Zoning Board Meeting Minutes – 6/17/20

ZONING BOARD 06/23/2020 Leave a comment

Zoning Board of Adjustment

Town of Walpole

Virtual Meeting by Zoom

Minutes of June 17, 2020

 

Present: Board: Chair Jan Galloway-Leclerc, Vice-Chair Myra Mansouri, Tom Murray, Pauline Barnes. Absent: Ernie Vose. Alternates: Bob Anderson, Don Sellarole. Candidates for Alternate: Judy Trow, David Edkins. Presenters: Thomas Hanna, counsel for Ruggiero Processing Facility LLC , Rob Hitchcock of SVE Associates who prepared the site plan, Joseph Ruggiero, owner of Ruggiero Processing Facility.

 

Roll Call: Ms. Leclerc introduced each Board member and Alternate, as well as the Recording Secretary and she introduced the candidates and guests. She asked Mr. Anderson to step in for Mr. Vose and he agreed.

 

Minutes: Marilou Blaine, Recording Secretary: Ms. Mansouri made a motion to accept the March 2020 minutes. Mr. Anderson seconded the motion and the motion passed unanimously by roll call vote. The June minutes are unapproved and will be voted on at the July 2020 meeting for any additions, omissions or corrections.

 

Election of officers and alternates:

Ms. Barnes made a motion to elect Ms. Leclerc Chair. Ms. Mansouri seconded the motion. A roll call vote of Mr. Anderson, Ms. Mansouri, Ms. Barnes and Mr. Murray approved the motion.

Ms. Barnes made a motion to elect Ms. Mansouri Vice-chair. Mr. Murray seconded the motion. A roll call vote of Mr. Anderson, Mr. Murray and Ms. Leclerc approved the motion.

Ms. Leclerc made a motion to elect Mr. Murray Clerk. Ms. Barnes seconded the motion. A roll call vote of Mr. Anderson, Ms. Barnes, Ms. Mansouri and Ms. Leclerc approved the motion.

Mr. Murray made a motion to elect Ms. Trow as a new alternate. Mr. Anderson seconded the motion. A roll call vote of Mr. Anderson, Mr. Murray, Ms. Barnes and Ms. Leclerc approved the motion.

Mr. Murray made a motion to elect Mr. Edkins as a new alternate. Mr. Anderson seconded the motion. A roll call vote of Mr. Anderson, Mr. Murray, Ms. Mansouri, Ms. Barnes and Ms. Clerc approved the motion.

 

Old Business:

Ruggiero Processing Facility LLC in Industrial Park: Thomas Hanna, attorney for Ruggiero Processing Facility LLC, Tax Map 1, Lot 10-2, Industrial District. Mr. Hanna proposed changing driveway location into the Ruggiero Processing Facility LLC and adding a scale and modular office for employees to do office work and monitor the scale. Also added will be a well and septic system for the modular office.

Ms. Barnes and Mr. Vose had recused themselves from participating in this part of the meeting. Mr. Anderson had already been asked to sit in Mr. Vose’s place. Ms. Trow was asked to represent Ms. Barnes’ place.

Mr. Hanna, a Keene lawyer with BCM Environmental & Land Law, represented Ruggiero Processing Facility LLC. He has represented the Ruggiero Facility before and made a new proposal to use the same 6.23 acres that were the subject of a 2011 Special Exception to approve the new additions to the facility. What is being added to the current use of the property is a driveway in the location that was approved in 2011, (the driveway now goes over an easement owned by Hodgkins and Sons) and to install a scale. Next to the scale would be a 24-foot-by-40-foot modular office for people to do office work and monitor the scale as trucks come through. There would be a septic system and a well installed at the same time.​1.

 

It’s the position of the owners of Ruggiero Processing Facility that because this proposal is not an expansion and is only a “minor addition” to the activities already at the site that there is no need for a new Special Exception, Mr. Hanna stated. But he added that he recognized that he had to present a site plan before the Planning Board.

​

Mr. Hanna said it was the position that the court took when Ruggiero litigated this matter as it relates to the authority and jurisdiction of the Zoning Board over the procession facility. If Ruggiero were going to expand beyond the 6.23 acres, then the thought of a Special Exception would be warranted. But since the land use, in his view, is not changing and there in no expansion of use then Ruggiero just has to have a site plan review.

 

Ms. Leclerc said that now the Board has to make a recommendation to the Planning Board. But Board members had a couple of questions first.

 

Ms. Trow asked if this was a new scale. The answer was that Ruggiero currently takes his trucks to the Cold River Materials facility to be weighed for a fee of $25 per truck.

 

Mr. Anderson asked about increase in traffic. Mr. Hanna responded that as the proposal relates to traffic there is no material difference from what was approved or what is happening right now.

 

Mr. Anderson asked if the people in the office would be there for the whole day. Mr. Hanna responded that currently two people were working from Mr. Ruggiero’s home and office – his daughter and his mother – and they will be working in the modular office.

 

Which agency will deal with the fire risk regarding employees in the office? Mr. Anderson asked. Is it the fire chief? Who would approach the fire chief? What department heads are consulted as part of the site plan? Mr. Hanna responded that the site plan usually includes consulting the fire chief and the building permit and code process would also look at that issue.

 

Mr. Murray asked about the new driveway. Mr. Hanna said that the Department of Environmental Services wants the owner to have its own driveway on its own road and currently the driveway is over an easement. For that reason DES requested the driveway be moved back to where it was originally approved. Mr. Murray then stated “there would be no shared driveway.” Mr. Hanna agreed and said the driveway would go from town road to Ruggiero property.

 

Ms. Leclerc asked if there were any other questions or comments. There being none, she asked for a motion.

 

Mr. Anderson made a motion that the Zoning Board inform the Planning Board that no new Special Exception is required provided that all construction and activities are confined to the original 6.23 acres for which a Special Exception was previously given. Further, the Zoning Board asked the Planning Board to require that, per NH Administrative Code 404.05, any waste stockpile be located, sized, and configured as required by our fire chief for the purpose of fire safety; that the fire chief also inspect all construction for any potential safety hazards, and that Ruggiero be required not to exceed the hours of operation stipulated in the original Special Exception. Mr. Murray seconded the motion.

 

Roll vote to approve the motion: Mr.. Anderson, Mr. Murray, Ms. Trow, Ms. Mansouri and Ms. Leclerc all vote yes.

 

Ms . Leclerc told the Board she would let the Planning Board know about the vote and the recommendations and that Mr. Ruggiero is free to go ahead with the site plan. The original hours of operation are Monday through Friday 7 am to 5 pm. Saturday 7am to 1 pm. No Sunday hours.

​

 

Response Letter to the Select Board – Signage on Route 12. Response from ZBA regarding adding two zoning ordinances to the Walpole Ordinances document, the oscillating sign ordinance and creating a new ordinance for feather flags. There was also a question about the cover of the Walpole Zoning Ordinance saying amended in 2020.

 

The recording secretary said that she had already started a response letter. It already included a copy of the sign ordinance in which the word “oscillating’ appeared and the following year a tally of the vote was recorded. It was approved by the town in 1998 and the Town report of 1999 shows that the recorded vote for that sign ordinance was 453 yeses and 175 nos.

 

Regarding the question of how to indicate an addition to the Zoning Ordinances document without a vote on a new ordinance at Town Meeting by the Townspeople in 2019. The Board decided that it should somehow be noted that an addition was made to the document or otherwise if you were to use the current Walpole Zoning Ordinances you have in your possession saying “Amended in 2019”, you would not have a complete list of all the zoning ordinances in the booklet. In place of saying Amended in 2020, the Zoning Board is suggesting an asterisk be placed next to the 2019 on the cover. It refers to an asterisk on the inside cover explaining that these are two ordinances previously approved at Town Meetings but never included in the document. The two ordinances are now being added to the document this year.

 

Regarding creating a new ordinance for feather flags.

The Board believes that the current sign ordinances already prohibit feather flags for the following reasons:

​All signs permitted shall be constructed of durable materials, affixed to a building or the ground, ​and shall be maintained in good condition and repair at all time.

​The permitted distance from the center of a traveled roadway is 60 feet. Feather flags seem to ​appear at the edge of the roadway.

​Distance from another sign must be100 feet.

​Temporary signs usually refer to construction and real estate signs.

​Feather flags oscillate: The definition of oscillating means Waiting for Don’s definition

Short-term rental ordinance. Draft I. Ms. Leclerc recommended that the Board read Draft No. 1 of the short-term rental ordinance and then come back to the July meeting with questions, suggestions and any additions regarding the draft. It may take several drafts before settling on one.

 

Closing the meeting: Ms. Mansouri made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Ms. Trow seconded the motion and the Board approved the motion by roll call.

Respectfully submitted,

Marilou Blaine

ZBA Secretary

COVID-19 Message From Lucy

Uncategorized 06/21/2020 1 Comment

Hi Everyone,

 

As one who tracks this kind of numbers, I was concerned to see that there have been six new positive COVID-19 tests here in Cheshire County in the last five days.  These are not big numbers, but it is double the number of positive tests reported in the first 15 days of the month, in one-third the time.

 

Now is not the time to let your guard down.

 

Wear your masks, keep your distance, and wash your hands.

 

Stay safe out there,

~Rep. Lucy Weber

As always, you can find the latest NH statistics, and some archived ones, here:  https://www.nh.gov/covid19/

 

Hooper Trustees Meeting Minutes – 6/11/20

Uncategorized 06/19/2020 Leave a comment

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

CALL TO ORDER:  Mrs. Pschirrer called this Hooper Trustees Zoom meeting to order at 7:16 PM.  The Hooper Trustees are in three separate locations.  This meeting is being recorded.  

HOOPER TRUSTEES MINUTES:

HOOPER TRUSTEES MEETING – June 4, 2020:  Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Minutes of the Hooper Trustees meeting of June 4, 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 HOOPER TRUSTEES SESSION – June 4, 2020:  Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Hooper Trustees Session of June 4, 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.

NON-PUBLIC HOOPER TRUSTEES SESSION:

Mr. Dalessio moved to enter into a Non-Public Hooper Trustees Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (c) Reputations.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a voice roll call vote with Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved at 7:18 PM.

The regular Hooper Trustees meeting resumed at 7:29 PM.

Mr. Dalessio moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Hooper Trustees Session of June 11, 2020, will be 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, 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 7:30 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

Selectboard Meetin Minutes – 6/11/20

SELECTBOARD 06/19/2020 Leave a comment

By the way, Sarah also mentioned that:

Starting next week, the Selectboard will be meeting in the Town Hall for Thursday night meetings. However, the option to return to Zoom continues if they wish to change meeting methods per the State Emergency Order. 

Lil

 

 

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

CALL TO ORDER:  Mrs. Pschirrer called this meeting of the Selectboard to order at 6:30 PM.  She advised that the Selectboard members are in three separate locations.  This Zoom meeting is being recorded remotely by FACT-TV.  It is available for viewing on the internet.  Also attending this meeting is Mrs. Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration, in the Walpole Town Hall, and Ms. Regina Borden, Recording Secretary, by telephone at a separate location.  All votes will be taken by a roll call voice vote of the Selectboard present.    

Mrs. Pschirrer advised that public comment is possible at this meeting.  Comments can be made by calling the Selectboard office or via email to Mrs. Downing at the Walpole Town Hall.  Mrs. Downing will display the agenda.  That will be followed by documents as they are being discussed.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Accounts Payable Check Register in the total amount of $151,620.32 for checks issuedJune 12, 2020.  This includes a $79,981.91 payment to Tenco for the balance remaining on the new dump truck; this was an approved 2018 Warrant Article.  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.  

PAYROLL:

Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Payroll Check Register for the week ending June 06, 2020, in the amount of $27,177.50 for checks dated June 12, 2020, and the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes in the amount of $5,279.42.  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 – June 4, 2020:  Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of June 4, 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.

COMMITTEE REPORT:

The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of the following Committee report.

• Walpole Fire District Meeting – May 13, 2020.

Mr. Dalessio recommended that going forward this meeting should be changed to the “Walpole Fire Commissioners Meeting”.  “District” should be deleted.  Mrs. Pschirrer pointed out that “District” would imply that many other people were attending, however, it is just the “Commissioners”.    

 

BUILDING PERMITS:

Permit #2020-15, JILLIAN BISHOP, 62 March Hill Road, Map and Lot #009-017-000:  Mr. Dalessio moved to grant Building Permit No. 2020-15 for Jillian Bishop to construct awrap- around “28’ x 12’ Wooden Deck” at 62 March Hill Road, Map and Lot #009-017-000.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Ms. Mayberry advised this is not a wrap-around deck but it will connect with an existing deck.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any other questions or comments.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

Permit #2020-16, MATTHEW HUNTER, 101 Brewery Road, Map and Lot #014-011-002:  Mr. Dalessio moved to grant Building Permit No. 2020-16 for Matthew Hunter to construct a “28’ x 24’ two story home” at 101 Brewery Road, Map and Lot #014-011-002.  The prior home on this location burned in April 2019.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mr. Dalessio would like clarification as to whether or not this needs to go to the Zoning Board as may be a non-conforming lot.  Ms. Mayberry asked if this home is being built on the pre-existing foot-print.  Mr. Dalessio amended his motion to include “with the condition that the question of whether it is a non-conforming lot or an extension of a non-conforming lot needs to be clarified before the Building Permit is issued.”  Ms. Mayberry accepted this amendment.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any other questions or comments.  There were none.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion and amendment were approved.

OLD BUSINESS:

Lighting on Arch Bridge Offer:  Mrs. Pschirrer reported getting a notice that the State Bridge Project will cover the cost of installation but the Town would be responsible for the maintenance in the future for the three (3) light poles. The Town had agreed to pay for the operating costs of the lights.  The North Walpole Commissioners June 9, 2020, draft copy of their meeting Minutes stated an offer from Mr. Ray Aumand was forthcoming to pay for the lights. Mr. Dalessio spoke with Mr. Mark Houghton today on the maintenance of the lights; he feels the cost would be minimal because they are LED lights.  Mrs. Pschirrer noted the $3,700+/- cost for the lights would be covered in the Bridge Project.  We need to thank Mr. Aumand for his generous offer.  The Selectboard agreed to sign an agreement with the State and will contact Mr. Jason Tremblay to ask him to send the Agreement to them.  

Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the State’s offer for the lights on the Arch Bridge and ask them to generate the Agreement.  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.        

Open Container Waiver Extensions:  Mrs. Downing advised that the Selectboard need to consider amending the waiver letters to Spencer’s Place and Burdick’s Restaurant to be valid through Phase 2 of Stay at Home Emergency Order; inside seating is only at 50% of capacity due to distancing requirements.

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve to extend the Open Container Waiver Permit for Spencer’s Place through Phase II.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  Mr. Dalessio amended this motion to include Burdick’s Restaurant.  Ms. Mayberry accepted the amendment.  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 and amendment were approved.  

Recreation Area Notice:  Mrs. Pschirrer reported a number of things were changed today when the Governor spoke at 3:00 PM.  Pools have the right to open but with specific restrictions.  Most sports could resume with restrictions. Groups should not exceed 50.  Libraries can open but only at 50% capacity.  Mrs. Pschirrer had a copy of the guidelines and read some of the restrictions.  As of Monday, the pool may be opened but it will take more time than we have to get it ready. A requirement is six-foot spacing.  They will have to buy many supplies includingsanitizers.  Mr. Dalessio mentioned all employees need to be trained.  Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Cassarino have already discussed staff.  They think they have enough as 8–of–the–9 lifeguards want to come back and they have applicants. They are looking into recertifications. They talked about meeting next week with the new Recreation Director and Pool Manager.  The tentative date for opening the pool is June 29th.  They are not sure about bathroom and locker room requirements.  Mr. Dalessio noted that capacity needs to be worked out.  There was discussion about time limits.  Ms. Mayberry felt they should write a proposal for consideration.

Mrs. Pschirrer mentioned the basketball courts. There can be pick-up basketball games.  Mr. Dalessio felt the courts should be open for public use. The public is asked to limit the number of people and practice social distancing.  Mrs. Pschirrer stated they will adjust to accommodate the new “Safe at Home” Order.

Town Hall:  Mrs. Pschirrer asked about opening the Town Hall to the public starting next week.  Mrs. Smith has been happy with asking people to make appointments.  It has been good for distancing.  Mr. Dalessio said everything (protective items) should remain in place.  They will continue with social distancing.  Mrs. Downing reported they have also been maintaining appointments and it has worked out very well.  There is no congregating in the hallway. They could open the Town Hall for boards, committees and other groups to begin meeting again. Mrs. Pschirrer advised this notice will be posted in the usual locations.  

Selectboard Meetings:  

Thursday, June 18th, 2020:  There was a consensus to have another Zoom meeting next Thursday, June 18th.  Ms. Lori Landry, Superintendent of the FMRSD, and Mr. Jim Fenn, Business Manager of the FMRSD, will be attending.  

Thursday, June 25th, 2020:  The Selectboard will move their meeting on Thursday, June 25th to the Town Hall in the large meeting room.  It will allow more room for distancing.  The Selectboard should adhere to the recommended safe guards that apply to all employees.              

Pending Further Actions:

The following Agenda items will remain on this pending list as there is no new information available at this time:

• Recreation Area Parking Lot: Lot Line Adjustment and Deed with Letter;
• Westmoreland-Walpole Boundary Survey;
• Town Deeded Properties;
• Houghton Brook Fish Ladder.

NEW BUSINESS:

Cemetery Deed for Lot D513:  Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Cemetery Deed for Lot D513 for Timothy & Dianne Lawlor.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  Ms. Mayberry asked about the breakdown of cost.  Mrs. Pschirrer explained that $400 is for the burial lot.  Twenty-five dollars goes into the Town’s general fund, the balance is turned over to the Trustees of Trust Funds for general maintenance of the cemeteries. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

Property Tax Receipts to Date:  Mr. Kreissle had sent out a spreadsheet and graph on the “Collections Against Spring Tax Warrant”.  The Town is at 25% of total due.  There are three more weeks to July 1st when taxes are due.  Mr. Dalessio suggested asking Mrs. Smith where they were at this time last year.

Health Trust Surplus Distributions:  Mrs. Downing explained that due to COVID-19, there had been an unexpected reduction in claims. When the Board of Directors meets this fall they will vote to accept the audited financial statements and establish the reserve level.  Any surplus will be returned to members in the form of a check or a contribution holiday as the member prefers.  

SWRPC Annual Meeting Invitation:  The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of a notice from the Southwest Region Planning Commission that their Annual Meeting will be held on June 16, 2020, at 3:00 p.m.  It will be conducted using a Zoom format this year due to the current pandemic.  Mrs. Pschirrer and Ms. Mayberry plan to attend.

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.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved at 7:16 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:30 PM.

FACT-TV:  Mrs. Pschirrer announced that this concludes the regular Selectboard and Hooper Trustees meetings.  The Selectboard will be entering into a Non-Public Session.  FACT-TV ceased filming and left the meeting.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION:

Mr. Dalessio 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 Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any questions or comments.  There were none.  On a roll call voice vote with Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved at 7:31 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:52 PM.

Mr. Dalessio moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of June 11, 2020, will be 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, motion was approved.

ADJOURNMENT:  Ms. Mayberry moved to adjourn this Selectboard meeting.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there was any discussion.  There was none.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 7:55 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

​​​​​​

The Library Wants its Stuff Back!

Uncategorized 06/19/2020 Leave a comment

I tried this out yesterday and it was a very smooth process.  After going to the catalog on the Library website, I settled on a couple of books I wanted to read. Using the link that Justine mentions here, It was easy to make an appointment to drop off the books I have been hoarding since March as well as pick up the books I had chosen! If technology is not your thing, the phone will work well too – especially during the curbside hours when someone is there to answer it. – Lil

Thank you all so much for your patience. We are finally ready to accept returns. We are only accepting returns by appointment. To make an appointment for returns or for picking up more books you can call us during curbside hours at 603-756-9806 or schedule an appointment right online at https://calendly.com/walpoletownlibrary/curbside-pick-up-drop-off
We have a bin on the front porch for you to leave your returns in. Please place them in a plastic bag and then leave them in the bin.
Feel free to email me if you have any questions at jfafara@walpoletownlibrary.org
Justine Fafara
Library Director

Clarion Deadline – 6/22/20

Uncategorized 06/14/2020 Leave a comment

With an extra weekend beforehand, I decided to send out my one week’s deadline notice about a day early. Time has rolled by, and it is again time — MONDAY, JUNE 22nd — to submit your articles, announcements, or advertisements you may wish to have in the July CLARION. And, as always, I appreciate early submissions.

Everyone will receive the July issue well before the 4th of July weekend, but with COVID, there will probably be no activities to attend.

So, take heed, and email me your inputs. Most important, stay safe, wear your masks, and maintain social distancing. Behave as though your life depends on it. Yours, RAY

Hooper Trustees Meeting Minutes – 6/4/20

Uncategorized 06/12/2020 Leave a comment

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

CALL TO ORDER:  Mrs. Pschirrer called this Hooper Trustees meeting to order at 7:46 PM.  The Hooper Trustees are in three separate locations for this Zoom meeting.  This meeting is being recorded.

HOOPER TRUSTEES MINUTES:

HOOPER TRUSTEES MEETING – May 28, 2020:  Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Minutes of the Hooper Trustees meeting of May 28, 2020, as submitted.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any comments or questions.  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 the Hooper Institute Board met last Wednesday.  It was a positive meeting with a lot of good ideas being mentioned.  He will forward Mrs. Dalbeck’s Director’s report to Mrs. Pschirrer and Ms. Mayberry.  The Summer Program was well thought out.  Mrs. Whippie put together an 8-day packet for the little kids and for the older kids, Mrs. Dalbeck put together various hiking trips, etc.  People are signing up and picking up the packets.  Mr. Dalessio is building the owl’s house kits; twelve (12) have been spoken for.  Trails are open behind the Hooper Institute and there are activities for families hiking along the trails.

The Hooper got turned down for the NH Charitable Grant.  They received an acknowledgement letter from the Main Street Relief Fund Prequalification Application but there were 10,000 applications.  They also got turned down for a smaller grant they applied for.  Mrs. Pschirrer pointed out that it is a tough time if they are not a social service agency – money is going to feeding people, housing needs, child care, etc.  Mr. Dalessio continues to encourage Mrs. Dalbeck to keep going and moving forward.  

They interviewed the summer people. They stressed COVID-19precautions.  They met with students and mentors on the first day.  The Hooper should have a newsletter ready in another 3-to-4 weeks.  This will be the Friends of the Hooper’s first big push on fundraising.  About 3,000 copies will be mailed to everybody in Town.  It is going in the right direction. They are stressing the educational piece of the Institute.  He encouraged them to send information on the Hooper Will and Trust to new members.  They are looking for all the scholarship students to write follow-up articles.

FACT-TV:  Mrs. Pschirrer announced that this concludes the regular Hooper Trustees meeting.  The Hooper Trustees will be entering into a Non-Public Session.  FACT-TV ceased filming and left the meeting.

NON-PUBLIC HOOPER TRUSTEES SESSION:

Mr. Dalessio moved to enter into a Non-Public Hooper Trustees Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (a) Personnel.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any comments or questions.  There were none.  On a roll call vote with Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved at 7:54 PM.  

The regular Hooper Trustees meeting resumed at 7:56 PM.

Mr. Dalessio moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Hooper Trustees Session of June 4, 2020, will be sealed.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any comments or questions.  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 comments or questions.  There were none.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 7:57 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 6/4/20

SELECTBOARD 06/12/2020 Leave a comment

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

CALL TO ORDER:  Mrs. Pschirrer called this meeting of the Selectboard to order at 7:03 PM.  She advised that the Selectboard members are in three separate locations.  This Zoom meeting is being recorded remotely by FACT-TV.  It is available for viewing on the internet.  Also attending this meeting is Mrs. Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration, and Mrs. Sandra Smith, Town Clerk/Tax Collector, in the Walpole Town Hall, and Ms. Regina Borden, Recording Secretary, by telephone at a separate location.  Mr. Bob Anderson, Broadband Committee, was present at a separate location.

Mrs. Pschirrer advised public comment is possible at this meeting.  Comments can be made by calling the Selectboard Office or via email to Mrs. Downing at the Walpole Town Hall.  Mrs. Downing will display the agenda.  That will be followed by documents as they are being discussed.

Mrs. Pschirrer called for a voice roll call vote of the Selectboard present:  Cheryl Mayberry was present; Steven Dalessio was present and Peggy Pschirrer was present.    

LOAN AGREEMENT re: BROADBAND BOND:  Mrs. Pschirrer advised they will be looking at two documents in this meeting.  The first document is the Loan Agreement which needs a motion to adopt and to authorize Mrs. Pschirrer to sign as Chair of the Selectboard.  The second document is the Certificate of Vote Regarding Authorization of Bonds and Approval of Loan Agreement with The New Hampshire Municipal Bond Bank.  

Mr. Steven Dalessio made a motion to authorize the Chair of the Selectboard, Mrs. Peggy L. Pschirrer, to sign the Loan Agreement with the New Hampshire Municipal Bond Bank as the Town voted to approve Warrant Article #2 on March 14, 2020.  Seconded by Ms. Cheryl Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any comments or questions.  There were none.  On a voice roll call vote by Mr. Steven Dalessio, Ms. Cheryl Mayberry and Mrs. Peggy Pschirrer in favor, the motion passed by a unanimous vote.  

Mrs. Pschirrer advised this Loan Agreement is dated July 14, 2020, as that is the date the Bond will be entered in the Bond Market.  Mrs. Pschirrer will go into the Selectboard office on Saturday to sign this Loan Agreement.  Mrs. Sandra Smith, Town Clerk, and Mr. Thomas Goins, Town Treasurer, will also sign this Loan Agreement.  

The second document is the Certificate of Vote Regarding Authorization of Bonds and Approval of Loan Agreement with The New Hampshire Municipal Bond Bank.  It verifies that the Loan Agreement was accepted by a voice roll call vote of the Selectboard.  Mrs. Sandra Smith, Town Clerk, is the one who has to verify that the Selectboard has met the requirements of this Loan Agreement.  She verifies that the three Selectboard members were present, Mr. Steven Dalessio, Ms. Cheryl Mayberry and Mrs. Peggy Pschirrer.  Mrs. Sandra Smith verified that “yes” she has seen the three Selectboard members who were present and she heard them take a voice vote.  She is happy to sign the two documents.  

 

 

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Accounts Payable Check Register in the total amount of $16,734.94 for checks issued June 05, 2020.  This includes a $2,785 payment to Ransom Consulting, Inc. for work completed on the Brownfields Project.  The Town will be reimbursed for this expense from the EPA grant funds.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any comments or questions.  Mr. Dalessio requested that Mr. Kreissle include a list each month on items that will be reimbursed to the Town with the other monthly reports.  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 May 30, 2020, in the amount of $28,752.99 for checks issued June 05, 2020, and the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes in the amount of $5,996.69.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any comments or questions.  There were none.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer reported that this amount includes overtime for the Police Department because this week they had a high number of cases.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MINUTES – May 28, 2020:  Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of May 28, 2020, as submitted.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any comments or questions.  There were none.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the Minutes were approved.  

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – May 28, 2020: Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of May 28, 2020, as submitted.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any comments or questions.  There were none.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the Minutes were approved.

STAFF MEETING MINUTES – May 21, 2020:  Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Minutes of the Staff Meeting of May 21, 2020, as submitted.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any comments or questions.  There were none.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the Minutes were approved.

COMMITTEE REPORT:

The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of the following Committee report:

• Walpole Fire District Meeting – April 21, 2020.

PROPERTY TAX ABATEMENTS:

MAP and LOT #003-082-CL2:  Mr. Dalessio moved to grant this Property Tax Abatement in the amount of $5,932 for Map and Lot #003-082-CL2.  This is to correct the tenant on this lease with New Hampshire Public Broadcasting (NHPB) Cell Tower; incorrect information was provided by the owner (NHPB).  Verizon initiated contact to correct the tax billing.  This is to be abated to Cellular Wireless.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any comments or questions.  There were none.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

MAP and LOT #003-082-CL3:  Mr. Dalessio moved to grant this Property Tax Abatement in the amount of $5,619 for Map and Lot #003-082-CL3.  This is to abate the incorrect owner, Verizon Wireless.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any comments or questions.  There were none.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

SUPPLEMENTAL TAX WARRANTS:

MAP and LOT #003-082-CL2:  Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Tax Collectors Property Tax Supplemental Warrant for Map and Lot #003-082-CL2 to bill Verizon Wireless for their leased space on the tower for $5,932.   Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any comments or questions.  There were none.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

MAP and LOT #003-082-CL3:  Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Tax Collectors Property Tax Supplemental Warrant for Map and Lot #003-082-CL3 to bill AT&T/Cingular Wireless for their lease on the tower for $5,619.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any comments or questions.  There were none.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Sandra Smith left this meeting.  Mrs. Pschirrer thanked her for attending.

NOTICE OF INTENT TO CUT WOOD OR TIMBER:

MAP and LOT #002-012-000:  Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Notice of Intent to Cut Wood or Timber for Map and Lot #002-012-000 for a lot located off of County Road.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any comments or questions.  There were none.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS:

Lighting on Arch Bridge Letters:  Mrs. Pschirrer had written letters to Senator Jay Kahn and Representative Lucy Weber regarding lighting on the Arch Bridge.  Both Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry felt the letters were written very well.  Mr. Dalessio recommended that copies of the letters be sent to Mr. Jason Trembley, NH DOT Project Manager, plus copies to the other people listed on their recent letter.

Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the letter regarding the lighting on the Arch Bridge to be sent to Senator Jay Kahn and Representative Lucy Weber with copies to be mailed to the NH DOT Project Manager and other Representatives.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any comments or questions.  There were none.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.  

Recreation Area Notice:  Mrs. Pschirrer reported that notices had already been posted at the Recreation Area. Today she received a lengthy message from a resident in Town which she forwarded to Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry. This resident is very distressed about not allowing the courts to be used for basketball games.  Mrs. Pschirrer told her the Selectboard would talk about it again at this meeting.  Do they change the guidelines or leave them as is?  They are using their best judgment. They do not know what the Governor will announce this Friday (tomorrow). Mr. Dalessio pointed out that they are trying to prevent large crowds from congregating. Therefore,they might have to “stick to their guns” a little longer.  People should continue to use facial masks and social distancing.  The Selectboard still has the local authority.  The organizer of thegathering on June 5th, Vigil on the Common, did not ask for permission from the Town/Selectboard but provided a courtesy notice. This will open up the Town to other groups congregating on the Common.  Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer agreed it will just open up the Common for gatherings.  The question comes up as to why are they restricting the basketball courts. Enforcement was discussed.  Mrs. Pschirrer felt it best to leave the basketball courts alone for now until they hear more from the Governor. Ms. Mayberry agreed.  People are playing basketball but the Selectboard is not giving them permission. Mr. Dalessio asked how do they deal with allowing some public places to be open yet other public places are closed.  It is a bad precedent at this time with COVID-19.  If not for COVID-19, they would not be having this discussion.

Pending Further Actions:

The following agenda items will remain on this pending list as there is no new information available at this time.

• Recreation Area Parking Lot: Line Adjustment and Deed with Letter;
• Westmoreland-Walpole Boundary Survey;
• Town Deeded Properties;
• Houghton Brook Fish Ladder.

NEW BUSINESS:

Greater Falls Farmers’ Market:  Mrs. Downing advised that the first date for the Greater Falls Farmers’ Market is Wednesday, June 10th from 4:00-to-7:00 PM at 9 Edwards Lane.  It is on private property located between Pinnacleview Equipment and the Hungry Diner.  When Mr. Dalessio got the first email from Mrs. Jan Galloway-Leclerc, his first thought was the COVID-19 regulations need to be followed.  He talked to Mr. Jeff Miller, Chair of the Planning Board, who referred to it as being similar to a Cruise Night.  They will not be heavily populated and the market is once a week so it does not need approval from the Planning Board.  They will run through Wednesday, September 25th.  Mrs. Downing mentioned the ZBA just wanted the Selectboard to be aware of it.  The Farmers’ Market is well aware of COVID-19 guidelines. It was well set up.  Mrs. Pschirrer recommended the Police Department be made aware of this as it is off Route 12 in a heavily traveled area.    

June 5th Vigil on the Common:  A courtesy notice was given from an organizer that a vigil related to Black Lives Matter and the death of George Floyd was to occur on June 5th on the Common.  Mr. Dalessio felt it important that the organizer should be made aware that the Selectboard is expecting people attending to wear masks, there is social distancing and an attempt be made to keep track of who is there for contact tracing.  Mrs. Pschirrer and Ms. Mayberry felt this is not unreasonable.  Mrs. Downing was asked to contact the organizer tomorrow.  Mrs. Pschirrer will ask the Police Department to drive-by as the Selectboard feels it is a good idea given the circumstances.  

Town Common:  Mr. Dalessio said going forward groups planning to congregate on the Common should talk to the Selectboard about what they are planning to do on the Common.

FMRSD Superintendent of Schools:  Mrs. Downing advised that Ms. Lori Landry, FMRSD Superintendent of Schools, asked to meet with the Selectboard.  She is not available on June 11th.  The Selectboard asked Mrs. Downing to see if she is available on June 18th at 6:30 PM.

COVID-19 Meeting:  Mrs. Downing reported that Mr. Mark Houghton, Director of Emergency Management, and Dr. Chuck Shaw, Health Officer, would like to meet with the Selectboard for an up-date on COVID-19.  Mrs. Pschirrer will email Mr. Houghton to see when he is available to meet.  During the day would be preferred.  Mr. Dalessio is not available on June 17th.      

FACT-TV:  Mrs. Pschirrer announced that this concludes the regular Selectboard meeting.  The Selectboard will enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees.  FACT-TV ceased filming and left the meeting.

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 comments or questions.  There were none.  On a roll call vote with Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved at 7:46 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:57 PM.

ADJOURNMENT:  

Mr. Dalessio moved to adjourn this Selectboard meeting.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked if there were any comments or questions.  There were none.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 7:58 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

 

Extended Hours for Curbside Pick-up at the Library

Uncategorized 06/12/2020 Leave a comment

Yesterday the Governor’s Economic Reopening Task Force announced guidelines for reopening libraries in NH. At this time, the Walpole Town Library will continue Curbside Pickup only. The Board of Trustees, Library Director and staff continue to work on a phased reopening plan. Our top priority is the health and safety of our community and our staff.

On Monday June 15th we will add more hours to our Curbside Pickup service and will begin accepting returns. Library staff will be making phone calls to schedule appointments for returns, starting with patrons who have high demand materials. Please wait to hear from us before returning your books and movies.

Thank you for your patience and flexibility.

Justine Fafara

Library Director

 

and the hours are …

 

Zoning Board Meeting

Uncategorized 06/12/2020 Leave a comment

PUBLIC NOTICE

Wednesday. June 17, 2020

at 7 pm.

The Zoning Board of Adjustment

will hold its regular meeting online

Due to the COVID-19 State of Emergency, this meeting will be held using the web-based platform, Zoom.

The public may access/view this meeting online by visiting

www.zoom.us/join and may listen to the meting by calling 603-313-4032. The meeting ID is 96303038850