Conservation Commission Agenda – 12/4/19

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AGENDA

 

WALPOLE CONSERVATION COMMISSION MEETING

December 2, 2019

 

Location and Time:  Walpole Town Hall, Downstairs Office at 7:30 PM.

 

1. CALL TO ORDER.

 

2. SEATING OF ALTERNATES.

 

3. REVIEW and APPROVE MINUTES – November 4, 2019.

 

4. PUBLIC BUSINESS:

Report from Chair:

A. Treasury Report.
B. Correspondence.
5. NEW BUSINESS:
A. Stream and wetland buffers.
B. Joint meetings of boards on the conservation plan.
C. Monadnock Conservancy – Peggy P.

 

6. OLD BUSINESS:
A. The Walpole Gateway.
B. Barry 4-H Conservation Camp.
C. WCC Easement Property List.
D. Town website.
E. Reservoir Dam Work – Update.
F. Mill Pond Tree.
G. Membership – Duncan.

 

7. OTHER BUSINESS:

 

8. ADJOURNMENT

Conservation Commission Meeting Minutes – 11/4/19

Uncategorized 12/02/2019 Leave a comment

 

Members Present: Alicia Flammia (Chair), Laura Hayes, Lewis Shelley, France Menk, Steven Dumont (Recording Secretary), John Peska (Vice Chair), 

 

Alternates Present: Myra Mansouri, Peter Palmiotto, Kelli Wilson

 

Members Absent: Gary Speed, Jackie Kensen, Elaine Heleen

 

Others Present: Peggy Pschirrer (Selectboard Representative), Alex Barrett

 

Call to Order: Alicia called the meeting to order at 7:29 PM. 

 

Seating of Alternates: none required.

 

Lew mentioned that in the previous minutes, Other Business, line 2, the panel will be screwed on, not a sliding panel. Lew voted to approve the minutes as amended. John seconded. All in favor.

 

Public Business:

1. Treasury: Conservation account balance is $132,637.63, Mason non expendable is $14,089.21, Mason expendable is $345,373.47, Forestry account is $36,447.96, Walker Road account is $4,433.50.
2. Correspondence:
a. Trails for People & Wildlife Guide.
b. Notice of Tom Beaudry Educator of the year award.
c. NH ACC Dues.
d. Letter from selectboard about Old Stage Road discontinuation.
e. Barry Conservation 4-H Camp thank you note.
f. Southwest Regional Planning Commission Manual.
g. Supply Lines Drinking & Groundwater newsletter.

 

New Business: 

1. Alex Barrett – Long View Forestry. In attendance to update the WCC on the rapid assessments he has done and discuss the next steps. Alex handed out and went over his priority list of the forests, which includes the Fanny Mason, the Reservoir, the March/Nelson and the Hooper Forests. He mentioned a culvert on a snowmobile trail in the Reservoir Forest that is being undermined and needs to be repaired. He recommends any future forestry work done at any forest be paired with invasive species control. Alicia noted there is a common theme of invasives in all the forests. John asked what the protocol is with invasives. Peter said the invasive control would be before and after forestry work to help the new growth come in without invasives choking the new growth out. Alex noted it’s about control and not eradication. Working on the hot spots is important. Peggy asked how often we would need to do invasive control on any given forest. Alex noted it is a tricky answer. If you’ve let the forest go without any invasive control for a long time, the first treatment is critical. After that it is more of slowing the spread. It can be an annual process. Lew asked about the 22 acres in the Fanny Mason annex, and how difficult it would be to remove the large amount of invasives there. Alex thought it would be very difficult. Steven asked from what account any invasives or forestry work would be drawn from, and if it needs to be from the Forestry account. Alicia has not heard of any rules or guidelines that specify this. It was noted that the Forestry account will likely be drained from the work on the dam at the Reservoir forest. Alicia asked how many forests we had on our lists for rapid assessments. It was thought we had 7 or 10. Peter mentioned that the Mason Forest has its own fund. Steven asked what the steps would be if we were to determine we would like a certain forest to have some logging done. Alex would develop a more formal plan, building on his rapid assessments or past forestry management plans. He would flag and mark the trees for harvest, put together a prospectus for work, and go through a contractor selection process. Alex noted that this winter would probably be too soon. Alicia asked about logging the Mason Forest, since it has had some previous work and has an older management plan. Alex recommends a two year contract, so prospective forestry companies have a good window of time to complete the work. The invasive work would be done before the forestry. It can create a cash flow problem because you pay for the invasive removal before you get funds from forestry. Steven found previous discussions on  other forests including the Great Brook forest which we might like a rapid assessment on. Peter asked for Alex’s opinion on the Emerald Ash borer. Alex is not preemptively removing all ash trees in anticipation of them becoming infected. He recommends removing problem trees around roadways, buildings, etc. Peggy noted we have a good rate with Rice Tree Removal. Peggy asked if we have any ash trees around town. Peter noted we do, but we don’t have a town wide tree survey. It would be a good thing to have but could be expensive and time consuming. Alex recommends removal around roadways and important public spaces, but to let them be in the forests. Steven found further correspondence and noted there are 9 forests on our list. WCC to send list to Alex. 
2. Barry 4-H Conservation Camp: they would like to know who is being recommended and which camp they would like to go to. John has sent it on to the school. 

 

Old Business:

1. Pollinator Garden: Alicia forwarded copies of some plans Jeffry has done. Jeffry emailed asking for a follow-up. Alicia also noted that Pete’s Stands has asked about growing produce in the upper and possibly lower fields. It would be kept organic. He knows he would have to pay taxes and would like to know what the taxes would be. Peggy said to contact Sarah and she will ask Avitar. John said that it would be nice to ask the fundraising committee for their input on the use of the property. France is concerned about commercial agricultural use and its adherence to the spirit of the agreement. Peter noted that the original push was to protect the land as it was, and it was used as commercial agricultural. He mentioned the WCC is tasked with determining what the use of the land will be. Steven noted that it is not required that we get input from donors or the townspeople, but that it is a nice gesture. He also thought that whatever is done, it not be a permanent use, so it could be used as something else for the future. Kelli asked if we have to decide on one thing, or could we have multiple uses. A pollinator garden and a community garden, for example. Steven noted that if we don’t do plantings and we just use seed for the pollinator garden, we don’t have to make a decision right away. Laura mentioned that Jeffry’s expense would be much less if we went with seed and didn’t do a formal planted plan. Alicia summarized that whatever we do, we would like no commercial agriculture, zero maintenance and have the property open to change the use in the future. Alicia will write a Clarion article to solicit public input and relay what we have been discussing. Peter disagrees with the exemption of commercial agriculture and believes that it would be beneficial to farmers and the town of Walpole. Alicia asked how we would select a farmer and is worried about picking favorites. What type of metrics would we specify for the farming regulations. Steven asked if we could allow farming in the large lower field but have a more public use for the upper field. Alicia will work on the article. Lew mentioned the kiosk and needing material to put into it. 
2. Harold Putnam Memorial: Lew mentioned the bench is in. He will send pictures. He would like to contact the family and organize a gathering. The bench is down by the dam. 
3. Easement Property List: Steven printed out the complete list, but Laura noted a smaller list of properties in an email. There are only four in the email, but she is not sure if there are others that she doesn’t know about, like the Tucker Burr agreement. We are supposed to monitor it and report to ourselves. Steven asked if we should be adding town forests that aren’t in easement but still should be monitored. Mill Pond, for example, needs reports submitted to the State of NH for LCHIP. Laura thinks it’s a good idea to walk all our properties. Alicia noted the spreadsheet still needs work, and maybe we get a small group together to work on it.
4. Town Website: Kelli noted that she will get in touch with Ryan, let him know what we want, and they would get it done. Alicia has some items that can be added that she sent already.
5. Reservoir Dam: John got an estimate from Fuzzy Brothers for the liner. Price for the pipe, install, rip rap for the outlet and reseeding and mulching is $38,000 even. The Forestry account has about $36,000. John also noted that our contact with the engineering firm Fuss & O’Neill does not work with them anymore. A meeting is going to be setup with the town and the firm to meet the new contact. John mentions we also need to determine if Fuss & O’Neill is doing the permitting. John will discuss all this with Mark. Peggy noted that the town got some money from the state and they had a public hearing on what to do with the money. No one attended. They are putting it into an account for future needs. She has notified the selectboard that the WCC will not have enough money for the dam project. She asked John to write a letter or memo to the selectboard requesting assistance. France made a motion and Laura seconded to proceed with the lining of the culvert in the amount of $38,000. John will forward any information he gets as things proceed.
6. Mill Pond Trail Work: tree is still there.
7. Membership: waiting for word on Duncan’s membership.

 

Other Business:

1. Walpole Gateway Kiosk: Lew will send an invoice for the materials. It came in under the already approved amount. The funds will come from the Walker Road Account.

 

Adjournment: At 9:31 Steven made a motion to adjourn the meeting. France seconded. Meeting adjourned.

Next Meeting: Monday, December 2, 2019 at 7:30 PM.

Respectfully submitted; Steven Dumont, Recording Secretary

Note: These are unapproved minutes. Corrections, if any, will be found in the minutes of December 2, 2019.

Hooper Shopping Saturday’s

Uncategorized 12/02/2019 Leave a comment

With all this snow, David Howell says the sledding will be good after you have made your purchases. – Lil

Town of Walpole Staff Meeting Minutes – 11/21/19

Uncategorized 11/27/2019 1 Comment

If you are one who might skip over the Staff Meeting Minutes because they are long, I’d like to encourage you to settle in and take the time to read. They are very informative and helpful to an understanding of what these departments and their wonderful workers actually do for us. What else to do on a cold winter night? – Lil

Oh! I forgot! Be sure the turkey is defrosting and the pies are cooling!

 

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

 

Staff Present:Sarah Downing (Manager of Administration); Michael Rau (Road Agent); Justine Fafara (Library Director); Justin Cassarino (Recreation Director; Ben Hoy (Recycling Director); Helen Dalbeck (Hooper Institute Exec. Director) 

 

Excused:Richard Kreissle (Administrator of Finance); Sandra Smith (Town Clerk/Tax Collector); Police Chief Michael Paquette; 

 

CALL TO ORDER:  Mr. Dalessio called this Staff Meeting to order at 5:00 PM in the Walpole Town Hall and welcomed everyone.  He advised this meeting is being recorded.  

 

Recycling Center:  Mr. Ben Hoy distributed copies of drawings for the new proposed Reuse Center.  They are proposing to build the new Reuse Center to the right of the entrance where the garage door is.  Mr. Bill Hatt advised it will cost about $50,000 to put the new addition on that side.  There would be complications with the existing angled roof.  If it was built away from the building, it would be cheaper to build a four–sided building on a slab.  A separate building would be about $30,000.  There are. options.  Mr. Dalessio said they could build far enough away so there could be a breezeway between this building and the Recycling Center.  Mr. Rau noted they might have to move it about ten feet away from the other building to get the snow off.  Mr. Hoy advised the old salt shed came down during the strong wind storm. Therefore, he would like a shed to put salt in.  For now he was going to put it in the extra trailer they have so the salt would be under cover but available to the public.  The Selectboard agreed that having a new salt shed is a good idea.  They recently received 150 gallons of waste oil from Green Mountain Railroad that will help keep them warm this winter.  They are receiving a little more revenue from LenTex for the long paper cords.  Markets are going down.               

 

Mr. Hoy submitted and discussed the following written report dated November 21, 2019:

• They hosted Boy Scouts food drive benefitting the Fall Mountain Food Shelf.  Two pickup truckloads of donated food were ushered in by the Boy Scout troop at the Recycling Center.
• Hosted Drug Take Back Day with the Police Department last month;
• Hosted Safety Committee meeting at the Recycling Center on November 14th;
• Making progress on Reuse Center plans, while completely removing old Reuse Center to free up space at their facility;
• Mr. Hoy donated recovered wire and various metals from the old Reuse Center back to the Town of Walpole.  All valuable items from old Reuse Center have been carefully packed, wrapped, and stored until operations at our new Reuse Center opens.
• They are currently accepting applications for the current Recycling Center position available;
• He has instituted minor changes to recycling of cardboard.  There is to be no contamination of OCC (cardboard) with mixed paper items as the market demands pure recyclable content to receive the highest prices in return.
• Waste zero has confirmed that Walpole bags should contain no more than 33 pounds of waste.  More weight can cause subsequent strain on the drawstring/the bag itself.  The Walpole bags are constructed with recycled materials.    
• Donated over 1,000 banana boxes to Fall Mountain Food Shelf to suit their packaging needs for Thanksgiving.    

 

Mr. Dalessio reported the Boy Scouts collected over 1,400 items of food and well over $1,000 during their food drive.  The Recycling Center was a great place to do this.  It was a team effort and went well.

 

Highway Department:  Mr. Michael Rau advised they have been getting ready for winter and making sure everything is ready to go.  There have been no major problems.  The catch basins were cleaned-out in the Villages.  Mr. Rau had ordered 1,000 pounds of salt.   

 

Mr. Rau submitted a written report for the period of October 17, 2019 to November 20, 2019: 

• Serviced trucks and equipment;
• Cold patched;
• Crushed metal dumpster at Recycling Center;
• Roadside mowing;
• Dug out culverts;
• Cleaned catch basins;
• Prepared equipment for winter; 
• Closed the fountain;
• Winterized equipment;
• Windstorm on November 1st – picked up downed trees;
• Mixed sand;
• Winter weather call out on 11/12 and 11/19;
• Put out sand piles.

 

Mr. Dalessio had talked with Mr. Rau about tree removal including trees in the North Walpole Village Park.  Mr. Rau will follow-up with Rice Tree Service and try to get a date for removal.  The trees near the front of the Library are on the list.  Mr. Dalessio would like Rice Tree Service to evaluate the trees by the Town Hall and take appropriate action.  Mr. Rau stated if there was an emergency Rice Tree Service would be right here as they were at the Recycling Center when the tree came down on the Reuse Center.

 

Library:  Mrs. Fafara submitted the following report dated November 20, 2019:

Things are good but very busy.  The new ILL system is going well. They had some hiccups, as to be expected with a brand new software program, but it’s working well and it’s taking much less staff time.

 

They started showing movies after school on Thursdays in October and it was very well received.  They will pick it up again in January in the new Hubbard Community Room.

 

They are already brainstorming some new programs to host once they have the new community room.  They have a new book discussion group and some craft programs lined up right now.  She had a few requests to bring the cookbook group back. They will try to do that again in January.

 

They already received a handful of requests from outside groups to use the Hubbard Community Room in 2020. The Library Trustees made it a priority to edit and approve our meeting room policy to better reflect the new space and its functions.  The next step is to find a scheduling program; it could be something free like google calendar or we may look into real software that the public could submit requests through.  It would also give them better options for registering for events.  The Fire Code is for 70 people; they are going to use a limit of 60 people.  

 

She attended the New England Library Association Conference and there were some great sessions.  The best session was on the 2020 census which will be all online with paper options mailed out as a last resort.  Libraries will need to be a place with internet access and assistance for people who do not have the necessary computer skills.  The Census starts in March 2020.

 

She created a staff schedule and a volunteer schedule for the move back to the library.  For the next three weeks they will be closed to the public.  Next week (Thanksgiving) they will be packing upstairs.  They will be utilizing volunteers on Monday, December 2nd at 9am to help with the physical move back to the space.  Then they will be utilizing volunteers to help them unpack and clean all the materials that have been stored in the library during construction.  This part has actually started this week; a little earlier than originally planned, but is going well.  They had a great group of 12 volunteers in Monday morning and they have two more groups of volunteers for Thursday and Friday.  

 

The Library’s soft opening will be December 16th.  The grand opening celebration is scheduled for Saturday, January 4th from 11am-2pm.  All are welcome to come get a tour of the new space and enjoy some cake and warm beverages.

 

Mr. Dalessio asked about the Ken Burns display.  Mrs. Fafara replied it has not yet been finished.  They expect it the second week in December.  They are allowing people to reserve the meeting room after hours until 9:00pm. A staff person will have to be in the building.  Some book clubs meet until 9:00pm.    

 

Hooper Institute:  Ms. Helen Dalbeck submitted two written reports for the periods of 9/19-10/24/19 and from 10/25-11/21/19.  

9/18-10/24/2019 Report:  School Programs:  Pre-K – 4th Grade focus on harvest and school gardens:  5th – Insects and Fall Migration; 6th grade Botany and Trees.  The WES gardens have grown and harvested 1600 lbs of produce that went straight into the kitchens and on to the lunch menu that feeds our Walpole students.  The High Tunnel is now growing spinach, lettuce and radishes for the winter.  

Public Events and Outreach:  Museum Day, Walpole Community Garden Potluck (9/21); tent and table at the Chickens on the Loose Event with hoola hooping, friend making and a crafty craft, insert antennae for the kids, (really for everyone). (10/12).

Looking Forward:  StoryWalk with the Library on the Common -11/8; Village along the Connecticut River (Family Program) 11/9 and the Walpole Community Garden Clean-up 11/9, both at the Hooper Institute.

Save the Date:  Wreathmaking at the Hooper Institute, 12/6 and 12/7; details to follow.  All materials will be supplied.

 

10/25-11/21/2019 Report:  School Programs:  Becky and she have been hopping as Hooper educators.  The 4th grades have been travelling to local farms.  All others have been harvesting, cider making, planting seeds in the High Tunnel and cleaning/clearing the raised beds, prepping for winter.  The 5thand 6th graders have given migratory bird reports and tree reports respectively and the students have honed their field identification skills.  Soil studies have begun in 5th grade, composting and putting the gardens to bed plus the new “Village along the Connecticut River” Native American program for 6thgrade.

Public Programs/Community Outreach:  They had a StoryWalk with the library on 11/8.  The new “Village along the Connecticut River” was presented at the Hooper Institute (HI) 11/9, and the Walpole Community Garden cleanup followed.  She lunched with the Walpole Seniors 11/18 and shared stories, artifacts, and updates with all.  They will have a table with crafts at the Farmers Market in Walpole on Nov. 23, meeting the people and spreading the good word with a special focus on the school gardens.  The plan is to close the Hooper Institute building for the winter on 12/20/2019.

 

Their proposed 2020 schedule includes a Walpole Village tree tour in January with Distant Hill, a live owl program in April plus we are adding large festivals spring and fall, skill based programs sprinkled throughout and Earth Week during April vacation.  She will use the Walpolean to post events.  Mrs. Fafara will post news items on their Library web page.  Mr. Dalessio would like postings to go on the Drewsville Store bulletin board.  Mr. Hoy welcomes postings at the Recycling Center.  

 

Ms. Dalbeck reported that the Hooper Institute committee is now the Hooper Institute Board.  They have welcomed new officers and two new members to the board.  Friends of Hooper Institute is a fundraising arm of the Hooper Institute.  They are signing up new members and will continue to invite all to join the Friends of Hooper Institute.  “You’ve got to have friends”!

 

Walpole Recreation Department:  Mr. Cassarino has submitted the Walpole Recreation notes dated November 21, 2019, and review them as follows:

Basketball:

• All teams have started up this week.
• Pre-K to 2nd grade clinics will be starting after Thanksgiving;
• They have a boys and girls team for the following grade levels:

3rd/4th grade and 5th/6th grade;

• Their numbers for the clinics are:

Pre-K to K has 19 participants;

1st to 2nd grade has 34 participants; their numbers are growing.

• They have participants from Alstead and Westmoreland as well.

Their programs did not have enough participants to have a team, so they welcomed them to play with us to give the kids an opportunity to play.

• The following companies have agreed to sponsor a team:

Matt Beam Plumbing

Mike Beam Landscaping

Diamond Pizza

State Farm – Craig Vickers

Tim Latham Electric

Murder Mystery:

• They had 50 participants attend the event this past weekend.
• Heard a lot of positive remarks about the show/activity and the dinner that was catered by Spencer’s Place.  It was a successful event.  

RVSAH:

• Their Rec. Committee met with Jean Kobeski to discuss how their two groups could combine to do activities for the River Valley Seniors at Home (RVSAH) group.
• They really enjoyed the pickleball court, but don’t have a lot of social activities to do over the winter;
• Would love to start a walking club/group.

Trying to think of spots where they could do it during the winter where it would not be cold or icy to participate.  Mrs. Pschirrer said many would like to have a bocce ball court.

Daddy & Me Dance:

• Will start planning and selling tickets for this event in December.
• Families have already been reaching out to see if this will be happening again.

February 8, 2020.

 

Selectboard Office:  Mrs. Sarah Downing reviewed her submitted written report dated November 20, 2019.

Assessing Update:

• The Selectboard signed the 2019 fall tax warrant on the evening of 11/19/19.  The warrant has been handed to Sandy Smith, the Tax Collector, for processing.
• Tax bills will be due on Monday, December 23rd.
• The 2019 Walpole tax rate is $26.61 and the North Walpole tax rate is $29.87.
• Opt-out requests for “list and measures” by Avitar Associates have been processed.  The field representative will begin his work in mid-December.
• Letters to schedule interior viewings of properties will be sent separately.

Water and Sewer:

• Third quarter water and sewer bills are being processed by Mrs. Jodi Daigle and are due on November 30th.

Insurance/Primex:

• A reminder to Department Managers that copies of Certificates of Liability Insurances from contractors need to be sent to the Selectboard Office.  No work should begin on Town property until a proof of liability coverage certificateis provided.
• Volunteers assisting various Town departments should be filling out Waiver agreement forms.  Completed forms are to be kept on file at the Selectboard Office.

Town Hall Facilities:

• During Veterans’ Day Weekend of November 9-11, the gazebo on the Town Common had 21 railing spindles broken, a stair railing and sections of lattice work were damaged.  Two additional spindles were broken in the following week.
• A new outside light fixture was installed on the south side of the building.
• The Town Hall kitchen stove and the elevator were repaired on Nov. 19th.  Much thanks to Otis Elevator and the EE Houghton for their prompt follow-up for repair requests.
• Thank you to the Highway Dept. and in particular, Keith Hebert and Harry Clark, for . cleaning up the leaves on the Common and around the Town Hall.  The area looks tidy and ready for winter.
• Thank you to the Recycling Center for helping with removing items from the basement and the use of their truck to move a multitude of items that are no longer needed.
• A new locking system is to be installed in the Town Hall during December.  Rich Kreissle and Brad Nash headed up this project.  The Selectboard Office will be in touch with outside keyholders with more information regarding the change.

 

Town Clerk / Tax Collector’s Office:  Mrs. Sandra Smith was unable to attend but provided the following report dated November 21, 2019.

Tax bills were mailed today!  Due date is December 23rd.  Merry Christmas!

They received the signed Warrant Wednesday morning November20th.

She called Ray Boas and asked him to put a reminder in the Clarion and to put “Early Payments would be appreciated” and the due date.  This does help.  She also printed it on her tax bills.

 

People have been calling all month, thinking the tax bills were lost in the mail.

 

She started printing the bills Wednesday morning, then had her daughter, Terry Jo come in and help stuff and seal the envelopes.  Meghan did the “window”, helped stuff the bills then she left at 2 P.M. for a doctor’s appointment.

 

Terry Jo and she ran out of envelopes and she called Craftsmen Press and they printed a box of their tax bill envelopes with their permit number.  She drove over today, picked them up—came back and stuffed the remaining bills.

 

Then she could not locate their postal bulk mailing form.  Spent time on the Internet, could not locate the form.  Called the Walpole Post Office, they tried and could not locate the form!  They said if she could find the form and get the bills to them before 3 P.M. she could mail them today.  Finally located her file folder it had slipped behind another folder.  The post office was happy as she made them a couple of copies for their file.  She mailed the bills just before 3 P.M.  The Walpole Post Office is great to deal with.  Very friendly and helpful.

She is exhausted – so going home to crash.  

 

Selectboard Comments:

2020 Budget:  Mr. Dalessio announced that the Selectboard will have their 2020 Budget Department reviews on December 6th.  Warrant Articles should have written quotes.  If department managers feel strongly about increasing a line item previously handed-in, this is when it should be brought up for discussion.      

 

ADJOURNMENT:  Mr. Dalessio wished everyone a wonderful Thanksgiving Day.  He adjourned this Staff Meeting at 5:56 PM.  

 

Hooper Trustees Meeting Minutes – 11/21/19

Uncategorized 11/27/2019 Leave a comment

 

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

 

CALL TO ORDER:  Mr. Dalessio called this Hooper Trustees meeting to order at 7:27 PM.  He advised this meeting is being recorded.

 

HOOPER TRUSTEES MINUTES:

HOOPER TRUSTEES MEETING – November 14, 2019: Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Minutes of the Hooper Trustees meeting of November 14, 2019, as submitted.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Minutes were approved.

 

HOOPER BUSINESS:

Hooper Board of Directors Appointment:  Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the appointment of Mr. Jon Meadows to the Hooper Institute Board.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

Hooper Education Trust Reimbursement to the Town of Walpole:  Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the transfer of funds from the Hooper Education Trust to the Town of Walpole in the amount of $7,409.62.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

Hooper Maintenance Trust Reimbursement to the Town of Walpole:  Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the transfer of funds from the Hooper Maintenance Trust to the Town of Walpole in the amount of $390.00.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

Hooper Fundraising:  Mrs. Pschirrer met with Ms. Helen Dalbeck to talk about fundraising and to give her the list of potential sponsors, etc.  Mrs. Pschirrer explained the legal issues encountered when Mrs. Amy Owens and Ms. Karen Galloway went to the bank to open a checking account.  After a discussion, it was agreed to have Mrs. Gowdy, Mrs. Owens and Ms. Galloway come into the office to talk with Mr. Kreissle to request that he open the checking account for them using the Town’s numbers.  Mrs. Gowdy, Mrs. Owens and Ms. Galloway will have authority to sign. Mrs. Amy Owens, Treasurer, will be the primary signer. Checks will require two signatures when over $500.  A policy will be written.  Ms. Mayberry will discuss this with Ms. Dalbeck and Mr. Kreissle.    

 

Mrs. Pschirrer reported that Mr. Bryan Fletcher has been doing a lot of work at the Hooper.  It is appreciated by everyone.  

 

New Hooper Program:  Ms. Dalbeck has been developing a Native Americans’ Program and is giving it to fourth graders in Town.  She would like to take this program out to other fourth graders not in Walpole.  Mrs. Pschirrer explained that she works for the Trust and that is very clear it remains in Walpole.  Those schools could be invited to Walpole where she could present the program and display the Indian artifacts.        

 

ADJOURNMENT:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to adjourn this Hooper Trustees meeting.  The Hooper Trustees will return to the Selectboard meeting.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 7:50 PM.

 

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

 

Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 11/21/19

Uncategorized 11/27/2019 Leave a comment

 

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

 

CALL TO ORDER:  Mr. Dalessio called this meeting of the Selectboard to order at 6:30 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.  He advised this meeting is being recorded and asked anyone wishing to speak to identify themselves for the record.  There were two visitors in attendance.

 

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION #1:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to enter into a Non-Public SelectboardSession #1 pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (c) Reputations.  Ms. Mayberry seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with Mrs. Pschirrer, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved at 6:31 PM.

 

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 6:45 PM.

 

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session #1 of November 21, 2019, be sealed.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Accounts Payable Check Register in the amount of $196,370.08 for checks issued November 22, 2019.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

The above amount includes a payment of $136,800 to the Walpole Fire District for operating expenses under Warrant Article 5.  

 

PAYROLL:

Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Payroll Check Register for the week ending November 16, 2019, in the amount of $25,563.96 for checks issued November 22, 2019, and the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes in the amount of $5,069.96.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MINUTES – November 14, 2019:  Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Minutes of the Selectboardmeeting of November 14, 2019, as submitted.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Minutes were approved.

 

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – November 14, 2019:  Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of November 14, 2019, as submitted.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  Mrs. Pschirrer advised that the Selectboard had previously agreed that the portion of this Non-Public Selectboard Session of November 14, 2019, relative to the Ramsay Hill Road Right-of-Way would be released.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrerand Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

Ms. Mayberry moved to unseal the following portion of the Non-Public Selectboard Session Minutes of November 14, 2019, as follows:  “Ramsay Hill Road Right-of-Way:  Mr. Neil Coughlin and Mrs. Judy Coughlin were present.  Mr. Dalessio explained the Selectboard discussed this Ramsay Hill Road Right-of-Way issue many times.  They determined that the Coughlin’s did not lose any frontage.  The Selectboard sent it to Attorney Hockensmith for an opinion.  He came back with the definition of frontage.  Their frontage is on the Town property and is frontage on the Class 6 road.  Mr. Dalessio explained this on the Town map.  Their line was on the stone wall and then moved back to the east. All this is frontage.  Mr. Dalessio noted if they were required to give it back, they would have done so. But looking at everything, including the deeds, it just moved back, away from the stone wall.  The Selectboard felt it was appropriate to seek a legal opinion.  Attorney Hockensmith advised they did not lose frontage.  Mr. Coughlin would like something in writing.  Mr. Dalessio replied but there is nothing to change.  The meeting minutes will document this conversation.  Mr. Coughlin mentioned that 10-to-15 years from now this road could continue.  Mrs. Pschirrer noted that the Class 6 could turn into a Class 5 road.  Mrs. Pschirrer mentioned they have to sign a waiver of liability if building on a Class 6 road.  Mr. Coughlin pointed out that they have a lot that could be subdivided.  Mr. and Mrs. Montgomery have land beyond them and the Hubbard’s have land further down.  Mr. Dalessio said they will state the boundaries are per the 1987 map.  Mr. Coughlin is happy with the measurements on that map and felt it should match the original documents.  Mr. Dalessio confirmed that the quit claim deed was found.  Mr. and Mrs. Coughlin left the Non-Public meeting.” Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessioin favor, the motion was approved.

 

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of the following Committee reports:  

• North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners Meeting – November 5, 2019;
• North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners Meeting – November 12, 2019;
• Walpole Planning Board – November 12, 2019;
• Cemetery Trustees – November 13, 2019;
• Safety Committee Meeting – November 14, 2019.

 

NOTICE OF INTENT TO CUT WOOD OR TIMBER:

MAP and LOT #012-044-500:  Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Notice of Intent to Cut Wood or Timber on property located off of Upper Walpole Road.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessioin favor, the motion was approved.

 

OLD BUSINESS:

Broadband Committee:   The Selectboard met previously with Mr. Anderson and Mr. Bouchard of the Broadband Committee.

 

Water and Sewer Receipts to Date:  The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of the report from Mrs. Daigle regarding Water and Sewer Receipts to Date.  Total receipts for Quarter 3 – 2019 Billing are $87,401.63 or 48.9%.  Bills are due on November 30, 2019.

 

EPA Clean-up Grant Update:  Mrs. Pschirrer reported that the attorney is working on the EPA Clean-up Grant, contract and other required documents. 

 

Pending Further Actions:

New Reuse Center Plans:  This continues to be a work-in-progress.  

 

Ramsay Hill Road Right-Of-Way:  Mr. Dalessio advised that this has been resolved.  

 

Tax Deeded Properties:  The Selectboard will continue to move forward with the sale of two tax deeded properties in January 2020, by sealed bids.

 

NEW BUSINESS:

11 Merchant Street:  Mr. Terry Roth, owner of 5 and 9 Merchant Street, had contacted the Selectboard office regarding his concerns with the abutting property.  He was advised to contact the North Walpole Village Board of Commissioners. Ms. Mayberry advised the Chair of the Commissioners will work with the Zoning Administrator to inspect the property and also work with the Fire and Police Chiefs.

 

Recreation Revolving Fund Request:  Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the request of Justin Cassarino and the Recreation Committee to issue a check to Spencer’s Place in the amount of $1,012.86 for catering the Murder Mystery dinner.  These funds are to be taken out of their Revolving Fund account.   Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Cassarino talked about when a bill can be submitted for payment and/or when a purchase order needs to be processed.  Mr. Dalessio clarified that it is acceptable for a letter/bill for the Revolving Fund but there needs to be a purchase order for the regular budget.

 

NH DES Draft Permit to Operate an Asphalt Plant:  The comment period for the NH Department of Environmental Services (DES) Permit to Operate an Asphalt Plant (Cold River Materials) is December 16, 2019.  There was a consensus of the Selectboard to not make any comments as this permit is required for a change to the new owner.

 

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION #2:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to enter into a Non-Public SelectboardSession #2 pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (a) Personnel and (b) Hiring.  Ms. Mayberry seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with Mrs. Pschirrer, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved at 7:05 PM.

 

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:25 PM.

 

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session #2 of November 21, 2019, be sealed.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to recess this Selectboard meeting.  The Selectboard will enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:50 PM.

 

OTHER BUSINESS:

Next Selectboard Meeting:  The next regular Selectboardmeeting on Thursday, November 28, 2019, at 6:30 PM has been re-scheduled to Wednesday, November 27, 2019, at 8:00 AM.  This is due to the Thanksgiving Day holiday.

 

Drewsville Common – Holiday Tree Lighting:  Mr. Dalessio announced that the Holiday Tree Lighting event on the Drewsville Common will be on Sunday, December 1st at 6:00 pm.  It is exciting for children as Santa Claus arrives. There will be hot chocolate and candy canes for attendees.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to allow the Drewsville community to use the Drewsville Common for their Holiday tree lighting and festivities.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

Mr. Dalessio mentioned in the spring they want to replace the holiday tree as it is time to do so.  A replacement tree has been donated.

 

North Walpole Village Park:  Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Cassarino talked about the light at the North Walpole Village Park.  The Commissioners were questioning the position of the fence. There was communication between Mrs. Diane Harty and Mr. Cassarino about putting news items on the Walpole Recreation Department web page.  The Park Committee has been putting them on their North Walpole Forum page.  Ms. Mayberry asked Mr. Cassarino to notify Mrs. Harty to clarify that news items should also be posted on the Walpole Recreation page as the NW Village Park is on Town land.        

 

ADJOURNMENT:

Ms. Mayberry moved to adjourn this Selectboard meeting.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 7:58 PM.

 

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

Clarion Now On-Line

Uncategorized 11/24/2019 Leave a comment

Your December issue of the CLARION is now on-line, for you to see. By clicking on the link below you can take a look, and also share with out of town friends by providing them the link. 

But even more exciting is, thanks to my son Gary’s help this weekend, THE WALPOLE CLARION is now on Facebook with more news and updates weekly
please click here to visit, follow, and share

CLICK ON THIS LINK FOR THE DECEMBER ISSUE

Again with the holidays coming, the deadline for the January 2020 issue is 20 December. Mark your calendars and get your articles (and ads) in early to share with the Walpole, North Walpole, and Drewsville community. Thank you

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year – yours, RAY, Publisher

In Case You Missed It

Uncategorized 11/22/2019 Leave a comment

I wanted to call your attention to a statement near the end of the Zoning Board Minutes. If, like me, you didn’t realize it, Ernie Vose is retiring at Town Moderator after Town Meeting this year. His twenty years of service have been admirable and he sure will be missed. Thank you, Ernie. – Lil

Hooper Trustees Meeting Minutes – 11/14/19

Uncategorized 11/22/2019 Leave a comment

 

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

 

CALL TO ORDER:  Mr. Dalessio called this Hooper Trustees meeting to order at 7:30 PM.  He advised this meeting is being recorded.

 

HOOPER TRUSTEES MINUTES:

HOOPER TRUSTEES MEETING – November 7, 2019:  Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Minutes of the Hooper Trustees meeting of November 7, 2019, as submitted.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessioin favor, the Minutes were approved.

 

HOOPER BUSINESS:

Hooper Institute Board:  Ms. Mayberry will follow-up with Mrs. Gowdy regarding the letter to be sent to the Hooper Trustees requesting permission to withdraw funds from Cambridge Trust that will then be deposited in the PDIP account.  

 

ADJOURNMENT:

Ms. Mayberry moved to adjourn this Hooper Trustees meeting.  The Hooper Trustees will return to the Selectboard meeting.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 7:36 PM.

 

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

 

Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 11/14/19

Uncategorized 11/22/2019 Leave a comment

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

 

CALL TO ORDER:  Mr. Dalessio called this meeting of the Selectboard to order at 6:30 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.  He advised this meeting is being recorded and asked anyone wishing to speak to identify themselves for the record.  There were two visitors in attendance.

 

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to enter into a Non-Public Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (a) Personnel, (b) Hiringand (l) Consideration of Legal Advice.  Ms. Mayberry seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with Mrs. Pschirrer, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

The regular meeting resumed at 6:55 PM.

 

Ms. Mayberry moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of November 14, 2019, will be sealed.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:  

Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Accounts Payable Check Register for the Drummond Woodsum invoice in the amount of $798.72.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Accounts Payable Check Register in the amount of $596,567.92 for checks issued November 15, 2019.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

The above amount includes a monthly payment of $563,787.00 to the Fall Mountain Regional School District.

 

PAYROLL:

Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Payroll Check Register for the week ending November 9, 2019, in the amount of $27,536.11 for checks issued November 15, 2019, and the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes in the amount of $5,532.19.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MINUTES – November 7, 2019:  Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of November 7, 2019, as submitted.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Minutes were approved.

 

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – November 7, 2019:  Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of November 7, 2019, as submitted.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Minutes were approved.

 

WALPOLE / ROCKINGHAM JOINT SELECTBOARD MEETING – November 7, 2019:  Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Minutes of the Walpole / Rockingham Joint Selectboard meeting of November 7, 2019, as submitted.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Minutes were approved.

 

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of the following Committee reports:

• Walpole Fire District – October 9, 2019;
• Walpole Cemetery Trustees – October 19, 2019;
• North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners –

October 8, 15, 22 and 29, 2019;

• Trustees of Trust Funds – October 21, 2019.

 

BUILDING PERMIT:  

Permit No. 2019-13:  Abenaki Springs Phase II L.P., 17 Avery Lane, Map and Lot #012-013-004:  Ms. Mayberry moved to grant Building Permit No. 2019-43 for Abenaki Springs Phase II L.P. to build a “24’ x 30’ Maintenance Garage” at 17 Avery Lane.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

OLD BUSINESS:

New Locks for Town Hall:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the proposal from ARComm to replace the locks for Town Hall.  The amount is not to exceed $28,000.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

New Reuse Center Plans:  Mr. Dalessio reported the damaged trailer is gone at the Recycling Center.  He suggested asking Mr. Ben Hoy to call Mr. Barry Bellows and Griffin Construction to get some preliminary quotes for a replacement.  Ms. Mayberry will talk to Mr. Hoy about this.     

 

Tax Deeded Properties: Mrs. Downing reported that neither of the two former property owners responded to the Tax Deeded letters.  They now have 14 days to make a request to remove anything left on the properties. The first sale date could be January 5, 2020.  There was a consensus that when the Selectboard proceeds with the sales that it be done by sealed bids that will be opened by them.  Mrs. Smith, Town Clerk/Tax Collector, does not have an exact amount due because of the accruing interest.  Therefore, an estimated amount on a certain date after the first of 2020 will be used.

 

NEW BUSINESS:

Tax Rate:  The Selectboard received preliminary information on a tax rate from Mr. Rich Kreissle.  A choice will need to be made on an overlay. Mrs. Downing expects to have a warrant for taxes ready for the next Selectboard meeting.    

 

Gazebo Damage:  Mr. Dalessio reported there has been a lot of damage to the Gazebo.  Mrs. Downing reported that 21 spindles were broken off and hidden under the Gazebo.  The railing and some lattice was broken.  It might have all been done at the same time possibly by a group of pre-teens who have been seen in the area.  Mrs. Pschirrer asked the Police Department to drive by more often.  She will write a news article regarding the damage for the Clarion to make people aware of what happened.     

 

Thank You Note:  Acknowledgement was made of a Thank You note from Ms. Deb Clark for the card and flowers.  

 

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to recess this Selectboard meeting.  The Selectboard will enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mrs. Pschirrer, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved at 7:30 PM.

 

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:36 PM.

 

OTHER BUSINESS:

NH Municipal Association Conference:  Mr. Dalessio, Mrs. Pschirrer, and Mrs. Downing attended the two-day NH Municipal Association Conference earlier this week.  There was general discussion of the conference and sharing information on various seminars they attended.  

 

ADJOURNMENT:

Ms. Mayberry moved to adjourn this Selectboard meeting.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 7:50 PM.

 

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary