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Monadnock Farm Tour – 8/26/17
Monadnock Farm Tour
Organized by the Monadnock Farm and Community Coalition and
Monadnock Travel Council
Saturday, August 26, 2017, 2pm – 6pm
KEENE, NH (7/13/17) — Trained pigs, scavenger hunts for children, border collie sheepherding demonstrations and an antique tractor show, as well as other activities, are sure to entice both young and old to local farms throughout the region during the 2017 Monadnock Farm Tour, Saturday, August 26, 2017, 2pm – 6pm.
Farmers are opening their barns, coops, hoop houses, and pastures to foster a better understanding of their day-to-day lives working to bring food to our tables, thanks in part to a grant from the NH Department of Agriculture, Markets & Food. Organized by the Monadnock Farm and Community Coalition (MFCC) and Monadnock Travel Council, the goal of the Farm Tour is to provide rich experiences that are educational and fun for consumers while infusing much needed income into the pockets of local farmers.
“We live in a very rich, diverse, and somewhat undiscovered agricultural region in New England”, according to Roe-Ann Tasoulas, MFCC director. “You can spend the weekend at a farm stay and enjoy a home grown breakfast, go down the road for freshly made cheese, to pick berries, or enjoy a crafted beer. During the Tour, you can learn about cutting-edge growing technology or how to make cider. There is an abundance of opportunities to both buy fresh food and products, and to experience how they are grown and produced.”
The Monadnock Farm Tour offers an endless supply of activities for children to enjoy – egg collecting, make it & take it crafts, milking cows, visiting with miniature horses, goats, sheep, chickens, alpacas, and rescued draft horses, as well as numerous scavenger hunts. Connecting children with how food is grown nurtures an appreciation and respect that food is not indispensible and farms are vital to their future.
Cost for the Monadnock Farm Tour is $5/individual or $10/car. Buttons can be purchased at farms during Farm Tour hours only. All proceeds go to pay for next year’s Monadnock Farm Tour.
Monadnock Farm Tour tips:
- Bring a cooler! You’ll be able to buy produce, eggs, cheese, meat and other farm products at most of the farms
- Plan on visiting 3 to 4 farms, budgeting 1 hour for each
- Please take time to use the hand sanitizer provided at each farm after petting an animal. Some farms may ask to disifect shoes to prevent farm-to-farm transmission of germs that might stick to shoes
- Bring sunscreen, hats, bug dope, water and cash
Rules: No pets allowed, no visiting farms after hours, no entering farm homes.
Interactive map and downloadable brochure available at: http://www.mfcommunitycoalition.org/farmtour
MONADNOCK FARM AND COMMUNITY COALITION is a regional coalition of 73 member organizations who meet quarterly to cultivate community action and build collaborations supportive of a robust, sustainable local food system throughout the Monadnock Region.
Learn more at www.mfcommunitycoalition.org
THE MONADNOCK TRAVEL COUNCIL was founded in 1990 to provide a comprehensive travel promotion program for the Monadnock Region tourism related businesses. The travel council provides a forum for communication in the Monadnock Region and to represent the region to other regions in New Hampshire, statewide, nationally and internationally. http://www.monadnocktravel.com
Summer Teenager Employment Opportunity
Virginia Carter says they need help at Walpole Mountain View Winery. Call right away. – Lil
SUMMER TEENAGER EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
for Walpole and surrounding areas at Barnett Hill Vineyard (a.k.a. Walpole Mountain View Winery)
We’re looking for help for one week with getting our netting up to protect the grapes (outdoor farm work) from critters taking more than their fair share of the crop.
Monday 7/31 through Friday 8/4. Weather permitting.
Pay $8.00/hour.
Must be 16 or older.
Phone 756-3948 — Introduce yourself, leave a message on how/when to contact you.
Deadline for applications: Thurs. 7/27.
*Parents and Grandparents, please forward this to the teenagers in your life.
Zoning Board Meeting Minutes – 1/19/17
Zoning Board of Adjustment
Town Hall – Walpole, NH
Wednesday, July 19, 2017
Present: Board Members: Chair Myra Mansouri, Mary Therese Lester, Tom Murray, Judy Trow. Alternate: Pauline Barnes. Absent: Vice-Chair Jan Galloway-Leclerc and alternate Ernie Vose.
Recording: Marilou Blaine. These minutes are unapproved and will be reviewed at the August 2017 meeting for corrections, additions or omissions.
Roll Call: Ms. Mansouri called the meeting to order at 7:32 pm. A full Board was not present so Alternate Paula Barnes was asked to fill in.
Minutes: Ms. Barnes made a couple of corrections. On page 1, last paragraph, third line the word place was changed to placed. In the section on Mr. Robert Kimball’s hearing, Mr. Murray made a motion to approve the Special Exception. The next line should read, “the motion was seconded the Board approved the motion.” Ms. Lester made a motion to accept the minutes as corrected. Ms. Trow seconded the motion and it was approved by the Board.
Old Business:
Public Hearing: Special exception for Mascoma Savings Bank, 53 Main Street, Map 20, Lot 47, commercial district – Signage – Article IV, Part D-6. Sign must be 100 feet from another sign.
Public Hearing: Variance for another sign for Mascoma Saving Bank, 53 Main St., Map 20, Lot 47, commercial district. Proposal to add a 12.5-square-foot sign on new bank drive-up.
Zoning Ordinance IV, Part D-6. More than one 32-square-foot sign is allowed if they were 100 feet apart. The ordinance does not allow signs to be closer than 100 feet except for narrowly defined special exceptions for signs of 6 square feet or less. So any sign not conforming to the Special Exception criteria requires a variance.
Mr. Craig Moore was representing Barlo Signs for Mascoma Bank. Mr. Moore originally represented the bank in May and his colleague Mr. Barnard followed up last month and it was determined at that meeting that not only was a Special Exception required but also a variance was required due to the size of the sign.
The sign that is proposed at the 22-foot-wide teller drive-thru is a 12.5-square-foot sign. It was also determined at the last meeting that the sign have dimmers to change the intensity of the light. The intention of the sign is to draw attention to the sign after hours.
Ms. Barnes said she remembered that the company had also agreed to dim the sign that is already there. Mr. Moore said she was correct and that information has been turned over to the bank.
Ms. Mansouri asked Mr. Moore to read the questions and responses. Mr. Moore asked the Board members if they had seen the sign. They responded in the affirmative.
1.
Special Exception Criteria:
Mascoma Savings Bank: 53 Main St.
- Describe the sign – shape dimension – submit a drawing.
Installation of one internally illuminated/Halo-lit wall sign, 12.5 square feet. Mr. Moore explained that Halo-lit means that instead of light projecting forward, it goes backward.
- Is it free-standing, on posts, on the building?
It is on the peak of the building/ATM – Teller Drive-Up
- Is it 60 feet away from the traveled roadway?
The proposed sign is 118 feet from the traveled roadway.
- What is the construction of the sign?
Bea (aluminum, led lighting). BEA means prefinished aluminum.
- Where will it be placed?
On the building/ATM – Teller Drive-Up
- Why do you think you need this sign?
The proposed sign helps to quickly and safely identify the additional service/after-hour services of the Drive-UP/ATM to both those familiar with Walpole and those who are not.
- Will this sign adversely affect any abutting businesses or neighbors?
The Proposed sign is minimal, aesthetically completes and updates this property. Proposed sign includes dimmers, which will diminish light output. Attractive signage does not adversely affect abutting properties, regardless of the use of said properties.
Ms. Barnes asked, Does that mean the dimmers will go on at certain hours or every night? Mr. Moore responded that the dimmers are manual and the sign company recommended that the lights be always be set at the same dimming setting and that way if the bank is ever approached about the light being too bright, they can be further dimmed.
Ms. Mansouri then asked him to read the questions from the variance and the Board will respond to each question individually.
Variance Criteria A from Article IV Part D, (6) (9) to allow the installation of an internally illuminated wall sign which will be greater than 32 square feet and closer than 100 feet from existing signs currently on this property.
Would you say that that type of light is similar to other banks in the area? Ms. Lester asked.
It’s all relative to the community. Mr. Moore responded. He thought there would be less light than elsewhere because many banks are in much larger populated areas and have larger signs. They need electronic signs. In his experience, this fits into the this community.
Mr. asked if there was going to also be a sign saying ATM. Mr Moore said no. It is a two-lane passage, this sign will be in the center of the canopy, and there will be no other sign.
Ms. Mansouri asked if there were any other questions from the Board and then from the public. Being none, she closed the hearing.
Ms. Lester said that all banks have some kind of sign and with some kind of lighting and she thought this was satisfactory.
Ms. Barnes said she took the opposite approach where it is important for light to be low so the bank is not the center of an inhabited area. It is important not to shine light into people’s windows so your solution of the dimmers is a good one.
Motion: Tom Murray said he thought Mr. Moore fit all the descriptions well and he made his case for a Special Exception and Variance very well. He made a motion to approve both. The motion was seconded and approved by the Board.
The Variance questions and answers were:
The proposed use would not diminish surrounding property values because:
The proposed sign is part of a modification/beautification of an existing business, attractive, clean, clear signage does not diminish surrounding property values.
Denial of the variance would result in unnecessary hardship to the owner because of the following special circumstances of the property that distinguish it from other properties similarly zoned because:
The sign as proposed identifies the bank drive-up, which is unique to businesses within this zone; motorists unfamiliar with the location, seeking an ATM machine will easily locate the new drive-up. It is reasonable for this business to want to properly identify both their building entrance, and their drive-up, which offers services after bank hours.
Granting the variance would do substantial justice because:
Granting the variance will allow Mascoma Bank to complete its site updates and allow the way-finding public clear access to its destination; the sign is to scale and aesthetically pleasing, and I no way harmful to the public. There is no gain to the public in denying this variance request.
The proposed use would not be contrary to the spirit of the ordinance because:
The proposal fits into the visual environment of this property;
Promotes balanced growth, as it allows for an updating of an existing business;
Is in character with proper development;
Protect the economic and aesthetic interest of the town: simple design and back-lighting of the sign protects the historic nature/interest of the town;
Provides an aesthetically pleasing and compatible design.
New Business:
Request for a variance: Chad Thurston of Griffin Construction will be in for a variance for a setback for a house at 56 Old Keene Rd., to expand a kitchen at the house. The owner of Griffin Construction, Griffin Dussault, was also at the meeting.
Mr. Thurston showed a design of how the kitchen was to be expanded. The kitchen was already only 60 feet from the center line of the road and the kitchen was to be expanded to the north, not out toward the road. So it was decided that this was not a variance issue but an issue having to do with a building that was already not conforming to the zoning ordinance in Article V, Residential District A and B, Part C, 2 Yard Requirements: “No building may be erected closer than sixty-five (65) feet to the center line of the abutting right-of-way nor closer than twenty (20) feet to any side or rear property line.”
Article X, Non-Conforming Uses states in Part B, “When any existing non-conforming use of land or building has been discontinues for one year the land and building shall thereafter be used only in conformity to this Ordinance, except that the Board of Adjustment, after public hearing may permit the resumption of said non-conforming use.”
There were some questions about the matter. Ms. Lester said the use was the same. Mr. Murray said that the construction was just being extended along the same line to the north and not coming any closer to the road. In the end the Board agreed a Public Hearing was needed. A motion was made, seconded and approved by the Board to have a Public Hearing for a Non-Conforming Use in August.
Criteria For a Special Exception for a Sign
The Board decided at the May meeting that a list of criteria would help people applying for a Special Exception for a sign navigate the Special Exception form.
The secretary made up a list for the Board to consider.
Criteria for a Special Exception for a sign
- Describe the sign – size, shape, dimensions. Submit a drawing.
- Is it free-standing, on posts, on the building?
- Is it 60 feet from a traveled roadway?
- What is the construction of the sign?
- Where will it be placed?
- Why do you think you need this sign?
- Will this sign adversely affect any abutting businesses or neighbors?
Ms. Barnes suggested adding “Limitations – does it obscure the view of pedestrian or car traffic?”
Ms. Lester said she didn’t think that was necessary because if the applicant read the ordinance he/she would know that. The rest of the Board agreed with Ms. Lester.
Ms. Mansouri mentioned that criteria No. 3 isn’t always so. If a sign is placed on Route 12, the distance is usually 75 feet from the center, although it can change depending on where the structure on Route 12 is placed.
So criteria No. 3 will now read: “Is it 60 feet from the center of a traveled roadway? Or 75 feet for a structure on Route 12? For more information on Route 12 rules contact NH Department of Transportation.”
Solar panels
North Walpole Commissioner John Foster suggested to Mr. Cunning that he come to the Zoning Board to see if he needed a site plan for the solar panels he planned to put on his roof because the cost was more than $10,000.
Ms. Mansouri said that this would be under the purview of the Planning Board.
Both Ms. Mansouri and Ms. Peggy Pschirrer said that at this time they knew of no ordinance about solar panels, either on the ground or on a roof. The secretary will check with the Chair of the Planning Board.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:25 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Marilou Blaine
Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 7/13/17
TOWN OF WALPOLE
MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD
JULY 13, 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 four members of the public in attendance.
PUBLIC BUSINESS:
SOUTHWEST REGION PLANNING COMMISSION (SWRPC): Mr. J. B. Mack and Mr. Henry Underwood from the SWRPC were present. They handed out copies of the NH Department of Environmental Services Wetlands Bureau Aquatic Resource Mitigation Fund Program (ARM) and to provide an explanation. Mr. Mack advised they have taken an interest in this program as they are involved with a lot of stream crossings around the region. They want to be sure this region understands this resource and they have resources to help. DES has presented this as a grants program.
During the 2006 legislative session, the General Court enacted Senate Bill 140, known as Aquatic Resource Compensatory Mitigation. The law became effective on August 18, 2016 and the DES adopted rules for operation of an aquatic resource mitigation fund on June 20, 2007.
This program has been created as an additional compensatory mitigation option available to applicants for impacts to wetlands and other aquatic resources. This mitigation option is available for use after avoidance and minimization of impacts to these aquatic resources has been achieved. The department is authorized to collect mitigation funds in lieu of other forms of wetland mitigation as part of a wetlands application. DES holds and manages funds to be offered as grants for potential projects that will accomplish long-term environmental results. These projects must consider the service area goals and replace and/or protect wetland and other aquatic resource functions and values that were impacted by development projects in the service area.
ARM Fund payments are collected according to nine service areas in the State. The Town of Walpole is in area “6”. A map showing the NH ARM Fund Boundaries was distributed. The key to success is the long-term protection of those wetland functions that are restored or enhanced.
The SWRPC is still trying to get additional information from the director of this program. The function of values might change. The State has one idea of how to use these funds; adding onto the Fall Mountain Region conservation land. The DES is anxious to hear from the Town of Walpole and Town of Charlestown on their priorities. Mr. Dalessio advised the Town of Walpole has a priority and it is the Reservoir Dam. Mrs. Pschirrer said it is in terrible shape therefore needs to be repaired or removed; both are very expensive. Mr. Peska felt the DES’s own letters noting the deficiencies indicate the urgency to do something. It is about a 2-1/2 acre reservoir area that was used primarily as surface water storage for the Village but has not been used since 1910. It is an earthen dam. There is a great recreational interest in maintaining this area. The Conservation Commission is involved with its maintenance that includes the trails and parking area. It was last drained about 20 years ago. Nothing but brush clearing has been done since then. The Reservoir dam could benefit from these funds.
It was mentioned there is concern from property owners about their wells in connection with the Route 12 Project along the Connecticut River. Mr. Mack is aware of bank erosion concerns along the river. There was discussion of the DOT informational meetings on the Route 12 Project. Great River Hydro is in the process of repairing their Pier 4; the structural integrity of the dam is a safety concern. Mr. Mack noted the dam presents a second Issue, as it is not connected with the Reservoir Dam.
Mr. Dalessio mentioned another project the Town would like to address is the Vilas Bridge. The Town’s sewer line runs underneath it to the Waste Water Treatment Facility in Bellows Falls, VT. The bridge is deteriorating. Therefore, if something breaks that line it would be catastrophic. Mr. Mack is aware of this bridge problem.
Mrs. Pschirrer has a concern with the recent heavy rains and streams that have washed away berms, etc. DES does not even allow them to remove trees that have fallen into the streams without their permission. The Town needs help taking care of this. It involves entire neighborhoods. Mr. Mack said stream restoration is also one of the priorities. There are five different project areas; 1) Land/Wetland Acquisition/Legal Protection; 2) Wetland Restoration/ Creation; 3) Stream Restoration; 4) Culverts/Dams; and 5) Invasive Species Management.
Mr. Underwood advised they are talking about funding that does not have a formal grant application round. The ARM program is an annual round; information distributed was from the last round. In 2017 there was no grant application round. The next formal announcement will be for 2018. There will be a two page proposal due at the end of April. Ms. Laurie Sommer is the coordinator. As a part of the application process, they will be looking for the NH Wildlife Action Plan. Mr. Underwood distributed copies of the “2015 Highest Ranked Wildlife Habitat by Ecological Condition” plan. This is a piece of evidence relevant to certain projects. Areas have various habitat assessments. It shows areas held under conservation. This is a resource for purchase of easements, etc. Mr. Underwood also distributed copies of a “Restoration Plan for Aquatic Connectivity to High Quality Waters of the Ashuelot River Watershed.” This is an existing study about the quality of the length of streams that could be improved. It is part of a larger effort of the DES and NH Ecological Surveys to assess stream crossings wherever they are. He asked if the Town of Walpole has a Conservation Plan that might be a reference for a source of ideas. Mr. Peska replied the Conservation Commission has an antiquated one and are in the process of doing a new plan. A new Town Forester was just hired. They will be conducting reviews of all forests and recreational areas. Mrs. Pschirrer mentioned they will include all the conservation land the Town owns as well; they are working on some now that will expand this acreage. Overall the Town will have a great deal of land in conservation. Mr. Peska said one member is working on a corridor from the Merriam Farm area to the Connecticut River; it will go across the southern section of Walpole. Mr. Underwood said there might be money available to put more land into easements. Mr. Mack noted they just want the Town to be aware of these resources.
Mr. Underwood suggested they come up with three or four project ideas that will be presented to the DES, DOT and/or Ms. Lauri Sommer to get an idea of what they will support. The Selectboard and Mr. Peska proposed the Reservoir Dam as the number one priority. Mr. Mack pointed out the SWRPC will assist. Mr. Underwood referenced the Town’s Hazard Mitigation Plan as well.
Ms. Rebecca Brown was representing the residents on Ford Avenue. The Selectboard agreed this would be another project. Taking care of the stream would save Ford Avenue from being flooded. There is an abundance of wildlife in that area.
NON-PUBLIC 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 7:20 PM.
The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:48 PM.
Ms. Mayberry moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of July 13, 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 $40,516.38 for checks dated July 14, 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 08, 2017 in the amount of $29,949.41 for checks dated July 14, 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 $6,616.81 for the week ending July 08, 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 6, 2017: Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of July 6, 2017, as submitted. Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer. With Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the Minutes were approved. Ms. Mayberry abstained as she was not present at this meeting.
COMMITTEE REPORTS:
The Selectboard received and reviewed Minutes of the following meeting:
- Walpole Conservation Commission – June 5, 2017.
SEWER ABATEMENT:
MAP and LOT # 028-124-000: Ms. Mayberry moved to grant the Sewer Abatement in the amount of $216.10 for Map and Lot #028-124-000. This sewer user was charged twice in October 2016 and it had not been corrected. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
BUILDING PERMIT:
GRIFFIN and ANDREA VICKERS-SIVRET, 56 Old Keene Road, Map and Lot #018-018-000: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve Building Permit # 2017-19 for Griffin and Andrea Vickers-Sivret to “Construct a 24’ x 24’, 1 Story Garage” at Map and Lot #018-018-000. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
NEW BUSIENSS:
Aquatic Resource Mitigation Fund Program (Continued): Mrs. Pschirrer felt they need to meet with the Conservation Commission about this program. There was discussion about submitting four preliminary projects: 1) Reservoir Dam, 2) Stream on the Old Keene Road / Ford Avenue; 3) Connecticut River Bank Erosion in North Walpole; and 4) Mill Pond. They will then wait to see if there will be support for any of these projects.
Hooper Institute Youth Workers Personnel Forms: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve and sign two Hooper Institute Youth Workers Personnel forms. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
TrueNorth Scope of Work Agreement: Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Scope of Work agreement with TrueNorth for two Dell lap top computers for the amount of $2,556.72. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
Tax Collector Report: Mrs. Sandy Smith, Tax Collector, submitted the following report: The new Property Tax balance due is $422,747.02 for the 2017 spring bills. The total uncollected for all accounts including the above is $756,303.96. Mrs. Smith said this is spectacular compared to other towns.
Water and Sewer:
- Income Report: Ms. Daigle provided the following Water/Sewer Receipts to-date 7/13/2017: Total Receipts $241,254.79 and the Total left to Collect $84,046.87. This represents 74% paid and 26% still outstanding.
- New Policy and Procedure: This will be an Agenda item for the next meeting.
- Quarterly Billing Plan: This will be an Agenda item for the next meeting.
New England Power Co./National Grid – Map and Lot #026-010-000: Mrs. Pschirrer and Mrs. Downing met with Mr. Bob Watjen regarding National Grid’s request to regain ownership of Map and Lot #026-010-000. Mrs. Pschirrer worked with Attorney Hockensmith to discuss the research and history of this parcel. In 2010 the North Walpole Tax Collector took land she believed was owned by Boston and Main Railroad who had not been paying taxes on these two parcels. New England Power Co./National Grid is now selling this off to another corporation. They discovered there is this parcel of land in their records that they believe they own and found a Deed but in the Cheshire County Land Records the Town owns it. A part of the confusion is the State of NH did not tax the railroad land at that time. In summary: Mrs. Pschirrer explained the land belonged to the New England Power Company/National Grid. They now need to do work on that land. She requested that Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry authorize the transfer of #026-010-000 from the Town of Walpole to New England Power Co./National Grid. The Town will then calculate what they would have received for a tax bill for the spring 2017.
Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the return of the land, Map and Lot #026-010-000, back to the New England Power Co./National Grid. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
Mrs. Pschirrer will have Attorney Hockensmith process all the documents for this transfer.
Letter from Bennett Daviss: The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of a letter from Mr. Bennett Davis. Recently, a group of Walpole residents came before the Selectboard to introduce the idea of building a community solar energy array on the town’s closed dump site. The solar array would provide electricity to the grid that would be credited against the town’s electric bills, thus benefiting the residents of all three villages. Mr. Daviss is requesting two figures from its most recently completed operating year: the total number of kilowatt-hours of electricity the town consumed and the total amount of money the town paid for that electric power. These figures will enable consultants to give them realistic estimates of the size and cost of the array that state regulations would permit them to building. The Selectboard approved this request.
Thank You note from Fall Mountain Cross Country Ski Team: The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of a Thank You note from the Fall Mountain Cross Country Ski Team for their help during Old Home Days.
Thank You Note from Old Home Days Committee: A Thank You note was received from the Old Home Days Committee who expressed their appreciation for the Selectboard’s help during the Old Home Days celebration.
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 8:28 PM.
The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 8:40 PM.
ADJOURNMENT:
Ms. Mayberry moved to adjourn this 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
A Reminder
Sally McGaffigan wanted me to remind everyone that the Historical Societt Museum is open on Saturdays. – Lil
The Museum is open on Saturdays, noon to 4pm. Our Children’s Exhibit is unique with clothing and fashions for children of all ages from 1800 to the 1960’s. Our Time line of Walpole History is interesting and refreshing with articles and items to interest everyone. We also have history books & maps to help homeowners look up the history of their own home. Our gift shop is full of new and exciting things for yourself, your home and gift giving. Lots of new ideas for children’s gifts too. We welcome everyone to come and browse.
Save the Date – 10/21/17
Start getting in shape! Or at least make a plan to start next week after the weather cools! – Lil
Chickens on the Loose 5K
Saturday, Oct. 21, 2017
Walpole Elementary School
Registration 9:00 AM, Race 10:30 AM
$20 pre-race day/$25 day of race
Register online at http://www.lightboxreg.com/wptg
Post-race cookout, entertainment and raffle.
Register Early! Don’t miss the fun!
Walpole Parent Teacher Group Fundraiser
Call to Artists
The Saxtons River Art Guild is looking for fine art photographers and artists to participate in their annual Fall Arts Festival. This year’s event will take place October 7th and 8th from 10:00 – 4:00 at the picturesque Walpole Town Hall in Walpole, NH. Cost of an 8 x 10 space will be $25 for both days. Exhibitors must provide their own displays and stands. To sign up or get more information, please contact Donna Lund at (603)835-2387. The Saxtons River Art Guild is a non-profit organization whose purpose is to promote and encourage the advancement of fine arts. The group has membership throughout the Connecticut River Valley.
Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 7/6/17
TOWN OF WALPOLE
MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD
JULY 6, 2017
Selectboard Present: Peggy Pschirrer (Chair); Steven Dalessio; (Absent: Cheryl Mayberry)
CALL TO ORDER: Mrs. Pschirrer called this Selectboard meeting to order at 6:30 PM in the Walpole Town Hall. The absence of Ms. Mayberry was noted. She advised that this meeting is being recorded and asked anyone wishing to speak to identify themselves for the record. There were no members of the public in attendance.
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:
Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Accounts Payable check register in the amount of $56,544.33 for checks dated July 7, 2017. Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer. With Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Recreation Department Accounts Payable check register dated June 30, 2017, in the amount of $80.00 for the basketball referees. Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer. With Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
PAYROLL:
Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Payroll Check Register for the week ending July 01, 2017 in the amount of $28,546.37. Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer. With Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $6,096.25 for the week ending July 01, 2017. Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer. With Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:
SELECTBOARD MEETING – June 29, 2017: Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of June 29, 2017, as submitted. Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer. With Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the minutes were approved.
NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – June 29, 2017: Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of June 29, 2017, as submitted. These Minutes will remain sealed. Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer. With Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the minutes were approved.
COMMITTEE REPORTS:
The Selectboard received and reviewed Minutes of the following meeting:
- North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners – June 20, 2017.
Mrs. Pschirrer mentioned the Selectboard is going to notify the Commissioners that they have not changed anything on the formula or the printing on the sewer bills.
OLD BUSINESS:
Summer Recreation Youth Workers Personnel Forms: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve and sign two revised Summer Recreation Youth Workers Personnel forms. Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer. With Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
Letter to Barbara O’Brien, North Walpole Village Commissioner: Mr. Dalessio moved to accept and sign the letter dated July 6, 2017 to Mrs. Barbara O’Brien, Chair of the North Walpole Village Board of Commissioners, regarding the Arch Bridge. Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer. With Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
Letter to Manager of Shaw’s Supermarket: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve and sign the letter dated July 6, 2017 to the Manager of Shaw’s Supermarket in reference to non-service dogs in the grocery store. Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer. With Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
Recreation Oath of Appointment Form: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve and sign the Appointment Form for Mr. Andrew Buswell as a member of the Recreation Department for a three year term. Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer. With Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
NEW BUSINESS:
Hooper Institute Youth Workers Personnel Form: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve and sign one Hooper Institute Youth Workers Personnel form. Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer. With Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
Recreation Revolving Fund Request: Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the request from the Recreation Department to purchase ten lifeguard suits and two adult, child, and infant CPR masks using their Revolving Fund. The total cost with shipping comes to $360.40. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.
Tax Collection Report: The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of a Tax Collection Report from Mrs. Sandy Smith, Tax Collector. To date, $484,147.40 has not been collected on the Property Tax bills. We are doing great.
Water and Sewer Report and Letter: Mrs. Jodi Daigle submitted the Water/Sewer Receipts to date as follows: Total Receipts = $179,639.67. This represents approximately 55% of the billing which has a due date of July 12, 2017. The Selectboard approved the sample letter, as submitted by Mrs. Daigle, to be mailed on July 21, 2017 to property owners who have not paid their bill.
NH DOT Aquatic Resource Mitigation Program: Mrs. Pschirrer will call Mr. J.B. Mack from the Southwest Regional Planning Commission to invite him to attend the next Selectboard meeting to talk about the NH DOT Aquatic Resource Mitigation Program.
Primex: The Selectboard approved having Mrs. Downing register to attend the 2017 Primex September Supervisors’ Academy from September 12-14, 2017.
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 and (e) Pending Claims or Litigation. Mrs. Pschirrer seconded the motion and, on a roll call with Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved at 6:48 PM.
The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 6:55 PM.
Mr. Dalessio moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of July 6, 2017 be sealed. Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer. With Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:
Mr. Dalessio moved to recess this Selectboard meeting. The Selectboard will enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees. Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer. With Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved at 6:56 PM.
The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:04 PM.
OTHER BUSINESS:
Conservation Commission Meeting: Mrs. Pschirrer will attend the next Conservation Commission meeting on Monday, July 10th as Ms. Mayberry will be unable to attend.
Quarterly Water Bills: Mr. Dalessio will be putting together a schedule for the next water meter readings. This should be done the first week in January 2018; it will be a four month bill. Mrs. Downing explained some issues that have come up with the four quarterly bills and accruing interest. Mr. Dalessio will draft a policy that states all bills will have to be paid within 30 days; there will be a different policy for collections if that does not happen.
ADJOURNMENT:
Mr. Dalessio moved to adjourn this Selectboard meeting. Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer. With Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 7:20 PM.
Respectfully submitted,
Regina Borden, Recording Secretary
Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 6/29/17
TOWN OF WALPOLE
MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD
JUNE 29, 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 seven people in attendance.
FLASH FLOOD YARD DAMAGE – North Road: Mr. Wayne Wallace and Mrs. Brenda Wallace of North Road and Mr. Roland Caskin of Colonial Drive were present. Mr. Wallace advised they were present at a meeting a few years ago on a similar mission. Now they are back with the same problems but even worse. What the Town has done between then and now has been ineffective and even aggravated the problem. He displayed pictures of the recent flooding damage to their properties, explained the flow of water coming down the hill and location of the culverts. Mr. Caskin had about six inches of water in his basement plus damage to the driveway. Mrs. Pschirrer noted it was an intense rain storm. They have pictures of damage all over town and are collecting those pictures. Unfortunately the Town cannot work on private property. Mr. Wallace has contacted an engineer and talked to an attorney. He mentioned we now have a new normal of about 20 years as opposed to the 100 year floods. We might have another heavy rain tomorrow. Mr. Wallace explained in both New Hampshire and Vermont many culverts are being replaced with much larger ones. The catch basin is inadequate not only because of size but also debris that comes off the hill. Their repairs will cost more this time than before; they need the Town’s help. There is a way to accommodate the run-off on North Road for several properties. What the Town has done in the ditches there is only making matters worse because the ditch is filled with loose stones that roll. His engineer looked at the area and advised it is possible to leave the water on the north side of North Road, make the culverts big enough to take the water flow. They would need three-foot culverts and a four-foot clear ditch on the north side of the road. Mrs. Pschirrer pointed out the Town has an engineer coming tomorrow to meet with Mr. Mike Rau, Road Agent, to look at all the problem areas starting with Prospect Hill, Union and School Streets. There are streams on Old Keene Road that went into Ford Avenue. The Town cannot touch those streams without permission from the NH Department of Environmental Services (DES). South Street is owned by the State; they came in on Monday and dropped some stone in that area. The Town’s contracted engineer will also look at North Road. The Selectboard had previously walked and looked at the North Road area; options were discussed. Mr. Wallace’s legal advisor said it was illogical for the Town to dump water onto private property knowing it is going to damage private property which is what the Town knows they are doing. Mrs. Pschirrer noted the Town is not doing it deliberately. Mr. Wallace said now the Town knows there is a solution. There is a place to put the water; it is in the conservation area below the Hubbard house as there is a pond there. They would need permission from the owner. Mrs. Pschirrer will check into which of the conservation commissions owns the property. Mr. Dalessio felt research should be done to see if there were any building permits on these two properties. North Walpole also has water problems. Mrs. Pschirrer said their concern is always what is happening to the next property down the road. The engineering will be a major expense to the Town. After the engineering is done, they have to think about other infrastructure problems in Town that includes the water and sewer systems. The Selectboard will keep them informed but need some time. Mr. Wallace noted they would be happy to assist the Town with the engineering.
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 and, on a roll call vote with all in favor, the motion was approved at 7:04 PM.
The regular meeting resumed at 7:45 PM.
Ms. Mayberry moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of June 29, 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 $25,264.39 for checks dated June 30, 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 June 24, 2017 in the amount of $26,973.88 for checks dated June 30, 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 $6,023.39 for the week ending June 24, 2017. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:
SELECTBOARD MEETING – June 22, 2017: Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of June 22, 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 – June 22, 2017: Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of June 22, 2017. 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 – June 6, 2017;
- Walpole Cemetery Trustees Meeting – June 10, 2017;
- Walpole Planning Board Workshop – June 27, 2017.
OLD BUSINESS:
Non-Service Dogs in Food Establishments: This agenda item was put on-hold until the next meeting.
NEW BUSINESS:
Abatements – Water and Sewer:
MAP and LOT # 024-029-000: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Water Abatement in the amount of $161.83 for Map and Lot #024-029-000. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
Hooper Institute Youth Workers Personnel Forms: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve and sign the Hooper Institute Youth Workers Personnel Wage Forms. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
Summer Recreation Youth Workers Personnel Forms: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve and sign the Summer Recreation Youth Workers Personnel Wage Forms. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
Warrant Article #5 Purchase Order: Ms. Mayberry moved to authorize Mrs. Pschirrer, Chair, to sign the purchase order for repairs to the Police Station under Warrant Article #5. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
Info Technology and Website: Mr. Dalessio mentioned the Town’s website. Mrs. Downing is waiting for the person who is working on the update to forward her a link. Mrs. Pschirrer is anxious to get it up-and-running as soon as possible. Ms. Mayberry said the school administrator asked if the Town would be willing to put a link on the Town’s website to the SAU website. Mr. Dalessio continues to work on the website until the new person takes it over.
Mr. Dalessio has been talking with Mr. Mike Rau about preserving their old computers for possible use as extras, if needed. They also discussed updating to newer, state-of-the-art equipment and operating systems.
Water and Sewer Department Revenue Report: The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of the Water/Sewer Receipts to Date 6/29/2017 received from Mrs. Daigle.
Recreation Committee – Note of Interest: A letter of interest in being appointed to the Recreation Committee was received from Mr. Andrew Buswell.
Mr. Dalessio moved to appoint Mr. Andrew Buswell as a member of the Recreation Committee for a three year term. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
Conservation Commission – Note of Interest: A letter of interest was received from Ms. Laura Hayes who is requesting an appointment to the Conservation Commission. This letter will be forwarded to the Conservation Commission.
Cemetery Lot D454 Sale to Kenneth H. and Paula P. Patterson: Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Cemetery Deed for the sale of Cemetery Lot D454 to Kenneth H. and Paula P. Patterson. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
Unregistered Dog Listing: A list of dogs that have been registered in the past was submitted by Meghan Hansson, Deputy Town Clerk and Tax Collector. There was some response from owners of the unlicensed dogs but not a lot. The report listed 278 unlicensed dogs, as compared to 347 dogs that are already licensed. The Town Clerk’s office is required by the RSA to submit this list to the Selectboard for their review.
Band Concert Use of Town Hall: A request was received from Mrs. Terri Jo Terrell about using the Town Hall for band concerts on the Common if it rains on a Sunday night. Are they allowed to use the second floor? Mr. Dalessio pointed out that the band concerts are sponsored by the Savings Bank of Walpole. This is not a Boy Scout issue. However, he has no problem with them coming in to use either floor of the Town Hall provided there are no other events. Mrs. Pschirrer noted they just need to be told to not go behind the curtains.
Conservation Commission: Ms. Mayberry will be unable to attend the next Conservation Commission meeting on July 10th. Mrs. Pschirrer and/or Mr. Dalessio will try to attend.
RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:
Ms. Mayberry moved to recess this Selectboard meeting. The Selectboard will enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved at 8:22 PM.
The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 8:44 PM.
ADJOURNMENT:
Ms. Mayberry moved to adjourn this meeting. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 8:45 PM.
Respectfully submitted,
Regina Borden, Recording Secretary
The Walpolean 
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