The Walpolean

TOWN OF WALPOLE

STAFF MEETING

AUGUST 17, 2017

 

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

Also Present:                Sarah Downing (Manager of Administration); Rich Kreissle (Manager of Finance), Police Chief Michael Paquette (Police Department); Paul Colburn (Recycling Center), Justine Fafara (Librarian), Justin Cassarino (Director Recreation Department), Sandra Smith (Town Clerk / Tax Collector)

 

Call to Order:  Mrs. Pschirrer called this Staff meeting to order at 5:15 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.  She advised this meeting is being recorded.  Michael Rau and Eloise Clark were not present.  Mr. Rau and the Highway Department crew are doing paving.  Chief Paquette mentioned Valley Road and Cheshire Turnpike are beautiful.

 

Selectboard Office:  Mrs. Downing provided the following report dated August 17, 2017:

Assessing Update:

• Avitar Associates conducted site visits as part of the field review process from 8/10/17 through 8/16/17. The field review process is a final check of data previously collected.  Avitar is comparing all homes to the sale properties and adjusting to ensure consistency and equity.  This is the final step before creating draft property cards.
• The Department of Revenue Administration (DRA) is in Walpole doing field work on qualified sales through 8/18/17.
• Letters will be sent in late August to property owners with the online address to view and download draft property cards. A phone number will be included with a date range for making appointments to meet with the Avitar assessors at the Town Hall to discuss the updated property cards.

Water and Sewer:

• Demand of Payment Notices for accounts that are over 60 days overdue were mailed on 8/14/17.
• Water and/or Sewer Lien and Water Disconnect Notices have been created and revised. The Selectboard is working with Mrs. Jodi Daigle and Mrs. Downing on this.  Final approval of the notices’ text and process are pending.

Town Hall Facilities:

• The Town Hall foundation has been sealed. The south side entrance ramp had damage areas filled.  It also is being sealed to help reduce weather and salt damage.
• Landscaping clean-up and spot painting occurred over the month.
• The Town Hall exterior signs are being recreated. They are looking very weathered.

Save the Dates:

• Sunday, September 10^th will be the Appreciation BBQ for Town of Walpole employees and volunteers. Families are invited.  Invitations will be sent out.  You can bring a dessert to share.  Pit Stop BBQ will cater again. At noon there will be appetizers; lunch will be at 1:00 pm.  It will be BYOB.  It will be held at Whitcomb Park.  Rain location: Town Hall.
• Friday, October 20^th will be a HealthTrust Benefits presentation to all full-time Town employees. There will be a new presenter this year.  Mandatory attendance is required for this employee group.  It will be in the afternoon from 1:00 to 2:00 pm.
• Friday, November 3^rd is the annual Harassment Awareness Training for all Town of Walpole employees. There will be more inter-active activity.  It will be in the afternoon from 1:00 to 2:00 pm.  Attendance is mandatory.  If an employee cannot attend this training, a certificate of attendance for an online course or training with another group can be submitted.
• In December there may be a Wellness event that might include a healthy lunch. It may include stress reduction or healthy eating presentation.

 

Recreation Department:  Mr. Justin Cassarino submitted the following report dated August 17, 2017.

Pool:

• Gave them some problems in the middle of July where they had to close for a few days. He did not feel like the filters were circulating/turning the water enough, which was causing some of the cloudiness.  The manufacturer of the filters is being contacted.  He is now doing business with a local person, Aqua Blue, and it is working great.
• State came for the inspection and was very happy with everything. The only new requirement is that they mark the pipes with arrows to show the flow of the water.
• Held an hour training with two workers from Cheshire Medical about smoking and how to approach patrons about it if they are smoking on park grounds. The kids got t-shirts and had their pictures taken. An article was written on this.
• Spoke with Mike Rau about putting three of the signs up when he gets a break from paving. They currently have three up at the school parks that they use for recreation as well.
• The pool will be closing on either the 25^th or 26^th. He is waiting to hear back from two lifeguards about their availability.  A lot are leaving for college and starting athletics at the high school.  They also have to return the AED to the school before the 29^th.  Pschirrer asked if it would be easier for them to have their own AED; they should have their own.  Mr. Cassarino talked to Mr. Mark Houghton about this.  Mr. Dalessio thought they could buy two or three.

Basketball:

• Season went very well and Championship Night was a huge success. Close to 100 people were at the pool and game that night.
• Diamond Pizza donated 18 pizzas to the event. They will develop a thank you note and ask the Selectboard to sign it.
• Candy Bar Bingo was a lot of fun. They had between 40 to 50 people participated in the event.  Kids asked if they could do it again. This will be a new family night that they will do throughout the year.
• They would like to have one last event on the last day that the pool will be open. They will be doing laser tag and an inflatable obstacle course.  The request is being presented tonight with an additional insurance coverage through the company.  Thought that this would be a fun way to end the summer.

Soccer:

• Had a soccer meeting with the other three coordinators to discuss rule changes, set-up, and expectations for this upcoming season.
• Sign-ups will be held at the beginning of September.

 

Finance Office: 

Mr. Kreissle had passed out all the budget worksheets.  Mrs. Pschirrer mentioned if the Department Heads have questions when working on their budget talk to Mr. Kreissle.  She also asked them to think about Warrant Articles.  The Selectboard would like to start the budget process early.

 

Police Department:  Police Chief Michael Paquette submitted a report for the period of July 16, 2017 to August 15, 2017.  They went through some construction in the building but are waiting for a door and there are still a few other things to do.  This past year they purchased equipment and guns; they are like a high-end paint ball gun that hurts when you are hit.  They do training on this.  He got a letter requesting more police presence in the Village of Walpole for traffic enforcement.  He set it up with dispatch so they will know when they are doing this so they can accurately keep a record of time on Main Street.  They have some unmarked cars but he has decided to have them marked.  He goes through the Village multiple times during the day.  He has talked about getting one of the radar signs; they have the potential to record the speed, take a photo of the car, etc.  They can make a decision about whether to give a ticket or a warning.  Mrs. Pschirrer is concerned about increased traffic when Mascoma Bank opens their drive-thru.  Emergency vehicles go around that corner.  They made a few arrests the night of the Rockingham Old Home Days fireworks.  Bellows Falls praised them for keeping the traffic flow moving after the fireworks.  From the stats they are down on many issues.  It varies month-to-month but it cannot be predicted.  There were 325 calls for Service.

• Public Safety Calls:

Emergency Calls – 47              Administration – 47                 Citizen Assists – 67

• Motor Vehicle Calls:

Accidents – 9                           MV Stops – 57                         Traffic Safety – 24

• Criminal Investigations:

Drugs/Alcohol – 14         Crimes Against a Person – 47               Crimes Against Property -13

 

They have some applicants so are hoping to run another test at the end of next month.  They are actively trying to find another full-time officer.

 

Town Clerk / Tax Collector:  Mrs. Sandy Smith submitted the following report dated August 17, 2017.

They collected $103,993.77 in taxes and interest since the last staff meeting.

Money is coming in slowly as they only have $643,669.94 uncollected. This includes timber tax warrants, their 2016 and older liens.  Taxes are never all paid in full.  They are doing great!  Looking forward to the next billing.

Town Clerk has collected $59,569.64 total for this same time period.  She has had Meghan telephoning delinquent dog owners and they are getting some results.  They collected $467.50 in dog license fees since the last staff meeting.  This includes late fees of $1.00 per month.  Most people thank them for the calls and then they have “those” that will never license their dogs!

They collected $1,890.00 in Municipal Agent fees; this is money the town receives because they completely register your vehicle.  The customer pays $3.00 per vehicle to avoid driving to Keene DMV to complete the process.  They issue the decals and the plates.

She has spent hours researching the One Check System and speaking with people at the state—and they are moving forward.  Their tentative date is Oct 1^st.  The customer will write only one check to pay for their registration.  This should save some time.  They will collect the State money and Rich will transfer that directly to the State account.  If a check does not clear, they will have to collect the check and the fees.  The state said they do not have to accept any checks that they have had a problem with in the past.

After just a few weeks with the One Check System, they will start accepting credit cards for Motor Vehicles, Vital Records and dogs.  People are really looking forward to using cards.  They will have a system that accepts cards with the “chip”.

Meghan is on vacation this week and she will be out beginning the 21^st and then she will have the Town Clerks conference in September.

At 5:50 p.m. she just issued a Marriage License to a wonderful young couple that will be married Saturday here in Walpole!  They are always doing something different.

 

Walpole Town Library – August 16, 2017.  Mrs. Justine Fafara provided the following report.

July 2016 Stats:                                                           July 2017 Stats:

23 Days Open                                                  24 Days Open

1663 People                                                     1753 People

2484 Circ                                                         2536 Circ

38 Programs                                                     41 Programs

228 Kids                                                          228 Kids

172 Adults                                                       215 Adults

445 website visitors                                         403 website visitors

July 2016 Avg. 72 ppl & 108 circ per day       July 2017 Avg: 73 ppl & 106 circ per day

11 people per program                                     11 people per program

Two of three of their warrant article projects are done.  Houghton’s is coming August 31^st to install new lighting in three rooms.

They are starting some new programs in September.  Our Maker Play program on Wednesday after school has grown, and the kids are older so they will be splitting it into two programs.  Younger kids on Mondays after school and older kids on Wednesdays after school.  They will be starting game nights on Tuesdays.  Teen coloring will continue on Fridays.

They have a 3D printer on loan from the state library through the end of September so they are planning to do a few programs with it for both kids and adults.  She has to go to trainings on the software and will be the keeper of the Coops’ 3D printer and the coordinator.  It is booked in other libraries through the end of the year and then will be back in Walpole.

Mrs. Fafara mentioned if anyone asks if the library has glasses for the eclipse they no longer have any.  The kids at the Library made eclipse viewers out of cereal boxes but you have to stand with your back toward the sun.  It was a great project.

 

Recycling Center:  Mr. Paul Colburn reported some needed repairs were made to the glass crusher.  The spring broke on the big roll up door a few weeks ago so they needed to get a new one; it was an added expense.  The buildings were painted and they got two new doors.  The two Hooper youth will be leaving soon; they worked out very well.  Tom and he went to an electronics class in Swanzey.  They talked about breaking down some of the components, capture some of the revenue from them, etc.  It was good to go to that.  Quite a bit of cardboard was shipped out; the price is good.  Recently they took in quite a bit of metal and prices are pretty good.  The Highway Department is very busy so they have been using their equipment to do a few projects   This month they had 60 volunteer positions and 18 were vacant.  The WRAP Committee is shrinking; it has been quite a while since they had a quorum at a meeting.  He is actively seeking a new baler.  The cost is about $80,000+ but the old one will generate some revenue even though it is about 30 years old with some issues.  It is an essential piece of equipment for their work.

Mr. Colburn distributed the “3 Year Comparison to Recyclables” and the “Daily Weight Report and 3 Year to Date Comparison” worksheets.  He explained the figures on the Revenues sheet.  They have been getting in “other stuff” such as propane tanks that does not fit into the regular categories. The C & D was unusually big this month and will be shipped out soon.  The revenues have been doing well.  Recyclables vary months-to-month.

Mr. Kreissle generated a Monthly Report on Recycling Revenues as of August 16, 2017.  The budget figure is $166,350.00; the Actual to-date is $103,663.76.

 

Highway Department:  Mr. Rau was unable to attend due to the paving work but submitted the following report for the period of July 19, 2017 to August 16, 2017:

• Cold patched;
• Serviced trucks and equipment;
• Pulled out and picked-up trash cans on Common;
• Road side mowing;
• Road sweeping;
• Truck #4 and Truck #7 went to Reed’s for repairs;
• Picked up ash from the Recycling Center;
• Met with USDA engineer in regards to Butternut Brook;
• Engineers are prepared to start with plans regarding the Alstead Center road culvert;
• Paving –
  • County Road
  • Old Stage Road
  • Thompson Road
  • Colonial Drive
  • Valley Road
  • Cheshire Turnpike.

 

Adjournment:  Mrs. Pschirrer closed this Staff Meeting at 6:05 PM.

 

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

 

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

AUGUST 10, 2017

 

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

CALL TO ORDER:  Mrs. Pschirrer called this Selectboard meeting to order at 6:30 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.  She advised this meeting is being recorded and asked anyone wishing to speak to identify themselves for the record.  There were no people from the public in attendance.

 

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Accounts Payable check register in the amount of $36,628.66 for checks dated August 11, 2017.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

 

PAYROLL:

Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Payable Register for the week ending August 5, 2017, in the amount of $29,381.04 for checks dated August 11, 2017.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

 

Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $6,265.44 for the week ending August 5, 2017.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

 

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – August 3, 2017:  Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of August 3, 2017, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the Minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – August 3, 2017:  Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of August 3, 2017, as submitted.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the Minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SPECIAL SELECTBOARD SESSION – August 3, 2017:  Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Special Selectboard Session of August 3, 2017, as submitted.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the Minutes were approved.

 

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard received and reviewed Minutes of the following meetings:

• Conservation Commission – July 10, 2017;
• Planning Board – August 8, 2017.

 

PROPERTY TAX REFUND:

MAP and LOT # UTIL-UTIL-03a:  This was an over-charge for the Great River Hydro LLC.  Avitar Associates had originally recommended the Great River Abatement request be denied but when they discovered the property tax supplemental bill had included the State’s education portion they changed their recommendation to approve this Abatement refund.  This amount is $27,329.00 plus interest.

Mr. Dalessio moved to pay the Property Tax Abatement in the amount of $28,099.64 to TransCanada.  This money should come from money being held in PDIP for the supplemental tax.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

 

SEWER ABATEMENT:

MAP and LOT # 019-030-000: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Sewer Abatement for Map and Lot # 019-030-000 in the amount of $241.36.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

 

NOTICES OF INTENT TO EXCAVATE:

HODGKINS AND SONS, 20 Industrial Drive, Map and Lot # 001-010-000:  Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Notice of Intent to Excavate for Hodgkins and Sons at 20 Industrial Drive, Map and Lot # 001-010-000.  There will be no fee as it is under 1,000 cubic yards.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

HOGKINS AND SONS, 485 Old Drewsville Road, Map and Lot # 012-073-000:  Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Notice of Intent to Excavate for Hodgkins and Sons at 485 Old Drewsville Road, Map and Lot # 012-073-000.  There will be no fee as it will be under 1,000 cubic yards.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

 

OLD BUSINESS:

Appointment Notice: A request was received from Laura Hayes of Walpole to be appointed as a member of the Walpole Conservation Commission.  Ms. Mayberry noted that during the last meeting of the Conservation Commission they were in favor of this appointment.

Ms. Mayberry moved to appoint Laura Hayes to the Walpole Conservation Commission for a period of three years.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

Public Hearing:  Mrs. Pschirrer advised they need to have a Public Hearing to accept the Highway Grant funds.  She suggested next Thursday, August 17^th at 6:15 PM.  This money is being given to the Town by the State but it needs to be accepted by the voters.  The amount is $119,999.51.

Water/Sewer Receipts to Date: Mrs. Pschirrer reported on the Water/Sewer Receipts to Date 8/1-/2017 as follows:  Total 90+ amount owned as of 7/12/2017 is $57,542.07.  Total receipts for 90+ day accounts was $11,345.60.  Total left to collect for 90+ day accounts is $46,196.47.  Sixty Day notice letters will be going out on Monday.

Notice of Impending Lien – Water and/or Sewer: The Selectboard reviewed the list of impending liens for Water and/or Sewer.  Mr. Dalessio will write the procedure. Reference was made to RSA 38:22.  On December 1^st they will Warrant the Tax Collector for the outstanding balances.  If unpaid she would lien the properties in April 2018.  There are specific deadlines that need to be met.  Mr. Dalessio will re-draft the two letters.  He asked if they want to disconnect and lien at the same time.  There was a consensus to give 90+ delinquent users 30 days after the 90 day notice to pay their bill or have a payment plan before being disconnected.  Mrs. Pschirrer would like Mrs. Daigle to make more notes/explanations on the delinquent lists.  Document everything.

Over 90+ Overdue Water and Sewer Locations Reports:  Mr. Dalessio advised that more research needs to be done on liens that were previously placed on properties.  This needs to be done for sewer users in North Walpole and for both water and sewer users in Walpole.

 

NEW BUSINESS:

MS-535: The Auditor completed the MS-535, it was reviewed by the Selectboard and then was sent to and reviewed by Ms. Jamie Dow at the Department of Revenue Administration.

Ms. Mayberry moved to sign the MS-535, Financial Report of the Town Budget.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

Computer Purchases:  Mr. Dalessio noted that one notebook will be charged to the Highway Department and the second one will be for the office.

Ms. Mayberry moved to sign the purchase order for two notebook computers purchased throughTruNorth.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

ACH Enrollment Change: Mr. Rich Kreissle recently discovered that the names of the two previous bookkeepers were still on this document.

Mr. Dalessio moved to authorize the Chair, Mrs. Pschirrer, to sign the ACH Enrollment change form to indicate Mr. Rich Kreissle as the primary contact person for the State Treasurer.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

Junk Yard License: Mr. Dalessio reported that E.W. Salvage came in and paid for the renewal of their “Operating a Junk Yard” however the Selectboard did not sign the document.

Mr. Dalessio moved to sign the Junk Yard license for E.W. Salvage.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

Primex CAP Programs for CY 2018-2020:  Primex is offering the Town a three year plan that will save them money.  This would replace a one year at a time renewal.  It would limit the increase to about 7% over the next three years for property and liability coverage and limit the Workers’ Compensation to an 8% fee increase for each year.

Mr. Dalessio moved to authorize the Chair, Mrs. Pschirrer, to sign the Primex CAP Program for the period of 2018 to 2020.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

 

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION:

Mr. Dalessio moved to enter into a Non-Public Selectboard Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (a) Personnel, (c) Reputations and (e) Pending Claims or Litigation.  Ms. Mayberry seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved at 7:19 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:45 PM.

Ms. Mayberry moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of August 10, 2017, be sealed.  Seconded  by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

 

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:

Ms. Mayberry moved to recess this Selectboard meeting.  The Selectboard will enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved at 7:46 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:53 PM.

 

OTHER BUSINESS:

Town Common:  Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Colburn had a conversation about the recycling and trash on the Common. Mr. Colburn has concerns in that when the Highway Department does the pick-ups they have two employees because the containers are so heavy.  The Recycling Center does not have enough manpower to send two employees.  Mr. Dalessio mentioned there is one more concert this year; they will have a plan in place for next year.  They need to work together to keep the Common clean.

Middle Street:  Someone mentioned to Mr. Dalessio that there is a tree on the corner of Middle Street and Washington Street where the branches keep falling down.  Somebody should look at it; it might just need to be trimmed.  It is an old, huge tree about 3-feet in diameter.  Mrs. Pschirrer will bring this to Mr. Rau’s attention.

Old Drewsville Road:  Ms. Mayberry had a resident call her about the Old Drewsville Road and questioned why they were doing an up-grade; spending tax money for an engineer, etc.  She replied the work being done just to preserve the road and suggested the person call Mr. Rau to talk about what work was going to be done.

Drainage:  Mr. Dalessio reported that Mr. Eric Merklein had damage to his property from the Town’s plow.  He had flooding as the result of this but has had work done to avoid having it happen again.  He would like markers put up so the same thing does not happen again.  Mr. Dalessio suggested he contact Mr. Rau to work out a solution.

 

ADJOURNMENT:

Ms. Mayberry moved to adjourn this Selectboard meeting.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 8:00 PM.

 

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

JULY 27, 2017

 

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

CALL TO ORDER:  Mrs. Pschirrer called this Selectboard meeting to order at 6:30 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.  She advised that this meeting is being recorded and asked anyone wishing to speak to identify themselves for the record.  There were three people from the public in attendance.

 

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION:

Ms. Mayberry moved to enter into a Non-Public Selectboard Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (a) Personnel, (c) Reputations and (e) Pending Claims or Litigation.  Mr. Dalessio seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved at 6:32 PM.

The regular meeting resumed at 7:30 PM.

Ms. Mayberry moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of July 27, 2017, be sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

 

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Accounts Payable check register in the amount of $70,721.27 for checks dated July 28, 2017.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

 

PAYROLL:

Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Payroll Register for the week ending July 22, 2017 in the amount of $26,568.10 for checks dated July 28, 2017.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $5,539.42 for the week ending July 22, 2017.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

 

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – July 20, 2017:  Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of July 20, 2017, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the Minutes were accepted.

 

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – July 20, 2017:  Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of July 20, 2017, as submitted.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the Minutes were accepted.

 

STAFF MEETING – July 20, 2017:  Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Minutes of the Staff Meeting of July 20, 2017, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the Minutes were accepted.

 

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard received and reviewed Minutes of the following meeting:

• Zoning Board of Adjustment – July 19, 2017.

 

WARRANT YIELD TAX LEVY AND CERTIFICATION OF YIELD TAXES ASSESSED: 

Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Warrant Yield Tax Levy and Certification of Yield Taxes Assessed as follows:

• Map and Lot # 011-010-000 in the amount of $1,595.93;
• Map and Lot # 008-106-000 in the amount of $926.65;
• Map and Lot # 011-002-000 in the amount of $6,205.46;
• Map and Lot # 011-031-000 in the amount of $128.19.

The total is $8.856.23.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Warrant Yield Tax Levy and Certification of Yield Taxes Assessed as follows:

• Map and Lot # 013-016-000 in the amount of $1,701.80;
• Map and Lot # 003-011-000 in the amount of $501.65;
• Map and Lot # 006-013-000 in the amount of $1,641.96;
• Map and Lot # 006-017-000 in the amount of $689.03.

The total is $4,534.44.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

 

SEWER ABATEMENTS:

Ms. Mayberry moved to grant the Sewer Abatements as follows:

• Map and Lot # 030-059-003 in the amount of $64.20;
• Map and Lot # 030-072-000 in the amount of $718.11;
• Map and Lot # 030-016-000 in the amount of $1,324.74.

Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

 

PROPERTY TAX REFUND:

Map and Lot # 003-059-001:  Ms. Mayberry moved to grant the Property Tax Refund for Map and Lot # 003-059-001 in the amount of $2,956.00 as requested by the Tax Collector, Mrs. Sandy Smith.  This is due to an overpayment.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

 

BUILDING PERMIT:

Mascoma Savings Bank, 53 Main Street, Map and Lot # 020-047-000:  Ms. Mayberry moved to approve Building Permit No. 2017-21 for the Mascoma Savings Bank to “Construct a Drive Thru Canopy and renovation to existing building”, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

 

OLD BUSINESS:

Flooding Issues – Butternut Brook:  Last Tuesday, Mrs. Pschirrer, Mr. Mike Rau, Mr. Tenley an engineer from the USDA in Concord, 3-or-4 neighbors from Ford Avenue, Mr. Jeffries and Mr. Daley walked the Butternut Brook.  In 2007 this same engineer and department were involved with this brook and did a great deal of work.  Mr. Tenley mentioned similar work usually lasts about ten years; he is pleased with how it has held up however a lot of material has washed away or shifted.  On the left of the Dupuis house, the wall is holding up well.  They saw the wash-outs further up the stream.  It is a difficult walk.  Mr. Tenley’s assessment is it needs to be repaired but there is not enough damage to qualify for federal funds.  He thought they could work on the banks without a DES Permit.  The fish have virtually disappeared.  There is a huge culvert under Wentworth Road.  You can see where more trees will fall into the brook.  The DES representative, Ms. Laurie Sommers, felt they could make a good case for getting the ARMS Funds.  Mr. Dalessio suggested Mrs. Pschirrer call Mrs. Jen Palmiotto to ask if she would assist in writing this grant application.  Ms. Sommers dismissed the two dams because they want them to end up in a Conservation Easement.  The Reservoir Dam is already in a Conservation Easement held by the Monadnock Conservancy. Therefore Mrs. Pschirrer will write a letter to them to explain the deficiencies and ask how they will help the Town.  The North Walpole river banks would be outside their jurisdiction.  The Mill Pond Dam will soon be inspected; the results are unknown at this time.  Mrs. Pschirrer put together the following infrastructure projects:

The Highway Department did half of March Hill Road last year under a Notification Permit from the DES.  This will be taken care of by the Town.

Alstead Center Road – Mr. Rau feels this is critical but the Town does not have the money to work on it.  He suggested they consider using some money ($119,999.01) the Town will be receiving from the State Highway Fund.  It will cost about $70,000.00 to repair.  The danger is the road could collapse.  The DES has already examined the site.

School Street Culverts – Mrs. Pschirrer thought, if there is enough money, they could work on this.  Some engineering work needs to be done but a lot can be done with the Highway Department.  Mr. Dalessio would like to address this project this year.

North Road Ditches/Culverts:  Mr. Rau feels the Highway Department can do this project.

The Town will pave ten miles of roads beginning next week at a cost of $375,000.00.

Other projects on the list included: Houghton Brook Bridge, Mill Pond Bridge, sewer pipes under Vilas Bridge and Sawyer’s Bridge.

Mrs. Pschirrer will continue to do research for grant monies and work on the Aquatic Resource Mitigation Funds (ARMS Fund).

Mrs. Pschirrer felt the Westberg property should be added to the list.  She is going to a meeting of the Brownsfield Committee.  A lot of the testing is complete.

Mr. Dalessio will talk with Mr. Mark Houghton to see what the water and sewer users will be faced with in the next few years.  The pumping stations are 20-to-30 years old.  There have been water line breaks.

 

NEW BUSINESS:

Telephone Pole Assessment:  A letter was received from Avitar Associates regarding the Telephone Pole Assessment Law.  The legislature enacted a new law effective this year in which it sets forth the procedures for assessing Telephone Company poles and conduit.  Mr. Gary Robarge, Contract Assessor, put together a process for how they assess telephone poles every year and how we tax them.  Back in 2015 Mrs. Downing found documentation that was adopted back in 2015 after a Public Hearing so we meet one of his requirements.  His new approach is we can get rid of all the lawsuits if the Selectboard signs the copy of his letter dated July 20, 2017.

Mr. Dalessio moved that the Selectboard sign the Telephone Pole Assessment as recommended by Avitar Associates.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

 

Appointment Notice:  Mr. Dalessio moved to appoint Ms. Kim Lewis as a member of the Hooper Institute Scholarship Committee.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer, the motion was approved.

 

Basketball Sponsors Thank You Letters:

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve and sign Thank You letters to Mr. Jayson Dunbar of Jancewicz & Son, Ms. Kristyn Wallace of Applied Bolting and Ms. Sarah McClellan of Chroma Technology Corp, on behalf of the Recreation Department, for sponsoring the Basketball Program.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

 

Water and Sewer Receipts:  Mrs. Jody Daigle submitted the Water/Sewer Receipts to Date 7/27/2017 report.  The total receipts were $276,348.97; Total Left to Collect $48,952.69.  Since final notices went out the total receipts for over 90 day customers was $2,926.75.

 

Water Service Disconnect Notice and Notice of Impending Lien:  The Selectboard reviewed the Water Service Disconnect Notice and Notice of Impending Lien letter suggested by Mrs. Daigle.  There was a consensus to hold this agenda item until the meeting next week.

 

Tobacco Free Facilities Policy for Recreation Department:  Ms. Mayberry moved to adopt the Tobacco Free Facilities Policy for the Walpole Recreation Department.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

The Selectboard asked Mrs. Downing to research and up-date the 1997 “No Smoking in Town Buildings” policy so it is in compliance with RSA 155:66.

 

Youth Volunteer Service Statement and Agreement:  This was approved by Primex.

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Youth Volunteer Service Statement and Agreement, as presented.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

 

Citizen Comment:  Mrs. Downing received an email from Mr. Ray Boas about use of the Town Hall.  He would like a Town person to observe what is going on.  Mrs. Downing received a Citizen’s Report Form from Carole Cramer that the Selectboard are allowing groups who use the Town Hall to make too much noise, they are loud and people are allowed out of the building.  She would like to see current guidelines for use of the Town Hall that includes a provision for a reasonable level of noise; a better cut-off time for DJ’s.  Mrs. Pschirrer pointed out the Selectboard can stipulate that bands/DJs cannot play beyond a specified time and request the renters to respect the neighbors.  Other options were mentioned.

 

Town Common:  Mr. Dalessio recommended they purchase 6 Industrial heavy-duty plastic containers so Town bags can be put in them for use on the  Common during concerts.  The Boy Scouts could take the bags out and bring the containers inside.  The bags could be picked-up by someone from the Recycling Center each Tuesday.  Mrs. Pschirrer would like people to recycle on the Common.  Purchasing 3 large recycling bins was suggested.  Mrs. Downing will get more Town bags.

 

Town Employee Events:  Mrs. Downing suggested some dates for upcoming events/trainings:

• Sunday, Sept. 10^th – Appreciation BBQ at Whitcomb Park or Town Hall
• Friday, Oct 20^th – HealthTrust Update Presentation to benefitted Staff;
• Friday, November 3^rd – Harassment Awareness Training.

She would also like to schedule a Wellness event and is wondering about early December or early October date as another option.  Mr. Dalessio would like to invite the North Walpole employees to the training events.  The Selectboard approved Sunday, September 10^th as the date for the Appreciation BBQ.

 

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:

Ms. Mayberry moved to recess this Selectboard meeting.  The Selectboard will enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved at 8:36 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 8:42 PM.

 

ADJOURNMENT:

Ms. Mayberry moved to adjourn this Selectboard meeting.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 8:42 PM.

 

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

AUGUST 3, 2017

 

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

CALL TO ORDER:  Mrs. Pschirrer called this Selectboard meeting to order at 6:30 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.  She advised that this meeting is being recorded and asked anyone wishing to speak to identify themselves for the record.  There were three members of the public in attendance.

 

PUBLIC BUSINESS:

Cheney Hill Realty LLC, Sawmill Lane, Map and Lot # 013-034-005:  Mrs. Myra Mansouri advised that Mr. Ben Northcott came before the ZBA when he was buying the sawmill property.  Even though he planted trees so the equipment will not be visible from the road, he wants to excavate that area so the equipment is lower than it is now.  He has filed a Notice of Intent to Excavate.  Mr. Dalessio explained when this went through the Planning Board there was concern about the equipment being seen from the road.  Mr. Northcott has already put up trees.

Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Notice of Intent to Excavate for Cheney Hill Realty LLC.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

 

NON-PUBLIC SESSION – RSA 91-A:3 II:

Ms. Mayberry moved to enter into a Non-Public Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (a) Personnel, (c) Reputations, and (d) Acquisition, Sale or Lease of Real or Personal Property.  Mr. Dalessio seconded the motion and on a roll call vote with Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved at 6:38 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:18 PM.

Ms. Mayberry moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of August 3, 2017, be sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

 

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Accounts Payable check register in the amount of $22,512.49 for checks dated August 4, 2017.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

 

PAYROLL:

Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Payroll Register for the week ending July 29, 2017, in the amount of $26,488.72 for checks dated August 4, 2017.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $5,790.99 for the week ending July 29, 2017.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

 

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – July 27, 2017:  Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of July 27, 2017, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the Minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – July 27, 2017:  Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of July 27, 2017, as submitted.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SPECIAL SELECTBOARD SESSION – July 27, 2017:  Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Special Selectboard Session of July 27, 2017, as submitted.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the Minutes were approved.

 

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard received and reviewed Minutes of the following meetings:

• North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners – July 18, 2017;
• North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners – July 25, 2017; and
• Planning Board Workshop – July 25, 2017.

 

OLD BUSINESS:

Water Service Disconnect Notice and Notice of Impending Lien:  Mr. Dalessio approves the Water Service Disconnect Notice but not the Notice of Impending Lien.  He would like more clarification on the lien process.  The Selectboard looked at the lists provided.  They marked off the property owners that will not get delinquent water/sewer disconnect notices if a recent payment or payment plan was made.  Payments will be due 30 days after the date of the letter.  Delinquent bills are 90+ days over the due date.  A friendly reminder letter will be sent to owners who are 90+ days overdue but have been making payments.  There was a consensus to confirm the last payment date indicated on the list prior to sending out disconnect notices.  More research will be done on liens.  This will be an agenda item for next week.

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Water Service Disconnect Notice.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

Ms. Mayberry asked to have Mrs. Jodi Daigle email an explanation on what the notes are on the North Walpole Sewer list.

 

Letter to Carole Cramer:  Ms. Mayberry moved to approve and sign the letter to Carole Cramer.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

 

Murtha Property: Mrs. Pschirrer acknowledged receipt of a letter from Attorney Hockensmith regarding the issue over two properties and explained the past history of the discrepancy.

Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the recommendation of Attorney Hockensmith to revoke the tax Deed on the Tiffany property and transfer it back to Murtha.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Dalessio moved to revoke the tax Deed on the Murtha property and transfer it to the Britton property.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer advised that the tax cards need to be changed and cancel the Deed on the Murtha property that is on the Britton property.       

 

NEW BUSINESS:

Highway Department – Alstead Center Road Culvert:  Mrs. Pschirrer had sent a copy of the report Mr. Rau received from the CLD engineer to the Selectboard.  He would like to go ahead and begin the engineering plan for restoring the Alstead Center Road.  It may be next year before it gets done because we will have to hire someone to do that work.

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve having Mrs. Pschirrer, Chair, sign the agreement between the Town of Walpole and CLD Consulting Engineers for the work on the Alstead Center Road.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.

 

Water and Sewer Receipts: The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of the Water/Sewer Receipts to Date – August 3, 2017.  Since final notices went out, the total receipts for over 90 day customers was $6,776.05.  The total 90+ day amount owed is $57,542.07.

 

Primex Training:  Mrs. Downing has been approved to attend the “Primex Supervisors’ Academy” in Lebanon in September.  It is a three day session.

Mrs. Downing might also attend the “Essentials of Primex” program in Concord on August 31, 2017.  It will be on Unemployment Compensation, Workers’ Compensation and Best Doctors plus Property and Liability and P3 Overview.

 

Highway Department – Seminar:  Mrs. Pschirrer mentioned getting a notice today about a seminar she thought would be helpful to Mr. Rau.  It is on Stopping Erosion and Ditching.  He could also take one or two other employees with him.  It will be an all-day seminar at the Stone Hill Farm.

 

Police Department:  Mr. Dalessio advised that the Police Department will be putting together drug handling equipment.  It is a big concern.  There is a new change in the Police Policy.  An officer can no longer do a search of a vehicle by themselves because a lot of people/dealers in stopped vehicles are throwing “stuff/drugs” at the officers to try to get them away from the vehicle. There will be a spike in over-time.  Some immediate things need to be done for safety.

 

School Street – Culvert:  Mrs. Pschirrer advised they are talking about doing this project this year.  Mr. Rau and Mr. Houghton are going to work together and we will do this work ourselves.

 

Next Agenda – Public Hearing:  Mr. Dalessio pointed out that for the next agenda they have to post a Public Hearing to accept the $119,000.00+/- additional Highway Fund money.  Mr. Kreissle received guidelines from the Department of Revenue Administration on this.  If it is over $10,000 they have to have a Public Hearing to accept the money.

Mrs. Pschirrer said they also received $42,000+/- as the first quarterly payment of the Highway Block Grant funds.

 

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:

Mr. Dalessio moved to recess this Selectboard meeting.  The Selectboard will enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved at 8:04 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting was resumed at 8:19 PM.

 

SELECTBOARD MEETING CHANGE:

The regular Selectboard meeting scheduled for Thursday, October 12, 2017, will be re-scheduled to Wednesday, October 11, 2017, at 8:00 AM.

 

ADJOURNMENT:

Ms. Mayberry moved to adjourn this Selectboard meeting.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 8:20 PM.

 

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary