Mr. Aldrich called the meeting to order at 7:30 PM with three people present in the audience. He noted that Jamie Teague would be late.
PAYROLL: Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the payroll voucher for the week ending December 12, 2009, for gross wages in the amount of $17,392.52 or net wages in the amount of $8,468.01. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. Motion passed unanimously.
Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $4,047.93. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. Motion passed unanimously.
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:
BLANC & BAILEY- Invoice: Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the invoice from Blanc and Bailey in the amount of $5,300.00 for work completed on the ceiling through November 30, 2009. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. Motion passed unanimously.
VACHON, CLUKAY & CO., INC.: Mr. Sawyer moved to pay Vachon, Clukay & Co., Inc. the full amount of $18,848.89 for the 2008 audit. A good portion of this amount was because of the work done on auditing the accounts for the Trustees of Trust Funds. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. Motion passed unanimously.
ANDREW DEY; RGGI GRANT FUNDS: Andrew Dey requested that the Selectboard authorize him to hire Window Master, Inc. of Dublin to rehabilitate the historic windows on the second floor of the Town Hall. The contract is for $9,600; the terms are 20% down, or $1,920. This payment will be taken from the RGGI grant funds that have been deposited for the weatherization of the two town buildings.
Mr. Sawyer moved to authorize Andrew Dey to hire Window Master, Inc. of Dublin to rehabilitate the historic windows on the second floor of the Town Hall and to authorize the down payment of $1,920 to be taken from the RGGI grant funds. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. Motion passed unanimously.
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE – Check Register and Manifest: Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register and manifest in the amount of $11,034.73. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. Motion passed unanimously.
MINUTES:
SELECTBOARD MEETING –December 10, 2009: Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of December 10, 2009, as printed. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. Motion passed unanimously.
Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard meeting of December 10, 2009. The Minutes will not be sealed. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. Motion passed unanimously.
Selectboard Meeting –December 17, 2009- Page 2
COMMITTEE MEETINGS:
The Selectboard received and reviewed Minutes of the following meetings:
· Conservation Commission – December 07, 2009;
· North Walpole Village Board of Commissioners – December 08, 2009;
· North Walpole Village Board of Commissioners – December 15, 2009.
ABATEMENTS:
HUBBARD, DALE, Old Drewsville Road, Map 012-067-000: Mr. Sawyer moved to grant the Notice of Timber Tax Fees in the amount of $950.40 for Dale Hubbard. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. Motion passed unanimously.
GAGNE, BERNARD & ANNE, Dearborn Circle, Map 012-055-024: Mr. Sawyer moved to grant the Notice of Property Tax Abatement for 2009 in the amount of $8.54 for Bernard and Anne Gagne. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. Motion passed unanimously.
Mrs. Teague came into the meeting.
PUBLIC BUSINESS:
MANDATORY CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTORS IN RENTALS: Myra Mansouri advised that the New Hampshire Association of Realtors notified their members that on January 1, 2010 every rental unit must be equipped with at least one automatic fire warning device and one carbon monoxide detection device (RSA 153:10-a). Either hardwired or battery operated devices are permitted. The mandatory CO detector law also applies to all single family dwellings built or substantially rehabilitated after January 1, 2010. She wanted to bring this to the attention of the Selectboard as it pertains to the Hooper cottage.
ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT: Myra Mansouri, Chair of the ZBA, presented documentation of a proposed zoning violation on Wentworth Road that is a residential area. She distributed copies of meeting Minutes going back to 2004 when Scott Surles was operating a snowmobile repair business. In 2006 he went before the ZBA to report that he discontinued the repair business but was operating a catalog business from his home. Recently Mrs. Mansouri received an anonymous letter advising that Mr. Surles was still repairing snowmobiles and a picture was enclosed showing several snowmobiles parked in his front yard. Mrs. Mansouri said there have been other complaints from neighbors but did not disclose their identities. Mr. Surles displayed one of his “Smart Parts” catalogs and he does have a web site on the Internet but does not advertise a retail location. He stated that the snowmobiles in the picture belong to a good friend and a cousin. Mrs. Mansouri requested that the Selectboard write a letter to Brian Emerson and to declare that this be on the agenda for the next ZBA meeting. Mrs. Teague felt that since this is the first time the Selectboard became aware of this proposed zoning violation they should have at least a week to read the material submitted and to do research before getting back to the parties involved. Mr. Sawyer summarized the discussion by stating that Mrs. Mansouri, on behalf of the ZBA, brought this proposed violation to the Selectboard’s attention. They will follow-up and do some research before making any decisions.
REFUNDS:
WILSON, JESSICA A., Valley Road, Map 013-041-001: Mr. Sawyer moved to grant the Notice of Property Refund in the amount of $25.00 principle and $.12 interest for Jessica A. Wilson. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed unanimously.
Selectboard Meeting –December 17, 2009- Page 3
MICHAUD, LLC, Jeff & Karen, Dearborn Circle, Map 012-055-004-1: Mr. Sawyer moved to grant the Notice of Property Tax Refund in the amount of $26.12 for Jeff and Karen Michaud, Michaud, LLC. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. Motion passed unanimously.
WARRANT:
SUPPLEMENTAL WARRANT: Kelly, Deborah J., Dearborn Circle, Map 012-055-028: Mrs. Kelly spoke to the Town Clerk about the fact that she was not eligible for a Veteran’s Exemption.
Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the Supplemental Warrant for the Collection of 2009 Property Taxes in the amount of $250.00. This is the result of an incorrect Veterans Exemption. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed unanimously.
OLD BUSINESS:
MATT BLANC & WARREN STEVENS – Town Hall Updates: The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of a copy of the letter from Warren Stevens to Matt Blanc pertaining to Town Hall updates.
NEW BUSINESS:
SELECTBOARD MEETING: Mr. Sawyer moved to change the next regular Selectboard meeting from Thursday, December 24, 2009 at 7:30 PM to Wednesday, December 23, 2009, at 4:00 PM. This is to observe Christmas Eve and the Christmas holiday. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed unanimously.
HIGHWAY DEPARTMENT; Purchase: Jim Terrell had previously discussed the purchase of a new truck with the Selectboard. If they gave him permission to reserve it now the town could save $6,000; there would be an escape clause in the contract in the event that this is not approved by the voters in 2010.
Mr. Sawyer moved to allow Mr. Terrell to reserve the truck for purchase prior to the town vote in 2010. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. Motion passed unanimously.
POLICE DEPARTMENT; Purchase: The Police Department would like to purchase a stand alone 17 KW propane powered generator for the Police Station.
Mrs. Teague moved to put the purchase of a generator on-hold until the meeting next week. Seconded by Mr. Sawyer. Motion passed unanimously.
LETTERS TO BE SIGNED:
PERSONNEL FORM; Janet Clough: The Selectboard signed the personnel form for Janet Clough as approved during the last meeting.
TERESA KISSELL; Vacation Day: Mr. Sawyer moved to allow Teresa Kissell to take a personal day off on Thursday, December 24, 2009. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed unanimously.
PURCHASE ORDER FOR TOWN HALL REPAIRS FOR BLANC & BAILEY: Mr. Sawyer moved to sign the open Purchase Order for the ceiling repairs for Blanc and Bailey. The amount will not exceed $26,570.00. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed unanimously.
Selectboard Meeting –December 17, 2009- Page 4
NON-PUBLIC:
Mr. Sawyer moved to enter into a Non-Public meeting pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (a) Personnel. Mrs. Teague seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with all in favor, the motion was approved. The time was 8:46 PM.
The regular meeting resumed at 8:58 PM. No announcements were made.
Mr. Sawyer moved to recess this meeting until Friday, December 18, 2009, at 11:30 AM when the Selectboard will meet with a representative from the Local Government Center. The Selectboard will now enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed unanimously. The time was 9:00 PM.
MEETING OF THE HOOPER TRUSTEES
Mr. Aldrich called the meeting of the Hooper Trustees to order at 9:01 PM.
HOOPER COTTAGE INVOICE: Mr. Sawyer moved to approve payment of the bill in the amount of $465.00 to Mark Fetzer for the preliminary work done in the Hooper cottage. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed unanimously.
Mr. Sawyer moved to adjourn this meeting. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed unanimously. The time was 9:06 PM.
Guest Bloggers Needed! This is an open invitation to readers of The Walpolean to share your thoughts on our town and where you would like to see it go in 2010 with other Walpolean readers.
If you'd like to share your thoughts, please send me your note to chuck@chuckbingaman.com before Saturday at noon. Over the weekend I'll post the notes on The Walpolean. Notes should not exceed 500 words, and all must be signed. (If you would prefer that your name not appear on the posted version, please let me know.) I reserve the right to shorten or otherwise edit the notes before posting or to not post them. Chuck Bingaman
Jeanne and Peter Jeffries of Walpole will offer a workshop on conducting genealogical research from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon Saturday, January 23, under the sponsorship of the Walpole Historical Society. Call 756-2933 for more information or to register. CCB
Congratulations to co-directors Ray Boas and Tara Sad and to the terrific Walpole Players for their wonderful production of "A Christmas Carol"! And congratulations to them and to all of those who attended and made contributions to the Fall Mountain Food Shelf! In addition to a large amount of food, contributions of those that attended the play totaled $3,108.85! The check will be presented this Thursday to FMFS Director Mary Lou Huffling at the Food Shelf's New Years luncheon at the Alstead Fire House. CCB
Ed. Note: Here's a story that was published last week from an early draft that contained several factual errors. My fault. This version is the accurate one! CCB
Hot Yoga & Pilates Opens in Walpole
By Chuck Bingaman,
SOME LIKE IT HOT LLC, managed by Putney resident/ entrepreneur Ellen Abraham is now offering yoga, Pilates and private training in a new studio at 52 Main Street, Walpole.
Abraham, who also runs HOT YOGA SPIN & PILATES in Putney and SOME LIKE IT HOT SPIN in Brattleboro, is hoping that New Hampshirites will be attracted to her brand of fitness and also to her selection of exercise clothing, jewelry, skin care and other specialty products for sale at the new location.
The lithe and wiry Abraham comes from a background of fitness and natural foods cooking which she trained extensively for in New York and Los Angeles. She has also studied other healing arts such as aromatherapy and massage before gaining certifications in Pilates, yoga and indoor cycling, otherwise known as “spinning.”
“Five years ago,” Abraham said, “my girlfriend and I were looking for a place to relocate. We did a search on the computer, and typed in ‘organic foods’, “local foods”, ‘land’; and ‘yoga’ and out came Brattleboro/Putney!”
“When we first moved to Putney, I started up my first company, “Simple Treats”, a vegan organic cookie company, and I was also teaching yoga at various locations. It wasn’t soon after when I decided to open up my own studio, Hot Yoga of Putney in the center of Putney.” Soon the immediate satisfactions of the yoga business exerted a stronger pull on her than the cookie business and Abraham had identified her true calling.
“I got so excited when someone would buy a 5-class card. It was when I started to see the same people coming back on a regular basis,” Abraham said, “Naturally I began offering products that were related and that I also had a love for. It was diversifying that helped my business grow. So I decided to expand in what I was offering, not only in classes but in merchandise!”
“Then,” she says, the space below the Putney studio became available. So I decided to take it and expand to also offer spinning. I became Some Like It Hot Yoga & Spin. I held trainings to recruit more teachers who could in turn be able to offer classes in more time slots, for more people than I could teach myself. The people who came stayed, including the teachers.”
While building the new Putney studio, threw her back out. “And that’s when I discovered Pilates!” she says. “What it did for me I couldn’t even believe! I thought everybody should be doing this! So I became a certified Pilates instructor and the business changed yet again to become Hot Yoga Spin & Pilates of Vermont! The students that trusted me with yoga and spin now came with me into Pilates. I continued to bring various trainings to the studios so that teachers could expend their education and what they were offering without having to go to New York or LA to do them. The relationship I have with everyone who is a part of this studio is just amazing. We are all friends. It most definitely is a lifestyle community.”
“But,” says Abraham, “I'm not the type of person to sit still! Now we have 10 -11 teachers and software that links all the three studios on our computer system. You can have a class card that lets you do yoga, spinning and Pilates at any of the three studios, plus private trainings and series classes wherever you would like to go—Brattleboro, Putney or Walpole. It’s seamless!”
So what kind of training does Abraham teach in Walpole? She offers up privates classes, semi-privates, and small group classes in all that she does: Pilates, with or without the apparatus, various styles of yoga, and personal training, including her intensive boot camps and 28-day challenges. She also has drop-in yoga and Pilates classes offered by other teachers on the schedule.
So what will it be? Abraham says to try all the modalities she offers. “You need them all. You need to move in every way to have the body that will serve you best!”
Pilates, says Abraham, is all about our container, how our bodies work and how we can help them work better. “It’s about putting your body through a series of ‘rote’ movements with 100% awareness. It’s the smartest movement for our bodies, and it’s a great place to start. It all functions from your core—from your shoulders down to your thighs. It helps offset the memories our bodies develop that don’t serve us well like sitting so much, whether we work at a desk, sit and eat, or drive a car a lot. Pilates re-educates simple ranges of motion. You are re-educating paths of motion to become clear and concise. It’s like math in the body: you do the work and you get the results! Your muscles get longer, you get taller, and you are safer in how you move. You move with grace and mindfulness.”
To see the full range of classes and tuition fees offered at 52 MAIN ST STUDIO & BOUTIQUE in Walpole, plus Hot Yoga Spin & Pilates and Some Like It Hot Spin, visit www.hotyogavt.com. For more information, call Ellen Abraham in Walpole at 603-756-3660
Alert! Steve Grenier reported to me at 11:47 this morning that there has been a water main break near Main and Elm Streets this morning, and water will be shut off in the area up to around the school until probably late this afternoon. Also, there will likely be one-lane traffic in the area. Chuck Bingaman
Hot Yoga and Pilates, managed by Putney entrepreneur Ellen Abraham is now offering Bikram yoga and Pilates training in a new studio at 52 Main Street, Walpole.
Abraham, who also runs yoga, pilates and spinning studios in Brattleboro and Putney, is hoping that New Hampshirites will be attracted to her “hot room” sessions and also to her selection of exercise clothing, jewelry skin care products on sale at the studio.
The lithe and wiry Abraham comes from a background of yoga training as well as training and experience in cooking natural foods in New York and Los Angeles. But along the way she also studied aroma and massage therapies before gaining certifications in Pilates and “spinning”, fitness-oriented indoor cycling.
“Five years ago,” Abraham said last week, “my sister and I decided we had to move. We put organic foods, local foods and yoga into the computer and it came out Brattleboro! When we came we started a specialty cookie business, and I also taught yoga. But then I decided to open up a studio on my own and I called it Hot Yoga of Putney.” It wasn’t long before the satisfactions of the yoga business exerted a stronger pull on her than the cookie business and Abraham had identified her true calling.
“I got so excited when someone would buy a ticket for five classes, and when I started to see the same people coming back regularly,” Abraham said, “I said, you now what? I should be offering all these related things that I love for yoga like towels, cushions and head things. And it helped my business grow. So I had all these things stacked up in my Putney studio!”
“Then,” she says, someone moved out downstairs under my Putney studio, “and I said, ‘I can do spinning! Like I did in LA! In fact, this business has just morphed! It became Hot Yoga and Spinning! I must have changed my signs at least eight times! And I began to recruit other teachers so we could offer more classes for more people than I could teach by myself. And the people who came in stuck with me. It’s just an amazing relationship!”
Unfortunately, while building the new studio, Abraham threw her back out! “And that’s when I discovered Pilates!” she says. “And what it did for me I couldn’t even believe! I thought everybody should be doing this! So I got trained in Pilates and it became Hot Yoga, Spinning & Pilates! And the people that had been yoga and spinning students got into Pilates with me and many of them have become my instructors. And I brought the training sessions here rather than requiring my people to go to New York, Los Angeles or even India.”
“But,” says Abraham, “I'm not the type of person to sit still! Now we have 10 or 11 teachers and we have software that links all the three studios. And you can have a class card that lets you do yoga, spinning and Pilates at any of the three studios—Brattleboro, Putney or Walpole. It’s seamless!”
So what kind of yoga does Abraham teach in Walpole? “It’s called Bikram, and it’s a ‘fiery’ yoga. You do the same 26 postures in each session and you do them in a heated room because that lets you get into the postures easier. The postures stay the same, but YOU change! It’s about breath, about connection, about being present. The most amazing thing is that you are zeroing in on you for that time. People do not get hurt doing it like they do in some other yoga disciplines.”
Pilates, says Abraham, is all about our container, how our bodies work and how we can help them work better. “It’s about putting your body through a series of ‘rote’ movements with 100% awareness. It’s the smartest movement for our bodies, and it’s what I suggest people start with. It all functions off of your core—from your shoulders down to your thighs. It’s designed to offset the memories our bodies develop from sitting so much, whether we work at a desk, sit and eat, or drive a car a lot. Pilates re-educates simple ranges of motion. You are reeducating flexible paths of motion. It’s kind of like math in the body: you do this work and you get these results! Your muscles get longer, you get taller, you get safer in how you move. YOU move with grace, consciousness and strength.”
So what will it be? Abraham says to try all three because you need them all to have the body—and mind—that you need!
To see the full range of classes and tuition fees offered at Hot Yoga in Walpole, plus Hot Yoga, Spinning and Pilates in Putney and Brattleboro, see www.hotyogavt.com. For more information, call Ellen Abraham in Walpole at 603-756-3660.
--30--
“Then,” she says, someone moved out downstairs under my Putney studio, “and I said, ‘I can do spinning! Like I did in LA!In fact, this business has just morphed!It became Hot Yoga and Spinning!I must have changed my signs at least eight times!And I began to recruit other teachers so we could offer more classes for more people than I could teach by myself.And the people who came in stuck with me.It’s just an amazing relationship!”
Unfortunately, while building the new studio, Abraham threw her back out!“And that’s when I discovered Pilates!” she says.“And what it did for me I couldn’t even believe! I thought everybody should be doing this!So I got trained in Pilates and it became Hot Yoga, Spinning & Pilates!And the people that had been yoga and spinning students got into Pilates with me and many of them have become my instructors. And I brought the training sessions here rather than requiring my people to go to New York, Los Angeles or even India.”
“But,” says Abraham, “I'm not the type of person to sit still! Now we have 10 or 11 teachers and we have software that links all the three studios.And you can have a class card that lets you do yoga, spinning and Pilates at any of the three studios—Brattleboro, Putney or Walpole.It’s seamless!”
So what kind of yoga does Abraham teach in Walpole?“It’s called Bikram, and it’s a ‘fiery’ yoga.You do the same 26 postures in each session and you do them in a heated room because that lets you get into the postures easier.The postures stay the same, but YOU change!It’s about breath, about connection, about being present.The most amazing thing is that you are zeroing in on you for that time.People do not get hurt doing it like they do in some other yoga disciplines.”
Pilates, says Abraham, is all about our container, how our bodies work and how we can help them work better.“It’s about putting your body through a series of ‘rote’ movements with 100% awareness.It’s the smartest movement for our bodies, and it’s what I suggest people start with.It all functions off of your core—from your shoulders down to your thighs.It’s designed to offset the memories our bodies develop from sitting so much, whether we work at a desk, sit and eat, or drive a car a lot.Pilates re-educates simple ranges of motion.You are reeducating flexible paths of motion.It’s kind of like math in the body: you do this work and you get these results! Your muscles get longer, you get taller, you get safer in how you move.YOU move with grace, consciousness and strength.”
So what will it be? Abraham says to try all three because you need them all to have the body—and mind—that you need!
To see the full range of classes and tuition fees offered at Hot Yoga in Walpole, plus Hot Yoga, Spinning and Pilates in Putney and Brattleboro, see www.hotyogavt.com.For more information, call Ellen Abraham in Walpole at 603-756-_____
Mr. Aldrich called the meeting to order at 7:30 PM with five people present in the audience.
PUBLIC BUSINESS:
BLANCHARD BROOK ROAD – Matt and Theresa Bozogan advised that they are having a recurring issue with mailbox damage from the town snow plow. Their mailbox has been in the same location for 10 years prior to the adoption of the new Mailbox Ordinance, without damage from any snow plow. Since the ordinance became effective, the mailbox has been hit several times by the town snow plow. Their utilities run underground right behind the mailbox post. They asked the Selectboard to review the case presented and grant restitution for property damage in the amount of $100 to cover some of the replacement cost of the heavy duty mailbox. Photos of damage were presented. The Selectboard explained that they will speak to Jim Terrell and then report back to Mr. and Mrs. Bozogan.
AVITAR – Gary Robarge and Chad Robarge from Avitar Associates, Inc. did a presentation on the mapping that can be computer generated using their software. They can create overlay maps for the zoning areas, watershed areas, current use areas, water and sewer lines, hydrants, culverts, abutters’ lists, etc. Map layers can be added when the Town wants to do so. When doing research it is nice to locate the information in a timely manner. No decisions were made. The Selectboard thanked them for their presentation and will take it under consideration.
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE: Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register and manifest in the amount of $24,537.01. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed unanimously.
PAYROLL: Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the payroll voucher for the week ending December 05, 2009, for gross wages in the amount of $18,170.56 or net wages in the amount of $9,224.61. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. 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 $4,008.01. Seconded by Mr. Sawyer. Motion passed unanimously.
MINUTES:
SELECTBOARD MEETING – December 03, 2009: Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of December 03, 2009, as printed. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed unanimously.
ABATEMENTS:
BERG, PETER VAN DYKE, Valley Road, Map 011-033-001: Mr. Sawyer moved to grant the Abatement for Property Taxes in the amount of $1.00 for Peter Van Dyke Berg. This is the result of a computer error. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed unanimously.
BERG, PETER VAN DYKE, Valley Road, Map 011-033-002: Mrs. Teague moved to grant the Abatement for Property Taxes in the amount of $122.10 for Peter Van Dyke Berg. This is the result of a computer error. Seconded by Mr. Sawyer. Motion passed unanimously.
Selectboard Meeting –December 10, 2009- Page 2
REFUNDS:
Mr. Sawyer moved to grant the following Refunds to clear-up the books for various computer problems:
Dockham, James R., Upper Walpole Road, Map 012-043-000 - $189.73
Webster, Claude, County Road, Map 003-020-002 - $38.11
Wilbur, Roger W., County Road, Map 003-032-004 - $46.33
Wilbur, Roger W., County Road, Map 003-032-003 - $46.33
Sibley Revocable Trust, County Road, Map 005-035-002 - $1.00
Nielsen, R. Todd, Wentworth Road, Map 017-007-000 - $714.00
Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed unanimously.
CREDITS / EXEMPTIONS:
APPLICATION FOR VETERANS CREDIT, Michael Jones, Map 016-006-000: Mr. Sawyer moved to grant the Veterans Credit for Michael Jones. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed unanimously.
APPLICATION FOR VETERANS CREDIT, Ronald MacLachlan, Map 003-016-000: Mr. Sawyer moved to grant the Veterans Credit for Ronald MacLachlan. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed unanimously.
APPLICATION FOR VETERANS CREDIT, Timothy Blanc, Map 011-043-003: Mr. Sawyer moved to grant the Veterans Credit for Timothy Blanc. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed unanimously.
BUILDING PERMIT:
THE LANE CONSTRUCTION CORP., Scale Lane, Map 014-013-000: Mr. Sawyer moved to approve Building Permit No 2009-032 for The Lane Construction Corp. to add an addition and remodel One Scale Lane. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed unanimously.
NEW BUSINESS:
CEMETERY DEED – Burrows- Lot #D420: Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the Cemetery Deed for Lot #D420 for John and Linda Burrows. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed unanimously.
STATE OF NH LIQUOR COMMISSION – Knowlton Request for Liquor License: The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of a letter from the NH Liquor Commission advising that Knowlton’s Kitchen, LLC., has applied for a Restaurant Beverage/Wine liquor license under the provisions of RSA 179:20. This letter will be forwarded to the North Walpole Village Precinct as that is the appropriate entity.
Selectboard Meeting –December 10, 2009- Page 3
DEPUTY TOWN CLERK AND TAX COLLECTOR: Sandra Smith, Town Clerk and Tax Collector, advised that Suzanne Hodgkins, Deputy Town Clerk and Tax Collector submitted her resignation effective December 17, 2009. Mrs. Hodgkins had given a two week notice.
LETTERS TO BE SIGNED:
DEPT. OF ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES – SRF LOAN: Mrs. Teague moved to sign the NH Department of Environmental Services, State Revolving Fund Amendment on the Landfill. Seconded by Mr. Sawyer. Motion passed unanimously.
LOCAL GOVERNMENT CENTER – Confirmation of Insurance Coverage: Mr. Sawyer moved to authorize Whitney Aldrich, Chair of the Selectboard, to sign the letter to the LGC. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed unanimously.
BRACKETT GEOSCIENCES – Landfill Information: Mrs. Teague moved to sign the letter to Brackett Geosciences regarding information on the Landfill. Seconded by Mr. Sawyer. Motion passed unanimously.
NON-PUBLIC: Mr. Sawyer moved to enter into a Non-Public meeting pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (a) Personnel. Mrs. Teague seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with all in favor, the motion was approved. The time was 9:31 PM.
The regular meeting resumed at 9:42 PM.
Personnel: Mrs. Teague moved to ask Teresa Kissell to adjust Janet Clough’s pay by $.50/hour based on a positive review and end of probation period. Seconded by Mr. Sawyer. Motion passed unanimously.
Adjournment: Mrs. Teague moved to adjourn this meeting. The Selectboard will enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees. Seconded by Mr. Sawyer. Motion passed unanimously. The time was 9:46 PM.
MEETING OF THE HOOPER TRUSTEES
Mr. Aldrich called the meeting of the Hooper Trustees to order at 9:47 PM.
INVOICE: E.E. Houghton: Mr. Sawyer moved to sign the invoice from E.E. Houghton in the amount of $206.94 for closing the Hooper Mansion for the winter. This bill will be paid out of the Hooper Maintenance Fund. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed unanimously.
Selectboard Meeting –December 10, 2009- Page 4
Adjournment: Mrs. Teague moved to adjourn this meeting. Seconded by Mr. Sawyer. Motion passed unanimously. The time was 9:52 PM.
Don't you hate it when you buy an ice cream cone, go outside and it starts melting down your hand in about a minute? Well you don't have to worry about that THIS weekend! The Walpole Creamery Scoop Shop will be open beginning today through Christmas Eve from 12:00 Noon to 6:00 p.m, and your ice cream cones are guaranteed not to melt when you go outside! See you there! CCB
Walpole Players’ “A Christmas Carol” An Annual Tradition
“A Ghost Story of Christmas”
By Chuck Bingaman
The Walpole Players present their second annual production of Charles Dickers’ “A Christmas Carol” Wednesday through Saturday, December 16 through the19th at 7:00 p.m. in the Town Hall Helen Miller Theater to benefit the Fall Mountain Food Shelf.
“Rehearsals are going so well,” co-director Ray Boas said Tuesday evening. “We’ve a tweaked last year’s production that was very well-received, and wait till you see the party scene we’ve put in this year!”
Boas and co-director Tara Sad first produced the Players’ unique take on the 1843 classic last year with Boas creating the script from several previous stage adaptations and Sad taking a leading role in organizing the actors and staging. Rather than a typical beginning-to-end play, the Players’ version is a series of vignettes telling Dickens’ magical story of redemption shown behind a large frame and a curtain of theatrical gauze that gives the impression of seeing a story from another time.
The Players’ production is just over an hour—a very intensive hour—so it is perfect for a family experience.
Boas’ carefully sculptured vignettes are tied together by narration he edited from Dickens’ writings and is presented by Walpole writer and actor Jim Skofield playing the role of Dickens. Skofield’s deep and dramatic voice gives the whole production the gravity and grababilty that pull the audience in and open them to the emotions of the characters from the cold and miserly Scrooge to the ghosts and the family of Bob Cratchit.
Bill Pearre plays Scrooge again this year, the original “Baa! Humbug” Christmas spirit denier. His painful and, ultimately, joyful journey from scoffing to celebrating the season is well-matched to Pearre’s onstage talents. The 35 person cast also includes Gail Golec as the Ghost of Christmas Past, Laurel Perron as the Ghost of Christmas Present, Bill Perron as the Ghost of Christmases Yet to Come, Jim Baucom as Bob Cratchit, Tom Durnford as Marley, and Jack Pratt as Mr. Fezziweg.
“A Christmas Carol” also includes an all-star crew of community participants including sets by Bill Perron, costumes by Barbara Kasper of The Costume Ladies, lighting by Ben and Dan Northcott, sound by Eric Merklein, poster design by Jan Kobeski and tickets by Kris Tyson.
Each person attending will receive a special commemorative booklet on “A Christmas Carol” designed by Ray Boas and dedicated to his late wife Cathy “because she made a difference in the world.” The booklet adds to the meaning of the event by putting "A Christmas Carol" in its historical context and includes notes on Victorian Christmases. Refreshments after each performance echo the Victorian tradition.
While there is no charge to attend “A Christmas Carol”, tickets are required for admission and those attending are asked to make a donation to The Fall Mountain Food Shelf by check or cash when they attend. Ticket holders are asked to be in their seats 15 minutes before curtain time—6:45 p.m.—and any empty seats at that time will be given to latecomers without tickets. Because last year's performances were sold out, those interested are urged to get tickets immediately at Burdick’s Café, Galloway Real Estate, the Village Market and Real to Reel Video in Walpole.
Mr. Aldrich called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM with four people present in the audience.
PUBLIC BUSINESS:
ERIC SMITH – Southwest Regional Planning Commission (SWRPC): Eric Smith discussed the Brownfields Program. Brochures provided to the Selectboard during his previous visit were developed by the SWRPC as a part of a 2007 “Brownfields Strategic Outreach and Education Plan”. A Brownfield is “an abandoned or underused industrial or commercial facility where expansion of redevelopment is complicated by real or perceived environmental contamination”. A Phase I Environmental Site Assessment is the first step in the program at no cost to the community. A town can support nomination even if they are not the owners however the owner’s permission is required. The Selectboard agreed to support having Mr. Smith look into potential properties.
Recess Regular Meeting: Mrs. Teague moved to recess this meeting to allow the Selectboard to enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees. Seconded by Mr. Sawyer. Motion was approved unanimously. The time was 7:30 PM.
HOOPER TRUSTEES MEETING
Mr. Aldrich called the Hooper Trustees meeting to order at 7:32 PM.
JOE DION – Hooper Property: The Selectboard and Trustees of Trust Funds had previously talked about contacting a consultant to do an appraisal of the antiques in the Hooper Mansion. The last one was done about 15 years ago. There was a consensus to have this done with the funding coming out of the Hooper Maintenance account but it will not be done until May 2010.
HOOPER COTTAGE REPAIRS: Mrs. Teague moved to authorize the hiring of Mark Fetzer to do the repairs to the Hooper cottage. Seconded by Mr. Sawyer. Motion passed unanimously.
Mrs. Teague moved to adjourn this meeting and to return to the recessed regular Selectboard meeting. Seconded by Mr. Sawyer. Motion passed unanimously. The time was 7:41 PM.
SELECTBOARD MEETING (Continued)
Mr. Sawyer called the recessed regular Selectboard meeting to order at 7:42 PM.
PUBLIC BUSINESS (Continued):
CINDY WESTOVER: Mrs. Westover asked the Selectboard for guidance on how to proceed with a client who would like to remove a double-wide mobile home and replace it with another one that is 16-feet longer. The Selectboard advised that a Building Permit would be required.
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE: Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register and manifest in the amount of $527,316.91. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed unanimously.
Selectboard Meeting –December 03, 2009- Page 2
This includes a monthly payment in the amount of $429,031.14 to the Fall Mountain Regional School District.
S.E.E.D.S. GRANT: Mr. Sawyer moved to sign the S.E.E.D.S. Grant (Town Hall Energy Grant) document from the State. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed unanimously.
YEARLY REPORT OF FOREST FIRE WARDEN: Mr. Sawyer moved to sign the New Hampshire Yearly Report of the Forest Fire Warden based on 330 reports at $2.00/each. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed unanimously.
PAYROLL: Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the payroll voucher for the week ending November 28, 2009, for gross wages in the amount of $14,947.56 or net wages in the amount of $6,990.17. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. 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 $3,331.40. Seconded by Mr. Sawyer. Motion passed unanimously.
MINUTES:
SELECTBOARD MEETING – November 25, 2009: Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of November 25, 2009, as printed. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed unanimously.
COMMITTEE REPORTS:
The Selectboard received and reviewed the Minutes of the following meetings:
· Hooper Institute Committee – November 17, 2009;
· Planning Board Work Session – November 24, 2009 **;
· North Walpole Village District – November 24, 2009;
· North Walpole Village District – December 01, 2009.
** Mr. Sawyer is concerned with the following statement made by Mr. Daviss during the PB Work Session: “Mr. Daviss asked if the town should consider a list of industrial uses that are not acceptable in Walpole, such as feed lots”. He feels there is a misconception on Mr. Daviss’s part about “feed lots”.
BUILDING PERMIT:
DAVID & SARAH TUCKER, Map 019-001-000: Mr. Sawyer moved to approve Building Permit No. 2009-031 for David and Sarah Tucker for an additional room to be added to the existing house. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed unanimously.
OLD BUSINESS:
ACCEPTING OF THE AMERICAN LEGION MONEY: Mr. Sawyer moved to accept the funds from the American Legion for the cleaning and maintenance of the Veteran’s Memorial. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed unanimously.
NORTH WALPOLE VILLAGE DISTRICT: Letter to NH Dept of Transportation: The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of a copy of the letter sent to the NH Department of Transportation on behalf of the North Walpole Village District Commissioners regarding the Vilas Bridge closure.
Selectboard Meeting –December 03, 2009- Page 3
STATE OF NH WINTERIZATION PAYMENT – November 27, 2009: Mrs. Clough reported that the Town received a partial payment of the State of NH Winterization Program that the Tri Village Energy Committee obtained.
NILES WESTBERG WATER BILL: A response was received from Niles Westberg stating that the final water and sewer bill was handled by his attorney at the closing. Mrs. Teague felt they need to pull the paperwork from the time of the sale and to FAX a copy of Mr. Westberg’s reply to Attorney Kasper to try to resolve this issue.
INSURANCE DISCUSSION WITH LGC ON December 17, 2009: Mrs. Clough advised that the Local Government Center will be attending the Selectboard meeting on December 17th at 7:00 PM to discuss the Town’s insurance coverage with them.
BARNETT HILL ROAD TRAFFIC COUNTS –November vs. September: A copy of the traffic counts on Barnett Hill Road will be sent to Ms. Beaudoin.
VACHON, CLUKAY & COMPANY, PC: Mrs. Teague provided an up-date on recent research of the work done and invoices from Vachon, Clukay & Company, PC (auditors). She will contact them to discuss the findings.
STREET LIGHTS: Audrey Clinger contacted National Grid regarding the street pole lights, their numbers and locations. The Selectboard reviewed the information provided. It was suggested that they replace 44 of the outdated Mercury Vapor lights with energy efficient Mercury Sodium bulbs for a cost saving. Following a discussion the Selectboard agreed to turn this over to the Tri Village Energy Committee for their recommendations.
NEW BUSINESS:
SELECTBOARD MEETING – December 24, 2009 (Christmas Eve): Mrs. Teague moved to change the Selectboard meeting scheduled for December 24th to Wednesday, December 23rd at 4:00 PM. Seconded by Mr. Sawyer. Motion passed unanimously.
WALMART: Mr. Sawyer recommended that a Thank You letter be sent to Walmart to thank them for their contributions to the Town’s Police Department and to the Walpole Elementary School. Mrs. Clough will research the amount.
REGIONAL PROSECUTOR PROGRAM MEETING LETTER: The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of a letter from the Cheshire County Board of Commissioners with reference to the Regional Prosecutor Program. The next meeting regarding this program will be held on December 15, 2009, at 5:00 PM in the Jury Assembly Room at Cheshire County Superior Court. Mr. Sawyer noted that full amount for the town’s share of this program will be included in the town’s 2010 budget.
NH DOT LETTER – Repairs to Route 12: A notice was received that the next meeting to discuss the design of the proposed project has been scheduled for December 9, 2009, at 6:00 PM at the North Walpole School on Cray Road in North Walpole, NH. This meeting offers an opportunity to provide feedback on the preliminary design of the proposed project as well as a chance to raise any concerns the Selectboard or their staff may have regarding the noted resources. Mrs. Teague will represent the Selectboard. Notices will be posted at several locations.
Selectboard Meeting –December 03, 2009- Page 4
LETTERS TO BE SIGNED:
FAIRPOINT: Petition and License: Mr. Sawyer moved to sign the three copies of the Petition and Pole License for the following: 1 new pole and 1 replacement pole (24/20 ½ and 24/1) on March Hill Road. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed unanimously.
TERESA KISSELL – Local Government Center Class: Mr. Sawyer moved to grant permission for Teresa Kissell to attend the Financial Account Reconciliation LGC classes on January 12 and January 26, 2010. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed unanimously.
HIGHWAY SAFETY GRANT: Mr. Sawyer moved to authorize the Chair to sign the Highway Safety Grants for the Town of Walpole. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed unanimously.
EQUALIZATION MUNICIPAL ASSESSMENT DATA SHEETS CERTIFICATE: Mr. Sawyer moved to sign the Equalization Municipal Assessment Data Sheets Certificate. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed unanimously.
Adjournment: Mr. Sawyer moved to adjourn this meeting. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed unanimously. The time was 9:14 PM.
MINUTES: Regular Meeting Tuesday, December 8, 2009 at 7:00pm - Town Hall
Presiding: Jeff Miller, Ch.
Members Present: Bob Miller, V-Ch., Eric Merklein, Ben Daviss, Dave DeCoste, Henry Fletcher, Sheldon Sawyer, BOS, Jeff White, alt., Donn Lounsbury, alt.
Recording: Pamela Aslinger, Sec./alt.
These minutes are unapproved and will be reviewed at the January 12, 2010 meeting for errors, corrections and omissions. There were 17 persons in the audience.
I. Meeting opened at 7:05pm
A. Roll call, all regular members were present, no alternates designated.
B. Minutes - were passed over until the end of the meeting.
II. Review applications submitted - accept/reject/delay Procedural note: once an application is accepted as complete the meeting is closed and the public hearing is held. Once the hearing is closed the meeting is re-opened and the board may take action on the application by approving, disapproving or delaying final action.
A. 504 Main St. LLC, owner & Primax Properties, LLC/Brickstone Masons, eng. - Site Plan Review located on Rte. 12 NE Map 12, Lot 13-2 in the commercial zone. Proposal is to construct a 19,000 sq. ft. retail space for Tractor Supply Co. with access via a 50 ft. right of way across Lot 13 owned by 504 Main St., LLC. Town water and sewer will be extended to the lot. All state and local permits have been applied for. Two waivers requested: a reduction in landscaped parking islands and changes to landscaping material location.
Ch. Miller asked for a secretary’s report as to the completeness of the application and noted that a motion to accept the application as complete would also accept the two waiver requests. Sec. Aslinger reported the application complete with fees, materials and abutter notification in place. Ch. Miller called for a motion to accept the application as complete, so moved and seconded. Without further discussion he called for a vote, the vote was unanimous, motion carried.
Ch. Miller closed the meeting (7:08) and opened the public hearing. Mr. Dave Bergeron of Brickstone Masons introduced himself and Mr. Frank Alexander of Primax Properties. Mr. Bergeron gave the presentation referring to the maps giving the location and review of the previous subdivision and the shared driveway. The curb cut application has been submitted to Dept. of Transportation, he submitted an e-mail from the Dept. stating Kevin Belanger will be issuing a permit based on the driveway plan as shown. (on file). He pointed out the parking lot and a large concrete pad to house items too large to fit in the building such as fences and gates, the landscaped parking islands, how the driveway curves around to the loading area and docks at the rear. He reviewed the grading and drainage plan that slopes off the highway, retention strips, infiltration swales and the parking lot in the front will be porous concrete to allow for infiltration directly into the ground. The rear of the building will have a roof drain system into pipes to a retention pond. They have submitted an application to the State for an Alteration of Terrain permit and they have received a draft letter of comment from the agency and are awaiting a comment from the CT River By-ways commission, once received they will be able to finalize the permit. The suggestions so far have been minor and all aspects will meet the regulations. He referred to erosion control plan, test pits, infiltration rates and silt fences that will contain all construction work within the site. Utilities plan show a propane tank and the underground electrical to a transformer both in the rear. Water and sewer will be brought in from the street as shown, the water will need to be extended from Walgreen’s on the west side and crossing under the highway to the site. They decided to bring the water down in order to meet the requirements of Tractor Supply to have adequate fire protection. He showed handicap
Walpole Planning Board Minutes 12/08/09 p. 2
parking, sidewalks and landscaping locations. They addressed an area of concern by an abutter on the north corner for added screening by adding another 20 arborvitae trees. He discussed the lighting with light poles being within the perimeter and along the outside of the building; all are full cutoff downward light fixtures without spillage onto adjacent properties. He asked the board to consider which of the four color configurations on the building elevations they would prefer. All were lighter color on the top with a clapboard siding and a darker color on the 4ft. concrete lower portion of the building. The colors ranged from white to a warm sand or grey. Mr. Alexander noted that selection #1 white with grey was the preferred color more in line with their logo colors. Mr. Bergeron concluded his presentation and Ch. Miller called for questions from the audience.
Mr. Steve Dalessio asked about the sign if it was lighted and the height of the roadside sign? Answer was yes the building sign is lighted internally and the roadside sign will meet what the regulations require. Mr. DeCoste asked about the size of the outside display area? Answer was 15,000 sq. feet inside the fence and it’s a concrete slab for a total area is 39,000 sq. ft. of store area. Mr. Jeff White asked about the sign location? Answer was the sign would be where the barn exists and lit the same hours as the store is open with an hour ahead and after closing. Mr. White asked if it was interior lit? Answer was yes an interior cabinet lit although Mr. Alexander stated Tractor Supply handles their own signage with the respective town board. They typically ask for the largest sign allowable within the town requirements and pole mounted. Mr. Merklein asked about the type of fence and whether shrubs would surround it? Mr. Alexander answered that it would be a standard chain link fence without further landscaping around it other than what’s shown on the plan. He noted the area is over 300 ft. from the road. Mr. Merklein asked when the board could give input on the signage? Sec. Aslinger noted that Tractor Supply will appear before the zoning board on signage if members wanted to give input it would be during zoning board deliberations. Mr. Jeff White and Mr. Merklein suggested it not be interior lit but resemble the Pinnacle View “Kubota” lighting. Mr. Dalessio asked about dumpsters, Mr. Bergeron showed the location on the map to the rear of the building. Mr. Merklein asked how long the interior lighting would be left on and if they back off on some of it? Mr. Alexander said they are very energy conscientious with computer-programmed lighting but he wasn’t absolutely certain of the exact details. He did say he thought it was around 50% of the day lighting. Mr. Lounsbury asked about oil spillage during repairs? Answer was that they do not repair or sell tractors despite their name. Mr. Merklein asked about the specific exterior treatment. Mr. Alexander said what’s proposed is a more rural look, with the lower section being 4 ft. of masonry to protect the building and the upper is Murox panelized system covered with a lap sided clapboarding in the front and a vertical wood siding along the sides and rear of the building. He’s not certain if it’s going to be Hardy Plank or another product, they are still pricing it out.
Sec. Aslinger asked if they had a list of permits that are still pending? Answer was just the two mentioned above, DOT and Alteration of Terrrain. She asked where they stood with the water department, had they spoken to the fire department and conservation commission? Answer was they had spoken with the water department, Mark Houghton, they have agreed to the location and type of equipment required as the new set of plans reflects. They have spoken to the Fire Department Chief who looked at the building plans and will make suggestions as to needs when they are further into the construction phase. They did not contact the conservation commission. Mr. Sawyer noted the fire department is considered during the building permitting process. Mr. Daviss asked Mrs. Mary Lou Montgomery of the conservation commission who was present if the commission had any comments. Mrs. Montgomery stated they chose not to take up the proposal but they have been contacted by the Connecticut River By Way Commission in regard to the proposal that is tied in with the State alteration of terrain permit. Hearing no further comments Ch. Miller closed the public hearing. (7:30pm)
Walpole Planning Board Minutes 12/08/09 p. 3
Ch. Miller called for board comments and action. He reminded that the pending permits from DOT and Alteration of Terrain should be included as a condition of final board action. He also requested that the board include selection #1 of the color scheme in any final action taken. Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the site plan review as presented with color choice #1 and pending receipt of the NH Dept. of Transportation permit and NH Alteration of Terrain permit. Mr. B. Miller seconded. Ch. Miller called for discussion.
Mr. Merklein asked the board to consider requiring a performance guarantee as suggested by SW Regional Planning Commission, NH State RSA’s and site plan regulations. Ch. Miller asked him if he wanted to amend the motion on the floor. Mr. Merklein moved to amend the motion to require the applicant to provide a performance guarantee. Ch. Miller asked in what form to cover what costs? Mr. Merklein said in an amount to cover the costs of utilities, streets and sidewalks as referenced in the regulations and RSA’s. Mr. Daviss seconded the motion however he asked for the board to determine the exact language of the request.
Ch. Miller said it was not in the board’s ability to set the language at this time and referred to the Town of Walpole Site Plan Review regulations under Section XI “Performance Guarantee” which states “...the planning board may require the posting of a security in an amount sufficient to defray the costs of construction of streets and public utilities.” He concluded that no streets are proposed and the public utilities (water) are being extended at the applicant’s cost to benefit their own fire protection needs so he does not feel it is applicable on this application to require a performance guarantee. Mr. Merklein disagreed. Ch. Miller restated the ammendmentto the motion, called for further discussion, hearing none called for the vote. Two were in favor, 5 opposed, motion failed.
Ch. Miller restated the original motion (as above) called for further discussion and hearing none called for the vote. 6 were in favor, 1 opposed, motion passed. Ch. Miller asked the applicant’s to submit copies of the permits once received to the Secretary in order to meet the condition of the approval, they agreed. Mr. Bergeron submitted 3 sets of final revised plans for the board’s records. Selectman Sawyer noted the building permit would not be issued until all permits are in place.
Ch. Miller turned the meeting over to V-Ch. Miller and stepped out temporarily, he returned within 5 minutes.
B. Huntington Realty of Walpole, LLC (Lot 4-3) and Karlson Realty of Walpole, LLC (Lot 4-2) with Bensonwood Homes as agent - Lot Line Adjustment located on Rte. 12 NW Map 12, Lots 4-3 and 4-2 in the commercial and rural ag. zones. The proposal removes 1.19 acres with an existing barn from Lot 4-2 adding it to Lot 4-3 resulting in Lot 4-2 of 4.48 acres and Lot 4-3 of 25.60 acres. Secretary Aslinger reported the application was complete as submitted. A motion to accept the application as complete was made and seconded, all were in favor, motion carried.
(7:40) V-Ch. Miller opened the public hearing and Mr. Peter Wotowiec presented the plan referring to the maps, showing the locations and giving an overview as described above. He said Hubbard Farms is discontinuing the use of the chicken barn so Bensonwood decided to incorporate it into their pending production facility. Ms. Aslinger asked the board if and when Bensonwood decides to use the additional building, would it need a site plan review at that time? After discussion the answer was yes once it begins to be used. This lot line adjustment is not affected by the future site plan review. Mr. Wotowiec said it was understood by Bensonwood Homes if they make any changes to their previously approved site plan they would need to return to the board, so incorporating a new production area would cause them to return to the board with a re-design. Mr. Bob Miller asked if the building was useable or would it be leveled? Mr. Wotowiec said it would be retained and re-used. V-Ch. Bob Miller agreed it would undergo a change in use triggering a site plan review, he asked about going before the zoning board. Jeff
Walpole Planning Board Minutes 12/08/09 p. 4
Miller thought whenever they begin their project they would come back before the board and the board could then determine how to proceed, but for now it does not affect the lot line adjustment.
(7:45) V-Ch. Bob Miller closed the public hearing and called for board discussion and/or action. Mr. Sawyer made a motion to approve the lot line adjustment as presented, seconded by Mr. DeCoste, with no further discussion the vote was called. All were in favor, motion carried. The maps and mylar were signed, Mr. Wotowiec will record the mylar at the registry and report the recording data to Sec. Aslinger as proof.
Ch. Jeff Miller resumed as chairman.
C. Bruce and Betsy Cramer and Wm. and Anna Smith - Lot Line Adjustment located on Prospect Hill Rd. Map 8, Lots 106 & 107 in the rural ag. zone. Proposal removes 3.24 acres from Lot 106 adding it to Lot 107 resulting in Lot 106 of 5.00 acres and lot 107 of 10.24 acres and includes the Smith’s deeded driveway. No new lots created. Sec. Aslinger reported that the application was complete with the receipt of additional abutter notice fees of $15.00. Ch. Jeff Miller called for a motion to accept the application as complete, it was so moved and seconded, vote called, all were in favor, motion carried.
(7:55) Ch. Miller closed the meeting and opened the public hearing. Joe DiBernardo from DiBernardo Associates representing the Smith’s who were present, introduced Myra Mansouri as representing the Cramer’s. He described the proposal as above pointing out the Smith’s 20ft. wide driveway easement now becoming a 30ft. wide strip and the only road frontage on their grandfathered lot. He stated that the resulting lots meet the current zoning and setbacks. Ch. Miller called for questions or comments, hearing none closed the hearing. (7:57)
Ch. Miller called for board comments and/or action. Mr. Ben Daviss moved to approve the lot line adjustment as presented. It was seconded, with no further discussion the vote was called, all were in favor, motion carried. The maps and mylar were signed, Mr. Dibernardo agreed to record the mylar at the registry and report the recording data to Sec. Aslinger as proof.
D. Edward & Timothy Cutter & Wendy Maynard and Jason & Marcie Dunbar - Lot Line Adjustment located on Jct. of County and Prospect Hill Roads Map 17, Lot 22 and 16 in the residential A zone. The proposal removes 2.5 acres from Lot 22 adding it to Lot 16 resulting in Lot 22 of 13.2 acres and Lot 16 of 7.5 acres. No new lots created. Sec. Aslinger reported the application is complete as submitted. Ch. Miller called for a motion to accept the application as complete, it was so moved and seconded, without further discussion, vote was called, all were in favor, motion carried.
(8:05) Ch. Miller closed the meeting and opened the public hearing. Mrs. Cindy Westover of Galloway Realty described the proposal as above. Mr. Dunbar was also present. She stated the Dunbar’s are purchasing 2.5 acres from the Cutter family, it includes the brook and a dirt road and it is wooded. Mr. Sawyer asked if the Cutter property is in “current use”, answer was yes. Ch. Miller called for further questions, hearing none closed the public hearing (8:08) and re-opened the meeting. Mr. Fletcher asked if the dirt road is still a town road, Mr. Sawyer said he would have to research it.
Ch. Miller called for board comments and/or action, hearing none he called for a motion to approve the lot line adjustment as presented. It was so moved and seconded, vote was called all were in favor, motion carried. The maps and mylar were signed with Mrs. Westover agreeing to record the mylar at the registry and report the recording data to Sec. Aslinger as proof.
VI. New Business - Voluntary Merger
A. Walpole Youth Baseball Foundation request a merger of Map 12 Lots 57-2 and 57-3 (formerly Hubbard hatchery) for taxation purposes according to RSA 679:39a. Sec. Aslinger made the presentation on behalf of Mr. Dale Hubbard, she discovered the need for the merger when processing their site plan review. The 11/10/08 Hubbard Farms approved subdivision has
Walpole Planning Board Minutes 12/08/09 p. 5
been recorded at the registry therefore it is legal to merge the two lots as requested by the Walpole Youth Baseball Foundation. She received a complete application and $25.00 fee. A public hearing is not required and abutters are not notified. Ch. Miller called for a motion to accept the merger request, it was so moved and seconded. Without further discussion the vote called, all were in favor, the motion carried. The form was signed and will be mailed to Mr. Hubbard for recording at the registry along with a final letter of instructions.
V. New Business - Preliminary Discussion and Application Submissions
A. Mr. Ron Kingsbury submitted an application for 2 lot subdivision and lot line adjustment located on Kingsbury Rd. Map 8 Lot 120 and 113. Purpose is to subdivide Lot 120 into Lot 1 of 30.91 acres with the existing house into two lots. Lot 2 includes the mountain and is a back lot of 12.82 acres. The road frontage for Lot 2 is created via the lot line adjustment between Lot 113 and 120 adding a strip of land to access Lot 2 with 200 ft. of frontage. Sec. Aslinger met with the surveyor, Mr. Bill Lawrence who will submit the final maps by the deadline for the next meeting. The application and fees have been received. Ch. Miller called for a motion to place the application on the January 12, 2009 agenda. It was so moved and seconded. Without further discussion the vote was called, all were in favor, the motion carried.
B. Appledore Engineering e-mailed the board canceling their project until further notice.
VI. Planning Discussion
A. Master Plan - Sec. Aslinger reported she had responded to the questions posed by Lisa Murphy from SW Reg. Planning Comm., she expects the Board will have a draft shortly on the Land Use Section. Ch. Miller will follow up on billing for 2009 to insure the funds are allocated and not lost to the general fund.
B. There will be no work session for the month of December. Members who attended the prior work session thought it was very constructive. Mr. Sawyer expressed concerns from reading the minutes about limiting agricultural uses such as feedlots and Myra Mansouri expressed her concern over zoning mixed uses preferring the special exception/variance approach on individual applications. Mr. Daviss, Mr. Dalessio and Ch. Miller all spoke in defense of the work sessions that have promoted identifying the existing zoning with future planning for industrial and commercial uses rather than creating more restrictive zoning and regulations.
C. Mr. Merklein reported that he, Mr. DeCoste and Mr. Lounsbury attended a meeting with SWRPC’s Lisa Murphy to discuss adding design review standards to the regulations and ordinance. The meeting was informative and will result in some viable suggestions ready for the March planning board meeting. Mr. Lounsbury asked about noise and nuisance provisions; members sited places in the ordinance and regulations that are applicable.
VII. Communications and Miscellaneous
A. Letters: 1) Sec. Aslinger said the board received a copy of a letter sent by the NHDES Air Resources Division in regard to the removal of the Hubbard Hatchery building, asbestos removal and where the debris will go, either in Waynesboro, OH or Bell Vernon, PA and transported by Service Transport Group in New Castle, DE, a Burlington, VT company will do the tear down. The asbestos will be removed by the “wet method”. Ch. Miller added that the configuration of the building interior was highly specific to the hatching process with very low ceilings and small bay compartments making it difficult to remarket it for another use.
2) The Board received a copy of a letter written by the BOS to NH DOT Commissioners in regard to Vilas Bridge requesting it be moved up on the repair schedule. Selectman Sawyer suggested and offered to write a letter on behalf of the Planning Board supporting immediate repair of the bridge. A motion to have Mr. Sawyer draft a letter on behalf of the Planning Board in support of repairing the Vilas Bridge immediately was made and seconded, all were in favor, motion carried. He will send it to the Secretary.
Walpole Planning Board Minutes 12/08/09 p.6
3) Ms. Aslinger read a note from Road Agent Jim Terrell re: a driveway location not yet before the board on Kingsbury Rd.
4) Ms. Aslinger asked the board to reconsider it’s appointment of Mr. Dalessio as an alternate for the balance of the year. Upon looking over the RSA’s and the boards Internal Rules of Procedure the board usually appoints alternates at it’s second meeting after the March town meeting and for a term of 3 years. After discussion about filling vacancies and terms the board determined Mr. Dalessio’s appointment needed to be revised. A motion was made by Mr. Daviss to nominate Mr. Dalessio as alternate to fill one of two open vacancies for a term ending in 2012. The motion was seconded by Mr. Sawyer and without further discussion the vote was called, all were in favor, motion carried. Sec. Aslinger will process the appointment and have the paperwork for swearing in prepared.
Out of order: I. B. Minutes - Sec. Aslinger read a correction to the minutes requested by Mr. Merklein stating: “That we(the board) requested Appledore to look at Walpole and it’s character before coming to us with a bad looking square box to house the dry goods store.” replacing “The board commented on architectural features once the site plan moves forward.” A motion to approve the correction was made and seconded, all were in favor the motion carried. A motion was made approving the minutes as corrected for 11/10/09 and 11/24/09 was made and seconded, all were in favor, motion carried.
VIII. Meeting was adjourned at 8:45pm - The next regular meeting is to be held on January 12, 2009 in the Town Hall at 7pm.
Participants Needed for Christmas Eve Live Nativity on the Walpole Common
Again this year, the Live Nativity will take place on Christmas Eve at about 8:15 pm on the Walpole Common (or in the Town Hall, if the weather does not cooperate). Everyone is invited to attend this treasured Walpole tradition.
Each year townspeople are asked to play the various roles of the nativity: Mary, Joseph, Baby Jesus, the wise men, the shepherds, the baby angels, and the little shepherds. These are all non-speaking roles. We also need one or two readers, a child to say a prayer, and soloists. And, of course, local farm animals are recruited to play their important roles.
If you would like to participate in this year’s Live Nativity by taking one of the above parts, please call Jana Sellarole (756-4380). It is a wonderful way to celebrate this special night.
Ed. Note: Many news stories are interesting, but some carry the added pleasures of being fun to research and report and of featuring some of one's favorite people. Here's one! In addition to Dennis Marcom's assistance in this story, I got great help and ideas from Rick Reynolds, Peter Wotowiec and, of course, Tedd Benson. Chuck Bingaman
11-23-09
Walpole’s Bensonwood Updates Jefferson Pavilion
By Chuck Bingaman, Correspondent
Timberframe leader Bensonwood, based in Walpole and Alstead, is completing construction of a new parapet for a major building, Pavilion X, originally designed by Thomas Jefferson for the University of Virginia “Academical Village” in 1819.
Job captain Dennis Marcom said last week the project “is a wonderful thing because Jefferson is like a god down there. In fact they go a little over the top! But, to me, what I get a kick out of, is marrying the ancient tradition of timber, joinery, pegs, and mortises and with the world of modern technology. That’s an excellent marriage, and this project is a unique opportunity.”
Dennis Marcom on the Bensonwood shp floor showing some of the design drawings for building the parapet for Pavilion X on the University of Virginia campus in Charlottesville originally deisgned by Thomas Jefferson in the early 19th century. Chuck Bingaman photo
Pavilion X is part of the Neo-Classical university design Jefferson drew up in 1819 relying heavily on ideas of Italian Renaissance architect Andrea Palladio. The scheme is a large U-shaped campus with the main building, the Rotunda, at the head looking down a sloping lawn and symmetrical wings with five large academic buildings on either side connected by columned walkways and smaller buildings called cottages where students live. Each of the Pavilions is red brick with white columns and trim, designed to be three stories high with spaces for faculty to live in the top floors and for classes to be held on the ground level. The pavilions at UVA were each designed uniquely to give dignity to each branch of learning and to be, as Jefferson put it, “models of taste and good architecture.”
Jefferson apparently collaborated on Pavilion X’s design with Benjamin Latrobe, known to many as the “father of American architecture”. It originally was three stories tall with a parapet, or roughly eight-foot high decorative wooden wall, sitting on and extending around edge of the roof to give the building greater presence. After about 70 years of use, the parapet was removed from Pavilion X in the 1890s because of weather related rot and disintegration.
Several years ago the university embarked on a restoration plan for the original Jeffersonian design and plans emerged for restoring the parapet. Eventually Bensonwood got the contract to build the new parapet, in large pieces, to be shipped to Charlottesville, Virginia for installation on the Pavilion X roof. The trucks with the parapet sections leave during the week after Christmas, and Marcom will be on hand next week to assist in their installation.
The parapet sections consist of heavy timber framing structure sheathed in African mahogany siding on both sides for strength and weather resistance. Benson engineers and designers worked from Jefferson’s original drawings to duplicate his parapet’s dimensions and appearance, although they designed the new internal system of beams. Benson timber experts also made the suggestion that the beams all be hewn from Port Orford cedar, a variety found only around Port Orford, Oregon, because of its superior resistance to rot. Port Orford is also one of the most aromatic cedars, and the Benson factory on Rt. 12 has been smelling exceptionally good during the past few weeks of timber cutting and assembly!)
The parapet is purely decorative. “It comes from a time,” says Marcom, “when I think there was something more substantial about decoration. It was more important to the culture. We tend to look at decoration as frivolous, but they took the decoration very seriously to create the balance and harmony they were looking for. That’s why, in addition to the timber frame walls and cladding, this parapet also includes extensive and complicated trim work being constructed under the supervision of project captain Kevin Bittenbender in Alstead.”
“The trim is HUGE,’ added Marcom, “and while the timber work has been challenge—all those big timbers in very close proximity within the wall—the trim, because of its size and complexity, has been an even greater challenge.”
“So the project has tested our skills and experience,” chuckles Marcom, “with a lot of players involved!” And, there is the architectural importance of the work—it’s got to be just right and true to Jefferson’s original plan. “I don’t stand back and think about the significance of a project like this a lot while I’m doing it. The reflection part doesn’t typically happen until the job is done. We’re just doing the work and trying to get it right. But it IS Thomas Jefferson's concept and the combination of old design and new technology is what interests me most—putting those two things together—that’s what I’m getting a kick out of.”
B. Approve Minutes of 11/10 (correction) and 11/24/09
II. Review Applications Submitted - Once an application is accepted as complete the meeting is closed and the public hearing is held. Once the hearing is closed the meeting is re-opened and the Board may take action on the application by approving, disapproving or delaying final action.
A. 504 Main St., LLC, owner & Primax Properties, LLC/Brickstone Masons, eng. - Site Plan Review located on Rte. 12 NE Map 12, Lot 13-2 in the commercial zone. Proposal is to construct a 19,000 sq.ft. retail space for Tractor Supply Co. with access via a 50 ft. right of way across Lot 13 owned by 504 Main St., LLC. Town water and sewer will be extended to the lot. All state and local permits have been applied for. Two waivers requested: a reduction in landscaped parking islands and changes to landscaping material location.
B. Huntington Realty of Walpole, LLC (Lot 4-3) and Karlson Realty of Walpole, LLC(Lot 4-2) with Bensonwood Homes as agent - Lot Line Adjustment located on Rte. 12 NW Map 12, Lots 4-3 and 4-2 in the commercial and rural agricultural zones. The proposal removes 1.19 acres with and existing barn from Lot 4-2 adding it to Lot 4-3 resulting in Lot 4-2 of 4.48 acres and Lot 4-3 of 25.60 acres. No new lots are being created.
C. Bruce & Betsy Cramer and William & Anna Marie Smith - Lot Line Adjustment located on Prospect Hill Rd. Map 8, Lots 106 and 107 in the rural agricultural zone. Proposal removes 3.24 acres from Lot 106 adding it to Lot 107 resulting in Lot 106 of 5.00 acres and Lot 107 of 10.24 acres to include the Smith’s deeded driveway. No new lots are being created.
D. Edward & Timothy Cutter and Wendy Maynard and Jason & Marcie Dunbar - Lot Line Adjustment located on Jct. of County and Prospect Hill Roads Map 17, Lot 22 and 16 in the residential A zone. The proposal removes 2.5 acres from Lot 22 adding it to Lot 16 resulting in Lot 22 of 13.2 acres and Lot 16 of 7.5 acres. No new lots are being created.
IV. New Business - Voluntary Merger
A. Walpole Youth Baseball Foundation request merger of Map 12 Lots 57-2 and 57-3 (formerly Hubbard hatchery) for taxation purposes according to RSA 679:39a. Notification and public hearing are not required but a signed form shall be recorded at the registry of deeds.
V. New Business - Preliminary Discussion and Application Submissions
A. Bill Lawrence - Lot Line Adjustment/Minor 2 lot subdivision Kingsbury Rd.
B. Other - Appledore Engineering - cancelled
VI. Planning Discussion
A. Master Plan - Land Use Analysis
B. Work session results, schedule December work session?
C. Design Review provisions
VII. Communications and Miscellaneous
A. Handouts, announcements and other (alternate appointments)
VIII. Adjourn Meeting - Next regular meeting to be held January 12, 2009 - 7:00pm in the Town Hall
Mr. Aldrich called the meeting to order at 7:30 PM with one person present in the audience. He advised that Mrs. Teague will be late as she is representing the Selectboard by reading the Proclamation from the Governor in St. Joseph’s Church during the Ecumenical Service.
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE: Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register and manifest in the amount of $1,266,485.98. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. Motion passed unanimously.
The above amount includes an annual payment of $1,238,562.00 for the Cheshire County Tax.
PAYROLL: Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the payroll voucher for the week ending November 21, 2009, for gross wages in the amount of $18,009.67 or net wages in the amount of $9,524.88. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. Motion passed unanimously.
Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $3,957.58. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. Motion passed unanimously.
MINUTES:
SELECTBOARD MEETING –November 12, 2009: Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of November 12, 2009, as printed. Seconded by Mr. Sawyer. With Mr. Aldrich and Mrs. Teague in favor, the Minutes were approved. Mr. Sawyer abstained as he was not present.
SELECTBOARD MEETING – November 18, 2009: Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of November 18, 2009, as printed. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With Mr. Sawyer and Mr. Aldrich in favor, the Minutes were approved. Mrs. Teague abstained as she was not present.
SELECTBOARD PUBLIC HEARING – November 18, 2009: Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard Public Hearing of November 18, 2009, as printed. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. Motion passed unanimously.
SELECTBOARD MEETING – November 20, 2009: Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of November 20, 2009, as printed. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With Mr. Sawyer and Mr. Aldrich in favor, the Minutes were approved. Mrs. Teague abstained as she was not present at this meeting.
COMMITTEE REPORTS:
The Selectboard received and reviewed the Minutes of the following meeting:
· Zoning Board of Adjustment – November 18, 2009
Selectboard Meeting –November 25, 2009- Page 2
ABATEMENT:
PROPERTY TAX ABATEMENT – LaClair Living Trust, Drewsville, Map 025-014-000: Mr. Sawyer moved to grant the Property Tax Abatement in the amount of $250.00 for the LaClair
Living Trust. The Veteran’s Exemption was removed in error so it was reinstated. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. Motion passed unanimously.
REFUND:
PROPERTY TAX REFUND – Powers, 6 Duffy Street, Map 027-006-000: Mr. Sawyer moved to grant the Property Tax Refund in the amount of $466.44 for Peter and Jane Powers in North Walpole. This was the result of a Current Use change. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. Motion passed unanimously.
Mrs. Teague came into the meeting.
OLD BUSINESS:
AVITAR ASSOCIATES – Equalization Ratio Study: Mrs. Teague moved to approve the Equalization Ratio Study prepared by Avitar Associates of New England, Inc.and to authorize the Chairman to sign the certification sheet when it is received from the Department of Revenue Administration. Seconded by Mr. Sawyer. Motion passed unanimously.
NEW BUSINESS:
WALPOLE VILLAGE MARKET: Mrs. Teague said Paul Colburn reported that the Walpole Village Market owes for two sets of bags they received to sell but have not as yet paid for them even though he has tried to collect.
Mr. Sawyer moved to send a reminder letter informing them that they owe for the recycling bags. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed unanimously.
UNIFORM ALLOTMENT: Mrs. Teague advised that an employee asked if they could use their uniform allotment to buy safety prescription glasses. Following a discussion there was a consensus of the Selectboard that this allotment was intended for uniform clothing; the Town does supply safety glasses to fit over prescription glasses.
TRANSFER STATION: Paul Colburn talked to Mrs. Teague about the letter Chuck Bingaman wrote in the Walpolean about the Transfer Station being closed on the Tuesday before Veteran’s Day. The Selectboard had approved this and it was posted. Paul Colburn is sensitive to the needs of the community. He would like to do a newsletter with the WRAP Committee and have it put on the Walpolean once a month. The Selectboard agreed to leave it up to him to work it out.
LETTER TO BE SIGNED:
LETTER TO SUE BINGAMAN: Mr. Sawyer moved to sign the letter to Sue Bingaman relative to the Hooper Cottage. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed unanimously.
Selectboard Meeting –November 25, 2009- Page 3
Adjournment: Mrs. Teague moved to adjourn this meeting. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. Motion passed unanimously. The time was 8:06 PM.
Mr. Aldrich called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM with nine people present in the audience.
PUBLIC BUSINESS:
CARTOGRAPHIC ASSOCIATES – Don Butson: Don Butson and Tim Fountain from Cartographic Associates, Inc. did a presentation on GIS mapping. They have been up-dating the Walpole tax maps for many years but the town maps are not accurate. The NH Department of Transportation is going to fly over the entire state in the spring of 2010 and provide each town with the base map that will be available in the fall of 2010. This will save the communities about $10,000-to-$20,000. Mr. Butson explained what the aerial maps will show; he took the town tax maps and tried to line up the features but some are off as much as 75-feet. They should match up. Mr. Fountain demonstrated examples on the computer of what would be available and easily accessible with the GIS system. Municipal water and sewer lines, roads, catch basins and the drainage system could be added to the tax maps. It is a quick way to find information and is good for assessments and planning. Mrs. Galloway felt the Natural Resources Inventory could be added. Jeff Miller felt a lot of departments would find this system useful. The Selectboard thanked Mr. Butson and Mr. Fountain for their informative presentation and will take it under consideration.
MARCIA GALLOWAY: Mrs. Galloway reported that the Conservation Commission (CC) have begun making trails in the recently purchased addition to the Fanny Mason Forest. The trails will be available for cross-country skiing this winter and the boundaries will be more clearly marked. The chain will be moved further up the road to provide added parking space. Members want to connect the forest with the annex. There will be a workshop on November 12th from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. People would like to see the Academy Ravine opened; this is a popular place. The CC members feel with some good Eagle Scout help it can be done but before they proceed they wanted to check with the Selectboard. The Selectboard approved this request. Lew Shelley heads up the Mill Pond project. More postings will be put up for Mill Pond, the Cranberry Meadow area and for Merriam Road.
JIM TERRELL: Mr. Terrell reported that there are water issues everywhere in Walpole. Warren Stevens looked at the bridge on Mill Road and feels it needs to be replaced. It could be taken out under an emergency permit and should be done sooner rather than later. The Selectboard would like a dollar amount; Mr. Terrell could have that in about a week.
School Street has been taking a hit with all the heavy rain. During this past storm gravel washed down and filled up the culvert for a second time. To repair this problem will cost about $12,000 for materials and three weeks labor if they do it themselves.
Hillside Acres: Mr. Terrell looked at the suggested solution by Mr. Sibley. He thought about that before but always hesitates to change water flow. He did walk the gulley and doesn’t think there would be any problem doing it. It will probably be a three day project; Mr. Terrell will check on the cost. The culvert across the Old Keene Road is an old box culvert so there might be a concern about adding more water to it.
Selectboard Meeting –November 5, 2009- Page 2
North Walpole: North Walpole has a problem where water comes down off Mountain View to Taylor Street. They had put in a grate to take more water but it has still been creating a problem. He talked to Barbara O’Brien, Commissioner in the North Walpole Village, about it.
AMERICAN LEGION: Randy Daniels and Bruce Martin from the American Legion Bridge Wilson Post #77 talked to the Selectboard about transferring the money to the Town to have the Trustees of Trust Funds set up a separate fund for the $9,500.00 to be used for cleaning and the perpetual up-dating of the names inscribed on the Walpole Veterans Memorial. The Selectboard explained that any thing over $5,000 needs to have a Public Hearing. The date and time for the Public Hearing was scheduled for Thursday, November 18th, 2009, at 4:00 PM.
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:
NATIONAL GRID INVOICE: There was a consensus of the Selectboard to forward this invoice from National Grid to the Walpole Conservation Commission.
WALPOLE FIRE DISTRICT: Mr. Sawyer moved to authorize payment in the amount of $35,000 to the Walpole Fire District. Reference was made to Article 5 for the Fire Department. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed unanimously.
Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register and manifest in the amount of $459,777.96. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed unanimously.
The above amount includes a monthly payment in the amount of $429,031.18 to the Fall Mountain Regional School District.
PAYROLL: Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the payroll voucher for the week ending October 31, 2009, for gross wages in the amount of $14,750.66 or net wages in the amount of $6,851.65. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed unanimously.
Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $3,315.26. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed unanimously.
MINUTES:
SELECTBOARD MEETING –October 29, 2009: Mrs. Teague moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of October 29, 2009, as printed. Seconded by Mr. Sawyer. Motion passed unanimously.
ABATEMENTS:
NORTH WALPOLE VILLAGE HOUSING, 10 Merchant Street, North Walpole, Map 028-102-000: Mrs. Teague moved to grant the Notice of Abatement in the amount of $4,563.00 for North Walpole Village Housing on 10 Merchant Street. Seconded by Mr. Sawyer. Motion passed unanimously.
NORTH WALPOLE VILLAGE HOUSING, 26 Kiniry Street, North Walpole, Map 028-011-000: Mr. Sawyer moved to grant the Notice of Abatement in the amount of $1,528.00 for North Walpole Village Housing on 26 Kiniry Street. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed unanimously.
Selectboard Meeting –November 05, 2009- Page 3
OLD BUSINESS:
BLANC & BAILEY CONSTRUCTION, INC., Change Order: Mr. Sawyer moved to approve Change Order #1 for Blanc & Bailey Construction, Inc. and to authorize the Chairman to sign it. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed unanimously.
2010 MEDICAL INSURANCE RATES: Mrs. Teague will contact Dana Conrad of the NH Local Government Center to discuss the 2010 Medical Insurance rates.
VACHON, CLUKAY & COMPANY, PC – Letter: Mr. Sawyer requested that a copy of the letter that Mrs. Teague is working on be sent to the Trustees of Trust Funds.
NATIONAL GRID – Location of Lights: Teresa Kissell will be asked to make a copy of the National Grid bills for Mrs. Teague. Mr. Sawyer would like a list of the location of all poles.
BUDGET LETTER FROM TERESA KISSELL: The Selectboard set the dates and times for two meetings to work on the budget as follows: Tuesday, November 10, 2009, at 4:00 pm and Tuesday, November 17, 2009, at 4:00 pm.
ECONOMIC REVITALIZATION ZONES: Mrs. Teague has been working on the designation of Economic Revitalization Zones (ERZ) on the Town maps. She plans to make a presentation to the Planning Board during their next meeting on Tuesday, November 10, 2009.
DOWNSTAIRS MEETING ROOM: Mrs. Clough reported that the work is almost finished in the downstairs meeting room. The new ceiling tiles will be picked-up tomorrow.
NEW BUSINESS:
NEXT SELECTBOARD MEETING: The next Selectboard meeting will be held on Thursday, November 12, 2009, however the time will be changed from 7:30 pm to 12:00 Noon.
AVITAR ASSOCIATES – Mapping Proposal: Avitar Associates would like to schedule a meeting to present a mapping proposal. The Selectboard suggested scheduling the meeting in December.
LETTERS TO BE SIGNED:
NATIONAL GRID – Recycling Electrical Proposal for Route 123: Mr. Sawyer moved that the Chairman sign the letter to National Grid regarding the Town Dump #7158661. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed unanimously.
MR. & MRS. JAMES BAUCOM: Mr. Sawyer moved to sign the letter to Mr. & Mrs. James Baucom. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed unanimously.
Adjournment: Mr. Sawyer moved to adjourn this meeting. The Selectboard will enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed unanimously. The time was 9:22 PM.
Selectboard Meeting –November 05, 2009- Page 4
MEETING OF THE HOOPER TRUSTEES
Mr. Aldrich called the meeting of the Hooper Trustees to order at 9:23 PM.
INVOICE – Recording Secretary: Mr. Sawyer moved to pay the invoice from Regina Borden out of the Hooper Trust Fund. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed unanimously.
Mrs. Teague moved to adjourn this meeting. Seconded by Mr. Sawyer. Motion passed unanimously. The time was 9:29 PM.
Mr. Aldrich called this recessed meeting to order at 8:05 AM with two people present in the audience.
OLD BUSINESS:
Jamie Teague participated in the conversation on the following two agenda items by speaker phone.
BLANC & BAILEY CONSTRUCTION, INC. – Report: Matt Blanc contacted Andrew Dey and they agreed to work together when the framing was being done. He then went back to Southern Vermont Sprinklers and talked to Mark Houghton about the sprinkler system before executing the two change orders for some framing modifications and the sprinkler system
.
Mr. Sawyer moved to approve Change Order #2 for the structural changes. This will be billed on a Time and Material basis. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed unanimously.
Mr. Sawyer moved to approve Change Order #3 for the sprinkler system in the amount of $4,070.00. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed unanimously.
HOOPER COTTAGE – Rental Issue: Mr. Sawyer explained that Sue Bingaman [of Galloway Real Estate Services] came to the meeting on November 18th to ask the Selectboard to re-consider renting the Hooper Cottage to a single, well-qualified person however she has two cats. Mr. Sawyer is not in favor of changing the “no pets” restriction on the lease agreement. Mrs. Teague felt this is how it was advertised; it is not fair to other people who might have been interested if it is changed now. There was a consensus of the Selectboard to take no further action.
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE: Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register and manifest in the amount of $14,727.76. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. Motion passed unanimously.
PAYROLL: Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the payroll voucher for the week ending November 14, 2009, for gross wages in the amount of $14,016.50 or net wages in the amount of $6,153.60. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. 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 $3,110.68. Seconded by Mr. Sawyer. Motion passed unanimously.
NEW BUSINESS:
NEXT SELECTBOARD MEETING: Due to the Thanksgiving Day holiday, the next Selectboard meeting will be changed from Thursday, November 26, 2009, to Wednesday, November 25, 2009, at 7:30 PM.
Selectboard Meeting –November 20, 2009- Page 2
Adjournment:
Mr. Sawyer moved to adjourn this recessed meeting. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. Motion passed unanimously. The time was 8:26 PM.
Trustees of Trust Funds: Jerry Galloway, Joe Dion, Dan Schwenk
Mr. Aldrich called the Public Hearing to order at 4:07 PM in the Town Hall Building.
AMERICAN LEGION BRIDGE WILSON POST #77: Randy Daniels and Bruce Martin attended this duly advertised and posted Public Hearing to request that the Selectboard accept $9,500.00 from the American Legion Bridge Wilson Post #77 to be given to the Walpole Trustees of Trust Funds to set up an account for the purpose of the perpetual up-keep and etching of the Walpole Veterans’ Memorial.
There were no public comments made by those in attendance.
Mr. Aldrich moved to accept the $9,500.00 from the American Legion Bridge Wilson Post #77 to be given to the Walpole Trustees of Trust Funds to set up an account for the purpose of the perpetual up-keep and etching of the Walpole Veterans’ Memorial. Seconded by Mr. Sawyer. Motion passed unanimously.
Adjournment:
Mr. Sawyer moved to adjourn this Public Hearing. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. Motion passed unanimously. The time was 4:11 PM.
Mr. Aldrich called the meeting to order at 12:08 Noon with one person present in the audience.
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE: Mrs. Teague moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register and manifest in the amount of $35,177.50. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. Motion passed unanimously.
PAYROLL: Mrs. Teague moved to approve the payroll voucher for the week ending November 07, 2009, for gross wages in the amount of $18,058.33 or net wages in the amount of $9,414.92. 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 $3,908.08. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. Motion passed unanimously.
COMMITTEE REPORTS:
The Selectboard received and reviewed the Minutes of the following meetings:
Planning Board Work Session of 10/27/09;
Cemetery Annual Meeting of 11/06/09/
ABATEMENT:
WATER ABATEMENT – Nora Larson, 29 Maplewood, Map 024-017-000: Mrs. Teague moved to grant an Abatement for Water in the amount of $362.25 for Nora Larson. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. Motion passed unanimously.
BUILDING PERMITS:
AARON LaMONTAGNE – 29 North River Rd.,, Map 018-011-000: Mrs. Teague moved to approve Building Permit No. 2009-028 for Aaron LaMontagne to construct a dormer. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. Motion passed unanimously.
WALTER & FREIDA BAUER – 118 Alstead Ctr Rd., Drewsville – Map 015-026-000: Mrs. Teague moved to approve Building Permit No. 2009-029 for Walter and Freida Bauer to construct an 8’ x 14’8” wood shed. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. Motion passed unanimously.
OLD BUSINESS:
TOWN HALL CEILING, Blanc & Bailey Construction Email: Matt Blanc is expected to attend the next meeting to discuss some deficiencies that have been uncovered during the ceiling repair project.
ERZ: Mrs. Teague displayed the four proposed ERZ zones that she will recommend to be designed as Economic Revitalization Zones.
Mrs. Teague moved that the Selectboard ask the Division of Economic Development to approve this request for the following Economic Revitalization Zone designations:
Selectboard Meeting –November 12, 2009- Page 2
1) Industrial Park Road Zone, Town of Walpole, Map 1;
2) Meadows Along Main Commercial/Industrial Zone, Town of Walpole, Maps 12, 14, 22, 23 and 24;
The Chair is authorized to sign the document. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. Motion passed unanimously.
NEW BUSINESS:
MEETING DATE CHANGE: The Selectboard announced that due to the Thanksgiving Day holiday their regular meeting date will be changed from Thursday, November 26th to Wednesday, November 25th, 2009, at 7:30 PM.
AUDITORS PRELIMINARY VISIT – December 8, 2009: Mrs. Clough reported that the Auditors will be in the office on December 8th at about 9:00 AM for their preliminary visit.
COMCAST INQUIRY TELEPHONE NUMBER: Mrs. Clough advised that last week there were problems with the Comcast cable. They have the telephone number of the Walpole Selectboard on their bills therefore the office staff received a number of calls. The Selectboard asked her to call Comcast to ask why this phone number is on their bills.
BETTERMENT LOAN: Mrs. Clough was asked if the Town had a Betterment Loan. The Selectboard advised that the Town does not have one.
OTHER BUSINESS: None.
Adjournment: Mrs. Teague moved to adjourn this meeting. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. Motion passed unanimously. The time was 12:40 PM.
Ed. Note: Here are minutes of ongoing discussions about updating the town's Master Plan, and they are as thoughtful and important as any material published on The Walpolean. I highly recommend your careful reading of them and also your participation in future considerations by the Planning Board. CCB
PLANNING BOARD
Walpole, NH 03608
Work Session – Tuesday, November 24, 2009, 7:00pm Town Hall basement office
MINUTES
Presiding: Jeff Miller, Chair
Members Present: Ben Daviss (recording), Dave DeCoste
Alternate members present: Pam Aslinger, Steve Dalessio, Donn Lounsbury, Jeff White
Others present: Mel Schupack
These minutes are unapproved and will be reviewed at the December 15,2009, meeting for errors, corrections and omissions.
The meeting was called to order at 7:07 pm.
Chairman Miller asked about SWRPC senior planner Lisa Murphy’s progress on the technical assistance she’s providing to update the master plan’s land use section. Ms. Aslinger said that she has begun to compile answers to Lisa’s many questions. Mr. Daviss reported having spoken with Lisa that morning and answering some of her questions. Lisa said that she has begun to contact other officials in town to gather answers to some of her questions because she knows that Pam is swamped with other work at the moment.
Mr. Daviss also noted that he had asked Lisa about possibly waiting to proceed with discussions and tentative decisions about economic development until the master plan’s land use section has been completed. Lisa replied that there should be no conflict between the two initiatives and that both efforts take place at the same time and then be compared and reconciled later.
The zoning ordinances industrial regulations were reviewed. Mr. Daviss noted that the regulations define “industry” as manufacturing, which is defined by materials being somehow changed in form, size, or composition. Mr. Daviss asked if that definition is too narrow. There was agreement that the definition should be expanded. Mr. Schupack pointed out that software development could be defined as an industrial process but doesn’t fit the definition in the regulations.
Mr. Daviss noted that the regulations also state that manufacturing must not infringe on the “health, welfare, and quiet of the town” and expressed the view that this language was too broad or vague. Mr. Dalessio said that language should be added to protect existing infrastructure and businesses because, as he has experienced, the heavy vibrations caused by one manufacturing operation can throw off the microscopic tolerances required by a separate manufacturing operation nearby. It was agreed that consideration must be given to existing uses in reviewing site plans for a proposed business in the same general area.
The discussion moved to the idea of creating a new industrial park in Keene. Chairman Miller voiced the view that there is only a small amount of land in town suitable for commercial and industrial development and suggested creating some new category of zoning that would allow a wider range of uses without forcing people through the special exception process. He suggested that the commercial zone, or the definition of “commercial”, should be expanded. Mr. Daviss suggested creating mixed-use zones. Through discussion, the idea evolved of doing “spot zoning” along Route 12 from the town’s southern border to the Cold River. The town would create areas zoned for mixed use but not designate areas for mixed use that include prominent natural or conservation features, adjoin settled residential neighborhoods, or incorporate other established uses that commercial or industrial activities would destroy or interfere with. Chairman Miller also suggested that all Hubbard Farms properties in Walpole be designated as mixed-use.
Mr. Daviss will contact Lisa Murphy at the Southwest Region Planning Commission to ask for guidance and model language related to mixed-use zoning and to identify any possible concerns related to spot zoning.
Mr. Daviss noted that the zoning regulations in the rural-ag district state that any industrial or commercial use “must show that it will not infringe on the primary established use of the district.” Mr. Daviss said this language is so vague as to be meaningless because the rural-ag district already includes residential, commercial, and industrial uses as “established uses.” He suggested replacing that phrase with “must show that it will not infringe upon or be incompatible with the primary established use of the area within 1,000 yards of the proposed use.” The majority of those present supported the intent of the substitution, but many noted that 1,000 yards is a long distance and that this figure might need to be reduced to win support of the town.
Next, it was noted that the regulations governing commercial zoning listed businesses that were allowed by special exception. Mr. Daviss asked if the town should consider a list of industrial uses that are not acceptable in Walpole, such as feed lots, tar plants, and pulp mills “and other businesses that infringe upon the established character of the town and quality of life of its residents as set forth in the preamble to the master plan’s land use section.” He wondered if that would be too restrictive. Mr. Lounsbury said that, instead of trying to cherry-pick specific kinds of businesses to disallow, it might be more useful to list impacts that would not be allowed, such as noise above a certain volume, waste of certain kinds beyond a certain volume, vibration beyond a certain degree, and so on.
The board will continue to research and refine these ideas for possible presentation to the town on a future town meeting ballot.
The meeting was adjourned at approximately 8:20 p.m.
Ed. Note: This posting comes from Ray Boas who is directing this important community event. CCB
"A Christmas Carol" to Benefit Fall Mountain Food Shelf
The Walpole Players are pleased to present their Second Annual production of Charles Dickens’ "A Christmas Carol" Wednesday through Saturday, December 16th, 17th, 18th, and 19th at 7 PM in the Helen Miller Theater at the Walpole Town Hall. The Players’ unique production has twelve tableaus, or scene changes, as Charles Dickens himself relates his tale of reform and Christmas spirit. The performance will run a bit over an hour, with refreshments following. In addition, a sixteen page keepsake booklet will be given to those attending the performance.
Admission will be free, but tickets will be required because of limited space. Tickets are available at Real to Reel, Burdick’s Café, Galloway Real Estate, and Walpole Village Market. Seats will be held for ticket holders until 15 minutes prior to curtain time. In lieu of paid admission, the Players are asking that each person attending make a monetary donation to the Fall Mountain Food Shelf. Last year The Walpole Players’ production of A Christmas Carol raised $2400 for the Fall Mountain Food Shelf. This year, the Walpole Players hope to raise an even greater amount.
Ed. Note: This posting comes from Diane Myers-Miller concerning an important local institution, the Meeting Waters YMCA, and its annual support campaign. The following links will enable you to learn more about the positive impact the Y's programs are having on the teens and young adults in our community.
More information about Meeting Waters YMCA services in the Fall Mountain region is available at www.meetingwatersymca.org. Donations to support the work of Meeting Waters YMCA in the Fall Mountain region can be made through the website or by sending your contribution to Meeting Waters YMCA, PO Box 511, Bellows Falls, VT 05101. For more information, email info@meetingwatersymca.org or call 802-463-4769. CCB
Update on Meeting Waters YMCA’s Work in the Fall Mountain Region
Never before in the Meeting Waters YMCA’s 114 year history has the non-profit charitable organization done as much to “build strong kids, strong families and strong communities” in the Fall Mountain region. Unlike some of the Meeting Waters YMCA’s services in the Brattleboro, Bellows Falls and Springfield regions, all of the outreach to the Fall Mountain region is what they call, “mission work.” Their efforts in the Walpole area are not supported through fees-for-services or grants. The regional YMCA depends on donations to support this work.
Examples of Meeting Waters YMCA’s service to the communities of the Fall Mountain area include its Youth & Government program in partnership with Fall Mountain Regional High School, its bus service that brings dozens of FM area kids to its Lewis Day Camp and teen Adventure Camps throughout the summer, and its commitment to Vision 2020.
Youth & Government involves high school students in a year-long, hands-on experience to learn about how state government operates. Students research and write bills that pass through regional caucuses before making it onto the floor of a two-day Model Legislature held right in the Statehouse each May. Students choose from a variety of roles from Chaplain to Clerks, reporter to lobbyist, Supreme Court judge to Executive Councilor. Elected positions include Governor, Speaker of the House and Senate President. Last year, Walpole’s Ian Zimmerman was elected Speaker of the House while Will Carmody was runner-up in the race for Governor. For the past four years, The FMRHS-MWYMCA Youth & Government delegation has been the largest in the state of New Hampshire with over 30 students participating each year. The program is co-led by Walpole residents Trina Carmody and MaryTherese Lester, both of whom work for Fall Mountain Regional High School. They are supported by Meeting Waters YMCA Senior Program Director Sue Fortier of Alstead. Meeting Waters YMCA provides financial assistance for any students who cannot afford the cost of the hotel for the two-day event at the State house. There is no other cost for participation in the Youth & Government program.
For more than 45 years, Meeting Waters YMCA has been a solution for both parents and children during the summer months. Its Lewis Day Camp for 6-13 year-olds and Adventure Camps for 10-15 year-olds provide a summer-full of enriching programming for area youth while at the same time supporting their working parents with full-day care. Bussing from Walpole, Drewsville, Alstead, Langdon, Charlestown and eight Vermont communities as well as a robust financial assistance program make these camps accessible to all. While camp fees and state child care tuition assistance help cover most costs for operating the camps, Meeting Waters YMCA depends on donations to offset the cost of bussing ($25,000 each year) and financial assistance.
One of Meeting Waters YMCA’s newest mission-driven outreach efforts is in support of Cheshire Medical Center-Dartmouth Hitchcock Keene’s “Vision 2020” which has the ambitious goal of making our region the healthiest in America by the year 2020. Meeting Waters YMCA has offered to be a lead partner in CMC-DHMC’s efforts in the Walpole area. Discussions are in the early phases but the focus of the partnership is likely to center around the use of the YMCA system’s Community Healthy Living Index. Meeting Waters YMCA has recently used this tool in three communities in Windham County to improve environmental and policy supports at organizational and community levels “to make the healthy choice the easy choice where people live, work, learn and play.” Other Meeting Waters YMCA services like its original “Journey to a Healthier Lifestyle” program and Healthy Family Home initiative may also be used as Vision 2020 resources.
Meeting Waters YMCA volunteer leaders (including Board member Diane Myers-Miller of Walpole and former Board member Torrey Greene of Acworth) continue to work with staff leaders to explore other opportunities to address community needs in the Fall Mountain region. Examples include bringing Meeting Waters YMCA’s highly-acclaimed ASPIRE after-school program to the elementary schools in the FMRSD and to rekindle the Fall Mountain Area Healthy Youth Initiative.
Meeting Waters YMCA is a charitable, non-profit, social service organization founded in 1895. Its programs serve children, teens and families from over 20 Vermont and New Hampshire communities throughout the Fall Mountain, Springfield, Bellows Falls and Brattleboro regions.
More information about Meeting Waters YMCA services in the Fall Mountain region is available at Meeting Waters YMCA’s website at www.meetingwatersymca.org. Donations to support the work of Meeting Waters YMCA in the Fall Mountain region can be made through the website or by sending your contribution to Meeting Waters YMCA, PO Box 511, Bellows Falls, VT 05101. For more information, email info@meetingwatersymca.org or call 802-463-4769.
View Blog Entry
View Photos