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Planning Board Meeting Minutes – 11/12/24

PLANNING BOARD 11/27/2024 Leave a comment

WALPOLE PLANNING BOARD MINUTES

NOVEMBER 12, 2024

Town Hall

7 pm

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

Call to order: Mr. Miller called the meeting to order at 7 pm. He asked alternate Bill Carmody to fill for the absent board member. Mr. Carmody agreed.

MINUTES of October 2024 and Joint October 2024 meeting. Mr. Perron made a motion to approved the minutes of both the regular and joint meetings as presented. Mr. Harrington seconded the motion and the motion carried.

OLD BUSINESS:

Public Hearing No. 1. The Planning Board has drafted a zoning amendment to be placed on the town warrant that excludes formula businesses in the commercial district, Section 6, of Downtown Walpole Village, Article VI. Formula businesses include retail sales and restaurants regulated by contractual or other arrangements. Certain standardized features may include uniforms, logos, interior or exterior design, array of services or merchandise, menus, ingredients and food preparation. 

Copies of the amendment were made available for the public. Two members of the audience handed them out. Mr. Harrington was instrumental in the writing of this document and said that this amendment is typical of articles about formula businesses. This one is similar to a zoning article in the town of Jaffrey. Mr. Harrington mentioned that this pertains to business that are the same as 15 or more such establishments.

Another question was about where if Section 6. Mr. Miller explained that Section 6 of “downtown” Is the Commercial Zoning District. It includes some sections of Main Street, starting with where Mr. Rob Kasper’s former law office is. Then the district turns left onto to High Street and then right on School Street. There’s an imaginary line that comes down from about the middle of School Street, across Main Street to Middle Street. At the end of Middle Street, turn right onto Washington Street where the Congregational Church is, left onto Westminster Street, right on Elm Street and then finally back up to Main Street.

One gentleman asked about the gas station in the village  – Irving. Irving probably has more than 15 gas stations. Mr. Miller said it will affect only retail businesses and restaurants, not other business such as gas stations, insurance offices, banks, etc. Also, the new amendment will not affect existing businesses. The same man then asked what about a business that transfers ownership. Mr. Miller didn’t think it was relevant but he did say he would check with town counsel, Jeremy Hockensmith.

The board is considering further information on formula businesses. The public hearing on the zoning  amendment will continue at the December meeting. 

Public Hearing No. 2. Elm and Pleasant LLC propose a Lot Line Adjustment for property at the corner of Pleasant and Elm Streets, Town Map 20, Lot 32 and Town Map 22, Lot 3 in the Residential B District. Wendy Pelletier of Cardinal Surveying & Land Planning explained the plan.

The two parcels of land are bordered by Main Street, Pleasant Street and Route 12. After the boundary line adjustment, the parcel with the apartment on it will be 1.3 acres and the adjacent field would be 18 acres. This is a loss of 7 acres for the apartment parcel and a gain of 7 acres for the field parcel. Road frontage on Pleasant Street is 236.93 feet, 680 feet on Route 12 and 460 feet on Main Street. Entrance to the field is between Lowell Bauer’s property and the western boundary of Lot 1.

There being no questions from the public a motion was made by Mr. Perron to approve the boundary line adjustment as presented. The motion was seconded by Mr. MacLachlan and the motion carried.

Public Hearing No. 2. John McKee Pratt Revocable Trust proposes a subdivision on Reservoir Road, rural/ag district, Tax Map 11, Lot No. 1 There are three lots. Two lots are building lots and the one in the middle between the two building lots is an Agricultural Easement for the benefit of Lot 1. 

Surveyor Joe DiBernardo presented this subdivision to the public. He said that the property is at the end of Reservoir Road and was originally a 40-plus acre lot. Lot No. 1 has a barn and a shed on it. It will now be 26.07 acres and the driveway will in corner near the property line of the property expected to have an agricultural easement on it. That section of road is Class V, but the Class V road ends a short distance from the end of the house across the street. That Class V road turns into a Class VI road and eventually goes to property under the care of the Monadnock Conservancy. The second lot is 15.44 acres and has 200 feet of road frontage on Reservoir Road. The driveway to Lot 2 is next to the lot with the agricultural easement. It has a right of way over adjacent land owned by Barbara Laroche Revocable Trust. In between Lot 1 and Lot 2 on Reservoir Road is a 2.2 acre lot that is an agricultural easement to benefit Lot No. 1. 

A question was asked if any land was in current use and, if so,  what happens to it when the land is sold. To put land in current use a landowner must have a minimum of 10 acres. The answer is that the land in current use is simply transferred to the new owner along with the rest of the parcel.

There being no further questions from the public, Mr. Miller closed the public hearing. Mr. Perron made a motion to approve this subdivision as presented. Mr. Harrington seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously.

NEW BUSINESS:

Ball Park Realty, LLC, at 418 Main Street propose subdivision of lot into four lots. Commercial District. Total parcel is 9.3 acres.

Robert Duval, an engineer for TF Moran, Inc., presented the proposal and asked for a public hearing in December.

Mr. Duval said that the proposal for the property is that it will be divided into four parcels. The southern most parcel, Lot No. 1, is for the Dunkin coffee shop. The lot size is 1.73 acres with road frontage on Main Street or Route 12 of 806.2 feet. It has a driveway coming off of Route 12 and one on Upper Walpole Road. The lot In the middle is Lot No. 3 and this is where the ball park will be. It is 2.90 acres with road frontage on Upper Walpole Road of 502.2 feet. It shares a driveway that goes to Lot No. 3, which is 2.04 acres with 336.7 feet of road frontage on Main Street. Lot No. 4, which is where the proposed police station will go, is 2.62 acres with 514.8 feet of frontage on Upper Walpole Road. On the plan that was submitted there is no indication of where a driveway cut would be and in a letter from The State Of New Hampshire Department of Transportation dated October 29, 2024 there is a statement on page 2 under conditions that says “These two drives are the second and third drives permitted on the lot of record, no additional drives will be permitted on the lot of record. See permit #04-461-0056 for the first drive permitted on the lot of record.”

At this point in the meeting it was decided that Mr. Duval had to go back to NH DOT and straighten this matter out. Mr. Miller and Mr. Dalessio offered to work with him. Mr. Marcom made a motion to hold a public hearing in December for Ball Park Realty. Mr. Perron seconded the motion and the motion carried..

Chad E. Branon, Civil Engineer, Fieldstone, Commercial District property next to Dollar General, Tax Map 12, Lot 13-3, 2.9 acres with road frontage on Route 12. It was an informal meeting to discuss possible use of the property, which is termed a “condo” lot.

Mr. Branon was representing Bobby Oakes who owns a licensed development company under his name. The proposal was this lot, which is called a condo lot because it had three building parcel on it with common space, but has one owner. The property is “L-shaped. 

The proposal was threefold. It included a gas station with an island for gas pumps and a 5,000 square-foot convenience store that would border on Route 12. Above that or to the east would be a retail building and next to that building on the driveway heading toward Red Barn Lane would be a Domino’s pizza. Entrance to the parcel of land would be from from Route 12 and Red Barn Lane. The land was at one time considered for Dunkin coffee shop so a curb cut from Route 12 has already been approved.

Mr. Miller said there can only be one building on that lot. Multiple buildings are not allowed. Mr. Bran brought up the storage facility next door saying that lot has five or six buildings. 

A board member mentioned that the property is in an aquifer zone. This was confirmed by Mark Houghton, who oversees Walpole’s water and sewer. Therefore that location would not be appropriate for a gas station. A person in the audience said that Walpole already has two gas stations and doesn’t need another one. Mr. Branon said the there have been many new technological safety requirements now for gas stations from the state and that it might change attitudes. He was asked if he knew there was a wetlands area to the south that runs along the edge of the property. Mr. Branon said he was aware of the wetland and that this proposal would not be a problem to it.

This was an informal informational meeting only so Mr. Branon and Mr. Oakes may or may not be back.

Walpole Foundation: Site Plan for the new Walpole Village School at 75 Westminster St., Tax Map 20, Lot 11. Residential B District.

Peggy Pschirrer, a board member of The Walpole Foundation, said the Foundation was requesting a public hearing for December for a new school on Westminster Street property that they purchased last year.  Ms. Erin Lambert, Senior Vice President of Wilcox and Barton Inc. of Concord presented the proposal for a the new school. She said the Walpole Village School will be 5,300 square feet on one floor on the 4.02 acres of property. It will include classrooms and a multi-purpose room. The existing school will remain open while the new school is under construction.

The driveway into the school grounds starts where the current driveway is and goes around the building so cars and school buses will drop off students at the front door which is in the middle of the north side of the building. The driveway is a one-way driveway that is 22 feet wide. There are 48 parking spaces and 2 are ADA accessible. Some of the spaces are on the south side of the building and some on the east side. There are sidewalks around the school. On the northwest side is an outdoor playground. The building has town water and town sewer. Electricity will be underground. Heating the building will be by propane. There is stormwater management plan which consists of two bio retention systems, building drip edges, pervious pavement sidewalks and one subsurface infiltration system. According to Ms. Lambert the stormwater mitigation provides water quality treatment, quantity reduction, and rate control to pre-development levels.

Ms. Lambert said she will bring the lighting and landscaping plans to the December meeting. Wilcox & Barton are responsible the construction of the new school and parking lot to be followed by demolition of the existing school building.

Workshop: There will be a workshop on November 26 to work on the zoning amendment excluding formula businesses. 

Adjournment:

Mr. Perron made a motion to adjourn. Mr. Harrington seconded the motion and the motion carried.

These minutes are unapproved and will be reviewed in December for corrections.

Respectfully submitted,

Marilou Blaine

WPB Secretary

Next meeting: December 10, 2024.

Zoning Board Meeting Minutes – 11/20/24

ZONING BOARD 11/25/2024 Leave a comment

ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT MINUTES

NOVEMBER 20, 2024

Town Hall

6 pm

Role Call: Present board members: Chair Tom Murray, Vice-Chair Dave Edkins, Clerk Pauline Barnes, Shane O’Keefe, Tom Winmill. Alternate: Don Sellarole. Absent: Alternate Myra Mansouri.

Call to order: Mr. Murray called the meeting to order a couple of minutes after 6 pm. 

Minutes: Review of minutes of October 2024. On page 2, Mr. O’Keefe’s name was misspelled in the paragraph titled “Recess;” add the word “in” to the word “with” in the last sentence. On Page 3, paragraph 6 place the word “access” between the middle of “DOT approval” and remove two letters in the line about the pylon sign. Page 4, change Thursday to Tuesday and add “These minutes are unapproved and will be reviewed at the November meeting.” Mr. Winmill said his motion about signage was not exactly as he wrote it. After some discussion Mr. O’Keefe made a motion to hold off on approving the minutes until December. The board voted unanimously to do so..

OLD BUSINESS

Signage at Dunkin building at 418 Main Street. 

Project manager, Ann Ramsay, from Viewpoint Signs and Awnings in Northborough, MA was the presenter at this meeting.

Mr. Edkins said he looked at the Dunkin file and there was a letter about parking signs on the side of the road. The topic came up at a meeting and a letter sent to Frank Linnenbringer, the DOT contact person for Walpole. Mr. Linnenbringer said these signs were not the responsibility of DOT but it was the town or developer who was responsible for purchase and installation of the signs. Mr. Edkins asked Ms. Ramsay if her client was requesting parking signs. She responded “no.”

The Board was informed that the cup sign on the south side of the building would no longer be part of the package of signs to be approved. Mr. Edkins asked Ms. Ramsay if this was a request from the applicant. She said it was. Mr. O’Keefe asked if there was a letter proving it. She replied “yes” and said Viewpoint would send the board a letter confirming that request.

Mr. Winmillt argued that the “directional signs” were too close to other signs. Comments from board member were that the “enter” and “exit” signs were there to benefit the public and were a safety feature for drivers. 

Ms. Ramsay was asked if the directional signs were lighted. She said yes but the lights could be turned off if requested. Mr. Murray asked Ms. Ramsay if the Dunkin logo was on the directional signs. She said no. 

Mr. Edkins made a motion to approve the signage as presented and requested that the illuminated signs be turned off when the business is not open. Mr. O’Keefe seconded the motion. Mr. Murray, Ms. Barnes, Mr. Edkins and Mr. O’Keefe voted yea in favor of the motion. 

Gravel Pits

Mr. O’Keefe said he found out more about how Westmoreland and gravel pits work. The town of Westmoreland hires an engineering company to oversee gravel pits for the town. The company, not the town, handles the permitting process and also inspects the gravel pits yearly, which is a requirement of the state.

At the end of the meeting Mr. Winmill made the following below.

RESOLVED, that the permits requested be denied on the basis of Walpole Zoning Ordinance ARTICLE IV, D. Signs, as follows, and all prior resolutions of the Board relative to this matter be rescinded:

SignApplicable Section
D1 and D2 Directional signs Section 7 provides that directional signs do not exceed one in any two mile length of road and  not be within fifty (50) feet of any other sign except when mounted on a common post, and Section 6 that provides that signs shall be placed not less than sixty (60) feet from the edge of the traveled roadway and not less than one hundred (100) feet from another sign, and that free-standing signs shall be located no closer than sixty (60) feet from the edge of the traveled roadway
A Dunkin sign Channel Letter 30” H mounted on backer on buildingSection 6 that provides that signs shall be placed not less than one hundred (100) feet from another sign
F Drive-thru Speaker CanopySection 6 that provides that signs shall be placed not less than one hundred (100) feet from another sign
E Drive-thru Clearance BarSection 6 that provides that signs shall be placed not less than one hundred (100) feet from another sign
C Pylon  signSection 6 that provides that signs shall be placed not less than one hundred (100) feet from another sign and Section 6 that provides that signs shall be no closer than ten (10) feet from the remaining lot lines

This motion was not seconded.

ADJOURNMENT

Mr. Edkins made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Mr. O’Keefe seconded the motion and the motion carried, 4-0 with Mr. Murray and Ms. Barnes also voting in favor of adjourning. The time was 7:02 pm.

These minutes are unapproved and will be reviewed at the December meeting.

Respectfully submitted,

Marilou Blaine

ZBA Secretary

Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 11/13/24

SELECTBOARD 11/22/2024 Leave a comment

 TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

November 13, 2024

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

Staff Present: Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration

Guests Present: Peggy Pschirrer, Paul Looney and Toni McDougle

CALL TO ORDER: Ms. Mayberry called the Selectboard meeting to order at 6:30 PM in the Walpole Town Hall. She introduced herself, Cheryl Mayberry, Selectboard Chair, Steve Dalessio and Carolyn Vose and Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration

CPCNH REC AGREEMENT: The Chair recognized Paul Looney, the Chair of the Walpole Community Power Committee. Mr. Looney explained that the contract the Selectboard was reviewing was similar to the prior contract with a different vendor. The Renewable Energy Credit (REC) contract with CPCNH would be for one year, will auto-renew and offer $35 per REC. Mr. Dalessio asked what the next step would be for the Town. Mr. Looney replied there should not be a need to do anything. Mr. Looney explained how the credits will be recorded and used by CPCNH. The proceeds from the sale of the RECs will offset the purchase price of the solar energy system. Mr. Looney reported that a State refund of $6,000 had been received. Two additional reimbursement grants are being applied for, as planned per the warrant article.

Mr. Dalessio moved to approve that the Chair sign the CPCNH REC Purchase and Sale Agreement for 2024 and 2025.  Seconded by Ms. Vose. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Vose, and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Looney departed the meeting.

HOOPER TRUSTEES:  

Mr. Dalessio moved to enter into the Hooper Trustees meeting at 6:44 PM. Ms. Vose. With Mr. Dalesio, Ms. Vose and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved. 

The meeting was reconvened at 7:01 PM. Mrs. Pschirrer departed the meeting.

RECREATION COMMITTEE: Toni McDougle understood that the Recreation Committee had been dissolved. Ms. Vose explained that going forward, the Recreation Director, Kaian Richards-Wilkes, will have support from a collection of volunteers with different backgrounds, ages and interests. The Recreation Director is developing a master plan for the Whitcomb Recreation Area that will allow space for multiple purposes. Ms. Vose recommended that Ms. McDougle speak with Mr. Richards-Wilkes. Ms. McDougle asked if Ms. Mayberry could assist with finding grants for improving the pickleball courts. Ms. Mayberry thought there were several private and government funded grants available for improving recreation facilities. There was a discussion about a petition warrant article related to pickleball courts. Ms. Mayberry confirmed that the Selectboard decides upon funding sources for articles. Mr. Dalessio put forth the idea of a warrant article using money from grants and/or donations with a portion being Town funded.

Ms. McDougle departed the meeting.

PAYROLL:

Ms. Vose moved to approve the Payroll Register totaling $34,540.37 dated 11/15/24 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $6,675.85.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio, and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved. 

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – November 6, 2024:   Ms. Vose moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of November 6, 2024. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD NON-PUBLIC SESSION – November 6, 2024: Ms. Vose moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard Non-Public Session of November 6, 2024. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

  • Walpole Recreation Committee Minutes (approved) – August 19, 2024
  • Walpole Recreation Committee Minutes (unapproved) – September 11, 2024
  • Walpole Recreation Committee Minutes (unapproved) – October 14, 2024

OLD BUSINESS: 

ARPA Grant Funding: Mr. Dalessio reported that the cost for propane generators for the 3 sewer pump stations should be determined this week. Mr. Dalessio confirmed with Ms. Mayberry that this is a reimbursement grant. Once the contract is signed, the generators will be ordered.

Dog Complaint: Ms. Mayberry stated Officer Merkle is following up about the loose dogs on High Street. The Police Department cannot pre-emptively act regarding potential dog bites. Charges must be made for action to be taken.

2024 Tax Rate: Ms. Mayberry will contact the North Walpole Commissioners to find out how they are progressing with their MS-434 and MS-535 forms. Mr. Kreissle is working with the auditors to complete the Town’s MS-535. The Selectboard agreed that the tax rate setting will continue to be delayed.

NEW BUSINESS:

Recreation Revolving Fund Request: Ms. Vose moved to approve PO# 204574 for $1,499 to Bull Dog Design for basketball jerseys. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio, and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved. Ms. Mayberry asked if sponsors would be reimbursing the cost of the jerseys. Ms. Vose confirmed this would happen.

Request to the Trustees of Trust Funds: Ms. Vose moved to accept the reimbursement request to the Trustees of Trust Funds in the amount of $4,425 from the Fanny Mason Fund for timber harvesting planning and preparation. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

Camping Complaint for Fanny Mason Rest Area: Mr. Dalessio stated he had spoken with Police Chief Sanctuary regarding the issue. The people living in the motor home had lost their housing and were looking for a new living situation in the area. The Selectboard Office received a citizen complaint about the unhealthy impact of the motor home on the rest area. The NH DOT alerted the Town that “No Camping” signs would be installed soon. The request had been made earlier to the DOT by an unknown party.

Tree Lighting on the Drewsville Common: The event is scheduled for Sunday, December 1st. Mr. Dalessio confirmed that the start time will be 4:30 PM. Santa will arrive in a horse drawn wagon.

Thanksgiving Selectboard Meeting: The Selectboard agreed by consensus not to meet Thanksgiving week. Mrs. Downing was given authorization to sign the Town’s weekly payroll.

Staff Meeting: There will be an in-person Staff Meeting on Nov. 21st. Mr. Dalessio would like department managers to speak about special requests, changes and projects in each department’s budget.

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

Mr. Dalessio moved to enter into Non-Public Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II (a) (c) at 8:01 PM. Ms. Vose seconded. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Vose and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved. 

The meeting was reconvened at 8:39 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.

HOOPER TRUSTEES:  

Mr. Dalessio moved to reconvene the Hooper Trustees meeting at 8:40 PM. Ms. Vose seconded. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Vose and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved. 

The Selectboard meeting was reconvened at 9:07 PM.

ADJOURNMENT:

Ms. Mayberry declared the meeting adjourned at 9:08 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Sarah Downing, Recording Secretary Pro Tempore

(Note: These are unapproved Minutes. Corrections will be found in the Minutes of the November 21, 2024, Selectboard meeting.)

Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 11/6/24

SELECTBOARD 11/14/2024 Leave a comment

TOWN OF WALPOLE, NEW HAMPSHIRE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

NOVEMBER 6, 2024

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

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

Guests Present: Peggy Pschirrer and Paul Looney

Call to Order: Mr. Dalessio called the Selectboard meeting to order at 7:00 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.

Town Properties and CPCNH: Mr. Looney, on behalf of the Community Power Committee, requested the Town’s source of electricity be moved to CPCNH. The Town’s contract with Constellation Energy ends in mid-November.  CPCNH can offer us a rate of $0.086 for the remainder of the year, which is better than the quote from Constellation Energy.  Next year CPCNH will have a one-year rate of $0.089, part of which goes into the reserves.  It is expected that two waves of towns/cities will be joining CPCNH in 2025. Therefore, rates will continue to be low for everyone.   Constellation Energy has a rate of $0.0945 for a one-year contract. The Community Power Committee recommended that the Town go with the $0.086 contract for the rest of the year.  Mr. Dalessio moved to approve moving the Town’s electricity supplier from Constellation Energy to CPCNH with a rate of $0.086 until 12/31/2024.  Ms. Vose seconded the motion.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Vose and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved, and the Town will switch to CPCNH as the Town’s electricity supplier.

Mr. Looney reported that the updated contract to sell solar electricity credits arrived today, just before the meeting. It has not been reviewed.  Mr. Looney and Mrs. Pschirrer will be back with the contract next week.

Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Looney left the meeting.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE

Ms. Vose moved to approve the Accounts Payable Check Register totaling $135,027.92 dated 11/08/2024 including $70,082.76 payment to the Village of Bellows Falls for the third quarter sewer usage and bond.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio, and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved. 

PAYROLL

Ms. Vose moved to approve the Payroll Register totaling $31,447.57 dated 11/08/2024 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $6,332.34.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio, and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the payroll register was approved. 

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES

Selectboard Meeting – October 31, 2024:  Ms. Vose moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of October 31, 2024. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the minutes were approved.

Non-Public Selectboard Meeting – October 31, 2024:  Ms. Vose moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard meeting of October 31, 2024.  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:

  • Library Trustees Meeting Minutes – October 8, 2024
  • Joint Planning Board and Zoning Board of Adjustment Meeting – October 22, 2024

Ms. Mayberry acknowledged these minutes.

BUILDING PERMIT

2024-36, Map and Lot# 011-001-001: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve Building Permit #2024-36 for Map and Lot # 011-001-001 to construct a 38’ x 12’ overhang roof to a garage. Seconded by Ms. Vose. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Vose and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the Building Permit 2024-36 was approved.

OLD BUSINESS

Pending Further Action: Parking Policy, Generators, Old North Main and High Street Bridges/Culverts, Houghton Brook Bridge, and ARPA Funding Grants

Police Station Land Purchase Deposit: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve Purchase Order #201256 to make a $10,000 deposit on the land for the Police Station and the cover letter.  Mr. Dalessio seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio, and Ms.  Vose in favor, the motion passed, and the purchase order and cover letter were signed.

Reservoir Dam Update: Mr. Dalessio reported that NH DES has reached out Fuss & O’Neill.  The DES are nervous about the completion of the contract. The Dam Bureau is contacting Fuss and O’Neill directly to make sure the latest guidelines are followed.  This will ensure that the planning is done correctly.

Petition Warrant Article: There is a question about appropriations being requested within a petition warrant article for pickleball courts.  Per research conducted, only the Selectboard can decide upon funding. Given this information, if a warrant article passes that states where funding will come from, it will not necessarily happen. 

Invitation to Bid: Four properties have been tax-deeded and will be going up for sale by sealed bid on December 4, 2024. The pamphlet has been updated.  Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the invitation to bid on tax-deeded properties.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Vose and Ms. Mayberry in favor the invitation to bid was approved, and the letter was signed.

NEW BUSINESS

Facility Agreement for North Walpole Polling Area:  A form was received from St. Peter’s Catholic Church, which is used for the North Walpole polling area on November 6, 2024, and the Town Election Day on March 11, 2025.  Their insurance vendor also requests a Certificate of Liability.  Mr. Dalessio moved the Town continue to use St. Peter’s Church for voting, complete the form, and provide the Certificate of Liability.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Vose and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion passed, and Ms. Mayberry signed the form. Mrs. Downing will send the Certificate of Liability with the form to All Saints Parish.

Recreation Committee Letter: Ms. Vose moved to accept the letter to the Recreation Committee members.  Mr. Dalessio seconded.  With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the letter was accepted and signed.  Mrs. Downing will email the letter to the committee members.

Payroll Service: Mr. Kreissle sent an email to the Selectboard requesting the Town hire a payroll service. Mr. Kreissle and Mrs. Daigle are having trouble entering benefit time and Colonial Life deductions.  They have a work-around, but it is very clumsy and produces incorrect information on paycheck stubs. There is also an issue with water and sewer invoices.  If the owner has multiple properties and has a credit on one, the credit shows on all the properties. Mrs. Daigle must create manual invoices for these accounts.  AccuFund is not supportive in getting the issues resolved.  The Selectboard agreed by consensus to keep using workarounds until a better financial software system can be found.  The research on possible systems is not yet complete and will take some time.

Ms. Mayberry added that because of the incorrect benefit time printed on payroll stubs, Mrs. Clough in the Police Department is asking for a monthly payroll report with the correct information.  Ms. Mayberry felt this request was reasonable, and Mr. Kreissle needs to send the reports monthly.  A decision on this item is postponed while research on potential alternative systems continues.

Thanksgiving Feast Invitation: The Selectboard and Town Hall Office Staff have been invited to the Thanksgiving Feast at the Walpole School.  The Selectboard Office staff are planning to attend.  Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose have prior commitments.  Mr. Dalessio is uncertain whether he will be able to attend.

HOOPER TRUSTEES

Ms. Mayberry moved to enter into the Hooper Trustees meeting at 8:05 PM.  Mr. Dalessio seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio, and Ms.  Vose in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 8:26 PM.

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

Mr. Dalessio moved to enter into Non-Public Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II (a)(c) at 8:26 PM.  Ms. Vose seconded. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Vose and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 8:43 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.

Ms. Mayberry felt that Election Day went very well because of the hard work and professionalism of everyone involved.  The other Selectboard members agreed with Ms. Mayberry. The Selectboard wished to thank everyone involved: the Supervisors of the Checklist, all the volunteers and paid workers, the Walpole Community Grange and everyone who participated in any way.  Thank you!! 

Adjournment: Ms. Mayberry declared the meeting adjourned at 8:45 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

(Note: These are unapproved Minutes. Corrections will be found in the Minutes of the November 14, 2024 Selectboard meeting.)

Conservation Commission Meeting Minutes – 11/4/24

CONSERVATION COMMISSION 11/13/2024 Leave a comment

TOWN OF WALPOLE, NEW HAMPSHIRE

CONSERVATION COMMISSION

NOVEMBER 4, 2024

Members Present:  Wendy Grossman, France Menk, Peter Palmiotto (Presiding), Lewis Shelley

Alternates Present:  Nicole Adams, Paul Happ

Selectboard Present:  Steve Dalessio

Members Absent:  Alicia Flammia, John Peska, Tom Beaudry

Visitors Present:  Members of the Monadnock Climbers Association: JC Woodward, Rob Koning, and Jeff Archibald; Katherine Kopij and Rose Bolio

Call to Order:  Peter called the meeting to order at 7:00 pm in the Town Hall. 

Seating of Alternatives:  Because only four members were present, Nicole Adams was seated.

REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF MINUTES

No changes were requested.  France moved to accept the September 9, 2024 and the October 7, 2024 minutes as written. Lew seconded and all voted in favor. The minutes were accepted. 

PUBLIC BUSINESS

Report from co-Chair:  John could not attend.

Financial Report:  Conservation N/A

Forestry N/A

Mason Forest Expendable (9/30/2024) $527,162.08

Mason Forest Nonexpendable (9/30/2024) $23,151.85 

Correspondence:  NHACC membership invoice for $250; invoice to reimburse Kelli Wilson for the website domain and hosting for $220.90.

NEW BUSINESS

OLD BUSINESS

Climbing Group – North Walpole Property: The Monadnock Climbers Association, who first came to the commission in May, returned to share more information on their ideas for Fall Mountain climbing areas.  The discussion furthered the understanding of their ideas as they shared a draft management plan.  Peter will provide suggestions and questions on areas that need attention based on questions and comments made during the discussion.  Katherine also will confer with the N. Walpole commissioners.  

Rest Area Shelter – Roof Bid, Pressure Washing, Paint/Stain:  Two bids were received.  After discussing both bids, Lew moved that we go with Long’s Roofing for a new metal roof as described in the quote for a price not to exceed $7,500.  France seconded.  Lew will generate a purchase order with funds to come from the Fanny Mason Fund account and get it to Rich.  A $200 deposit is required, half will be due when work starts, and the remaining balance due when the work is complete.  The work will be done in cold weather and will be completed on each shelter once it is started. 

The pressure washing and painting or staining will have to wait until next year – it is getting too cold now.

Workday at the shelters, November 16th at 9:30 AM, will focus on cleaning up around the buildings to provide access for the roofers.  Lew and Peter will do some preliminary work the day before.

Fanny Mason Harvesting – Update:  Alex Barrett (Longview Forest) is working on a contract with Chris Ricci.  It should be harvested either this winter or next summer. France moved approval to pay an invoice for $4425 for marking trees for harvest.  The money will come from the Fanny Mason Fund because that is where the harvest income will go.  Wendy seconded.  The motion was accepted unanimously.

Invasives Treatments:  We have a quote for the second treatment of invasives at the Gateway: the treatment area is 3.66 acres, and it would be treated during the 2025 growing season at a cost of $2520. Nicole and Lew know other companies who also treat invasives who could be asked for a bid on the Gateway invasives.  There was a discussion of the value of treating invasives, and whether once you start with one company it is critical to continue treatment with them. Questions on the effectiveness of the first treatment arose and a few commission members will assess and Peter will follow up with Longview

We also received an estimate for treating invasives in the Hooper Forest.  Nicole will take it to the Hooper Board which meets November 6th. 

Property Monitoring – Follow Up:   From the recent NHACC conference, Wendy learned we should be monitoring all the property we own and all property with town-held conservation easements.  It is important to follow up on all violations.  This year, Wendy will monitor the Ballam farm, Beatrice Graves easement, and a portion of Mill Pond.  For next year we need to plan and carry out more complete monitoring.

OTHER BUSINESS

Dam Updates:  Steve got the drawings for Reservoir Dam just before the meeting.  He will get a copy to John.  We will now be getting biweekly updates from Fuss and O’Neill.  The project is on schedule to be complete during 2025.  The requirements changed during the project so rather than preparing for twice the 100-year flood, we now need to prepare for the 1,000-year flood.

John is still trying to find someone to mow around the Knapp Cranberry Bog dam.  

Hooper Institute Board Update:  The Board meets November 6th.

Trail Committee:  The Committee is doing routine maintenance.  Lew put up new signs at River Road Rail Trail parking area. The Mill Pond inspection walk was canceled due to rain.  Rail Trail maintenance on November 23rd will focus on ditches, culverts, and getting ready for winter.  There will be a Happy Trails Party open to the public at the Town Hall on December 11th at 7:00 pm.  It will be informative and fun with the goals of publicizing Walpole trails, attracting new members and trail workers, and soliciting public input.  France is working on a lending library for winter gear: It must be easy, centrally located and it must operate with no staff. 

New Commissioner:  Peter nominated Nicole Adams to be a Conservation Commissioner.  Nicole accepted the nomination. All were in favor.  Nicole will get a letter to Sarah Downing by noon tomorrow so it can be voted on at the next Selectboard meeting on November 6th.

North Walpole Request:   There is an area between the North Walpole Park and the railroad tracks that the North Walpole Commissioners are asking for advice on how to maintain.  The Park belongs to Walpole, but research is needed to determine whether this area belongs to Walpole or the railroad.

New Alternate:  Katherine Kopij would like to be an Alternate.  Steve asked if she is permitted to be a North Walpole Commissioner and on the Conservation Committee.  That needs to be determined before proceeding with a new member.

Adjournment:  Wendy moved to adjourn.  Lew seconded.  Peter declared the meeting adjourned at 8:47 PM. 

Respectfully submitted,

Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

(Note:  These are unapproved Minutes. Corrections will be found in the Minutes of the December 2, 2024 Conservation Commission meeting.)

Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 10/31/24

SELECTBOARD 11/07/2024 Leave a comment

TOWN OF WALPOLE, NEW HAMPSHIRE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

OCTOBER 31, 2024

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

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

Guests Present:  Wes Vickers

Call to Order:  Mr. Dalessio called the Selectboard meeting to order at 6:31 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.

Boulders at Primary School: Wes Vickers stated the boulders are in place next to the access road down to Primary School.  There will be a gate for the Fire Department and EMS vehicles when they need access to the field.  The school’s fence on the other side of the field, next to the Recreation area, is falling.  Mr. Vickers said it needs to be removed, and boulders put along that area. The Selectboard told Mr. Vickers that the fence is owned by the school.  The Selectboard was agreeable to the fence being removed and boulders added.

Mr. Vickers left the meeting.

PAYROLL

Ms. Vose moved to approve the Payroll Register totaling $32,214.11 dated 11/1/2024 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $6,513.72.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio, and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved. 

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES

Selectboard Meeting – October 24, 2024:  Ms. Vose moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of October 24, 2024. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the minutes were approved.

Non-Public Selectboard Meeting – October 24, 2024:   Ms. Vose moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard meeting of October 24, 2024.  The minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the minutes were approved and are sealed.

Public Hearing – October 24, 2024:   Ms. Vose moved to approve the Minutes of the Public Hearing of October 24, 2024. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the minutes were approved.

WATER AND SEWER WARRANTS

Walpole Water Fees: Ms. Vose moved to approve the warrant for Walpole Water Fees for $53,814.27.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the warrant was approved.

Walpole Sewer Fees:  Ms. Vose moved to approve the warrant for Walpole Sewer Fees totaling $80,000.05.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the warrant was approved.

North Walpole Sewer Fees:  Ms. Vose moved to approve the warrant for North Walpole Sewer Fees for $60,848.58.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the warrant was approved.

OLD BUSINESS

Pending Further Action: Parking Policy, Generators, Old North Main and High Street Bridges/Culverts, and Houghton Brook Bridge

Reservoir Dam Update: Mr. Dalessio reported that Fuss and O’Neill have agreed to provide regular updates about the Reservoir Dam project as required by DES.  These meetings will help the project move forward.

ARPA Funding Grants: Mark Houghton will have all the figures by mid-November for generators and pumps for the three sewer pump stations so that contracts can be prepared and the ARPA Grant funds encumbered.  There is an issue at the North Walpole sewer pump station because it is not clear that the Town owns the land under and around the pump station.  The generator may have to go on the roof.  Steve Grenier will be gathering the necessary information.

High Street Dog Bite: Police Chief Sanctuary will be requested to attend a Selectboard Meeting so that the Board can learn more about what it means when someone files a dog complaint or wishes to press charges.  Also, The Selectboard wished to know what can be done if no one reports incidents because of fear of retaliation.

NEW BUSINESS

Cemetery Deed:  Mr. Dalessio moved we accept the deed for Lot D-531.  Seconded by Ms. Vose.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Vose and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion passed, and the deed was signed. 

Savings Bank of Walpole Proclamation: The Savings Bank of Walpole will celebrate its 150th anniversary on July 2, 2025.  There will be proclamation, and SBW will coordinate with the Board.

State Driveway Permit Received: Mrs. Downing will put a copy in the file and will send a copy to the Planning Board for the land being subdivided off Upper Walpole Road/Rt. 123.

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

Ms. Vose moved to enter into Non-Public Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II (a) (c) at 6:59 PM.  Mr. Dalessio seconded. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 7:56 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.

TAX RATE: Mrs. Downing reminded the Board that the Town still does not have a tax rate.  Ms. Mayberry noted that Fall Mountain Regional School District has an extension to November 1st to file their DOE documents.  However, The Town is also waiting for completion of the financial audit and the associated reports.  The issue is that there is a $1.8 million payment due to the Cheshire County in mid-December. The payment must be made on the due date.  Mr. Dalessio commented that without property tax income, this could be an issue. The Town may need to take a tax anticipatory note or TAN.

Adjournment:  Ms. Mayberry declared the meeting adjourned at 8:06 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

(Note:  These are unapproved Minutes. Corrections will be found in the Minutes of the November 6, 2024 Selectboard meeting.)

Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 10/24/24

SELECTBOARD 11/02/2024 Leave a comment

TOWN OF WALPOLE, NEW HAMPSHIRE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

OCTOBER 24, 2024

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

Staff Present: Jodi Daigle, Administrative Assistant, and Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

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

UNANTICIPATED FUNDS DONATION

Following the Public Hearing, Mr. Dalessio moved that the Town of Walpole accept the donation from Pleasant Valley Association Hockey in the amount of $17,995.51 to be used for:

  • Financial aid for families in need so that no child is excluded from playing a sport due to financial hardship.
  • Purchase of equipment and uniforms as needed for team sports.

Seconded by Ms.  Vose.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Vose and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion passed, and the Town is grateful for the generous donation.  It will be used to ensure all children in Walpole can participate in sports programs.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE

Ms. Vose moved to approve the Accounts Payable Check Register totaling $112,364.99 dated 10/25/2024 including $47,345.35 payment to HealthTrust.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio, and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved. 

PAYROLL

Ms. Vose moved to approve the Payroll Register totaling $32,047.22 dated 10/25/2024 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $6519.69.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio, and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved. 

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES

Selectboard Meeting – October 17, 2024:   Ms. Vose moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of October 17, 2024. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the minutes were approved.

Non-Public Selectboard Session – October 17, 2024:   Ms. Vose moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard meeting of October 17, 2024.  The minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the minutes were approved and sealed.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

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

  • Police Building Committee Meeting – October 16, 2024
  • Zoning Board of Adjustment Meeting – October 16, 2024

Ms. Mayberry acknowledged these minutes.

OLD BUSINESS

Pending Further Action:  Parking Policy, Generators, Old North Main and High Street Bridges/Culverts, Houghton Brook Bridge, Reservoir Dam, and ARPA Funding Grants

USDA Grant and ARPA Grant:  Mr. Dalessio is meeting with The Fire Department and USDA and all the associated attorneys tomorrow at 10:00 AM, to create a process for management of the flow of grant funds for the new fire station.  After the meeting, Mr. Dalessio will meet with Mr. Houghton on the ARPA Funding Grants.

Letter to NHDOT District 4:  The First Congregational Church has requested a sign at the junction of Route 12 and South Street.  Mr.  Dalessio moved that the Selectboard endorse the request for a Congregational Church sign at the corner of Route 12 and South Street and that they sign the letter to recommend the sign to the NHDOT District 4.  Seconded by Ms. Vose.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Vose and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved, and the letter was signed.

In-Person Staff Meeting (11/21/2024):  Ms. Mayberry contacted Dr. Gerri King, author of The DUH! Book of Management and Supervision about speaking at the Staff Meeting. Dr. King is booked at the time of the meeting but could be scheduled for a future meeting.  The November 21st meeting will be used to discuss how budget preparation is going, and especially what warrant articles and future projects they are planning in their departments.

Mr. Hoy is certain Recycling does not need a truck.   They are no longer doing pick-ups, and they rent a truck when one is needed to minimize costs.  A truck for Recycling could be added by the Selectboard later in the budget process if appropriate.

NEW BUSINESS

Encumbrance of Funds Request:  Funds from Warrant Article #3 in the amount of $200,000 are to be used to purchase land for the new Police Station.   When the Warrant Article was written it was not specified that the funds would not lapse so they need to be encumbered.  Mr. Dalessio moved to encumber the $200,000 (purchase order # 242497) for the purchase of the land for the new Police station while the parties finalize the sales agreement.  In addition the encumbrance request was changed to specify Mr. Dalessio as the Chair of the Committee and contact.  Seconded by Ms. Vose.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Vose and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the encumbrance was approved for $200,000 and signed.

Invitation to Bid Flyer and Packet:  By consensus, the Selectboard is good with the $5,000 deposit required for each bid.  The amount is the same as in the past.  Some editing is needed before publishing the flyer – see marked up sample.

Assessing Agreement:  It is time to renew our assessing agreement with Avitar.  After reviewing 1-year and 3-year rates, Mr. Dalessio moved that we sign up for another 1-year agreement with Avitar to continue as our assessor.  Seconded by Ms. Vose.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Vose and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion passed, and the contract was signed.  We should seek other assessors next year.

Donation at the Reuse Center:   As more valuable items are being donated to the Reuse Center, the question is being asked if receipts can be given.  By consensus, a letter/form needs to be created with a description of the donation that is prepared by the Reuse Center, and a place where the donor can enter the value of the item.  The Reuse Center does not determine the value of the item.

Public Notices from the Planning Board:  The Plannning Board will have a hearing for lot line adjustment and subdivision of two properties.  In both cases the Town is an abutter.  One is at Elm Street and Pleasant Street – the Town owns property along Mad Brook.  The other is on Reservoir Road abutting a Town Forest.  By consensus, the Town is not concerned by either.

 However, the Board is concerned about the sloppy notices (one doesn’t describe the initial lot, and in the other the lot size is an acre larger after the transaction) that contain errors and are not even on Town letterhead.  Mr. Dalessio will address the accuracy, proofing and lack of Town letterhead with the Chair of the Planning Board.

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

Mr. Dalessio moved to enter into Non-Public Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II (c) at 7:23 PM.  Ms. Vose seconded. With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Vose and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 8:25 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 8:25 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

(Note:  These are unapproved Minutes. Corrections will be found in the Minutes of the October 31, 2024 Selectboard meeting.)

Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 10/17/24

SELECTBOARD 11/01/2024 Leave a comment

TOWN OF WALPOLE, NEW HAMPSHIRE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

OCTOBER 17, 2024

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

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

Guests Present: Helen Dalbeck and Dale Woodward

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

HOOPER TRUSTEES

Ms. Vose moved to enter into the Hooper Trustees meeting at 6:30 PM.  Mr. Dalessio seconded.  With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio, and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved. 

The meeting was reconvened at 7:00 PM.

Ms. Dalbeck left the meeting.  Mr. Woodward arrived.  The following item was moved to the top of the agenda to accommodate a guest.

Congregational Church Sign at Rt. 12 and South Street: Mr. Woodward provided details on the church sign’s location and what the sign will look like. The UCC would like to increase recognition of the Church when people come into town.  The sign is 20” x 30”. It will be on a 2” square metal post that will be 93” high and have a beveled cap.  The sign will be on the north side of South Street.  There is a manhole cover and post above the corner. The sign will be about 10 to 12’ east of the manhole cover to allow for tractor mowing.  The Town will write to NH DOT District 4 to inform them that the sign has been approved by the Selectboard.

Mr. Woodward left the meeting.

PAYROLL

Ms. Vose moved to approve the Payroll Register totaling $31,006.49 dated 10/18/2024 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $6,274.37.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio, and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved. 

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES

Selectboard Meeting – October 10, 2024: Ms. Vose moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of October 10, 2024. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

Non-Public Selectboard Meeting – October 10, 2024:   Ms. Vose moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard session of October 10, 2024.  The minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved and the minutes remain sealed.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

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

  • Walpole Fire District Monthly Meeting – August 7, 2024
  • Walpole Fire District Monthly Meeting – September 4, 2024
  • Conservation Commission Meeting – October 7, 2024
  • Planning Board Meeting – October 8, 2024

Ms. Mayberry acknowledged these minutes.

TIMBER TAX WARRANT AND CERTIFICATION OF YIELD TAXES ASSESSED

Op # 24-461-03, Map and Lot # 011-039-004: Ms. Vose moved to approve the timber taxes assessed and timber warrant for $670.55.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved, and both forms were signed.

BUILDING PERMIT

2024-35, Map and Lot# 010-033-001: Ms. Vose moved to approve Building Permit #2024-35 for Map and Lot # 010-033-001 to construct a 14’ x 33’ living room and sunroom addition. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Vose and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS

Pending Further Action: Parking Policy, Generators, Old North Main and High Street Bridges/Culverts, Houghton Brook Bridge, and ARPA Funding Grants

Reservoir Dam Grant Reimbursement Form: Ms. Mayberry moved that the Town accept the grant reimbursement for $9,077.98 and that Mr. Dalessio sign the form.  Seconded by Ms. Vose.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the grant reimbursement was accepted, and Mr. Dalessio signed the form. 

Draft Purchase and Sale Agreement for New Police Station Land: Mr. Dalessio felt there are too many blanks in this draft.  The Police Station Building Committee is sending it back to the seller. They will handle getting the contract ready.  Mr. Dalessio stated that before the sale can take place, the parcel needs to be sub-divided.  Therefore, the sale probably will not happen this year.

NEW BUSINESS

Appointment Notices to the Recreation Committee: Marilou Blaine and Laurie Harrinton are up for appointment.  This item was tabled.

Purchase Order #242495 for Desktop Computers:   The Town will purchase three desktop computers with monitors for the Selectboard Office and Recycling Center along with a monitor for Town Clerk’s computer. The total cost is $4,150.30.  Ms. Vose moved for we purchase three computers and four monitors plus project fees for a total cost of $4,150.30.  Mr. Dalessio seconded the motion.  With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio, and Ms. Mayberry in favor the motion passed, and purchase order #242495 was signed.

HealthTrust Benefits Renewal Package and Transmittal: There was a 7.4% rate increase.  The Board felt this was a reasonable rate increase. Mr. Dalessio moved that the Chair sign the HealthTrust Transmittal.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Vose and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion passed, and Ms. Mayberry signed the Transmittal.   Mr. Dalessio explained that the Town’s health insurance is pooled with other towns to minimize risk and get better rates.

Two Important School District Dates:   Mr. Dalessio pointed out that there are two important dates:

  • October 26 from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the District Offices there will be a workshop for the School Board on the Articles of Agreement.  
  • October 28th at 5:30 PM there will be a School Board meeting in the FMRHS Library to review a draft of the 2025 budget.

ELF Article: The Keene Sentinel ELF publication included an article about Julie Rios of the Bridge Memorial Library.  Ms. Vose explained that Julie was recognized in the ELF for the “Children’s Librarians” program. Children chosen to be librarians put together a display of their choice and serve as junior librarians.  The Selectboard recognizes Mrs. Rios and thanked her for her outstanding service to the children of Walpole.

In-person Staff Meeting on November 21, 2024: Ms. Mayberry will contact Dr. Gerri King, author of The DUH! Book of Management and Supervision to see if she is available.

Recreation Gift: A town resident would like to make a donation to the Town to be used for funding families in need to ensure that everyone can participate in Rec programs and use the Recreation facilities.  There will be a public hearing next week at the Selectboard meeting to determine whether the gift will be accepted.  The Board will determine the best way to manage the funds in NH PDIP.

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

Ms. Vose moved to enter into Non-Public Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II (c) at 8:07 PM.  Mr. Dalessio seconded. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 8:26 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 8:26 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

(Note: These are unapproved Minutes. Corrections will be found in the Minutes of the October 24, 2024 Selectboard meeting.)

Planning Board & Zoning Board Joint Meeting Minutes – 10/22/24

PLANNING BOARD, ZONING BOARD 10/26/2024 Leave a comment

JOINT MEETING MINUTES

OCTOBER 22, 2024 

Town Hall 7 pm 

Present:

Planning Board: Chair Jeff Miller, Vice-Chair Dennis Marcom, Clerk Jason Perron, Joanna Andros, Select Board Representative Steve Dalessio. 

Zoning Board of Adjustment: Chair Tom Murray, Clerk Pauline Barnes, Shane O’Keefe and Tom Winmill. 

Southwest Region Planning Commission: Executive Director Todd Horner, senior planner Carol Ogilvie. 

Mr. Miller called the meeting to order at 7 pm. 

Tonight’s discussion was about amendments to the Zoning Ordinances that will be put on the 2025 warrant. The final language will be presented to the members of the Planning Board and Zoning Board for approval at the November 26th meeting of the Joint Committee. A public hearing on the document will be held in December 2024. January 10, 2025 is the last date that any hearing can be held for an item to be placed on the warrant. 

There are eight (8) proposed amendments to go on the warrant. Following is a brief description of each amendment, 

Amendment 1: Reorganize and clarify the material in the Walpole Zoning Ordinances to make it easier to understand the document and to conform to current RSAS. 

Amendment 2: Add the following language to Article IV – General Provisions, and renumber accordingly: “No building, structure, or land shall be used for any purpose or in any manner other than that which is permitted in the district in which it is located.” 

Amendment 3. Amend Article XVII – Definitions for Nonconforming Use and adding definitions for Nonconforming Lot, and Nonconforming structure. 

Amendment 4. Amend Article X – Nonconforming Uses by amending Paragraph C as follows and adding a new Paragraph E. 

  • Example: Paragraph C: A nonconforming lot may not be voluntarily reduced in size: however, a nonconforming lot may be increased in size. 

Amendment 5: List of the powers of the Zoning Board of Adjustment. 

Amendment 6: Amend Article IV (General Provision E. Removal of Sand and Gravel) by replacing Zoning Board of Adjustment as the regulator of sand and gravel permits and assigning that responsibility to the Planning Board. 

Article 7: Amend Article IV (General Provisions D. Signs) as follows: 

All signs require review by the Planning Board as follows: 

  1. If the sign is associated with a site plan that is before the Planning Board, it shall be approved as part of the site plan. 
  2. Changed or updates to signs (except for content) require review and approval by the Planning Board at a regular board meeting. 

Amendment 8: Amend Article IV – General Provisions Paragraph F and Article IX, Paragraph B to reassign administrative and enforcement responsibilities from the Zoning Board to the Select Board. 

  • Amend Article IV F. Trailers and Mobile Homes 
  • Amend Article IX Timberland District Uses Permitted any use permitted…. A building may only be constructed in this District provided a permit is obtained from the Select Board or designee whose duty it shall be to grant such permit. 

The Table of Permitted Uses, while a useful tool for determining what is and is not permitted in a particular zoning district, is not part of the actual zoning ordinances document. 

The group adjourned at 8 pm and plan to meet again on the 4th Tuesday of November. 

Respectfully submitted, 

Marilou Blaine, WPB Secretary 

Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 10/10/24

SELECTBOARD 10/18/2024 Leave a comment

TOWN OF WALPOLE, NEW HAMPSHIRE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

OCTOBER 10, 2024

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

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

Guests Present:  Peggy Pschirrer, Paul Looney, Ernie Vose, and Wendy Pelletier

Call to Order:  Ms. Mayberry called the Selectboard meeting to order at 6:31 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.

HOOPER TRUSTEES

Mr.  Dalessio moved to enter into the Hooper Trustees meeting at 6:32 PM.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Vose and Ms.  Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.   

The meeting was reconvened at 6:38 PM.

To accommodate guests wishing to speak to items on the agenda, the Old and New Business were done next.

OLD BUSINESS

Pending Further Action: Parking Policy, Generators, Old North Main and High Street Bridges/Culverts, Houghton Brook Bridge, UCC sign at Rt 12 & South Street

Whipple Hill Road:  Wendy Pelletier of Cardinal Surveying requested that 410 feet of Class VI Road become Class V on Whipple Hill Road.  Her clients would like to subdivide an acre and a half with 200-foot frontage. Extending the Class V Road would eliminate several issues.  Mr. Dalessio explained that to upgrade the road, RSA’s must be followed. This includes adding a warrant article that documents the cost of the road upgrades.  The best way to request a warrant article is a petition signed by twenty-five Walpole registered voters.  There will be a hearing with the rest of the warrant articles.  There will be a betterment assessment on all property owners on the improved section of road. Impacted landowners can prevent the improvements from happening.  Also there needs to be a turnaround for the plow truck. Mr. Vose commented that It would be unreasonable to expect that big truck with the wing and plow to back up that hill.  The Selectboard Office needs the petition by mid-January. Receiving the petition earlier is much better.

Ms. Pelletier left the meeting.

CPNH Renewable Energy Credit Sale and Purchase Agreement:  Paul Looney explained the new contract is not complete.  In order to get the $6,000 refund that the Town is owed, Mr. Looney sent a letter saying Walpole is working with CPCNH.  The contract is still being worked on, but it will be 1-year, renewable and pay at a rate of $35/credit.  The Power Committee is tracking energy generation at the Recycling Center.  Currently half the power goes to Recycling and half to Town Hall.  Mr. Looney will create a budget for the Recycling Center and Town Hall electricity for 2025.  Mr. Dalessio commented that an EV charger may need to be repaired at the Town parking lot. Additionally, the breakeven rate needs to be determined.  Currently there are two charging online location applications reporting that one charger is active and the other is offline.

Ms.  Pschirrer and Mr. Looney left the meeting.

Reservoir Dam Grant Reimbursement Forms:  Ms. Mayberry moved that Mr. Dalessio sign the three reimbursement forms for the Reservoir Dam Grant.  Seconded by Ms. Vose.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion passed, and the three forms were signed. 

Great River Hydro Pilot Request: This request revisited a request from last year.  Because the assessments are set for the 2024 tax year, there is nothing that can be done for almost a year. Mr. Dalessio stated at this point we do not have tax rates or any other information that is needed.  There is nothing that can be done until 2025.  Mrs. Downing will send feedback to Great River Hydro.

Reservoir Dam: Mr. Dalessio stated there would be a design review with DES in a couple of weeks.  Once that is complete, the Town can start the work.  The dam needs to be thicker, and the spillway needs to be wider. 

ARP Grant Funding:   Mr. Dalessio will be meeting with Mark Houghton to work out the contracts for water-sewer projects.  The contracts need to be signed this year to encumber the ARPA Grant funds into next year.

NEW BUSINESS

Zoning Coordinator:  Mr. Vose attended to discuss his thoughts about the position.  It has been easy so far.  His concern is with all the changes being discussed and what they will mean for this position.  Currently Mr. Vose has an advisory position. He looks at what inquirers want to do and helps them know how to do it following the rules.  Mr. Dalessio felt it was not clear when the changes might happen.  Mr. Vose will continue with the job as it is.  If it changes, he will talk to the Board again.

Mr. Vose left the meeting.

Encumbrance for Vent Hood: Mrs. Downing reported that the vent hood repair may not be able to happen this year. However, there is a contract with EE Houghton and the funding had been approved in 2024.  Mr. Dalessio moved to encumber the vent hood repairs in the Town Hall kitchen.  Seconded by Ms. Vose.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Vose and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion passed, and the kitchen vent hood repair funding was encumbered.

The Board complimented Mrs. Downing on an excellent letter containing all the necessary information.  Ms. Mayberry will send it as an example to all the department managers with a reminder they need to encumber funds for projects that will not be completed this year.

Engagement Letter re: AccuFund Support:   A cover letter from Mr. Kreissle and the Brisbane Consulting agreement form were sent to the Board.  Clarity is needed regarding the rate range of$150 – $275 per hour.  Mr. Kreissle is asked to give Brisbane Consulting the existing insurance issue, ask how they would fix it and the cost.  Since more information is needed, the item is tabled until next week.

Ruggerio Processing Facility – Building Permits:  Mrs. Downing reported that there is no permit on file for the pole barn or for the office trailer.  The trailer did not receive a fine.  The Town fined the owner for building the barn without a building permit.  The Selectboard agreed that to make the records complete, a building permit for the pole barn was needed. Mr. Dalessio commented that the property owner said they were not adding a trailer or scale and were only doing site work during Covid. However, both structures have since appeared.  There was a consensus by the Selectboard to clear up the building permits for the existing scale and trailer.  There is a new owner of the business who must pay for the past.  The fine for the lack of a building permit for the office trailer is $1,000.  Mrs. Downing will write a letter explaining the need for the building permits and the fine.   Once it is taken care of, the Town can start working with the new owner of the facility who appears to be cooperative.

Building Permit Forms: Adding language that site prep cannot begin until the building permit is approved to building permit forms was agreed upon by the Selectboard.  Generally, people comply voluntarily, but the form needs clarification.  Mrs. Downing will change the building permit forms to include language that no site preparation is permitted until the Selectboard has approved the building permit.

Political and Other Signage on Town Property:   A verbal and written complaint was received about a negative sign at the junction of North Road, Old Drewsville Road, and Old North Main.   The Selectboard agreed by consensus that no signs are permitted on Town property.  All signs (political and commercial) will be removed from Town property. Signage will be stored at the Police Station for the owners to retrieve.

CPCNH Meeting Notice: The next meeting will be in a hybrid format on October 25, 2024, and will start at 8:00 AM. The Selectboard is to RSVP via Survey Monkey to attend.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE

Ms. Vose moved to approve Accounts Payable totaling $1,109,535.73 dated 10/11/2024.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.  This included a $403,089.15 payment to Bazin Brothers for paving and a monthly $581,631.87 monthly payment to the Fall Mountain Regional School District. The Selectboard requested that the Highway Department send estimates with invoices. Purchase orders need to refer to the budget line item.  There were quotes for the Highway Department before the paving project started. Mr. Dalessio will request them.

PAYROLL

Ms. Vose moved to approve the Payroll Register totaling $31,093.73 dated 10/11/2024and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $6,285.65.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio, and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved. 

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES

Selectboard Meeting – October 2, 2024:  Ms. Vose moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of October 2, 2024.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the minutes were approved.

Non-Public Selectboard Meeting – October 2, 2024:   Ms. Vose moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard meeting of October 2, 2024.  The minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the minutes were approved and are sealed.

ABATEMENTS

Map and Lot # 019-039-000: An internal and external inspection of the property occurred.  Additional edits were applied to the property card.  Ms. Vose moved to approve the abatement for Map and Lot # 019-039-000 for $643.21.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

SOLAR ENERGY EXEMPTION

Map and Lot # 005-002-003: The exemption form had been pending.  New construction updates in the assessing program have now been completed.  Now the solar system is recorded on the tax card and can be exempted from property taxes.  Ms. Vose moved to approve the solar energy exemption for Map and Lot # 005-002-003.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

BUILDING PERMITS

2024-33, Map and Lot# 011-036-000:  Ms. Vose moved to approve Building Permit #2024-33 for Map and Lot # 011-036-000 to construct a 44’ x 24’ two story home.  The prior home was demolished in 2016. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

2024-34, Map and Lot# 014-011-000: Ms. Vose moved to approve Building Permit #2024-34 for Map and Lot # 014-011-000 to construct a 45’ x 40’ one and half story home.  The prior home was destroyed by fire.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

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

Ms. Vose moved to enter into Non-Public Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II (a) at 8:06 PM.  Mr. Dalessio seconded. With Ms. Vose, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 8:31 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 8:31 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

(Note:  These are unapproved Minutes. Corrections will be found in the Minutes of the October 17, 2024 Selectboard meeting.)