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Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 6/18/26

SELECTBOARD 06/26/2026 Leave a comment

Town of Walpole, New Hampshire

Meeting of the Selectboard

June 18, 2026

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

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

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

Accounts Payable

Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Accounts Payable Check Register totaling $63,369.14 dated 6/22/2026. Ms. Vose seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Vose in favor, the Accounts Payable was approved. 

Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the ACH request for May 2026 payment to NHRS of $45,079.67. Ms. Vose seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Vose in favor, the Accounts Payable was approved. 

Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Primex yearly payment of $72,042.00 for property and liability. Ms. Vose seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Vose in favor, the Accounts Payable was approved. 

Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Primex yearly payment of $49,556.00 for Workers’ Compensation coverage. Ms. Vose seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Vose in favor, the Accounts Payable was approved. 

Payroll

Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Payroll Register totaling $35,082.10 dated 6/19/2026 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $6,558.72.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Vose in favor, Payroll was approved. 

Selectboard Meeting Minutes

Selectboard Meeting – June 11, 2026: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of June 11, 2026. Ms. Vose seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Vose in favor, the Selectboard minutes were approved.

Non-Public Selectboard Meeting – June 11, 2026: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard meeting of June 11, 2026.  The minutes will remain sealed.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Vose in favor, the Non-Public minutes were approved.

Ms. Mayberry arrived at the meeting.

Committee Reports

Mr. Dalessio brought to the chair’s attention the following committee reports:

  • Walpole Fire District Meeting – February 11, 2026
  • Walpole Fire District Meeting – March 11, 2026
  • Walpole Fire District Meeting – April 1, 2026
  • Trail Committee Meeting – May 13, 2026
  • Supervisors of the Checklist – June 2, 2026
  • Library Board of Trustees Meeting – June 9, 2026
  • Planning Board Meeting – June 9, 2026

Ms. Vose acknowledged these minutes.

Land Use Change Tax

Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Land Use Change Tax for the following property: Map and Lot # 011-001-002 in the amount of $15,000.00.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Land Use Change Tax for the following property: Map and Lot # 029-019-000 in the amount of $1,400.00.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, the motion was approved.

Solar Tax Credit:

Map and Lot #005-002-010: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Solar Property Tax Credit for Map and Lot# 005-002-010. The approval was delayed because assessor had to visit the property.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor,  the motion was approved.

Timber Intents

Map and Lot 005-057-000: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Timber Intent for Map and Lot # 005-057-000, off Watkins Hill Road.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor,  the motion was approved.

Building/Demolition Permits

20264-18, Map and Lot# 020-011-000: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve Demolition Permit #2026-18 for Map and Lot # 020-011-000 to demolish the existing metal building. Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, the motion was approved.

Old Business

Public Hearings – Potential Hearing Date: The Public Hearings for the Police Station bond and budget will be July 1, 2026.  By consensus, in case of bad weather, the hearing will be postponed to July 9, 2026 at 6:00 PM. 

160 Prospect Hill Road Letter: There is a building permit violation on this property.  The standard fine of $275 for building without a permit will be assessed. For now, no daily penalty will be added since they are addressing the issue.

Water and Sewer Utility Meeting – New Date: July 15th or 22nd have been suggested for the Water and Sewer Utility Meeting.  Mrs. Downing will check with Mark Houghton.

North Walpole School Draft Future Use Plans: Mr. Dalessio said this is the plan required by the State.  It indicates what the School Board’s thoughts are about possible use of the building.

New Business

May 2026 Landfill Monitoring Report: Two monitoring wells had levels of 62% and 156% LEL, which is consistent with historical data.  Ms. Vose acknowledged the report.

North Walpole Commissions Request to Meet with the Selectboard: The North Walpole Village Commissioners have requested a meeting with the Selectboard on Thursday, June 25th to discuss the North Walpole School.  That meeting time is good with the Selectboard.

Town Hall Folding Chairs and Outside Use: The Grange would like to use the chairs from Town Hall for Award Night on the Common, weather permitting.  By consensus, the Selectboard agrees to the use because it benefits the whole community.

Town Common Use on August 23rd: The River Valley Church would like to have Bluegrass and other entertainment on the Common on August 23rd.  By consensus the church may go ahead with their event as long as there is no bouncy house on Town property.

HCS Pricing Comment from a Citizen: A resident is concerned with the increase in the cost of the Foot Care Clinics.  It was observed that it seems to be what is happening everywhere.  The Selectboard does not dictate Home Healthcare, Hospice and Community Services (HCS) prices.  Ms. Vose acknowledged the resident’s concern.

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

Mr. Dalessio moved to enter into Non-Public Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II (b) at 7:04 PM.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 7:17 PM.

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

Hooper Trustees

Mr. Dalessio moved to enter into the Hooper Trustees meeting at 7:17 PM.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 7:39 PM.  

Mr. Dalessio spoke to the Walpole Seniors meeting on Monday at the Congregational Church.  They had a lot of questions about things in Walpole. He felt it was a very good discussion.

Adjournment: Ms. Vose declared the meeting adjourned at 7:43 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

(Note: These are unapproved Minutes. Corrections will be found in the Minutes of the June 25, 2026 Selectboard meeting.)

Zoning Board Meeting Minutes – 6/17/26

ZONING BOARD 06/24/2026 Leave a comment

Walpole Zoning Board of Adjustment

Wednesday, June 17, 2026

Town Hall

7 pm

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

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

Others in attendance: Zoning Coordinator Ernie Vose, and residents Ryan and Amy Royce, Rosemarie Patch, and Mark McGuirk.

Call to Order: Mr. Murray called the meeting to order at 7:04 pm. Mr. Sellerole was asked to participate as a regular Board member in Mr. Sommers’ absence, to which he agreed.

Review of Minutes of May 20, 2026: The Board members briefly discussed the minutes of the previous meeting. Mr. O’Keefe moved to approve the Board minutes of the May 2026 meeting as presented. Mr. Edkins seconded the motion, and the motion passed unanimously.

Other Business:

Variance Proposal

Ms. Patch inquired about the need for a variance to applicable building setbacks for an existing structure located at 160 Prospect Hill. Mr. Vose and Board members discussed with Ms. Patch the variance application process, noting that the next board meeting is scheduled for July 22, 2026 and that a variance can be considered at that time if the required application is submitted soon enough to meet public notice requirements. She thanked the Board members and left the meeting at 7:14 pm.

Public Hearing – Variance request regarding property at 16 Short Lane

Ryan and Amy Royce presented their application for a variance from the applicable 20-foot side yard setback specified in Zoning Ordinance Article 5, Section D2 in order to construct a new 2-car garage, measuring 24’ X 24’. They explained that given the configuration of the existing structures and topography of the site, in particular a slope that prevents construction near the home and outside the required setback, construction of the accessory structure would require significant and expensive site work. The proposed structure would be as close as 10-feet from the side lot line, while 20-feet is required.

It was confirmed by Mr. Murray that all required public notice of the hearing had been given, including to all abutters. It was noted that that there were no abutting property owners present at the meeting to provide testimony.

There was extensive discussion about the proposal and the conditions of the property. Ms. Barnes reviewed in detail each of the variance criteria specified under RSA 674:33 and as set forth in the variance application by the applicants. Each of the criteria were discussed by the Board.

With no further presentation or questions, Mr. Murray closed the public hearing.

Mr. Murray noted that the proposed structure would not be obstructing access or views and therefore not create any safety issues for others. My Sellerole mentioned that the Zoning Ordinance had building setback requirements for a reason and they are important to establish clearance between structures, but less of an issue in remote areas such as this. Ms. Barnes concurred that setbacks are less important in rural settings.

Mr. Edkins moved that the application as presented meets the 5 criteria for the granting of the variance and therefore it shall be approved. Mr. O’Keefe seconded the motion, and the motion passed unanimously.

Mr. Murray stated that he would draft written findings of fact and a notice of decision. Mr. Edkins noted that there is a 30-day appeal period and that the applicant is at risk if construction begins before that period tolls and an appeal is filed.

At the suggestion of Board members, Mr. Royce amended the sketch plan for his application by drawing in the slope locations.

The Royces thanked the Board members and left the meeting at 7:45 pm.

Other Business:

General Inquiry

Mark McGuirk inquired about whether a seasonal camper can be located on property temporarily in a rural agricultural zone. The Board members suggested that he confer with Ernie Vose and the Selectboard to get an answer on this question.

Planning Board workshop

Mr. Murray noted that the Planning Commission and Zoning Board would be holding a workshop on potential Zoning Ordinance language regarding family-based childcare use of property on the evening of June 23, 2026. O’Keefe and Edkins noted that they would be unable to attend.

Recording Secretary

Mr. Edkins mentioned he noticed that the Selectboard was seeking a recording secretary and wondered whether the ZBA can jump in on this effort to handle its meeting minutes as well. He agreed to connect with the Selectboard office on this. Mr. O’Keefe agreed to write up the minutes for this meeting.

Applications

There was a brief discussion on receipt of application materials ahead of meetings, and it was noted that the variance application reviewed at this meeting had been forwarded about a week ahead of time.

Adjournment

Mr. Edkins made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Ms. Barnes seconded the motion, and the motion passed unanimously. The time was 7:55 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Shane O’Keefe, ZBA Member

Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 6/11/26

SELECTBOARD 06/20/2026 Leave a comment

Town of Walpole, New Hampshire

Meeting of the Selectboard

June 11, 2026

Selectboard Present: Carolyn Vose, Chair, Cheryl Mayberry (arrived late), and Steven Dalessio

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

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

Accounts Payable – combine

Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Accounts Payable Check Register totaling $211,000.00 dated 6/15/2026 and the ACH Payment to Fall Mountain Regional School District of $583,655.19 for June. Ms. Vose seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Vose in favor, the Accounts Payable was approved. 

Payroll

Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Payroll Register totaling $37,651.41 dated 6/12/2026 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $6,974.04.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Vose in favor, Payroll was approved. 

Selectboard Meeting Minutes

Selectboard Meeting – June 4, 2026: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of June 4, 2026. Ms. Vose seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Vose in favor, the Selectboard minutes were approved.

Non-Public Selectboard Meeting – June 4, 2026: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard meeting of June 4, 2026.  The minutes will remain sealed.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Vose in favor, the Non-Public minutes were approved.

Land Use Change Tax

Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Land Use Change Tax for Map and Lot #003-001-002 in the amount of $11,250.00.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Vose in favor, the motion was approved.  

Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Land Use Change Tax for Map and Lot # 005-043-002 in the amount of $23,750.00.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Vose in favor, the motion was approved.  

Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Land Use Change Tax for Map and Lot # 010-024-002-2 in the amount of $36,850.00.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Vose in favor, the motion was approved.  

The first $25,000 in Land Use Change Tax each year is transferred to the Conservation Commission Fund. The remainder remains in the Town’s General Fund.

Building/Demolition Permits

2026-17, Map and Lot# 005-044-000: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve Building Permit #2026-17 for Map and Lot # 005-044-000 to construct a 26’ x 10’ shed attached to a garage and add a 531 square foot roof mount solar array on the garage. Ms. Vose seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Vose in favor, the motion was approved.

Ms. Mayberry entered the meeting.

2026-14, Map and Lot# 003-032-000: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve Building Permit #2026-14 for Map and Lot # 003-032-000 to construct a 33’ x 47’ garage with studio. However, it must be noted on the Building Permit, “This building does not qualify as a detached accessory dwelling unit” because  it does not meet the zoning code definition for such a building.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, the motion was approved.

Old Business

Special Town Meeting: The official court order arrived this week for the Special Town Meeting scheduled for August 17th at 7:00 PM.  The purpose of the meeting is to vote on a bond to build the new Police Station. Today the Town also received a checklist of tasks for the special meeting.

2024 Financial Audit: The audit is not yet complete.  The Town is expecting the final results soon.

2026 Petition Warrant Articles: A link with Statewide results for the 2026 petition warrant articles was sent to the Selectboard. The Board acknowledged receipt of the link.

New Business

Employee Resignation: Sue Bauer submitted her resignation from the position of Recording Secretary for the Selectboard.  The Town will be looking for a new Recording Secretary.

Water–Sewer Meeting: The meeting scheduled for June 16th at 5:00 PM is being rescheduled because of a work-related conflict of a critical attendee. 

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

Mr. Dalessio moved to enter into Non-Public Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II (c) at 6:53 PM.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 7:06 PM.

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

Adjournment: Ms. Vose declared the meeting adjourned at 7:06 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

(Note: These are unapproved Minutes. Corrections will be found in the Minutes of the June 18, 2026 Selectboard meeting.)

Planning Board Meeting Minutes – 6/9/26

PLANNING BOARD 06/15/2026 Leave a comment

Walpole Planning Board Minutes

June 9, 2026

Town Hall

7pm

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

Call to order: Mr. Miller called the meeting to order at 7 pm. A full board was present so an alternate was not needed to fill in. As residents continued to trickle in, board members twice had to go to the basement for another rack of chairs. The actual meeting started about 10 to 15 minutes later.

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

Old Business:

Public Hearing No. 1: 

Site Plan Application: Hubbard Farms, Jim Wilson and Mark Houghton presenters. Enlarge building at 45 Hidden Acres Lane, Town Tax Map 4, Lot 3-5 in the Rural Agriculture District, Currently the existing building is 40 feet by 60 feet Proposed is an addition of a 35 feet by 35 feet. There are five parking spaces.

Mr. Houghton showed a picture of several buildings in a row on Hidden Acres Lane. The smallest one was the building that would be enlarged. It is used so personnel can shower before and after being in any of the buildings on the property. This is a safety precaution so personnel will not take in or leave with any possible contamination. Mr. Marcom made a motion to approve Mr. Houghton’s request. Mr. Harrington seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously.

Public Hearing: Continued from May.

Site Plan Application: Snowplow Sales Development, Brookside Real Estate LLC Mike and Levi Hubbard, 538 Main Street, Tax Map 12, Lot 58, Commercial District. This project includes a 3,360 square-foot office and a two-story 8,000 square-foot store for snowplows sale as well as small equipment and landscaping items. The store is in the timber frame style. A warehouse will be behind the store. There will be bins with various types of soil and mulch in them along one boundary line and two larger ones for sand and salt. They will host a landscaping business. John Noonan of Fieldstone Land Consultants made the presentation.

Mr. Noonan explained that the property is located on Main Street which intersects with Route 123/12 and Upper Walpole Road. It is 75.5 acres and located in the commercial district. Besides the two buildings there will be an outdoor display area on the left as one enters the property, parking spaces on three sides of the office and on the perimeter of the parking lot. The parking lot will be asphalt. There is a wetland area off to the south that will not be touched. However, they do need and are planning on getting an Alteration of Terrain permit from the state to deal with storm water. There is an infiltration basin at the east portion of the property. Trees will be placed at the entry way and along the eastern boundary line. There will also be shrubs and flowers around the office and parking lot. Instead of a private well on the property they have decided to hook up to the local water system that runs along the western side of Route 12. That means going under Route 12, all the lighting is dark sky compliant and down lit. They have received a driveway permit from NHDOT.

John Peska, co-chair of the Walpole Conservation Commission, read a letter about their concerns on environmental impacts. It says, “A significant concern due to the slope of the parcel, is the flow of storm water into Blanchard Brook, which borders the northern boundary of the parcel flowing west through the Malnati farm and directly into the Connecticut River. Both surface and underground water flow of storm water and/or industrial spill would contaminant a valuable waterway. … Development should be restricted to area within the established 200 foot width of commercial zoning. 

“The height of the lights, their intensity, and their color, should not disturb the night vision of passing drivers, nor should they attract insects, or impact migrating birds using the Connecticut River Valley flyway.

“To conserve the rural character of our town and overall quality of life, as stated in our 2006 conservation plan for protecting drinking water, wildlife habitat, and agricultural soils are our highest priorities…The State of New Hampshire has designated the soils of the parcel being proposed for development, of local importance.”

The rest of the meeting continued with residents discussing the driveway and their safety concerns. Ms. Pauline Barnes asked the Hubbard brothers to consider changing their minds about the location of the driveway. Others did the same. The flow of cars will be cars from three different directions. Those entering Route 12 from a slip of road that come from Main Street. Then there will be cars coming from both the south and north on Route 12. Those coming from the north will have to cross two lanes of traffic to enter the site.

Mr. Miller asked Mr. Levi Hubbard how much traffic he expected. Mr. Hubbard replied there would be 15 employee cars or trucks and from 10 to 50 cars daily depending on the season.

Hank Shedd said the placement of the driveway is a challenge for drivers. They have several places to look. If a driver is coming from the slip he has to look in his rear vision mirror to check for cars coming from the south as well be aware of anyone in front of him as well as anyone turning from the northern lane to see if anyone is going to cross two lanes to enter the site. Mr. Matthias Gohl said the cars entering from the slip seem to pose the biggest problem. He could envision rear end collisions. He suggested that maybe the town should be looking at fixing that problem. The sentiment of these two people was repeated over and over.

Mr. Miller explained that he had contacted the NH Municipal Association about the matter of the driveway cut and the that the board had a problem concerning the safety of drivers considering the layout of lanes near the cut. What would happen if the Board denied the site plan due to safety concerns. “Do we have any legal standing? We have no expertise or data just our intuition?”

Mr. Jonathan Cowal, Legal Services Counsel with the Association, replied “As a general rule, you are not going to be able to deny an application due to safety concerns related to access to a state highway, especially if it based solely on intuition. Even if you have empirical evidence to support this concern. I think at best you could bring it to the attention of the state and see if they are willing to enforce anything. But even then the planning board does not have control over access to a state highway so you would not be able to deny an application based solely on concerns related to the access point on the state road.” Therefore, Mr. Miller said, if the board did deny it, the matter would most likely go to Superior Court, cost the town a great deal of money and would not win the appeal.

There being no more comments from the public Mr. Miller closed the public hearing at 7:50 pm.

Board members considered the application. Ms. Andros and Mr. Marcom both voiced their concerns about safety for drivers and hoped for another solution. Mr. Marcom summed it up by saying, “It flies in the face of common sense.” 

Mr. Perron made a motion to approve the site plan, Mr. Harrington seconded the motion and the motion was approved in a vote of 6 yeas and 1 nay.

Signage

Mr. Noonan showed a picture of the new sign. It is 4 feet by 8 feet and continues in the style of the building, timber frame. It is 20 feet high, will be placed near the entrance. Two independent sign panels advertise two services – Connecticut Valley Yard Work and Snowplow Sales. A heavy chain holds the two panels. It is made of cedar or Douglas Fir and will be lit from below.

Adjournment

Mr. Perron made a motion to adjourn. Mr. Harrington seconded the motion and the motion carried. The time was 8:15.

Respectfully submitted,

Marilou Blaine

Recording Secretary

Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 6/4/26

SELECTBOARD 06/12/2026 Leave a comment

Town of Walpole, New Hampshire

Meeting of the Selectboard

June 4, 2026

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

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

Guests Present: Peggy Pschirrer and Tom Murray of the Walpole Foundation

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

The Non-Public session was moved to the top of the agenda to accommodate guests who wished to speak to the first item on the non-public agenda.

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

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

The meeting was reconvened at 6:52 PM.

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

Mrs. Pschirrer and Mr. Murray left during the Non-Public session.

Accounts Payable

Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Accounts Payable Check Register totaling $176,835.97 dated 6/9/2026 which includes a $100,000 request for warrant article funds from WFD.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, the Accounts Payable was approved. 

There is also a request for approval for March, April and May 2026 ACH payments of $583,655.19 per month to Fall Mountain Regional School District.  These payments were already made but were not previously approved by the Selectboard.  Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the ACH payments for March, April and May 2026 of $583,655.19 each to Fall Mountain Regional School District.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, the motion was approved.

Payroll

Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Payroll Register totaling $43,178.82 dated 6/5/2026 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $8,173.12.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, Payroll was approved. 

Selectboard Meeting Minutes

Selectboard Meeting – May 28, 2026: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of May 28, 2026. Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, the Selectboard minutes were approved.

Non-Public Selectboard Meeting – May 28, 2026: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard meeting of May 28, 2026.  The minutes will remain sealed.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, the Non-Public minutes were approved.

Committee Reports

Mr. Dalessio brought to the chair’s attention the following committee reports:

  • Hooper Institute Board Meeting Minutes – January 6, 2026
  • Hooper Institute Board Meeting Minutes – February 3, 2026 
  • Hooper Institute Board Meeting Minutes March 3, 2026
  • Hooper Institute Board Meeting Minutes – April 7, 2026
  • Police Station Building Committee Meeting Minutes – May 11, 2026
  • Planning Board Meeting Minutes – May 12, 2026

Ms. Vose acknowledged these minutes.

Timber Yield Taxes Assessed and Warrant

Op 25-461-03, Map and Lot # 011-007-002: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the taxes assessed and warrant for $1,443.04. Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, the motion was approved.

Abatements

Map and Lot # 005-058-000: Mr. Dalessio moved to deny the Abatement request for Map and Lot # 005-058-000 as recommended by Avitar because significant locational differences were not accounted for and the equalized value for this property is $440,696.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, the motion was approved, and the request is denied.

Timber Intents

Map and Lot 014-005-000: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Timber Intent for Map and Lot # 014-005-000, off Whitcomb Road.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, the motion was approved.

Building and demolition Permits

2026-11, Map and Lot# 003-058-000: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve Demolition Permit #2026-11 for Map and Lot # 003-058-000 to remove a garage/barn.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, the motion was approved.

2026-12, Map and Lot# 014-044-002: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve Building Permit #2026-12 for Map and Lot # 014-044-002 to construct a 36’ x 24’ two bay garage with loft. Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, the motion was approved.

2026-13, Map and Lot# 014-011-001: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve Building Permit #2026-13 for Map and Lot # 014-011-001 to construct a 25’ x 12’ overhang on an existing garage. Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, the motion was approved.

2026-15, Map and Lot# 012-001-000: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve Demolition Permit #2026-15 for Map and Lot # 012-001-000 to demolish an existing 26’ x 50’ workshop. Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, the motion was approved.

2026-16, Map and Lot# 012-001-000: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve Building Permit #2026-16 for Map and Lot # 012-001-000 to construct a 38’ x 58’ storage shed. Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, the motion was approved.

Old Business

Special Town Meeting: Ms. Mayberry stated that the superior court hearing was today.  Mr. Hockensmith went through the complete request. He explained that the emergency that necessitated the special meeting is the condition of the existing police station and incomplete information at the time of the Town Meeting.  Ms. Mayberry reported that the judge ruled from the bench that Walpole can hold the special meeting and that the Town must start publicizing the meeting right away.  

The Special Town Meeting to vote on the bond for the new Police Station will be on Monday, August 17th at 7:00 PM.

Reservoir Dam: Mr. Dalessio said the Wetlands Permit application, which is active for five years, has been submitted. It will allow the Town to breach the dam.  All funding for this project will cease as of July 1st.  Everyone involved in the project has been warned.

Town Hall Generator: The tree at the northwest corner of the property is scheduled to be removed on Monday, June 8th.  This will allow for the installation of a propane tank for the generator for Town Hall.

160 Prospect Hill Road: A building permit was due on May 31st.  A complete application has not been submitted. Mrs. Patch picked up the building permit but never completed and returned the application.  She was reminded of the approaching deadline.  A letter will be sent notifying them of the $500 fine.

Congregational Church Barbecue: The date of Congregational Church barbecue planned for the July 4th weekend has been moved to August because not enough workers will be available on the holiday weekend.  A new date has not been selected.

New Business

Recreation Revolving Fund Request: The Recreation Department is requesting $1,237.00 from the Revolving Fund to purchase summer basketball jerseys.   The sponsors reimburse the cost of the jerseys.  Mr. Dalessio moved to approve Purchase Order # 457330 for $1,237.00 to be taken from the Recreation Revolving Fund to purchase jerseys from Bulldog Designs LLC.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, the motion passed, and the Purchase Order was signed.

Week of July 4th Selectboard Meeting: A meeting is currently scheduled for July 2nd, which is the evening before the Town holiday on July 3rd.   By consensus, the Selectboard agreed to move the meeting to Wednesday, July 1st.

Hooper Trustees

Mr. Dalessio moved to enter into the Hooper Trustees meeting at 7:36 PM.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 7:40 PM.

Adjournment: Ms. Vose declared the meeting adjourned at 7:43 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

(Note: These are unapproved Minutes. Corrections will be found in the Minutes of the June 11, 2026 Selectboard meeting.)

Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 5/28/26

SELECTBOARD 06/05/2026 Leave a comment

Town of Walpole, New Hampshire

Meeting of the Selectboard

May 28, 2026

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

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

Guests Present: Justin Cassarino, Walpole Schools Principal

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

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

Walpole Schools Update

Mr. Cassarino updated the Board on changes at the school next year.  The classes currently in North Walpole will be on the main floor at Walpole Elementary School (WES).  Grades six through eight will move upstairs.  The school district had future plans to consolidate the schools, but it is happening much faster than planned.  However, Mr. Cassarino feels it will be better for everyone to be on one campus. There is continuity for the students to move up to a higher grade. Additionally, it will eliminate the lost education time spent travelling to and from North Walpole which is six days of teaching time, and special events will be shared by all students at once instead of repeated the next day at the second building.  There is a new plan for student drop-off and pick-up that will be implemented next week. This plan will help students transfer into cars quickly. It will also help get cars into the schoolyard and off the street.  It was discussed that it is an uphill battle to rebuild community confidence in the schools. The School Board must take leadership in that process.

Mr. Cassarino left the meeting.

Payroll

Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Payroll Register totaling $34,753.13 dated 5/29/2026 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $6,514.87.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, Payroll was approved. 

Selectboard Meeting Minutes

Selectboard Meeting – May 21, 2026: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of May 21, 2026.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, the Selectboard minutes were approved.

Non-Public Selectboard Meeting – May 21, 2026: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard meeting of May 21, 2026.  The minutes will remain sealed.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, the Non-Public minutes were approved.

Committee Reports

Mr. Dalessio brought to the chair’s attention the following committee reports:

  • Planning Board Meeting Minutes – May 12, 2026 were postponed in approval.
  • Library Trustees Meeting Minutes – May 12, 2026 
  • Safety Committee Meeting Minutes – May 14, 2026 
  • Zoning Board of Adjustment Meeting Minutes – May 20, 2026 

Ms. Vose acknowledged the minutes from the Library Trustees, Safety Committee and ZBA.

Abatements

Map and Lot # 012-056-002: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Abatement for Map and Lot # 012-056-002 because they are a non-profit and submitted the appropriate forms on time.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, the motion was approved.

Map and Lot # 012-056-003: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Abatement request for Map and Lot # 012-056-003 because they are a non-profit and submitted the appropriate forms on time.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, the motion was approved.

Timber Intents

Map and Lot # 003-002-000: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Timber Intent for Map and Lot # 003-002-000.  This will be a large cut, and the harvest will be extracted through East Westmoreland.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, the motion was approved.

Map and Lot # 009-027-004: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Timber Intent for Map and Lot # 009-027-000, off Derry Hill.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, the motion was approved.

Map and Lot # 010-026-004: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Timber Intent for Map and Lot # 010-026-004, off Reservoir Road.  This will be a small cut for a new home site.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, the motion was approved.

Excavation Intents

Map and Lot # 014-013-000: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Excavation Intent for Cold River Materials on Map and Lot # 014-013-000.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, the motion was approved.

Map and Lot # 015-011-000: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Excavation Intent for Cold River Materials on Map and Lot # 015-011-000. Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, the motion was approved.

Old Business

Special Town Meeting: Mr. Dalessio reported that the petition has been sent to the court and the notification to the DRA.  The requested meeting date is Monday, August 17th at 7:00 PM.   Ms. Vose acknowledged the information.  Mrs. Downing will let the Town Clerk know of the proposed meeting date so she can plan accordingly.

New Business

Employee Resignation: A laborer/driver has resigned from the Highway Department.  By consensus, the resignation was accepted.  Highway is looking for a laborer/CDL driver. Postings for the position have begun.

Municipal Red Bridge List for 2025: One of the four Walpole bridges was removed last year when the Town repaired a bridge over Mad Brook.  The other three bridges remain on the list.

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

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

The meeting was reconvened at 7:47 PM.

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

Mr. Dalessio reported that members of the Police Station Building Committee met with Black River Architects today.  It was the first meeting to develop a plan for the new police station.  Mrs. Downing will be the official keeper of records, etc.  Mrs. Pschirrer will work with the Selectboard Office for fundraising mailings.

Adjournment: Ms. Vose declared the meeting adjourned at 7:49 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

(Note: These are unapproved Minutes. Corrections will be found in the Minutes of the June 4, 2026 Selectboard meeting.)

Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 5/21/26

SELECTBOARD 05/29/2026 Leave a comment

Town of Walpole, New Hampshire

Meeting of the Selectboard

May 21, 2026

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

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

Guests Present: Jane Malmberg, Sanford Horskin and Joan Horskin

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

The first item was moved to the top of the agenda to accommodate guests.

Library Ramp Railing Extension

Mrs. Malmberg doesn’t know if the existing ramp is ADA compliant. She was not here when it was built and has not seen documentation. Double strollers and wheelchairs do get into the Library.  By consensus, the Selectboard requested that someone knowledgeable determine what can be done to make the Library as accessible as possible.  Mrs. Malmberg will call Mark Houghton.  The State Library might also be helpful.  Mrs. Downing will call Primex.  All agreed that the Town wants to do the best that is possible to be ADA compliant since this a Town funded building improvement.  It was noted that the second door going into the Library doesn’t have a push button.

Mrs. Malmberg, and Mr. and Mrs. Horskin left the meeting.

Accounts Payable

Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Accounts Payable Check Register totaling $52,370.95 dated 5/26/2026, an ACH payment of $41,062.01 to HealthTrust for June coverage, and an ACH payment of $85,666.16 to the Village of Bellows Falls for sewer bond and usage fees.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, the Accounts Payable was approved. 

Payroll

Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Payroll Register totaling $35,260.47 dated 5/22/2026 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $6,524.92.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, Payroll was approved. 

Selectboard Meeting Minutes

Selectboard Meeting – May 14, 2026: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of May 14, 2026. Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio,  and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the Selectboard minutes were approved. Ms. Vose was not present at this meeting.

Non-Public Selectboard Meeting – May 14, 2026: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard meeting of May 14, 2026.  The minutes will remain sealed.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry in favor, the Non-Public minutes were approved.

Committee Reports

Mr. Dalessio brought to the chair’s attention the following committee reports:

  • North Walpole Village Commissioners Meeting Minutes – April 7, 2026 
  • North Walpole Village Commissioners Meeting Minutes – April 14, 2026 
  • North Walpole Village Commissioners Meeting Minutes – April 28, 2026 
  • Planning Board Meeting Minutes – May 12, 2026 – postponed 

Ms. Vose acknowledged the North Walpole Village Commissioners Meeting minutes.  The copy of the Planning Board minutes the Selectboard has does not include a significant amendment. The acknowledgement will be postponed until next week.

Timber Yield Taxes Assessed and Warrant

Op # 25-461-02, Map and Lot # 014-005-000: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the taxes assessed and warrant for $970.01. Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor,  the motion was approved.

Property Tax Refunds

Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Property Tax Refund for Map and Lot # 008-022-000 of $29.29.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Property Tax Refund for Map and Lot # 008-022-001 of $8.20.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, the motion was approved.

Building Permits

2014-10 Renewal, Map and Lot# 012-013-004: The Selectboard does not have all the necessary information to sign this building permit.  This permit application will be postponed until the information is received.

2026-09, Map and Lot# 019-040-000: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve Building Permit #2026-09 for Map and Lot # 019-040-000 to enclose an existing porch and carport, a total of 900 square feet. Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, the motion was approved.

2026-10, Map and Lot# 021-009-000: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve Building Permit #2026-10 for Map and Lot # 021-009-000 to construct stairs and a deck at the back of the building. Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, the motion was approved.

New Business

Recreation Revolving Fund Request: Mr. Dalessio moved to spend $3,296.00 from the Recreation Revolving Fund for the new North Walpole Village Park sign as specified in Purchase Order #457328 for Signworx.  This is the last half of the price of the sign.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, the motion was approved and the purchase order signed.

North Walpole School State Expo Invitation: The Fourth Grade invited the Selectboard to attend the State Expo on June 9th.  Ms. Mayberry plans to attend.  Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Vose are unable to attend because of commitments at work.

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

Mr. Dalessio moved into enter into Non-Public Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II (a)(b)(c) at 7:18 PM.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 7:56 PM.

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

Hooper Trustees

Mr. Dalessio moved to enter into the Hooper Trustees meeting at 7:59 PM.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 8:10 PM.

Adjournment: Ms. Vose declared the meeting adjourned at 8:10 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

(Note: These are unapproved Minutes. Corrections will be found in the Minutes of the May 28, 2026 Selectboard meeting.)

Selectboard Meeting Minutes – 5/14/26

SELECTBOARD 05/22/2026 Leave a comment

Town of Walpole, New Hampshire

Meeting of the Selectboard

May 14, 2026

Selectboard Present: Cheryl Mayberry and Steven Dalessio, acting Chair

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

Guests Present: Robbie Mahrou

Selectboard Absent: Carolyn Vose, Chair

Call to Order: Mr. Dalessio called the Selectboard meeting to order at 6:32 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.

Payroll

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Payroll Register totaling $50,416.27 dated 5/15/2026 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $10,704.63.  This includes retroactive wages and the 2026 wage rates for employees.  Mr. Dalessio seconded the motion. With Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved. 

Selectboard Meeting Minutes

Public Hearing for USDA Grant for Walpole Fire Station Expansion Project – May 7, 2026: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Minutes of the Public Hearing for the USDA Grant for the Walpole Fire Station Expansion Project of May 7, 2026. Mr. Dalessio seconded the motion. With Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Selectboard Meeting – May 7. 2025: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of May 7, 2026. Mr. Dalessio seconded. With Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Non-Public Selectboard Meeting – May 7, 2026: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard meeting of May 7, 2026.  The minutes will remain sealed.  Mr. Dalessio seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved, and the minutes are sealed.

Committee Reports

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

  • Conservation Commission Meeting Minutes – May 5, 2026 

Mr. Dalessio acknowledged these minutes.

Property Tax Warrant

Spring Property Tax Warrant: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the warrant for Spring Property Taxes for $6,772,464.00 with interest of 8% per annum effective July 1, 2026.  Tax bills will be mailed on May 22nd and are due July 1st.  Mr. Dalessio seconded the motion.  With Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Gravel Tax Warrant

Op # 25-461-02-E and 25-461-03-E, Maps and Lots 014-013-000 and 015-011-000: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the gravel taxes assessed and warrant for $3,392.34 for Op # 25-461-02-E and 25-461-03-E for maps and lots # 014-013-000 and 015-011-000.  This is Cold River Materials.  Mr. Dalessio seconded the motion.  With Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Excavation Intents

Op # 26-461-04-E for Map and Lot # 012-073-000-: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Excavation Intent for Op # 26-461-04-E for Map and Lot # 012-073-000, off Old Drewsville Road.  Mr. Dalessio seconded the motion.  With Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Old Business

Requests for Reimbursements for Reservoir Dam: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve and have Mr. Dalessio sign the reimbursement requests: Request #28 is for $34,247.38 and Request #29 for $28,436.66.  Mr. Dalessio seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved, and the reimbursement request was signed.

New Business

Appointment Notices for Conservation Commission: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve Lewis Shelley and Hale Morrell to be members of the Conservation Commission for three years, from the time each is sworn in by the Town Clerk until Town Meeting 2029.  Mr. Dalessio seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, Mr. Shelley and Ms. Hale are members of the Conservation Commission for three years. 

Mr. Mahrou joined the meeting.

Robbie Mahrou: Mr. Mahrou has decided to run for Congress, NH District 2, and wished to speak to the Selectboard.  He would like to know what the Town needs and what the issues are that he might work on addressing if elected.  The biggest issue is lack of communication.  The Selectboard acknowledged Mr. Mahrou’s decision to run for Congress.

Mr. Mahrou left the meeting.

Police Building Committee Fundraising Letters: Mr. Dalessio explained that the committee is preparing letters which will be mailed to businesses and individuals.  Additional edits are being made. The final version will be available for the Selectboard for review.

Solar Energy Hook-ups: The Town received a complaint from a resident because Liberty Utilities is no longer allowing new solar connections to the grid.  Mr. Dalessio confirmed that Liberty has made public announcements. Liberty is waiting for National Grid to make improvements at the Bellows Falls substation. The Selectboard recommends that anyone considering a solar installation before 2030 contact Liberty Utilities before proceeding.

Propane Gas Service Issue: A citizen wanted to warn other residents of an extra fee for low propane usage (e.g. just used for cooking) and the difficulty of having propane tanks removed.  Extra fees for low usage are common. The Selectboard recommends that residents check with their provider.

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) at 7:25  PM.  Mr. Dalessio seconded. With Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 8:22 PM.

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

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

Respectfully submitted,

Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

(Note: These are unapproved Minutes. Corrections will be found in the Minutes of the May 21, 2026 Selectboard meeting.)

Planning Board Meeting Minutes – 4/14/26

PLANNING BOARD, Uncategorized 05/19/2026 Leave a comment

[Editor’s Note: It has come to my attention that I never published the April Planning Board meeting minutes. I apologize for the error.—Kelli]

Walpole Planning Board Meeting Minutes

Tuesday, April 14, 2026

Town Hall

7 pm

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

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

Election of Officers: Mr. Perron made a motion to keep the slate of officers the same. Mr. Harrington seconded the motion and the motion carried. The slate of officers are Jeff Miller as chair, Dennis Marcom as Vice-Chair and Jason Perron as Clerk.

Mr. Miller introduced Tom Murray and said he has agreed to be an alternate on the Planning Board. A motion was made and seconded to approve Mr. Murray as alternate. The motion was approved unanimously.

Call to Order: Mr. Miller called the meeting to order at 7 pm. He asked Mr. Murray if he would fill in for the absent Board member and Mr. Murray agreed.

Review minutes of March 2026 meeting: There were two corrections. On page 3, Ms. Andros pointed out that there was an extra word in the first sentence and suggested striking out the word “ones.” On page 2 in the paragraph about Town Line Equipment, Mr. Marcom suggested adding that the board approved the sign which was 32 square feet and remove the mention of inches.. He made a motion to approve the February 2026 minutes as corrected.

Mr. Harrington seconded the motion and the motion carried.

Public Hearing: No. 1

Subdivision: Elisse McGuirk 2000 Living Trust, 167 Valley Road, Tax Map 13, Lot 15 and Tax Map 12, Lot 76, Rural/Agricultural District, Proposed four lots: 1.94 acres, 36.75 acres, 7.53 acres and 5.87 acres. Proposed Use: Residential.

Mr. Miller asked Kathleen Dustin, Trustee of the Elisse McGuirk Trust, if the two parties had come to some kind of agreement. Ms. Dustin said no. Mark MdGuirk handed out page one of the Trust pointing out the portion that says “to split off the house with 200 feet of road frontage on Valley Road, the northerly border of the house lot to be delineated by the southerly edge of the driveway to the existing barn, the easterly and southerly borders to be delineated by the pond and creek running through the existing parcel.”

Mr. Miller said that the problem with the two sides not being able to agree on the plat are not the concern of the Walpole Planning Board. The subdivision, as presented. complies with all the ordinances of the Walpole Zoning Ordinances so that is what this Board must consider. He asked the Board to make a motion. Mr. Marcom made a motion to approve the subdivision as presented. Mr. Perron seconded the motion and the board agreed unanimously.

Public Hearing No. 2

Lot Line Adjustments, David and Cynthia Westover Trust, 238 Kingsbury Road, Tax Map 5, Lots 11-1, 11-2, 11-3, Rural/Agricultural District. Proposed four lots:

Surveyor Joe DiBernardo explained how the four lots will be configured. He said Lot 11-1 will be 10.30 acres after adjustments with 4.15 acres from Lot 11-2. Road frontage for this lot is

287.9 feet on County Road and 658.4 feet on Kingsbury Road. Lot 11-2 will be 5.50 acres after giving 4.15 acres to lot 11-1. It has 200 feet road frontage on County Road. And Lot 11-3 will be 1.75 acres after getting .18 acres from Lot 11-2 with 350.97 feet of road frontage on Kingsbury Road.

Mr. Miller asked if the largest lot will be in current use. Ms. Westover said yes. He asked the Board if they had any questions. Having none, he closed the hearing at 7:14 pm.

Mr. Marcom made a motion to approve this Lot Line Adjustments as presented. Mr. Harrington seconded the motion and the motion passed unanimously.

New Business:

Site Plan application. Snowplow Sales Development, Levi Hubbard and Brookside Real Estate LLC, 538 Main Street and intersection with Route 123 and Route 12, 75.49 acres. Map 12, Lot 58, Commercial District.

The site design includes an office, workshop, covered storage structure, a gravel display area, parking lot, outdoor equipment and inventory storage area. The use is for a landscaping business.

John Noonan of Fieldstone Land Consultant made the presentation and requested a public hearing for the May meeting. He went over the Site Development Plans. He said the property is currently an undeveloped corn field bordered by Blue Seal to the South, a baseball field to the north and forest to the east. The site will be serviced by private well water, private septic system and underground electric and communication services. There is a pre-development drainage plan as well as a drainage plan.

There is an approved highway cut where the driveway will be. It is directly across the highway on Route 12 from the Malnati home. The office is 3,360 square feet and attached to the 8,000 foot store. The size of the office is 56 feet by 60 feet. The two-floor store is 100 feet wide by 80 feet long. The office will face Main Street and the store will be behind it. The store is barn red with black window and doors. There’s a gable in the front.

Open bins are lined up along the southern boundary line. At the end of these open bins are two larger ones with salt and sand. They will be covered. There are 55 parking spaces with a couple of ADA spaces. At the northern edge of the property is an infiltration basin.

Overhead LED lights will be down lit and sprinkled around the parking lot. Four trees will be placed along Route 12 and another seven abutting the Walpole Youth Baseball Foundation property. Shrubbery will be placed at the driveway entrance and surround three sides of the office building.

Mr. Dalessio reminded Mr. Noonan to get touch with Mark Houghton for fire safety.

Mr. Marcom made a motion to hold a public hearing in May for the project. Mr. Perron seconded the motion and the motion carried.

Short-term rentals

Mr. Miller brought up the topic of Airbnbs. He said he thought that owners should come before the Planning Board so that neighbors have some idea of what is going on in their neighborhood. He referenced the B&B ordinance and thought something could be added to amend that ordinance to cover Airbnbs. The Board will get more information on the topic and work on amending the B&B ordinance.

Adjournment

Mr. Perron made a motion to adjourn. Mr. Harrington second the motion and the motion carried. The time was 7:50 pm.

Respectfully submitted, Marilou Blaine

WPB Secretary

Planning Board Meeting Minutes – 5/12/26

PLANNING BOARD 05/18/2026 Leave a comment

Walpole Planning Board Minutes

Tuesday, May 12, 2026

Town Hall

7 pm

These minutes have not been approved but will be reviewed for corrections at the June 2026 meeting.

Roll Call: Board present: Chair Jeff Miller, Vice-Chair Dennis Marcom, Clerk Jason Perron, Jeff Harrington, Joanna Andros, Trevor MacLachlan, Select Board Representative Steve Dalessio and Alternates Tom Murray and Travis Adams. 

Call to Order: Mr. Miller called the meeting to order shortly before 7 pm because all the people who were presenters at the meeting were in attendance. A full Board was present.

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

New Business:

Presentation by Sarah Bollinger SWRPC: Topic: Family-Based-Child Care Zoning.

Mr. Miller introduced Sarah Bollinger from Southwest Regional Planning Commission (SWRPC). She explained she was at the meeting because in an email to Mr. Miller she pointed out a concern she had about Walpole’s 2025 zoning ordinance. She “wanted to flag that family-based child care is not addressed. Because Walpole has a permissive zoning ordinance the absence of any provision for family-based child care effectively means it is not allowed, which is not consistent with current statute.” Ms. Bollinger offered to come to the June and July meetings and assist the Board in drafting such an ordinance.

Mr. Miller said he was all in favor of family-based childcare as did several other members of the Planning Board. “Childcare is important for our town,’’ he said. 

It was decided that Ms. Bollinger would come to the next meeting to begin working on a draft for a family-based child care ordinance. Mr. Miller said it could also be done at a fourth Tuesday workshop meeting. Ms. Bollinger will contact Mr. Miller about a future date for a meeting.

Old Business:

Public Hearing:

Site Plan Application: Snowplow Sales Development, Brookside Real Estate LLC and Levi Hubbard, 538 Main Street, Tax Map 12, Lot 58, Commercial District. This includes a 3,360 square-foot office and a two-story 8,000 square-foot store for snowplow and small equipment sales. There will be open bins on the eastern boundary line with various types of gravel, soil and mulch and two larger ones for sand and salt. They will also host a landscaping business. 

Preliminary to starting the Public Hearing scheduled for this meeting, Mr. Miller said there had been a couple of “hiccups” and another meeting will be held next month to continue the Public Hearing. First, six of 13 certified letters were returned to sender (Planning Board) because they couldn’t be delivered because there was no numerical address. Mr. Miller contacted Mr. John Noonan of Fieldstone Land Consultants and informed him of the problem. Mr. Noonan said he able to reach three of the six abutters who were supposed to be notified by certified/return receipt mail. The second problem was that the public hearing was not posted on the bulletin board at the post office and inside the Town Hall, a legal requirement. 

Mr. Noonan started explaining the Snowplow Sales proposal. The property is 75 acres and proposed are two buildings: one a 3,060 square-foot office and the other a two-story 8,000 square-foot store for equipment sales. There would be three trees along the perimeter of Route 12 and six trees along the eastern boundary line. On the southern boundary there would be multiple bins with different size stones and gravel and different kinds of mulch. Two larger ones at the end would be covered and contain sand and salt. The bin with salt would have an asphalt floor. The parking lot would be paved. There would be a small display at the front entrance. 

The Route 12 cut for a driveway has lapsed so a new application had to be filed and NH Department of Transportation should be getting back to the applicants in two to six weeks, Mr. Noonan said. Mr. Miller asked about oil. Mr. Levi Hubbard said it would be very small, like cans, not like an automotive operation. Drainage on the property is diverted around the property to the back where there is a stormwater management area. Septic and water from a well will be private systems. Lighting will be on poles around the perimeter. Other lighting is LED and down lit so no light should leak off the property, Mr. Noonan said. There is a landscaping plan for plantings in the hatched area containing such plants as azaleas, lilacs and hydrangeas.

The area of most concern from the Board was the cut for the entrance to the property. Traffic was entering from Main Street, continuing on Route 12 past the driveway and cars traveling south could be turning left into the entrance.

Mr. Noonan will be back next month with an updater from NHDOT, a picture of the sign and answer any further questions the Board might have.

Preliminary meeting with Hubbard Farms for a site plan.

Mr. Mark Houghton presented the plans for an addition to a building at Hidden Acres Lane off of Halls Crossing. The existing building is a square, 35-feet-by-35-feet, and used for showers before and after entering the bio security building. The proposal is to enlarge the building to 40-feet-by-40-feet for the same purpose – showers – and add an office and storage space.

There being no questions Mr. Perron made a motion to approve the site plan and hold a public hearing in June. Mr. Harrington seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously.

Sau60: Change of Use, Site Plan: School building in North Walpole will be converted to SAU offices.

Joey Carter explained the plans are in the formative stage The plan is to use some of rooms in the building for the offices of SAU personnel. That would also include a conference room and rooms set aside for confidential consultations. The gymnasium, bathroom and playground would still be available for use by townspeople. The expected timing of the move is in October. The only concern voiced was about traffic and children getting off and onto buses. Mr. Carter said that only happens twice a day. Mr. Carter will be back with more information about the changes.

Mr. Carter said that a letter from the North Walpole Fire Chief stating that all life safety issues have been addressed is required to obtain site plan approval.

Currently, Walpole’s second, third, and fourth-graders attend the North Walpole School. According to Walpole Principal Justin Cassarino all second-through-eighth-graders will be at the Walpole Middle School next year. The North Walpole School will then be entirely for the use of SAU 60 personnel. 

Tim Graves Gravel Pit Inspection:

Mr. Perron and Mr. Harrington completed visiting the Tim Graves gravel pit on Wentworth Road on April 30, 2026. They found no problems or concerns and their comment was on the inspection form was “Looks good.” Mr. Harrington mentioned there were just small piles of dirt. This completes the Inspection of gravel pits for 2025. The Gravel Pit Inspection Form will be filed with Mr. Graves previous submissions and previous years of gravel pit inspection forms.

Short-term rentals

Mr. Miller would like to add to the B&B ordinance something about short-term rentals also known as AirBnBs. The reason is to inform neighbors who live on a street or near an AirBnB, that that particular house is one that often has transient people staying there. Ms. Jackie Caserta, owner of B&B Valley Farms, said that she is in competition with AirBnBs. Ms. Caserta said that B&BS have to be licensed by the state and there are certain regulations. She believes that the same types of regulations should include AirBnBs. The Board will be considering how best to include AirBnbs in the current B&B ordinance. She offered to help with the drafting of a the ordinance.

Adjournment

Mr. Perron made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 8:20 pm. Mr. Harrington seconded the motion and the motion carried.

Respectfully submitted, 

Marilou Blaine

WPB Secretary