Tag Archives: Meeting Minutes

Planning Board Meeting Minutes – 2/10/26

PLANNING BOARD 02/18/2026 Leave a comment

Walpole Planning Board Minutes

Tuesday, February 10, 2026

Town Hall

7 pm

These minutes are unapproved and will be reviewed for corrections at the March 2026 meeting.

Role Call: Chair Jeff Miller, Vice-Chair Dennis Marcom, Clerk Jason Perron, Joanna Andros, Trevor MacLachlan, Select Board Representative Steve Dalessio. Absent: Board member Jeff Harrington and alternate Travis Adams.

Call to Order: Mr. Miller called the meeting to order at 7 pm. There was a quorum present.

Review of minutes of January 2026 meeting: Mr. Perron made a motion to approve the January 2026 minutes as presented. Mr. Marcom seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously.

New Business:

Site Plan: Lawrence & Lober – Preliminary meeting.

Rick Hamm, president of Lawrence & Lober Electric and Adam Steele, vice-president, were at the meeting to discuss preliminary plans for a potential building. Mr. Hamm said they were considering buying the former Abingdon Spares property on South Street for the business, which is now located in Bellows Falls, Vt. He is looking at building a 6,000-to-8,000-square foot building for his warehouse and office. He said he had about 25 employees, but most of those employees take the company trucks home at the end of the day. There already is plenty of space for parking in back of the building for employees, he said,  as well as more on the property. After a question from Board member Andros Mr. Hamm said the building would face toward Route 12.

Chair Miller said that the property has been designated at Residential B, so the buyer would need a Special Exception from the Zoning Board of Adjustment as well as a site plan application form the Planning Board. The Zoning Board meets the following week on a Wednesday and the person to contact would be Chair Tom Murray. Mr. Miller suggested that Mr. Hamm look at some of the buildings at the former Pinnacleview Equipment because all their buildings have a colonial architectural style and since this building would be the entrance to the town of Walpole it would be in keeping with the town’s architecture. Mr. Miller also suggested he consider the landscaping. Mr. Hamm and Mr. Steele left the meeting and will let the Board know if they would be back for a more formal meeting.

Old Business:

Public Hearing: 

Subdivision, Sabin Rock Farm LLC, 79 Reservoir Road,  owner Margie Palmer, Tax Map 10, Lot 26. One lot into three lots: Lot 1 9.58 acres, 559.67 feet road frontage, Lot 2 6.42 acres, 200.92 feet road frontage, Lot 3 17.99 acres, 771.21 feet, rural/ag zoning district. 

Mr. DiBernardo presented the project saying it changed from an original two-lot subdivision to a three-lot subdivision because there were already two residences on the property and that is not allowed according to Walpole’s Zoning Ordinances. Mr. DiBernardo pointed out the lot sizes and frontage, which all conformed to Walpole’s zoning ordinances now. Mr. Miller closed the hearing at 7:12 pm.

Mr. Perron made a motion to approve the project as presented. It was seconded by Mr. Marcom and it carried unanimously.

New Business:

Subdivision: Elisse McGuirk 2000 Living Trust, Tax Map 13, Lot 15, Valley Road and Tax Map 12, Lot 76, Valley Road in the Rural/Agricultural Zoning District. Surveyor Jon C. Buschbaum of Envirospect Land Services, LLC explained the project via speaker phone. 

There are two parcels of land across the street from one another on Valley Road. The notes on the plat says “the purpose of this plan is to subdivide Map 13, Lot 15 and Map 12, Lot 76 into 2 residential lots.” He said the plan for Tax Map 13, Lot 15, which is 38.7 acres, would be to  separate off the current residence on the property. That property is 1.94 acres.  Regarding the lot across the street, which is 13.4 acres, it would be divided into two lots one of 5.87 acres and one of 7.53 acres. Mr. Buschbaum requested a public hearing for the next month, March. Mr.  Buschbaum did not submit an application with the plat but said he would drop off the application and fees to the town by February 25th.

Mr. Perron made a motion to hold a public hearing at the March meeting for the subdivision of the McGuirk properties. Mr. Marcom seconded the motion and the motion carried.

Subdivision William Allen, 142 Prospect Hill Road, Walpole, NH 03608, Tax Map 8, Lot 68, Residential A Zoning District. One lot into two lots. Lot 1 would be 1.48 acres with 254.21 feet of road frontage and Lot 2 would be 3.16 acres with 200. 63 feet of road frontage.

Surveyor Joe DiBernardo presented this project for Mr. Allen and asked for a public hearing on the matter in March. Mr. Marcom made a motion to hold a public hearing in March for the William Allen subdivision. Mr. Perron seconded the motion and the motion carried.

Adjournment

Mr. Perron made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Mr. Marcom seconded the motion. The time was 7:31 pm.

Respectfully submitted,

Marilou Blaine

Recording Secretary

Planning Board Meeting Minutes – 1/13/26

PLANNING BOARD 02/16/2026 Leave a comment

Walpole Planning Board Minutes

January 13, 2026

Town Hall

7 pm

These minutes are unapproved and will be reviewed for corrections at the February 10, 2026 meeting. 

Roll Call: Board Present: Chair Jeff Miller, Clerk Jason Perron, Jeff Harrington, Joanna Andros, Select Board Representative Steve Dalessio. Alternate: Travis Adams. 

Absent: Vice-Chair Dennis Marcom, Trevor MacLachlan. 

Call to Order: Mr Miller called the meeting to order at 7 pm. He asked Alternate Travis Adams to sit in for Mr. Marcom. Mr. Adams agreed. 

Review minutes of December 2025: Mr. Perron made a motion to approve the December 2025 minutes as written. Mr. Harrington seconded the motion and the motion carried. 

Public Hearing No. 1: 

Ideal Location LLC, owned by Greg Gay, 1134 Main St., North Walpole proposes a building of 2,100 square feet at Town Tax Map 27, Lot Sub 1, for office space and parts inventory. Industrial Zone. 

Mr. Gay presented a new plat, this one showing the new 2,100 square-foot building in relationship to the primary building at the back of the property. He said the new building will be 70 feet long by 28 feet wide. It is for offices and parts inventory space to support the main building, he said. It is in the Industrial Zoning District of North Walpole. The building has been approved by the North Walpole Commissioners and the North Walpole Zoning Board of Adjustment. Mr. Gay present this plat in 2016 and he said the North Walpole Fire Department approved it then. 

Mr. Dalessio asked if there is here was an exterior lighting plan. Mr. Gay said no. Mr. Dalessio then pointed out that the plans were 10 years old and that building codes have changed. He suggested Mr. Gay take these points into consideration. 

Mr. Don Lennon, one of two principal owners of Len-Tex, a business that abuts the property, asked if the building was going to be sprinkled. Mr. Gay said no but there is a fire hydrant nearby and there would be no flammable materials, such as gasoline, in the building. Mr. Lennon said he had to think of his employees and wanted it noted that he was insisting there be sprinkler system added. “It’s in the Industrial Zone,” Mr. Lennon said. 

Board members approved Mr. Gay’s proposal with two conditions: that Mr. Gay get in touch with the Walpole Sewer Department to connect to the sewer that runs in front of the property (there is a manhole noted on the plat) and that he get a new letter from the North Walpole Fire Department approving the project. He closed the Public hearing at 7:10 pm. 

Public Hearing 2: 

Community Facilities and Services is the final section of the updated Master Plan that needs Planning Board approval. 

This section of the Master Plan includes information on the buildings in the town that provide services to the community. Those facilities are Walpole Police and Walpole and North Walpole Fire Departments, Walpole and North Walpole libraries, Walpole Historical Society, Highway Department, Water and Sewer Departments and Recycling Center. This document needs to be approved to complete the total update of the 2020 Master Plan that was originally delayed because of COVID. 

Mr. Perron made a motion to add the Facilities and Services section to the Master Plan. Mr. Harrington seconded the motion and the motion carried. 

Walpole Fire Department letter 

Fire Chief Mark Houghton was at the meeting because he needed a letter from the town saying it would exempt the Walpole Fire Department from a small problem about distance to the center of the road. Mr. Houghton explained he had received a letter that day from the federal government saying before actually receiving the grant money for the firehouse addition, he had to have a letter from the town exempting the fire department from the required distance from the center of the road. The small problem is that the required 65 feet from the center of the road (Main Street) to the building was a foot or two short. After a short discussion with the Board, Chair Jeff Miller agreed to write a letter exempting the fire department from that requirement.

Previously, the town voted to approve the addition to the fire department. Mr. Houghton said that they already had scheduled to begin renovating the fire department in mid-March. 

Subdivision: One lot into two or three lots: Sabin Rock LLC, 79 Reservoir Road, Tax Map 10, Lot 26, rural/ag district, owned by Margie Palmer.

There is a problem of two residences on this lot, which is not permitted in the Walpole ordinances. So the owner has to change her decision on how she wants to divide the property into two or possibly three lots. There is a total of about 35 acres with more than 1500 feet of frontage so three lots is doable. The land in current use can still remain in current use. The Public Hearing will still take place in February and abutters will be notified of Ms. Palmer’s decision within the allotted time.

Mr. Harrington made a motion to hold a public hearing in February for a subdivision of this property. Mr. Perron seconded the motion and the motion carried. 

Adjournment 

Mr. Perron made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 7:50 pm. Mr. Harrington seconded the motion and the motion carried. 

Respectfully submitted, 

Marilou Blaine, WPB Secretary 

Minutes from the 2026 Budget and Warrant Articles Public Hearing – 2/5/26

SELECTBOARD 02/16/2026 Leave a comment

TOWN OF WALPOLE, NEW HAMPSHIRE

PUBLIC HEARING

2026 BUDGET AND WARRANT ARTICLES

FEBRUARY 5, 2026

Selectboard Present: Steven Dalessio, Chair; Carolyn Vose and Cheryl Mayberry 

Staff Present: Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration, and Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

Public Present: Seven Town Staff members and twelve Citizens of Walpole 

Call to Order: Mr. Dalessio called the Public Hearing to order at 5:30 PM in the Walpole Town Hall. 

2026 Budget: Mr. Dalessio explained that the 2026 Budget is $4,869,641 which is an increase of 2.72%. Increases to the budget included Mutual Aid, health insurance costs, the County prosecutor, and tipping fees and waste hauling for the Recycling Department. There was a question from Kit Bowry about the cost of the Recycling center. Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry reported that about 40% of recycling fees cover the cost of recycling services. The remaining 60% is paid by taxes to encourage recycling. 

Mr. Dalessio continued the budget presentation stating that the Town is also saving on costs with the solar array at the Recycling Center to offset electrical charges, and new phones and system to cut expenses. The Town will continue to look for other savings. The Selectboard has been informed that the Town will get a $2,058,000 grant for the Police Station. Mr. Dalessio said that he did not know all details because the Town does not have paperwork yet. The new police station will need to meet Federal building requirements. The Police Station Building Committee hopes to break ground in mid-2027. The approval to build a Police Station will be voted on at a Town Meeting. For now, the Police Building Committee is putting everything in place so that the Town will be ready when it is approved. 

Peter Graves asked if we could use the Unassigned Fund Balance to cut taxes. Ms. Mayberry replied that last year, $400,000 of the Unassigned Fund Balance was used to keep the tax rate from increasing more than it did. This year, a lot of the tax rate increase is from Fall Mountain Regional School District (FMRSD) and is not controlled by Walpole. 

NH PDIP or Public Deposit Investment Pool is being used strategically to maximize interest earned on our funds. There was a question about using the Town’s surplus funds each year to generate income to help cover future costs. The Selectboard will ask the NH Municipal Association (NHMA) whether it would be allowed by RSA or Revised Statues Annotated which are State laws. 

Adjournment: Ms. Vose moved to adjourn. Ms. Mayberry seconded. Mr. Dalessio declared the meeting adjourned at 6:32 PM. 

Respectfully submitted, 

Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 2/5/26

SELECTBOARD 02/16/2026 Leave a comment

TOWN OF WALPOLE, NEW HAMPSHIRE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

FEBRUARY 5, 2026

Selectboard Present: Steven Dalessio, Chair; Carolyn Vose and Cheryl Mayberry

Staff Present: Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration, and Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary 

Call to Order: Mr. Dalessio called the Selectboard meeting to order at 6:41 PM in the Walpole Town Hall. 

Accounts Payable

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Accounts Payable Check Registers totaling $1,387,764.17 for an ACH transfer to Fall Mountain Regional School District (FMRSD) for December 2025 and a corrected amount for January 2026, and $377,247.43 for the register dated 2/10/2026. Accounts payable included a $184,282 payment to North Walpole Village District as part of the 2025 tax commitment. Ms. Vose seconded. With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Accounts Payable was approved.

Payroll

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Payroll Register totaling $38,767.36 dated 2/6/2026 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $7,741.31. Ms. Vose seconded. With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the payroll was approved.

Selectboard Meeting Minutes

Selectboard Meeting – January 29, 2026: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of January 29, 2026. Ms. Vose seconded. With Ms. Mayberry. Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Selectboard minutes were approved. 

Non-Public Selectboard Meeting – January 29, 2026: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard meeting of January 29, 2026. The minutes will remain sealed. Ms. Vose seconded. With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Non-Public minutes were approved.

Selectboard Meeting – February 3, 2026: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of January 29, 2026. Ms. Vose seconded. With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Selectboard minutes were approved. 

Committee Reports

Ms. Mayberry brought to the chair’s attention the following committee reports: 

  • Trustees of Trust Funds – January 21, 2026 

Mr. Dalessio acknowledged these minutes. 

Property Tax Refunds

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Property Tax Refunds for as noted on the agenda:

  • Map and Lot # 028-159-000 of $99.00 due to overpayment of taxes at closing for this property. 
  • Map and Lot # 005-021-000 of $66.00 due to overpayment of taxes at closing for this property. 
  • Map and Lot # 017-005-002 of $42.00 due to overpayment of taxes at closing for this property. 
  • Map and Lot # 017-017-000 of $80.00 due to overpayment of taxes at closing for this property. 
  • Map and Lot # 001-015-009 of $135.00 due to overpayment of taxes at closing for this property. 
  • Map and Lot # 028-059-000 of $163.00 due to overpayment of taxes at closing for this property. 
  • Map and Lot # 026-031-000 of $95.00 due to overpayment of taxes at closing for this property. 
  • Map and Lot # 012-048-000 of $116.00 due to overpayment of taxes at closing for this property. 
  • Map and Lot # 028-062-000 of $186.00 due to overpayment of taxes at closing for this property. 
  • Map and Lot # 028-100-000 of $150.00 due to overpayment of taxes at closing for this property. 
  • Map and Lot # 026-006-000 of $116.00 due to overpayment of taxes at closing for this property. 
  • Map and Lot # 008-050-000 of $64.00 due to overpayment of taxes at closing for this property. 
  • Map and Lot # 020-025-000 of $111.00 due to overpayment of taxes at closing for this property. 
  • Map and Lot # 016-009-000 of $168.50 due to overpayment of taxes at closing for this property. 
  • Map and Lot # 024-019-000 of $143.50 due to overpayment of taxes at closing for this property. 
  • Map and Lot # 004-005-002 of $104.00 due to overpayment of taxes at closing for this property. 
  • Map and Lot # 020-004-000 of $873.90 due to overpayment of taxes at closing for this property. 
  • Map and Lot # 003-016-000 of $491.00 due to overpayment of taxes at closing for this property. 
  • Map and Lot # 019-001-000 of $4,095.00 due to closing company paid taxes before owner’s check was received. 
  • Map and Lot # 028-118-000 of $1,791.00 due to overpayment by homeowner. 
  • Map and Lot # 012-055-017 of $1,930.00 due to overpayment by homeowner. 

Ms. Vose seconded. With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Veterans’ Tax Credit

Map and Lot #003-004-000: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Veterans’ Property Tax Credit for Map and Lot# 003-004-000. The applicant served more than 90 days of active duty during a time of conflict and was honorably discharged. Ms. Vose seconded. With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Old Business

2026 Warrant Articles: The Selectboard conducted a final review before signing. The Warrant Articles cannot be posted until the MS-636 (budget report) is ready. Ms. Mayberry approved the Warrant Articles as discussed. Ms. Vose seconded. With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Warrant Articles were approved. 

Parking Ordinance: The Highway Department has commented about issues with parking on narrow streets. People are not moving their vehicles. Ms. Mayberry commented that the Road Agent is asking Police Department to ticket owners who are not moving their vehicles during snowstorms. Mr. Dalessio added that the Town do have a ticketing or payment process. The Selectboard agreed by consensus that the Road Agent, Mike Symonds and Police Chief Sanctuary get together and create an ordinance. The updated ordinance should include snow and other parking issues, annual reminders of the Snow Parking Ordinance, appeals, paying fines to the Town Clerk, etc. The Selectboard would like to see the draft ordinance in one month. 

Walpole School Withdrawal: There was a discussion of February 11th presentation. Ms. Vose will send her slides to Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio for review and recommendations. 

250th Anniversary of American Independence: The Selectboard received a notice that Keene is hosting a three-day celebration. There was feedback from the email sent last week to civic groups, Town departments, etc. Some Walpole groups are planning what they would like to do, and others have not yet responded. By consensus, Walpole wants their own celebration on July 4th. Residents are encouraged to participate in Keene events on the other two days. 

Link to Website: The Selectboard received the link to a website that was created by Craig Vickers with respect to the possible withdrawal from FMRSD. The site explains all the finances for FMRSD and is very well done. 

New Business

Stackable Lift Charger and Battery: Ms. Vose moved approval of Purchase Order #498327 for the Recycling Center to purchase a new battery and charger for the stackable lift from WD Matthews for $3,990.00. Ms. Mayberry seconded. With Ms. Vose, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the purchase was approved. 

Stackable Lift Rental Agreement: Ms. Vose moved to rent a stackable lift until the new battery and charger are received and installed, which is Purchase Order # 498328 for $3,000 ($1,400 per month plus delivery and pickup fees of $200). Two quotes were provided and this is the least expensive. It will be two months to get the new battery and charger. Ms. Mayberry seconded. With Ms. Vose, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, rental was approved.

Recreation Revolving Fund Request: Ms. Vose moved to approve Purchase Order #457318 for $855.00 from the Recreation Revolving Fund to purchase three movie licenses from Swank for 2026 Summer Movie Nights. Ms. Mayberry seconded. With Ms. Vose, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the purchase was approved.

Bond Bank Legal Services Engagement Letter: Mr. Dalessio explained that Walpole needs approximately $3,000,000 in bonds to build the new Police Station. Devine Millimet Attorneys at Law has proposed offering Walpole bond counsel services. The bond will be general obligations of Walpole and will likely be sold to the New Hampshire Municipal Bond Bank, financed through USDA, or placed privately with a financial institution. It takes a long time to get the process started. The Town has used this firm in the past. Mr. Dalessio added that this will mean having another Town Meeting, probably at the end of June or early July for the Town to approve building the new station and financing. Ms. Mayberry moved to sign the engagement letter. Ms. Vose seconded. With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion passed.

Liquor License Request: Hooper Golf Properties LLC would like to obtain a New Hampshire liquor license for beer and wine only. The golf club company is asking for an endorsement from the Town of Walpole. The drinks will be sold on the golf course using a dedicated drink cart and must be consumed only on the golf course. This license is not associated with Watkins Inn and Tavern. There will be no co-mingling of licenses or consumption. Ms. Vose moved to send a letter of support for the Hooper Golf Properties liquor license to the State. Ms. Mayberry seconded. With Ms. Vose, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion passed.

February 19th “Meet the Candidates” Event: The Selectboard will need to recess while Mr. Dalessio makes his presentation since it is scheduled during the Selectboard meeting time. By consensus, the Selectboard will pause the Selectboard meeting. 

Non-Public Business RSA 91-A:3 II (a)(b)(c) 

Ms. Vose moved to enter into Non-Public Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 || (a)(b)(c) at 7:38 PM, Ms. Mayberry seconded. With Ms. Vose, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 8:01 PM. 

Ms. Vose moved that the Non-Public Session Minutes be sealed. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. With Ms. Vose. Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Hooper Trustees

Ms. Mayberry moved to enter into the Hooper Trustees meeting at 8:01 PM. Ms. Vose seconded. With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 8:04 PM. 

Adjournment: Mr. Dalessio declared the meeting adjourned at 8:04 PM. 

Respectfully submitted, 

Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary 

Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 2/3/26

SELECTBOARD 02/12/2026 Leave a comment

TOWN OF WALPOLE, NEW HAMPSHIRE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

FEBRUARY 3, 2026

Selectboard Present: Steven Dalessio, Chair; Carolyn Vose and Cheryl Mayberry

Staff Present: Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration, and Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

Call to Order: Mr. Dalessio called the Selectboard meeting to order at 6:37 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.

The purpose of this meeting is to prepare for the Public Hearing on Thursday, February 5, 2026.  The 2026 Budget and 2026 Warrant Articles were to be reviewed.

Old Business

2026 Budget: The 2026 budget was reviewed and remaining questions answered.

2026 Warrant Articles: 

In Warrant Article 2: The total that the Town will vote on is:

Town Operating Budget$ 4,876,836.00 
Water Operating Budget$ 240,831.00 
Sewer Operating Budget$ 615,449.00 
$ 5,733,116.00 

The Town Operating Budget is an increase of 2.87% over the 2025 budget.

The increases in Water and Sewer are for new meters, lead service line inventory, and the manhole rehab project.

2025 Budget2026 BudgetIncrease
Water$ 219,681.00 $ 240,831.00 9.63%
Sewer$ 564,449.00 $ 615,449.00 9.04%

In Warrant Article 5: For the new vehicle for the Police Department, $20,000 will come from the Police Capital Reserve and $60,000 from the Unassigned Fund Balance.

In Warrant Article 7: For the purchase of a one-ton truck for Highway, $75,000 will come from the Highway Capital Reserve and $75,000 from the Unassigned Fund Balance.

Ms. Vose moved to accept the Warrant Articles as discussed.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Ms. Vose, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was passed.

Adjournment: Mr. Dalessio declared the meeting adjourned at 6:42 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

(Note: These are unapproved Minutes. Corrections will be found in the Minutes of the February 5, 2026 Selectboard meeting.)

Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 1/29/26

SELECTBOARD 02/12/2026 Leave a comment

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

JANUARY 29, 2026

Selectboard Present: Steven Dalessio, Chair; Carolyn Vose and Cheryl Mayberry

Staff Present: Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration, and Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

Guests Present: Chris Coates, Cheshire County Administrator; Terry Clark, Skip DiBernardo, and Claudia Stewart, County Commissioners; Sheryl Trombly, Cheshire County Finance Director; Jack Wozmak, Cheshire County Treasurer, and Ernie Vose.

Call to Order: Mr. Dalessio called the Selectboard meeting to order at 6:29 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.

The following item was added at the top of the agenda to accommodate guests who wished to address the topic.

Cheshire County at a Glance

Chris Coates and the County Commissioners presented information about the status of the County. They are currently focusing on helping town officials and the public learn about County services.  They are looking for more staff, especially for Maplewood Nursing Home.  

  • After the last renovation, Maplewood went from 85% double rooms to 70% singles.  There is fresh air coming into each room. There are also twenty apartments for assisted living with some for couples and some for spouses of the nursing home residents.  The number of people who can be in Maplewood is limited by the number of employees.
  • Cheshire County EMS is in its third year of operation, and it is almost breaking even. They provide support for several towns and Keene, and have backup arrangements with other towns, including Walpole.  They are also working with Smart Ride for wheelchairs, which provides a necessary service that also frees up ambulances for emergencies.  They also do most of the transport for Cheshire Medical Center.
  • The Connected Families program is about eight years old. The staff work with families to keep children in their homes and school. Keeping kids in their community is the best way to prevent future issues and the related costs.
  • The Sheriff is helping with policing in communities. It is paid for by the towns using the service.
  • All dispatch towers were upgraded recently, which also helps the Towns’ communications.  The project was paid for completely by grants.
  • Cheshire County has 41 grants totaling about $16,000,000.  They will help towns with grants, and they sponsor grant writing courses.

By consensus, the Selectboard found the information presented very helpful. The flyer, “Cheshire County at a Glance – Walpole”, will be distributed at Town Meeting.  Everyone should know what the County does.

All the guests left the meeting.

Payroll

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Payroll Register totaling $36,579.14 dated 1/30/2026 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $7,214.72.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Payroll was approved. 

Selectboard Meeting Minutes

Selectboard Meeting – January 22, 2026: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of January 22, 2026.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Selectboard minutes were approved.

Non-Public Selectboard Meeting – January 22, 2026: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard meeting of January 22, 2026.  The minutes will remain sealed.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Non-Public minutes were approved.

Committee Reports

Ms. Mayberry brought to the chair’s attention the committee reports as listed in the agenda:

  • Walpole Fire District Monthly Meeting – October 8, 2025
  • Walpole Fire District Monthly Meeting – November 12, 2025
  • Walpole Fire District Monthly Meeting – December 3, 2025
  • Library Trustees Meeting – January 13, 2026
  • Trail Committee Meeting – January 14, 2026
  • Zoning Board of Adjustment Meeting – December 17, 2025
  • Zoning Board of Adjustment Meeting – January 21, 2026
  • Police Building Committee Meeting – January 21, 2026

Mr. Dalessio acknowledged these minutes.

Water and Sewer Warrants

Walpole Water Lien: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the warrant for a Walpole Water Lien for $1,195.82.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Walpole Sewer Lein: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the warrant for a Walpole Sewer Lien totaling $2,207.42.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

North Walpole Sewer Lien: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the warrant for a North Walpole Sewer Lien for $9,008.79.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

The Selectboard recommends that Mrs. Daigle follow up on water shut offs for unpaid bills per the Town’s agreement with North Walpole Village.

Walpole Water Fees: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the warrant for Walpole Water Fees for $46,269.90. Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Walpole Sewer Fees: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the warrant for Walpole Sewer Fees totaling $72,965.87. Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

North Walpole Sewer Fees: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the warrant for North Walpole Sewer Fees for $59,032.11.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Supplemental Tax Warrant

Map and Lot # 012-013-4U1: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Supplemental Tax Warrant for Map and Lot # 012-013-4U1 for $1,907.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Map and Lot # 012-013-4U2: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Supplemental Tax Warrant for Map and Lot # 012-013-4U2 for $361. Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Old Business

Because of the length of the meeting tonight, discussion of the 2026 Budget and the 2026 Warrant Articles were postponed to a separate meeting on Tuesday, February 3rd at 5:30 PM in the Selectboard Office.

Reservoir Dam Update: Fuss & O’Neill have paused work on the Reservoir Dam.  It is not clear why there is a pause. Mr. Dalessio will check into it.

High Street Bridge/Culvert: Ms. Mayberry explained that FEMA rejected the requested time extension.  On further investigation, Ms. Mayberry found that they needed the Town’s audit and the correct reference for the project.  Now that they have the information, the project is reapproved and the Town can proceed with the less expensive plan that causes less environmental impact.

School Withdrawal Meeting Handouts: The handouts were reviewed and plans were made for getting the materials printed and distributed.

New Business

Front Cover for the 2025 Town Report: Front covers samples were reviewed by the Selectboard. A favorite was chosen.

Inside Front Cover Dedication Page: By consensus, the dedication will include three people.

Whitcomb Park Rental Inquiry: Hubbard LLC would like to rent the park for their company event on Friday, July 31st or Friday, August 14th. The Selectboard agreed that the rec park is not available on July 31st but is available on August 14th.  The Town needs confirmation by 3/1/2026 and the hours Hubbard LLC would like to use the rec park.  The Town needs to set a cost that covers Town expenses. The rental should make a profit to help reduce the tax cost of running the recreation park.

February In-Person Staff Meeting: There is mandatory staff attendance at the 2026 Budget Hearing which will count as the in-person meeting in February.

Handrails for 2nd Floor Back Stairs in Town Hall: The Women of Walpole (WOW) is offering to pay for back stairway update, materials only.  By consensus, the Selectboard agreed that WOW needs to cover both materials and installation, because Walpole doesn’t have anyone who can stain the new rails to match the current woodworking and install them to be safety compliant. 

Second Floor Window Shrink Kit Coverings: The Selectboard Office asked if that because of the extremely high oil usage in the Town Hall, shrink covering should be added to the second-floor windows. The coverings could damage the varnished trim. Ms. Mayberry found that 3M and Frostline make varnish-safe kits.  By consensus, the Selectboard approved the installation.

Boston Post Cane: The current cane holder, Shirley Sanctuary, passed away. There will be a search for a new candidate, who is the oldest Walpole citizen.

Municipal Clean Energy Projects: NHDES’ Climate Pollution Reduction Grant program focuses on reducing emissions and air pollution. One sector that the EPA requires is Waste and Materials Management. The Selectboard would like Ms. Hakey at the Recycling Center to review the notice and answer the questions.

Public Notice for a Subdivision Hearing: The hearing is for the lot across the street from the Reservoir Dam parcel. Mr. Dalessio noted that there are questions to be researched by the Planning Board regarding two houses that are on the existing lot that is to be subdivided.

Non-Public Business RSA 91-A:3 II (a)(b)(c)

Ms. Vose moved to enter into Non-Public Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II (a)(b)(c) at 8:51 PM.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Ms. Vose, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 9:24 PM.

Ms. Vose moved that the Non-Public Session Minutes be sealed. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Ms. Vose, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Adjournment: Mr. Dalessio declared the meeting adjourned at 9:24 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

(Note: These are unapproved Minutes. Corrections will be found in the Minutes of the February 5, 2026 Selectboard meeting.)

Conservation Commission Meeting Minutes – 1/5/26

CONSERVATION COMMISSION 01/31/2026 Leave a comment

Unapproved Minutes

Conservation Commission

Town of Walpole, New Hampshire

January 5, 2026

(Note: These are unapproved Minutes. Corrections will be found in the Minutes of the February 2, 2026 Conservation Commission meeting.)

Members Present: Nicole Adams, Tom Beaudry(alt), Paul Happ, Peter Palmiotto (cochair & recording), John Peska (cochair & presiding), Lewis Shelley, 

Members Absent: Hale Morrell (alt) Wendy Grossman, France Menk, Carolyn Vose (Selectboard Rep)

Visitors Present: Holly Gowdy

Call to Order: John called the meeting to order at 7:02 pm in the Town Hall. 

Seating of Alternates: Tom Beaudry was seated to obtain quorum.

Review and Approval of Minutes

Paul moved to accept December 1, 2025. Lew seconded and all voted in favor. The motion carried.   

Public Business

Financial Report:  no financial report was available

Correspondence: (1) Southwest Regional Planning highlights newsletter, (2) intent to cut.  65 acres Maple Grove Road, 3 Acres French Road

New Business

WCC files organization proposal – Paul proposed the commission review and update physical files in 15 minute work sessions at each meeting.  Discussion prioritize files relevant to town land and easements responsibilities with the goal of having files organized by the end of the year.  Proposal was supported. 

Old Business

Fanny Mason Forest Management: Fanny Mason Forest winter harvest contract was reviewed and supported for selectboard signature.  Commission supported Longview’s request to host a CCCD forestry workshop at Fanny Mason in early February.

Easement Monitoring: Wendy emailed an update that she submitted 3 monitoring reports –Ballam Farm, Graves and Mill Pond.  She also accompanied Phil Warren on the Monadnock Conservancy’s monitoring visit to Nelson and March Town Forests.

Reservoir Dam: The permit process for the option to breach the Reservoir Dam is on- going.  The Federal govt clawed back a large portion of grant the town had therefore more funds need to be secured for any option to address the dam issue.  

Knapp Cranberry Bog Dam:  Paul continues to work on completing and submitting a wetlands permit to address cleaning out cattails.  Paul will secure quotes for managing vegetation at this time.  The dam’s operation manual was discussed for guidance on annual maintenance.  

Mt. Kilborne: Letter of support was sent to MCA on their desire to discuss with utility landowners about establishing a formal relationship and climbing opportunities.  

Trail Committee

Rail Trail Work Plan: Nicole reported the rail trail work plan was submitted to the state.  Commission thanked her and all that provided input.  Areas of concern were discussed, Nicole would follow up with the state when she hears back about the work plan.  To support the rail trail maintenance Ruggiero has offered support up to $5000 in 2026.  

Other Trails: Trails committee meeting will be 2nd Wednesday of month (1/14) 7 pm in town hall.  Governance of subcommittee is one agenda item (ie selecting a new sub committee chair).

Other Business and Updates

Hooper Institute Board: Looking for recording secretary.  Board Meeting 1/6/26.

Strategic Planning Sessions scheduled for Sat 1/10 and 1/17.

Discussion with Holly Gowdy who expressed interest in serving the town in the role as recording secretary.  Commission supported her application.  

Next Meeting February 2, 2026

Adjournment: John declared the meeting adjourned at 8:32 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Peter Palmiotto, acting recording secretary

Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 1/22/26

SELECTBOARD 01/31/2026 Leave a comment

Town of Walpole, New Hampshire

Meeting of the Selectboard

January 22, 2026

Selectboard Present: Steven Dalessio, Chair, Carolyn Vose (remote due to illness – she is home alone) and Cheryl Mayberry

Staff Present: Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration, and Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

Guests Present: Jo Cowgill

Call to Order: Mr. Dalessio called the Selectboard meeting to order at 6:30 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.

The next item was moved to the top of the agenda to accommodate a guest.

Police Assistance to Ice Involved Situations: Jo Cowgill wished to discuss this topic with the Selectboard.  Mrs. Cowgill noted that there are no problems at this time in Walpole, but she wants the community to be prepared for ICE activity, particularly during demonstrations.  There were about 400 people at the last demonstration near Jouvay Chocolate. There was a discussion about drivers who were surprised by the large group of people gathered and that some may be fearful.  Mr. Dalessio pointed out that Walpole Police have always cooperated with Federal agencies in various investigations. Mr. Dalessio has spoken with Chief Sanctuary regarding the matter. The Walpole Police Department will continue to cooperate with agencies that are acting lawfully.  Mr. Dalessio stated that the Town can depend on Walpole Police to know what is right in the future.   Mrs. Cowgill would also like Walpole Police Officers to protect demonstrators. It was recommended that she call Chief Sanctuary ahead of time, to make the request.

Mrs. Cowgill left the meeting.

Accounts Payable

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Accounts Payable Check Register totaling $204,608.82 dated 1/27/2026 including $73,296.50 payment to McGovern MHQ for a new Police vehicle. Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Accounts Payable was approved. The new police cruiser purchase was approved at the 2025 Town Meeting under warrant article #11.

Payroll

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Payroll Register totaling $35,307.10 dated 1/23/2026 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $7,000.09.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Payroll was approved. 

Selectboard Meeting Minutes

Selectboard Meeting – January 15, 2026: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of January 15, 2026.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Selectboard minutes were approved.

Non-Public Selectboard Meeting –January 15, 2026: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard meeting of January 15, 2026.  The minutes will remain sealed.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Non-Public minutes were approved.

Committee Reports

Ms. Mayberry brought to the chair’s attention the following committee reports:

  • Walpole Planning Board – October 14, 2025
  • Hooper Institute Board of Directors – November 6, 2025
  • Hooper Institute Board of Directors – December 2, 2025
  • Police Building Committee – January 6, 2026

Mr. Dalessio acknowledged these minutes.

Old Business

2026 Town Budget: The Selectboard reviewed and discussed the 2026 budget.   Ms. Mayberry will send the Excel spreadsheet to Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Vose for final review for next week.  The Selectboard feels things are in a very good position in preparation for public meetings, the Town Report, and Town Meeting.

2026 Warrant Articles: Attorney Hockensmith is working on a response to the format question regarding the petition articles to determine if they are legal in the current format. The final version of the Warrant Articles will be ready for next week.

Privacy Release Form re: Federal Legislative Assistance: Ms. Mayberry moved to have the Chair sign the form giving permission for the Federal Government to speak to Mr. Dalessio or Mr. Paul Looney.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion passed, and Mr. Dalessio signed the form.  The form is to get assistance to process the federal tax reimbursement for the solar energy system at the Recycling Center.

New Business

250thAnniversary of American Independence: Mr. Dalessio has been approached with questions as to what Walpole will be doing to celebrate the anniversary.  There was a consensus that a message should be sent to all civic organizations in Town to see what they might want to do.  Mrs. Downing will send an email to all organizations and others who might be interested.   The email will request a response by March 31st.  July 4th is a Saturday this year.

Non-Public Business RSA 91-A:3 II (a)(b)

Ms. Mayberry moved to enter into Non-Public Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II (a)(b) at 7:41 PM.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 7:57 PM.

Ms. Vose moved that the Non-Public Session Minutes be sealed. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Ms. Vose, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Hooper Trustees

Ms. Mayberry moved to enter into the Hooper Trustees meeting at 7:57 PM.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 8:05 PM.

Adjournment: Mr. Dalessio declared the meeting adjourned at 8:05 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

(Note: These are unapproved Minutes. Corrections will be found in the Minutes of the January 29, 2026 Selectboard meeting.)

Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 1/15/26

SELECTBOARD 01/29/2026 Leave a comment

Town of Walpole, New Hampshire

Meeting of the Selectboard

January 15, 2026

Selectboard Present: Steven Dalessio, Chair, Carolyn Vose and Cheryl Mayberry

Staff Present: Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration, and Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

Call to Order: Mr. Dalessio called the Selectboard meeting to order at 6:33 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.

Payroll

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Payroll Register totaling $36,377.53 dated 1/16/2026 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $7,308.97.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the payroll was approved. 

Selectboard Meeting Minutes

Selectboard Meeting – January 8, 2026: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of January 8, 2026.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Selectboard minutes were approved.

Non-Public Selectboard Meeting – January 8, 2026: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard meeting of January 8, 2026.  The minutes will remain sealed.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Non-Public minutes were approved.

Committee Reports

Ms. Mayberry brought to the chair’s attention the following committee reports:

  • Safety Committee Meeting – November 13, 2025 
  • Conservation Committee Meeting – January 5, 2026 

Mr. Dalessio acknowledged these minutes.

Abatements

Map and Lot # 019-039-000: This abatement is the settlement of BTLA property tax appeal of 2023 that rolled into the 2024 tax year.  Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Abatement for Map and Lot # 019-039-000.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Veterans’ Tax Credit:

Map and Lot #011-039-004: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Veterans’ Property Tax Credit for Map and Lot# 011-039-004.  The applicant served more than 90 days of active duty during a time of conflict and was honorably discharged.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Old Business

First Point Power Electricity Sales Agreement: Ms. Mayberry explained that a revision to the contract signed earlier is needed.   There is a better rate for five months than the earlier contract for four months.  Ms. Mayberry moved to sign the revised contract for a lower rate for five months.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion passed, and Mr. Dalessio signed and initialed the contract.

Fanny Mason Timber Cut: Mr. Dalessio explained there is a temporary permit for the Fanny Mason Timber Cut logging driveway that has been obtained from the State. This allows logging trucks to turn onto Route 12.  It is the same landing and driveway used last time cutting was done in that area. 

Hooper Revised Reimbursement request to Trustees of Trust Funds for the Renovations: Ms. Mayberry stated that the previous request was halted when an error was discovered in the Hooper Renovation expenses.  The corrected amount has now been sent to the Trustees of Trust Funds. 

New Business

Reservoir Dam ARPA Grant Reimbursement: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the ARPA grant reimbursement of $10,227.50.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion passed, and Mr. Dalessio signed the form.

2026 Warrant Articles – First Draft:  The Selectboard reviewed the first draft of the Warrant Articles. Additional reviews will be done weekly as missing information is added. 

The Selectboard Office received three petition articles that are formatted in an unusual way. Attorney Hockensmith has been asked to determine whether they can be used as is, or if they need to be reformatted.  Mr. Dalessio noted that there is plenty of time to make sure everything is done legally.

School Withdrawal: Fall Mountain Regional School District will have a budget hearing on Monday, January 26th.  There will be no rebuttal presentation. Everyone can attend and ask questions.  The Selectboard also worked on some of the information being prepared for residents.

SWRPC Winter Meeting: The SWRPC Winter Meeting will be held on Tuesday, February 10, 2026 in Heberton Hall in the Keene Public Library Annex First Floor.  The Social Hour begins at 5:00 PM and the program will start at 5:30 PM.  

Avitar Utility Rates for 2026: Avitar sent a letter stating that work relating to utilities will be billed at the annual rate of $200/hour.  This also includes property valuations and defense of valuations for BTLA.  Mr. Dalessio acknowledged the letter.

Langdon Hazard Mitigation Plan: SWRPC invited other towns and interested parties to participate in the Landon process.  The Selectboard will send Langdon a copy of Walpole’s hazardous mitigation plans, which were updated recently.

Non-Public Business RSA 91-A:3 II (a)(b)(c)

Ms. Vose moved to enter into Non-Public Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II (a)(b)(c) at 7:13 PM.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Ms. Vose, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 7:53 PM.

Ms. Vose moved that the Non-Public Session Minutes be sealed. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Ms. Vose, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Adjournment: Mr. Dalessio declared the meeting adjourned at 7:54 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

(Note: These are unapproved Minutes. Corrections will be found in the Minutes of the January 22, 2026 Selectboard meeting.)

Zoning Board Meeting Minutes – 1/21/26

ZONING BOARD 01/29/2026 Leave a comment

Walpole Zoning Board of Adjustment

Wednesday, January 21, 2026

Town Hall

7 pm

These minutes are unapproved and will be reviewed at the February 2026 meeting for corrections.

Roll Call: Board Present: Chair Tom Murray, Vice-Chair Pauline Barnes, Bill Sommers, Alternate Don Sellarole. Absent: Shane O’Keefe and Clerk Dave Edkins.

Call to Order: Mr. Murray called the meeting to order at 7:05 pm. He asked Alternate Sellarole to sit in for one of the missing Board members. Mr. Sellarole agreed. 

Mr. Murray announced to the Board that he had added the words Zoning Board of Adjustment to the two permanent notices for our monthly meetings and that he had written the yearly town report and sent it to Sarah Downing. 

Review of Minutes of December 2025: Ms Barnes made one correction. On page 2 after No. 8 in the paragraph about New Business, Ms. Barnes added the word “about” to be placed before the word ”having.” The sentence now reads “The next step is to talk to the staff in the Town Offices about having the menu changed after definitions have been written and applications copied.”

It’s at that point In the meeting that Mr. O’Keefe came to the meeting and passed out the following paper to each person.

“I move to amend the draft minutes of the Zoning Board of Adjustment meeting of December 17, 2025, by deleting in its entirety the paragraph on page two under the title RSA91-A, and replacing it with the following: 

“Mr. O”Keefe handed out a few copies of the New Hampshire Attorney General’s March 14, 2024 memorandum examining and analyzing New Hampshire Right;-to-Know Law, also known as RSA 91-A. He noted that the memorandum states the “While not required under the Right-to-Know law, it is generally appropriate that the notice include a brief agenda and that other matters Within the public body’s jurisdiction may be considered.” As, Mr O’Keefe suggested that in addition to the two annual posted notices of when and where the ZBA meet, which were noted earlier by Chairman Murray, The Board should continue to post a complete agenda to ensure that the community is made fully aware of what matters the Board intends to discuss so that residents can participate in matter of interest. He mentioned seeing a Select board agenda that noted a matter involving the road on which he lives, which led him to attend the meeting and become involved in the matter. Had the issue not been noted on an agenda he wouldn’t have know about it being discussed and would have had no reason to attend the meeting.”

Discussion followed. Two or three Board members kept repeating that what Mr. O’Keefe was proposing was what was already printed in the December minutes. After about ten minutes of back and forth, Mr. O’Keefe said “Call the question,” which mean call for a vote. Mr. Murray called for a vote on Mr. O’Keefe’s motion. The vote to approve was 3 to 2. Voting for the motion was Mr. O’Keefe, Chair Murray, and Mr. Sellarole. Mr. Sommers and Ms. Barnes voted no.

Web Site

The rest of the meeting was about working on the Web Site. The entire purpose of this exercise is to make the Web Site more user friendly. Ms. Barnes’ vision is to have the two most used ZBA applications that the board usually deals with shown first. These applications are Variances and Special Exceptions. The point of this exercise is to get the best definition for each application so it is apparent to the applicant what the application means. 

Regarding Variances, Ms. Barnes said she liked the one that was currently on the Web Site. It says “A variance is an authorization, which can only be granted under special circumstances, to use your property in a way that is not permitted under the strict rules of the zoning ordinance. In several decisions from 1952 to the present, the New Hampshire Supreme Court has declared that for a variance to be legally granted, you must show that your proposed use meets ALL FIVE of the following conditions.”

Mr. Murray read one definition that used the word “relaxation” regarding the rules in the Zoning Ordinance and a couple of board member said they didn’t like that word. Mr. Barnes read the definition in “The Zoning Board of Adjustment in New Hampshire” Handbook. It says “A variance is a waiver of any provision of the ordinance authorizing the landowner to use his or her land in a manner that would otherwise violate the ordinance and may be granted by the board of adjustment on appeal.” There are five criteria the applicant must fulfill. Mr. Murray said a variance goes with the land. In the end, the Board went with the definition currently on the Web Site.

Special Exception got the same treatment. Several definitions were read and it came down to two that were in competition for best. Mr. Murray has one and Ms. Barnes has one and those two definitions will be discussed at the February meeting. There are several applications for Special Exceptions and they are dependent on the zone in which the property is. For example, there is an application form for a Special Exception for residents in Residential A and a slightly different application for residents in Residential B, Rural/ag, Commercial and Industrial Zones.

In 2022, a few members of the Board wrote articles for The Walpole Clarion. Those members included Ms. Barnes, Ernie Vose, Myra Mansouri and Dave Edkins. The article on non-conforming property says “Any non-conforming lot, dwelling, or business may continue in its present use.

“Non-conforming Use means the use of any building, structure or land which does not conform to the use regulations of the district in which it is located.

“When any existing non-conforming use of land or building has been discontinued for one year the land building shall thereafter be used only in conformity to this Ordinance.

“A non-conforming use may be expanded or enlarged or changed to another non-conforming use after the Zoning Board of Adjustment determines, after a public hearing, that the proposed expansion, enlargement or change will not materially increase the hazard or nuisance value of the non-conformity.”

The article says “Any non-conforming lot, dwelling, or business may continue in its present use.

The articles were written starting in April and continued for about five months.

Web Site lay out

Ms. Barnes envisions the layout of a page on the web site would include the definition at the top of the web page and below that the application. 

Mr. O’Keefe had been working on applications. He marked up several copies regarding what he thought should be eliminated and added a few of his own ideas of what should be included. For example, one idea he added was “A copy of the Board’s Rules of Procedure is available to the Town website.” Ms. Barnes explained that the ZBA has a Bylaws document, not a Rules of Procedure document.

He also wrote a Certification at the end of the Variance document. It says, “By signing below both the owner and applicant hereby affirm that the information presented in this application, and all supporting forms, plans and documents are true, accurate and complete and agree that, if any such information is found by the Town to be false or misleading, any permit or other approval granted on the basis of such information shall be deemed null and void. Permission is hereby granted by the property owner for the Zoning Board of Adjustment and/or its representatives to inspect the property at mutually acceptable time to verify information provided in this application.”

The Board like this addition.

Adjournment

Mr. Sommers made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Mr. O’Keefe seconded the motion and the motion carried. The time was 8:31 pm.

Respectfully submitted,

Marilou Blaine

ZBA Secretary