| The Town Meeting issue of the CLARION is at the post offices for delivery and now on-line. Do not forget to go to your polling place on Tuesday March 12 to mark your ballots, and then on Saturday March 16, attend Town Meeting at the Town Hall beginning at 1 pm. See you there.To see the March CLARION – Click this Link . Catch you again soon, yours, RAY BOAS, Publisher |
Clarion On-line
Zoning Board Meeting Minutes – 2/21/24
Roll Call: Board members Chair Dave Edkins, Clerk Tom Murray, Pauline Barnes and Tom Winmill. Alternates: Shane O’Keefe and Myra Mansouri. Absent: Alternates Don Sellarole and Carolyn Vose.
Call to Order: Mr. Edkins called the meeting to order at 7:03 pm. Mr. Edkins asked Mr. O’Keefe to serve as the fifth board member. He agreed.
Minutes: Mr. O’Keefe made one clarification. Regarding ski areas near where he works in Londonderry, VT, he changed Okemo to Stratton. Ms. Barnes, on page 2, second paragraph, added an “s” to the word requirement. Mr. O’Keefe moved the motion to approve the minutes as corrected. Ms. Barnes seconded the motion and the motion carried.
New Business:
Mr. Edkins said he spoke with Walpole Planning Board chair, Jeff Miller, and Mr. Miller invited the Zoning Board to a workshop meeting on the fourth Tuesday of the month, Tuesday, February 27, in the conference room in the basement of the Town Hall to discuss updating/recodifying the Walpole Zoning Ordinances. He sent an email to the board about the meeting shortly after talking to Mr. Miller. Ms. Barnes said she thought Mr. Edkins was going to talk with him about hiring a consultant to work with the Zoning Board on the language of some of the zoning ordinances. Carol Ogilvie’s name was mentioned at the January meeting as a consultant that had recently worked with the Planning Board on updating the Natural Features section of the Master Plan. Mr. Edkins replied that he thought Ms. Ogilvie was semi retired and wasn’t sure if she would be available. He added that the Planning Board had money, $10,000, in its budget for consultant work. In the past they have used Southwest Region Planning Commission.
Mr. Edkins asked the board for topics or sections of the document that should be discussed.
Mr. O’Keefe said he wasn’t ready to answer that request yet. He wanted to spend some time before the meeting rereading the document. Ms. Mansouri suggested starting with one item, maybe definitions, and that would lead to next item. Mr. O’Keefe said he didn’t think we have the expertise to do this. We need some help from a consultant who has done this before and knows the latest statutory language. But before the board spends any money, it has to figure out what it wants. We have a year to do this before presenting anything to the public. This will make it easier for the public to understand this document. Mr. Edkins said he didn’t see doing a radical reformatting of the document. It just needs updating of some of the language and clarifying some definitions. Mr. O’Keefe said “like the word boarding house.”
Someone suggested that the ZBA could use the Southwest Region Planning Commission.
The secretary explained that the problem the Planning Board had with SWRPC last year was that it was understaffed. Several times last year the commission was scheduled to work with the PB on its Master Plan but canceled right before the meeting because it had no one to attend the meeting. Mr. Edkins and Ms. Barnes said there are other people, such as in the Department of Municipal Services. People such as Tara Bamford, whom they both mentioned as worthy of considering.
Mr. Murray said we’ve done this before. He mentioned the board’s work on signage and the bed and breakfast ordinance. The board spent a good deal of time working on ordinances about feather flags and temporary signs. Both issues were brought to the board’s attention by the public. It took a while but the language was worked out and it was put on the warrant and ultimately is in our current sign ordinance.
Ms. Barnes said in the beginning of the document should be a description of the type of ordinance the town of Walpole has, which is a permissive ordinance. A permissive ordinance means if something is not mentioned in the ordinance, it is not permitted. If you can’t find it there, you probably need a variance to do it.
Someone suggested starting with definitions. Article XVII is a sections solely devoted to definitions on all subjects. Article XVIII Flood Plain District has definitions related to the flood plain but there are also definitions about manufactured housing and historic homes. Besides putting all the definitions together in one article, Ms. Barnes stressed that they should be alphabetized.
The board agreed there are Articles in the ordinance that are untouchable such as Article XIX Wellhead Protection Overlay District Ordinance. That article was written by members of the Walpole Conservation Commission and members who had expertise in groundwater and drinking water matters and were concerned about contamination. It includes definitions specifically related to this matter, and an explanation of where the district is, spill prevention and control, a countermeasure plan and a list of permitted, prohibited and conditional uses.
So the board’s marching orders were: reread the Town of Walpole’s Zoning Ordinances document and be ready to discuss at next Tuesday’s workshop with the Planning Board zoning ordinances or sections on which the board needs to focus its attention to the language. Also, discuss getting a consultant who would be knowledgeable about the current statutory language.
Handout
Board members received a copy of an update of the state of local land use regulations printed in a copy of the January/February 2024 copy of Town and City compiled by the NH Municipal Association.
Adjournment
Mr. O’Keefe made a motion to adjourn. Mr. Murray seconded the motion and the motion carried. The time was 8 pm.
These minutes are unapproved and will be reviewed at the regular March 2023 meeting for corrections and omissions
Respectfully submitted,
Marilou Blaine
ZBA Recording Secretary
Community Cabaret – May 18, 2024
Please save the date and in the meantime work on those talents! Why?
It’s the Return of the Community Cabaret, hosted by the First Congregational Church of Walpole Saturday, May 18, 6:30 PM. We are signing up performers now!
Do you sing? Play an instrument? Perform magic tricks? Recite poetry? Perform skits? Something else? We want to hear from you! From silly to serious, your talents are welcome.
Please contact the church office at walpole.church@yahoo.com with your name and your performance idea. Thank you!
Marilyn Shriver
Co-Chair, Church Council
First Congregational Church of Walpole, UCC
Conservation Commission Meeting Minutes – 2/5/24
Members Present: John Peska (facilitating), Steven Dumont, Wendy Grossman, France Menk, Peter Palmiotto (minutes recorder), Lewis Shelley
Members Absent: Alicia Flammia
Alternates Present: Kara Dexter, Nicole Adams
Visitors Present: Peggy Pschirrer (SelectboardLiaison)
Call to Order: John called the meeting to order at 7:02 in Town Hall. The meeting was not
recorded.
Recording secretary – There was discussion for the need to hire a recording secretary. Position is posted on the town bulletin board. No interest has been expressed yet. All will attempt to recruit interest.
Review and Approval of Minutes: Peggy Pschirrer raised concern about the ‘adverse possession’ reference to the Knapp property as recorded in the December 2023 minutes. The information had been read from a letter that Wendy pulled from the conservation commission’s files. Peggy requested Wendy to send a copy of the letter to her and Sarah, and Wendy agreed to do so. Peggy is concerned that ownership of the property is not clear and wants the minutes to state that research into the Knapp property ownership is continuing.
A motion to approve the January 2024 minutes was made (France) and seconded (Wendy), all voted in favor. Motion carried.
Public Business
Correspondence:
Letter received from the NH Charitable Foundation naming the contribution to the conservation fund of $9618.66. NH Charitable Foundation magazine Purpose Fall/Winter 2023. Monadnock conservancy letter – solicitation for support. Pamphlet form Environment & Human Health Inc promoting the Adoption of Bottle Bill redemption laws.
Letter was received from Kara Dexter, whose term as alternate expires in March 2024. The letter informed the commission that she will not submit a letter to renew her alternate status.
Steve Dumont and John Peska’s terms expire March 2024, they need to send a letter to the selectmen’s office to request appointment for another 3 year term.
Financial Report: John shared the financial information he received from Rich Kreissle dated 1/31/2024. Conservation Fund $221,457.96, plus $9618.66 (NHCF check), Forestry – $24,956.22, Walker Road – $719.30. Fanny Mason fund amount read by Peter from 12/31/2023 sheets – $469,596.90 and $20,322.19.
New Business:
Graffiti at Fanny Mason pole barn, John named numerous tags are appearing in numerous locations through town. Peggy will inquire with police – defer to the next meeting for any action to take.
Walpole Gateway
-pursue farming options, talk to local farmers to determine options that are available
-Discussion occurred about mowing edges for access
-Upper field – trail corridor – need permission from State to plant in rail corridor
Cold River Joint Commission needs a member – commission asking for an interested volunteer.
Web page – fee $73 annually, if we go with Word press – $96 annually will provide us more functionality with web maintenance and covers the domain name. Provides direct support. France will find out about web security.
Rail trail – discussion on signage that limits motorized vehicles – need to inquire with the state about additional signs. Wendy will inquire.
Idea of introducing community / School age community members about trails – talk to Hooper Institute to bring to schools to elevated awareness.
Old Business:
Dam – Fuss and O’Neill engineering firm will send reports by Thursday on Reservoir Dam, Houghton brook and school street bridge. These projects have been ongoing for years and concern is expressed about the length of time it is taking to complete.
Boundaries – Fanny Mason parking area – Lew secured information that informed us the town owns beyond 100’ from center line – ie., town owns the property outside the corridor – so we can maintain shelters, lawn and thin forest to improve area.
Trail committee report – no meeting
Rail Trail – Wendy proposed a presentation on the future of the rail trail at the next meeting by her and Will. Scheduled is a 20-30 minute presentation and discussion to follow. Plan is to invite trail committee members and snowmobile club members to attend. Note that the public can attend all town meetings without a specific invite.
Property monitoring
Action item – Aldrich Easement – Alicia and Peter will monitor in March. Kara will send them information that Wendy had sent her. The Stewardship Committee will meet to continue the development of the monitoring and stewardship protocols.
Kara asked if the debris was cleaned at the Ramsay Hill and Reservoir Road harvesting site. No one had been there to answer the question.
Announcements:
Town Budget meeting on Thursday.
Adjourn 8:30 pm
The next meeting will be on Monday, March 4, 2024.
Respectfully Submitted,
Peter Palmiotto, acting Recording Secretary
** These minutes are in draft form until approved at the March 4, 2024 meeting.
Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 2/15/24
Selectboard Present: Peggy L Pschirrer, Chair; Cheryl Mayberry and Steven Dalessio
CALL TO ORDER: Mrs. Pschirrer called this meeting of the Selectboard to order at 6:28 PM in the first-floor meeting room of the Walpole Town Hall. There were five representatives from National Grid including Kaytlynn Monroe, Rebecca Walkley, Jason Magoon (forestry) Corey Schutzman (environmental) and Bethany Rocha. Also present were Patrick Kiniry and Katherine Kopij and Rose Bolio from the North Walpole Village District and John Peska from the Conservation Commission.
RIVER VALLEY RELIABILTY PROJECT: Kaytlynn Monroe of Hilltop Public Solutions introduced herself. She has been contracted by National Grid to work on this project. Bethany Rocha of National Grid, who focuses on outreach, reviewed the agenda of the history, project scope, benefits, etc.The transmission line runs from the Bellows Falls substation to the Wilder substation. Ms. Rocha explained that the W149 Transmission line was placed in service in 1948. Work would be done in National Grid’s existing right-of-way (ROW). Ms. Monroe reviewed the map. Walpole has the smallest section of the line. Ms. Rocha said there are 509 aging structures being replaced with 26 structures being replaced in Walpole over a 2 mile stretch of the ROW. The line will remain active during the project. There will be trees and vegetation removed where necessary. Ms. Monroe spoke to project benefits which include added property tax revenue. This line has significant trouble with tree contact and lightning strikes. Jason Magoon said that there would not be a drastic removal of trees in the North Walpole right-of-way. Ms. Monroe stated it was appropriately 7 acres of tree removal.
The project schedule began in the fall of 2023 with notifications, project website, local meeting, etc. There will be additional presentations as the project progresses. Construction and restoration will occur between Dec. 2026 to March 2030, which is subject to change. Mrs. Pschirrer asked about the notices. Ms. Rocha stated that abutters within 500 feet of the ROW were sent notices. Ms. Monroe explained there is a dedicated hotline number to call for any question or concerns. Ms. Mayberry asked if the project was occurring in North Walpole Village District. The map confirmed the line runs north along the westside of Fall Mountain. Ms. Schutzman explained the multitude of permits required for this large project. There would be time of year restrictions to protect the tri-color bats. Ms. Walkley spoke to the permitting path being either at the local or state citing process. Mr. Dalessio commented that the Town does not have a permitting process for such a large-scale project. The Town will rely on the State to grant the various permits. There was a discussion of the access points to the ROW. Ms. Monroe stated there will be more notifications and presentations as the project progresses to keep the community informed. Mr. Peska asked if the presenters were familiar with the bio-diversity study being conducted by Mr. Persad of Liberty Utilities. Mr. Magoon was familiar with the study. The study is not currently monitored this section of powerline.
At 6:59 PM the Selctboard paused to move into the Selectboard Office to continue the meeting. At 7:03 PM the Selectboard Meeting resumed.
NORTH WALPOLE UTILITY DISCONTINUANCE OF SERVICE AGREEMENT WITH WALPOLE WATER UTILITY: Mr. Kiniry explained that the shut off or on fee had increased to $30 for each action. Mrs. Pschirrer noted that no one would have their water shut off during the winter months. There was a discussion of the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) rules. Ms. Mayberry commented that if the utilities cannot recoup their costs, other users end up paying. There will be multiple notices before the water service is shut off. Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the North Walpole Utility Discountenance of Service Agreement with Walpole Water Utility. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalesio, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the Minutes were approved. The North Walpole Commissioners had approved the agreement at an earlier commissioners’ meeting.
At 7:15 PM, the North Walpole Village District Commissioners and Treasurer leave the meeting.
PAYROLL:
Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Payroll Check Register for the week ending February 10, 2024, in the amount of $31,290.00dated February 16, 2024, and for the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer in the amount of $6,181.44. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:
SELECTBOARD MEETING – February 8, 2024: Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of February 8, 2024, as submitted. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrerin favor, the Minutes were approved.
2024 TOWN BUDGET HEARING – February 8, 2024: Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Minutes of the 2024 Town Budget Hearing of February 8, 2024, as submitted. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the Minutes were approved.
SELECTBOARD NON-PUBLIC SESSION – February 8, 2024: Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the Minutes of the Selectboard Non-Public Session of February 8, 2024, as submitted. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the Minutes were approved. The minutes are to remain sealed.
COMMITTEE REPORTS:
Mr. Dalessio moved to acknowledge the following board/committee/board meeting minutes:
• Trustees of Trust Funds Meeting –February 1, 2024
The chair so recognized.
REFUNDS:
Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the property tax refund for map and lot# 004-032-000 for $69.61. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the property tax refund for map and lot# 011-004-000 for $8.93. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the property tax refund for map and lot# 028-121-000 for $99.45. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the property tax refund for map and lot# 030-039-000 for $29.95. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
BLIND PROPERTY EXEMPTION:
Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the blind exemption for map and lot# 028-132-000. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
OLD BUSINESS:
Pending Further Actions: Parking Policy, Generators, School and Old North Main Bridges/Culverts, School Street Drainage Project, Phase 3 Power for Industrial Drive and Bensonwood, Houghton Brook Bridge, Dog Ordinance
Selectboard Operational Guidelines: There was a consensus to table this item until next week’s meeting.
Meeting with SAU 29: A date and time to meet is still pending for the meeting.
NEW BUSINESS:
Encumbering Funds Requests for Police Cruiser and Equipment: There was a consensus to table this item to next week. Research is being conducted regarding a purchase order for these items.
Groundwater Management Permit: Ms. Mayberry moved for the chair to sign the Groundwater Management Permit for the former Central Plating Brownfields site. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio, and Mrs. Pschirrerin favor, the motion was approved.
Letters to Eagle Scouts: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve Eagle Scout letters for Braden and Thomas Haefner. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
HOOPER TRUSTEES MEETING:
Ms. Mayberry moved to enter into a Hooper Trustees Meeting. Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer. With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved at 7:29 PM.
The Selectboard Meeting resumed at 7:43 PM.
NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD SESSION:
Ms. Mayberry moved to enter into a Non-Public Selectboard Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (e) Legal at 7:43 PM. Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer. Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved. These minutes are to remain sealed.
The regular Selectboard meeting reconvened at 7:50 PM.
Mrs. Pschirrer requested that the minutes remain sealed.
ADJOURNMENT:
Ms. Mayberry moved to adjourn this Selectboard meeting. Seconded by Mrs. Pschirrer. Mr. Dalessio asked if there was any additional discussion. There was none. With Ms. Mayberry, Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the meeting was adjourned at 7:51 PM.
Respectfully submitted,
Sarah Downing, Recording Secretary Pro Tempore
Library Trustees Meeting Minutes – 2/13/24
Present: Kathy Nerrie (Treasurer), Gail LaHaise, Susan Johnson, Bill Ranauro, Sarah Mann, Erin Bowen, Jean Kobeski (Recording Secretary), Jane Malmberg (Library Director), Peggy Pschirrer (Selectboard Liaison)
Absent: Amy Howard, Tim Lester
Susan called the meeting to order at 4:00 p.m. in the Main Library Community Room. This meeting was recorded.
Approval of Minutes: Two dates in the January, 2024 minutes were incorrect. The public budget hearing is February 8, not January 8, as written. The next board meeting should have read February 13, not February 12. With these corrections, Gail made a motion to approve the January minutes; Bill seconded the motion, and all voted in favor. Motion carried.
Treasurer’s Report: Kathy emailed the Treasurer’s Report to the Board prior to the meeting for review. She pointed out that money for the new Children’s Room bookshelves is available from existing accounts and will be paid upon receipt of the invoice.
Bills: Jane emailed the list of bills to the Board for review prior to the meeting. There were no questions so Gail moved to accept the Treasurer’s Report and Bills. Kathy seconded and all voted in favor. Motion carried.
Old Business
Cabinets in the Community Room: Amy talked to Adam Vose about cabinetry for the Community Room, requesting the style discussed at last month’s meeting. He gave her an estimate for the cabinets and installation, which she sent to the Trustees. Gail moved to accept Adam Vose’s bid for cabinets and installation and Susan seconded the motion. All voted in favor. Motion carried.
Circulation Policy: Jane revamped the library’s Circulation Policy and sent a copy to Board members prior to the meeting. It spells out the new cost of library cards to non-residents. Jane learned that Langdon gives money each year to Alstead to issue cards to to Langdon residents (Langdon has no library of its own.), so it is not necessary for Walpole to continue issuing free cards to Langdon residents, as we have been doing. It was decided to grandfather current cardholders into the old policy and charge Langdon residents who want a Walpole card moving forward. Jane also stated a change in card renewal policy. From now on patrons will need to renew in person (with an exception for those who cannot physically come to the library). Susan moved to accept the updated Circulation Policy; Erin seconded, and all voted in favor. Motion carried.
Jane said she would email a new Policy Handbook to all the Trustees since so many policies have been updated. Peggy asked her to send one to Sarah Downing as well.
Shelves for the Children’s Room: Jane reported that the shelves should ship on the 16th. Gail asked who will do the installation. Jane said the company shipping the shelves will install; she just has to work out a date with them. Current shelving will be shipped to North Walpole. The shelves in North Walpole will be sent to the Reuse Center. Jane said we need to find someone with a truck to help transport the shelves. Sarah offered to do that.
Sarah asked if children’s programs would be moved to the Community Room during installation so they wouldn’t have to be cancelled. Jane said they could do that or possibly have some of the work done on the weekend when the library is closed.
New Business
Library Substitutes: Jane asked for board approval to hire a new substitute for the library, and the board agreed .
Front Step Repair: Jane passed around John Willette’s estimate for front step repairs. The estimate covers removal of broken concrete and repouring of new concrete. He said it would require the library to close for one day. Gail moved to accept John Willette’s estimate; Erin seconded, and all voted in favor. Motion carried.
Antique Chairs in Community Room: Gail asked why the antique chairs (which display a sign requesting that patrons avoid sitting on them) are in the library if they can’t be used. They were brought to the library from the Historical Society because they were once housed in the library. Jane will ask Christi Winmill if they can be returned to the Historical Society.
Operations: Jane sent the Operations Report to the Board prior to this meeting. Circulation and visitation are down slightly in North Walpole but have increased in the Main Library.
Mrs. Aube’s class from North Walpole visited the North Walpole Library.
Buildings and Grounds: Jane ask Brad to remove the blank sign from the front yard of the library.
Friends of the Library: Jane said the Friends have designated someone to pick up checks more frequently.
Other Business: Gail recognized Peggy Pschirrer for serving as liaison to the library from the Selectboard. Today is her last meeting because she is stepping off the Selectboard. The Trustees thanked her for her long association with the library.
Adjournment: With no further business Gail moved to adjourn the meeting; Erin seconded. Susan adjourned the meeting at 4:31 p.m.
The next meeting will be on Tuesday, March 12, 2024 at 4:00 p.m. in the Main Library.
Respectfully Submitted,
Jean Kobeski, Recording Secretary
** These minutes are in draft form until approved at the March 12, 2024 meeting.
Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 2/8/24
Selectboard Present: Peggy Pschirrer, Chair; Cheryl Mayberry and Steven Dalessio
Staff Present: Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration; Ahmad Esfahani, Recording Secretary
Others Present: Jocelyn Barrett of Great River Hydro; Mark Houghton, Fire Chief
CALL TO ORDER: Mrs. Pschirrer called this Selectboard meeting to order at 7:05 PM in the Selectboard Office of the Town Hall. She introduced herself, Peggy Pschirrer, Selectboard Chair, Cheryl Mayberry, Steve Dalessio, Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration, and Ahmad Esfahani, Recording Secretary.
OLD BUSINESS:
Great River Hydro PILOT: Mrs. Pschirrer announced that Jocelyn Barrett from Great River Hydro was present. Ms. Barrett stated she was in attendance to introduce herself and to suggest a Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) agreement with the Town. Mr. Dalessio commented on his concern that the future for tax increases is unknown. He described the projected increases in various taxes and stated his reluctance in doing a PILOT at the present time.
NEW BUSINESS:
Walpole Fire and EMS Building Renovation Presentation: Chief Houghton stated he was present to inform the Selectboard of a proposal to renovate the Fire Station. He presented visuals in explanation of the intended renovations and described the areas of need within the present Fire Station building structure. He fielded questions from the Selectboard in the presentation of the floorplan. Chief Houghton stated that the present department is completely on call and that the proposed renovations may allow for overnight and full-time staff. Chief Houghton believes that the Walpole Fire and EMS District will only need to bond $827,000. Mr. Dalessio asked how the grant accounting would be managed. Chief Houghton responded that it would be handled within the Fire District. Ms. Mayberry suggested that Chief Houghton clarify on the map where the renovations would be relevant to the adjacent streets. Chief Houghton said that the square footage would be increasing from 9,683 to 15,538.
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Accounts Payable Check Register totaling $798,113.86 dated 2/09/24. This includes a $700,531.13 monthly payment to Fall Mountain Regional School District. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
PAYROLL: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Payroll Register totaling $31,562.86 dated 2/9/24 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $6,552.35. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
SELECTBOARD MINUTES:
SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES, February 1, 2024: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Selectboard Meeting minutes of February 1, 2024. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
SELECTBOARD NON-PUBLIC MEETING MINUTES, February 1, 2024: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Selectboard Non-Public Meeting minutes of February 1, 2024. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved. The minutes will remain sealed.
COMMITTEE REPORTS:
Mr. Dalessio brought the following committee reports to the chair’s attention.
•Police Building Committee Meeting – January 22, 2024
Mrs. Pschirrer acknowledged these reports.
REFUNDS:
Map and Lot# 003-082-000: Mr. Dalessio motioned to approve the refund for Map and Lot# 003-082-000 for NH Public Radio’s third payment for 2022 taxes. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.
ABATEMENTS:
Map and Lot# 03-082-000: Mr. Dalessio motioned to approve the abatement for Map and Lot# 03-082-000 or $1,079.95 related to the interest. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberryand Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.
TIMBER TAX WARRANT:
Op# 23-461-07 for Map and Lot# 013-057-000: Mr. Dalessio motioned to approve the timber taxwarrant for Op# 23-461-07 for Map and Lot# 013-057-000 for $4,942.68. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.
OLD BUSINESS:
2024 Warrant Article Listing: Mrs. Pschirrer stated that the Selectboard has a new warrant to sign. A last-minute petition warrant article was submitted which would ask the Town to adopt a policy that all voting be done by paper ballot with the ballots being hand-counted. She commented that this is a movement that is happening all over the State. Mr. Dalessio motioned to sign the 2024 warrant article listing as presented. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.
Letter to Kara Dexter: By consensus the Selectboard approved the letter to Kara Dexter.
Fuss & O’Neill Proposal for Engineering Services: Mrs. Pschirrer motioned to have Mr. Dalessio sign the letter of agreement with Fuss & O’Neill for Reservoir Dam engineering services for $393,440 to be reimbursed to the Town from a grant. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Mrs. Pschirrer, Ms. Mayberryand Mr. Dalessio in favor the motion was approved.
Graffiti: Mrs. Pschirrer stated that the graffiti was discussed at a recent conservation meeting. Chief Sanctuary has been made aware of the issue. The small gazebo that has been painted with graffiti which has been painted over.
Houghton Brook Bridge Update: Mr. Dalessio stated that they are still working on the design.
Union and School Streets Drainage Project: Mr. Dalessio stated that the final plans for the project have been completed. He stated that the Town can get moving on this, but the final costs have not been received yet.
NEW BUSINESS:
Walpole Fire District Hearing Dates for the Budget and Bond is Feb. 22nd: Mrs. Pschirrer stated that the Fire District Public Hearing is 2/22/2024 at 7:00 PM.
MS-636: Ms. Mayberry motioned to sign the MS-636. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Mayberry,Mr. Dalessio, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor the motion was approved.
Encumbering Funds Request: By consensus the Selectboard agreed that $250,000 from Article 6 for the new 6-wheel truck be encumbered.
Selectboard Operational Guidelines: Mr. Dalessio stated that before Mrs. Pschirrer leaves the Selectboard, the guidelines should be reviewed. This item was tabled until the next meeting.
River Valley Transmission Line Upgrade: Mrs. Pschirrer stated that five representatives from National Grid will be present on 2/15/2024 to present on the River Valley Transmission Line upgrade.
Selectboard Meeting Date: The Selectboard agreed to meet on 3/6/2024 and for all the first Wednesdays of the month going forward.
NON-PUBLIC BUSINESS RSA 91-A:3 II (a):
Ms. Mayberry moved to enter into Non-Public meeting at 8:24 p.m. Mr. Dalessio seconded. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
The meeting reconvened at 8:25 PM.
Mrs. Pschirrer declared the nonpublic minutes would be sealed.
HOOPER TRUSTEES MEETING:
Ms. Mayberry moved to enter into Hooper Trustees meeting at 8:25 PM. Mr. Dalessio seconded. With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
The meeting reconvened at 8:31 PM.
NON-PUBLIC BUSINESS RSA 91-A:3 II (c):
Mr. Dalessio moved to enter into Non-Public Session at 8:31 PM. Ms. Mayberry seconded. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry, and Mrs. Pschirrer in favor, the motion was approved.
The meeting was reconvened at 8:40 PM.
Mrs. Pschirrer declared the non-public minutes would be sealed.
Recycling: Ms. Mayberry stated that the Recycling Department would like to host a 2/17/2024 outdoor movie night for volunteers. Consensus of the Selectboard was to accept this request.
ADJOURNMENT:
Mrs. Pschirrer declared the meeting adjourned at 8:43 PM.
Respectfully submitted,
Ahmad Esfahani, Recording Secretary
Town Budget Hearing – 2/8/24
Selectboard Present: Peggy Pschirrer, Chair; Cheryl Mayberry and Steven Dalessio
Staff Present: Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration; Ahmad Esfahani, Recording Secretary, Rich Kreissle, Manager of Finance; Mike Symonds, Road Agent; Justin Sanctuary, Police Chief; Ben Hoy, Recycling Dept. Manager; Jane Malmberg, Library Director; Meghan Hansson, Town Clerk and Tax Collector and Kraig Harlow, Recreation Director.
Others Present: Steve Varone, Treasurer; Paul Looney, Walpole Community Power Chair and over 35 members of the public.
CALL TO ORDER: Mrs. Pschirrer called this meeting to order at 5:30 PM in the main meeting room of the Town Hall.
PRESENTATION: Mrs. Pschirrer discussed the format of the Budget Hearing, and noted how she would be calling on department managers to speak on their respective budgets. She informed those in attendance of the 3/16/2024 Town Meeting, wherein the warrants will be voted upon. Mrs. Pschirrer explained the process of working on the 2024 budget beginning the previous September, with meetings with department managers in December. Mrs. Pschirrer called attention to the 2024 budget being $4,766,717, up 3.84% from the previous year. She explained how health care costs increased by 15.6%, and that the general salary increase for Town staff is 3%.
Mrs. Pschirrer spoke in relation to a warrant article that asks permission to buy 2.6 +/- acres of land for $200,000 coming from the unassigned fund balance. The land would be the site of a new police station.
Chief Sanctuary introduced himself to those in attendance. He briefly discussed the history of exploring the relocation of the Walpole Police Station. He commented that the most affordable option was to purchase land and build a new police station. Chief Sanctuary explained how the station would be centrally located and would assist in overall police response to calls for service. The land to be purchased has access to Upper Walpole Valley Road. Mr. Aldrich asked for further details. Mr. Dalessio stated that a building study committee was formed prior to COVID, and after reconvening and detailed discussions, it was determined that a new building was required. Mr. Dalessio commented that land is scarce in Walpole where the Town would want to build a new police station. Mr. Boas asked the Town about the rate per acre the Town is paying in comparison to what Dunkin Donuts paid. Mr. Dalessio responded that the Town wants to do borings on the site to ensure that a police station can be built upon that site. It was explained that the $200,000 is not the amount to be paid for the property alone. It also covers additional costs associated with the purchase of the land for a new station. Ms. Bowry asked what was going to go in the building under discussion. Mr. Dalessio stated that potentially in September information will be available to share. Mr. Dalessio stated that architect Michael Petrovick has been hired to do a space study and conceptual drawings.
Mr. Basora asked if there would be net proceeds from selling the existing station. Mr. Dalessio commented that the building may be contaminated, and that questions must be answered before any decision can be made on selling the current building. Mr. Aldrich stated his concerns that he has never called the police in the 46 years he has lived in Town and wondered if a new station was needed. Chief Sanctuary stated that he would allow interested people to tour the station and go for a ride-a-long with an officer. Mr. Therrien commented that he has called the police since moving to Town and they were very helpful.
Ms. Andros asked about the design of the building, and asked if there are any designs. Chief Sanctuary stated that a design has not been created, but needs for the building have been identified. Mrs. Pschirrer clarified that at the Women of Walpole (WOW) that Ms. Andros attended, observations of necessary design elements were discussed, but not actual specific designs.
Mrs. Sommer stated that people are hearing about a wish-list and that this is troubling people. Mr. Dalessio stated that if there are questions or concerns, he would make time to meet with residents.
Mrs. Pschirrer then began discussions on Town Hall repairs to the west side of the building. Mrs. Downing spoke to Warrant Article #5. She stated that the Town received two quotes. The best quote was from Jancewicz and Son which is a Walpole based contractor. Mr. Tom Aldrich stated that he was concerned about the term “raise” in the warrant’s wording. Mrs. Pschirrer clarified that warrant articles are sent to the State for review, and that bureaucratic protocols of appropriate language must be followed.
Mr. Kreissle introduced himself to those in attendance and explained the nature of the unassigned fund balance as being: 1. Revenue generated by taxation and 2. Subtract the actual amount of the budget, and the excess goes towards the unassigned fund balance. Mr. Kreissle stated that the present unassigned fund balance is $2,173,455.
Mr. Walters asked if we should try to lower our tax rate if the unassigned fund balance is high. Mr. Walters stated that the cost of his property tax per month is more than his mortgage. Increased property taxes are a hardship for his family. Mr. Walters asked how much more revenue was generated. Mr. Kreissle stated that the average collection rate is about 96-97%. Mr. Kreissle explained the use of the unassigned fund balance for road repairs after the floods in recent years. Mr. Therrien commented that the value of the houses increased 65%, which affected property tax bills. Mr. Kreissle stated that in the finance budget, there is a separate budget for the tax collector.
Mrs. Pschirrer invited Mike Symonds to speak to a Highway Block Grant. Mr. Symonds introduced himself as the Road Agent for Walpole. He stated that the highway department would like to mill a section of Main Street from the entrance of the school to the entrance of Agway. Main Street is showing wear. Mr. Symonds stated that the Town has not line painted in two years. Sidewalks within town also need repair. Ms. Epstein asked if there was a date chosen for School Street drainage work. Mr. Dalessio responded that he has just seen the plans for the School Street work, and that it will be discussed in the upcoming Selectboard meeting. Mrs. Pschirrer asked Mr. Symonds if any other streets in Town would be paved. Mr. Symonds identified work to be done on Valley Road, Green Road of North Walpole, Hooper Road, and Alice Smith Road.
Mr. Paul Looney, chair of the Walpole Community Power Committee, and Mr. Hoy of the Recycling Center spoke about the proposal to add solar panels at the Recycling Center. Mr. Looney discussed the process of putting solar panels on the new storage building. Mr. Looney stated that the 80 panels would generate 40,000 kilowatt hours per year, which would be shared with the Walpole Town Hall. He stated that the vendor with the lowest cost was chosen. Based on estimates, the system will pay for itself in 6.5 years. He commented that the ability for a panel to generate power becomes reduced at 25 years. Mr. Hoy stated that the new storage building’s roof was adjusted for the installation of solar panels. Mr. Varone asked for dollar value savings per year from this installation. Mr. Looney answered with approximately $8,000 a year. Mr. Varone asked for further calculations to include the cost of decommissioning and disposal of the panels. Mr. Varone stated that using the concept of opportunity costs, the estimates presented may need to be looked at. Mr. Hoy explained that the Town of Walpole takes recycling seriously. Mr. Palmiotto added that there is the environmental benefit from adding solar panels. They will produce clean energy.
Mrs. Pschirrer explained the Town balances of the municipal, highway, police, town wide assessment, and recycling capital reserve funds. She spoke to how much the Town will be asking residents to consider increasing each reserve fund balance. Every five years the Town must complete a town-wide assessment, and a new capital reserve fund has been put forward for consideration.
Mrs. Pschirrer spoke of the importance of attending the upcoming town meeting.
Mr. Wes Vickers asked if discussion of Article #11 could take place. He suggested that the Select board speak to the Town attorney about the overcharging that was disclosed in the previous night’s school district deliberative session. Can the Town seek a refund after the fiscal year has ended? Mr. Vickers stated that the Town has zero control over Walpole Elementary School. He highly recommends that the Town establish this preliminary committee to explore alternative options to the present school structure. The school district does plan on changing the articles of agreement. Mr. Varone stated that this discussion is about doing what is best for Walpole and having local control and autonomy in decision-making. Mr. Varone spoke about the options eligible for consideration if the committee were to be formed.
Mrs. Pschirrer briefly commented upon a petition warrant concerning removing electronic voting machines and moving to solely hand counting paper ballots.
ADJOURNMENT:
Mrs. Pschirrer declared the meeting adjourned at 6:50 PM.
Planning Board Meeting Minutes – 2/13/24
Roll Call: Board members Chair Jeff Miller, Clerk Jason Miller, Joanna Andros, Trevor MacLachlan, Select Board Representative Steve Dalessio. Alternate Bill Carmody. Absent: Vice-Chair Dennis Marcom, board member Jeff Harrington and alternate Travis Adams. A quorum was present.
Also at the meeting were a group representing the Walpole Fire Department: Commissioner Tom Sawyer, Retired Chief Dick Hurlburt, Retired Chief Harry Boynton, Assistant Chief Mike Flynn, Steve Horton Construction Services and the presenter Fire Chief Mark Houghton.
Call to Order: Mr. Miller called the meeting to order a couple of minutes before 7 pm. He asked Mr. Carmody to sit in for Vice-Chair Dennis Marcom.
Minutes: Mr. MacLachlan moved to approve the minutes as written. Mr. Perron seconded the motion and the motion carried.
New Business:
Fire Chief Mark Houghton will present the Walpole Fire Department’s renovations and additions to the public. Main Street, Tax Map 24, Lot 38-1.
Fire Chief Mark Houghton introduced the fire commissioners and past fire chiefs as well as Steve Horton, who was instrumental in putting the plan and costs together. Mr. Houghton passed out a handout to the Planning Board members, as well as the public. The handout gave an overview of the project, some renovations as well as new additions and the reasons why they were needed, and a proposed budget.
Mr. Houghton said the last time the Walpole Firehouse was renovated was 1990. At that time the call volume was about 54 calls a year. Last year, he said, the department had 753 calls. Eighty percent of those calls were for Emergency Medical Service. Twenty percent were for fire. The renovations planned are to improve the Emergency Medical Service side of the department’s mission as well as to improve the work space for the administrative side of the department who are all currently sharing one office. The department has outgrown its space, Mr. Houghton said. There is a greater demand for our EMS service.
There are new requirements to operate an emergency population center in the case of a flood or other disaster. Walpole is not the only town to experience more recent volatile weather events. And since Covid, personnel have to decontaminate an ambulance after every carry. Not only does the ambulance have to be decontaminated but the person as well. We can’t do that in this building, Mr. Houghton said. So there are some spaces that have been upgraded, such as communications and ADA areas. For example, an elevator will be installed.
Some spaces are entirely new. The new floor plan includes several small individual offices, a large conference room, a decontamination area that includes lockers, a laundry, shower and three-sink setup. Also, on the second floor there’s a large space for EMS housing that includes separate small rooms for bedrooms, a living area and a larger area for storage. The total new two-story footage is 5,858 square-feet of addition.
Mr. Houghton said the department has already talked to all of the fire department’s neighbors and they are on board with the project and the department will keep the neighbors informed on what is happening.
The total cost is $3,800,000 but the proposed renovation and addition budget has funding assistance from local, state and federal sources. Already $1,058,791 has been awarded by a FEMA grant. $1,000,000 is pending on a federal Facilities grant. Mr. Houghton said since this is a federal grant, the department has to wait until the US government’s fiscal year ends in June to know whether or not the department will receive the money. And yearly, the fire department has been putting money into a reserve fund, some times as much as $100,000 a year. So $913,994 will be taken out of the fire department’s capital reserve fund and put towards this project. That leaves the Walpole Fire Department asking for a bond for 10 years for $1,827,215, or $827,215 if the federal Facilities grant is received.
Mr. Miller asked if the 753 calls were only for Walpole residents. He explained that the population of Walpole is about 3,500 and if the 753 calls were only for Walpole residents that would mean that about one out of every four people in town used the service this year. That number seemed high to Mr. Miller. With the police department requesting money this year for new land and a new building, Mr. Miller thought this was not the right time to be asking the public to foot the bill for another big project. The Walpole police department has been looking for land for a certainly needed new police station and the police department request could be for $3,000,000 to $5,000,000, he said. Mr. Dalessio said maybe $7,000,000.
Mr. Houghton broke down the numbers again to 80 percent of the 753 calls for EMS and 20 percent for fire. And because the department is part of the Mutual Aid system, they also have to go out of town for those calls, which he estimated were 130 last year. Mr. Horton added that construction costs are currently very high – $500 a square foot and in Vermont right now they are $575 per square feet, he said.
But Mr. Miller continued saying that a fire department bond for $1,827,215 and a police department bond were a lot for the townspeople to absorb in the same year.
Mr. MacLachlan asked about traffic flow. Mr. Houghton said now that the ambulances are facing Main Street they do not have to come out and go around the corner, saving precious time. They will drive straight out.
Also, lighting was mentioned and the department was reminded that the light should be directed downward to minimize glare to neighboring properties. Finally some asked about start time and Mr. Houghton said “July.”
Since the Walpole Fire Department was not required to come and explain its project, Mr. Miller thanked them for coming.
Old Business:
Public Hearing for site plan continued from December: Alyson’s Orchard: Adam Naeck application for post-and-beam addition to the farm store and 7 glamping sites. Tax Map 4, Lot 44, 57 Alyson’s Lane, Commercial/Industrial District.
Mr. Naeck sent a cover letter and checklist asking that some of the lines pointing out that the items marked N/A meant that they were irrelevant to this specific project or that they were already existing. In fact, in the section regarding Plat Submission Items 18 of the 26 items were initialed N/A meaning not applicable. He also included an itemized list of what was inside and outside the glamping (glorified camping) units. And finally he sent a glamping site description and had large photographs of the interior and exterior units. One of the photos showed the space for parking for glampers. There is plenty of space for several cars for each glamping site. Mr. Naeck said he mistakenly said at a previous meeting that you can see the tents from Wentworth Road. You cannot.
Mr. Miller started by going over each item on the checklist, which is normally used for every site plan application. Then the discussion turned to the glamping units. The interior space is 320 square feet with 112 square feet of covered outside space. An interior photo showed a tent with a full-size bed, a dresser and a single bed next to it. A large kitchen table for eating and couches. There’s also a mini fridge and space for a coffee bar, he said.
According to a handout from the company describing the tents, there are two different sizes 16-feet-by-20-feet (320 square feet) and 16-feet-by-24-feet (884 square feet). The canvas tent is treated for water, mildew and fire protection. Board members asked for the specifications on the fire protection. Mr. Naeck said he would get them as they are needed for a building permit. The base structure is either a 20 foot wide by 25 foot long (500 square feet) or 20 feet wide by 30 feet long (600 square feet) pressure treated deck. Concrete precast pylons are used for footings and pressure treated wood for framing. The interior floor and the deck floor are different materials. The outside flooring is pressure treated decking. The inside is southern yellow pine No. 2 tongue and groove. This allows for longevity to weather conditions outside the tents and a nicer finish inside the tents. Railings are all over 40 inches to the top rail using high tension cable 5.5 inches apart in between the deck floor and top rail. A 7-foot awning allows for covered patio space. All tents have electricity and Mr. Houghton said the electrical system for the glamping units is underground. There is no pole. All guests are considered short-term stays. They do not allow for bookings longer than 20 days consecutively. There is no water to the tents but there are Porto o potties and a private bathroom for guests that has a shower. There are gas grills outside each tent.
Four glamping tents will be on east side of the pond, with a couple near the event center. A photo shows the pond from the beach side. There is a sandy area and according to Mr. Naeck a fire hydrant nearby. You may have seen a small row boat there as well.
Mr. Perron wanted to know more about what would be in the post-and-beam structure. The square footage of the addition is 4638 and there will be loft. According to a previous meeting where a drawing of the structure was distributed the roof color is green, the exterior wall will be ship lap and painted red, which matches the rest of the building. The front will have two 10 foot wide by 12 feet tall barn doors. However, Mr. Perron wanted more information.
Mr. Naeck was reminded that once he had seven glamping sites, he had to come back to the Planning Board if he was going to add more. He said that he was aware of those conditions.
Mr. MacLachlan made a motion to approve the glamping plan. Mr. Perron seconded the motion and the motion carried. Mr. Naeck said he would come back next month and answer any questions about the post-and-beam building.
Voluntary Merger: Joe Sawyer, River Road South, Tax Map 4, Lot 2, rural/agricultural district.
Joseph and Sonia Sawyer of 632 River Road requested a voluntary merger to put Tax map 1, Lot 2-1 and Tax Map 4, Lot 3-6 together. The lots are where the former flea market was held on Route 12.
Mr. Perron made a motion to approve the voluntary merger. Mr. Dalessio seconded the motion and the motion carried. The secretary will register the voluntary merger with Cheshire County Registry of Deeds.
Workshop: Mr. Miller said Mr. Edkins, Chair of Zoning Board Adjustment, approached him about the ZBA working on the Walpole Ordinance booklet. He suggested a joint workshop. So a workshop will be held on Thursday, February 27, at 7 pm in the downstairs conference room to discuss updating and recodifying our zoning ordinance. Some ZBA board members will attend.
These minutes are unapproved and will be reviewed at the March 12, 2024 regular meeting for corrections, omission and additions.
Respectfully submitted,
Marilou Blaine
Recording Secretary
The Walpolean 
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