Robert Watson reports that two weeks ago viewers in the Unitarian Church Media Center in Hastings House  were treated to "Water" from the BBC series Planet  
Earth. Spectacular, especially in High Definition.

Robert expects no less this week with "Caves". "There is so much to see of this planet," says Robert. "Speaking for myself, I suspect the chances of enjoying these wonders in person may be out of my reach in this lifetime. I  hope we can share the experience together @ the MediaCenter."

It's open to the public. For information, call  Robert Watson  at  603/756-3711.

Ed. Note: Here are minutes of the July 22 Planning Board session. In them is a record of the conversation about the Select Board's cutting the town's agreed dues to the Southwest Regional Planning Commission without even discussing it with the planning or zoning boards. The SWRPC is funded by 30 some towns, and our unilaterally deciding not to pay our full dues has made for a difficult situation for the boards which rely on SWRPC advice and assistance. CCB

PLANNING BOARD

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

Minutes

Present:  Jeff Miller, Dave DeCoste, Ben Daviss, Fred Dill, Sheldon Sawyer, Shane O’Keefe, Mel Schupack

Recording:  Pamela Aslinger, Secretary

These minutes are unapproved and will be reviewed at the August 12, 2008 meeting for corrections.

Meeting opened at 7:05pm

            Purpose of the meeting was to review final drafts of the goals and objectives and vision statement summary resulting from 7/8/08 planning board meeting.  And to discuss the pending dues owed to SW Regional Planning Commission for 2008 and the adoption of the Conservation Commission’s revised conservation plan into the Master Plan.

            Mr. Daviss reported that Tim Murphy from SWRPC had responded via letter regarding the possibility the Town would not pay the balance of the 2008 dues ($1000.00).  Mr. Murphy wrote that it was an unprecedented situation that will need further discussion and guidance from his Executive Committee who may meet in August or September.  He stated he understood the concerns of the selectboard as it relates to difficult economic times but their action has created an inequity with the 34 other dues-paying members.  He is uncomfortable reducing the level of service to match the partial dues - being a slippery slope.  He prefers to have the Town find a way to pay the remaining dues and at least make the guarantee they will be paid by January 2009 if there is a current year shortfall.

            Ch. Miller queried Selectman Sawyer as to why the BOS did not confer with the planning board and other land use boards before the decision was made during the budget process?  Mr. Sawyer said the decision was made unanimously by the selectboard at a hearing on the budget in unison with several other departmental cuts to reflect the need to hold down spending. He agreed they should have informed the boards prior to the cut.  He disagreed that SWRPC would not provide some services to the town for 2008 with the balance of the dues to be paid at a later time.  He asked why SWRPC originally offered to do so, but now is uncertain?  Mr. Daviss explained that he notified SWRPC because at the last planning board meeting Mr. Sawyer could not guarantee payment of the shortfall so it changed the scope of possible services SWRPC might provide.

            Discussion continued resulting in Mr. Schupack, Mr. Daviss, Pam Aslinger, Ch. Miller and Selectman Sawyer agreeing to meet at the August 7th selectboard meeting to ask if the BOS will pay the balance of the dues immediately, thus allowing the master plan update to progress.  Ch. Mansouri and Marsha Galloway will also be asked to attend.

            - Ch. Miller commented on two issues of concern regarding the adoption of the town-wide Conservation plan into the Master Plan.  He specifically disagreed with the requirement of a 100 ft. setback from water bodies and wetlands although noting until the town passed such a requirement by warrant article it is only a suggestion.  He and others felt it was too restrictive.  Secondly he objected to a “farm overly district”, again being too restrictive and limiting future use of farmland despite the economic feasibility of farming that may result in a farmer needing to sell land for other uses than farming. 

Discussion resulted in making a suggestion to the conservation commission to amend the document in those two areas.  Mr. Daviss will contact the commisstion via letter before their next meeting asking

Walpole Planning Board Work Session 7/22/08 Minutes page 2

the commission to consider lessening the 100 ft. setback to 75 ft. and removing the recommended farm overlay district and replacing it with the existing wording in the Master Plan ie;

“The identification of prime farmland soils in town is a good first step in understanding how these lands might be preserved for the agricultural value.  An overlay zoning district might set these lands aside for only farming activities.”  The existing wording leaves a specific “district” being open for discussion.  Mr. Daviss asked if the two changes were made would the planning board be ready to hold a public hearing on its adoption at the September meeting?  Answer was yes.

            - Mr. Daviss supplied revised handouts of the goals and objectives and vision statement summary (on file).  He re-wrote the summary based on the comments from SWRPC, the prior planning board meeting and town-wide survey.  Most present agreed with the re-write and placement of it to be inserted directly after the bulleted principles.

            “It is the vision of the people of Walpole to preserve our historic and small-town village character, natural environment, open spaces, working farms and agricultural lands.  Within that context, the town will accommodate population growth, development of the built environment, and ecologically sensitive, environmentally responsible economic development and related provisions for local employment.  It also is the vision of the people of Walpole to maintain the distinct characteristics of the town’s three villages of Drewsville, North Walpole and Walpole.”

            - Ch. Miller reminded those to attend the Selectboard meeting on 8/7/08 at 7:30pm and that further action on the master plan update is suspended pending the outcome of the meeting.

            Meeting closed 8:15pm

           

 Susan Vose reports that the Walpole Historical Society will sponsor a genealogy workshop on
Saturday, August 9 from 1-3 p.m. at the Academy building on Main Street in Walpole N.H. Participants will learn how to start their research, what resources are available, and how to pursue difficult information.  Jeanne and Peter Jeffries will conduct this workshop.  They have researched their families for 25 years and will share the knowledge they have gained.  Persons interested in tracing their family history are invited.

Ed. Note: Here's a terrific civic project by a group of Walpole women! CCB

7-21-08

New Walpole Business Directory Published

By Chuck Bingaman, Contributing Writer

            The new, 2008 Walpole Civic and Business Directory covering Walpole, North Walpole and Drewsville, is now available for sale at outlets around Walpole, according to project co-chair Lil DeCoste.

            Priced at 50 cents to cover printing costs, the 36-page, softbound directory seeks to promote local commerce and to enable Walpole residents to

buy locally by listing virtually all Walpole businesses categorized by type.  The list ranges from Accessories—Travel, Accountants—Certified Public, and Advertising to Woodworking, Writing Coach and Yoga Instruction.  In between there are hundreds of entries with names, street addresses, and phone numbers and often email addresses and web sites.

In addition to the comprehensive business listings, the new Directory lists contact information and hours for Walpole town offices, boards and commissions, and gives phone numbers of local justices of the peace and notaries public.  It also lists all Walpole medical services and their addresses and phone numbers and all local, state and federal government offices and officials as well as churches and emergency and crisis numbers.  It even lists Walpole clubs, societies and associations along with phone numbers of contact persons.

“It’s a project of the Walpole Leadership Academy graduates,” according to DeCoste, “and we’re sponsored by the Walpole Grange.  The prior editions of the Directory had been assembled by the Women of Walpole, but they decided to turn the project over to us.”

Others who worked on the project include Peg Dion, Carol Failla, Heather Ferland, Vicky Dudley, M.T. Lester, Barbara Lounsbury, Marie Paoletta, Barbara Plumley, Mary Lee Pulvermann, Jana Sellarole, Stephanie Stoughton, Cindy Westover, and Sue Bingaman.

Directories are available at Galloway Real Estate Services, the Walpole Market, local banks, Walpole Town Hall, North Walpole Commissioner's Office, Walpole Wash'n'Dri, Drewsville General Store, and others. --30--

 

 

 

 

           

Ed. Note: Thanks to  Secretary Regina Borden, here are the minutes of the July 10 Select Board meeting. CCB

 

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE BOARD OF SELECTMEN

JULY 10, 2008

Selectboard Present:  Sheldon Sawyer, Whitney Aldrich, Jamie Teague

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

PUBLIC BUSINESS:

TARA SADD –TRI-VILLAGE ENERGY– CLARIFICATION OF STATUS OF COMMITTEE:

Tara Sadd asked for clarification on the status of the Tri-Village Energy Committee.  Mr. Sawyer advised that they are a committee by a vote of the Town and the members were sworn-in therefore their meetings should be posted and minutes taken.  Sub-Committee meetings or work sessions should be noted in the minutes of the regular meetings.

DONALD SELLAROLE:  Donald Sellarole lives on High Street.  Following most rain storms he has to rake/dig out all the gravel that washes into his yard.  Jim Terrell is aware of the drainage problem.  Mr. Sawyer explained that at one time they thought the problem had been taken care of but that street is extremely steep; after more houses were built it created more issues.  He suggested that Donald Sellarole call Jim Terrell to talk about this on-going problem. 

JOHN & LINDA BURROWS and ED PECK:  John & Linda Burrows and Ed Peck discussed drainage problems on Colonial Drive.  The culvert is higher than the street.  Mr. Peck has lived in his house about 25 years and they did not have a problem until about 10 years ago when development started on North Road.  The Postal Service might discontinue delivering their mail because of the deep ditch that has been created by the water flow.  They displayed pictures of the erosion along the edge of the roadway and explained how the water flows during torrential down-pours.  Mr. Burrows asked the Selectboard to look at the area.  The Selectboard agreed to look at the area individually and to talk to Jim Terrell about it. 

WRAP COMMITTEE:  The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of a letter of resignation from Rick Cooper at the Transfer / Recycling Facility to be effective in September.  George Watkins, Carol Christian and Dan Schwenk from the WRAP Committee inquired about the process that will be used to fill the vacancy.  The Selectboard advised that the vacancy will have to be posted internally for seven days.  Following this period of time the Selectboard will meet again with the WRAP Committee.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register and manifest in the amount of $565,548.21.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed unanimously.

It was noted that $390,125.33 of the above amount is a payment to the Fall Mountain Region School District.

PAYROLL:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the payroll voucher for the week ending July 05, 2008, for gross wages in the amount of $23,414.04 or net wages in the amount of $13,958.19.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed unanimously.

Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the electronic fund transfer for the Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $5,532.81.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed unanimously.

Selectboard Meeting – July 10, 2008 – Page 2

MINUTES:            

SELECTBOARD MEETING:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Minutes of the July 03, 2008, Selectboard meeting as printed.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed unanimously.

DEPARTMENT / COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard received and reviewed the Minutes of the North Walpole Village Board of Commissioners meeting of July 08, 2008.

ABATEMENTS:

WARNER AMEX CABLE:  Lauren Martin from Avitar advised that the Warner Amex Cable transmission lines are not taxable and should not have been billed. 

Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Abatement for Property Taxes for 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008 in the amount of $6,007.06 for Warner Amex Cable as the transmission lines are not taxable.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed unanimously.

BUILDING PERMITS:

DAVID A. and CYNTHIA WESTOVER REVOCABLE TRUST – Map 011-034-002:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve Building Permit No. 2008-030 for David A. and Cynthia Westover Revocable Trust to construct a 22’ x 44’ timber frame house on the Valley Road pending receipt of a Driveway Permit.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed unanimously.

SCOTT and JUDITH NORTHCOTT – MAP 013-055-000:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve Building Permit No. 2008-029 for Scott and Judith Northcott to construct a 15’ x 43’ extended roof connected to the original workshop on the Cheney Road.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  Motion passed unanimously.

OLD BUSINESS:

TOWN HALL AIR CONDITIONING:  The Selectboard discussed the Town Hall air conditioning.  A decision was made to put it on when needed; this will be left to the discretion of the Selectboard secretary.  An air conditioning unit was bought for the Town Clerk’s office and it is doing well.

OLD DREWSVILLE ROAD:  Doug Graham of the Department of Transportation was contacted regarding the Town taking over the Old Drewsville Road.  Mr. Graham will prepare a letter for the Commissioner’s signature that will notify the Town of the reclassification and information about the block grant increase. 

PAINTING OF TOWN HALL – Beginning on July 15:  The painting of the Town Hall will begin on July 15th  weather permitting.

PURCHASING POLICY:  The Selectboard reviewed the proposed revised Purchasing Policy for the Town.  Mr. Aldrich recommending having the purchase orders submitted to the “Selectboard Office” rather than “Elaine Moore” in the event that she is not available.

TOWN HALL RENTAL – USE OF OUTSIDE OVEN:  The Town Hall has been rented for a wedding on July 18th and 19th, 2008.  They have requested permission to use a convection oven which will require use of an electrical outlet.  Mark Houghton advised that the oven should be 10-feet away from the Town Hall.  There was a consensus of the Selectboard to grant permission for the oven to be placed any where around the Town Hall but not on the grass. 

Selectboard Meeting – July 10, 2008 – Page 3

NEW BUSINESS:

DRIVEWAY ACCESS OFF ROUTE 12:  Mr. Sawyer advised that an application will be completed to be sent to the State along with a letter of hardship to request a temporary driveway access off Route 12 for the Conservation Commission to do a logging operation at the Fanny Mason Forest.

CURRENT USE CHANGE TAX MONEY TO THE CONSERVATION COMMISSION:  Mrs. Teague moved to sign the voucher request for the Current Use Change Tax Money to be transferred to the Walpole Conservation Commission.  This is in connection with the Jeff Michaud change in Current Use.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  Motion passed unanimously.

INTENT TO CUT TIMBER –WENTWORTH HUBBARD- MAP 012-061-000 and 012-067-000:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the two Notices of Intent to Cut Timber for Wentworth Hubbard.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed unanimously.             

   OTIS ELEVATOR – SAFETY DEVICE:  Otis Elevator would like to put a carpet or rubber mat at the bottom of the elevator for safety reasons.

Mr. Aldrich moved to pass over the Otis Elevator request for further investigation.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed unanimously.

JCH MANAGEMENT LLC – BLOCK OFF IN FRONT OF 11 WESTMINSTER STREET – RED SMITH:  Red Smith requested that JCH Management, LLC be given permission to block off the sidewalk near 11 Westminster Street during their roof maintenance project.

Mr. Aldrich moved to allow JCH Management, LLC, to block off the sidewalk on the street side near 11 Westminster Street while it is having the slate shingling roof replaced.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed unanimously.     

WELFARE HEARING IN ACWORTH:  The Selectboard approved having Elaine Moore attend a Welfare Hearing in Acworth on Tuesday, July 15th. 

Elaine Moore would like to have monthly or semi-monthly meetings with the people in Cheshire County and the surrounding area who work with welfare applicants.  These meetings would be “round table” discussions on learning experiences and policies and procedures.  

Mrs. Teague moved to allow Elaine Moore to do this as time allows.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  Motion passed unanimously.

OFFICE SCHEDULE:  Elaine Moore discussed the possibility of changing the Selectboard Office schedule for being open to the public. The proposal is to have the office open to the public on a three-day a week schedule but the office staff would continue to work their regular work week hours.  This is due to an increased work flow.  Following a discussion, Mrs. Teague recommended that Elaine Moore draft her plan for the three-day open schedule and present it to the Selectboard for their consideration.

LETTERS:

GARY McCORMICK – ABATEMENT APPLICATION:  Mr. Aldrich moved to sign the letter to Gary McCormick regarding his Abatement application.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed unanimously.

Selectboard Meeting – July 10, 2008 – Page 4

Mr. Aldrich moved to adjourn this meeting.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed unanimously.  The time was 9:48 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 9:50 PM.

E.E. HOUGHTON BILL FOR REPAIRS AT HOOPER MANSION:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the purchase order and bill from the E.E. Houghton Company in the amount of $3,369.27 for repairs at the Hooper Mansion.  The funds will be taken out of the Hooper Trust Fund.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed unanimously. 

Mr. Sawyer declared this meeting adjourned at 9:58 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

 

   

Ed. Note: Thanks to Secretary Pam Aslinger here is the agenda for tomorrow evening. CCB

PLANNING BOARD

Walpole, NH  03608

WORK SESSION MEETINGS will be held on the fourth Tuesday of the month at 7:00pm in the Town Hall Basement office until further notice.  The only item to be discussed will be the Master Plan update of the Land Use Section.  The board will schedule public hearings on the draft Land Use Section at its regularly scheduled monthly meeting held on the second Tuesday of the month at 7:00pm in the Town Hall.  Please refer to the agenda of the regular meetings for more information on the update as it progresses.

JULY  22, 2008 Meeting:

The following are being presented by the Master Plan Update Committee:

-  Review cost proposal by South West Regional Planning Commission

            and dues update

-  Vision statement summary and other SWRPC suggestions

-  Town -wide Conservation Plan discussion of adoption into the Master Plan

            as a revision to the natural resources section

-  Discuss setting hearing dates

-  Data collection by Selectmen’s Office to offset SWRPC costs

-  Other

MEETING TO BE HELD IN THE TOWN HALL BASEMENT OFFICE AT

                                                            7:00PM

7-15-08

Antique French Cars “Race” on Walpole Streets

By Chuck Bingaman, Contributing Writer

            Who needs the Tour de France? Walpole got its own French Gran Prix Monday evening as two revelers at Burdick’s annual Bastille Day festival leapt into their perfectly matched Citroen 2CVs and competed for three laps—in opposite directions—around the town common.

            Francophiles David Howard of Walpole and Dr. Mark Anagnostopulos of Brattleboro both came for dinner in their French wheels, tiny, underpowered Citroens aged around 40, depending on which parts you are considering.  Howard is an architect, and Anagnostopulos is a psychologist. Commonly known as the “deux chaveaux” (doo shav??), the nickname for their cars is based on the French phrase for two horsepower, the car’s rating for tax purposes.

            “They have about 14 horsepower,” said Howard Tuesday morning, “but you can soup them up to about 16 horsepower if you work at it.  In short, they’re incapable of breaking the speed limit.”

            But that didn’t stifle Monday’s competition.  With roars of the tiny engines—hardly more than the power plants of self-respecting John Deere lawn tractors—the two men rolled out of the Burdick’s parking lot to the cheers of fifty or so spectators.  Howard piloted his wife’s wine red ’66 model, trimmed in black, with Anagnostopulos close behind in his sky blue ’70 model. They headed around the corner in the same direction, but 10 minutes later Howard reappeared from the direction he departed and Anagnostopulos appeared driving through the Burdick’s lot from the other direction!

            Turned out they had agreed to circle the common in opposite directions, adding hilarity to the racket of the engines and cheers of the confused spectators.

            After a dizzying series of laps, loops and laughs, Anagnostopulos was declared the winner.

            The Citroen 2CV is one of the most iconic of cars. According to Wikipedia, “the 2CV is described in Drive On!: A Social History of the Motor Car by longtime CAR magazine columnist LJK Setright as 'The most intelligent application of minimalism ever to succeed as a car.' It was designed for low cost, simplicity, versatility, reliability, and off-road driving. For this it had a light, easily serviceable engine, extremely soft suspension, high clearance, and, for oversized loads, a car-wide canvas sunroof. Between 1948 and 1990 3,872,583 2CVs were produced, plus 1,246,306 camionettes (small 2CV trucks).”

                                                --30--

 

           

Ed. Note: Here's an opportunity to support five local women who are working very hard to raise funds for the leader in cancer research support, the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation. Tiffany Guiterrez and Melissa Neal, especially, need our support at this point to reach their fund-raising goals. You can reach Tiffany at 313-4442 or Melissa at 756-3176. Or you can pledge online at www.the3day.org.
CCB

7-15-08

Walpole Women Walking for Cancer Cure

60 Miles Over Three Days in August!

By Chuck Bingaman, Contributing Writer

            Six intrepid Walpole area women—calling themselves The Pink Sox—will attack a three-day, 20-miles-per-day, trek through suburban Boston in August to raise cancer research funds as part of the Breast Cancer 3-Day® to Benefit Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

            Walpoleans (and sisters-in-law) Chris and Patti Neal, Chris’s daughters Melissa Neal and Tiffany Guiterrez, Diane Myers-Miller, along with Angela Warren of Hanover, have been training since spring for their marathon days next month.

    Breast cancer research walkers at their Old Home Days Bake Sale were, left to right, Patti Neal, Diane Myers-Miller, Christine Neal, Melissa Neal, and Tiffany Guiterrez.

       And, they’ve been recruiting individual and business sponsors of their walks with an equally bold goal of raising at least $2,200 apiece and a total of $14,000 for breast cancer research.  So far Chris, Diane and Patti have exceeded their individual sponsorship goals, and Melissa, Tiffany and Angela are still working on theirs.

Seeking a Cure

            “It’s something I’ve been wanting to do for a long time,” said Patti Neal at the group’s Old Home Days bake sale on the town Common last week.  “I went to the web site at www.the3day.org and found that my sister–in-law Chris had already signed up.  I called my friend Diane [Myers-Miller] and convinced her to join us.  So that was great!”  Patti is an administrative secretary at Fall Mountain Regional High School.

            “I had a friend in San Diego who is a breast cancer survivor,” added Chris. “She did the walk a few years ago which is how I learned about it.  Unfortunately, we all know many others who have been touched by it.  This is our opportunity to do something bold to fight back.”  Chris is a nurse with Fresenius Medical Care of Lebanon (NH), a dialysis center.  Chris also recruited a Fresenius colleague, Angela Warren of Hanover, to participate along with Chris’s two daughters, Tiffany and Melissa.

            “Originally, just my mom wanted to do it,” recalled Tiffany, 25, a stay-at-home mother.  “But the more I looked into it the more important I realized it was. We’re doing it for the future.  As the slogan on the web site, says it, ‘everyone deserves a life’.”

Funds Raised to Date

            The Pink Sox have made substantial progress in raising pledges for their goal of $14,000.  But they still need help.  Readers can get an up-to-the-minute tally of their pledge progress at http://08.the3day.org/.  Pledges can be made on the site. Alternatively, readers can download a form for making a pledge by mail.

            The next fundraiser is a concert at Hastings House behind the Unitarian church from 7:00 to 11:00 p.m. on July 26 featuring the Highball Heroes.  Admission is $10 if one wears pink and $15 otherwise.

Komen for the Cure

Eighty-five percent of the net proceeds from the Breast Cancer
3-Day benefits Susan G. Komen for the Cure, the world’s largest grassroots network fighting to end breast cancer.  

Nancy G. Brinker promised her dying sister, Susan G. Komen, that she would do everything in her power to end breast cancer forever. In 1982, that promise became Susan G. Komen for the Cure and launched the global breast cancer movement to fund research for a cure.

Today, Komen for the Cure is the world’s largest network of breast cancer survivors and activists fighting to save lives, empower people, ensure quality care for all and energize science to find the cures. Thanks to events like the Komen Race for the Cure® and the Breast Cancer 3-Days, the organization has invested nearly $1 billion to fulfill its promise. For more information about Susan G. Komen for the Cure, breast health or breast cancer, visit http://www.komen.org/ or call 1 877 GO KOMEN.

National Philanthropic Trust Breast Cancer Fund

        Fifteen percent of the net proceeds from the Breast Cancer 3-Day benefit the National Philanthropic Trust Breast Cancer Fund that will provide support for breast cancer initiatives including research, treatment, prevention and education. The NPT Breast Cancer Fund is an endowment that will ensure that the cause receives long-term, continuing support irrespective of gifting activities in years to come.

        National Philanthropic Trust (NPT) is an independent public charity dedicated to promoting and facilitating charitable giving by individuals, families and organizations while expanding their knowledge in the field of philanthropy. Founded in 1996, NPT is one of the 100 largest charities in the United States with more than $640 million in assets under management. For more information, visit http://www.nptrust.org/ and http://www.nptrust.org/donors/field_interest_funds.asp.

Serious, Concrete Action

            Asked why she is training for 60 miles of August walking over three days, Angela Warren laughed, “One of my closest friends had to have a double mastectomy in her thirties.  And we just know so many friends who are sick or even dying of breast cancer. So we’re looking for something concrete we can do to help them and other women in the future.  This is a great program, and I’m glad to help!”

            Diane Myers-Miller said the day she decided to participate was her daughter Eliza’s 21st birthday.  “I am mindful of doing this for my daughters and others as well.  And not just for treatment but for a cure!”

            Melissa Neal said, “I’m walking for my mom, my sister, my niece, and my future children.”

            For more about the project or the Pink Sox, call Patti Neal at 313-7476 or 756-4286.

                                                            --30--

 

 

           

 

           

Ed. Note: Interesting minutes on the latest Planning Board meeting. The meeting itself, in my opinion, included efforts to obstruct any serious planning for the town. CCB

PLANNING BOARD

Walpole, NH  03608

 

Regular Meeting Tuesday July 8, 2008. 7:00pm at 7:00pm Town Hall

MINUTES

Presiding:  Jeff Miller, Ch.

Members Present:  Bob Miller, V-Ch., Henry Fletcher, Sheldon Sawyer, Selecman, Ben Daviss, Dave DeCoste, Jeff White, alt., Donn Lounsbury, alt.

Members Absent:  E. Merklien, S. O’Keefe, F. Dill              Recording:  Pamela Aslinger, Sec.

These minutes are unapproved and will be reviewed at the August 12, 2008 meeting for errors, omissions and corrections.  There were 14 +/- persons in the audience.

I.            Meeting opened at 7:00pm

            A.  Roll Call - Ch. designated J. White for E. Merklien.

            B.  Minutes - A motion to approve the minutes for the 6/10/08 meeting was made and seconded, motion carried unanimously.  A motion to approve the amended minutes for the 6/24/08 work session was made and seconded, motion carried unanimously.

II.            Review application submitted:  Accept/Reject/Delay

            A.  Peter and Patricia Wheeler and Ronald Hill - Lot Line Adjustment located at 1 Parris Lane and 15 Hillcrest Rd. in North Walpole, Map 29, Lots 40 and 41 in the Residential District.  Purpose is to annex .21 acres to Lot 40 from Lot 41 for a total of 1.20 acres leaving Lot 41 with 3.09 acres resulting in Lot 40 owning their land the driveway is on.  Ch. Miller called for

Ms. Foote from Lawrence Associates to present, because she was not present the application was tabled until she arrived.

III.            Unfinished Business

            A.  Chamberlain Machine - Sec. Aslinger reported that the board had received a copy of Chamberlain’s Process Fluid Inventory that was a requirement of their conditional approval.  The information was sent to the Selectboard and is added to their permanent folder.  She read some of the headings listed in the document describing the content.   The document contains a chemical inventory and handling procedures excerpted from their personnel policy manual dated 1/15/2006 and in accordance with the conditions set for Well Head Protection Conditional Use Permit issued by the Planning Board on 4/14/08. Selectman Sawyer said he had not seen a copy of it although it was received by the Selectboard’s office on June 23, 2008.  The board had no questions and it will be placed in the file.

IV.       New Business

            A.  Frank Whitcomb/Dick Fraser - Ch. Miller announced the Whitcomb application would not be presented tonight because it is not yet prepared but expects to see Mr. Fraser in August.  Sec. Aslinger reported that the zoning board met with Mr. Fraser and Mr. Whitcomb granting them a special exception with seven conditions.  Sec. Aslinger read the ZBA letter for the benefit of the board members.  Ch. Miller suggested members review the minutes of the  zoning board meeting for additional information.  Mr. Lounsbury asked if the plans show where the pond will be in relation to the berm, answer was yes.  Sec. Aslinger said Ch. Mansouri shared their extra sets of plans with the planning board.   Mr. Fraser came and got the plans to update them with the Zoning Board corrections, so there should be a good quantity of materials for the board to take home and review when he submits the application.

Walpole Planning Board Meeting 7/8/08 page 2

7:10pm             Ch. Miller returned to agenda item II. A. - Ms. Foote arrived.  Sec. Aslinger reported the application materials were complete, abutters and public properly notified. 

Ch. Miller called for a motion to accept the application as complete, it was made and seconded, motion carried unanimously.  Ch. Miller asked Ms. Foote to present the application. She presented by describing the plans and indicating the lot locations and areas on the map and the resulting changes.

III.       Ch. Miller closed the meeting and opened the public hearing calling for comments:  Abutter Scott Hyde asked how the proposal affects his property.  It was explained he was notified simply because he abuts the property, it does not affect his lot of record.  He was satisfied and left the meeting.  Ch. Miller called for further comments, hearing none closed the public hearing and re-opened the meeting at 7:15pm.

IV.       Action on application submitted.  Ch. Miller called for Board comments and/or action on the application as submitted.  Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the application as presented, seconded by Mr. Daviss, motion carried unanimously.  The maps and mylar were signed, Ms. Foote agreed to record the mylar at the Registry of Deeds and notify the Secretary of the recording numbers.

Other - Mr. Sawyer announced that G. Allen Houghton passed away peacefully last night at 11pm at the age of 92, a former zoning board member and founder of Cresent Farm.  Ch. Miller expressed sorrow at his passing noting he was a great man who has given a lot of time and effort to the Town and a very active member of the agricultural community.

VIII.              Communications and Miscellaneous

            A.  Master Plan Update/Review items for work session 7/22/08 - Ch. Miller asked Mr. Sawyer for an explanation of why the dues for SW Regional Planning Commission were not fully paid and how it affects the Town’s membership status.  He sited the uncomfortable position the planning board is in with regard to trying to complete the land use section of the master plan with membership dues in arrears.  Mr. Sawyer explained they came to an agreement with SWRPC to withhold $1000.00 from the $4000.00 2008 dues that are proportioned and forced upon the Town in order to remain a member.  He said some Towns don’t participate.  The BOS when preparing the budget decided to reduce the line item by the same percentage as all other departments and based on what they feel the Town receives in services from them.  He acknowledged the Town will be billed for the arrears next year but has no idea what will happen with next year’s dues.  

Ch. Miller said that in the past the dues were a warrant article and were supported by the Town, now it is a line item that was adjusted without consulting the planning board to the point the $3000.00 may be wasted.  He would agree if the BOS chooses in the future to go back to having it as a warrant article but for this year in order to finish the projects started the full dues should be paid up.  Mr. Sawyer sited a similar situation in regards to how the Town’s welfare program is being handled.  Ch. Miller said he disagreed with their decision, rather than shortchanging SWRPC without letting the planning board know has put it in an awkward position.  He understands the need to tighten the budget but preferred to know so the planning board can adjust as well as the ZBA and Conservation Commission.  He wonders if the Master Plan update should be tabled until the membership dues are paid in full, he doesn’t feel like we should be utilizing SWRPC.  Mr. Sawyer said they would be billed for next year they are not penalizing the Town for the missing portion. 

Mr. DeCoste asked if the Selectboard would be putting the membership on a warrant article?  Mr. Sawyer thought it might be a good idea and appreciated the suggestion.

Walpole Planning Board Meeting 7/8/08 page 3 

Mr. Bob Miller agreed with Ch. Miller and hopes the bill will be paid next year as promised.  Ch. Miller suggested that the board ask the BOS to reconsider the situation and pay the full amount immediately for 2008, 2009 is up to the Selectmen.  Mr. Sawyer said he could assure him it will not be paid this year.  They just had their emergency meeting and are wondering where they are going to come up with monies to fund other needs.  They have forgone replacing the dying tree on the common as a way to save.

            Mr. Daviss said since the board is relying on SWRPC to help complete some projects and SWRPC continues to assist - it implies a commitment by the Town to at least pay the arrears next year, is that a realistic commitment?  Mr. Sawyer said he understood the letter to state the Town would be billed for the arrears along with next year’s dues.  He said it will be either included in a warrant article voted on by the Town or included in the budget next year to be finalized by the Board of Selectmen.  Mr. Bob Miller asked whether the arrears payment is guaranteed to be paid?  Mr. Sawyer said it would be up to the voters. 

Ch. Miller restated that he was disappointed the planning board and conservation commission were not kept informed because both board’s rely on SWRPC for their help on various projects.  Mr. Sawyer said the BOS did not feel SWRPC had provided a level of service to the Town matching the expense, especially on past mapping requests.  He agrees the Selectboard should have consulted with the various boards that use their services. 

            Mr. Schupack asked how much the $1000.00 represents in the tax rate?  Mr. Sawyer said it doesn’t relate to a situation the Town will be in when a citizen comes in for help to pay their fuel bill, the Town must help, the $1000.00 will go a long way towards that required help.  The tax rate depends on how many come in for assistance. 

Ch. Miller asked if the BOS are utilizing their resources every way they can in order to prepare for future shortages?  Mr. Sawyer agreed saying the biggest concern is the welfare budget - it cannot be denied.  They are obligated, regardless of the amount they put in and at the time they thought it was a generous amount but they will not have enough so it is being taken from all departments.  It may also be taken out of highway and recreation (closing the pool), they are hoping they won’t fall short.  Surplus cannot be used unless to reduce taxes, not for budgetary uses.  State recommended total surplus figures are suggested at 5% but not more than 10%.  They considered forgoing painting the Town Hall but because it was a warrant article monies would go into the surplus fund if not used.

            Mr. Fletcher asked if the State was going to help on the March Hill bridge?  Mr. Sawyer said they have not received anything official but the State doesn’t think it is big enough to be called a bridge.  Whether they’ve changed their mind after measuring remains unknown.  He said the retaining wall on the west side with the moisture and clay weakened it, it was built 30 years ago and will be a very expensive project.  They have talked about closing March Hill but it did not pass, he thinks it’s widened enough for safe passing at this time.

            Mr. Daviss said based on the discussion he would contact SWRPC to see what kind of hours they would be willing to contribute.  Ch. Miller reminded that the board’s budget includes $1500.00 towards the master plan update. 

Mr. Sawyer said they voted to turn off the air conditioning in the Town Hall in order to economize.  The Town Clerk is opting for a window unit in order to work efficiently.  Most of the cool air was being misdirected to the upper floors anyway.  He noted the office staff has gone to a four day week, staggering hours so the office can remain open five days a week, they may decide to close on Fridays, the highway dept. is on four 10 hour days.  He said many applications have come in for fuel assistance already.

            Ch. Miller referred to a letter sent by Lisa Murphy outlining several tasks that could be done by either the planning secretary or others in order to reduce their fees for finalizing the update of the land use section.  A copy of the letter was given to each of the members for review.

 Walpole Planning Board Minutes 7/8/08 page 4

Mr. Sawyer thought the information being requested was readily available and the Selectmen’s Office staff could provide most of it from 1 - 4.  Item 5 may need to be handled by the board members.  Ben Daviss and Sec. Aslinger will work on gathering and reporting the items to SWRPC. 

            Ch. Miller thanked Selectman Sawyer for his explanation and closed the discussion.

B.            Site Plan revision handout - Sec. Aslinger handed out copies of a few replacement pages reflecting the recent revision to the regulations.

C.            Other - Clarifications, Sec. Aslinger reminded board members to review the minutes of the work session that dispel some of the comments made at the June meeting regarding conservation and conservation easements.  She handed out a few copies of a handbook provided by Mel Schupack from the Monadnock Conservancy covering the subject of conservation and easements.  Selectman Sawyer commented the sample contract easement sent via e-mail was very complicated and legally worded to cover every possible type of situation, he thought most wouldn’t read it.  Mr. Schupack agreed but reminded it was only a sample to give members an idea of the how an easement is constructed. 

A.            Master Plan - Mr. Daviss asked the board to comment on the most recent revised goals and objectives and vision statement, there are a couple of comments that need attention as a result of the last work session.

Mr. Sawyer objected to the vision statement saying the State mission statement was adequate.  It was explained the vision statement was derived from a consensus of the master plan committee using the survey results.  While the State requires a vision statement, it does not provide the wording.  Some objected to the survey thinking it did not reflect the entire Town’s opinions nor was it written fairly.  Ch. Miller said it was created after many meetings by the master plan committee and thought the results and responses were very good, it is the only venue the committee has to poll the citizens and is a widely acceptable practice to do so.  Mr. Sawyer thought property rights needed to be addressed in the survey.  It was noted the vision statement does include reference to property rights.  He also thought it had been written to limit the number of citizens that could live in Walpole but the wording was taken out at some point.  Members of the master plan committee said it was only discussed in passing and never seriously considered, just part of a general discussion at one of the work sessions. 

Mr. Daviss steered the discussion back to the items needing comment.  1.  He began by asking if the board agreed with SWRPC’s suggestion to consider adding a scenic gateway district for each village or the whole town.  When asked what it meant, he answered saying it would be an overlay district protecting the entrances to the villages or to the town, he used the failed crane sales/rental operation that was proposed on Rte. 12 as an example of something that could be prevented by creating a provision in the zoning ordinance. Ch. Miller thought the various regulations and boards could address those issues without creating an overlay at this time.  Mr. Schupack reminded the idea of an overlay district is only conceptual not actually creating an ordinance.  Ch. Miller agreed but thought if it were in the Master Plan it could be used against possible developments in the future when the land use boards already can take it into consideration.. He thought it could have merit in some instances but not at this time. 

            Mr. Daviss moved not to include the scenic overlay district in the master plan/vision statement at this time, seconded by Mr. B. Miller, all were in favor of the motion. 

            2.  Mr. Daviss said the second issue was about creating a summary vision statement as suggested by SWRPC.  He referred to the drafted a version members were sent via e-mail.

            Mr. Sawyer wondered if the reference to “historic village character” would be confused

with an actual historic district.  Mrya Mansouri agreed saying while some the buildings are old,

Walpole Planning Board Minutes 7/8/08 page 5

they are not designated as actually “historic”.  She also did not understand why there was a need to have a summary of a vision statement at all, she questioned who would read the short or long version.  Mr. Daviss explained the vision statement is required by law to be included in the Master Plan and presently missing in the current version.  SWRPC made the suggestion to create the summary based on how other master plans are written.  Ch. Miller read the summary.

            Mr. Sawyer objected to the statement separating out the villages, he would rather not see them referenced individually but bring the town together.  Mr. Daviss said the reference to the three villages was taken from the original master plan document and ratified by the Town survey by a majority of respondents, that’s why it was used.  Ch. Miller agreed with Mr. Sawyer about bringing the Town together but thinks it is a more positive move to have the villages keep their individual identities.  Mr. Sawyer was thinking from the political stance that each part of Walpole may be individual but for governing purposes they should not be separated, as an example having only one fire department to serve the whole of Walpole instead of three. 

Mr. Schupack thought the vision statement as written was not meant to be political but to describe aesthetically the individual villages much the way you would describe your neighborhood.  Some thought using the word neighborhood might be a better choice.  Ch. Miller said the vision statement is simply for characteristic purposes not governmental, it should not be misinterpreted as such.  Each village has it’s own character. The village of Walpole has a hometown feel and most want it to stay the same so the statement is trying to address that.  The buildings are historic but the statement is not designating a historic district.  The vision statement is preserving the desire of  the citizens to maintain Walpole as it is. 

            Myra Mansouri disagreed with the wording historic and individuality.  Ch. Miller said in order to move along, this discussion would continue at the work session. 

            3.  Mr. Daviss asked if the board would vote to schedule the public hearing for adoption of the conservation plan into the master plan.  Ch. Miller thought it was tabled until the members could read through it and was waiting for SWRPC’s comments.  Mr. Daviss wondered if the budget constraints might affect SWRPC’s input. 

            Myra Mansouri asked what would it mean to incorporate it into the master plan?  It was explained it would be a non-binding document added to the existing natural resource section, it’s just an updated version just like the land use section is being updated not replaced. 

            Mr. Daviss asked if it could be taken up as soon as the comments are received, at the September meeting?   Answer was yes if the board so chooses.  Ch. Miller asked members to please read through the document in order to be prepared.

            Mr. Fletcher asked if the conservation commission was still looking to set aside 25% of Walpole’s land?  Ms. Marcia Galloway, Ch. of the Conservation Commission said it was not the conservation commission’s figure but is a recommendation by the State. Mr. Daviss said the Society for the Protection of NH Forests did a study to determine how little land was necessary for a town to maintain its private land uses for agriculture, clean water, recreation and natural habitat.  He said 25% was an average amount to conserve, it is voluntary, it is a goal for donation purposes not a government mandate.  Conservation does not limit public use or remove land from the tax roles.  

            Mr. Sawyer said it was a recommendation made by a biased group.  Ms. Galloway said it is a voluntary number to protect all aspects of preservation for the Town.  Mr. Schupack said it is based on scientific data, not an arbitrary figure and even NYC has set aside 27%.  Mr. Sawyer said there are three parcels in Town of 8 square miles (Timberland District) that are protected from building he considers preserved until a time comes when building outweighs timber cutting.  Most agreed it wasn’t actually protected or considered “conserved”.  Mr. Schupack read from an inventory of currently preserved lands indicating percentages by type of legally conserved land in Walpole. (if interested, please contact Mr. Schupack at melschupack@aya.yale.edu for the information) Ch. Miller said preservation in Walpole is consistent with what the majority of the

Walpole Planning Board Minutes 7/8/08 page 6

townspeople who responded to all the surveys want and he does not think 25% is an unreasonable goal. He said the update is not discouraging development. It’s been a major consideration and frequently discussed at the work sessions although in actuality there is a very limited amount of commercial space left for development. He feels there has been adequate measures incorporated into the update.  He thinks it reiterates the comment that people like Walpole the way it is, a small rural agricultural community and want to pass it on to the next generation as such. Mr. Schupack reminded that the economic development considerations recommend providing infrastructure such as water, sewer, 3 phase electrical and high speed internet.  Mr. Lounsbury added that adequate roads are also part of the infrastructure.

            Ch. Miller in order to move on said at the next work session hopefully SWRPC would have responded so a hearing could be set and he encouraged everyone to attend on 7/22/08 to continue the discussion and finalize the drafts.

IX.  Meeting was closed at 8:15pm by the Chairman.

 

 

   

           

 

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

JULY 3, 2008

Selectboard Present:            Sheldon Sawyer, Whitney Aldrich, Jamie Teague

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

PUBLIC BUSINESS:

ROSE and GEORGE MILLER – DRAINAGE PROBLEM:  Rose Miller lives on Brewery Road and discussed a slide that is impacting her property.  A neighbor’s run-off of silt is coming down the bank and settling on their property.  Pictures of the area were displayed.  The Bureau of Wetlands was unable to assist.  Police Officer Benware advised that the silt actually backed up onto the road; he called Jim Terrell who saw the silt coming down the ravine and onto the road.  Mr. Sawyer explained that this is a dispute between landowners rather than a Selectboard issue but the Town culvert near the property will be maintained as needed.   

ROXANNE HARDING – TRAFFIC ON FARNUM ROAD:  Roxanne Harding was not present.   Mr. Sawyer said she had called the office regarding truck traffic on Farnum Lane and wanted to discuss it with the Selectboard.   

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register and manifest in the amount of $21,758.40.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  All in favor, so voted.

PAYROLL:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the payroll voucher for the week ending June 28, 2008, for gross wages in the amount of $22,058.16 or net wages in the amount of $13,063.35.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  All in favor, so voted.

Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the supplemental payroll voucher for voided check #031958 that was replaced with check #032048.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  All in favor, so voted.

Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the electronic fund transfer for the Withholding, MEDI, and FICA taxes in the amount of $4,972.64.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted.

MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – June 26, 2008:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of June 26, 2008, as printed.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  All in favor, so voted.

Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard meeting of June 26, 2008, as printed.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  All in favor, so voted.

DEPARTMENT / COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard received and reviewed the Minutes of the following meetings:  1) North Walpole Village Board of Commissioners - June 24, 2008 and July 01, 2008; and 2) Planning Board Work Session - June 24, 2008.

Selectboard Meeting – July 03, 2008 – Page 2

BUILDING PERMITS:

CHRISTIAN and LUCY GOWDY – DAIRY MILK HOUSE AND PARLOR – MAP 012-072-000 – 460 DREWSVILLE ROAD:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve and sign Building Permit No. 2008-028 for Christian and Lucy Gowdy to construct a 66’ x 72” dairy milk house and parlor that will be attached to the existing barn.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  All in favor, so voted.

OLD BUSINESS:

RESOLUTION TO BATHROOM CEILING LEAK:  Following a discussion, the Selectboard agreed to fix the bathroom ceiling leak internally.

The Selectboard discussed the air conditioning systems in the Town Hall and separating the Town Clerk’s office from the main hallway because it is not efficient when it goes up the stairway and cools the second floor.

Mrs. Teague moved to separate the air conditioning needs of the Town Clerk’s office from the main hall area of the Town Hall by purchasing a window unit if feasible.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted.        

NEW BUSINESS:

ELIZABETH CLEARY and BRIAN CLARK – REQUEST TO RENT COMMON and BANDSTAND:  Elizabeth Cleary and Brian Clark have made arrangements to rent the Town Hall for their wedding on September 13th but have now requested renting the Common and Bandstand for the wedding ceremony and reception.  They want to put up a tent on the Common. 

Mr. Aldrich moved to allow Elizabeth Cleary and Brian Clark to use the Town Common including the bandstand for their wedding ceremony and reception on September 13th, 2008.  They have reserved the Town Hall for the reception.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  All in favor, so voted.

PURCHASE POLICY:  The Selectboard reviewed the Purchase Policy that was adopted on January 5, 2006, and the draft copy of the revised policy.  Mrs. Teague clarified that purchase orders are to be sent in when a commitment is made for that purchase.  The revised Purchase Policy will be presented for adoption at the next meeting.

RECREATION DEPARTMENT:  Joe Goodhue advised that when the wind came up recently it took down a canopy at the recreation area.  He asked for permission to have Jim Terrell remove the canopy and poles.  The Selectboard approved this request.   

RECORDING SECRETARY:  Mr. Aldrich moved to grant a request from the Recording Secretary, Regina Borden, to have August 14th and 21st, 2008, off as she will be on vacation.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  All in favor, so voted. 

TOWN HALL PAINTING:  Elaine Moore will contact Foster’s Pro Painting to obtain a firm date on when they will begin painting the Town Hall.

Mr. Sawyer declared this meeting adjourned at 9:00 PM.

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

Selectboard Meeting – July 03, 2008 – Page 3

HOOPER

TRUSTEES OF TRUST FUND MEETING

Mr. Sawyer called the meeting of the Hooper Trustees of Trust Fund to order at 9:02 PM.

Hooper Cottage Repair:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve and sign the Purchase Order in the amount of $41.81 for the surpac used in the Hooper cottage driveway.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  All in favor, so voted.

This bill will be forwarded to the Trustees of Trust Funds for payment.

Mr. Aldrich moved to adjourn this meeting.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  All in favor, so voted.  The time was 9:06 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

Ed. Note: Here's a discouraging story that appeared in Friday's Eagle Times.  I am confident that the easy cuts have been made already in the school budget. But I wonder whether really serious choices need to be made at this time with more public input and whether there are bold, non-teaching cuts (or revenue boosters) that can be found rather than striking at the core of our schools, the teachers. We're in a very competitive world now, and our future literally depends on the quality of educations we are offering our children. CCB

7-10-08

Walpole School to Lose Three Teachers

By Chuck Bingaman, Contributing Writer

            SAU60 Superintendent Debra Livingston confirmed yesterday that, because of anticipated expense increases in the 2008-2009 school year, she has eliminated three teaching positions originally planned for Walpole School.

            The cuts, announced earlier this week, involve the transferring of a reading teacher for the 7th- 8th grade level to become a second grade teacher at the school (and eliminating the reading program), not replacing a Skills Center instructor who is moving to Fall Mountain High School, and not hiring a third 6th grade teacher as previously planned and budgeted.

The Skills Center teacher, said Livingston, has been based at the Walpole School, but she as served students throughout the district.  Hence, her moving to the high school, where more of her services will be focused, is not a loss for the district.

The reading teacher, Mary Aumand of North Walpole, has been teaching in the district for 19 years.  She said Thursday “the most important thing for me and the staff is the elimination of the reading program. We’re the only school in the district with it. We developed it internally ten years ago when I was teaching fifth grade.”

Aumand continued, “We started the program from scratch, and it touches all 7th and 8th grade students, not just those with reading difficulties. Has it had impact? Absolutely! Walpole School NECAP (New England Common Assessment Program) scores in reading and writing are the highest in the district and generally higher than statewide averages. Eliminating the program will be a real blow to the children. And to their achievement.”

         Each of these moves, said Superintendent Livingston, was based on a June projection by retiring Business Manager Steve Varonne that, because of spiking fuel prices, the district would face a $250,000 to $300,000 deficit next year. 

         “These are the kinds of tough decisions schools across New Hampshire and the nation are facing,” noted Livingston yesterday.  “They are not made lightly!”

          Livingston added that the district is facing a decreasing number of students each year, perhaps as many as 40-50 fewer next year than last.  She also said that her staffing decisions are based on looking at class loads district wide, not only in Walpole, although the changes announced this week impact Walpole most directly. 

            Eighth grade science teacher Kim Lewis of Walpole School said that, while she agrees that changes are necessary in light of the projected fuel costs, she is disappointed that the administrators did not consult with teachers about alternate savings opportunities before making the decisions.  Lewis noted that many approaches might be studied including reducing bus services to middle school students, particularly for sports activities, lowering school temperatures in winter to 62 degrees, and possibly limiting middle school athletics to inter-murals.

           When asked if she would consider meeting with teachers to explore alternatives to eliminating teaching positions, Superintendent Livingston said she had, “no comment at this time but maybe later.”  Livingston also said that student and teacher numbers are in flux in the summer and that she might have teacher resignations and changing student numbers to factor into her final plan for the school year in a month or so.

            The next School Board meeting is July 21 at 6:30 p.m. at the high school.

                                                --30--

 

 

Walpole Comm. Sponsors Conservation Walks

First Walk Saturday June 12

By Chuck Bingaman, Contributing Writer

          What IS “conservation”? What land has Walpole ALREADY placed in “conservation”?  What ARE the town’s most important natural assets?  And what are the various ways they can be protected without stifling needed growth and development?

Answering these and other citizen questions is the purpose of six scheduled walks in Walpole conservation lands beginning this Saturday, July 12, at 8:45 a.m. on the town Common.

Dr. Peter Palmiotto, a Walpole resident and certified professional forester, will lead Saturday’s exploration around the Walpole Millpond conservation area to be followed by refreshments.  Alan Johnson of Walpole explained Thursday that the 86 acre conservation area was created in 1988 through gifts of land from his grandfather, from Hubbard Farms and by a purchase of land from Bob Galloway.

Walpole's millpond on a beautiful summer's day. Chuck Bingaman photo

Once a power supply for mills and a source of ice for refrigeration, Walpole’s millpond today is a wildlife sanctuary with 1.3 miles of winding trail though upland and floodplain forests and an extensive beaver pond.  Walkers can find beavers, bullfrogs, waterfowl, warblers and spring wildflowers. 

“We need to have more people in town acquainted with conservation and what we have in Walpole,” according to Conservation Commission member Mel Schupack.  “These walks grow directly out of community conservation meetings we’ve had and each will be led by one or more local teachers and experts on conservation.”

“Members of the Conservation Commission don’t regulate anything,” Schupack continued.  “We simply gather and share information on conservation.  And that’s where these walks come in.”

In a related development, at Tuesday evening’s Walpole Planning Board meeting, Schupack handed out a summary of Walpole land holdings showing that 3,264 acres or 13.7% of the town’s acreage is currently held in conservation preventing it from being developed.  Of that conserved land, 912 acres or 27.9% are owned by the town, 278 acres or 8.5% are owned by the state, 164 acres or 5% are owned by the Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests, and 1910 acres or 58.5% are owned privately but under conservation easement.

Schupack alluded to the Conservation Commission’s recent—and somewhat controversial—suggestion that the town set a goal of getting 25% of its land into conservation.  That goal was drawn from recommendations of the Society for the Preservation of New Hampshire Forests that argues that a “green infrastructure” is vital for human health, the rural economy, and community quality of life. The purpose of such a goal would be to assist the community in securing open lands close to home, to meet the town’s citizens’ needs for the future.  Specifically such “smart conservation”, as the SFPNHF calls it, is integrated with smart growth to provide such vital assets to towns as clean drinking water, village and town parks and outdoor recreation fields, locally produced food, town forests and wildlife habitat, and lands with scenic beauty and community character.

Additional scheduled conservation hikes in the series are as follows:

Sat. Aug. 16th 9-11AM:  Reservoir Town Forest:  This 59 acre parcel with its damned small pond once provided water to the Town of Walpole and now  harbors many bird and animal species.  There is access from a locked gate on Reservoir Road.  There is a path that leads to a recreational north/south trail maintained by the local snow mobile club.  (Leader: Swift Corwin, Forester)  Rain Date: Aug. 23rd

Sat. August 30th 9-11AM,  High Blue (Warner Forest):  The trail begins at Scovill Road and leads to a ledge overlook and views of the Connecticut River Valley and the Green Mountains.  Donated by Stephen Warner in 1981, the fields and young forest provide 164-acres of habitat for deer, black bear, porcupine, snowshoe hare and more with opportunities for skiing, hiking and picnicking.  (Leader: Budd Ross, land steward for the Society for the Protection of NH Forests)  Rain date Sept. 13th

Sun. Sept. 7th 2-4PM.  Sawyer Farm:  92-acres of prime farmland and forest with 3,500 feet of frontage along the Connecticut River.  The Monadnock Conservancy holds a conservation easement on this parcel and the Town owns a right-of-way easement to maintain a footpath between the farm field and the river.  (Leaders: Harold Putnam, Andy Sawyer & Swift Corwin)  Rain date Sept 21st

Sat. Sept. 20th 9-11AM.  Fanny Mason Forest:  Fanny Mason gave this 245-acre forest to the Town in 1948.  An easy wide trail had looped through the eastern side of the property from the northbound rest stop on Highway 12.  A great variety of plant life thrives in this forest of pine, hemlock, oak and maple.  The mile-long loop trail winds around ledges, over streams, through a pine grove, and past a stand of large old oaks.  There is also a footpath on the west side of the parcel from a parking lot off River Road South (near the old railroad crossing).  (Leader: Swift Corwin, Forester)  Rain Date Sept. 27th

Sat. Oct. 11th  9-11AM:  Fall Mt. from Table Rock above N. Walpole:  Just below the top of the protected part of Fall Mountain, obtained by The Nature Conservancy (TNC) to protect the Mountain, is an incredible fall view of the Connecticut River, North Walpole and Bellows Falls.  (Leader: Eric Aldrich of  TNC)  Rain date Oct. 18th.

                                                --30--

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

         

In the "better late than never department", here are the people that made Walpole Old Home Days such a great success last week!  CCB

Co-Chairs: Joan Devault and Cindy Westover
Secretary/Treasurer:  Judy Trow
Logo/T-shirts: Annette Grenier
Program booklet: Linda Graff and Betty Prentiss
Walpole Players Liaison: Bill Perron
Block Party: Nancy Wettach and Raynie Laware
Talent Show: Trina Carmody
Friday Night Dance: George Jeffrey/American Legion
Fireworks: Dick Hurlburt/Firemen
Academy Breakfast: Susan Vose/Historical Society
Common set-Up: Kathy Hanks
5K Race: Jim Baucom and Steve Horton
Parade: Nancy Wettach
Antique Cars: Margaret and Larry Ray
Pet Show: Myra Mansouri
Basketball Shootout: Brian Pickering
Junior Woodsmen: Matt & Crystal Phillips
Adult Woodsmen: Ronnie and Dianne Kingsbury
Sunday Breakfast: Susan Vose/Historical Society
Jazz concert: Antonia Andreoli
Chicken Barbecue: Rick Prentiss and Joe Graff/Congregational Church

I know that this list only includes the people who had the most visible roles and that MANY others worked very hard to make the great weekend a reality! Thanks to all of you for your hard work on behalf of our community!  CCB

Ed. Note: In answer to a Walpolean comment/question this morning concerning the percentage of land in Walpole currently under some conservation restriction, here are two paragraphs from a story I am reporting.  Note that the Conservation Commission proposal for setting as a town goal the eventual setting aside of 25% of land for conservation is simply a recommendation for the Planning Board to consider in its updating of the town's Master Plan. The Society for the Preservation of NH Forests reports that 22% of New Hampshire is currently in conservation and 51 of the state's 234 municipalities have more than 25% of their land in conservation. (I also understand that New York City has 27% if its land in conservation, mostly in parks, etc..) Note also that Marcia Galloway is the chair of the Conservation Commission, and she would be glad to discuss this issue with you. CCB

In a related development, at the July 8 Walpole Planning Board meeting, [Mel]Schupack handed out a summary of Walpole land holdings showing that 3,264 acres or 13.7% of the town’s acreage is currently held in conservation preventing it from being developed.  Of that conserved land, 912 acres or 27.9% are owned by the town, 278 acres or 8.5% are owned by the state, 164 acres or 5% are owned by the Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests, and 1910 acres or 58.5% are owned privately but under conservation easement.

        Schupack alluded to the Conservation Commission’s recent—and somewhat controversial—suggestion that the town set a goal of getting 25% of its land into conservation.  That goal was drawn from recommendations of the Society for the Preservation of New Hampshire Forests that argues that a “green infrastructure” is vital for human health, the rural economy, and community quality of life. The purpose of such a goal would be to assist the community in securing open lands close to home, to meet the town’s citizens’ needs for the future.  Specifically such “smart conservation”, as the SFPNHF calls it, is integrated with smart growth to provide such vital assets to towns as clean drinking water, village and town parks and outdoor recreation fields, locally produced food, town forests and wildlife habitat, and lands with scenic beauty and community character.

Ed. Note: News notes from Jesse Carr, Gale Davis, and Frankie Knibb! A Walpolean grab-bag!  CCB

BURDICK'S:  July 14th is Bastille at Burdick's. Join the fun from lunch time on. See details at www.burdickchocolate.com. Also, catch the mid-month Thursday Night Jazz Trio at the Restaurant at Burdick 

Chocolate on July 17th with Jesse Carr on vocals and tenor 
saxophone, Dave Wertman on bass, and Bob Merrill on piano. Music from  
6:30 to 9:30. For reservations, phone 603-756-9508. 47 Main St, 
Walpole, NH.

THE REAL TWIST Ice Cream stand in Walpole, NH  will hold its next Classic Car Cruise Night, weather permitting, on Sunday, July 13th, from 6-9PM. Here’s a chance for the whole family to enjoy a Sunday evening looking at old and antique cars, while enjoying pizza, hot dogs and ice cream. There will be live music by Vinnie Dibernardo. Anyone who brings his classic car to show will get a free regular sized sundae. Everyone visiting can get free jimmies, diptop or flavorburst with any cup or cone. Make sure to enter the drawing for free Pizza, ice cream or DVD’s!

   Future  2008 Season Cruise Nights are scheduled for August 10th and September 7th. See you there!

WALPOLE TOWN LIBRARY offers the world’s largest system of coral reefs--the Great Barrier Reef--withover 400 species of corals.  Located off the shores of Australia, it is the largest structure ever built up by living creatures.  Turtles, sharks, dugongs, and a colorful variety of fish make it their home.  Learn about this fascinating ecosystem at the Walpole Town Library on Saturday, July 19 from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m.  Lucy Weber and Mary Farrell have lots of fun projects planned for you.

     This program is part of the Library’s summer reading program, G’Day for Reading!  The focus is on Australia, the land Down Under.  This statewide project is sponsored by CHILIS (Children’s Librarians of New Hampshire), a division of the New Hampshire Library Association.

      Preregistration is required for all special programs.  An adult must accompany children to these programs.  Do call the library to register or if you have any questions at (603) 756-9806.  All programs are free.  The Library is located at 48 Main Street in Walpole, NH.

Ed. Note: This reminder from Mel Schupack details Saturday's Walpole Conservation Commission sponsored walk around the town mill pond. It's the first of a series of walks highlighting conservation areas in town.  More about future walks later this week or next. CCB


 Sat., July 12th. 9AM to 11AM:  Mill Pond Conservation Area:  Once a power supply for mills and a source of ice for refrigeration, today the Mill Pond is a beautiful wildlife sanctuary with 1.3 miles of winding trail though upland and floodplain forests and to the beaver pond.  Walkers can find beavers, bullfrogs, waterfowl, warblers and spring wildflowers.  This 86 acre preserve is located on Main St. north of Walpole Center.  Meet on the Common at 8:45 a.m. (Peter Palmiotto, Forester)- Rain or shine

Ed. Note:  This news release is from Abi Miller, manager of the Bellows Falls Farmers' Market that is held every Friday from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. This Friday is Walpole Day featuring a number of Walpole businesses.  Sounds like a good event!  CCB

BELLOWS FALLS FARMERS MARKET CELEBRATES WALPOLE, NEW HAMPSHIRE, WITH “WALPOLE DAY” AT THE MARKET

         Bellows Falls, VT—July 6, 2008— The farmers market celebrates its second annual Walpole Day this Friday, on July 11th, by highlighting organizations and farms from Bellows Falls’ neighbor, Walpole, New Hampshire.  On the patio at the market, customers can expect to see a number of different businesses and organizations from Walpole.  The businesses and organizations featured this year will include the Walpole Creamery, selling their homemade ice cream; Burdick’s Chocolate, selling their chocolate; Twin Spruce Farm, with maple cream and candy; the Inn at Valley Farm, with information about their bed & breakfast; Boggy Meadow Farmstead Cheese, with their farmstead cheeses; and the Hooper Institute, offering information about their children’s agricultural educational programs.  Come to the market to learn more about these businesses and organizations, and to buy their products. 

            The Bellows Falls Market regularly has two vendors from Walpole, Abenaki Spring Farm and Brookfield Farm. 

            Bruce and Erin Bickford are the farmers at Abenaki Spring Farm, growing certified organic vegetables, herbs and small fruits, including strawberries, raspberries and blueberries.  The Bickfords also raise animals.  “We believe in a truly sustainable, integrated system, so all of our rotations include animals and their manure.  Depending on what cycle we’re in, we have pigs, chickens, sheep and turkeys,” Erin Bickford says.  This season, they’ll have about 200 turkeys and 400 to 500 chickens, which they raise on pasture.  Next year, they’ll have sheep and pigs.  Sheep graze, pigs turn the land, and chickens and turkeys do well on pasture eating grass and insects. 

            Abenaki Spring Farm is at the Bellows Falls Farmers Market as well as the Keene Farmers Market, where they sell their produce and also arrange for their 35 farm members to pick up their shares at the market.  These 35 CSA members (Community Supported Agriculture) pay ahead for the produce they’ll pick up at the market, guaranteeing Abenaki Spring Farm an income for the season. 

            Why do they choose to sell at the farmers market?  “We truly believe in sustaining a local agricultural economy,” Erin Bickford says.  “We wish we could stay here, and that people would come to the farm!  But aside from that, the next best thing is your local farmers market.” 

            Another Walpole farm that sells regularly at the Bellows Falls Farmers Market is Brookfield Farm.  Farmers Christian and Holly Gowdy raise grass-fed beef and sell it frozen at the market.  Come to the market on Friday for a sample of their hot and sweet beef sausage.

            For a little taste of all of the other farms near you, visit the Bellows Falls Farmers Market on this and every Friday from 4 to 7 at the Waypoint Center in downtown Bellows Falls. 

            Children are invited to participate in the Youth Market, coming up on July 25th at the Bellows Falls Farmers Market.  The Youth Market is a week at the market in which young people can sell homemade crafts and foods as part of the regularly scheduled farmers market.  To participate, contact Abi Miller (see below for details), or see us at the market to sign up. 

         The market takes place every Friday night from 4 to 7 at the Waypoint Center in downtown Bellows Falls.  For more information about the Bellows Falls Farmer’s Market, contact market manager Abi Miller at bellowsfallsmarket@gmail.com or 802.387.6128.  The market can be found on the web at www.bffarmersmarket.com. 

###

Underwriting for the Bellows Falls Farmers’ Market is provided by the Bellows Falls Downtown Development Alliance, Chittenden Bank and Springfield Hospital.  For more information about the Bellow Falls Farmers Market contact Abi Miller at bellowsfallsmarket@gmail.com or 802.387.6128, or see the website at www.bffarmersmarket.com.

Ed. Note:  Here  is a great opportunity for gardening enthusiasts and a wonderful cause to support this coming weekend. Thanks to Kathy and Michael Nerrie for their generous hospitality! CCB

OPEN GARDEN

TO BENEFIT THE FALL MOUNTAIN FOOD SHELF

( Donations Appreciated )

*******

The gardens of Kathy and Michael Nerrie

will be open to the public on Sunday July 13

from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

                                                    *******

The gardens are located at 507 March Hill Road in Walpole.

Call 756-4179 for information and directions

 

6-23-08

Wistreich Purchases L&B Trucks in Westminster

By Chuck Bingaman, Contributing Writer

            Carl Wistreich of Walpole is the new owner of L&B Trucks, a Westminster VT company that sells and services Daimler brands Freightliner, Sterling and Western Star trucks.

            A family business founded by Luke and Diane Bazin nearly 30 years ago, L&B has grown from one to 55 employees with a second location in Westfield, Massachusetts.

            Wistreich, 41, spent several years in a large New York City law firm before a legal client, C&S Wholesale Grocers, then based in Brattleboro, persuaded him to join their staff over nine years ago.  Through several positions with C&S, including sales, mergers & acquisitions, operations and legal and human resources, Wistreich not only learned the grocery business but also learned a lot about the trucking industry that C&S relies on so heavily.

            “Since I began with L&B in early May, I’ve had to learn a lot,” Wistreich laughed last week in his Westminster office, “But luckily I had a thorough business education with C&S, and I had had broad exposure to most aspects of the trucking industry.”

            One of former owner Bazin’s goals in selling the company was to pass it on to a new owner that would understand and continue the “family atmosphere” he sought to cultivate in growing the business since opening it in 1979.  It took him many years to find that perfect candidate in Wistreich, and Wistreich feels fortunate that the two met.

            “I hope that our customers will continue to think of L&B Trucks as the best source of service and parts by the best people,” according to Wistreich. 

            But he knows the challenges for truckers are growing and those that service them will be busy and will have to keep on adjusting to the changing business climate.

            “In the fist place,” says Wistreich, “there have been new regulations tightening emissions standards in 2004, 2007 and there will be more regs in 2010.  The result has been that the latest diesel fuel spews fewer particulates into the atmosphere, but it also yields fewer miles per gallon. That has meant new, more efficient engines have had to be developed and new training has been necessary to keep our technicians up to date. The 2010 regs will be even tougher, and we’ll do all we can to help our customers comply with them.”

            Rising fuel costs also heavily impacts truckers, and manufacturers are responding with more aerodynamic vehicles, more efficient engines,  and small, self-contained power units to save fuel.  In fact, recently L&B has been retrofitting a number of trucks with small “Tripacks” on large diesel cabs that can power heating, air-conditioning and electricity in a cab while the trucker is resting instead of using the truck's main—and fuel hungry—engine to power them.  Such “tripacks” and similar products can cost up to $8,000 per unit installed but can pay for themselves in fuel savings in a year or less.

            The downturn in the economy has also meant that trucking companies and other L&B customers such as towns and businesses with just one or two large trucks are seeking to maintain their trucks a few more years rather than to purchase new ones as quickly as they might have in prior years.  Hence the truck parts and repair business have, for the moment, helped offset the dramatic decrease in new and used truck sales even though with the high price of diesel some truck owners have had to even cut back on maintenance.  When and if diesel fuel costs stabilize, sales may return to better levels. 

            Complete information on L&B Trucks is available at www.LBTRUCKS.net.

            Wistreich lives in Walpole with his wife, Amy, and three daughters.

                                                --30--

 

           

 

           

 

 

           

Ed. Note: Here are the minutes of the June 24 "Working" session of the Planning Board. These working sessions are where critical long-term thinking and planning take place.  Walpolean readers should observe which Planning Board members--and members of the public--prepare for and take part in these meetings as opposed to simply showing up, frequently unprepared for regular meetings. And, incidentally, Planning Board Chairman Jeff Miller's absence for this meeting is quite unusual. CCB

PLANNING BOARD

Walpole, NH  03608

Work Session Tuesday June 24, 2009, 7:00pm Town Hall Basement

Minutes

Present:  Bob Miller, V-Ch. presiding, Ben Daviss, Dave DeCoste, Shane O’Keefe, Donn Lounsbury, Mel Schupack, Bob Jasse, Dennis Marcom

Recording:  Pamela Aslinger, Secretary

These minutes are unapproved and will be reviewed at the July 8, 2008 meeting for corrections.

Meeting opened at 7:15pm

            Purpose of the meeting was to review drafts of the goals and objectives and vision statement after receiving comments from planner Lisa Murphy from the Southwest Regional Planning Commission.  And to discuss the role of the Conservation Commission plus adoption of the Town-wide conservation plan into the Master Plan.

            V-Ch. B. Miller asked Mr. Daviss to comment on SWRPC’s cost proposal to incorporate the goals and objectives and vision statement into the existing Land Use section of the Master Plan.  Mr. Daviss said he has not received a reply to his e-mail request but hopes to have a report by the next regular planning board meeting in July.  Sec. Aslinger asked if Mr. Daviss had an update on the status of unpaid dues?  Mr. Daviss said he spoke with Ch. Jeff Miller who was to contact Tim Murphy at SWRPC to request a letter addressing the issue of dues for 2008.  Sec. Aslinger said to date no letter had passed through the office addressed to Ch. Miller.

            Mr. Daviss moved forward asking the committee to comment on the changes suggested by Ms. Murphy in regard to the vision statement.  He noted their meeting was productive and thought the comments were generally well targeted and useful.  He said once the committee made final comments he would prepare a final draft for the Planning Board to review and possibly be able to schedule the first public hearing in August.

Comments vision statement:

 - Comment #6 “Economic vitality” agreed, deciding to make subheadings out of items listed in descriptions to make it clearer and coherent.  Discussed need to provide infrastructure (3 phase power, sewer, water) in order to properly plan/zone certain areas, although in reality there is only a limited area available.  Discussed allowing industrial/commercial in all rural ag districts, restricting those uses to lands with infrastructure availability as being a fair trade off.  Mentioned using natural resources land values as a guide/criteria also.  Discussed adding specific language for future employment in the trades, using incentives to keep children of long time residents in Walpole.  Mentioned that the of Monadnock region has the lowest unemployment in NH and nationwide, noting the cost of living is lower and wages are also lower.  Mr. O’Keefe made note of education options at the River Valley Technical Center in Springfield VT where he works.  The school offers many degrees and certificates in fields relative to the Valley’s historic and future employment needs at attainable levels that encourage graduates to stay in the area, such as culinary, machinery, agricultural, and business management.  Mr. Jasse commented that even without specifying this issue in the Master

Walpole Planning Board Work Session Minutes 6/24/08 page 2

Plan the town wasn’t likely to diminish, perhaps it is better to attract start-ups that enhance Walpole’s rural agricultural character, job opportunities would follow.  He doesn’t feel the Master Plan is obligated to provide for every possible idea, he thought the documents being discussed are too lengthy and repetitive but appreciates the committee’s efforts and continues to praise the overwhelmingly attractiveness of Walpole. 

Mr. DeCoste shared some of his memories of how Walpole has changed over the last 40 years and how Walpole also seems to remain the same despite the changes.  Mr. B. Miller in a positive light commented on how the master plan might be worded if the committee were made up of mostly natives instead of mostly non-natives.  Some wondered if there would be substantial differences, we all seem to have a strong appre-ciation for the Town and want to see it continue into the future as a special place to live. 

-  Comment #13 discussed the issue of site plan and subdivision regulations including provisions to assess developers with fees to pay for the potential costs of town services.   The adoption of the capital improvements program allows for impact fees to be assessed, the site plan and possibly sub regs refer to fees for studies and long-range impacts.

-  All other comments were acceptable to the committee on the vision statement.

Goals and Objectives Comments:

- Goal #1, 4. “Adopt Conservation Commission town-wide plan” - Discussion ensued about the adoption of the town-wide conservation plan into the master plan with some opposition to and misunderstandings of possible ramifications of doing so.  In answer to concerns several clarifications were offered regarding erroneous statements made at the previous planning board meeting about the conservation commission and easements. 

Sec. Aslinger gave out copies of RSA 36-A providing an insight to the legal role of the Conservation Commission along with a document prepared by the Society for the Protection of NH Forests dated 9/22/2001 “NH Everlasting - an initiative to conserve our quality of life” indicating the rational for setting 25% of conserved town lands as a minimum goal to preserve a town’s character. 

In addition Mr. Schupack distributed an inventory of “Conservation lands of Walpole” showing that out of 100% of Walpole’s land, 27.9% is owned by the Town of Walpole, 8.5% owned by the State, 5.0% is owned by the Society for the Protection of NH Forests and 58.5% are privately owned lands under Conservation Easement.  There are 23,872 acres in Walpole with 13.7% or 3,264 acres currently protected.  The goal of 25% equals 5,968 acres in total.  By removing water, wetlands and developed lands, there is a grand total of 11, 471 acres or 48.1% is left for development in Walpole. 

Mr. Schupack gave a brief but detailed overview of how a conservation easement works remarking contrary to what was said at the prior planning board meeting, that the land is not lost to public access unless it is properly posted according to strict guidelines by the owner, that some recreational uses are restricted involving motorized vehicles but hunting, hiking etc. are not restricted because of a conservation easement.  Further in NH all land is publicly accessible, unless properly posted.  A conservation easement contract addresses the development rights only - by restriction but most uses such as agricultural, farming and timber harvesting are allowed.  Also the land is taxed exactly the same as it was prior to granting a conservation easement which means if it were in current use and taxed at those rates, it would remain taxed at those rates.  If land is properly posted

Walpole Planning Board Work Session Minutes 6/24/08 page 3

however some tax incentives are lost under current use laws.  The legal contract/easements specifying what can and cannot be done are always held by a land trust and use of the land is monitored, restricted and negotiated through the land trust, not the individual or town or conservation commission.  A land trust will not accept and easement unless the land has conservation value.  Sec. Aslinger asked if a sample easement was available for the planning board to review in order to have a better understanding, Mr. Schupack thought the Monadnock Conservancy might be able to provide a sample, they along with the Society for the Protection of NH Forest, NH Land Protection and the Nature Conservancy are all considered “land trusts” that hold easements.  Mr. Schupack noted that when the Town has been surveyed regarding protecting lands, the concept has been given a high priority by the citizens.

Mr. Daviss reported he also contacted the Society for the Protection of NH Forests for an explanation of where the 25% goal came from.  He said it is not an arbitrary figure or something the conservation commission created, there are five criteria the society lists in order for a NH town to preserve its character and 25% conserved lands is the very least (based on studies) to protect a Town’s character and at the same time protect its viability.  He also mentioned that the adoption of the town-wide plan depends heavily on whether the document is compatible with the Master Plan and it would simply be a reference document, not actually incorporated in whole as a chapter of the Master Plan.  He reminded that the Planning Board agreed to have it reviewed by SWRPC for its compatibility, which is in the process.

 - Goal #2, 1.  “sprawl along Rte. 12”  all agreed to remove “along Rte. 12” as suggested.

 - Goal #3, 2.  “Scenic Byway”, all agreed with comments but Mr. O’Keefe thought Rte. 12 and the River Byway were co-joined, it might need clarification.

 - Goal #4, 1. “burdensome regulations, proposed or existing”  discussed whether current regulations specifically address farming and the need to be sensitive when proposing amendments or re-writes.

 - Goal #5, 4. “overlay zoning”, confusing term - although it is a proper term to describe designating specific buildings as historic rather than creating a Historic District which it was reminded was voted down twice in Walpole.  Members discussed past experiences and gave examples of possible scenarios that might limit a property owner’s use of their historic home.  The wording will be adjusted to better reflect the intent, which is to designate individual buildings by way of there historic identity and how they play an important part in preserving Walpole’s historic character rather than being restrictive.

 - Implementation etc. 1.  Discussed adding the state requirements for River corridors.

The rest of the document and comments were acceptable as presented.

Mr. DeCoste thanked Mr. Daviss for all the effort and work he has put into the update, with a group round of applause.

Meeting adjourned at 8:50pm  Next work session scheduled for July 22, 2008.

Cc:  file, PB, MP, ZBA, Town Offices

  

     

PLANNING BOARD MEETING

July 8, 2008  7:00pm Town Hall

AGENDA

I.          Open Meeting

A.             Roll Call/Designate Alternates

            B.            Approve Minutes 6/10/08 and 6/24/08

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

            A.              Peter and Patricia Wheeler and Ronald Hill - Lot Line Adjustment

Located at 1 Parris Lane and 15 Hillcrest Rd. in North Walpole, Map 29, Lots 40 and 41 in the Residential District.  Purpose is to annex .21 acres to Lot 40 from Lot 41 for a total of 1.20 acres leaving Lot 41 with 3.09 acres.  If approved the proposal will result in Lot 40 owning the land/driveway as apposed to only the current deeded right of way.  Virginia Foote of Lawrence Associates presenting.

III.       Close Meeting - Open Public Hearing

            A.              Wheeler/ Hill

IV.       Close Public Hearing - Re-open Meeting

V.        Action on Application Submitted:  Approve - Disapprove - Delay

            A.              Wheeler/Hill

VI.            Unfinished Business

            A.             Chamberlain Machine - “Process Fluid Inventory” handout

            B.            Other

VII.     New Business

            A.            Frank Whitcomb/Dick Fraser - Site Plan Review located on

                        Old Drewsville Rd. gravel excavation

            B.            Other- none scheduled as of this agenda posting

VIII.            Communications and Miscellaneous

            A.            Master Plan Update/Review items for Work Session 7/22/08

            B.            Site Plan revision handout

            C.            Other

IX.       Close Meeting - next regular meeting 8/12/08 at 7:00pm

Cc:  PB, ZBA, BOS, NWPLZA, Town Offices

Posted:  Town Hall, Lobby, Burdick’s Market, www.walpoleplanningboard.org, www.thewalpolean.com     

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE BOARD OF SELECTMEN

JUNE 19, 2008

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

Mr. Aldrich, Vice-Chair, called the meeting to order at 7:30 PM with eight people present in the audience.  Mr. Sawyer, Chair, was not present at this meeting. 

PUBLIC BUSINESS:

JOHN and LINDA BURROWS:   Mr. and Mrs. Burrows are in the process of purchasing a property on the Alice Smith Road, a Class VI road.  They would like to make the road more accessible by up-dating it for their own use.  Mr. Aldrich felt it would be in order for them to put some gravel on the road to keep it passable but it will remain a Class VI road.  Mr. and Mrs. Burrows were aware of the Town Waiver of Liability and will make arrangements to sign the document.

JOE GOODHUE – RECREATION:  Joe Goodhue and Mark Houghton explained that the Town pool is in need of repairs to the sand filtration system.  Mark Houghton said the current system is 20+ years old.  Repairing it will save money on the chemicals which are expensive items.  They submitted an estimate from Fillion Associates, Inc. for the sand filtration system and for a chemical feed option.  Following a discussion, Mr. Aldrich asked them to request that Fillion Associates, Inc. attend a meeting to talk to the Selectboard. 

TOWN HALL HEATING/AIR CONDITION REPAIRS/ AND BATHROOM REPAIRS:  With reference to the Selectboard meeting of June 12th, Mark Houghton went over the Town Hall heating, air conditioning repairs and bathroom repairs as previously discussed.  Mrs. Moore reported that Blanc and Bailey & Bergeron Electric agreed to look into the problems.  They will provide an estimate for repairs prior to doing any of the work. 

Mrs. Teague moved to approve purchasing the new Mansfield Maverick lined toilet in the amount of $305.09 from E.E. Houghton Co., Inc.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted.  

ELM STREET:  Mark Houghton advised that they will be starting the water line replacement at the end of Elm Street during the week of July 7th.

JEFFREY HORNE:  Mrs. Mansouri provided a brief history of the Route 12 property going back to 1988 and the Special Exception that was granted by the Zoning Board of Adjustment in 1989.  Various correspondence and meeting minutes were reviewed and copies given to Mr. Horne.  The Special Exception was granted for an auto repair and car sales business with nine conditions as outlined in a letter dated November 29, 1989 to Craig Horne.  Mrs. Mansouri explained that they are now in violation of the Special Exception because of all the vehicles and the two repair shops on the property.  It was noted that Jeffrey Horne is the son of Laverne Horne and he was now representing his mother.  Following a discussion of the issues, Mr. Horne agreed that the property is in violation and he intends to bring it in compliance.  He felt that 45 days would be a fair amount of time for him to give notice to his tenant.

Mrs. Teague moved to allow Laverne Horne 45 days to be in compliance with the Special Exemption.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted.     

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register and manifest in the amount of $1,777,475.27.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted.

The above amount includes paying off the Tax Anticipation Note.

Selectboard Meeting – June 19, 2008 – Page 2

Mrs. Teague moved to approve the Accounts Payable voided check register for check No. 051217 that was a stale dated check; it was then reissued for $116.00.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted. 

PAYROLL:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve the payroll voucher for the week ending June 14, 2008, for gross wages in the amount of $16,894.30 or net wages in the amount of $8,397.45.  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 $3,864.52.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted.

Mrs. Teague moved to approve the list of new Recreation Department hires and to approve the hourly rate pay schedule as stated.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted.

TRANSFER:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve the wire transfer of the balance of the NH PDIP (MBIA) to the Savings Bank of Walpole into the Town account and to authorize the Vice-Chairman to sign the documents.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted.

MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – JUNE 12, 2008:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve the Minutes of the June 12, 2008, Selectboard meeting with the one spelling correction on page 1 under the Tax Anticipation Note.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted.

DEPARTMENT / COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard received and reviewed the Minutes of the following meetings:  1) Planning Board – June 10, 2008; and 2) North Walpole Village Board of Commissioners – June 17, 2008.

REFUND:

JOHN and SHIRLEY LAWTON – MAP 009-034-000:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve the Refund for 2007 Property Taxes in the amount of $277.00 for John and Shirley Lawton on the Alice Smith Road.  The pond was not on their property.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted. 

STEVEN and MANDY PENA – MAP 005-049-002:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve the Refund for 2007 Property Taxes in the amount of $1,120.00 for Steven and Mandy Pena on the Watkins Hill Road.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted.

BUILDING PERMITS:

ANDY and HEATHER COLLINS – MAP 015-004-002:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve Building Permit No. 2008-024 for Andy and Heather Collins to build a 12’ x 12’ wood frame shed on the Old Drewsville Road.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted.

MARK and SANDRA FISH – MAP 004-017-001:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve Building Permit No. 2008-025 for Mark and Sandra Fish to replace the deck that was there and will now become the location of the addition of the dining room and to add a deck on the Old Keene Road.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted.

Selectboard Meeting – June 19, 2008 – Page 3

JUNEANN BOUDRIEAU – MAP 018-004-000:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve Building Permit No. 2008-026 for Juneann Boudrieau to construct a 24’ x 30’ two car garage on the North River Road.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted.

GEORGE and ROSEMARIE MILLER – MAP 014-007-000:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve Building Permit No. 2008-027 for George and Rosemarie Miller to construct a 12’ x 12’ addition to the existing shed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted.

OLD BUSINESS:

OLD KEENE ROAD BRIDGE:  Mrs. Moore expects to receive an email tomorrow from Bazin Bros. Construction Company to advise when they will begin work on the Old Keene Road Bridge; they do expect to start it soon.

LIBRARY BARRIERS:  Mr. Aldrich will do a follow-up with Jim Terrell, Road Agent, on the request from the Library for barriers.

COLD RIVER TRANSIT, INC. (Forms For Review):  Mrs. Teague will prepare a cover page for the questionnaire and then it will be distributed.

TOWN HALL TREE:  There was a consensus to put this agenda item on-hold until a full Board is present. 

TOWN HALL RENTALS:  With reference to the Minutes of the June 12th meeting, Mrs. Moore recommended that the policy change include extending out dates for both Town and School functions.

Mrs. Teague moved to add that, in addition to wedding dates, any and all Town or School functions take precedence over existing rentals.   Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted. 

NEW BUSINESS:

CEMETERY DEED –DOUGLAS and MARY JEFFREY- D-544:  Mrs. Teague moved to allow Douglas and Mary Jeffrey to purchase burial lot D-544 for $400.00.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted.

PERSONAL TIME – RICK COOPER:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve Rick Cooper’s request to take Saturday, June 26th, 2008 off as a personal day.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  All in favor, so voted.  

COLD RIVER LOCAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE – REAPPOINTMENT – AUSTIN HUNTER:  The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of a letter from the State of New Hampshire, Department of Environmental Services, advising that they have reappointed Austin Hunter to the Cold River Local Advisory Committee for a three year term beginning May 2008.

INFORMATION ONLY –JAN GALLOWAY-LeCLERC and ERNIE VOSE- ALTERNATES TO ZONING BOARD:  The Selectboard acknowledged that the Zoning Board has appointed Jan Galloway-LeClerc to a three-year term and Ernie Vose to a one-year term as Alternates to the Zoning Board.

Selectboard Meeting – June 19, 2008 – Page 4

LETTERS TO BE SIGNED:

JOE GOODHUE – RECREATION:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve and sign the Thank You letter to Joe Goodhue.  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 9:32 PM.

The Selectboard entered into a meeting as the Trustees of the Hooper Trust Fund.
TRUSTEES OF HOOPER TRUST FUND MEETING

Mr. Aldrich called the meeting of the Trustees of the Hooper Trust Fund to order at 9:34 PM.

Hooper Sidewalk:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve payment of the completion bill from T.G.K. Contracting, LLC for the sidewalk in the amount of $2,000 at the Hooper Institute.  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 9:39 PM.

Ed. Note: Joe Dion, as a Walpole Grange project, is working on a directory of food/agricultural producers in Walpole who make retail sales to the public. The title will be "Walpole Homegrown." He thinks he's identified nearly all of them, but this the last call for anyone who has not talked to Joe and wants to be listed.  So...if you raise/create food or agricultural products and want to make sure you're in the new directory, call Joe at 756-3160.  CCB