The Walpolean

Conducted on “Zoom”                           January 12, 2021                           

Present were: Gail Lahaise, Amy Howard, Kate Nerrie, Jean Kobeski, Susan Johnson, Jeanne Ramey, Tim Lester, Jane Malmberg, Peggy Pschirrer, Shirley Capron.  

The Meeting commenced at 4:30 p.m. with Amy doing a roll call of members present with a show of hands.    

Approval of Minutes:  Jeanne moved, Jean seconded, all approved (8-0) the November ’20 Minutes with a show of hands.  There was no meeting in December 2020. 

Treasurer’s Report:  Kate had e-mailed her report for Nov-Dec ’20.  She said we spent less money than received this past year, and that $421 donations were moved to the checking account, adding that extra funds from the Library Funds were moved into the Town Account as approved previously.   Amy said we should be thinking about spending funds to do something special when the Library reopens.   

Bills:  Jane e-mailed her “December ’20 Bills Report” to all.  Amy questioned newspapers.  Jane said the Library still receives the Sunday “New York Times,” the “Keene Sentinel” and the newly expanded “News Bank” subscription. 

Jeanne questioned the “New York Times” on line and Jane is to investigate it.  Jane said she can pause both the “Keene Sentinel” and “New York Times” (presumably for safety measures re patrons handling of the papers).  Jane said the magazines get quarantined, and that they circulate fairly well.  Presently, she is looking at renewals of them. 

Noting “Jennifer Burr,” Kate mentioned that she gets paid at the end of the year —  not for her labor time — but for what plants she purchased for the Library. 

Jeanne moved, Sue seconded, all approved with a show of hands, both the Treasurer’s and Bills Reports (8-0). 

Old Business:  Jane e-mailed her “2020 –2021 Library Budget Report” to all.  She said her salary does not change.  She asked for more money for staff because of work at the Branch and for a “Cost of living” increase.  There is a lowered mileage cost.  She added that nothing changed much and that there is a two and one-half % increase overall.  Tim inquired about recently retired Fran Moses’ salary.  Jane declared it is spread among other staff because of their adopting Fran’s work. 

She said the Income side lowered. Amy moved, Jeanne seconded, all approved with a show of hands (8-0). 

Jane e-mailed her “2020 Town Report” document to all.  It will be in the Town Report booklet for residents.  Amy and others complimented Jane re.  Jeanne asked if there could be more lines in it about Fran. 

Amy explained the two budgets, saying the Town Budget is tax payment funded for physical operation needs (re the building, etc.), while the Library budget is for general operation, i.e. purchasing of materials. etc.  

Branch:  Jane was complimented for her good reporting about the Branch in the Town Report.  She said 900 books were cataloged and that she goes there to organize books on shelves Fridays. All staff have pitched in to help, and that it was busy around the holidays.  Some staff are working extra hours to help get the Branch organized to open again. 

– People have inquired about plans to open, hoping that it will.  

– Tim inquired if he could help in getting the Branch to move forward, with cataloging.   Previously Amy had mentioned the clause in the Library’s  “Policies of Government” that declares Trustees cannot work as staff.  However in this case, similar to Trustees assisting temporarily with tasks during the Walpole Expansion project, there should be no problem re.  Re, Jane said if one does not intrude on regular staff’s work, it would be okay.  Jane does not think there would be any problem.  Jeanne also approved Tim’s volunteering to help.  

– Peg said the Selectmen met about the budget with a wish list that concerns electrical outlets at the Branch as there are only two now and that the Commissioners would pay for the plugs.  There will also be cost associated with cleaning up, and for replacing the rug, as the scatter rug was removed, and for new signage. Peggy said the Town will go back to the Commissioners to pay for some of the work done on the building (e.g. plugs).  The Select Board is to do it, and that it will be in the budget to be presented to the Town in March. Amy will draft a letter to the Commissioners re.  Peg said we are on safer ground if we have a lease. 

– Jeanne offered a table for the Branch – possibly for computers. 

– Jane feels it is unsafe to open for curbside service now, but to open when people can come in to celebrate opening.  She added we will not know if we will have money to staff it in March or May when it will hopefully open. 

New Business:  Jane e-mailed her “December and Y-T-D Stats” and her “Library Report 1-12-21” to all.  Because of COVID, Jane said operations are slower but people are coming in.  She said that a N.H. Library survey shows there are eleven Library Curbside services, and nine Libraries open in the State.  Sue questioned the proposed Contact Tracing in the Walpole Library.  Jane said staff are still doing it. 

– Jane gave an update on a new service.  Deliveries to homes started this month, and there has been one delivery already. She is anticipating more requests for delivery.  Jeanne said she would put up a sign at “Applewood” for book deliveries. Jane will give Jeanne a flier re. 

Operations:  Amy said she is up for re-election.   Jeanne and Carol’s position will be up for election this year. Tim, now replacing Fred’s position, needs to run for a one year seat as he was appointed to the Board and not elected by the Town. Amy and Peg explained the election process and terms.  Amy put a small article in the December “Clarion” re open Library Trustee positions.  Tim (assuming election this year), Gail and Jean are up for re-election in 2022 and Kathy, Shirley, and Sue in 2023, 

Building & Grounds:  Jane said there was a leak in the ceiling in her office.  Barry examined and repaired it.  Tim thinks it is in part of the new construction.  Jane is to clarify with Barry re. 

– It was mentioned that whoever takes care of the walkway is doing a great job. 

– Jane is working on replacing the light outside.  She called Houghton and is waiting to hear from him re. 

– The back door cannot be unlocked from the outside. There appears to be no key for it.  Gail said to check with Lil DeCoste as she may have one. 

Friends:  There are volunteers working with book donations at the ReUse Center.  Kate said the books should be weeded because of their disposition. After much discussion, Jane recommended sitting down with Carol Malnati of the Friends to discuss the situation.  

With no further business, Gail motioned to adjourn.  Sue seconded, all approved with a show of hands (8-0). 

Faithfully submitted, 

Shirley Capron, Secy. 

The First Congregational Church of Walpole has designated the month of February as Peanut Butter Month.  We are collecting jars of peanut butter to donate to The Fall Mountain Food Shelf.  

 If you would like to add to our “collection”, you can drop it off at the church M-F from 9-12.  Go in by way of the handicapped walkway, and you will see the drop spot in the hallway.

 Thank you for your donations for others in our community.

COVID by the Numbers—February 7 Edition

And

Even More About Those Second Doses 

Second doses:  Another week, another plan.  The word now on when NH will have its own vaccine scheduling program is “before the next phase.”  As the current phase, 1-b contains some 250,000-300,000 individuals, and only 43,888 individuals in phases 1-a and 1-b have received both shots, with another 116,523 having received the first shot, it’s going to be a while yet.  In the meantime, the new plan, as of today, Sunday, is to give everyone a time for the second shot when they get the first shot.  If you are stuck with having received the first shot, and have a date for the second shot far later than the recommended interval, the reports are confusing.  Some people have called 211 and been given an earlier time slot, without having to cancel the later date already scheduled in VAMS.  Others have been told they will have to keep on “checking back” with the VAMS site, and they cannot do that without cancelling their existing date.  Still frustrating.  Stay tuned.

The numbers:

All the numbers this week are encouraging.  

Walpole active cases have gone from 9 cases to under 5.  Once you are under 5 active cases, DHHS only specifies 1-4 cases, to preserve confidentiality.  So we have achieved 1-4 status.  There were 5 new cases in Walpole this week, down from 6 last week.  

In Cheshire County, our seven day average of reported cases per 100,000 is down from 26.3 to 20.2.  Active cases in the county are now down to 122.  Sadly, we have lost another 2 citizens to the pandemic.

Statewide, active cases have gone from 5,238 down to 3,661.  Hospitalizations have gone from 217 to 186.  The death toll now stands at 1104.

Please keep on taking good care of yourselves, and each other.  Be careful out there.  The numbers are encouraging, but there is still work to do.

Keep well.

~Representative Lucy Weber

603-499-0282

Lwmcv@comcast.net

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.  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.   This meeting is being live-streamed on FACT-TV and recorded by the Town.

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.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Accounts Payable Check Register in the total amount of $696,178.76 for checks issued January 29, 2021.  This includes a monthly payment of $607,559.42 to Fall Mountain Regional School District.  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 January 23, 2021, in the amount of $29,611.31 for checks dated January 29, 2021, and for the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer in the amount of $5,728.80.  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 – January 21, 2021:  Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of January 21, 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 – January 21, 2021:  Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of January 21, 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 – January 21, 2021:  Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Minutes of the Staff Meeting of January 21, 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 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 – January 5, 2021;• North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners Meeting – January 12, 2021;• North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners Meeting – January 19, 2021.

WARRANTS:

Warrant for the Collection of Walpole Water Fees:  Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Warrant for the Collection of Walpole Water Fees in the amount of $43,290.09.  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.

Warrant for the Collection of Walpole Sewer Fees:  Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Warrant for the Collection of Walpole Sewer Fees in the amount of $66,697.60.  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.

Warrant for the Collection of North Walpole Sewer Fees:  Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Warrant for the Collection of North Walpole Sewer Fees in the amount of $58,592.30.  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.

TIMBER TAX WARRANT:

MAP and LOT #008-061-001:  Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Warrant for Timber Tax and the Certificate for Yield Taxes Assessed in the amount of $246.04 for the owner(s) of Map and Lot #008-061-001.  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.  

PROPERTY TAX INTEREST FORGIVENESS:

MAP and LOT #012-055-02B:  Mr. Dalessio moved to grant the Property Tax Interest Forgiveness in the amount of $45.89 for the owner(s) of Map and Lot #012-055-02B.  This is due to postal mail delivery delays.  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.

MAP and LOT #s UTIL-FAIR-000 and 020-072-000:  Mr. Dalessio moved to grant the Property Tax Interest Forgiveness in the amount of $60.76 for the owner(s) of Map and Lot #s UTIL-FAIR-000 and 020-072-000.  This is due to postal mail delivery delays.  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.

MAP and LOT #012-011-001:  Mr. Dalessio moved to grant the Property Tax Interest Forgiveness in the amount of $43.41 for the owner(s) of Map and Lot #012-011-001.  This is due to postal mail delivery delays.  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.

Mrs. Pschirrer reported these were all mailed/post marked in early December.

PROPERTY TAX REFUND:

MAP and LOT #008-101-000:  Mr. Dalessio moved to grant the Property Tax Refund in the amount of $7.49 for the owner(s) of Map and Lot #008-101-000.  This is due to an overpayment of taxes.  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 #003-034-000:  Mr. Dalessio moved to grant the Veterans’ Tax Credit to the owner(s) of Map and Lot #003-034-000.  This applicant served over 90 days of active duty and was honorably discharged.  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:

2021 General Fund Expenditure Detail Budget:  

Mrs. Pschirrer reported there seems to be an error in the Water and Sewer budgets that need to be changed as follows:  Water: Change $189,265.00 to $188,494.00.  Sewer: Change $476,569.00 to $475,762.00.  These two numbers will be corrected on the Warrant.  

Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the 2021 General Fund Expenditure Detail Budget with the corrections in Water and Sewer and this is subject to Mr. Rich Kreissle’s final review.  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.

2021 Draft Warrant Articles: 

Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the 2021 Draft Warrant Articles subject to verification of the numbers from Mr. Rich Kreissle.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer advised that they are required by this vote to indicate if they are or are not in favor of all the Articles.  Ms. Mayberry questioned Articles 2 and 3.  Mrs. Pschirrer noted Article 2 and Article 3 will be on the Town ballot; they are not a part of Town Meeting.  Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer vote “NO” on Article 2.  Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer vote “YES” on Article 3.  Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer vote “YES” to Articles 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11,12, 13 and Article 14.  Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer “Abstain” on Petitioned Articles 15 and 16.  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.      

Brownfields Project Update:  Mrs. Pschirrer has scheduled a Team meeting tomorrow at 10:30 AM with Mrs. Sarah Downing, Ms. Katy Deng, Mr. Steve Rickerich (consultant), two people from the EPA and Mr. Mike McCluskey from the DES.  Their purpose is to get acquainted with Ms. Deng and to review what they covered in their previous meeting last October.  They have a second meeting scheduled next Tuesday at 11:00 AM with abutters including the Walpole Foundation and Mascoma Bank. They will talk about how they will access the Brownfields area and the RFP to remove the contaminated soil.  

Pending Further Actions:

Town Street Lights, Tax Deeded Property Sale, Houghton Brook Bridge Repair, Reservoir Dam Repairs, Emergency Generators, Town Employees and COVID-19 Leave.  These agenda items will remain on the Pending Further Actions list.

Houghton Brook Bridge Repair:  Mr. Dalessio will generate another purchase order for the Selectboard to process and sign next week.  It will be the master purchase order for the project.  They want to keep all expenditures for this project in one place. Fuss & O’Neill has assigned a project manager to this project.  

Reservoir Dam Repairs:  Mr. Dalessio advised this will probably be considered a High Hazard Dam.  After they get past the DES requirements they will look at options and costs.  They are moving forward.  

NEW BUSINESS:

Appointment Notice:  Ms. Mayberry moved to approve appointing Victoria Gohl as the Interim Deputy Town Clerk/Tax Collector for a period between January 1, 2021 through the 2021 Town 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, the motion was approved.

Mr. Dalessio recommended if no one signs up to run for Town Clerk/Tax Collector against Mrs. Meghan Hansson that they begin the training for Victoria Gohl.

Ruggiero Processing Facility Cease and Desist Order:   The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of the Cease and Desist Order for the Ruggiero Processing Facility from Attorney Hockensmith.  Mrs. Pschirrer pointed out that when questions on the Building Permit were first asked in the Selectboard Office, Mrs. Daigle told the caller there had to be a septic design approval and that was received today.  Mr. Rau has to verify that they plan to use the existing road.  The Selectboard Chair will sign this document so it can be taken to the Post Office for mailing.  

US Geological Survey:  A request was received from the US Geological Survey to take soil samples on map and lot #007-007-000 which is land held in conservation; it is adjacent to the eastern portion of the Fanny Mason Forest.  Mrs. Pschirrer read their request but a question that was not answered is if they find the soil is contaminated are they going to declare it a Brownfields area or is it just for their information.  She is not aware of there ever being any activity on that land.  Mr. Dalessio advised Mrs. Alicia Flammia of the Conservation Commission is endorsing this.  Ms. Mayberry did some research, and it appears to be a random sampling.  

Ms. Mayberry moved to authorize the Chair of the Selectboard, Peggy L. Pschirrer, to sign the request from the US Geological Service for a soil sample on map and lot #007-007-000.  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.

2021 TOWN MEETING – March 13, 2021:  Ms. Mayberry was asked about what kind of technology, other than audio, the Selectboard will want at the Walpole Elementary School in the Gymnasium for the 2021 Town Meeting on March 13, 2021, that will start at 1:00 PM.  The Superintendent wanted to confirm this was all set.  Mrs. Pschirrer felt a walk-thru could be scheduled for Friday, March 12^th.  An email will be sent to Mr. Jack Wozmak.  At a previous meeting people came in through the back door; they can check-in there.  All chairs will be set six (6) feet apart.      

FACT-TV:  FACT-TV discontinued filming as this was the end of the regular meeting

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, (b) Hiring 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 7:00 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:23 PM.

Ms. Mayberry moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of January 28, 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, the meeting was adjourned at 7:25 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

​​​​​

COVID by the Numbers—January 30 Edition

And

More About Those Second Doses 

Second doses:  We now know more about scheduling those second doses of vaccine.  Things are still in a little bit of flux, but here is the procedure as it is right now.

Signup slots specifically designated for a second shot will open up on Tuesday, Feb. 2, at 8:00 am.  This means you will no longer be competing with those signing up for their first shot, which was what pushed the second shoots so far out. Those who have already received their first shot will be able to schedule their second shot, or reschedule their second shot if their appointment is scheduled out beyond the recommended time windows.

You cannot schedule your second shoot until after you have received your first shot, as you can only have one appointment in the system at a time.  Immediately after you have received your first shot, go back to the VAMS web site www.vams.cdc.gov , and go to your account using the email address and password you used to register for the first shot.  We have been told you should be able to schedule a second shot within the optimum recommended time window—21-28 days for Pfizer, 28-35 days for Moderna, or if not then, at least close to it.  If you already have an appointment for a second shot that is further out in the future than the ones opened up on Tuesday, you will need to cancel the later appointment so you can sign up for the earlier one.  DHHS is recommending you get your second shot at the same location as your first shot, if possible.

The numbers:

The saddest news this week is that Cheshire has set a new weekly record for deaths, with 7 more lives lost to us.  This brings the total to 19, up from 7 at the start of the month.

The rest of the news is more cheerful.  Here in Walpole, we are down to 9 active cases, down from 15 last week, and the high of 30 on January 12.  We had 6 new cases this week, down from 7 last week.  The total number of Walpole cases is 91.

Cheshire County has come all the way down from #1 in the state on January 17^th  in the seven day average of reported cases per 100,000; we are now dead last, at #10.  Congratulations, everyone!  We are now at 26.3, down from 44.7 last week, and our high of 64.0 on January 17^th.  The number of active cases is 203, down from a high of 389 on January 15.

The cumulative total of reported Cheshire County cases is 2,229, up from 2,123 last week.

Statewide, the cumulative number of cases went from 62,337 on January 24^thto 65,362  today.  The number of active cases came down from 6,122 last week to 5,238.  Hospitalizations are down from 239 to 217.  Another 55Granite Staters lost their lives to COVID this week, topping the 1,000 mark, and bringing the cumulative total to 987 to 1042.

So please keep on taking good care of yourselves.  Redouble your efforts.  Wear your masks.  Keep your distance.  Wash your hands.  Avoid large groups.  Avoid close contact in small groups of those not in your household.  Be careful out there, now more than ever.

Keep well.

~Representative Lucy Weber

603-499-0282

Lwmcv@comcast.net

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

Staff Present:​​Sarah Downing (Manager of Administration); Richard Kreissle (Administrator of Finance); Michael Paquette (Chief Police Department); Michael Rau (Road Agent/Highway Department); Ben Hoy (Recycling Director); Kraig Harlow (Recreation Director); Jane Malmberg (Library Director); Helen Dalbeck (Hooper Institute Executive Director); Rebecca Whippie (Hooper Institute Assistant Director/Educator); Meghan Hansson (Interim Town Clerk/Tax Collector) 

Excused:​​Justin Sanctuary (Lt. Police Department)

CALL TO ORDER:  Mrs. Pschirrer called this Staff Meeting via Zoom to order at 5:00 PM.  The Selectboard members, Staff Department Managers and Mrs. Regina Borden, Recording Secretary, are all in separate locations.  This meeting was recorded by the Town.

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.  All Staff members listed above responded they were present during the voice roll call.  This meeting will be in accordance with Virtual Meetings, Emergency Order #12, which has been effective since March 2020.    

Brownfields Project:  Mrs. Pschirrer reported the Brownfields Project is beginning to pick-up speed.  Requests for Proposals (RFP) to remove the contaminated soil will be sent out shortly.  The existing fence around the property is owned by the Town, paid out of escrow money from the Westberg Estate, and will need to be removed.  It is behind Spencer’s Restaurant and near the Town parking lot.  She asked Mr. Rau and Mr. Hoy if either one of them can remove and use it.  It will have very little soil on it; it will be safe but would be best to wear a mask while removing it so they are not exposed to the dust.  This would help them financially as the project moves forward.  

Town Clerk/Tax Collector’s Office:  Mrs. Meghan Hanson submitted the following written report dated January 21, 2021:• Sandy Smith retired at end of 2020;• Meghan Hansson appointed Interim Town Clerk/Tax Collector until March Election;• New Deputy Town Clerk/Tax Collector hired and started working last week; Vicki Gohl is making tremendous progress after just a week of work;• Looking to bring in part time office assistant to help with answering phone calls, filing, etc.  She/he will help during the election with absentee ballots;• We are undergoing rapid tax training under tutelage of experienced tax collector working with NH Municipal Association;• Have made 8 deposits this year totaling $149,312.• Hope to have Barrington (delinquent account) notices sent out this week;• Registered 217 vehicles between first of year and end of Tuesday (19^th), bringing in over 30K for the Town;• Filing for Candidacy is underway for March Election (3/09/21); Ads are posted and in the Keene Sentinel and Walpole Clarion.• Preparations for an election begin;• Office has undergone major cleanout and reorganization, becoming more streamlined and efficient

Mrs. Pschirrer pointed out that the Town Clerk/Tax Collector’s Office will be open on Friday, January 29^th, 2021, from 3:00-to-5:00 PM per State Law for filing for Town Office Elections.    

Selectboard Office: Mrs. Sarah Downing distributed written copies of this report dated January 20, 2021.

Assessing Update:• Avitar Associates has sent letters to properties owners notifying them of upcoming visits for list and measures as part of the cyclical revaluation process.  There is an option to opt-out of a visit.  These properties are located in the southern area of Walpole.  Avitar is not conducting internal inspections due to COVID-19.• The field assessor is currently visiting properties that had changes with additions or removals to inventory and measure.• Property tax abatement forms are currently being accepted.  The deadline for submitting abatement forms is March 1, 2021.• A-29 forms for elderly tax exemption, veterans’ tax credit, blind exemption and solar energy system exemption are due on or before April 15, 2021.• A-10 forms for placing land into current use status are accepted through April 15, 2021.• If property owners have questions about current use, property tax credits and exemptions, contact the Selectboard Office for assistance.

Water and Sewer:• Water and sewer readings are completed for the 4^th quarter of 2020.  Invoices will be posted on 1/29/2021.• Sixty-day notices for open water/sewer invoices were mailed 1/8/2021.• A Walpole Sewer Users Notice will be sent out in Q4 of the 2020 billing envelopes.  

Town Meeting:• Reports being gathered for inclusion in 2020 Town Report.  Thank you to department managers and other contributors who have promptly submitted their reports or have given a status update.• Warrant article text is being finalized and formatted in preparation for posting with the MS636.• 2021 Budget Hearing is scheduled for Thursday, Feb. 4^thstarting at 5:30 PM.  The meeting will be held at via Zoom.  Department Managers are expected to attend.• 2021 Town Meeting is scheduled for Saturday, March 13^thstarting at 1 PM.  Department managers should plan on attending and be ready to answer questions regarding warrant article requests.  Town Meeting will be held at the Walpole School Gymnasium to allow for social distancing between the attendees.

Walpole Recreation:  Mr. Kraig Harlow submitted the following written report Update 1/22/21.

Winter Events:• Winter basketball season has been cancelled for the season due to rising cases of COVID-19.• Ice Rink did not happen this year due to late December mild weather.• Daddy and Me dance has been cancelled/postponed for 2021.  They might try to hold a different event that can be held outside.• Working on trying to have an Online Trivia Night in February as one of our Community Events.

Budget Meeting:• Office Supplies account decreased to $150 dollars because most of our marketing has been online and we do not purchase many office supplies unless it is pool season.• The Ice Rink stayed in the budget with future thoughts of purchasing an outdoor rink kit.• Soccer budget increased to $1,500 in hopes of creating another season

Tennis Court:• Recreation department asked to encumber 2020 funds to make tennis court repairs and the work will be done in the Spring of 2021.• Those repairs should keep the court in good shape for 3-5 years.

Future Revolving Fund Purchases:• Approved to buy a new handicap accessibility chair for the pool.  Prices are usually $4,500-6,000.• We will be purchasing another shed to be put at Whitcomb Park to hold equipment and help with storage issues with soccer goals and outdoor basketball equipment.  They are usually $3,000 to $4,500 dollars.

Warrant Article:• Talked about possible warrant article needed to repair the pool roof.  The roof was quoted roughly for $16,500 by both Long’s General Contracting and Eric Franklin.  Mrs. Pschirrer reported they included a Warrant Article for $20,000 for a new pool roof. 

Chief Paquette expressed concern with surveillance cameras at the pool.  There have been problems in the parking lot.  Years ago, there were numerous thefts from the vehicles.  Mr. Harlow said they were talking about getting a new set.  There is something wrong with the existing system.  Chief Paquette advised that when he is ready the police department will help out.  Mr. Harlow will reach out.  Ms. Mayberry pointed out that now the Town owns the parking lot so they could put a camera in.  Mrs. Pschirrer suggested signs that state “Lock Your Cars”.    

Highway Department:  Mr. Mike Rau submitted the following written report.

With the New Year here, we have been working on upcoming projects, budgets, and catching up on vehicle and building maintenance.  The past few months at highway, we have been keeping busy with winter storms, one of which had record snow fall with others consisting of ice.  Snowstorms are easier to handle than ice.  During these storms we have encountered a few vehicle break downs and equipment failures which caused down time during storms resulting in delays in clean up time.

We were recently awarded the ARMS Grant from the NH Department of Environmental Services (DES).  Now we are beginning preparations to receive the grant.  After this we begin plans for the project by applying for NHDES permits and site plan details.  We were very fortunate to receive this $250,000 for the replacement of the Wentworth Bridge over Houghton Brook which is a red listed bridge.  This grant will cover approximately half of the cost.

This morning they had a meeting with the engineers, Fuss & O’Neill, and a few other people from the ARMS Grant.  There is a lot of work to get this project rolling.  This project might not start until 2022.  This ARMS Grant is for the bridge on the south end of Town on Wentworth Road just below Blackjack Crossing over Houghton Brook.  This Grant is more geared toward reconstructing the brook to help the aquatic life.  Mr. Dalessio said this is not for repairing the bridge but rather complete replacement of the bridge.  Chief Paquette asked for an estimate of how long that bridge will be blocked.  Mr. Rau thought at least a couple of months.  We might be able to use the Graves’ Pit Road for emergencies, deliveries, etc.  It will cut down on the cost as it will eliminate the need for a temporary bridge.  Mr. Dalessio mentioned they hope to keep the cost down by using some local contractors.

Hooper Institute:  Mrs. Helen Dalbeck and Mrs.  Becky Whippie attended this meeting.

Mrs. Whippie was pleased to get an invitation to attend and said it was good to see everybody.  Things are going along very well.  She gets to visit with all her groups via a short clip of a lesson.  On Fridays she is visiting remotely with her North Walpole students.  They are happy to be participating with the students even though it is by remote learning.  One might think teaching would be easier by remote learning, but it is actually more intensive as they are preparing materials, picking up and dropping off bundles. It is so great to be teaching again.  

Mrs. Dalbeck distributed copies of her Director’s Report dated January 21, 2021.

School Programs and School Gardens:  School programs are now fully remote.  Becky Whippie has scheduled screen face to face lessons with grades 2, 3, and 4 with her teachers and has made weekly videos of lessons for pre-K, K and 1^st grade students to watch at home with their families.  She created at home activity kits, inquiry homework, tree reports, fully remote lessons for 5^th and 6^th grade now through February, 2021.  The high tunnel maintenance is twice a week for watering and upkeep.  Winter greens are growing nicely.

Outreach and Marketing:  Facebook, school-based email, The Clarion and Walpolean, Friends of Hooper Institute.  She was present at the Farmers’ Market in November.  Flyers were up advertising wreath making with a Clarion article, and the FOHI invitation email.  January 2021 article for Clarion was submitted, introducing our new logo of a sugar maple leaf and featuring Laura Dunbar.  February 2021 Clarion submittal is pending.

Facility and Land:  Water and heat shut off December 21, 2020.  Roofing repair on main building began 12/29, shed roof replaced, chimney removed; both jobs completed January 4, 2021.  Tim Smith and crew have been back to install new copper ridge pieces on the main roof.  Lew Shelley has been back walking our trails, making plans to mark the trail and remove some blow downs.

Administration:  Sue Nadeau will be our newest board member.  The 2021 Budget for the Hooper Institute was accepted and approved by the Hooper Institute Trustees, December 18, 2020.  End of month pay reqs, mileage, time sheets all submitted.  2020 is wrapped up and 2021 has begun.  Hooper Institute board met on 1/13/21, with a renewed focus on development of resources and the strengthening of Friends of Hooper Institute.  There will be a FOHI annual meeting in March 2021.

Public Programs:  Wreath making happened December 4, 10, 11, and 12.  We had a snowstorm on 12/5 so she accommodated folks who wanted to come by at other times to pick-up kids, make wreaths and put together some crafts.  Plans are in place though no date is yet set for a county wide fruit tree pruning workshop at the Hooper, taught by UNH Extension Service staff.

Respectfully submitted and thanks to all for your support.  Onward now to a healthier new year.  

Mrs. Pschirrer feels they have been extremely busy even with working around COVID-19.  She thanked both Becky and Helen for all their support.          

Finance Office:  Mr. Richard Kreissle presented the following report for the Finance Office.  He has been preparing the 2021 proposed Budget.  Both he and the Selectboard met with the Department Managers individually in December.  The end of the year is a busy time for accounting; this year it went smoothly.  He took the week of Christmas off which worked out well.  W-2s and 1099s are completed; they should be in the mail shortly.  The budget is close to being finalized.  The Department of Revenue Administration (DRA) goes over the Warrant Articles and the Budget.  He hopes to have the MS636 completed in the next couple of weeks.  He is looking forward to Town Meeting.  The DRA oversees all the NH municipalities.  Mrs. Pschirrer mentioned the Hooper Institute does not go through the DRA but rather is looked over by the Office of Charitable Trusts.

Walpole Recycling Staff Meeting Report January:  Mr. Ben Hoy submitted a written report plus two pictures of “Soundproofing balers where possible to keep noise down within building”.• Talked to our MSW trash hauler Naughton and Sons about our current overflow situation.  We are currently ordering additional pickup every other week to keep up with extra trash-($275 delivery charge).  We have an empty MSW trailer that is not currently being used (and can’t be used because of the dirt surface it sits on).  Naughton could install a used compactor for $6,000.  Or, they would be able to rent us a compactor for $250.00 per month.  It would benefit us to have an extra compactor, so that overflow issues become a thing of the past.  It is a bad look when trash overflows onto the driveway, and it is impossible to prevent an overflow without the use of the other trailer.  Extra transportation costs are expounding this issue.  Alstead and Chesterfield have an extra trash compactor at their facilities.• Pouring concrete next to our current compactor to allow for the movement (switch) of the full/empty trailer is an option to present overflow as well.  The bobcat cannot currently .move a full MSW trailer on any surface other than concrete.  The weight of a full trailer is too much for the bobcat to move on dirt/mud/ice/snow.  In short, we need some impervious surface action at the recycling center in the form of concrete and asphalt to improve aesthetics and operability.• Arlington Paving submitted a quote of $20,700.00 for grading, removal of unsuitable material, and paving of the “work area” between the south side of the recycling center and the storage trailers.• Mr. G’s discount food warehouse closed down – incoming cardboard has not changed.  Walpole bags that were sold at the discount food warehouse can now be purchased at Mr. G’s surplus and salvage across the street.

Mr. Hoy reported that their security system has been working very well for them.  Countryside did a fantastic job.  They have noticed the noise from the baler. So this year he has been working on that.  Any help is great because it is next to the Reuse Center.  That has been going very well.  They have been working on the re-organization of stuff.  The products are looking clean and good.  At the Budget meeting they talked about paving the work area.  One issue is the over-flowing of trash onto the driveway.  The need for another trailer is necessary.  The Recycling Center full yard is pretty icy.  Mr. Rau will have it sanded tomorrow as it is too much to do by hand.  The Highway Department loader should be able to move the compactor when needed until they can figure out what to do long-term.  Mrs. Pschirrer mentioned there is a huge increase in the number of yellow bags.  Things have changed in Vermont; items have to be sorted differently and there are restrictions.  Has there been an increase in VT cars coming over?  Mr. Hoy believes there have been more.  An attraction is the Reuse Center; most Recycling Centers do not have one as well-kept as Walpole.  They are selling a lot of bags; it is a good thing as it brings in more revenue.  Mrs. Pschirrer said when bank deposits are made, there are more VT checks than in the past.  They need to talk about how they should manage the influx.  Mr. Hoy has some ideas.  There will be a Warrant Article for paving the property.            

Library Report for January 2021:  Mrs. Jane Malmberg distributed copies of the following report.

In November, due to an increase in cases of Covid-19 in Walpole, the library stepped back its service to Express Browsing (1 person/family in the library at a time for 15 minutes of browsing) and Curbside Pickup.  As of January 5, we began offering home delivery of materials for those who are unable or do not wish to come to the library.

All library programs are offered virtually via Facebook Live or YouTube.  We also offer a kids Take-and-Make craft weekly, and one for Adults once a month that has been pretty popular. They have made coasters, lanterns and stress balls.  Next week it will be on growing your own sprouts.  All crafts are fun and easy. Julie wanted to try a Story Walk Time in North Walpole along their park fence.  They talked to Mr. Harlow and Diane Harty and got it all set up; it might have started today.  

We are happy to report that we recently upgraded our library computers, several of which were over 10 years old.

Staff are hard at work cataloguing books for North Walpole.  At present, there is no definitive date for reopening due to Covod concerns.

2020 saw a decrease in library visits, circulation and program attendance due to Covid, but an increase in the use of downloadable books and audiobooks, visits to our website, and Facebook followers.  The addition of more passive programming and the use of virtual programming did help to lessen the decrease in programming numbers.

They have four Board positions that are open for this election.  There are 3 – Three Year Terms and 1 – One Year Term.  Mrs. Malmberg also submitted Monthly Library Statics – 2020.

Police Department:  Police Chief Michael Paquette reported that applications for officers closed on Monday, January 18^th.  They are going through the numerous applications but only a few are certified from out-of-state.  He hopes to get the positions filled prior to his retirement at the end of March.  It will take a couple of months to go through this process.  The officers are working diligently on the burglaries and have increased patrols in North Walpole.  There were also some on the outskirts of the Village.  There were vehicle break-ins.  They are looking at evidence and hope to make an arrest.  A lot of training had to be done by virtual classes.  The State increased the number of hours for part-time officers to 1300 hours.  It was a difficult year on how they do police work but they got through it.  They have had difficulty with registering for appointments for the vaccines.  Chief Paquette asked if the Town will change the quarantine restrictions after employees get their second shot.  Mrs. Pschirrer advised they will put something out for that; to date no one had their second shot.  The Governor is still telling us to be careful not to be in large groups although he is in favor of opening the schools.  He extended his mask order for the State until sometime in March.  Chief Paquette reported that everybody has been very busy.  They have been working on the new budget.  Mr. Dalessio mentioned the Governor’s recommendations one of which was to wear body cameras.  Chief Paquette replied that Lt. Sanctuary is working on that but it is not mandatory yet.  They are extremely expensive.  There are costs for storage on the cloud and maintenance.  Towns will have to be given time to comply with this.  Mr. Dalessio is concerned with significant expenses in the future.  

2021 Proposed Budget:  Mrs. Pschirrer reminded everyone that the Town’s 2021 proposed Budget Public Hearing is on February 4^th, 2021, at 5:30 PM.  It will be an open virtual meeting and all Department Managers are expected to attend and answer questions about their budget.                          

ADJOURNMENT:  

Mrs. Pschirrer thanked everyone for attending this meeting.  She appreciates all the work they do.  Stay Healthy!!  She adjourned this Staff meeting at 6:05 PM.

Respectfully submitted, 

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

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.  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 live-streamed on FACT-TV and recorded by the Town.  

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.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Accounts Payable Check Register in the total amount of $521,638.92 for checks issued January 22, 2021.  This includes a payment of $464,025.00 to Consolidated Communications Inc. for a Broadband Bond payment for 50% of the work accomplished.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mrs. Pschirrer, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, motion was approved.

PAYROLL:

Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Payroll Check Register for the week ending January 16, 2021, in the amount of $28,096.81 for checks dated January 22, 2021, and for the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer in the amount of $5,487.41.  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 – January 14, 2021:  Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of January 14, 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 – January 14, 2021: Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard session of January 14, 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:• Planning Board Meeting – January 12, 2021;• Library Trustees Meeting – January 12, 2021.

TOWN MODERATOR: Mr. Jack Wozmak came into the meeting to discuss the Annual Town Meeting.  Mrs. Pschirrer advised they had not yet put this on the agenda.  She was not aware of legislation to give the towns the opportunity to postpone their dates in March until April, May, June or July.  She assumes they will continue with the dates of March 9^th and 13^th, 2021.  Mr.  Wozmak noted that between the Moderator and Selectboard, they can delay it if they need to.  Mrs. Pschirrer would like to wait as it seems too early to make a decision. Mr. Wozmak will stay in touch with the Selectboard.

LAND USE CHANGE TAX:

MAP 21, LOTS 25 & 26:  Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Land Use Change Tax for the owner(s) of Map 21, Lots 25 & 26 for $37,500 in Land Use Change Tax for the two adjacent lots on North Road.  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.

NOTICE OF INTENT TO CUT WOOD OR TIMBER:  

MAP and LOT #013-060-001:  Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Notice of Intent to Cut Wood or Timber for the owner(s) of Map and Lot #013-060-001 for a lot located off of Cheney Hill Road with access through Alstead.  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:

2021 General Fund Expenditure Detail Budget:  Mrs. Pschirrer reported that the 2021 General Fund Expenditure Detail Budget was distributed by Mr. Kreissle prior to this meeting.  It is at a 2.51% Operating Budget increase.   

2021 Draft Warrant Articles:  Mrs. Pschirrer advised that in the unassigned fund balance proposal they still want to repair and do painting in the Town Hall, paint the second floor ceiling in the Town Hall, repair roof damage on the Town Hall and do some work in the Library.  They could only get one bid for the painting.  There is money left in the $200,000 if something else comes up in the Town buildings.  Repairs to the second floor ceiling will cost about $15,000.  They still do not have estimates for work in the North Walpole Library.  Mr. Dalessio noted they have to include the water meter at the North Walpole Park; the cost is about $6,000.  He feels this Warrant Article needs to be re-written.  It was agreed to add the concrete pad at the Recycling Center into Article 9.  Mr. Hoy will have to provide a figure soon.        

Brownfields Project Update:  Mrs. Pschirrer reported the Request for Proposals (RFP) to find a contractor to remove the contaminated soil will be sent out in about two weeks.  She will talk to the abutters because they will need space over the property lines for equipment.  Their new Environmental Protection Agency representative is Katy Deng.  She is replacing Mr. Joe Ferrari who passed away in December.  Mrs. Pschirrer introduced her to Mr. Steve Rickerich.  Mr. Mike McCluskey plans to get them together to bring Ms. Deng up-to-date.  They do not know where the contractor will start; maybe by removing the shed.  She asked Mr. Rau of the Highway Department and Mr. Hoy of the Recycling Center if either of them could take out the fence and use it. Otherwise, it will cost them more money to have this done.  The fence was paid for out of money held in escrow from the Westberg Estate.  This site will be more active in late spring.

Mrs. Pschirrer is also in conversation with Mascoma Bank because the project is responsible to clean-up the grassy spot between the parking lot and the Brownfields site.  She needs written approval from the Bank to clean it up.  They gave permission to test it.  At the same time the Mascoma Bank is considering giving the Town that strip plus the parking lot.  The Town would have to go through a Public Hearing process if they are to accept the parking lot.  We currently lease the parking lot.  There are pros and cons to owning it.  She will keep everyone informed as this moves forward.  Ms. Mayberry has no concerns except to know what condition it is in and when will it need to be re-paved.  Mrs. Pschirrer said there will be costs because after this site is completely cleaned up as there will be a green area with benches and suitable landscaping where the shed is now.  They will have to go before the Town in 2022 to ask to pave that area to extend the parking lot and to have electric stanchions for electric cars.  A part of the lot behind Jake’s Market/Gas Station belongs to the Walpole Foundation.  At that time they will also re-pave their section.  Mrs. Pschirrer will keep everyone up-to-date on this project.           

Houghton Brook Bridge Repair:  Mr. Dalessio was unable to attend the recent meeting but had notes from Fuss & O’Neill.  They met with the Department of Environmental Services (DES) to get the paperwork for the $250,000 Grant approval.  Fuss & O’Neill will generate the required paperwork and the Selectboard will sign the documents.  The next phase is the permitting phase.  The Town will have to up-date their purchase order.  They will be working on a price in the next 2-to-3 weeks.  They got verbal permission from the landowner to use their property; this will eliminate the need for a temporary replacement bridge.  It should save $75,000-to-$100,000 on the cost of the project.  This is providing the other property owners on that road are willing to go along with this idea.  Police and Fire Departments have accepted this.  It will take about nine months for the permitting process.  This will be a 2022 project.  Mr. Dalessio wrote an article for the Clarion on this project, the Reservoir Dam and Mill Pond projects.

Reservoir Dam:  Mr. Dalessio reported that Fuss & O’Neill met with the Department of Environmental Services (DES) to be sure they got the parameters correct.  They are almost ready to submit the 2-D model to DES.  

Mill Pond Dam:  Early indications are the Mill Pond Dam will have to go through the same 2-D modeling process.  There are discussions taking place on the infrastructure.  

Committee –Emergency Management Plan:  Mr. Dalessio has been having conversations with Mr. Mark Houghton over the last couple of months.  In the spring they need to have another meeting of the committee that worked on the Emergency Management Plan.  The meetings should continue.  They need to prepare themselves for emergencies in the Town.  There is still work to be done.

Pending Further Actions:  Town Street Lights, Tax Deeded Property Sale, Emergency Generators:  These agenda items will remain on the Pending Further Actions list.

NEW BUSINESS:

Appointment Notice:  Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Appointment Notice for Meghan Hansson as the Interim Town Clerk/Tax Collector through the 2021 Town Meeting.  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.  

Walpole Sewer Users Notice:  Mrs. Pschirrer advised this Walpole Sewer Users Notice will be enclosed in the mailing with the bills that Mrs. Jodi Daigle will be doing if approved by the Selectboard.

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Walpole Sewer Users Notice.  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.

Walpole Landfill Post Closure Report:  The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of the Walpole Landfill Post Closure Report.  The Chair needs to be authorized to sign the document.  Mr. Dalessio would like to have a written brief summary of their report.  

Mr. Dalessio moved to authorize Peggy L. Pschirrer, Chair of the Selectboard, to sign the Walpole Landfill Post Closure Report.  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.

Fall Mountain Regional School District:  Ms. Mayberry asked Mr. Wozmak if the FMRSD had talked to him about doing a walk-through before the FMRSD Budget Hearing on Tuesday, February 2^nd.  All five towns in the district were invited to attend.  Mr. Wozmak knew they were going to have a Zoom meeting in the evening on February 1^st; a training orientation.

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.  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 7:14 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:21 PM.

FACT-TV:  FACT-TV discontinued filming as this was the end of the regular meeting.     

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD MEETING:

Ms. Mayberry moved to enter into a Non-Public Selectboardmeeting pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (a) Personnel and (c) Reputations.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  Mrs. Pschirrerasked 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 7:22 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 8:14 PM.

Ms. Mayberry moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard session of January 21, 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. Pschirrerasked 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 8:16 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

About That 

IMPORTANT MESSAGE from the State of New Hampshire re: COVID19 Vaccine.

Hi, again, folks,

Today, many people got yet another email or text about vaccine signups from NH DHHS.

It looks something like this:

Subject: IMPORTANT MESSAGE from the State of New Hampshire re: COVID19 Vaccine.

IMPORTANT MESSAGE from the State of New Hampshire regarding the COVID19 Vaccine.

You are receiving this message because you recently pre-registered for the COVID19 Vaccine, or your medical provider submitted your information as an eligible recipient in Phase 1B. We are following up to inquire if you were able to successfully schedule an appointment with a confirmed time, date, and location. 

Use the link below to respond. You will be taken to an OnSolve website to submit your response. 

Please note, this link is only active for 24 hours. If you attempt to utilize the link more than 24 hours after receiving it, please contact covidvaccine@dhhs.nh.gov.

If you receive this message more than once, you only need to reply one time. 



(the link was here, but I deleted it…)

The email comes from covidvaccine@dhhs.nh.gov, and has a link for you to follow.  A similar text message may arrive from 76993.

I have checked with DHHS, and this is a genuine communication from NH DHHS.  If you follow the link, there is one question:  Have you been able to sign up for an appointment?  Yes   or   No

People may think this is a scam, because if they have signed up for a vaccine date, wouldn’t DHHS already KNOW that?  

Well, no, because the web site used to sign up for the actual appointment is a CDC federal web site, not a NH web site.  

The point of these communications is if you are one of the ones who have not been able to sign up for an appointment because you never got the followup email with the signup link, you want to follow the link and answer NO as soon as possible, and DHHS will then contact you to iron out the problems.

We are told that NH is building its own web site so that the next signups will be one-step, not two-step, but it’s not up yet.

The Governor’s press release is here:  https://www.governor.nh.gov/news-and-media/state-nh-distributing-additional-communication-assist-eligible-phase-1b-individuals

Keep well and keep warm,

Lucy

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 $696,178.76 for checks issued 1/29/21

PAYROLL• Payroll Register totaling $29,611.31 dated 1/29/21 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $5,728.80

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES• Selectboard Minutes – January 21, 2021• Non-Public Selectboard Session Minutes January 21, 2021• Staff Meeting Minutes – January 21, 2021

COMMITTEE REPORTS• North Walpole Village District Commissioners’ Meeting – January 5, 2021• North Walpole Village District Commissioners’ Meeting – January 12, 2021• North Walpole Village District Commissioners’ Meeting – January 19, 2021

WARRANTS• Warrant for the Collection of Walpole Water Fees• Warrant for the Collection of Walpole Sewer Fees• Warrant for the Collection of North Walpole Sewer Fees

TIMBER TAX WARRANT• Map and Lot# 008-061-001

PROPERTY TAX INTEREST FORGIVENESS• Map and Lot# 012-055-02B• Map and Lot#s UTIL-FAIR-000 and 020-072-000• Map and Lot# 012-011-001

PROPERTY TAX REFUNDS• Map and Lot# 008-101-000

VETERANS’ TAX CREDIT• Map and Lot# 003-034-000

OLD BUSINESS• 2021 General Fund Expenditure Detail Budget• 2021 Draft Warrant Articles• Brownfields Project Update

Pending Further Actions• Town Street Lights, Tax Deeded Property Sale, Houghton Brook Bridge Repair, Reservoir Dam Repairs, Emergency Generators, Town Employees and COVID-19 Leave

NEW BUSINESS• Appointment Notice• Ruggiero Processing Facility Cease and Desist Order• US Geological Survey

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

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

~Upcoming Event:

Department of Health and Human Services

COVID

Briefing for Legislators

Friday, January 29, 2021

On Friday, January 29, at 1:00 pm, DHHS will present a briefing to the House  Health, Human Services and Elderly Affairs Committee and other NH legislators on COVID, the response to COVID, including, we hope, frequently asked questions about vaccines and access.  The House now has a YouTube channel, and most of our hearings are being live-streamed so the public may watch them as the happen.  In addition, the hearings are being archived so you can watch them at another time, as well.

Here is the link to the hearings:

            NH House YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxqjz56akoWRL_5vyaQDtvQ 

When you click on the link, the live hearings come up first.  The one you want is Health, Human Services and Elderly Affairs.

If you want to watch a hearing that has already happened, click on Playlists, and then on the Health, Human Services and Elderly Affairs “View Full Playlist” link.  It takes a few days to get the hearing recordings posted.

**Disclaimer:  This meeting is being conducted by UNH, not our House IT Services, so there is a possibility it may not be available live.  If that is the case, my apologies, but please do not call me to tell me you cannot access the meeting, because I will be in the meeting.  I will post a link here as soon as it becomes available.  In addition, I will try to summarize any useful information here over the weekend.

~Rep. Lucy Weber

603 499 0282

lwmcv@comcast.net