Burdick’s Restaurant to Host Benefit for YMCA

“Reach Out to Youth” a Week From Wednesday

     Burdick’s Restaurant in Walpole will host a benefit dinner for Meeting Waters YMCA’s “Reach Out to Youth Fund” on Wednesday, May 27th. That night, co-owners Paula and Larry Burdick will donate 10% of all dinner receipts to the regional YMCA.

     The Burdick’s two children have both been involved in Meeting Waters YMCA programs. Both have attended the regional YMCA’s Lewis Day Camp, a program that their son Jake will serve on the staff of for the third time this summer. He has also participated for the past four years in the YMCA Youth & Government program, a partnership between Meeting Waters YMCA and Fall Mountain Regional High School.

     The funds raised through the Reach Out to Youth appeal and the event at Burdick’s help ensure that all children have access to Meeting Waters YMCA programs. Specifically, donations support the regional Y’s youth scholarship fund and the its summer camp bussing program. Contributions to last year’s Reach Out to Youth Fund were part of the support system that resulted in area families and children benefiting from $200,276 in financial assistance and subsidized services.

     As Meeting Waters YMCA Executive Director Steve Fortier explains, “Our camp fees are among the lowest in the region yet, uniquely, we run three busses each day for eight weeks to our Lewis Day Camp and Adventure Camps from Bellows Falls, Westminster, Saxtons River, Walpole, Drewsville, Alstead, Langdon, Charlestown and four other NH and VT communities. Our busses will drive over 15,000 miles to deliver a total of more than 300 children to and from camp this summer… at a cost of around $30,000! We cannot possibly ask camp parents­—more than 50% of whom receive some financial assistance—to bear the burden of this expense. We need help to fill this gap. We’re thankful for the generosity of those who have stepped up—including Larry and Paula.” He adds, “At this event, people will enjoy a great meal… for a great cause.”

     Reservations for Wednesday’s benefit dinner can be made by calling The Restaurant at Burdick Chocolate at 603-756-9058. More information about Meeting Waters YMCA Reach Out to Youth Campaign is available at their website at www.meetingwatersymca.org or by calling their office nearest you—Brattleboro: (802) 246-1036; Bellows Falls: (802) 463-4769; or Springfield: (802) 885-8131.

PLANNING BOARD

Walpole, NH  03608

Regular Meeting – Tuesday,  May 12, 2009   7:00pm    Town Hall

MINUTES

Presiding:  Jeff Miller, Ch.

Members Present:  Ben Daviss, Dave DeCoste, Henry Fletcher, Bob Miller, Jeff White, alt., Donn Lounsbury, alt.

Members Absent:  Eric Merklien, Sheldon Sawyer

Recording:  Pamela Aslinger, Sec./alt.

These minutes are unapproved and will be reviewed at the June 9, 2009 meeting for errors, corrections and omissions.  There were 16 persons in attendance.

I.            Meeting opened at 7:05pm

            A.  Roll call – Pamela Aslinger was designated as alternate for E. Merklien

            B.  A motion to approve the Minutes of the 4/14 and 4/24 meetings was made and seconded, vote called, all were in favor, motion carried.

            C.  Ch. Miller passed over the alternate position pending contact with Mr. O’Keefe.

II.        Old Business

            A.  Erik Frink – Lot line adjustment Merriam Farm Rd.  Mr. Tom Flavin surveyor was present to explain that the proposed lot line adjustment after being put on hold from a prior meeting due to boundary disputes, has been resolved and asks that the board schedule it for the June meeting.  He pointed out on the survey where the dispute between Mr. Faulkner and Merriam Farm is in question.  The line does not affect Mr. Lilo and Mervyn Frink’s application.  He said a survey from the 1930’s was incorrect and led to the dispute but it only involves Mr. Faulkner’s boundary line with Merriam Farm.  Mr. Flavin has re-submitted the application updated the abutter list.  Additional fees are being waived.  The Board voted to place the application on the agenda and hold the public hearing on June 9, 2009, the next regular meeting.

III.       New Business

            A.  Aumand’s Furniture Site Plan Review – Attorney Tom Hanna presented the Board with the application, fees and maps in order to be scheduled for the June 9, 2009 meeting for acceptance and to hold a public hearing.  He referred to a cover letter (on file) and gave each member their own packet containing information about the application.  The proposal is for new construction that replaces the building lost in a fire July 10. 2008.  He introduced Mr. and Mrs. Aumand, Bob Furlong from American Construction, Joe DiBernardo from DiBernardo Associates and Ted Fellows, site engineer.  He gave a quick overview, as did Joe Dibernardo, and Mr. Furlone.  He acknowledged as the planning board has determined the reconstruction could take place within the existing footprint.  The full buildout of the building occurred in 1956 prior to the enactment of the N. Walpole zoning ordinance so it is a non-conforming grandfathered use.  No part of the new building will be outside of the footprint, on the west side the setback will be 19 feet, the building will be masonry and sprinkled, landscaped on the west side as well if agreeable to Mrs. Shaughnessey.  The footprint will be over 2000 sq. ft. less than the original building.  The west side will be one story

Walpole Planning Board Minutes 5/12/09 page 2

and no part of the new structure will be higher than the old structure.  Because of the substantially reduced footprint there is better availability for water recharge, drainage and grassy capture areas.   He asked Mr. DiBernardo to add his comments.

            Mr. DiBernardo pointed out the new construction is completely within the old footprint.  They have addressed the checklist, they will put a new sidewalk of 4.5 ft. on the North side, municipal water and sewer is available.  Trans Canada is agreeable to allow a right of way for drainage into an existing system.  He described the landscaping plans and plant types plus they will be removing a section of dilapidated asphalt.  He thought the site would be a huge improvement to the gateway of N. Walpole and Walpole.  The parking is not changing from what is was, there will be an 1000 gallon buried propane tank, a perimeter drain will be collected and run into the existing system.  He showed where the agreed setback line on the west side with the Shaughnessey’s being at 19’.  Mr. Lounsbury asked if there are any issues with a buried tank?  Answer was no according to Mr. Furlone, it will be installed according to industry standards.

            Mr. Fellows added he was in touch with Mr. McGuirk, water commissioner in N. Walpole regarding the size of the water line off Church St.  It is a fairly new 10-12” line and they’ve determined that a 6” cast iron loop on West and Ash St. will service the sewer system and the locations will be added to the plans.  He also mentioned that even the lowest part of the construction is within the base flood elevation requirements of 1.5 ft. and is shown on the plans.

            Mr. Furlone referred to the elevation plans, the building will be 14,000 sq. ft. with an outside fire alarm as well as the sprinkler system.  He showed the handicap accessibility, the levels, roof drains into the Trans Canada system and state drains, the exterior is masonry with split brick, he’ll bring samples of the colors.  He described the elevations and their locations in regard to the streets and neighbors.  They will have a wall mounted illuminated sign and fire exit signs.  The building will be one-story and one and half story on the street side. 

            Mr. Hanna asked the board to review the checklist and list of waivers to make certain the board is satisfied with the requests.  The sign ordinance specifically mentions   Aumand’s neon lighting which they will comply with and submit a plan.  They will need an easement with Trans Canada and ask for it to be a condition of final board action.  Mr. Hanna asked for direction on police, conservation commission and fire reports.  Ch. Miller thought the fire chief should be contacted for his input.

            Mr. Daviss moved to schedule the application for the June 9, 2009 meeting and hold the public hearing pending acceptance of the application.  Seconded by Mr. Bob Miller, all were in favor, motion carried.  Ch. Miller asked for input on the waivers, the board had no concerns.

B.  David Keurfulainen from Merriam Farm said they met with the Selectmen 4/21/09 about obtaining a building permit for their parcels on Class VI Merriam Road.  He asked to have the board make a recommendation.  The 3 lot parcel is beyond the Frink parcel.  Ch. Miller questioned how they could have a 3 lot subdivision without 200 ft. of frontage on a Class V road.  Mr. Keurfulainen said the Selectmen referred to a map and Mr. Ed. Rogers, surveyor said there is a recorded plan from 1971.  David said he thought it might have something to do with the conservation land given to the Town that was

Walpole Planning Board Minutes 5/12/09 page 3

originally part of the Merriam Farm holdings.  Mr. DeCoste asked if the road was Class VI in 1971, Ch. Miller thought it was.  Ch. Miller said once the status of the number of lots is cleared up then the planning board could make a recommendation to the Selectboard about the Class VI road resolution.  If the Selectboard ok’s the resolution Mr. Kuerfulainen must sign a waiver of liability and meet any other criteria set forth by the Selectboard.  Ch. Miller noted that the parcel is mostly in the rural agricultural zone with the back corner being in the timberland district. 

Sec. Aslinger checked the records in the planning board office files to locate an approved 1971 3 lot subdivision.  The meeting stopped while she looked.  Sec. Aslinger returned to the meeting without locating the files.  Ch. Miller asked Sec. Aslinger to do further research and report back to the board, the selectmen and Mr. Keurfulainen via letter.  Mr. Fletcher remarked that the prior owner Dr. Lawler wanted to build a house on the property.  Mr. Fletcher remembered that it was his first meeting and he voted against the board that had voted against Dr. Lawler’s request.  Mr. DeCoste reminded Mr. Keufulainen that no further subdivision is available beyond the three lots if they are a recorded subdivision.

IV.            Communications and Miscellaneous

            A.  Work Session report:  Ch. Miller asked Sec. Aslinger to send a formal letter to the Selectboard notifying them of Mr. Daviss and Mr. Bob Miller’s nominations to fill the positions as liaison with SWRPC for 2009.

            Ch. Miller announced that he and Mr. Daviss met with Lisa Murphy from SWRPC earlier in the day, they’ve asked her to prepare an estimate to finish the land use update and economic development plan with a target of completion this fall.  Mr. Daviss said he mentioned grant monies available as part of the stimulus package and whether she would contact the State planning commission to make an application for the funds.

            C.  Other:  Ch. Miller announced a meeting on May 27th in Westmoreland regarding the Connecticut River Water Protection efforts to be held in the Town Hall at 7:30pm.

            A. 3.  Website:  Mr. Daviss said the site is being overwhelmed by SPAM up to 250-300 per day, he asks that the Board write to Mr. Bernard, webmaster and offer to pay him for an hour of his time to update the site and put spam blockers in place so it can be used.  Ch. Miller asked Sec. Aslinger to write to Mr. Bernard on behalf of Mr. Daviss’s request.  At his point the website is not useable.

            B.  Sec. Aslinger distributed copies of the ERZ packets.

            A.  Work Session schedule for May – A work session will be held on May 26, 2009 at 7:00pm in the basement office.  Discussion will be on the ERZ and economic development plan.  Sec. Aslinger will not be present and asked if the meeting could be recorded for minutes.

V.            Meeting Adjourned 8:00pm next regular meeting June 9, 2009 7pm Town Hall

cc:  file, PB, ZBA, Town Offices, BOS

Posted:  on or before 5/18/09 Town Hall, Lobby, Burdick’s Mkt., thewalpolean.com

Conservation Commission

Walpole, NH 03608

May 4, 2009

Present: Tom Beaudry, Jane Galloway, Marcia Galloway, Peter Graves, Mary Lou Montgomery

Present as guests: Bill Webb, Ryan Owens of Monadnock Conservancy, Melvin Schupack

Not present: Lew Shelley, Duncan Watson

Ms. Galloway, acting as chair, called the meeting to order at 7:40 PM. 

Executive session

Entered Non-public session at 8:18

REVIEW MINUTES

It was requested that the easement inquiry be moved out of the public minutes and into an executive note for the files.

Mr. Beaudry moved to approve the April minutes as amended. Ms. Montgomery seconded, all in favor.

Public session

APPOINTMENTS AND CHAIR

We have two new members, but we have not heard if alternates have been appointed. Ms. M. Galloway offered to go to next Selectmen’s meeting to urge the appointment of alternates.

Mr. Shelley is considering being chair. He will be absent occasionally, and Ms. M Galloway is willing to be vice chair. Mr. Shelley requests that other members take on some designated roles and responsibilities.

Mr. Beaudry moved to postpone the chair decision. Ms. J Galloway seconded. All in favor.

HODGKINS PROPERTY

John Hodgkins would like to walk the boundaries with the Commission. We will try for May 19th at 5:15 pm, and Ms. M. Galloway will confirm the time with him.

An electric bill comes in from National Grid for about five dollars every month. There is temporary service now, maybe it will end when he vacates, or maybe he can transfer it to us.

MOWING THE RESERVOIR PROPERTY

The water company is not mowing it any longer. It will need to be maintained somehow.

Entered Executive session at 8:40 pm

Entered Public session at 8:50 pm

BERRY CONSERVATION CAMP

We generally donate some money once a year, but it’s not clear if anyone from Walpole has attended lately.

Ms. Montgomery moved to send a $250 donation, Mr. Beaudry seconded, all in favor.

MONITORING EASEMENTS

Gary Speed is willing to help monitor Lazarro and other properties. Mr. Schupack and his walking group may be able to do the Mill Pond.

CONSERVATION FUND

The Robert Hubbard Fund transfers money yearly to the Charitable Trust, who then gives it to our Conservation Fund. The purpose of this money is to provide support to the Walpole Conservation Commission for general purposes, included but not limited to the acquisition and Conservation of land in Walpole. The Walpole town treasurer and the local government center said it could not be used for some things we had requested funds for. The state Conservation Commission Handbook says it can be used for any of our work.

CLEAN WATER MEETING

Ms. Montgomery alerted us that May 27 there is a Clean Water meeting in Westmoreland with the Ct. River Joint Commissions.

TOWN FOREST PLANS

Mr. Schupack asked if we have management plans for all the town forests? They may need to be updated. Steve Roberge of the UNH extension can help review them and prioritize.

Motion to adjourn made by Mr. Beadry, seconded by Ms. J. Galloway, all in favor.

The meeting was adjourned at 9:12 PM.

Respectfully Submitted,

Janis Hall-Fuller, Recording Secretary

(Note: These are unapproved minutes. Any corrections will be found in the minutes of the next meeting.)

PLANNING BOARD MEETING Town of Walpole, NH  03608

Tuesday - May 12, 2009         7:00pm       Town Hall

AGENDA

I.          Open Meeting

A.  Roll Call – designate alternates

          B.   Alternate term expired – Shane O’Keefe

II.        Old Business

A.  Erik Frink – Lot Line Adjustment Merriam Farm

III.       New Business

A.  Aumand’s Furniture – Site Plan Review for new construction, Attny. Thomas Hanna and Joseph DiBernardo of DiBernardo Associates presenting and application submission.

B.  None other as of posting, may change

IV.       Communications and Miscellaneous

            A.        Work Session report 4/28/09

                        1.  ERZ zone designations

                        2.  Master Plan Update – Economic Development

                        3.  Website

            B.        Handouts

  C.        Other

V.        Adjourn Meeting – Next regular meeting to be held June 9, 2009 at 7:00pm

PLANNING BOARD

Walpole, NH  03608

Regular Meeting – Tuesday April 14, 2009 7:00pm Town Hall

MINUTES

Presiding:  Jeff Miller, Ch.

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

Member Absent:  Shane O’Keefe, alt.

Recording:  Pamela Aslinger, Sec./alt.

These minutes are unapproved and will be reviewed at the May 12, 2009 meeting for errors, corrections and omissions.  There were 15 persons in the audience.

I.            Meeting opened at 7:00pm

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

B.  Minutes - A motion to approve the minutes with the correction of Mr. White’s

name was made and seconded, vote called all were in favor, motion carried.

C.  Election of Officers – Jeff Miller was nominated and elected by unanimous vote as Chairman for 2009.  Bob Miller was nominated and elected by unanimous vote as Vice Chairman for 2009.

II.            Review Application submitted

            A.  Virginia Carter/Paul Kranowski Special Exception Recommendation and Site Plan Review Barnett Hill Vineyard located at 114 Barnett Hill Rd. Map 9, Lot 53-1 in the rural agricultural district.  Proposed 22 x 24 sq. ft. barn to be used as a winery operation, tasting area and retail gift shop.  The lot is 27.77 acres with an existing house and vineyard.  Henry Fletcher recused himself because he is an abutter.  Ch. Miller designated Donn Lounsbury in his place.  Ch. Miller called for the secretary’s report, Sec. Aslinger reported that the application was complete, all abutters and public notified in a timely manner.  Mr. Sawyer moved to accept the application as complete, seconded by Mr. Daviss.  The vote called, all were in favor, motion passed.

III.       Ch. Miller closed the meeting and opened the public hearing (7:15pm) and asked Ms. Carter to present the proposal.  The plans were distributed and Ms. Carter described her proposal as shown above pointing out the various aspects and locations on the maps.  Ch. Miller read into the record a letter from the fire department stating no objections to the proposal.  A letter of support was read from abutters Tom Durnford and Lisa Coulet.  Ms. Carter described some of the processes of wine production and her desire to sell wine and accessories to the public.  She has received a driveway permit from the road agent/town, has located a sign conforming to the zoning ordinance and its location.  She described the parking area, delivery areas, crushing area and operations pertaining to tastings.           

Ch. Miller called for questions.  Mr. Lounsbury asked if she planned on a separate septic system, she answered - not at this time, if the demand grew she would consider it.  Mr. Merklien asked about the hours of operation.  She would be seasonal from spring until Christmas. 

Abutter Gail Beaudoin spoke of her concerns over increasing traffic, she thought most bought on the hill as a quiet retreat, not expecting any large agricultural operations.  Five cars wouldn’t be as much of a concern as 20 and is concerned the parking area might not be able to handle enough cars that might lead to people parking on the road or turning in her driveway. She’s concerned for horse riders, children, loose cows and is looking for insurance that it won’t become problematic.  She has spoken to Ms. Carter about her concerns and she considers them friendly neighbors.  She was worried it would grow to scale of Allyson’s that fortunately has highway access whereas Barnett Hill does not.  She would like to suggest added safety signage

Walpole Planning Board Minutes 4/14/09 page 2

for horses and children and a reasonable speed limit to prevent an accident.  She does support the winery if it can be done with safety and not disrupt the lifestyle.  Ms. Carter said she had discussed traffic with other abutters and requests that the selectboard (two were present at the meeting) to authorize safety signage that has been requested before by others but not been provided.    

Ch. Miller acknowledged Ms. Beaudoin’s concern and noted that if the proposal goes beyond the scale it may be approved for, she could appeal to the Selectboard and the expansion would be required to undergo a second review process.  He and others thought there are measures in place to limit the operation from becoming large scale, the size of the vineyard, limited land and relatively small winery building indicates they’ve planned a small home based operation.  He reminded that Ms. Carter moved to Barnett Hill for the same rural lifestyle as others, so he didn’t think she would mindfully create something she would be adversely affected by.  Also if it were to out grow her new building she would most likely look for other processing areas outside of Barnett Hill.  He reminded that the planning board’s two criteria for a special exception recommendation is limited to whether it conforms to the master plan and whether or not there is adequate available commercial property to house such an operation. 

Ch. Mansouri of the zoning board spoke with a reminder that the balance of the criteria related to health, safety and welfare issues would be taken up by her board at their meeting on the following night Wednesday April 15th, a public hearing would be held and Ms. Beaudoin should attend.  Ch. Miller reminded that the site plan review if approved would be on the condition the zoning board grants the special exception.  Ms. Beaudoin said she had not received a notice of the ZBA meeting, but Ch. Miller stated by her attendance at the PB meeting she was so notified.

Concerned citizen Krystyna Marcom thought a gift shop was not considered low impact in a residential area and whether a septic system/rest room should be provided.  Ms. Carter assured that she would be selling only locally made products or made in NH, wine accessories, promo items such as t-shirts and wine glasses (specified in application materials).  Ch. Miller and Mr. Sawyer reminded that the zone is a rural agricultural zone that allows residences and was designed to promote agricultural enterprises including selling farm raised items.

Mr. Daviss asked if Ms. Carter had estimated how many cars would be added to the traffic on a busy day.  Ms. Carter said she did not have accurate data but said there are already up to 10 weekend sightseers visiting the hill for the view and sunsets, sometimes parking in her driveway and picnicking on her lawn.  

Mrs. Teague, selectwoman spoke in favor of the project and will bring the signage issue up to the rest of the selectboard, she was unaware of any prior requests.  She thought it was a use of agricultural land that represents what Walpole has to offer.

IV.       Ch. Miller called for further comments, hearing none closed the public hearing (7:35pm) and reopened the meeting and asked for board discussion and/or action on the application as presented.  Hearing no further discussion Ch. Miller called for a motion on the special exception recommendation and read the criteria the board must consider ie; other commercial or industrial land is unavailable or inadequate for the proposed use and the proposed use is consistent with the Master plan.

Mr. Daviss moved that the board make a favorable recommendation to the zoning board of adjustment to allow a special exception for the winery operation and retail shop.  Mr. Sawyer seconded, vote called, all were in favor, motion carried.

            Ch. Miller called for action on the site plan.  Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the site plan as presented, seconded, vote called, all were in favor, motion carried.

V.         New Business (taken out of order due to hour)

B.  James Robb of NH Dept. of Resources and Economic Development, Economic Revitalization zone presentation.  Mr. Sawyer said the presentation made to them on

Walpole Planning Board Minutes 4/14/09 page 3

 March 19, 2009 was very helpful and they thought the planning board should be included in the discussion.

Mr. Robb explained that the State had implemented an incentive program called ERZ or Economic Revitalization Zone formerly known as Crop Zone.  He provided a printed copy overview of the presentation (on file).  He explained that his colleague Michael Bergeron had worked with Chamberlain Machine recruiting them to make their move to NH.  He gave examples of the incentives to help towns attract new businesses and promote expansion of existing businesses such as being a low tax burden, job training, low interest financing, tax credits for R & D and ERZ zones.  The tax credit does not cost the Town anything and is paid directly to the business, not the town.  The municipality designates the ERZ and applies to DRED to create the zone, and any company in the zone can apply to DRED for the tax credit.  In order to create the zone it must meet certain criteria.  In Walpole’s case the zone contains either a)Unused or underutilized industrial parks or b)Vacant land or structures previously used for industrial, commercial, or retail purposes but currently not so used due to demolition, age, obsolescence, deterioration and/or relocation of the former occupant’s operations.  He used Chamberlain Machinery to illustrate how a business can benefit from the incentive, how it must qualify such as the quality and quantity of jobs created and the amount of the taxpayer’s investment in the project.  There is a cap per year of $40,000 and $200,000 over five years, with carry over up to 10 years.  The credit goes against Business profits or Enterprise Tax.  The cap is defined as the lesser of several factors based on salaries, costs of new facility or renovations and the number of new jobs created.  Based on Chamberlain’s actual data they received $115,000 total credit for ’09-’11.  Chamberlain’s 48 jobs were new to the State of NH even though they were moved from Vermont.  

Mr. Robb said many area towns have ERZ zones including Keene.  He said the program is designed to be inclusive not exclusive.  It’s up to the Town to identify the zones, so input from the planning board especially helpful when related to the master plan.  Plans can include TIFF areas, it can be a zone that houses already existing businesses as long as they have a capital improvement plan and are adding employees, ERZ is designed to promote job creation.

            Mr. Sawyer asked who designates the zones, the planning board?  Answer was no, the municipality creates the zone with the help of other agencies of the town if needed.   Mrs. Teague suggested zones to include North Main St. in North Walpole and the Rte. 12 corridor in both directions as first priority. She feels this is a major incentive for existing businesses struggling with the economic downturn as well as an attractant for new businesses to locate in Walpole and that the Selectboard invited the presentation once Chamberlain approached them in the fall with the information.    Mr. Daviss asked if there were size limitations on the ERZ’s, answer was no, but with caution, the overview board would frown on a zone containing only one business if it appeared exclusive.  Mr. Daviss asked if the State would send a representative to help determine the zones, answer was yes and Mr. Robb in particular signs off on zones in this area, somewhat informally.  Mr. Merklien asked how to promote the incentive once the zones are designated?  Mr. Robb thought the municipalities should promote it themselves.  He said more information can be reviewed on their website www.nheconomy.com. The board discussed many potential businesses that could benefit and agreed to discuss the possible zones at its next work session scheduled for April 28th.  Sec. Aslinger will make copies of the presentation for all board members.

            Mrs. Marcom asked how long the program had been in place?  Answer was 2004 or 2005 implemented in 2005 or 2006 after the regulations were written.  Mr. Robb said he went from town to town to promote the incentive but was brought to Walpole by Chamberlain’s development.  He mentioned they were also privy to Bensonwood’s expansion.  Mr. Robb mentioned another recently signed incentive by the Governor in regard to Research and Development that will be available soon.  Ch. Miller thanked him for his presentation.

Walpole Planning Board Minutes 4/14/09 page 4 

            A.  Keefe Estate/Appledore Engineering Preliminary proposing 30,000 sq. ft. of retail space on Rt. 12 N. Map 12, Lot 19, 7.8 acres in the commercial and rural agricultural district.  Requesting a special exception recommendation to expand a commercial operation into the rural agricultural district and a site plan review.  Mr. Mikolaities, PE from Appledore Engineering, Portsmouth NH was present with Cindy Westover of Galloway Real Estate to ask the board for their input on a preliminary basis.  Mr. Mikolaities provided a small generalized map of the project indicating a 99 space parking lot (136 required), 8000 sq. ft. retail space and a 19,097 sq. ft. space housed in one building, a 5000 sq. ft. fenced outdoor display area, two entrances/exits with a State Transportation review scheduled for 4/15/09, the site has two authorized curb cuts.  They may be seeking landscape requirement adjustments in regard to the parking island’s, there are no wetlands, plans show docking areas in the rear and the permanent retention of a cornfield.  They have allowed for 35-40% “open space”, and have yet to finalize the drainage plans but will not need to go beyond the scope of what is required in the regulations.  They are not located in the well source protection area but are within the aquifer.  One of the tenants will be Tractor Supply and the other a non-disclosed dry goods store.  He said the Hutton Company of Chattanooga, TN is developing the site for the tenants and they have a website for more information on their holdings.  Several Tractor Supply stores are located in and around NH.  He asked the board if there was anything they may have missed preventing them from going forward with a full engineering plan and submitting an application for the May meeting to be processed for the June/July meetings?  Members asked about impervious/porous surfaces and if drainage plans will include underground treatment.  Mr. Mikolaities said the water table would determine the drainage requirements mandated by the State.  He has much knowledge about porous and alternatives to drainage designs although he stated the porous surfaces are about 2 years away from needed improvement, his firm is connected to the UNH testing program.  Mr. Merklien asked if they have alternative building designs to stay in keeping with the Town’s architecture, answer was yes. They plan to build in September.  The current farmer has been allowed to continue with his growing 2009 season.  Mr. Merklien asked why existing empty buildings such as within the Plaza wasn’t being considered?  Answered that the Hutton Company would not be interested in a competitor’s holdings, they have their own national tenants and build to house them in Hutton’s developments. Mr. Mikolaities said the meeting with DOT and Dept. of Environmental Services would determine the final plans.   The board had no objections to the preliminary proposal.  State permits do not need to be approved before they go forward but must be applied for.

VI.              Communications and Miscellaneous

            A.  Master Plan Update – Ch. Miller scheduled the next work session now that the board has received their funding for 4/28/09 at 7pm in the basement office.  He said to come prepared to discuss the ERZ zoning and master plan.  ERZ ideas will be forwarded to the selectboard.

            B.  Ch. Miller announced a public meeting at Fall Mountain High School Library to be held April 29, 2009 at 6pm to discuss NH 12 improvements from Main St. in Walpole to just north of NH 12 A intersection in Charlestown.  He thought it was a worthwhile meeting.

Out of order:  Old Business – Frink/Merriam Farm update – Sec. Aslinger reported she had spoken with surveyor Tom Flavin earlier in the day.  He and Merriam Farm’s surveyor have found that the lot line adjustment proposal does not affect Mr. Faulkner’s property so they would like to go forward with their application for the May meeting, resubmitting the application prior to the deadline by arrangement with the Secretary.  He said they have been in touch with Mr. Faulkner’s lawyer but have not received a response.  He felt certain there are issues with Mr. Faulkner’s and Merriam Farms boundaries stemming from a mistake in the 1930’s but it does not apply to the parcels of the Frink/Merriam Farm lot line adjustment and it can be proven.  The board agreed to allow Mr. Flavin to re-submit the application for the May meeting.  Fees are to be waived for the re-submission. 

C.  Ch. Miller said since we are full fledged members of SWRPC he asked if Bob Miller and Ben Daviss would like to be the town’s representatives?  Both were willing and their names will be submitted to the selectboard via a letter.

VII.            Meeting Adjourned  8:35pm

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECT BOARD

APRIL 16, 2009

Select Board Present:  Whitney Aldrich (Chair), Jamie Teague

                                    (Absent: Sheldon Sawyer)

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

PUBLIC BUSINESS:

JIM TERRELL and CHIEF HEWES – High Street:  Mr. Aldrich requested that Jim Terrell and Police Chief Hewes attend this meeting to provide their input on making High Street one way.  Chief Hewes advised that the Police Department has no stats for speeding or accidents; High Street has not been an issue to the Police Department.  It is not a high traffic road.  He would recommend removing the left parking space on Main Street to alleviate the concerns.  He suggested that the Select Board talk to the ambulance service as they provide most of the town’s services in that area.  He is not in favor of a one-way street.  Mr. Aldrich will talk to Dick Hurlburt regarding the ambulance service.

Mr. Terrell noted that it is a narrow area.  Two vehicles cannot get by each other.  With cars parked on Main Street you cannot see until you are in the traffic.  Many times people have to back into High Street or back into Main Street depending on their direction to allow the other vehicle to go by.  The one-way idea has been tossed around for years.  His concern is the traffic flow and congestion.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register and manifest in the amount of $60,814.24.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  Motion passed unanimously.

PAYROLL:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve the payroll voucher for the week ending April 11, 2009, for gross wages in the amount of $15,441.73 or net wages in the amount of $7,643.89.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  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 $3,462.21.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  Motion passed unanimously.

OLD BUSINESS:

LETTER TO TRUSTEES REGARDING PROPERTY PURCHASE:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve and sign the letter to the Trustees of Trust Funds requesting that they issue a check in the amount of $269,997.44 on Friday, April 17, to the Bradley and Faulkner Law Firm for the purchase of property on Map 007, Lot 007-007 from John and Suzanne Hodgkins.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  Motion passed unanimously.

(The Select Board noted that the original purchase price for the property is $270,000.00 but the adjusted figures resulted in a credit of $2.56.)        

Select Board Meeting – April 16, 2009 – Page 2

Adjournment:

Mrs. Teague moved to recess this meeting until Noon on Friday, April 17th, 2009.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  Motion passed unanimously.

            April 17, 2009 - Continued Select Board Meeting of April 16, 2009

Present:  Whitney Aldrich, Jamie Teague, and Sheldon Sawyer

Chairman Whitney Aldrich called the meeting to order at 12:04 PM

PUBLIC BUSINESS:

Water Superintendent, Mark Houghton was in to speak with Board regarding Water/Sewer Rate Increases.  The following was presented to the Board for their review.

1. Water Rates – Residential - ¾” pipes – no increase

2.   1” Pipes – Increase from $124.00 to $146.00 for first 1,000 CF

3.   1 1/2 “ Pipes – Increase from $283.00 to $334.00 for first 1,000 CF

4. 2” Pipes – Increase from $514.00 to $607.00 for first 1,000 CF

All usage after the first $1,000 CF will increase from $44.00 to $46.00 per 1000 CF.

SEWER RATE INCREASE:

1. All pipes – Increase from $34.00 to $36.00 per thousand CF

FLAT RATE WATER BILLS:

1. All users increase from $100.00 to $200.00 per billing

WATER AND SEWER CONNECTIONS:

Increase from $500 to $750 per connection.

SPRINKER FEES:

     4” Sprinkler Connection per year - $400.00

     6” Sprinkler Connection per year - $600.00

     8” Sprinkler Connection per year - $800.00

SELECT BOARD MEETING:

Sheldon Sawyer moved to approve the Select Board Minutes of April 09, 2009.  Seconded by Jamie Teague.  Motion passed unanimously.

DEPARTMENT COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Select Board reviewed the minutes of Hooper Institute Committee Meeting – March 17, 2009 and the minutes of North Walpole Village Commissioners Meeting – April 14, 2009.

BUILDING PERMITS:

Andrew and Annette Dey – Map 019-033-000.  Sheldon Sawyer moved to approve Building Permit No. 2009-03 for Andrew and Annette Dey to renovate an existing barn, and make a one-bedroom in-law apartment on the second floor, the first floor to have an office, game room and storage area, with a connecting breezeway.  Seconded by Jamie Teague.  Motion passed unanimously.

Marion Dreifuss – Map 013-035-000.  Sheldon Sawyer moved to approve Building Permit No. 2009-4 for Marion Dreifuss to remove a 12’x56’ mobile home with decks and additions and to build a 14’ x 30’, 2 story wood frame – two bedroom house with a 14’ x 17’ addition in the back of the house.  Seconded by Jamie Teague.  Motion passed unanimously.

OLD BUSINESS:

VILAS BRIDGE:  The Board reviewed a letter from DOT in regards to procedures DOT will take regarding traffic control from Vilas Bridge entering onto Killeen Street and Church Street.

WRAP COMMITTEE:  Sheldon Sawyer moved to appoint Joe Dion to the Wrap Committee for a term of Three Years.  Seconded by Jamie Teague.  Motion passed unanimously.

SWRPC: Board received a yearly bill from SWRPC in the amount of $4,047.  Town Meeting Warrant Article was written and approved in the amount of $4,000.  Select Board authorized a payment of $4,000 to SWRPC.  Select Board questions the $47.00 difference a Mr. Tim Murphy, a representative from SWRPC was at the Town Meeting and spoke on the Article.  A letter will be sent with the payment indicating this amount was by Town Vote.

NEW BUSINESS:

INTENT TO EXCAVE – George Graves – Jamie Teague moved to approve the application for the Intent to Excavate for George Graves,  No. 09-461-06-E.  Seconded by Sheldon Sawyer.  Motion passed unanimously.

INTENT TO CUT TIMBER:             Lewis Leclair – Sheldon Sawyer moved to approve the application for Intent to Cut Timber for Lewis LaClair, Map 008-077-000.  Seconded by Jamie Teague.  Motion passed unanimously.

VACATION REQUEST:  Paul Colburn requests vacation time from May 1 – May 9, 2009.  Paul Clark will be in charge during this time.  Sheldon Sawyer moved to approve the requested vacation time for Paul Colburn.  Seconded by Jamie Teague.  Motion passed unanimously.

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION:  Board received information regarding a combined Public Officials Public Informational Meeting of improvements for NH 12.

CEMETERY TRUSTEES:  Trustees submitted report on update for work being done at the Drewsville Cemetery.

LETTERS:

TRUSTEES OF TRUST FUNDS:  Cemetery Trustees have submitted a request to reimburse Harry Remick for unusable lot- D553.  Jamie Teague moved to sign letter, seconded by Sheldon Sawyer.  Motion passed unanimously.

ELDERLY EXEMPTION: Harry and Pamela Bernard – Elderly Exemption – Sheldon Sawyer moved to sign letter, seconded by Jamie Teague.  Motion passed unanimously.

ADJOURNMENT: Sheldon Sawyer moved to adjourn this meeting.  Seconded by Jamie Teague.  Motion passed unanimously.  The time was 1:09 PM.

Ed. Note:  Fritze Till reports that Carl Majewski, Cheshire County's Cooperative Extension Agent, will do a presentation at the Walpole Community Garden (behind the Hooper Institute on Prospect Hill Road) on Monday, May 11 at 6:30 pm. He will do a half hour talk on community gardens and then a half hour hands-on gardening demonstration. The public is welcome and there is no charge. CCB

WALPOLE VILLAGE SCHOOL HAPPENINGS

May 6, 2009

REMINDERS FOR UPCOMING EVENTS

Childfind Screening

May 13^th

By Appointment

            Any child age 2½ through 4 years (not attending kindergarten in the fall) and who lives in the Fall Mountain School District is welcome to attend this free developmental screening.  The screening will be held at the Early Learning Center, which is located on the grounds of the Fall Mountain Regional High School.

            Children will be screened in the areas of communication, motor and early academic skills.  There are three possible outcomes to this confidential testing: satisfactory, re-screen in six to twelve months, or refer for more thorough testing.

            Parents can use this time and opportunity to ask questions about normal growth and development of their child.  By identifying children with special needs early, intervention may help them to develop to their fullest potential.

            For an appointment and further information, please call 835-6314 or email tvittum@sau60.org.  If you reach the answering machine, please leave your phone number and someone will get back to you to make an appointment.

Spring Concert

May 13^th

6:00 PM

            I’m sure you remember that the concert is at 6:00 PM May 13^th at the Walpole Town Hall.  Students who attend the MWF AM class should be there at 5:45 so they can be lined up and ready to go on time. 

Plant and Food Sale

May 16^th

9:00-12:00

We have potted a lot of plants and they are looking great.  Bethany, Jody, Stacie, Heather, and Carolyn have been digging in the gardens of some very generous people – most that don’t even have children in our school.  Angela, Jody, Justin, Stacie and I have been putting those plants in pots so they can get “acclimated” and look their healthy best on the 16^th.

There will be a raffle and large plant pots for sale as well as the food and plants.  Be sure and advise people to come early for the best selection.  By the way, those who help get a chance to do an early bird selection so if you would like to lend a hand a get to choose early it’s not too late.

We will be sorting and pricing the plants at Lil’s house on Thursday, 5/14 and will be moving them all down to school on the 15^th.  As you can imagine, the more hands we have for this the happier everyone will be!

Auction

June 6th

        Donations are starting to come in but Bethany and Justin are starting to worry.  If you have something you’d like to donate, they’d sleep better if you would let them know.   They work so hard on this and it has always been a major fund raiser.

In addition to a great time to get some bargains, it is a great time for some good food.  Kelley and Stacie are having a meeting @ 6:00 on May 19^th to start drawing up the menu and dividing up the tasks.  They’d love to see you there if you can help out.  I remember that this was the first event I attended after I had agreed to become a board member and I was pretty intimidated by organization and the wonderful food.  I was most relieved when I learned that cooking wasn’t a prerequisite for being a board member!

Registrations

            Registrations are coming in for Summer Camp 2009 and the 2009-2010 school year.  It is great to see the all the paperwork being done in such a timely manner.   Thanks to all.

In Case You Forgot

Our email address is walpolevillageschool@myfairpoint.net and our website is http://walpolevillageschool.org/.

Fall Mountain Project Graduation 2009 Annual Yard Sale

Saturday, May 16th

8:00 am - 3:00 pm

Charlestown Middle School Gym

There will also be a refreshment table.