Tag Archives: Meeting Minutes

Library Trustees Meeting Minutes – 4/8/25

LIBRARY TRUSTEES 04/15/2025 Leave a comment

Walpole Town Library

Board of Trustees Meeting

April 8, 2025

Present:  Amy Howard (Chair), Kathy Nerrie (Treasurer), Gail LaHaise, Susan Johnson, Bill Ranauro, Jana Sellarole, Sarah Mann, Erin Bowen, Jean Kobeski (Recording Secretary), Jane Malmberg (Library Director)

Visitors:  Bevin Mitchell, Gretchen Fowler

Call to Order:  Amy called the meeting to order at 4:30 p.m. at the North Walpole Library. She welcomed Bevin Mitchell and Gretchen Fowler to the meeting and welcomed Jana Sellarole to the library Board of Trustees.

Recognition of Visitors:  Amy recognized Bevin and Gretchen, who came to give an update from the Friends of the Library.  Bevin reported that the book sale was very successful and the Friends were able to donate $17,000 to the library.  She said the Friends have made $3500 from book sales at the Reuse Center and offered a short history of the book area at the center. The 2026 book sale will take place October 25th and 26th, no Friday night.  She said it was difficult to coordinate that with the school.

Bevin stated that volunteers and board members are welcome to help sort books starting Wednesday, June 11th (and Wednesdays thereafter) at 9:30.  She also invited board members to join the Friends for their working meetings this summer on the third Thursday of the month from 5-6 at the coop. They discuss business as they sort and move books and pallets. Gretchen stated that they need more banana boxes. There has been a shortage but Kathy said she believes that is over.  Amy thanked Bevin and Gretchen for the update; they left the meeting at 4:38.

Elections:  After discussing the roles of Chair and Treasurer, Amy was reelected to the position of Chair of the Board of Trustees; Kathy was reelected as Treasurer and Jean as Secretary. 

Approval of Minutes:  Amy made a motion to accept the March minutes as written. Gail seconded and all voted in favor.  Motion carried.  

Treasurer’s Report:  Kathy reported that our CD came due and was automatically renewed.  

Bills:  Jane reported that magazine subscriptions are ordered once a year through one company and that explains the high bill reflected in the report. She also said she bought a $20 library ad for the FMRHS playbill.  Susan thanked Jane for the new Mahjong cards. Sarah moved to accept the Treasurer’s Report and Bills.  Erin seconded and all voted in favor. Motion carried. 

Old Business

Old Home Days:  Sarah found a musician, “Mr. Aaron”, to perform in the library after the parade. Time of the performance will be determined after the Old Home Day Committee has their next meeting.

There was a discussion about the parade: who would march, what they would do, what they would offer parade-goers. It was decided that bookmarks, rather than candy would be offered. Bill volunteered to make those; Sarah offered to help him. Gail and Erin suggested using the bubble machine and dancing to the accompanying song, encouraging children along the parade route to join in. Plans will be finalized via email;  Amy, Bill, Sarah, and Jane will serve as organizers.

Scholarship: Kathy reported that the scholarship can be funded by fees and donations. As a reminder, this scholarship is needs-based, merit-based, and the recipient must be civic-minded (school and community). The recipient will be chosen at the high school.  Bill will find out the name of the recipient and Amy will write a letter of congratulations to accompany the check. This individual will also be invited to a trustees meeting to be photographed with Shirley Capron. 

New Business

Impact of Funding Changes: Jane reported that the state is working on the state budget now;  there will likely be library cuts because the state Department of Natural and Cultural Resources has been told to make cuts. Jane said she met with the Alstead Library Director and they felt Inter Library Loan (ILL) would be the service most impacted by cuts in IMLS funding. They discussed the possibility of a mini consortium of local libraries but driving is a primary concern due to insurance and sorting and paperwork would need to be organized. Jane said she thinks Libby would continue but it would cost more and talking books are at risk. NH Humanities was cut, so grants will not be available. Everything is up in the air right now.  The trustees discussed ways they could lobby against these cuts; Sarah offered to draft a letter of support for state libraries on behalf of our Board of Trustees and will email it to members of the board for approval before sending it to local and state officials. Such a letter from the trustees supporting the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) can also be sent to our senators and representatives in Washington D.C.

Policy Changes:  Jane will clarify the policy regarding meetings and events in the Community Room to read:  “All meetings, programs, and events utilizing the library” must be open to the public.

Jane suggested changing the policy on library cards to say that a parent must sign for a library card along with their child, assuming responsibility for the materials the child checks out.

Buildings and Grounds: Jane reports that neighbors have complained the new lights on the porch are too bright.  She will talk to Brad about this;  perhaps there are warmer bulbs to use or the lights can be tilted differently. She will discuss this with Brad.

Technology:  Because Jane cannot get the router password from Consolidated, the printer manager suggested paying Consolidated $58/month for a new router and service. We cannot change providers;  we are part of a town contract with Consolidated and manage our own internet. Jane said we have enough money in the technology budget to pay for this. Amy suggested buying a new router elsewhere and finding someone to install it. Sarah suggested that Jane write a list of everything that needs to be done once we have a new router, and we will look for someone who is capable of doing all these tasks.  Trustees had a few names of people to contact. Sarah said she would have her husband send his recommendation for a router.  She asked Jane to take a picture of the existing router so he could find something comparable.

Friends:  After Amy, Sarah, and Jane met with various members of the Friends of the Library, they felt all outstanding matters of concern have been addressed and need not be discussed further.  

Adjournment: Gail moved to adjourn the meeting; Erin seconded, and all voted in favor. Amy adjourned the meeting at 6:10 p.m.

The next meeting will be May 13, 2025 at 4:00 p.m. in the Community Room of the Main Library.

Respectfully Submitted,

Jean Kobeski, Recording Secretary

** These minutes are in draft form until approved at the May 13, 2025 meeting.

Conservation Commission Meeting Minutes – 4/7/25

CONSERVATION COMMISSION 04/13/2025 Leave a comment

TOWN OF WALPOLE, NEW HAMPSHIRE

CONSERVATION COMMISSION

APRIL 7, 2024

Members Present: Nicole Adams, Wendy Grossman, France Menk, Peter Palmiotto (Co-Chair), John Peska (Co-Chair, Presiding), Lewis Shelley

Alternates Present: Tom Beaudry, Paul Happ

Members Absent: Carolyn Vose (Selectboard)

Visitors Present: Chris Liazos, Hale Morrell, Alex Barrett

CALL TO ORDER: John called the meeting to order at 7:02 pm in the Town Hall. 

SEATING OF ALTERNATES:  All members present – no alternates needed

REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF MINUTES

France moved to accept the March 3, 2025 minutes as written. Wendy seconded and all voted in favor. The motion carried. 

PUBLIC BUSINESS

Financial Report: No account balances were available.  We received the annual income from the Hubbard Endowment in the amount of $9,731.25 for this year. 

Correspondence:

  • Reservoir Dam Wetland Application has been submitted.  The application and maps were available.
  • National Grid will be using herbicide from Bellows Falls to the Surry town line starting in June.  The landowners have been notified. 
  • Monadnock Conservancy’s 2025 fundraising goal is $2,000,000.  Amanda Littleton has been appointed the new Executive Director.
  • A deed was shared that indicated William S. Fletcher granted the Town an easement for Cranberry Meadow Bog Dam back in the 1990s.
  • We received the new NH Planning and Land Use Laws book. 

NEW BUSINESS

Forest for the Birds – Chris Liazos, Antioch: Chris’ thesis is to create a standardized process and report for developing a Conservation Value Index which looks at birds (the varieties and number) in treated and untreated forests.  This project works with NRCS, towns and landowners.  For his thesis, he can do 10 study points in an area.  Each point would be monitored 10 minutes five times a year.  Treated property can impact birds in the surrounding land also. eBird tracks hotspots and the monitored land would be added to eBird.  After a discussion of possible forests, it appears that the Hooper Forest has the best ages and species of trees, some small clearcuts (1-3 acres) and some wetlands.  Alex will send Chris a map of Hooper Forest.  Chris will put together a proposal that will be shared with the Hooper Board to see if they are interested.

Forest Management Update – Alex Barret, Longview Forestry:  Fanny Mason will probably be harvested next winter unless this summer is super dry because the landing is very wet.  Chris Ricci will do the timber pricing closer to the harvest – lumber sales are even more in flux now (pine and ash are no longer purchased by China). 

There is a lot of red pine scale in Swanzy.  We should probably harvest the red pine at the west rest area on Route 12 soon.  There are white oaks among the pine.  If we decide to thin the red pine, there is a chance there will be blowdown, but the surviving trees will get stronger in a few years.  Could clearcut to get a view to the west, but the removal of all trees may be shocking.  Alex will check with the State, but he thinks we may be able to use the rest area for the landing since it is Walpole’s property and provides two paved drives to Route 12.  There is already some root rot, but new stumps can be treated to prevent further infection.  There are invasives on fence but not in woods yet and they need to be treated this summer. Peter made a motion to contract Longview to prepare a recommendation for the red pine harvest and invasives treatment.  France seconded, and the motion passed unanimously.

Beaver Deceivers – Mill and East Street Ponds:  The Beaver Deceiver at Mill Pond is working – the brook is not rising.  The one at East Street Pond is not working and the Highway Department had to clear the culvert.  There is one beaver still active.  Mike Symonds has a trapping license and hopes to remove the beaver.  A larger deceiver is needed for that culvert, so it blocks beaver access to the culvert.

Old Business

Gateway and Hooper Invasives: The plans for the Hooper treatment are in place, but the Commission is awaiting a revised plan for the Gateway.  Alex will remind them to send it.  Treatments at Hooper need to be avoided the week of July 21st and just before that because there will be an Adventure Camp in the Forest.  The Trail Committee is planning an event for June 29th at the Gateway for Old Home Days.  Usually treatment is done July – September so treatment will not interfere with either event.

Commission and Property Monitoring Files – Record Keeping (RSA 33-A:4-a): A file hanger is needed for the property management files. The keys to all the file cabinets have been found and the Town is making copies.  There was a discussion of missing information and how to fill the gaps.  We will talk about the record-keeping goals for the conservation property at some time.  Perhaps some of the information should be electronic and available to the public.

Old Home Days Planning (6/25-29): Gary Speed was mentioned, but he is no longer trapping. One suggestion was a bird walk around the Common.  The Fish and Game Warden in Walpole might be part of our booth, not necessarily with his working dog (black lab).  The Trail Committee will have a table next to the Conservation Committee.

MCA Mount Kilborn – Letter of Support:  Peter recommended a list of tasks that MCA needs to do, including preparing a management plan that can shared with the towns involved before the Conservation Commission can write a letter of support.  France will contact them for an update.

Common Tree Planting – Committee Meeting:  Peter will reach out to the Committee members to plan a meeting.

TRAIL COMMITTEE

Updates: The Trail Committee is planning  Help Our Trails (HOT) Day for May 3rd.  Everyone will meet at the Town Hall.  The Committee is also planning an Old Home Days event on Sunday, June 29th, hopefully at the Gateway.  There will be an inspection of the Mill Pond trail so a plan for needed maintenance can be prepared. 

Rail Trail Brush Hogging: The Town now has the 2024 Bond back.  Nicole has insurance and is working with Rich Kreissle so he is ready to do a check for the 2025 bond as soon as the Selectboard gives approval to the application and bond.  We would like to have permission by mid-May so brush hogging can be scheduled for early June.

OTHER BUSINESS

Hooper Institute Board Update:  Nicole will share the Forest for the Birds proposal with the Hooper Board as soon as it arrives.

New Commission Member:  France moved to add Paul as a Commissioner.  Lew seconded, and the motion passed unanimously.  Paul will send a letter to Sarah Downing stating that he wishes to join the Commission.

Town Website:  France reported the town website update is complete.

Hazard Mitigation Plan: John is working on the team updating the Town’s Hazard Mitigation Plan. 

AGENDA – NEXT MEETING MAY 5, 2025

  • Old Home Days Plan
  • Forest for the Birds Proposal

ADJOURNMENT: John declared the meeting adjourned at 8:42PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

(Note:  These are unapproved Minutes. Corrections will be found in the Minutes of the May 5, 2025 Conservation Commission meeting.)

Planning Board Meeting Minutes – 4/8/25

PLANNING BOARD 04/13/2025 Leave a comment

Walpole Planning Board Minutes

Tuesday, April 8, 2025

Town Hall

7 pm

Roll Call: Present: Board members Chair Jeff Miller, Clerk Jason Perron, Jeff Harrington, Joanna Andros, Trevor MacLachlan, Select Board Representative Steve Dalessio, Alternates Travis Adams, Bill Carmody. Absent Board member Vice-Chair Dennis Marcom.

Call to Order: Mr. Miller called the meeting to order at 6:59 pm. He asked Mr. Adams to sit in for the absent board member. Mr. Adams agreed.

Minutes: Review minutes of March 2025 meeting. Mr. Perron made a motion to approve the March minutes as presented. Mr. Harrington seconded the motion and the motion carried.

New Business:

Election of Officers

Mr. Harrington made a motion to keep the slate of officers the same as those who are currently serving. Mr. Perron seconded the motion and the motion carried.

Old Business:

Agent Chad Branon, Fieldstone Land Consultants presented. Applicant is Acorn to Sky Investments LLC in Meriden, NH. Discussion of the condo land and application for a site plan. Tax Map 12, Lot 13-3 Unit 2, commercial district. Proposed use is a 1,400 square-foot Domino’s Pizza restaurant.

Mr. Branon stated thee has been confusion over this property. He acknowledged that a plat was registered at the Cheshire County Deeds without approval of the Planning Board. Mr. Branon provided a new plat. This plat consolidates the unapproved lots into one lot that conforms to the Walpole subdivision regulations. This plat supersedes the plan that was registered before at CCRD, which was Plan No 22117. The property is designated as Unit 2A.

Mr. Dalessio reminded Mr. Branon that regarding development of the entire parcel, 30 percent must be green space. After a quick look at the what the building would look like, Mr. Miller asked if there were any other models. Ms. Andros asked about vegetation and Mr. Branon  said there would probably be trees and shrubs in the front of the building. Mr. Dalessio didn’t approve of the flat roof. Is this a restaurant with seating inside? Mr. Branon thought it was mainly a drive-thru. More discussion on the building will take place next month.

Caitlyn Baucom asked. “Why would we want this? There is zero reason why people need a Domino’s.” Ms. Baucom thought someone local should be investing in commercial property in Walpole. It needs local owners and local workers. Walpole already has plenty of drive-thru eateries already, she said.

Mr. Miller explained that this is property in the commercially zoned district and the Planning  Board cannot determine who owns a particular lot or piece of property nor what he/she does with the property. These businesses add to the town’s taxes. Also, the people working at all these establishments are local. He reminded her that a couple of years ago there was a proposal to ban any more franchise businesses and it was voted down.

Mr. Branon asked for a public hearing next month, May, for a site plan for Domino’s. Mr. Perron made a motion to hold a public hearing next month. Mr. Harrington seconded the motion and the motion carried.

Lot Line Adjustment: Nathan Bisson and Allegra Pickering, Town Tax Map 24, Lot 15; Old Hewitt Barn Properties LLC Tax Map 24, Lot 13; and BNB Realty, LLC Tax Map 24, Lot 14-1 11 Maplewood Drive. Mr Bisson and Ms. Pickering want to swap some land with the owners of Hewitt Barn Properties. 0.13 acres will be annexed to the Bisson and Pickering couple in exchange for 0.14 acres in the north and west corner to the Old Hewitt Barn property. Mr. Bisson and Ms. Pickering are also purchasing 0.04 acres from BNB Realty, LLC, After the adjustment, Mr. Bisson and Ms. Pickering will have 8.67 acres and Old Hewitt Barn property will be 1.50 acres.

Mr. Jed West presented the Lot Line Adjustment for vacationing surveyor Joe DiBernardo and asked for a public hearing for next month. Mr. Perron made a motion to hold a hearing for the lot line adjustment next month. Mr. Adams seconded the motion and the motion carried.

Mr. Miller announced that Mr. Todd Horner, executive director of Southwest Region Planning Commission, will have the Master Plan in 25 binders. Each Planning Board member will receive a copy.

Adjournment: Mr. Perron made a motion to adjourn. Mr. Harrington seconded the motion and the motion passes unanimously.

These minutes are unapproved and will reviewed at the May 13, 2025 for corrections.

Respectfully submitted,

Marilou Blaine, Secretary

cc: WPB, ZBA, Town Offices, The Walpolean. Posted: Inside Town Offices, outside Post Office, www.walpolenh.us

Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 4/2/25

SELECTBOARD 04/11/2025 Leave a comment

TOWN OF WALPOLE, NEW HAMPSHIRE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

APRIL 2, 2025

Selectboard Present: Steven Dalessio, Chair; and Cheryl Mayberry

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

Selectboard Absent: Carolyn Vose

Guests Present: Nicole Adams and Peggy Pschirrer

CALL TO ORDER: Mr. Dalessio called the Selectboard meeting to order at 6:31 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.

SPECIAL USE PERMIT (SUP)

Mrs. Adams attended to present the Special Use Permit from the State that the Conservation Commission needs to submit to maintain the Rail Trail with motorized equipment. Large fallen trees will be removed with a chainsaw. A brush hog will be used to control grass and weeds.  By consensus the Board agreed to get a legal review of the bond language. If the Board has the Town attorney’s comments for next week’s meeting, a decision can be made on the permit.

Mrs. Adams left the meeting.

HOOPER TRUSTEES

Ms. Mayberry moved to enter into the Hooper Trustees meeting at 6:36 PM.  Mr. Dalessio seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 7:13 PM.

Mrs.  Pschirrer left during the Hooper Trustees meeting.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Accounts Payable Check Register totaling $82,587.64 dated 4/7/2025 including a $40,118.26 payment to EE Houghton for work on Hooper Institute, which will be reimbursed to the Town by the Hooper Institute.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

PAYROLL

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Payroll Register totaling $33,346.20 dated 4/4/2025 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $6,425.20.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES

Selectboard Meeting – March 27, 2025: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of March 27, 2025. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Non-Public Selectboard Meeting – March 27, 2025:  Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard meeting of March 27, 2025.  The minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved, and the minutes are sealed.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

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

  • Library Trustees Meeting – March 11, 2025

Mr. Dalessio acknowledged these minutes.

LAND USE CHANGE TAX

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Land Use Change Tax for the following properties: 

  • Map and Lot # 005-016-001 in the amount of $11,400
  • Map and Lot # 010-009-001 in the amount of $2,200
  • Map and Lot # 004-013-000 in the amount of $1,400

Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor the motion was approved.  The first $25,000 in Land Use Change Tax (LUCT) each year goes to the Conservation Commission. The remainder of the LUCT income is deposited into the Town’s General Fund.

PROPERTY TAX REFUNDS

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Property Tax Refunds for

  • Map and Lot # 023-014-000 of $155.80
  • Map and Lot #027-001-006, of $279.23

Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

VETERANS’ TAX CREDIT:

Map and Lot # 019-009-000: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Veterans’ Property Tax Credit for Map and Lot# 019-009-000.  The applicant served more than 90 days of active duty during a time of conflict and was honorably discharged.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

BUILDING PERMIT

2025-07, Map and Lot# 013-031-002: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve Building Permit # 2025-07 for Map and Lot # 013-031-002 to construct a 16.4’ x 17.2’ three season porch. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS

Irving Oil and Propane: Irving Energy will waive the 10% tariff charges incurred during the tariff period March 4-6, 2025.  The change will be reflected in the accounts shortly.  The Board appreciates having the tariff waived.

Streetlight on Kilburn Street: The homeowner has an open request for a shade to be added to the bright streetlight.  Mrs. Downing will notify Steve Grenier, who will notify Liberty to put the shield on the light.

NEW BUSINESS

Recreation Revolving Fund Request: An outdoor water fountain is needed at the Whitcomb Park Recreation Area.  The cost is $10,200.  Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the use of funds from the Recreation Revolving Fund to purchase the outdoor water fountain and to sign the Purchase Order # 204591 for $10,200.  Mr. Dalessio seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion passed, and the purchase order was signed. 

FMRSD Invitation: The community is invited to meet Mr. Cohn, a finalist for the position of Superintendent of Schools.  The Q & A Session is Monday, April 7th starting at 5:30 PM at the FMRHS Library.  The Selectboard encourages as many citizens as possible to attend the meeting.

Stone Plaques on the Common: Ms. Mayberry explained that four plaques were removed, and it now time to reinstall them.  One option would be to make a wood frame filled with cement that the plaques could be embedded in to keep them from sinking or raising up. Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Symonds will develop a plan.

Signage on the Common: The signs on the Common are faded and hard to read.  The street signs are red on white for no parking, but something different would be nice on the Common.  Mr. Dalessio just purchased green reflective historic looking signs for American Precision.  He will find out where they were purchased.

Thank you Note:  A thank you note was received from Southwestern Community Services for the Town’s annual donation to help citizens in the Town of Walpole.

NON-PUBLIC BUSINESS RSA 91-A:3 II (a)

Ms. Mayberry moved to enter into Non-Public Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II (a) at 7:35 PM.  Mr. Dalessio seconded. With Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 8:22 PM.

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

ADJOURNMENT: Mr. Dalessio declared the meeting adjourned at 8:22 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

(Note: These are unapproved Minutes. Corrections will be found in the Minutes of the April 10, 2025 Selectboard meeting.)

Police Building Committee Meeting Minutes – 4/1/25

Police Building Committee, Uncategorized 04/10/2025 Leave a comment

POLICE STATION BUILDING COMMITTEE

Minutes, April 1, 2025

Steve Dalessio called the meeting of the Police Building Committee to order at 6:30 pm.  Present were Jay Punt, Trevor MacLachlan, Chief Justin Sanctuary, Peggy Pschirrer and present by zoom were Cheri Watson, Dave Adams and Architect Michael Petrovick. Andrew Dey was absent.

Jay Punt moved the minutes of March 3, 2025, be approved; the motion was seconded by Cheri Watson and unanimously approved by the committee.

The purpose of the meeting was to examine and discuss the revised drawing of the proposed police station. Mr. Dalessio had suggested changes to the proposed plans for the new police station. Mr. Petrovick made the suggested changes to the draft which were distributed to the committee.

Mr. Dalessio explained why the Warrant Article which asked voters to approve a plan for the new station was dropped from the Town meeting agenda. Public meetings had confirmed the voters support for a new station but asked for a smaller, more affordable station.

Mr. Petrovick was asked to bring out the front of the sally port to make it even with the front of the building on this latest version of the station. Mr. Petrovick responded that getting things proportionate may raise the costs of the building and would change the roof line.

Mr. MacLachlan asked if we could get rid of the stairs and have only a pull down.  The answer was yes, the stairs could be removed easily but we will need access to the mechanicals which will be above.

Mr. MacLachlan will do a cost analysis after the changes suggested at this meeting.

Mr. Petrovick stated the changes have removed about 2,000 square feet from the earlier plan. We are now about 5,700 square feet, which drops the cost to about 4.5 million dollars.

Mr. Dalessio suggested that the northwest corner be squared off so that the electrical systems could be out of the secured area. This will allow a bigger evidence room, which will be useful. The Training room has been reduced in size. It was agreed to leave the window placements as designed.

 Mr. Petrovick will make the recommended changes and return them as soon as possible for the committee to review.

Mr. MacLachlan commented that we will need a fenced area, a covered compound area and probably a chain link fence around the impound area. It will be important that there is an ability to maneuver a tow truck.

The impound area will need to meet DES requirements for drains. The sally port will need an oil separator.

There will be landscaping around the building. Ms. Watson recommended that we use some boulders in front of the building which can double as protection and landscaping.  Perhaps we can work with the Hooper Institute on appropriate gardens.

The non-impound yard needs to be four cars wide and four cars deep with an alley and double gates.

Chief Sanctuary said the building will have room for an office for the State police or another employee.

Mr. Dalessio reported we have a contract with Nancy Merril as grant writer and she has filed our first grant for congressional funding.

The group also agreed they need to have a conversation with both Ted Benson of Bensonwood and with Mr. Franks who has offered some ideas for building.

The next meeting will be Monday, April 21, 2025, in the Selectboard office at 6:30 pm.

Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 3/27/25

SELECTBOARD 04/03/2025 Leave a comment

TOWN OF WALPOLE, NEW HAMPSHIRE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

MARCH 27, 2025

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

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

Guests Present: Ernie Vose, Zoning Coordinator

CALL TO ORDER: Mr. Dalessio called the Selectboard meeting to order at 6:30 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.

ZONING PROCESS: Mr. Vose had questions about the zoning process now that Article #2 has passed.  Mr. Vose works with people planning to build in Walpole by answering questions, giving initial guidance on the laws, ensuring they know what forms they need and the required steps to obtain the necessary permits. Going forward, if a hearing is needed, people will come to the Selectboard. If they disagree with the Board’s findings, they can appeal to the Zoning Boad of Administration (ZBA).  Mr. Dalessio reported that the new Dunkin on Rt. 12 was told to remove their flags, which are not permitted in Walpole, by 3/28/2025. 

There was a discussion of North Walpole Zoning Ordinances.  Ms. Mayberry will check the North Walpole Zoning Ordinances to determine the differences and what the process is if something is not specified in the North Walpole ordinances. Ms. Mayberry wondered if it defaults to Walpole Zoning Ordinances. The Planning Board now is responsible for gravel banks, signs and commercial development.

PAYROLL

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Payroll Register totaling $31,586.88 dated 3/28/2025 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $6,051.61.  Seconded by Ms. Vose. With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved. 

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES

Selectboard Meeting – March 19, 2025: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of March 19, 2025. Seconded by Ms. Vose. With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Non-Public Selectboard Meeting – March 12, 2025: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard meeting of March 12, 2025.  The minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Ms. Vose.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved, and the minutes are sealed.

Non-Public Selectboard Meeting – March 19, 2025: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard meeting of March 19, 2025 as amended.  The minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Ms. Vose.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved, and the minutes are sealed.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

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

  • Police Building Committee Meeting – March 3, 2025
  • Trail Committee Meeting – March 12, 2025
  • Zoning Board of Adjustment Meeting – March 19, 2025

Mr. Dalessio acknowledged these minutes.

PROPERTY TAX REFUNDS

Map and Lot # 009-034-000: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Property Tax Refund for Map and Lot # 009-034-000, of $157.63.  Seconded by Ms. Vose.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

BUILDING PERMIT

2025-05, Map and Lot# 011-059-000: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve Building Permit #2025-05 for Map and Lot # 011-059-000 to construct a 24’ x 24’ 1.5 story two car garage. Seconded by Ms. Vose. With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved. 

2025-06, Map and Lot# 024-013-000: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve Building Permit #2025-06 for Map and Lot # 024-013-000 to construct a 100’ x 80’ 1.5 story warehouse. Seconded by Ms. Vose. With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS

Reservoir Dam Pre-Application Meeting: Copies of the Wetlands Permit have been distributed.  One copy is available at the Selectboard Office for public review.  Mr. Dalessio reported that the project has been approved to submit the application to DES.

Hazard Mitigation Plan Survey: The survey will be in the April Clarion. It is on the Town website and flyers are being posted.  Ms. Vose recommended it should be sent to the North Walpole Village Facebook page and the Walpolean.  The next meeting will be April 3rd at 2:00 PM.

School Withdrawal Study Timeline and Town Representative: The School District sent the study timeline.  A Town representative is needed for the study.  Ms. Vose will represent Walpole.  Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Varone will probably attend a lot of the meetings.

NEW BUSINESS

MS-232: The form will be uploaded to the portal.  Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the MS-2332 to upload to the portal.  Seconded by Ms. Vose.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Legislative Delegation Meeting Invitation: Keene is hosting a meeting with members of the Legislature on April 16th at 6:00 PM at the Keene Public Library.  Mr. Dalessio said the meetings are usually very worthwhile.

Great River Hydro PILOT:  Walpole received another request for a PILOT (Payment in Lieu of Taxes) agreement.  PILOT agreements with Great River Hydro have a history of being problematic.  Walpole is not going to sign a PILOT agreement currently.

Concerts on the Common: The Savings Bank of Walpole is seeking permission to have the concerts this summer.  Ms. Vose moved to approve the schedule of concerts from June 15th through August 10th including the Boy Scout concert on June 22nd.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Ms. Vose, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

NON-PUBLIC BUSINESS RSA 91-A:3 II (a)(b)(c)

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

The meeting was reconvened at 8:48 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 8:49 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

(Note: These are unapproved Minutes. Corrections will be found in the Minutes of the April 2, 2025 Selectboard meeting.)

Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 3/19/25

SELECTBOARD 03/28/2025 Leave a comment

TOWN OF WALPOLE, NEW HAMPSHIRE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

MARCH 19, 2025

Selectboard Present: Steven Dalessio, Carolyn Vose and Cheryl Mayberry

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

Guests Present: Brenda DuLong, Meghan Hansson, Peggy Pschirrer

CALL TO ORDER: Sue Bauer, as the Recording Secretary, called the Selectboard meeting to order at 6:33 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.

ELECTION OF THE CHAIR: Ms. Mayberry moved to appoint Steven Dalessio as the Chair of the Selectboard.  Second by Ms. Vose.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

OPENING OF THE SELECTBOARD MEETING: Mr. Dalessio, Selectboard Chair, opened the Selectboard Meeting.

SCHOLARSHIP PRESENTATION: Ms. DuLong presented Walpole with a scholarship as a result of Mrs. Hansson attending the NH Town Clerk’s Association Certificate Program, which consists of three one-week training sessions in Concord. Mrs. Hansson successfully completing a special challenge.  The Board congratulated Mrs. Hansson.

Ms. DuLong and Mrs. Hansson left the meeting.

HOOPER TRUSTEES

Ms. Mayberry moved to enter into the Hooper Trustees meeting at 6:41 PM.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms.  Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 7:06 PM.

Mrs. Pschirrer left during the Hooper Trustees meeting.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE

Ms. Vose moved to approve the Accounts Payable Check Register totaling $1,515412.38 dated 3/24/2025 including $804,108.96 payment to Fall Mountain Regional School District.  Second by Ms. Mayberry.  With Ms. Vose, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

PAYROLL

Ms. Vose moved to approve the Payroll Register totaling $32,117.77 dated 3/21/2025 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $6,201.52.  Second by Ms. Mayberry.  With Ms. Vose, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES

Selectboard Meeting – March 12, 2025:  Ms. Vose moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of March 12, 2025. Second by Ms. Mayberry.  With Ms. Vose, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the minutes were approved.  

Non-Public Selectboard Meeting – March 12, 2025:  The minutes will be reviewed at the next meeting on March 27th.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

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

  • Walpole Fire District Meeting – October 9, 2024
  • Walpole Fire District Meeting – November 6, 2024
  • Walpole Fire District Meeting – December 4, 2024
  • Walpole Fire District Meeting – January 8, 2025
  • Walpole Fire District Meeting – February 12,2025
  • Walpole Fire District Budget Hearing – February 12, 2025
  • Planning Board Meeting – March 11, 2025

Mr. Dalessio acknowledged these minutes.

TIMBER YIELD CERTIFICATION AND WARRANT

Op # 24-461-10, Map and Lot # 009-006-000: Ms. Vose moved to approve the taxes assessed and warrant for $$189.45.  Second by Ms. Mayberry.  With Ms. Vose, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved, and both forms were signed.

Op # 24-461-11, Map and Lot # 009-008-000: Ms. Vose moved to approve the taxes assessed and warrant for $100.84.  Second by Ms. Mayberry.  With Ms. Vose, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved, and both forms were signed. 

PROPERTY TAX ABATEMENT

Map and Lot# 012-013-4U1: Ms. Vose moved to approve a Property Tax Abatement for Map and Lot # 012-013-4U1 for $1,576.49. Second by Ms. Mayberry.  With Ms. Vose, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.  

Map and Lot# 012-013-4U2:  Ms. Vose moved to approve a Property Tax Abatement for Map and Lot # 012-013-4U2 for $2,636.21. Second by Ms. Mayberry.  With Ms. Vose, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

PROPERTY TAX REFUNDS

Map and Lot # 003-007-002: Ms. Vose moved to approve the Property Tax Refund for Map and Lot # 003-007-002, of $18.42.  Second by Ms. Mayberry.  With Ms. Vose, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the tax refund was approved.

Map and Lot # 003-082-CL3: Ms. Vose moved to approve the Property Tax Refund for Map and Lot # 003-008-CL3, of $25.63.  Second by Ms. Mayberry.  With Ms. Vose, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the tax refund was approved.

Map and Lot # 008-035-000: Ms. Vose moved to approve the Property Tax Refund for Map and Lot # 008-035-000, of $38.09.  Second by Ms. Mayberry.  With Ms. Vose, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the tax refund was approved.

Map and Lot # 009-007-000: Ms. Vose moved to approve the Property Tax Refund for Map and Lot # 009-007-000, of $6.19.  Second by Ms. Mayberry.  With Ms. Vose, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the tax refund was approved.

Map and Lot #013-011-000: Ms. Vose moved to approve the Property Tax Refund for Map and Lot # 013-011-000, of $12.45.  Second by Ms. Mayberry.  With Ms. Vose, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the tax refund was approved.

Map and Lot # 022-017-000: Ms. Vose moved to approve the Property Tax Refund for Map and Lot # 022-017-000, of $12.86.  Second by Ms. Mayberry.  With Ms. Vose, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the tax refund was approved.

Map and Lot # 028-033-000: Ms. Vose moved to approve the Property Tax Refund for Map and Lot # 028-033-000, of $17.09.  Second by Ms. Mayberry.  With Ms. Vose, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the tax refund was approved.

VETERANS’ TAX CREDIT:

Map and Lot # 005-025-000: Ms. Vose moved to approve the Veterans’ Property Tax Credit for Map and Lot# 005-025-000.  The applicant served over 90 days of active duty during a time of conflict and was honorably discharged.  Second by Ms. Mayberry.  With Ms. Vose, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved. 

Map and Lot # 013-027-001: Ms. Vose moved to approve the Veterans’ Property Tax Credit for Map and Lot# 013-027-001.  The applicant served over 90 days of active duty during a time of conflict and was honorably discharged. Second by Ms. Mayberry.  With Ms. Vose, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved. 

SOLAR ENERGY EXEMPTION:

Map and Lot # 013-027-001: Ms. Vose moved to approve the Solar Energy Exemption for Map and Lot# 013-027-001. Second by Ms. Mayberry.  With Ms. Vose, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved. 

OLD BUSINESS

Reservoir Dam Wetlands Permit Application: The full application will be distributed to the Planning Board, the Town Clerk, the Selectboard Office, the Conservation Commission, and Fuss and O’Neill.  Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the application and ask for Mr. Dalessio to sign all five copies.  Seconded by Ms. Vose.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved, and the application signed.

Hazard Plan Mitigation Plan Update:  The initial meeting was held today from 3:00 – 5:00 PM. The entire Selectboard attended and now have an understanding of what it will take to update the plan.

2023 Financial Audit: Mrs. Downing reported that Mr. Kreissle has been hearing from the auditors yesterday and today.  He is sending the requested information to them promptly.

NEW BUSINESS

Selectboard Liaison Assignments: For the next year the following Selectboard members will be working with the departments, boards, commission/committee, and projects.

Department LiaisonsBoard Liaisons
SelectboardMr. DalessioPlanningMr. Dalessio
FinanceMs. MayberryLibraryMs. Vose
HighwayMs. MayberryHooperAll
PoliceMr. Dalessio  
RecyclingMs. VoseCommission/  
RecreationMs. VoseCommittee  Liaisons
Town ClerkMs. VoseConservationMs. Vose
Tax CollectorAllTrailMs. Vose
Water/SewerMr. Dalessio  
WelfareMs. MayberryProject Liaisons
  Police Station Mr. Dalessio
  Dams and BridgesMr. Dalessio
  EmergencyAll
  Hazard Mitigation Plan UpdateAll

Appointment Notices: There are members who would like to continue for another term on the Conservation Commission.  

Ms. Mayberry moved to accept Peter Palmiotto for another term on the Conservation Committee.  Seconded by Ms. Vose.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Ms. Mayberry moved to accept France Menk for another term on the Conservation Committee.  Seconded by Ms. Vose.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Recreation Revolving Fund Request: Ms. Vose explained that the Recreation Director needs a cell phone plan.  Ms. Vose moved to use $302.25 from the Recreation Revolving Fund for a phone plan for the Recreation Director. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Ms. Vose, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Capital Reserve Fund Requests:  There are five requests from warrant articles approved at Town Meeting.  

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve and sign the letter to the Trustees of Trust Funds requesting that $15,000.00 be moved to the Police Department Capital Reserve Fund per Article 12.  Seconded by Ms. Vose.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve and sign the letter to the Trustees of Trust Funds requesting that $55,000.00 be moved to the Police Building Capital Reserve Fund per Article 7.  Seconded by Ms. Vose.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve and sign the letter to the Trustees of Trust Funds requesting that $25,000.00 be moved to the Highway Capital Reserve Fund per Article 10.  Seconded by Ms. Vose.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve and sign the letter to the Trustees of Trust Funds requesting that $40,000.00 be moved to the Municipal Building Capital Reserve Fund per Article 8.  Seconded by Ms. Vose.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve and sign the letter to the Trustees of Trust Funds requesting that $26,000.00 be moved to the Town Wide Capital Reserve Fund per Article 13.  Seconded by Ms. Vose.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Risk Pools and SB 297: HealthTrust called regarding this NH Senate Bill.  A note was received from the Secretary of State asking for Walpole’s support of SB 297. Both communications were acknowledged.

National Grid Herbicide Notification: National Grid will be applying herbicide from the Great Hydro Dam southeastward towards Surry.  The notification was acknowledged.

Highway Shed Stain Color: The Selectboard agreed that the Highway shed color will be Hamilton Blue semi-solid.

Assessing Information Fees:  Mrs. Downing reported that the last update in fees was January 2018.  The Selectboard was asked if the fees should be raised $10 for each option to help offset the Avitar costs. Ms. Mayberry moved to increase the assessing information fees by $10.00 for each option.  Second by Ms. Vose.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

NON-PUBLIC BUSINESS RSA 91-A:3 II (a)(e)

Ms. Vose moved to enter into Non-Public Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II (a)(e) at 7:48 PM.  Second by Ms. Mayberry.  With Ms. Vose, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 8:26 PM.

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

ADJOURNMENT: Mr. Dalessio declared the meeting adjourned at 8:26 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

(Note: These are unapproved Minutes. Corrections will be found in the Minutes of the March 27, 2025 Selectboard meeting.)

Police Building Committee Meeting Minutes – 3/3/25

Police Building Committee 03/24/2025 Leave a comment

POLICE BUILDING COMMITTEE

Minutes, March 3, 2025

Steve Dalessio opened the meeting in the Selectboard Office at 6:30 pm. Present were Jay Punt, Andrew Dey, Trevor MacLachlan, Cheri Watson (on zoom), Peggy Pschirrer and Chief Justin Sanctuary. Dave Adams was absent.

The Committee reviewed the results of our recent public meeting. Everyone present agreed we need a new police station, but all were concerned about cost.

Are we building just a building or a police station?  Mr. MacLachlan emphasized we must be concerned about life safety standards. We must follow the International Building Code – a federal classification for new construction which represents a higher standard of codes. The code is updated regularly.

The public questions what are the implications for each taxpayer if we secure bonds to pay for this structure?  New Hampshire Bond costs for 10- year and 20-year costs were distributed to the committee.

We have hired Nancy Merrill as a grant writer for this project.  She is a former Economic Development Director for the City of Claremont where she wrote many successful grants.

Returning to the discussion of the current design of the Police Station, it was agreed we need to reduce the square footage. From 8,200 to less than 7,000. The windows and doors must still be ballistic.  We need cover for outdoor parking.  Mr. Dalessio presented a design in which he had moved the offices and altered the size of the training room to half its former size.  The committee approved the alterations which reduced the square footage without compromising the most important needs and safety of a new station.

Mr. Dalessio will get in touch with our Architect, Michael Petrovick to discuss the alterations so we can have a new design.

The Warrant Article which was to appear at Town Meeting asking the voters to approve our going forward with a new station has been removed from the agenda. There will be a Warrant Article which will ask the voters to approve a $55,000 CRF for the Police Department which will pay for the grant writer and other expenses associated with the design.  We expect to purchase the property site for the new station before Town Meeting.

 Our next meeting will be March 24, 2025, at 6:30 pm in the office of the Selectboard.

Zoning Board Meeting Minutes – 3/19/25

ZONING BOARD 03/24/2025 Leave a comment

Zoning Board of Adjustment

March 19, 2025

Town Hall

7 pm

Roll Call: Present Board members Chair Tom Murray, Vice-Chair Dave Edkins, William Sommers. Alternates Don Sellarole and Myra Mansouri. Absent: Board members Pauline Barnes and Shane O’Keefe.

Call to Order: Mr. Murray called the meeting to order at 7:02. He welcomed new ZBA member Bill Sommers. He asked alternates Myra Mansouri and Don Sellarole to sit in for the missing Board members. They agreed.

Minutes: Review of February 2025 minutes: Mr. Murray said in the last paragraph of page 1 the RSA number should be 674:33 not 6754:33. Mr. Edkins made a motion to accept the amended minutes as presented. Mr. Sellarole seconded the motion and the motion passed unanimously. 

Tonight’s minutes are unapproved and will be reviewed for corrections at the April meeting.

New Business:

Election of Officers

Mr. Murray asked for nominations. Ms. Mansouri nominated Tom Murray as chair. Mr. Edkins seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously. Ms. Mansouri nominated Pauline Barnes as Vice-Chair. Mr. Sellarole seconded the motion The vote was 5-0 in favor. Mr. Sellarole nominated Mr. Edkins as Clerk. Ms. Mansouri seconded the motion and the vote was 5-0 in favor. 

Old Business:

Public Hearing: Variance: Jennie Cure, Map 11, Lot 27, 529 Valley Road, Rural/Ag District. Proposed is a wheelchair ramp. Ramp will be too close to the center of the road. Presenter and builder is Doug Phelps. Zoning Ordinance: Article VIII D-2.

Mr. Edkins recused himself from sitting in on this public hearing.

Mr. Phelps brought in a large drawing of the layout of the property: road, driveway, original house, a new deck, new addition and the location of the wheelchair ramp. All items were delineated in different colors. For example, the ramp, which is 20 feet with a 6.8-foot-by-5-foot pivot area at the top and a 1/12 grade, were outlined in green. He explained that his client bought her mother’s house on Valley Road. Her mother is now in a nursing home in Bellows Falls. The original section of the house was built in 1808. An addition was added to the home with all new features. He and Zoning Coordinator Ernie Vose measured the distance to the center of the road and it was 60.4 feet.

Mr. Murray explained that a person applying for a variance must meet five conditions. Following are conditions in regular type and the applicant’s response in italics.

1.

 Condition No. 1 Granting the variance would not be contrary to the public interest.

It is in the public interest that a dwelling be handicap accessible. 

Condition No. 2. If the variance were granted, the spirit of he ordinance would be observed because:

It wouldn’t infringe on the setbacks. 

Condition No. 3. Granting the variance would do substantial justice because:

The handicapped (person) would have access to a warm dwelling. Ms. Mansouri said friends of the handicapped person would also be able to visit.

Condition No. 4: Granting the variance will not diminish the values of the surrounding properties because:

The project has already increased surrounding property values. It makes the property look more civic minded and friendly.

Condition No. 5: Unnecessary Hardship: Owing to the special conditions of the property that distinguish it from the other properties in the area, denial of the variance would result in unnecessary hardship because:

1. No fair and substantial relationship exists between the general public purposes of the ordinance provision and specific application of the provision to the because:

Low profile and low impact. The construction of the ramp shows the owner is concerned about her property and the neighborhood.

and The proposed use is a reasonable one because:

The building always had two entrances that infringed on the setback. Mr. Murray quoted from RSA 674:33. “any zoning board of adjustment may grant a variance from the terms of a zoning ordinance without finding a hardship arising from the condition of a premises subject to the ordinance, when reasonable accommodation are necessary to allow a person or persons with a recognized physical disability to reside in or regularly use the premises…….”

Ms. Mansouri made a motion to approve the variance. Mr. Sellarole seconded the motion and the motion carried in favor 4-0. Mr. Edkins returned to sit on the Board.

Adjournment

Mr. Edkins made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Mr. Sellarole seconded the motion and the motion carried. The time was 7:37 pm.

Respectfully submitted,

Marilou Blaine

Recording Secretary

Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 3/12/25

SELECTBOARD 03/20/2025 Leave a comment

TOWN OF WALPOLE, NEW HAMPSHIRE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

MARCH 12, 2025

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

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

CALL TO ORDER: Ms. Mayberry called the Selectboard meeting to order at 6:32 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.

PAYROLL

Ms. Vose moved to approve the Payroll Register totaling $33,085.69 dated 3/14/2025 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $6,672.95.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio, and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved. 

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES

Selectboard Meeting – March 5, 2025:  Ms. Vose moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of March 5, 2025. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the minutes were approved.

Non-Public Selectboard Meeting – March 5, 2025:  Ms. Vose moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard meeting of March 5, 2025.  The minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the minutes were approved, and the minutes are sealed.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

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

  • Conservation Commission Meeting – March 3, 2025

Ms. Mayberry acknowledged these minutes.

PROPERTY TAX REFUNDS

Map and Lot # 028-159-000: Ms. Vose moved to approve the Property Tax Refund for Map and Lot # 028-159-000, of $2,442.00.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the tax refund was approved.

Map and Lot # 001-003-006: Ms. Vose moved to approve the Property Tax Refund for Map and Lot # 001-003-006, of $269.74.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the tax refund was approved.

Map and Lot # 003-065-000: Ms. Vose moved to approve the Property Tax Refund for Map and Lot # 003-065-000, of $239.27.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the tax refund was approved.

Map and Lot # 020-044-000: Ms. Vose moved to approve the Property Tax Refund for Map and Lot # 020-044-000, of $20.10.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the tax refund was approved.

Map and Lot # 001-019-000: Ms. Vose moved to approve the Property Tax Refund for Map and Lot # 001-019-000, of $10.27.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the tax refund was approved.

VETERANS’ TAX CREDIT:

Map and Lot # 013-027-001: Ms. Vose moved to approve the Veterans’ Property Tax Credit for Map and Lot# 013-027-001.  The applicant served more than 90 days of active duty and was honorably discharged. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio, and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS

Houghton Brook Bridge – Cost Escalation Update:  In 2023 the estimated cost to replace the bridge was $1,147,200.  The current estimate is $1,695,000, which is a 48% increase in cost.  Mr. Dalessio made a motion for the chair to sign the form stating that Walpole still plans to replace the Houghton Brook Bridge.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Vose and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion passed, and Ms. Mayberry signed the form.

Reservoir Dam Update: An update was received from Fuss & O’Neill.  The wetlands permit is being finalized. Forms are to be sent to the Town next week for review and signatures.

Reservoir Dam Reimbursement Form: A reimbursement of $13,969 is requested.  Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the reimbursement request and to have Mr. Dalessio sign the form.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the reimbursement request was approved, and Mr. Dalessio signed the form.

Hazard Mitigation Plan Update Initial Meeting:  The first meeting will be March 19, 2025 at 3:00 – 5:00 PM in the Town Hall. 

NEW BUSINESS

New Police Station Grant Consultant: Nancy Merrill of Development Solutions LLC is a grant writer working on the new Police Station funding. Mr. Dalessio made a motion to approve hiring Development Solutions LLC to help with fundraising for the New Police Station, and for the Chair to sign the contract.  Seconded by Ms. Vose.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Vose and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved, and the contract was signed.

2025 Senator Shaheen Congressional Grant Request: Ms. Merrill of Development Solutions LLC completed the application to request $2,057,209 for the new Police Station.  Peggy Pschirrer requested support letters from various Town groups.  The letters were uploaded to a portal.  

Recreation Revolving Fund Request: Mr. Wilkes requested payment for three movies to be shown by the Recreation Department this summer.  Ms. Vose moved to purchase the three movies from Swank Motion Pictures Inc. for a total cost of $825 with funds to come from the Recreation Revolving Fund, and to sign Purchase Order #204586.  Mr. Dalessio seconded the motion.  With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the purchase was approved, and the purchase order was signed.

Whitcomb Park Reservation Request: The organizers of the Joshua Druke 5K Race on September 20, 2025 would like to start the race at Whitcomb Park. The walk-through last year helped eliminate questions about possible damage.  Mrs. Downing will call Primex for recommended insurance levels for an event like this.  By consensus the Board asked Mrs. Downing to let the organizers know they may use Whitcomb Park as long as Walpole gets proof of insurance at an appropriate level and there is a walk-through.

NON-PUBLIC BUSINESS RSA 91-A:3 II (a)(e)

Mr. Dalessio moved to enter into Non-Public Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II (a)(e) at 7:01 PM.  Ms. Vose seconded. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Vose and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 8:22 PM.

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

ADJOURNMENT: Ms. Mayberry declared the meeting adjourned at 8:23 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

(Note: These are unapproved Minutes. Corrections will be found in the Minutes of the March 19, 2025 Selectboard meeting.)