TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

NOVEMBER 13, 2008

Selectboard Present:            Sheldon Sawyer, Whitney Aldrich, Jamie Teague

Mr. Sawyer called the meeting to order at 7:30 PM with no one present in the audience.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register and manifest in the amount of $22,070.01.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed unanimously.

PAYROLL:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the payroll voucher for the week ending November 08, 2008, for gross wages in the amount of $16,882.01 or net wages in the amount of $8,130.76.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed unanimously.

Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the payroll voucher for the election workers for gross wages in the amount of $2,740.00 or net wages in the amount of $2,676.00.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed unanimously.

Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $3,971.35.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed unanimously. 

MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – NOVEMBER 06, 2008:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of November 06, 2008, as printed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  Mr. Sawyer and Mrs. Teague were in favor of the motion.  Mr. Aldrich abstained as he was not present for most of the meeting.  Motion passed by a majority vote. 

DEPARTMENT / COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard received and reviewed the minutes of the following meetings: 1) Cemetery Trustees Annual Meeting – November 07, 2008; and 2) North Walpole Village Board of Commissioners – November 11, 2008.

ABATEMENTS:

TOWN OF WALPOLE – (Formerly National Railroad)-Map 030-055-000:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Abatement for the Town of Walpole Property Taxes in the amount of $47.00.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed unanimously.

TOWN OF WALPOLE – (Formerly Travis Hearne)-Map 030-036-000:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Abatement for the Town of Walpole Property Taxes in the amount of $1,416.00.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed unanimously.

OLD BUSINESS:

GOOD CIRCLE – LETTER FROM DR. MOROSINI:  Mrs. Teague moved to send a copy of the letter from Dr. Morosini and a letter from the Selectboard to Joan Smith to ask her to address the concerns of the neighbors and the Health Officer.  She is welcome to attend a Selectboard meeting if she wishes to discuss the matter.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  Motion passed unanimously.  

Selectboard Meeting – November 13, 2008 – Page 2

LYNN DeWALD – Board of Selectmen to Visit Site Together:  The Selectboard will visit the DeWald property on Taggert Road on Wednesday, November 19th at 9:00 am.

FANNY MASON FOREST ACCESS:  Mr. Sawyer and Mr. Aldrich will plan to go to the Department of Transportation office in Swanzey on Monday, if possible, to talk about access off Route 12 into the Fanny Mason Forest.

CONSERVATION COMMISSION:  With reference to the last Selectboard meeting, Mr. Aldrich noted that one of the Selectboard has to contact Myra Mansouri to check on the Conservation Fund account, as voted upon under Article #23 during the March 14, 1989 Town Meeting, to see if it was established and, if so, the amount in it.

NEW BUSINESS:

SEA CONSULTANTS – Invoice to be Approved by Selectboard:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve payment of the invoice from SEA Consultants for professional services from September 28 to October 25, 2008, for the Old Keene Road Bridge.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed unanimously.

CHIP PALIOCHA – Renew Building Permit From 2007- Map 009-023-000:  Mr. Aldrich moved to re-authorize the renewal Building Permit from 2007 for Chip Paliocha to construct a 1-1/2 story barn and a seasonal camp on the March Hill Road.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed unanimously.

Mr. Sawyer declared the meeting adjourned at 8:36 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

NOVEMBER 06, 2008

Selectboard Present:  Sheldon Sawyer, Jamie Teague, (Whitney Aldrich came in late)

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

PUBLIC BUSINESS:

CRUISER BIDS:  Four bids that were received for the 1998 Ford Expedition police cruiser were opened at this meeting by Mr. Sawyer.  Following are the bids:

1.       Mr. and Mrs. James Kingston - $50.00

2.       Homestead Wheels, LLC - $800.00

3.       Gail Guyette - $250.00

4.       S.G. Reid Truck Sales and Service - $885.00

There was a consensus of the two Selectboard members present to not make a decision until Mr. Aldrich arrived. 

LYNN DEWALD:  Lynn Dewald had previously attended a meeting to discuss the drainage problems on their property located on Taggert Road.  Copies of the Settlement Agreement between the previous property owners and the Town of Walpole were reviewed.  Reference was made to page 3, No. 4, “That the Town of Walpole shall, after the reconstruction of the drainage ditches, keep said drainage ditches reasonably clean from excess sand, gravel and other materials.  The plaintiffs, Thomas Yandoh and Marilyn Yandoh, shall maintain and keep free from excess sand, gravel and other debris the swale and level spreader to be constructed on their premises”.  Mrs. Dewald displayed pictures of the area.  Mr. Sawyer noted that the Town paved the road after this agreement was made.  Mr. and Mrs. Dewald have cleaned near the Town culvert as well as their culvert that was installed to flow into the field.  Following a lengthy discussion, Mrs. Teague advised that she would like to ask Jim Terrell some questions on the history of the drainage.  Mr. Sawyer felt they might do a site visit before making a decision on how to resolve this on-going matter. 

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register and manifest in the amount of $303,364.24.  Seconded by Mr. Sawyer.  Motion passed by two members present. 

The above amount includes a payment of $277,886.46 to the Fall Mountain Region School District. 

PAYROLL:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve the payroll voucher for the week ending November 01, 2008, for gross wages in the amount of $16,471.24 or net wages in the amount of $8,069.70.  Seconded by Mr. Sawyer.  Motion passed by two members present. 

Mrs. Teague moved to approve the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $3,718.76.  Seconded by Mr. Sawyer.  Motion passed by two members present.

MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – OCTOBER 30, 2008:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of October 30, 2008, as printed.  Seconded by Mr. Sawyer.  Motion passed by two members present.

Selectboard Meeting – November 06, 2008 – Page 2

DEPARTMENT / COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard received and reviewed the minutes of the following meetings: 1) Planning Board Work Session –October 28, 2008; and 2) North Walpole Village Board of Commissioners –November 04, 2008.  In addition, the Planning Board Agenda for their next meeting on November 11, 2008 was received.

OLD BUSINESS:

GOOD CIRCLE – LETTER FROM DR. MOROSINI:  This agenda item was tabled until the next meeting.

SOLID WASTE DEPARTMENT UNIFORMS:  The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of the vouchers for uniforms for the three full-time employees.

FUEL TANK PROBLEMS:  Mr. Sawyer advised that they are waiting for the letter from the Fire Chief stating that the vent pipe is in compliance.

TOWN HALL WINDOWS – REPAIRS MONDAY (Weather Permitting):  Repairs on the Town Hall windows are expected to begin on Monday if the weather permits. 

TOWN HALL ROOF – LEAKING:  Elaine Moore contacted Long’s Roofing regarding the Town Hall roof needing repairs as it is leaking.  She is waiting for them to return the call.

TURKEYS:  Elaine Moore is checking with local stores to obtain the best price for turkeys for the employees. 

NEW BUSINESS:

COLD RIVER BRIDGE INSPECTION:  The final on-site inspection will be held at the Cold River Bridge on Friday, November 7th at 10:00 am.

LOCAL GOVERNMENT CENTER ANNUAL CONFERENCE – JIM TERRELL:  The Selectboard approved having Jim Terrell attend the LGC Annual Conference on November 12th and 13th, 2008.  On Thursday he is slated to co-present the Mutual Aid Program with Kurt Bloomquist who is from the Public Works Department in Keene.  .

SWRPC FALL MEETING:  Mr. Sawyer and Mr. Aldrich plan to attend the Southwest Region Planning Commission Fall Meeting on Tuesday, November 18th.  Mrs. Teague will be attending the Hooper Institute meeting on this same evening.

IMPORTANT DATES SCHEDULE:  A tentative schedule of dates leading to the Annual Meeting was distributed to the Selectboard who will officially set the dates at a future meeting.

WALMART ACCOUNT APPLICATION:  Following a request from a Department Head to have an account at WalMart the Selectboard discussed completing an application.  In the past it has been difficult to track items charged at stores as the slips are not always submitted to the office in a timely manner.  Mrs. Teague recommending buying in bulk, store the items in the Town Hall and have the departments come in to pick them up. 

Selectboard Meeting – November 06, 2008 – Page 3

Mrs. Teague moved to not allow any more credit card use because regulations are not being properly  followed.  They will look into bulk purchasing to cut back on costs.  If another locked area is needed for storage it will be constructed.  Seconded by Mr. Sawyer.  Motion passed by two members present.

GERALD and HANIA McAULIFFE –MAP 028-091-000- BLTA- MEET WITH SELECTBOARD ON NOVEMBER 20, 2008 AT 7:00 PM:  The Selectboard will meet with Gerald and Hania McAuliffe on November 20, 2008, at 7:00 PM to discuss their Property Assessment Appeal to the Board of Land and Tax Appeals.

ADRIAN BASORA and PAULINE BARNES –MAP 022-009-000- BTLA- MEET WITH SELECTBOARD ON DECEMBER 18, 2008, AT 7:00 PM:  The Selectboard will meet with Adrian Basora and Pauline Barnes on December 18, 2008, at 7:00 PM to discuss their Property Assessment Appeal to the Board of Land and Tax Appeals.

Mr. Aldrich came into the meeting.

SELECTBOARD MEETING ON THANKSGIVING DAY:  Mr. Aldrich moved to change the Thanksgiving Day meeting to Wednesday, November 26th, 2008, at 4:00 PM.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed unanimously.

OLD KEENE ROAD BRIDGE:  Mr. Sawyer advised that the Old Keene Road Bridge is now open to the public.

SET DATE TO WORK ON BUDGET:  The Selectboard agreed to set their first meeting date to work on the Capital Expenses in the proposed budget for Wednesday, November 12th at 6:30 PM.  The Highway Department will be discussed at 6:30 pm and the Recycling Facility at 7:30 pm.

CRUISER BIDS:  Mr. Aldrich moved to sell the police cruiser to the highest bidder, S.G. Reid Truck Sales and Service for $885.00.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed unanimously.

FANNY MASON FOREST:  Mr. Aldrich attended the Conservation Commission meeting last Monday night.  Mr. Fletcher gave him some information on a small land-locked property that abuts the Fanny Mason Forest.  Currently there is no access to the forest and the Conservation Commission would like to do a cutting.  Mrs. Galloway asked the Selectboard to write a letter to the Department of Transportation to ask for access off Route 12 to allow them to do a harvest.  If the answer is “no” they will ask abutting private property owners if they would consider granting permission to go across their properties to accomplish this harvest. 

CONSERVATION COMMISSION:  Mr. Aldrich advised that the Conservation Commission made reference to Article #23 that was voted upon during the March 14, 1989 Town Meeting: “To see if the Town will vote to adopt the provisions of RSA 36-A:5 which will authorize the Conservation Commission to retain the unexpended balance of its annual appropriation and any gifts of money received pursuant to RSA 36-A-4, said funds to be placed in a separate conservation fund and allowed to accumulate monies in the Conservation Fund, and expenditures may be authorized only by majority vote of the Conservation Commission.  If money from the fund is to be used to purchase interest in land, the Commission must first hold a public hearing

Selectboard Meeting – November 06, 2008 – Page 4

and the acquisition must be approved by the Selectmen.  After discussion Article #23 passed with a Voice Vote – No opposition.”  Mr. Aldrich recommended that the Selectboard ask Myra Mansouri about this account and to inquire as to how much money is in that separate conservation fund.

Mrs. Teague moved to adjourn this meeting.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich and, with all in favor, the motion was approved unanimously.  The time was 9:28 PM. 

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

11-15-08

Hunger Stalks Fall Mountain Area

Fall Mountain Food Shelf in Emergency Mode

By Chuck Bingaman

          Hundreds of men, women and children in our area are hungry. 

They cannot afford even basic food supplies this fall. 

They are facing a “perfect storm” of financial hits including spreading job layoffs, soaring heating oil and gasoline prices, and steadily increasing food costs.

And one of their lifelines, the Fall Mountain Food Shelf, is starving as well.

“We’ve never had a year like this,” admitted Mary Lou Huffling, volunteer head of the Food Shelf Friday while making thirty pies for a Saturday bake sale.  “We’ve had a family living in their car and, recently, we had a family living in a tent.”

Huffling reported that, for the past few years, the Food Shelf has served 200 to 250 families each month in the area.  In October, it served 774 families in its Langdon town hall outlet space and another hundred or so in Charlestown.  Last year the Food Shelf gave out 250 to 300 Thanksgiving baskets.  This year they’re seeking 500 turkeys and wondering if that will be enough.

“We’ve talked to food pantries in Newport, Brattleboro, Bellows Falls and Keene. It’s the same story…” Huffling says.  “They all have many more people relying on them this year.’

And Huffling, who volunteers “at least 50 hours each week”, is facing her own “perfect storm.”  Where formerly she could purchase surplus food at

Mary Lou Huffling in the Food Shelf Alstead kitchen on Friday.

the New Hampshire Food Bank, often for as little as $.18 per pound, now she’s lucky when the Food Bank has any supplies because many of its sources have dried up.  Food manufacturers, they say, are seeking to cut waste as much as possible and to sell it—when they have it—for whatever they can get for it.  While Wal-Mart and Mr. G’s continue to give the Food Shelf discounts and Shaw’s gives produce each week, higher transportation costs continue to drive up costs of nearly every food product Huffling must buy.

“Not so long ago we could buy three packages of elbow pasta for a dollar.  Now the cheapest package you can get is $.79.  That’s a big difference.”

As a result, many of the shelves at the Food Shelf are bare, and the storeroom is quickly emptying. 

Through it all, Huffling maintains a dazzling smile, a level of energy few people in any situation could match.  And a positive attitude that keeps volunteers and hungry people from utter discouragement.

“We have a very special shopping program using high school special ed students!” she beams.  “We work with them every week, make our shopping lists, and agree on maximum prices we’ll pay.  They go to the stores with their teachers, do the shopping, and stock our shelves.  The kids love it, they learn to shop, and we love it too!”

Huffling is facing many new customers this fall, people who have never had to ask for assistance and who are acutely embarrassed about it.  “We see many tears,” she said, “and we are hearing form many people calling for others that just can’t bring themselves to call us or come to us themselves.  For the first time, we are seeing many elderly people that have never had to seek food aid. But we tell them how glad we are to help them and how happy we are that they came.”

But even the volunteers are feeling the stress.  Last week, Huffling said, one of her volunteers returned in tears from calling on an ill and elderly couple whose refrigerator was empty and who had only a single can of corn in their house to eat. 

The Fall Mountain Food Shelf also prepares and delivers 174 hot meals on wheels—“with dessert”, Huffling notes—every Tuesday and Thursday to residents of Alstead, Charlestown, Acworth, Walpole, North Walpole, Langdon and Drewsville.  And it offers a congregant hot lunch for 70 to 80 people on those days at the Alstead Firehouse.  “People are so hungry for social nourishment, in addition to a good meal, that they begin arriving for lunch around 8:00 a.m.,” says Huffling.

Huffling says that all who come to the food distribution center in Langdon must complete an Emergency Food Assistance Program form, “but we take people at their word—at face value—and do not check on eligibility levels.  It’s very heard for many people to come, and many are coming to us for the first time this year. We don’t want anyone to go away hungry!”

Huffling is also very appreciative of the many sources of support she has and cited the late Stan Castor of Stan’s Wholesale Food in Westmoreland and his wife, Wal-Mart, Mr. G’s.  Last weekend the Walpole Unitarian Church sponsored a ham and bean supper to benefit the Food Shelf, and many other churches in the area have pitched in.  Even The Walpole Players recently announced that those attending their December 18, 19, and 20 performances of “A Christmas Carol” in the Town Hall will be asked to make a donation to the Food Shelf in lieu of paying money for tickets.  In addition, area Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, 4-H and local Rotary Clubs, Lions Clubs, and Moose Lodges raise money and do food collections.

While gifts of non-perishable foods are welcome, especially canned vegetables and fruit, tuna fish, peanut butter and even toilet paper, gifts of checks and cash are more useful for the Food Shelf because they minimize transportation needs and enable the volunteers to purchase exactly what their customers need and want.  Those wanting to give to the Fall Mountain Food Shelf may send their tax-deductible contributions to P.O. Box 191, Alstead, NH 03602 or drop them off at the Food Shelf outlet in the Langdon Town Hall on Rt. 12A.

Hunger is stalking the Fall Mountain Area.  The Fall Mountain Food Shelf is making heroic efforts.  Demand is outstripping supply.

                                    --30--

11-13-08

 “A Christmas Carol”—A Gift To the Town From the Walpole Players

Benefiting Fall Mountain Food Shelf

By Chuck Bingaman, Contributing Writer

            The Walpole Players will stage “A Christmas Carol”, Charles Dickens’ immortal tale of redemption and caring for one’s fellow men, December 18, 19 and 20 at 7:00 p.m. in the Walpole Town Hall.

They are staging the play as a gift to the town and will fulfill the message of “A Christmas Carol” by encouraging those attending to make a gift to the Fall Mountain Food Shelf in lieu of spending money on tickets.

            Co-Directors Ray Boas and Tara Sad are rehearsing an “all comers”, 23-person cast with veteran local actor Jim Skofield as Charles Dickens doing a public reading and other players, ranging in age from 8 to the 70s, doing vignettes of key parts of the story.

            “At the cast party for last spring’s “You Can’t Take It With You,” Jean Kobeski suggested that we do “A Christmas Carol”,” explained Boas, who is also president of the Players.  “We held a special meeting in September, and we were unanimous that it was a great idea.”

            “What we wanted to do was to include anyone who wanted to be in the play.  So Tara and I read 4-5 scripts and I sat down over ten days and made my own adaptation.  I took out the narrator’s parts and replaced them with scenes of dialogue to accommodate everybody that tried out.”

Ray showing his collection of "A Christmas Carol" editions at his shop yesterday.

            “Dickens,” Boas added, “spent a good part of his career doing public readings of his work, much of which came from “A Christmas Carol”.  So we have adapted that historic approach and interspersed it with the acted parts.”  Skofield as Dickens will be on one side of the stage, and the vignettes will be performed behind and through a 9 by 12 foot Victorian frame built by Bill Perron, creator of many of the Players’ past amazing sets.

            The original thought was to make the play a gift to the town. Admission will be free, but tickets will be required (because of limited space in the town hall) and will be available at the usual distribution points—Real to Reel Burdick’s Café and Galloway Real Estate and. The tickets will reserve seating until 15 minutes prior to curtain time.  In lieu of paid admission, the Players are asking that each person attending make a monetary donation for the Fall Mountain Food shelf.  “In keeping with the spirit of Christmas,” explained Boas, “it just felt right for us to encourage these gifts to a very needy and increasingly important organization in our community.” 

            “Following each performance—and we’re keeping it to a tad over an hour without intermission—we are going to have refreshments for the audience,” added Boas.  “And keeping with the theme, the refreshments and the theater decorations are going to have a Victorian flair.”

            But there’s even more! Boas noted that few people know about the Christmas customs of 19th century England, the background of “A Christmas Carol.” Hence he is drawing on his long interest in the subject and his collection of over 20 published versions of the story to create a special, 12-page “keepsake booklet” to be given to every person attending the performance.  And Boas intends to produce annual booklets with additional information on “A Christmas Carol” and early English Christmas traditions for future Players’ Christmas productions.

            Mary Lou Huffling, director of the Fall Mountain Food Shelf, thanked the Walpole Players last week for their coming gifts and noted that the Food Shelf, this fall, has been serving many more families in need than it has in its entire 30-year history.   The Food Shelf, which serves needy families from Walpole, North Walpole, Alstead, Charlestown, Langdon and Drewsville, last month served nearly 900 families in need of food, nearly twice the number that needed its services following the flood of 2005.  “The costs of medicine, heat, gas, and lights have gone up so much, and many people just can’t afford them,” Huffling said last week.  “And, there have been many lay-offs from smaller companies in the area that do not make the news.”

            A retelling of the lessons of “A Christmas Carol” cannot have been better timed or the Walpole Players’ approach more appropriate.

                                                            --30--

PLANNING BOARD

Walpole, NH  03608

Regular Meeting Tuesday November 11, 2008 at 7:00pm in Town Hall

MINUTES

Presiding:  Jeff Miller, Ch.

Members Present:  Bob Miller, Ben Daviss, Dave DeCoste, Henry Fletcher, Eric Merklien, Jeff White, alt., Donn Lounsbury, alt.  Absent:  Sheldon Sawyer, Sel., Shane O’Keefe, alt.

Recording:  Pamela Aslinger, Sec./alt.

These minutes are unapproved and will be reviewed at the December 9, 2008 meeting for errors, omissions, and corrections.  There were 6 persons in the audience.

I.            Meeting opened at 7:04pm

            A.  Roll call - All regular members were present, no alternates designated.

            B.  Minutes - Sec. Aslinger reported a correction to “lean” manufacturing from “lead” manufacturing in the Bensonwood presentation.  B. Miller moved to approve the 10/14/08 minutes as corrected and the 10/28 minutes as presented.  Mr. Daviss seconded, vote called, all were in favor, motion carried.

II.            Review Applications Submitted:

            A.  Lee Kitchen, Michael Kemp, Duane & Jean Wetherby and Michael and Mary Kemp - Lot line adjustment located in N. Walpole on Spruce and Church Sts. Map 28, Lots 75 and 77 in the Residential B. district.  Proposal results in vacant Lot 75 of .42 acres and Lot 77 of .23 acres with existing home.  Mr. Travis Royce presented.  Sec. Aslinger reported the application had been filed complete with fees, abutters were properly notified with the exception of Mr. Kitchen and Mr. Kemps notification - the address was incorrect.  Mr. B. Miller moved to accept the application as complete, Mr. Daviss seconded, vote called, all were in favor, motion carried.

III.       Close Meeting/Open Public Hearing

            Ch. Miller asked Mr. Royce to describe the plan.  Mr. Royce noted one change on the maps showing a metes and bounds measurement missing from the original submission on the Wetherby lot’s frontage.   He described the proposal and submitted corrected maps. 

Ch. Miller called for comments, hearing none closed the public hearing at 7:10pm

IV.       Close public hearing and re-open the meeting

            Ch. Miller called for board comment and action.  Mr. Daviss moved to approve the application as presented, Mr. Bob Miller seconded.  Without further discussion, Ch. Miller called for the vote, all were in favor, motion carried.  The maps and mylar were signed, Mr. Royce will record the mylar at the registry of deeds and notify the Secretary of the recording numbers as proof of recording.

II.        B.  Dorothy Anderson-Galloway - Lot line adjustment located on Cochran, Derry Hill and Old Walpole Roads.  Map 6 Lot 13 in the Timberland and Rural Agricultural zones.  Proposal results in Lot 1 of 25.34 acres and Lot 2 of 79.09 acres.  Mr. A. DiBernardo presented.  Sec. Aslinger reported the application had been file complete with fees and that the abutters and public were properly notified.  She noted she had received a call from an abutter Mr. Tom McElman of 979 County Rd., he asked for an explanation of a lot line adjustment - which she explained to him.   As a result he had no objections and would not attend the meeting.  Mr. Daviss moved to accept the application as complete, Mr. DeCoste seconded, vote called, all were in favor, motion carried.

III.       Ch. Miller closed the meeting and opened the public hearing. (Ch. Miller stepped out V-Ch. Miller took over due to play rehearsal)   Mr. Dibernardo referred to the maps and described removing acreage from parcel 1 to parcel 2 resulting in Lot 1 and Lot 2.   

Tamar Moyer, abutter did not understand the line movements, Mr. Dibernardo re-explained it in greater detail pointing to the maps and noting that originally the two parcels were

Walpole Planning Board Minutes 11/11/08 page 2

deeded parcels not individual lots.  In order to move the line to account for sloping terrain issues it requires a lot line adjustment that will result in legally renaming the parcels as Lot 1 and Lot 2, there were no new lots created.  He explained the owners wanted to include all the useable level land to the lot that has an access.

Marsha Galloway asked where Derry Hill Rd. was on the plans?  Mr. Dibernardo showed her on the inset where the roads were indicated.  Due to the large size of the lots an inset was used to show the entire holdings.

 Mr. Chuck Bingaman asked if the public notice was correct taking into account the parcel acreage adjustments.  It was determined based on Mr. DiBernardo’s comment that the notice was correct.

Tamar Moyer asked about the purpose of the line adjustment, was it to create lots to be sold?  Mr. DiBernardo said there were no plans to put in house lots.  The board noted that part of the land is in the Timberland district, without frontage it is not subdividable. The Timberland district has a width of Rural Agricultural land in front of it to allow access but Timberland districts have no direct frontage.  Ms. Moyer thought the land was going into conservancy but Mr. DiBernardo did not know.  V-Ch. Miller noted the only thing before the board was the lot line adjustment, not subdivision or conservation plans.

IV.       V-Ch. B. Miller called for further comments, hearing none closed the public hearing and re-opened the meeting at 7:20pm.  He called for board comments and action.  Mr. Fletcher moved to approve the application as presented, Mr. Daviss seconded.  Without further discussion the vote was called, all were in favor, motion carried.  Maps and mylar were signed with Mr. DiBernardo agreeing to record the mylar and notify the Secretary of the recording numbers as proof.  (Ch. Miller returned to the meeting)

V.         New Business:

            A.  Mr. Joe DiBernardo submitted an application for a Lot Line Adjustment for Peter and Theodora Berg located off Valley Rd. in the Rural Agricultural and Timberland districts.  Lot #2 results in 95.55 acres and Lot #3 of 161.83 acres.  He said current Town records did not show the entire parcel as divided into 3 lots.  He showed on an old subdivision plan from 1978 signed by the Planning Board as approved but not reflected in the Town tax maps.  All three parcels are owned by the Berg’s and have frontage on Valley Rd.  Their intent is to remove a part of Lot 1 with buildings onto Lot 3.  Sec. Aslinger asked if the 1978 plan had not been recorded?  Mr. DiBernardo said he was unable to check the registry today because of the holiday, but will and also inform the board.  A motion to place the application for lot line adjustment on the agenda and schedule a public hearing for the December 9th meeting was made and seconded, all were in favor, motion carried.

B.  Other - Aumand’s Furniture update:  Sec. Aslinger reported that Attny. Kasper’s office had contacted her on Nov. 10th to say they would not attend tonight’s meeting.  The Board questions whether their project has a one year deadline for reconstruction and if simply filing an application would vest their interests?  It was noted if the one year deadline passes they would have to conform to current zoning restrictions rather than remaining a grandfathered non-conforming use.

VI.            Communications and Miscellaneous

            A.  Master Plan Update - Ch. Miller said Mr. Daviss was working with SWRPC on blending the old plan with the new information.  He asked Mr. Daviss to inquire if more funds were going to be needed beyond what is covered in the dues and the 350.00 leftover amount, if so to notify the board so the budget can be adjusted.  Sec. Aslinger said the budget had been filed on November 3rd as requested and as discussed at the work session.  She said it was agreed to request $1500.00 for continued master plan updating for 2009.  Ch. Miller said he would like to have SWRPC attend the Selectmen’s meeting that discusses the board’s budget and asked to be notified of the date as soon as possible.

Walpole Planning Board Minutes 11/11/08 page 3 

C.  Zoning amendment proposals - Ch. Miller referred to a memo from the Secretary listing several items for consideration.  Sec. Aslinger said a request was made at the work session for her to glean possible amendments from the 2008 meeting minutes while preparing the Master List for 2008.  Last year she presented 11 amendments but was not intending to propose any this year unless the board chose some from the list provided or had others. Ch. Miller suggested members look over the list and if they have ideas to present them to the board at the December meeting. (Ch. Miller was called to rehearsals and left, V-Ch. Miller took over).  Members chose to review the items due to the early hour rather than waiting until December.   

             - Consider water availability requirements as a zoning requirement or as a subdivision regulation:  Mr. Merklien reported that he thought the State was in process of proposing water protection rights and possibly within the next year they would suggest guidelines for towns.  He said it was a very complicated subject.  Sec. Aslinger thought in order to restrict water rights through zoning a study would need to be done to identify areas needing protection.  She thought it would be premature to propose an amendment at this time.  She suggested clarifying present wording in the subdivision regulations to address present concerns - something to the effect that “land with limited water is unsuitable for subdivision unless re-capture measures are incorporated and lot sizes are increased”.

            -  Existing Town road improvements and upgrading costs to be borne by a developer and performance bond requirements and specific road lay out standards:  Mr. Merklien thought it was premature to propose an amendment on road restrictions at this time but that in the near future it should be considered.  Ms. Aslinger said the key to this item is an “existing” road. Presently the regulations address new road construction but not when an existing road needs improvement.  The recent issue with Hooper Road was sketchy, maybe out of the Board’s purvue since the Selectboard is the authority on maintaining existing roadways along with the road agents input.  V-Ch. Miller thought the board did their best and used common sense to achieve a good result by working with the developer, selectboard and road agent.  (Ch. Miller returned to the meeting)

Ms. Aslinger suggested amending the subdivision regulations rather than a zoning amendment or write a “Resolution” with the BOS stating “whenever an existing road needs improvement as a result of a development the Planning Board needs to be involved”.  Members talked about who has the ultimate authority on roads and the need to protect the town from upgrading a road for the sole benefit of a developer and whether the sub regs already take existing roads into account.  Ch. Miller said the main issue is on dirt or unimproved Town road upgrades because unplanned development is taking place and the property owners desire a paved road for their tax dollars.  He feels the developer should bear the cost.  He thought the same requirement for a new road in a subdivision should be applied to improving an inadequate Town road.  He gave the example of Old Drewsville Rd.  Ms. Aslinger thought the road standards should be the same as well.  Mr. Fletcher said Old Drewsville Rd. was improved because the Town sheds are out there but agrees it is vulnerable to development.  Mr. Merklien asked if it would be better to make it a zoning amendment rather than amending the subdivision regs.  Sec. Aslinger said the only way to make it a zoning amendment would be to create an overlay district encompassing all existing town roadways and applying standards to be met but is more appropriately addressed in the subdivision regulations. Mr. DeCoste asked how it would be handled if it were only individuals building houses piecemeal.  Ch. Miller said each individual would have to petition the Selectboard to do the upgrade.  He reminded in years past the Selectboard has tried to throw up some roads and met with great resistance by property owners through town vote support.  Mr. Lounsbury cautioned it would be better to address vulnerable areas before a developer or a number of individuals come forward with proposals - to plan ahead.  Ch. Miller thought it was something that could be addressed but not at this time.

Walpole Planning Board Minutes 11/11/08 page 4

            - Extend regular meeting application work-loads into work sessions to expedite application processing:  Sec. Aslinger noted the suggestion was made by Selectman Sawyer when the board was holding very long meetings earlier in the year he thought to aid applicants with time delays.  She knows this wouldn’t be a zoning amendment but should be included on the list. Members thought the level of activity for planning applications in 2009 would be substantially less than it has been so the need to have an additional meeting was not warranted.

            - Preserve southern part of Walpole rural agricultural lands from currently allowed special exceptions for commercial and industrial uses:  Ms. Aslinger said the current allowance of a blanket commercial and industrial use in the entire rural agricultural district by special exception had been discussed several times at meetings and work sessions.  She said it would require a zoning amendment to possibly exclude certain areas such as River Rd.  Ch. Miller had mentioned that an asphalt plant and pulp mill had been proposed in that area, but stopped.  Mr. DeCoste asked if there would be a new zone designation for the area?  Ch. Miller said a light industrial overlay might work.  He said much of the discussion about Rte. 12 talked about setting industrial uses to the rear of properties with retail or commercial forward.  Mr. Daviss asked why the southern part of Walpole as opposed to other areas?  Ms. Aslinger said it’s an area that is still pristine and untouched so should be protected before development pressure arrives.  She said the zoning could be amended with wording to alter the boundaries of the rural ag district such as “commercial and industrial uses allowed by special exception except for River Rd.” etc, by defining the actual boundaries within the district and by light or heavy commercial or industrial.  Mr. DeCoste asked about the landowners - would it be a taking?  Ch. Miller thought it could be addressed without be considered a taking but it might be viewed as such by some.  Members did not think an amendment was needed at this time, but possibly in the near future.

            - Create ore restrictive wetland and shoreland protective buffers: Ms. Aslinger said buffers were discussed at several meetings and could be included in the zoning as a general provision if the board chose.  No comments followed.

            - Create a Historic Overlay district for individual sites throughout the villages:  Ms. Aslinger said the issue that had come up at a few meetings and could be enacted by a zoning change.  Mr. Merklien asked if an overlay district could be created that was voluntary because it’s been tried before with restrictive measures and has not passed.  Ch. Miller asked if it was voluntary why have it at all?  Mr. Daviss said drawing a boundary or doing an inventory to identify historic buildings was a better alternative to a specific restrictive district and thought making it voluntary would be of benefit.  Mr. Merklien said there are a number of monetary benefits of having a historic registry.  Ch. Miller said when the grocery store went out of Town and the center of commercial activity was gone, the village was preserved, it happened naturally without setting aside a specific district. He also attributed Les Hubbard’s purchases of some significant properties as a gift to the town that has helped preservation. And, having the Burdick’s building purchased by local people instead of two out of town lawyers helped to define and preserve the village center.  He said things change but the village is preserved for awhile, the restorations and the character of the buildings, plus the regulations that are in place have kept it intact.  For some time there was concern over what would happen to some big buildings that were in bad repair, but those have been taken care of too because of being restored by individuals despite the efforts to make them more attractive by allowing multifamily and bed and breakfasts.  The way the village has naturally been preserved without a specific historic district is beneficial and perhaps long lasting.  Ch. Miller thought it was good to explore all options however.

            - Refer to 5/27/08 Work session minutes regarding special exceptions and zoning district changes and other good suggestions:  Ms. Aslinger said the discussion at that meeting was in regard to Mr. Daviss’s concern that some areas in town had changed their face simply by the special exception process such as the Old Drewsville Rd. area being termed “industrial zone” when it is still predominantly rural agricultural.  She said the zoning ordinance recommends that

Walpole Planning Board Minutes 11/11/08 page 5

the planning board change a zoning designation permanently once a property use is allowed by special exception and has been converted to an industrial use from a rural agriculture use.  She said in a couple of areas such as Huntington Farm and Whitcomb construction the board may want to consider reviewing the zoning map and proposing changes to reflect the actual industrial uses.  Ch. Miller thought the economic development master plan work planned for 2009 would address the issue and it should be a top priority.  Mr. Daviss agreed saying one impetus for doing an economic development plan happens when one industrial use is allowed in the rural agricultural district, it grows like a fungus such as the Whitcomb area.  It’s now being described as “industrial” because of 11 or so industrial uses that have a foothold.  A plan would draw the line and prevent the spread into residential rural agricultural areas where persons are invested in a residential use.  Ch. Miller agreed noting Bensonwood’s proposal was hard to limit when they located so closely to Chamberlain although it worked out to everyone’s benefit.  Mr. Daviss thought part of the economic development plan process would not only identify targeted areas but open discussion on the hard issues instead of reacting to an application or proposal before the board.  It makes it much more difficult to enact limitations during the application process.  With a plan in place the planning board has a guide to follow.  The zoning board, when special exceptions are applied for, would be in a position to refer to the master plan for guidance and not feel pressured to grant based on surrounding property uses.  Mr. DeCoste was concerned that the criteria is lax in what is required to obtain a special exception, his thought is to add more restrictions such as infrastructure requirements.  Ch. Miller agreed siting an example of someone wanting develop in the southern section of town, if the plan excluded that area because of inadequate roads there would already be a mechanism for denial based on the lack of infrastructure.  Ms. Aslinger noted in the minutes from 5/27 there was discussion regarding putting more restrictions on the special exception review process such as requiring infrastructure for large scale industrial or commercial uses.  Mr. DeCoste asked if Ch. Mansouri had considered or had suggestions.  Ms. Aslinger said she thought she would be in attendance and brought an extra copy but will e-mail it to her with the minutes for her comments. 

            Ch. Miller stressed the importance of developing the economic plan and to address these issues specifically during the 2009 work sessions.  Mr. Daviss said Lisa Murphy at SWRPC is gathering some sample plans as requested and will send them by e-mail when available.  Ch. Miller said further discussion will take place at the January work session and announced work session for the balance of 2008 are cancelled due to the holidays.

                - Consider allowing 2 single family dwellings on one family homestead lot:  Ms. Aslinger thought more research is needed on how other towns handle allowing two single family dwellings on one lot without subdivision in an instance where family members are attempting to care for one another such as the Frost’s request earlier in the year.  She asked if the board wanted to pursue making an allowance in the zoning or regulations?  Mr. Daviss asked how it was resolved for the Frost’s?  Sec. Aslinger reported they were able to take the handicapped apartment in the Griswold Building on Westminster St.  They knew they could only seek a variance because of lack of frontage.  Members felt the current zoning addresses the issue by allowing a two family dwelling on a lot provided they have a common foundation and did not see the need to make any changes at this time.

- In conclusion, Sec. Aslinger said if the board has no other suggestions and does not want to pursue items on the list then there will be no proposed amendments by the board for 2009.  She noted a copy of the official calendar was attached, just in case something should need presenting in December.

D.  Other -  Mr. Merklien announced the passing of Mr. Bob Jasse last week.  He said he had been the board’s ally and loved Walpole - referring to it as “the center of the universe”.  He will be greatly missed but always appreciated for attending meetings and participating in the work sessions.  Members reminisced for a few moments about some of Bob’s spirited but caring ways.

VII.         Ch. Miller closed the meeting 8:20pm and wished everyone a Happy Thanksgiving.  Next meeting 12/9/08 7PM.

Cc:  file, PB, ZBA, BOS, WCC, MP, all related applicants and agents  Posted:  Town Hall, Lobby, Burdick’s, www.thewalpolean.com

11-10-08

Preston Brings SOMA Neuro-Muscular Integration to Langdon

By Chuck Bingaman

            Few career choices hinge on being hit in the head by a falling bowling ball, a serious brain injury and a period of paralysis!

            But that accident in her freshman year at the University of Vermont led Louisa Preston through years of pain, loss of her athletic abilities, and exploration of many therapies to regain her sense of physical movement, control and energy.

            “I came from a family in New Jersey where we all played tennis, skied, and swam.  We were very physical and enjoyed it! But my accident ended nearly all of it until I discovered SOMA and it helped me put it back together!”

            In fact, SOMA Neuro-Muscular Integration was so successful for Preston that she took the 8-month course at the SOMA Institute outside Seattle and became a certified SOMA therapist in 1995. Then she launched a 13-year practice there until moving to this area where she continued her work at Okemo last year. 

            Now she’s opened a SOMA practice in a room at the Langdon Town Hall on Rt. 12A and is using her abilities to help people regain alignment flexibility and balance.’

            “The SOMA program is body work delivered in 10 sessions, each loosening and unwinding the body one area at a time,” explains Preston.  “Even though SOMA work is very physical and hand-delivered one on one on a table, it is different from ordinary massage.  With SOMA we change the structure of the body through the manipulation of fascia—tough connective tissue that envelops and isolates the muscles, providing structural support and protection—and the muscles  themselves.  The neurological work is done on both physiological as well as psychological levels.”

            By applying pressure to fascia and muscles, returning them to their free and flexible functions, “people find that their recurring bodily problems often go away,” says Preston.  “It gets the fascia  flexibility, and the changes in the body continue to evolve after the sessions are completed.”

             So,” she continues, “ it’s great for chronic pain in the back or neck, chronic shoulder and hip pain, fibromyolgia and even lack of energy.”

            The SOMA program is administered in ten sessions, each lasting one and a quarter to one and a half hours.  Preston takes pictures of her patients, front and back and in profile, before and after the first and last sessions so they can see actual changes in their posture as a result of the work.  In between sessions, clients are requested to complete logs describing how they felt before, during and after the sessions to make their emotional/psychological changes clear.  Sessions are usually given a week or two apart.

            While the benefits of the eleven-session regimen are more or less permanent, Preston said that she and other SOMA therapists do offer “a maintenance massage for their patients that is customized to their particular needs.”

            For further information or to discuss possible treatment, call Louisa Preston at 603-499-2017.  For information on SOMA, see www.SOMA-Insitute.org.

                                    --30—

[Sidebar]

Maybe There’s Something to This!

By Chuck Bingaman, Contributing Writer

            Got to try this before writing about it, right?

            Well, I went to my first SOMA session not expecting a lot.  After seeing my photos, I wasn’t too inspired!  Uneven hips, crooked spine, dropping shoulders.  An iffy task for any body worker!

            Lying down on my side on a padded table with arms and head on padded squares and covered with warm blankets, at least it was comfortable.  Then Louisa Preston began applying pressure from her strong hands and forearms augmented by the firm leverage of leaning into the work. 

I felt muscles, bones, and nerves that I had never felt before!  While not exactly painful, I knew that serious pressure, serious work was going on deep inside.  From high on my neck to deep around my hip bones, she applied smooth, very firm pressure, while constantly moving along bones and muscles.  (Subsequent sessions deal with all other body regions from head to toe.)

I was feeling relaxed but also loosened up.  First on the right side and then on the left side as she took it up.

And then—90 minutes later—it was over. And you know what? My head and shoulders were realigned! My shoulders were not as hunched over. My chin was probably a half inch or more higher than before and my head more upright.  Muscles under my shoulder blades and extending around my shoulders had been pushed, stretched, released and returned to their natural length, allowing me to stand straighter than I had in years!

Wow!

                                    --30--

Lisa Preston at work in Langdon. Chuck Bingaman photo.

MINUTES OF THE SELECTBOARD

OCTOBER 22, 2008

Selectboard Present:            Sheldon Sawyer, Jamie Teague

                                    (Absent: Whitney Aldrich)

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

PUBLIC BUSINESS:

SOUTHWEST REGION PLANNING COMMISSION – Matthew Suchodolski – Andrus:  Mr. Suchodolski distributed copies of the following documents with reference to the Community Development Block Grant for Andrus, LLC:  Authorization to Submit Payment Requests to the New Hampshire Community Development Finance Authority (withdrawal of funds); Code of Ethics for CDBG Administration – Grant Number 08-050-CDED; Financial Management Plan, draft copy of the Subrecipient Agreement, and a draft copy of the Beneficiary Employment Commitment Agreement between the Town of Walpole and Andrus Associates, LLC.  This will be a separate fund; there will be no co-mingling of the monies in the Town’s general fund accounts.  Mr. Suchodolski asked the Selectboard to review the documents.  He will attend the next meeting to request that they approve and sign the documents.   

WALPOLE PLAYERS:  Ray Baos, Chris Tyson, Myra Mansouri and Bill Perron were in attendance on behalf of the Walpole Players.  Mrs. Tyson, Vice-President, advised that they appreciate using the Helen Miller Theater and realize that it takes a lot of fuel oil to heat the building.  There are other expenses involved in maintaining the Town Hall therefore they wanted to make a contribution.  They submitted an envelope to the Selectboard with a thank you note and check in the amount of $5,000 to be put into the General Fund to be used as the Selectboard deems appropriate.  The Selectboard confirmed that there are many projects that need to be done and thanked the Walpole Players for their contribution. 

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register and manifest in the amount of $69,323.90.  Seconded by Mr. Sawyer.  Motion passed unanimously.

Mrs. Teague moved to approve the supplemental Accounts Payable check register in the amount of $1,055.00.  Seconded by Mr. Sawyer.  Motion passed unanimously.  

SPECIAL MEETING:  Mr. Sawyer advised that the Selectboard scheduled a Special Meeting on October 20, 2008, to consider making an emergency payment to the Fall Mountain Region School District for them to cover an insurance payment.  The regular monthly payment is $390,125.00; Mr. Sawyer and Mr. Aldrich voted to pay one-half or $195,093.00.  

PAYROLL:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve the payroll voucher for the week ending October 18, 2008, for gross wages in the amount of $14,032.44 or net wages in the amount of $5,810.89.  Seconded by Mr. Sawyer.  Motion passed unanimously. 

Mrs. Teague moved to approve the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $3,320.00.  Seconded by Mr. Sawyer.  Motion passed unanimously. 

Selectboard Meeting – October 22, 2008 – Page 2

MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – October 15, 2008:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of October 15, 2008, as printed.  Seconded by Mr. Sawyer.  Motion passed unanimously.

Mrs. Teague moved to put the Minutes of the Selectboard Emergency Meeting of October 20, 2008, on-hold until the meeting next week.  Seconded by Mr. Sawyer.  Motion passed unanimously.

DEPARTMENT / COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard received and reviewed the minutes of the following meetings: 1) Planning Board – October 14, 2008; and 2) Zoning Board of Adjustment – October 15, 2008.

ABATEMENT:

ANTHONY and KAREN BOSCO – MAP 001-011-002:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve the Abatement for Property Taxes in the amount of $840.00 for Anthony and Karen Bosco on Blackjack Crossing.  Seconded by Mr. Sawyer.  Motion passed unanimously.

WARRANT:

REPORT OF TIMBER CUT –MAP 005-002-006- DANIEL McALLISTER:  Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the Report of Timber Cut in the amount of $396.00 for Daniel McAllister.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed unanimously.

OLD BUSINESS:

JACK NEARY LETTER:  The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of a letter from Jack Neary.

Mr. Sawyer moved to pass this over until a full board is present.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed unanimously.

LIBRARY FUNDS REQUEST:  Mrs. Teague moved to release $1,550.00 from the Building budget to the Library Building Maintenance Fund.  Seconded by Mr. Sawyer.  Motion passed unanimously.

NEW BUSINESS:

MEDICAL COVERAGE PAPERWORK TO BE SIGNED:  The Selectboard received a notice that the medical coverage went down.

Mrs. Teague moved to approve having Chairman Sawyer sign the Medical Coverage document.  Seconded by Mr. Sawyer.  Motion passed unanimously.

UNAUTHORIZED BANDSTAND USE AND DAMAGED:  The rental of the Town Hall for a wedding last week did not include use of the bandstand however it was used; a section was removed resulting in damage to the bandstand.  There was discussion pertaining to billing the renter for the deposit, rental and repairs.   

Mrs. Teague moved to send the bill in the amount of $225.00 to Helen Gideos for unauthorized use of the bandstand and the repairs.  Seconded by Mr. Sawyer.  Motion passed unanimously.

POLICE – SALE OF 1998 FORD EXPEDITION:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve the sale of the 1998 Ford Expedition and placing the ad in the paper with the additional wording “Vehicle is being sold as is no warranty or guarantee implied”.  Seconded by Mr. Sawyer.  Motion passed unanimously.

Selectboard Meeting – October 22, 2008 – Page 3

NOTICE OF INTENT TO CUT TIMBER –JEFFREY MICHAUD- MAP 008-009-008:  Mr. Sawyer moved to sign the Notice of Intent to Cut Timber on Wentworth Road for Jeff Michaud.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed unanimously.

RETIREMENT LETTER – PATRICIA BURNHAM:  The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of a letter of retirement from Patricia Burnham.  This will be effective on November 30th, 2008.

RESPONDING TO REPORTED FOREST FIRE – BILL FROM WILLIAM HOUGHTON:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve signing the bill in the amount of $38.00 to the Division of Forest and Lands for a report of a possible forest fire.  Following a report of smoke an investigation determined that there was no fire.  Seconded by Mr. Sawyer.  Motion passed unanimously.

Mr. Sawyer declared this meeting adjourned at 8:52 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

(Note:  These are unapproved minutes.  Corrections, if necessary, may be found in the minutes of the October 30, 2008, Selectboard meeting.)

PLANNING BOARD MEETING             

November 11, 2008                7:00pm Town Hall

AGENDA

I.          Open Meeting

            A.  Roll Call - Designate alternates

            B.  Approve Minutes of October 14 and 28, 2008

II.            Review Applications Submitted: Prior to public hearing -Accep/Reject/Delay

A.  Lee Kitchen, Michael Kemp, Duane & Jean Wetherby and Michael and Mary Kemp - Lot Line Adjustment located in North Walpole on Spruce St. and Church St. Map 28, Lots 75 and 77 in the Residential B district.  Proposal results in vacant Lot 75 of .42 acres and Lot 77 of .23 acres with the existing home.  Mr. Travis Royce presenting.

B.  Dorothy Anderson-Galloway - Lot Line Adjustment located on Cochran, Derry Hill and Old Walpole Roads.   Map 6 Lot 13 in the Timberlands and Rural Agricultural zones.  Proposed line adjustment results in Lot 1 of 25.34 acres and Lot 2 of 79.09 acres.

Mr. A. DiBernardo presenting.

III.       Close Meeting/Open Public Hearing on Applications Submitted:

            A.  Kitchen/Kemp/Wetherby/Kemp

            B.  Anderson-Galloway

IV.       Close Public Hearings - Reopen Meeting - Action:  Approve/Disapprove/Delay

            A.  Kitchen/Kemp

            B.  Anderson-Galloway

V.         New Business:  Preliminary Conceptual Consultations - Application Submissions

            A.  none scheduled as of posting, could change

            B.  Other

VI.            Communications and Miscellaneous

A.  Master Plan Update - Status of SWRPC dues, update of recent final documents, discussion of economic development section.

            B.  Schedule January work session:  1/13/09

            C.  Zoning amendment proposals

            D.  Other

PLANNING BOARD

Walpole, NH  03608

Work Session Tuesday October 28. 2008, 7:00pm Town Hall Basement

Minutes

Present:  Jeff Miller, Bob Miller, Ben Daviss, Don Lounsbury, Dave DeCoste, Mel Schupack,

Dennis Marcom

Recording:  Pamela Aslinger, Secretary

These minutes are unapproved and will be reviewed at the November 11, 2008 meeting for corrections.

Meeting Opened at 7:00pm

                Purpose of the meeting was to review status of SW Regional Planning dues and discuss the beginning of an economic development chapter for the Master Plan

Dues - Sec. Aslinger reported she had sent a memo on the 27th to the selectboard requesting they pay the remainder of the dues from the current year planning budget account #01-4191.10-390 PLN SWRPC Master Plan Project.  The memo asked that they notify the board of payment when it occurs.  She had not yet received notification as of this meeting. 

Vision statement/Goals and Objectives - Ch. Miller asked Mr. Daviss to contact SWRPC and ask them to review the recently finalized documents and create an updated land use section by blending the existing section with the newly created drafts.  He asked if the initial review could be included as part of the dues and what the cost would be to create the new land use section including updating the technical data.  He asked for Mr. Daviss to report back to the board at the next meeting if possible.  Ch. Miller suggested members interested should plan to attend a meeting with the selectboard and Tim Murphy in the future to discuss SWRPC’s membership importance to the entire Town.

Economic Development Section - Mr. Daviss asked for the committee to consider dedicating the next year’s work sessions to creating an economic development section to the Master Plan.  He stated that the Office of Energy and Planning and SWRPC are making an effort to have all towns incorporate an economic section to address potential court issues that may arise.  He said models are available with Jaffrey’s being the one most touted.  Mr. Schupack suggested the business people in town be tapped for their input from the onset.  Mr. Daviss and others agreed with creating a forum where all factions could air discussions on issues prior to an application being before the planning board.  Attendees asked if a spectrum of models could be gathered in hopes to encourage a variety of developments for cosideration. Mr. Schupack suggested creating an economic development advisory committee for the town.  Ch. Miller asked Mr. Daviss to gather the various models for the board and others to consider prior to the next meeting if possible.  He suggested the work sessions beginning in January 2009 be devoted to the new section for the Master Plan.  Mr. DeCoste suggested that models include at least one very specific and one very general.

Zoning/Regulations Amendments for 2008/9 - Sec. Aslinger reported she would gather any potential previously discussed changes while preparing the “Master List” for 2008, a required document listing all of the Board’s meeting actions for the entire year and have it prepared for discussion at the November 11, 2008 meeting.  Attendees made no other suggested changes.

Budget -  Sec. Aslinger reminded the budget needed to be filled out by Nov 3rd and asked Ch. Miller and members if an amount for the updating the master plan needed to be included.  Members agreed to $1500.00 for the year.  Members discussed meeting with the selectboard regarding the importance of the SWRPC membership and stress that it benefits the entire town and various agencies.  It was agreed that the dues should not be a line item in the planning board budget nor should the planning board solely be burdened with proving its necessity to the Town.  Ch. Miller reminded while the board files a budget each year based on prior year’s expenditures the selectboard must make allowances for overruns due to the unknown potential activity of the board in a given year.  He suggested they cannot limit the boards work by such actions as freezing it’s spending.

Handout - SWRPC - Innovative Land Use Planning Saturday Nov. 8, 2008 9-noon workshop in Hancock, NH at the Harris center.

Meeting closed 7:30pm

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

OCTOBER 30, 2008

Selectboard Present:  Sheldon Sawyer, Whitney Aldrich, Jamie Teague

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

PUBLIC BUSINESS:

MATT SUCHODOLSKI –CDBG- Andrus, LLC:  Matt Suchodolski of the Southwest Region Planning Commission was present at the last meeting to distribute copies of several documents with reference to the Community Development Block Grant for Andrus, LLC.  He requested that the Selectboard approve and sign the documents.

Mr. Aldrich moved to approve and sign the following documents that are required for the Community Development Block Grant for Andrus, LLC:

1. The Exemption Form (Mr. Sawyer’s signature);
2. Code of Federal Regulations (no signature required);
3. Code of Ethics (All Board members signed);
4. Financial Plan (All Board members signed);
5. Signature Card (All Board members and Elaine Moore signed);
6. Subrecipient Agreement between MEDC and the Town (Mr. Sawyer signed);
7. Beneficiary Employment Commitment Agreement between the Town and Andrus                   Associates, LLC.
8. Professional Services Agreement Between the Town and SWRPC.

The Selectboard agreed that withdrawals will be authorized when any two of the four signers on the Signature Card have signed the document.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed unanimously.

HELEN GIDEOS:  Helen Gideos, Holly Gideos, Christa Elizabeth Gideos and Michael George Athanasspoulas were present.  Helen Gideos advised that they were present with regards to her granddaughter’s wedding and the bill she recently received for the misuse and damage to the bandstand.  Her family meant no disrespect to the bandstand or Mr. Bailey.  It was their understanding that the bandstand was included in the rental of the Town Hall when they signed their agreement on November 5, 2007.  She was willing to pay for the damage. The Selectboard reviewed the agreement.  Mrs. Gideos paid the $25.00 for the damages to the bandstand.

Mrs. Teague moved that the Selectboard waive the $200 fee for the rental of the bandstand.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  Motion passed unanimously.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register and manifest in the amount of $36,771.53.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed unanimously. 

Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the check register for two voided checks Nos. 052887 and 052836.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed unanimously.

PAYROLL:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the payroll voucher for the week ending October 25, 2008, for gross wages in the amount of $16,943.94 or net wages in the amount of $8,615.48.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed unanimously.

Selectboard Meeting – October 30, 2008 – Page 2

Mrs. Teague moved to approve the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $4,120.70.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  Motion passed unanimously.

MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – October 22, 2008:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of October 22, 2008, as printed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  Mrs. Teague and Mr. Sawyer approved the motion.  Mr. Aldrich abstained as he was not present.  Motion passed by a majority vote.

SELECTBOARD SPECIAL MEETING – October 20, 2008:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Selectboard Special Meeting of October 20, 2008, as printed.  Seconded by Mr. Sawyer.  Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Sawyer approved the motion.  Mrs. Teague abstained as she was not present.  Motion passed by a majority vote. 

DEPARTMENT / COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard received and reviewed the minutes of the following meetings:  1) Planning Board Meeting – October 14, 2008; and 2) North Walpole Village Board of Commissioners meetings of October 21, 2008 and October 28, 2008.

ABATEMENTS:

ANTHONY and KAREN BOSCO –MAP 001-011-002- 2008 TAXES PER TAX APPEAL:   Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Abatement for the 2008 Property Taxes in the amount of $876.00 for Anthony and Karen Bosco.  This is the result of their BLTA tax appeal settlement.   Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed unanimously.

With reference to the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of October 22, 2008, the Abatement approved for property taxes for Anthony and Karen Bosco was for the Year 2007.

PAUL GALLOWAY –MAP 006-012-000- YEAR 2008 – BLTA:   Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Abatement for the 2008 Property Taxes in the amount of $484.00 for Paul Galloway.  This is the result of their BLTA tax appeal settlement.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed unanimously.

GILBERT GAY LIVING TRUST – SEWER:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Abatement for Sewer Fees in the amount of $7.28 for the Gilbert Gay Living Trust.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed unanimously.

AUMAND & SONS, INC. – SEWER:  Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the Abatement for Sewer Fees in the amount of $201.52 for Aumand & Sons, Inc.  This is for the building that burned.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  Motion passed unanimously.

KIMBERLY LEWIS and TONI McDOUGLE – WATER / SEWER – Map 017-018-000:  Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the Abatement for Sewer Fees in the amount of $94.18 and Water Fees in the amount of $127.42 for Kimberly Lewis and Toni McDougle.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  Motion passed unanimously.

Selectboard Meeting – October 30, 2008 – Page 3

KOPAZ ESTATE – SEWER – Map 030-046-000:  Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the Abatement for Sewer Fees in the amount of $37.09 for the Kopaz Estate.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  Motion passed unanimously.   

WILLIAM GALLAGHER – SEWER – Map 028-009-000:  Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the Abatement for Sewer Fees in the amount of $1.29 for William Gallagher.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  Motion passed unanimously.

WILLIAM BALDASARO – SEWER – Map 030-059-003:  Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the Abatement for Sewer Fees in the amount of $1,060.09 for William Baldasaro.  The meter was read incorrectly.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  Motion passed unanimously.

CLIFTON COOKE – SEWER –Map 019-040-000:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Abatement for Sewer Fees in the amount of $512.65 for Clifton Cooke.  Seconded by Mr. Sawyer.  Motion passed unanimously.

REFUNDS:

PAUL GALLOWAY –MAP 006-012-000- YEAR 2007 BLTA:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Refund for Property Taxes in the amount of $522.00 Principal and $29.26 Interest for the Year 2007 for Paul Galloway.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed unanimously. 

PAUL GALLOWAY –MAP 006-012-000- YEAR 2008 BLTA:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Refund for Property Taxes in the amount of $89.00 for the Year 2008 for Paul Galloway.  This is the result of an over-payment.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed unanimously.

BUILDING PERMIT:

MARK HOUGHTON – MAP 001-005-000:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve Building Permit No. 2008-045 for Mark Houghton to construct a one story 10’ x 16’ sugar house and to extend a roof over an existing garage 16’ x 30’ to store equipment.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed unanimously.

OLD BUSINESS:

JACK NEARY LETTER:  The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of a letter from Jack Neary. Mr. Sawyer moved to take the letter from Jack Neary under advisement and to recommend to the Police Department that they follow their routine procedures.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  Mrs. Teague abstained.  Mr. Sawyer and Mr. Aldrich were in favor.  The motion passed unanimously. 

FANNY MASON FOREST:  Mr. Aldrich talked to Marcia Galloway about access off Route 12 to the Fanny Mason Forest.  She can find no documents between the State and the Town on the rest area.  There was a consensus of the Selectboard to invite Harold Putnam to a meeting to discuss this.  Mr. Aldrich will attend the Conservation Commission meeting on Monday night as Mrs. Galloway wants to talk about a small piece of land that abuts the Fanny Mason Forest.

NORTH WALPOLE:  Mrs. Teague discussed the phone call she received from Mrs. Hill and it was referred to the proper authority.

Selectboard Meeting – October 30, 2008 – Page 4

NEW BUSINESS:

SET TAX RATE – 2008 AND SIGN WARRANTS:  Mr. Aldrich moved to set the Town Tax Rate at $19.09.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed unanimously.

Mr. Aldrich moved to sign and approve the Town of Walpole Warrant for the Collection of Second Issue Taxes as follows: 

            North Walpole - $816,005.00                Walpole - $3,853,417.00

Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed unanimously.

The Department of Revenue Administration 2008 Tax Rate Calculations are as follows:

            Town Rate -               $ 3.66

            Local School Rate -     10.04

            State School Rate -        2.19

            County Rate -               2.56

                                                _____

            Walpole                     $18.45                         

Walpole Fire District -         .64                   

                                                ______                       

                                                $19.09             

GOOD CIRCLE – LETTER FROM DR. MOROSINI:  The Selectboard received a letter from Dr. Morosini regarding a property on Good Circle and they will be doing a follow up on an action.

FUEL TANK PROBLEMS:  Mr. Aldrich moved to lock the thermostat at 65 degrees in the Town Hall except for events.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed unanimously.

INTENT TO CUT TIMBER –PAUL LOONEY- MAP 004-020-001:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve and sign the Intent to Cut Timber for Paul Looney on a property off the Old Keene Road.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed unanimously.  

TOWN HALL ROOF – LEAKING:  The Selectboard agreed to hire Long’s Roofing to repair the Town Hall roof that is leaking. 

TURKEYS:  There was a consensus of the Selectboard to have all employees receive a turkey before Thanksgiving. 

VACATION DAYS –CHIEF HEWES- NOVEMBER 10th To 14TH, 2008:  Mr. Aldrich moved to honor the request of David Hewes to take vacation time from November 10th to 14th, 2008.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed unanimously.

LETTERS:

TRANSPORTATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP LETTER – APPOINTING SHELDON SAWYER:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve and sign the membership letter to the Southwest Region Planning Commission appointing Sheldon Sawyer to the Transportation Advisory Committee for a three year term.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed unanimously.

Selectboard Meeting – October 30, 2008 – Page 5

WALPOLE PLAYERS:  Mr. Aldrich moved to approve and sign the letter to the Walpole Players thanking them for their contribution to keep the Town Hall in pristine condition.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed unanimously.

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

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary   

Opportunity for Young Singers

     A youth choir is forming for a Christmas performance on Sunday, December 14th at the 1st Congregational Church of Walpole. Community children from kindergarten through high school are invited to participate.

    Music director Ken Olsson offers vocal instruction and performance skills as well as the enjoyable experience of seasonal choral singing. 

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