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Library Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes – 11/12/25

LIBRARY TRUSTEES 11/17/2025 Leave a comment

Walpole Town Library

Board of Trustees Meeting

November 12, 2025

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

Absent:  Bill Ranauro, Sarah Mann 

Amy Howard called the meeting to order at 4:38 p.m. in the Community Room of the Main Branch.

Approval of Minutes: Gail made a motion to accept the October 2025 minutes as written. Erin seconded and all voted in favor.  Motion carried.

Treasurer’s Report: Kathy emailed the Treasurer’s Report to the board prior to the meeting. She reported that the Library Trust Fund with investments and interest is $4500 ahead of what we budgeted.  With this extra money and the money from the Friends and with expenses as they are, we are in good shape.

Bills:  Jane sent a copy of the bills to the trustees prior to the meeting. She reported that she is still ordering books from Amazon while she works out “the bugs” with Ingram. She said we will still receive a few bills from Baker and Taylor because they are selling off their remaining stock at 50% off and there are some titles she wants to purchase.

Amy made a motion to accept the Treasurer’s Report and Bills.  Gail seconded and all voted in favor.  Motion passed.

Old Business

Long Range Planning:  Jane reminded the board to review the draft of the proposed Strategic Plan and email comments to her.  She will resend the document so everyone has a new copy.

Employee Appreciation: There was a brief discussion about the appreciation reception, which is scheduled for January 16 from 5-7 p.m. Kathy will buy gift certificates closer to the event.  We will make final plans at our January 13th board meeting.

New Business

Circulation Policy:  Jane distributed draft copies of a new circulation policy for the board to review and edit. She said she would make suggested corrections to the document and send it to the trustees for approval.  Upon approval she will ask the town attorney to review it.  All must be done before January 1st when RSA 201-D:11 takes effect.

Holiday Hours:  The board approved closing the library at 3:00 p.m. on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve.

Board Renewal:  Susan reported that she, Erin, and Kathy are up for board renewal in March. They need to sign up in January to have their names put on the ballot.

Operations:  

Mold/Mildew in the Foyer:  Jane described the mold/mildew smell in the foyer and said she discussed it with Brad.  She is thinking of trying Damp Rid to mitigate.

Patron Request:  A patron has asked that the handrail be extended at the end of the ramp.  Jane will make inquiries about doing this.

Technology:  Michael Nerrie sent Jane information about the purchase of a Smart TV for the library.  She will continue researching this.  She is interested in a tv that will be loud enough so that she will not need to use speakers.

Friends of the Library:  The Friends have a meeting next week where they will discuss the results of the book fair.

With no further business to discuss, Gail made a motion to adjourn; Erin seconded the motion.  Amy adjourned the meeting at 5:08 p.m. 

The next trustees meeting will be Tuesday, January 13, at 4:00 p.m. in the main branch of the library.

Respectfully Submitted,

Jean Kobeski, Recording Secretary

** These minutes are in draft form until approved at the January 13, 2026 meeting. 

Joint Planning Board & Zoning Board Meeting Minutes – 11/11/25

PLANNING BOARD, ZONING BOARD 11/17/2025 Leave a comment

Walpole Planning Board November Minutes

Joint Meeting with the Zoning Board of Adjustment

November 11, 2025

Town Hall

7 pm.

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

Zoning Board of Adjustment members: Chair Tom Murray, Clerk Pauline Barnes, Alternate Don Sellarole.  

Call to Order:  Mr. Miller called the meeting to order at 6:55 pm. Mr. Miller asked Mr. Carmody to fill in for Mr. Perron. He agreed.

Minutes: Review minutes of the October 2025 meeting. Mr. Adams made one correction to paragraph 5. His first name Travis was printed instead of his last. Mr. Harrington made a motion to approve the amended minutes. Bill Carmody seconded the motion and the motion carried. 

Josh Perry letter

Mr. Miller referenced a letter from Josh Perry regarding the comments about the inspection of if his gravel pit on Old Drewsville Road. Mr. Perry wrote that the bottom of the salt shed is asphalt and it has been there since 1996 and he is “planning on replacing it with a concrete floor, hopefully this year, but if not, the year after. Regarding the bank for the fill sand. Per the MSHA regulations the bank can be half again in height as the largest piece of equipment that is on the site. The loader reaches 20 feet to 22 feet, so the face of the bank be 30 feet.” This fill is being removed as this is where the new salt/sand shed will go.

New Business:

Lot Line Adjustment: Jay M. Landry, 100 Wentworth Road, Town Tax Map 17, Lots 5-5 and 5-4,  Zoning District Residential A. 

No new lots will be created but three lots will be tweaked. The plat shows .49 acres bordering Old Keene Road to be annexed to Cynthia Reeves Tax Map  17, Lot 12. It will remain open land and nothing will be built on this land. On Tax Map 17 Lot 5-4 and .01 acres will be annexed to Lot 5-4 to square off that corner to create enough room for the 20 feet needed between lot line and the building of a potential barn. The driveway to the Timothy Kelly Worth property on Wentworth Rd, Tax Map 17 Lot 5-2 will get .04 acres making it easier for him to access the road. This is what Mr. Landry presented to the board.

Mr. Marcom made a motion to hold a public hearing in December for the Lot Line Adjustment and Mr. Harrington seconded the motion. The motion carried. 

Joint meeting with ZBA: 

Pauline Barnes and Tom Murray talked about the latest legislative changes to Detached Accessory Dwelling Units and compared it to our current Zoning Ordinances.  

Our ordinance says the accessory dwelling must be 150 feet of the principal dwelling. They both thought 100 feet would be enough because it would create more green space.

Occupancy limited to family members but No. 7 already says renters can be unrelated to family members.

Parking: Our ordinance says ample parking for both the principal and DADU dwellings but legislative dictates adequate off-street parking? However, In Walpole no cars should be parked on the street during a snow storm. Our standards don’t harmonize with state standards.

Raise basic standards from 900 to 950 square feet,.

The state allows two bedrooms compared to our three bedrooms.

Limit of one driveway.

Aesthetics: Legislative aesthetics don’t matter to legislature. Walpole suggests that accessory building have some continuity with the main building.

Both state and Walpole prohibit multi-family uses.

Mr. Miller said he eventually would like the town’s attorney, Jeremy Hockensmith to take a look at both documents. Mr. Dalessio suggested that maybe someone from Southwest Community Services should look at it first – either Todd Horner or Carol Ogilvie.

Changes to Planning & Zoning Laws in 2025: A Guide for Municipalities

Mr. Miller brought up a concern in these updates about building on a Class VI road. Currently our ordinance says you have to get Select Board approval and also sign a liability waiver about keeping up the road open and not expecting emergency services.

But the state ordinance says:

“The statute does not prohibit municipalities from establishing separate road frontage requirements for new construction. Therefore, a municipal zoning ordinance can require frontage (of a certain length) on a Class V or better road. However, the municipal ordinance must clearly state this requirement by defining the road a “Class V or better.” If the zoning ordinance does require frontage on a Class V or better, a variance from the ZBA would still be required to build on a Class VI road. Because the statute is not effective until July 1, 2026, municipalities have time to amend their zoning ordinances if desired.”

Currently Walpole does not have such an ordinance.

Old Business

Takeaway from presentation about the PB on the Town Web Site. 

The purpose of going over the web site was to tweak it so it would be more user friendly. One thing the board did was to put together major categories. For example, under one click there is a list of all the things one must do to complete a site plan application – file out the check list, fill out the application, attach a plat, fees, rules for parking, lighting, etc.

The one hiccup is on the left hand side of the site, which is where the “menu” is, and at this time items cannot be changed.

Gravel pit inspection due. Jeff Harrington and Jason Perron did not get a chance to connect with Mr. Tim Graves about an inspection on Wentworth Road. 

Adjournment

Mr. Harrington made a motion to adjourn. Mr. Marcom seconded the motion and the motion carried. The time was 8:17 pm.

Respectfully submitted,

Marilou Blaine 

Recording Secretary

Conservation Commission Meeting Minutes – 11/3/25

CONSERVATION COMMISSION 11/12/2025 Leave a comment

Town of Walpole, New Hampshire

Conservation Commission

November 3, 2025

(Note: These are unapproved Minutes. Corrections will be found in the Minutes of the December 1, 2025 Conservation Commission meeting.)

Members Present: Nicole Adams, Wendy Grossman, Paul Happ, France Menk, Peter Palmiotto (Cochair), John Peska (Cochair & Presiding), Lewis Shelley, Carolyn Vose (Selectboard Rep)

Alternates Present: Tom Beaudry

Members Absent: Hale Morrell

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

Seating of Alternatives: There was a quorum, so no Alternates were seated.

Review and Approval of Minutes

Paul moved to accept the 10/6/2025 minutes as written. France seconded and all voted in favor. The motion carried. 

Public Business

Financial Report:  Conservation $282,422.14

Forestry $53,511.36

Correspondence: NHACC dues are due.  France moved to pay the $275 dues for this year.  Paul seconded.  With all in favor, the motion passed.

New Business

Fanny Mason Forest Management: 

  • Winter timber harvest – we expect to do the harvest this winter.  Can the Town waive the timber tax for Fanny Mason?   Once that question is answered, Alex Barrett will submit the Timber Intent permit.
  • Red pine – Longview can do cut-to-length, but Chris Ricci doesn’t do it.  Tyler Zambon can also cut-to-length.  John will ask Alex Barrett to get quotes from Longview and Tyler Zambon.
  • Invasives – It will cost about $1,600 (two people for a day) to treat buckhorn stems now in the area of the Fanny Mason harvest.  This is Fanny Mason property, expense and income, so the Conservation Committee needs to let Trustees of Trust Funds know that Longview will do the treatment now and get paid when there is income from the red pine harvest.   

Paul made a motion to request that the Town waive the timber tax on the Fanny Mason harvest and to approve treating for invasives now with Longview to be paid when the harvest starts getting income.  Lew seconded.  With everyone in favor, the motion passed unanimously.

Safety Inspection: On November 20th there will be an inspection of the Conservation Commission storage in the old Town Garage on School Street.  John, Lew & Paul will meet before the inspection to check everything and do any equipment maintenance needed.

Old Business

Easement monitoring: Monadnock Conservancy did some monitoring last month and sent an email asking for the status of issues identified last year:

  • In Bertin Forest two pieces of bridge washed out – the larger piece was removed from the brook; the other piece is still on the bank and needs to be removed; it remains to be determined who can get the bridge out of the forest.
  • In Great Brook Town Forest – there was a snowmobile trail wash-out and the trail is still washed out down toward the brook.  There is a very large pine down across the trail.  Lew and the Hooper Hill Hoppers are working to determine what to do.  It would be possible to build a very narrow trail (one snowmobile wide), but a groomer couldn’t get through to maintain the trail.  There is a lot of clay in that area, so rebuilding the trail may require a retaining wall.  There are closed signs on both ends of that trail.  It was a major trail to Westmoreland but now snowmobilers also have the Rail Trail.

Town easements: we are obliged to monitor the Town easements.  Wendy will do three, but she can’t do her own land.  The Easement Monitoring Committee needs to meet to decide what they really want to do.  There is a committee, and they need a meeting (Peter is chair).  It was pointed out that property monitoring really is one of our more important responsibilities.

Reservoir Dam: DES, Walpole and Fuss & O’Neill agree that we can breech the dam (normally remove 25 – 50% of dam) with ARPA money before the deadline. Fuss & O’Neil is doing the engineering in preparation for getting permits.  We will need to bridge the breech so trail will still be usable since the area is popular for recreation.

Derry Hill Road – Class VI road status: The road was checked last weekend.  There is no sign of anyone working on the road, but some sections of it would only be passable with some four-wheel drive vehicles.  There is an ongoing timber harvest (uncertain if in Walpole) and they are hauling logs across Walpole’s Class VI roads to Alstead or Surry.  The lower part of Derry Hill is a fire lane.  Part of Scovill Road between High Blue and Derry Hill Road is now destroyed by vehicles and washouts. 

Peter arrived during the Derry Hill discussion.

Tree Planting: This fall a sugar maple was planted on the northwest corner of the Common and four tulip trees were planted along the west side.  $3,600 has been donated for purchasing trees.    About half was spent this year, so we have enough for two crabapples and three red maples for the spring planting, and that will finish the planting on the Common.  North Walpole and Drewsville (Fritzie Hill [sic] is suggested contact) will be contacted to see what they need.

Mt. Kilborne: Monadnock Climbing Club wants their letter of support signed, but we need to know everyone involved is satisfied.  John reached out to Katherine Kopij to determine whether the North Walpole Village Commissioners are OK with the plans.  We also need to get the approval of the Walpole and North Walpole Fire and Rescue squads.

Trail Committee

Updates: The Trail Committee has worked on Mill Pond.  They removed a large tree and a large bush, and they have done some leveling.

Wendy will have the Work Plan for the 2026 Rail Trail projects finished by the deadline on 12/31/2025.  The plan is being addressed, but it won’t be done or available for the next meeting.  Peter asked that as many details as possible be discussed at the 12/1/2025 meeting.

Rail Trail Work Plan: Ditch and culvert work preparing for winter will be the focus of the Work Day on November 8th.  Similar preparation worked well last year.

Other Business and Updates

Hooper Institute Board: There are no updates, but Paul is positive about the Board.  He thinks Greta Drager is doing a great job and that the building is just beautiful.  The next meeting is tomorrow.

New Hampshire Big Tree: The black oak on Mill Pond is the largest in the state.  Lew received a sign and will put in a signpost, so he can put up the sign.

Agenda for the Next Meeting – December 1, 2025

  • New path on Fanny Mason timber harvest – Lew
  • Work Plan for Rail Trail – Wendy

Adjournment: France moved to adjourn the meeting and Nicole seconded.  John declared the meeting adjourned at 8:19 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 10/29/25

SELECTBOARD 11/07/2025 Leave a comment

Town of Walpole, New Hampshire

Meeting of the Selectboard

October 29, 2025

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

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

Call to Order: Mr. Dalessio called the Selectboard meeting to order at 6:34 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.

Payroll

Ms. Vose moved to approve the Payroll Register totaling $33,373.11 dated 10/31/2025 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $6,779.23.  Mr. Dalessio seconded.  With Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the payroll was approved. 

Selectboard Meeting Minutes

Selectboard Meeting – October 23, 2025: Ms. Vose moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of October 23, 2025.  Mr. Dalessio seconded.  With Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Selectboard minutes were approved.

Non-Public Selectboard Meeting – October 23, 2025: Ms. Vose moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard meeting of October 23, 2025.  The minutes will remain sealed.  Mr. Dalessio seconded.  With Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Non-Public minutes were approved and remain sealed.

Committee Reports

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

  • Trustees of Trust Funds Meeting – October 22, 2025

Mr. Dalessio acknowledged these minutes.

Ms.  Mayberry arrived at 6:38 PM.  The finance meeting with Hooper Institute ran late.

Old Business

Reservoir Dam: Mr. Dalessio reported that a new budget is due to DES on or before November 1st.   At a meeting on Monday evening with Mark Houghton, Mr. Dalessio, John Peska, the Dam Bureau and Fuss & O’Neil, it was agreed that to protect the village, it will be necessary to breech part of the dam so there is less water in the reservoir.  The Town needs to get permits, but obtaining permits and breeching the dam can be done before the ARPA grant expires, and this will make the Town much safer in severe storms.  A bridge will be built across the part of the dam that is breeched so the footpath can still be enjoyed.

Mr. Dalessio is preparing a summary of all on-going projects.  It should be ready in a couple of weeks.

Artwork Raffle: Per Attorney Hockensmith’s feedback, a third party is recommended to host the raffle to raise funds for the new Police Station.  Mr. Dalessio is looking into the options.

Dumpster Proposal: An updated proposal has been received.  There was a question as to why Ruggerio is not providing the dumpster as part of their pickup service.  This is the metals dumpster.  Ms. Hakey will follow up. Once this is resolved, the Recycling Department will need to ask the same questions about the solid waste dumpsters.

Selectboard Meeting Dates: Next week the Selectboard will meet on Wednesday, November 5th.

Tax Rate Status: Mr. Kreissle sent an update based on information available in the portal.  There are several tasks in the report that don’t specify the status.

New Business

STD/LTD/Life and AD&D rates for 2026 – 2027: The insurance rates will hold at the current rate for two years with a new vendor. By consensus, the Selectboard agreed to the new two-year rates.

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 7:06 PM.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 7:35 PM.

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

Adjournment: Mr. Dalessio declared the meeting adjourned at 7:37 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

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

Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 10/23/25

SELECTBOARD 10/30/2025 Leave a comment

Town of Walpole, New Hampshire

Meeting of the Selectboard

October 23, 2025

Selectboard Present: Steven Dalessio, Chair, and Carolyn Vose

Selectboard Absent: Cheryl Mayberry

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

Guests Present: Robin Sanctuary

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

Non-Public Business RSA 91-A:3 II (a)(b)(c) – Part 1

Ms. Vose moved to enter into Non-Public Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II (c) at 6:30 PM.   Mr. Dalessio seconded. With Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 6:33 PM.

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

The following item was moved to the top of the agenda to accommodate a guest who wished to speak to it.

Police Station Building Fundraiser

Robin Sanctuary would like to run a fundraiser for the new Police Station building.  She would like to raffle off a copy of a picture of a Westminster Street scene painted by Howard Hill.  Mrs. Downing is to contact Attorney Hockensmith to determine whether the Town can hold a raffle and any applicable requirements.  If the raffle can be held, the Selectboard will write a letter endorsing the raffle.   There are also print copies on paper and canvases of the Westminster Street scene and one of the Town Hall that will be for sale as another fundraiser for the new Police Station.  All of this is possible thanks to Inkberry Printing in Surry; Debbie Hill, widow of the artist, and the Savings Bank of Walpole where the original painter hangs.

Accounts Payable

Ms. Vose moved to approve the Accounts Payable Check Register totaling $1,116,572.11 dated 10/27/2025 and an EFT on 11/3/2025 including $804,108.98 monthly payment to Fall Mountain Regional School District.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved. 

Payroll

Ms. Vose moved to approve the Payroll Register totaling $33,107.83 dated 10/24/2025 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $6,342.52.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved. 

Selectboard Meeting Minutes

Selectboard Meeting – October 15, 2025: Ms. Vose moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of October 15, 2025. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Non-Public Selectboard Meeting – October 15, 2025: Ms. Vose moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard meeting of October 15, 2025.  The minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved, and the minutes are sealed.

Committee Reports

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

  • North Walpole Village Commissioners Meeting – September 23, 2025
  • Trail Committee Meeting – October 8, 2025
  • Library Trustees Meeting – October 14, 2025

 Mr. Dalessio acknowledged these minutes.

Demolition and Building Permits

2025-37, Map and Lot # 005-021-000: Ms. Vose moved to approve Demolition Permit #2025-37 for Map and Lot # 005-021-000 to remove an existing 12’ x 18’ barn. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

2025-38, Map and Lot # 025-030-000: Building Permit #2025-38 for Map and Lot # 025-030-000 requests to add an 180 square foot round tent platform. This permit cannot be approved because the ownership of the property is unclear.

2025-39, Map and Lot # 003-073-000: Ms. Vose moved to approve Building Permit #2025-39 for Map and Lot # 003-073-000 to construct a 36’ x 24’ single story home. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Old Business

Reservoir Dam: NHDES needs the revised budget by November 1, 2025.  This request was just received.  Mr. Dalessio will address it.  There will be more information at the next meeting.

Pinchin Scope of Work and Cost Estimate: Pinchin provided the scope of work for monitoring the Central Plating site at 12 Westminster Street for the next five years.  The cost will be $39,850.  Ms. Vose moved to have the Chair sign the estimate.  Mr. Dalessio seconded.  With Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion passed, and the estimate was signed.

Ruggiero Processing Facility re: DES Permit Modification Application: Mr. Dalessio acknowledged receipt of the notification that DES has requested additional information on the application.

Cold River Materials and DES Violation: DES provided a confirmation letter that violations have been addressed, and no further action is required for the Asphalt Plant.  Mr. Dalessio acknowledged receipt of the confirmation letter.

New Business

Primex Insurance Rates for 2026: Primex has provided the 2026 rates for Property and Liability, Workers’ Compensation, and Employment Compensation insurance coverage.  The new rate is slightly lower than the 2025 rates.

NH DRA Cyclical Monitoring for 2024: Between re-evaluations, DRA does a survey of properties in Walpole.  From the survey, there were only very minor changes on three properties in the sample.

CCI Business Name Changed: The new name will be Fidium for all branches of CCI.

Selectboard Meeting Dates: As confirmation, the meeting next week will be on Wednesday.  This topic will be moved to the next meeting when everyone can attend.

Insurance Presentations to Employees: There will be a Lunch and Learn session on Friday, November 14th with HealthTrust and Colonial Life’s optional insurance coverage.

Brush Pile at the Recycling Center: The “No Burning” declaration continues for Walpole, and the pile of brush at the Recycling Center is overflowing. By consensus, the Selectboard stated that no more material can be accepted until the Recycling Center staff can safely burn the existing pile.  

Non-Public Business RSA 91-A:3 II (a)(b)(c) – Part 2

Ms. Vose moved to enter into Non-Public Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II (a)(b)(c) at 7:26 PM.   Mr. Dalessio seconded. With Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 7:42 PM.

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

Adjournment:   Mr. Dalessio declared the meeting adjourned at 7:42 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

(Note: These are unapproved Minutes. Corrections will be found in the Minutes of the October 29, 2025 Selectboard meeting.)

Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 10/15/25

SELECTBOARD 10/27/2025 Leave a comment

Town of Walpole, New Hampshire

Meeting of the Selectboard

October 15, 2025

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

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

Call to Order: Mr. Dalessio called the Selectboard meeting to order at 6:34 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.

Payroll

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Payroll Register totaling $32,435.54 dated 10/17/2025 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $6,176.96.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Payroll was approved. 

Selectboard Meeting Minutes

Selectboard Meeting – October 9, 2025: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of October 9, 2025.  Mr. Dalessio seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Selectboard minutes were approved.

Non-Public Selectboard Meeting – October 9, 2025: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard meeting of October 9, 2025.  The minutes will remain sealed.  Mr. Dalessio seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Non-Public minutes were approved and remain sealed.

Committee Reports

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

  • Police Station Building Committee Meeting – September 4, 2025
  • Police Station Building Committee Meeting – October 8, 2025
  • Conservation Commission Meeting – October 6, 2025

Mr. Dalessio acknowledged these minutes.

Building Permit

2025-36, Map and Lot# 020-011-000: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve Building Permit #2025-36 for Map and Lot # 020-011-000 to construct a 132’ x 40’ school building for the Walpole Village School. Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Old Business

November 13th In-Person Staff Meeting: The meeting will discuss how to prepare for the December budget meetings where each department manager meets with the Selectboard to discuss the 2026 budget and any special needs they anticipate.  Ms. Mayberry will write a summary to help the managers prepare for the 11/13/2025 meeting.

1st Selectboard Meeting in November: Ms. Mayberry may need to request a change from Wednesday, November 5th.  She is waiting to hear back from her manager at work.

New Business

HealthTrust Benefits Renewal Package with Transmittal: The rate is up 6.8% from 2025. One signature is needed.  Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the package for 2026 and for the chair to sign.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the renewal package was approved, and Mr. Dalessio signed the form.

HealthTrust Medicare Advantage with Prescription Drug Plan with Transmittal Package: Currently no employees are on this plan. However, it must be available for future retirees. Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the Medicare Advantage package for 2026 and for the chair to sign.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the renewal package was approved, and Mr. Dalessio signed the form.

Reservoir Dam ARPA Grant Reimbursement Request: The request is for $2,855.  Ms. Vose moved to approve the request and for the Chair to sign it.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Ms. Vose, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the reimbursement request was approved, and Mr. Dalessio signed the ARPA Grant Reimbursement Request.

Drewsville Common Christmas Event: There was a request from the organizer of the Drewsville Common Christmas Event for $200.  One hundred dollars ($100) will be used to pay Warren’s Farm for the horse and carriage rides.  The other $100 will be used for light replacement, cookies and cocoa.   By consensus, the Town will reimburse up to $200 in expenses and the money will come from the Recreation Revolving Fund. A board member commented that In the future, this request needs to go through the Recreation Department and be part of that budget.

Hooper Trustees

Ms. Vose moved to enter into the Hooper Trustees meeting at 6:52 PM.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Ms. Vose, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 7:03 PM.

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

Ms. Mayberry moved to enter into Non-Public Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II (a)(b) at 7:03 PM.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 7:32 PM.

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

Adjournment: Mr. Dalessio declared the meeting adjourned at 7:32 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

(Note: These are unapproved Minutes. Corrections will be found in the Minutes of the October 23, 2025 Selectboard meeting.)

Walpole Town Library Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes – 10/14/25

LIBRARY TRUSTEES 10/22/2025 Leave a comment

Walpole Town Library

Board of Trustees Meeting

October 14, 2025

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

Absent:  Erin Bowen

Amy Howard called the meeting to order at 4:40 p.m. in the North Walpole branch.

Approval of Minutes: Gail made a motion to accept the September 2025 minutes as written.  Kathy seconded and all voted in favor.  Motion carried.

Treasurer’s Report: Kathy emailed the Treasurer’s Report to the board prior to the meeting. She reported that we are right on track with income and expenses.

Bills:  Jane sent a copy of the bills to the trustees prior to the meeting. There were no questions or comments.  Amy made a motion to accept the Treasurer’s Report and Bills.  Gail seconded and all voted to accept; motion carried.

Old Business

Long Range Planning:  Jane distributed copies of a draft of the new Strategic Plan. Trustees were asked to read it and be prepared for a discussion at the November meeting.

2026 Budget:  Jane made a few changes to the budget she presented last month.  She has taken some money out of magazines and moved it to technology, explaining that we need to replace some Chrome Books.  

Jane also suggested that we look into buying a Smart TV for the Community Room in an effort to upgrade equipment for presentations and movie viewing. Kathy said her husband did extensive research into smart televisions and will have him send Jane information that he gathered. 

Committee Assignments

New board committee assignments are as follows:

  • Buildings and Grounds – Kathy, Amy
  • Technology – Amy
  • Personnel – Susan, Jana, Sarah
  • Scholarship – Bill, Gail

New Business

Staff Appreciation:  The trustees have set a tentative date of January 16, 2026 for a cocktail party at the library to honor staff, volunteers, and Friends of the Library.  Each of the trustees will contribute appetizers and Kathy will purchase beverages and paper goods for the event. 

Operations:  Jane emailed her monthly report to the board prior to this meeting. At the meeting she explained that Baker and Taylor, the wholesale book vendor that our library uses, is shutting down operations.  Jane is now looking for a new vendor and has an appointment with Ingram, another company that offers similar services to Baker and Taylor. In the meantime she will order books from Amazon and wait to hear what will happen with backorders from Baker and Taylor.

Jane announced that on October 21, Julie Rios will present “North Walpole History in Pictures” at the North Walpole Library. This is an encore presentation of the popular program she presented at the Walpole Historical Society.

Jane attended a meeting led by the Asst. State Librarian, where they discussed the new law granting parents/guardians access to their children’s library records. State librarians were advised to have town attorneys sign off on any new policies pertaining to library cards.  Jane asked that we have a more detailed discussion on this topic to make sure we have all bases covered. It was agreed that we would discuss this at our November meeting.  We have until January to make changes.  

Buildings and Grounds:  Don Sellarole examined the column on the right corner of the library and felt that it looks stable and the foundation is okay.  He does not feel that anything needs to be done at this time.

Technology:  Jane and Julie tested Mango and determined that demand at our library does not justify the price of the program.  

Friends of the Library:  Jane reported that the Friends are getting ready for their book sale and have stated they no longer want any book donations at the reuse center.  They have as many as they can handle at this time.

Gail made a motion to adjourn;  Susan seconded the motion.  Amy adjourned the meeting at 5:31 p.m. 

Note that the next trustees meeting will be Wednesday, November 12, at 4:30 p.m. in the main branch of the library.

Respectfully Submitted,

Jean Kobeski, Recording Secretary

** These minutes are in draft form until approved at the November 12, 2025 meeting. 

Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 10/9/25

SELECTBOARD 10/22/2025 Leave a comment

Town of Walpole, New Hampshire

Meeting of the Selectboard

October 9, 2025

Selectboard Present: Steven Dalessio, Chair, and Cheryl Mayberry

Selectboard Absent: Carolyn Vose

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

Guests Present: Mark Houghton, Water & Sewer Director; Kyle Teamy and Tim Williams of Ruggerio Processing Facility LLC; Peter Dexter; Meghan Hansson, Town Clerk,

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

The following items were moved to the top of the agenda to accommodate guests who wished to speak to them.

Water/Sewer Update

Mark Houghton had updates on several items:

  • Well Contracts: Mr. Houghton requested that the Selectboard counter-sign contracts for the Stopler and Sanctuary wells.  Ms. Mayberry moved to approve and sign the final well contracts for the two wells on Old Drewsville Road so they can use their wells, and they no longer need to be on the Town water system.  Mr. Dalessio seconded.  With Mrs. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in agreement, the motion passed, and the contracts were signed.
  • ARPA Grant Funded Pump Generators: Mr. Houghton updated the Board on the project status.  They are working their way through the generator installations at the sewer pump stations. Mr. Houghton reported that the ARPA grant funded project should be completed on time.
  • Generator for Town Hall (former Water/Sewer generator): The old generator from the Watkins Hill well will be installed at Town Hall. The generator could be placed where the propane tank is now located.  A 1,000-gallon propane tank will also be needed.  One tree that is not healthy would need to be removed from the north side of the Town Hall.  Mr. Houghton will quote the job. It was hoped that the cost can be included in the 2026 budget.
  • Strategic Planning Grant Closeout: The Strategic Planning Grant has concluded, with the Water Department returning about $1.47.  The strategic planning project leads into an asset management project. Mark Houghton confirmed that NH DES hired Underwood as the engineering firm and assigned them to work with Walpole on this project.

Mr. Houghton left the meeting.

Ruggerio Processing Facility

Mr. Teamy, co-owner of the facility, and Mr. Williams, the operations manager, said they want to ensure the Selectboard is aware of their plans.  They need to add a building beside the current tipping floor to do the automated separating.  After everything that can be recycled has been removed, the garbage will be bailed and sealed to eliminate odors and facilitate shipping.  Overall, the project will use automated separation to cut costs and minimize the amount of garbage that needs to go into landfills.  Mr. Dalessio reminded Mr. Teamy and Mr. Williams that before starting the new building, Ruggerio Processing Facility will need to go to Planning Board for a Site Plan Review and have a public hearing. Once the Site Plan is approved, they need to obtain a building permit from the Selectboard Office. Mr. Dalessio stated that Ruggerio Processing should be prepared to address traffic and odors concerns related to the facility.

Mr. Dexter, Mr. Teamy and Mr. Williams left the meeting.

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

Ms. Mayberry moved to enter into Non-Public Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II (a)(b) at 7:17 PM.  Mr. Dalessio seconded. With Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 7:52 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.

Mrs. Hansson left the meeting during the Non-Public Session.

Town Clerk Office Closing for a few Days

The Town Clerk’s office will be open Monday, October 27th, but closed October 28th (Tuesday) –October 30th (Thursday) and November 3rd (Monday) – 4th (Tuesday).

Accounts Payable

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Accounts Payable Check Register totaling $186,663.11 dated 10/14/2025 including $62,297.40 payment to All States Construction for paving.  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 $35,739.16 dated 10/10/2025 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $7,007.88.  Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved. 

Selectboard Meeting Minutes

Selectboard Meeting – October 1, 2025: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of October 1, 2025. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Non-Public Selectboard Meeting – October 1, 2025: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard meeting of October 1, 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.

Building Permit

2025-34, Map and Lot# 008-008-000: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve Building Permit #2025-34 for Map and Lot # 008-008-000 to construct a 10’ x 12’ shed. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio.  With Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

2025-35, Map and Lot# 025-016-000: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve Building Permit #2025-35 for Map and Lot # 025-016-000 to construct a 462.5 square foot roof mount solar array. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. With Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.  Text has been added to the permit stating the Town takes no responsibility regarding the availability of connection to the electrical grid. The Town has been told by several contacts that new solar systems cannot be added to net metering.

Old Business

Arcomm Phone Installation Proposal: Arcomm will charge $2,520 to disconnect the analog service, install phones, configure the new VOIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol) system, named GoTo, and train users in eight Departments.  It is estimated the monthly savings will be $850.  Ms. Mayberry moved to accept the proposal from Arcomm, sign the Arcomm contract, and sign Purchase Order #544093 for $2,520.00 (half to be paid when contract is signed with the remainder due on project completion).  Mr. Dalessio seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion passed, and the contract and purchase order were signed.

Reservoir Dam Online Meeting: Mr. Dalessio updated the Board on the online meeting 10/3/2025 with Walpole, DES, and Fuss and O’Neill.  There is not enough time or money to get the whole project done. Therefore, DES recommends using this contract to get permitting in place.  Permits are good for five years.  Walpole will need to get another grant to implement the changes to the dam.  

High Street Bridge: Ms. Mayberry reported that there will be a meeting with FEMA on Friday, October 17th at the High Street Bridge to discuss repairing the bottom of the culvert rather than replacing the whole bridge.  This proposal would save a lot of money and give the bridge an additional ten to twenty years of life.

New Business

Recycling Trailer and Container Repairs: Recycling would like to repair the trailer and container needed for storage.  Ms. Hakey reported that there would be no charge for the repair, and it would be completed with help from the Highway Department.  They have a metal plate that can be placed over the hole in the floor so it can still be used for storage.  By consensus, the Board agreed to moving forward with the project.

Recycling Replacement 40-Yard Roll-off Container: The dumpster used for metal recycling is in bad condition.  Mrs. Hakey has received two quotes. Mr. Dalessio requested that Ms. Hakey shop around for a dumpster of heavy construction and try to buy it from a manufacturer.  Ms. Vose will work with Ms. Hakey to go through the process of looking at the budget to determine if the money is available this year or if it needs to wait.  They will need the 2025 actual financial data to know what is available at this point in the year and possibly move money to the correct account line to cover the expense.

Reservoir Dam ARPA Grant Reimbursement Requests: There are two requests, $10,935 and $8,000, related to dam and wetlands permits.  The cost for each is reimbursable through the ARPA grant.  Ms. Mayberry moved to approve and sign both ARPA grant reimbursement requests.  Mr. Dalessio seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion passed, and Mr. Dalessio signed the reimbursement requests.

Houghton Brook Bridge Update: Mr. Dalessio explained that the Houghton Brook Dridge is now on the State’s ten-year plan.  Payments for overdue invoices are being sent to Fuss and O’Neill. 

HealthTrust Risk Pool Update: HealthTrust is a non-assessable risk pool.  Mr. Dalessio acknowledged receipt of the information.

Veterans’ Tax Credit RSA Change: Due to a change in the RSA, a warrant article will be required to maintain the current combined credit amount in Walpole.  Currently, the State allows the stacking of the $500 for Veterans Tax Credit with the $1,400 allowed for a 100% disabled veteran.  The new RSA does not permit stacking. To maintain the overall credit, The Town will need a warrant to change to $500 for veterans or $1,900 for those who are totally disabled.  Mrs. Downing will work on this.

North Walpole Commissioners Letter to Forest Street Resident: Residents on Forest Street are parking in the Class VI portion of the road and blocking access.  This is illegal and a safety risk if fire and/or rescue vehicles need to access any of the properties on that section of Fall Mountain.

NHMA Conference: Mrs. Downing is planning to attend the conference in November.

Adjournment: Mr. Dalessio declared the meeting adjourned at 8:14 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

(Note: These are unapproved Minutes. Corrections will be found in the Minutes of the October 15, 2025 Selectboard meeting.)

Police Building Committee Meeting Minutes – 10/8/25

Police Building Committee 10/14/2025 Leave a comment

Police Station Building Committee Minutes

October 8, 2025

Peggy Pschirrer called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. in the office of the Selectboard.  Present were Trevor MacLachlan, Andrew Dey and Chief Justin Sanctuary who join the group at 7:00 p.m.   Robin Sanctuary was present as a guest. Absent were David Adams, Jay Punt, Cheri Watson and Steve Dalessio.

Ms. Sanctuary presented plans for a potential fundraiser for the police Building Committee. Rod Bourchard and his wife Cindy have been working with Ms. Sanctuary.  She has received permission from The Savings Bank of Walpole and the widow of Howard Hiill to copy a painting named “Westminster Street” painted by Mr. Hill in 1992, to be raffled by the committee to start a fund for the future police station.  The painting has been copied on canvas and framed.  Raffle Tickets would sell for $10.00 per ticket or 3 tickets for $25.00.  The drawing for the painting would be held in mid-December.

Ms. Sanctuary also has smaller prints on canvas which could sell for $250.00.  She also has a copy of the painting Mr. Hill did of Walpole Town Hall which she can sell for $130.00 if on canvas or $40.00 if on paper.  

The Committee present approved Ms. Sanctuary’s proposal and agreed to help promote this raffle.

The Raffle will be announced in the Clarion and the painting displayed in several locations.

Donations to the Town of Walpole for the new police station are tax deductible. 

The Committee agreed to hold the RFPs for architects to produce construction drawings until the beginning of 2026.  The Committee also discussed the need for an Owner’s representative and a Construction Manager.

It is important that we hold another public meeting to highlight the fact that the new building is a category 4 building, a life safety building which has higher standards.  Unlike a personal house, this building has requirements demands safety features particular to police buildings. Evidence rooms must be secure. Holding rooms are soundproof.  There must be safe air handlers and bullet proof windows and doors.

The Training room will be available for meetings related to crime prevention, or community endangerment such as home security, neighborhood watch groups, crimes against the elderly, fraud detection or reports on local incidents.  

The next meeting of the Police Building Committee will be November 6, 2025, at 6:30 in the Selectboard office.

Conservation Commission Minutes – 10/6/25

CONSERVATION COMMISSION 10/12/2025 Leave a comment

Town of Walpole, New Hampshire

Conservation Commission

October 6, 2025

(Note: These are unapproved Minutes. Corrections will be found in the Minutes of the November 3, 2025 Conservation Commission meeting.)

Members Present: Nicole Adams, Wendy Grossman, Paul Happ, France Menk, Peter Palmiotto (Cochair & Presiding)

Alternates Present: Tom Beaudry

Members Absent: John Peska (Cochair), Lewis Shelley, Carolyn Vose (Selectboard Rep), Hale Morrell

Visitors Present:  Steve Dalessio, Andrew Dey, Greta Drager

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

Seating of Alternates: A quorum was present, so no Alternates were needed.

Review and Approval of Minutes

Paul moved to accept the September 8, 2025 minutes as written. Nicole seconded and all voted in favor. The motion carried.

Public Business

Financial Report:  Conservation $281,421.08

Forestry $53,321.98

Correspondence: Wetland permit and maps; Conservation District Meeting invitation

The following item was moved to the top of the agenda to accommodate a guest who wished to speak to this item.

Reservoir Dam

Steve Dalessio reported that because of the change to the dam rating from low to high priority and rule changes, we now need to prepare for a thousand-year flood, but we are running out of time to do the work before the ARPA money disappears.  DES recommends changing the work scope for the ARPA grant to permitting only.  The remaining funds would be returned to ARPA. Then Walpole gets a new grant for the implementation.  DES assures us here are grants available.  Walpole should have information tomorrow from the meeting last Friday.  Then we will request a meeting with only DES and Walpole to determine where we really stand.  If we keep the dam, the first step would be a new spillway and to line the existing culvert that is rotted out.  That would keep the Town safe.  Walpole is very disappointed with Fuss & O’Neill, but the permits we are getting with the ARPA grants are good for five years.  The good news is that no Town money was lost on the project and now we have more time and options to decide what we should do.

New Business

Hooper Institute Leadership Introductions: Peter introduced Greta Drager, the Executive Director.  She would like the Conservation Commission’s thoughts and perspectives on Hooper Forest as Hooper Institute looks for new ways to utilize the Hooper Forest for classes, walking trails, etc. It was suggested she talk to the Trail Committee and Lew Shelley.  George Gowdy was not available tonight but the classes in the school are varied and going very well.  The Hooper Institute grand reopening will be October 18th at 12-2:00.  Now that the building can be used year-round, they are considering classes for upstairs and in the kitchen, February vacation camp, adult programming, …  Greta is open to suggestions.

There was a discussion about the dam.  Water was pumped to irrigate the golf course this summer, but they can only take water down to a certain level for irrigation.  We need an update on the Cranberry dam permit and cleanup project that was discussed earlier this year.

Easement Monitoring: We need to monitor four Town easements – Wendy has done three and will do them again.   Wendy cannot do 4th one because she lives there.  There are eight properties which Monadnock Conservancy monitors and a new person monitored a couple easements recently.  It was suggested that with a new manager in place at Monadnock Conservancy, it might be a good time to request more feedback when properties are monitored, and a week’s notice prior to monitoring so someone from the Conservation Commission can go along and learn.  We need a plan for monitoring all the properties we are responsible for.  Peter will call a meeting to develop a monitoring plan.

Derry Hill Road – Class VI Road Status: It was observed that work is being done on Derry Hill Road, the Class VI portion.  The work was not sanctioned by Walpole.  The road is being flattened, and saplings are being pushed back to widen the road.  The work continues from the beginning of the Class VI section past the field.

Old Business

Gateway Management – Invasive Control: Zack at Longview recommends doing more treatment in the future.  The Conservation Commission will check in the spring to determine what is needed.

Fanny Mason Forest Management: Peter is planning to meet with Alex Barrett from Longview this fall to discuss the Fanny Mason Forest project.

Tree Planting – October 19, 2025, 1:00 – 3:00 pm: There will be five trees planted on the west side of the Common.  In the spring an additional five trees will be planted.   

Trail Committee

Updates: The Trail Committee will remove fallen trees across trails until winter, and during the workday on November 8th they will be doing the Rail Trail ditches.  During the winter, the Hooper Hill Hoppers maintain the trails.  The NH Bureau of Trails repaired two bridges on the northern end of the Rail Trail at their expense and with their own labor.  We appreciate the help and having safe bridges once again.

The Rail Trail Maintenance agreement was reviewed by the Town Attorney and approved by the Selectboard.  This is not a replacement for the annual request to brush hog the Rail Trail – it is a long-term commitment and an opportunity for the Town.  Now we need to submit a work plan by the end of the year.  We have requested guidance on creating a work plan since this will be our first one.  Wendy is leading the development of the work plan and will seek input from Lew and the Trail Committee.

Other Business and Updates

Hooper Institute Board: No update, but the Hooper Board meets tomorrow night.

Next Meeting – November 3, 2025

Adjournment: Paul moved the meeting be adjourned.  France seconded. Peter declared the meeting adjourned at 8:10 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary