The Walpolean

Andrea from Village Blooms (not Country Flowers as I previously called it) called to ask me to mention that she is having an Open House from 12:00 to 5:00 on Saturday.  Snacks, special gifts and a drawing will be part of the shopping stop. – Lil

TOWN OF WALPOLE
MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD
NOVEMBER 13, 2014

Selectboard Present: Chas Street (Chair); Whitney Aldrich, Steven Dalessio

CALL TO ORDER: Mr. Street called this meeting of the Selectboard to order at 6:00 PM in the Walpole Town Hall. He advised that this meeting is being tape recorded and asked anyone wishing to speak to identify themselves for the record. There were six people in attendance.
These are unapproved Minutes.

PUBLIC BUSINESS:
GRANITE STATE RURAL WATER ASSOCIATION: Mrs. Jennifer Palmiotto, Executive Director, and Andrew Madison were present. Mrs. Palmiotto advised that they have what they call a “circuit rider” they spend a lot of time in the Town of Walpole and working with Mr. Mark Houghton and his staff. They assist with looking at the water and wastewater distribution system, regulations, mapping, source water help, etc. They also do work in North Walpole. There is a lot of history. Walpole has been a member of their association since 2005. Granite State Rural Water Association was previously the Northeast Rural Water Association. Lobbying is done at the State and Federal level on behalf of water and wastewater systems. The systems in Walpole are getting older and sources of funding are drying up therefore they are lobbying and hopeful to establish a Water Trust Fund. They have a Democratic sponsor who happens to be Senator Martha Fuller Clark and they are working with Senator Sanbornton.
They are here tonight to officially congratulate the Town of Walpole Water and Wastewater Department for winning their first drinking water taste test. They presented a plaque to Mr. Mark Houghton. This is the first time they did the contest; there were thirteen entries. The judges were from the EPA, Sarah Pillsbury, who is the administrator for drinking water and ground water at the NH DES, and the USDA Rural Development. Walpole won and it is pretty special. Walpole now qualifies to enter into the Great American Taste Test which takes place in Washington, DC. Mrs. Palmiotto will go to Washington, DC and hopes someone representing Walpole with a water sample will go. Mr. Houghton pointed out that they have lobbied for Granite State Rural Water Association over the years for funding as he cannot stress how important this funding and resource is. The services they get from Granite State Rural Water Association far surpass the annual dues of $250.00. Mr. Houghton said this is truly an honor. The Town of Walpole has old infrastructure, some of it was put in in 1902; we have been fortunate in the past but there are problems.
Mrs. Palmiotto presented Mr. Houghton with the “2014 Best Tasting Drinking Water in the State of New Hampshire to the Town of Walpole” plaque.

RECYCLING CENTER – Paul Colburn: Mr. Colburn distributed and explained the “Daily Weight Report and Five Year to Date Comparison” report. This is for the recycling in the month of October in comparison for the past five years for the same month. It should be noted that this year out of the five years is the only year they did not weigh the glass because of their new system. From history it was about 120,000/pounds a year. This is the lowest month of the five years.
Mr. Colburn also distributed and explained the “2014 Summary Monthly Comparison – 10th Month Ending October 31, 2014” which is the revenue side. The totals are down in part because the vendor is paying different on the returnables. Instead of paying as they take the returnables (about every two weeks) they are now paying by check every quarter. With returnables it will be about even. Some months are better than others. Markets are down but plastics are up.
Mr. Colburn is thankful for the volunteers. Recently he had a young person at the facility for a half day to learn the process and to do some hands-on work. He now knows there is more to the job than just taking away the yellow bags. It was a project for him. He also has a volunteer that comes once a week from school with an aide who does various jobs. Mr. Dalessio felt this type of volunteer work would make a good article to put in the Walpole Clarion.
The re-use clothes took in $3,273.00 which is up about $500.00 from the last report. The clothes are now being tagged with a minimum amount plus the quality of the clothes has been better.
He turned in his proposed budget. They are looking Warrant Articles; one will be for the burn pit. Mr. Taylor looked at it and they talked about doing some work; Mr. Colburn is waiting for a price. The burn pit has been there for a long time; it is now time to move ahead and make the repairs.
Mr. Colburn reported that their mixed paper has been in gaylords but they have had problems with that so they are looking at other alternatives and possibly baling paper. They would have more vendors if they could bale it however they have about a year’s supply of gaylords. The budget will have more lines in it next year because of the glass. Tire disposal goes through the NRA.
The Recycling Center has about 60 volunteers. The Selectboard approved having Mr. Colburn use the stipend to do something for the volunteers in recognition of their service. There was discussion relative to inviting the regular volunteers to the Employee Appreciation Dinner on Saturday, December 20th. Mr. Colburn will refer making the list to the WRAP Committee.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:
Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register and manifest in the amount of $31,392.31 for checks dated November 14, 2014. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

PAYROLL:
Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Payroll voucher for the week ending November 8, 2014, in the amount of $19,295.94 for checks dated November 14, 2014. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.
Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the electronic transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI, and FICA taxes in the amount of $4,244.38 for the week ending November 8, 2014. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:
SELECTBOARD MEETING – November 6, 2014: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of November 6, 2014, as submitted. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.
NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – November 6, 2014: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of November 6, 2014, as submitted. The Minutes will remain sealed. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:
The Selectboard received and reviewed Minutes of the following meetings:
 Planning Board – November 11, 2014;
Selectboard Meeting –November 13, 2014- Page 3
 Recreation Committee – November 10, 2014; and
 North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners – November 11, 2014.

NOTICE OF INTENT TO CUT WOOD OR TIMBER:
CASERTA, Wentworth Road, Map & Lot #005-001-000: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Notice of Intent to Cut Wood or Timber, No. 14-461-13-T, for Charles Caserta, as submitted. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

TIMBER TAX LEVY WARRANT & CERTIFICATION OF YIELD TAXES ASSESSED:
LANE CONSTRUCTION, Whitcomb Road, Map & Lot #014-013-000 and Map & Lot #015-011-000: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Timber Tax Levy Warrant for Lane Construction, for Map & Lot #014-013-000 and Map & Lot #015-011-000 for a total of $4,241.71. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

LANE CONSTRUCTION, Whitcomb Road, Map & Lot #014-013-000: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Certification of Yield Taxes Assessed in the amount of $2,613.96 for Lane Construction. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

LANE CONSTRUCTION, Whitcomb Road, Map & Lot #015-011-000: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Certification of Yield Taxes Assessed in the amount of $1,627.75 for Lane Construction. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SUPPLEMENTAL TIMBER TAX LEVY WARRANT:
FAULKNER, Priest Road, Map & Lot #003-003-000, Cut #13-461-05-T: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Supplemental Timber Tax Levy Warrant for Windgate Woodland Associates, William Faulkner, in the amount of $1,434.91. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

TROW, County Road, Map & Lot #005-031-003, Cut #13-461-11-T: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Supplemental Timber Tax Levy Warrant for Rick Trow and Judy Trow, in the amount of $150.27. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

RICCI, March Hill, Map & Lot #009-012-002-001, Cut #13-461-04-T: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Supplemental Timber Tax Levy Warrant for Chris Ricci in the amount of $38.05. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

NEW BUSINESS:
TAX RATE: Mrs. Clough distributed copies of the unofficial Tax Rate that the Selectboard reviewed. She contacted Jamie Dow at the Department of Revenue Administration for confirmation. There was discussion relative to the Fund Balance and how much should be retained. The State recommends retaining between $700,000 and $800,000. Mr. Dalessio pointed out that a portion of the Town’s taxes is used to offset the School District. Mr. Aldrich noted that the school population is going down therefore the State gives the Town less money.
Mr. Aldrich moved to retain the Fund Balance at $750,000. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With all in favor, the motion was approved.
Mr. Aldrich moved to authorize the Selectboard Chair to sign the Overlay and Budgetary Fund Balance Retention form. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With all in favor, the motion was approved.
Mr. Dalessio moved that the Selectboard will come into the office on an individual basis to sign the Tax Warrant when completed. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

BUDGET MEETINGS: There was a consensus of the Selectboard to set dates for budget meetings when Mr. Kriessele thinks the department budgets are finalized. Mr. Kriessele will be asked to email the Selectboard with dates and times (early morning is preferred). Mrs. Clough was asked to contact Jamie Dow at the DRA relative to the Warrant Article for the Wellhead Protection Ordinance; can it be done in one Article or will two be required.

OSJL REQUEST: Ocean State Job Lots is requesting that the Selectboard allow their store in the Ames Plaza be open from 7:00 AM on Thursday, November 27th through 11:00 PM on Friday, November 28th for their Black Friday sales.
Mr. Aldrich moved to allow the Ocean State Job Lots to extend their operating hours on November 27th and 28th, 2014, as requested. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS:
AVITAR MAPPING: Mr. Dalessio recommended that a meeting be scheduled with Chad at Avitar Associates as soon as possible, in the evening, to work on the mapping.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION:
Mr. Aldrich moved to enter into a Non-Public Selectboard Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (e) Pending Claims or Litigation. Mr. Dalessio seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with all in favor, the motion was approved at 7:28 PM.
The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:36 PM. No announcements were made.

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:
Mr. Aldrich moved to recess this Selectboard meeting. The Selectboard will enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With all in favor, the motion was approved.
The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 8:12 PM.

ADJOURNMENT:
Mr. Dalessio moved to adjourn this Selectboard meeting. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved at 8:14 PM.

Respectfully submitted,
Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

TOWN OF WALPOLE
MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD
OCTOBER 16, 2014

Selectboard Present: Chas Street (Chair); Whitney Aldrich, Steven Dalessio

CALL TO ORDER: Mr. Street called this meeting to order at 8:00 AM in the Walpole Town Hall with five people in attendance.
These are unapproved Minutes.

PUBLIC BUSINESS:
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register and manifest for checks dated October 17, 2014, in the amount of $524,889.65. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.
The above amount includes a monthly payment in the amount of $460,493.39 to the Fall Mountain Regional School District.

PAYROLL:
Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the payroll voucher for the week ending October 11, 2014, for checks dated October 17, 2014, in the amount of $21,568.11. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Dalesssio moved to approve the electronic transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $4,881.62, for checks dated October 17, 2014. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:
SELECTBOARD MEETING – October 9, 2014: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of October 9, 2014, with one correction on page 1 under Recycling Center: “it takes 1,000 years rather than hours to break that bag down”. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – October 9, 2014: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of October 9, 2014, as submitted. The Minutes will remain sealed. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:
The Selectboard received and reviewed Minutes of the following meetings:
 Trustees of Trust Funds – September 22, 2014; and
 Conservation Commission – October 6, 2014.
With regards to the Conservation Commission, Mr. Dalessio was asked by a member to have a copy of the Conservancy Easement on the Hooper Property. Mr. Street and Mr. Aldrich felt it would be best to wait until the Hooper Trustees receive the next draft copy as changes were made to the previous draft.

BUILDING PERMIT:
NEW HAMPSHIRE PUBLIC TV/VERIZON WIRELESS, Scovill Road, Map & Lot #003-082-000:
Mr. Dalessio advised that there is a Communications Ordinance therefore he recommended that this go before the Planning Board for a review because there is a change to the cell tower. It is commercial and the estimated cost is $80,000. Following a discussion it was agreed to approve this Building Permit as it was to only add equipment on the existing tower.

Mr. Dalessio moved to approve Building Permit #2014-35 for the New Hampshire Public TV / Verizon Wireless to add equipment to the telecommunication towers. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION:
Mr. Dalessio moved to enter into a Non-Public Selectboard Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (a) Personnel, (c) Reputations and (e) Pending Claims or Litigation. Mr. Aldrich seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with all in favor, the motion was approved at 8:18 AM.
The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 8:51 AM. No announcements were made.

NEW BUSINESS:
CHESHIRE COUNTY TAX BILL: The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of the letter from the Cheshire County Treasurer. He advised that the Town of Walpole’s portion of the Cheshire County budget is $1,379,306.00. Mrs. Clough noted that last year’s portion was $1,409,987.00.

OLD BUSINESS:
LETTER TO THE NH DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION:
Mr. Dalessio moved to send the letter from the Selectboard to the NH Department of Transportation regarding concerns with the deteriorating condition of some of the State controlled roads in Walpole. The deterioration of County Road has been a problem for several years and two additional roads have become the focus of our citizens, namely, South Street and Prospect Hill Road. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all 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 Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved at 8:58 AM.
The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 9:29 AM.

ADJOURNMENT:
Mr. Aldrich moved to adjourn this meeting. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 9:30 AM.

Respectfully submitted,
Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

This post initiated more interest/response than most.  Since the Reply doesn’t go directly to your email, I wanted to bring your attention to it.  (Click the icon at the top,of the post.). 

Donna Droiun, in her reply, mentioned Connecticut River Transit. I have seen the bus but never knew much about it.  I would encourage you to visit the website crtansit.org for more information.  The map seems to indicate that they come across the river only to make a stop by Shaw’s but other services are listed on the website.  I wonder what mountains would have to be moved to get VT and NH to cooperate on expanding this much needed service?

Marti Harrington‘s reply indicates that she is willing to lend a hand on an occasional basis and I certainly would be as well.  I’ll bet there are more of us out there but we need a way to coordinate our needs with that willingness.

The following question was approved this morning for posting under comment.  I wanted to bring it to your attention because it is the question of this type that I have received in as many weeks.  Would seem to be a need out there.  What do you think? – Lil

WordPress.com

Know anyone looking for an apartment?  I was asked if I would post this and decided even though it was the usual type of post, it could be helpful if someone was looking. – Lil

TOWN OF WALPOLE
MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD
NOVEMBER 6, 2014

Selectboard Present: Chas Street (Chair), Whitney Aldrich, Steven Dalessio

CALL TO ORDER: Mr. Street called this meeting to order at 6:04 PM in the Walpole Town Hall with two people in attendance. He advised that this meeting is being tape recorded and asked anyone wishing to speak to identify themselves for the record.
These are unapproved Minutes.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:
Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register and manifest for checks dated November 7, 2014, in the amount of $37,908.80. This includes a payment in the amount of $25,563.98 to the Health Trust. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

PAYROLL:
Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the payroll voucher for the week ending November 1, 2014, for checks dated November 7, 2014, in the amount of $19,874.98. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.
Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the electronic transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $4,354.59 for checks dated November 7, 2014. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:
SELECTBOARD MEETING – October 30, 2014: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of October 30, 2014, as submitted. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With Mr. Dalessio and Mr. Aldrich in favor, the Minutes were approved. Mr. Street abstained as he was not present.
NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION #1 – October 30, 2014: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session #1, of October 30, 2014, as submitted. The Minutes will remain sealed. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With Mr. Dalessio and Mr. Aldrich in favor, the Minutes were approved. Mr. Street abstained as he was not present.
NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION #2 – October 30, 2014: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session #2, of October 30, 2014, as submitted. The Minutes will remain sealed. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With Mr. Dalessio and Mr. Aldrich in favor, the Minutes were approved. Mr. Street abstained as he was not present.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:
The Selectboard received and reviewed Minutes of the following meetings:
 North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners – October 28, 2014; and
 North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners – November 4, 2014.

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:
Mr. Dalessio moved to recess this Selectboard meeting. The Selectboard will enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved at 6:10 PM.
The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:56 PM.

PUBLIC BUSINESS:

MR. RED SMITH: Mr. Smith was present on behalf of the Walpole Foundation. Since they bought the house on 19 Elm Street the attorneys have walked that street a number of times. They are requesting that the Town look into the possibility of repairing the sidewalk between Westminster and Main Street. Mr. Street advised that Mr. Terrell is finishing the sidewalks in North Walpole this year and will do some sidewalk work in Walpole next year. Mr. Terrell will identify the worst areas that should be done first.
Mr. Smith mentioned that Mrs. Raynie Laware had talked to the Selectboard about the plastic bags for dogs. It was discussed at one of the Walpole Foundation’s regular meetings. Mrs. Laware walks around the Common on a regular basis. Mr. Dalessio asked who gets to maintain that. Even with the bags some people will not use them.

NON-PUBLIC SESSION:
Mr. Dalessio moved to enter into a Non-Public Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (a) Personnel. Mr. Aldrich seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with all in favor, the motion was approved at 8:02 PM.
The regular Selectboard resumed at 8:39 PM.

HIGHWAY DEPARTMENT: Mr. Dalessio moved to hire Richard D. Searles as an employee for the Highway Department. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

BUILDING / DEMOLITION PERMIT:
DEMOLITION:
RASCAL BABY, LLC, 141 Rascal Mountain Lane, Map and Lot # 011-033-000: Mr. Dalessio moved to grant Building Permit No. 2014-41 for Rascal Baby, LLC to “Demolish a 36’ x 30’ 2 Story Home”, as submitted. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

NEW BUSINESS:
THANKSGIVING DAY HOLIDAY: Mr. Aldrich moved to cancel the Selectboard meeting on November 27, 2014, Thanksgiving Day, and to authorize the Administrative Assistant to do the Payroll and Accounts Payable. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

STATE PROCLAMATION: Mr. Aldrich will do the State Proclamation on November 26, 2014, at a Walpole Church Ecumenical service.

OLD BUSINESS:
TOWN HALL RENOVATIONS: Mrs. Clough distributed an up-dated report on the budget figures for the Town Hall repairs. Mr. Rohr Cook will do the stairs. Another contractor will be sanding down the windows and doing the wainscoting. The doors toward the church will be sanded down to look better. After that work is completed there will be $28,980 left to renovate the kitchen.
Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the contract with Rohr Cook to do the north and south stairwells for a cost of $13,639.00. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.
Mr. Dalessio asked Mrs. Clough to ask Mr. Mark Houghton for a figure on replacing the lights with LED lights in the Town Hall. There should be quite a savings.

ADJOURNMENT:
Mr. Dalessio moved to adjurn this Selectboard meeting. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved at 9:11 PM.

Respectfully submitted,
Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

TOWN OF WALPOLE
MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD
OCTOBER 30, 2014

Selectboard Present: Whitney Aldrich, Steven Dalessio, (Absent: Chas Street)
CALL TO ORDER: Mr. Aldrich called this meeting to order at 6:00 PM in the Walpole Town Hall with five people in attendance.
These are unapproved Minutes.

PUBLIC BUSINESS – Police Chief Michael Paquette:
NON-PUBLIC SESSION:
Mr. Dalessio moved to enter into a Non-Public Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (a) Personnel. Mr. Aldrich seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with all in favor, the motion was approved.
The regular meeting resumed a 6:28 PM. No announcements were made.

PUBLIC BUSINESS:
TRUSTEE OF TRUST FUNDS – Peggy Pschirrer: Mrs. Pschirrer presented a proposed Warrant Article that is required to implement some of the provisions of HB 297 which took effect July 26, 2014. It states: “To see if the Town will vote, pursuant to NH RSA 35:a II, to authorize the Trustees of Trust Funds to hire professional banking or brokerage assistance for capital reserve funds and to charge investment expenses against the income of the capital reserve funds involved. Such authority shall remain in effect until rescinded by a vote of town meeting. No vote by the town to rescind such authority shall occur within five years of the original adoption of this article”.

At this point funds such as the capital reserve funds go into money markets or CDs that earn virtually nothing. This Warrant Article will allow an investment company or brokerage house, in the Town’s case it is Cambridge Trust, to invest these funds and charge their expenses against the income. There is a risk involved so that is what needs to be considered. It is required that it be a Warrant Article whether the Selectboard recommends it or not. There are 19 separate money market accounts. Mrs. Clough was asked to contact the Local Government Center to inquire whether this needs to be a on the Ballot or voted on at Town Meeting. Mr. Dalessio suggested this be kept on the Agenda as a line item. Mr. Aldrich felt they could have a special informational Public Hearing to inform the voters of what this involves. Mrs. Clough will also forward this to Ms. Jamie Dow at the Department of Revenue Administration.

TOWN HALL RENOVATIONS – Peggy Pschirrer: Mrs. Pschirrer advised that several years ago the Women of Walpole wanted to put a new dishwasher in the Town Hall kitchen but because of the cost they did not have the money to do it. However they would like the opportunity to make a contribution of $1,000 when the Selectboard are ready to renovate the kitchen. They are also willing to help raise some more money from other people toward this project that would include a new stove that works. Mrs. Clough noted that it has to be a commercial dishwasher because they rent the kitchen; there are also plumbing costs. For the whole kitchen renovations they are looking at $25,000. Mrs. Pschirrer asked that they notify her when they start this project.

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:
Mr. Dalessio moved to recess this Selectboard meeting. The Selectboard will enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved at 6:14 PM.
The regular meeting resumed at 7:33 PM. No announcements were made.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:
Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register and manifest for checks dated October 31, 2014, in the amount of $47,229.99. This includes a payment to the Walpole Fire District in the amount of $30,000. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

PAYROLL:
Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the payroll voucher for the week ending October 25, 2014, for checks dated October 31, 2014, in the amount of $19,565.34. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.
Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the electronic transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $4,441.15 for checks dated October 31, 2014. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:
SELECTBOARD MEETING – October 23, 2014: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of October 23, 2014, as submitted. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:
The Selectboard received and reviewed Minutes of the following meeting:
 Planning Board Workshop – October 28, 2014.

BUILDING and DEMOLITION PERMITS:
BUILDING:
PALMER, Barnett Hill Road, Map & Lot #009-048-001: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve Building Permit No. 2014-37 for Robert and Margaret Palmer to “Construct a 36’ x 24’ Garage” at 42 Barnett Hill Road, as submitted. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

FRANCIS, Ramsay Hill Road, Map & Lot #011-007-001: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve Building Permit No. 2014-38 for Richard Francis to “Construct a 32’ x 32’ Bedroom, bathroom and hallway combination addition and a 24’ x 36’ barn / garage” at 257 Ramsay Hill Road, as submitted. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

HAYWARD, Thompson Road, Map & Lot #008-101-000: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve Building Permit No. 2014-39 to “Convert an attic into an apartment” at 47 Thompson Road, as submitted. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

DEMOLITION:
RASCAL BABY, LLC, 493 Valley Road, Map & Lot #013-050-000: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Permit for Demolition, No. 2014-40 to “Demolish a 24’ x 24’ home” at 493 Valley Road, as submitted. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

REPORT OF TIMBER CUT and TIMBER WARRANT:
McMahon, Adams Lane, Map & Lot #003-001-000: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Warrant for the Timber Tax Levy and the Certification of Yield Taxes Assessed in the amount of $468.88 for Mary McMahon at Adams Lane. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

NEW BUSINESS:
NH MUNICIPAL ASSOCIATION ANNUAL CONFERENCE: The New Hampshire Municipal Association Annual Conference is scheduled for November 12 and 13, 2014, in Manchester. Mr. Dalessio plans to attend on both days. The Selectboard approved having Mrs. Heleen cover the office on November 13th to enable Mrs. Clough, Mrs. Edkins and Mr. Kreissele to attend.

WALPOLE SCHOOL SITE BASED COMMITTEE MEETING: The Selectboard was invited to attend the Walpole School Site Based Committee’s November 12 meeting at 7:00 PM in the Walpole Elementary School Library. The committee will be reviewing and providing recommendations regarding the proposed 2015-2016 Walpole Attendance Area School Budget. Mr. Dalessio and Mr. Street plan to attend.

HEALTH TRUST: Mrs. Clough received notification from the Health Trust regarding the Town’s health insurance. It will be going up an average of .08%. Mrs. Clough emailed them to ask for the rate increase on one of the options, the MTV20. The co-pays are different on the plans; $5.00 vs $20.00. She asked for more information. The Town pays 90%. The contract runs until January 1st, 2015. As soon as the information is received the Selectboard will review the options and rates.

OLD BUSINESS:
MAPLEWOOD NURSING HOME: There was a consensus of the Selectboard to not take a position on the proposal to replace the Maplewood Nursing Home but to leave the decision up to the voters.

TOWN HALL RENOVATIONS: Mr. Cook envisions trying to save the six stairs that are there. He hesitates to give a quote because he does not know what is underneath. He is more comfortable with saying no more than $2,000 maximum. Both Mr. Cook and the contractor that did some other work in the Town Hall are going to look at the wainscoting. Mrs. Clough hopes to have somebody in next week.

SAFETY COMMITTEE: Mr. Dalessio recommended that they should re-establish the Safety Committee next year. Mrs. Clough will start to work on this soon.

TOWN HALL RENTAL RATES (Effective 09/01/11): Mrs. Clough distributed copies of the current Town Hall Rental Rates and the proposed new rates. Fuel and electric rates have increased quite a bit in four years. Mr. Dalessio suggested that there are two groups; the registered non-profits and the ones that the Selectboard should recognize as non-profits. Some organizations are recognized as being an integral part of the community. Mrs. Clough and Mrs. Edkins will make a list of the organizations that use the Town Hall and the Selectboard can make the decision on their status.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION:
Mr. Dalessio moved to enter into a Non-Public Selectboard Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (e) Pending Claims or Litigation. Mr. Aldrich seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with all in favor, the motion was approved at 8:04 PM.
The regular meeting resumed at 8:09 PM. No announcements were made.

ADJOURNMENT:
Mr. Dalessio moved to adjourn this meeting. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved at 8:10 PM.
Respectfully submitted,
Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

TOWN OF WALPOLE
MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD
OCTOBER 23, 2014

Selectboard Present: Chas Street (Chair); Whitney Aldrich, Steven Dalessio
CALL TO ORDER: Mr. Street called this meeting to order at 6:00 PM in the Walpole Town Hall with five people in attendance.
These are unapproved Minutes.

PUBLIC BUSINESS:
HOOPER HILL HOPPERS – Marcia Galloway: Mrs. Galloway was representing the Hooper Hill Hoppers Snowmobile Club. The Club plans to replace their existing old, low level bridge on the Walpole Town Watershed Lot on NH Corridor 5. The bridge will be ten feet north of the present location for improved trail alignment. There are three trees that need to be cut down – 1 leaning hardwood and 2 softwoods. This project will have minor impact on the land. Mrs. Galloway submitted a copy of her letter to Emily Haegue, Stewardship Director of the Monadnock Conservancy, and they have no problem with this. This property is off Reservoir Road. The Town is not liable for any accidents.
Mr. Dalessio moved to approve this request from the Hooper Hill Hoppers Snowmobile Club to replace the existing bridge with a new more modern bridge off Reservoir Road on NH Corridor 5. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

HORSE THIEVES – Annual Meeting: Mr. Sheldon Sawyer advised that the Horse Thieves have an annual meeting coming up on the first Saturday in January 2015. Previously they used the Town Hall at no charge but now he understands there is a significant charge for non-profits. Mrs. Edkins explained that there are different rates for non-profits. Several non-profits that use the Town Hall on a regular basis make a nominal payment for the year. These fees help toward the heat and electricity. Mr. Sawyer’s concern is that not too many years ago $550,000 of taxpayer money was used to re-do this building to make it usable for the Town’s residents. The Selectboard’s original intent, at that time, was that residents of Walpole could use it for special events. This annual business meeting will be for about 20 people.
Mr. Dalessio pointed out that there are two different meetings: 1) There are routine meetings such as weekly or monthly meetings and/or holding an event; and 2) We should not be charging for a general meeting once a year.
Mr. Dalessio moved to waive the fee for the annual business meeting of the Horse Thieves in January 2015, as this is a local Walpole civic organization. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:
Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register and manifest for checks dated October 24, 2014, in the amount of $16,837.71. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

PAYROLL:
Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the payroll voucher for the week ending October 18, 2014, for checks dated October 24, 2014, in the amount of $19,762.99. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.
Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the electronic transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $4,379.68 for checks dated October 24, 2014. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:
SELECTBOARD MEETING – October 16, 2014: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of October 16, 2014, as submitted. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – October 16, 2014: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of October 16, 2014, as submitted. The Minutes will remain sealed. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:
The Selectboard received and reviewed Minutes of the following meetings:
 Hooper Institute Committee – October 14, 2014;
 Hooper Institute Committee – September 9, 2014;
 Planning Board – October 14, 2014; and
 North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners – October 14, 2014.

Mr. Dalessio mentioned that Eloise Clark, Hooper Institute, had some concerns because a lot of their budget has been passed onto maintenance of the other Hooper buildings. There is only one line item for Hooper buildings. It was commented that Mrs. Pschirrer wants the Hooper Institute separated from the Mansion and cottage.

Mr. Dalessio asked the Library Trustees who they get their electric from. They get a separate bill from Liberty Utilities therefore they are not a part of that bigger picture that includes the Town Hall. It is the same with the Hooper Institute. He recommended that the Institute, Library and all the other Town buildings be included in the UMG agreement, which would help reduce electric costs.

NOTICE OF INTENT TO CUT WOOD OR TIMBER:
PATNODE, Merriam Road, Map & Lot #003-055-000: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Notice of Intent to Cut Wood or Timber for Judith Patnode, No. 14-461-11-T, as submitted. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

BUILDING and DEMOLITION PERMITS:
EMONT, Webster Lane, Map & Lot #007-017-000: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Demolition and Building Permit No. 2014-36 for Seth and Nancy Emont to “Demolish and rebuild a 50’ x 24’ 2 story garage”. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

PALMER, Barnett Hill Road, Map & Lot #009-048-001: Mrs. Edkins explained that Mr. Hal Wilkins brought in this Building Permit #2014-37 to “Construct a 36’ x 24’ Garage” for Robert and Margaret Palmer. He advised that he was designated to sign for the Palmer’s and that the Planning Board had a copy of that agreement however the Selectboard office does not have a copy of that agreement. She left messages for both Mr. Wilkins and Mr. and Mrs. Palmer but she did not hear from either party. It was noted that building a garage did not go before the Planning Board.
Mr. Aldrich moved to table this Building Permit until they have confirmation from the owners. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

FRANCIS, Ramsay Hill, Map & Lot #011-007-001: Mrs. Edkins advised that Mr. Francis was not specific about the size of the addition.
Mr. Aldrich moved to table Building Permit #2014-38 for Mr. Francis until they know the correct dimensions of the addition. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

NEW BUSINESS:
ROAD NAME CHANGE: A memo was received from Jim Terrell to advise that the owners of Rice Mountain have requested a road name for the driveway going to the main house and buildings now addressed as 138 Rascal Mountain Lane. There are three buildings on that road so it does qualify under addressing guidelines and Mr. Mark Houghton told him that this makes sense for emergency responses.
Mr. Aldrich moved to rename the driveway at the junction to “Liberty Trail Lane”. It was mentioned that Mr. Terrell and Mr. Houghton had no objections. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With all in favor, the motion was approved.

MAPLEWOOD NURSING HOME: Mr. Street reported that the County is proposing to close Maplewood Nursing Home and re-build a new facility in Keene. There does not seem to be much opposition to it. Mr. Dalessio had a copy of the report from the County web-site. He recommended that they defer this until the next meeting to allow the Selectboard more time to do research on this proposed project.

TOWN HALL RENTALS: Mrs. Edkins explained that the Orchard School in Alstead has rented the Town Hall for the week-end before Thanksgiving. The Farmers’ Market is on the Common that week-end on Saturday. The Congregational Church has their Christmas Bazaar and St. John’s Church has their Mistletoe Mart that week-end on Saturday. In September Gwen Yardley, who is representing the Congregational Church, called to ask if the Orchard School had reserved the Town Hall; she was very concerned because there is so much traffic and parking spaces are limited in the area. She wondered if the Orchard School could move their event to the previous week-end however the Town Hall was booked for that week-end. Mr. Ray Boas then reported to Mrs. Clough that there is discussion of the Church renting the Walpole Pre School Bus to transport vendors to and from the Walpole School to alleviate parking issues. There is concern about telling people that rent the Town Hall that they cannot park here. The Orchard School, who has a craft fair, has already rented the Town Hall for next year. The Congregational Church feels that due to the parking issue they lost people which lowered their sales. It was suggested that the Town not rent the space next year on that week-end because the Orchard School is an out-of-town group. It should be just a Town of Walpole week-end. Several options were discussed. Mr. Dalessio recommended that they ask Police Chief Paquette to monitor the traffic on that Saturday and provide a report to the Selectboard. If Mr. Boas wishes to discuss this matter with the Selectboard he is invited to do so.

CHANGE IN ZBA NOTICES: Mrs. Mansouri handed in a copy of the “New Law Requires Expanded Municipal Notice Requirements to Property Owners When Considering Changes in Zoning Districts” HB 1210 (Chapter Law 161). Mr. Dalessio pointed out that they have a proposed zoning change coming up on the water area. This will be brought to the attention of the Planning Board to be sure they are following the rules of notification to the abutters. This new law expands the notification requirement in three ways.
1) It allows for any person owning property in the municipality to request notice of all public hearings on proposed amendments to the zoning ordinance. The municipality must provide that notice, at no cost to the person, electronically or by first class mail.
2) If a proposed amendment to a zoning ordinance would change a boundary of a zoning district and the change would affect 100 or fewer properties, notice of a public hearing on the amendment must be sent by first class mail to the owners of each affected property.
3) If a proposed amendment to a zoning ordinance would change the minimum lot sizes or the permitted uses in a zoning district that includes 100 or fewer properties, notice of a public hearing will be sent by first class mail to the owner of each property in the district.

OLD BUSINESS:
TOWN HALL RENOVATIONS: Mr. Street advised that Mrs. Clough did not yet get quotes from the contractor. This was tabled until the next meeting.

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:
Mr. Aldrich moved to recess this Selectboard meeting. The Selectboard will enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With all in favor, the motion was approved at 6:50 PM.
The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:48 PM.

ADJOURNMENT:
Mr. Aldrich moved to adjourn this Selectboard meeting. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With all in favor, the motion was approved at 7:49 PM.

Respectfully submitted,
Regina Borden, Recording Secretary