The Walpolean

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

CALL TO ORDER:  Mrs. Pschirrer, Chair of the Walpole Selectboard, called this meeting via Zoom to order at 6:30 PM.  She announced that Ms. Cheryl Mayberry and Mr. Steven Dalessio, the other two Selectboard members are also present. The Selectboard members are in three separate locations.  Also attending this meeting is Mrs. Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration, in the Walpole Town Hall and Mrs. Regina Borden, Recording Secretary, by telephone at a separate location.  This meeting is being recorded. 

Public comments are to be emailed to Mrs. Downing at the Walpole Town Hall or by calling 03-756-3672.  She will display the Agenda.  That will be followed by documents as they are being discussed.

Mrs. Pschirrer called for a voice roll call of the Selectboardpresent:  Cheryl Mayberry was present; Steven Dalessio was present and Peggy Pschirrer was present.  This meeting will be in accordance with Virtual Meetings, Emergency Order #12, which has been effective since March 2020.

WARRANT ARTICLE ASSIGNMENTS and TOWN MEETING ROOM SCHEMATIC:  Mr. Jack Wozmak, Town Moderator, was present to talk about the upcoming Town Election and Town Meeting.  They plan to set the meeting room up exactly as before for elections on Tuesday, March 9^th.  There will be one-way-in and one-way-out with the ramp and railings as people exit onto Elm Street.  If needed, handicapped assistance will be available. He does not anticipate anything will be different.  

Town Meeting will be on Saturday, March 13^th at 1:00 PM at the Walpole Elementary School Gymnasium.  They will not use the stage.  Everybody will be at the floor level.  Chairs will be placed at socially distanced spaces.  There will be three-or-four head tables and chairs set up for speakers.  The meeting will start with the Pledge of Allegiance. That will be followed by swearing-in the Town Officials and moving on to the Warrant Articles.  He would like to move the meeting along as is appropriate to do so but will give everyone the opportunity to speak.  This will be his first Town Meeting. He has talked with Mr. Ernie Vose, former Town Moderator.  Mr. Dalessio asked if they will be using the gym entrance as it will be the best entrance to use.  Ms. Mayberry felt this was the plan.  Mr. Wozmak hopes to do a walk around the school tomorrow afternoon with someone from the school staff.  Mrs. Pschirrer recommended he contact Mr. Justin Cassarino.  Ms. Mayberry suggested he make an announcement at the beginning of the Town Meeting that speakers will have a limited period of time to speak on the same issue.  Mr. Wozmak agreed; suggested time is three minutes.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked who would be reading the Warrant Articles. Mr. Wozmak plans to read the Articles, then ask for a motion and second.  Mrs. Pschirrer noted the Selectboard divides up the Warrant Articles and speaks about them quite often with the department managers.  The Selectboard will give Mr. Wozmak a list.

Mrs. Pschirrer saw a notice that Mr. Wozmak was planning to meet with election workers on Monday, March 8^th at 6:00 PM at Town Hall.  Mr. Wozmak said that was correct; he plans to walk them through the procedures.  He will be happy to have the assistance of the Selectboard during the elections on Tuesday, March 9^th.      

Mr. Bob Breslend will be getting things set up in North Walpole for the elections.  Mr. Ernie Vose will be at this location on Tuesday, March 9^th.  Ms. Mayberry also plans to be in North Walpole during elections.               

PUBLIC BUSINESS:

Mrs. Pschirrer acknowledged there are people attending this meeting and asked if anyone would like to speak.  If no one raises their hand she will assume they are here to listen and observe.  Mr. Shane O’Keefe wanted to speak on Whipple Hill Road when that agenda item is brought up.  Mrs. Pschirrer reported that at this point there will be no discussion about Whipple Hill Road.  They are under advice of Town Counsel not to discuss it at this point.  Mr. White runs an audio visual company and offered to help set up the system for Town Meeting.  Mr. Wozmak understands the school has quite a compliment of audio equipment.  Ms. Mayberry suggested he check with the school personnel as they like to use their own equipment, but he should be sure they have what he needs.  Mr. Wozmak anticipated a microphone for his use and maybe two for attendees to use.  Mrs. Pschirrer thanked Mr. White for his offer.  If other arrangements need to be made, they will contact him.    

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Accounts Payable Check Register in the total amount of $50,499.91 for checks issued March 5, 2021.  This includes a payment of $26,137.15 to the New Hampshire Retirement System.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mr.  Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

PAYROLL:

Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Payroll Check Register for the week ending February 27, 2021, in the amount of $34,763.26 for checks dated March 5, 2021, and for the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $7,130.97.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MINUTES – February 25, 2021:  Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of February 25, 2021, as submitted.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the Minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION 1 MINUTES – February 25, 2021:  Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session 1 of February 25, 2021, as submitted.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the Minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION II MINUTES – February 25, 2021:  Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session II of February 25, 2021, as submitted.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer 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 – February 23, 2021.

PROPERTY TAX INTEREST FORGIVENESS:

MAP and LOT #008-022-000:  Mr. Dalessio moved to grant the Property Tax Interest Forgiveness in the amount of $9.33 for the owner(s) of Map and Lot #008-022-000.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

VETERANS’ TAX CREDIT:

MAP and LOT #012-055-016:  Mr. Dalessio moved to grant the Veterans’ Tax Credit for the owner(s) of Map and Lot #012-055-016 for an updated application due to a name change, i.e. Revocable Trust.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrerasked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved. 

SOLAR ENERGY EXEMPTIONS:

MAP and LOT #008-117-000 and MAP and LOT #009-058-000:  Mr. Dalessio moved to grant Solar Energy Exemptions to the owner(s) of the following properties:• MAP and LOT #008-117-000;• MAP and LOT #009-058-000.

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

OLD BUSINESS:

Class VI Portion of Whipple Hill Road and Snowmobiles: Mrs. Pschirrer advised that, as previously mentioned, our attorney had advised us there should be no more discussion on Whipple Hill Road.  Therefore, there will be no more discussion of Whipple Hill Road and Snowmobiles.  

Mr. O’Keefe asked if there could be discussion not related to snowmobiles.  Mrs. Pschirrer replied that if it is not related to what they have been discussing, they will listen to his comments.  Mr. O’Keefe said there is a neighbor who is plowing snow there so it prevents people from using the right-of-way.  He tried to turn around there today but was unable to do so.  This is of concern to him, since he wished to have have access to the road.  Mrs. Pschirrer advised they will note this in these meeting minutes but the Selectboard will not comment at this time.  Mr. O’Keefe referenced RSA 231:21-A which addresses the Blockage of Class VI Roads.    

Certificate of Authorization for Houghton Brook Bridge ARM Grant:  Mr. Dalessio moved to authorize the Chair of the Selectboard, Peggy L. Pschirrer, to sign the Certificate of Authorization for the Houghton Brook Bridge ARM Grant.  This document allows us to accept the Grant of $250,000.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

A resident asked how long the road would be closed. Mr. Dalessio reported that either a temporary bridge will be put in or they will work with Mr. Graves to use his road.  Mrs. Pschirrer noted residents would not be cut-off.   

Streetlight LED Conversion:  Mrs. Pschirrer advised they have been getting a number of letters and articles about blue lights.  They have read all of them.  Some of these people have not objected to their plans but they want the Selectboard to understand there is a lot of research being done.  There are LED lights in the back parking lot of Burdick Chocolates if anyone would like to see what they look like.  This project in Town will begin in May when all street lights will be converted to LED lights.  The Town will save about $15,000/year.  Mr. Wozmak asked if they would be solar or electric.  Mrs. Pschirrer replied electric.  Mr. O’Keefe asked if the Town will own or rent the lights.  Mr. Dalessio said own them.    

 Replying to a question from Mr. White regarding if the lights would be 3,000 luminaires or 4,000, Mrs. Pschirrer noted they are still in discussion with Liberty Utilities.  Mr. White would go on the record by stating there is no difference in how to perceive things; the complaints for the added blue lights would be valid if they went to the 4,000 temperature lights.  

Warrant Article Assignments: 

Article 1:  This is to elect the necessary Town Officers for their respective terms.  (Voted on by Ballot).

Articles 2 and 3:  Mrs. Pschirrer noted these two articles will be voted on by Ballot on Tuesday, March 9^th.  They deal with the separation of the Town Clerk and the Tax Collector position.      

Article 2:  The Selectboard is asking voters to vote “No”.  This vote would continue the combined office 

of Town Clerk/Tax Collector.

Article 3:  The Selectboard is asking voters to vote “Yes” which means after one year in three years they 

would be appointing a Tax Collector.  This position would then work more closely with the Director of Finance.

Town Meeting Voting:

Article #4:  The Town Budget.  Mrs. Pschirrer will address this article.

Article #5:  Town Hall Repairs.  Mr. Dalessio will address this article.

Article #6:  Highway Department Truck:  Ms. Mayberry will address this article.

Article #7:  Highway Capital Reserve Fund:  Ms. Mayberry will address this article.

Article #8:  Highway Garage Addition.  Ms. Mayberry will address this article.

Article #9:  Recycling Center – Paving.  Mr. Dalessio will address this article.

Article #10: Police Department – New Vehicle.  Mrs. Pschirrer and Lt. Sanctuary will address this article.

Article #11: Police Department – New Vehicle Equipment.  Mrs.  Pschirrer and Lt. Sanctuary will 

address this article.

Article #12: Police Department Capital Reserve Fund:  Mrs. Pschirrer and Lt. Sanctuary will address this 

Article.

Article #13: Pool House Roof:  Ms. Mayberry will address this article.

Article #14: Dog Ordinance.  Mrs. Pschirrer will address this article.

Article #15: Old Drewsville Road:  Petition Article.  Mr. Ray Boas will address this article.

Article #16: Carbon Pricing Legislation.  Petition Article.  Mrs. Tara Sad will address this article.

Article #17: Any Other Business.  Mr. Wozmak asked if the Selectboard anticipate any Other Business.    Mrs. Pschirrer replied this is usually a formality.  In the past after each Warrant Article was adopted there was a motion for non-reconsideration.  Recently they have just been doing that at the end of the meeting.  It is important they have that motion from the floor that nothing be recalled for re-consideration.  Mr. Wozmak felt they could either do it individually or at the end of the group.  He will add this to his notes.         

Pending Further Actions:

North Walpole Library Lease, Tax Deeded Property Sale, Reservoir Dam Repairs, Emergency Generators, Town Employees and COVID-19 Leave:   These agenda items will remain on the list until additional information is received.

Reservoir Dam:  Mr. Dalessio reported we are still in the process with the Department of Environmental Services (DES) of getting the Reservoir Dam officially classified.  It looks like it will be a High Hazard Dam.  After that is done, Fuss & O’Neill will give us some cost options for ways to solve the problem.  It is premature to consider options at this time. 

North Walpole Library Lease:  Mrs. Pschirrer advised the Town Attorney is working on a lease for the North Walpole Library.  Ms. Mayberry met with the North Walpole Commissioners after she attended the Village Budget meeting and they wanted to know if they would be responsible for the electrical outlets or if the cost would be split or paid for by the Library.  Mrs. Pschirrer thought North Walpole would be responsible as it is their building but it could be split.  Ms. Mayberry referenced the letter from Mrs. Amy Howard. Mrs.  Pschirrer said anything else that would be done would not be a fixture.  Ms. Mayberry told the Commissioners she would clarify these issues.  The Commissioners do not want to enter into a long-term lease at this time because they wanted more clarification as to what was going to happen. Mrs. Pschirrer said the Library is planning long-term changes in North Walpole.They plan to stay open longer, have more children’s programs and adult programs. Mrs. Julie Rios will be spending a lot more time in North Walpole. Ms. Mayberry asked if the rug will be replaced.  Mrs. Pschirrer pointed out that they are not going to reconsider carpeting but rather have throw rugs and there will be more desks for computers.             

NEW BUSINESS:

Selectboard Office Computer Purchase Order:  Mrs. Downing would take the new computer and put the older one in the other room to replace the computer that no longer works. The computer in the other room is used by Avitar Associates and the Supervisor of the Checklist has been using it.  In addition, it has been used when Mrs. Pschirrer has a meeting there.  Updates to the tax cards can take many hours.

Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the expenditure of $1,289.65 for the purchase of a new computer for the Selectboard office.  It is a budgeted expense.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.          

Cemetery Deed D504:  Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Cemetery Deed for the sale of Lot D504.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a voice roll call vote with Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

Open Container Permit for Outdoor Dining at Burdick’s Restaurant:  The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of an email from Tom Goins, Managing Partner, for the Restaurant at Burdick’s.  Mrs. Pschirrer explained they are asking if they can have the same outdoor set-up they had last year except this year they propose to have a structure with a solid floor.  They will be able to take this down in the fall when it becomes too cold for outdoor diners.  The footprint will not be larger than the tent was last year.  They will ensure vehicles can freely go past this proposed structure.  Mr. Dalessio said to get Selectboard approval, Burdick’s will have to meet fire codes. The Selectboard will need a letter from the Fire Department stating the structure meets fire codes and will be safe. Mr. Goins has been in contact with Fire Chief Houghton. Mrs. Pschirrer will respond to Mr. Goins.

Village Projects: Mrs. Pschirrer will be talking with Mr. Steve Rickerich tomorrow about the Brownfields Project and about the Elm Street project.  She heard Mr. Houghton plans to begin Elm Street in May.  They may be able to delay the Brownfields Project until July to avoid some of the congestion in the area.  Mr. Dalessio is concerned that last year the outdoor dining area for Spencer’s Restaurant was fine but it will be more complicated this year.  Mrs. Pschirrer advised there will be a public meeting so everyone will know what is going to happen.  A lot of delivery trucks go through there.       

Westminster Street Travel Complaint:  Mrs. Downing reported a North Road resident called because they had to pull over into a parking space on Westminster Street as a big bucket truck was traveling toward their vehicle. With parking on both sides of the street, it did not leave enough room for passing traffic.  There was discussion relative to this not being caused by snow banks but rather that the road is narrow with parking on both sides of the street.  Mrs. Pschirrer had a complaint that they needed to meter those parking spaces or at least put up “Two Hour Parking” signs.  Her response was they could do that but had no one to monitor nor do they have manpower to enforce that. Mrs. Pschirrer will respond to the complaint.

Recording:  Mr. Spivey requested a copy of the recording of this meeting.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION:

Ms. Mayberry moved to enter into a Non-Public SelectboardSession pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (a) Personnel and (c) Reputations.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a voice roll call vote with Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved at 7:26PM.  

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 8:10 PM.

Ms. Mayberry moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of March 4, 2021, will be sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a voice roll call vote with Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.  

ADJOURNMENT:  Ms. Mayberry moved to adjourn this Selectboard meeting.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  On a voice roll call vote with Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, meeting adjourned 8:12 PM.  Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

On behalf of residents of Walpole and the Fall Mountain District, I would like to send a big thank you to Billy and his family. I understand and appreciate the hours and commitment to education and all it means for our future. – Lil

Greetings fellow Walpoleans and residents of the Fall Mountain Regional School District.

    Congratulations to Craig Vickers for winning the election for the position of Fall Mountain Regional School Board Representative Residing in Walpole. I enjoyed participating in a clean race and a fair election. I also enjoyed the time spent with him and his parents outside the town hall on election day. I wish him good luck during his upcoming term. He will certainly prove to be a credit to our town and school district. 

    My thanks to Principals Jacobs and Cassarino, as well as the other school administrators. It’s been a pleasure to work with you. To Superintendent Landry, Chief Financial Officer Fenn, Misty Bushee and all the rest of the members of the SAU staff, I have appreciated your patience and professionalism. You taught me so very much. It has also been an honor to work with my fellow school board members. You demonstrated the dedication and creativity necessary to guide our district through several of the most tumultuous years yet faced by our cooperative. 

    Finally, I would like to thank all of the residents of the Fall Mountain Regional School District, particularly the residents of Walpole, for allowing me to represent you on our school board. You have shown a passionate commitment to our schools and it has been an honor to serve you.

Good luck to all in the years ahead,

Billy Stahl

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

CALL TO ORDER:  Mrs. Pschirrer, Chair of the Walpole Selectboard, called this meeting via Zoom to order at 6:30 PM.  She announced that Ms. Cheryl Mayberry and Mr. Steven Dalessio, the other two Selectboard members, are present.  The Selectboard members are in three separate locations.  Mrs. Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration, is in the Walpole Town Hall, and Mrs. Regina Borden, Recording Secretary, is by telephone at a separate location.

Public comments are to be emailed to Mrs. Downing at the Walpole Town Hall or by calling 603-756-3672.  She will display the agenda.  That will be followed by documents as they are being discussed.

Mrs. Pschirrer called for a voice roll call of the Selectboard present:  Cheryl Mayberry was present; Steven Dalessio was present and Peggy Pschirrer was present.  This meeting will be in accordance with Virtual Meetings, Emergency Order #12, which has been effective since March 2020.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION 1:

Ms. Mayberry moved to enter into a Non-Public Selectboard Session 1 pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (a) Personnel.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a voice roll call vote with Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:16 PM.

Mrs. Pschirrer advised that Mr. Jody Spivey is in the audience and he responded by a voice confirmation.  

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION 1 (Continued):

Ms. Mayberry moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session #1 of February 25, 2021, will be sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a voice roll call vote with Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Accounts Payable Check Register in the total amount of $65,697.93 for checks issued February 26, 2021.  This includes a payment in the amount of $43,310.15 to the HealthTrust.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

PAYROLL:

Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Payroll Check Register for the week ending February 20, 2021, in the amount of $36,792.22 for checks dated February 26, 2021, and for the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer in the amount of $7,703.58.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MINUTES – February 18, 2021:  Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of February 18, 2021, as submitted.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the Minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION MINUTES – February 18, 2021:  Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of February 18, 2021, as submitted.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the Minutes were approved.

STAFF MEETING MINUTES – February 18, 2021: Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Minutes of the Staff Meeting of February 18, 2021, as submitted.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry 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 – February 17, 2021;• North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners Meeting – January 26, 2021;• North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners Meeting – February 2, 2021;• North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners Meeting – February 9, 2021;• North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners Meeting – February 16, 2021.

BUILDING PERMITS:

Permit #2021-07 – MAP and LOT #012-014-000:  Mr. Dalessio moved to grant Building Permit No. 2021-07 for the owner(s) of Map and Lot #012-014-000 to build a “16’ x 16’ addition and 16’ x 20’ Concrete Pad”.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

Permit #2021-08 – MAP and LOT #005-004-001:  Mr. Dalessio moved to grant Building Permit No. 2021-08 for the owner(s) of Map and Lot #005-004-001 to add a “24’ x 12’ Prebuilt Garage”.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS:

North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners Letter re: Library Lease: Mrs. Pschirrer acknowledged receipt of a letter from the North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners about the Library Lease. She felt theSelectboard had offered to write a lease. The Board of Commissioners had advised that they will raise the rent to $1,100 for the year. However, that is not in the Walpole Library budget that was set quite a while ago. The North Walpole Library has not been used for over a year. Therefore, no expenses were incurred. Ms. Mayberry felt the Board of Commissioners was agreeable to having the Selectboard write a lease, but their concerns are the electrical upgrade and impact to their budget. We should share a definite plan with them. Mrs. Pschirrer clarified they want to put more computers in which is the need for more electrical outlets. Mrs. Amy Howard, President of the Library Board, had previously written to them about the Library’s plans. Mr. Dalessio suggested it might be helpful to have both Boards online at the same time to talk about this. Mrs. Pschirrer will ask the Town attorney to draw up a simple lease. Ms. Mayberry mentioned the Library has their main room plus their bathroom. Mrs. Pschirrer will speak to both Mrs. Howard and Mrs. Malmberg. Ms. Mayberry is available to work on the lease with both the Commissioners and Walpole Library Board.

Nerrie Adequate Notice for DADU:  Mrs. Pschirrer stated they just need to be sure the “Memorandum of Adequate Notice” for the construction of a Detached Accessory Dwelling Unit (DADU) is filed in the Cheshire County Registry of Deeds.  

Streetlight LED Conversion re: Blue Light:  Mrs. Pschirrer acknowledged receipt of an article on Streetlight LED Conversion re: Blue Light.  It mentions the differences of blue light.  We are all on computers, cell phones, etc. and there is some thought that this disrupts sleep patterns plus there are other issues.  She is not sure how much effect the Town using blue lights on the streets will affect us.  From other articles she read it is from our other devices we use especially at night.  She forwarded this to Mr. Steve Grenier so he could read it as well.     

Q4 Water and Sewer Receipts to Date:  The Selectboard received a note from Mrs. Jodi Daigle that they are back on track for the Q4 Water and Sewer payments.  They are no longer running behind.    

Town Meeting Room Schematic and Warrant Article Assignments:  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if Mr. Jack Wozmak, Town Moderator, was planning to attend this meeting to discuss these items.  Mrs. Downing reported that Mr. Wozmak was attending another Zoom meeting; he intended to be here but must be running late. 

Mrs. Pschirrer advised that someone just came into the meeting.  

Streetlight LED Conversion re: Blue Light (Continued): Mr. William White, a lighting designer, was present. He has been interested in this since he noticed it the first time it was proposed.  It is true that blue light can affect sleep and he can offer some clarity on it.  5600 degrees is referred to as daylight.  3,000 degrees is about the average of your incandescent light bulb.  4,000 degrees is toward that spectrum but is not going to affect people too much.  He requested from Liberty Utilities the specs as it was offered.  It appears the Town requested the 3,000 degree lights which should not have any effect on the change from the sodium to this, although it may be a little yellower.  He does not believe they will have any issues.  Mr. Dalessio stated that is very nice to hear.  Mr. White advised the gentlemen doing the work for the Town should be respected for what he has done.  He has the Excel spreadsheet that he will be happy to forward to the Selectboard.  The difference will be less bright in some of those places.  It is up to the Selectboard on how they want to proceed with that.  Mrs. Pschirrer felt Mr. Steve Grenier would be happy to talk with him about this project.  They appreciate the good news.  Mr. Dalessio suggested Mr. White contact Mr. Grenier directly.      

Town Employees and Mask Requirement:  Mrs. Pschirrer wanted to remind all Town employees that they still expect people to be wearing masks when they are in close spaces and are not able to socially distance themselves.  We expect when people walk into the Town Hall that they have a mask on as do a number of other places in Town.  Every department is expected to be wearing their masks.  Mr. Dalessio feels it is very important that everybody adhere to the mask requirement for the Town.  It is critical for the safety and health of everyone.  Ms. Mayberry agreed; it is important to have compliance.  Mrs. Pschirrer mentioned that COVID-19 is still out there plus there are the variances.  We cannot be blasé about this at this.  We have an order in place and they intend to stick with it.  

Pending Further Actions:

Tax Deeded Property Sale, Reservoir Dam Repairs, Emergency Generators, Town Employees and COVID-19 Leave:  These items will remain on the agenda pending receipt of additional information.

NEW BUSINESS:

Junkyard Permits:  Mr. Dalessio advised this is the only Junkyard Permit in Town.  This is a renewal.  

Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Junkyard Permit for E.W. Salvage for the period of July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Junkyard Permit for E.W. Salvage for the period of July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

Town Meeting Room Schematic and Warrant Article Assignments (Continued): Mr. Wozmak was unable to attend this meeting. Therefore, this agenda item was rescheduled for Thursday, March 4th.     

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION II:

Mr. Dalessio moved to enter into a Non-Public Selectboard Session II pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (a) Personnel and (c) Reputations.   Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved at 7:40 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 8:10 PM.

Ms. Mayberry moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session II of February 25, 2021, will be sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a voice roll call vote with Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.  

ADJOURNMENT:  Ms. Mayberry moved to adjourn this Selectboard meeting.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments. There were none. On a voice roll call vote with Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, meeting adjourned at 8:12 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

Minutes for the Regular Meeting of the 

Walpole Conservation Commission (via Zoom)

March 1, 2021

Members Present:  Alicia Flammia, John Peska, Lewis Shelley, , Steven Dumont, Laura Hayes, France Menk, Jackie Kensen, Cheryl Mayberry (Selectboard Liason), Peggy Pschirrer (Selectboard Member), Jean Kobeski (Secretary)

Members Absent: none

Alternate Present: None

Call to Order:  Alicia called the meeting to order at 7:02 p.m. 

Review and Approval of Minutes: France moved, Lew seconded, and all voted to accept the February 1, 2021 minutes.

Public Business

Treasury:  ForestryAccount – $30,829.91

                 Conservation – $154,270.72

                 Walker Road – $3,363.95

​      

Report from the Chair:  Alicia reported that the WCC was under budget last year. No money was spent on trail expenses. $1550 of the available $2000 was spent, and no money was spent on maps.

Alicia collected the comments left in the box at the library.  When questioned how they use the Gateway, respondents replied: snowmobiling, dog walks, mountain biking, and walks. The suggestion was made to create a fenced-in dog park. Others asked where the trails are. Some requested better access for kayaking and a suggestion was made to put in picnic tables or benches with a view of the river.

Correspondence: Alicia reported she received a note from the NH Charitable Foundation with a check for the amount of $9159.70 from the Robert Hubbard Trust.

NH Fish and Game updated their trails handbook.

New Business

Annual Easement Monitoring: The Monadnock Conservancy notified the WCC that easements need  to be monitored. Alicia stated that the WCC should start annual easement monitoring of the Walpole properties.  Steven asked if there is a form to use when monitoring; Alicia said she would put it on Google Drive.  Jackie then offered to monitor Ballam Farm and France said she would do Fanny Mason.    

Invasive Species Woods Walk: Alicia was rereading Alex Barrett’s list of of things to do and he suggested an invasive species woods walk in the late spring. Laura agreed spring would be the best time because the invasives are just starting to appear. Alex said he would contact a local invasives expert to join the walk. Alicia said she would invite Michael Nerrie and Helen Dalbeck as well.

Management of Fanny Mason Forest:  Alicia talked briefly about getting Long View to harvest Fanny Mason Forest. Laura moved that the membership authorize Long View to harvest Fanny Mason. John seconded, and by a roll call vote, all voted in favor hiring Long View. 

Formation of Subcommittees within the WCC: A Trail Subcommittee has been formed with Steven, Lew, France, and several community volunteers. It was decided to form a second subcommittee monitoring boundaries and easement. Steven, Jackie, France, and Alicia volunteered to be on that committee. Cheryl suggested subcommittee reports become part of Other Business at monthly meetings.

Old Business

Trail Maps Update:  Lew enlisted Rick Brackett to do the trail maps. The plan is to start with the Mill Pond. One side of the map will be a “You are here” in Walpole; the reverse side will be a blow up of the trail. The map will contain information on elevation, use, etc. Lew said he would work with Rick to have a new template to present at the next trail meeting as well as an estimate once the template is done.

Steven asked what the process is for obtaining money for subcommittees. Alicia broke the monies down:7

$750 Trail Use

​$200  Maps and Charts

​$150  Miscellaneous

​$150  Tools, Equipment

There are also conservation savings account funds for Walker Road and Fanny Mason.

Cheryl said estimates should be brought to the WCC meetings. The membership can approve expenditures up to a certain amount. 

Other Business

Trail Subcommittee Report: There was a meeting to discuss the continuation of the Rail Trail past the Cold River to Bellows Falls. Wendy and Will Grossman, as well as members of the Selectboard participated.

John stated that Town Hall has received numerous requests for trail maps. He cautioned that the more information that is available to the public, the heavier the traffic on the trails will be. This will lead to more littering.  Lew stated that the plus side of this is, the more the trails are used by hikers, bikers, etc., the less undesirable usage there will be.

Reservoir Road:  John stated that Fuss and O’Neill designated the Reservoir Dam a high hazard dam.  Repairs will cost around $420,000 or more. He asked Peggy if the modeling report was in; she stated it was not. Once it is in (perhaps by next meeting) it can be sent to the WCC and the future of the dam can be determined.

John suggested beginning the grant process for dam removal. Peggy said it is important to read the report first.  Alicia suggested contacting the Connecticut River Conservancy and The Connecticut River Joint Commission for advice about dam removal.

Walker Road Bench:  Alicia asked if there was any interest in putting in a bench so people could sit and view the river.  Lew suggested building a Leopold bench; it is easy to construct. He said he would send a link to a website where members could see a picture. He suggested building the bench on the backside of the kiosk.

Membership Renewal:  Alicia reminded Laura, Lew, John, and Steven that they need to send letters of interest to serve on the WCC to Sarah.

Adjournment: John moved, Steven seconded, and all voted to adjourn the meeting at 7:57 p.m.

The next meeting will be on Monday, April 5, 2021, at 7:00 p.m.

Respectfully Submitted,

Jean Kobeski, Recording Secretary

*** These minutes are in draft form until approved by the Commission on April 5, 2021.

COVID by the Numbers—March 7 Edition

Walpole had 8 active cases at the end of last week.  As of this writing, we are down to 5 active cases.  Last week we had 4 new cases of COVID in town; that number remained the same this week.

In Cheshire County, our seven day average of reported cases per 100,000 is going in the wrong direction.  The county went from an average of 23.1 cases per 100,000 last week up to an average of 24.8this week.  Congratulations …we have gone back to having the highest infection rate in the state.  The infection rate for the county which was 0.67 at the beginning of February, has been holding steady at about 1.00.  The infection rate reflects the average number of other people that each infected person passes the virus on to.  If it stays around 1.00, the numbers or new cases are likely to remain the same.  When the infection rate goes above 1.00, the numbers are likely to rise.  

Active cases in Cheshire County went from 149 up to 156.  One more COVID case was hospitalized this week, and we have lost one more citizen to the pandemic this week.

Statewide, the numbers are significantly better.  The seven-day average of reported cases statewide has gone down from 21.1 to 16.1.  Active cases have gone from 2,532 down to 2,062.  Hospitalizations have gone from 89 to 88.  We lost 16 citizens statewide last week; this week the number was 14.   As of this writing, 75,861 cases of COVID have been confirmed in the state.

The numbers in NH are still significantly higher than those in California, so we can still do much better.

Please keep on taking good care of yourselves, and each other.  Don’t let down your guard.  Be careful out there.  There is still work to do.

Wear your mask, keep your distance-even when wearing a mask, wash your hands, and keep well.  

~Representative Lucy Weber

603-499-0282

Lwmcv@comcast.net

In front of the Post Office – 9:00-11:00 AM on Saturday, April 3rd. Benefits go the the 1st Congregational Church of Walpole. These are whole pies and if you remember the “good old days” of pie at the Band Comcerts , you know that these pies are really delicious!

COVID Vaccine Midweek Update

All of the information in today’s update comes  from the Governor’s press conference today.  Occasionally in the past, the press conferences have gotten out in front of the folks on the ground who have to administer the programs.  If that happens this time, please let me know, so I can pass the word, but kindly refrain from yelling at the messenger.  I took a lot of flak back when the Governor announced that primary care  providers would sign up medically fragile persons in Phase 1-b for their shots and it turned out that local providers had not heard about that program yet.  

All three vaccines have proved extremely effective at preventing hospitalization or death; you are not given a choice of which vaccine you will get.  

With the approval of the Johnson & Johnson one-shot vaccine, and the contract for Merck to also manufacture the J & J vaccine under the Defense Production Act, vaccine administration is ramping up to the next level in NH.  According to the Governor’s press conference today, we got 42,000 doses of vaccine into the state this week, with more doses coming in through a federal program distributed in NH by the Walgreen’s chain.  

Phase 1-b:  The Governor said that everyone in Phase 1-b (that’s the 65+ group) who wanted to get their date moved up from April to March has been moved up, so if you are still scheduled for April and want an earlier slot, call 211 and they can reschedule you.  

Homebound folks:  Starting tomorrow, if you are homebound, you can sign up to get a shot administered at home, even  if you are not  signed up with a home health agency.  If you are a patient of a home health agency, and have not yet been contacted by them about your vaccine, call them to find out your options.  If you are not signed up with a home health agency, you can still get transport to a vaccine center, or can get a vaccine at home.  Call 211 to make those arrangements.  As always, expect to be on hold for some time when you call 211.  Have a book or a crossword or some other occupation available to help you pass the time while you are on hold.  Also, know that it will take some time to get to everyone who is homebound, so if you can manage to be transported to a vaccine site, you will probably get the vaccine significantly sooner than waiting for it at home.

Phase 2-A  Teachers, School Administration and Staff, and Child Care Workers: Having said very recently he will not move educators up on the list, the Governor now says that it is time for workers in this category to get into the mix.  Many educators will be vaccinated on-site by arrangements set up by their employers.  If your employer is not setting up arrangements for you to be vaccinated, you may register for vaccination starting on March 17^th, with appointments starting on March 22^nd.  The sign up is supposed to be via the new state registration system, referred to as VMS, as opposed to the problem-plagued VAMS.  No word yet how to connect to VMS, but let us hope the information will be up on the NH COVID web site, found here:  https://www.nh.gov/covid19/ .  That is where you go now to start the registration process.

Phase 2-b  People 50+:  If you are 50 years of age or older, registration starts on March 22^nd, with appointments starting on March 25^th, again via the new VMS system. 

Two more new cases in Walpole today; three so far this week.  Today, Cheshire County has the second highest 7 day average rate of infection per 100,000 in the state, at 24.2.  Only Grafton, at 28.3, is higher.  Sullivan County, right next door, is the lowest in NH at 9.9.  Hillsborough, usually at the top of the list, is at 17.8.  Windham County VT, just across the river, is at 8.1.  We have work to do.

Wear your mask, even while distancing.  Keep your distance, even while wearing a mask.  Wash your hands.  And keep well.

Lucy

~Representative Lucy Weber

603-499-0282

Lwmcv@comcast.net

TOWN OF WALPOLE

SELECTBOARD MEETING AGENDA

March 4, 2021

Starting at 6:30 PM via Zoom and may be live-streamed on FACT-TV

SELECTBOARD MEETING

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE• Accounts Payable Check Register in the total amount of $50,499.91 for checks issued 3/05/21

PAYROLL• Payroll Register totaling $34,763.26 dated 3/05/21 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $7,130.97

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES• Selectboard Minutes – February 25, 2021• Non-Public Selectboard Session I Minutes – February 25, 2021• Non-Public Selectboard Session II Minutes – February 25, 2021

COMMITTEE REPORTS• North Walpole Village District Commissioners Meeting – February 23, 2021

PROPERTY TAX INTEREST FORGIVENESS• Map and Lot# 008-022-000

VETERANS’ TAX CREDIT• Map and Lot# 012-055-016

SOLAR ENERGY EXEMPTION• Map and Lot# 008-117-000• Map and Lot# 009-058-000

OLD BUSINESS• Class VI Portion of Whipple Hill Road and Snowmobiles• Certificate of Authorization for Houghton Brook Bridge ARM Grant• Streetlight LED Conversion• Warrant Article Assignments and Town Meeting Room Schematic

Pending Further Actions• North Walpole Library Lease, Tax Deeded Property Sale, Reservoir Dam Repairs, Emergency Generators, Town Employees and COVID-19 Leave

NEW BUSINESS• Selectboard Office Computer Purchase Order• Cemetery Deed D504• Open Container Permit for Outdoor Dining at Burdick’s Restaurant• Westminster Street Travel Complaint

NON-PUBLIC BUSINESS: RSA 91-A:3 II (a)

**Any recording, audio or visual, and/or other devices must be declared at the beginning of the meeting**