Keeping the community up to date on community topics
REMINDER:
Tonight at 6:00 p.m. in the Walpole Town Library
Ambassador Stapleton Roy presents:
“Sino-American Relations: Past, Present & Future”
All are welcome to join this “Great Decisions” discussion group either in person in the Library’s Hubbard Meeting Room or via Zoom. For the Zoom link, please contact Jane Malmberg in advance of the meeting: jmalmberg@walpoletownlibrary.org.
Time again to get your submissions to me for the June CLARION. Deadline is a week away, 5PM (Walpole Time) Sunday, May 21. If possible, early is always even better to aid us in preparing a pleasing publication for your enjoyment. As usual, I already have a number of submissions, so the sooner you get me your articles, announcements or advertisements, the proverbial better for proper placement and design work.
Remember, this is “your community resource” to share information about your group – its activities and events that residents will enjoy attending. And, having a nice mix of articles for readers, I welcome “feel good” news of past local events, stories and accomplishments to share. All subject to space, of course, space that is made possible by the CLARION’s supporting advertisers. We all owe them a big “thank you.”
If you have any questions, or interest in placing an advertisement, reaching over 1900 Walpole, North Walpole and Drewsville addresses, I welcome your inquiries, so please do get in touch with me. All contact information is on the CLARION website.
Thank you, yours, RAY BOAS, Publisher
Selectboard Present: Steven Dalessio, Cheryl Mayberry and Peggy Pschirrer, Chair
Staff Present: Sarah Downing, Jordan Cannon, Mike Rau
Others Present: Wendy Pelletier, Raynie Laware, Diana Boudrow, David Ganio, Shane O’Keefe
CALL TO ORDER: Mrs. Pschirrer called this Selectboard meeting to order at 6:30 PM. She introduced the Selectboard to those in attendance.
NEW BUSINESS:
Whipple Hill Road: Mrs. Pschirrer invited Ms. Pelletier to speak to the Selectboard. Ms. Pelletier stated that Mr. Ganio and Ms. Boudrow would like to subdivide off a property on Whipple Hill Road, but this would leave them without the necessary 200 feet of frontage. Ms. Pelletier stated that presently there is no turnaround at the end of this road. Ms. Pschirrer said that subdividing property requires that they go before the Planning Board. Ms. Pelletier stated that she would like to consult legal counsel, as she voiced her opinion that the Selectboard could weigh in on this matter. Mr. Dalessio stated there were no additional funds to extend this road.
Mr. Rau commented that when there is no turnaround, the Town does not have to plow the road. Mr. Dalessio stated that there is nothing that can be done before they go to the Planning Board. Ms. Pelletier handed the Selectboard the petition for review. Ms. Pschirrer advised her that the Planning Board meets the second Tuesday of the month, and the individual to contact is Marylou Blaine. Mr. Dalessio stated that converting the road is a separate issue. Mr. O’Keefe stated he was an abutter to the property, and that the road was brought up to Class V standards years ago. Mr. Rau stated that the culverts need to be replaced and the road widened. Mr. Rau questioned if the turnaround is contingent on this being made into a Class V road. Ms. Pelletier stated that if they can’t subdivide, then they will not be upgrading the road. Ms. Pelletier, Ms. Boudrow, and Mr. Ganio thanked the Selectboard and exited the meeting.
RTP Grant and Special Use Permit for Rail Trail: Mrs. Grossman stated that there was documentation for the Selectboard to sign related to the rail trail. Ms. Mayberry motioned to allow Wendy Grossman to be duly authorized to enter into contracts or agreements for Walpole in the State of New Hampshire and sign documentation related to the RTP Grant. Mr. Dalessio seconded the motion. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved. Mrs. Grossman stated that the grant documents consist of the conditions, signature page, Exhibit A, Exhibit B, and Exhibit C. Mr. Dalessio motion to accept the Special Use Permit (SUP) for the rail trail. Ms. Mayberry seconded the motion. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved. Mrs. Grossman stated that last year the State asked for a $1,000 bond. No one has requested the bond from her in writing.
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:
Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Accounts Payable Check Register in the total amount of $33,340.41 for checks issued May 5, 2023. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved. This includes a payment of $17,184 to Boxes and Bags Unltd, for yellow recycling bags. Mrs. Pschirrer raised the question of whether the invoice had been paid previously or twice. Ms. Mayberry said the previous invoice was for an order placed in the fall that was not received until after the first of the year. The invoice on the check register was for a different invoice for bags to provide stock through the end of the year.
PAYROLL:
Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Payroll Check Register in the amount of $28,599.08 dated May 5, 2023, and for the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer in the amount of $5,956.24. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:
SELECTBOARD MEETING – April 20, 2023: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of April 20, 2023. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
SELECTBOARD NON-PUBLIC SESSION – April 20, 2023: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard Non-Public Session of April 20, 2023. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved. The minutes are to remain sealed.
STAFF MEETING – April 20, 2023: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Minutes of the Staff meeting of April 20, 2023. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
COMMITTEE REPORTS:
Mr. Dalessio called attention to the minutes of:
• Cemetery Trustees Activity Log – Feb. 23 through April 12, 2023
• Library Trustees Meeting – April 11, 2023
• Zoning Board of Adjustment Meeting – April 19, 2023
• Five-Town Selectboard Meeting – April 21, 2023
Mrs. Pschirrer acknowledged the minutes.
WATER AND SEWER WARRANTS:
Walpole Water Fees: Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Walpole Water Fees for $42,229.92. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
Walpole Sewer Fees: Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Walpole Sewer Fees for $83,962.97. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
North Walpole Water Fees: Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the North Walpole Sewer Fees for $61,106.30. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
GRAVEL TAX WARRANT:
Map and Lot# 014-013-000 and 015-011-000: Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Gravel Tax Warrant for Map and Lot# 014-013-000 and 015-011-000 in the amount of $4,983.70. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
ABATEMENTS:
Map and Lot# 019-007-000: Mr. Dalessio moved to deny the abatement for Map and Lot# 019-007-000. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
Map and Lot# 027-008-02-1: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the abatement for Map and Lot# 027-008-02-1 for $1,416.60. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
Map 30 and Lots# 59-3, 59-2, and 59-1: Mr. Dalessio moved to deny the abatement for Map 30 and Lots# 59-3, 59-2, and 59-1 Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
Map and Lot# 013-013-000: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the abatement for Map and Lot# 013-013-000 for $806.10. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
Map and Lot# 008-015-000: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the abatement for Map and Lot# 008-015-000 for $1,737.14. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
Map and Lot# 013-046-000: Mr. Dalessio moved to deny the abatement for Map and Lot# 013-046-000. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
Map and Lot# 027-001-007: Mr. Dalessio moved to deny the abatement for Map and Lot# 027-001-007. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
Map and Lot# 030-068-000: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the abatement for Map and Lot# 030-068-000 for $172.89. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
Map and Lot# 018-017-000: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the abatement for Map and Lot# 018-017-000 for $311.37. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
Map and Lot# 030-007-000: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the abatement for Map and Lot# 030-007-000 for $1,238.99. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
Map and Lot# 028-071-000: Mr. Dalessio moved to deny the abatement for Map and Lot# 028-071-000. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
Map and Lot# 012-055-011: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the abatement for Map and Lot# 012-055-011 for $8,320.44. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
Map and Lot# 028-011-000: Mr. Dalessio moved to deny the abatement for Map and Lot# 028-011-000. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
Map and Lot# 028-121-000: Mr. Dalessio moved to deny the abatement for Map and Lot# 028-121-000. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
TIMBER INTENTS:
Map and Lot# 004-027-000: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the timber intent for Map and Lot# 004-027-000. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
Map and Lot# 013-053-001: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the timber intent for Map and Lot# 013-053-001. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
BUILDING PERMITS:
2023-11, Map and Lot# 009-038-000: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the building permit for Map and Lot# 009-038-000 to construct a new home 72’ x 40’ with an attached garage. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
2023-12, Map and Lot# 009-062-001: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the building permit for Map and Lot# 009-062-001 for a temporary mobile home to live in during fire damage repair. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
2023-13, Map and Lot# 011-014-000: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the building permit for Map and Lot# 011-014-000 to build a 48’ x 12’ chicken coop and alpaca shed. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
2023-14, Map and Lot# 020-006-000: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the building permit for Map and Lot# 020-006-000 to add a 17’ x 12’ timber frame shed. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
OLD BUSINESS:
Pending Further Actions: Mr. Dalessio stated that he will be trying to set up a meeting next week with DES about more funds potentially available for Houghton Brook Bridge. Mr. Dalessio gave an update on obtaining a shield for the LED streetlights that will be tested on the Old North Main streetlight. Mrs. Pschirrer stated that Mascoma Bank will be meeting tomorrow regarding the parking lot.
SBW Savings Account: Ms. Mayberry motioned to approve the signing of the SBW savings account signature page. Mr. Dalessio seconded the motion. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
Town Website: Mr. Dalessio motioned to accept CivicPlus to re-do the Town website in the amount of $3,806.40. Ms. Mayberry seconded the motion. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved. Mr. Dalessio motioned for Mrs. Pschirrer as chairman to sign the contract. Ms. Mayberry seconded the motion. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
Boston Post Cane: Mrs. Pschirrer stated she thought there were several dates possible for the Boston Post Cane presentation. Mrs. Pschirrer stated that she would request that the Selectboard meet on 5/31/2023, which is a Wednesday.
Bulk purchase of Oil, Propane, and Diesel Fuels: Mrs. Pschirrer spoke to the bulk purchase of oil discussion at the recent Five-Town Selectboard meeting. Mr. Dalessio stated that Mr. Lou Beam is trying to get relevant information from the towns so he can investigate pricing. Mr. Dalessio asked how the administration of the fuel purchases would be coordinated. The Selectboard agreed to ask Mr. Kreissle to send this information to Mr. Beam.
NEW BUSINESS:
Cemetery Deeds: Mr. Dalessio motioned to accept cemetery deeds for lots D583 and E897. Ms. Mayberry seconded the motion. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
Anonymous Letter: Mrs. Pschirrer spoke to a reception of an anonymous letter. She stated that the letter was expecting them to do something, but when they don’t know who is involved or what they want the Selectboard to do, it is difficult to respond. Ms. Mayberry reiterated this sentiment.
Pickle Ball: Mrs. Pschirrer spoke about the interest in pickle ball. Ms. Mayberry stated that when the Recreation Department last met, one of the pickle ball members commented on certain decisions being made. Ms. Mayberry stated that the Recreation Department will add another court. Ms. Mayberry recounted that over an hour was spent debating the color of the pickle ball courts at the most recent Recreation Committee meeting. Mr. Dalessio stated that the Recreation Committee should vote if the Town supports pickle ball. Mr. Dalessio stated that funding for pickle ball would either come from a warrant article or a line item in the Recreation Department budget. Ms. Mayberry stated that in prior meetings discussing pickle ball, she commented on the need for data to demonstrate the level of interest in pickle ball. Ms. Mayberry stated she will reply to the emailed questions regarding pickle ball.
Thank You Note: Mrs. Pschirrer spoke to a thank you letter received from Takodah YMCA.
HOOPERS TRUSTEES MEETING:
Mr. Dalessio moved to enter into Hooper Trustees Meeting at 7:38 PM. Ms. Mayberry seconded. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
The meeting reconvened at 7:45 PM.
NON-PUBLIC BUSINESS RSA 91-A:3 II (a) (c) (d) (e):
Ms. Mayberry moved to enter into Non-Public Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II (a) (c) (d) (e) at 7:46 PM. Mr. Dalessio seconded. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
The meeting was reconvened at 8:08 PM.
ADJOURNMENT:
Mrs. Pschirrer called the Selectboard meeting adjourned at 8:09 PM.
Respectfully submitted,
Jordan Cannon, Recording Secretary
News from Lucy but no COVID numbers this time. Whew! – Lil
The Center for Ethics in Society at St. Anselm College today activated a new state-wide interactive zoning map, called the NH Zoning Atlas, with data assembled from every city and town in the state. The map is set up to answer questions as general as “where in NH could I locate a mobile home park?” to as specific as “how much land in Walpole is non-developable?” It is an incredibly powerful tool to look at what is, and to inform policy changes. You can drill down on local usages, or use it to compare how different towns address specific issues.
You can find the NH Zoning Atlas here: www.nhzoningatlas.org
The map is the result of intensive research by professionals and students through many, many zoning ordinances. It is not intended to be used as legal advice, or a substitute for due diligence at the local and state level when you are thinking about a specific project or transaction, and there is a disclaimer to that effect you must check off before you begin, but that is a one-time acknowledgement from each individual browser. Once you access the map, there is a tutorial available about how to use the map, and how to toggle the various inquiries you want to make.
As a tool for local and state-wide information and comparisons about permitted and restricted land use, it is astonishing in its detail.
Take a tour, and then enjoy!
Lucy
~Rep. Lucy McVitty Weber
603-499-0282
If you had trouble reading the pdf, this might work better. – Lil
“Great Decisions”
Monday, May 15, 6:00 p.m.
Ambassador Stapleton Roy presents:
“Sino-American Relations: Past, Present & Future”
In just one week, on Monday, May 15, Ambassador J. Stapleton (“Stape”) Roy will lead our “Great Decisions” public forum in the Walpole Town Library. You won’t want to miss Ambassador Roy’s presentation: “Sino-American Relations: Past, Present & Future.”
The Ambassador will be joining via Zoom, and there will be an opportunity for questions and discussion following his presentation.
Ambassador Roy has immersed himself in the study of China and modern Asia throughout his long career. A fluent Mandarin-speaker, he rose to become a three-time United States Ambassador, serving in Singapore, the People’s Republic of China, and Indonesia. In 1996, he was promoted to the rank of Career Ambassador, the highest rank in the U.S. Foreign Service. In 2008, Roy was named director of the Kissinger Institute for Chinese-U.S. Studies at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars, where he is now Founding Director Emeritus and a Distinguished Scholar. (Tonight he is attending Kissinger’s 100th birthday celebration!)
Suggested reading is the Foreign Policy Association’s article “China and America: Back to the Future,” by David Lampton, which is available at the library. A copy can be emailed to you upon request by contacting Jane Malmberg, Library Director: jmalmberg@walpoletownlibrary.org
Also available at the library is the DVD “Great Decisions,” with a 30-minute Master Class on China & the United States.
All are welcome to join this public forum at 6:00 p.m. on Monday, May 15, either in person in the Hubbard Meeting Room at the Walpole Town Library or via Zoom. For the Zoom link, please contact Jane Malmberg in advance of the meeting: jmalmberg@walpoletownlibrary.org.
Sue Kibbe
Selectboard Present: Peggy L. Pschirrer, Chair; Cheryl Mayberry and Steven Dalessio
Staff Present: Sarah Downing (Manager of Administration); Jordan Cannon (Recording Secretary); RichardKreissle (Administrator of Finance); Helen Dalbeck (Hooper Institute Executive Director); Kraig Harlow(Recreation Director); Ben Hoy (Recycling Director); Mike Rau (Road Agent), Meghan Hansson (Town Clerk/Tax Collector)
Excused: Jane Malmberg (Library Director), Justin Sanctuary (Police Chief)
CALL TO ORDER: Mrs. Pschirrer called the staff meeting to order at 5:00 PM in Walpole Town Hall. Mrs. Pschirrer questioned those in attendance about what could be beneficial to them in their work in staff meetings. Mrs. Pschirrer spoke about the benefit of training and focused on the importance of listening. She stated that next month’s staff meeting would include an evaluation of staff meetings.
FINANCE: Mr. Kreissle gave the following report.
• Revolving Funds
o Worked with our treasurer, Steve Varone, to move the police and parks and recreation’s revolving funds from a savings account with Savings Bank of Walpole to NHPDIP. Funds will earn greater interest. He stated that all funds will flow into PDIP. Makes the movement of funds easier.
o Wrote up the accounting procedure necessary to record transactions involving the above.
o Participated in the discussion with the board and treasurer on how to maximize cash resources through the strategic use of bank accounts/NHPDIP
• Friendly reminder- all invoices are to be sent to the Selectboard Office. Mr. Rau questioned the benefit of this new process. Mr. Dalessio stated that with everything being mailed to the Selectboard Office, it is easier for vendors and suppliers.
• Town Meeting: Posted results of town meeting to the Department of Revenue Administration (ORA) – creates form MS-232. DRA reviews and approves. Once approved – the board signs.
o Unusual for this year- an amended article!
• Wrote a procurement policy for federal and state projects.
• Quarterly ARPA funds reporting to the US Treasury (due 4/30/23)
• 1st Quarter Benefit Hours statements were produced.
o Department managers received monthly vacation accruals for each of their employees.
o Employees have 2 weeks to bring any discrepancies to my attention COLA’s processed.
• Updated the NHRS templates – A somewhat tedious and time-consuming process of updating worksheet and the file sent to NHRS for reporting purposes.
o One template is an Excel worksheet I use before recording the items. Mr. Kreissle spoke about his process in working with the template he provided in his report.
o An XML file -this file is the one that gets uploaded to NHRS.
o Sample section of an XML follows.
o Despite many, many tries in the past, this file CANNOT be produced in AccuFund (the town accounting software).
Mr. Dalessio questioned how other municipalities handle this process. Mr. Kreissle stated that other towns may have additional staffing and resources.
• Accounts Payables checks will now be issued on the 1st and 3rd weeks of the month beginning May 1st.
o If a check is needed in an emergency that can still be done
o Payroll will STILL be done on a weekly basis.
• Mr. Kreissle will be attending the NHGFOA Annual Conference May 4-5. Payables checks will be cut on May 3.
Ms. Mayberry questioned if the ARPA documentation is a report of expenditures, and questioned if there is any pre-authorization required.
HOOPER INSTITUTE: Mrs. Dalbeck gave the following report.
School Programs and School Gardens: Becky Whippie has returned from leave and resumed her classes on April 3rd. Since then, she has been teaching about amphibian life cycles and identification with a focus on NH frogs and toads and the beautiful spotted salamander. Lots of drawing and labeling in student made guidebooks. The whole school is planning on a farm field trip, so Becky has hit her stride with farm designs, chicken and eggs and the milk cow. Tree ID as spring has sprung with 4th grade especially focusing on buds and twigs found in the school yard. They are so happy to have her back! 5th grade has become experts with seed id and dissection (germinated sunflower and wheat), planting a variety of vegetables and herbs in the high tunnel, taking apart, labeling and drawing a daffodil flower and outside in the gardens for cleanup, composting, digging and more. The gardens are in fine shape as they leave for school vacation. 6th grade has been glacial geology with two in depth classroom lessons, a film, vocabulary, reading then a demonstration with large cooking sheets, soil and ice that the kids build. This activity demonstrates how glaciers moved over the continent and created a new landscape. It was a muddy, fun, play with ice on the hottest day in April outdoor class. Otherwise known as a success! Next up are the forests of the world classes, river studies and watershed activities.
Outreach and Marketing: Clarion, flyers, Facebook, school newsletter, school posters, school email
Administration: Ongoing, in every way. I am eager to begin advertising for the Hooper Educator position. The job description is being revised.
Special Events, Programs, Scholarship and Friends: Dahlia Day is happening on May 20, organized by Friends of Hooper Institute and community volunteers. There will be a wide selection of locally grown dahlias which are moving into the high tunnel 4/19. I’ve heard there could be up to 100 pots for sale. Subscriptions are now available for the 2023 Flower CSA; 11 sold, 4 more to go.
Camps: Registrations are coming in l A sample invitation with most details is below.
Hooper Institute MORNING CAMPS
Morning Camp meets mornings Monday thru Thursday with Mrs. Whippie
Week 1: June 26 through June 29, 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM for Walpole Students entering 1st through 2nd grade 4 day session cost per camper $50.00.
Week 2: July 3, July 5 through July 7, 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM (no camp on July 4) for Walpole Students entering 3rd & 4th grade 4 day session cost per camper $50.00.
ADVENTURE CAMP This year Mrs. Dalbeck (Helen) will offer one week of Adventure Camp July 3, July 5 through July 7, 9:30 to 12:30 pm. Four-day session cost per camper $50.00/week for Walpole students entering 5th-8th grade. We will explore together the forest trails, waterways and ravines of Walpole, meeting at a new location each day. This is an active walking, hiking and climbing week.
Details will follow once registered.
WOODWORKING CAMP in the Hooper Institute Woodworking Shop with Steve Dalessio. July 24 through July 27, 9:00 am to 12:00 pm for Walpole students entering 5th – 8th grade. Four-day session cost per camper$50.00/week. This camp is a classic and creative week with make and take- home carpentry projects. Helen will assist and has work bench space for 12 students. Register soon.
Walpole Community Garden: Sixteen members signed up with one new family in 2023. There are currently 41 beds of different sizes that are being organically gardened and cared for. I’ve organized a spring clean-up day and a Gardeners Tea for this Saturday April 22.
High School Summer Work Program: Interviews will take place on April 19 at the Hooper Institute. There are seven students that will be interviewed by Becky Whippie, Seth Andrews, Sue Nadeau, Will Grossman and me. The work sites are Hooper Day Camp, Hooper Adventure Camp, Hooper Garden Assistant, Malnati Farm and Abenaki Springs Farm.
Development/Fundraising: I plan on a letter that features Becky Whippie, her upcoming retirement and her dedication to the Hooper Institute and Walpole kids for the past 22 years.
Scholarship: The total awarded for the school year 2022-23 is $15,000. She stated that an article in the Clarion would be forthcoming.
Other news: The building is open and cleaning, organizing, community use has commenced.
RECYCLING: The following report was given by Mr. Hoy.
• Trash bag delivery from boxes and bags unlimited arrived last week.
• Michael Albert is putting on Reuse Center craft workshop on Saturday, May 6th from 10am to 3pm. The event was postponed due to a snowstorm. He stated that Mr. Albert makes art out of cereal boxes.
• Battle of the bands at Walpole recycling: 2 local bands are putting on a musical performance on a Saturday to be announced from 12-2pm at the Recycling Center.
• Business is picking up at Walpole recycling as spring cleaning has arrived.
• Earth day is this Saturday, April 22nd. We had 10 volunteers offer their time this Sunday to pick up 65 bags of trash along Whitcomb Road. Roadside cleanups are free to dispose of at Walpole recycling with the use of our blue “New Hampshire the beautiful” trash bags available at the recycling center. Please ask an attendant about the clean Walpole program.
• Walpole police department will be at the Recycling Center for drug take back day on Earth day (April 22nd). Please properly dispose of your drugs.
• Hazardous Waste can be dropped off at the Keene recycling center on Route 12. Walpole residents can dispose of up to 10 gallons of hazardous waste per visit free of charge. Oil based paints, stains, and antifreeze are considered hazardous waste.
Mrs. Pschirrer commented that this week is National Volunteer Week, and that volunteers should be thanked for the work they do for the Town. Mrs. Pschirrer voiced her appreciation to volunteers who work at the transfer station and who keep the trails clean.
TOWN CLERK-TAX COLLECTOR’S OFFICE:
• The Town election was held on March 28th, being postponed due to the winter storm. We had twice the typical number of voters for a Town election and twice as many absentee ballots as is typical for a Town election.
• The Town Meeting followed on Saturday, April 1st. It was well attended with 122 voters from the Checklist. Meeting minutes have been finalized.
• The Town Clerk-Tax Collector’ Office was closed on Wednesday, April 5th so that my Deputy and I could attend Spring Tax Collectors Workshop. It was a very informative workshop and well worth attending. Vicki made a short presentation for the Legislative Committee, of which she is now the Chair.
• The Intent to Lien notices went out on 4/3. Outstanding liens will be perfected on May 4th. (Last day to pay by check will be 5/2.) Also, on May 4th the Impending Deed notices will go out with a deed date given as 6/14.
• We have tax bill paper and tax bill envelopes ready for the Spring Tax Warrant.
• Online transactions are busy. Last month (March) 175 vehicles were renewed online, 17 dogs were licensed, and two vital records were purchased. This represents $34,355 worth of transactions online with either a credit card or an ACH payment. April numbers are following a similar track.
• As of Tuesday 4/18, we have licensed 258 dogs. State law requires all dogs to be licensed with the Town Clerk by 4/30 of each year. Mr. Dalessio commented that the Town had to print the ballots twice to make a warrant article clearer.
RECREATION: The following report was given by Mr. Harlow.
Hockey Rink: The ice hockey rink was picked up and stored at Whitcomb Park on April 13th.
Summer Basketball
o Youth basketball flier will go out April 21st.
o Sign-ups will be May 24thand May 31st and a possible late date if numbers are low League will begin July 10th and end August 10th with the playoffs beginning August 11th.
o Walpole Recreation plans on bringing back the summer Men’s League this year with a fee of $400 dollars for a team and a possible free agent team.
Summer Movies
o Movie titles are yet to be determined.
o Movies will be shown at North Walpole Park and the Town Green (Common) Movie Dates selected June 23, July 21, August 18
o Rain Dates are June 30, July 28, August 25
Mrs. Pschirrer commented that because there are residents around the common, consideration must be given prior to finalizing the location. Mrs. Pschirrer reflected that residents sometimes object to live events on the common. Mr. Dalessio suggested the possibility of Drewsville Common as an alternative venue.
Age in Motion: As of March 22nd, AIM had made $936.00 and spent $19.00 on new equipment and $440 on salaries. Mr. Harlow commented on the socialization observed among those who attend AIM.
Pickleball/Tennis
o The tennis nets and the pickleball nets are set up at for the year.
o Our tennis players have a league set up for Monday mornings 9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
o Wilson and Lawrence Co. will be fixing and pairing pickleball lines on the court in June.
Mrs. Pschirrer asked how this will compromise. Mr. Harlow stated the recreation department is working on a scheduling of pickleball and tennis to ensure that both sets of people are in agreement.
Pool Update
o Currently have 4 lifeguards on staff, we would like 10.
o Lifeguard ad is now in the Clarion. Mr. Dalessio questioned if the pool repairs would be complete before opening weekend. Mr. Harlow stated that the start of the repair is sealing the crack. Mr. Harlow stated that with the repairs the pool may last another 10-15 years.
o We have lined up a WSI certified swim instructor for the year.
o The pool plans to open on June 17th.
Recreation Committee
o David Kuniholm and Scott Rodenhauser were voted onto the recreation committee. Mr. Harlowcommented that Mr. Kuniholm has been helpful in finding compromise between the tennis and pickleball players. Diane Harty has been voted to stay onto the recreation committee.
o Walpole Recreation Committee came to the consensus of meeting the 3rd Wednesday of every month at 6pm.
HIGHWAY: The following report was given by Mr. Rau.
Winter Operations: We are in the process of removing winter equipment off trucks including on spots, plows and wings. Washing of trucks and equipment to remove salt and other debris and then storing of equipment for the season.
Grading: With an unusually insignificant mud season we have experienced this spring; we were able to grade all gravel roads early without the use of extra gravel or stone.
Spring Clean-up: After a long winter with several large storms that attributed to many down trees and large amounts of debris, most of which was temporarily moved to the roadsides until accessible for clean-up. Following snowmelt; brush, trees, and debris was chipped and cleared on roadsides. Mr. Dalessio questioned the general policy for trees cut down by Asplundh. Mr. Dalessio confirmed that residents could collect this downed wood if they so wished.
Mrs. Pschirrer reviewed with Mr. Dalessio that she had begun the present meeting by asking the directors to evaluate staff meetings to make them more valuable for directors and their staff. Mrs. Pschirrer spoke of her appreciation of the town directors and staff. Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio reiterated this position.
FEMA: Weekly video meetings with FEMA and Homeland Security continue to meticulously obtain and enter precise information to be awarded funds for the declared environmental disaster in 2021.
SELECTBOARD OFFICE: The following report was given by Mrs. Downing.
Assessing
o The application period for current use, veterans’ tax credit, elderly and solar energy exemptions closed on Monday, April 17th.
o The updated Elderly Tax Exemption was approved at Town Meeting. The Veterans’ and All Veterans’ Credit article to maintain that credit was also approved at Town Meeting.
o Record updates for new construction and lot line mergers/adjustments/subdivisions are occurring in the Avitar software program.
o Abatement applications that have not received a response should be addressed soon. Avitar is sending recommendations to the Town within the week. They will be processed as soon as possible.
o All edits and changes to property assessment must be completed before May 15th or when the spring tax warrant is created.
o Excavation and Timber Reports are being submitted and billed if required. Walpole experienced higher volume for Intents to Cut for timber than in the past. However, due to the warmer winter, several intents were canceled with “no cut”. Property owners are beginning to resubmit their “no cut” intents for the coming year. Reminders will be sent to those with open intents to submit their reports.
Facilities Update
o The Town Hall elevator’s fireman’s hat sensor was installed. However, the software in the elevator will not recognize the new sensor. There are ongoing calls and discussions with Otis Elevator regarding how to fix this issue. The extension from the State of NH to fix the violation is about to end. Mr. Dalessio commented on the use of the upstairs of the Town Hall without having a functional elevator.
o The main entrance door on the south side of the building will be replaced. The estimated work start date is May 10th.
LIBRARY: The following report was submitted by Mrs. Malmberg.
Statistics for March are encouraging. At the Main Library, visits increased 24% over last year. Physical checkouts increased 22% and checkouts on Libby increased 11% over last year. Other large gains were children’s program attendance, a 39% gain, and usage of Hoopla and Newsbank, which increased 108% and 128% respectively. You will notice a decline in virtual programs, this is since Carolyn is no longer doing her Tuesday and Saturday virtual programs. Visits to the North Walpole branch increased 49% compared to last year, and circulation and programming figures remained steady.
Building and Grounds:
The Board of Trustees voted to accept the quote from Don Newcombe to replace the chimney. He will be providing us with a timeline for the project and some samples of the stone veneer.
The Board has engaged Adam Vose to build a new front door for the library. Work will commence in May with a target of early to mid-June for installation. The Main Library will be closed during installation but will continue to offer curbside pickup. The North Walpole Branch Library will be open expanded hours during that time and library programming will take place at the branch as well.
Programming:
Attendance for our first two April programs for adults was great. We have eighteen people in person and eight on Zoom for the Great Decisions program with Keene State Professor Jim Waller. In May, we hope to have a guest speaker, the former US Ambassador to China, Stapleton Roy.
We had a terrific film and discussion program about 100 Nights Inc., a homeless shelter and resource center in Keene, featuring Executive Director Mindy Cambiar and nonprofit consultant Sara Barrett. Twenty-nine people were in attendance.
Six people attended our “Life, Death and Cake” program and found it very informative. The presenters were very knowledgeable and engaging.
Julie has started making visits to the North Walpole School. She visited two third grade classes in March to promote the library and do book talks. There was an immediate payoff- several of the kids came into the library later that day looking for the books she brought with her.
PR & Marketing:
The library will be offering tote bags for sale featuring our new logo. The bags were purchased from Enviro-tote, a woman-owned business based in Londonderry that uses eco-friendly materials. We are asking for a suggested donation of $5.00 per bag.
POLICE DEPARTMENT:
Mrs. Pschirrer spoke to the Police Department being understaffed. Chief Sanctuary was not present. Mrs. Pschirrer stated to those in attendance that he was away due to police matters.
ADJOURNMENT:
Mr. Dalessio spoke to Mrs. Pschirrer being away on vacation in the coming week. Mr. Dalessio called the meeting to close at 6:00 PM.
Respectfully submitted,
Jordan Cannon, Recording Secretary
Selectboard announced that there will be a parade on the 29th at 11:30.
The Walpolean 
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