The Walpolean

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.)

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.)

Town of Walpole, New Hampshire

Meeting of the Selectboard

May 7, 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: Mark Houghton, Walpole Fire Chief; Brad Nash, fireman; Jack Franks of Avanru

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

The following two items were moved to the top of the agenda to accommodate guests.

Generator Installation: Mark Houghton explained that EE Houghton is preparing for the Town Hall generator installation.  They need to have at least one tree on the front of the Town Hall removed by June 15th.  If the tree down on west side is removed, there will only be room for a 500-gallon tank, which is about two days of power.  Ms. Mayberry will have Mike Symonds reach out to Mark Houghton regarding tree removal.  Brad Nash will talk to Peter Palmiotto about which trees on the east side of the Town Hall should be removed since the Town is cutting trees.

Mr. Nash left the meeting.

Building Permit 2014-10 Renewal (Abenaki Springs): The application as submitted for the April 22, 2026 meeting was incomplete and was therefore rejected.  Since that time, Mr. Franks has provided the missing information for the electrical and plumbing contractors.  This permit is now on its twelfth year of renewal.  Mr. Franks said he is preparing to start phase three.  There was a consensus that even though the project was approved a long time ago, new buildings must meet the 2026 building and life safety codes. Mr. Houghton reminded Mr. Franks that once the third phase is added, the building will be so long that rear access will be required by the Fire Department.  The Selectboard reminded him that he needs all the approvals before any work starts on the third phase.

Mr. Dalessio moved to renew building permit 2014-10, contingent upon compliance with all applicable local, state, and federal buildings, fire safety, and life safety codes and requirements prior to the commencement of Phase III construction. Documentation demonstrating such compliance shall be submitted to the Selectboard before construction begins.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, the motion passed.  Mr. Franks was also advised to meet with the Planning Board before starting work since there has been such a long pause in construction.  This is a recommendation even though it is not required by law.

Mr. Houghton and Mr. Franks left the meeting.

Accounts Payable

Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Accounts Payable Check Register totaling $61,096.79 dated 5/12/2026 and an ACH payment of $47,489.11 to HealthTrust. 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 $34,565.01 dated 5/8/2026 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $6,377.13.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, Payroll was approved. 

Selectboard Meeting Minutes

Selectboard Meeting – April 30, 2026: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of April 30, 2026. Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, the Selectboard minutes were approved.

Non-Public Selectboard Meeting – April 30, 2026: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard meeting of April 30, 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.

Old Business

North Walpole Library Lease Agreement: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve and sign the lease agreement with North Walpole for the North Walpole Library for one year, at the request of North Walpole.  Mr. Dalessio seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Vose in favor, the motion was approved and signed. 

Library Ramp Railing Extension: There is a plan to extend the railing from the end of the ramp to the sidewalk to make it easier to access the Library.  Ms. Vose spoke to Mrs. Malmberg about the concerns discussed last week.  Mrs. Malmberg will review the design and attend the meeting in two weeks to discuss it with the Selectboard.

Police Details Policy: The Police Details Policy has been upgraded to include earlier comments from the Selectboard.  Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the new policy.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, the policy was accepted.  However, the procedure was not accepted because it does not support the policy.  The procedure must be updated to support the policy and resubmitted to the Selectboard.

Petition for Special Town Meeting: Mr. Hockensmith, the Town Attorney, has provided a draft of the petition for a Special Town Meeting to be held August 17th to determine whether the Town will take a bond of $3,000,000 or less to finance the new Police Station.  By consensus the Selectboard accepts the petition for a Special Town Meeting.  

Commercial Brush Fee at Recycling Center: The Recycling Center has requested that a fee be implemented for commercial landscapers who leave brush at the Recycling Center, and that the fee be based on the size of the truck.  The fee is to offset extra work and equipment repairs associated with handling the large amounts of brush.  By consensus, Ms. Hakey will be asked to write a letter to the landscapers in Walpole explaining the fees and how they will be implemented.  The timing is still to be determined.  The fees will be $10 for a pickup, $20 for a medium truck, and $30 for a large truckload. Ms. Hakey will also be asked to monitor how many loads of brush are coming in now compared to after the fee takes effect.  

In-Person Staff Meeting Topic: The topic for the meeting on 5/21 will be succession planning.  The Selectboard reviewed and approved by consensus the introductory material that will be mailed to all Department Managers ahead of time. 

New Business

2025 Total Equalized Valuations: Walpole has received its Total Equalized Valuation from the NH DRA.  The total value for 2025 is $847,392,539, an increase of $94,823,009 from 2024, or without the utilities and railroads $804,013,468.  Ms. Vose acknowledged receipt of this information.  

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

Ms. Mayberry moved to enter into Non-Public Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II (c) at 8:10 PM.  Mr. Dalessio seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Vose in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 8:30 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

Ms. Mayberry  moved to enter into the Hooper Trustees meeting at 8:33 PM.  Mr. Dalessio seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Vose in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 8:49 PM.

Adjournment: Ms. Vose declared the meeting adjourned at 8:57 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

(Note: These are unapproved Minutes. Corrections will be found in the Minutes of the May 14, 2026 Selectboard meeting.)

Town of Walpole, New Hampshire

Meeting of the Selectboard

April 30, 2026

Selectboard Present: Carolyn Vose, Chair, and Cheryl Mayberry

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

Guests Present: Sanford and Joan Horskin

Selectboard Absent: Steven Dalessio

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

Library Ramp Railing: Mr. & Mrs. Horskin came to the meeting when they saw that the agenda included a discussion about the Library’s ramp railing.  For medical and age reasons, Mrs. Horskin cannot get to Library without a railing to the sidewalk. Mrs. Horskin noted that the Town has an aging population and that this issue will impact more residents over time.  Also, the bottom light at foot level on the ramp has been out for a long time.  There are many times that Mrs. Horskin cannot get to programs she would like to attend, especially on winter evenings.  She also mentioned watching a young mother struggle to get a stroller around the corner on the ramp.  The Selectboard recommended that the ramp and railing design be reviewed by someone with accessibility expertise.  

Mr. & Mrs. Horskin left the meeting.

Payroll

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Payroll Register totaling $34,259.87 dated 5/1/2026 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $6,239.53.  Seconded by Ms. Vose. With Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, the motion was approved. 

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Payroll Register totaling $4,191.00 dated 5/2/2026 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $683.42.  Seconded by Ms. Vose.  With Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, the motion was approved. 

Selectboard Meeting Minutes

Selectboard Meeting – April 22, 2026: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of April 22, 2026. Seconded by Ms. Vose. With Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, the motion was approved.

Non-Public Selectboard Meeting – April 22, 2026: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard meeting of April 22, 2026.  The minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Ms. Vose.  With Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose 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:

• Supervisors of the Checklist Meeting Minutes – March 23, 2026
• Supervisors of the Checklist Meeting Minutes – April 20, 2026
• Conservation Commission Meeting Minutes – April 6, 2026
• Trail Committee Minutes – April 8, 2026
• Library Trustees Meeting Minutes – April 14, 2026

Ms. Vose acknowledged these minutes.

Water and Sewer Warrants

Walpole Water Fees: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the warrant for Walpole Water Fees for $43,739.09.  Seconded by Ms. Vose.  With Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, the motion was approved.

Walpole Sewer Fees: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the warrant for Walpole Sewer Fees totaling $75,296.63.  Ms. Vose seconded. With Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, the motion was approved.

North Walpole Sewer Fees: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the warrant for North Walpole Sewer Fees for $58,331.78.  Ms. Vose seconded. With Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, the motion was approved.

Building Permit

2026-08, Map and Lot# 008-066-000: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve Building Permit #2026-08 for Map and Lot # 080-066-000 to construct a 32’ x 12’ deck. Seconded by Ms. Vose. With Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, the motion was approved.

Old Business

In-Person Staff Meeting Topic and Date: The topic will be succession planning.  The introductory document to share with employees will be ready for review at the next meeting.

New Business

Appointment Notice for Tom Murray to be an Alternate to the Planning Board: Ms. Vose acknowledged that Tom Murray was selected by the Planning Board per RSA 673:6 to serve as an Alternate on the Planning Board for three years.  Mr. Murray will be sworn in by the Town Clerk.

Library Ramp Railing Extension: The railing on the Library ramp needs to be extended to the sidewalk, but the cost of $3,800 is over budget.  Mrs. Malmberg documented the options. The Board felt that more information is needed to decide.  Additionally, the Board is reflecting on Mrs. Horskin’s comments.  Mrs. Malmberg will be asked to attend the meeting next week.

Commercial Brush Fee at Recycling Center: Ms. Vose stated that the commercial use of the brush pile at the Recycling Center makes it hard to manage the pile because of the amount that comes in.  Ms. Hakey has requested that a fee based on load size be implemented.  A final decision will be made next week.

SWRPC Annual Meeting Invitation: SWRPC will have its annual meeting on June 9th with the social hour at 5:00 PM and the meeting starts at 5:30 PM.  Ms. Vose acknowledged the invitation.  

Thank You Note: A thank you note to the citizens of Walpole from Southwestern Community Services (SCS) for the donation was acknowledged by Ms. Vose.

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 7:21 PM.  Ms. Vose seconded. With Ms. Mayberry and MS. Vose in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 7:57 PM.

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

Adjournment: Ms. Vose declared the meeting adjourned at 7:59 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

(Note: These are unapproved Minutes. Corrections will be found in the Minutes of the May 7, 2026 Selectboard meeting.)

Town of Walpole, New Hampshire

Meeting of the Selectboard

April 22, 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: Katelyn Krumperman and  Jocelyne Barrett of Great River Hydro; Paul Looney and John McCollister of the Walpole Community Power Committee.

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

This part of New Business was moved to the top of the agenda to accommodate guests.

New Business

Great River Hydro: Katelyn Krumperman, the new Community Relations Manager (CRM), wished to meet the Selectboard.  Jocelyne Barrett, the Property Tax Specialist, also attended.  Ms. Krumperman stated that starting Sunday, 4/26/2026, Great River Hydro will start drawing down the river level for a repair.  The repair will take place Tuesday morning. By noon on Tuesday, the river level will start being raised to normal by Wednesday. They are very aware of the erosion issues in North Walpole and will be careful to minimize erosion of the riverbank.  Great River Hydro is very close to receiving its new FERC license for forty years.  Ms. Barrett stated that both NH and VT have approved of the water quality tests. However, the test results are being challenged by other organizations.

Community Power Committee and Appointment Notice: Paul Looney and John McCollister wished to discuss Mr. McCollister’s application for appointment to the Community Power Committee and CPCNH.  Mr. McCollister has been attending Walpole Community Power Committee meetings for a couple of years.  Mr. Dalessio moved to appoint Mr. McCollister to Walpole Community Power.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, the motion passed.  Mr. McCollister will also serve as an alternate representative to CPCNH from Walpole Community Power.

Accounts Payable

Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Accounts Payable Check Register totaling $58,955.06 dated 4/28/2026 including the $13,692.03 quarterly payment to the Cheshire County Prosecutor. 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 $33,964.38 dated 4/24/2028 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $6,264.52.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, Payroll was approved. 

Selectboard Meeting Minutes

Selectboard Meeting – April 16, 2026: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of April 16, 2026. Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, the Selectboard minutes were approved.

Non-Public Selectboard Meeting – April 16, 2026: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard meeting of April 16, 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:

• Police Station Building Committee Minutes – March 25, 2026 
• Police Station Building Committee Minutes – April 8, 2026 
• Planning Board Meeting Minutes – April 14, 2026 
• Zoning Board of Adjustment Minutes – April 15, 2026 

Ms. Vose acknowledged these minutes.

Veterans’ Tax Credit

Map and Lot # 003-059-001: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Veterans’ Property Tax Credit for Map and Lot# 003-059-001.  The applicant is 100% disabled from a service-connected disability.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor,  the motion was approved.

Solar Tax Credits

Map and Lot # 009-048-001: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Solar Property Tax Credit for Map and Lot# 009-048-001.  A new form was required due to a change in the ownership to a revocable trust.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor,  the motion was approved.

Map and Lot # 010-026-000: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Solar Property Tax Credit for Map and Lot# 010-026-000.  A new form was required due to a property subdivision.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, the motion was approved.

Map and Lot # 010-026-003: Mr. Dalessio has moved to approve the Solar Property Tax Credit for Map and Lot# 010-026-003.  A new form was required due to a property subdivision.  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: Mr. Dalessio moved to deny Building Permit #2014-10 Renewal for Map and Lot # 012-013-004.  The application was incomplete. There is no licensed electrician or plumber specified.

2026-07, Map and Lot# 011-031-004: Mr. Dalessio moved to approve Building Permit #2026-07 for Map and Lot # 011-031-004 to construct a16’ x 18’ family room contingent on completing the PUC form.  While the driveway was changed to Woodshed Road which is Class VI at some point, the lot has frontage on Valley Road. Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor,  the motion was approved.

Old Business

Water-Sewer Utility Meeting: Mark Houghton is available only on June 16th from 5:00 – 6:30 PM of the times when the Select board was available for the utility meeting.  Jenna Rzasa, who was part of the grant project, is to confirm she is available.

Reservoir Dam Update: Mr. Dalessio reported Fuss and O’Neill have sent responses to the DES regarding open questions.  The project must be completed by July 1st.

250th Monadnock: Local communities and civic groups have been invited to submit floats in the July 4th parade in Keene.  Application deadline is May 4th and there will be prizes.

Topic for In-Person Staff Meeting: By consensus, the topic for the May 21st meeting will be succession planning; When you win the lotto tomorrow, what is the plan for your successor?

Main Street Vacant Lot: There is an empty lot that might be used to extend North Walpole Park. The Town owns the strip south of the park that was formerly owned by the railroad.  Ms. Mayberry thought the lot was too close to the road and not fenced.  Neighborhood vehicles are parked there now. 

New Business

River Well: Mr. Dalessio explained that there is a second step to repair the well house.  The roof was approved a few weeks ago.  The next repair is for the well casing.  Mr. Dalessio moved to approve the Weston & Sampson quote to upgrade the River Well pumping station and Purchase Order # 262960 for $37,693.00. Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose in favor, the motion was approved, and the Purchase Order and contract were signed. 

FMRSD Board: Mr. Dalessio updated the Board based on the meeting 4/21/2026.  The playground will stay at North Walpole and be available for children.  The gym will be available for the Recreation Department.  The School Board has not approved moving the administration from Langdon to North Walpole because they are awaiting the information needed to make such a decision.  There will be a meeting regarding the letter the Selectboard sent to the School Board.  There is an issue with audio at the School Board meetings. It is extremely difficult to hear what is being said or to see the School Board members.  Audio equipment is available but not used.

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 7:49 PM.  Mr. Dalessio seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Vose in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 8:07 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 8:07 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

(Note: These are unapproved Minutes. Corrections will be found in the Minutes of the April 30, 2026 Selectboard meeting.)