The Walpolean

St. John’s Episcopal Church in Walpole, NH, is holding outdoor worship services led by our new priest-in-charge, Pastor Duncan Hilton.  We will continue to meet outside on Sundays at 10 AM while the weather is agreeable. We are fortunate to have the benefit of live music by our organist, Chris Evatt, as well as excellent acoustics provided by a sound system. Cancellation due to rain will be posted on the church’s website (www.stjohnswalpole.org).  

In addition, the website will have information about future Sunday services as it becomes available as well as links to the service leaflets and any web based (YouTube) recordings of the service.  

Bringing your own chair and mask will be helpful as our ushers seat every family group or individual six feet apart.  Our church is located at the corner of Elm St. and Westminster across from the Walpole Town Hall.  We meet in the field next to the church. We welcome all to join us. 

GREAT TURN-OUT FOR A Primary! Way to go Walpole! Remember, November 3rd will be here before you know it!

The Friends of Hooper Institute present The HOOPER 90 5K Run or Hike 

 All of SEPTEMBER, 2020

The Hooper 90 is a virtual 5K, celebrating 90 years of the Hooper Institute. The Institute has been offering educational opportunities for the Walpole community in agriculture, forestry, botany, soils, and environmental studies for nine decades. Help support the iconic Hooper Institute programming for the next 90 years! 

Run a 5K Loop of your choice or plan a family hike or scavenger hunt… go to www.runreg.comand enter The Hooper 90, for $5.00. Your donation will help make a difference for the future of the Hooper Institute. Invite your family and friends! 

For more information please call Holly Gowdy (603) 445-5104

Thank YOU!

Friends of Hooper Institute      PO Box 135     Walpole, NH     03608

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

CALL TO ORDER:  Mrs. Pschirrer called this Hooper Trustees meeting to order at 7:57 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.  This meeting is being recorded.

HOOPER TRUSTEES MINUTES:

HOOPER TRUSTEES MEETING – August 20, 2020:  Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Minutes of the Hooper Trustees meeting of August 20, 2020, as submitted.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the Minutes were approved.

HOOPER BUSINESS:

Hooper Institute Board:  Mr. Dalessio reported there will be a Hooper Institute Board Zoom meeting next Tuesday, September 1, 2020.  Mrs. Becky Whippie and Mrs. Helen Dalbeck met with Mr. Justin Cassarino and Mr. Sam Jacobs at the Walpole Elementary School. They are excited that there will be a curriculum for them at the school this year.

ADJOURNMENT:

Mr. Dalessio moved to adjourn this Hooper Trustees meeting.  The Hooper Trustees will return to the Selectboard meeting.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 8:00 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

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

CALL TO ORDER:  Mrs. Pschirrer called this meeting of the Walpole Selectboard to order at 6:30 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.  She introduced Ms. Cheryl Mayberry and Mr. Steven Dalessio who are the other two Selectboard members.   Staff members present were Mrs. Jodi Daigle, Administrative Assistant and Water & Sewer Clerk, and Ms. Regina Borden, Recording Secretary.  This meeting is being recorded.  There were two visitors present.  We are expecting Dr. Shaw, Walpole Health Officer, and Mr. Gary Fox.  When they arrive the Selectboard will move into new business.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Accounts Payable Check Register in the total amount of $75,829.59 for checks issued August 28, 2020.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrerasked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  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 August 22, 2020, in the amount of $30,946.45 for checks dated August 28, 2020, and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $5,934.55.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MINUTES – August 20, 2020:  Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Minutes of the Selectboardmeeting of August 20, 2020, as submitted.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the Minutes were approved.

STAFF MEETING MINUTES – August 20, 2020: Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Minutes of the Staff meeting of August 20, 2020, as submitted.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the Minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – August 20, 2020: Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of August 20, 2020, as submitted.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  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:• Trustees of Trust Funds Meeting – April 15, 2020;• Trustees of Trust Funds Meeting – August 13, 2020;• Zoning Board of Adjustments Meeting – August 19, 2020.

BUILDING PERMIT:

Permit 2020-32, FIRST CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH (PARSONAGE), 19 Washington Street, Map and Lot #020-076-000:  Mr. Dalessio moved to grant Building Permit No. 2020-32 for the First Congregational Church (Parsonage), to build a “136.9 sq. ft. Wooden Ramp” at 19 Washington Street (Parsonage), Map and Lot #020-076-000.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

VETERANS TAX CREDIT:

MAP & LOT #011-026-000:  Mr. Dalessio moved to grant this Veterans Tax Credit for Map and Lot #011-026-000 and to update the tax records.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS:

TrueNorth Quote for Managed Services:  Mr. Dalessio noted TrueNorth has provided exceptional service to the Town.  The additional cost per month is not that much.

Mr. Dalessio moved to authorize Mrs. Sarah Downing to approve and sign the TrueNorth Managed Services Contract.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.  

Audience Visitors:  Mrs. Pschirrer advised that Reverend and Mrs. Richard Malmberg from the First Congregational Church were present.  Reverend Malmberg explained they were present to listen to Dr. Shaw’s Mask Mandate Update.  

Transportation Improvement Projects 10 Year Plan: The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of a letter from the Southwest Regional Planning Commission regarding the NH Transportation Improvement Projects 10 Year Plan.  They had sent in their reply in July.  Ms. Mayberry said at a recent SWRPC meeting, Mr. J.B. Mack reported that Walpole had responded.

Brownfields Project:  Mrs. Pschirrer recently had a meeting with Southwest Regional Planning Commission on the Brownfields Project.  In the fall they will be sending out Requestfor Proposals for the clean-up on the former Westberg site.  Retesting has been done, the shed is empty, and they are ready to demolish everything.  Total cost for cleaning up less than two acres of land is approximately $700,000.   Walpole got the only Clean-up Grant in the State last year.  Everybody was supportive of this project.

NEW BUSINESS:

Town of Rockingham and Town of Walpole Partnership Grant:  Mr. Gary Fox, Development Director for the Town of Rockingham, came into the meeting.  This Northern Border Regional Commission Regional Forest Economy Partnership is basically a Federal program that the New England states can participate in because of the decline of industry, paper mills and forestry.  

The applicant is jointly The Town of Walpole NH, approximately 37 square miles and population 4,000 and the Town of Rockingham VT, approximately 42 square miles and population 5,000.  The two towns are connected economically by the Vilas Bridge, closed since March of 2009, which serves industry on the Island in Bellows Falls (BF) in Rockingham, and connects Walpole NH with Bellows Falls VT’s designated downtown’s primary retail and restaurant district, and, carries the sewage pipe from Walpole businesses to BF Sewage Treatment plant.

The work plan for this NBRC Forest Economy Partnership Grant is to address the obstacles to completing the through connection of the Cheshire Rail Trail from Keene NH to Walpole, the through connections in the SRVTI collaborative in Bellows Falls, Rockingham, Saxtons River and Westminster, and, ultimately link the trail systems between Walpole and Bellows Falls/Rockingham via the Vilas Bridge.  

Mr. Fox provided a brief project description.  This joint economic development project achieves:

1) New uses for forest products and workforce retraining for manufacturing utilizing local forest products;

2) Development and expansion of outdoor recreation industry to provide employment and economic growth opportunities in formerly forest industry-dependent communities;

3) Collaborative, multi-state project designed to address innovative solutions to structural weaknesses highlighted by the pandemic, and community efforts to recover economically—the Vilas Bridge provides an important economic development connection between Walpole and Bellows Falls supporting long term economic recovery by supporting retail and food merchants locally, to replace the limited longer distance travelling discouraged in the new normal for uncertain COVID-19 potential long term paradigm shifts.

The Letter of Intent to the Northern Border Regional Commission Regional Forest Economy Partnership (NBRC)states that “The Town of Walpole and the Town of Rockingham intend to issue a collaborative proposal for a regional forest economy partnership grant.  Please accept this Letter of Interest for consideration to invite for a full grant application. “

The NBRC would come back to the towns by September 30^th.  An application would be due by October 30^th.  Mr. J.B. Mack at the Southwest Regional Planning Commission has been talking with the NH Department of Transportation about this proposal.  

Mrs. Pschirrer explained there are so many purposes to this grant.  There are trails, forests, recreation, economic development and the Vilas Bridge.  Mr. Fox said the NBRC is looking for a two-page submittal.  It will have to be concise.  Mr. Dalessio’s concern is the letter.  Almost everything is dedicated to trails and the rest is dedicated to Rockingham’s economic development.  He questions if we can apply for a grant for something we do not own.  Mr. Fox noted that originally he was looking at the Vilas Bridge and the sewage line.  Mr. Dalessio advised that we are actively pursuing getting the sewage line off the bridge; they are in the second phase of engineering. Mrs. Pschirrer thinks the Vilas Bridge will continue to be No. 10 every year on the NH Transportation 10 Year Plan.  Ms. Mayberry noted the environment impact of the bridge will raise-up the priority on the list.  Mrs. Pschirrer mentioned the total cost to complete rail trail quality.  Mr. Fox said there are 20 different funding sources.  The total grant will be approximately $700,000.  For Rockingham and Walpole, it would require a 50% match.  The goal is not to have the towns commit any dollars. It can be separated; rail trails and bridge, but rail trails make it more competitive.  

Mr. Dalessio suggested they do not sign the Letter of Intent.  Ms. Mayberry noted they are just being asked if they support the effort to apply for the grant.  Mr. Fox replied NBRC would make the determination.  His indication was the NBRC thought this was a good project.  They like collaborative projects.  The signatures is to state the Town of Walpole and the Town of Rockingham are applying for this grant jointly.  Ms. Mayberry said it would indicate Walpole supports the work Mr. Fox is doing.  Mrs. Pschirrer feels the snag might be if the NH DOT does not go along with it.  This is a complicated proposal and the application needs to be done in a short period of time.  Mr. Dalessio feels it is clear that thedevelopment of the rail trails will bring more economic development to Bellows Falls.  He is in favor of opening the Vilas Bridge and the rail trails but we should not push them forward together.  Mrs. Pschirrer advised that Walpole does not have an Economic Development Committee; she is not sure how much manpower we have to put into this.  Mr. Dalessio would suggest the Letter of Intent state “The Town of Walpole supports the intent”.  Ms. Mayberry does not feel there is a down-side for us to sign the letter.  If it gets approved and the Vilas Bridge gets fixed it benefits Walpole.  It will still impact both communities.  

Ms. Mayberry moved to have Peggy L. Pschirrer, SelectboardChair, sign this Letter of Intent to issue a collaborative proposal for a regional forest economy partnership grant.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a roll call voice vote Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer were in favor of the motion.  Mr. Dalessio was opposed to the motion.  The motion passed by a 2-to-1 vote.   

Mrs. Pschirrer summarized that Walpole has no money and no manpower.  Mr. Dalessio pointed out that Mr. Lew Shelley is not Chair of the Walpole Conservation Commission.  Mrs. Alicia Flammia is the Chair of the Walpole Conservation Commission.                 

Mask Mandate Update:  Dr. Charles Shaw came into the meeting.  He handed in his renewal application form as Health Officer that required Selectboard signatures.  

Mr. Dalessio moved to approve and sign the application for the re-nomination of Dr. Charles Shaw as the Walpole Health Officer.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

Dr. Shaw advised there are some serious concerns about COVID-19 and its behavior.  People are carrying the virus for 2-to-3 days before they get sick. Therefore, they have probably contaminated other people.  We are now having discussions about getting the children back to school.  He wrote an article for the Clarion that will be coming out this month; “What Can We Do To Get the Kids in School and Keep Them There”.  It is a challenge.  His answer is to wear a mask.  He printed several mask policies but they were from cities with colleges, hospitals, nursing homes, etc.  They have much higher risk profiles than Walpole.  He is not ready to offer a template for a mask ordinance, but would like to educate the public. In Durham, Keene and Hanover there are assigned levels for an offense of not wearing a mask.  First time is a warning, etc.  The Governor issued an order that the Health Officers are to enforce this.  Dr. Shaw does not want to be the enforcer.  He is asking the Selectboard to define the commercial district as having to wear a mask in buildings.  Signage could be put in their entry-ways.  He had seen a sign: “No Mask, No Service, No Exceptions”.  Have a uniform campaign with a logo; a bumper sticker, a T-shirt, etc.  Signage with a friendly message.  Mrs. Pschirrer noted it is mandatory to wear a mask for public buildings.  We have masks available if they do not have one.  Many businesses/restaurants are requiring masks; if you don’t have one, they will give you one.   They are all under orders for keeping distances.  We cannot pass an ordinance unless it goes before Town Meeting as Walpole has less than 10,000 people.  Dr. Shaw, as Health Officer, could mandate mask wearing.  Mrs. Pschirrer pointed that everyone working in the Town Hall on Primary Voting Day, September 8^th will be wearing a mask.  People not wearing a mask will not be allowed entrance to the Town Hall to vote but will have to vote outside with an election worker.  

Pending Further Action:

Recreation Area Parking Lot Deed and Sales Agreement:Mrs. Pschirrer is waiting for the deed from Attorney Hockensmith.

Reservoir Dam Repairs:  Mr. Dalessio spoke to the Department of Environmental Services (DES).  

Houghton Brook Bridge and Fish Ladder:  Mr. Dalessio said the application for the grant is due on Monday.  Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer approved having him sign the grant application.  He feels there must be a way to appeal the Department of Environmental Services (DES) decision.  It is dry now so would be a good time to do the project.  It seems like $520,000 is a lot of money for this small area.  Fuss & O’Neill has been working there.  We cannot take the bridge out because it would land-lock a few property owners.  

March Hill Road:  Mr. Dalessio said we are all permitted to do this project.  Mr. Rau thought about holding back on unnecessary work but Mr. Dalessio told him to go ahead and put March Hill Road on the schedule.  The cost will be about $8,000.

Merv Stevens:  Ms. Mayberry told Mr. Rau to put Mr. Merv Stevens dry well in now when it is so dry.  Mrs. Pschirrer mentioned there is supposed to be a storm drain going in on that road.  

NEW BUSINESS:

2020 MS-1:  Mr. Dalessio moved to approve and sign the 2020 MS-1, Walpole Summary Inventory of Valuation.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

MS-434:  Mrs. Pschirrer pointed out that Mr. Kreissle is working on this form that assists the DRA in setting the town’s tax rate.  He submitted a draft copy to the Department of Revenue Administration (DRA).  

Hooper Golf Properties, LLC:  Mr. Dalessio moved to approve and sign the letter to the officers of the Hooper Golf Properties, LLC regarding their copy of the Deed for the Discretionary Easement.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:

Mr. Dalessio moved to recess this Selectboard meeting.  The Selectboard will enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.   Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved at 7:57 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 8:00 PM.

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.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a roll call vote with Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved at 8:01 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 8:28 PM.

Ms. Mayberry moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of August 27, 2020. Be sealed.  September by Mr. Dalessio.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  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.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 8:30 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

Per Walpole Cemetery By-Laws, all all floral displays, pots must be removed from the Cemeteries by November 1st.  Please be respectful and help maintain the beauty of our Cemeteries.

Thanks from the Cemetery Trustees.

I guess we have to expect this but it would appear that everything is under control. We can hardly expect to be totally exempt – even if we would like to be. – Lil

I, personally, am not a golfer. Luckily, I have friends who are. Bob Grenier brought this to my attention and suggested that I share it with all Walpolean readers. Thanks, Bob. – Lil

The 50 best 9-hole courses in the world, ranked!
They might be half the length, but they’re full-blown fun. Here’s GOLF’s first-ever ranking of the 50 best 9-hole courses in the world.

Read in Golf: https://apple.news/A4gg-IKGuQju4i6wW9y4G4Q

Shared from Apple News

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

CALL TO ORDER:  Mrs. Pschirrer called this Hooper Trustees meeting to order at 8:18 PM.  This meeting is being recorded.

HOOPER TRUSTEES MINUTES:

HOOPER TRUSTEES MEETING – August 13, 2020:  Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Minutes of the Hooper Trustees meeting of August 13, 2020, as submitted.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the Minutes were approved.

HOOPER BUSINESS:

JULY 2020 REIMBURSEMENT TO THE TOWN OF WALPOLE BY THE HOOPER EDUCATIONAL TRUST: Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the July 2020 reimbursement to the Town of Walpole by the Hooper Educational Trust in the amount of $10,931.92.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

JULY 2020 REIMBURSEMENT TO THE TOWN OF WALPOLE BY THE HOOPER MAINTENANCE TRUST:  Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the July 2020 reimbursement to the Town of Walpole by the Hooper Maintenance Trust in the amount of $455.00.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

ADJOURNMENT:

Mr. Dalessio moved to adjourn this Hooper Trustees meeting.  The Hooper Trustees will return to the Selectboard meeting.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 8:21 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

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); Justin Sanctuary (Lt. Police Department); Michael Rau (Road Agent/Highway Department); Kraig Harlow (Recreation Director); Julie Rios (Library /Interim Co-Librarian).

Excused:​​Ben Hoy (Recycling Director); Sandra Smith (Town Clerk/Tax Collector); 

Helen Dalbeck (Hooper Institute Executive Director). 

CALL TO ORDER: Mrs. Pschirrer called this Staff Meeting to order at 5:00 PM in the Walpole Town Hall and welcomed everyone.  This meeting is being recorded.

Mrs. Pschirrer pointed out that it is important we all speak up because we have masks on and it is difficult for Ms. Borden to hear us to document the meeting minutes and so the recorder will pick-up our conversations.    

Mrs. Pschirrer mentioned that we have not met for a couple of months therefore she wanted to take a few minutes to find out how everybody is doing.  She does not often see many of us. How are they personally getting along with this virus that we have been plagued with.  Fortunately, none of us have contacted it.  It affects what we do every day and how we do it.  Everyone went around the room and gave a brief summary of their day-to-day challenges and how they are coping with them both at work and in their personal lives.  Selectboard members also shared their experiences during this pandemic.   

Mrs. Pschirrer mentioned we have been fortunate, as a Town, we have had low-to-no cases.  A majority of people feel we have had nothing in Town.  The Town has not had to furlough or dismiss any employees from the work force.  We are in a good situation in this respect.  

Walpole Library:  Mrs. Julie Rios had submitted a written report for the period of August 1, 2020 through August 18, 2020.

“As of August 3, 2020 the library is open its regular hours with full access.  Masks are required and patrons must sanitize their hands prior to entering the library.  Curbside pickup is still available to those patrons who do not feel comfortable coming into the library.  The North Walpole Branch remains closed.

Rose Werden, the North Walpole librarian since 1980, has retired.  Cards may be sent to her in care of the Walpole Library, PO Box 487, Walpole, NH 03608.  A committee has been formed and in the coming months public input will be gathered to explore the role of the North Walpole Branch.

The search for the new director is going well.  Applications will be accepted through the end of August.  The committee is actively screening applicants and interviews will start soon.

The staff at the library has stepped up wonderfully to fill Justine’s absence.  Things are running smoothly.  Staff have also been busy calling and emailing patrons to let them know the library is open and they can return the books they have kept safe for us for so long.  Returned books must be quarantined for 4 full days.  The website has been updated and includes homeschool resources and a survey for families about how we can help them.

The Summer Reading Program was a great success despite the Covid-19.  96 people participated: 28 birth to 5 years, 21 6-13 years, 1 teen and 40 adults.  The State of NH provided software for organizing the program online.  Participants had reading goals and missions to earn raffle tickets towards weekly and end of program prizes.  There were Take-Away Craft kits for kids each week.

The Library has partnered with Distant Hill Nature Trail on a Story Walk.  Pages of a book are laminated and placed along the trail to read.  Each page includes a silly transition from one page to the next (ex. Jump like a frog, sing a song, walk backwards).  This program is so successful that they will continue with a new story every month for the foreseeable future.

The library does not have any current in-library programs due to Covid-19 but we are having Wiggle Time.  Morning and Evening Story times outside.  This has been a big hit.  Families bring a blanket and they stay on that ‘island’.

The library has been in touch with the school library to see in what way they can help.  At this time things are still up in the air but they know we are here and willing.

8-1-2020 through 8-17-2020 Statistics:

In-library patrons: 328

Book circulation:  641

Wiggle Time and Story Times attendance: 35 kids, 21 adults

Hoopla and Overdrive continue to be very popular.”

Mrs. Pschirrer recommended going out to the Distant Hill Nature Trail and to walk it.  It is handicapped accessible.  Mrs. Rios noted that their next door neighbor gave them permission to use his lawn, when needed, for Wiggle Time.  The children are so happy to see other children.      

Police Department:  Police Chief Michael Paquette distributed copies of a graph prepared by Mrs. Clough on “Motor Vehicles May 15^th – August 15^th, 2020”. It provided information and was broken down for all motor vehicle issues.  The State has not given them as many Grants to do radar safety patrols, etc.  Mr. Dalessio requested they go back to the other format for the next meeting.  Mrs. Pschirrer pointed out that motor vehicle work is a small percentage of the other work they do.  Chief Paquette advised they have been dealing with assaults, domestic calls, criminal mischief, juvenile stuff that might increase with the start of school, drug issues, on-going investigations, etc.  Burglaries are down probably because people are spending more time at home.  About four days a week they are doing construction details including work for Consolidated Communications.  A gate was installed at the pull-off area off Route 12 across from the Aubuchon store.  In the past 900 lbs of trash was removed from this area by Mrs. Kara Dexter who took it to the Recycling Center.  She is ready to go back to do another clean-up.  He was aware of the complaint on the Common from Mr. Boas.  All cruisers are up and running. They are trying to work out vacation times.  

Administrator of Finance:  Mr. Rich Kreissle had submitted a written report.  He began with providing an up-date on the CARES Program.

GOFERR Covid-19 Expense Reimbursement Submission:  Concord has added another submission period making October 15^th the last time municipalities can submit reimbursement requests for Covid-19 related expenses.  This new submission period covers only costs incurred between September 16^th to October 15^th; any costs that predate September 15^th will not be allowed on this last submission.  He is working with Mr. Mark Houghton for any expenditures related to the Walpole Fire Department (WFD). He also contacted North Walpole for the same.  Specifically, as it relates to the WFD, Elizabeth Gilboy of the NH Department of Safety – Homeland Security believes we should be able to include radios so we can have the Town Hall as an alternate emergency operating center.  Estimated cost is $6,000.  The next deadline is September 15^th.  We are also planning on submitting a report for reimbursement for Town Hall cameras under the auspices of enhancing the town’s ability for contact tracing.

The MS-434 is due to the Department of Revenue Administration (DRA) on September 1^st.  This is one of the reports that assists the DRA in setting the town’s tax rate.  The report is an estimate of our revenues for the year.  Due to Covid-19, he will be conservative in his completion of it to reflect the apparent impact of the pandemic.

It is budget time signaling the coming of a new year even though it’s only September.  He will be forwarding to you your worksheets and any additional information you request to assist you in formulating your budgets.

As always, he is available to address any concerns, questions or suggestions.”            

2021 Budgets:  Mrs. Pschirrer reported that they expect preliminary department budgets submitted to Mr. Kreissle by September 10^th and they are requesting they all be level funded budgets.  We had a good rate of collections for the Spring Tax Warrant this year.  They know there will be increased costs from the County, the Schools and that the State will give the Town less money for highways next year.  The Selectboard will be discussing the preliminary budgets that all departments turn in on September 14^th.  They will schedule the usual meeting in December when Department Heads will have the opportunity to request other items.  There will be very little money for discretionary spending next year.  

Highway Department:  Mrs. Pschirrer advised they all know the beautiful results on Main Street.  People are so happy that it was paved.  Mr. Rau advised it came out better than he thought.  It was done at a lower cost than they could have done it themselves.  It took about 1-1/2 weeks to have it done as opposed to about a month for the Town crew to have done it and the Town saved money.  Maple Street in North Walpole is still being done.  It is taking longer than he estimated but new drainage is being put in.  The old system / materials needed to be replaced.  It is now being done the right way.

Mr. Rau had submitted a written report dated August 2020.

“Highway has been busy the past few months with their routine summer projects as well as vehicle/equipment maintenance.  This year, their road paving project included reclaiming a portion of the Old Drewsville Road as well as milling Main Street.  Portions of Main St, portions of Old Drewsville Road, Sand Hill Heights, Blanchard Brook Circle and Maple Street in North Walpole were then paved.  They would like to thank the Police Department for their help with traffic control on these large projects, as it helps with safety precautions for crew members as well as motorists.  It also helps cut down confusion of traffic flow.  Crews have also been busy painting new and repainting old cross walks and parking areas in the village as well as in North Walpole.

Preparations for Tropical Storm Isaias began with cleaning out storm drains and catch basins.  The Highway Department does not have anyone “on call” for emergency call outs.  The process of having roads cleared of debris is having it reported.  Typically, the Highway Department receives notice of debris in the roadway by Fire Mutual Aid Dispatch or the local Fire Department.  After any type of storm (wind/rain) roads are assessed and a prioritized list is made of damage and debris.  Depending on the situation, certain equipment and safety measures are taken to complete the projects.

Lastly, they continue to have issues with the safety of their crews working near or in the roads.  There are 70 miles of road in Walpole.  Crews do the best of their ability to take safety precautions while working in the roads.  Unfortunately, the occurrence of motorists not slowing or yielding for road work is very common.”  

For display:  Mr. Rau brought in a cone that had been dragged by a vehicle for a long distance.  Mr. Dalessio advised they will make it a policy that when a crew is working in the Mountain View Drive area or a similar dangerous area they will have a traffic control officer at the site.  Mrs. Pschirrer will write an article for the Clarion on Safety and Highways.  They do not want to see anyone injured while working on the roads.    

Recreation Department:  Mr. Kraig Harlow had submitted a written report dated August 20, 2020.

Pool:• They opened the pool on June 29^th and the pool will close on August 28^th, slightly longer season than previous years.  This year due to COVID-19 they had to modify the hours and create a block scheduling.  The pool hours were shorter and they created blocks of activity for lap swims, open swims and cleaning.  Due to distancing requirements they did not offer swimming lessons.• They also created 14 pods that were 10 ft. x 12 ft. to help with social distancing, each pod held a family of four and everyone needed to be from one household.• The pool usage was down from previous years mostly due to limited capacity and having to sign up for a block of time.

They increased the unaccompanied age from 10 to 12 years old

Were busiest from 2:30pm to 4:00pm

Pool usage was highest during the mid-day block which was open to both resident and non-resident people.• The pool’s lifeguards did a great job adapting to the new added restrictions.• Thank you to Justin Cassarino who officially retired as Recreation Director on July 15^th so that he could help us transition to open the pool under new COVID-19 guidelines.

Tennis:• Walpole Men’s Tennis started back up in early July and have been playing through August.  Matches begin at 9am Monday, Wednesday and Friday.• They had two companies, VT Tennis and Wilson & Lawrence came down this summer to look at the condition of the courts.  They are finalizing their quotes to make minor repairs as needed.• New Benches arrived July 2^nd and were placed at the tennis court and basketball court.

Picnic Tables:  • They received the donation of the two picnic tables from Santa’s Workshop in Unity NH.• The tables were delivered on July 11^th by members of the North Walpole Fire Dept.• Thank you to Steve Dalessio in being instrumental in building and donating the tables.

Basketball Clinics:• They held 5 basketball clinics during the month of July.  There was a great turnout.• They had 25 total kids participate from surrounding areas and generated roughly $700 in registration fees.• Feedback from parents was really positive and they are hoping to schedule another one in the fall.

Soccer:• They are prepping for a fall soccer season that will last 6 weeks from September 8^th to October 18^th made up of Walpole residents only.• They are hoping to play one game and practice one day a week.• Following week three if schools remain in session and COVID-19 numbers haven’t drastically risen, games will continue.  If numbers drastically rise they will either cancel the season or move to 2 practices a week.• Thank you to Fall Mountain for allowing them to continue to use the soccer fields.

Community Events:• Due to COVID-19 they have not had the ability to schedule any community events.• If circumstances change in the near future, they plan on hosting events.”

Replying to a question about the Fall Soccer Program, Mr.Harlow noted the program could be shut down at any time due to COVID-19 and at the discretion of Walpole Recreation and the Town of Walpole.  Registering is voluntary and are allowing child to participate at your own risk.  He reviewed theinformation outlined on the “Walpole Fall Soccer 2020 as of 8/18/20” that included safety precautions and the Rules and Guidelines.    

Selectboard Office: Mrs. Downing had distributed a written report dated August 20, 2020.

Assessing Update:• The MS-1 report to be signed next Thursday, August 27^th.  This form establishes the overall property valuation for the Town.  It is the first step toward establishing the property tax rate for the year.  Last year’s MS-1 can be found in Town Report.• Letters will be sent to property owners when the Avitar field assessor conducts visits to the last quarter section of Walpole as part of the cyclical revaluation update.  The letters allow property owners to opt out of exterior list and measures and/or interior inspections.  At this point, no date has been set for this work to begin.  Any changes would affect 2021 property tax assessments and billing.

Town Hall Update:• At the July 16^th Selectboard Meeting, the requirement that masks be worn inside municipal buildings was approved.  New signage was created for the Town Hall to give notice of this new requirement.• For those that forget to bring a mask, one will be provided.• Parking signs to reserve parking spots for those visiting the Town Hall are to be created and installed.  There has been a shortage of parking on the Elm Street side of the building due to increased usage of the Common.  2-or-3 parking spaces will have signs that indicate “Reserved for Town Hall Business – Monday through Friday 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM”.

Water and Sewer:• Second quarter water and sewer bills posted on 7/30/2020.  The due date for 2^nd quarter billings is Monday, August 31^st.

Recycling Center:  Mr. Ben Hoy was unable to attend this meeting but had submitted the following written report:

“New reuse center is well on its way to completion!  Jan Galloways’ milled logs are now adorning the entryway(s) to the new reuse center.

Custom shelving to encompass the perimeter of new reuse center with the gable end supporting book shelves and varying width/height shelving throughout the new addition for miscellaneous items.

New hire Tom Donovan is taking over for college bound Jake Velazquez as the new recycling attendant.  Welcome Tom!

Reuse volunteers Peter, Sydney and Trevor Palmiotto have graciously donated their time to a fresh paint job for the new reuse center.  We are looking for volunteer help to keep the new reuse center open, and stock the shelves with reusable items in the coming weeks!

Running out of Walpole bags at local retailers has been a constant issue for both our department and local retailers dealing with slow moving corporate financials.  I spoke with Doug at Shaw’s and have come to an agreement in which we are currently increasing our deliveries from 360 packages of Walpole bags to 500 Walpole bags per delivery.  Forecasting sales and staying on top of this issue is something that we are taking seriously going forward.  This will ensure that Shaw’s will no longer be running out of bags, improving both our image and Shaw’s in the Walpole community.  Walpole recycling will be receiving $2,772 more per delivery, equating an annual increase of approximately $27,700 based on previous delivery statistics (every 5 weeks).  I have been working to increase sales at other corporate retailers such as Jakes and Aubuchons as well.”    

Town Clerk / Tax Collector:  Mrs. Smith was unable to attend this meeting but had submitted the following written report dated August 18, 2020.

“They have been very busy with questions regarding the upcoming elections!

Their phone has been ringing, never seems to stop, between questions and making and cancelling appointments.  They do look forward to the weekends.

They have mailed out 164 primary ballots and received 70 back already.  These are keyed into the State computer system.  The dates when they receive the request, when they mail the ballots and when they receive the ballots back.  The voter can go online and check on all these dates.

Usually during a Presidential General Election, they receive approximately 150 requests.  

She will be glad when these Elections are over, she just hopes that people get out and vote, this is a very important year!  

She is making plans to have someone come in and help part time.

They have collected $62,934 in registration fees.  Total clerk income for the past month is $65,068.00.  People are using E-Reg to renew their vehicles and this is a big help to them.  They can process these, print and mail them when they can.

Since their last staff meeting they have collected $133,632.95 in taxes and interest.

Tax Collection has been great—very low amount of uncollected.  Their Spring tax Warrant was in the amount of $5,803,501.00 and their uncollected for that Warrant is only $183,083.26.  Their total uncollected is only $390,688.50.  They have collected $58,853.61 interest and penalties for this year.

She will be taking Wednesday and Thursday off, so will miss the Staff meeting.”

Hooper Institute:  Mrs. Helen Dalbeck was unable to attend this meeting but had submitted the following written report dated August 18, 2020.

“School Year 2020-2021:  Becky Whippie and I met with Justin Cassarino and Sam Jacobs on 8/17.  The school day schedule will be very different this fall and the Hooper Institute programs will be woven into this new schedule, really more important than ever to get the students outside, into the gardens and the woodlands.  We will adapt programs for smaller groups and the new COVID reality.  We are also training for the potential switch to online learning and classes if our community needs to quarantine again.  We’ll follow all staff mandated protocol and will stay safe.  Both of us are really happy to be part of the life of the school and with the kids again.

School Gardens and Community Outreach:  Gardens have been very productive and we have been donating produce and flowers to Monadnock Understands Childhood Hunger (MUCH) via Walpole school volunteers and the Fall Mt Food Shelf.

Summer Programs:  We offered both at-home projects and in the field.  The final round of owl nest boxes will be distributed soon.

Summer High School Work Program:  Nine students participated in the summer work program, working at total of 750 hours at four sites in town: Malnati Farm, Abenaki Springs, Alyson’s Orchard and Walpole Recycling Center.

Walpole Community Garden:  The garden members are very happy and active this year.  Members are also donating to the Fall Mt Food Shelf.

Building and Grounds:  A few weeks ago our old maple tree split in half, damaging the Institute’s roof.  The rest of the tree will be removed 8/19.  The roof has a temporary patch and is scheduled for a permanent fix later this fall.  Also on the docket, an improved building alarm system and a roof repair on the old forge/shed.

Governance:  The HI Board met 6/1 for our regular monthly meeting and 7/29 for a night of presentations with the Hooper Scholarship recipients (college/university) level.  The Hooper Scholarship Committee work is ongoing.  The high school students also spoke with many of their parents in attendance.

Marketing:  Mostly Facebook and the Clarion.

Fundraising and Grants:  Ongoing via Friends of Hooper Institute and my office.  We have had some successes with more applications to go.”

ADJOURNMENT:  Mrs. Pschirrer thanked everyone for attending.  Stay Safe!  She adjourned this Staff meeting at 6:05 PM.