The Walpolean

Sarah Downing asked that I note the following correction to the minutes of the May 12th meeting as well as alert all to the change in meeting time for the Selectboard meeting next week.

The corrected item should read:

“The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of a Thank You letter from the Cheshire County YMCA for the appropriation of $700.00 for Camp Takodah.”  

and:

 The Selectboard meeting of Thursday, June 9^th, 2016, will be on Wednesday, June 8^th, 2016, at 6:00 PM.  Members of the Leadership Academy will be attending.

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

MAY 19, 2016

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

CALL TO ORDER:  Mr. Dalessio called this meeting of the Selctboard to order at 6:25 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.  Prior to this meeting the Selectboard had a monthly meeting with the Staff.  He advised that this meeting is being recorded and asked anyone wishing to speak to identify themselves for the record.  There were four people in attendance.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to enter into a Non-Public Selectboard Session #1 pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (a) Personnel and (c) Reputations.  Mr. Aldrich seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with all in favor, the motion was approved.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 6:33 PM.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of May 19, 2016, be sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:

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

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:05 PM.

PUBLIC BUSINESS:

1. JACK NEARY: Mr. Jack Neary and Mrs. Nancy Neary came into the meeting. Mr. Neary discussed the sidewalk on Pleasant Street.  When his grandchildren come to visit he would like them to have a sidewalk like his own children enjoyed.  Mrs. Pschirrer advised that there is no money for the sidewalk in this year’s budget.  Mr. Neary explained that money was put aside for that sidewalk on Pleasant Street under an Article that was approved by the voters; it was non-lapsing.  The money was set aside to do the sidewalk in conjunction with the Water Project.  Mr. Dalessio asked if there is a sidewalk on Pleasant Street.  Mr. Neary replied that there is a sidewalk on Pleasant Street across the street from his house; but he is not asking that it be in front of his property although he would not object if there was a sidewalk there.  His concern is that the existing sidewalk is deteriorating.  Mr. Dalessio pointed out that they would do some research to find that Article.  If that is the case they certainly need to look into why it was not done.  He advised that Pleasant Street will be dug up soon for the water line replacement project.  On May 25^th at 6:00 PM there will be a meeting with the residents on the street to talk about this project.  Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Aldrich will be there.  At this time no decision has been made on the Pleasant Street sidewalk.  It might be a black-top sidewalk.  The existing sidewalk will be taken out because of its deteriorating condition.  Mrs. Neary stated that Pleasant Street is a nice street with beautiful houses and she does not like to see it being ignored.  Mr. Dalessio summarized that they all agree that the sidewalk on Pleasant Street is in deplorable condition.  They are all talking about this project as a team.  They will review the comments made at the meeting and try to come up with the best solution.  Mr. Neary referenced the Article by stating that they have been patiently waiting for the water line replacement project feeling that the sidewalk would be replaced at that time.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION:

Mrs. Pschirrer 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. Aldrich seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with all in favor, the motion was approved at 7:25 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 8:03 PM.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session #2 of May 19, 2016, be sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Mr. Aldrich moved to accept the Accounts Payable check register in the amount of $542,332.99 for checks dated May 20, 2016.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.  This includes a monthly payment in the amount of $493,448.73 to the Fall Mountain Region School District.

Mr. Aldrich moved to accept the Accounts Payable check register in the amount of $25,000.00 to the Walpole Fire District in accordance with the 2016 Warrant Article.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

PAYROLL:

Mr. Aldrich moved to accept the Payroll voucher for the week ending May 14, 2016, in the amount of $21,733.72 for checks dated May 20, 2016.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Aldrich moved to accept the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $4,751.30 for the week ending May 14, 2016.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – May 12, 2016: Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of May 12, 2016, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – May 12, 2016:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of May 12, 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 meetings:

• North Walpole Village District, Board of Commissioners – May 16, 2016;
• Hooper Institute Committee – April 10, 2016;
• Zoning Board of Adjustment – 192 March Hill Road Site Walk – May 14, 2016.

ABATEMENTS and REFUNDS – Property:

73 TURNPIKE STREET, LLC., 73 Main Street, Map & Lot #020-052-000:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Property Tax Abatement Refund in the amount of $916.04 for 73 Turnpike Street, LLC.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved. 

AITHER, 425 Valley Road, Map & Lot #013-044-000:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Property Tax Abatement Refund in the amount of $521.12 for Richard Aither.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

BERNARD, 69 High Street, Map & Lot #021-024-001: Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Property Tax Abatement Refund in the amount of $995.73 for Pamela and Harry Bernard.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

KINSON, 29 Green Road, Map & Lot #026-006-000:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Property Tax Abatement Refund in the amount of $1,067.21 for Daniel and Kristie Kinson.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

KSR PROPERTY MANAGEMENT, 22 School Street, Map & Lot #019-057-000:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Property Tax Abatement Refund in the amount of $2,924.21 for KSR Property Management.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

PINKERTON, 5 Maple Street, Map & Lot #028-071-000:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Property Tax Abatement Refund in the amount of $366.14 for Amy Pinkerton.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

ABATEMENT APPROVALS:

HESS, 95 North Road, Map & Lot #022-013-000:  Mr. Aldrich moved to sign the Property Tax Abatement Refund in the amount of $2,173.85 for Mr. Robert S. Hess.  This amount will be credited to taxes due.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

ABATEMENT DENIALS:

NNETO (FairPoint), 2015 Pole Count and Conduit Data:  Mr. Aldrich moved to sign the Property Tax Abatement Denial for NNETO (FairPoint).  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

WARRANTS:

TAX COLLECTOR’S WARRANT, Property Tax Levy, Spring Billing 2016:  Mr. Aldrich moved to sign the Tax Collector’s Warrant – Property Tax Levy – State of New Hampshire – for the amount of $5,097,516.00.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS:

Committee Appointment Notices:  The Selectboard signed the Committee Appointment documents; these appointments were previously approved.  There is still one vacancy for the WRAP Committee.

Employee Policy Handbook Update:  Mrs. Pschirrer continues to work on this handbook update.

Grant Curbing Gift:  An estimate was received from the Northcott Company.  Blanc and Bailey did not respond.  Mr. Dalessio will talk to Mr. Ray Boas about the cost for installing the granite curbing.

NEW BUSINESS:

Walpole Tax Maps – Cost:  Mrs. Mansouri, on behalf of Galloway Realty, was asking about copies of the Walpole Tax Maps. The company cost is $225.00 if they want them.   

Thank You Letter from Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA):  The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of the Thank You letter from CASA for the Town’s appropriation of $500.00.

Thank You Letter from Big Brothers / Big Sisters of New Hampshire: The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of the Thank You letter from Big Brothers / Big Sisters of NH for the Town’s appropriation of $500.00.

Town Hall Kitchen Refrigerator: The Police Department would like to have the old Town Hall kitchen refrigerator.  The Selectboard approved this request.  Mr. Dalessio felt they need to come up with a procedure for disposing of Town equipment.

Fair Labor Standards Act Level of Over-time:  Mr. Dalessio reported that President Obama signed the Fair Labor Standards Act Level of Over-time document.  Municipal workers have different rules.  He will get a complete up-date about how to implement it.

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to recess this Selectboard meeting.  The Selectboard will re-enter into the Hooper Trustees meeting.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved at 8:45 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 8:53 PM.

OTHER BUSINESS:

Pleasant Street Sidewalk:  Mrs. Downing found that Article 12 was voted on at the 2008 Town Meeting.  It states: “To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of Sixty-Five Thousand Dollars ($65,000) to reconstruct and pave (in conjunction with Water Project) 440’ of Elm Street, with the underdrain and sidewalk 125’ of Pleasant Street with sidewalk and to Reconstruct and pave Russell Street, North Walpole with sidewalk (540 feet of Birch Street).”  This was not a non-lapsing article.  Mr. Dalessio will check with Attorney Hockensmith to see if the fact that it was to be in conjunction with the water project makes it non-lapsing.

Selectboard Meeting Change:  There was a consensus to change the Selectboard meeting of Thursday, June 9^th, 2016, to Wednesday, June 8^th, 2016, at 6:00 PM.  The students of the Walpole Leadership Academy will be attending this meeting.

North Street:  Mrs. Pschirrer reported that they received the report from Mr. Thayer Fellows on North Street.  Mr. Dalessio will tell the property owners who have come into meetings that they have the report.  This will be on next week’s Agenda.  Mr. Rau will be asked to attend.

Adjournment:

Mr. Dalessio moved to adjourn this Selectboard meeting.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 8:59 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

MAY 12, 2016

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

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 three people in attendance.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD MEETING:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to enter into a Non-Public Selectboard session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (a) Personnel.  Mr. Aldrich seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with all in favor, the motion was approved.

The regular meeting resumed at 6:50 PM.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard session of May 12, 2016, will be sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Mr. Aldrich moved to accept the Accounts Payable check register in the amount of $45,538.74 for checks dated May 13, 2016.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

PAYROLL:

Mr. Aldrich moved to accept the Payroll voucher for the week ending May 07, 2016, in the amount of $24,317.91 for checks dated May 13, 2016.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Aldrich moved to accept the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $5,330.23 for the week ending May 07, 2016.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – May 5, 2016: Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of May 5, 2016, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – May 5, 2016:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of May 5, 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 meetings:

• North Walpole Village District, Board of Commissioners – May 3, 2016;
• Walpole Planning Board – April 12, 2016;
• Walpole Planning Board Workshop – April 26, 2016;
• Walpole Planning Board – May 10, 2016;
• Walpole Zoning Board of Adjustment – March 16, 2016;
• Walpole Zoning Board of Adjustment – April 20, 2016.

ABATEMENTS and REFUNDS – Property:

GLEN and LAURA MADDEN, 74 Hayes Road, Map & Lot #013-003-000:  Mr. Aldrich moved to accept the Notice of Property Tax Refund for the Tax Year 2015 in the amount of $169.39 for Glenn and Laura Madden.  The cause for the Refund is an overpayment on property tax billing.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS:

Appointments – Conservation Commission:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to appoint Duncan Watson to the Conservation Commission for a three year term.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to appoint Jackie Kensen to the Conservation Commission for a three year term.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Town Hall Rental Income Reports:  Mr. Dalessio had asked to take a look at the Town Hall rental reports.  Mr. Kreissle created the rental figures; it was a great effort on everyone’s part to provide this information.  In 2015 the Town generated $8,635.00 from rentals.  The question is how much time Mr. Jerry Brady spent cleaning-up.  Mrs. Pschirrer recommended that when they re-consider the rental agreement it will include the new tables and chairs.  They will also start to use the new chairs for regular meetings.

Safety Inspection of December 11, 2016 – Closure Letter:  Mr. Dalessio reported that after the first visit by the Safety Inspector they worked to correct the violations.  The staff did a great job.  On his second visit the inspector found a few additional issues.  They have all been taken care of.  The inspector will be so notified of this; he is welcome back at any time to check on them.

Forest Fire Reports/Bills:  Mr. Dalessio talked to Mr. Mark Houghton about the Forest Fire Reports/Bills.  In the past the Town used to pay the Fire District but now they wait until the Town gets reimbursed by the State before it goes to the Fire District.  The new State forms will be obtained and used.

Barbeque Pit Reservation Form: A copy of the new BBQ Reservation form that was drafted by Mrs. Edkins was reviewed.  It follows the same format as the one used by Hubbard, LLC.  A decision needs to be made for fees.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the BBQ form with rules and regulations and the following fees:

• $25.00 for a lost key or lock;
• $100.00 for a rack that needs to be replaced;
• $75.00 for a clean-up.

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

Mr. Dalessio mentioned that they had talked about roping off the BBQ area from the Hubbard property.  The Highway Department will be asked to do this when they have time in their schedule.  Mr. Dalessio pointed out that even though we have a legal right-of-way to the pool Hubbard, LLC would still be using the building therefore they would like the same agreement for a shared driveway as it was for many years.

Employee Policy Handbook Update:  Mrs. Pschirrer will continue to work on this update.

Grant Curbing Gift:  Mrs. Pschirrer advised that they expected a quote today but it did not come in.

NEW BUSINESS:

Thank You Letter from YMCA Camp Takodah:  The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of a Thank You letter from the Meeting Waters YMCA for the appropriation of $700.00 for Camp Takodah.

Southwest Region Planning Commission Highlights:  A letter was received from the SWRPC on their Commission Highlights.

Southwest Region Planning Commission – Annual Meeting Invitation – June 14, 2016:  An invitation was received from the SWRPC to attend their annual meeting on June 14, 2016.  If interested contact Mrs. Downing who will make the reservations. 

Complete Streets Event – May 20, 2016: The Monadnock Alliance for Sustainable Transportation, the Bike-Walk Alliance of New Hampshire and Transport NH sent an invitation to attend a Complete Streets Information Session and tour to learn about how Complete Streets can benefit New Hampshire communities.  It focuses on the streets in Keene.  If interested in attending contact Mrs. Downing who will make the reservations.

Whitewater Boating Flow Assessment for the Bellows Falls Hydroelectric Dam: Information was received on comments made to FERC by the American Whitewater, Appalachian Mountain Club and New England FLOW in response to the Relicensing Study 31: Whitewater Boating Flow Assessment – Bellows Falls and Sumner Falls.  No response is needed from the Town.

Disability Tax Exemption: Mrs. Downing reported that the Town does not have a Disability Tax Exemption.  There is a Tax Exemption for Blindness in the amount of $15,000.00 as voted in 1986.

Maintenance Person:  Mr. Dalessio advised that the Maintenance employee is resigning due to personal reasons.  The Selectboard is interested in hiring another individual who will come in on an as-needed basis to do projects.

Zoning Board of Adjustment:  Mr. Ernie Vose has resigned from the ZBA.  The Selectboard wishes him the best for his future activities and thanks him for many years as a member of the ZBA.  Mr. Vose will continue as the Town’s Moderator.

Mrs. Mansouri, Chair of the ZBA, advised that Mrs. Judy Trow who had been ZBA Secretary back in the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s, then took a break for family reasons, is now back as a ZBA Alternate member.  Mrs. Mansouri talked to her and she is interested in being appointed as a regular ZBA member.  Mrs. Trow will see Mrs. Sandra Smith to get sworn-in.  She will fill the balance of Mr. Vose’s term.  Mrs. Mansouri is working on two alternate members.

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:

Mr. Dalessio moved to recess this Selectboard meeting.  The Selectboard will enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the meeting was recessed at 7:25 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 8:36 PM.

OTHER BUSINESS:

Revolving Funds:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to sign the Savings Bank of Walpole Government / Municipal / Public Funds Bonding Resolution for the two Revolving Funds for the Police Department and Recreation Department.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

ADJOURNMENT:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to adjourn this Selectboard meeting.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 8:38 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

MAY 5, 2016

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

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 eight people in attendance.

BUILDING PERMITS:

PAMELA S. HOWARD LIVING TRUST, 21 Colonial Drive, Map & Lot #021-041-001:  Mr. and Mrs. David Howard were present.

Mr. Aldrich moved to accept Building Permit No. 2016-15 for Pamela S. Howard Living Trust / David and Pamela Howard to construct a “Single family residence with attached garage”, as submitted.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

CHRIS RICCI, 88 March Hill, Map & Lot #009-012-002-001:  Mr. Aldrich moved to accept Building Permit No. 2016-16 for Chris Ricci to add a “24’ x 32’ Great Room Addition”, as submitted.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

DEMOLITION PERMIT:

BRUCE R. CARRUTHERS and GEORGE D. CHENEY, 22-26 School Street, Map & Lot #019-057-000:  Mr. Carruthers and Mr. Cheney were present.

Mr. Dalessio pointed out that a concern is if there is asbestos that it be handled properly.  Mr. Cheney has an appointment scheduled for May 17^th with Mr. David Mack from the Southwest Region Planning Commission.  It appears there is none but they have made arrangements with Catamont for removal of any asbestos and Bazin Brothers for the demolition of the building.  Mrs. Pschirrer requested that if there is any asbestos or any high risk material that they submit a report to the office for the Town records.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept Demolition Permit Mo. 2016-17 for Bruce R. Carruthers and George D. Cheney to “Demolish Old School House Apartment Building and second apartment house at rear of property” , as submitted and that a final report be filed with the Town which includes if any asbestos or other high risk material was found on the site and, if so, how it was handled by Catamont Removal Company and Bazin Brothers.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE: 

Mr. Aldrich moved to accept the Accounts Payable check register in the amount of $260,167.45 for a tax lien check issued on May 4, 2016 and $15,015.22 for checks dated May 6, 2016.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

PAYROLL:    

Mr. Aldrich moved to accept the Payroll voucher for the week ending April 30, 2016, in the amount of $16,868.51 for checks dated May 6, 2016.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Aldrich moved to accept the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $4,988.35 for the week ending April 30, 2016.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved. 

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – April 27, 2016: Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of April 27, 2016, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – April 27, 2016:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to accept the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of April 27, 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 meetings:

• Walpole Conservation Commission – April 4, 2016;
• Cold River Local Advisory Committee – March 31, 2016;
• North Walpole Village District, Board of Commissioners – April 19, 2016;
• Walpole Cemetery Trustees – Resumed May 2, 2016.

Walpole Conservation Commission:  Mr. Dalessio advised that the WCC did receive $25,000.00 for the Current Use change from the Avanru Development Group.  They questioned if they would be receiving another check but there are no additional Current Use Funds going to them at this time.  It has to be paid in the year that it is charged.  If the payment comes in late it does not go to the Conservation Commission but stays with the Town.  Mrs. Pschirrer pointed out that the money received from the Hooper property timber cut goes to the Hooper Fund.

North Walpole Village District:  The Board of Commissioners referenced the article in the Eagle-Times but no information was provided to the Eagle-Times by the Selectboard and the Selectboard has no stance on the Vilas Bridge.  Mr. Dalessio contacted Commissioner O’Brien on the Commonwealth Construction alleged saw dust emission and he apologized for not informing the North Walpole Commissioners first.

Walpole Cemetery Trustees:  Mrs. Pschirrer mentioned that there are several references to the Cemetery Trusts in their meeting Minutes. They get copies of the Trust every month therefore she asked that they pay close attention to the budget and how much money they have to spend.

PUBLIC BUSINESS:

1. ROBERT MILLER: Mr. Dalessio thanked Mr. Bob Miller for coming in to make a report on the Southwest Region Planning Commission meeting he recently attended. Both Mr. Bob Miller from the Planning Board and Mr. Bob Anderson from the Zoning Board attended the SWRPC meeting.  Mr. Miller distributed copies of “NHMA (New Hampshire Municipal Association) – Municipal Sign Ordinances – U.S. Supreme Court Decision – Reed v. Town of Gilbert, AZ.  Because the Town of Gilbert sign code placed stricter limits on temporary events signs but more freely allowed ideological and political signs – despite the fact that all three sign types have the same effect on traffic safety and community aesthetics – the code failed the narrow tailoring requirement of strict scrutiny.  Municipalities should review their sign codes carefully.  The handout suggests possible Sign Code changes. The Supreme Court became involved with the signage issue. Mr. Miller does not feel that the Town’s Zoning regulations have any bias in them.  Mr. Dalessio noted that the Site Plan document does not cover signs but it does cover lighting; somewhere that needs to be corrected.   The Sign Ordinance wants the lights to come up and the Site Plan wants the lighting to point down; they should not contradict each other.
2. Mr. Miller also distributed “2016 SB 146 – Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)”.   The Legislature has passed SB 146 and the Governor signed the bill which goes into  effective July 2017.  It  gives municipalities extra time to amend their zoning ordinances.  The Obligations and Options Under SB 146 were listed.  They were reviewed and discussed at this meeting.  There is a need to pay attention to ways that the existing facility has the capacity to take on additional ADUs.  The creation of ADUs will help people to age in place, and it will create a greater supply of housing for the young professionals we want to live here.  The Selectboard feels they need to address this as a community; they should stay with a common foundation.

1. MARK HOUGHTON: Mr. Houghton and the Selectboard will be attending the Special Meeting of the Village of Bellows Falls on Tuesday, May 31^st, 2016, at the Rockingham Town Hall when the renewal Wastewater Agreement will be signed between the Village of Bellows Falls and the Town of Walpole. The Vilas Bridge is also an Agenda item.
2. Mr. Houghton and Mr. Rau need to schedule a meeting with the residents on Pleasant Street to talk about the water main replacement project.  Some residents asked about having the meeting right on the street rather than the Town Hall.  Mr. Houghton would like the Selectboard to attend.  A possible date will be Wednesday, May 25^th at 6:00 PM.  The rain date will be Friday, May 27^th at 6:00 PM.  They would like to begin the project a little before school starts.  There will be disruption on the street.
3. Mr. Houghton has had email trouble with Mr. Dalessio and the Town Hall.  He wanted to talk about the gas stove in the kitchen.  He feels they have been running out of gas because of the usage.  Options to save on gas, having a larger gas tank, etc. were discussed.  Safety is an issue. Mr. Houghton suggested that they could do a propane alarm with Countryside Alarms; it would be tied into the alarm system.  The Selectboard approved having him take care of this.  Mr. Dalessio summarized that we continue to leave the pilot lights on but have Mr. Houghton put in a lock out valve.  There is a microwave in the kitchen.
4. Mr. Houghton pointed out that the next time there is a water and/or sewer rate increase it should be published in the Clarion and put on the web-site.

ABATEMENTS AND REFUNDS – Property:

HARRY A. BERNARD, 69 High Street, Map & Lot #021-024-001:  Mr. Aldrich moved to sign the Notice of Property Tax Refund in the amount of $10.04 for Harry A. Bernard.  The cause of the refund is an overpayment on property tax billing.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

JAMES F. MORT, 105 Brewery Road, Map & Lot #014-011-000:  Mr. Aldrich moved to sign the Notice of Property Tax Refund in the amount of $8.68 for James F. Mort.  The cause of refund is overpayment on property tax billing.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

PETER and ELIZABETH ROOS, 82 Elm Street, Map & Lot #019-022-000:  Mr. Aldrich moved to sign the Notice of Property Tax Refund in the amount of $65.71 for Peter and Elizabeth Roos.  The cause of refund is overpayment on property tax billing.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved. 

DELIA M. BLANCHARD, 258 Valley Road, Map & Lot #013-011-000: Mr. Aldrich moved to sign the Notice of Property Tax Refund in the amount of $10.18 for Delia M. Blanchard.  The cause of refund is overpayment on property tax billing.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

ABATEMENTS and REFUNDS – Water / Sewer:

WILLIAM REED, JR., 60 Main Street, Map & Lot #020-046-000:  Mr. Aldrich moved to sign the Notice of Water/Sewer Abatement in the amounts of $191.52 for Water and $159.35 for Sewer for William Reed, Jr.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

DUSSAULT PROPERTY MANAGEMENT, 47 Church St., Map & Lot #028-076-000:  Mr. Aldrich moved to sign the Notice of Water/Sewer Abatement in the amounts of $6.08 for Interest and $101.30 for Sewer for Dussault Property Management.  Cause of Abatement is double billing at time house was sold.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

ELDERLY TAX EXEMPTION:

JOHN LAZZARO, 376 Old Keene Road, Map & Lot #007-026-000:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve and sign the application for a Property Tax Elderly Exemption for John Lazzaro.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS:

APPOINTMENTS – Duncan Watson for Conservation Commission:  There was a consensus of the Selectboard to put this appointment on-hold until the next meeting.

Revolving Account for Police and Recreation Departments:  The Selectboard signed the bank forms that Mr. Goins brought in for the Revolving Accounts for the Police and Recreation Departments.

Application for Renewal of Groundwater Management Permit:  The Selectboard signed in the area where the signature was missing from the application for Renewal of Groundwater Management Permit.

Employee Policy Handbook Update:  This is a work in-progress.

Grant Curbing Gift: Mrs. Pschirrer reported that Blanc and Bailey will be giving an estimate.

NEW BUSINESS:

Forest Fire Reports/Bills:  Mr. Aldrich moved to authorize the Chair, Mr. Steven Dalessio, to sign the following Forest Fire Reports/Bills:

• May 3, 2016 – Alstead – Route 12A – $1,579.99
• April 30, 2016 – Alstead Route 12A – $1,934.80
• April 29, 2016 – Langdon – Meany Road – $256.38
• April 25, 2016 – Alstead – Alstead Center Road – $58.65
• April 21, 2016 – Stoddard – $803.23
• April 22, 2016 – Stoddard – $490.87
• April 17, 2016 – Stoddard – $935.32
• April 29, 2016 – Alstead – South Woods Road – $990.40
• April 20, 2016 – Charlestown – Old Cheshire Turnpike – $93.58

Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

WDDC Support Letter: Last week the Selectboard received a letter from the Southwest Region Planning Commission requesting that the Town of Walpole support a clean-up of the Central Plating Company at 12 Westminster Street.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve and sign the letter of support to the Southwest Region Planning Commission for the clean-up on the Central Plating Company property at 12 Westminster Street.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Renewal of ERZ Certification:  A letter was received from the NH Department of Resources and Economic Development advising that they are reviewing the current status of previously designated ERZs subject to 5 year reviews and is asking the Town if the designated ERZ(s) should remain in the current ERZ tax credit program.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to renew the ERZ(s) for the following areas and to authorize Mrs. Sarah Downing to sign the document as the contact person.

• Industrial Park Road Zone (approved 12/09)
• Meadows Along Main Commercial/Industrial Zone (approved 12/09)
• Whitcomb-Lane Construction Zone (approved 12/09)
• Walpole Downtown Commercial Zone (approved (12/09)

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

National Grid – Re: Utility Maintenance and Repair Project:  A letter was received from National Grid advising that they will be doing routine maintenance and repair projects along their rights-of-ways in Walpole.

NH Department of Transportation: Red List Bridges Report and Lists:  Mr. Dalessio mentioned that the Town received a letter from the NH Department of Transportation on the 2015 Red Listed Bridges.  A copy will be sent to Mr. Michael Rau, Road Agent.  Mrs. Pschirrer said the Town might be able to do the repairs ourselves to the bridge on March Hill Road by using a State form “Permit By Notification”.  This does not need a permit from the Department of Environmental Services.  Mr. Dalessio is receiving comments about the culvert on the Old Drewsville Road.  The road is now posted so farmers have to go way around to get to their fields.  They are asking that it be fixed soon.

Barbeque Pit Reservation Form: Mrs. Downing advised that the office is beginning to get requests to use the Barbeque Pit.  Mr. Dalessio suggested that they use the same forms that Hubbard, LLC used and that Mr. Sam Jacobs, the Walpole School and the Congregational Church be notified of the fact that the Town of Walpole is now the owner.   Mr. Ray Boas will be asked to put an article in the Clarion that anybody wanting to use it has to come into this office to fill out the form.  This was a generous gift to the Town from Hubbard, LLC.

Walpole Solid Waste Invoice for Walpole Players:  The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of a bill to the Town of Walpole from the Walpole Solid Waste for the Walpole Players.  Mr. Dalessio recommended that this bill be voided and another one issued and forwarded to the Walpole Players as they are a separate incorporated group.

Selectboard Committee and Board Appointments: Mr. Dalessio had drafted a form and asked Mrs. Downing to change the format to a tri-fold form with the Selectboard Committee and Board Appointments.  The Staff Meetings should be included.

Delinquent Property Taxes:  The Selectboard recognized Mrs. Sandra Smith’s efforts in collecting the delinquent property taxes.  At this time no properties will need to be Deeded to the Town.

RECESS SELECTBOARD MEETING:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to recess the Selectboard meeting.  The Selectboard will enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved at 8:40 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 9:00 PM.

OTHER BUSINESS: 

Memorial Day Service:  Mr. Whitney Aldrich asked Mrs. Pschirrer to be the speaker at the Memorial Day service.

Monthly Financial Statements:  Mr. Dalessio reported that all the departments are now receiving monthly financial statements from Mr. Kreissle.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to enter into a Non-Public Selectboard Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (c) Reputations. Mr. Aldrich seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with all in favor, the motion was approved.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 9:09 PM.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved that the Minutes of the May 5, 2016, Non-Public Selectboard meeting be sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 9:10 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary