The Walpolean

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

CHARLESTOWN WITHDRAWAL INFORMATIONAL MEETING

FEBRUARY 13, 2020

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

CALL TO ORDER:  Mr. Dalessio called this Meeting of the Selectboard to order at 5:55 PM.  This is a Charlestown Withdrawal Informational Meeting.  They plan to look at the Town of Walpole only.  It is all about “IFs” at this time.      

Mr. Dalessio opened the meeting to comments on this subject.  They want to hear all the opinions that are out there from the people attending this meeting.  He would like to talk about the pre-K and special ed.  They will be using the same curriculum that the SAU establishes; however it probably will change.  The Withdrawal will allow teachers to move around the district.  Some Charlestown teachers could bump Walpole teachers.  That is a possibility and could have an impact on the elementary school.  We will see the biggest impact at the high school.  If Charlestown elects not to send their students to FMRHS, there would be significant changes and an impact.  Walpole will continue to pay their fair share of improvements.  Walpole has always held their elementary and high school students in high regard and will continue to do so.  In the first (transition) year,$825,000+ will be added to Walpole’s School taxes.  Members of the five district towns met with Mr. Jim Fenn of the SAU for about four hours and went over the budget line-by-line.  Mr. Fenn took some costs out and put some costs in.  The 2nd, 3rd, 4thyears costs are unknown.  If Charlestown forms their own SAU, costs will probably change again.  We will go from a single district SAU to a multi-district SAU.  Right now we are doing one audit for the entire district but it would go to two audits.  Additional reporting has to be done including reports to the State.  There are some items in the budget that cannot be reduced if one town leaves.  It would get divided by four towns.  We do not know what will happen if this withdrawal is successful.  The first thing that has to happen is that Charlestown has to pass this by a simple majority of 50%.  If Charlestown fails, it does not matter what the other towns do.  If it fails in the other four towns but passes in Charlestown, they have the right to have another vote taken; Appeal the first vote.  No one has looked at the second year which is a big “IF”.  

Mr. Dalessio opened the meeting to comments and/or questions.

Mr. Steve Varone said there is a lot to discuss about this.  Fall Mountain is a one district SAU.  He referenced RSA Chapter 194-C – Section 194-C:9, School Administrative Units – Budget and RSA Chapter 194-C – Section 194-C:8 – Weighted Voting.  They are subject to State law.  Charlestown is paying about one third of the SAU costs.  He spoke about the formula currently being used and how voting is done within the SAU.  

Mr. Bill Stahl, Walpole’s representative to the FMRSD Board, spoke about the FMRSD Board voting to not accept tuition for the Charlestown high school students.  Charlestown students currently in the high school will remain but no new students will be accepted; no freshman in the next school year.  Mr. Dalessio wanted everyone to know that the Town of Walpole is billed every month by the SAU.  It is currently paying $615,232/month.  

A resident asked why the Articles of Agreement are not changing.  Mr. Dalessio replied that if this vote passes, a change will have to be made to the Articles of Agreement. It will have to pass by 2/3rds majority vote.  

Jackie Ronning, teacher at the FMRHS, pointed out that they have a huge investment in the FMRSD.  All of this is being done by a small group of Charlestown residents with an agenda.  There are a lot of concerned Charlestown citizens.  The concern is for the children and their education which is critical.  

Mr. Phil Shaw has been around the FMRSD since it was formed.  This Withdrawal does not represent all of the Charlestown residents.  They do want a formula that they will be happy with and can live with but that has not happened.  Maybe set up a cooperative district?  He thinks this is what Charlestown is looking for rather than a withdrawal from the district.

A resident questioned what changes will there be at the high school for Walpole students if Charlestown withdraws.  Mr. Dalessio said there will be significant cuts at the high school but he does not know what they will be.  The School District Board would have to decide.

Mr. Dalessio advised the Walpole Selectboard has talked about options.  This would include running their own elementary school – Pre-K through 8th grade and then tuition out the High School student. No official research has been done.  

Mr. Stahl stated that if Charlestown stays in the district, he feels the FMRSD Board will do a complete study to get input from everyone and look at options with an open mind.  Our accreditation will be affected.

Mr. Kevin Hicks feels everybody’s taxes will increase.  We need to open up lines of communication to solve everybody’s issues.  The State is not giving us any more money for education but they keep mandating more improvements /changes.  We need to take this to the State to get them to help fund education.  All this will not be fixed tomorrow but we will not know until we try.  Let us work together to get this going.

Mr. Craig Vickers said getting together and communicating with the State is great.  The culture will be different if Charlestown leaves.  We will not have the same education.  A good education attracts people to the Town.  This is all about the kids.          

ADJOURNMENT:  Mr. Dalessio thanked everyone for attending this meeting.  He closed this Public Informational Meeting at 6:40 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

BROADBAND PROPOSED ISSUANCE OF A BOND

FEBRUARY 13, 2020

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

Broadband Committee Present:   Paul Looney, Dick Hill

CALL TO ORDER:  Mr. Dalessio called this Public Meeting of the Selectboard on the Broadband Proposed Issuance of a Bond to order at 4:00 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.  This will be Article 2 on the Town Warrant.  He welcomed everyone and turned this meeting over to Mrs. Pschirrer who is the Selectboard liaison to the Broadband Committee.  

Mrs. Pschirrer introduced Mr. Paul Looney and Mr. Dick Hill, members of the Broadband Committee.  Mr. Rob Koester, Vice-President of Consumer Products of Consolidated Communications, was also present.  

PUBLIC MEETING – BROADBAND PROPOSED ISSUANCE OF A BOND:   Mr. Looney displayed the Summary page of the Broadband Committee’s PowerPoint presentation.  The goal is to get high speed internet to all residences in Walpole.  High Speed – True Broadband Speeds are (25 Mbps Down 3 Mbps Up).  Via fiber, it will be brought to the premises with speeds of up to 1000Mbps with high reliability.  The fiber is more reliable than the copper we now have.  The Bond will be for $1,856,100 for 20 years.  The Bond will be paid back with money the Town receives from Consolidated.  The fee to users will be $9.00/month in addition to their regular service fee.  There will be “No Taxpayer Money and No Tax Increase”.  Consolidated will pick–up any fees not generated.  They feel confident they can sign up enough people so this is not a losing proposition for them.  Mr. Looney read Article 2:

ARTICLE 2:  To see if the town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of three million two hundred eighteen thousand five hundred sixty two dollars ($3,218,562) for the purpose of furnishing, constructing and installing facilities and equipment to make available to residential and business location in the Town of Walpole a “Fiber to the Premises” network by Consolidated Communications Enterprise Services, Inc. (“Consolidated”), with one million eight hundred fifty six thousand one hundred dollars ($1,856,100) of such sum to be raised through the issuance of bonds or notes, under and in compliance with the Municipal Finance Act, RSA 33:1, et seq, as amended; and one million three hundred sixty two thousand four hundred sixty two dollars ($1,362,462) of such sum as a donation from Consolidated; to authorize the Selectboard to apply for, obtain and accept federal, state or other aid, gifts and donations which may be available for said project and to comply with all laws applicable to said project; to authorize the Selectboard to issue, negotiate, sell and deliver said bonds and notes and to determine the rate of interest thereon and the maturity and other terms thereof and to authorize the Selectboard to take any other action or to pass any other vote relative thereto.

**2/3 ballot vote required**

The Selectboard recommends this article.  (3 Yes, 0 No, 0 Abstain)

Mrs. Pschirrer noted that when this comes up on March 14th, it will be the first item on the agenda.  This article was written by the Bond Bank attorney.  Our application will begin soon.  They are now collecting all the documents required.  If the Town fails to pass by a 2/3 vote, they will not go ahead with the Bond.

The question comes up about the Bond attorney; she will not be paid.  At Town Meeting this will be a secret vote.  Separate ballots will be given out and then collected.  In accordance with State law the results will not be announced for one hour so if someone should arrive late at Town Meeting, they will have the option to cast their ballot on this.  This will happen twice during this year’s Town Meeting.  The second secret vote will be Article 7 for the purchase of a police cruiser.  The amount of the Bond is $1,856,100.  Their concern is that people will stop reading Article 2 after the total sum of $3,218,562 is noted which is the total cost of the project.  The Town’s obligation will be paid, not with taxpayer money, but rather with user fees that total the $1,856,100.  Assuming this passes at Town Meeting, they will complete their application to the Bond Bank. The Bond will probably be sold in early June or July and they will have approved the contract with Consolidated.  When this is complete, the Town will own all the work that Consolidated is doing.  After 20 years decisions will be made as to whether to continue with Consolidated, operate it by the Town or issue a Request for Proposals and contract with someone else.  It will be a valuable asset.  We are excited about this.  The Selectboard called three public benefit meetings on Broadband services.  Some people have asked who will vote against it. We do not know the answer.  It will increase the value of properties.  We have enough people in Town who are under-served to do this project.  Senator Jay Kahn worked on this for about six years to get it through the legislature.  

Replying to a question from a resident, Mrs. Pschirrer said they will not be going out for other money other than the Bond.  

A resident asked what happens if you are a Comcast subscriber with a contract but here comes something that is better.  Mr. Koester responded there are a number of options.  If they think Consolidated services are better, they can move over or they can choose to stay with their existing provider.    

Replying to a question, Mrs. Pschirrer confirmed this is a taxable Bond.  About six other towns are working on this at the same time.    

Mrs. Pschirrer reported that one of the things they had to collect for the Bond Bank was the Town Charter.  Researchers in the Bond Bank office found a copy for us.  The Town Office now has a copy.  

Mr. Dalessio followed-up on a question from a resident.  There is a slim possibility that the Bond Bank is not successful in selling the Town’s Bond.  That is why there is language in the Article “to authorize the Selectboard to take any other action”.  They can look for other sources.  Mr. Looney said there are other alternatives for the Bond.  

Mrs. Pschirrer mentioned that we have to supply the Bond Bank with a copy of our budget and all mnutes and notices they posted.  It is quite detailed.  Mrs. Jodi Daigle in the Selectboard Office has been managing this file. The Town does not have any debt. This Bond is not considered debt under the legislation. It has to be paid back but does not impede our ability to borrow should the Town need to in the future.  

Mrs. Antonia Andreoli stated that all the minutes have been helpful.  She thanked everybody for the clarity and timeliness of the information.  Mrs. Pschirrer said there are six members on the Broadband Committee and they have worked very hard.  Mr. Dalessio said the Committee members provided a lot of detail in a short period of time.  

ADJOURNMENT:  There were no other questions or comments.  Mr. Dalessio closed this Public Meeting at 4:21 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

TOWN OF WALPOLEm

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

2020 ANNUAL BUDGET AND WARRANT ARTICLE HEARING

FEBRUARY 13, 2020

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

CALL TO ORDER:  Mr. Dalessio called this 2020 Annual Budget and Warrant Article Hearing to order at 4:50 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.  He advised that Mrs. Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration, and Mr. Rich Kreissle, Manager of Finance, are also present.  

SUMMARY OF 2019 ACTIVITY:  Mr. Dalessio presented a recap of where the Town ended on December 31, 2019.  The operating budget for 2019 was $3,896,691.  Actual expenditures for 2019 were $3,724,696 (95.6%) for a difference of $171,995.  This money will go into the Unassigned Fund Balance.  It is used for future purchases so they do not have to go into the tax base for trucks, repairs on buildings, etc.  That account is now at about $1,700,000.  This year they will be asking the voters to approve using some of that money.  

EXPENDITURE COMPARISON SUMMARY:  The handout just distributed shows the increase in the operating budget, 2020 versus 2019, is 3.05%.  The bulk of the increases come from wages and benefits.  Health insurance went up about 10%; a 2% cost-of-living raise for all employees is included.  In the Police Department there was a part-time detective that retired; they have now made this a full-time position.  We wound up saving a considerable amount of money because they recalculated some salary lines.  It saved about 1% and was a positive step.  The Election line is higher because there are four elections this year.  A few building expenses have gone up like the elevator inspections, service contracts, etc.  That is a summary of the 2020 proposed budget.  A 3% increase is low compared to other towns around Walpole.  Mr. Dalessio opened the meeting to questions.  

A resident questioned the Highway & Streets line that shows an increase of $53,247 or 3.40% increase.  Mr. Dalessio explained this line is somewhat variable because of the over-time.  If they have a mild winter, they do not have as much over-time expenses.  Mr. Mike Rau, Road Agent, has done a very good job in controlling the cost of paving.  They have been saving a little here-and-there.  Any money left over goes into the Unassigned Fund Balance which could be used to reduce the property tax rate. Because Walpole’s tax rate is fairly low, the Selectboard chose to use the Unassigned Fund Balance for large capital equipment or repairs.  The State requires them to keep 7-to-10% in this fund all the time for emergencies.  Ms. Mayberry advised that when the balance gets to about 15% the State will usually start to wonder why the Town is not passing some funds back to the taxpayers.  Responding to a question on the decrease in the Recycling Center line, Mr. Dalessio noted it was because of a change in the mix of labor.  

A resident asked about the Welfare Vendor Payments.  Mr. Dalessio pointed out that the Town contracts this service to an outside source.  It is on an hourly basis.  They are estimating more hours will be needed as a couple of new areas have turned up.  Example:  When somebody dies without a family or are indigent we may have to pay for the cremation or burial.  

Mr. Dalessio reported the Selectboard usually starts the budget process in September and Mr. Kreissle develops a base line budget which is level funded.  They take a look at the bottom line. Then they schedule a one–day meeting at which they meet with each department manager.  They have to explain any increases for discretionary spending and justify why they have to increase their budgets.  They then go back to look at the numbers, make changes and meet with the department managers again.  Over time there will be changes like insurance numbers.  It is a streamlined process.  Of the budget, 56.30% is comprised of wages, benefits and payroll taxes.

WARRANT ARTICLES:

ARTICLE 2:  To see if the town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of three million two hundred eighteen thousand five hundred sixty two dollars ($3,218.562) for the purpose of furnishing, constructing and installing facilities and equipment to make available to residential and business locations in the Town of Walpole a “Fiber to the Premises” network by Consolidated Communications Enterprise Services, Inc. (“Consolidated”), with one million eight hundred fifty six thousand one hundred dollars ($1,856,100) of such sum to be raised through the issuance of bonds or notes, under and in compliance with the Municipal Finance Act, RSA 33:1, et seq, as amended; and one million three hundred sixty two thousand four hundred sixty two dollars ($1,362,462) of such sum as a donation from Consolidated; to authorize the Selectboard to apply for, obtain and accept federal, state or other aid, gifts and donations which may be available for said project and to comply with all laws applicable to said project; to authorize the Selectboard to issue, negotiate, sell and deliver said bonds and notes and to determine the rate of interest thereon and the maturity and other terms thereof and to authorize the Selectboard to take any other action or to pass any other vote relative thereto.

**2/3 ballot vote required**

The Selectboard recommends this article.  (3 Yes, 0 No, 0 Abstain)

Mr. Dalessio felt most people had attended at least one of the three public meetings on the Bond.  There were no comments or questions.

ARTICLE 3:  To see if the Town will  vote to raise and appropriate the sum of four million six hundred seventy nine thousand, eight hundred four dollars ($4,679,804) which represents four million, fifteen thousand, five hundred forty four dollars ($4,015,544) for the Town operating budget to be raised from general taxation; one hundred eighty eight thousand four hundred ninety eight dollars ($188,498) for the Water Fund Operating Budget and four hundred seventy five thousand, seven hundred sixty two dollars ($475,762) for the Sewer Operating Budget, which includes two hundred thirty thousand dollars ($230,000) for bond assessments.  Such sum does not include special or individual articles or bonds found in the warrant.

The Selectboard recommends this article.  (3 Yes, 0 No, 0 Abstain)

Mr. Dalessio advised that the Water and Sewer budgets are user funded as well as the bond assessments.    

ARTICLE 4:  To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of two hundred thousand dollars ($200,000) for updates, repairs and remodeling of Town buildings including the renovation of the Town Clerk’s office, painting in Town Hall, repair of the Town Hall entrance walkway and replacement of the Reuse Center at the Recycling Center at $75,000 with $29,634.82 to come from insurance coverage.  The said funds to come from the Unassigned Fund Balance.

The Selectboard recommends this article.  (3 Yes, 0 No, 0 Abstain)

Mr. Dalessio stated the Town Clerk’s office is badly in need of renovations.  The layout is not conducive to working; it is crowded.  They would like to get it done this year.  Some painting will be done in the Town Hall including the bathrooms.  The Town Hall entrance walkway and railing have been patched for the past five-plus years.  We would like to put in some heated mats and/or an awning to keep the ice and snow off the walkway to make it safe for everyone.  The Recycling Reuse Center was crushed by a fallen tree this past summer. We would like to put that back in but different than before by adding an addition to the Recycling Center so they will be connected.  This will enable them to share services like heat, electricity, etc.  It could be opened almost year-round.  If the Reuse Center should close, the extra space will be used by the Recycling Center.  The Reuse Center donates quite a bit of money to the Fall Mountain Food Shelf every year.  The Selectboard would like to see this continue.      

ARTICLE 5:  To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of one hundred thirty thousand dollars ($130,000) for the purchase of a truck for the Highway Department.  The said funds will come from the Unassigned Fund Balance.  This is a non-lapsing warrant article.

The Selectboard recommends this article.  (3 Yes, 0 No, 0 Abstain)

Mr. Dalessio mentioned we have to replace the Town’s one-ton truck.  Over the years they have been trying to replace the old trucks that have been giving them lots of problems.  Last year we voted to buy a new dump truck w/plow but we still have not received it.  It takes a long time to get some of these trucks.  It is winter and we are now down one major truck until repairs can be made so it can plow and sand again.

Mr. Rau is not only down a truck but one employee as well.  

ARTICLE 6:  To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of twenty five thousand dollars ($25,000) to be deposited in the Town of Walpole Highway Capitol Reserve Fund Account.  The said funds to be raised through general taxation.

The Selectboard recommends this article.  (3 Yes, 0 No, 0 Abstain)

Mr. Dalessio advised we have a number of Capitol Reserve Funds.  When the time comes to order a piece of equipment, we will have some money to use.  It takes hundreds of dollars to buy a new truck.  We are just adding to these Capitol Reserve Funds.  Years ago, these funds could only be used to purchase new equipment but last year it got changed to repairs as well.  A resident asked how much is in this fund now.  Mrs. Pschirreranswered; it is $62,000 now plus the $25,000.

ARTICLE 7:  To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of thirty eight thousand dollars ($38,000) for a vehicle for the Walpole Police Department and to authorize the issuance of not more than thirty eight thousand dollars through a promissory note with Mascoma Bank at a rate of 2.99% or the lowest available rate at the time of the purchase of the vehicle in accordance with the provisions of the Municipal Finance Act (RSA 33) and to authorize the municipal officials to issue and negotiate such bonds or other notes and to determine the rate of interest thereon.  Further, to raise and appropriate the sum of thirteen thousand two hundred fifty nine dollars and four cents ($13,259.04) for the first year’s payment.  The said funds to be raised through general taxation.

**2/3 ballot vote required**

The Selectboard recommends this article.  (3 Yes, 0 No, 0 Abstain)

Mr. Dalessio pointed out that they will have to wait an hour before an announcement is made as to whether or not this Article 7 passes or is defeated.  The price of $38,000 comes from a NH State bid so we get a good price.  They try to keep the rotation of police cruisers going.    

ARTICLE 8: To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of fifteen thousand dollars ($15,000) to purchase a cage, console, other necessary equipment and installation in the new police vehicle.  This article is contingent upon passing of warrant article 7.  The said funds to be raised through general taxation.

The Selectboard recommends this article.  (3 Yes, 0 No, 0 Abstain)

Mr. Dalessio advised if Article 7 for the new police cruiser passes, they will need to vote on this Article 8.  The cruisers at $38,000 are pretty much stripped out.  We have to add all the equipment and lettering.  Police Chief Paquette said they try to recycle as much equipment as they can from cruiser-to-cruiserbut it does not always work.  Sometimes it just does not fit.  

ARTICLE 9:  To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of $39,000 for the purchase of six (6) Motorola Dual Band portable radios.  This will also include the radio programming costs.  (These are State of New Hampshire bid prices.)  The said funds to be raised through taxation.

The Selectboard recommends this article.  (3 Yes, 0 No, 0 Abstain)

Police Chief Paquette displayed a radio they are using now.  His radio is 12 years old.  They cannot communicate with the Bellows Falls Police, Vermont State Police or Windham County Sheriff’s Department.  They go over to Bellows Falls to assist but they cannot communicate on the site.  When the radios get to a certain age they have problems getting parts.  The radios are covered by a warranty and the Town’s insurance coverage.  When they are on a dark road in the middle of the night, they want the capability to call for help when needed.  Some calls are extremely dangerous.  There was discussion relative to having Mutual Aid Agreements with other towns.  Chief Paquette confirmed that they do have agreements.

ARTICLE 10:  To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of fifteen thousand dollars ($15,000) to be deposited in the Town of Walpole Police Department – Capitol Reserve Fund Account.  The said funds to be raised through general taxation.

The Selectboard recommends this article.  (3 Yes, 0 No, 0 Abstain)

Mr. Dalessio noted that these Capitol Reserve Funds are not only being used for new equipment but for catastrophic reasons as well.  A resident asked what the balance is in this account.  Mrs. Pschirrer said $49,000.  

ARTICLE 11:  To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of twenty thousand dollars ($20,000) for a study to determine the most economical approach to ensure the police station meets the needs of the Town.  Said funds will be used to contract with an outside consultant, if necessary.  The said funds will be raised through general taxation.

The Select Board recommends this article.  (3 Yes, 0 No, 3 Abstain)

Mr. Dalessio stated that the Town’s Police Station is out of compliance.  It is too small for the number of people we have in there.  Officers are handling many items such as evidence and guns on the same tables they are eating on.  It should not have carpeting because it breeds many things that come in with suspects.  They could be handling deadly drugs, etc.  It does not have the proper exhaust system.  This article is to give us the opportunity to hire an outside consultant who can help us research long-time needs.  Chief Paquette advised they bring in youth who cannot be mixed with adults yet there is a space issue.  There is no room for privacy, for interviews and many other cases.   Chief Paquette said the building served its purpose about 25 years ago but they are no longer in compliance and have outgrown the building.  Mr. Dalessio feels Chief Paquette and/or Lt. Sanctuary will give a tour of the building to someone if they call to make arrangements for a date and time.  They would like to study if a new building or an addition is needed and what it should have.  We would form a committee, start looking at possible options and hire a consultant to help us.  Chief Paquette pointed out that they would like to be closer to the three (3) Villages; a central location.  A resident was not sure $20,000 is enough for the study.  Mr. Dalessio stated they are not sure of the cost but felt this was a good number to start the study.        

ARTICLE 12:  To see if the Town will vote to pass an ordinance banning the distribution or sale of thin-film single-use plastic bags (defined as a bag, typically with handles, with a thickness of 4.0 mils or less that is provided at the point of sale for the transport of purchased products) by retail establishments.  This ban will go into effect twelve months after its creation to allow retail establishments time to adjust.

By petition of 25 or more eligible voters in the Town of Walpole, NH.

The Selectboard recommends this article.  (0 Yes, 0 No, 3 Abstain)

Mr. Dalessio introduced Ruby Frithsen and Sidney Curven, sophomore students at FMRHS, who brought this petition in to the Selectboard.  The petition was signed by over 150 voters.  They made their informational presentation on the reasons to ban thin-film, single-use plastic bags with a thickness of 4.0 mils or less. Mr. Dalessio thanked them for coming to this meeting.  He has the obligation to tell the voters that if this warrant article passes, and he hopes it does, that the Selectboard will not be able to enforce it because the State has not yet given them the authority to create an ordinance for banning plastic bags.  It is now in the Senate but its future is unknown at this time.  A question and answer period followed.

ARTICLE 13:  To see if the Town of Walpole will urge the Selectboard to write a letter to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission require, via license article, the current and any subsequent owners of the Wilder, Bellows Falls and Vernon Dams to modify current dam operations to minimize peaking; provide for ongoing monitoring, to develop a shoreline adaptive management plan; and commit funding for riverbank restoration and/or property owner compensation to reimburse towns and landowners for any and all damages resulting from the deterioration of the riverbank.

The Selectboard recommends this article.  (3 Yes, 0 No, 0 Abstain)

Mr. Dalessio advised this request came to the Selectboard from Mr. Tom Beaudry who has been studying the erosion that has been taking place along the Connecticut River for several years.  This year the dam is coming up for the renewal of their licensing.  The next opportunity to do this commenting is about 40 years out.  They hold the dam owners accountable for the erosion caused by the change in the flow of the Connecticut River.    

ARTICLE 14:  To transact any other business that may legally come before the meeting.

ADJOURNMENT:  Mr. Dalessio closed this Public Meeting at 5:48 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

WITH THE BROADBAND COMMITTEE

BROADBAND PUBLIC BENEFITS MEETING

FEBRUARY 12, 2020

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

Broadband Committee Present:   Paul Looney (Chair); Rod Bouchard, Richard Hill; Dennis Marcom

CALL TO ORDER:  Mr. Dalessio called this Public Hearing on Broadband Public Benefits to order at 6:35 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.  He thanked everyone for attending this Public Hearing on the high speed internet access that affects all the residents of the Town of Walpole.  Mr. DAlessio achknoledged all the work the Broadband Committee did in a short period of time.  There will be another Public Meeting on the Broadband Proposed Issuance of a Bond tomorrow, Thursday, February 13, 2020, at 4:00 PM.  Voters will be asked to vote on a Bond to provide Broadband service to the Town of Walpole on Saturday, March 14, 2020.  Tonight there will be discussion on the Broadband Public Benefits to the Town.  Mr. Dalessio turned the meeting over to Mrs. Peggy Pschirrer.

BROADBAND PUBLIC BENEFITS:  Mrs. Pschirrer has been working with the Broadband Committee since last May.  They started this private partnership with Consolidated Communications Inc. (CCI), a few months ago.  There was a series of steps to be taken as required by State law.  The Town has been very careful to follow all the rules and regulations to apply for this Bond and there were numerous ones.  Senator Jay Kahn was instrumental in getting the State to approve the issuance of Bonds to the towns without considering it debt.  It will not require any taxpayer money.  This Bond will come along in late June or early July.  Article 2 for approval of the Bond will be the first item on the Town Meeting agenda on Saturday, March 14th, 2020.  It will require a 2/3 ballot vote.  They really want people to turn out for this vote.  This is the third Public Hearing they have had.  The cost will only be to the subscribers who use the service.  This represents the under-served members of this community who have terrible internet service.  If they do have it, they are probably paying exorbitant prices for just their service.  First we will hear from Mr. Paul Looney, Chair of the Broadband Committee.  The other members present are Mr. Rod Bouchard, Mr. Dick Hill and Mr. Dennis Marcom.  Mr. Marcom has generously agreed to be our local Project Director.  We are very grateful for this.  We will also hear from Mr. Rob Koester, Vice-President of Consumer Products of CCI.  He is located in the Manchester, NH area. They are a rural Broadband company with service areas in 23 states.  Mr. Mike Cannon, Director of Operations at CCI, is also present.  He will demonstrate some of their equipment that will be used in putting this project together.  

Mr. Looney displayed the “Introduction” page of their “Making Walpole a Connected Community” presentation.  The Plan provides for High Speed (25 Mbps Down 3 Mbps Up).  The Bonding goal is to make sure that everybody reaches this.  The project they are bringing forward is to have speeds up to 1000Mbps.  There would be an increase in price.  Fiber hashigher reliability than the copper used today.  Bringing fiber into homes will help the owners with maintenance.  

Mr. Looney reported the Bonding they will be asking for is $1,856,100.  The contract we will have with Consolidated will allow them to bill the users who are getting the service.   The cost will be $9.00/month on top of their regular service.  Consolidated will then give this to the Town who will pay for the Bond.  There will be no taxpayer money and no tax increases.  Consolidated charges will be consistent with what they charge throughout the State.  Over time the $9.00 will be reduced. It will go down in small amounts depending on how many people sign up.  Mr. Koester pointed out that over the first 3-to-5 years there is not going to be enough to cover the Bond payments but they will cover that. They are responsible for the Bond payments through the 20–year term.  This motivates them to keep as many users as possible.  Right now there are six towns going through this process and then close to another dozen next year.  In the agreement they will periodically reset the $9.00 rate depending on how many subscribers they have but it will not exceed the $9.00.  

A resident asked what percentage of people generally sign-up for this service.  Mr. Koester said usually 40-to-45%.  They usually experience a higher percentage which he expects Walpole will have.  

Mr. Looney explained that the backbone of the fiber to the home will be Consolidated.  Mr. Looney replied to a resident’s question of “During the 20 years of the Bond, Consolidated will maintain the contract?” They assume that over the 20 years the equipment will change with no cost to the Town.  Mr. Koester said that after 20 years and 1 day, the Town owns the network.  His expectation is that after 20 years the Town will put out another Request for Proposals (RFP).  Other providers will have the option to rebid.  Mr. Looney noted that if you have Comcast today, they will have to convince you that it is better and cheaper to go with CCI.  For some it will be a choice.  Mr. Hill said they could also do a combination of service which is to hire CCI for the internet service. They think this will bring about competition in Town.  

A resident asked how long this project will take assuming there is a positive vote.  Mr. Looney said the total project will take about two years.  

A resident asked her landlord to come to a meeting.  He said he will not because he does not have nor does he want internet service.  She has phone service to her home and would like to have Broadband.  If she eventually leaves, who does the service fall back on?  Mr. Koester felt she should talk with her landlord.  If she leaves, the service would be disconnected at her request.  Mr. Looney mentioned that Broadband will make properties more saleable but it also makes small businesses have other opportunities.  More people will be able to work from home.  He believes that someday they will be able to communicate with their doctors and not have to travel.  It presents better educational opportunities.   He had talked with Dr. Shaw who said this will be better for his business.    

Mr. Looney noted they are talking about bonding.  He went to the Selectboard about three years ago to discuss internet service.  At that time the providers would not extend his service unless he would pay the company to run the line down the street and into his driveway.  New Hampshire realized that to get Broadband to some of their communities, they would have to do something different.  Senator Jay Kahn was the architect of the regulations for towns to go in with private/public partnerships to get higher speed internet out to each home in Town.

A resident asked what DSL is.  Mr. Koester explained it is copper and is a good technology.  There are pluses and minuses.  The minus is you have to be close to the equipment to get reliable service.  Fiber is a different option; examples were on display in the room.  Fiber is a 60% improvement in reliability.  He explained what happens if there is a cut in the connection from the pole to the house; there is no loss of service.  Today rain, wind and cold can cause a loss due to the copper technology.

Mr. Looney explained that in the beginning they went out to obtain information from CCI and Comcast.  They only received an answer from CCI.  Comcast did not respond.  They were at a loss for some of the data.  With the information they did receive,he explained that the red dots on the display page were underserved and the green dots are served.  We will all get served.  They then went out with a Request for Proposals to seven providers.  Three RFPs came back and they were reviewed.  The committee members felt the most likely one for them to be successful with was CCI.  Chesterfield has a contract with CCI and that went very well.  They made a recommendation to the Selectboard to go with CCI.  

Mr. Hill advised that one of the conditions for a Municipal Bond is to demonstrate that the actual financial need is greater than the cost of the project.  Total cost of the project is $3,218,562.  Some research was just published in the July 2019 Journal of Applied Economics by Molnar, G., Savage, S., and D. Sicker on “High-Speed Internet Access and Housing Values”. Over two years they looked over thousands of sales.  They were able to show that access to internet high speed access affected the prices of properties.  For example:  Broadband Speed Available – 0 to 20 Mbps – Number of Locations 1148 – Percentage Effect on Prices is 3.7% – Total Property Value Change $10,254,301.  Broadband Speed Available – 25 to 50 Mbps – Number of locations 581 – % Effect on Prices is 1.2% – Total Property Value Change $1,683,138.  Broadband Speed Available – 50 to 100 Mbps – Number of Locations 271 – % Effect on Prices is 0.6% – Total Property Value Change $392,539.  Greater than 100 Mbps – Number of Locations 54 – % Effect on Prices is not applicable.  Estimates are based on median home value of $241,414 in Walpole and North Walpole based on data from City-Data.com.  They estimated that Comcast provided service to about 80% of the homes in Walpole.  Mr. Looney pointed out that just because it states your home would be more valuable, it will not affect your property taxes.  Even if Comcast had responded to their RFP, they still think Walpole would have been eligible for Broadband coverage.  

Relative to underground lines, Mr. Koester advised that the only out of pocket cost might be if a property owner has a wire that is not in a conduit.  Mr. Looney has internet from one company and a dish in his house.  Broadband will allow him to do away with the dish which will save him some money.  

Mr. Looney advised they are in the process of working on the contract with CCI.  They will need a two- thirds vote on March 14th.  If this proposal is voted down, it will not cost the Town any money.

Mr. Koester talked about what to expect in the future.  He talked about the network design.  There are three elements to a network.  The Town of Walpole is served by three buildings.  They have some equipment in Alstead/Bellows Falls, Portland, Maine and Burlington, Vermont. They connect to other cities. If the fiber gets cut on one side, it goes to another section.  They cover the entire cost of the equipment.  On the Google Earth display, all the purple is served by this office and the Alstead/Bellows Falls office.  In Chesterfield they built about 92 miles in six weeks; they move quickly.  Bad weather can slow them down.  There are three phases: 1) Fiber in the ground; 2) Splice the fiber; and 3) Testing; this takes about two weeks. They want to be ready to start as soon as everything is in place.  About four-to-six weeks before they start, they will post it on the website specifically dedicated to Walpole.  It will give people the opportunity to pre–signup for service.  They will communicate with the Town on a regular basis.  There is no installation charge.  

Mr. Koester displayed “Pricing”, in general, based on 50, 100 or 150 MBPS.  It depends on the product mix.  As a general rule with phone service, it is about $130.00/month.  The average customer usage is 50-100 MBPS.  CCI pays all the pole taxes and fees.  

Adrian Basora asked if it is fair to say they might be able to offer an equal quality service for the same pricing as Comcast.  Mr. Koester said “yes”.A resident asked why anyone would not vote in favor of this service.  Mr. Koester heard two objections:  1) In Chesterfield someone was in favor of it but voted against it because they did not feel any vote should be unanimous; and 2) some folks have concerns with 5G coming in.   Mr. Looney asked for those in attendance to raise their arm if they would vote “yes” and everyone in attendance raised their arm. Therefore, it was unofficially voted a unanimous “yes”.  

Replying to a question from a resident, Mr. Koester said they have not yet looked at a construction schedule.  They will want to meet with the Selectboard and explain what the ideal situation is to build their network.  If the Town has areas they want them to consider first, that will be explored.  

A resident will be out-of-town on March 14th and asked if he can vote on an absentee ballot.  Mrs. Pschirrer was not sure because at the Town Meeting there will be discussion and there may be amendments.  She will check with the Town Clerk tomorrow but has never heard of an absentee ballot for Town Meeting.  

Mrs. Pschirrer advised that Town Meeting is on Saturday, March 14, 2020, at 1:00 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.  This will be the first item for discussion.  It will require a 2/3 vote.  She read Article 2 regarding the Bond vote.  The Bond Bank attorney’s fees will be paid for out of the Bond.   Mr. Koester confirmed that the Town buildings will have complimentary service but not the schools as their requirements are different. Schools qualify for a federal program at an extremely low price.  

Mrs. Pauline Barnes called for a “Thank You” to the Broadband Committee for all their time and work.  They received a round of applause.                       

ADJOURNMENT:  Mr. Dalessio closed this Public Meeting at 7:50 PM.  

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary