The Walpolean

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

JANUARY 29, 2026

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

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

Guests Present: Chris Coates, Cheshire County Administrator; Terry Clark, Skip DiBernardo, and Claudia Stewart, County Commissioners; Sheryl Trombly, Cheshire County Finance Director; Jack Wozmak, Cheshire County Treasurer, and Ernie Vose.

Call to Order: Mr. Dalessio called the Selectboard meeting to order at 6:29 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.

The following item was added at the top of the agenda to accommodate guests who wished to address the topic.

Cheshire County at a Glance

Chris Coates and the County Commissioners presented information about the status of the County. They are currently focusing on helping town officials and the public learn about County services.  They are looking for more staff, especially for Maplewood Nursing Home.  

• After the last renovation, Maplewood went from 85% double rooms to 70% singles.  There is fresh air coming into each room. There are also twenty apartments for assisted living with some for couples and some for spouses of the nursing home residents.  The number of people who can be in Maplewood is limited by the number of employees.
• Cheshire County EMS is in its third year of operation, and it is almost breaking even. They provide support for several towns and Keene, and have backup arrangements with other towns, including Walpole.  They are also working with Smart Ride for wheelchairs, which provides a necessary service that also frees up ambulances for emergencies.  They also do most of the transport for Cheshire Medical Center.
• The Connected Families program is about eight years old. The staff work with families to keep children in their homes and school. Keeping kids in their community is the best way to prevent future issues and the related costs.
• The Sheriff is helping with policing in communities. It is paid for by the towns using the service.
• All dispatch towers were upgraded recently, which also helps the Towns’ communications.  The project was paid for completely by grants.
• Cheshire County has 41 grants totaling about $16,000,000.  They will help towns with grants, and they sponsor grant writing courses.

By consensus, the Selectboard found the information presented very helpful. The flyer, “Cheshire County at a Glance – Walpole”, will be distributed at Town Meeting.  Everyone should know what the County does.

All the guests left the meeting.

Payroll

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Payroll Register totaling $36,579.14 dated 1/30/2026 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $7,214.72.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Payroll was approved. 

Selectboard Meeting Minutes

Selectboard Meeting – January 22, 2026: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of January 22, 2026.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Selectboard minutes were approved.

Non-Public Selectboard Meeting – January 22, 2026: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard meeting of January 22, 2026.  The minutes will remain sealed.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Non-Public minutes were approved.

Committee Reports

Ms. Mayberry brought to the chair’s attention the committee reports as listed in the agenda:

• Walpole Fire District Monthly Meeting – October 8, 2025
• Walpole Fire District Monthly Meeting – November 12, 2025
• Walpole Fire District Monthly Meeting – December 3, 2025
• Library Trustees Meeting – January 13, 2026
• Trail Committee Meeting – January 14, 2026
• Zoning Board of Adjustment Meeting – December 17, 2025
• Zoning Board of Adjustment Meeting – January 21, 2026
• Police Building Committee Meeting – January 21, 2026

Mr. Dalessio acknowledged these minutes.

Water and Sewer Warrants

Walpole Water Lien: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the warrant for a Walpole Water Lien for $1,195.82.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Walpole Sewer Lein: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the warrant for a Walpole Sewer Lien totaling $2,207.42.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

North Walpole Sewer Lien: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the warrant for a North Walpole Sewer Lien for $9,008.79.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

The Selectboard recommends that Mrs. Daigle follow up on water shut offs for unpaid bills per the Town’s agreement with North Walpole Village.

Walpole Water Fees: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the warrant for Walpole Water Fees for $46,269.90. Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Walpole Sewer Fees: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the warrant for Walpole Sewer Fees totaling $72,965.87. Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

North Walpole Sewer Fees: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the warrant for North Walpole Sewer Fees for $59,032.11.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Supplemental Tax Warrant

Map and Lot # 012-013-4U1: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Supplemental Tax Warrant for Map and Lot # 012-013-4U1 for $1,907.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Map and Lot # 012-013-4U2: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Supplemental Tax Warrant for Map and Lot # 012-013-4U2 for $361. Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Old Business

Because of the length of the meeting tonight, discussion of the 2026 Budget and the 2026 Warrant Articles were postponed to a separate meeting on Tuesday, February 3rd at 5:30 PM in the Selectboard Office.

Reservoir Dam Update: Fuss & O’Neill have paused work on the Reservoir Dam.  It is not clear why there is a pause. Mr. Dalessio will check into it.

High Street Bridge/Culvert: Ms. Mayberry explained that FEMA rejected the requested time extension.  On further investigation, Ms. Mayberry found that they needed the Town’s audit and the correct reference for the project.  Now that they have the information, the project is reapproved and the Town can proceed with the less expensive plan that causes less environmental impact.

School Withdrawal Meeting Handouts: The handouts were reviewed and plans were made for getting the materials printed and distributed.

New Business

Front Cover for the 2025 Town Report: Front covers samples were reviewed by the Selectboard. A favorite was chosen.

Inside Front Cover Dedication Page: By consensus, the dedication will include three people.

Whitcomb Park Rental Inquiry: Hubbard LLC would like to rent the park for their company event on Friday, July 31st or Friday, August 14th. The Selectboard agreed that the rec park is not available on July 31st but is available on August 14th.  The Town needs confirmation by 3/1/2026 and the hours Hubbard LLC would like to use the rec park.  The Town needs to set a cost that covers Town expenses. The rental should make a profit to help reduce the tax cost of running the recreation park.

February In-Person Staff Meeting: There is mandatory staff attendance at the 2026 Budget Hearing which will count as the in-person meeting in February.

Handrails for 2nd Floor Back Stairs in Town Hall: The Women of Walpole (WOW) is offering to pay for back stairway update, materials only.  By consensus, the Selectboard agreed that WOW needs to cover both materials and installation, because Walpole doesn’t have anyone who can stain the new rails to match the current woodworking and install them to be safety compliant. 

Second Floor Window Shrink Kit Coverings: The Selectboard Office asked if that because of the extremely high oil usage in the Town Hall, shrink covering should be added to the second-floor windows. The coverings could damage the varnished trim. Ms. Mayberry found that 3M and Frostline make varnish-safe kits.  By consensus, the Selectboard approved the installation.

Boston Post Cane: The current cane holder, Shirley Sanctuary, passed away. There will be a search for a new candidate, who is the oldest Walpole citizen.

Municipal Clean Energy Projects: NHDES’ Climate Pollution Reduction Grant program focuses on reducing emissions and air pollution. One sector that the EPA requires is Waste and Materials Management. The Selectboard would like Ms. Hakey at the Recycling Center to review the notice and answer the questions.

Public Notice for a Subdivision Hearing: The hearing is for the lot across the street from the Reservoir Dam parcel. Mr. Dalessio noted that there are questions to be researched by the Planning Board regarding two houses that are on the existing lot that is to be subdivided.

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

Ms. Vose moved to enter into Non-Public Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II (a)(b)(c) at 8:51 PM.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Ms. Vose, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 9:24 PM.

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

Adjournment: Mr. Dalessio declared the meeting adjourned at 9:24 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

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

Town of Walpole, New Hampshire

Meeting of the Selectboard

January 22, 2026

Selectboard Present: Steven Dalessio, Chair, Carolyn Vose (remote due to illness – she is home alone) and Cheryl Mayberry

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

Guests Present: Jo Cowgill

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

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

Police Assistance to Ice Involved Situations: Jo Cowgill wished to discuss this topic with the Selectboard.  Mrs. Cowgill noted that there are no problems at this time in Walpole, but she wants the community to be prepared for ICE activity, particularly during demonstrations.  There were about 400 people at the last demonstration near Jouvay Chocolate. There was a discussion about drivers who were surprised by the large group of people gathered and that some may be fearful.  Mr. Dalessio pointed out that Walpole Police have always cooperated with Federal agencies in various investigations. Mr. Dalessio has spoken with Chief Sanctuary regarding the matter. The Walpole Police Department will continue to cooperate with agencies that are acting lawfully.  Mr. Dalessio stated that the Town can depend on Walpole Police to know what is right in the future.   Mrs. Cowgill would also like Walpole Police Officers to protect demonstrators. It was recommended that she call Chief Sanctuary ahead of time, to make the request.

Mrs. Cowgill left the meeting.

Accounts Payable

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Accounts Payable Check Register totaling $204,608.82 dated 1/27/2026 including $73,296.50 payment to McGovern MHQ for a new Police vehicle. Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Accounts Payable was approved. The new police cruiser purchase was approved at the 2025 Town Meeting under warrant article #11.

Payroll

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Payroll Register totaling $35,307.10 dated 1/23/2026 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $7,000.09.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Payroll was approved. 

Selectboard Meeting Minutes

Selectboard Meeting – January 15, 2026: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of January 15, 2026.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Selectboard minutes were approved.

Non-Public Selectboard Meeting –January 15, 2026: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard meeting of January 15, 2026.  The minutes will remain sealed.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Non-Public minutes were approved.

Committee Reports

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

• Walpole Planning Board – October 14, 2025
• Hooper Institute Board of Directors – November 6, 2025
• Hooper Institute Board of Directors – December 2, 2025
• Police Building Committee – January 6, 2026

Mr. Dalessio acknowledged these minutes.

Old Business

2026 Town Budget: The Selectboard reviewed and discussed the 2026 budget.   Ms. Mayberry will send the Excel spreadsheet to Mr. Dalessio and Ms. Vose for final review for next week.  The Selectboard feels things are in a very good position in preparation for public meetings, the Town Report, and Town Meeting.

2026 Warrant Articles: Attorney Hockensmith is working on a response to the format question regarding the petition articles to determine if they are legal in the current format. The final version of the Warrant Articles will be ready for next week.

Privacy Release Form re: Federal Legislative Assistance: Ms. Mayberry moved to have the Chair sign the form giving permission for the Federal Government to speak to Mr. Dalessio or Mr. Paul Looney.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion passed, and Mr. Dalessio signed the form.  The form is to get assistance to process the federal tax reimbursement for the solar energy system at the Recycling Center.

New Business

250thAnniversary of American Independence: Mr. Dalessio has been approached with questions as to what Walpole will be doing to celebrate the anniversary.  There was a consensus that a message should be sent to all civic organizations in Town to see what they might want to do.  Mrs. Downing will send an email to all organizations and others who might be interested.   The email will request a response by March 31st.  July 4th is a Saturday this year.

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 7:41 PM.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 7:57 PM.

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

Hooper Trustees

Ms. Mayberry moved to enter into the Hooper Trustees meeting at 7:57 PM.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 8:05 PM.

Adjournment: Mr. Dalessio declared the meeting adjourned at 8:05 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

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

Town of Walpole, New Hampshire

Meeting of the Selectboard

January 15, 2026

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

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

Call to Order: Mr. Dalessio called the Selectboard meeting to order at 6:33 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.

Payroll

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Payroll Register totaling $36,377.53 dated 1/16/2026 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $7,308.97.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the payroll was approved. 

Selectboard Meeting Minutes

Selectboard Meeting – January 8, 2026: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of January 8, 2026.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Selectboard minutes were approved.

Non-Public Selectboard Meeting – January 8, 2026: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard meeting of January 8, 2026.  The minutes will remain sealed.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Non-Public minutes were approved.

Committee Reports

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

• Safety Committee Meeting – November 13, 2025 
• Conservation Committee Meeting – January 5, 2026 

Mr. Dalessio acknowledged these minutes.

Abatements

Map and Lot # 019-039-000: This abatement is the settlement of BTLA property tax appeal of 2023 that rolled into the 2024 tax year.  Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Abatement for Map and Lot # 019-039-000.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Veterans’ Tax Credit:

Map and Lot #011-039-004: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Veterans’ Property Tax Credit for Map and Lot# 011-039-004.  The applicant served more than 90 days of active duty during a time of conflict and was honorably discharged.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Old Business

First Point Power Electricity Sales Agreement: Ms. Mayberry explained that a revision to the contract signed earlier is needed.   There is a better rate for five months than the earlier contract for four months.  Ms. Mayberry moved to sign the revised contract for a lower rate for five months.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion passed, and Mr. Dalessio signed and initialed the contract.

Fanny Mason Timber Cut: Mr. Dalessio explained there is a temporary permit for the Fanny Mason Timber Cut logging driveway that has been obtained from the State. This allows logging trucks to turn onto Route 12.  It is the same landing and driveway used last time cutting was done in that area. 

Hooper Revised Reimbursement request to Trustees of Trust Funds for the Renovations: Ms. Mayberry stated that the previous request was halted when an error was discovered in the Hooper Renovation expenses.  The corrected amount has now been sent to the Trustees of Trust Funds. 

New Business

Reservoir Dam ARPA Grant Reimbursement: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the ARPA grant reimbursement of $10,227.50.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion passed, and Mr. Dalessio signed the form.

2026 Warrant Articles – First Draft:  The Selectboard reviewed the first draft of the Warrant Articles. Additional reviews will be done weekly as missing information is added. 

The Selectboard Office received three petition articles that are formatted in an unusual way. Attorney Hockensmith has been asked to determine whether they can be used as is, or if they need to be reformatted.  Mr. Dalessio noted that there is plenty of time to make sure everything is done legally.

School Withdrawal: Fall Mountain Regional School District will have a budget hearing on Monday, January 26^th.  There will be no rebuttal presentation. Everyone can attend and ask questions.  The Selectboard also worked on some of the information being prepared for residents.

SWRPC Winter Meeting: The SWRPC Winter Meeting will be held on Tuesday, February 10, 2026 in Heberton Hall in the Keene Public Library Annex First Floor.  The Social Hour begins at 5:00 PM and the program will start at 5:30 PM.  

Avitar Utility Rates for 2026: Avitar sent a letter stating that work relating to utilities will be billed at the annual rate of $200/hour.  This also includes property valuations and defense of valuations for BTLA.  Mr. Dalessio acknowledged the letter.

Langdon Hazard Mitigation Plan: SWRPC invited other towns and interested parties to participate in the Landon process.  The Selectboard will send Langdon a copy of Walpole’s hazardous mitigation plans, which were updated recently.

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

Ms. Vose moved to enter into Non-Public Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II (a)(b)(c) at 7:13 PM.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Ms. Vose, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 7:53 PM.

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

Adjournment: Mr. Dalessio declared the meeting adjourned at 7:54 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

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

Town of Walpole, New Hampshire

Meeting of the Selectboard

January 8, 2026

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

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

Guests Present: Paul Looney, Chair of the Walpole Community Power Committee

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

The following item was added at the top of the agenda to accommodate a guest who wished to address this issue.

Electrical Service Contract – Town of Walpole

Mr. Looney presented the details of a 4-month contract with First Point Power.  The price is $0.11387 per kilowatt hour.  This is the best rate available now.  Mrs. Pschirrer reviewed the contract and feels it is acceptable.  Ms. Mayberry moved to sign the 4-month agreement with First Point Power.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was passed, and the contract was signed.

Mr. Looney left the meeting.

Accounts Payable

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Accounts Payable Check Register totaling $204,608.82 dated 1/13/2026 including $95,450.00 payment to E.E. Houghton Company using encumbered ARPA funds for sewer pump improvements.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Accounts Payable was approved. 

Payroll

Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Payroll Register totaling $37,962.14 dated 1/9/2026 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $7,701.51.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the payroll was approved. 

Selectboard Meeting Minutes

Selectboard Meeting – 12/28/2025 Corrected: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Corrected Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of 12/28/2025.  There was an error in a name that needed correction. Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the corrected Selectboard minutes were approved.

Selectboard Meeting – December 31, 2025: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of December 31, 2025.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Selectboard minutes were approved.

Non-Public Selectboard Meeting – December 31, 2025: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard meeting of December 31, 2025.  The minutes are no longer sealed.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the Non-Public minutes were approved.

Committee Reports

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

• Trail Committee Meeting – December 10, 2025

Mr. Dalessio acknowledged these minutes.

Abatements

Map and Lot # 017-006-000: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Abatement for Map and Lot #017-006-000 for $4,504.00 to correct a trustee name change for an estate.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Supplemental Tax Warrant

Map and Lot # 017-006-000: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Supplemental Tax Warrant for Map and Lot #017-006-000 of $4,504.00 to mail the invoice to the correct trustee for a probated estate.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Veterans’ Tax Credit:

Map and Lot #016-013-000: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Veterans’ Property Tax Credit for Map and Lot# 016-013-000.  This is a Certain Disabled Veteran Exemption.  The full property value is exempt from taxation under RSA 72:36-a.  Avitar has reviewed and approved the application.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Map and Lot #014-008-000: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Veterans’ Property Tax Credit for Map and Lot# 014-008-000.  The applicant served more than 90 days of active duty during a time of conflict and was honorably discharged.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

Timber Intents

Map and Lot # 010-034-000: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Timber Intent for Map and Lot # 010-034-000, off Reservoir Road.  Ms. Vose seconded.  With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved. 

Old Business

Updated Town Hall Air Cooling System Quote: Proposal # 2025367 from Everett E. Houghton Co. is to remove two existing air conditioning condensers and install a Mitsubishi City Mult VRF condenser and the associated equipment to cool the Town Clerk’s office, the Selectboard office, the kitchen, hall and bathrooms.  The existing ductwork will remain in place so the existing furnace can be used for heating if desired.  The cost is $87,500.00. There are optional 10-year service and labor contracts.  The Selectboard recommends including the service and labor contracts.  By consensus this will become a 2026 Warrant Article.

Fanny Mason Timer Cut Contract: Ms. Vose moved to approve and sign the Timber Sale Contract in the Fanny Mason Forest, to the east of Route 12, with Alex Barrett of Longview Forest to act as Agent and Chris Ricci as Purchaser.  The Conservation Commission endorsed the contract.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Ms. Vose, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved, and the contract was signed by the Selectboard.

Hazardous Waste Collection Commitment Letter: Ms. Vose explained this is the annual agreement with the City of Keene for residents of Walpole to leave hazardous waste at the Keene Recycling Center during collection days.  Ms. Vose moved to have the chair sign the contract.  Ms. Hakey will advertise dates when published.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Ms. Vose, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion passed and the commitment letter was signed by Mr. Dalessio.

School Withdrawal Meeting Start Times: By consensus it was decided there will be a Walpole School Withdrawal Meeting on Wednesday February 11th, 2026, and another meeting on Wednesday, February 25, 2026. Both meetings will start at 6:30 PM.  The meeting on Saturday, February 28th will start at 1:00 PM.  It was decided to post the schedule in the Walpolean and the February Clarion.  There was a discussion on preparing all the public materials for these meetings.

New Business

NH Recycles Materials Management Contract: Ms. Vose stated that this is the new rate schedule for 2026.  Ms. Vose moved to approve the Materials Management Contract between NH Recycles and the Town of Walpole.  Seconded by Ms. Mayberry.  With Ms. Vose, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved and Mr. Dalessio signed the contract.

Cheshire County and Commissioners Meeting with the Selectboard: Cheshire County and the Commissioners are seeking a date to meet with the Selectboard. It was suggested they attend January 22nd or 29th.  Once the date is set, it will be added to the meeting announcement in case the public wishes to attend.

SWRPC Selectboard Roundtable Meetings: Ms. Mayberry will contact them to get details.

Ruggerio Processing Facility Public Hearing: The Ruggerio Processing Facility Public Hearing has been set for February 12th at 6:00 PM at Alyson’s Orchard.  Mr. Dalessio acknowledged notice of the meeting and noted it was scheduled for the same time as the weekly Selectboard meeting.

Selectboard Report for the 2025 Town Report: Mr. Dalessio volunteered to write the report.

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

Ms. Vose moved to enter into Non-Public Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II (a)(b) at 7:36 PM.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Ms. Vose, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 7:56 PM.

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

Hooper Trustees

Ms. Vose moved to enter into the Hooper Trustees meeting at 7:56 PM.  Ms. Mayberry seconded.  With Ms. Vose, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

The meeting was reconvened at 8:03 PM.

Adjournment: Mr. Dalessio declared the meeting adjourned at 8:03 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Sue Bauer, Recording Secretary

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

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

DECEMBER 31, 2025

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

Staff Present: Sarah Downing, Manager of Administration; Jodi Daigle, Tax Collector & Water/Sewer Clerk and Zoe Dodd, Deputy Tax Collector/Admin. Asst.

CALL TO ORDER: Mr. Dalessio called the Selectboard meeting to order at 10:09 AM in the Selectboard Office of the Town Hall. Mr. Dalessio introduced the Selectboard and Selectboard Office staff present at the meeting.

PAYROLL: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve the Payroll Register totaling $37,445.50 dated 1/02/26 and the 941 Payroll Tax Transfer of $7,481.15. Seconded by Ms. Vose. With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MINUTES:

ASSET MANAGEMENT PLAN (AMP) GRANT HEARING, December 18, 2025: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve of the Asset Management Plan (AMP) Grant Hearing minutes of December 18, 2025. Seconded by Ms. Vose. With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

USDA GRANT for the WALPOLE FIRE STATION EXPANSION HEARING, December 18, 2025: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve of the USA Grant for the Walpole Fire Station Expansion minutes of December 18, 2025. Seconded by Ms. Vose. With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

COMMUNITY FACILTIES GRANT AGREEMENT HEARING, December 18, 2025: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve of the Community Facilities Grant Agreement Hearing minutes of December 18, 2025. Seconded by Ms. Vose. With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES, December 18, 2025: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve of the Selectboard Meeting minutes of December 18, 2025. Seconded by Ms. Vose. With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved.

SELECTBOARD NON-PUBLIC SESSION MINUTES, December 18, 2025: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve of the Selectboard Non-Public Session minutes of December 18, 2025. Seconded by Ms. Vose. With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved. The minutes were not sealed and will be public. 

SPECIAL SELECTBOARD MEETING MINUTES, December 28, 2025: Ms. Mayberry moved to approve of the Special Selectboard Meeting minutes of December 28, 2025. Seconded by Ms. Vose. With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved. The purpose of the meeting was to sign the 2026 property tax warrant.

COMMITTEE REPORTS: 

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

• Planning Board Meeting Minutes – December 9, 2025

Mr. Dalessio acknowledged these minutes.

TIMBER INTENTS: 

Map and Lots# 007-006 and 008: Ms. Mayberry motioned to approve the timber intent for Map and Lot# 007-006 and 008. Seconded by Ms. Vose. With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio, in favor the motion was approved.

Map and Lots# 009-029 and 030: Ms. Mayberry motioned to approve the timber intent for Map and Lot# 009-029 and 030. Seconded by Ms. Vose. With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio, in favor the motion was approved.

OLD BUSINESS:

Cemetery Trustees Encumbrance Request: Ms. Mayberry gave a recap of her communications with the Dale Woodward, the chair of the Cemetery Trustees. No formal numbers were provided for the cemetery projects. There were no commitments to spending the funds. By consensus, the Selectboard recommended that the Cemetery Trustees increase their 2026 budget to cover the costs of the projects. The Selectboard did not wish to violate the terms of allowances for encumbering funds from one budget year to the next.

Ms. Mayberry is to request quote numbers from Mr. Woodward to increase the 2026 Cemetery budget.

Purchase Order Policy: The Selectboard had concerns related to purchase orders submitted just before the end of the fiscal year. Ms. Mayberry recommended updating the purchase order policy with a specific end time for submitting purchase order in the fiscal year. The Selectboard agreed by consensus that a policy be created.

Capital Reserve Request for the Walpole Schools: Ms. Mayberry gave a recap of the communications involved with the school district and the Trustees of Trust Funds. She has requested that FMRSD provide the documentation that is associated with the capital reserve request to verify the funds have been spent. Ms. Mayberry motioned the approval of a letter to the Trustees of Trust Funds to release Capital Reserve Funds to the Fall Mountain Regional School District (FMRSD). Ms. Vose seconded. With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio, in favor the motion was approved.

Hooper Institute Renovation Close Out: Ms. Mayberry created a spreadsheet to track the expenses. Ms. Mayberry stated that Mrs. Pschirrer had reviewed the spreadsheet and supported the final amount owed to the Town. Ms. Mayberry motioned for the approval of a letter to the Trustees of Trust Funds to request reimbursement to the Town for expenses incurred for the Hooper Institute Renovation Project. Ms. Vose seconded. With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio, in favor the motion was approved. Ms. Vose thanked Ms. Mayberry for completing this project.

NEW BUSINESS:

Town Hall Heat Pump Water Heater Quote: Ms. Vose motioned for the Selectboard Chair to sign a $4,300 quote for a new heat pump water heater. Ms. Mayberry seconded. With Ms. Vose, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio, in favor the motion was approved. The expense will be posted to the 2026 municipal department budget. The current heater is on the verge of failing.

Town Hall Generator Quote: Mr. Dalessio explained that the generator, which is being re-purposed from a water pump station, would power the Town Hall office area only. The quote along with installation and area preparation costs including an underground propane tank will be a 2026 warrant article using unassigned fund balance.

2025 Municipal Assessment Data Certificate: Ms. Mayberry motioned the approval of 2025 Municipal Assessment Data Certificate. Ms. Vose seconded. With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Vose and Mr. Dalessio, in favor the motion was approved. This form is related to setting the property tax equalization rate.

Drummond Woodsum Rate Structure: The Selectboard acknowledged the notice of new rates for attorney services.

US Conference of Mayors Survey: The Selectboard acknowledged the survey.

Voting Day Town Hall Use: The Selectboard discussed the request from the Walpole Players to host a Junior Player play practice on March 10th, Voting Day. The Town Clerk and Selectboard Office staff had concerns related to traffic, parking and general disruption during an election event. The Selectboard concurred. The Board requested that Ms. Dodd decline the request. Ms. Vose offered to speak with the play director.

Thank You Cards: The Selectboard received thank you notes from several library staff members for their Shaws holiday gift cards.

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

Ms. Mayberry moved to enter into the Non-Public meeting at 10:54 AM. Ms. Vose seconded. With Ms. Mayberry, Ms. Mayberry and Mr. Dalessio in favor, the motion was approved. 

The meeting was reconvened at 11:13 AM. 

Mr. Dalessio declared the nonpublic minutes would be sealed. 

ADJOURNMENT:

Mr. Dalessio declared the meeting adjourned at 11:13 AM.

Respectfully submitted,

Sarah Downing, Recording Secretary Pro Tempore

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