OPINION: ALL OF US IN WALPOLE SHOULD SUPPORT MONADNOCK UNITED WAY!!

We had the opportunity last week to host an informational meeting in which Monadnock United Way(MUW)staff and volunteer leaders explained how MUW works and why we should be supportive. We were VERY impressed.

MUW supported agencies provide vital assistance of many kinds to individuals and families throughout our area, including Walpole. MUW agencies assisted Walpole residents 1959 times in 2010 and are likely to assist them even more in 2011!

MUW is nationally known for the thorough vetting that its staff and volunteers do of every agency that applies for MUW funds--every year--and for the areas of efficiency, cooperation and synergy that those reviews generate. In addition, MUW's outstanding staff provides year-around management consulting with area not-for-profits to see that our donated dollars are used with maximum efficiency. Monadnock United Way holds itself accountable not just for action, but also for results.

Overall, MUW is a GREAT organization that all of us can be proud of and generously support! For detailed information on MUW, see www.muw.org. Chuck and Sue Bingaman

Ed. Note: I sent the Select Board several questions last week through its administrative assistant Janet Clough. The following are the answers the selectmen sent back. CCB

Update on Special Committee to Study and Make Recommendations on Hooper Golf Course

1.  Neither the Selectmen nor the Attorney General have a timetable for resolving issues related to Hooper Golf Course.

2.  The October 6 Town Hall meeting did not qualify as one of the two hearings needed before a sale may be completed.

3.  The selectmen ARE advertising for citizens that would like to be on the committee to study and make recommendations on Hooper. They are NOT being overwhelmed with applications. The selectmen say they want a "well-balanced cross-section of the community with diverse backgrounds." They will appoint a chair at some point.

4.  The selectmen will write a charge or set of instructions for the committee but they have not done so yet.

5.  The selectmen will set a deadline for the committee to turn in its recommendations, but they have not done so yet.

6.  They have not set a budget for the committee, but the committee will be able to request some financial assistance if it deems it necessary.

OPINION: This is the chance for those that say they want to "Save Hooper" to get involved and DO IT! Democracy is something you DO, not sit, watch and complain.  CCB



4. 

Ed. Note: Thanks to Janet Clough, here is an important set of Selectmen's minutes from October 20. CCB
                                       TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

OCTOBER 20, 2011

Selectboard Present:     Whitney Aldrich (Chair); Sheldon Sawyer; Jamie Teague (late)

Mr. Aldrich called the meeting to order at 7:30 PM in the Walpole Town Hall with five people present in the audience.

PUBLIC BUSINESS:

POLICE CHIEF MIKE PAQUETTE:  Chief Paquette advised that most of the department’s bullet proof vests do not meet the Federal standards.  He got some quotes; the minimum amount is $600/each but they go as high as $1,200 to $1,500.  Chief Paquette would like to purchase as many replacements as his existing budget will allow at this time and put the balance into the budget for next year.  The vests are necessary for the protection of the department employees. 

Mr. Sawyer moved that Chief Paquette can buy as many vests as he can this year and then purchase the rest in January.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  Motion passed by a unanimous vote.

Chief Paquette reported that some of the part-time officers are working a lot of shifts.  Their annual total amount of hours is limited therefore he will be shifting some of the officers around.  Due to the burglaries in the Village he will be increasing patrols.  He urged all the businesses to not leave cash on the premises over night and he issued a press release on this.  All residents are urged to be vigilant.     

Chief Paquette wanted to thank Mrs. Evans for donating four 100-foot throw ropes; there will be one in each cruiser.

TAX RATE:  Ms. Taylor reported that the Department of Revenue Administration gave her the estimated figures to set a preliminary tax rate.  The Selectboard reviewed the figures.  One question that will need to be answered is if the Selectboard wants to increase the Fund Balance.  Mr. Aldrich and Mr. Sawyer wanted to wait until a full Board was present to make that decision.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE: 

Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register and manifest in the amount of $507,810.49.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  Motion passed by a unanimous vote.

The above amount includes a monthly payment in the amount of $472,567.22 to the Fall Mountain Region School District.

PAYROLL:

Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the payroll voucher for the week ending October 15, 2011, for checks dated October 21, 2011, for gross wages in the amount of $16,589.81 or net wages in the amount of $6,550.80.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  Motion passed by a unanimous vote.

Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $3,791.00.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  Motion passed by a unanimous vote.

SELECTBOARD MINUTES:

Selectboard Meeting –October 20, 2011- Page 2

SELECTBOARD MEETING – October 13, 2011:  Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of October 13, 2011, as printed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  Motion passed by a unanimous vote.

PUBLIC HEARING – October 6, 2011:  Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the Minutes of the Hooper Public Hearing of October 6, 2011, as printed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  Motion passed by a unanimous vote.

Mr. Munn asked for the following corrections to the above minutes.  Correct the spelling of his name from “Jason Munn” to “Jayson Munn”. 

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard received and reviewed the Minutes of the following meeting:

·         North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners – October 18, 2011.

BUILDING PERMIT:

COREY – Maplewood  Circle, Map & Lot # 024-016-000:  Mr. Sawyer moved to grant Building Permit No. 2011-49 for Steven and Ann Corey to construct a 8’ x 8’ shed at 23 Maplewood Circle.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  Motion passed by a unanimous vote.

PROPERTY TAX ABATEMENT:

HEMMINGS, 46 Old Cheshire Tpke, Map & Lot # 025-001-000:  Mr. Sawyer moved to grant the Property Tax Abatement in the amount of $45.43 plus interest to Thomas Hemmings.  Mr. Hemmings gave the bank an incorrect amount for his taxes.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  Motion passed by a unanimous vote.

NEW BUSINESS:

LOCAL RIVER MANAGEMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE – Nomination Form:  Mr. Sawyer moved to nominate Joseph A. Dion as a member of the Local River Management Advisory Committee.  Mr. Aldrich is authorized to sign the nomination form to be forwarded to the Department of Environmental Services.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  Motion passed by a unanimous vote.

OLD BUSINESS:

WATER & SEWER SUPERINTENDENT:  The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of a memo from Mrs. Clough regarding the Water & Sewer Superintendent.  She spoke with Attorney Chris Fillmore from the Local Government Center and was told that as long as there is a contract for services between the Town of Walpole Water and Sewer Department and E.E. Houghton, Inc. and as long as Mark Houghton is not paid personally then he can have the title of Water and Sewer Superintendent.  He is the person representing the company that has been contracted.   Mr. Sawyer noted that unfortunately in the Town Report it says that Mr. Houghton is appointed but instead it is a contract.  He is legal.  The contract is renewed yearly.

MEETING WITH ATTORNEY AND MUNICIPAL RESOURCES:  The Selectboard is scheduled to meet with Attorney Hockensmith and Municipal Resources on October 25th at 2:00 PM.

RECESS MEETING:  Mr. Sawyer moved to recess this Selectboard meeting.  The Selectboard will enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  Motion passed by a unanimous vote.  The time was 8:29 PM.

Selectboard Meeting –October 20, 2011- Page 3

 HOOPER TRUSTEES MEETING

Mr. Aldrich called this meeting of the Hooper Trustees to order.

E-MAILS:  The Hooper Trustees acknowledged receipt of an email from Janet Hicks regarding RSA 72:23 “Property Tax Exemption”, dated October 14, 2011.  They also acknowledged receipt of an email from Stephen Varone regarding RSA 72:23-1 Definition of “Charitable”.   This information will be put on file for future reference.

JAYSON MUNN:  Mr. Munn asked the Hooper Trustees if they are willing to divulge their plans on moving forward.  Mr. Aldrich replied that they will have to meet themselves in a work session to talk about it.  Mr. Sawyer feels that there probably should be a committee but if the golf club has to pay property taxes that will add to the on-going discussions.

NON-PUBLIC SESSION – RSA 91-A:3 II:

Mr. Sawyer moved to enter into a Non-Public Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II under Attorney – Client Privilege discussion.  Mr. Aldrich seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with all in favor, the motion was approved.  The time was 8:36 PM.

The regular Hooper Trustees meeting resumed at 9:09 PM.  No announcements were made.

Jamie Teague had come into the Non-Public session.  Earlier this evening she attended a meeting on the State of NH Ten Year Plan and the Route 12 Project between North Walpole and Charlestown.

HOOPER COMMITTEE:  Mrs. Teague moved that the Hooper Trustees form a Study Committee to discuss the direction of the Hooper assets and its future. They will be accepting names of interested people who would like to volunteer to be on this Hooper Study Committee.   Seconded by Mr. Sawyer.  Motion passed by a unanimous vote.

LEGAL OPINION:  The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of a legal opinion regarding the Hooper Trust and will ask their attorney if it can be opened up to the public.

ADJOURNMENT:  Mr. Sawyer moved to adjourn this Hooper Trustees meeting.  The Hooper Trustees will enter into  a Selectboard meeting.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  Motion passed by a unanimous vote.  The time was 9:14 PM.

SELECTBOARD MEETING (Continued)

Mr. Aldrich called this recessed meeting to order at 9:15 PM.

ADJOURNMENT:  Mrs. Teague moved to adjourn this meeting.  Seconded by Mr. Sawyer.  Motion passed by a unanimous vote.  The time was 9:16 PM.

Selectboard Meeting –October 20, 2011- Page 4

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

Hooper Institute Open House November 12

     The public is invited to an open house at the Hooper Institute, 165 Prospect Hill Road, Walpole, NH on Saturday, November 12 from 2-4 PM.  Learn about this unique educational program for the youth of Walpole.

      Meet the staff who carry out programs in agriculture, forestry, botany, soils and environmental science in the Walpole schools on a weekly basis.  Learn about the high school summer work program and the farms that participate, as well as summer camps for younger children.  Visit the Farm & Forest Museum housed at the Institute that portrays Walpole’s rich agricultural heritage. This is your opportunity to become informed about the Hooper Institute.  Any questions?  Call 756-4382.

Hooper Institute Open House November 12

     The public is invited to an open house at the Hooper Institute, 165 Prospect Hill Road, Walpole, NH on Saturday, November 12 from 2-4 PM.  Learn about this unique educational program for the youth of Walpole.

      Meet the staff who carry out programs in agriculture, forestry, botany, soils and environmental science in the Walpole schools on a weekly basis.  Learn about the high school summer work program and the farms that participate, as well as summer camps for younger children.  Visit the Farm & Forest Museum housed at the Institute that portrays Walpole’s rich agricultural heritage. This is your opportunity to become informed about the Hooper Institute.  Any questions?  Call 756-4382.

Ed. Note: Police Chief Mike Paquette told me this morning that there were three MORE business burglaries in Walpole last week. He is urging all Walpole businesses to check all locks, leave lights on over night, leave no cash in the building, activate any alarms and report any unusual happenings to 911. Chuck Bingaman

TOWN OF WALPOLE

MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

OCTOBER 13, 2011

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

Mr. Aldrich called the meeting to order at 7:52 PM in the Walpole Town Hall with eighteen people in attendance.

PUBLIC BUSINESS:

SOLID WASTE MANAGER – PAUL Colburn:  Mr. Colburn reported that their shipments are above average.  Receipts are about average or a little above on recyclables.  They are using a new process with vegetable oil but are looking into this a little further.  They will now all be able to do their NRAA certifications on one date.  They set out a few buckets for donations for the Hurricane Irene victims and raised $125.93 which he took to the Red Cross in Keene.  Their glass structure is being revamped.  Now that there is a local paper the WRAP Committee was asked to write an article each month.  The Boy Scouts were there to sell popcorn and that turned out very well.  Jake’s Market will be selling Town bags.  The newest two employees took the CPR course last Saturday so now the whole staff is qualified.  The Walpole Fire Department is looking into getting a grant to purchase defibrillators; one will be at the Recycling Facility.  He has been checking on prices.  There will be an increase for the solid waste but probably not for the trucking.  C & D will probably stay the same.  They have been collecting green boards.  They also have other projects like electric cords, electric motors, etc.  They are receiving some “dirty” metal which they pull apart.  The roof is done, the Re-use Center is painted and there are new gutters.  They had a break-in but nothing was taken; they fixed the door.  They have not been able to get boxes from Aumand’s Furniture Store for quite a while.  The newest baler frees up a lot of space.                  

LYNN COOKE:  Ms. Cooke is the Chairman of the Trustees of the Library.  She wanted to up-date the Selectboard on a few items.  They did get a new roof last year and appreciate that very much.  Their air conditioner quit the second week in August.  It had been in for about ten years.  They obtained two quotes and made a decision to have Jack Fuller, a local contractor, repair it.  He pointed out that the condensers are not in the ideal location.  Sand and leaves in it put a stress on the motor.  She cleaned it out.  Rather than purchasing a new unit for about $5,000 they opted to get a new motor, new control board and other maintenance for $1,300.  They are not sure how long this will last but they are now more aware of the maintenance.       

STEVE VARONE:  Steve Varone submitted three documents:  a copy of his tax bill, a copy of the Fall Mountain Regional School District v. Town of Langdon Docket No. 12282-91 EX Decision, and a copy of RSA Chapter 72 Section 72:23 – Persons and Property Liable to Taxation.  The only way an entity is exempt is if you are a government entity, an educational, charitable or religious entity.   If a government entity leases property to an entity that is not one of the above they are subject to property taxes.  In this particular case it is the Hooper Golf Club who he does not believe is qualified.  He does not know what the property taxes would be on it but believes that they should be paying property taxes to play golf.  He will come back to another meeting because he feels the Selectboard will need time to read the documents.  Mr. Varone feels the court case is similar to this situation.  Mr. Aldrich noted that the Selectboard will read the information but probably request a legal opinion from the Town Attorney.       

BARBARA SPIVEY:  Ms. Spivey was in receipt of a letter that Myra Mansouri gave her relative to a lot on Whipple Hill being considered as a buildable lot.  She questioned if the Exception that was granted is still

Selectboard Meeting –October 13, 2011 – Page 2

good based on the guideline seven years later.  Mrs. Mansouri, Chair of the Zoning Board of Adjustment, stated that it is in the recorded Deed that this is a buildable lot.  Mrs. Teague noted that the letter has no time limit in it therefore the Selectboard would consider granting a Building Permit.  Ms. Spivey will have to see Jim Terrell, Road Agent, regarding a new or renewed Driveway Permit.  A Building Permit is good for one year but if she doesn’t start construction within that year she can request an extension. 

PLANNING BOARD – Jeff Miller:  Mr. Miller advised that the Planning Board acknowledged receipt of the three conditions that were placed on final approval of the Site Plan Review for the Avanru Development Group, Building D, during their meeting held on October 11, 2011.  The Selectboard granted their Building Permit on October 6, 2011. 

STEVE DALESSIO:  Mr. Dalessio asked for permission to repair the bench, basketball hoop and other equipment in the park around the Drewsville Green at no cost to the Town.  He would do the repairs over the winter.  Mrs. Teague felt the Selectboard appreciate his efforts.  The Town would pay for any materials but Mr. Dalessio responded that it will all be taken care of through various means.  There was a consensus of the Selectboard to give him permission to do this.  He will check with Stacy Gay, Recreation Committee, on the replacement or repair of the toddler swing.

JOE DION:  Mr. Dion explained that he is addressing the Selectboard as a taxpayer.  He would like the records to show his statement.  During the course of the discussions on the golf course it seems to be coming up that the Selectboard has a conflict of interest but they do not legally or ethically.  They are not wearing two hats according to the State regulations and they are not the Trustees of Trust Funds.  When a person runs for a Selectboard position they automatically become a Hooper Trustee.  He wanted the records to show this.  We should be clear on this.  The Selectboard does not have a conflict of interest.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE: 

Mrs. Teague moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register and manifest in the amount of $16,145.62.  Seconded by Mr. Sawyer.  Motion passed by a unanimous vote.

PAYROLL:

Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the payroll voucher for the week ending October 8, 2011, for checks dated October 14, 2011, for gross wages in the amount of $18,544.07 or net wages in the amount of $8,189.41.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed by a unanimous vote.

Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in theamount of $4,130.29.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.   Motion passed by a unanimous vote.

SELECTBOARD MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MINUTES – October 6, 2011:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve the Minutes of the regular Selectboard of October 6, 2011, meeting with the following amendment addition:  Under Avanru Development Group – Building Permit – “There was discussion relative to acceptance of the three conditions as required by the Planning Board”.  Seconded by Mr. Sawyer.  Motion and amendment passed by a unanimous vote.

Selectboard Meeting –October 13, 2011- Page 3

HOOPER TRISTEES NON-PUBLIC SESSION – October 6, 2011:  Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Hooper Trustees Session of October 6, 2011, as printed.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed by a unanimous vote.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard received and reviewed the Minutes of the following meetings:

·         Planning Board – September 13, 2011;

·         North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners – October 11, 2011.

TIMBER TAX ASSESSMENT & WARRANTS:

DILL, Map & Lot # 008-015-005:  Mr. Sawyer moved to approve and sign the Timber Tax Assessment and Warrant for Timber Tax Levy for Fred Dill in the amount of $94.29, Map & Lot # 008-015-005, Operation # 10-461-02-T.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed by a unanimous vote.

CROTTY, Map & Lot # 010-028-002:  Mr. Sawyer moved to approve and sign the Timber Tax Assessment and Warrant for Timber Tax Levy for Pat Crotty and Heidi Crotty in the amount of $265.00, Map & Lot # 010-028-002.  Operation # 11-461-15-T.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed by a unanimous vote.

NEW BUSINESS.  None.

OLD BUSINESS:

AUDIT FINDINGS & ANNUAL FINANCIAL REPORT:  Mr. Sawyer moved to approve and sign the Audit Findings & Annual Financial Report.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed by a unanimous vote.

AWARD CEREMONY:  The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of the letter from Charles F. Bass, Congress of the United States, stating that on behalf of Senators Shaheen, Ayotte and Congressman Guinta they congratulated Police Chief Michael J. Paquette, II, for his award for “Above and Beyond the Call of Duty” when he saved the life of a kayaker overturned in the Connecticut River.  There will be an award ceremony on October 23, 2011, at 6:00 pm at the New Hampshire Police Standards and Training facility in Concord.   

POLICIES:  Mrs. Clough is starting to work on revising the policies where needed.  The Selectboard will meet with her prior to a regular meeting to review her recommendations.

RECESS MEETING:

Mrs. Teague moved to recess this Selectboard meeting.  The Selectboard will  enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees. Seconded by Mr. Sawyer.  Motion passed by a unanimous vote.  The time 8:42 PM.

 MEETING OF THE HOOPER TRUSTEES

Mr. Aldrich called this meeting to order at 8:43 PM.

TRUSTEES OF TRUST FUNDS:  Mr. Kimball asked for permission to contact the Town Attorney for a legal opinion on one issue. 

Mr. Sawyer moved to grant permission for the Trustees of Trust Funds to contact the Town Attorney for a legal opinion.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed by a unanimous vote.

Selectboard Meeting –October 13, 2011- Page 4

NEW BUSINESS:

LETTER FROM CHUCK BINGAMAN:  The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of a letter from Chuck Bingaman relative to “Getting qualified citizen input on the Hooper Golf Course situation”. 

LETTER FROM VICTORIA GOHL:  The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of a letter from Victoria Gohl with four recommendations for the Selectboard to consider.

The Selectboard thanked Chuck Bingaman and Victoria Gohl for their suggestions and they will be taken under advisement.

LETTER FROM THE HOOPER GOLF CLUB BOARD OF DIRECTORS:  Holly Piccarillo thanked the Hooper Trustees for their informational meeting.  She submitted and read a letter on behalf of the Hooper Golf Club Board of Directors.  They are requesting an extension to the lease agreement for another four to ten years.  They feel it is in the best interest of both parties.  They would appreciate a response before the end of this fiscal year so they can move forward and talk about putting in the 10th hole.  Mr. Sawyer noted that they are looking for a long term if they go to the court; it is not necessarily in the best interest of the golf course but they have to address the maintenance issue. 

Jerry Galloway responded to Mrs. Piccarillo.  He talked about going back to the court; the last court decree did some good things for them but it wasn’t what they appealed for.  If there are people that have ideas he would like to know what they are.  Mr. J. Miller felt there must be a way to work things out to have a partnership between the golf club and the Trustees; maybe a certain dollar amount for the rent and maybe another $5,000 to $8,000 (??) for a separate maintenance fund.  Mr. Galloway thinks this can be accomplished if people were willing to raise the funds for maintenance.  It can’t be done with rent as it now stands.  Mr. Dion has talked with people who like this asset, even if they do not play golf, and are willing to give to a maintenance fund.  Mr. Aldrich feels that it would be difficult to determine a set amount of maintenance money; it has varied from year-to-year.  Mrs. Teague suggested doing a walk-around audit with the folks who have been on the property on a regular basis.  Mr. Sawyer noted that they did have a priority list but it needs to be up-graded. 

Jayson Munn reported that after the last meeting he spent some time with Mark Houghton looking over numbers and expenses.  He had questions on some of the large ticket items.  Mr. Sawyer explained that they try to get three quotes, or as many as they can, but there are emergency situations when they cannot do so.   Mrs. Teague noted that an emergency could be a lightning strike, a leaking oil tank when DES came in, etc.  They are not required to get quotes.  There is a relationship between the Town and Mark Houghton as he is in charge of the Town’s water and sewer.  Mr. Kimball clarified how an insurance claim was handled.  There is an RSA that requires all projects to be bid on; they cannot give them to an employee, appointed position or elected official that does more than $500 of work; it must go out for bid.  He will provide copies of the RSA.  Mrs. Teague noted that Mr. Houghton is not paid as an employee of the Town but rather through a contract with that company. 

Mr. Dion felt that eventually they will have to go to the court but, in the meantime, if a separate fund is established it will be okay for the maintenance.  Mr. Sawyer noted that they do want to save the golf course and that was their goal from the very beginning.  Mr. Varone would also like to see the golf course stay but he isn’t opposed to having them pay property taxes.  This could be taken to the Board of Tax and Land Appeals.  Mr. Dion felt they should obtain a legal opinion on the property tax issue.

Selectboard Meeting –October 13, 2011- Page 5

Adjournment:  Mr. Sawyer moved to adjourn this meeting of the Hooper Trustees.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed by a unanimous vote.  The time was 9:20 PM.

 SELECTBOARD MEETING (Continued)

Mr. Aldrich called this recessed Selectboard meeting to order.  There was no other business.

Adjournment:  Mr. Sawyer moved to adjourn this meeting.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed by a unanimous vote.  The time was 9:22 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

 

Ed. Note: Here are the minutes of the large meeting held in Town Hall October 6 to get citizen comments, questions, etc. regarding the future of the Hooper Golf Course. They contain good summaries of the history of the course to date as well as comments made at the meeting. CCB

                                 SPECIAL PUBLIC HEARING

HOOPER PROPERTY

October 6, 2011

Moderator Peter Heed called this Special Public Hearing on the Hooper Property to order at 7:00 PM in the Walpole Town Hall. 

Introductions:  Moderator Heed began by introducing himself.  He is a resident of Westmoreland, where there is no golf course, and is the County Attorney.  He is happy to be here tonight and thanked the people for being here.  He attends a lot of meetings but many times very few people are there therefore he is impressed with the amount of turn-out. The Hooper Trustees and the Trustees of Trust Funds want to bring both historical and financial information to those in attendance to let everyone know about the issues they are facing. After that there will be a period of time for public comment.  They will be fair and try to have enough time to hear from everyone that would like to speak.  This meeting is being tape recorded by the Town therefore he asked anyone wishing to speak to identify themselves.              

Moderator Heed introduced the following people seated at the front table:

Hooper Trustees and Selectboard:  Whitney Aldrich (Chair); Jamie Teague, Sheldon Sawyer

Trustees of Trust Funds:  Jerry Galloway; Joe Dion; Robert Kimball

Town Attorney:  Attorney Jeremy Hockensmith

Mrs. Teague provided the following brief, but not complete, history of the Hooper Trust: 

“George Hooper died in 1916.  His will instructed his wife to give to the Town of Walpole, certain real estate and funds upon his death if certain conditions were met. 

Mary Hooper died in 1924.  Her will instructed her trustee, John Clifford, to transfer the properties to Walpole if there was sufficient money to establish an educational institute.  Clifford transferred the property in 1925.

Thus, the Hooper Trust was established in 1925 with $85,000+ liquid assets and real estate consisting of the unimproved agricultural land at that time which the present Hooper Golf Club sits on and surrounding lands, the Hooper Cottage, the Hooper Institute land and a parcel of land on Reservoir Road.

The Hooper Trust was established to fund a college preparatory school at the high school level, teaching agriculture, horticulture and forestry.

Following George Hooper’s instructions, a second trust was also established.  This trust was to be funded by 20% of the net income left in the Hooper Trust in any given year.  This trust was called the Hooper Accumulator.  The Hooper Accumulator received it’s first funding in 1926.  One half of the total accumulation was to be used for new building construction only.

In 1926 the town petitioned the courts to see if Hooper Funds could be used to support a qualifying educational program in the Walpole public schools.  The court said yes.  In 1927-1928 a new school building was constructed on Hooper land across from the Hooper farm, now the golf course.  The Walpole High School vocational agriculture program was operated in this building until 1966 and was funded in part by the Hooper Trust.

The Hooper Golf Club was first leased in 1928.”

Hooper Special Public Meeting –October 6, 2011 – Page 2

In 1966 the Fall Mtn. Regional School was established.  Walpole again petitioned the court to see if Hooper funds could be used for Fall Mtn. Programs.  The court declined stating that the trusts were for Walpole citizens only.

Soon after this, the independent Hooper Institute educational program was initiated for Walpole elementary and Jr. High students still attending schools within the town of Walpole.  This program did not conform strictly to the terms of the trust but it was considered the best option at the time.  This Hooper Institute program operated pretty much without problems until the 1990’s when a chronic shortage of funds developed.

In 1993 the Walpole Selectmen and Trustees of Trust Funds decided to petition the court to free up the income in the Hooper Accumulator Trust.  We felt that any new building construction was unlikely.  The plan was to use the income for building maintenance, thus freeing up all the income in the Hooper Trust for the Institute.

What we expected to be a cooperative effort with the Attorney General’s office immediately encountered problems. 

The N.H. state attorney, Mr. Cullimore, was immediately disturbed because he felt the terms of the trust were not being followed:

1.       There was no high school program as mentioned in the original decree;

2.      The Hooper Golf Club was not a viable investment.

Mr. Cullimore was correct on both counts.

It took until March of 1995 and several thousand dollars of legal expense to resolve all the issues and get a court decree.

The basic elements of the court decree are:

1.       Hooper accumulator income is now available.  ½ for maintenance, ½ for high school college scholarships in trust approved fields.

2.      A high school program for Walpole students must be developed by the Institute using funds from the Hooper Trust.

3.      The right of reverter whereby Walpole might lose the trust was rescinded.

4.       The Hooper Golf Club must pay a rent yielding a market return.  A formula for establishing value is spelled out in the court decree.

5.      Hooper Trust property can be sold subject to court approval.

As far as building maintenance is concerned, the court decree left the Trustees in a precarious position.  It approved upkeep on the Hooper Institute building but maintenance on the Hooper Golf Club buildings and the cottage are unclear.

This brings us to our current issue:  A cash flow issue and situation was brought to our attention by the Trustees of the Trust Funds and the Attorney General’s office got involved while discussing the terms of a subsequent lease with the Hooper Golf Association. 

The Hooper Trustees met with the Trustees of Trust Funds to discuss what their options might be.  One was to develop a golf course lease that satisfies the terms of the court decree and the Attorney General’s office.  Or if that was not possible, a second option was to sell off some of the property; or a third was any other alternatives whatever they may be.  This is the reason for this meeting; to have the people present help them with a solution.

Hooper Special Public Meeting –October 6, 2011- Page 3

Mr. Kimball mentioned that there were two hand-outs at this meeting.  He pointed out that the income is different than what was stated in the Walpole Clarion.  The income from the Hooper Trust I is the Institute; the income comes from the Golf Club, Cottage rent and Investment Income from that fund.  Hooper Part II (Accumulator); ½ of the Income is from Investment Income and is used for Scholarships.  The other ½ of the Income is from Investment Income and is used for Maintenance.  The problem at this time is that the court decree says they cannot use the principal of the accumulated fund for scholarships or maintenance.  At the end of July the balance in the Maintenance Fund was $30,282.93.  This is hardly enough to maintain the property.  Mr. Aldrich noted that since the end of July it was necessary to put a new section of roof on the cottage for $6,450 and to replace the toilet however that bill has not yet been received.  Mr. Galloway clarified that the two hand-outs that are available are the Flow Chart and the Maintenance.

Mr. Sawyer advised that some people feel the Trustees are opposed to the golf course but that could not be further from the truth.  They do feel it is an asset to the Town.  His comment is that it could be better with some major improvements if they could be financed.  He would like to see a better golf course with amenities that would allow people to enjoy it more.  If they are restricted to a lease this might not happen. This is one of the problems they are looking at as well as how they maintain these buildings.  They have been asking each other these questions but are now asking for the public’s input. 

Mrs. Teague advised that they have a list of the people that signed up in advance to speak so they should have that opportunity before other people.        

Holly Piccarillo:  Mrs. Piccarillo read the following statement:  “The planned sale of the golf course by the Hooper Trustees requires us to try to clarify the position of the Hooper Golf Club (HGC) for our members and the residents of Walpole.  The Hooper Golf Club has rented the Golf course property, Mansion, Barn and Pro Shop since 1926 as approved by the voters of Walpole.  The Town of Walpole Select Board governs the Hooper Trust as Trust Fund Trustees.  In 1995, the Cheshire County Probate Court decreed that the Trust could rent the golf course at its Town assessed value less the golf course improvements provided that the rate of return was at the highest possible fair market rate consistent with the standards of prudence.  Based on two independent assessments done in 2010 the value of the leased property less the golf course improvements is around $600,000 and this year we are paying $35,000 in rent, yielding a 5.8% return to the Trust.  The Trust invests about $2.5 million dollars in cash and the average return on those investments over the past ten years has yielded less than 3%.  The return on the Golf Course lease is nearly double the return on the Hooper Trust cash investments.  That makes this lease by terms of the Court decree better than the fair market return on the cash investments and certainly has been a prudent investment without losses in principal as has occasionally occurred with the invested cash.  We believe the current return to the Trust from Hooper Golf Club rent is at a fair market rate and is a secure, prudent and diversified investment for the Trust.  Furthermore, we believe the rental of the Golf Course by the Trust is significantly better than what the Court Consent decree calls for and is good for the Town of Walpole.  The Hooper Golf Club recognizes the importance of the 18th century Mansion and its contents as a historical monument and it is an essential asset to the Town of Walpole.  We therefore believe the discussion of the future of the Mansion and its contents should include a larger community group representing multiple interests of the Town of Walpole.  We would support the mansion being a registered historic place.  The Hooper Golf Course was recently rated 11th among thousands of 9 hole courses in the country, a testament to the good stewardship of the property by the Hooper Golf Club.  The golf course is used by a great many visitors each year and brings revenue to local Walpole businesses.

Consistent with the Goals of the Hooper Trust to serve the youth of Walpole through educational programs, the members of the Hooper Golf Club have contributed to the McDonough Foundation which

Hooper Special Public Meeting –October 6, 2011- Page 4

provides college scholarships to students who have been involved with improving conditions of golf courses.  Since 2003, seven students from Walpole have been awarded a total of $14,150 through this program.  This year’s recipient is Bryant Tullar who has just entered a UNH farm study program.  We believe the effort to sell the property by the Hooper Trustees if uncalled for as the lease is in keeping with the Trust requirements.  The lease with the Hooper Golf Club should be continued as it has been for the past 85 years as was voted for and approved by the Town many years ago.  We present the Hooper Trustees with a petition to stop the sale of the Hooper Golf Club.  So far 1164 people have signed the petition and more than half of these are by citizens of Walpole.  The other signees represent visitors to the golf course from 17 other states, the District of Columbia and London, England.  In addition, we would like to present a petition to the Hooper Trust Trustees signed by 49 local businesses that want the partnership between the Hooper Trust, Town of Walpole and the Hooper Golf Club to continue.  Lastly the Hooper Golf Club has been damaged financially by this public discussion of a potential sale and the uncertainty of the future of the golf club.  Our memberships and club usage is significantly lower this year than last year and our employees are concerned about their jobs.  The Hooper Trust Trustees told us in December 2010 that their intent was to sell the Golf Course property and again in March that they were going to get an appraisal and begin the sale process.  At this time, the appraisal process has not begun and we remain in limbo.  Without question our lease has been better than a fair market return as well as a prudent investment and is good for the Hooper Trust, the Town of Walpole and its residents.

We have requested verbally and in writing an extension of the lease so we can operate with some certainty and we implore you as Trustees to grant a lease extension of at least 4 and hopefully more years.  Respectfully, Hooper Golf Club Board of Directors.”

Janet Hicks: Janet Hicks met with the Selectboard on August 4th and August 18th about rumors she heard about the sale of the Hooper property.  She was told at that time that no decisions had been made as they were waiting for an appraisal.  Mrs. Teague stated that she wanted to hear from all her constituents before casting her vote; her comments appear in the Eagle Times.  She doesn’t believe that Mrs. Teague was truthful in that she had a letter dated December 10th in which as a Hooper Trustees she stated her intentions to sell.  In a letter dated March 10th it reiterated the intention to sell and on March 31st another intent to sell.  It is her behavior which is speeding the perception of a hidden agenda.  She believes that the residents of this town expect and demand honesty and integrity of the elected officials and she believes they have failed miserably.  She asked that Mrs. Teague recuse herself from making a decision to sell Hooper and let it go to a Town vote.

Phil Hicks:  Phil Hicks stated that because the Town voted to create the golf course in 1926 it is his sincere believe that it should go back for a Town vote and not back to the Selectboard. 

Attorney Heed asked Attorney Hockensmith what the actual process would be to sell the property.  Attorney Hockensmith advised that if the Trustees decided to sell they would have to Petition the court and there would have to be two Public Hearings before any decision is made.  As far as he knows there have been no decisions by the Trustees.

Phil Hicks:  Phil Hicks asked if they have had any discussion with any individuals or groups regarding the purchase of the Hooper Estate.  If so, when and with whom?   The Walpole Clarion states that three separate groups are interested in buying it.  Why isn’t this information available to the residents?  Mrs. Teague clarified that her comments were that they had not taken a formal decision or vote to sell but they did enter into private discussions with the Hooper Golf Club hoping that they could buy the property at the end of their current two year lease.  Other people have approached individual Selectboard members

Hooper Special Public Meeting –October 6, 2011- Page 5

saying they would like to own the property but there have been no formal discussions about price or sale other than with the Hooper Golf Association with two closed sessions and one open session. 

Christine Burchstead:  Christine Burchstead questioned the appraisal figure of $1,800,000.  How was that amount reached if the Trustees are stating they had no formal appraisal done?  Mrs. Teague said it is the amount on the tax cards when you add them all together.  An article states that according to the zoning that property could not be turned into condos but what about mansions.  Mr. Sawyer said that is a zoning issue.  The property isn’t even on the market yet but if somebody were to buy it and there were no conditions in the sales agreement then under the Town’s zoning regulations that could be taken under consideration.                   

George Jeffrey:  George Jeffrey is concerned that the Town would lose control over the current situation if the property was to be sold.  It might not be a public golf course but rather a private golf course.  Local people will have to find another place to play golf.  It is a part of the image of this Town; an historical portion of this Town.  People that live here enjoy the Town.  He is not in favor of private enterprise.

Bob Miller:  Bob Miller questioned that the Selectboard manage the real estate owned by the Town of Walpole and does that includes being able to sell the real estate.  Attorney Hockensmith replied that this sale would require the court approval.  Mr. Miller said under the NH Statutes the Selectboard has the authority to act only in the interest of the Town but not in the best interest of the Trust.  The Hooper Trustees have no authority to sell Hooper property so it is the Selectboard who is selling the Hooper property for the benefit of the Trust.  He believes this is a conflict of interest and he would hope that this matter would go before the Town for a vote.

Charles Lennon:  Charles Lennon moved to Town a few years ago and is not a golfer but a sale of the golf course and that property for development could have a chilling effect on future donors of real property to the Town.  He would urge the Trustees and Selectboard to engage in forth-right and sincere negotiations with the golf board and saving the golf course for future generations.  Selling this unique property should be the absolute last resort.

Ron Roscoe:  Ron Roscoe is the golf professional at the golf course this year.  They have collected signatures to stop the sale of the golf club.  He shared a beautiful poem.  If you have stood on hole 9 or heard the church bells from the Common or walked there under a sunset, you have felt it.  It should be a place where you can listen to your inner voice.  He never thought this was something he would have to fight for.  1,163 people have signed their Petition pages.  Come up to the Hooper; listen to the tranquility.

Donna Drouin:  Donna Drouin is not a golfer but they have had months of misgivings.  She had questions on the legalities.  She read from NH RSA 6697 that talks about conflicts of interest.  The Selectboard must act in the best interest of the Town but not in the best interest of the Trust.  The prudent course would be for the Selectboard to recuse themselves from any decisions on the sale of the property. 

 

Jayson Munn:  Jayson Munn stated that a Study Committee was formed.  When was that formed and who appointed the members.  Mr. Sawyer responded that there was a committee formed 12 yeas ago.  He was not sure of the date.  The most recent Study Committee members were the Trustees of Trust Funds, the Hooper Trustees, Mr. Varone (a resident), Mr. Smokey Aumand (North Walpole Village resident), plus one other member. Mr. Munn asked what the findings of the report were and where is the report.  Mrs. Teague said there were no findings or a written report.

Hooper Special Public Meeting –October 6, 2011- Page 6

Neil Coughlin:  Neil Coughlin is a member of the Hooper Golf Club and a member of the Hooper Hill Hopers Snowmobile Club.  He is in favor of it staying the way it is. A lot of people use it year-round. The one problem is that the world economy is poor now and so is the money that the Trustees are making off the Trust.  He asked if anyone considered another Trust account for the mansion maintenance.

James Aldrich:  James Aldrich did not respond when called.

David Howell:  David Howell is a member of the Hooper Golf Club and a newer resident of Walpole.  Hooper provides a cross section.  He has met school teachers, engineers, plumbers and was introduced to Lefty Lopez.  Wealthy and poor people play together. They started a Hooper Jr. Golf Club.  It has increased the value of homes in Walpole.  Leave it the way it is.  It is beautiful.

Tom Aldrich:  Tom Aldrich is not a golfer but he likes it the way it is.  He hunts on the wooded areas.  Recently there was an article in the Keene Sentinel about the golf course in Peterborough.  They are asking the Town to buy that golf course.  What if they cannot maintain membership here to keep it going the way it is; not sustain the rent.  Could the Trust maintain itself without the rent from the golf course.  Mr. Kimball said the income from the rent goes to maintain the Institute and that is by court order.  One-half of the income goes to scholarships and the other half goes to maintenance.  The Trustees want the golf course to stay but, at this moment, they have about $15,000 in the maintenance fund.  What will they do when there is no maintenance fund to maintain those buildings?  Can they ask for that money to be raised by tax dollars?  What will they do?

 

Jeff Miller:  Jeff Miller is a golf club member and a life-long resident.  50 businesses want to continue their partnership and support the golf course; he presented this list to the Trustees.  Every member of the Board of Directors has treated this as a community service.  They run it in an efficient way.  They have tried their best to preserve the area. They maintain the interior of the Mansion and have been a good partner with the Town.  The last few years the maintenance did jump but it did not in the previous years.  This past year they are trying to have some continuity to maintain a good flow of activity.  It has been over six months since they requested that the Trustees grant them a lease extension for another 4-to-5 years.

Cliff Cooke:  Cliff Cook asked if there was anyone present from the Hooper Institute.  In 1920 agriculture was the middle name of Walpole but that is no longer the case.  How valuable is the Institute now.  How many people use it?  If necessary it could be sold to keep the Hooper Golf Course and Mansion.  Mr. Galloway responded that the Hooper Institute is what keeps this Trust alive; it has to stay in effect.  They have to fund the school.  He has been a Trustee of Trust Funds for many years.  They have a fiduciary responsibility to the Trust.  It is doubtful that the taxpayers want to pay for the maintenance there.  There are many different ways to handle the golf course.  He would urge people in Town to see how they can solve this to benefit the Town and the country club rather than just talk about it.

Nick Zachary:  Nick Zachary is a Trustee of the Hooper Institute.  He wanted to respond to the question of Mr. Cooke.  The purpose of the Institute was for education in natural sciences and forestry.  Every year from kindergarten through 8th grade a program goes on where Institute members teach the students.  Some students are employed by the local farms and the Recycling Center to learn about various things.  They have scholarships in these areas.

Peter Powers:  Peter Powers is an accountant by trade.  He pointed out that full and detailed reports of the trust funds are not available at the Selectboard’s Office as set forth on page 45 of the town annual report.  His suggestions were:  1) Consider selling to the Hooper Golf Club the building and the land while

Hooper Special Public Meeting –October 6, 2011 – Page 7

keeping all development rights.  This would assure that the future of the land remains in the hands of the town and that keeping the “green space” would remain with the voters.  2) The courts and the trustees of the fund have missed an important part of the trust.  That is the phrase: “…and the enjoyment of clean and healthy diversions may be emphasized”.  3) He believes the court was incorrect in directing that ½ of the income go to maintenance of the buildings and ½ to scholarships.  The town should go back to court and have the courts approve the phrase that “the money to be spent as the trustees find necessary to preserve the assets of the trust while still being able to provide scholarships”.  4) In 2010 it appears that the Trust’s entire investment portfolio lost money.  5) Urge the Selectmen to retain an independent panel to review the trusts, the assets and the options and then present a list of recommendations.  6)  Request that the board become a little more transparent in its deliberations regarding the trust and its assets.  7)  He pointed out some errors in the recent edition of the Walpole Clarion.  Mr. Dion explained that improvement is when you add something that was not there but when a roof goes that is maintenance. 

Peter Bowman:  Peter Bowman moved to Walpole because of everything it has to offer.  If Hooper wasn’t here Walpole would not be the same place.  He learned to play golf there when he was 15 years old and his daughter now goes with him.  It brings new people here and brings a good benefit to the Town.

Joe Coneeny:  Joe Coneeny lives in the Village and loves the Hooper.  He thanked the Selectboard for having this meeting.  They have heard a lot of passionate comments.  He agrees with many people but they have low economic times.  It is a good time to look at extending the Hooper Golf Club lease.  It is time for the Town to stand up and support the Selectboard to get this straightened out.

Noel Cassidy:  Did not speak.

Nate Lynch:  Nate Lynch is a resident.  It seems that the difficulty is the way the Trust is written.  They should have a new Trust with more flexible terms.  How much money do they need.  Some people would contribute.  They need to work on the conditions.  Mr. Kimball said there are certain things they need to do.  He used to play golf but no longer can.  He talked to J.T. Horne from the Trust for Public Lands and the Monadnock Conservancy.  As an example:  Sunset Golf Course in Sugar Hill, NH had the same problems but raised $350,000 to purchase the development rights and then sold the golf course to the individual that now runs the golf course.  We can do the same thing by raising $500,000 through the Conservancy, buy the development rights and then sell the golf course to the golf club at a price they can afford.  Then they can maintain the property and do what they want to maintain a viable golf course in Town.  This is a viable solution. It would maintain green space.  The cottage could be rented.  The golf course is not on the tax roles at this time.

Peter Jeffries:  Peter Jeffries is not a golfer but has lived here for 14 years.  He enjoys the property at the Hooper.

Clancy Houghton:  Clancy Houghton advised that when the Hooper property came to the Town the golf course was arranged by his Grandfather.  He set up the Institute to help farmers get an education.  In those days they used to play basketball by the school; it was the farmers against the city slickers but at that time Walpole was predominantly farmers.  How many farmers are there today; about 13.  Mr. Sawyer noted that there are more than that. The golf course is our heritage.

Chuck Bingaman:  Chuck Bingaman has played a lot of golf at the Hooper.  He read and handed in his “Saving Hooper – A Path Forward”.  He feels that many citizens do not feel fully informed and many are concerned that decisions may be made with respect to the property that could cause long-term loss to the town.  He suggested that the Selectmen could create a special task force of citizens (12 people – 4 from

Hooper Special Public Meeting – October 6, 2011 – Page 8

the Selectboard, 4 from the Golf Association and 4 additional members) to consider the issues driving the Current Hooper situation and to present written findings of fact and recommendations by December 31.  The Selectmen would still make any needed decisions according to their legal duties as Hooper Trustees but the public would have time to learn about the facts and to have input in a transparent process.  All deliberations of the task force would be open or reported fully by it.  Let’s start with fresh eyes and come up with solutions.       

Dave Johnson:  Dave Johnson feels that for a short-term solution if they worked out a lease with the golf club they would find that they have a lot of manpower.  They could help out with some maintenance projects.  He thanked the Selectboard for their service on this board.  This is one of the hard times but asked them not to make the sale of the Hooper be a part of their legacy.

William Therrien:  Bill Therrien likes  Bob Kimball’s suggestion about the conservancy rights.  There are other things they can do.  The assets that the golf club is using that belong to the Town were roughly $600,000 out of the appraisal; the remaining $300,000 was based on Hooper Golf Club investments.  He corresponded with Terry Knowles of the Attorney General’s office.  He reiterated his work on the lease agreement.  If the golf club was to buy the property the sale would have included their assets, they would have picked up the mansion and as a private corporation they would have to pick up the taxes.  He proposed that the Selectboard work on some of the items put forth tonight.  He would like to add his request to find a path where they could continue to work with the Town and rent this property. 

Nick Zachery:  Nick Zachery read a note from a resident who could not be here tonight (Stephen Sinaco).  The potential sale of the golf course is under closed door meetings.  They want to know why this has been kept private.  They want to know what is happening.  Let the sun shine.    

Jeanette Lovett:  Jeanette Lovett did not speak.

Wayne Wallace:  Wayne Wallace noted that his question was answered.

Becky Pearson:  Becky Pearson feels that most of those present feel the same way.  The golf course is only used for several months a year.  The property could be used much more than it is.  It could be utilized for a cross-country ski path, a place for weddings; a location for fall foliage tours, the mansion could be a Bed and Breakfast.  We have three wonderful restaurants in Town, a beautiful Common, etc.  She proposed that it be taken to somebody that does marketing and/or ask for a business student to create a marketing plan for the Hooper.  It could be a 3-or-4 season facility.  Help us save this gem.  

Dean Allen:  He advised that he was all set.

Jeanne Ramey:  Jeanne Ramey has been a resident for quite a few years.  Her daughter always liked to go to the Hooper and she is a golfer.  We have to be more pro-active with the space we have and to brain storm.  Everybody has to know what is going on and try to keep what we have here.  It is a great place and a green space.

Victoria Gohl:  Victoria Gohl asked what it would take to create a fund to keep the Hooper as is and to supplement the Trustees for maintenance.  Mr. Kimball said the Trustees are doing some calculations on this.

Kate Derwin:  Kate Derwin said her question was answered.

Hooper Special Public Meeting –October 6, 2011- Page 9

John Hensel:  John Hensel asked for a show of hands for the people that want to save the Hooper for the Selectmen to look at.   We have an over whelming majority. 

Stephen Benson:  Stephen Benson was speaking on behalf of the Hooper.  They are very wise to have done what they did.  They were aware that things were going to evolve and the importance of the small children experiencing agriculture and forestry.  It is important to put an emphasis on that.  The golf club is terrific, it should continue to improve and stay in the current state that it is.  He wants to help keep it going.

Bob Kimball:  To answer Victoria Gohl’s question, Bob Kimball said it is almost impossible to predict how much the maintenance will be for the next ten years.  One year they were $44,000 and another year it could be $14,000.  They do not know what conditions they will find next spring in the mansion. The kitchen will not be large enough to hold a large wedding party.

Sheldon Sawyer:  Sheldon Sawyer mentioned that at one time they took into consideration all the expenses for maintenance.  They had a contractor go up and tell them what the cost would be and then they put a priority on it.  They never got to the last one that was the barn.  There were other expenses that were unknown.  They had to stay within the money that was available.  He would like to see the barn repaired.

Moderator Heed advised that this was the end of the list of people that had signed up.  He opened the comment period to those that did not sign up.

Fred Smith:  Fred Smith suggested that they go back to the court and ask them to allow the Town to maintain those buildings.  That is the solution.  The Trust has a lot of money that needs to be put back in the right place.

Steve Varone:  Steve Varone shared information on taxes and rent income.  He questioned where they come up with $35,000 as a fair market value rent on a property that is worth $1.8 million.  Mrs. Teague responded that that dollar amount was determined by the Attorney General’s office.  Mr. Therrien was in contact with Terry Knowles when those figures were worked out.  This amount is $5,000 more than the lease was last year. 

Steve Dalessio:  Steve Dalessio asked if only 20% of the revenue from the Hooper I Trust can be moved over to the Hooper II Trust.  Mrs. Teague said that was in the beginning when it was originally created.  Nothing funds the accumulator. 

George Jeffrey:  George Jeffrey mentioned that the residents appreciate Attorney Heed being the Moderator at this meeting.  Moderator Heed said he volunteered to do this even though he didn’t know much about the issue.  Walpole is a special place.  So many people are concerned about their Town.  It is apparent how important the Hooper means to so many people.  One of the big messages here is communication and transparency.  The Trustees are doing this now to get the information out so give them credit for that.  He thanked everyone for being here tonight.

Jayson Munn:  Jayson Munn said that Jamie Teague has consistently said she will listen to the power of the constituents.  He asked what her vote would be tonight if they were voting to sell the Hooper.  Mrs. Teague said she had heard everybody loud and clear but there are about 3600 people in this Town so before she makes a decision she would like to hear from people in different areas of Town that did not come tonight or they do not understand the entire complicated issue.  One person that she talked to

Hooper Special Public Meeting –October 6, 2011- Page 10

recently said they were not going to come tonight and stand up to speak as they are fearful because they are a small business in town and that they might be black-listed if they spoke against it.  This bothers her.  If she had to cast a vote tonight she thinks her opinion on the course of action to take right now would be to set up that committee of independent people with a great cross-section to look into what the best direction would be to take this property in the best interest of the Trust itself.  In addition to that maybe look into petitioning the court to change the decree but there are no guarantees.

Janet Hicks:  Janet Hicks requested that Mr. Sawyer answer the same question.  Mr. Sawyer said they have heard a lot of comments.  Some were constructive and some were from their hearts.  He would like an opportunity to look at those options.  He never thought that they wanted to do away with having a golf course there but the maintenance of the buildings needs to be resolved.  The maintenance should not fall on the Selectboard or the Trustees.  Mr. Bingaman’s suggestion to have a committee of 12 is what they were thinking about when they did form a committee about 12 years ago.  At that time the committee suggested a rent of $36,000 but they settled it at $20,000 and it went up $2,000 each year to the $30,000 last year.  Times change and ideas change.  He would be the last one to vote to do away with the golf course.  It could be improved.  There is no driving range; some people would like one.  These are the things they are looking at and will continue to look at.  When he gets ready to vote will be when these solutions have been resolved.

Holly Piccarillo:  Holly Piccarillo summarized that most of them would love to have a 10 hole course.  The Board of Directors cannot move forward without a long-term lease.  Give them 3, 4 or 5 or more years while they work this out.  Please.

Moderator Heed noted that they have come up with some tremendous ideas.  There are other people in town.  Be pro-active.  Come up with ideas.  Thank you for coming and reach out to your Board.  He closed this Special Public Meeting at 9:16 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

 

Ed. Note: Just got a supplemental note on the proposed study committee on Hooper. The selectmen request that any Walpole resident interested in studying the issues and working out the solution to the Hooper situation should promptly give their names to Janet Clough in the selectmen's office (756-3672). CCB

Ed. Note: I have it on excellent authority that the selectmen last evening voted to create a committee to study the Hooper Golf Course situation and to make recommendations. More details to come! Chuck Bingaman

Walpole Grange Harvest Dinner THIS Saturday Evening

     Walpole Grange will be presenting its third annual Harvest Dinner on Saturday, October 22, 2011 at 6:00pm at the Walpole Congregational Church.  The menu will feature locally grown and produced food and will include turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, squash, cranberry sauce, homemade rolls, fresh apple cider, and apple pie and ice cream for dessert.  Tickets are $12 pre-sold and are available at Galloway Real Estate office in Walpole.  For information call 756-3661.

TOWN OF WALPOLE

FIRE HYDRANT FLUSHING

 The fire hydrants covering South Walpole will be flushed between 3:00 PM TODAY--Thursday, October 13th, 2011--and Friday, October 14th, 2011.

Residents may experience discolored water when first running their water during this time. Please run the water until clear before using.

Thank you for your patience during this necessary work

 If you have any questions, please call

The Walpole Water Department

603-756-3672

Or email water@walpolenh.us

Ed. Note: I bet you didn't even know we HAD a Cemetery Board! Well, we do and they DO meet! Here are their latest minutes courtesy of Janet Clough! CCB

MINUTES OF THE MEETING

WALPOLE CEMETERY COMMITTEE

September 20, 2011

Present:   Pamela Howard

                Paul Massicotte

                Dale Woodward

Meeting was called to order at 8:30.

There were many calls taken and issues resolved to everyone’s satisfaction since our last meeting in July.

We are waiting for John Clegg to finish his work under the present contract at the Village Cemetery.  Also discussed was the continuing work that needs to be done to repair several more headstones which have fallen in the old and village cemeteries.  We will address this situation at the annual meeting in November.

Regarding the greenway planting, Dale has offered to visit the extension service in Keene to get their recommendations as to what would be the appropriate plantings for that area.  We have in mind to plant 3-5 trees of the same variety that meet our criteria regarding canopy and root structure.  We hope to complete the work this fall.

We have made the following change to the by-laws.  Item number 8 on page 7 will read:

“Cremations are allowed in graves at cemeteries.  A maximum of four cremations are allowed per single grave lot.  Up to 3 cremations will be allowed on a single lot with an existing vault.” 

The following addition will be made to the fifth item in the deed which will now read:

“Monuments and ground level markers shall be permitted.  They must be placed according to the regulations governing the Cemetery.  Any monument or individual markers set shall be placed one foot in from the boundary of that lot, not to exceed three feet in height.  All monuments must have a cement footing one foot deep.  No monument or ground level markers shall be placed on any lot until said lot is paid for in full

Pam and Dale will be attending the fall meeting of the NH Cemetery Association in Manchester on October 19th.

Lot and burial records were updated.

The meeting was adjourned at 11:15.

Respectfully submitted,

Pamela Howard

Cemetery Trustee

Children's Art Show This Sunday at St. John's

St. John’s Church is proud to invite the members of the  community to the first Art Show of the Art After School program, this Sunday, October 16, 5 – 6:30 p.m. in St John’s  Parish Hall (Elm Street entrance off of driveway). Fifteen children in grades 1 through 5 will be displaying the work they have created in the Fall Session of Art After School. They are excited to show their pastel paintings, prints, artist trading cards, color designs, and line designs. Please come out and meet a very special group of young artists!

Art After School is an innovative afterschool program that fosters creativity, expands imagination, and builds community that is in its fifth year of operation. While the Fall session has concluded, Art After School resumes on January 11, 2012. At that time, the program will expand to meeting every Wednesday that school is in session (Wednesday, 3:30 – 5 p.m. Additional activities will be added, such as pingpong and foos ball, cookie baking, chess lessons, boards games or dominoes, special holiday events, etc. All children in grades 1 and higher are welcome. Registration in advance is appreciated. Call the Rev. Susan Kershaw, 756-4533, for more information or to register.

Ed. Note: Inn at Valley Farms proprietor Jackie Caserta sends this announcement. CCB

Feast on This Film Festival Saturday

at Inn at Valley Farms

This Saturday, October 15th, the Inn at Valley Farms will be the site of one of the feature films of this year's Feast on This Film Festival. The event will begin at 2pm with a tour (last scheduled farm tour of the season) of our farm and discussion of our sustainable farming methods with lots of opportunity for questions. Then we'll gather in our four story, century-old barn and sit on hay bales to snack on freshly popped popcorn while viewing the film. Alyson's Orchard has donated some of their delicious apples for the event as well.

From award-winning journalist Jared Flesher, The Farmer and the Horse is a film that digs into difficult questions about sustainability, self-sufficiency, and why we do the work we do. Flesher’s film goes beyond the usual platitudes of smiling organic farmers talking about the good life. Farming is hard work, especially if you don’t use a tractor -  a documentary everyone who cares about land use, the environment, and good food should see.

The 4th Annual Feast on This Film Festival  organized by Monadnock Farm and Community Connection begins this Thursday, October 13th. This four day event features films that highlight a diversity of issues and viewpoints related to food and agriculture that will spark conversation on what we value about the farms in our region, and action we can take to support them. Films are being screened at a variety of locations scattered in and around Keene.

Each film has a suggested donation of $2 at the door or festival passes are available for a suggested donation of $10 each. For more info visit www.feastonthis.org or call 603-756-2988 x116.

Hope to see you at the farm on Saturday!

Ed. Note: Club pro Ron Rosko sends the following rate sheet for old--and new--members of Hooper Golf Club. Phone Ron at 756-4080 for further information. CCB

Here are the 2012 Membership dues:

 

Junior  (through age 21)      $145

Single                                  $670

Couple                                 $1050

Family                                  $1150

Limited    (weekday only)     $570

 

New members need to buy a $25 share of stock as well.

New members can join today for 2012 and get the remainder of this year--2011--for free!

Opinion: Saving Hooper Part II—A Path Forward

The past, present and future of Hooper Golf Course have been clouded in a fog of rumors and conspiracy theory for months. Our Selectmen have spent much time dealing with the situation. But many citizens do not feel fully informed, and many are concerned that decisions may be made with respect to the property that could cause long-term loss to the town.

Assuming the best of intentions and an ample amount of wisdom on the part of the Selectmen, the future of Hooper still needs to be decided in a public way and with more public participation than has been the case so far. It is true that the Selectmen are the trustees of the Hooper Trust, but they also owe citizens the opportunity to know all the facts and to be heard on the issues. For that reason I suggest the following.

 1.    The Selectmen could create a special task force of citizens to consider the issues driving the current Hooper situation and to present written findings of fact and recommendations by December 31. The Selectmen would still make any needed decisions according to their legal duties as Hooper Trustees, but the public would have time to learn about the facts and to have input in a transparent process. (We were reminded yesterday that a citizen study committee was already appointed many months ago, but we do not know who is or was on the committee, what process they followed, what their charge was or what, if anything, they recommended.)

 2.    The Selectmen might name 4 members (including a chair) of the task force, the Hooper Golf Club might name 4 members, and those 8 members might name four additional members. I also suggest that one of the Selectmen’s 4 choices include at least one or two North Walpole residents and that up to two of the additional 4 voices be Walpole residents that are students at Fall Mountain High School.

 3.    I suggest that the task force be given all information on Hooper that the Selectmen have (other than that specifically made confidential under state law.)  And I suggest that they be given a budget of up to $3,000 by the town for conferencing with the town attorney or getting his advice on specific legal questions.

 4.    All deliberations of the task force would be open or reported fully by it.

This process would insure that the Hooper issues would be faced openly as befits an important town asset and that all who wish to may be heard on how to proceed. It would avoid the making of any regrettable decisions in a short time frame. And it would mean that the town might have confidence in knowing that the decision process is informed by open and complete discussion and carefully thought through recommendations. It might even lead to creative options that have not been thought of to date. CCB

Free CPR Class Saturday at Walpole Fire Station

Ann Weil reports that Walpole Wellness is offering a FREE CPR CLASS (9 am sharp on Saturday!) and other FREE events at the Walpole Fire Station, 278 Main Street in Walpole, NH. Join them for fun and informative demonstrations of quick, healthy cooking with Jennifer Bowler and weight-training with kettlebells by Dan Tirabassi. Do you have questions about medications? Get answers with “Ask the Pharmacist.”

Space may be limited for the CPR class and cooking demo.

Email wellness@walpolefireems.com, contact us on Facebook, or call Laura Palmer at 313-9932 to reserve a spot or for more information.

Opinion: Saving Hooper Part I--The Problem

In the past two weeks Walpole has been papered with "Save Hooper" signs. And it's been awash with rumors about what Hooper Golf Course needs to be saved from and why and what the Selectmen are doing about it.

It's hard to recall when the town has been more exercised over an issue, more influenced by rumors, gossip and conspiracy theories, and less informed by its elected officials.

The apparent financial difficulties with the past and current structure of the Hooper Trust, of which the town Selectmen are the trustees, have been in the news since early spring. The Selectmen have held numerous meetings in which Hooper was a prominent subject and have held many sessions which were closed to the public and whose minutes are sealed. But they have paid minimal attention to their duty to inform town citizens about the situation.  That's a key reason why the rumor mill has been in overdrive for months.

At long last, the Selectmen have scheduled a public meeting--Thursday at 7:00 p.m. at Town Hall--to explain what's been going on, to answer public questions and to hear public comments.

But before the selectmen seek public comment, I suggest that they give some clear answers to the following questions--and others that citizens may raise:

1.  What has happened in the past few years--as opposed to the previous 80+ years of the Hooper Trust and golf course operation--to raise the current fiscal concerns? Does Hooper Golf Course need to be saved and, if so, from what?

2.  Have the trustees of the Hooper Trust--the Selectmen--offered the course for sale at any time? If so, to whom and for what reason and at what price?

3.  What role has the state attorney general's office played in the situation to date? And what role will the attorney general play in the future?

4.  Why have so many of the Hooper trustee meetings been closed to the public and what decisions have been reached in them?

Let us hope that the Selectmen will turn things around with clear, complete information and transparent actions beginning no later than Thursday.  [Tomorrow I will post Opinion: Saving Hooper Part II: An Open Path Forward for Citizen Input and Open Decision-Making.] Chuck Bingaman

Ed. Note: This message comes from Julie Rios. CCB

¿Hablas Español?  ¿Estás aprendiendo a  hablar Español?

Do you speak Spanish? Are you learning to speak Spanish?

Come join a new Spanish conversation group starting in Walpole.  We'll be meeting the first Tuesday of every month from 6 to 8 pm at the Walpole Town library.  Our first meeting will be Tuesday, October 4th.

If you're a beginner don't worry. I'm a beginner and make lots of mistakes (or learning opportunities!).  If you're more advanced please come and share your expertise. All ages are welcome. I  hope that this group will be a friendly place to practice and have fun learning a language. 

If you have any questions please call Julie Rios at 756-4173 or email me at jriosfamily@gmail.com

¡Espero a te verte allí! I hope to see you there!

                                                                            TOWN OF WALPOLE

MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE SELECTBOARD

SEPTEMBER 22, 2011

 Selectboard Present:     Whitney Aldrich (Chair); Jamie Teague (late), Sheldon Sawyer

Mr. Aldrich called this meeting to order at 7:34 PM in the Walpole Town Hall with five people present in the audience.

PUBLIC BUSINESS:

KAREN ANDRUS:  Mrs. Andrus was present to tell the Selectboard about the Walpole Parent Teacher Group’s Community 5K Fun Run/Walk and Wellness Event to be held on Saturday, October 1st, 2011, from 10:00 am to 1:00 PM at the Walpole Elementary School.  Race time is at 12 Noon Registration begins at 11:00 AM.   There will be one hour of free Zumba with Ajlan LaRock from 10:00 am to 11:00 am at the Walpole Primary School Community Room.  She spoke to Police Chief Paquette to see if there could be a detour for traffic on Elm Street between Main Street and Westminster Street for the race from Noon to 1:00 PM but he advised that she needed approval from the Selectboard.  Chief Paquette will donate one policeman and the firemen will volunteer to assist on Route 12.  Jim Terrell has detour signs.  They will have to check with Mark Houghton about using barriers from the Water and Sewer Department.  There are many other fun activities for the whole family and new fitness classes for free. 

Mr. Sawyer moved that the Selectboard wholeheartedly support this event and approve the requests made by Mrs. Andrus.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  Motion passed by a unanimous vote.

HIGHWAY DIRECTOR – Jim Terrell:  Mr. Terrell submitted a Paving Plan for 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015.  He based these on 7 miles of road a year.  These lists are only a part of the roads that need to be done.  To accomplish this it would probably have to be through a Town Article on the Warrant.  Mr. Sawyer noted that maybe next year they can do some shimming on Wentworth Road.  That road has a drain that is very low and there have been complaints about it.  Mr. Terrell will look at it.   Mr. Aldrich mentioned that they got quite a bit of paving done this year.

Mr. Sawyer would like to see a sidewalk between the school and just beyond the Homestead as there are a lot of walkers in that area.  Some funding might be available from the Southwest Region Planning Commission.   Mr. Terrell is waiting to hear on the Safe Routes to School grants.  It might have to be done through a Town Warrant Article or it could be done in phases or through bonding.  Mr. Terrell will do research on this.

Mr. Terrell looked at the bandstand.  He left a message for Stu Bailey about the damage.  From now on Mr. Terrell will check it after each mowing on the Common.

Mrs. Teague came into the meeting.

Mr. Terrell reported that Mr. Russell and Mr. Rau came to him to propose that for the next six months they work together as Co-Foremen.  At the end of six months Mr. Rau would take over the Foreman position and Mr. Russell would step back.  Mr. Terrell approves this arrangement.

Mr. Sawyer moved to increase Mr. Rau’s hourly rate by $.50 and to decrease Mr. Russell’s hourly pay rate by $.50.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed by a unanimous vote.     

Selectboard Meeting – September 22, 2011 – Page 2

Mr. Terrell advised that Lief Jackson has now been an employee for over six months.  He does a good job and maintains the equipment. 

Mr. Sawyer moved to give Lief Jackson a raise of $.50/hour.  His hourly wage will increase from $12.00 to $12.50.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed by a unanimous vote.

WALTER BAUER:  Mr. Bauer was present to discuss his Right-of-Way.  He is now being denied access to that Right-of-Way.   On May 9, 2006 the Planning Board approved the Right-of-Way; he read that portion of those meeting Minutes.  A copy of the letter from Pam Aslinger, former Planning Board secretary, was reviewed.  A Lot Line Adjustment for Tax Map 15, Lots 29 and 29-1 for Dean Prentiss and Robert and Stacie Gay, surveyed by Lawrence Associates, showing a Right-of-Way to the Bauer property was displayed.  The Prentiss property is now owned by Kevin and Rebecca O’Connor.  Mr. Bauer stated that the old road was there from the 1900s and that many people have access to that road.  He talked about the history of the area.  The Right-of-Way is used by Joe Fennessy who takes care of the spring beyond his property that is the source of water for several houses.  The Selectboard reviewed the documents provided by Mr. Bauer and had Mrs. Clough print out Deeds and maps recorded in the Registry of Deeds office.    Following much research, Mr. Sawyer requested that Mrs. Clough contact the new owners (O’Connor) by letter to see if they are aware of the Right-of-Way but, if not, they need to contact their attorney as it does not appear in their Deed.  This matter is not a Town error.   

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE: 

Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register and manifest in the amount of $484,766.01.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed by a unanimous vote.

The above amount includes a monthly payment in the amount of $472,567.22 to the Fall Mountain Region School District.

PAYROLL:

Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the payroll voucher for the week ending September 17, 2011, for checks dated September 23, 2011, for gross wages in the amount of $15,230.21 or net wages in the amount of $4,871.81.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed by a unanimous vote.

Mrs. Teague moved to approve the electronic fund transfer for the 941 Employer Taxes for Withholding, MEDI and FICA taxes in the amount of $3,389.24.  Seconded by Mr. Sawyer.  Motion passed by a unanimous vote.

SELECTBOARD MINUTES:

SELECTBOARD MEETING – September 8, 2011:  Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of September 8, 2011, as printed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mr. Sawyer and Mr. Aldrich in favor, the motion was approved.  Mrs. Teague abstained as she was not present at this meeting.

SELECTBOARD NON-PUBLIC SESSION – September 8, 2011:  Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Session of September 8, 2011, as printed.  The Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mr. Sawyer and Mr. Aldrich in favor, the motion was approved.  Mrs. Teague abstained as she was not present at this meeting.

Selectboard Meeting – September 22, 2011 – Page 3

SELECTBOARD MEETING – September 15, 2011:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve the Minutes of the regular Selectboard meeting of September 15, 2011, as printed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Teague and Mr. Aldrich in favor, the motion was approved.  Mr. Sawyer abstained as he was not present at this meeting.

SELECTBOARD NON-PUBLIC SESSION – September 15, 2011:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Session of September 15, 2011, as printed.  The Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Teague and Mr. Aldrich in favor, the motion was approved.  Mr. Sawyer abstained as he was not present at this meeting.

HOOPER TRUSTEES NON-PUBLIC SESSION – September 15, 2011:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve the Minutes of the Hooper Trustees Non-Public Session of September 15, 2011, as printed.  The Minutes will remain sealed.  Seconded by Mr. Aldrich.  With Mrs. Teague and Mr. Aldrich in favor, the motion was approved.  Mr. Sawyer abstained as he was not present at this meeting.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

The Selectboard received and reviewed the Minutes of the following meetings:

·         North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners – September 13, 2011; and

·         North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners – September 20, 2011.

BUILDING PERMITS:

GALVIN, Alstead Center Road, Map & Lot #015-031-000:  Mrs. Teague moved to grant Building Permit No. 2011-37 for Rick Galvin to “Demolish a 12’-6” x 24’-4” non-conforming existing garage and construct a new non-conforming 28’ x 26’ garage (approved Variance obtained)”.  Seconded by Mr. Sawyer.  Motion passed by a unanimous vote.

ROBINSON, Kingsbury Road, Map & Lot # 008-016-000:  Mrs. Teague moved to grant Building Permit No. 2011-45 for Brian Robinson to “Tear down existing garage and replace it with a 30’ x 36’ two story garage”.  Seconded by Mr. Sawyer.  Motion passed by a unanimous vote.

BENIK, Four Winds Lane, Map & Lot # 003-032-000:  Mrs. Teague moved to grant Building Permit No. 2011-46 for Michael Benik, Windy Hilltop Holdings, LLC to “Construct a 40 X 20’ In-ground Pool”.  Seconded by Mr. Sawyer.  Motion passed by a unanimous vote.

TIMBER CUT:

GALLOWAY REVOCABLE TRUST 2004, Rapids Road, Map & Lot # 002-012-000:  Mr. Sawyer moved to grant the Notice of Intent to Cut Wood or Timber, No. 11-461-14, for Jan Galloway LeClerc on Rapids Road.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed by a unanimous vote.

NEW BUSINESS:

ANNUAL  FINANCIAL REPORT – Year Ending December 31, 2010:  The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of the Annual Financial Report for the Year Ending December 31, 2010.

PERAMBULATION WITH THE TOWN OF WESTMORELAND:  There was a consensus of the Selectboard that they wish to respectfully decline the invitation from the Town of Westmoreland due to other commitments. 

Selectboard Meeting – September 22, 2011 – Page 4

PERSONNEL REQUEST:

JANET CLOUGH:  Mrs. Teague moved to approve the request from Janet Clough to have the following days off:  Thursday, September 29, 2011 and Friday, October 7, 2011.  Seconded by Mr. Sawyer.  Motion passed by a unanimous vote.

OLD BUSINESS:

VILAS BRIDGE CORRESPONDENCE:  The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of a copy of their letter from the North Walpole Village District Commissioners to George F. Campbell, Jr., Commissioner of the New Hampshire Department of Transportation, regarding the Vilas Bridge Project.

NON-PUBLIC SESSION – RSA 91-A:3 II:

Mrs. Teague moved to enter into a Non-Public Session pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (a) Personnel.  Mr. Sawyer seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with all in favor, the motion was approved.  The time was 9:29 PM.

The regular meeting resumed at 10:12 PM.  No announcements were made.

Recess Meeting:  Mrs. Teague moved to recess this meeting.  The Selectboard will enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees.  Seconded by Mr. Sawyer.  Motion passed by a unanimous vote.  The time was 10:13 PM.

 MEETING OF THE HOOPER TRUSTEES

Mr. Aldrich called this meeting of the Hooper Trustees to order at 10:15 PM.

NON-PUBLIC SESSION – RSA 91-A:3 II:

Mrs. Teague moved to enter into a Non-Public session as the Hooper Trustees pursuant to RSA 91-A:3 II to discuss (d) Acquisition, Sale or Lease of Real or Personal Property.  Mr. Sawyer seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with all in favor, the motion was approved.  The time was 10:16 PM.

 SELECTBOARD MEETING (Continued)

Mr. Aldrich called the recessed Selectboard meeting to order at 10:32 PM.

 Adjournment:  Mr. Sawyer moved to adjourn this meeting.  Seconded by Mrs. Teague.  Motion passed by a unanimous vote.  The time was 10:33 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Regina Borden, Recording Secretary

                                                                                       

 

(Note:  These are unapproved Minutes.  Corrections, if necessary, will be found in the Minutes of the September 29, 2011, Selectboard meeting.)

Ed. Note: The following comes from Ben Daviss on behalf of the Great River Coop. CCB
Great River Co-op Holds E-Waste Collection October 15

On Saturday, October 15, the Great River Co-op will be collecting old electronics in the Tractor Supply parking lot on Route 12 in Walpole from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., rain or shine. 

“The Great River Co-op’s mission isn’t just to create a community-owned grocery market and food center,” says Steve Fortier, president of the co-op’s board of directors.  “It’s also to foster a healthier community.”  To help achieve that goal, co-op member-owners and volunteers are collecting all the electronic waste that no one knows what to do with.  Your old TVs, computers and monitors, fax machines, microwave ovens, printers, cell phones, digital bathroom scales, kitchen countertop appliances, anything that has a circuit board and is not a floor-standing appliance or power tool – the co-op will take it.

You won’t even have to get out of your car.  As fast as you can say, “How do I join the Great River Co-op?”, the co-op’s squad of volunteers will unload it for you. 

The waste will be de-manufactured by E-Waste Recyclers in Jaffrey, which also will wipe all files from junked computers’ hard drives.  Metals will be reclaimed for new uses and plastics will be recycled to be made into new plastic items.  All the waste remains right here until its component parts are salvaged and sent off for new uses.  None of the waste is burned or sent to foreign countries as some “recyclers” do.

Examples of fees for disposal:  $11 for a portable TV or tube-type computer monitor; $8 for computer, $7 for a microwave oven, $3 for cordless lawn or shop tools.  Small items such as cell phones, nice and keyboards, and electrical cords are accepted at no charge.  A more complete list of fees is available on the “events” page at www.greatriverfoodcoop.com – or contact us at 603-445-2200 or bdaviss@comcast.net and tell us what you have.  We’ll calculate the disposal cost for you.  All profits will benefit the Great River Co-op’s ongoing efforts to create our region’s first community-owned grocery market and food center. 

So while you’re doing your Saturday chores on October 15, fill your trunk with your old e-junk and come by. 

Can’t come?  Just e-mail bdaviss@comcast.net or call 603-445-2200 before October 10 and we’ll come to your home or business and pick it up.

Also that Saturday, from 2 to 5 p.m. and 7 to 10 p.m., see what’s lying in wait for you in the cornfield behind Tractor Supply.  It’s a maze haunted by goblins and spirits that bear an eerie resemblance to members of the Walpole Players.  Ticket prices are $5 for adults and $3 for children 12 and younger.  All proceeds benefit the Great River Co-op and Walpole Players.

Ed. Note: Barbara Kasper and Ray Boas told me in the past several days that they have launched a new  publication called The Walpole Clarion to report on Walpole news. According to Ray, "The first issue will be delivered to all Walpole Postal Patrons at the end of this coming week.  Eight pages in length and our "centerfold" each month will be a calendar showing events, meetings, etc scheduled each day. Each issue will have the closing date for submissions for the following month.  The "word of mouth" response we have received so far has been very favorable.  This is a not-for-profit (not a non-profit organization) venture seen as a community service, and we are selling ad space to hopefully cover our production, printing and mailing costs only.  Four of us are putting this together, myself, Barbara and Rob Kasper and Jan Kobeski". CCB