Cubscout Pack 299 Pop Corn For Sale

EVENTS 09/19/2015 Leave a comment
Looks like Debra Pawelczyk was able to sign up some Cub Scouts because now they are selling popcorn.  You can always stop in on your way home and see if Real to Reel has any DVDs left! – Lil
Cubscout Pack 299
We will be having Popcorn Show & Sells at the
following locations. Please come help support
Walpole Cubscout Pack 299.
Oct. 3rd —— We will be at the Walpole Recycling Center
from 9 – 12. Price on popcorn varies as far as kind.
Oct. 17th —– We will be at Jiffy Mart on Rt. 12 from 9 – 12
Price on popcorn varies as far as kind.

Salem Fire

OPINIONS 09/16/2015 1 Comment

In view of the discussions at the Zoning Board and Planning Board level, Sheila Lannon asked that I bring this article to your attention: Union Leader Article

Lil

“Could you post on The Walpolean a link to the article about the 5 Alarm Fire that happened last Wed., 9/9/15 in Salem, NH at the Construction Demolition Debris Processing Facility there.
Seeing as our local Boards, (Zoning and Planning), will be discussing the Ruggiero Processing Facility, LLC application to modify and expand the Commercial Business there on Industrial Park Drive, it might be helpful for the local residents to be made aware of the hazards and unnecessary risks the Town of Walpole, and more importantly, the residential neighbors and existing businesses in close proximity of the facility could be burdened
with.”

Planning Board Meeting Minutes – 9/8/15

PLANNING BOARD 09/15/2015 Leave a comment

Walpole Planning Board

Walpole Town Hall

September 8, 2015 Minutes

 

Presiding Members: Jeff Miller (Chair), Robert Miller (Vice-Chair), James Aldrich (Secretary), Kelley Hicks, Steve Dalessio (Selectboard Representative), Jason Perron, Dennis Marcom. Alternate: Ed Potter.

Absent: Alternate Jeff White.

Recording: These minutes are unapproved and will be reviewed at the October 2015 meeting for corrections, additions and/or omissions.

Meeting Opened: Mr. J. Miller called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.

Roll Call: A full board was present so an alternate was not needed to fill in.

Minutes of the previous meeting as well as site walk: Mr. R. Miller asked for a clarification of a sentence in the site walk in which lawyer Mr. Tom Hanna referred to a special exception as a permitted use. Mr. R. Miller disagreed with his explanation of a special exception. Mr. J. Miller said that a special exception has to meet certain criteria which the town has. It does not automatically mean it is a permitted use. Mr. Marcom then made a motion to accept the minutes as written. The motion was seconded by Mr. R. Miller and approved by the entire board.

Public Hearing No. 1: Site Plan Review by Old Dominion Freight Line, Thomasville, NC Map 1, Lot 3-5, Industrial Zoning District – The company would like to add new office space, loading docks, lighting and pave a  good portion of the grounds.. Mr. Dan Nash of Advanced GeoMatics, a design contractor in Lebanon, explained the changes. Mr. Marc Messier, represented the builder D. F. Chase Inc. and also spoke about the new lighting. And Mr. Ken Musgrave, the local manager at the facility in the Industrial Park, was also there to answer questions about the local operation.

Mr. Nash said the existing building is 13,000 square feet; the new addition is 3,500 square feet. The current building has 18 doors, more will be added. There will be concrete aprons outside the new doors on the addition. They also plan to part of pave the property and the driveway. The lighting to be installed will be downlit LED lighting.

Ms. Hicks asked how many doors there would be after the additon. The answer was 30.

Currently there is 183,000 square feet of area of which 121,000 square feet would be paved including 85,000 square feet of the total 101,000 area in gravel. Mr. Nash said the reasoning behind this was that it would keep down dust and be easier to plow in the winter with less transfer of sediment.

Mr. Dalessio wanted to know the percentage difference of the lot that was paved compared to the area that would be unpaved.  After some calculation, Mr. Nash came up with a figure of 34 percent, which meets the town’s ratio of open space to paved space.

Mr. J. Miller asked about the increase in the number of trucks. Mr. Musgrove said there would be no increase, no change. The need was for increased holding space and to make the operation more efficient.

Mr. Dick Hurlburt, Walpole Fire Chief, said he would like to see a few things addressed:

the building should have a fully monitored fire alarm system,

the fire department should have full access year round around the building for fire trucks,

and there should be two Knox Boxes, one for the building and one for the gate.

Mr. J. Miller asked if the parties present had any concerns about the fire department’s requests. They answered no and agreed to the stipulations by Mr. Hurlburt.

Mr. R. Miller asked if there were any abutters present that were not businesses at the Industrial Park but homeowners. Abutters notified who met that category were Mr. Arthur Chickering of River Road and Mr. Frank Anderson of Seward Road. Neither were at the meeting.

According to the checklist, the landscaping is the same as in the existing plan but the need for need for new landscaping was waived.

The Public Hearing was closed.

The Ruggiero Site Plan meeting was recessed until Oct. 13.

Public Hearing No. 2. Bensonwood Homes Site Plan Review – Town Map 12, Lot 4, Zoning District Rural/Agricultural. Huntington Realty of Walpole LLC, Bensonwood Woordworking Co. Inc. of 6 Blackjack Crossing, wants to use the site for a light manufacturing facility to produce and assemble wall, floor, roof and mechanical systems for constructing homes. The new shop space will be 52,450 square feet.

Mr. Marcom recused himself because he is an employee of Bensonwood Homes. Mr. Potter replaced him as a board member for this hearing.

Randall Walter, lead architect for Bensonwood, began by explaining that the frontage of the property on Route 12 was on Huntington and Edward Lanes. It’s a 25-plus acre site. The proposal is to build a 56,000 square-foot building all at once, not be phased in. Since the last hearing in 2008, there has been a Lot Line Adjustment and the lower portion of the property has been placed in current use. The site has town water and town sewer. The electricity is served by Tree Case Power, an industrial grade electric service.

Since the launch of Unity homes, the company has grown substantially and that is what this facility will build. It is a double production hall with some outside storage, truck and fire truck access around the building, two support buildings outside. Compared to the last proposal, the buildings have been shifted eastwood and the main reason for that is to keep the less sightly and noise elements at the back of the building, Mr. Walter said. As with the Blackjack Crossing building, when the company takes rural/ag land and brings it into commercial use, the policy is to respect the neighborhood that the company is joining and to treat that with the utmost care.

So taking the cutting hall, dumpsters and propane are at the back, further shielding it from our neighbors in the front of the property, using the building as a buffer. The company builds homes in a controlled environment, not on a building site.

The company will be maintaining the Hubbard Farms chicken coop. There was another smaller coop that has been removed but its parts may be used in two smaller buildings on the site.

The roof facing south may have solar panels. The north-facing window will allow natural light into the building. If you are driving by at the speed limit, you will only see a tiny glimpse of the southeast corner of the building. There will not be an office nor a showroom at this site. Those activities will still be at the Blackjack Crossing site.

Update to drainage has changed slightly because of the configuartion of the building. The company still expects to have water absorbed naturally. Any water that needs to be slowed down before absorbed is done in three areas: one is the southwest, one area to the north and Mr. Walter pointed to another one. Here swales will be created. They are low impact and appear naturally as grassy depressions.

The lighting is for 15-foot stantions in the parking area: 100 percent downlight, fully screened and which allows zero side light and just barely produces lighting for the 30 parking spaces including the entrance to the building in the southeast corner.

Ms. Myra Mansouri asked how much closer to Diamond Pizza the building would be. Mr. Walter responded that they are moving east by half a building or about 150 feet. Currently there are three rows of pine trees on the abutter’s property and some smaller, younger pines on the building site land. They are evergreens so will provide a yearround noise barrier. Mr. Walter said the company is watching the condition of health of all the trees.

Ms. Mansouri then asked about the noise level in the building. Mr. Walter said the new machinery for the building is Scandinavian and  the noise level of these machines is so low that “in that production space we could carry on this conversation while the machinery is running.” All the machines are muffled and all employees wear ear plugs. This machinery and the planer are quieter than a hand-held power saw, Mr. Walter said.

Ms. Hicks asked about the traffic study, the fact that they are using the same one as 2008. Mr. Walter acknowledged there will be an increase but it will not increase from the projections that were given in 2008. There still will be the same amount of truck and car traffic that was proposed at that time.

The NH Department of Transportation just gave the company a new driveway permit, which they would not do if there was a concern, Mr. Walter said. He said the company has approached and is covered by DOT, fire, police and DES.

Mr. Dalessio asked about oil on the property. Mr. Walter said they would be using wood chips and a radiant boiler with a backup of propane for heat. It will be a fully sprinkled building because it will be built out of wood.

The Public Hearing was closed.

Public Hearing No. 1. Approval with these conditions. All lighting will be LED Downlit and the three recommendations from the fire chief will become part of the Site Plan Review. A motion to approve the Site Plan Review with these conditions was made by Ms. Hicks, seconded  by Mr. Marcom and passed by the board.

Public Hearing No. 2. Bensonwood must go before the Zoning Board of Adjustment for a Special Exception so it would be immature to approve the Site Plan before knowing if the Special Exception is approved, Mr. Miller said. Bensonwood will be back in October for a final decision.

New business:

Hubbard Farms LLC Site Plan Review at 46 Upper Walpole Road. Town Map , Lot  57-3,  Rural/Agricultural District to use what is now used for storage of vehicles. Add 20-foot-by-40-foot office and lab space at the back of the building and a 20-foot-by-40-foot space to store vehicles.

Mr. Chip O’Brien was at the meeting to request a public hearing. He explained what the company wanted to do. (See Above). A motion was made by Mr. R. Miller to hold a public hearing at the next meeting. The motion was seconded and approved by the Board.

Monthly Workshop: It was decided to hold a workshop meeting the fourth Tuesday of the month to look at some changes to the Site Review Plan.

Mr. R. Miller made a motion to send the minutes of the Avanru/Abenaki Springs decisions to the state. The motion was seconded and approved by the Board.

A motion was made to adjourn at about 7:45 p.m. It was second and approved by the Board.

Respectfully submitted,

Marilou Blaine

Recording Secretary

Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 9/3/15

SELECTBOARD 09/15/2015 Comments: 2

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

SEPTEMBER 3, 2015

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

CALL TO ORDER:  Mr. Dalessio called this Selectboard meeting to order at 6:00 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 four people in attendance.

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, (b) Hiring 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 6:54 PM.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to seal the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of September 3, 2015.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register and manifest in the amount of $48,270.25 for checks dated September 4, 2015.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

PAYROLL:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Payroll voucher for the week ending August 29, 2015, in the amount of $21,152.78 for checks dated September 4, 2015.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the electronic transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $4,588.46 for the week ending August 29, 2015.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – August 27, 2015:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of August 27, 2015, as submitted.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the Minutes were approved.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – August 27, 2015:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard Session of August 27, 2015, 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:

  • Cold River Local Advisory Committee – July 23, 2015; and
  • North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners – September 1, 2015.

BUILDING / DEMOLITION PERMITS:

BUILDING:

TETU, 15 Prospect Hill, Map & Lot #019-050-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to grant Building Permit No. 2015-36 for Bradley Tetu and Hilary Tetu to “Construct a shed dormer on existing home”.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

DEMOLITION and BUILDING:

GOLEC, 151 Alstead Center Road, Map & Lot #015-019-000:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to grant Building Permit No. 2015-37 for Katherine A. Golec to “Remove a 20’ x 8’ enclosed porch and replace with a 30’ x 8’ enclosed porch”.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

WARRANTS:

LAND USE CHANGE TAX CORRECTION & A-5 LAND USE CHANGE TAX FORM:  Kingsbury, 152 Kingsbury Road, Map & Lot #008-119-000:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to rescind the motion made during the August 27, 2015 meeting, on page 4, to “send the Tax Collector’s Land Use Change Tax to Sandra J. Smith, Collector of Taxes for Walpole, NH in said county for Map #008, Lot #119-000, 152 Kingsbury Road.”  This was for acreage removed from Current Use.  An error was made in the amount.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve sending the Tax Collector’s Land Use Change Tax Warrant to Sandra J. Smith, Collector of Taxes for Walpole, NH in said county for Map #008, Lot #119-000, 152 Kingsbury Road for the amount of $654.00. This represents acreage removed from Current Use.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve and sign the A-5 Land Use Change Tax Form that needs to be submitted to the NH Department of Revenue Administration.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS:

Oil / Propane Contract:  The Selectboard reviewed the Heating Oil and Propane 2015-2016 contracts received from five companies.  There was a consensus to continue with Allen Bros for heating oil and the Keene Gas Company for propane.

Hubbard Farms Barbeque Pit And Right Of Way: Mr. Dalessio has not heard back from Mrs. Diane Miller since his last conversation with her.  He talked with the Primex Insurance Company about the barbeque pit today and was advised that the pit area would have to be clearly identified by “No Trespassing” signs all around it and by using a chain or gate.  By doing this if somebody does go in without authorization they can be arrested.  They should obtain a separate liability insurance policy from everybody that uses it for at least $1,000,000.00.  This is consistent with Hubbard Farms as they require this policy naming them as a co-insurer.  About six people use it every year.  If the Town accepts this area Mrs. Pschirrer recommended that there be a policy that has to be signed by any person/group/organization that uses the pit.  There was a consensus to have Mr. Dalessio contact Mrs. Miller to advise that they are interested.  Hubbard Farms is still in the early stages of a sale for that property.

Town Ordinance, Procedure And Policy Manual:  This will be continued on the next meeting Agenda.

Primex Insurance Company:  Mr. Dalessio gave Mrs. Clough and Mr. Kreissle the new application that needs to be filled out for the Primex Insurance Company.  It should go to them before mid-October when they set the new premiums.  Primex will have an answer back to the Town before December so the premium can be included in the budget.  They are very big on preventative programs and training.

NEW BUSINESS:

Viewing of the Willard Home, 43 Westminster Street:  Mrs. Pschirrer and Mrs. Clough did a walk-thru of the property at the request of Mr. Willard.  In the front section of the home four rooms are clearly a museum with documents and the histories of the Bradley and Willard families.  Mr. Willard wants to create understanding on the value of the home and of the two monuments he has built in memory of Steven Row Bradley.  He is interested in opening up the property to the public.  Mrs. Clough emailed Mrs. Loren Martin at Avitar Associates regarding the possibility of a tax abatement as Mrs. Pschirrer told Mr. Willard that they would look into it.

Letter from NH DOT – Re: Transportation Projects 2017-2026:  The Selectboard received a letter from the Department of Transportation regarding transportation projects planned between 2017-2026 throughout the State of New Hampshire.  The nearest meetings will be held on Friday, September 18th at Keene Parks and Recreation in Keene at 12:00 and at the Town Hall in Charlestown at 3:00 PM.  Mrs. Pschirrer will try to attend one of the meetings.  A copy will be mailed to Ms. Cheryl Mayberry as she is the Town’s representative on transportation issues.     

Primex Premium Holiday:  The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of a letter from Primex advising that their Board of Trustees approved a Premium Holiday distribution for the Unemployment Compensation Program, based on the financial results from 2014.  The Town of Walpole is eligible to receive a check in the amount of $14,611.63.  The Selectboard approved and signed the letter to Primex to accept this amount in payment of the Premium Holiday.

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 7:25 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:40 PM.

OTHER BUSINESS:

Water Department:  Mr. Houghton asked the Selectboard to sign a revised Town of Walpole Water Department Cross-Connection Control Ordinance as the State found a minor error in the previous document.  The Selectboard re-signed the ordinance.

Drewsville Mansion: Mr. Dalessio had asked Mrs. Clough to look into the light that is on the auxiliary building at the Drewsville Mansion.  It comes on every night.  It is so bright that it can be seen at the Drewsville General Store at night.  Mrs. Clough will talk to someone or write a letter.

ADJOURNMENT: Mr. Aldrich moved to adjourn this meeting.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved at 7:46 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

Benefit Concerts – 10/3 & 9

EVENTS 09/15/2015 Leave a comment

MEET THE BIRDS OF HALLOWEEN AND CONTRIBUTE TO A GOOD CAUSE

EVENTS 09/15/2015 Leave a comment

The Women of Walpole will hold a major fund raising event on October 31st from 2:00 – 4:30 at the Walpole Town Hall.  Live, rescued owls and Onyx, the Raven, will be part of an informative presentation by noted naturalist, Mike Clough.  It will be an educational and fun experience for all ages.  Tickets will be available at Galloway Real Estate, Village Blooms and Jake’s Walpole Market.  They are $15.00 per person and children are FREE.

Women of Walpole is a civic group of women who meet monthly and raise money for worthy undertakings that benefit Walpole – for example –

Publication of the first Civic Directory

Donations to the Walpole Historical Society renovation fund and purchase of darkening blinds for the Museum

Landscape plantings at the Museum

Spring bulb plantings at the Library

Spring bulb plantings at the Memorial on the Common

Wreaths for the Town Hall and lights for the tree on the Common during the Christmas season

Donations to the local food shelf

Donations to the warming shelter in North Walpole

Donation to the Congregational Church renovation fund

Summer camp scholarship for an elementary school child

Donation to the Hooper Institute for a teen summer internship

Any woman residing in Walpole is welcome to join us; there is always room for a new member. Please ask a WOW member or call 756-3160 for information about the fundraiser or to join our group in our ongoing efforts to support our town.

Zoning Board Agenda – 9/16/15

ZONING BOARD 09/09/2015 Leave a comment

Agenda for Zoning Board of Adjustment

Wednesday,  September 16, 2015

Walpole Town Hall – 7:30 p.m.

 

Roll Call: Appointment of alternates if needed

Minutes: Review minutes of August

New Business:

Doug Palmer would like to discuss leasing some land at the Teragram Properties (The southern side of the old RN Johnson property) and make sure it fits in with town zoning for the property.

Certified Mail – $6.97

Walpolean

Old Bussiness:

Don’t forget those gravel pit inspections are due in October.

Time set aside for a nonpublic session.

Next meeting Wednesday, October 15, 2015

 

Apple Pie Competition – 9/27/15

EVENTS 09/09/2015 Leave a comment

I would love to tell you that this picture is my entry into the Apple Pie Competition, but those who know me, know that that would be a bold-faced lie.  So, no fear that I am your competition. Besides, if this was my enrty, it would probably be looking a little green around the edges by the 27th! – Lil

pie

Alyson’s Orchard

Annual APPLE FESTIVAL &

APPLE PIE COMPETITION

Sunday, September 27,  2015  (11AM-3PM)

Bring YOUR homemade Apple Pie to the Orchard on Sunday, September 27th  between 9:30 and 10:30AM for judging & prizes. Adult and Kid’s categories.  (Kid’s 12 years old and under) No pre-registration necessary!

Alyson’s Orchard will host their annual Apple Festival and old-fashioned Apple Pie Competition on Sunday, September 27th , complete with local judges, ribbons, and prizes.  Other events will include a cider making demonstration, PYO Honey Crisp and McIntosh apples and tractor wagon rides, as well as face painting and live music.

Starting at noon, the public will be able to taste too – pies, apple & fruit wines, cider, and apples.  For lunch (11AM – 3PM,) savory BBQ from the Pit Stop Smokehouse in Westmoreland, along with Ice Cream from Carol’s Scoop Shop, will be available for purchase. Don’t miss Alyson’s Farm Stand filled with fresh Apple Pies, Chicken Pot Pies & delicious local products.

Winners of the Apple Pie Competition will be announced at 1:00PM.  Check Alyson’s website for more details www.alysonsorchard.com

Located in Walpole, NH, just 10 miles north of Keene on Rt. 12

www.alysonsorchard.com   603-756-9800 or

CONTACT:  FRAN IMHOFF 603-209-3588

No School / No Library on Monday

Uncategorized 09/04/2015 Leave a comment

This is my final copy and paste from Julie Rios’ library information.  You can sign up directly with the library and receive them for yourself. After all, if you have registered here and signed up with them you are probably annoyed that you get two notices! – Lil

The library will be closed Monday, September 7, for Labor Day.

You can still get books, audiobooks and magazines 24/7 from NH Downloadable Books (http://nh.lib.overdrive.com). Just download the free Overdrive app or software. Directions and links are on the NH Downloadable Books site. **Remember that our numbers are too short for the system so add the prefix 4611 to your number.

Any questions call the library, Facebook message the library, or email Julie at jrios@walpoletownlibrary.org or set up a private lesson at the library.

Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 8/27/15

SELECTBOARD 09/04/2015 Leave a comment

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

AUGUST 27, 2015

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

CALL TO ORDER:  Mr. Dalessio called this Selectboard meeting to order at 6:00 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 nine people in attendance.

PUBLIC BUSINESS:

TOWNS OF LANGDON And ALSTEAD SELECTBOARD MEMBERS And MR. ALAN JOHNSON And MARY LOU HUFFLING:  Mr. Lou Beam, Selectman from the Town of Langdon, introduced Mr. Ron Batchelder from the Town of Langdon, Mr. Joel McCarty, Selectman from the Town of Alstead, Ms. Mary Lou Huffling, Director of the Fall Mountain Food Shelf and Friendly Meals / Meals-on-Wheels program and Mr. Alan Johnson, Board of Directors for the Food Shelf.  They are present at this meeting to show their support of the Food Shelf and Friendly Meals programs and to make sure the food shelf survives.  They are not asking for any money but wanted to bring to the attention of the Town of Walpole, as well as Charlestown and Acworth, that a situation presents itself that will become problematic on January 1st, 2017.

At the 2014 Town Meeting it was decided by the voters in the Town of Langdon that they would end tenancy in the municipal building to operate the Food Shelf in three years.  In 2005 they moved from Alstead to Langdon into that facility which services all five towns. They have done an incredible job with providing food for the needy.  In collaboration with the Town of Alstead, who currently provide a place for Friendly Meals, the thought was that they would try to help the Food Shelf and give them direction in securing their future by organizing their Board in such a manner that not only are they focused on raising money for food but focused on coming up with a permanent home for them to continue.  They believe there are people within the five communities who have the expertise to help guide the Food Shelf Board of Directors to help secure a permanent home for them by moving in the proper directions.

Mr. McCarty advised that the Food Shelf / Friendly Meals / Meals-on-Wheels programs provide a significant service to the five communities.  Alstead has a long history of providing infrastructure support.  The programs also have an effect on the towns’ welfare budgets.  The Selectboard want to give encouragement and support but feel there are better ideas out there.  Every town has a few buildings on the tax roles that are surplus.  They need help having the Selectboards identify people in their towns who have expertise to assist and guide.

Mr. Beam pointed out that the Food Shelf has always focused on raising money to feed the needy.  They relied on the various towns to support them by providing space, utilities, etc.  There are many volunteers.  If they are going to secure grants certain things need to be in place in order for that to happen.  The focus has to be on fundraising, etc.  This Advisory Board will then report back to the Selectboards.

Mr. Dalessio advised that the Selectboard read their letter when it came in and appreciate the value of the Food Shelf to the communities.  Mr. Beam noted that the building they are in now is owned by the Town of Langdon; it is 15,000 square feet.  The space now occupied by the Food Shelf is in a deteriorated state that will require a substantial amount of money to renovate it.  They occupy 5,000 square feet.  The meals program operates on Tuesdays and Thursdays in the Alstead Fire Station; they have a Capital Reserve Fund moving toward repairs.  They do not have a deadline on this program.  Right now the Food Shelf is miles away from the Friendly Meals program making it more difficult to operate efficiently.

Mr. Dalessio advised that Mr. Charles Montgomery has agreed to serve on the Advisory Committee representing the Town of Walpole.  Mrs. Pschirrer noted that if more people are needed from Walpole they will reach out to other residents.  Mr. Montgomery is already involved with the Food Shelf.  He read their letter and knows where they are headed.  Mr. McCarty pointed out that the other towns are welcoming to the forming of an Advisory Committee.

Responding to a previous concern expressed by another town, Mr. Johnson did not hesitate to advise that the number of donations / contributors they have from Vermont to the Food Shelf far exceeds the number of people that come for food from Vermont.  They also have generous benefactors who send money from Connecticut, New York or Rhode Island but their residents do not come to the food shelf.

Ms. Huffling pointed out that they need a simple place with a bathroom and utilities; a large room to serve people plus a storage space and a garage with a large door where the trucks can back up to load and un-load.  An individual who grew up in Bellows Falls and now lives in Connecticut has been very supportive financially over the years. He offered $25,000.00 to start a fund and he has other people who will also make donations; it is a positive step. They do not get any Federal or State funds; it has been all through donations for 35 years.  Mr. Beam said they have to establish a goal.  Mr. Dalessio feels that with a goal in place the Town of Walpole will certainly step up-to-the-plate.  A Steering Committee is the right way to go; a group of people to formulate the plans.

It was recommended that the Advisory Committee schedule their first meeting in September.  Due to the time constraints the Food Shelf might have to move into another temporary facility in the interim period but they will continue to plan toward a permanent location.  Mr. Montgomery asked how many people they envision on the committee.  Mr. McCarty sees this committee as rather small- 5-7-9 active members.  The deadline for this committee will be January 1, 2017.  Ideally they will come up with a workable plan, work with Food Shelf Board of Directors and report back to the five towns.  They will not be asked to do fundraising.

Mr. Montgomery questioned if each of the towns has made a commitment?  Mr. McCarty said they have all offered to name someone.  The Town of Langdon feels they have a responsibility to assist and offer support.  Mrs. Pschirrer recommended that one of the first things the committee should discuss is the Agenda and lines of communication.  Ms. Huffling reported that the Food Shelf Board of Directors meets at least quarterly.  They will need help with writing the Grant applications.  Mr. Dalessio said they know people that are grant writers but they might not want to sit on this Advisory Committee.  Different people do different tasks.  Mr. Dalessio summarized that they should feel free to come back to talk to this Selectboard at any time; just contact Mrs. Clough in their office to be on the Agenda.  Mr. Beam advised that both he and Mr. McCarty will meet to discuss their next steps.

The regular Selectboard meeting began at 6:40 PM.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register and manifest in the amount of $48,778.12 for checks dated August 28, 2015.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

PAYROLL:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Payroll voucher for the week ending August 22, 2015, in the amount of $22,394.89 for checks dated August 28, 2015.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the electronic transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $4,905.33 for the week ending August 22, 2015.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

STAFF MEETING – August 20, 2015:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the Staff Meeting of August 20, 2015, subject to asking Mr. Terrell to check the figure of 6.37 miles of paving as indicated on his report.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Minutes were approved.  Mr. Aldrich abstained as he was not present.

SELECTBOARD MEETING – August 20, 2015:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of August 20, 2015, as printed.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Minutes were approved.  Mr. Aldrich abstained as he was not present.

NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION – August 20, 2015:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard session of August 20, 2015, as printed.  These Minutes will remain sealed.  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:

  • North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners – August 25, 2015;
  • Walpole Zoning Board of Adjustment – August 19, 2015; and
  • Walpole Planning Board, Ruggiero Site Walk Visit – August 17, 2015.

BUILDING / DEMOLITION PERMITS:

BUILDING:

KAPLAN, North Road, Map & Lot #010-039-001:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve Building Permit No. 2015-32 for Wendy Kaplan to “Construct a 60’7” x 45’8” one story home” at 306 North Road.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.   

BENCIVENGA, County Road, Map & Lot #003-034-001: Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve Building Permit No. 2015-35 for Cheryl Bencivenga Rev. Trust / Cheryl & Nicola Bencivenga to “Enclose an existing 20’ x 10’ deck into a mudroom” at 1547 County Road.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

DEMOLITION:

KISSELL, Hogan Lane, Map & Lot #016-005-MH01:  Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve Demolition Permit No. 2015-34 for Sonya Kissell / Kenneth Ramsey to “Demolish a 60’ x 12’ mobile home” at 1 Hogan Lane.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

INTENT TO CUT WOOD OR TIMBER:

FISHER, Cold River Road, Map & Lot #026-026-000: Mrs. Pschirrer moved to approve the Notice of Intent to Cut Wood or Timber, Supplemental Operation #15-461-08-T, for Andrea Fisher.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.     

TAX WARRANT:

LAND USE CHANGE TAX WARRANT: KINGSBURY, Kingsbury Road, Map & Lot #008-119-000:  Mrs. Clough reported that Mrs. Martin from Avitar Associates did research after Martha Kingsbury transferred land to Mr. William Kingsbury.  He has to pay the Current Use Tax as he did not have 10 or more acres needed for Current Use.  The A-5 form will be completed at a later date.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to send the Tax Collector’s Land Use Change Tax Warrant to Sandra J. Smith, Collector of Taxes for Walpole, NH in said county for Map #008, Lot #119-000, 152 Kingsbury Road.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

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 at 6:54 PM.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:19 PM.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to seal the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard session of August 27, 2015.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

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.

The regular Selectboard meeting resumed at 7:55 PM.  

OLD BUSINESS:

LETTER FROM RUTH VENEZIA: The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of a letter from Ruth Venezia expressing her concern that more has not been done to mark the intersection in question.  Mrs. Pschirrer pointed out that Mr. Terrell said the signs are up.

VETERANS WAR MEMORIAL: Mr. Aldrich approved the wording change to the Veterans War Memorial document.  Mrs. Clough will up-date the form and print it on Town letterhead.

NEW BUSINESS:

BUILDING PERMIT FINE: RUGGIERO PROCESSING FACILITY: Mr. Dalessio pointed out that the Selectboard is aware of the fact that Ruggiero Processing Facility built a pole barn without a Building Permit based on their admission and several Public Hearings.

Mr. Aldrich moved to approve and sign the Notice of Violation for not applying for a Building Permit for the Ruggiero Processing Facility and that they be fined $500.00.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

OIL / PROPANE CONTRACT:  Mrs. Clough obtained information on prices for oil and propane from several companies for the coming year.  The Selectboard asked her to obtain quotes from one more vendor.  This will be an Agenda item for the next meeting.

MS-434 REPORT:  Mr. Dalessio reviewed the MS-434 Report but had a concern on the Revenue proposed by Mrs. Smith for Motor Vehicle Permit fees as it was substantially higher than other years.  The Selectboard agreed that the $770,000.00 be reduced to $625,000.00 which is the 2014 budgeted amount.  Numbers for other departments were also reviewed.  Following a lengthy discussion, it was agreed to leave them as proposed.  Mr. Kreissle will make the necessary changes and the MS-434 Report  will come back before the Selectboard.

MS-1 REPORT:  Mr. Dalessio reported that the good news is that the properties in Town went up a little in value by about $3,000,000.00.

Mr. Aldrich moved to approve and sign the MS-1 Report (Summary Inventory of Evaluation) as presented.  Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

PRIMEX INSURANCE COMPANY:  Mr. Dalessio received the new forms for changing the Town’s insurance coverage from PLT to Primex.  They can begin to work on the forms shortly.  This will remain on the Agenda under Old Business.

HUBBARD FARMS BARBEQUE PIT AND RIGHT OF WAY: Mr. Dalessio advised that the Hubbard Farms property will be sold.  They are currently working on a sub-division plan so there would no longer be access to the grills.  If the Town is interested in owning this small parcel of land Hubbard Farms could sub-divide that out.  The grills are only used periodically by the Town and School therefore the Selectboard felt that area would have to be fenced in. The other issue is that the road to the pool is not a permanent Right-of-Way.  Mrs. Pschirrer recommended that the Selectboard wait until next week to make a decision on whether or not to own the small piece of property that the grills are on.

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to create a Right-of-Way on the Hubbard Farms property.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved.

ADJOURNMENT:

Mrs. Pschirrer moved to adjourn this meeting.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With all in favor, the motion was approved at 8:44 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary