

WALPOLE WATER FEES:  Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Town of Walpole Warrant for The Collection of Walpole Water Fees – The State of New Hampshire – in the amount of $54,087.24.   Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

WALPOLE SEWER FEES:  Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Town of Walpole Warrant for The Collection of Walpole Sewer Fees – The State of New Hampshire – in the amount of $67,159.10.    Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

PROPERTY TAX REFUNDS:

MAP and LOT #026-010-000:  Mr. Mayberry moved to grant the Property Tax Refund in the amount of $102.91 for Map and Lot #026-010-000.  The State Education Tax is being refunded as this property was deeded back to the utility company.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

Ms. Mayberry moved to grant the following five Property Tax Refunds as they were overpayments.  

• Map and Lot #011-051-000 –   $30.31

• Map and Lot #028-023-000 –   $8.90

• Map and Lot #009-057-000 – $10.00

• Map and Lot #009-034-000 – $9.95

• Map and Lot #009-033-02-01 -$56.22

Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

PROPERTY TAX ABATEMENTS:

Map and Lot #005-056-000: Ms. Mayberry moved to grant the Property Tax Abatement in the amount of $2.00 for Map and Lot #005-056-000.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

Map and Lot #012-055-016:  Ms. Mayberry moved to deny this Property Tax Abatement.  A garage building was removed before the final sale.  As per the recommendation of Avitar Associates it must stay in the tax roll for 2017.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.

Map and Lot #027-001-007:  Ms. Mayberry moved to deny this Property Tax Abatement request.  The owner did not provide any evidence as to why his valuation was not true.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

Map and Lot #027-008-02-01:  Ms. Mayberry moved to grant this Property Tax Abatement in the amount of $7,468.00 for an industrial building on Main Street in North Walpole.  This is the result of a $265,500 reduction in value.   Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

VETERANS’ TAX CREDIT:

MAP and LOT #012-044-300:  Ms. Mayberry moved to grant the Veterans’ Tax Credit for Map and Lot #012-044-300.   Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

NOTICES OF INTENT TO CUT WOOD OR TIMBER:

Map and LOT #002-012-000:  Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Notice of Intent to Cut Wood or Timber for Map and Lot #002-012-000 off Rapids Road.  This is for personal firewood; not being sold.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

MAP and LOT #014-015-000:  Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Notice of Intent to Cut Wood or Timber for Map and Lot #014-015-000 off Whitcomb Road.  St. Peter’s Cemetery is having large pine trees harvested.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

CURRENT USE:

MAP and LOT #003-004-000:  Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Application for Current Use on Whipple Hill Road, Map and Lot #003-004-000.  4.342 acres is being added to the existing Current Use land.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.  

OLD BUSIENSS:

2018 Warrant Article Listing:  Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Selectboard signing the Notice of Intent to Post the 2018 Warrant and to Attest that this is a “A True Copy” that will be posted on the day after the Public Hearing or on February 9, 2018 in five places:  1&2) Walpole Town Hall: both Selectboard Office and Town Clerk/Tax Collector Office; 3) Burdick and Burns Building; 4) Drewsville General Store and 5) North Walpole Village Hall.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer advised the Warrant Articles were sent to the Department of Revenue Administration and they came back with a few corrections that have been made.  They were also sent to Attorney Hockensmith and Attorney Buckley at the NH Municipal Association for their opinion.  It is necessary to remove Article #3.  It was determined the Planning Board does not have the authority to do this.  They have the responsibility to recommend changes but the Zoning Board carries them out.

Mr. Dalessio moved to remove Article #3 and to re-number the remaining Articles accordingly.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.  

Mrs. Downing will have the final Warrant ready for signing at the next meeting.

MD and A Report:  Mrs. Pschirrer advised the Selectboard can add something from the Auditors in the Town Report.  There was a consensus to include the Town of Walpole, NH, Management’s Discussion and Analysis – Year Ending December 31, 2016.

Town Report Front and Back Covers – Updated Samples:  The Selectboard reviewed and approved the updated samples for the Town Report Front and Back Covers.

Town Report Dedication Page:  The Selectboard talked about the Town Report Dedication page and final decisions were made.

NEW BUSINESS:

NEW BUSINESS:

R. Boas Information Request:  The Selectboard acknowledged an email from Mr. Ray Boas.  Mr. Boas would like to write an article on the recent strides, collections and improvements for the Water and Sewer Departments.  He will make arrangements with Mr. Dalessio to work on this.  In March he wants to write an article on a history of Town Meetings and a second article on delinquent taxes.  He will be attending the budget meeting on February 8th and report on that.  Mr. Boas wants to tell the Town’s story on how well everything is moving forward.  The Selectboard agreed to have Mr. Boas proceed with writing these articles.

Latest Sewer Bill:  Mr. Dalessio looked into why the latest sewer bill from the Village of Bellows Falls went up.  It is not the flow but rather an increase in what was in the flow; it is not usage but rather content.   Mr. Mark Houghton is aware of this and will work on where it is coming from.

Benefit Hours Project Update:  Mr. Kreissle continues to work on the Employees’ Benefit Hours Project.  He will reconcile with the separate department’s balances.

NHPDIP Summary:  Mrs. Pschirrer had asked for this NHPDIP Summary as of February 1, 2018.

Highway Department:  Mr. Rau has been talking with the engineer from CDL who he has been working with on the design for the Alstead Center Road.  The Department of Environmental Services (DES) wants to have a fish ladder or individual pools on this site.  Both the engineer and Mr. Rau told the DES there are no fish there but the DES commented that if they can find someplace else to put the fish ladder/pools the DES will approve the Alstead Center Road permit.  Mr. Rau and the engineer looked at all the “red-listed” bridge projects in Town and feel the brook at the end of Wentworth Road, known as Houghton Brook, would be appropriate as it has running water and occasionally fish.  The engineer is going to suggest this to the DES.  Mrs. Downing mentioned the CDL Company was recently merged with Fuss O’Neill Company.  Mrs. Pschirrer noted with this new company the engineers might come up with a solution to the School Street drainage problems because this merger will expand their resources.  This new company is aware of grants and will assist in writing the applications.

Eaton Road:  Mr. Dalessio advised the Boy Scout Camp is being used almost every weekend.  It was so icy this past week-end that vehicles could not get in. Therefore they asked if the road could be sanded by the Highway Department.  It is an emergency lane.

Alstead Center Road:  Mr. Dalessio reported the new pavement is coming up close to the store.  The Drewsville Road also has some cracks.  He would like to have Mr.Rau take a look at these roads.

Main Street in North Walpole:  Ms. Mayberry was asked about the plowing on lower Main Street in North Walpole toward Len Tex.   Mrs. Pschirrer felt the big trucks may not be able to get around that well with the closed off road in that area.  She will raise these issues with Mr. Rau and the Highway Department employees tomorrow when she meets with them.

2018 Concerts on the Green:  The Savings Bank of Walpole is asking permission from the Selectboard to hold eight concerts on the Green on consecutive Sunday evenings beginning at 6:30 p.m. and concluding at 8:00 p.m.  The first concert will take place on Sunday, June 24, 2018 and then every Sunday thereafter through August 12, 2018.   They are also requesting the use of the bathroom facilities at the Town Hall be open during the concert each week.

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the use of the Green for the 2018 Concerts on the Green sponsored by the Savings Bank of Walpole.   Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.  

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:

Mr. Dalessio moved to recess this Selectboard meeting.  The Selectboard will enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved at 8:12 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 8:25 PM.

ADJOURNMENT:

Ms. Mayberry moved to adjourn this Selectboard meeting.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 8:25 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

Sarah Downing says that paper copies are also posted around town. – Lil

To the Inhabitants of the Town of Walpole qualified to vote in Town Affairs:

You are hereby notified to meet at the Town Hall, 34 Elm Street, Town of Walpole, on Tuesday, March 13, 2018 at 8:00 A.M. to act on ARTICLES 1 –13. Articles 1, 2 and 3 will be voted on at the polls.  Polls at the Walpole Town Hall and at North Walpole St. Peter’s Church will be open at 8:00 A.M., and will remain open until 7:00 P.M.   Following the closing of the polls and counting of the ballots, the meeting will be adjourned until Saturday, March 17, 2018 at 1:00 P.M., at the Walpole Town Hall on Elm Street, at which time the balance of the Articles will be acted upon.

ARTICE 1:  To elect the necessary Town officers for their respective terms.

ARTICLE 2:   Are you in favor of these amendments to the Detached Accessory Dwelling Unit (DADU) zoning ordinance as proposed by the Walpole Planning Board for the Town of Walpole’s Zoning ordinance as follows:

A Detached Accessory Dwelling Unit is defined as a residential living unit that is with the same single-family lot and provides independent living facilities for one or more persons, including provisions for sleeping, eating, cooking and sanitation on the same parcel of land as the principal unit it accompanies.

1-F No conversions to condominiums and must remain in common ownership.

2- D Only one DADU per lot.

E. Must comply with town ordinances and regulations.

The Planning Board recommends this article. (7 Yes, 0 No)

ARTICLE 3:  Are you in favor of the adoption of the following zoning ordinance as proposed by the Walpole Planning Board to be added to Town of Walpole’s Zoning Ordinance. It allows the Planning Board to make minor correction to ordinances but does not change the intent of the ordinance.

Article IV   General Provisions

Add Section 0

Authority to assign section numbers. The Planning Board has the authority to assign such section numbers to the Zoning Ordinance as it may deem appropriate provided that no substantive change to the ordinance shall occur as a result of this renumbering.

The Planning Board recommends this article. (6 Yes, 0 No)

ARTICLE 4:  To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of four million three hundred thirteen, nine hundred seventy two dollars ($4,313,972) which represents three million seven hundred fourteen thousand, thirty seven dollars ($3,714,037) for Town Operating budget to be raised from general taxation; One hundred eight-seven thousand, seven hundred eighty dollars ($187,780) for the Water Fund Operating Budget and four hundred twelve thousand, one hundred fifty five dollars for the Sewer Operating budget ($412,155) which includes one hundred eighty thousand ($180,000) for bond assessments. Such sum does not include special or individual articles or bonds found in the warrant.

The Selectboard recommends this article. (3 Yes, 0 No, 0 Abstain)

ARTICLE 5:  To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of two hundred thousand dollars ($200,000) for updates, repairs and remodeling of Town buildings and the purchase of a baler for the Walpole Recycling Department. The said funds to come from the Unassigned Fund Balance.

The Selectboard recommends this article. (3 Yes, 0 No, 0 Abstain)

ARTICLE 6:  To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of thirty two thousand dollars ($32,000) for a vehicle for the Walpole Police Department and to authorize the issuance of not more than thirty two thousand dollars through a promissory note with the Savings Bank of Walpole in accordance with the provisions of the Municipal Finance Act (RSA33) and to authorize the municipal officials to issue and negotiate such bonds or other notes and to determine the rate of interest thereon. Further, to raise and appropriate the sum of ten thousand nine hundred seventy-five ($10,975) for the first year’s payment.  The said funds to be raised through general taxation.

**2/3 ballot vote required**3

The Selectboard recommends this article. (3 Yes, 0 No, 0 Abstain)

ARTICLE 7:  To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of fifteen thousand dollars ($15,000) to purchase a cage, console, other necessary equipment and installation in the new police car. This article is contingent upon passing of warrant article 6.  The said funds to be raised through general taxation.

The Selectboard recommends this article. (3 Yes, 0 No, 0 Abstain)

ARTICLE 8:  To see if the Town will vote to change the purpose of the Police Vehicle – Capital Reserve Fund previously established for the “Purpose of a police vehicle” to “Purchase and/or repair of a police vehicle” and to name the Selectboard as agents.

**2/3 ballot vote required**

The Selectboard recommends this article. (3 Yes, 0 No, 0 Abstain)

ARTICLE 9:  To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of five thousand five hundred dollars ($5,500) for a Ductless Fume Hood with HEPA filters to be used at the Walpole Police Department in the handling of drugs. The said funds to be raised through general taxation.

The Selectboard recommends this article. (3 Yes, 0 No, 0 Abstain)

ARTICLE 10:  To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of sixteen thousand five hundred dollars ($16,500) for a Speed Monitoring Sign trailer and accessories to be used by the Town to monitor traffic. The said funds to be raised through general taxation.

The Selectboard recommends this article. (3 Yes, 0 No, 0 Abstain)

ARTICLE 11:  To see if the Town will vote to change the purpose of Town of Walpole Highway – Capital Reserve Fund previously established for the “Purchase of highway equipment” to “Purchase and/or repair of highway department equipment” and to name the Selectboard as agents.

**2/3 ballot vote required**

The Selectboard recommends this article. (3 Yes, 0 No, 0 Abstain)

ARTICLE 12:  To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of fifteen thousand dollars ($15,000) to be deposited in the Town of Walpole Highway – Capitol Reserve Fund Account. The said funds to be raised through general taxation.

The Selectboard recommends this article. (3 Yes, 0 No, 0 Abstain)

ARTICLE 13:  To see if the Town will vote to adopt the provisions of RSA 72:61 through RSA 72:64 inclusively, which provide for an optional property tax exemption from the property’s assessed value, for property tax purposes, for owners of real property, which is equipped with solar energy systems, intended for use at the immediate site. Such property tax exemption shall be in the amount equal to 100% of the assessed value of qualifying equipment under these statutes.

By petition of 25 or more eligible voters in the Town of Walpole, NH

The Selectboard recommends this article. (0 Yes, 0 No, 3 Abstain)

ARTICLE 14:  To transact any other business that may legally come before the meeting.

Given under our hand and seal this 8th day of February the year of our Lord, Two Thousand Eighteen.

Walpole Selectboard

______________________ _____________________ ____________________

Peggy L. Pschirrer, Chair     Steven Dalessio      Cheryl Mayberry

Attest: A True copy.

The Fall Mt. Regional School Dist. (FMRSD) has decided to postpone their budget deliberative session to Thursday night, February 8th at 6:30pm at the Fall Mt. Regional High School.

This meeting now overlaps with the 2018 Town Budget Hearing that begins at 6pm in the Town Hall. It’s going to be a very busy Thursday night for meetings.

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

CALL TO ORDER:  Mrs. Pschirrer called this Selectboard meeting to order at 6:30 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.  She advised this meeting is being recorded and asked anyone wishing to speak to identify themselves for the record.  There was one member of the public in attendance.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Accounts Payable check register in the total amount of $65,712.86 for the checks dated January 26, 2018.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

The above amount includes $55,712.93 for the fourth quarter sewer usage and bond payments to the Village of Bellows Falls.

PAYROLL:

Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Payroll Register for the week ending January 20, 2018, in the amount of $25,226.27 for checks dated January 26, 2018.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $5,138.89 for the week ending January 20, 2018.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – January 18, 2018:  Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting minutes of January 18, 2018, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the Minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – January 18, 2018: Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard session of January 18, 2018, as submitted.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the Minutes were approved.

STAFF MEETING – January 18, 2018:  Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Minutes of the Staff Meeting of January 18, 2018, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the Minutes were approved.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard received and reviewed Minutes of the following meetings:

• North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners Meeting – January 18, 2018;

• Walpole Town Library, Board of Trustees Meeting – January 8, 2018.

PROPERTY TAX ABATEMENTS:

MAP and LOT #019-054-000:  Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Property Tax Abatement in the amount of $227.75.  An interior inspection changed the valuation.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

MAP Pand LOT #005-026-000:  Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the recommendation of Avitar Associates to deny this Property Tax Abatement.  The land value was found to be fair and equitable.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

ALL VETERANS’ TAX CREDITS:

MAP and LOT #029-033-000:  Ms. Mayberry moved to grant the All Veterans’ Tax Credits for Map and Lot #029-033-000 as the applicant qualifies for these credits.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.  

OLD BUSINESS:

Great River Hydro Purchase Order:  Mrs. Pschirrer read this document and asked Mr. Colburn at the Recycling Center to be attentive to the specified time line.

Mr. Dalessio moved to sign the Great River Hydro Purchase Order for up to $2,000 allowed for universal waste disposal at the Recycling Center.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

Revised 2018 Town Budget:  Ms. Mayberry moved to rescind the 2018 Town Budget vote that was taken during the January 4, 2018, Selectboard meeting to accept the amount of $3,714,942.00 without Warrant Articles.  This is due to an error being found in the amount of $905.00.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Revised 2018 Town Budget in the amount of $3,714,037.00.  This figure is $905.00 less than the previous approved budget that was rescinded.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Ms. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

PUBLIC BUSINESS:

Property Tax Credits:  Mr. Gunnerson inquired about the forms that need to be filled out for an elderly property tax exemption. Mr. Dalessio suggested he come into the office to talk to Mrs. Sarah Downing about filling out forms to see if he qualifies for the exemption.

OLD BUSINESS (Continued):

Town Report Cover Samples:  The Selectboard looked at several sample pictures for the Town Report cover and a decision was made.

Town Report Dedication Page:  The Selectboard thought about two options for the Town Report Dedication Page.  Following a lengthy discussion the Selectboard reached a decision.

NEW BUSINESS:

Town of Walpole – Town Meeting – March 17, 2018:  The Selectboard began their review of Warrant Articles 1 – 13.  Articles 1, 2 and 3 will be voted on at the polls.

ARTICLE 1:  To elect the necessary Town Officers for their respective offices.

ARTICLE 2: Are you in favor of these amendments to the Detached Accessory Dwelling Unit (DADU) zoning ordinance as proposed by the Walpole Planning Board for the Town of Walpole’s Zoning ordinance as follows:

A Detached Accessory Dwelling Unit is defined as a residential living unit that is with the same single-family lot and provides independent living facilities for one or more persons, including provisions for sleeping, eating, cooking and sanitation on the same parcel of land as the principal unit it accompanies.

1-F No conversions to condominiums and must remain in common ownership.

2-D Only one DADU per lot.

E. Must comply with town ordinances and regulations.

The Planning Board recommends this article.  (7 Yes, 0 No)

ARTICLE 3: Are you in favor of the adoption of the following zoning ordinance as proposed by the Walpole Planning Board to be added to Town of Walpole’s Zoning Ordinance.  It allows the Planning Board to make minor correction to ordinances but does not change the intent of the ordinance.

Article IV  General Provisions

Add Section 0

Authority to assign section numbers.  The Planning Board has the authority to assign such section

numbers to the Zoning Ordinance as it may deem appropriate provided that no substantive change to the ordinance shall occur as a result of this renumbering.

The Planning Board recommends this article.  (7 Yes, 0 No)

There was a consensus of the Selectboard to forward Articles 2 and 3 to Attorney Hockensmith for his comments.  The Selectboard questioned why only six members voting; the Selectboard Liaison also has voting authority on the Planning Board.

ARTICLE 4: To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of four million three hundred thirteen, nine hundred seventy two dollars ($4,313,972) which represents three million seven hundred fourteen thousand, thirty seven dollars ($3,714,037) for Town Operating budget to be raised from general taxation.  One hundred eight-seven thousand, seven hundred eighty dollars ($187,780) for the Water Fund Operating Budget and four hundred twelve thousand, one hundred fifty five dollars for the Sewer Operating budget ($412,155) which includes one hundred eighty thousand ($180,000) for bond assessments.  Such sum does not include special or individual articles or bonds found in the warrant.

The Selectboard recommends this article. (____ Yes, ____ No, ____Abstain)

Ms. Mayberry moved to accept Article 4 with the dollar change from $3,714,942, minus $905, for a total of $3,714,027.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

ARTICLE 5: To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of two hundred thousand dollars ($200,000) for updates, repairs and remodeling of Town buildings and the purchase of a baler for the Walpole Recycling Department.  The said funds to come from the Unassigned Fund Balance.

The Selectboard recommends this article.  (____Yes, _____No, ____ Abstain)

Ms. Mayberry moved to accept Article 5 pending the approval of the Department of Revenue Administration. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

ARTICLE 6:  To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of thirty two thousand dollars ($32,000) for a vehicle for the Walpole Police Department and to authorize the issuance of not more than thirty two thousand dollars through a promissory note with the Savings Bank of Walpole in accordance with the provisions of the Municipal Finance Act (RSA33) and to authorize the municipal officials to issue and negotiate such bonds or other notes and to determine the rate of interest thereon.  Further, to raise and appropriate the sum of ten thousand nine hundred seventy-five ($10,975) for the first year’s payment.  The said funds to be raised through general taxation.

**2/3 ballot vote required**

The Selectboard recommends this article.  (____  Yes, ____ No, ____ Abstain)

Mr. Dalessio moved to accept Article 6 as written.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

ARTICLE 7:  To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of fifteen thousand dollars ($15,000) to purchase a cage, console, other necessary equipment and installation in the new police car.  This article is contingent upon passing of warrant article 6.  The said funds to be raised through general taxation.

The Selectboard recommends this article.  (_____ Yes, ____ No, ____ Abstain)

Mr. Dalessio moved to accept Article 7 as written.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

ARTICLE 8:  To see if the Town will vote to change the purpose of the Police Vehicle – Capital Reserve Fund previously established for the “Purchase of a police vehicle” to “Purchase and/or repair of a police vehicle” and to allow the Selectboard to access these funds in cases of emergency without a town meeting vote but rather with two public hearings on the matter.  Reference: RSA 35:16.

**2/3 ballot vote required**

The Selectboard recommends this article.  (____ Yes, ____ No, ____ Abstain)

Mr. Dalessio moved to accept Article 8 as written.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

ARTICLE 9:  To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of five thousand five hundred dollars ($5,500) for a Ductless Fume Hood with HEPA filters to be used at the Walpole Police Department in the handling of drugs.  The said funds to be raised through general taxation.

The Selectboard recommends this article.  (____ Yes, ____ No, ____Abstain)

Mr. Dalessio moved to accept Article 9 as written.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

ARTICLE 10:  To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of sixteen thousand five hundred dollars ($16,500) for a Speed Monitoring Sign trailer and accessories to be used by the Town to monitor traffic.  The said funds to be raised through general taxation.

The Selectboard recommends this article.  (____ Yes, ____ No, ____ Abstain)

Ms. Mayberry moved to accept Article 10 as written.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

ARTICLE 11:  To see if the Town will vote to change the purpose of Town of Walpole Highway – Capital Reserve Fund previously established for the “Purchase of highway equipment” to “Purchase and/or repair of highway department equipment” and to allow the Selectboard to access these funds in cases of emergency without a town meeting vote but rather with two public hearings on the matter.  Reference: RSA 35:16

**2/3 ballot vote required**

The Selectboard recommends this article.  (____ Yes, ____ No, ____ Abstain)

Mr. Dalessio moved to accept Article 11 as written.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

ARTICLE 12: “To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of fifteen thousand dollars ($15,000) to be deposited in the Town of Walpole Highway – Capital Reserve Fund Account.  The said funds to be raised through general taxation.

The Selectboard recommends this article.  (____ Yes, ____ No, ____ Abstain)

Ms. Mayberry moved to accept Article 12 as written.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

ARTICLE 13:  To see if the Town will vote to adopt the provisions of RSA 72:61 through RSA 72:64 inclusively, which provide for an optional property tax exemption from the property’s assessed value, for property tax purposes, for owners of real property, which is equipped with solar energy systems, intended for use at the immediate site.  Such property tax exemption shall be in the amount equal to 100% of the assessed value of qualifying equipment under these statutes.

By petition of 25 or more eligible voters in the Town of Walpole, NH.

The Selectboard recommends this article. (____ Yes, ____ No, ____ Abstain)

Mr. Dalessio moved to accept this Article 13 as submitted by Petition.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Mr. Dalessio, Mrs. Pschirrer and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

Ms. Mayberry moved to abstain from voting on Article 13 as written.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

Ms. Mayberry moved that the Selectboard accept these Warrant Articles pending the approval of the Department of Revenue Administration and the Town Attorney, Jeremy Hockensmith.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

NEW BUSINESS (Continued):

New Web Site:  Mr. Ryan Harrison has asked to meet with the Selectboard but prefers to wait until the website is finished. There was a consensus to schedule the meeting in a couple of weeks.

NH Department of Transportation (DOT) Municipal Work Zone Agreement: The Selectboard acknowledged of a letter from the DOT regarding their development of a roadway resurfacing project.  The project will include 23.3 miles of road, divided into 8 separate segments located in the towns of Keene, Walpole, Jaffrey, Peterborough, Bennington, Antrim, Litchfield and Hudson.  Within Walpole, the project begins on NH 12 approximately 1 mile north of the southern NH 123 intersection, and extends 3.2 miles north to a pavement joint approximately 500’ south of Main St in North Walpole.  The work will consist primarily of placing a ¾” pavement shim on the existing roadway surface.  Depending on field conditions, this project may skip the road segment at the recently completed railroad crossing at Vilas Bridge Road.  This project will be advertised on February 27th, 2018 and construction is expected to occur between the spring and fall of 2018.  A pre-construction meeting, to which the Towns will be invited, will be held by the Contractors prior to the start of construction.  The main objective of the project is to improve existing driving surfaces; however, it is anticipated that some minor drainage, guardrail, signage, and striping improvements will also be included.

Mr. Dalessio moved to sign the NH Department of Transportation Municipal Work Zone Agreement for the paving of Route 12.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

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.  Mr. Dalessio seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved at 7:46 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 8:10 PM.

Ms. Mayberry moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of January 25, 2018, be sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:

Ms. Mayberry moved to recess this Selectboard meeting.  The Selectboard will enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees.   Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved at 8:11 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 8:22 PM.

ADJOURNMENT:  

Ms. Mayberry moved to adjourn this Selectboard meeting.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 8:22 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

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

CALL TO ORDER:  Mrs. Pschirrer called this Hooper Trustees meeting to order at 8:11 PM.

HOOPER TRUSTEES MINUTES:

HOOPER TRUSTEES MEETING – January 18, 2018:  Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Minutes of the Hooper Trustees meeting of January 18, 2018, as submitted.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the minutes were approved.

OLD BUSINESS:

Hooper Mansion:  Mrs. Pschirrer will be meeting with an antique dealer tomorrow.  Hopefully he will take the dishes and other miscellaneous items that did not sell.  Mr. Paul Colburn at the Recycling Center will accept the mattresses. The Hooper Maintenance Fund will pay for this.

NON-PUBLIC HOOPER TRUSTEES SESSION:

Mr. Dalessio moved to enter into a Non-Public Hooper Trustees Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (d) Acquisition, Sale or Lease of Real or Personal Property.  Ms. Mayberry seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved at 8:16 PM.

The regular Hooper Trustees meeting resumed at 8:21 PM.

Mr. Dalessio moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Hooper Trustees Session of January 25, 2018, be sealed.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

ADJOURNMENT:

Mr. Dalessio moved to adjourn this Hooper Trustees meeting.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 8:22 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

Virginia Carter put in her thinking cap and came up with some terrific ideas of people to be included. Now someone has to get the pictures to Sarah Downing. – Lil

The “Walpole Community Christmas Fund” — 3 to 4 Walpole churches fundraise annually (usually taking a collection at the ecumenical service on Thanksgiving) and also place “giving trees” throughout the community to support those in need with Christmas presents for the whole family, as well as financial support for food, clothing, rent deposits, heating fuel, and auto gas.  The fund was managed and facilitated by the Unitarian Church for many years, but now I believe the Episcopal church has taken the lead.  Our ecumenical youth group and Girl Scouts have done the legwork on and off, but I’m not sure who is currently spearheading the actual legwork.

Another thought was the work of the “Walpole Old Home Days Committee.”

Another thought was all the volunteers who bring meals to Walpole residents from the Alstead Fall Mtn. kitchen and also the Meals on Wheels up in BF.

And who coordinates the Walpole Memorial Day Parade and the 4th of July parade?

Sarah Downing has a special request. Can you help her? – Lil

Hello all:  This e-mail request is being sent to all appointed Town of Walpole board/commission/committee members along with civic group contacts for photos. The inside front cover of the 2018 Town Report will be dedicated to those who donate time, services and/or improvements for the Town of Walpole. There are two groups that will be included in the dedication which are:

Appointed Town Committee/Board/Committee members (non-elected)

• Recreation Committee and Sports Team Coaches

• Conservation Commission

• Health Officer—Chuck Shaw

• WRAP Committee and Recycling Dept. Volunteers

• Hooper Scholarship Committee

• Hooper Institute Committee

Civic and Social Groups

• Cub and Boy Scouts

• Girl Scouts

• Historical Society

• Women of Walpole

• Walpole Community Grange

• Friends of Hooper

• Friends of the Library

• Walpole Seniors

• American Legion

• Walpole Players

• Society for Bringing to Justice Horse Thieves and Pilferers

• North Walpole Park Volunteers

• 4-H Clubs: Pinnacle View and Robotics

• Website Design—Ryan Harrison

• Walpolean—Lil Decosta

The deadline is Feb. 9th for submitting photos.

If there is a group or person who you believe should be on the list, do let us know. We have done our best to create a comprehensive list. And, if there are any questions, do not hesitate to contact me.

Sarah

Selectboard Office

756-3672

TOWN OF WALPOLE

STAFF MEETING

JANUARY 18, 2018

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

Staff Present: Sarah Downing (Manager of Administration); Rich Kreissle (Manager of Finance); Police Chief Michael Paquette (Police Department); Michael Rau (Highway Department); Sandra Smith (Town Clerk/Tax Collector); Justin Cassarino (Recreation Department); Eloise Clark (Hooper Institute); Paul Colburn (Recycling Center);

Call to Order:  Mrs. Pschirrer called this Staff meeting to order at 5:00 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.  She advised this meeting is being recorded.  Justine Fafara, Walpole Library, was not present.

Highway Department:  Mr. Mike Rau, Highway Superintendent, provided the following report for the period of December 22, 2017 to January 17, 2918.  Most of their work has been weather related; normal wear-and-tear problems.

• Serviced trucks and equipment;

• Snow removal in Walpole on January 10, 2018;

• Snow removal in North Walpole on January 16, 2018;

• Fixed sidewalk snow blower;

• Fixed diesel pumps;

• For two days prepared for heavy rain fall on January 12, 2018;

• There were no wash-outs but they are looking at a few areas where people had water running

down their driveways; water was not going into the ditches.

• Fixed loader wing;

• Fixed truck #7 wing cable;

• Sand mixing;

• Winter weather callouts on:

December 22 December 23

December 24 December 25

January 4 January 5

January 17

• Did snow removal on corners for better visibility.

Ms. Mayberry had some compliments on how well the roads were plowed and taken care of.  The roads were better than some surrounding towns.

Recycling Center:  Mr. Paul Colburn, Recycling Center Supervisor, made the following report for the month of December 2017.  He explained the figures on the “3 Year Comparison to Recyclables”.  In past years they did not get paid for recyclables until after a delivery was made but now the Town gets paid on delivery.   The “Daily Weight Report and 3 Year to Date Comparison” was reviewed.  The Annual Forecast was for 387.00/tons and the Annual Estimate was 357.56/ton.  Two thousand and seventeen was pretty consistent with other years but the markets faded toward the end of the year; it is fluttering right now.  Their biggest commodity is cardboard and they are getting a good price.  Metals are bringing a good price.  They have a high grade of recyclables.

Keeping up with everything during and after the snow and rain storms is a challenge.  The line between their well and building froze solid.  It took a long time to thaw it out.  Since 2005 this is the first time this happened.  Commercial recyclables came in last month from nine local businesses and the schoo

Mr. Colburn thanked the Highway Department for sand; it serves the public by keeping them in a safe place.  Next year he would like to buy a sander so they can do it themselves as soon as it is needed.  They had an issue with tires but took care of that as they were able to buy an almost new set at a significant saving.  He handed in a purchase order from the Great River Hydro Electric Company. They wish to buy services (bring items to the Recycling Center) for up to $2,000 of recyclable components.  Mrs. Pschirrer will read the document before authorizing the signing.

Town Clerk/Tax Collector Office:  Mrs. Sandy Smith, Town Clerk/Tax Collector, presented the following report dated January 18, 2018.

The Town Clerk has collected approximately $42,813.00.  They have processed one boat renewal, one marriage license and sold 27 dog licenses.  January is always slow.

Several transactions have involved credit cards; people are just learning that they offer this option.  Customers do love the “one check” system.  This saves time and checks.  Rich is doing a great job transferring the funds to the State.  Jodi has also done this when Rich is not available.

As Tax Collector she collected $360,530.52 from December 21st, 2017 to January 16th, 2018.  $4,818.35 was collected in interest; of this amount $1,631.80 was collected on the Fall billing.  The due date for taxes was December 18th.  People are still paying; she collected $120,926.20 on the fall taxes on Tuesday.  Their total uncollected is only $725,596.97.  This includes water and sewer and liens.

Thursday, January 11th she printed the Delinquent Letters and “Barrington” notices.  She then took home the address stamps, our “forever” stamps, envelopes, and both notices and took home to stuff them and be ready to mail them on Tuesday.  She worked most of the day Monday on them and put them in the mail Tuesday morning.  Next month she will do this again with the “Intent to Lien” notices.  When these notices are received, people come in and pay and it also generates lots of questions.  The “Barrington” notice mentions “bankruptcy” and it can stir people up.

She also worked on the notice for the Keene Sentinel, advertising the filing period for Town Officers.  The first day of filing is January 24th and ends on February 2nd.  They have to be open 3-5 p.m. on the last day of filing, per State law.  She will send a copy to Ray Boas for the Clarion and post copies at the Town Hall and near the post office.

Hooper Institute:  Mrs. Eloise Clark, Director, reported the following.  It was a good year to turn off the heat and water at the Institute.  She just runs in to check on things, pick up necessary items and leaves as soon as possible.  Both she and Ms. Becky Whippie are back working in the schools.  There have been a number of snow days.

Topics in the schools at this time of the year that Mrs. Clark works on are Forestry including forest ecology and forest management.  Ms. Becky Whippie has been working on forest products with the intention of having visits later in the winter, for example, at the saw mill.  Other topics that fit into this time of the year are “Animals in Winter”.  Ms. Whippie has been working on animal tracks and field guides.  Mrs. Clark is doing adaptations of mammals and birds to winter weather.  Mrs. Clark is also doing administrative work.

Finance Office:  Mr. Rich Kreissle, Manager of Finance, distributed copies of the “2018 Payroll Taxes – What You Should Know” and “Budget Perspectives” plus “A Word About Financing the Budget”. Mr. Kreisler reportted that recently the most significant changes to the tax code since 1986 were signed into law.  Among the many changes are significant changes to the payroll tax tables.

1. The new tax tables have been released.  The accounting software vendor, AccuFund, has released those tables and was updated in our system prior to this week’s payroll.  Therefore, employees’ withholding will reflect these new calculations.

2. As a result of the Trump Administration wanting Americans to see the effect of these new tables, the Treasury Department, who oversees the IRS, issued the new tables without being able to reformulate form W-4.

a. Form W-4 is the form used to determine the number of withholdings when calculating how much income tax is withheld from individual’s paychecks.

3. The new tables are based upon withholding calculations under the old W-4 calculation.

4. This may result in employees over-withholding income tax from their pay checks (in which case a refund results) or under-withholding (in which case a tax liability results at year end).

5. The higher your yearly income is the more you’ll want to be sure that their withholding is correct.  This is especially true if you use IRS Schedule A – Itemize Deductions.

6. Sometime in February, the IRS will release an online tax calculator so individuals can calculate what their withholding allowance should be and have a reasonable assurance that they are withholding a proper amount.

7. As was true in the past, it is the responsibility of the individual to make sure that they are withholding the proper amount.

8. For further information and detail is available online by searching “2018 Tax Reform”.

Mr. Dalessio encouraged those who use a professional tax preparer to check with them before making any changes.

Relative to the 2018 Budget, Mr. Kreissle prepared a Budget Perspective as follows:

• 2018 Total Proposed Budget $3,714,942

• Total Proposed Wages $1,357,177

• Total Proposed Benefits   $586,568

• Total Proposed Taxes     $80,851

• Total Proposed Required Costs   $233,133*

• Total Proposed Discretionary Costs $1,457,213

*Costs needed to keep the doors open; Insurances, Telephone, Electricity, Fuel, etc. (Non-Discretionary-Non-Labor Costs).  Whatever is left after this is Discretionary Spending.

Mr. Kreissle prepared charts of:

• 2018 Labor Costs Breakout:  Wages 67.03%; Benefits 28.97%; Taxes 3.99%

• 2018 Labor Cost – Percentage of Budget: Wages 36.53%; Benefits 15.79%; Taxes 2.18%

• 2018 Budget Breakdown Labor, Required, Discretionary: Labor 54.50%, Discretionary 39.23%; Required 6.28%

In 2017, $12,994,972.61 of cash was disbursed by the town.  The vast majority of this money came in through property taxes.  Of these funds, $8,552,175.64 was disbursed to the Walpole Fire District, the North Walpole Village District, Cheshire County, and the Fall Mountain Regional School District.  This leaves a balance of $4,442,796.97 to be put toward the Town’s operating budget.

Every town in NH has on file with the Department of Revenue Administration (DRA) an amount listed as their “Unassigned Fund Balance”.  This can be best viewed as a “rainy day fund” to be used either in case of emergencies (a major flood situation) or to reduce taxes for any given year.  The larger the balance the more pleased the DRA is.  This balance accumulates based upon the comparison between budgeted expenditures versus actual expenditures.  It’s the excess cash flow of a town for a given year.

The three year trend is going up in Walpole; it is positive.  They have consistently been spending less than budgeted.  Mrs. Pschirrer mentioned in the next few years the Town will need to make significant infrastructure repairs such as the bridges.  We have an aging water system in the center of town.  The Town is healthier with a good Unassigned Fund Balance.

When Mr. Kreissle came onboard, all the Town’s funds were in the Savings Bank of Walpole.  After Mr. Tom Goins became the Town Treasurer, Mr. Kreissle talked to him about the cash flow. Mr. Goins did research on investing excess cash.  Now we transfer excess cash to the NH PDIP which is a pool of investments for municipalities.  We have been able to earn $25,000 in interest this past year.  By doing this, the Town’s money is safer.  Mrs. Pschirrer noted on each tax bill it states what percentage is going to the County, the Fire District, the North Walpole tax rate and the Fall Mountain Region School District.  Next year the County tax will be higher because they will begin work on Maplewood.  It could go up as much as $50/per person.  The FMRSD tax will be going up.  Every employee should understand how the Town is working and what they are doing.  It is taxpayers’ money.  Mrs. Pschirrer feels they should use pieces of this report at Town Meeting.

Police Department:  Police Chief Mike Paquette, distributed copies of their monthly report for December 2017.  The total number of calls for service in 2016 was 4,023.  In 2017 it was 4,358; following is the break-down.

• Public Safety Calls:

Emergency Calls – 460 Administration – 614 Citizen Assists – 670

• Motor Vehicles Calls:

Accidents – 115 MV Stops – 1,177 Traffic Safety – 260

• Criminal Investigations:

Drugs/Alcohol – 248   Crimes Against a Person – 670    Crimes Against Property-264

Chief Paquette reported Lt. Justin Sanctuary is working with Keene Mutual Aid on the Swift Water Rescue Team as they are short of people.  Walpole has three members.  They will be doing an ice dive in a couple of weeks on a weekend.  This is a good viable thing; other departments are looking at it.  He had submitted pictures of the tree damage from a neighboring property and is waiting for an estimate to repair.  Back in 2000 the department gave three false alarm responses; after that they would bill the company $25.00.  He handed in a revised policy for the Selectboard to review and, if adopted, the Police will respond to four false alarms per year for free; one per each quarter of the year. After that they will bill $175/for call. They will not charge during a storm because sometimes there are power outages, etc. If this policy is approved, the Police Department will do a mailing to all businesses and residences in town with alarms.

Chief Paquette received a copy of the Claremont Contractual Employee’s Agreement for review.  He will make some changes and present it to the Selectboard for their consideration.  Everything is going well.  By the last week of February they expect to have a potential hire who will attend the Police Academy in April.  After this revised agreement is received, the Selectboard will send it to their employment attorney.

Mrs. Pschirrer noted the Selectboard received some amendments to the Route 12 project.  New maps were received.  They have not indicated when it will start.  Chief Paquette reported they set the pay rate.  In March Chief Paquette plus anyone else who has not previously attended a “Flag Instructor Course” will go to it.  The cruiser was ordered but it is contingent on the budget being passed.  They will be doing more patrols in the Village.

Walpole Recreation Department:  Mr. Justin Cassarino distributed copies of his report dated January 18, 2018.

Basketball:

• All four teams are participating in the Westminster Tournament starting tonight:

Two grade 3 / 4 teams (one boys and one girls)

Two grade 5 / 6 teams (two boys)

• Tournament starts on Thursday and finishes up on Saturday.

Tennis:

• They met on Sunday, January 14, 2018, to discuss the tennis backboard request.

• No one that supported the backboard attended the meeting.

They had one email to express their interest in us purchasing one for the park with an example of what they would like.

• The committee decided to table to request because there were a lot of questions that were not able to be answered.

Pool:

• Received the list for classes/trainings on how to manage, take care, and run a pool.

They agreed that this will be a requirement for the new pool manager.

• When can they post the position to the public?

Relative to posting the pool manager position, Mrs. Pschirrer recommended they wait until after the budget is voted on.  It would be after March 17th.

Selectboard Office:  Mrs. Downing, Manager of Administration, made the following report dated January 18, 2017.

Assessing Update:

• The last day to submit abatement applications is March 1st per RSA.

• Veterans’ Tax Credit, Elderly and Blind Exemption application forms will be accepted up through April 15th.

Water and Sewer:

• Meter readings are currently occurring.  Bills will be posted before the end of January.

Town Hall Facilities:

• Falling Snow warning signs were purchased and placed by the sidewalk in front of the Town Hall.

• The Town Hall elevator has been repaired by Otis Elevator.  The magnets were out of alignment.

Town Report:

• Various reports are flowing in.  One set of reminders has been sent to those who have not sent in their document.

• A nice selection of photos has been submitted for the Town Meeting slideshow.  Additional photos are always welcome from departments and committees.

2018 Public Hearing on the 2018 Town Budget and Warrant:  Mrs. Pschirrer advised the Public Hearing on the 2018 Town Budget and Warrant is scheduled for February 8, 2018, at 6:00 PM in the Town Hall.

Mrs. Pschirrer thanked all the Department Managers for the great jobs they are doing.  People are reading the minutes of these meetings and making comments.  This is public information so the minutes of meetings do get posted.  People are paying more attention to what is happening in the town.

Adjournment:  Mrs. Pschirrer closed this Staff Meeting at 6:08 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

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

CALL TO ORDER:  Mrs. Pschirrer called this Hooper Trustees meeting to order at 7:11 PM.

HOOPER TRUSTEES MINUTES:

HOOPER TRUSTEES MEETING – January 11, 2018:  Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Minutes of the Hooper Trustees meeting of January 11, 2018, as submitted.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the Minutes were approved.

NEW BUSINESS:

Transfer of Funds:  Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the transfer of funds from the Hooper 1Trust to the Town of Walpole in the amount of $4,617.90.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Ms. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS:

Hooper Institute:  The Hooper Trustees reviewed the budget submitted by the Hooper Institute.

Hooper Mansion:  Mrs. Pschirrer spent time last Tuesday with Ms. Sharon Boccelli and helpers moving some furniture and books out of the Mansion that will sell at an auction in March.  Mrs. Pschirrer has the list of items removed.  There is still some furniture and miscellaneous items left.  She made contact with another person who does auctions; it is expected he will take most of the remaining items.  Mr. Kevin Healy is cleaning out mattresses, etc.  Mr. Sheehan submitted a list of furniture he will purchase.

ADJOURNMENT:

Mr. Dalessio moved to adjourn this Hooper Trustees meeting.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 7:18 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary