Tag Archives: Meeting Minutes

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

Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 10/1/25

Uncategorized 10/11/2025 Leave a comment

Town of Walpole, New Hampshire

Meeting of the Selectboard

October 1, 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 6:30 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.

PAYROLL

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Payroll Register totaling $34,435.30 dated 10/3/2025 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $6,575.05.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, Payroll was approved. 

Selectboard Meeting Minutes

Selectboard Meeting – September 25, 2025: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of September 25, 2025.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Selectboard minutes were approved.

Non-Public Selectboard Meeting – September 25, 2025: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard meeting of September 25, 2025.  The minutes will remain sealed.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Non-Public minutes were approved and remain sealed.

Unsealing of Portion of Selectboard Non-Public Session – Part 1 for September 17, 2025: Ms. Mayberry moved to unseal the 9 Academy Lane LLC portion of the Minutes of Part 1 of the Non-Public Selectboard meeting of September 17, 2025.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the 9 Academy portion of the September 17, 2025 Non-Public minutes Part 1 was unsealed.

Committee Reports

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

  • North Walpole Village Commissioners Meeting Minutes – August 26, 2025
  • North Walpole Village Commissioners Meeting Minutes – September 9, 2025

Mr. Dalessio acknowledged these minutes.

Old Business

CCI Authorization Release Form: Because the Town is moving forward with a VOIP phone system, the chair can sign the release form.  Arcomm is working on a revised quote to include multiple Town departments. Ms. Mayberry moved to have the Chair sign the CCI Authorization Release Form allowing Arcomm to access phone history.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion carried, and Mr. Dalessio signed the form.

Reservoir Dam Online Meeting: An online meeting is set for Friday, October 3, 2025 at 9:00 AM.  Steve Dalessio and John Peska plan to attend for Walpole.  Fuss & O’Neill and DES will also attend.

New Business

NH Association of Assessing Officials Ballot: Ms. Vose moved to vote for selected candidates.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Ms. Vose, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.   Mr. Dalessio signed the form.   

Two Registered Notices for Groundwater Management Permit: Once the notice forms are signed, they will be sent to the Registry of Deeds to be registered.  Ms. Mayberry moved to approve and sign the two notices for the Groundwater Management permit.  Seconded by Ms. Vose.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved, and the forms were signed.

Use of Whitcomb Area Parking Lot: The Walpole School has asked to use the Whitcomb Area Parking lot for the Touch a Truck event on Saturday, October 4th, which is part of the Fall Festival.  Ms. Vose moved to approve use of the parking lot for Touch a Truck.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Ms. Vose, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Education Tax Warrant: The Education Tax Warrant for 2026 will be applied to next year’s overall property tax rate.  It will be $1.03 per thousand.  Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the 2026 Education Tax Warrant received from the State for $1.03 per thousand, down from $1.21 per thousand.  Seconded by Ms. Vose.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved, and the forms signed.

Fall Mountain Regional School District Leadership Update: FMRSD is moving to a leadership team model instead of a superintendent.  Mr. Dalessio acknowledged receipt of the letter informing the Town of the change. 

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

Ms. Mayberry moved to enter into Non-Public Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II (a)(c) at 6:57 PM.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 7:13 PM.

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

Hooper Trustees

Ms. Mayberry moved to enter into the Hooper Trustees meeting at 7:13 PM.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 7:27 PM.

ADJOURNMENT: Mr. Dalessio declared the meeting adjourned at 7:27 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

(Note: These are unapproved Minutes. Corrections will be found in the Minutes of the October 9, 2025 Selectboard meeting.)

Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 9/25/25

SELECTBOARD 10/04/2025 Leave a comment

Town of Walpole, New Hampshire

Meeting of the Selectboard

SEPTEMBER 25, 2025

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

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

Guests Present: David Joyce of Arcomm; Brad Nash, Maintenance Technician; Kara Dexter and Peter Dexter

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 the guests who wished to speak to the items.

PRESENTATION ON A NEW PHONE SYSTEM FOR TOWN HALL: David Joyce from Arcomm said that the Town can save money by switching from an analog phone system to a VOIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) communication system. Each analog line removed can save $50 per month.  With an analog system, there is a charge for each line. With VOIP, there is a charge for each published number (i.e. the numbers listed on the Town website, walpolenh.us).  The GoTo phone system offers online meetings, voicemail, text in meetings, voicemail to email, calls forwarded when away from office via GoTo app on a cell phone, etc.  Mr. Joyce explained that Arcomm works with Consolidated Communications (CCI). Arcomm would be the contact for all call and internet issues.  It would be $295 per month for the GoTo phone system for the Town Hall. The phones will be free of charge.  Headsets are available. Installation and training for the Town Hall would take about a day and cost $1,200. The Selectboard chose to convert all Town phones to allow employees access to all the features and allow for additional monthly cost savings. Mr. Joyce will do all the training. The Town needs to provide Mr. Joyce with the additional phone bills. Mr. Nash will verify internet to all sites.  Mr. Joyce will put together an updated quote.

Mr. Joyce left the meeting.

REQUEST FOR WRITTEN STATEMENT ON STATUS OF OLD ROADS: Jeremy Turner has requested a written statement on the status of old roads, particularly Scovill and Derry Hill Roads, which cross his property (Map # 006, Lots # 019, 020, and 021).  He also requests that the Selectboard view the current condition of the roads and woodlands firsthand.  The Selectboard agreed that there are no ATVs (All Terrain Vehicles) are permitted on Class VI roads. They recommended that Mr. Turner call NH Fish & Game to get this issue resolved.  Mr. Turner’s letter stated that ATVs are damaging roads and his forested property. By consensus, the Selectboard recommends that Mr. Turner, and anyone else who sees ATVs on Class VI roads, should call NH Fish & Game.  Property owners can put up game cameras. The emergency lane portion of Derry Hill Road must be maintained by the Town. The Road Agent, Mike Symonds, needs to check the condition of the emergency lane.

Peter and Kara Dexter left the meeting.

TOWN HALL FOLDING CHAIRS COLOR CHOICE: There were 3 suggested color combo options.  The Town Hall staff recommendation is black pads with silver frames.  By consensus, the Selectboard decided to go with the staff recommendation.

Mr. Nash left the meeting.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Accounts Payable Check Register totaling $903,625.97 dated 9/29/2025 including $804,108.98 monthly payment to Fall Mountain Regional School District. Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Accounts Payable was approved. 

PAYROLL

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Payroll Register totaling $34,394.18 dated 9/26/2025 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $6,732.92.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the payroll was approved. 

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES

Selectboard Meeting – September 17, 2025: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of September 17, 2025.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Selectboard minutes were approved.

Non-Public Selectboard Meeting Part 1 – September 17, 2025: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard meeting Part 1 of September 17, 2025.  The minutes will remain sealed.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Non-Public Part 1 minutes were approved and remain sealed.

Non-Public Selectboard Meeting Part 2 – September 17, 2025: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard meeting Part 2 of September 17, 2025.  The minutes will remain sealed.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Non-Public Part 2 minutes were approved and remain sealed.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

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

  • Trail Committee Meeting Minutes – September 10, 2025
  • Zoning Board of Adjustment Meeting Minutes – September 17, 2025
  • Supervisors of the Checklist Meeting Minutes – September 23, 2025

Mr. Dalessio acknowledged these minutes.

Timber Yield Taxes Assessed and Warrant

Op # 25-461-01, Map and Lot # 011-012-000: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the taxes assessed and warrant for $4,682.21. Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Property Tax Refunds

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Property Tax Refund for Map and Lot # 030-065-000 of $6.08 due to overpayment of spring 2025 taxes.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Timber Intents

Map and Lot # 006-019-000, 006-020-000 and 006-021-000: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Timber Intent for Map and Lot # 006-019-000, 006-020-000, and 006-021-000, with access from Proctor Road in Surry.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Building Permits

2025-29, Map and Lot# 001-015-008: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve Building Permit #2025-29 for Map and Lot # 001-015-008 to construct a home, attached garage and deck with a total of 2,314 square feet. Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

2025-30, Map and Lot# 003-007-001: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve Building Permit #2025-30 for Map and Lot # 003-007-001 to add a 298 square foot sunroom. Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

2025-31, Map and Lot# 001-008-000: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve Building Permit #2025-31 for Map and Lot # 001-008-000 to construct a 36’ x 32’ two-story home. Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

2025-32, Map and Lot# 009-003-000: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve Building Permit #2025-32 for Map and Lot # 009-003-000 to construct an 80’ x 32’ two-story barn. Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

2025-33, Map and Lot# 021-013-000: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve Building Permit #205-33 for Map and Lot # 021-013-000 to construct a 12’ x 10’ deck with exterior staircase. Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Old Business

Reservoir Dam Update: The application with payment was received at DES.  The Dam Bureau sent questions to Fuss & O’Neill related to the permit application. 

New Police Station: The sign was installed 9/20/2025 announcing the location of the new Police Station.

New Business

Cemetery Deeds: Ms. Vose moved to approve the sale of the Cemetery deed for Lots D591 and D592. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Ms. Vose, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved, and the deeds were signed.  Area D is officially sold out.  Area E is available for current lot sales. 

Recreation Center – Outdoor AED: The Whitcomb Recreation Area users requested an AED that is accessible when the pool is not open.  It will be mounted on the north side of the pool building at Whitcomb Park.  Ms. Vose moved to approve Purchase Order #665642 to AEDTeam.com for $1,195.00 for an outdoor AED cabinet that is weatherized and locked to ensure there will be an AED there when needed.  It will be purchased with a credit card and will be charged to the Park and Recreation Revolving Fund.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Ms. Vose, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Purchase Order was approved and signed. 

PFA Health Insurance Proposal: The Baldwin Group insurance rep asked to present a PFA medical insurance proposal at next Wednesday’s Selectboard Meeting via MS Teams.  By consensus, the Selectboard agreed they were not interested in the presentation. The Board felt that the plan was not a good fit for Town employees. The plan had some positive benefits, but there were several negative elements to consider.

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 7:36 PM.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 7:57 PM.

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

ADJOURNMENT: Mr. Dalessio declared the meeting adjourned at 7:57 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

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

Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 9/17/25

SELECTBOARD 09/27/2025 Leave a comment

Town of Walpole, New Hampshire

Meeting of the Selectboard

September 17, 2025

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

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

Guests Present: Andrew Pollock and Jeff Miller, Chair of the Planning Board

CALL TO ORDER: Mr. Dalessio called the Selectboard meeting to order at 6:31 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 (a)(b)(c) at 6:32 PM.  Mr. Dalessio seconded.  With Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 7:23 PM.

Mr. Miller and Mr. Pollock left during the Non-Public meeting.

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.

PAYROLL

Ms. Vose moved to approve the Payroll Register totaling $36,321.18 dated 9/19/2025 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $7,006.96.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Ms. Vose, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Payroll was approved. 

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES

Selectboard Meeting – September 11, 2025: Ms. Vose moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of September 11, 2025.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Ms. Vose, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Selectboard minutes were approved.

Non-Public Selectboard Meeting – September 11, 2025: Ms. Vose moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard meeting of September 11, 2025.  The minutes will remain sealed.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Ms. Vose, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Non-Public minutes were approved.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

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

  • Conservation Commission Meeting Minutes – September 8, 2025
  • Library Trustee Meeting Minutes – September 9, 2025
  • Planning Board Meeting Minutes – September 9, 2025

Mr. Dalessio acknowledged these minutes.

OLD BUSINESS

Trail Maintenance Agreement: Ms. Vose moved for the Chair to sign and initial all the pages of the Trail Maintenance Agreement.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Ms. Vose, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion passed, and Mr. Dalessio signed the first page and initialed all the other pages. 

NEW BUSINESS

Junkyard Permit: Ms. Vose moved to approve the annual renewal for E.W. Salvage dated 9/17/2025 to continue operating the junkyard.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Ms. Vose, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved, and the permit was signed.

Building Permit Question: Does the new picnic pavilion at Alyson’s Orchard require a Site Plan Review and/or a building permit?  The Selectboard noted that when the Walpole School built a similar pavilion, they needed a building permit. Therefore, the rule applies to Alyson’s Orchard also.  Mrs. Downing will let them know.  On Facebook, the pavilion is already in use.

Recreation Department Update: Ms. Vose reported that over the past year, Mr. Wilkes has worked an average of 16 hours per week.  Mr. Wilkes has been receiving emails asking for an AED near the pickleball courts. He is checking with Mark Houghton about an outdoor AED and a recommended location near the tennis and pickleball courts.

Phone System for Town Hall: David Joyce from Arcomm, would like to explain the change from copper lines with analog phones to an Internet-based phone system to the Selectboard.  Arcomm installed and maintains the key car lock system for Town Hall. Mr. Joyce will explain the challenges that will be encountered when making the change to a new phone system. The Selectboard wants to know the total cost and the potential monthly savings.  Mr. Joyce will be present at 6:30 PM on 9/25/2025 to meet with the Selectboard.

Town Hall Folding Chairs: Mrs. Downing reported that there should be excess funds in the Municipal budget.  She asked the Selectboard if a set of 25 chairs can be purchased for the Town Hall.  These are the same chairs the Fire Department has.  By consensus, the Selectboard approved the plan to get a cart and 25 chairs.

10-Year Transportation Plan Meeting: The meeting is scheduled for September 22nd at the Keene Recreation Center. Lucy Weber cannot attend. NH needs to cut $14,000,0000 [Editor’s Note: It’s unclear what this figure is supposed to be, so I’m publishing it exactly as it appears in the draft minutes.] from its budget.  The Vilas Bridge shifted out to 2032, but it is still on the 10-Year Plan. An alternative date for the meeting is October 22nd in Peterborough.  The current 10 Year Plan includes fixing Rt. 12 in Charlestown.  Ms. Mayberry will draft a letter and emphasize the importance of the Vilas Bridge repairs. She will send it to Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Vose for comments before sending it to the State.

SWRPC Fall Meeting:  The meeting is scheduled for October 14th with the social hour at 5:00 PM with the program to begin at 5:30 PM in the Keene Library.  The program will discuss the flood management program.

HOOPER TRUSTEES

Ms. Vose moved to enter into the Hooper Trustees meeting at 8:02 PM.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Ms. Vose, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 8:21 PM.

NON-PUBLIC BUSINESS RSA 91-A:3 II (b) – Part 2

Ms. Vose moved to re-enter into Non-Public Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II (b) at 8:21 PM.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Ms. Vose, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 8:51 PM.

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

ADJOURNMENT: Mr. Dalessio declared the meeting adjourned at 8:51 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

(Note: These are unapproved Minutes. Corrections will be found in the Minutes of the September 25, 2025 Selectboard meeting.)

Zoning Board Meeting Minutes – 9/17/25

ZONING BOARD 09/22/2025 Leave a comment

Zoning Board of Adjustment

September 17, 2025

Town Hall

7 pm

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

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

Call to Order: Mr. Murray called the meeting to order at 7pm. Mr. Murray asked alternate Don Sellarole to fill in for the absent board member. He agreed. Mr. Edkins came in at 7:15 pm.

Review minutes of August 2025: Mr. O’Keefe pointed out that the August minutes didn’t have any approval. The secretary looked back at the August minutes and found that Mr. O’Keefe made a motion to approve the July minutes as amended. Mr. Edkins seconded the motion and the motion carried.

Regarding the August minutes, besides Mr. O’Keefe’s correction Ms. Barnes pointed out three typos. Mr. O’Keefe made a motion to approve the minutes as amended. Mr. Sommer seconded the motion and the motion carried.

New Business:

Kristen Burke, 68 Cold River Road, Tax Map 26. Lot 24, Rural/Ag. Add a 19-foot-by-foot-14 deck to the back of the house. The ordinance says he must put the deck 65 feet from the middle of the road which is in the front of the house. She said it was 55 feet. 

Kristen Burke came to the meeting. She said she went to the Town Offices for a building permit to add a deck to her house on Cold River Road. She was told to contact the Administrative Zoning Coordinator, Ernie Vose. He suggested going to the town web site for an application. She had filled out an application for an Appeal From an Administrative Decision. That application is for an appeal of a decision already made and was not the correct form.

Ms. Barnes asked about the age of the house. Ms. Burke said it was built in the 1940s. This meant it was a nonconforming. There was a long discussion about Article X in the Walpole Zoning Ordinances document about nonconforming uses. There were five suggestions about possibilities of things to do. As an example item “D” says “A nonconforming use may be expanded or enlarged or changed to another nonconforming use after the Board of Adjustment determines, after a public hearing, that the proposed expansion, enlargement or change will not materially increase the hazard or nuisance value of the nonconformity.”

After several minutes of discussion on nonconforming uses, it was decided to follow the Administrative Zoning Coordinator’s advice. In an email Mr. Vose wrote:

“The problem is that the deck will be on the back of the house and doesn’t change the set back from the street.

“As long as the deck isn’t too close to the rear boundary line

“”I think that a (building) permit should be granted.”

Ms. Burke has about three acres of property behind the house.

It was suggested that Ms. Burke go to a Select Board meeting next week and explain the situation and ask them for a building permit. 

Discussion of MG Building/Abingdon Spares property on South Street.

There was some talk about this property at the September Planning Board meeting and Mr. Murray said he has heard some some talk about possible buyers. Mr. Murray wanted to remind the Board that this property received a variance that had three conditions and that the conditions go with the property. The conditions were: 

1. That only the mail order business be conducted at the above location.

2. Only the existing building be utilized.

3. All business operations be conducted within the interior of the building.

Owners were Doris and Gerard Gougen. They obtained a variance from the Board of Adjustments on March 1980 to conduct a motor car parts mail order business from their premises. The property is located in Residential B district. The use was “Pick and Pack,” a mail order for auto parts. The original use of the building was a chicken coop. The minutes of that meeting say that before zoning the land was categorized as commercial. 

Adjournment

Mr. O’Keefe made a motion to adjourn. Mr. Edkins seconded the motion and the motion carried. The time was 8:50 pm.

Respectfully submitted,

Marilou Blaine