The Walpolean

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

OCTOBER 27, 2016

 

Selectboard Present:     Steven Dalessio (Chair); Peggy Pschirrer; Whitney Aldrich

 

CALL TO ORDER:  Mr. Dalessio called this Selectboard meeting to order at 6:50 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.  He advised that this meeting is being recorded and asked anyone wishing to speak to identify themselves for the record.  There were six people in attendance.

 

GRAVES GRAVEL PIT:  Ms. Patricia Rodrigues, a resident of Westmoreland, related background information regarding her property and issues she is experiencing with the Graves Gravel Pit.

Ms. Rodrigues’ property is in Westmoreland and abuts the Graves Gravel Pit, which is in both Westmoreland and Walpole.  Ms. Rodrigues has had ongoing issues with regards to the gravel pit’s operations and expansion.  The Walpole ZBA suggested Ms. Rodrigues come to the Selectboard to discuss the gravel pit’s hours of operation. The discussion quickly expanded to other issues that Ms. Rodrigues has with the gravel pit.  The Selectboard suggested that Ms. Rodrigues obtain a lawyer to help her address the issues of easements, property lines, and other issues that involve the NH DOT and NH DES permitting. All of these types of issues are outside the responsibilities of the Walpole Selectboard and may involve Westmoreland.

After a lengthy discussion the Selectboard recommended that Ms. Rodrigues return to the Walpole ZBA to discuss the issue of the gravel pit’s expansion in Walpole. The ZBA would need to determine if this is an expansion of a non-conforming use and if further actions are required.

The Selectboard agreed to look into the hours of operation and if an update of the tax card is required.

Ms. Pschirrer commented that when non-residents come before boards, there may be questions in regards to their standing in the matter.
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Accounts Payable check register in the amount of $53,136.16 for checks dated October 28, 2016.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

PAYROLL:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Payroll voucher for the week ending October 22, 2016, in the amount of $21,138.55 for checks dated October 28, 2016.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $4,405.48 for the week ending October 22, 2016.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

 

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – October 20, 2016:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of October 20, 2016, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the minutes were approved.

STAFF MEETING – October 20, 2016:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the Staff Meeting of October 20, 2016, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the minutes were approved.  Mr. Aldrich abstained as he was not present.

 

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard received and reviewed Minutes of the following meetings:

• Walpole Conservation Commission – October 3, 2016;
• North Walpole Village Board of Commissioners Meeting – October 11, 2016;
• North Walpole Village Board of Commissioners Meeting – October 18, 2016;
• Walpole Zoning Board of Adjustment Meeting – October 19, 2016;
• Walpole Planning Board Workshop – October 25, 2016.

 

WARRANTS:

NORTH WALPOLE SEWER FEES:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Town of Walpole Warrant for the Collection of North Walpole Sewer Fees in the amount of $58,042.17.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

WALPOLE WATER FEES:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Town of Walpole Warrant for the Collection of Walpole Water Fees in the amount of $89,888.47.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

WALPOLE SEWER FEES:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Town of Walpole Warrant for the Collection of Walpole Sewer Fees in the amount of $74,400.40.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

 

WATER / SEWER ABATEMENTS:

HUBBARD, 311 Main Street, Map and Lot # 024-015-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to grant the Water Abatement in the amount of $137.64 Water and $15.93 Interest for Dale Hubbard.  A new invoice was created to correct a system error.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

R.N. JOHNSON, INC., 269 Main Street, Map and Lot # 023-003-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to grant the Water / Sewer Abatement in the amount of $63.00 for Water and $56.00 for Sewer as there is no meter at this location.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

ESHELMAN, 1162 Main Street, Map and Lot # 027-008-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to grant the Sewer Abatement in the amount of $56.00 as there is no meter at this location.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

NOTICE OF INTENT TO CUT WOOD OR TIMBER:

CLARK, 219 Valley Road, Map and Lot # 013-016-001:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve this Notice of Intent to Cut Wood or Timber for Patrick M. Clark, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

 

VETERANS’ TAX CREDITS:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to grant Veterans’ Tax Credits for property owners as follows:

PA-29s:

• Map & Lot # 028-103-000;
• Map & Lot # 029-026-000;

• Map & Lot # 028-092-000
• Map & Lot # 013-020-000;
• Map & Lot # 012-027-000;
• Map & Lot # 018-008-000;
• Map & Lot # 019-064-000;
• Map & Lot # 020-006-000;
• Map & Lot # 024-017-000;
• Map & Lot # 021-005-000;
• Map & Lot # 008-034-000;

PA-35s:

• Map & Lot # 013-003-002;
• Map & Lot # 012-018-000;
• Map & Lot # 008-085-000;
• Map & Lot # 022-008-000;
• Map & Lot # 023-013-000;
• Map & Lot # 021-029-000;
• Map & Lot # 030-013-000;
• Map & Lot # 017-020-000;
• Map & Lot # 008-047-000;
• Map & Lot # 028-117-000;
• Map & Lot # 008-051-000;
• Map & Lot # 021-035-000;
• Map & Lot # 030-015-000;
• Map & Lot # 008-070-000;
• Map & Lot # 019-029-000;
• Map & Lot # 005-015-000;
• Map & Lot # 013-029-000;
• Map & Lot # 026-032-000;
• Map & Lot # 008-107-000;
• Map & Lot # 008-020-000;
• Map & Lot # 028-074-000.

Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

 

OLD BUSINESS:

Whipple Hill Road:  The Selectboard is continuing their research on Whipple Hill Road. The board requested that a representative from Cold River Materials/Lane Construction be invited to a future meeting to confirm agreements.

Personnel Manual Legal Review:  The Personnel Manual is in the process of being review by a legal firm.

 

NEW BUSINESS:

Preliminary Tax Rate Status:   Mr. Kreissle reported that the Village of North Walpole continues to work on their MS-535.  Ms. Jamie Dow of the Department of Revenue Administration is aware of this and will work with them tomorrow and early next week.  The issue with the Fall Mountain Regional School District is being reviewed and appears to be resolved.

Approval to Charge at LaValley Building Supply:  The Selectboard decided it was not appropriate to have non-town employees have this authority.

Tulip Event Insurance Waiver Request for Town Hall Rental:  A request was received from a Town Hall renter that the TULIP insurance be waived.  This is for a baby shower involving no alcohol or physical activities.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve this request to waive the TULIP insurance for this baby shower on Saturday, October 29^th.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Tom Murray – ZBA Appointment Notice:  The Zoning Board of Adjustment has recommended that Mr. Thomas Murray be appointed as a member of their board to fill a vacancy.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to appoint Mr. Thomas Murray as a member of the Zoning Board of Adjustment for a period of five (5) months from November 2016 through Town Meeting, March 2017.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Kitchen Stove Gas Shut-Off:  The Selectboard did not feel a gas shut off was needed at this time.

Update Tri-Fold Directory Insert:  Mrs. Downing reported that the office hours were added to the insert.  The tri-folds are a very popular item.

Asset Management Grant Application – re: Community Water Systems.  Mr. Mark Houghton did receive this information and felt it was not necessary to apply for the grant.

Graves Gravel Pit – re: LUCT:  While researching and photocopying materials for Patty Rodrigues, the fact that the Graves Pit area of disturbance has grown in size was recognized. If a Land Use Change Tax (LUCT) should be applied was discussed.  Mrs. Downing recommended that this be brought to the attention of Mrs. Loren Martin of Avitar Associates.

Rasonsomeware: The Selectboard requested that Mrs. Downing send a note to town employees that they should be extra cautious in regards to e-mails from unknown sources due to increased ransomeware activity.

Change of Selectboard Meeting Day: The Selectboard Meeting of Thursday, Nov. 24^th will be rescheduled to Wednesday, Nov. 23^rd. This will be a non-public, town business only meeting.

 

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:

Mr. Aldrich moved to recess this Selectboard meeting.  The Selectboard will enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved at 8:05 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 8:14 PM.

 

ADJOURNMENT:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to adjourn this Selectboard meeting.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 8:15 PM.

 

Respectfully submitted,

Sarah Downing, Substitute Recording Secretary

A brief Shout Out to the Steve Dalession, Peggy Pschirrer, and Whit Aldrich for holding these Staff Meetings and to Sarah Downing For sharing them.  I find them very informative and I am sure others do as well! – Lil

TOWN OF WALPOLE

STAFF MEETING

OCTOBER 20, 2016

 

Selectboard Present:     Steven Dalessio (Chair); Peggy Pschirrer; (Absent – Whitney Aldrich)

 

Staff Present:               Sarah Downing (Executive – Manager of Administration); Rich Kreissle (Executive – Manager of Finance); Michael Rau (Road Agent); Paul Colburn (Recycling Center); Justine Rogers (Librarian); Rebecca Whippie (Hooper Institute)

Guest:  Cheryl Mayberry (Commissioner – Village of North Walpole)

 

Call To Order:  Mr. Dalessio called this Staff meeting to order at 5:10 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.  He advised that this meeting is being recorded.

 

Library:  Ms. Justine Rogers provided the following report:

Library Cards:

September was a big month for new patrons!  They had 29 residents create new library accounts.  Our monthly average is about 8 new patrons, so this was a huge month.  She thinks their new library brochures and the article in the Clarion about their new library cards gave them some good press.

Book Sale:

The Friends of the Library book sale is next week-end the 28-30^th of October at the middle school with the preview on the 28^th costing a $20 admission fee.  Mostly book dealers come on Friday.  There will also be an Usborne book consultant, some groups selling baked goods and some people with yard sale tables.  Mr. Dalessio mentioned that they appreciate all the help they can get in the late afternoon on Sunday as cleaning-up can be very heavy work.

Food for Fines:

The week of Thanksgiving (Nov. 21^st-23^rd) they will be doing Food for Fines.  Anyone can bring in non-perishable food that will be donated to the Fall Mountain food shelf and they will erase their fines, up to $1 for each food item.  This only waives overdue fees, not lost or damaged item fees.  They did this last year and it was a great success.  They donated 4 big bags full of food and got a few “lost” items returned to the library.  They will have the dates on their website, their Facebook page, the Walpolean and in the November Clarion.

Library Donations in Memory of Pam Howard:

Pam Howard’s family had asked that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Friends of the Library.  They are extremely grateful for the generosity of the family as well as all of those who knew Pam and have sent donations.  The Friends will take care of keeping track of donations and writing thank you notes to the family and the donors.

Ms. Rogers reported that they had a meeting with the fourth grade boys “Book Club” this afternoon.  They have now read three books.  The Library Trustees are doing a survey to get some feedback on how the community would like the Library to focus their efforts.  More programs for kids or adults and/or other suggestions.

Stats:

NW Sept 2015:  198 circ, 82 people

NW Sept 2016:  196 circ, 69 people, 28 hours

Walpole Sept 2015: 25 days open, 1032 people, 1748 circ., 19 programs, 144 people for programs.

Walpole Sept 2016: 23 days open, 1588 people, 2093 circ., 33 programs, 348 people for programs.

 

Highway Department:  Mr. Mike Rau, Road Agent, provided the following report for the period of September 23, 2016 to October 20, 2016:

• Cold patched;
• Tim Latham wired the salt shed and it was filled with salt. It is ready for winter;
• Serviced trucks and equipment for winter;
• Fixed the regulator on Truck-5;
• Fixed the peddle in the loader;
• The chipper got a new battery and the brakes were fixed;
• Fixed the spinner on Truck-6;
• Fixed the hydraulics on Truck-7;
• Cleaned catch basins;
• Crushed dumpsters for the Recycling Center;
• Fixed the March Hill Bridge;
• Continued the mowing;
• Put up signs on Avery Lane and LaClair Road;
• Replaced 2 culverts on Barnett Hill Road;
• Paved cuts in on Barnett Hill;
• Replaced culvert and cleaned ditch on Wentworth Road;
• Mixed winter sand;
• Graveled, raked, rolled and sprayed chloride on French Road;
• Sprayed chloride on Crehore, Merriam and Scovill Roads;
• Working on getting all trucks ready for winter;
• Painted parking spaces on Elm and Westminster Streets;
• Painted lines on Pleasant Street and put up signs;
• Painted lines on Main Street and March Hill Road;
• Brought stone to the gazebo.

A lot of the maintenance work is done in-house.  Mr. Dalessio asked Mr. Rau to check Carpenter Hill as it needs some grading.  Mr. Rau mentioned that originally they had the wrong blend of chloride, the company came and re-mixed it; in the end they had more so will have enough for next year.

Mr. Rau spoke with Mr. Randy Rhoades about the permitting for the bridge projects.  Beaver Tracks has flagged the wetlands and now they can begin drawing up plans on how they will be fixed.  After the plans are drawn up they will be sent to the Department of Environmental Services (DES) for their approval.

The Highway Department worked on the deteriorating footings on the March Hill bridge; one of the red listed bridges.  The work is done and now the paperwork just needs to be finished up for DES.  Mr. Rau is waiting on Mr. Warren Stevens to draw up a sketch of the work that was done.  It came out great.  He thinks that the DES will be pleased with it.

Mr. Joe DiBernardo, surveyor, was at Mill Pond today.  Mr. Rau will contact him in about a week to see how everything is going.  Mr. Rau is pushing the paving company to finish up soon; Watkins Hill will bring the paving up to 8.2 miles.  Mr. Dalessio pointed out that they were able to do more miles of paving for less money this year.  He asked Mr. Rau to get bills into the office as soon as possible as work has begun on the 2017 budget.

Mr. Rau reported that they will be getting their new zero-turn mower and would like to donate their old one to the Recycling Center.  Mr. Colburn accepted and thanked them for the donation.

 

Police Department:  Police Chief Michael Paquette and Sergeant Justin Sanctuary were unable to attend this meeting.  Their monthly report for the period of September 15, 2016 through October 15, 2016, had been submitted.  There were 387 calls for service.  They are broken down as follows:

• Public Safety Calls:

Emergency Calls – 33              Administrative – 58                 Citizen Assists – 86

• Motor Vehicle Calls:

Accidents – 9                           MV Stops – 98                         Traffic Safety – 24

• Criminal Investigations:

Drugs/Alcohol – 9       Crimes Against A Person – 43     Crimes Against Property – 27

Mr. Dalessio mentioned that the dip in their calls is allowing them to get caught up on paperwork for several cases.  There are many issues in the Town; some are drug related.  Homes and businesses have been broken into.  The Police Department work continues to go up.  There is some good news in Town; some time ago the Police Department instituted a program to keep juveniles out of the system; they had two go through the program very successfully.  This program will continue on.  It gives them a fresh start.

 

Selectboard Office:   Mrs. Sarah Downing submitted the following report:

5 Year Requalification of Veterans’ Tax Credit:

The NH Department of Revenue (DRA) auditors returned on September 30^th to review prior tax exemption files that needed additional information.  They also conducted an audit of Veteran’s Tax Credit files.  Several property owners who receive the credit had a change of applicant for the credit (they are now surviving spouses) and unsigned, older PA-29 forms.  Additional work is being conducted to bring the files up to the DRA standards.  The DRA auditors will return to review the files that need updating.

The Town Hall will be the hosting site for a DRA sponsored workshop entitled “Current Use Criteria and Rules” on Tuesday, November 29^th from 9am to 1pm.

Town Hall Facilities:

The following repairs occurred: (the new handyman has been kept very busy)

• Tiling of the elevator floor;
• Adding landscaping cloth and rock to the drip edge area of the gazebo;
• Removal of stains and splashed dirt from gazebo;
• Sprinkler repair of air leaks/pipes in system.

Town Hall Rentals and Reservations:

• High level of use through the end of the year for civic, town and non-profit events, family gatherings and weddings.
• Eight new 6 foot tables have been ordered to help replace stock in poor condition;
• New coffee urn has been ordered for the kitchen.

 

Budgeting:

Sought quotes for municipal building repairs and equipment such as sprinkler system flushing, mag lock/pad key system for Town Hall, new IT equipment, etc.

Assessing Update:

Deed Transfers that have occurred from 9/9/16 to 9/30/16 are being added to our assessing system.  Avitar will be reviewing sales which will then be factored into the Town’s equalization percentage for taxes.

“Save the Date” Reminders:

• Health Trust Benefits Overview Presentation: Friday, Oct. 21^st from 1 – 2 pm in the Town Hall. **All full-time employees are expected to attend** Spouses can attend the presentation.
• Sexual and Other Forms of Harassment Training: Scheduled for Friday, Nov. 4^th from 1-2:30 pm for all regular full and part-time employees in the Town Hall.

** Attendance is expected.  There will be a sign-in sheet**

 

Town Clerk’s Office:  Mrs. Sandra Smith was unable to be here as she is attending a conference.  She left the following Report of the Town Clerk-Tax Collector:

She will be away at the NH City and Town Clerks Conference in North Conway, this is an Annual Meeting and helps to keep them up to date on rules and regulations, etc.

They have been very busy with the upcoming election.  Registering people to vote, answering lots of questions.  Sending out absentee ballots.  They have mailed out approximately 140 ballots.  The process is very time consuming and requests are still arriving.  Most requests are being filled on the same day.  The turn-around is short on elections, so they cannot waste any time!

They have collected $60,131.34 in property taxes.  $64,263.00 in vehicle registration fees.

Dogs, vital records, etc. were another $2,097.00 for a grand total of $66,360.00 collected by the Clerk’s office.

They still have no idea when they will have a Warrant.  Town, County, School, Fire and North Walpole all must send their forms into the State before we have a Tax Rate.  So Taxes will be a little late.  Mr. Dalessio pointed out that the goal is to have everything into the State by November 1^st.

The tax payer has 30 days to pay after the bills are mailed.  After 30 days they start charging interest of 12 percent.

 

Walpole Recreation:  Mr. Justin Cassarino was unable to attend due to soccer practice.  Following is his monthly report:

Soccer-

• Season has been going well. Players and parents have been very pleased with the set day schedule this year.
• Two more weeks left in the season.
• New goals are great! They can’t take them down over the winter, so he is getting permission from Sam Jacobs to leave them at the NWS. They will cover them with tarps for the winter.
• Can a thank you letter be sent to Justin Parrot for spending 4+ hours putting the goals together? He and Whit did a great job and the Rec. Committee and he really appreciated it.

Pool-

• Reached out to Pete from Allen Pool and Spa to check in about the cover. He said that it just arrived yesterday and they are going to try and find a day that they can deliver and put the cover on for them.

• Pool will be closed (water shut off) on Tuesday, October 25.

Tennis-

• Tennis courts were resurfaced and cracks filled in. This is a good temporary fix until they can replace all of the courts in the park.  Committee met with Bill and David to discuss what they would like to see done.
• Can they have someone trim the bushes around the courts? There is a plaque with information that is covered and David has been doing it around the fence as well.
• Tournament this weekend.

Pool House-

• Can they change the locks on the pool house? Somehow a tennis player was given a key many years ago and still has it.  They need to have a way to know who has the keys at all times.  He has gone down to check in on things at the pool while the courts were being done, and the door has been unlocked and lights were on.  This is a huge liability!

Mrs. Downing advised that Country Lock came and re-keyed two of the doors; he will come back and repair the lock on the pool side.  Mr. Rau will take care of trimming the bushes around the courts.  The Highway Department will start doing leaves next week.

 

Hooper Institute:  Ms. Rebecca Whippie provided the following report:

Last week they had a guest speaker, Daniel Harrigan, he was inquiring as to whether the Hooper Institute would be receptive to have some hazelnuts planted.  He would like to put them closer to the pond along the fence line.  It will depend on whether the soil is appropriate or not.  He is excited about planting some and to see how they will go.  The Hooper Committee moved to proceed.  The first step is for him to test the soil.  The plants would probably not come in until July 2017.  Mrs. Clark has been working around trees and migration.  They had one bed of butternut squash that yielded 92 squashes.  Ms. Whippie has been doing leaf anatomy, matching photosynthesis and the color of chlorophyll.  They have been focusing on bees; she had a rainy day and did some ladybug lessons.  Green beans were harvested and some were made into dilly beans.  As soon as something gets harvested they taste everything unless it is something that has to be dried but then they will probably taste it later.  Rhubarb, squash and kale were harvested.  They made kale chips and rhubarb cake.  They are working on popcorn; they are doing life cycle drawings and labels.  They had enough corn this year so that every child had one of their own.  The chives were dried and can be taken home for future use.  They are gearing up on composting and soils.  Fourth graders are gearing up for their first farm and forest field trips.  Two farms they are going to are diverse.  They already talked to the students about farms, the different types of farms, and to come up with specific questions to ask at the farms.

Mr. Dalessio asked that everyone give Ms. Whippie and Mrs. Clark a round of applause for their award as the 2016 Educators of the Year.  They will be recognized at the Annual Meeting of the Cheshire County Conservation District meeting on October 25^th at 6:00 PM in the Keene Country Club.  It is exciting to hear what they do.  It is very impressive.  They have made the Town of Walpole proud.

 

Recycling Center:  Mr. Paul Colburn provided the following report:

Mr. Colburn referenced and explained the numbers on the “Daily Weight Report and Year to Date Comparison”.  It indicates that the tonnage is down about 31/tons.  In 2011 and 2012 they were still doing tubes.  Glass is also being weighed differently.  The annual forecast is 374.43/ton; the annual estimate is 335.63/ton.  Cardboard continues to be lower.  They recycle the Re-use solid waste (junk plastic, C&D and Re-use C&D); this will close for the winter because there is no heat.  They do not have as many volunteers as they had in the past.  They did take in two truckloads of cardboard today.

The second chart is the “Five Year Comparison on Recyclables”.  They are very close to the average.  Historically September is a big month for them.  Last week some of the commercial entities in Town brought in some materials.  Revenues have been up for most of the month.  Markets are still up-and-down.  The best market is for cardboard.  He is looking into working with another vendor as there is more revenue to be made.

A few weeks ago the Police Department found some bags along the roadside with identification papers inside.  As a result one volunteer came in to work on a Saturday for seven hours.  He expects a few others to do the same. They have had a few people doing community service.  Their metal box that they use is in need of repairs so he is going to ship it out tomorrow to get the work done.  Mr. Colburn would like push bars on their doors to be ADA compliant.  Mr. Dalessio replied that if there is money left in the building repairs account he can have them.  Mr. Colburn would also like to purchase some paint this year to do the center next year.

2017 Budget Meetings:  Mrs. Pschirrer report that Department Head budget meetings are scheduled for Monday.  Mr. Dalessio noted that as of right now the 2016 budget balance is looking good.  In 2017 they have to do the town-wide assessment at a cost of about $130,000.00.  It is about $65.00/house.  They will see how the budget rolls along.

Adjournment:  Mr. Dalessio adjourned this Staff Meeting at 5:59 PM.

 

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

OCTOBER 20, 2016

 

Selectboard Present:     Steven Dalessio; Peggy Pschirrer; Whitney Aldrich (late)

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

 

WHIPPLE HILL ROAD:  Mr. David Hewes recently heard about the Selectboard having approved an unlocked gate at the end of Whipple Hill Road.  He has used the gravel pit as a recreation spot and hunted around it for about 25 years.  He never saw any debris or even a beer can left behind.  The gravel pit is also used for target practice but it is a safe area.  There have been no issues.  On occasion Lane Construction has to run large equipment down Whipple Hill to get into the pit and they would not be able to get through with a gate there. He spoke to the manager of Lane Construction who said they do not intend to post “No Trespassing” signs on their property.  It has always been “open” property.  It should continue to be a public thoroughfare.  Mr. Dalessio was concerned about drinking and shooting when it was brought before the Selectboard.  Apparently none of the other abutters were consulted.  Mr. Whitney Aldrich came into the meeting. The road is access into a commercial business.  There are a number of things that need to be clarified. Following a lengthy discussion Mr. Dalessio and Mrs. Pschirrer agreed to visit the area, do research and re-consider their decision about Mrs. Spivey’s request to install an unlocked gate.  Mrs. Downing was asked to write a follow-up letter to Mr. and Mrs. Spivey to state that more information has come to the attention of the Selectboard therefore they need to reconsider their decision regarding the gate and other issues surrounding the property.  Please refrain from taking any action until they hear back from the Selectboard.              

 

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Accounts Payable check register in the amount of $555,942.30 for checks dated October 21, 2016.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With two members in favor, the motion was approved.

It was noted that the above amount includes a monthly payment in the amount of $513,448.73 to the Fall Mountain Regional School District.

PAYROLL:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Payroll voucher for the week ending October 22, 2016, in the amount of $22,042.78 for checks dated October 21, 2016.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With two members in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $4,652.65 for the week ending October 22, 2016.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With two members in favor, the motion was approved.

 

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – October 13, 2016:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of October 13, 2016, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the Minutes were approved. 

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – October 13, 2016:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of October 13, 2016, as submitted.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard received and reviewed Minutes of the following meeting:

• Hooper Institute Committee Meeting – October 11, 2016

 

VETERANS’ TAX CREDITS:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the following property owners for Veterans’ Tax Credits:

PA29s:

• Map & Lot # 022-017-000;
• Map & Lot # 009-020-000;
• Map & Lot # 008-044-000;
• Map & Lot # 021-003-000;
• Map & Lot # 020-007-000;
• Map & Lot # 010-043-001;
• Map & Lot # 029-034-000;
• Map & Lot # 017-012-000;
• Map & Lot # 008-032-000.

PA-35s:

• Map & Lot # 013-019-000;
• Map & Lot # 028-132-000;
• Map & Lot # 016-014-000;
• Map & Lot # 008-095-001;
• Map & Lot # 024-030-000;
• Map & Lot # 010-020-000;
• Map & Lot # 017-011-000;
• Map & Lot # 012-070-000;
• Map & Lot # 004-043-000;
• Map & Lot # 008-108-000;
• Map & Lot # 019-014-001;
• Map & Lot # 029-023-000;
• Map & Lot # 014-014-000;
• Map & Lot # 030-021-000;
• Map & Lot # 020-003-000;
• Map & Lot # 005-023-000;
• Map & Lot # 029-010-000;
• Map & Lot # 028-009-000;
• Map & Lot # 003-022-000;
• Map & Lot # 017-021-000;
• Map & Lot # 009-062-001.

Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

 

OLD BUSINESS:

Fairpoint Appeal:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to split the refund due Fairpoint in the Abatement and use the $24,752.00 as a credit over the next two years.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved. 

All Saints Parish – Short Term Rental Form for November 8^th – Election Day: Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Chair of the Selectboard, Mr. Steve Dalessio, sign the Short Term Facility Agreement for use of the All Saints Parish Hall for the Presidential voting on November 8, 2016.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.  

Personnel Policy Manual re: Legal Review Agreement:  Mr. Dalessio moved to authorize Mrs. Peggy Pschirrer to sign the Legal Review Agreement for the Personnel Policy Manual.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Water and Sewer Update:  Mrs. Downing reported that Mrs. Linda Edkins is double checking the figures.  Mr. Mark Houghton and Bryan will look at the reports.  Billing will be done next week.

 

NEW BUSINESS:

The following two policies were written by Mr. Tom Goins, Treasurer.

Collateralization of Public Funds, Treasurer Policy TP-004:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Treasurer’s Policy TP-004 – Collateralization of Public Funds.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Public Deposit Investment Pool, Treasurer Policy, TP-003:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Treasurer’s Policy TP-003, Public Deposit Investment Pool.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Southwest Regional Planning Commission:  An email was received from Mr. Ben Daviss who is representing the Town on the Board of the Southwest Regional Planning Commission.  Mr. J.B. Mack is offering to help the Town with a Traffic Study on Route 12 that would look at all the accidents, fatalities, etc. and the Town might possibly be eligible for Federal Safety Highway Funds to help make improvements  along Route 12.  It does not sound like there is any financial obligation.

Mr. Dalessio moved that Ms. Cheryl Mayberry be appointed to work with J.B. Mack at the Southwest Regional Planning Commission on the Traffic Safety Audit on Route 12.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Cemetery Deed:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to grant the Cemetery Deed for Lots D455 and D456 for David Howard and Heirs.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Selectboard Office:  The Selectboard approved Mrs. Downing’s request to take Friday, October 28^th and Monday, October 31, 2016, off.  There will be office coverage.

New Tables:  Mrs. Downing and Mrs. Edkins had discussed whether or not the new tables should leave the Town Hall building.  The Selectboard agreed to leave the decision in the hands of Mrs. Downing and Mrs. Edkins.

NH Water Council:  The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of a copy of the letter from the Water Council to Patricia Rodrigues and John Corduff who are requesting a Motion to Appeal regarding the George Graves Gravel pit.  This letter will be kept in the file for future reference.

 

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:

Mr. Aldrich moved to recess this Selectboard meeting.  The Selectboard will enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With all in favor, the motion was approved at 7:35 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:53 PM.

 

ADJOURNMENT:

Mr. Aldrich moved to adjourn this meeting.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 7:54 PM.

 

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary