The Walpolean

Selectboard Meeting Minutes
October 29, 2026
Town Hall, Walpole, NH

Present: Carolyn Vose, Chair; Cheryl Mayberry, Selectboard; Steve Dalessio, Selectboard; Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration; Greta Drager, Executive Director of the Hooper Institute, the Hooper Board of Directors

Ms. Vose opened the Selectboard Meeting at 6:30 PM.

Motion to enter non-public session of the Hooper Trustees Meeting was made by Cheryl Mayberry and seconded by Mr. Dalessio. The motion passed unanimously. Reason for non-public meeting (b): hiring.

Ms. Drager and the Hooper Institute Board members left the meeting at the end of the non-public Hooper Trustee session.

The Selectboard Meeting reconvened at 7:07 PM.

Payroll

Motion to accept the Payroll Register totaling $36,764.97 for checks dated 10/31/2026 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $6,752.82 was made by Mr. Dalessio and seconded by Ms. Mayberry. The motion carried by voice vote.

Selectboard Meeting Minutes

Motion to accept the Selectboard Meeting minutes of October 2, 2026 was made by Mr. Dalessio and seconded by Ms. Mayberry. The motion carried by voice vote.

Mr. Dalessio observed that the non-public minutes from the prior week’s meeting did not appear to have been addressed. It was noted that two sets of non-public minutes would be presented the following week.

Committee Reports

Mr. Dalessio brought to the Board’s attention the minutes of the Walpole Conservation Commission, the Zoning Board of Adjustment, and the Trustees of Trust Funds. The reports were noted.

Water and Sewer Warrants

Motion to accept the Walpole water fees in the amount of $91,774.10 was made by Mr. Dalessio and seconded by Ms. Mayberry. The motion carried by voice vote.

Motion to accept the Walpole sewer fees in the amount of $82,579.83 was made by Mr. Dalessio and seconded by Ms. Mayberry. The motion carried by voice vote.

Motion to accept the North Walpole sewer fees in the amount of $62,098.68 was made by Mr. Dalessio and seconded by Ms. Mayberry. The motion carried by voice vote.

Building Permits

Motion to accept demolition permit 2026-33 was made by Mr. Dalessio and seconded by Ms. Mayberry. The motion carried by voice vote. This permit is to remove a castle-like building.

Motion to accept permit 2026-34 was made by Mr. Dalessio and seconded by Ms. Mayberry. The motion carried by voice vote. This permit was to remove a 10’ x 22’ shed.

Motion to accept building permit 2026-35 was made by Mr. Dalessio and seconded by Ms. Mayberry. The motion carried by voice vote. The permit was for a 36’ x 26’ detached garage.

Motion to accept building permit 2026-36 was made by Mr. Dalessio and seconded by Ms. Mayberry. The motion carried by voice vote. The permit was to add 14′ x 12′ deck/sunroom.

Motion to accept building permit 2026-37 was made by Mr. Dalessio and seconded by Ms. Mayberry. The motion carried by voice vote. The permit was for a 14′ x 24′ deck and a 6′ x 30′ porch.

North Walpole Village Commissioners, Patrick Kiniry and Katherine Kopij, entered the Selectboard Meeting.

Motion to enter non-public session to meet with the North Walpole Village Commissioners was made by Cheryl Mayberry at 7:15 PM. Mr. Dalessio seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. The meeting was for reason (e): legal.

The Selectboard reconvened the public meeting at 8:00 PM.

Old Business

Avitar Agreement: Motion to sign the sign the Avitar Property Revaluation Agreement. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. The motion carried by voice vote.

New Business

Primex: Ms. Mayberry explained that the rates for Workers Compensation coverage had gone down and then the total went down. The rates were based on the prior year’s reported wages.

Folding Chairs: Motion to sign purchase order #953136 to purchase 25 more stacking chairs for the Town Hall in the amount of $2662 was made by Mr. Dalessio. Seconded by Ms. Mayberry. The motion carried by voice vote. Mr. Dalessio noted there was a 13-week lead time for the chairs.

Resignation Letter: Mr. Dalessio noted Holly Gowdy’s resignation letter from being the recording secretary for the Conservation Commission. The Selectboard acknowledged the resignation.

Motion to enter the Hooper Trustees Meeting was made by Cheryl Mayberry and seconded by Mr. Dalessio. The motion passed unanimously. The time was 8:12 PM

The Selectboard reconvened at 8:19 PM.

Adjournment: Ms. Vose declared the meeting adjourned at 8:20 PM.

Minutes prepared by Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration

(Note: These are unapproved Minutes. Corrections will be found in the Minutes of the November 5, 2026 Selectboard meeting.)

Selectboard Meeting Minutes

October 22, 2026, 6:00 PM

Town Hall, Walpole, NH

Roll Call

Present: Carolyn Vose (Chair), Cheryl Mayberry (Selectboard), Steve Dalessio (Selectboard), and . Sarah Downing (Manager of Administration) and Justin Sanctuary (Police Chief)

Ms. Vose called the meeting to order.

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

Motion to go into non-public session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II (a) was made by Ms. Mayberry and seconded by Mr. Dalessio. The motion carried by unanimous voice vote. The time was recorded as 6:03 PM.

Mr. Dalessio moved that the Non-Public Session Minutes be sealed. Ms. Vose seconded. The motion passed unanimously. The Selectboard meeting reconvened at 7:40 PM.

Chief Sanctuary left the meeting during non-public session.

Accounts Payable

The Board reviewed the Outstanding Bills Register for checks and ACH payments to be issued 10/27/2026. Mr. Dalessio noted that the register included an ACH payment of $45,001.10 and a $74,602.50 payment to MHQ Inc. for a new police vehicle.

Motion to accept the Accounts Payable check register in the amount of $220,072.68 was made by Mr. Dalessio and seconded by Ms. Mayberry. The motion carried unanimously.

Payroll

Motion to accept the Payroll Register of $33,624.90 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $6,137.49 was made by Mr. Dalessio and seconded by Ms. Mayberry. The motion carried unanimously.

Selectboard Meeting Minutes

Motion to accept the Selectboard meeting minutes of October 15, 2026 was made by Mr. Dalessio and seconded by Ms. Mayberry. The motion carried.

Motion to accept the Selectboard non-public session minutes of October 15, 2026, to remain sealed, was made by Mr. Dalessio and seconded by Ms. Mayberry. The motion carried unanimously.

Demolition & Building Permits

Motion to accept Demolition Permit 2026-32 to remove a 27-by-40-foot barn on Map 4, Lot 35 was made by Mr. Dalessio and seconded by Ms. Mayberry. The motion carried unanimously.

Mrs. Downing explained that the barn would be taken down and rebuilt at another location.

Refunds

Motion to accept the notice of property tax refund on Map 13, Lot 31 in the amount of $49.47 was made by Mr. Dalessio and seconded by Ms. Mayberry. The motion carried unanimously.

Abatements

Motion to accept the notice of property tax abatement on Map and Lots: 026-001-000, 026-001-001, 027-001-000, 028-001-000, 028-047-000in the amount of $1,100.91 was made by Mr. Dalessio and seconded by Ms. Mayberry. The motion carried unanimously.

Mrs. Downing explained that the abatements related to Great River Hydro properties. These utility properties had been overtaxed for the Statewide Education Tax. Mr. Dalessio questioned why the utility was not subject to that tax. He raised a concern that if the school district used a town valuation that included utilities, local taxpayers would effectively cover the utility portion of the tax. He noted that this could be significant for a property as large as the hydro facilities. Ms. Mayberry agreed that the valuation should be calculated without utilities. Mr. Dalessio pointed to the line on the MS-1 that shows value less utilities, and the Board agreed to review it. Ms. Mayberry suggested consulting Jamie Dow at the DRA on how the statewide education tax affects the tax rate.

Old Business

Collateralization of Public Funds Treasurer Policy

Mr. Dalessio explained that the policy (TP-004) required annual review and that no changes had been made. The signatures were updated for the auditors.

Motion to accept the Collateralization of Public Funds Treasurer Policy TP-004, with no changes, was made by Mr. Dalessio and seconded by Ms. Mayberry. The motion carried unanimously.

Quotes for Replacement Gate at Capped Landfill

Ms. Vose noted that one quote, from Wayside Fence, was substantially lower than the others. Mrs. Downing explained that Wayside Fence had submitted a revised quote about $500 higher after staff asked the owner to confirm the pricing. Brad Nash had asked whether the quote reflected round metal posts rather than the square posts originally installed. Labor on the other quotes was about as much as Wayside’s total. Staff had contacted the vendor twice to confirm the figures. Board members spoke favorably of the vendor’s work. Ms. Vose clarified that the project concerned the gate at the closed landfill, not the Recycling Center.

Motion to accept the Wayside quote in the amount of $1,810 to replace the gate at the closed landfill was made by Mr. Dalessio and seconded by Ms. Mayberry. The motion carried unanimously.

Release of Sealed Selectboard Meeting Minutes

Ms. Mayberry presented a series of motions to unseal minutes, with specified exceptions that would remain sealed.

Motion to unseal the non-public minutes from 1996 through 2010, with the following to remain sealed, was made by Ms. Mayberry and seconded by Mr. Dalessio: October 31, 1996; December 5, 1996; September 22, 2005; July 20, 2006; August 31, 2006; May 31, 2007; November 1, 2007; September 4, 2008; September 29, 2008; February 9, 2009; and December 16, 2010. The motion carried unanimously.

Motion to unseal the non-public minutes from 2011 and 2012, with the following to remain sealed, was made by Ms. Mayberry and seconded by Ms. Vose: March 17, April 21, April 27, May 4, May 12, May 26, and December 29, 2011; and August 29, October 4, October 11, and October 18, 2012. The motion carried unanimously.

Motion to unseal all non-public session minutes from 2013 and make them public was made by Ms. Mayberry and seconded by Mr. Dalessio. The motion carried unanimously.

Board members observed that there were gaps in some years with no non-public minutes. They noted that the minutes opened from the late 1990s to the mid-2000s contained nothing controversial.

New Police Station USDA Grant Form SF-424

Mrs. Downing reported that she had completed most of the SF-424 form but needed the Town contact’s name. She noted that Bert Wiemers had been the contact for the Village School grant application and that Steve Horton had been listed on the fire station form. Mr. Dalessio stated that he would serve as owner’s representative for the police station and would be listed as contact. Mrs. Downing would enter her email address so that correspondence, including annual reporting requirements and drawdown notices, would be kept in Town records. Mrs. Downing agreed to prepare the form for the following week’s meeting.

Town Hall Replacement Ramp

Ms. Vose reported that Andrew Dey had recommended speaking with one or two architects, with one in particular in mind. Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Mayberry favored contacting only one architect first, unless the cost came back unreasonably high. Ms. Vose said she trusted Mr. Dey’s background knowledge. The Board agreed that it was seeking professional advice on ADA requirements rather than certified plans at this stage. Ms. Vose also emphasized that the scope discussed with Mr. Dey should be kept in mind before asking him for further assistance.

NH DOT Notice re: Rt. 12 Paving Project

Ms. Vose reviewed the NH Department of Transportation notice inviting comments on the Town’s section of the Route 12 paving project. Final inspection was pending and the lines had been added.

New Business

Hooper Institute Liquor Service Letter for Town Hall Event

Ms. Mayberry moved to allow the Hooper Institute to serve liquor at its gala on November 7, 2026. She asked whether the proper insurance had been acquired. Mrs. Downing stated that the Hooper Institute event is covered through Primex, which includes when alcohol beverages are available for consumption. The Selectboard felt there should be additional insurance obtained.

Motion to allow the Hooper Institute to serve liquor at its gala on November 7, 2026, pending acquisition of proper insurance, was made by Ms. Mayberry and seconded by Ms. Vose. The motion passed unanimously.

2026 Cheshire County Tax Bill

Ms. Mayberry noted that the county tax is based on equalized valuation, including utilities and railroads. The Board discussed how the payment would be made and how it had been handled the previous year. Mr. Dalessio, Ms. Mayberry and Ms. Vose discussed the Treasurer’s inquiry. Ms. Mayberry explained that no motion was needed because the payment would appear on the accounts payable ACH register for confirmation. The Board acknowledged for the record the 2026 Cheshire County tax bill of $1,716,375, due December 17, 2026.

Primex Property and Liability Program Renewal

Ms. Vose presented the renewal contribution of $69,564, a decrease of $2,478 from the prior year. Board members welcomed the news for budgeting purposes. They attributed it to fewer claims and the removal of items such as a highway truck that was a 100% loss in the previous year.

Right-to-Know re: Selectboard Decision

Ms. Vose read a letter from a resident asking about the status of the former Whitcomb Building on Route 12. The letter stated that the building had been reported as a gift to the Town 5 or 6 years earlier for use as a new police station. The Board acknowledged receipt of the letter, and a written response would be prepared.

For the record, Ms. Vose stated that the property was never officially offered to the Town through the Selectboard and was not a gift. Ms. Mayberry described the matter as a misunderstanding that became a public discussion without ever amounting to a formal offer. Mr. Dalessio clarified that there had been two separate conversations: the building was never offered free to the Town, though purchase was a possibility when it was on the market, and the building would have required extensive renovations and was not suitable for a police station. Ms. Vose added that the renovations would have been driven by regulatory requirements rather than preference. Ms. Mayberry noted additional ADA accommodation requirements and the building’s size.

Other Business: Heating Costs and Town Hall Use

Mrs. Downing raised the idea of a heating surcharge for non-Town use of the Town Hall. She said some groups left the side door open and lights on, even though civic groups use the building at no charge. The Town has installed window shrink kits to the meeting room windows to save heat. Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio supported raising awareness, and Ms. Mayberry suggested a checklist for groups leaving the building. Ms. Vose suggested placing a notice in the Walpolean and having staff remind groups when reservations are made. No surcharge was adopted.

Adjournment: Ms. Vose declared the meeting adjourned at 8:18 PM.

Minutes prepared by Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration

(Note: These are unapproved Minutes. Corrections will be found in the Minutes of the October 29, 2026 Selectboard meeting.)

Selectboard Meeting Minutes
October 15, 2026, 6:30 PM
Town Hall, Walpole, NH

Present: Ms. Carolyn Vose, Chair; Ms. Cheryl Mayberry, Selectboard Member; Mr. Steve Dalessio, Selectboard Member; Ms. Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration.

Ms. Vose called the meeting to order. Mr. Andrew Dey attended as a guest.

Town Hall Replacement Ramp

Ms. Vose invited Mr. Dey to comment on the Town Hall ramp. After inspecting it with Mr. Brad Nash, Mr. Dey said replacement appeared to be the best long-term solution. He identified key issues including encroachment onto neighboring property, whether steps are needed, likely rot and repair behind the existing concrete, nearby electrical conduits, drainage and sidewalk heaving, possible ADA deficiencies at the entry door, and the added cost of any heated-ramp option. He said concrete with steel railings is the usual approach and recommended hiring an architect, with engineering support as needed, to design the project. He offered to suggest architects, help with pricing, and assist with oversight. Mr. Dalessio noted a steel pan and concrete system used at the museum as another option to explore. The Board also discussed maintaining access during construction, possibly through a temporary rental ramp as used during COVID. Members agreed that architectural design would help define the full scope of the project, including drainage, rot, and ADA concerns, and discussed continuing to patch the ramp in the short term while considering a future warrant article for design work. The Board agreed to ask Mr. Dey for architect recommendations.

Payroll

Mr. Dalessio moved to accept the payroll register in the amount of $36,201.31 for checks dated 10/16/2026 and the 941 payroll tax transfer of $6,686.73. Ms. Vose seconded. The motion carried.

Selectboard Meeting Minutes

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Selectboard meeting minutes of October 8, 2026. Ms. Vose seconded. The motion carried, with Mr. Dalessio abstaining.

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Selectboard non-public session minutes of October 8, 2026, with the minutes to remain sealed. Ms. Vose seconded. The motion carried, with Mr. Dalessio abstaining.

Building Permits

Mr. Dalessio moved to accept building permit 2026-31 for Map 12, Lot 19, Sublot 1, to construct a prefabricated shed. The motion was seconded by Ms. Mayberry. The motion carried.

Old Business

NH Liquor Commission Off Site Caterer-Site Approval Form

Mr. Dalessio moved to have the Chair sign the liquor license form for the Cheshire County Conservation District (CCCD) for October 22, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM. Ms. Vose seconded. The motion carried.

Propane Contract and Town Hall In-Ground Propane Tank

Ms. Vose reported that Liz Wight, the finance manager, had spoken with Irving Energy. The Town leases the propane tanks, which serve the water and sewer pumps, the Town Hall, and heating at Highway and Recycling. No written lease agreement could be located, and the annual quote does not itemize the lease cost. Mrs. Downing noted that the lease charge is presumably built into the per-gallon price. Board members clarified that they were not looking to change vendors and only wanted to understand the full agreement.

The quoted rate was $1.698 per gallon, an increase of $0.281 per gallon over last year, for an estimated 7,500 gallons. That volume reflects the initial filling of the newly installed tanks. Mr. Dalessio compared the rate with a state median cash price of $3.25 per gallon. Ms. Vose called it a great price. Ms. Mayberry agreed and noted that the tanks primarily support generators, so demand should be lower outside outages, which may help explain the rate. Members agreed to confirm that the billed rate matches the quote and noted that the agreement runs on a seasonal October-to-October basis.

Mr. Dalessio moved to have the Chair sign the propane agreement with Irving Energy at $1.698 per gallon. The motion was seconded by Ms. Mayberry. The motion carried.

Heating Oil and Diesel Quote Update

Ms. Mayberry reviewed the Swanzey Oil quotes. Heating oil was offered at $4.799 per gallon for a total of 5,300 gallons, with pricing in effect until May 1, 2027. Diesel was offered at a locked price of $5.249 per gallon for a total of 10,000 gallons.

Members noted that Irving Energy’s fuel prices had been considerably higher, which was why they were pursuing Swanzey Oil for fuel.

Ms. Mayberry moved to sign a fuel heating contract with Swanzey Oil for the winter season, covering both heating oil and diesel, and to have the Chair sign the agreement. Mr. Dalessio seconded. The motion carried.

New Business

November 3, 2026 Election Warrant Notice

Ms. Vose explained that this was a new state form accompanying the posting of the ballot. Members discussed the increasing complexity and paperwork required of local election officials under state regulations. They noted that the Board’s signature is required for compliance even though the election concerns state and federal offices and constitutional amendments.

Mr. Dalessio moved to sign the State of New Hampshire election warrant notice. Ms. Mayberry seconded, citing the need to remain compliant with state regulations. The motion carried.

Collateralization of Public Funds, Treasurer Policy TP-04

Mrs. Downing reported that the policy wording was unchanged and that only the authorized signatories and treasurer had been updated. Members questioned whether the Board must re-sign a policy when its membership changes and suspected the auditors had requested it. They agreed that updating the policy did no harm and would raise awareness of collateralization. They decided the policy would first be forwarded for review for accuracy, with a recommendation to follow before the Board signed it. No motion was made.

HealthTrust Benefits Package Renewal

Ms. Vose reported a 9.2 percent premium increase and asked whether the Board wished to consider other plan options. Ms. Mayberry noted that other providers’ costs were also rising significantly and that the increase was not egregious. Members agreed that changing providers would be a significant undertaking and that a site-of-service plan would likely be unpopular with staff. Mr. Dalessio proposed raising the employee contribution from 15 to 16 percent, and Ms. Mayberry agreed, citing concern about cost-of-living adjustments not keeping pace with increases.

A motion was made by Mr. Dalessio and seconded by Ms. Mayberry to have the Chair sign the HealthTrust health insurance premium rate transmittal for the 2027 calendar year. The motion carried.

Ms. Mayberry moved to increase the employee contribution toward health coverage from 15 percent to 16 percent, effective January 1. Mr. Dalessio seconded. The motion carried.

Members noted that payroll must be informed of the change and that employees must be notified. The rate form also needed to be updated with the new contribution.

Town Website Vendor Statement of Work (SOW)

Ms. Vose reported that the annual cost would rise from $4,406.39 to $5,300 as of May 2027. Mrs. Downing explained that the vendor is moving from a Drupal-based system to its own proprietary content management system (CMS), and that the transition, together with upcoming ADA website requirements, was driving the increase. The vendor will migrate the Town’s content. The increase is about 23 percent, rather than the contractual 5 percent annual uplift that would apply in subsequent years.

The contract auto-renews each May and requires 60 days’ notice to terminate. The Board agreed that, while the increase was significant, now was not the time to change vendors, given the effort to build a new site and gather content from departments. Ms. Mayberry noted that the budget must reflect the split-year rate.

Mr. Dalessio moved to sign the contract with CivicPlus to update the website to the new regulations. Ms. Mayberry seconded the motion to have the Chair sign the contract. The motion carried.

Police Department – September 2026 Activity

Mr. Dalessio explained that the September activity report comes directly from the dispatch center and reflects dispatched calls. The monthly staff report prepared by the department shows a considerably higher call volume because it also counts all phone calls received through the police station, whether or not an officer responded. This accounts for the difference between the two reports.

The report was also sent out and posted publicly. No action was taken.

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

Motion to enter Non-Public Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II (e) at 7:18 PM was made by Mr. Dalessio and seconded by Chair Vose. The motion carried unanimously.

Mr. Dalessio moved that the Non-Public Session Minutes be sealed. Ms. Vose seconded. The motion passed unanimously. The Selectboard meeting reconvened at 7:59 PM.

Hooper Trustees

Mr. Dalessio moved to enter the Hooper Trustees Meeting at 7:59 PM. Ms. Vose seconded. The motion passed unanimously. The Selectboard meeting reconvened at 8:29 PM

Adjournment: Ms. Vose declared the meeting adjourned at 8:30 PM.

Minutes prepared by Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration

(Note: These are unapproved Minutes. Corrections will be found in the Minutes of the October 22, 2026 Selectboard meeting.)

Selectboard Meeting Minutes

October 8, 2026, 6:30 PM

Town Hall, Walpole, NH

Present: Carolyn Vose, Chair; Cheryl Mayberry, Selectboard Member; Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration. Absent: Steve Dalessio, Selectboard Member, because of a business meeting conflict.

Ms. Vose called the Selectboard meeting of October 8, 2026 to order at 6:30 PM.

Accounts Payable

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Accounts Payable Check Register in the total amount of $643,125.38 for checks and ACH payments. Ms. Vose seconded. The motion carried unanimously.

Ms. Mayberry noted that the total includes the ACH payment to the Fall Mountain Regional School District (FMRSD) in the amount of $583,655.19.

Payroll

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Payroll Register totaling $36,399.49, dated 10/09/2026, and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer in the amount of $6,656.24. Ms. Vose seconded. The motion carried unanimously.

Selectboard Meeting Minutes

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Selectboard meeting minutes of October 1, 2026. Ms. Vose seconded. The motion carried unanimously.

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Selectboard Non-Public Session minutes of October 1, 2026, with amendments, to remain sealed. Ms. Vose seconded. The motion carried unanimously.

Committee Reports

Ms. Mayberry summarized the Police Building Committee meeting minutes of September 28, 2026. The committee will continue fundraising for furniture and fixtures and will organize “Coffee with a Cop” events. Mrs. Downing noted that one such event had recently been held at the Jiffy Mart, and Ms. Vose welcomed the initiative.

Old Business

NHSP JONE Grant

Mrs. Downing reported that the grant paperwork needed to be revisited because the State had rejected the previously submitted minutes. Ms. Mayberry explained that the motion needed to state specifically that the Chair was authorized to sign the certificate of authority. Because Mr. Dalessio was absent, the motion was framed to give the Chair formal authority on behalf of the Board.

Ms. Mayberry moved to reapprove the equipment grant agreement for the Walpole Police Department, with Chair Vose authorized to sign the Certificate of Authority, thereby authorizing Police Chief Justin Sanctuary to sign and enter into an agreement with the NHSP JONE program. Ms. Vose seconded. The motion carried unanimously.

MS-1, MS-1V for North Walpole Village and MS-1V for Walpole Fire

Mrs. Downing said three DRA forms required Selectboard signatures: the Town of Walpole MS-1, the North Walpole Village District MS-1V, and the Walpole Fire District MS-1V. She noted the updated portal now includes a Selectboard signature line for the MS-1V forms; while not required, DRA staff said signing was helpful.

Ms. Mayberry moved that the Board sign the three forms: the Town of Walpole MS-1V, MS-1V for the Village of North Walpole, and the MS-1V for the Walpole Fire District. Ms. Vose seconded. The motion carried unanimously.

Heating Oil and Diesel Quotes

Ms. Mayberry raised concerns about the Town’s fuel tank arrangement and asked that Mr. Houghton clarify tank ownership and the length of any provider lock-in. The Board reviewed recent delivery issues and pricing, noting repeated fuel shortages, difficulty obtaining comparable written quotes, and unreliable service from Irving Energy. By consensus, the Board agreed to pursue Swanzey Oil for the coming season.

Other Matters

Ms. Vose stated that there was no new business. Ms. Mayberry and Mrs. Downing provided a brief audit update. All paperwork for 2025 has been submitted. The auditors have indicated that corrections for 2024 are complete, though the final analysis has not been received and no signatures are needed at this time. Ms. Mayberry said the next step is to confirm when the 2025 audit will begin.

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

Ms. Mayberry moved to enter non-public session at 6:52 PM pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II (c) and (e). Ms. Vose seconded. The motion carried unanimously.

The Board met in non-public session. The discussion is not recorded in these public minutes.

Ms. Mayberry moved to exit non-public session at 7:22 PM, with the minutes of the session to remain sealed. Ms. Vose seconded. The motion carried unambitiously.

The Board returned to public session. There being no further business, Ms. Vose adjourned the meeting at 7:23 PM.

Minutes prepared by Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration

(Note: These are unapproved Minutes. Corrections will be found in the Minutes of the October 15, 2026 Selectboard meeting.)

Selectboard Meeting Minutes

October 1, 2026, 6:30 PM

Town Hall, Walpole, NH

Present: Carolyn Vose, Chair; Steve Dalessio, Selectboard Member; Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration

Absent: Cheryl Mayberry, Selectboard Member because of illness.

Payroll

Motion to accept the Payroll Register totaling $43,476.81 for checks dated October 2, 2026, and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $8,265.83 was made by Mr. Dalessio and seconded by Chair Vose. The motion carried unanimously.

Selectboard Meeting Minutes

Motion to accept the Selectboard Meeting Minutes of September 24, 2026 was made by Mr. Dalessio and seconded by Chair Vose. The motion carried unanimously.

Motion to accept the Non-Public Session Minutes of September 24, 2026, and that they shall remain sealed, was made by Mr. Dalessio and seconded by Chair Vose. The motion carried unanimously.

Building Permits

Permit #2026-30, Map and Lot# 012-058-000

Motion to accept Building Permit 2026-30 on Map 12, Lot 58, to construct a commercial building, was made by Mr. Dalessio and seconded by Chair Vose. The motion carried unanimously.

Old Business

Certificate of Authority for Police

Staff noted that the Certificate of Authority required a correction to the grant name. It was clarified that the document relates to authorizing Chief Justin Sanctuary to sign for the new NHSP JONE program. It was also noted that the document needed to be re-signed and dated as of September 10th.

Motion to re-accept the Certificate of Authority to allow Chief Justin Sanctuary to sign for the NHSP JONE program was made by Mr. Dalessio and seconded by Chair Vose. The motion carried unanimously.

New Business

Quitclaim Deed

The Board considered a Quitclaim Deed for the sale of 78 Main Street Pocket Park. An initial motion referenced the Walpole Foundation as the receiving party; however, upon review of the deed, it was clarified that the property was being conveyed to an LLC rather than the Walpole Foundation directly. The motion was amended accordingly.

Motion to accept the Quitclaim Deed for 78 Main Street Pocket Park to 78 Main Street LLC was made by Mr. Dalessio and seconded by Chair Vose. The motion carried unanimously.

Walpole Landfill Mowing Contract

The Board considered Purchase Order# 953124 in the amount of $2,700 for field and brush mowing of the capped landfill. It was noted that the Chair would need to sign the agreement on the second page of the contract.

Motion to accept PO# 953124 in the amount of $2,700 for field and brush mowing at the  capped landfill was made by Mr. Dalessio and seconded by Chair Vose. The motion carried unanimously.

Town Hall Rental Event

The Board considered a letter of admission permitting Deluxe Bartending to serve liquor at the Cheshire County Conservation District (CCCD) Celebration, to be held on October 22nd at the Walpole Town Hall.

Motion to accept the letter of admission for Deluxe Bartending to serve liquor at the Cheshire County Conservation District (CCCD) Celebration on October 22nd at the Walpole Town Hall was made by Mr. Dalessio and seconded by Chair Vose. The motion carried unanimously.

Southwest Region Planning Commission Event

The Board received notice from the Southwest Region Planning Commission (SWRPC) regarding the “Radically Rural” summit, returning to downtown Keene from October 6th through 8th. The event is expected to draw hundreds of participants from across the country to share ideas on rural communities and economic development. Mr. Dalessio noted that it is a very worthwhile program for those who have the opportunity to attend.

Cemetery Deeds

The Board considered and approved three cemetery deeds.

Motion to accept the Cemetery Deed for Lots E813 and E814 was made by Mr. Dalessio and seconded by Chair Vose. The motion carried unanimously.

Motion to accept the Cemetery Deed for Lots E9936 and E937 was made by Mr. Dalessio and seconded by Chair Vose. The motion carried unanimously.

Motion to accept the Cemetery Deed for Lots E676 and E677 was made by Mr. Dalessio and seconded by Chair Vose. The motion carried unanimously.

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

Motion to enter Non-Public Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II (e) at 6:42 PM was made by Mr. Dalessio and seconded by Chair Vose. The motion carried unanimously. The time was 6:42 PM.

Mr. Dalessio moved that the Non-Public Session Minutes be sealed. Ms. Vose seconded. The motion passed unanimously.

The meeting reconvened at 7:02 PM.

Hooper Trustees

Mr. Dalessio moved to enter the Hooper Trustees Meeting at 7:02 PM. Ms. Vose seconded. The motion passed unanimously.

The meeting reconvened at 7:05 PM

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

Minutes prepared by Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration

(Note: These are unapproved Minutes. Corrections will be found in the Minutes of the October 8, 2026 Selectboard meeting.)

Selectboard Meeting Minutes

September 24, 2026, 6:30 PM

Town Hall, Walpole, NH

Present: Carolyn Vose (Chair), Steven Dalessio (Select Board Member), Sarah Downing (Manager of Administration). Selectboard member, Cheryl Mayberry, arrived during the Municipal Messaging Systems discussion.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE 

Motion to approve the Accounts Payable Check Register in the total amount of $413,446.96 for checks issued 9/29/2026, including a $250,000 payment to the Walpole Fire District as part of their 2026 warrant articles, as well as an ACH Payment Request for $67,247.98 that includes a $49,512.46 payment to HealthTrust, was made by Select Board Member Dalessio and seconded by Chair Vose. The motion carried unanimously.

PAYROLL 

Motion to approve the Payroll Register totaling $38,844.67 dated 9/25/2026 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $7,238.03 was made by Mr. Dalessio and seconded by Chair Vose. The motion carried unanimously.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES 

Approval of the Selectboard Meeting Minutes was deferred until Select Board Member Mayberry joined, as a motion could not be made without her. Upon her arrival, the minutes were taken up later in the meeting.

Motion to approve the Selectboard Meeting Minutes of September 17, 2026 was made by Ms. Mayberry and seconded by Chair Vose. The motion carried unanimously.

Motion to approve the Selectboard Non-Public Session Meeting Minutes of September 17, 2026, with the minutes to remain sealed, was made by Ms. Mayberry and seconded by Chair Vose. The motion carried unanimously.

COMMITTEE REPORTS 

Mr. Dalessio brought to the attention of the Board the Walpole Fire District Meeting Minutes of May 6, June 3, July 1, and August 5, 2026, as well as the Walpole Conservation Commission Meeting Minutes of September 14, 2026. These were so noted by Chair Vose.

OLD BUSINESS

WFD Fire Station Expansion Project 

The Board noted that reimbursement forms and a drawdown schedule had been submitted by Steve Horton, project manager. Members expressed confidence in the submitted materials and indicated that Ms. Mayberry had also wished to review them.

Building Permit for 160 Prospect Hill Road 

The Board discussed the ongoing non-compliance at 160 Prospect Hill Road, where property owners hold a variance but have continued to be unresponsive to requests to complete a building permit application. The Board agreed the matter had gone on for too long and that a fine was warranted.

Motion to fine the property owners of 160 Prospect Hill Road $500 for building without a permit was made by Mr. Dalessio and seconded by Chair Vose. The motion carried unanimously.

Municipal Messaging Systems 

The Board discussed options for a municipal messaging system and favored a simple, low-cost first-year approach. Members supported using Dial My Calls for one-way call, text, and email alerts, with group targeting and access for multiple departments. Chair Vose will gather additional details and consult with Fire, Chief, Mark Houghton. No formal vote was taken.

NEW BUSINESS

Education Tax Warrant for Tax Year 2026 

The Board noted that the Education Tax Warrant for Tax Year 2026 will be $1.03 per thousand in property value. No further action was required.

Health Officer and Deputy Endorsements for Appointment 

Motion to appoint Simon Gascoyne as the Town’s Health Officer was made by Mr. Dalessio and seconded by Ms. Mayberry. The motion carried unanimously.

The Board indicated it would confirm with Steve Grenier regarding his appointment as Deputy Health Officer prior to formalizing that endorsement.

Town Hall Replacement Ramp 

The Board held an extensive discussion prompted by questions from maintenance technician, Brad Nash, regarding specifications needed to solicit contractor quotes for a replacement ramp at Town Hall. The conversation addressed several interconnected design questions, including whether the ramp should be constructed of concrete or metal, whether heating should be incorporated, and whether a canopy or enclosure would be warranted.

Chair Vose expressed support for heated concrete as a safety measure to address ice and snow accumulation. Mrs. Downing noted that a metal ramp had been used temporarily during COVID-era elections, and that the company providing that rental also manufactured permanent heated ramps. Mr. Dalessio raised concerns that metal would freeze faster than concrete due to cold air exposure underneath and that heated mats would likely be damaged by wheelchair traffic and carts over time.

Ms. Mayberry suggested getting quotes on both concrete and metal options so the Board could make a fully informed decision. She also raised the possibility of relocating the ramp—switching the current ramp and stair positions—so that the ramp would extend onto the lawn rather than further over the existing property line. This alternative, she noted, might also improve the pitch of the ramp. The Board acknowledged that the existing ramp already encroaches slightly over the property line into the neighboring church’s lot, and that any expansion to meet ADA requirements may require approaching the church. Members expressed optimism that the church would be agreeable, given the existing shared parking arrangement.

The Board agreed that an architect or ADA specialist—specifically referencing Andrew Dey—should be engaged first to establish proper design parameters, ADA compliance requirements, and platform dimensions before approaching any contractors for quotes. Chair Vose emphasized that the Board did not want a patch job: “It’s gonna cost what it can cost” and the work should be done correctly. No formal vote was taken; Mr. Nash was directed to engage relevant professionals and return with specifics.

Walpole Welcomes Newcomers’ Party 

The Board noted that the Walpole Welcomes Newcomers’ Party will be held on the Walpole Common on Saturday, October 3rd, from 2:00 to 5:00 PM, rain or shine. The event is intended as an opportunity for new residents to meet neighbors and town officials, and will feature games, raffles, pies, and sweets.

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

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.

The Board entered non-public session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II (b) (c) (e) at 7:00 PM 

Adjournment: Ms. Vose declared the meeting adjourned at 7:29 PM.

Minutes prepared by Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration

(Note: These are unapproved Minutes. Corrections will be found in the Minutes of the October 1, 2026 Selectboard meeting.)

Selectboard Meeting Minutes

September 17, 2026, 6:30 PM

34 Elm Street, Walpole, NH 03608

Present: Carolyn Vose (Chair), Cheryl Mayberry (Select Board Member), Sarah Downing (Manager of Administration)

Chair Carolyn Vose called the Selectboard Meeting to order at 6:30 PM. It was noted for the record that Steve Dalessio was absent due to business travel.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the ACH payment to the New Hampshire Retirement System in the amount of $33,087.87. The motion was seconded by Chair Vose. The motion carried unanimously.

PAYROLL

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Payroll Register totaling $42,681.41 dated 9/18/2026, and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer in the amount of $7,995.75. The motion was seconded by Chair Vose. The motion carried unanimously.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Selectboard Meeting Minutes of September 10, 2026. The motion was seconded by Chair Vose. The motion carried unanimously.

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Selectboard Non-Public Session Minutes of September 10, 2026, with the minutes to remain sealed. The motion was seconded by Chair Vose. The motion carried unanimously.

Note: Ms. Mayberry initially cited September 8th in error; the date was corrected to September 10th prior to the vote.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Ms. Mayberry called to the attention of the Chair and the Selectboard the following committee reports: the Planning Board Meeting Minutes of September 8, 2026, and the Library Trustee Meeting Minutes of September 8, 2026. These were so noted.

OLD BUSINESS

High Street Bridge

Ms. Mayberry provided an update on the High Street Bridge, noting that while a larger inter-agency meeting had taken place with FEMA, DES, the contractor, and the Town to resolve the outstanding wetlands permit, the permit was denied again. As a result, the contractor was required to request another extension beyond the September 15th deadline. Town Road Agent, Mike Symonds, is actively working on the matter and is reported to be frustrated by the repeated denials. The Board noted the matter remains ongoing.

NEW BUSINESS

Recognition Letter for Recycling Center

Chair Vose brought to the Board’s attention a letter of appreciation received from Cindy and Tim Allen commending the Recycling Center team for the exceptional assistance they provided during a home cleanout. The board agreed the letter was well-deserved and discussed the best way to share it with the team. It was agreed that Chair Vose would contact the Recycling Center staff and, if feasible, share the letter at an upcoming employee appreciation lunch event. The Board wished for the recognition to be noted in the minutes.

ClerkMinutes Software

Manager of Administration, Sarah Downing, presented an overview of the ClerkMinutes software, which she has been using on a trial basis to assist with the preparation of meeting minutes. Mrs. Downing noted that the software significantly reduces the time required to produce minutes, as it automates the initial draft based on meeting recordings, which she then reviews and edits. She noted that the system is still learning to identify individual speakers and may occasionally misattribute who seconds a motion, but that accuracy is expected to improve over time.

Regarding cost, Mrs. Downing reported that the monthly rate is $299, while an annual commitment reduces the cost to $249 per month — a savings of $50 per month. The Board compared this to the budgeted cost of a recording secretary, which was approximately $9,001 annually (exclusive of payroll taxes), equating to roughly $764.75 per month. The Board agreed that the software represents a substantial cost savings.

The Board discussed whether to commit to a monthly plan through the end of the year and then transition to an annual plan beginning January 1st, or to negotiate a prorated annual rate with the vendor representative starting now. Mrs. Downing agreed to contact ClerkMInutes to explore whether a favorable rate could be arranged for a commitment covering the remainder of 2026 through the end of 2027. The Board also noted that the software could potentially be expanded to serve additional municipal bodies such as the Zoning or Planning boards, though a custom quote would be required. The Board expressed general satisfaction with the product.

Governor’s Office of New Opportunities & Rural Transformational Health (Go-North)

The Board acknowledged receipt of an informational package from Go-North, including a PowerPoint presentation and a map defining the rural area and the initiative’s focus on transformational rural health access. This was noted for the record.

Letter of Deficiency from NH DES related to Len-Tex Corporation

Chair Vose summarized a letter of deficiency received from NH DES directed to Len-Tex Corporation regarding ongoing reporting failures, noting this is a follow-up to a similar letter received in the spring. DES has indicated that it has not received information requested from Len-Tex since its April correspondence, and the company was given seven days from September 11, 2026 to provide the required information. The board expressed concern about the nature of the deficiency, which appeared related to air quality permitting associated with the facility’s use of inks, which are classified as an organic hazard. The matter was noted for the record, with the board hoping the company resolves the issue.

Fire Station Progress Report Presentation

The Board discussed an email from Steve Horton offering to provide either an in-person briefing or written financial update on the Walpole Fire Station project. Ms. Mayberry indicated that an in-person visit was not necessary at this time but emphasized the importance of receiving consistent financial documentation given that the town is the grant holder of record. Discussion focused on confirming who is authorized to sign reimbursement requests on behalf of the Town of Walpole, and whether that authorization had been delegated to Mr. Horton. The Board agreed that Mrs. Downing should follow up with Mr. Horton to confirm the signatory arrangement and to request that copies of all reimbursement submissions be provided to the town on a regular basis.

SWRPC Fall Meeting

The Board acknowledged an invitation to the Southwestern Regional Planning Commission (SWRPC) Fall Meeting, scheduled for October 13, 2026 at Heberton Hall, Keene Public Library, beginning at 5:30 PM. The presentation topic is “Plan to Act,” described as the guiding framework for the forthcoming update to the Monadnock Region’s regional plan. Ms. Mayberry, who currently serves as chair of the SWRPC Board, confirmed she plans to attend. It was noted that Mr. Dalessio would likely be unable to attend because of a Planning Board meeting that evening. RSVPs are due by October 7th.

Ms.  Mayberry moved to enter Non-Public Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II (b)(c)(e). The motion was seconded by Chair Vose. The motion carried unanimously. The time was 7:05 PM.

The Selectboard reconvened the public Selectboard Meeting at 7:38 PM.

Ms.  Mayberry moved to enter the Hooper Trustees Meeting The motion was seconded by Chair Vose. The motion carried unanimously. The time was 7:38 PM.

The Selectboard reconvened the public Selectboard Meeting at 7:55 PM.

Chair Vose moved to adjourn the Selectboard Meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 7:55 PM.

Minutes prepared by Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration