The Walpolean

Savings Bank of Walpole is hosting a Community Cookout as a way to say thank you to both customers and the community. The event will be held on Sunday, August 14 beginning at 5:30 PM on the Green in Walpole.

In addition to free hot dogs, chips and drinks, the August 14 cookout will be followed by a night of music featuring The Residential Band. This show marks the final performance in the Concerts on the Green Concert Series sponsored by the Bank. The show will begin at 6:30 p.m. and run until 8:00 p.m. 

“Our Community Cookout is the Bank’s way of thanking our customers, friends, and neighbors in the Walpole community,” said Mark Bodin, President of Savings Bank of Walpole. “It’s always a terrific family-friendly event. And, in addition to the cookout, folks will also be able to enjoy some great music as our Concerts on the Green Concert Series concludes the same evening.”

With assets totaling $675 million, the Bank offers a wide range of financial products, including services to individuals, businesses and organizations. The Bank is affiliated with NH Mutual Bancorp, further enhancing the quality products and services it provides to customers. The Bank is a partner of the NHTrust1 brand to better serve customers by providing localized trust and wealth management products and services. Savings Bank of Walpole is an equal housing lender, and member of the FDIC. For more information visitwww.walpolebank.com or call (603) 352-1822.
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1Products and services made available through NHTrust are not insured by the FDIC or any other agency of the United States and are not deposits or obligations or guaranteed by the Bank and may lose value.

7 pm

Town Hall

Roll Call: Appointment of alternates if needed.

Minutes: Review minutes of the July 2022 meeting.

Old Business:

Public Hearing:

Site Plan:  Potato Barn addition of three apartments to Granary, Piggery and Connector – 820 square feet, 2,000 square feet and 1,100 square feet. Owner Steve Rudek of Sacramento, CA.  Tax Map 24, Lot 6, commercial district. Barry Bellows is in charge of construction.

New Business:

Site Plan: 532 Main Street LLC, Walpole Creamery, 20-feet-by 40-foot addition, Tax Map 12, Lot 14. Request for a Public Hearing. Robert Kasper.

Discussion: Changes to Planning & Zoning Laws in 2022: A Guide for Municipalities. Work on forms for the Board to fill out at the meeting. 

Next Meeting is September 13, 2022

Kraig Harlow asked me to alert you to changes in pools hours is weekend. Like many other places they are dealing with staff shortages. – Lil

The hours this weekend is Saturday (7/30) from 10:15-6pm with normal lap swim. Sunday (7/31) from 11am to 4pm and 11am to 12pm is lap swim and and 12pm to 4pm is open swim.

In case you didn’t know I wanted to share this letter from the Fall Mountain School District. Walpole needs a representative to serve on the school board from now until March. – Lil

To: Town of Walpole
From: The FMRSD School Board
RE: Walpole School Board Member-Seat Vacancy Date: July 22, 2022

The Fall Mountain Regional School District School Board has received the resignation of our Walpole school board representative effective immediately. Vacancies on the cooperative school board will be filled in accordance with the provisions of RSA 671:33. Appointees will serve until the next school district election per RSA 197:26.

The school board will be accepting letters of interest for the vacant seat through Monday, August 1, 2022. Selected candidates will be interviewed by the school board during a school board meeting on Monday, August 8, 2022.

Letters of interest should be submitted to Misty Bushee, School Board Clerk (mbushee@sau60.org).

Selectboard Present:​Peggy L. Pschirrer (Vice-Chair); Cheryl Mayberry; (Absent: Steven Dalessio)

CALL TO ORDER:  Mrs. Pschirrer called this Selectboard meeting to order at 6:30 PM in the Walpole Town Hall and via Zoom.  This meeting was being recorded.

Mrs. Pschirrer called for a voice roll call of the Selectboard present:  Cheryl Mayberry and Peggy Pschirrer were present.  Peggy Pschirrer agreed to lead the meeting. Mr. Dalessio may attend later via Zoom. He was not present at this time. Also present was Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration, and Regina Borden, Recording Secretary.  There was one member of the public in attendance:  Jan Galloway-Leclerc, Chair of the Zoning Board of Adjustment.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION #1:

Ms. Mayberry moved to enter into Non-Public Selectboard Session #1 pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (a) Personnel, (b) Hiring and (c) Reputations.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

The regular Selectboard meeting reconvened at 7:32 PM.  Mr. Dalessio came into this meeting via Zoom.

Ms. Mayberry moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session #1 of July 21, 2022, will be sealed.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.  

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Accounts Payable Check Register in the total amount of $648,282.80 for checks issued July 22, 2022.  This includes a monthly payment in the amount of $529,226.92 to the Fall Mountain Regional School District.  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 Check Register for the week ending July 16, 2022,  in the amount of $32,035.11 dated July 22, 2022, and for the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer in the amount of $6,504.30.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – July 14, 2022   Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of July 14, 2022, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the Minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – July 14, 2022: Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of July 14, 2022, 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 acknowledged receipt of the following Committee reports:

• Zoning Board of Adjustment Meeting – June 15, 2022;

• Conservation Commission Meeting – July 11, 2022;

• Planning Board Meeting – July 12, 2022;

• North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners Meeting – July 12, 2022.

VETERANS’ TAX CREDIT:

MAP and LOT #028-132-000:  Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Veterans’ Tax Credit for the owner(s) of Map and Lot #028-132-000.  A new form was required due to the property owner name change.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

ELDERLY TAX EXEMPTION:

MAP and LOT #028-132-000:  Ms. Mayberry moved to approve this Elderly Tax Exemption for the owner(s) of Map and Lot #028-132-000.  A new form was required due to the property owner name change.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

BUILDING PERMIT:

Permit #2022-32, MAP and LOT #010-034-000:  Ms. Mayberry moved to grant Building Permit No. 2022-32 for the owner(s) of Map and Lot #010-034-000 to construct a “20’ x 36’ Equipment Shed”.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS:

Purchase Order Policy:  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio had a chance to review the Purchase Order Policy.  Ms. Mayberry did not like the following section:  “Any invoice that cannot be matched up with a purchase order will not be paid and subject to any late charges imposed by the vendor.  These charges will be posted against individual department budgets”.  Ms. Mayberry feels it is up to Mr. Kreissle to do a follow-through.  She understands there might be rare instances where they got a billing that was wrong.  This takes the burden off him. It is pretty much understood that you have to pay things on time and if you pay a late charge, it will come out of your budget.  She objects to the way it is put in there.  They can call the company to talk about the late charge.  He needs to work with them to get it resolved as quickly as possible.  This does not need to be in there.  Mr. Dalessio felt it should say: “It is the Finance Manager’s responsibility to ensure that all invoices are paid in a timely manner to avoid late charges”.  Ms. Mayberry feels there should be no hold-up as long as the bill is legitimate.  

Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Purchase Order Policy as amended.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.     

Bureau of Trails Special Use Permit: Mrs. Pschirrer reported this Special Use Permit Package for the Rail Trail requires a signature by the Selectboard chair.

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve and sign the Brush Hog Special Use Permit Package.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

Knorr Rental of Sanding/Plow Truck: Mrs. Pschirrer advised that Knorr Soups would like to use one of our trucks. Mr. Dalessio has questioned if we should allow the use of a vehicle.  Their proposal is to wrap one of the trucks for filming.  Mr. Mike Rau has suggested they be charged $1,000/day for their use.  

They would like it for two days.  There was discussion relative to the rental fee based on the salt and for the period of time the truck is out of service for the Town.  They want to do it in the winter.  Mrs. Pschirrer felt they need to go back to Mr. Rau and ask him to re-check what the costs are; gas, use of the truck, salt, etc.  Mr. Dalessio pointed out that they will need a contract.  Mrs. Pschirrer added “liability insurance”. They will talk to Mr. Rau about this tomorrow.        

Selectboard Office Rug:  Mrs. Downing advised that the office rug they originally wanted is no longer available.  Some samples were obtained from another vendor.  One is similar to what they had chosen before; blue graphite.  She is waiting for a new quote.      

Pending Further Actions:

Generators, Houghton Brook Bridge, Parking Ordinance, Three Phase Power for Industrial Park Drive and Bensonwood, Reservoir Dam, Letter of Understanding for 2021 Audit with Vachon Clukay and Company PC:

Infrastructure:  Mrs. Pschirrer did start to do the research on infrastructure.  She went through their easement binder that is kept in the Selectboard Office.  It did not include any information about the Reservoir Dam.

School Street:  Mr. Dalessio reported they had a meeting with Fuss & O’Neill and the Department of Environmental Services (DES) in order to come up with a true understanding to the problem.  They will have a technical meeting to discuss all the details.     

NEW BUSINESS:

Cemetery Deed for Lot E883:  Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Cemetery Deed for Lot E883.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

Recreation Department Revolving Fund Request:  Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Walpole Recreation Revolving Fund Request to purchase Summer League basketball jerseys for their players in the amount of $1,796.65.  The money for these jerseys will be put back into the Revolving Fund by their local company sponsors: Chroma Technology, Bowman Dental, and Cold River Materials.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

Congregational Church Request for Dumpster on the Common:  Mrs. Pschirrer reported that the Congregational Church is going to be repairing the church steeple.  They asked that the Selectboard allow them to put the dumpster on the edge of the Common, opposite the church.  Mrs. Downing mentioned the trees by the Church are coming down tomorrow.  Various options were discussed.  The dumpster could go on the street as long as it does not block handicapped parking spaces.  Mrs. Pschirrer felt they should ask Mr. Dale Woodward how long the dumpster would be there, how long is it, etc.  The Selectboard has concerns about having it on the Common. They would like more information prior to making a decision.   

Town Hall Parking Spaces: Several employees have requested that the parking spaces in front of the Town Hall be widened.  Mr. Rau explained that one space would need to be removed and the additional spaces split among the parking slots.  It is something the Highway Department could fix.  Some staff are having difficulties getting in and out of their vehicles due to the lack of buffer space plus there is the worry of dents and dings from doors hitting their vehicles.  The Selectboard did not have a problem with removing one parking space.   

Elderly Tax Exemption 2023 Warrant Article:  A request was received from Mrs. Downing to put forth an increase to the Elderly Property Tax Exemption for the 2023 Town Warrant.  With cost-of-living increases that are offset by Medicare Part B payments, actual gross income is not increasing for elderly applicants.  She is proposing the following increases:

• For income, single at $30,000 and married at $45,000 (This is a $5,000 increase from the current rates)

• For asset income limit to increase to $85,000 for both a single and married person.  Currently both levels are at $75,000.

Mr. Dalessio recommended Mrs. Downing hold this until they are ready to do the Warrant Articles for the next Annual Town Meeting. 

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 8:10 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting reconvened at 8:21 PM. 

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION #2:

Ms. Mayberry moved to enter into Non-Public Selectboard Session #2 pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (c) Reputations.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

The regular Selectboard meeting reconvened at 8:58 PM.

Ms. Mayberry moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session #2 of July 21, 2022, will be sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved. 

ADJOURNMENT:

Ms. Mayberry moved to adjourn this meeting of the Selectboard.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there was any additional discussion.  There was none.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 8:59 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

Starting at 6:30 PM in the Town Hall and via Zoom

SELECTBOARD MEETING

PAYROLL

• Payroll Register totaling $33,498.95 dated 7/29/22 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $7,076.14

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES

• Selectboard Meeting – July 21, 2022
• Non-Public Session Selectboard Minutes – July 21, 2022

COMMITTEE REPORTS

• Trustees of the Trust Funds – July 19, 2022
• North Walpole Village Commissioner’s Meeting – July 19, 2022
• Zoning Board of Adjustment Meeting – July 20, 2020

WARRANTS

• Walpole Water Fees
• Walpole Sewer Fees
• North Walpole Sewer Fees

REFUNDS

• Map and Lot# 009-008-000

ELDERLY TAX EXEMPTION

• Map and Lot# 020-044-000
• Map and Lot# 010-043-001

OLD BUSINESS

• Purchase Order Policy
• H & H Study on Mad Brook Revised Proposal
• H & H Study on Mountain Book Revised Proposal
• NH DOT 10-Year Plan Letter
• Liberty Utilities Tree Trimming of Common Trees
• Carpeting Quotes for Selectboard Office
• Cupola Painting Quote
• Congregational Church Request for Dumpster on the Common
• Knorr Rental of Sanding/Dump Truck

Pending Further Actions

• Generators, Houghton Brook Bridge, Parking Ordinance, Three Phase Power for Industrial Park Drive and Bensonwood, Reservoir Dam, Letter of Understanding for 2021 Audit with Vachon Clukay and Company PC

NEW BUSINES

• Cemetery Deed for Lot D405
• License to Sell Pistols & Revolvers
• Failure to Complete Audit Notice
• Multi-Town Group Purchase of Oil and Propane
• Employee Appreciation Meal
• Tai Chi Classes in Town Hall

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

Ray BoasJul 27

Yes a tad early with the printer’s vacation schedules, but now at the post office for delivery, and available on line – CLICK THIS LINK (or image below) to see this issue. A slow summer so far. Organizational activities still not “back up” as in the past. COVID has certainly redefined our lives to some extent.

Enjoy the coming month of summer, stay safe and well, and as always I welcome your submissions and advertising for the next issue — RAY BOAS, Publisher

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

CALL TO ORDER:  Mr. Dalessio called this Selectboard meeting and via Zoom to order at 6:30 PM in the Walpole Town Hall. This meeting was being recorded.

Mr. Dalessio called for a voice roll call of the Selectboard present:  Peggy Pschirrer was present; Cheryl Mayberry was present; and Steven Dalessio, Chair, was present.  Also present was Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration, and Regina Borden, Recording Secretary.  There were two members of the public in attendance:  Ann Shaughnessy and Hank Shedd. 

NEW BUSINESS:

Police Drone Policy & Procedures Inquiry:  Ms. Shaughnessy wanted to propose a policy and procedures for the new drone that is operated by the Police Department.  She came in contact with it when she was sitting in her neighbor’s fenced-in back yard.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if she was sure it was the police drone.  Ms. Shaughnessy replied “yes” as it had “Police” on it.  Mrs. Pschirrer advised the drone is brand new.  Two members of the Police Department just got certified to fly it.  We do have to follow FAA guidelines.  They have not even had time to write the policies and procedures but the Police will develop them in accordance with the FAA and State Police.  They have to follow all rules that pilots do.  Mrs. Pschirrer’s concern is that the private drones around Town are growing rapidly, even here in the Village, and the Town has no control over this.  Many of them look alike.  Ms. Shaughnessy agrees with her but feels it is in the best interest to get the policy and procedures in place and used as examples. It has been very noticeable around North Walpole.  She understands people have seen it coming from the Police Station.  Mr. Dalessio felt if they are going to practice with it, they should go to an appropriate area.  Ms. Shaughnessy and her neighbors are not against the police having a drone because of its use especially in emergencies.  Mr. Dalessio noted it might prevent a police officer from having to go into the river to look for somebody or prevent them from having to climb Fall Mountain.  It will keep first responders out of jeopardy.  Ms. Mayberry pointed out that the Selectboard will do their due diligence to ask questions and to be sure the policy and procedures are in accordance with FAA plus State rules and regulations. Ms. Shaughnessy mentioned that North Walpole is a dense area and well populated. They will be flying over private property.  She wanted to be sure this was discussed with the governing body that OKd their usage:  “It is the recommendation of the ACLU that the matter of policy and procedures for law enforcement drone use, NOT be left up to the PD but rather to their governing body with assistance of the municipal lawyers, as it is a civil liberties issue”.  She and her neighbors just want to be sure this gets done.               

Recreation Department – Pool: Mr. Hank Shedd came to check on the pool closure.  Mr. Dalessio was aware of the pool closure but not that the pump on the pool went out.  Ms. Mayberry advised it is a specialized motor.  They spoke with Mr. Mark Houghton about rebuilding the existing one as it would give them time to look for a replacement.  There had been some concern about the ability to get parts because of the age of the unit.  She did not receive a new update today.  They were exploring both options; try to find a replacement part or determine if they could rebuild the existing motor.  Mr. Shedd was aware of Mr. Harlow’s plans to close the pool to do some floor resurfacing work.  Ms. Mayberry said that was not planned for the summer pool season.  Mr. Shedd mentioned the pool has been closed for three-or-four days now.  He mentioned the crack.  Ms. Mayberry explained that now they think the crack is by the upper edge near the filtration.  After the pool season is over they talked about draining the pool and try to identify the leak without digging up the ground.  There are several different thoughts on this.  

Ms. Mayberry advised they are trying to get the pool open again as quickly as possible.  It first happened on Friday night but they thought it was a simple part; on Monday they got E.E. Houghton involved to look at the motor.  The pool was open Saturday.  They did not find out until Monday that it was not an easy fix.  Ms. Mayberry will try to find out a time-line tomorrow and have Mr. Harlow post it on the Walpolean and Clarion.  Mr. Shedd thanked them for the explanation.              

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Mr. Dalessio announced that the Accounts Payable was held over to next week due to SQL database migration issues for AccuFund.

PAYROLL:

Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Payroll Check Register for the week ending July 9, 2022, in the amount of $33,938.72 dated July 14, 2022, and for the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $6,882.75.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETINGMINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – July 7, 2022:  Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of July 7, 2022, as submitted.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – July 7, 2022:  Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of July 7, 2022, as submitted.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Minutes were approved.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of the following Committee reports:

• North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners Meeting – June 28, 2022;
• North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners Meeting – July 5, 2022.

ELDERLY TAX EXEMPTIONS:

Ms. Mayberry moved to grant the following Elderly Tax Exemptions for approvals:

• MAP and LOT #029-001-000;
• MAP and LOT #008-059-000;
• MAP and LOT #028-119-000;
• MAP and LOT #005-063-000;
• MAP and LOT #016-005-MH05.

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

Ms. Mayberry moved to deny MAP and LOT #026-031-000 because the assets were over the $75,000 limit.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

BUILDING PERMITS:

Permit 2022-28, MAP and LOT #022-014-000: Ms. Mayberry moved to grant Building Permit No. 2022-28 for the owner(s) of Map and Lot #022-014-000 to add a “570 sq ft Roof Mount Solar on Garage and House”.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Permit 2022-29, MAP and LOT #019-002-000: Ms. Mayberry moved to grant Building Permit No. 2022-29 for the owner(s) of Map and Lot #019-002-000 to construct a “10’ x 10’ deck”.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer. With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Permit 2022-30, MAP and LOT #005-044-003:  Ms. Mayberry moved to grant Building Permit No. 2022-30 for the owner(s) of Map and Lot #005-044-003 to add a “48’ x 11.5’ Roof Mount Solar”.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Permit 2022-31, MAP and LOT #024-014-001:  Ms. Mayberry moved to grant Building Permit No. 2022-31 for the owner(s) of Map and Lot #024-014-001 to construct a “20’ x 10’ Breezeway Rebuild & Addition”.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS:

Citizen’s Comment 2022-10: Mr. Dalessio reported that the Liberty Utilities tree crew will now meet with the homeowner to review the area and discuss the best way to remove the dead limb/tree branches over a power line.  

Pending Further Actions:

Generators, Houghton Brook Bridge, Parking Ordinance, Three Phase Power for Industrial Park Drive and Bensonwood, Reservoir Dam, Letter of Understanding for 2021 Audit and Vachon Clukay and Company PC:

2021 Audit and Vachon Clukay and Company PC:  Mrs. Pschirrer reported that Mr. Rich Kreissle did talk with our representative at Vachon Clukay and Company PC who assured him that we would have the document in time for filing it with the State.  They will be scheduling their work here in the near future.

NEW BUSINESS:

Recreation Department – Pool (Continued):  Annie Ewaskio came into the meeting to inquire about the pool closure.  Mr. Dalessio explained that the problem is an old pump that went down and it is taking us time to find a new one or a replacement; whatever needs to be done.  The goal is to get the pool up and running again as fast as possible.  Ms. Mayberry did not receive an update today but she knew the part was not available because the unit is so old. Therefore, they will try to re-build it.  They have asked E.E. Houghton to do whatever needs to be done to get the pool open again as soon as possible.  The filtration is the only problem at this time.  Ms. Mayberry will try to get an update tomorrow and it will be posted on the Walpolean, Clarion and Recreation Department Facebook page.  Ms. Ewaskio asked about the fees they paid to use the pool.  Mr. Dalessio noted it will be discussed but right now they are not sure of the time it will be closed.  Ms. Mayberry replied that the pool will not be closed when the floors are being done or for any other reasons at this time.            

Pool Closure and Lifeguard Payroll:  Mr. Dalessio stated that they all agreed to continue to pay the lifeguards. 

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to pay the lifeguards for their normally scheduled time because they had no control over this pool closure.  There was some discussion but there were no seconds to the motion. 

Ms. Mayberry moved to pay the lifeguards for their normally scheduled hours while the pool is down.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.   

Recreation Revolving Fund Request:   Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Walpole Recreation Committee’s request to use $337.00 from the revolving fund to purchase their lifeguards new suits for the summer season.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.   

Cemetery Deed D501:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Cemetery Deed for Lot D501.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Ecostar Gold Star Labor & Material Warranty for Town Hall Roof:  The Selectboard looked at the sample Ecostar Gold Star Labor & Material Warranty for the Town Hall Roof.  There is an additional $2,000 charge for this coverage. Melanson Roofing will guarantee their workmanship for one year.  The Ecostar Warranty covers more materials. There was a consensus of the Selectboard to not purchase the Ecostar Gold Star Labor & Material Warranty.

NH DOT Inspection Meeting of the Former Arch Bridge:  Mr. Dalessio advised that a notice was received from the NH Department of Transportation that there will be an Inspection Meeting of the former Arch Bridge on July 20^th, 2022, at 10:00AM on-site.

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 and (c) Reputations.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved at 7:15 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting reconvened at 8:25 PM.

Ms. Mayberry moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of July 14, 2022, will be sealed.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

ADJOURNMENT:  Ms. Mayberry moved to adjourn this Selectboard meeting.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  Mr. Dalessio asked if there was any additional discussion.  There was none.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 8:26 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

                                                               

Preparations for our annual Book Sale are in full swing.

The Friends of the Library Book Sale will take place at the Walpole School gym on the weekend of
October 28 – 30.

We are currently looking for community help with the following:

Book Sorting at the Chicken Coop (behind the Hungry Diner)
Every Wednesday morning, 10:30 to 11:30
Every Thursday afternoon, 4:00 to 5:00

Book Donations at the Chicken Coop:
Wednesday, August 17 and 24, 10:00 am to noon
Thursday, August 18 and 25, 4:00 to 6:00 pm
Please no textbooks, encyclopedias, or travel guides older than 5 years. We can only sell books in excellent conditions, so please no dirty, damaged, moldy or mildewy books.

Also note that our plant sale at the Reuse Center in ongoing. We are currently focusing primarily on house plants.

We are very grateful for your support! Please call 603-313-4076 with any questions.

Present: Chair Jan Leclerc, Clerk Tom Murray, Pauline Barnes, Tom Winmill. Alternates Judy Trow, Don Sellarole and Dave Edkins. Also attending the meeting were Chris Carbone, John Pappas, Carolyn Vose, Joanna Andros and Myra Mansouri. Town Counsel Jeremy Hockensmith arrived at the meeting at about 7:30 pm.

Minutes: Written by Marilou Blaine. This meeting was recorded. These minutes are unapproved and will be reviewed at the August 2022 meeting for corrections, and additions and/or omissions.

Call to order: Ms. Leclerc called the meeting at 7 pm.

Minutes of June 2022 minutes: Ms. Trow made one correction. She said that as an alternate she was asked to fill in for absent board member Tom Winmill. Ms. Trow made a motion to approve the amended minutes of the June 15 meeting. Ms. Barnes seconded the motion and the motion carried.

Appointment of filling vacancies in membership of a new board member. Ms. Leclerc announced that Vice-Chair Ernie Vose had resigned and she was appointing Alternate Judy Trow to fill out his place on the board until the next election. According to RSA 673:12 1. “For an elected member, by appointment by the remaining board members until the next regular municipal election at which time a successor shall be elected to either fill the unexpired term or start a new term, as appropriate. Source. 1983, 447:1 eff. Jan 1, 1984.” As it happens, Mr. Vose’s term was going to be up in 2023. Mr. Winmill made a motion that Ms. Trow would serve as a board member until the next regular municipal election, which would be in March 2023. Ms. Barnes seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously.

Old Business:

Public Hearings:

Expansion of a Non-Conforming Use: Elizabeth Roos, 14 Middle Street, Article V D-2, Tax Map 20, Lot 77, Residential B. Ms. Roos would like to change and enlarge her deck at the back of the house. The door to the deck is the second egress from the house. The door is even with the deck and gets frozen shut in the winter. The plan is to drop the deck down one step and make it 6 feet longer. Postponed.

Public Hearing: Expansion of a Non-Conforming Use: Chris Carbone, 65 Elm Street, Tax Map 19, Lot 31, Residential B. Article V D-2, setbacks. Mr. Carbone wants to replace a shed on his property that is a different shape and size.

Mr. Sellarole said he appreciated Mr. Carbone’s display of the property. Other board members agreed and said that the display was large enough to be seen clearly by the board and that included the writing.

 Mr. Carbone described and pointed out what was on the display – where there is a house, a garage, a garden, a fence and where the property drops off. He said the property is non-conforming.

Ms. Trow said the old shed is on the existing property line. Why not put it behind the garage? she asked. Mr. Carbone said there is a garden and a swing set behind the garage and it drops off sharply because of a retaining wall.

Ms. Barnes read aloud from Chapter 2 of “The Basics Function of the NH Zoning Board of Adjustment.” It said allowable Expansions of Nonconforming Uses must meet the court-created tests.

The Board should look at:

(1) The extent to which the proposed use reflects the nature and purpose of the prevailing nonconforming use. The proposal should be a “natural activity, closely related to the manner in which the piece of property [was] used” at the time the restriction was enacted; In other words, is it really the same use, simply “evolving” through new customs or technology?

(2) Whether the proposed use is merely a different manner of utilizing the same use or constitutes a use different in character, nature and kind;

(3) Whether the proposed change in use will have a substantially different effect on the neighborhood;

(4) In the case of dimensional non conformities, whether the proposed change or expansion renders the property proportionally less adequate, in terms of the requirement to which the property doesn’t conform.

 [This 4th test, although not mentioned in the Hurley v. Hollis case (143 N.H. 567 (1999), was set out in New London Land Use Assn. v. New London ZBA, 130 N.H. 510, 516 (1988).]

Mr. Carbone wrote in his application that he owns the property with his wife Alejandra Pallais. “The address is 65 Elm Street, Map 19, Lot 31. It is a .28-acre lot on the east side of the street, south of the Town Common and has 60 feet of road frontage. His application says that there is an existing 8-foot-by-8-foot shed on the North side of the property line that is old and has a rotting foundation and siding. He would like to build a new 6-foot-by-16-foot shed to the west of the existing shed and then demolish the existing shed once the new shed is complete. Because the new shed will be 15 feet within the property line, setbacks are unable to be maintained. The lot was grandfathered as a non-conforming lot, so requiring the setbacks to be maintained would amount to a significant hardship. Both the new and existing sheds are small structures. Once the existing shed is removed there is only a new area increase of 32 square feet. The new shed does not create a nuisance or a hazard and it will improve conditions as it will not be in disrepair.”

Mr. Winmill had a couple of questions. Board members answered his questions. Ms. Leclerc said a shed is a normal use in a residential district. Ms. Trow said it is a little bit larger. Mr. Sellarole said it is 32 square feet larger. Mr. Winmill asked if abutters were notified. The answer was “of course. It’s a public hearing.” Mr. Edkins said if abutters wanted to complain they could attend the meeting. Ms. Trow said the existing shed is in poor repair so it would actually be an improvement to the property and there would not be junk in the yard but be contained in a shed. Mr. Murray asked if it would the same distance from the boundary. Mr. Carbon said actually a couple of feet more.

Ms. Trow made a motion that the board approve the Expansion of a Non-Conforming Use, tax map  31, lot 31 in residential B article V, D-2, setbacks, to replace a shed at 65 Elm St.. Mr. Murray seconded the motion and the motion carried.

Temporary Signage: John Pappas – Temporary Signage at Store-It, five storage units are in the process of being built behind Dollar General on Route 12, across from Pete’s farm stand.

Mr. Pappas is building five storage units totaling 37,450 square feet on former Abenaki Springs property that is behind Dollar General on Route 12. He was at the meeting to ask for a temporary sign at or near that location until a permanent sign is installed after the units are built.

The sign would announce the opening of the storage units, which would be called Store-It of Walpole. The sign would say “Opening Soon!!! Store-It of Walpole, Climate & Non Climate controlled Self Storage, 1-800-352-5251 www.Storeitofwalpole.com.” It is two sided, and made of material that’s not permanent but like a banner.  It would go on the vacant lot between the pump house and Dollar General on Route 12. He has notified the owner of Dollar General what he is doing. Jack Franks owns the property and he has given permission to put up the sign. Ms. Trow asked if this is where the permanent sign would be. Mr. Pappas said “no”. The permanent sign would be on Store-It property and would be near the front portion of the storage units. The location was okay-ed at the Planning Board public hearing, he said.

He put up a drawing of the property survey and pointed to where the permanent sign will be at the corner of the property. It’s actually on Red Barn Lane. He expects his permanent sign will up in September or October and he knows he has to come back to the Zoning Board for that sign.

Ms. Leclerc said that this sign doesn’t fit our definition of a temporary sign. Last year the town approved a Temporary Sign ordinance. It says “A temporary sign is any sign not permanently attached to the ground, a wall or a building that is intended to be displayed for a short to limited amount of time. …. All temporary signs shall be removed with ten (10) days following the event or activity being promoted.”

The sign would be 32 square feet, which is the size allowed by the zoning ordinance in the commercial district. Mr. Pappas said it would a banner placed on two posts on Route 12 between the pumping station and Dollar General. Ms. Leclerc said the sign ordinance says it has to be 60 from the edge of the traveled highway and 100 feet from another sign.

Ms. Trow made a motion that the board approve the so-called temporary sign, that it be 60 feet from the edge of the highway and 100 from another sign until November 1 and that it be totally removed, including the posts, when a new permanent sign is installed. The motion was seconded and approved by the entire board.

Nonpublic session

At 7:26 pm Ms. Leclerc said she would like to go into nonpublic session to meet with town counsel Jeremy Hockensmith. Ms. Trow made a motion to go into nonpublic session. The motion was seconded and approved by the rest of the board.

At 8:48 pm Ms. Trow made a motion to come out of executive session and to seal the minutes. The motion was seconded and approved by the board.

Appointment of two alternates

Ms. Leclerc announced that because of the upcoming public hearing for an appeal in September she was suggesting that the board approve two new alternates. Three board members and one alternate are planning on recusing themselves from hearing the appeal, she said. So she introduced Myra Mansouri and Carolyn Vose as potential alternates. Mr. Winmill objected to that idea saying that the board had no advanced notice of the announcement. It wasn’t on the agenda, he said.

Mr. Winmill said that there was plenty of time before the hearing, which isn’t until September, to consider candidates as alternates and it would give board members a chance to consider the suggestion and the nominations at the regular August meeting. He also was concerned that adding two more members for the purpose of a future hearing was not a good idea.

Mr. Murray said when he came onto the board he was as green as a turnip. Mr. Murray made a motion to appoint the two candidates as alternates tonight and next month announce the nomination of a third candidate. Ms. Trow seconded the motion.

Mr. Winmill objected and thought the board should wait 30 days and develop a list of candidates instead of railroading the candidates through tonight. There would be no harm in waiting until next month, Mr. Winmill said. Ms. Barnes didn’t see any advantage to that idea, nor did Ms. Trow. Ms. Trow said that it is good to have both experienced and inexperienced people on the board. Board members without experience sometimes ask obvious questions that experienced people don’t think of. A vote was taken on the motion and there were four ayes and one nay.

Applications

Three zoning board applications were discussed at the meeting: Variance, Expansion of a Non-Conforming Use and Appeal for Administrative Decision. Ms. Trow completed the application for a variance. Ms. Barnes had a couple of minor suggestions and it was suggested that on the abutter list page the word Applicant be placed permanently at the top of the list as most applicants don’t consider themselves to be abutters. Ms. Trow will send a final draft to Ms. Leclerc and Ms. Leclerc will send it to Sarah Downing to be put on the website.

The draft made by Mr. Edkins is for The Walpole Clarion article on non-conforming uses and will be postponed until September. The Board will look at the draft and report back at the next meeting about omissions or additions. The Board was also asked to look at an application for Appeal for Administrative Decision and also report back at the next meeting in August.

Zoning Maps

Mr. Peter Palmiotto sent two versions of a colorful zoning map to be displayed in the hallway of the Town Offices. One has the entire town on the right and the village district on the left. The other is a mirror of the first map. The Board thought the map with the entire town on the left was the better of the two maps.

Fact Finding

As of August 23 the Zoning Board must fill out a Town Notice of Decision for every decision made. Following are copies of the forms for Finding of Facts, Decisions Approved and Decisions Denied.

Adjournment

There being no other business Mr. Trow made a motion to adjourn. Ms. Barnes seconded the motion and the motion carried.

Meeting concluded at 9:30 pm.

Respectfully submitted,

Marilou Blaine

ZBA Secretary

cc: ZBA, WPB, Town Offices, The Walpolean.

Posted: Inside the Town Offices, on the bulletin board outside the Post Office.