Ed. Note: Here are the minutes of last week's "working session" of the Planning Board devoted to discussing the "vision statement" to precede the updated and revised town Master Plan Land Use Section. CCB

PLANNING BOARD

Walpole, NH  03608

Work Session Tuesday April 22, 2008, 7:00pm Town Hall Basement

Minutes

Present:  Jeff Miller, Bob Miller, Ben Daviss, Shane O’Keefe, Dave DeCoste, Fred Dill, Henry Fletcher, Mel Schupack, Dennis Marcom, Mary Lou Montgomery, Bob Jasse

Recording:  Pamela Aslinger, Secretary

Meeting opened at 7:00pm.

Purpose of the meeting was to review a draft of the Master Plan Land Use Section Vision Statement dated 4/20/08.

Jeff Miller asked Ben Daviss to present the draft vision statement. Mr. Daviss stated the purpose of the vision statement is to meet the legal requirement in the NH RSA’s [Revised Statutes Annotated].  The draft was derived from the existing plan’s intent, the survey results, Mel Schupack’s draft and Peterborough’s vision statement. 

All attending reviewed the draft (copy attached) item by item making helpful comments, corrections, additions and revisions where needed. Mr. Daviss made complete notes of the changes and will prepare a final draft for the Planning Board and Master Planner’s Group to review.  In addition the Board will have a copy of the final drafts of the Goals and Objectives and Vision Statement reviewed by SWRPC on an hourly basis prior to the May 27, 2008 work session.  Once finalized the Board can schedule the first public hearing for citizen input.

              Attendees discussed a variety of issues pertaining to the individual sections of the draft vision statement (somewhat in order) such as:

- Restricting building permits on Class VI roads due to premature and scattered development.  Placing an annual building permit limitation to allow infrastructure to keep pace.

- Conflicts of the vision statement with current zoning ordinance and designated zones, how to implement the vision statement into the zoning ordinance and when.

- Using careful consideration on potential loss of an individual’s property rights since the survey results did not address all possible topics on the minds of all Walpole’s citizens.

- Walpole’s “logical uniqueness” qualities such as not having a highway as its Main Street.

- Consider the limited amount of Rte. 12 commercial and industrial districts, preserve south part of rural agricultural lands from allowed commercial and industrial uses by special exception.

- Committee vs association vs commission wording for agricultural or economic study groups.

- Sprawl vs. development, housing posing a greater growth threat due to the very limited commercial area available.

- Shoreland protection and open space, creation of more restrictive town buffers such as 75 feet instead of relying on lesser State requirements.

- Include incentives for affordable housing, inclusionary zoning, increasing density on super large subdivisions of 20 lots plus, consider interim growth controls if residential subdivisions exceed services, economic and natural resources.

- Historical resources - whether creating an actual district, which has failed two recent attempts, or if preferable, using an overlay district to preserve only important existing buildings.  Les Hubbard’s vision for preservation was mentioned as an example.

Meeting closed at 8:45pm

Cc:  PB, MP, ZBA, Town Offices                                                             Posted:  Town Hall, Lobby, Burdick’s Market, websites

 

 

     

 

Sports, Day and Adventure Camps Signing Up Now for Summer at the Walpole Village School

 
    For 7 fun filled weeks this summer, the Walpole Village School and its staff will be offering summer camps.  The camp day will run from 9am – 3pm, with before or after care available upon request.  Our first week will start off with Day Camp for 3 – 5 year olds or Adventure Camp for ages 6 – 12 year olds on the week of June 23rd.  The following week we offer Sports Camp run by Justin Parrott instead of Adventure Camp.  Each day the campers will play different team sports with games played in the afternoons.  There will be no camp on Friday, July 4th..  Everything will be back to normal for the next 5 weeks.  Day camp will include lots of free choice time, craft projects, theme activities, water play and exploring our amazing 4 acres of grounds surrounding our school located in down town Walpole, NH.  Adventure Camp will include free time and games at our school as well as time spent away hiking, fishing, biking, and trips to the town pool.

  The cost of camp each week is $125 per camper. To sign up or have your questions answered please call the Walpole Village School at 603-756-4246 and ask for Bethany or Justin.

Ed. Note: Thanks to Regina Borden, here are the minutes of the April 17 Selectmen's meeting.  CCB

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE BOARD OF SELECTMEN

APRIL 17, 2008

Selectboard Present:            Whitney Aldrich, Jamie Teague, (Absent: Sheldon Sawyer)

Mr. Aldrich called the meeting to order at 7:30 PM with three people present in the audience.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register and manifest in the amount of $72,428.36.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted.

PAYROLL:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve the payroll voucher for the week ending April 12, 2008, for gross wages in the amount of $17,195.20 or net wages in the amount of $8,601.17.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted.

Mrs. Teague moved to approve the supplemental payroll for the Police Department for gross wages in the amount of $136.28 or net wages in the amount of $117.32.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted.

Mrs. Teague moved to approve the electronic fund transfer for the Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $4,076.80.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted.

Mrs. Teague moved to approve the supplemental electronic fund transfer for the Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $29.39.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted.

BRUSH FIRES:  Mrs. Teague moved to authorize the Vice-Chair to sign the State of New Hampshire Forest Fire bill for the Town of Walpole in the amount of $451.17.  This was for a brush fire on the Cold River Road.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted.

Mrs. Teague moved to authorize the Vice-Chair to sign the State of New Hampshire Forest Fire bill for the Town of Walpole in the amount of $21.49.  This was for a brush fire on the Old Cheshire Turnpike.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted.

MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – April 10, 2008:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of April 10, 2008, as printed.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  All in favor, so voted.

REFUNDS:

Mrs. Teague moved to approve the Refunds for Property Taxes as listed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted:

• Thomas and Charlene Beaudry – Map 002-002-000 - $1,346.71
• Albert Shamash – Map 019-007-000 - $587.85
• Ernest and Susan Vose – Map 002-008-000 - $249.50
• 124 Prospect Hill, LLC – Map 017-019-000 - $800.00
• Lake Family Trust – Map 019-072-000 - $966.67
• George and Joan Whiton – Map 001-014-000 - $530.69
• Clifton and Marilyn Cooke – Map 019-040-000 - $1,202.75
• Adrian Basora and Pauline Barnes – Map 022-009-000 - $715.32
• Mark and Tabatha Nash – Map 028-034-000 - $158.61

Selectboard Meeting – April 17, 2008 – Page 2

WARRANTS:

WATER and SEWER RATES:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve the increase in Water and Sewer rates 4% as stated on the document provided to them.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted.

WALPOLE WATER USER WARRANT:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve the Warrant for the Collection of Walpole Water Fees in the amount of $74,840.97.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted.

WALPOLE SEWER USER WARRANTS: Mrs. Teague moved to approve the Warrant for the Collection of Walpole Sewer Fees in the amount of $43,956.62.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted.

NORTH WALPOLE SEWER USER WARRANT:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Warrant for the Collection of North Walpole Sewer Fees in the amount of $39,962.43.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  All in favor, so voted.

LAWRENCE, ALFRED and MARY BRITTON –MAP 008-102-000 –TIMBER:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve the Warrant for the Collection of Walpole Timber Tax in the amount of $288.94 for Lawrence, Alfred and Mary Britton.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted.

GEORGE and FREDA GRAVES –MAP 001-016-000- GRAVEL:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve the Warrant for the Collection of Walpole Excavated Gravel Tax in the amount of $360.00 for George and Freda Graves.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted.   

BUILDING PERMITS:

SCOTT BRYANT –MAP 013-026-000:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve Building Permit No. 2008-007 for Scott and Diane Bryant to build a 10’ x 10’ cold storage room on the back of the house and a 7’ x 10’ entryway on the front of the house on the Old Cheshire Turnpike.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted.

GREG AND ROSEMARIE PATCH –MAP 012-021-000:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve Building Permit No. 2008-008 for Greg and Rosemarie Patch to construct a 30’ x 14’ deck on the back of their house on Main Street.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted.

SHEILA WILSON –MAP 013-048-000:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve Building Permit No. 2008-009 for Sheila Wilson to construct a 16’ x 20’ one story garage on the Valley Road.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted.

OLD BUSINESS: 

PAINTING OF TOWN HALL – CONTRACTORS:  There was a consensus of the Selectboard to wait until a full Board is present to make a decision on the contract for the Town Hall painting.

SMALL CLAIMS –WATER/SEWER:  Elaine Moore advised that the matter has been resolved.  The bank paid the amount due so there will be no need to submit it to the Small Claims Court.   

DOG –POOPER SCOOPER LAW– ENFORCEMENT:  The Selectboard reviewed the Town’s Pooper Scooper Ordinance.  They felt the residents should be reminded of this Ordinance,

Selectboard Meeting – April 17, 2008 – Page 3

therefore, Chuck Bingaman will be asked to put it on the Walpoleon web page.  In addition, residents who see people walking their dogs and do not adhere to the Ordinance should contact the Selectboard office so that a copy of the Ordinance will be mailed to them along with a letter.

NEW BUSINESS:

GEORGE and FREDA GRAVES –INTENT TO EXCAVATE- MAP 001-016-000:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve and sign the Notice of Intent to Excavate for George and Freda Graves.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted.

ERNEST THOMAS HEMMINGS –VETERANS EXEMPTION and ELDERLY EXEMPTION REQUESTS:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve the Veterans Exemption for Ernest Thomas Hemmings but to deny the Elderly Exemption request.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted.

RICK COOPER – VACATION TIME:  Mrs. Teague moved to acknowledge the memo from Rick Cooper regarding his taking vacation time from April 21st to 26th, 2008.  He plans to take the whole week off as the work load allows.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted.

LETTERS TO BE SIGNED:

LAURA MALINOSKI-ADAMS:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve and sign the letter to Laura Malinoski-Adams acknowledging her resignation.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted.

MR. & MRS. LEWIS SHELLEY –MAP 003-007-000:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve and sign the letter to Mr. and Mrs. Lewis Shelley regarding their request for an Abatement.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted.

Mrs. Teague moved to adjourn this meeting.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted.  The time was 8:26 PM.

The Selectboard entered into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees of Trust Fund.

HOOPER

TRUSTEES OF TRUST FUND MEETING

Mr. Aldrich called the meeting of the Hooper Trustees of Trust Fund to order at 8:28 PM.

HOOPER PROPERTY:  Jeff Miller and Noel Cassidy were present to discuss several maintenance issues on the Hooper Property.  Mr. Miller wanted to confirm that the Selectboard made arrangements to have the roof of the Pro Shop fixed.  Mr. Aldrich advised that there were two bids and the Selectboard approved the roof repairs.  Mr. Miller is concerned about the condition of the tree off the driveway between the Pro Shop and Mansion.  Mr. Sawyer was going to look at the tree.  Mr. Cassidy had asked a tree service to look at it.  The Selectboard agreed to contact that tree service to obtain a quote.  Mr. Miller explained that they are concerned with the barn and asked if there are any funds available for restoring old barns; it is used for storage of equipment for the golf course.  The clapboards are falling off and some sill work needs to be done.  He asked the Trustees to take a look at it.

Selectboard Meeting – April 17, 2008 – Page 4

Mrs. Teague moved to adjourn this meeting.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted.  The time was 8:36 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary     

                                                                                 

4-26-08

Zoning Appeal Against Walpole Withdrawn

By Chuck Bingaman, Contributing Writer

    I. Tucker Burr of Walpole and other, unnamed citizens, have withdrawn their appeal of the town Zoning Board's grant of a special zoning exception to Chamberlain Machine of Rockingham VT.

    Burr and others had objected to the Zoning Board's allowing Chamberlain to proceed with plans for a new machine shop on the former Hubbard Farms property called Huntington Farm.  They argued that Chamberlain had not met the requirements for a special exception to the land's rural agricultural zoning and that a machine shop was not an allowed use under the town's wellhead protection ordinance. 

    After the Zoning Board granted the exception to the site's rural agricultural zoning in December, Burr and three others appealed to the Superior Court in Keene on January 4.  The other parties were later removed from the appeal when it was revealed that they had not consented to having their names on it.  

    At its April meeting, Walpole's Planning Board approved Chamberlain Machine's site plan development petition, and firm executives announced imminent plans to begin construction. At the same meeting, Bensonwood, a Walpole timber frame construction firm, received the Planning Board's endorsement to seek a special zoning exception from the Zoning Board for Bensonwood's own building proposal on land abutting Chambelain Machine's plot at the Huntington Farm site. Bensonwood wants to erect several buildings on the land where it will assemble components of homes and other construction projects in the future.  If the Zoning Board grants Bensonwood its special zoning exception, as it did Chamberlain Machine's request, Bensonwood will then return to the Planning Board to seek approval of its full site plan development petition.

    Attorney Steven M. Whitley of the Concord firm of Baldwin Callen & Ransom who filed the motion to "non-suit" the Burr appeal said Thursday that the appellants "reserve the right to refile their appeal at a later time."  Whitley would not say why they had decided to withdraw their appeal at this time.  While Whitley did say that others besides Mr. Burr were behind the appeal, he could not identify them.

    John Hansel of Walpole, rumored to be behind the original appeal filed in early January, when asked if he was involved, would only answer "No comment."
                                         --30--

4-27-08

Makinen Earns the Girl Scout Gold

By Chuck Bingaman, Contributing Writer

    Walpole’s Karri Makinen, an academic leader in her senior class at Fall Mountain Regional High School, has earned the Gold Award, the highest honor in Girl Scouting.  

    Makinen, daughter of Ron Makinen and Tammy Vittum of Sand Hill Road,Walpole, enrolled in Daisy Scouts 13 years ago when the family lived in

Charlestown, and she's been an active Girl Scout ever since. Now 18, Makinen is in Senior Troop #3005 that is led by her mother and Judy Trow of Walpole.

    Earning “the Gold” meant a great deal of preliminary work, earlier projects and recognitions such as the Silver Award, and a major community project within the strict qualifying rules of the Girl Scouts USA. 

    Makinen managed to meet all the Gold Award requirements, despite having to adjust to major changes  in the Gold Award requirements made by the Girl Scouts while she was completing them. “I don’t give up on things easily,” she laughed in a recent interview. “My mom was always there to encourage me.  And my project advisor, Virginia Carter, sent me encouraging emails and helped in many other ways!”

    As explained on the Girl Scout web page, the Gold Award “is something that the girl can be passionate about—in thought, deed and action. The project is something that fulfills a need with a girl’s community (whether local or global), creates change, and is something that is ongoing." 

    Makinen's Gold Award community project required the planning, staffing and offering of six community education events in March 2007.  Classes included basic knitting, readying children for kindergarten, quilting, CPR and “Cards for Troops”, a class for all ages designing, making and sending cards for soldiers in Iraq, Afghanistan and elsewhere. And the project didn’t end when the sessions ended. Small pieces of quilted were given to an Alstead woman whose quilting materials and finished quilts were lost in the 2005 flood. The cards were sent to troops in foreign assignments, and the knitted samples were sent to a hospice for making into afghans.

    “All the community education sessions worked out really well,” Makinen noted. “I especially liked seeing several grandmothers working closely with lots of little Brownies making cards together!” She added that, while the community education sessions have not yet been repeated, she is keeping the planning materials and hoping that another person will step forward to carry on the project.

   
    Karri's Project Advisor, Virginia Carter, said that she had envisioned being required to spend a vast amount of time helping on the project. But, said, “I was just amazed by her! She’s such a self-starter. She did it all. I just added a little encouragement along the way!

    In addition to being an academic leader of her class and a Gold Award winner, Karri Makinen has, for four years, been a Big Sister to a girl who is now in middle school.  Now she now is a Big Sister to a second grade boy with whom she meets every Friday afternoon after school. Last month Makinen joined 50 Keene and Monadnock High School students in a Rotary Interact Club house-building project in El Salvador where they built seven basic homes in a week.  She said the project “was amazing! I loved it! It was in a really small village. The people were really nice, and they really appreciated the work we did!”

    Makinen is deciding whether to attend St. Michaels College in Vermont or Colby College in Maine in the fall. Before then, though, she says, “I just love playing the flute, so I’ll be playing again this summer in the Westmoreland Town Band before going off to school!”

                                               --30--

Ed. Note: Here's a note from Sue Bingaman on the 2008 Walpole Civic and Business Directory that is being assembled.  CCB

Ed. Note: Here's an announcement from Rev. Susan Kershaw on Saturday's St. John's Craft Fair. CCB


    The Walpole Spring Craft Fair, featuring some of the best and most beautiful handmade crafts and art work in the area, is being held Saturday, April 26, 9 a.m. until 4 p.m., at Walpole Town Hall. Thirty-five crafters and artisans will be exhibiting and selling their work. In one venue, visitors to the Craft Fair will find pottery, sterling silver jewelry, wood carving, photography, knitted and felted items, textile art, garden decorations, wall hangings, paintings, wooden toys, painted silk scarves, painted glass, honey and jams, scone mixes, and baked goods. The Walpole Craft Fair is the ideal place to find the perfect gift for moms for Mother’s Day or for new high school or college graduates. St. John’s Café will be open all day, serving mid-morning snacks such as muffins or coffee cake, and delicious light lunches, including chicken or egg salad, or bowls of chili. For more information about this great event, please call St. John’s Church, 756-4533.

Ed Note: Thanks to Elaine Moore, its secretary, here are the minutes of the April 16 Zoning Board meeting. Note that it was reported that the appeal of the zoning board's granting of a special exception to the zoning of Huntington Farms to allow Chamberlain Machine to build there is reported to have been dismissed. CCB

WALPOLE ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT

Meeting of April 16, 2008

Present:  Myra Mansouri-Chair, Larry Britton, Leo Carignan, David Calhoun, and William Webb.   Absent:  Mary Therese Lester, and Peggy Pschirrer.

In the audience was:  Peter Wotowiec, Craig Vickers, Tim Dexter, and Selectman Sheldon Sawyer.

Chair Myra Mansouri opened the meeting at 7:32 PM.  Chair Mansouri appointed William Webb as a regular member to fill the vacancy of Mary Therese Lester.

NEW BUSINESS:

            Peter Wotowiec representing Bensonwood was in to ask for a hearing for a Special Exception.  Bensonwood would like to expand their facility and build on Map 012-004-000, a lot formerly part of the Huntington Farm.  Bensonwood has made arrangements with Mr. Toby Tousley to purchase land – Map 012-004-001.  This lot borders on Huntington Drive and Edwards Drive.  Bensonwood is planning a three to five year faze for this expansion of the business on this property.  Mr. Wotowiec informed the Board there would be between 40-45 people working at this location.  Twenty are existing employees and twenty will be new employees. Each building will have different proponents of the operation.

Larry Britton asked about the wellhead.  Chair Mansouri explained this would be an issue for the Planning Board at a Site Plan Hearing.

Larry Britton moved to set a hearing for May 21, 2008 for the request for a Special Exception. Seconded by Leo Carignan.  All in favor, so moved.  The application must be submitted no later than May 6th to the Zoning Board. 

Craig Vickers of 321 March Hill Road was in to discuss having an Auto Wholesale Business at his residence.  The property is on Map 009-036-000 and  is in the Rural Agricultural Zone.   Mr. Vickers indicated there would be no selling of vehicles from his residence.  He would purchase vehicles from Auction, etc, then sell them to dealers, etc.  The vehicles would be at his house perhaps one or 2 days at most.  State RSA regarding no more than 2 unregistered vehicles on property at one time was discussed.  Mr. Vickers indicated that would be no problem.  Larry Britton moved to set a hearing for a Special Exception for Mr. Vickers for May 21, 2008.  Seconded by Leo Carignan.  All in favor, so moved.  The application must be submitted on later than May 06, to the Zoning Board.

Gravel Pits:  Fees for gravel pits was discussed.  Chair Mansouri noted this is the second meeting to discuss gravel fees.  There was a discussion to increase the fees. Larry Britton moved to approve the new fees as follows.  An initial fee of $75.00 and $5.00 per abutter for the filing of the Special Exception and a $150.00 fee for the gravel permit.  Seconded by Leo Carignan.  All in favor, so moved.  Chair Mansouri gave the members copies of the Gravel Pit changes that have been approved.

Minutes of March 19, 2008 – Leo Carignan moved to accept the minutes of March 19, 2008 as written.  Seconded by David Calhoun.  All in favor, so moved.

OTHER:

            Chair Mansouri read a letter from Attorney Hockensmith indicating the lawsuit of I. Tucker Burr against the Zoning Board has been dismissed. 

            Copies of The Zoning Amendments were given to all Board members.  Elaine will mail copies to Peggy Pschirrer and Mary Therese Lester.

            Copies of Planning Board minutes of April 08, 2008 were given to the Board members.  Chair Mansouri asked the Board to read page3- ref: Bensonwood, page 4, and page 11 ref: Whitcomb Corporation.

New Planning and Zoning Books for 2007-2008 were given to the Board members.  It was noted the next DRA Mini Course for will be held in Jaffrey on May 6, 2008.  Department of Revenue Administration will be holding an Earth Excavation Mini Course in Concord on May 10, 2008.

Chair Mansouri informed the Board the new Conservation Chairperson is Marsha Galloway, who is replacing Gary Speed.

Elections of Officers for Zoning Board will be held at the May meeting.

Chair Mansouri closed the meeting at 8:23 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Elaine Moore – Secretary

These minutes are unapproved.  Corrections, if necessary, may be found in the minutes of the May 21,  2008 Zoning Board meeting.

 

 

 

 

Ed. Note: Tonight at 7:00 p.m. the Planning Board will hold its monthly "working session" and discuss the current draft of the "vision statement"--the conceptual foundation of the town's Master Plan.  Here is the current draft of the vision statement for your review. This statement is incredibly important to the future of the town because it will guide the writing of the the updated Master Plan, and that plan will be influential in all future development. CCB

Draft vision statement for master plan, 4-20-08

New Hampshire statute 674:2 states that a town’s master plan must have a vision statement that articulates the desires of the citizens affected by the master plan for their locality, their region, and the entire state.  By law, the vision statement directs the other sections of the master plan and must contain a set of guiding principles and priorities to implement the vision that the citizens have expressed.

In November 2007, the Walpole Planning Board conducted a town-wide survey to determine the ways in which Walpole’s residents wished the town’s land to be used, developed, and preserved.  The results of this survey have shaped the vision of Walpole and its future that is expressed in this vision statement and have set the principles and priorities that shall guide the planning board and town in making decisions for future land use, development, and conservation.

Through this survey, Walpole’s residents have established these principles to guide our town’s future:

• Walpole is defined by its historic, small-town character.
• Walpole is a town comprising three distinct villages – Drewsville, North Walpole, and Walpole (sometimes referred to as “South Walpole”), each with its own distinct character and community.
• Walpole is a responsible steward of the diversity and abundance of open and agricultural lands, forests, wildlife habitat, and other natural features within its borders.
• Walpole welcomes a diversity of commercial and industrial enterprises (including eco-, agri- and historical tourism) that respect, and are compatible with, our town’s historic, small-town character and rich natural environment.
• Walpole provides a hospitable environment for individuals and families of all income levels.
• Walpole is unique in Cheshire County, New Hampshire, and, increasingly, in the United States and manages growth and change guided by the principles stated above to preserve its uniqueness, character, and natural environment.   

Implementation.  In order to effect the goals and principles listed above, the town of Walpole should take the steps listed below.

Growth and new building.

The town’s zoning and related ordinances and site plan review regulations should be revised to closely reflect, embody, and enable the realization of the vision and values expressed in this document.

Walpole is part of the greater Keene area, which is growing in population, and a portion of that growth will occur in Walpole.  Walpole will plan for and manage future growth with care and thoughtfulness in a way that will preserve our vision, values, and our town’s assets.   

Draft vision statement for master plan, 4-20-08                                                               2

Walpole welcomes new building projects in Walpole.  However, growth should be managed and incremental.  Each building project should be viewed in the context of future development and the expressed desire of Walpole’s residents to preserve the town’s character, water supplies, and natural features.

The individuality and distinctness of the town’s three villages – Drewsville, North Walpole, and Walpole (sometimes referred to as “South Walpole”) – will be respected and preserved.

In changing existing zoning districts or granting or recommending special exceptions in existing zones, the planning board and zoning board of adjustment will be guided by the Walpole Conservation Commission’s town-wide conservation plan and priority designations.

The conservation commission and planning board should consider establishing an appointed,  non-voting seat for a representative of each board to serve on  the other.

Commercial development on Route 12 should be nodal to minimize road cuts and prevent the visual impression of sprawl development along the highway.

The town should rarely permit the establishment of new private or Class VI roads or the upgrading of Class VI roads to Class V and only under special circumstances.

Mixed use of land in the Route 12 commercial zone is to be encouraged, both in spirit and in zoning ordinances.

Redevelopment and in-fill projects help to relieve development pressures on rural agricultural zones by concentrating new building in already-developed areas.

The reuse and adaptation for housing of existing historical buildings and outbuildings, where feasible, is preferred over new construction. 

Walpole is part of the greater Keene area, which is growing in population, and a portion of that growth will occur in Walpole.  Walpole will plan for and manage future growth with care and thoughtfulness in a way that preserves our vision, values, and our town’s assets.  

Economic vitality.

Walpole can and should welcome a diversity of commercial and industrial enterprises (including eco-, agri- and historical tourism) that respect, and are compatible with, our town’s historic, small-town character and that do not come at the expense of Walpole’s character or natural environment.  Economic development that occurs at significant expense to other values expressed here is incompatible with this vision and with our town.

Economic development and growth can be a vehicle for providing resources and energy for positive actions to preserve Walpole’s  natural and cultural resources.  Therefore, a diverse, vibrant, localized economy is essential to maintain Walpole’s character and natural resources.

Draft vision statement for master plan, 4-20-08                                                               3

New commercial and industrial uses should be targeted to existing commercial and industrial zones unless the developer can demonstrate compelling circumstances for not doing so. 

Rezoning of rural agricultural land to industrial or commercial uses should be initiated by the planning board or by petition as part of the thoughtful implementation of the goals and objectives of the town’s master plan, not by real estate developers or other private commercial interests.

The planning board should designate one or more small additional areas in town for industrial development.

Walpole’s rich arts community offers opportunities that should be pursued for the town to develop its creative or cultural economy.

All commercial and industrial developments should be carefully designed to harmonize and be consistent with the scale and character of Walpole’s visual and natural environment.

The town should explore and support all possible steps to ensure that working farms are able to remain in business as viable economic enterprises.

The town should consider the creation of an agriculture committee to advise town organizations about farm-related issues, concerns, and regulations.

The community desires businesses that allow residents to do a majority of their shopping locally for everyday purchases of basic needs such as groceries, hardware, and clothing.

High-speed Internet connectivity is increasingly essential to businesses, especially entrepreneurs and home-based businesses, and to Walpole’s ability to attract new businesses.  The town should actively pursue the establishment of town-wide high-speed Internet service.

Residential and commercial sprawl threaten the values and desires expressed by Walpole’s residents in the survey that has shaped this document.  Therefore, the town’s planning board and residents will continue to explore the most effective ways to prevent commercial and residential sprawl within Walpole’s borders.

Home-based businesses can improve Walpole’s economic vitality and diversity without bringing additional commuter traffic or large-scale development to our industrial or commercial areas and without putting pressure on rural agricultural land to undergo  industrial or commercial development.  Therefore, Walpole should explore ways to actively promote the establishment of home-based businesses in town.

Walpole should consider adopting the suggestion of developers who have proposed projects in town and establishing an architectural review process that would advise builders about the visual appearance of buildings.

Walpole should create an economic development section to be included in the master plan.

Walpole should explore the possibility of creating an economic development committee.

                                                          4

Open space.

Open space is highly valued by residents and regarded as essential to maintaining quality of life and the “look and feel” of Walpole.

As Walpole plans for and invests in its built infrastructure, the town should continue to actively plan for and invest in its natural infrastructure so that the ecological, social, and economic health of the town can be better maintained.

Preservation of open space can be pursued strategically, following priorities established by the town’s conservation commission.

Walpole should consider following the example of other towns and establishing a permanent open space committee.

The Connecticut River and Walpole’s streams and waterways are important natural resources that help to define our town.  Water quality and shoreland need to be actively protected.

Population and housing.

The town’s zoning ordinance and site plan review regulations should ensure that residential development, which is inevitable, will not negatively impact areas of sensitive open space,

wildlife corridors, working forests and farms, aquifers, rivers, wetlands, steep slopes, viewsheds, and significant natural features on individual lots.  The town should actively explore and consider the adoption of innovative ideas such as conservation subdivisions, density transfer arrangements, and performance zoning.

Large subdivisions and mass-produced housing tracts are incompatible with Walpole’s character.  If they cannot be entirely prevented, they should be thoughtfully controlled through the use of zoning regulations and site plan review requirements. 

Walpole welcomes the creation of housing for residents of all ages and income levels.  Affordable housing, both rental and owned, is an important factor in keeping a workforce in our area and in making it possible for young people to be part of our community.

All major subdivisions should include affordable housing. 

Water Resources.

The protection of our aquifers and wells is critical to meeting Walpole’s future needs for water as residential, commercial, and industrial building increases.  Protection and conservation of our town’s water resources, wellhead areas, and contribution areas and sources are of the highest priority.

Stormwater management is an integral component of protecting our water resources – both above and below ground.

Draft vision statement for master plan, 4-20-08                                                               5

Protecting the contribution areas around the town wells is of paramount importance.  Areas of possible future supplies need to be identified.

Historic Resources.

Historic resources are important to Walpole because they define our town’s character, enhance its quality and diversity, and provide a tangible link to the past, thereby creating a sense of continuity of time and place.  Therefore, Walpole should actively protect, enhance, maintain, and preserve its historic resources.

Walpole’s villages should remain characterized by historic architectural styles.

Reuse and adaptation of historic buildings and barns can save important buildings, offer housing diversity and affordability, and add density and vitality to existing neighborhoods.

Walpole should retain its historic, small-town character.  The way our town “looks and feels” is an important component of economic vitality and serves as an attraction and inspiration for

visitors, businesses, and artists.

The planning process should be an integral part of the preservation efforts to avoid and/or mitigate the gradual and pervasive erosion of historic character that can result from incremental changes to buildings, places, and landscapes.

-end-

Ed. Note: This announcement comes via Robert Watson and the Walpole Unitarian Church.  CCB

Old Home Days Talent Show Chair Trina Carmody sends this message...

Calling all adults with singing, dancing, juggling, instrumental or comedic talents!  We are looking for a few good acts for the "Adult" category in the Old Home Days Talent Show slated for Friday, June 27th, 2008 from 5:30pm to 7pm at the Walpole Town Hall.

If you live in Walpole, NH or once lived in Wapole, NH, and are willing to share you artistic side with your friends and neighbors, contact Trina Carmody at 606-756-3836 or tcarmody@sau60.org.  The Savings Bank of Walpole is sponsoring this event and offering monetary prizes in each age category - K-8, High School and Adult.

Come and join the fun!

Just a reminder that the Friends of the Walpole Town Library Annual Meeting Potluck is in the Town Hall tomorrow night--Thursday, April 17--at 6:00 p.m.  All "Friends" are urged to attend and to bring a dish to share. (If you are not already a "Friend" of the Library, come anyway and join this worthwhile town organization on the spot!) It's BYOB, and coffee will be provided

Also, as part of the program all attendees are requested to bring a used (or new), gift-wrapped  book they wish to exchange as part of the program.

During the short business meeting, staff and volunteers of the library will be recognized, and the Friends will make their annual gift to the library.

Call Judy Shumway (756-3664) or Sarah Tucker (756-9280) with any questions.  CCB

P.S. Be sure to put the Friends' annual plant sale on your calendar for Saturday morning, May 10, on the library grounds.

Ed. Note: Here are Pam Aslinger's detailed minutes from last Tuesday's important Planning Board meeting.  CCB

Town of Walpole, NH  

               PLANNING BOARD MEETING                

April 08, 2008

MINUTES

Presiding:  Jeff Miller, Ch.

Members Present:  Bob Miller, V-Ch., Henry Fletcher, Dave DeCoste, Sheldon Sawyer, BOS, Ben Daviss, Shane O’Keefe, alt., Jeff White, alt.

Members Absent:  Eric Merklein, Fred Dill, alt. (in audience)

Recording:  Pamela Aslinger, Sec./alt.

These minutes are unapproved and will be reviewed at the May 13, 2008 meeting for errors, omissions and corrections.  There were 45 +/- persons in attendance.  Due to a full agenda, the meeting was scheduled for 7:00pm with all application reviews and public hearings beginning not before 7:30pm as legally noticed.

I.            Meeting opened at 7:10pm

A.              Roll call - Ch. Miller appointed Shane O’Keefe as alternate for Mr. Merklein and welcomed Selectman Sheldon Sawyer as 2008’s ex-officio member.

B.               Minutes from 3/11/08 were unanimously approved as amended ie; Bob. Miller was added as in attendance.  Minutes from 3/24/08 were unanimously approved.

            C.              Master Plan Update - Copies of the most recent goals and objectives were distributed.  Mr. Daviss stated the new draft was a direct result of the survey and the last work session, he said a public hearing needed to be scheduled.  It was discussed and decided to create a final draft of the goals and objectives and vision statement based on the Board’s input, send a copy to the SWRPC and then hold one public hearing rather than one for each stage of the land use update.  The work session was scheduled for April 22, 2008 at 7:00pm to discuss the vision statement.        

D.              Handouts - Newly revised Zoning Ordinance pages and an amended version of the entire WSP Ordinance were distributed.

Site Plan Wording draft - Sec. Aslinger  presented a draft of Site Plan Review wording related to building design standards for the Board to consider. The draft is very basic simplified wording asking for location, type and design of all buildings including an elevation view or photograph indicating their height, width and surface treatment that would go under B. Plat Submission Items, pg. 7. #27.  In addition under General Standards S. pg. 16 add Exterior Building Façade Performance Standards to read “in order to maintain the architectural character of Walpole standards shall apply to the construction of all new non-residential, mixed use or multifamily structures”.  She provided as an example design criteria from another NH Town for the Board’s consideration specific to Walpole’s historic design character. The Board will continue discussion at the next meeting. 

Fees - Sec. Aslinger handed out a revised application indicating an increase in fees by $25.00 per application as previously discussed.  She noted a new addition for Special Exception Recommendation at $125.00.  And a new category for “other” approvals such as conditional use permits under the WSPO and Telecommunications Ordinance, Design Review in the subdivision regs, recommendation and revocations all at $125.00 because they each require a public hearing and abutter notification.  The abutter notification fee is increased to $7.00 due to three postage increases since the $5.00 fee was imposed. Mr. O’Keefe asked what the $7.00 fee included, answer was envelope, notice, postage of 3.06 and labor.  Sec. Aslinger stated the Board collected $4575.00 in fees but spent $8000.00.  The Board is required by RSA to cover its expenses, not all expenses, only administrative/application processing such as clerical salary, office supplies,

Walpole Planning Board Minutes 4/8/08 page 2

postage and advertising.  She said even though a larger increase is warranted like most other small NH Towns land use boards undercharge for their services.  She said she was unable to provide surrounding Town’s fees but will have them for the next meeting. 

Selectman Sawyer thought the increase in fees promotes persons to sell to large developers.  Ch. Miller thought no increase was needed, it was too expensive; in years past administrative costs were a lot less.  Mr. Sawyer noted the BOS only charges $1.00 for a building permit.  Mr. DeCoste asked how the overage has been covered?  Answer was from taxation.  Ch. Miller agreed with the need to increase the postage notice fee, but for a minor subdivision at $175.00 was excessive. Mr. O’Keefe thought it was more of a policy question and questioned whether he as a taxpayer should be paying for someone else to develop land?  Ch. Miller thought perhaps the administration costs were too high compared to other small towns. Mr. Dill from the audience thought like schooling it should be a community involved expense.  Ch. Miller not wanting to speak for the entire Board asked for other comments,

Mr. DeCoste said he would like to see some comparisons and determine how to cover the expenses based on the comparisons.  Selectman Sawyer cautioned on using the fees to inhibit growth such as what he sees on the goals and objectives draft for the Master Plan.  Mr. DeCoste doubted a fee increase would stop growth.  Mr. Sawyer clarified saying with all the regulations it is stopping growth.  Mr. DeCoste pointed out most people are really concerned about how the community develops; the only way to address concerns is through regulations.  Mr. Sawyer said the cost he had when he subdivided three lots makes him consider selling the rest to a big developer who can afford the fees.  Mr. DeCoste questioned whether it was just the planning board fees he was concerned with, what about the other costs involved.  Mr. Sawyer said because of requiring things like contours, it drives up the cost of surveying, all a cost of subdividing because of the regulations and because the Board delays decisions up to a year on a major subdivision.  Ch. Miller disagreed the regulations were driving up costs even in the past the costs have been relative due to the fact the regulations have always been in place.  Mr. Dill said his recent experience proved costly because the Board required additional information due to its interpretation of the regulations.   

            Sec. Aslinger said she would gather and provide the information requested for the next meeting for the surrounding Towns.  Mr. O’Keefe asked if other Town agencies were subsidized by fees?  Sec. Aslinger said not many others, but knew land use boards are required to cover their expenses, not to make money, but should collect fees that are reasonable.  Ch. Miller gave Sec. Aslinger credit for the last increase from $25.00 per application, noting it was a benefit, but would like surrounding Town comparisons and facts.

E.              Permanent time change - Ch. Miller asked if the Board would consider the permanent time change to 7:00pm instead of 7:30pm.  Members were agreeable, liking the trial at this meeting.  Selectman Sawyer moved to change the monthly (second Tues. of every month) meeting time from 7:30pm to 7:00pm permanently; seconded by Bob Miller.  Motion passed unanimously.

F.            Election of Officers - Ch. Miller called for nominations for Chairman.  Bob Miller nominated Jeff Miller for Chairman, Mr. DeCoste seconded.  Mr. Sawyer moved to cease nominations and requested the Secretary to cast one ballot for the nominee.  Vote was unanimous to elect Jeff Miller as Chairman for 2008.

Ch. Miller called for nominations for V-Ch.  Ben Daviss nominated Bob Miller for Vice-Chairman, Jeff Miller seconded.  Vote was unanimous to elect Bob Miller as Vice-Chairman for 2008. 

Ch. Miller discussed the alternate positions.  He said Jeff White’s term is up but he wishes to remain on the Board.  Mr. Sawyer moved to appoint Donn Lounsbury as alternate.  Ch. Miller said he had spoken with Donn who has attended several meetings; he thought he would be a good addition to the Board.  Sec. Aslinger noted Jeff White’s term would go to 2011 and Donn

Walpole Planning Board Minutes 4/8/08 page 3

Lounsbury’s until 2010, the Board agreed.  Ch. Miller called for a motion to appoint Mr. White and Mr. Lounsbury as alternates, so moved and seconded, all were in favor motion carried.

7:25 pm Ch. Miller called for a short break to allow the audience to seat.

7:30 pm Ch. Miller continued the meeting.

II.             Review Applications Submitted:  Accept/Reject/Delay before Public Hearing.

            A.  Benson Woodworking Co. Inc. aka Bensonwood Homes - Special Exception Recommendation - Rte. 12 N. Map 12, Lot 4 of 24.41 ac., Rural Ag. and Comm. Districts formerly Huntington Farm parcel.  Purpose is to comply with Zoning Ordinance Article VIII/ Rural Ag. C. Special Exception 1.a.i. and ii. 

Secretary Aslinger reported the application was complete with fees collected, notices posted and abutters notified as required and announced that Mr. Wotowiec submitted a traffic study for the Board’s records.  Ch. Miller called for a motion to accept the application as complete, so moved and seconded, all were in favor, motion carried.

III.            Meeting was closed, Public Hearing opened

            Ch. Miller asked Mr. Wotoweic to describe the proposal.  He introduced himself as a timber framer and company steward from Bensonwood and introduced Randall Walter, architect.  Mr. Wotowiec stated they were before the Board to expand their present Blackjack Crossing facility by building additional shop production space on the remainder 24 acres of the Huntington Farm parcel.  He showed it on the maps.  They have a 3-5 year plan to phase in construction of individual buildings totaling 70,000 sq. ft. to house individual aspects of construction such as millwork, floors and roofs to enhance their strategy of building as much finished and large sections of buildings as possible in order to reduce the time to raise a building.  He described the boundaries of the property according to the provided map pointing out access points and features. 

He asked Mr. Walter to add his comments.

            Mr. Walter said he wanted to discuss what has happened at Bensonwood since first appearing before the Board 10 years ago and he said they would speak to the two criteria ie;  availability of industrial land and how the proposal fits in with the Master Plan in order to gain a favorable recommendation for a special exception.

He said the experience at Blackjack Crossing has shown them many things, they thought the amount of land would be enough, and could have been except for lack of infrastructure such as how much land it took to accommodate needed resources like the three phase power with the fuel storage and generator.  In addition the lack of city water caused the need for a pond and another generator for the sprinkler system.  Finally the lack of city sewer caused a large leachfield and septic system to cover the needed facilities for the offices and employees.  He clarified just for information the offices will remain at the Blackjack location as well as meeting rooms and high density production, the new area will be only for the production side of the business. 

He said after learning from the Blackjack site, they started looking around choosing the very suitable Huntington Farm parcel because it has Town water/sewer and three phase power allowing them less creativity in generating those resources on their own, to rely on existing in place resources.  He said it is a place they can continue to grow to expand staying within the Town.  He said it is an opportunity to reinvigorate the land having previously been a large and thriving commercial enterprise known as Hubbard Farms that has had its ebb and flow.  He said they would be purchasing the entire 30 acres adding the 5 acres presently occupied by Hubbard Farms, currently separated to allow the businesses to operate on their own land.  In 10 years time the lease with Hubbard will end, Bensonwood will re-join two lots.  He deferred to Mr. Wotoweic.

Walpole Planning Board Minutes 4/08/08 page 4

            Mr. Wotoweic said they had looked at other industrial areas, spoke with the owner of the industrial park but came to the conclusion it would be too difficult to situate at the industrial park for all the reasons Mr. Walter spoke of - lacking the resources and also needing to do something  different this time.   He said in terms of the industrial zone, there are no other industrially zoned lands available in Walpole.  He said they decided it would serve their interests to go through the  special exception process if they can have a suitable place to expand with existing resources dear to their industry.  He said they expect 40 -45 employees after the first 5 years, with 10 or 12 to begin with as each module is built.  He said about 20 would be new hires.  He deferred to Mr. Walter to discuss the Master Plan criteria.

            Mr. Walter acknowledged from re-reading the Master Plan and past minutes there is clearly dialogue and interest about how Walpole wants to develop the land that straddles Rte. 12.  He pointed to how sensitive and how vital a part of Walpole the area is and that it is highly visible.  The relevance to this proposal is that it takes the land and places it in the hands of a locally owned company creating a small node of industrial use slightly off and being less visible along the Rte. 12 corridor.  It seems depending on interpretation not to be that different from the way it has been used in the past as an industrial farming operation and mixed commercial.  He said the special exception process allows for each new use to be scrutinized and considered.  He said from their standpoint they feel it is a good fit as they interpret the Master Plan.

            Mr. Wotoweic added in relation to the Master Plan, they are a locally owned company they realize it is in the very crucial well source protection area, they feel it is their water too, so they would like to do the right thing for the Town and look to the Town, Planning and Zoning Boards to help them.  They sincerely believe they can build and continue to act in a very green and responsible way. 

            Mr. Walter said they fully intend to bring their clients from around the world to Walpole to tour the facility and intend for it to be a state of the art green facility, much like some of the groundbreaking facility at Blackjack.  It will be something they are proud of and may be a model for other businesses.  It will be a key to their expansion and future beyond their basic timber construction.

            Mr. Wotoweic ended their presentation stating as the process continues they will be addressing many other topics and he offered to answer questions.

             Ch. Miller called for questions from the public specifically addressing  Mr. Red Smith an abutter in attendance.  Hearing no questions he closed the public hearing and re-opened the meeting.  He called for Board discussion or a motion, saying the Boards role is to give a recommendation to the Zoning Board for a special exception based on the two criteria - availability of adequate industrial land and fitting with the Master Plan.

            Mr. Sawyer said it has been pointed out there is no industrial land available, therefore recommending a special exception be allowed is reasonable.  He said the industrial land available is lacking the resources.

            Mr. DeCoste said it seems arguable regarding the Master Plan that the new use is not unlike the past use although it is not an agricultural industry.

            Mr. Bob Miller moved to recommend to the Zoning Board a special exception be granted for the Bensonwood proposal for an industrial use in the rural agricultural zone.  Motion was seconded by Mr. Sawyer.  With no further discussion Ch. Miller called for a vote.  Motion passed unanimously.

   Ch. Miller recognized Mrs. Barbara O’Conner from the audience.  Mrs. O’Conner said the Board acknowledges there is no suitable industrial land available, she asked if the Board has considered developing additional industrial land or creating an industrial moratorium? She said it seems one or the other is needed otherwise each new proposal is taken piecemeal.  She asked for

Walpole Planning Board Minutes 4/08/08 page 5

the Board’s comments.  Ch. Miller said the process is permitted by the ordinance the Town has laid out, so the Board is following what is required for an industrial use.  Mrs. O’Conner argued that it is a function of the Planning Board to consider future planning.  Ch. Miller said in updating the Master Plan the Board has begun addressing the lack of industrial land and has considered the commercial land along Rte. 12 being suitable for industrial nodules in the back portions since the land is already designated for commercial uses. 

            Mr. Daviss said in addition the Board has been waiting on the Conservation Commissions conservation plan to be completed in order for the Board to begin considering what land is more suited to industrial uses.  He said they have a preliminary draft, once adopted the Board may be more confident in making some zoning changes.

II.              Review applications submitted:

            B.            Mark B. Silbey - Minor 2 lot subdivision located on County Rd. Map 5, Lot 35 in the Rural Ag. district.  Purpose is to create Lot 1 of 30.13 acres with existing house and Lot 2 of 13.64 ac. Lot sizes, setbacks and frontages are met for the zone.

Mr. Joe DiBernardo of DiBernardo Associates presented.  He showed the boundaries on the maps and described the proposal as above.  He said they were requesting the 50 foot ROW be reduced to 25 feet.  He said the present access is 25 feet wide and provided pictures showing it following along a stonewall.  There are no trees only open fields.  Ch. Miller asked Jan LeClerc-Galloway, abutter, if she understood what they were proposing.  She approached the maps and concurred.  The NH DOT is involved because it is a State road they recommended the shared driveway because the site distancing needs to be 400 ft.  Mr. Fish, DOT did a drive-by and said they would not grant a second curb cut and they will need to also apply for the shared access, which they have done. 

Mr. O’Keefe asked where the 50 ft. requirement came from? Answer was in the zoning ordinance.  Mr. DiBernardo added they don’t want to infringe on the existing house so prefer the 25 ft. width.  Sec. Aslinger read a provision in the subdivision regulations addressing the 50 ft. ROW but others thought it was for newly created roads.  Mr. Sawyer asked if only one house would be using the new driveway?  Answer was yes. 

Ch. Miller called for comments and questions.  Ms. Galloway asked about an existing well on the new lot?   Mr. Silbey said there is an unused well on the remainder of Lot 1, the existing house shares a well with neighbors.  Sec. Aslinger read in the Zoning Ordinance Section IV O. - it states a private easement cannot be less than 15 feet in width and have a satisfactory access to public ways.  No waiver is required.  Mr. Sawyer said most public back roads are 20 feet wide.

III.            8:07pm Ch. Miller called for further questions, being none closed the public hearing and re-opened the meeting. 

IV.       Action on application:  Being no further discussion, Ch. Miller called for a motion to accept and approve the 2 lot subdivision pending the driveway permit issued by NH DOT.  The motion was moved and seconded, all were in favor, motion carried.

            The maps and mylar were signed, Mr. DiBernardo agreed to record the mylar and report the recording information to the Secretary.

V.            Unfinished Business/Pending Applications:  Board Action

            A.  Chamberlain Machine Inc. - Ch. Miller asked for Chamberlain to update the Board on coordination of entrances/exits and water/sewer.  Mr. Daviss said he had given Mr. Kinyon a set of questions regarding the federal vs. state and town restrictions under the Well Source Protection Ordinance, saying they had spoken earlier in the day with Mr. Kinyon agreeing to answer the questions during the meeting.  Ch. Miller called on Mr. Kinyon to update the Board.

           Walpole Planning Board Minutes 4/08/08 page 6

Mr. Kinyon said in the prior meetings they were proposing a private sewer and well system but the Board requested they hook into the Town services, they have been in contact with Mark Houghton, engineer from SVE,  Rob Hitchcock has the details.

            Mr. Hitchcock provided revised plans saying there is an agreement in place to put in a gravity sewer by both Chamberlain and Bensonwood that will be drilled under Rte. 12 to a manhole, requiring no pump station it will be an all gravity sewer. 

            Sec. Aslinger read Mr. Houghton’s e-mail concurring with the agreement, requesting 2 paper copies of the plans to be given to him and thanking Mr. Hitchcock for his good work.

            Mr. Hitchcock submitted preliminary plans noting they would remain in contact with Mr. Houghton.  He showed where the water line traveled and expects that the Bensonwood project will also tie in.  These same plans have been reviewed by Mr. Houghton.  Mr. Hitchcock submitted a DES site specific permit.  He said DES would need to sign off on the sewer line discharge permit.  He said as far as joint access there has not been anything finalized

            Mr. Kinyon did not see what could be added to the main street access, there has been dialogue between Bensonwood and Chamberlain in regard to the other accesses but nothing finalized.  He said the access is what it is as indicated during the Site Plan, the roadway has been shifted so it is farther away from the existing private Huntington Lane. 

            He asked if the Board had any questions on the Site Plan?  Being none, he addressed the Conditional Use Permit.  He asked if the Board members had received the response from DES regarding their opinion on the WSPO and conditional use permit?  Answer was yes.  He explained that since the prior meeting the Board had requested DES provide some input regarding the WSPO and that the Secretary had included Chamberlain on the request and response.  He thought it would be relevant to speak to the response letter from DES.  He asked Mr. Brackett to answer to the letter. He commented that in his opinion that a fair reading of the letter indicates the interpretation they have asked the Board to adopt in considering the conditional use permit for the WSPO has been that the Board needs to take a fair and practical look at what the proposed use and its circumstances as it applies the standards of the WSPO to this proposed use.  He thinks the letter from DES is consistent with what they have proposed, one being that the boundaries of the WSP district are conservative in nature, intended to be as broad as possible and they can be modified and factors taken into account, that for a particular project like theirs the boundaries might not be accurate.  Secondly, the WSP area is not intended to be an ordinance that prohibits uses in the area rather an ordinance that is to reasonable restrict uses, the nature of those restrictions as shown in the ordinance.  He thought the letter was very relevant giving the Board a level of comfort that the interpretation they think the Board should be applying to their application for a conditional use permit is consistent with the type of interpretation that would be appropriate in this case.  He turned over the discussion to Mr. Steve Brackett, hydrologist.

            Mr. Brackett said he would review the testimony he presented previously.  His first point was he understood that machine shops have a visceral reaction, for valid reasons, the past records bear it out.  He said he does not have a level of concern over Chamberlain’s proposal.  He has evaluated sites like this in the past.  He said there are not environmental problems with this type of project because the industry has substantially changed.  He looked at the databases for NH and VT for hazardous sites to see if he could find a contemporary site machine shop 5-6 years showing evidence of contamination, coupled with his experience of 7-8 sites per year, he found none existing.  He said although he understands the visceral response to a machine shop proposal there is no basis in science any longer.  This is the first layer of protection - the nature of the business is different than it used to be.

            His second point and second layer of protection is due to the terrain and elevation.  Chamberlain machine sits on a terrace about 30 feet above Malnati Farm.  The water table below is about the same as the brook, approximately 30 feet below ground elevation of Chamberlain Machine.  There is a fairly significant interval of dry sand from the surface to the water table.  If

Walpole Planning Board Minutes 4/08/08 page 7

somehow there was a release from the facility that has no breaks in the walls or floors, getting out and onto the soil it has to saturate an interval of sand 25 feet thick before it reaches the water table.  The volume of released material would be over 1000 gallons to saturate a 10 ft. radius from the surface at a 30% saturation rate to the water table.  He said like an oil spill in a driveway the material disburses rather than falling straight down making the saturation more difficult.  He said it would be equivalent to twenty 55 gallon drums of process fluid that would be knocked over and ignored.  It is unreasonable to think it would happen.

            The third layer of protection comes from the fact the site sits on the edge of the WSP area and the ground water flow below the site is very likely to be to the South.  Without putting wells in it is difficult to determine the flow.  But because the site is on a bluff and there is a fairly significant topographic break between where Chamberlain is sited to the Malnati Farm to the South.  The hill is unambiguous and the water is going to follow the topography.  In that area there is a high degree of certainty the water flows south.  The well is located approximately 1500 feet to the Northwest, if somehow the water began flowing north it will need to circle around and effectively flow back against the river, upriver.  While not impossible, it is highly unlikely.

He said the DES letter was helpful for them all and gave a framework for the Board to judge if it was being reasonable in looking at the information he provided.  And it helped him in framing what he was trying to say to the Board.  The site is managed and as the letter states the DES tries to manage sites within the WSP area as opposed to excluding uses.  He said it is managed by a very experienced staff at Chamberlain in the use, handling, storage and disposal of all of their processing fluids on their site.  It is managed also by the limited amounts of materials in self-contained apparatus.  There is also passive management in the 30 ft. soil layer and some very reasonable chance that the groundwater flow is moving away from the well.  In summary the letter was very helpful in showing how the WSP area can be used.  He offered to answer any questions.  He added that the geology is not very complex in this area.

Ch. Miller asked if Chamberlain could provide a list of the materials they use and how they are managed, by State protocol?  Production Manager Chris Miller answered that they have eliminated all hazardous materials and are exempt from VT’s oversight process but could provide a list of materials.

Ch. Miller called for the Board to consider taking action on the applications because the 65 day deadline is up.  He called for action on the Conditional Use Permit and asked the Board to review the criteria/standards in the WSP Ordinance.

Mr. Daviss asked if Mr. Kinyon could speak to his questions.  Mr. Kinyon said his questions/theme was about the interplay between the Federal Law for Hazardous wastes, RECRA and how to apply them to interpret the WSPO.  He said the Chairman made a good point to review the standards in the WSPO, that the most relevant standard is the first one - the proposed use will not detrimentally effect the quality of the groundwater in the aquifer by directly contributing to pollution or by increasing the long term susceptibility of the aquifer to potential pollutants.  Nowhere in that standard does it mention hazardous materials or wastes.  To try to answer Ben’s questions about the interplay he suggests it is a very common legal principal when interpreting ordinances to interpret it as a whole and in context.  Look to the plain and common sense meaning unless terms are specifically defined.  “Pollutants” is not specifically defined although toxic or hazardous materials are defined therefore makes reference to the Federal RECRA to determine if hazardous or toxic materials are present as defined.  He thinks the Board needs to apply the common sense approach to the application of the most relevant standard the Board is dealing with by asking what kind of pollutants are being dealt with as talked about by Mr. Brackett, is the proposal going to detrimentally effect the quality of the groundwater by directly contributing to pollution.  He respectfully submits to the Board that by the evidence given plus the added aspect of hooking up to Town sewer suggests the conditional use permit is not going to detrimentally effect the quality of the groundwater and is not going to increase the long

Walpole Planning Board Minutes 4/08/08 page 8

term susceptibility of the aquifer to pollutants because it is a highly managed facility and hooked into Town water and sewer and on a terrain that goes away from the well.  He said to look at the ordinance in its entire context about what it is trying to regulate rather than getting tied up in the technical definitions of RECRA.  He offered to answer any further questions Ben Daviss had.

Mr. Daviss said he was trying to learn more about the application of the law and whether the Board was obligated to abide by RECRA because the WSPO says “materials including those referred to in RECRA”, that RECRA was part of it.  He said he thought Mr. Kinyon was answering only in regard to this particular proposal and he understands his point of view.  He thought perhaps it wasn’t the proper venue to educate him on RECRA and thanked Mr. Kinyon for his response, which he added he found acceptable.

Ch. Miller began by reviewing each condition agreeing with Mr. Kinyon that standard #1 and #2 were met.  He said he was concerned with #3 regarding the seemingly over restrictive prohibition of all toxic or hazardous materials.  He said a common sense approach was to go to the definition of hazardous or toxic materials finding them prohibited when “improperly” stored, transported or managed.  He felt when the materials are “properly” managed common sense says they are not prohibited to certain degrees.  He said Chamberlain does in fact have a management system in place and is willing to place it on file and any enforcement of the ordinance falls under the BOS.  He read that the Conditional Use Permit may be withdrawn by the BOS if not in accordance with the regulations of this ordinance.  So if they submit a management program on site and submit it to the BOS, the Selectmen have the authority to pull the permit if problems arise.  He added with the plan on file, if improperly managed the BOS oversight is an added protection.  He thought #4 and #5 were not applicable and that the findings provided are adequate and reasonable for the Board to grant the conditional use permit with the condition all management procedures for storage and movement of materials falling under State and Federal regulations be filed with the Town and every time they are updated. 

            Mr. O’Keefe questioned whether filing was a necessary condition of the approval he is concerned every time they forget to file they are in violation and subject to loosing their permit.

            Ch. Miller disagreed and felt it was very important to have the reports filed and kept up to date.  Since they have to file with the State they can simply copy the Town.  There are several instances in Town such as the salt shed reports that are ongoing.  He thought it was a good partnership.

            Sec. Aslinger reported that a letter had been received outside the public hearing in opposition to the proposal and conditional use permit from Baldwin, Callen and Ransom, Attny. Steven Whitley.  It will be placed in the file.  Mr. O’Keefe asked whom he was representing.  Sec. Aslinger said the letter was faxed to the Town Office on Friday 4/4/08 on behalf of a group of Walpole residents that included but were not limited to Barbara O’Conner and Tucker Burr asking to address the WSPO.  They propose prohibiting the Conditional Use Permit for Chamberlain Machine.  Selectman Sawyer added it is the same law firm suing the Zoning Board for the granting of the special exception to Chamberlain.  The suit has recently been withdrawn with the condition the Planning Board take into account the WSPO, the Planning Board may also be subject to suit.

            Mr. O’Keefe asked if Chamberlain was required to file “Tier 3” with the State and Town because of the amount of materials used and stored.  Mr. Chris Miller said they are not required because they are below the threshold amounts.  Mr. O”Keefe explained “Tier 3”  applies to the amount of materials stored and handled, the requirement is to file with the Fire and other various Town departments and the State.

            Ch. Miller called for Board action.  Mr. DeCoste moved to grant the conditional use permit under the WSPO with the condition Chamberlain file their materials management storage and handling procedures with the Town.  Ch. Miller called for further discussion.

           Walpole Planning Board Minutes 4/08/08 page 9

Mr. Ben Daviss offered a final comment regarding the use of the word “improperly” agreeing with the Chairman that in context with the rest of the ordinance it is the only way it makes sense.  Further looking at toxic materials that too strict an interpretation could cover almost anything, which seems unreasonable.  He added reading under the appeal process - if a literal enforcement of a provision of this ordinance harms an applicant they are to seek a variance.  He said any type of industrial use that the ordinance permits would be harmed by the literal application, parking a car overnight would be a violation, he didn’t think the ordinance was meant to be absurd on its face.  He agrees with the Chairman’s interpretation, it is the only way the ordinance makes sense otherwise everyone would have to apply for a variance. He offered that the ordinance may need tuning up, but with the information provided and the Chairman’s interpretation he thought the Board could move forward. 

            Ch. Miller called for a second to the motion, Mr. Sawyer seconded.  Mr. O’Keefe reiterated his dislike of having the condition placed on the granting of the use permit concerned about the potential for violation if they were to forget to file updated management procedures as being burdensome.  He said if the applicant isn’t bothered by providing it, then he wouldn’t be either.

            Mr. Dill speaking as an alternate in the audience thought it burdensome to the Town offices to keep track of materials when they would be notified by the State if they weren’t in compliance much like an insurance company notifies lien holders.

            Ch. Miller disagreed still feeling it was necessary and wouldn’t be burdensome.  He called for further discussion, hearing none called the vote.  All were in favor, motion carried.  Mr. O’Keefe asked if a letter to Chamberlain would follow, answer was yes, the Secretary follows all Board actions with a written letter copied to the BOS.

            Ch. Miller called for discussion on the Site Plan Review application, recapping pending information - septic, water and sewer hook up, and possibly sharing an access with Bensonwood.  He called for Board discussion.  Mr. Bob Miller asked about the DOT’s recommendations for Huntington Lane?  Mr. Hitchcock said DOT issued the driveway permit and it is on file with the Town.  Mr. Bob Miller thought DOT had recommended a traffic light?  Mr. Hitchcock said no, the level of service before and after the project remains at level A, the best possible rating for an intersection, it would not require a traffic light.

            Sec. Aslinger said the Board had received the Alteration of Terrain permit from the State and it is on file. 

            Mr. O’Keefe remembered a glare issue from the parking lot lighting and asked if it had been addressed by reducing the height and number of poles and agreeing to turn the lights off at 7:00pm?  Mr. Hitchcock answered they would turn the lights off at 7:00pm as discussed and had re-submitted a lighting plan with lower and fewer lights at the previous meeting.  Mr. Sawyer asked how far the site was from the highway?  Answer was 4-500 ft.  Mr. O’Keefe requested the lights off time be included as a condition of the approval.  Ch. Miller agreed and added a condition to hook up to town sewer system.  He said if there is some instance in the future about 7:00 not working they could come back to the Board for review.  Mr. Bob Miller recalled that any lighting left on after 7:00pm would be for building security only. 

Mr. Hitchcock said the lighting plan and the sewer plans have been submitted and are part of the plan, he didn’t think they needed to be part of a condition.  He did suggest the Board condition their State sewer discharge permit.  Ch. Miller agreed.  Mr. Sawyer said they would be meeting all permits regarding sprinkler systems for the Town water department.

            Mr. Fletcher moved to approve the Site Plan Review as presently amended including the new sewer and lighting plans, with the condition lights are turned off at 7:00pm and they obtain a State sewer discharge permit.  Seconded by Mr. O’Keefe.  Being no further discussion Ch. Miller called the vote, all were in favor, the motion carried unanimously.

Walpole Planning Board Minutes 4/08/08 page 10

8:20pm Ch. Miller called for a short break to allow for audience members to exit.

8:30pm Ch. Miller continued the meeting with unfinished business.

            B.  Walpole D & D, LLC - Mr. Dill addressed the Board with an update on the State subdivision approval.  He said Warren Stevens and the State soils engineer visited the site yesterday.  They made an oral commitment to approve the permit for the lot on the South side of the road.  They have a question on the lot on the North side of the road but will discuss it with Mr. Stevens and send a follow up letter. The problem with the North lot is where they have located the septic design of 4000 sq. ft. has standing water behind the stone wall.  Only 400 feet is actually needed for the system, it’s not a matter of disapproval, more how to re-design it.  Mr. Dill hopes they will receive the letter in a week therefore be able to meet the final two conditions on the approval, he will be contacting Jim Terrell for his final inspection.  Ch. Miller thought the road was very muddy.  Mr. Dill said one of the neighbors has been stealing gravel with a bucket loader to fix his own driveway.  He asked if the gravel was his since he paid for it or was it the Town’s.  Members thought he should contact the Road Agent, he thought he should contact the Police department.  Mr. Sawyer said he should contact Mr. Terrell who could then contact the Policy department for a resolution.

            Sec. Aslinger said Mr. Terrell was on vacation until the 22nd.   She will leave them on the agenda until next month hoping the last two conditions would be met.  The plans can be signed at the meeting.  Mr. Sawyer questioned whether he had to wait until the meeting.  Ch. Miller said to keep the Board informed on his progress.  Mr. Dill said it was one year ago when he began presenting his plans to the Board.

VI.       New Business:  Preliminary Conceptual Consultations

            A.  Ch. Miller asked Mr. Paul Grazewicz to speak about a proposed convenience store located at 988 Main St. in North Walpole owned by Mr. Ramen Patel of Westboro, MA.   Mr. Grasewicz introduced himself as an engineer from Graz Engineering in Fitzwilliam.  He has been asked by Mr. Patel to present an application for Site Plan Review for the project.  He showed plans pointing out parking areas and access, describing the building as a large green building formerly a Mr. Gee’s storage warehouse.  He said they have met with the NWV Commissioner’s last month they had concerns with fire and other issues.  They have an interior plan complete with walk in coolers.  His purpose is to review some issues and to have the Board direct them on how to file a Site Plan application if needed.  He said the building footprint will remain the same, the parking will be on both sides, there is a dedicated curb cut on the north side they will be applying for an alteration on the south end because it is currently shared with a residence.  He said the building is about 11,000 sq. ft. there are 2000 ft. for storage and a second story, all used for a convenience store only with no gas pumps.

            Ch. Miller asked for their time frame.  Mr. Grazewicz asked how soon he could apply.  Sec. Aslinger said the Board requests applications be submitted at their regular meeting, the public hearing and acceptance would be scheduled for the following meeting.  He asked if there were any concerns that needed to be addressed.  Ch. Miller asked Village Commissioners Barbara O’Brien and Mr. Kinery for comment.  Mr. Kinery said they had received complaints about the noise from neighbors going into 10:30pm.  Ch. Miller asked if work was already being done?  Mr. Patel’s lawyer answered they had met with Village building Commissioner Mr. McCormick who passed away last December, he had given them the ok to begin the project and without a site plan review, he being the authority.  Ch. Miller remembered a past similar instance and agreed the Board would work together with them to go through the necessary reviews.  Sec. Aslinger asked if they had a copy of the Site Plan regulations, were they aware of what they needed to provide?  Answer was yes.  They will appear before the Board at the next meeting to submit an application.  Mr. Bob Miller suggested they agree on a quitting time that is agreeable to the

Wal,pole Planning Board Minutes 4/08/08 page 11

neighbors and village commissioners.  Ch. Miller noted they shouldn’t be working at all, they are in violation of the Site Plan Review, having not obtained approval.  Mrs. O’Conner agreed until they receive their approval no work should be allowed.  Ch. Miller said they were given the wrong information but are showing they intend to be good neighbors so work could continue until 7 -7:30pm, technically they should not be doing anything.  Sec. Aslinger questioned whether the interior work is an actual requirement of the site plan however once they have site plan approval, technically the work can begin at that point.  Mr. Sawyer said the fire department needs to be included in their process.  Sec. Aslinger said she would send a copy of the agenda to each of them via e-mail.  Ch. Miller concluded saying the meeting would be held on May 13 at 7:00pm, they can submit their application the Board will schedule the public hearing for the June 10th meeting.

B.        Ken Kozara and C. Cramer have been cancelled for tonight’s meeting.

D.        Joe DiBernardo presented the Board with an application for a 2 lot subdivision located on Old Drewsville Rd. Map 10, Lot 29-1 in the Rural Ag. district owned by Jane Skofield.  The plan results in Lot 1 of 27.9 ac. and Lot 2 of 91.1 ac. without existing buildings on either lot.  Both lots meet the frontage, lot size and setbacks for the zone and are approximately where the pavement ends.  Ch. Miller called for a motion to schedule the application and public hearing for the May meeting.  It was so moved and seconded, motion carried unanimously.

E.         Mr. Fraser representing Whitcomb Construction was asked to come forward regarding a proposed gravel excavation on Old Drewsville Rd. and application for a Special Exception Recommendation.  Mr. Fraser presented the Board with 4 sets of plans and an application and fees and gave a brief description.

Mr. Daviss stated he would be recusing himself once the application was formally accepted by the board because he lives in the area.  Ch. Miller acknowledged.

Mr. Fraser described the scope being one in which Mr. Whitcomb proposes to remove sand and gravel on a parcel he owns on Old Drewsville Rd.  It is 229 ac. of which 3.6 ac. will be involved in the excavation.  Ch. Miller asked if it was the same parcel with the berm and construction storage previously granted a special exception and site plan.  Answer was yes.  He asked if the stored items were going to be cleaned up?  Mr. Fraser said the property has been cleaned up in 2007.  He said the area where the current storage area is, will not be included in the excavation area, he will maintain the storage area as is.  It houses concrete culverts, barriers and iron.  The idea is to excavate sand and gravel above grade and then create a small pond with the depth of 13 feet.  He said best management practices on this type of site is very important, the State has issued a site specific permit for the excavation, it is an opportunity for the operators and the regulators to determine whether the project is managed properly, he assumes it will be.  The construction sequence shows a host of best management practices set in place for the site.  He showed on the final grading plan, the material excavated, winrowed, allowed to dry out, loaded onto trucks, and trucked off site, they’ll be no crushing on site, materials will be moved via the existing infrastructure onto Old Drewville Road along about 900 feet to Rte 123. 

Ch. Miller asked how long the project would go on.  Mr. Fraser said Mr. Whitcomb expected the project to have a

Ed. Note: A news note from Lyn Cooke.  CCB

Ed. Note: Do we live in Paradise or what?  Here are two long-awaited announcements that prove it!  CCB

THE REAL TWIST OPENS FOR THE SEASON!

Gale Davis has announced that the Real Twist Ice Cream Stand in Walpole will be opening for the season on Saturday, April 19th.. April hours will be weekdays 3-8 PM; Saturday 12-9 PM; Sunday 12-8PM. Starting in May, they will be open 12-9, seven days a week,

The Real Twist serves exceptional soft serve ice cream and fat free frozen yogurt, including your favorite cones, sundaes, flurries, frappes and more.

The Real Twist is next to Real To Reel in the North Meadow Plaza in Walpole, NH.


The Walpole Creamery, whose terrific ice cream is now available in nearly 100 stores in northern New England, opened its scoop shop for the summer last week.  According to Tom Beaudry, until mid-May it'll be open Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 12:00 noon to 6:00 p.m.  Seven day operation and later ours begin in May.

Tom tells me that the Creamery will feature even more new flavors this summer, including a "flavor of the week" that will be available in cones and cups as well as in pint and quart containers.  Last week's season opener flavor of the week--and Tom assures me that there is still some left--was malted chocolate. CCB

   

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE BOARD OF SELECTMEN

APRIL 03, 2008

Selectboard Present:   Sheldon Sawyer, Whitney Aldrich, Jamie Teague

Mr. Sawyer called the meeting to order at 7:30 PM with one person present in the audience.

PUBLIC BUSINESS:

There was no Public Business heard at this meeting.

ACCOUNTS  PAYABLE:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register and manifest in the amount of $135,776.15.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  All in favor, so voted.

PAYROLL:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve the payroll voucher for the week ending March 29, 2008, for gross wages in the amount of $17,117.51 or net wages in the amount of $9,253.73.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted.

Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the electronic fund transfer for the Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $4,128.47.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  All in favor, so voted.

Mr. Aldrich moved to accept the recommendation from Jim Terrell to promote Bruce Russell to Foreman and to increase his pay $1.00/hour.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  All in favor, so voted.

Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the annual salary for Jim Terrell from $52,481 to $56,032.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  All in favor, so voted.

MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD and HOOPER TRUSTEES MEETING- MARCH 27, 2008:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard and Hooper Trustees meeting of March 27, 2008, as printed.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  All in favor, so voted.

PUBLIC HEARING- MARCH 27, 2008:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Minutes of the Public Hearing of March 27, 2008, for the Community Development Block Grant for Andrus, LLC in the Dunning Building in North Walpole.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  All in favor, so voted.

OLD BUSINESS:

CONSERVATION COMMISSION Appointment Form:  The Selectboard signed the Conservation Commission Appointment Form for Brad Fletcher.

COUNTY ROAD:  George Watkins advised that a Petition is circulating regarding the deteriorated condition of County Road that is a State road.  He asked whether the Petition should be submitted to the State or Town.  Mr. Sawyer suggested that they submit it to the Selectboard who in turn would forward it to the State. 

HIGHWAY DEPARTMENT:  Mrs. Teague talked to Mr. Farrell at Municipal Resources, Inc. following his presentation to the Selectboard at the last meeting.  Prior to the Selectboard making a decision she would like to meet with Jim Terrell and do some research into the pending issues.  The Local Government Center offers consultation services and could be a free resource.  Mr. Sawyer and Mr. Aldrich were agreeable with having Mrs. Teague meet with Jim Terrell.

Selectboard Meeting – April 03, 2008 – Page 2

NEW BUSINESS:

NOTICE OF INTENT TO CUT – EXTENSION OF NO. 003-007-001 FOR MICHAEL & LIANA CAPRA:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Intent to Cut Extension for Michael & Liana Capra for Map 003, Lot 007-001 for a minimum amount of wood.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  All in favor, so voted.

LAURA MALINOSKI-ADAMS – COLD RIVER LOCAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE:  Mr. Aldrich moved to accept the resignation of Laura Malinoski-Adams on the Cold River Local Advisory Committee, with regret, to be effective immediately.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  All in favor, so voted.

MEMO FROM NH DOT:  A notice was received from the NH DOT that Frank W. Whitcomb Construction  Company has started construction on the NH 123 Cold River Bridge on March 28, 2008.         

INTENT TO EXCAVATE – COLD RIVER MATERIALS (4):

MAP 015-011-000:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve the Intent to Excavate for Cold River Materials, A Division of Lane Construction Company.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted.

MAP 003-002-000:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve the Intent to Excavate for Cold River Materials, A Division of Lane Construction Company.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted.

MAP 014-013-000:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve the Intent to Excavate for Cold River Materials, A Division of Lane Construction Company.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted.

MAP 015-011-000:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the supplemental 2007 Intent to Excavate for Cold River Materials, A Division of Lane Construction Company.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  All in favor, so voted.

REQUEST FOR USE OF TOWN COMMON:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the request to use the Town Common on September 26, 2009, for Kayla Patnode subject to any fee increase.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  All in favor, so voted.

OIL GRANT SIGNATURE AUTHORIZATION:  Mrs. Teague moved to appoint the Chairman of the Selectboard to have signatory authority for the Oil Grant.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted. 

HB.1645:  Mrs. Teague provided an up-date on HB.1645 in reference to the NH Retirement System; an unfunded mandate for the retirement plan.  She distributed copies of the “Retirement Cost Increase Calculator”.  She urged the Selectboard to contact all the Senators, in writing or by phone calls, to vote “YES”.   Mr. Sawyer and Mr. Aldrich agreed to support this. 

Selectboard Meeting – April 03, 2008 – Page 3

EARLY OFFICE CLOSURE:  Mr. Sawyer announced that the Selectboard office will close at 2:00 PM on Friday, April 4th, 2008. 

LETTERS TO BE SIGNED:

SAVINGS BANK OF WALPOLE:  Mr. Sawyer explained that this letter to the Savings Bank of Walpole is to set up a new savings account “Whitcomb Park Recreation Center Playground Equipment Fund Account”. 

Mr. Aldrich moved to approve and sign the letter to the Savings Bank of Walpole.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  All in favor, so voted.      

Mrs. Teague moved to adjourn this meeting.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted.  The time was 8:56 PM.

The Selectboard entered into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees of Trust Fund.

HOOPER

TRUSTEES OF TRUST FUND MEETING

Mr. Sawyer called the meeting of the Hooper Trustees of Trust Fund to order at 8:58 PM.

APPOINTMENT:  Mrs. Teague moved to appoint Lewis Shelley to serve a three year term on the Hooper Institute Committee.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted.

Mrs. Teague moved to adjourn this meeting.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted.  The time was 9:02 PM. 

 

 

Ed. Note: Thanks to secretary Elaine Moore, here is the agenda for Wednesday's Zoning board meeting at 7:30 p.m. at Town Hall.  CCB

WALPOLE ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT

AGENDA

April 16, 2008

NEW BUSINESS:

            Peter Wotowiec representing Bensonwood – They were given a recommendation by Planning Board for a Special Exception.

            Craig Vickers – Map 009-Lot 036-000 – 321 March Hill Road inquiry regarding a home business as a wholesaler of Automobiles in a Rural Zone

OLD BUSINESS:

            Gravel Pits – Second Discussion of fees

            Approval of Unapproved Minutes of March 19, 2008 meeting

OTHER:

Ed. Note: A note from Delores Street!  CCB

Ed. Note: Pam Bernard requested that I post this announcement of a poetry reading in town on the 21st of April.  See below.  CCB

POETRY READING: DOROTHY ANDERSON AND PAM BERNARD
WALPOLE TOWN LIBRARY
MONDAY, APRIL 21 @ 7 PM
FREE  /  REFRESHMENTS
Contact:  Pam Bernard at pam@pmbernard.com or 603-756-4177
                Frankie Knibb, Walpole Librarian, 603-756-9806

To celebrate National Poetry Month, two Walpole poets will read from their work at the Walpole Town Library, co-sponsor of the event, Monday, April 21 at 7 p.m.

Dorothy B. Anderson, a retired family therapist, has lived in Walpole for twenty years, with her husband, Paul Galloway, a tree farmer.  Anderson grew up in China and came to this country in 1948.  Her parents were refugees from Nazi Germany.  She has two grown children.  Anderson served on the board of directors for The Frost Place and is currently working with new director, Jim Schley, on a history of this a nonprofit educational center for poetry and the arts based at Robert Frost’s old homestead, in Franconia.  Anderson, who started writing poems in high school, has two books published: a chapbook titled By The Yangtse and a full-length collection, published in 2006, entitled Light Entering My Bones. Several journals have published her work, including Dine, Edison Literary Review, Comstock, and Wooster Review. Poets who have influenced her include Alan Tate, Elizabeth Bishop, and Mary Oliver.

Pam Bernard, poet, painter, editor, and teacher, received her MFA in Creative Writing from the Graduate Program for Writers at Warren Wilson College, and AB from Harvard University in History of Art.  Among her many awards are a National Endowment for the Arts Fellowship in Creative Writing, two Massachusetts Cultural Council Fellowships in Poetry, and a MacDowell Fellowship.  TriQuarterl, Prairie Schoone, Salamander, and the Marlboro Review are among the many journals in which her poems can be found.  Her most recent full-length collection of poetry is entitled Across the Dark.  Her current manuscript of poems, entitled Blood Garde, chronicles a New England youth who finds himself in the trenches of WWI France.  Bernard, who teaches creative writing at the New Hampshire Institute of Art in Manchester, and her husband Harry, a web designer, are recent émigrés from Boston; they have lived in Walpole for three years

Ed. Note: Here are Selectmen's minutes for March 20, a bit later than usual due to my being out of town last week.  CCB

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE BOARD OF SELECTMEN

MARCH 20, 2008

Selectboard Present:            Sheldon Sawyer, Whitney Aldrich, Jamie Teague

Mr. Sawyer called the meeting to order at 7:36 PM with six people present in the audience.

RE-ORGANIZATION OF SELECTBOARD:

Chairman:  Mr. Aldrich nominated Sheldon Sawyer as the Chair for the next year.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  There were no other nominations.  With Mr. Aldrich and Mrs. Teague in favor, the motion was approved.  Mr. Sawyer abstained from the vote.

Vice-Chair:  Mr. Sawyer nominated Whitney Aldrich as the Vice-Chair for the next year.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  There were no other nominations.  With Mr. Sawyer and Mrs. Teague in favor, the motion was approved.  Mr. Aldrich abstained from the vote.

PUBLIC BUSINESS:

JULIE BURNS – Playground:  Julie Burns had been talking with Joan DeVault about the need for ADA approved playground equipment in Whitcomb Park.  At that time Ken and Julie Burns wanted to incorporate a smaller area that would be for the younger children.  When they heard that the Town was not able to move forward for the older children they were still eager to see something built there.  There is a need to have a place where families can go to meet together in a positive way.  The original estimate for the ADA playground equipment was $104,000; they are willing to contribute $50,000 toward the project.  Mr. and Mrs. Burns hope this will be acceptable to the Town and asked the Selectboard for their consideration in having the Town match the balance of the funding.  With some grant money and support from the Selectboard they hope to get close to the amount that will be needed for the original structure as proposed by Mrs. DeVault.  The Selectboard advised that no monies were included in the current budget therefore the Town could not vote on it until 2009.  Mr. and Mrs. Burns felt a fundraiser could be undertaken and other families would be willing to contribute.  Mrs. Burns said it would be a lovely place and a wonderful addition for the families with children from two to twelve years old.  A four week lead time would be required to have the playground ready for the 2008 season.  There would need to be some modest excavation and site work done but they have volunteers who would donate their time and equipment to do this work.  The Selectboard agreed to support the proposed playground and fundraising and they thanked Mr. and Mrs. Burns.

RED SMITH – Property Assessment Question:  Red Smith and Raynie Laware questioned the property assessment on 11 Westminster Street LLC, Map 20, Lot 071.  Their other properties had modest assessment increases but this property increased drastically.  They distributed graphs of their properties showing the Entity Tax Percentage Comparison and Entity Property Value Comparison.  Mrs. Laware stated that it appears they used the Replacement rather than Fair Market value.  The Selectboard recommended that they contact Avitar and/or the Bureau of Land and Tax Appeals.          

ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT:  Myra Mansouri, Chair of the ZBA, requested that when the gravel pit owners file the Notices of Intent to Excavate Gravel the ZBA receive copies of that document as well as the form the owners use when they have completed the excavation as the ZBA are the regulators of the gravel.  This will assist the ZBA in organizing all the gravel excavations.  There was discussion relative to Reclamation Bonds.  The ZBA will write letters to the pit owners regarding the Reclamation Bonds.

Selectboard Meeting – March 20, 2008 – Page 2

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register and manifest in the amount of $74,544.04.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  All in favor, so voted.

PAYROLL:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve the payroll voucher for the week ending March 15, 2008, for gross wages in the amount of $22,084.16 or net wages in the amount of $13,479.52.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted.

Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the electronic fund transfer for the Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $5,091.49.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  All in favor, so voted.

The Selectboard signed the payroll document authorizing payment of the retro-active 3% cost-of-living increase for the employees.

SELECTMEN’S MEETING and HOOPER TRUSTEES MEETING – MARCH 13, 2008:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectmen’s and Hooper Trustees meeting of March 13, 2008, as printed.  Seconded by Mr. Sawyer.  Mrs. Teague abstained as she was not yet an official Selectboard member.  With Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Sawyer in favor, the motion was approved.

Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Selectboard Non-Public meeting of March 13, 2008, as printed.  The minutes will remain sealed as they contain information on personnel.  Seconded by Mr. Sawyer.  Mrs. Teague abstained as she was not yet an official Selectboard member.  With Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Sawyer in favor, the motion was approved.

DEPARTMENT / COMMITTEE REPORTS: 

The Selectboard received and reviewed the Minutes of the following meetings:  1) Planning Board meeting of March 11, 2008, and 2) North Walpole Village Board of Commissioners meeting of March 18, 2008.

BUILDING PERMIT:

FRANK and TABATHA ANDERSON – MAP 001-003-005:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve Building Permit No. 2008-004 for Frank and Tabatha Anderson to rebuild their single-family house at 14 Seward Road subject to receipt of the Energy Audit from the State.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  All in favor, so voted.

OLD BUSINESS:

HOCKENSMITH – Sale Of Land:  Mr. Sawyer will contact Attorney Hockensmith regarding the possible sale of land.

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION FROM APPLEWOOD TO SHAW’S:  Mrs. Teague reported on her research into attempting to find public transportation for the residents at Applewood to be transported to Shaw’s.  Unknowns are the frequency for the rides and the number of riders.  There was discussion relative to putting together a questionnaire and getting the word out.  Mrs. Teague will continue to work on trying to find a solution.

BALLAM FARM:  Mr. Aldrich moved to sign the document that had been received from the Trust for Public Land for the Ballam Farm Conservation Easement.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  All in favor, so voted.

Selectboard Meeting – March 20, 2008 – Page 3

COLD RIVER BRIDGE:  There will be a pre-construction meeting with the State of New Hampshire, District Construction Engineer, on the Cold River Bridge on Friday, March 28th, 2008, at 10:00 AM in the Walpole Town Hall.

NEW BUSINESS:

APPOINTMENTS (2 Members To The Conservation Commission):  Mr. Sawyer explained that there are two vacancies on the Conservation Commission.  Gary Speed and Paul Happ did not seek re-appointments.

Mr. Sawyer moved to appoint Bradley Fletcher to the Conservation Commission to replace Gary Speed for a three year term.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted.

Mrs. Teague moved to appoint Mary Lou Montgomery to the Conservation Commission based on the fact that she has been an Alternate member for quite some time.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.

Mr. Aldrich moved to appoint Tom Beaudry to the Conservation Commission to replace Paul Happ for a three year term.  Seconded by Mr. Sawyer.  Mrs. Teague abstained.  With Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Sawyer in favor, the motion was approved. 

The final vote was two votes for Tom Beaudry and one vote for Mary Lou Montgomery.  The Clerk was instructed to cast one vote for Tom Beaudry.

JUNK YARD LICENSE – E & W Salvage:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve and sign the Junk Yard License for E & W Salvage.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  All in favor, so voted.

VALLEY ROAD:  Mr. Sawyer moved to ask Delia Blanchette on the Valley Road to attend a meeting as soon as possible to discuss an on-going matter.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted.

WELFARE ADMINISTRATORS WORKSHOP – JUNE 26, 2008:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve having Elaine Moore attend the Welfare Administrators Workshop on June 26, 2008.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted.

INTENT TO TIMBER CUT –ALFRED, MARY AND LAWRENCE BRITTON- MAP 008-102-000:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve and sign the Notice of Intent to Timber Cut for Alfred, Mary and Lawrence Britton on Watkins Hill.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  All in favor, so voted.

INTENT TO TIMBER CUT – MICHAEL & LIANA CAPRA – MAP 003-007-001:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve and sign the Notice of Intent to Timber Cut for Michael & Liana Capra on Whipple Hill.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  All in favor, so voted.

ELAINE MOORE – VACATION DAY – TUESDAY, MARCH 25, 2008:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve having Elaine Moore take a vacation day on Tuesday, March 25, 2008.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted.

COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENTS:

The Selectboard agreed to be liaisons to the following Town departments / boards:  

            Hooper Trustees – Mrs. Teague

            Police Department – Mrs. Teague

            Solid Waste Department – Mr. Aldrich

Selectboard Meeting – March 20, 2008 – Page 4

            Highway Department – Mr. Aldrich and Mrs. Teague

            Planning Board – Mr. Sawyer

            Conservation Commission – Mr. Aldrich

Recreation Department – Mr. Sawyer, Mr. Aldrich and Mrs. Teague

Mr. Aldrich moved to adjourn this meeting.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  All in favor, so voted.  The time was 9:52 PM.

The Selectboard entered into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees of Trust Fund.

HOOPER

TRUSTEES OF TRUST FUND MEETING

Mr. Sawyer called the meeting of the Hooper Trustees of Trust Fund to order at 9:54 PM.

TREE AT HOOPER INSTITUTE:  Mr. Sawyer will contact Eloise Clark and take a look at the tree that she feels should be taken down.

HOOPER INSTITUTE:  The Board of Selectmen will meet with the Trustees of Trust Funds and a bank representative on Friday, March 28th, 2008, at 8:30 am in the Walpole Town Hall to review the Hooper accounts.

Mr. Aldrich moved to adjourn this meeting.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  All in favor, so voted.  The time was 10:00 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

 

 

                 

 

Ed. Note: Here's a note from Jill Robinson on the Walpole Energy Fair set for May 3. Mark your calendars! CCB

    "TriVillage Energy is organizing a rather ambitious Energy Fair for Saturday, May 3. It will be held in the Town Hall and on The Common (weather permitting), from 10 am until 3 pm. We are planning lots of activities, including a parade,  exhibitors and vendors, a local farmers market, demonstrations, activities for kids, presentations, films, music, greenish home and homestead tour, and finally a Contra Dance!

    The parade will include all manner of greener transportation choices, from people walking to kids on bikes to biodiesel and hybrid cars, to horses.

    Exhibitors and vendors will display better-energy products, services, and information. Over 30 exhibitors have already signed on. They include, for example, advocacy organizations promoting a healthier earth; sellers of greener products like organic cotton Tees and new clothes crafted from old clothes; businesses with products to help you green your home with insulation, solar systems, low energy appliances; and builders of more sustainable communities and more energy efficient homes.

    Local farmers will offer whatever they may have on hand at the very beginning of the season, hopefully fresh young greens, and meat, dairy, and eggs. Products made from locally grown raw materials may also appear at the farmers market.

    If the weather cooperates, there will be a demonstration (and tasting!) of solar cooked food. Other demonstrations will include mushroom log inoculation, planting salad greens in a portable salad box, and composting.

    Kids will be able to stop by the Boy Scout's area and make their own solar hot dog cookers, and taste solar cooked hot dogs made from grass fed, local beef (again, if the sun cooperates). Kids can also learn to make useful things from "trash."

    Presentations and films will cover green building, biofuels, municipal action to address climate change and peak oil, building community, permaculture, and other pro-active responses to a changing energy future.

    An on-your-own tour of area homes and homesteads with better energy practices such as solar power and passive solar design is scheduled.

    The ladies of the Congregational Church will be offering lunch in the church.

    Donated better-energy items will be raffled off in a penny auction. Portable salad boxes will be on sale at TriVillage Energy's own exhibit space.

    There will be music throughout the day (solar powered, if the sun is shining), and a Contra Dance from 8 pm to 11 pm, with lessons for beginners at 7:30.

    TriVillage Energy encourages EVERYONE to participate in the Fair. We need need many volunteers to help with all phases of planning and execution.

    We also need everyone who eats Pringles to save the cans for the Boy Scouts. Because they are lined with reflective foil, they make great solar hot dog cookers. (Disclaimer: we do not encourage anyone to eat Pringles, but if you do, don't toss the can!)

    The volume of data and contacts we are dealing with is huge. If possible, please get in touch by email with Jill Robinson at  EnergyFair@trivillageenergy.org. If you cannot email, please call Kim Lewis at 756-9204, Fritze Till at 445-5283, or Tara Sad at 756-4861. "

Ed. Note: Here is a Walpole Police story from a few weeks ago.  CCB

3-27-08

Walpole Police Look Back on Busy, Successful Year

...And Arm Themselves for the Future

By Chuck Bingaman, Contributing Writer

            Walpole Police Chief David Hewes cites 178 criminal incidents, 130 arrests, and 859 traffic stops and 63 auto accidents 2007 as a busy year in the town even though only the number of incidents and accidents are slightly up compared to 148 incidents and 58 accidents in 2006.

            The year’s biggest, most successful policing success came in October when Walpole Police helped organize an “intel” sharing and strategy session at the Walpole headquarters in the wake of 30 burglaries and attempted burglaries in Bellows Falls, North Walpole, and surrounding towns.  In North Walpole alone, attempted break-ins had been detected in at Mr. G’s, Discount Foods, Bellows House Bakery, Agway and R.N. Johnson’s.

Officers from Walpole, Bellows Falls, the Vermont State Police, US Postal Servcie, Alstead, Charlestown, Claremont and Springfield VT pooled their information October 9 on the burglaries that had netted large amounts of cash and other items and agreed on an aggressive, coordinated approach.

            Four nights after the meeting, implementing the agreed surveillance plan, Bellows Falls Police, Officer Jenn Carroll in the lead, working with Walpole officers, saw and apprehended several suspects along with large amounts of cash from a break-in that evening at the NAPA Auto Parts store in Bellows Falls.  The cases are now moving through the judicial system and, Hewes estimated, around 30 reported burglaries have been solved.  “We’re not always that successful,” laughed Hewes on Thursday, “but that operation worked out picture perfectly, and it showed what can happen when you get everybody in the same room working together.”

            “Actually, our arrest record is one highest in the state, that is, the number of times we can solve crimes.” You can’t solve every crime, says Hewes, “But I’ve been here nearly 15 years now, Mike Paquette’s been on the force 10 years, and Officer Justin Sanctuary is a native of the town.  Over time, we’ve developed many friends, acquaintances, and contact, and that’s paid off in phone calls, tips and vital intelligence that gets crimes solved.”

            In other developments, Hewes reported the Walpole force recently took delivery of new Glock 22 semi-automatic 40 cal. handguns for each officer, the first time that the Walpole Police have provided interchangeable weapons for each officer.  “When I first came here in 1993,” Hewes explained, “we told our part-time officers that they’d need to provide their own weapons.  Later we bought guns for six officers, but those guns are now more than ten years old.  I decided that the firearms we had were getting old and that we should all carry the same guns for interchangeability—it was the time to do it.  And, incidentally, the Glock 22 is the handgun of choice with 70-80% of police forces around the country.”

            “Fortunately, none of our Walpole officers has ever had to use his gun against another person,” Hewes added, “only occasionally with a wild animal.  But we’ve never seen the stuff we’re seeing now.  There have been several New Hampshire police officers killed in the past few years…the job’s gotten crazy!”

            As to the immediate future, Hewes says he’s seeing an increase in domestic violence in town based, he thinks, on the tightening economy, higher gas and heating oil prices, and employment difficulties.  And, maybe even the amount of snow we’ve had this year.  “It’s getting tougher and tougher for a lot of people, and we see it in our daily work.”

                                                --30--

 

           

 

           

Ed. Note: Here is a story appearing today in the Eagle Times about the Ballam Farm project. It is based on a news release from the Trust for Public Lands and a notice posted in the Eagle Times Monday about the selling of the property to a Massachusetts couple. There are several loose ends in the story that I am seeking explanations to, and a subsequent story is pending.  I'd be interested in your comments and questions on this story. CCB

4-8-08 

Walpole Farm Conservation Project Completed

___________________

53 Acres Along Connecticut River in Conservation Easement

By Chuck Bingaman, Contributing Writer

The Walpole Conservation Commission and the Trust for Public Land (TPL) and the announced Monday the successful closing of the Ballam Farm Conservation Project—a project that has been two years in the making. 

 Walpole’s Conservation Commission now holds a conservation easement over approximately 52.89 acres of farm and forestland that contain important frontage on the Connecticut River.  The project also provides the town with eight acres as an addition to its wellhead property and which could support an additional wellhead if needed in the future.

“Protecting the Ballam Farm property means protecting Walpole’s drinking water now and into the future,” said Mark Houghton, Walpole Water Department Superintendent.  “The property sits next to our well head and beneath it is one of the most productive aquifers in the state, serving  over 900 residents and businesses.”

The Ballam Farm property, once part of Louis Ballam’s family farm, was for sale by the Henry B. Cabot 1967 Trust in the spring of 2006. There were reports of a purchase offer being considered by a developer with plans for a car dealership along Rt. 12 and residential development behind it. After last spring’s failed effort to gain enough taxpayer support to fund the easement’s purchase, the TPL, in the summer and fall of 2007, launched a private fundraising campaign to complete the Ballam Farm conservation project.  The campaign was recently successful in raising almost $200,000 of private funding to match public funds and to complete the deal.

The TPL spearheaded the project as part of its Connecticut River Program that works in four states to conserve land that is prized by local communities and representative of the resource values of New England’s largest watershed.  The property contains nearly half a mile of pristine Connecticut River shoreline, including a unique floodplain forest natural community, that will receive protection under the terms of the conservation easement. 

Ballam Farm will continue to be farmed under the terms of the conservation easement.  In fact, as the Eagle Times reported on Monday, it has already been sold to David and Suzanne Green of Walpole, MA for $875,000.

Josh Kelly, TPL Field Representative, thanked the many private donors that brought the project to a close.  “Ballam Farm is conserved today because of the generosity and caring of area residents that support the needs of their community.”  Kelly also praised the landowners for allowing the time necessary to complete the deal and acknowledged the work of the Conservation Commission, the Walpole Select Board, and other local residents, as well as the Monadnock Conservancy, which holds an Executory Interest in the conservation easement, and the Granite State Rural Watershed Association for its role in highlighting the importance of the aquifer’s protection.

  In addition to private dollars raised by TPL, the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service’s Farm and Ranch Lands Protection Program (FRPP), awarded the project $295,000 toward the purchase.  The New Hampshire congressional delegation, led by U.S. Senators Judd Gregg and John Sununu and Congressman Paul Hodes, strongly supported use of FRPP funds for the project.

Additional project funding came from a grant of $153,000 from the NH Department of Environmental Services (DES) Water Supply Land Grant Program.  “DES is pleased to have been able to help protect this important drinking water source while also protecting valuable farmland,” said Program Coordinator, Holly Green.

The Trust for Public Land (TPL) is a national non-profit organization conserving land for people to enjoy as parks, gardens, and natural areas.  Since its founding in 1972, TPL has helped protect more than 2.1 million acres of land in 45 states, including over 200,000 acres in New Hampshire.  For more information, contact TPL’s Northern New England office at (802) 223-1373 or visit www.tpl.org/newhampshire.

--30--

 

 

The Windham World Affairs Council lecture on Turkey's political situation scheduled for Friday evening, April 11, with Dr. Gerald Robbins, Associate Scholar, Foreign Policy Research Institute, has been cancelled due to illness of the speaker.  When a new date for this talk is arranged, I'll let you know. CCB

David T. Mayes, one of the fathers, tells me that on Saturday, April 12, 2008, there will be a Spaghetti Dinner with a pie and cake sale at the Walpole Town Hall to help the Walpole School 4th graders raise money for a trip to Ellis Island.  There will be two sittings: 5:00 and 6:30pm. The cost is only $5.00 per person or $20.00 per family.  Reservations are requested by calling the North Walpole School at 445-5450 or Tina Galloway at 445-2132. CCB

Ed. Note: Please note that, because of the long and important agenda, tomorrow's Planning Board meeting begins at 7:00 p.m.  CCB

PLANNING BOARD MEETING Walpole, NH  03608

Tuesday, April 8, 2008 (temp. time change)  7:00 pm  Town Hall

Due to a full agenda the meeting will begin 1/2 hour earlier, however application review and public hearings will begin at 7:30 pm as stated in the legal notice.

 

AGENDA

I.  7:00            Open Meeting

            A.  Roll Call - Designate alternates

            B.  Approve Minutes from 3/11/08 and 3/24/08 work session

            C.  Master Plan Update - Draft Goals & Objectives handout, Schedule work session 4/22

            D.  Handouts - Zoning/WSPO changes, SPR draft wording, fees increase

            E.  Discuss permanent meeting time change to 7:00 pm

            F.  Elect Officers - Chair, Vice Chair, appoint alternates

 

II. 7:30 Review Applications Submitted:  Accept or Reject or Delay before Public Hearing

           

A.  Benson Woodworking Co.,Inc. aka Bensonwood Homes - Special Exception Recommendation -  Rte. 12 N, Map 12, Lot 4 of 24.41ac., Rural Ag. and Comm. Districts formerly Huntington Farm parcel.  Purpose is to comply with zoning ordinance Article III. Rural. Agricultural. C. Special. Exception. 1. a. i. and ii. 

           

B.  Mark B. Silbey - Minor 2 Lot Subdivision located on County Rd. Map 5 Lot 35 in Rural Ag. district.  Purpose is to create Lot 1 of 30.13ac. with existing house and Lot 2 of 13.64ac.  Lot sizes, setbacks and frontages are met for the zone.

 

III.       Close meeting/Open public hearings, Close public hearings/Re-open meeting:

            A.  Benson Woodworking

            B.  Silbey

 

IV.       Action on applications submitted:  Approve or Disapprove or Delay

            A.  Benson Woodworking - Special Exception Recommendation

            B.  Silbey - Minor 2 Lot Subdivision

 

V.            Unfinished Business/Pending applications: Board Action

            A.  Chamberlain Machine Inc.

                  - Town and State agencies reports

                  -  Conditional Use Permit Well Source Protection Ordinance

                  -  Site Plan Review

            B.  Walpole D & D, LLC - update

 

VI.       New Business:  Preliminary Conceptual Consultations

            A.  Paul Grasewicz for Mr. Patel SPR N. Walpole Convenience Store former Mr. Gee’s

            B.  Ken Kozyra - AT&T Mobility Telecommunications Tower Site Plan Scovill Rd.

            C.  Joe DiBernardo - Lot Line Adjustment for Mr. and Mrs. Cramer 

            D.  Joe DiBernardo - 2 Lot Subdivision Jane Skofield Old Drewsville Rd.

            E.  Dick Fraser - Whitcomb Gravel Excavation Old Drewsville Rd. Spec. Except. Rec.

            F.  Other

 

VIII.            Adjourn Meeting - next regular meeting 5/13/2008