Design Development Committee Meets Tuesday at 7:00 p.m. at Town Hall
Ed. Note: The Planning Board has long considered whether Walpole needs some design criteria to guide developers in how they can make their buildings and grounds fit in to the web of historical, agricultural and small town atmosphere that nearly everyone says they want to retain. Now the Planning board is getting specific about it with a draft to be considered along with some actual photos for illustrative purposes. These words and photos will be discussed tomorrow evening at a public meting at 7:00 in Town Hall. I set out below the draft to be considered. CCB
Town of Walpole, NH
Building Design Guidelines-- First Draft 8/10
(A) Purpose and Applicability: In order to "... provide for the harmonious and aesthetically pleasing development of the municipality and its environs..." (NHRSA 674:44, II (b)), these regulations are intended to preserve the distinctive appearance of Walpole, and the small-town New England character that has been articulated by the citizens of Walpole in the Vision Statement and Land Use Section of the Master Plan. The planning board believes that by implementing these regulations, and by working collaboratively with developers, the visual and historic character of Walpole will be preserved, property values will be strengthened, and the community will benefit from high-quality building design and construction that is in harmony with the character of our New England town.
(B) It is the planning board’s intent that these guidelines shall apply to all non-residential buildings on land zoned for (or granted a special exception or variance for) commercial or industrial use. However, the board reserves the right to review multi-family developments or other developments under this section, as it deems reasonable.
(C) General Guidelines: An application is considered to meet the aesthetic considerations of these regulations if the Planning Board, in its judgment, determines that the application overall demonstrates reasonable conformity with the purpose above and the general guidelines that follow. Photographic examples of design elements of buildings located in Walpole and elsewhere are offered as guidance to developers.
(1) The planning board recognizes that every property, every proposal, and every situation is unique. The planning board may waive, modify, or soften any of the standards herein on rare occasions as it deems appropriate, based upon the individual circumstances of any application. No particular style is stipulated and innovative, contemporary, and distinctive designs are possible, provided they reflect the general design principles and context detailed in these guidelines.
(2) It is recognized that many national and regional chain businesses seek to build a standard design across the country or region without regard to local conditions. However, the planning board may request modification of the design to ensure its compatibility with our own local community character and for conformance with the purpose of these guidelines. It shall be the obligation of the applicants to develop designs that are compatible with our community character; the Town of Walpole need not waive, ease, or adjust these guidelines to accommodate the template designs of chain stores.
(3) Buildings should be compatible with traditional New England architecture. They should be articulated to express an architectural identity consistent with the character of Walpole, to be handsome and dignified, and significant enough to be worth saving into the future.
(4) Buildings should possess an overall character and integrity. Architectural details should not give the impression of being “tacked on” but rather should be integral to the overall design. (For example, use of undersized shutters on a picture window or installation of an elaborate classical portico or cupola on an otherwise clearly utilitarian big box would be discouraged.)
(5) The reuse of existing structures that have special architectural, historical, cultural, or contextual value by the applicant is strongly encouraged.
(6) Modifications and additions to existing buildings should be harmonious with the character of the existing building when the existing building would reasonably be considered to be in general conformance with the goals of these regulations.
(D) Design Elements: The purpose of these standards is to encourage architecture that draws its inspiration from traditional New England examples similar in style to those illustrated in these guidelines. Building design should reinforce a human-scaled environment through careful consideration of architectural forms, massing, detailing, number and use of materials, and color. The planning board strongly encourages consideration of these design elements.
(E) Roofs. Long flat, unbroken roof lines shall be avoided. Variation in line, detail, form, and siting shall be used to provide visual interest. In order to prevent the construction of warehouse-style buildings (i.e., long, horizontal roof lines), all new buildings and additions should include pitched roofs or gabled roofs where practical. Shed, gambrel, and barn-style roofs are also acceptable. Roofs should have appropriate overhangs. Dormers are encouraged. Roof mounted mechanical equipment must be screened from public view in a way that is consistent with these guidelines.
(F) Building materials. The use of innovative, high-quality building materials is encouraged.. Exterior surfaces of building should be covered with traditional materials or products that simulate natural materials, including, but not limited to, clapboards, shingles, stone, brick, or architectural concrete masonry units. Exposed plain cinder block, corrugated steel, sheet plastic, or sheet fiberglass are not acceptable. Uncovered foundation walls should not extend more than 3 feet above grade. Pitched roofs should be constructed of shingles, metal roofing, or other materials traditionally used in this region.
(G) Awnings. Brightly colored or illuminated franchise-type awnings are not acceptable. Awning covers designed for shade should be made of fabric or simulated fabric-like material.
(H) Architectural details. Balconies, decks, covered porches, decorative shingles, bracketed eaves, columns, balustrades, towers, turrets, skylights, and arches are among the details to be considered and encouraged. All features and details should be in proportions with the building.
(I) Windows. Windows should be utilized as much as possible and practical to humanize the building and enhance its overall appeal. Windows should be incorporated on front and side facades to humanize the building. The use of large picture-type windows for first-floor retail uses is encouraged. Windows may be used for either interior illumination or for display purposes.
If the use of windows is not practical or will inhibit the optimum intended use of the building, the developer should present alternatives that make the design consistent with the intent of these guidelines.
(J) Entrances. Entrances should be carefully planned to add character to the project.
Articulation of the entrance is encouraged through the use of a portico, canopy, awning, sidelights, surround, or other device.
(K) Fencing. Fences made of traditional New England materials are encouraged. (i.e. picket, split rail, wrought iron, brick, stone). Chain link security fences may be allowed where appropriate, but their use is generally discouraged. Fencing may be used to screen from public view mechanical equipment, trash collection and other similar uses.
(L) Color. Subtle, neutral colors should be used on larger, plain buildings and are generally looked upon by the board to be consistent with these guidelines. Paint colors should relate to the natural colors of building materials, such as brick, stucco, etc. Complimentary colors on architectural details are encouraged, as are historic colors. Bright, franchise colors are discouraged.
(M) Landscaping. Landscaping adds as much to the character of a project as does the building itself. Trees, shrubs, and other plantings that are native to New England are encouraged. Imported species are discourages. Plants that have been categorized as invasive species shall not be used.
Outdoor storage areas, trash collection points, fuel storage or other similar areas should be screened from residential abutters and public view. The sensitive use of plantings, berms and fencing may be used to accomplish this.
Berms, plantings and similar means are strongly encouraged for use between parking lots and highways or streets to buffer the visual impact of parking areas.
(N) Lighting. Lighting adds as much to the character of a project as does the building and landscaping surrounding it. Lighting should be used in a manner that does not cause harm or annoyance to the property abutters. Lighting should draw attention to the entrances and other architectural details of the building. Exterior security lighting should be reduced as much as practical. Lights other than essential security lights shall not be left on for more than one hour after the close of business.
Mr. Aldrich called the meeting to order at 7:30 PM with five people present in the audience.
PUBLIC BUSINESS:
MARCIA GALLOWAY: Mrs. Galloway advised that Aimae Annichiarico, an Antioch College student, has completed the Natural Resources Inventory in both the Fanny Mason Forest and the Fanny Mason Forest Annex. The Conservation Commission (CC) voted to give her a stipend of $1,000. During a previous meeting the Selectboard indicated that the CC could ask them to reconsider their decision to have the funds taken from the Fanny Mason Forest Trust Fund rather than the CC budget. She noted that Ms. Annichiarico did a tremendous job.
Mrs. Teague moved to take the stipend out of the Fanny Mason Forest Trust Fund rather than the Conservation Commission budget. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. Motion passed by a unanimous vote.
Mrs. Galloway reported that the Conservation Commission (CC) is concerned about the pond at the top of North Road and High Street leaking around the culvert. She asked the Selectboard to notify Sam Talmadge, owner of the property, and that a copy of that letter be forwarded to the CC. Mrs. Teague felt it should be discussed with Sheldon Sawyer at the next meeting because he had looked at the area and felt it was designed that way but in the meantime Mr. Aldrich agreed to look at it.
HIGHWAY DEPARTMENT - JIM TERRELL: Mr. Terrell provided an up-date of the Highway Department projects. They are doing heavy shimming now. This year 6.6 miles of road were done. This includes Reservoir Road, Old Drewsville Road, Brewery Road, Ramsey Hill Road, Barnett Hill Road, Hillside Acres, Graves Road, and Taggard Road. If possible, they will also do Pinewood Circle. A top coat will be put on Elm Street to Westminster Street, Ford Avenue, Vine Street and a part of School Street.
Mr. Terrell is waiting to get the DES permit for the Mill Road Bridge. He doesn’t want to rush the project so if the permit comes back soon it might be possible to do it this year but it might not get done until next year. This was a non-lapsing Article for two years.
There are some issues with the paving that was done on the Old Keene Bridge. SCA, engineers, are going to contact Bazin Bros. Construction relative to a resolution.
Hodgkins and Sons is supposed to start the School Street project at the beginning of next week or the following week. Mr. Terrell wants it done before school starts. He will observe the project each day. Since the quote came in lower than anticipated, Mr. Terrell asked if the extra funds can be used toward more paving. The Selectboard recommended that he get some quotes before they make any decisions.
Relative to Drewsville Common, Mr. Terrell ordered the “No Parking” signs and will put them up as soon as they are received. He did not feel that a load of dirt should be dropped off on the Common for the neighbors to spread because of the road height and the ridge as they want to avoid puddle problems.
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After the shimming is finished they have ditches and the sides of the road to repair. After that there are three large culverts on Valley Road that need to be replaced and then they will move onto other projects. While paving, some hot mix will be put on the intersection of Wentworth and Wilson Roads.
Graham Koleski, who is working for his Eagle Scout badge, got permission to do the sign inventory project. They will begin to work on it on August 14th and 15th. This year Mr. Terrell plans to replace the stop signs.
Mr. Terrell received the check for diesel fuel from the school district. The Selectboard approved his request to buy more diesel fuel as he felt they should order 5,000 gallons before winter.
There was a consensus to talk about uniforms when a full board is present. The contract terminates in February 2011 but the company needs to be contacted 80 days in advance of the expiration.
Mr. Terrell attended the Route 12 project last week. Everything went well. He has a map of the project. In the interim period the State will be putting up some more guardrails.
Mr. Terrell is scheduled to attend the Selectboard meetings on the third Thursday of the month but he will not be able to keep that schedule this month as he will be attending an Emergency Management meeting in Rindge.
VACATION REQUEST – Jim Terrell: Mrs. Teague moved to allow Jim Terrell to take August 31st through September 9th, 2010, off as vacation time. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. Motion passed by a unanimous vote.
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:
Mrs. Teague moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register and manifest in the amount of $13,302.29. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. Motion passed by a unanimous vote.
Mrs. Teague moved to approve the voided check register for check No. 055703 for ACTU Computers in the amount of $1,698.42. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. Motion passed by a unanimous vote.
Mrs. Teague moved to approve the check register to issue a new check to ACTU Computers in the amount of $1,698.42. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. Motion passed by a unanimous vote.
PAYROLL:
Mrs. Teague moved to approve the payroll voucher for the week ending July 31, 2010, for checks dated August 6, 2010, for gross wages in the amount of $24,078.77 or net wages in the amount of $14,858.14. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. 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 $5,040.20. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. Motion passed by a unanimous vote.
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MINUTES:
SELECTBOARD MEETING – July 29, 2010: There was a consensus of the Selectboard to table the Minutes until the next regular meeting.
COMMITTEE REPORTS:
The Selectboard received and reviewed Minutes of the following meetings:
· North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners – July 27, 2010; and
· Hooper Institute Committee – July 20, 2010.
REFUND:
EMMERMAN – 503 March Hill Road, Map & Lot #011-058-000: Mrs. Teague moved to grant the Property Tax Refund for Tax Year 2009 in the amount of $333.78 for Stephen Emmerman. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. Motion passed by a unanimous vote.
LEWIS – 102 Blackjack Crossing, Map & Lot #001-015-010: Mrs. Teague moved to grant the Property Tax Refund for Tax Years 2007, 2008 and 2009 in the amount of $3,236.76 for Andrew K. Lewis. This is the result of a 2007 Board of Tax and Land Appeals appeal. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. Motion passed by a unanimous vote.
NEW BUSINESS:
BRUCE RUSSELL – VACATION ROLL-OVER REQUEST: Mr. Aldrich moved to approve the request from Bruce Russell to carry over two weeks vacation time but that one week has to be used this fall. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed by a unanimous vote.
WALPOLE POLICE DEPT. ANALYSIS FOR JULY 2010: The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of the Walpole Police Dept. Analysis for July 2010. Mr. Aldrich requested that a copy be attached to these meeting Minutes.
TOWN HALL RENTAL: Mrs. Clough explained that there had been a misunderstanding over scheduling two events in the Town Hall on a Friday evening. Following a discussion, Mrs. Teague felt it best for her to call one of the parties as their plans were tentative for Friday but they had reserved the Town Hall for Saturday. There was a consensus to add the following sentence to the rental agreement: “The balance has to be paid 30 days in advance”.
OLD BUSINESS:
FINANCIAL SERVICE CLERK: Interviews for the Financial Service Clerk will be conducted on Tuesday, August 10th.
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 ( c) Reputations and (b) Hiring. Mr. Aldrich seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with all in favor, the motion was approved by a unanimous vote. The time was 8:52 PM.
The regular meeting resumed at 9:09 PM.
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Adjournment:
Mrs. Teague moved to adjourn this meeting. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. Motion passed by a unanimous vote. The time was 9:10 PM.
Mr. Aldrich called the meeting to order at 7:36 PM with four people present in the audience.
PUBLIC BUSINESS:
WARREN STEVENS: Mr. Stevens displayed the plans for repairs to the Mill Road Bridge. He will contact the Wetlands Bureau to request a permit for emergency repairs. Mr. Sawyer felt the bridge should have a guardrail to guardrail distance of 24-feet. The problem is the curve and trucks having adequate clearance. Mr. Terrell said that paving this year will depend on the weather. The Selectboard recommended that Mr. Terrell contact three contractors for bids. The bids will be due in two weeks.
TREES: Mr. Terrell received a call from a tree service that is working with FairPoint. They need to do some tree trimming on the Common.
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:
Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register and manifest in the amount of $528,587.04. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed by a unanimous vote.
It was noted that the above amount includes a payment in the amount of $429,031.14 to the Fall Mountain Regional School District.
PAYROLL:
Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the payroll voucher for the week ending August 07, 2010, for checks dated August 13, 2010, for gross wages in the amount of $18,442.12 or net wages in the amount of $10,263.29. 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 the amount of $3,970.75. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed by a unanimous vote.
MINUTES:
SELECTBOARD MEETING – July 29, 2010: Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of July 29, 2010, as printed. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. With Mr. Sawyer and Mrs. Teague in favor, the Minutes were approved. Mr. Aldrich abstained as he was not present at this meeting.
SELECTBOARD MEETING – August 05, 2010: Mrs. Teague moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of August 05, 2010, as printed. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With Mrs. Teague and Mr. Aldrich in favor, the Minutes were approved. Mr. Sawyer abstained as he was not present at this meeting.
NON-PUBLIC SELECTBOARD MEETING – August 05, 2010: Mrs. Teague moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard meeting of August 05, 2010, as printed. The Minutes will not be sealed. Seconded by Mr. Aldrich. With Mrs. Teague and Mr. Aldrich in favor, the Minutes were approved. Mr. Sawyer abstained as he was not present at this meeting.
Selectboard Meeting –August 12, 2010- Page 2
COMMITTEE REPORTS:
The Selectboard received and reviewed Minutes of the following meeting:
· North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners – August 10, 2010.
BUILDING PERMIT:
CASTOR – 318 County Road, Map & Lot #005-004-001: Mrs. Teague moved to approve Building Permit No. 2010-35 for Robert Castor to reconstruct an existing porch and to extend it 3-1/2 feet. Seconded by Mr. Sawyer. Motion passed by a unanimous vote.
NEW BUSINESS:
NORTH WALPOLE REAL ESTATE TAX LIEN: The Selectboard received and reviewed the Affidavit of Execution of Real Estate Tax Liens for the Year 2009 that will be forwarded to the Cheshire County Registrar of Deeds by the North Walpole Tax Collector.
STATE LIQUOR COMMISSION LETTER: Virginia Carter from the Walpole Mountain View Winery requested that the Selectboard send a letter to the State Liquor Commission asking for authorization for the producers to sell wine at the Walpole Farmers Market.
CEMETERY DEED: Mr. Sawyer moved to approve and sign the Cemetery Deed for Lot No. D-350 for Stuart Bailey. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed by a unanimous vote.
ANIMAL BITE: A report of an animal bite was received. A copy will be forwarded to the Police Department for their information.
POLICE DEPARTMENT: Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the request from Police Chief Hewes and Lieutenant Paquette to take vacation time. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed by a unanimous vote.
NEXT SELECTBOARD MEETING: The next regular meeting of the Selectboard will be held on Thursday, August 19th, 2010, but the time will be changed from 7:30 pm to 3:00 pm. There will be no public business at this meeting.
OLD BUSINESS:
TOWN HALL RENTAL: The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of a letter from Carol and Ed Reardon regarding rental of the Town Hall.
MEETING WITH LOREN MARTIN FROM AVITAR: Loren Martin from Avitar will be attending the next Selectboard meeting on Thursday, August 19th at 3:00 PM.
ABATEMENT REFUND: A letter was received from Andrew Lewis relative to his calculations for the property assessment refund. Mrs. Teague recommended that Mrs. Clough respond to his letter and issue a check for the refund based on the revised property assessment but to advise that since the Town is disputing the interest amount a separate check will follow.
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HIGH STREET: Mr. Aldrich looked at the culvert at the top of High Street; there is an earthen dam. The pipe is rusting and because of that it is washing out in the front. There was a consensus of the Selectboard that a letter needs to be written to Mr. Talmadge, owner, stating that both the Selectboard and Conservation Commission feel he needs to address this because of the stability of the dam and to prevent any safety problems for the properties below him. Mrs. Clough will write the letter that will be edited by Mr. Aldrich for the Selectboard’s signatures.
LETTER TO BE SIGNED:
NH RETIREMENT TAX: The Selectboard made a decision not to sign the letter regarding the NH Retirement as requested by Teresa Kissell as there is a formal form that needs to be completed.
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 to discuss (b) Hiring. Mrs. Teague seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with all in favor, the motion was approved by a unanimous vote. The time was 8:58 PM.
The regular meeting resumed at 9:28 PM.
Adjournment:
Mr. Sawyer moved to adjourn this meeting. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed by a unanimous vote. The time was 9:29 PM.
Ed. Note: Thanks to Selectmen's Assistant Janet Clough, here are the Planning Board minutes for August 10. CCB
PLANNING BOARD
Walpole, NH 03608
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Presiding: Jeff Miller (Chair); Members Present: Bob Miller (Vice-Chair); Ben Daviss, Henry Fletcher,
Peter Kenney, Jamie Teague (Selectboard); Alternates: Steve Dalessio, Donn Lounsbury, Ed Potter
Recording: Regina Borden (Secretary)
These Minutes are unapproved and will be reviewed at the September 14, 2010 meeting for errors, corrections and omissions. There were approximately 33 people present in the audience.
I.Meeting Opened: Mr. J. Miller called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM in the Walpole Town Hall.
Roll Call – Mr. J. Miller noted the absence of regular member Dave DeCoste and asked Steve Dalessio to sit on the Board for him. Jamie Teague (Selectboard) is present at this meeting as Sheldon Sawyer was unable to attend.
Approval of Minutes of July 13, 2010 Regular Meeting and July 27, 2010 Workshop Meeting:
Mr. Daviss moved to approve the Minutes of the regular meeting of July 13, 2010, as printed. Seconded by Mr. Kenney. Vote called, all members were in favor with the exception of Mrs. Teague who abstained as she was not present at this meeting, motion carried.
Mr. B. Miller moved to approve the Minutes of the Workshop meeting of July 13, 2010, as printed. Seconded by Mr. Kenney. Vote called, Committee members present - Mr. J. Miller, Mr. B. Miller, Mr. Dalessio and Mr. Kenney were in favor, motion carried.
II. Review Applications Submitted:
Mr. J. Miller called this Public Hearing to order at 7:07 PM.
504 Main Street, LLC / Avanru Development Group LTD. – Site Plan Review on Route 12, Town Map #012, Lots #013 and #018 for Residential Condominiums in the Commercial Zoning District.
All abutters were notified, the notices were advertised and posted, and the fees were paid.
Mr. Daviss moved to accept this application from 504 Main Street, LLC / Avanru Development Group LTD. – for a Site Plan Review on Route 12 as complete. Seconded by Mr. Dalessio. Vote called, all were in favor, motion carried.
Mr. J. Miller acknowledged that a letter and map were received from abutters, Alicia Flammia and Seth Andrews, and they will be entered into the record.
Jedd Pellerin, Jack Franks, Jason Dunbar and Attorney Robert Kasper, representing Avanru Development Group LTD, were present.
Mr. Pellerin, licensed architect, advised that this development will consist of 48 adult, residential condominiums on a 5.96 acre parcel in a Commercial Zone on Route 12 behind the new Tractor Supply building. They are not asking for any Special Exceptions or Variances for this project. They have
Planning Board –August 10, 2010- Page 2
submitted the required application, checklists, along with supporting documentation from himself as a licensed architect, DiBernardo Land Surveyors, Tom Duffield, a licensed civil engineer, and Laurie Rauseo, a traffic engineer. Previously they submitted a letter of authorization from the current land owner to move forward with this. At this meeting they submitted a revised architectural Site Plan and revised Utility and Grading Plan with minor revisions following conversations with the Fire Chief and Mark Houghton. The first revision is locating where underground fuel tanks will be stored on the site and showing that they are more than 50-feet away from the dumpster locations. The dumpsters were relocated within the parking lot. There will be no change to the paved area or green space. They noted on the drawing where the sprinkler connections would be coming into the building. Also submitted was a Waiver Request letter for a Road Profile drawing; this road layout is the same as accepted and approved for the Tractor Supply Site Plan and Subdivision approval. Their request is to extend that. Mr. J. Miller asked Mr. Pellerin to repeat the process as presented at the last meeting for the people present who did not attend the meeting last month. Mr. Dalessio asked what will be done in the first phase and what will happen to the rest of the lot. Mr. Pellerin said it depends on the rate of sales; the minimum that would be built in the first phase would be what was shown on the plan; living units, central lobby and secondary egress. They are confident that a lot of the units will be sold pre-construction.
Tom Duffield explained that first they would do the basic Site Plan with the foundation for all 48 units. They would then start at the far end with 16 units and work their way out of there so that all the infrastructure for the water and sewer would be installed, the site and earth work, storm water, erosion control with the drainage improvements would be done; then they would work their way out of there with construction of other units as the sales go along. The traffic analysis done by Laurie Rauseo indicates that the first units will not warrant additional turning lanes or other changes beyond what was approved for Tractor Supply. Any additional development would need further review; they will address that in the future. Red Barn Lane is a private drive. They will run the new water line up into the development that Tractor Supply brought across the road; there will be underground utilities. The roof drains will go down into the ground; there will be gutters and a detention basin. There are wetlands in the back but because they have the deep water table they can infiltrate the storm water back into the ground. They will not increase the storm run-off. Some porous pavement will be used; the amount is unknown at this time. There will be concrete sidewalks and curbs; there will be carports. He displayed the drainage and landscaping plans. Downcast lighting will be in the common areas. There will be minimum lighting on the backside toward the abutters.
Mr. Pellerin noted that there had been a question about building height. In this zone they are allowed three stories but the units will be two stories with an attic; they are in compliance with the Town’s regulations. They are now looking at smaller individual units for the mechanical systems that might allow them to lower the roof pitch.
Mr. Daviss said because the building abuts wetlands what are they required to do. Mr. Pellerin noted that the Department of Environmental Services (DES) was contacted and a pre-application meeting was set up for them to assess what will be needed.
Mr. Basora, a resident, asked about the price range given the economy. Mr. Pellerin responded that they want to give people price information as soon as they can. Mr. Franks said they had a current market analysis done. They are still gathering information from contractors but hope to put this on their web-site within a few weeks as soon as it is available.
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Mr. Eric Merklein thanked them for the extra open space. He asked why the developers haven’t come back to this meeting with some restructuring on the design. Mr. Franks talked to at least 100 people and 97% liked the design. They felt it should look rural and fit into the community; it should look aesthetically well in the community. They did a lot of research on this.
Mr. Jeff White lives on Dearborn Circle behind the pumping station. He stated that never would he come before a Board with a survey based on hearsay without written results. At the last meeting they said they would have a price at this meeting. They also said that the entire parking lot would be paved with porous materials but now it is a cost issue. He feels they could break the rule about people residing there under a certain age with a one day gap in between. Deed restrictions can be circumvented.
Mr. J. Miller noted that Deed restrictions are not a part of the Planning Board’s purview or zoning but he asked if there will be an age limit. Attorney Kasper explained that the development will be marketed as active senior living residences. It will be for people over 50 with no children under 18 living there. It will be up to the Homeowners Association to set and enforce the rules and guidelines. The idea is to keep it quiet, but to give an opportunity for older residents to have a nice place to live.
A resident asked if the condos will be visible from Route 12. Mr. Duffield said they will be about 600 feet back behind the Tractor Supply building and behind an evergreen tree line that they intend to put in to screen the property. The ridgeline from grade at the building would be about 50-feet not including the cupola. Mr. Pellerin believes you probably wouldn’t see much more than cupolas from Route 12.
A resident stated that the plans look beautiful. She questioned the parking spaces. Mr. Duffield said there will be two parking spaces for each unit.
Mr. J. Miller referenced the letter from Alicia Flammia and Seth Andrews, dated August 9, 2010. Their concerns are the height and the wetlands. They determined that the finished project would be taller than the slope of the land and it will impact their view shed. Mr. Duffield noted that they did have the site surveyed. Mr. Pellerin explained that they do not want the height to be taller than it needs to be. They made a decision not put on a flat roof with the mechanical systems.
Mr. Daviss asked if they are willing to commit that the ridgeline of the property won’t be higher than the surrounding bluff. Mr. Pellerin does not believe they are but they will get more information. Mr. Daviss asked if the cupolas are decorative or do they have a mechanical function. Mr. Pellerin said they might be both but they serve a great purpose in breaking up the roof lines. They are 50-to-60 feet apart and will not have lights. A dormer would serve no purpose and be more expensive. Mr. Franks noted that barns do not have dormers.
Ms. Flammia asked why they chose to build the first set of units on the wetland boundary. Mr. Pellerin advised that a lot went into their planning; it involved retaining some front area to be used for retention and infiltration. They are within a few feet of the wetlands and will put in retaining walls.
Mr. J. Miller felt that the white pines that were planted between the North Meadow Plaza and the homes on Dearborn Circle should be maintained as that was important criteria of that proposal.
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Mr. J. Miller noted that the developers went to the Department of Transportation (DOT) with their three phase plan, Tractor Supply has a curb cut, is the DOT set up to do an amendment to the entrance on a turning lane, etc. in the future. Mr. Duffield said they had a scoping session on the entire project with DOT and are having a traffic study done by Ms. Rauseo; what is there will be adequate for now. With the traffic study the DOT knows there will be improvements later on for the intersection. They also talked to the Wetlands Bureau because there will be an impact on one corner. They hope to have feedback from the DOT within two weeks. The Wetlands Bureau asked for pictures, concept plans, etc. They will look at them and then determine if a site visit is needed.
Mr. Daviss questioned the experience of this group in terms of development. Mr. Pellerin, Mr. Franks, Mr. Dunbar and Attorney Kasper provided information on their development experience. Mr. Daviss asked about the financing of this project. Mr. Franks said a number of financial institutions are excited about the project and have contacted them; they are in solid financial shape.
Mr. J. Miller closed this Public Hearing at 8:10 PM.
Mr. J. Miller opened this Public Hearing at 8:18 PM.
III. REVISIONS TO THE MASTER PLAN’S LAND USE CHAPTER:
Mr. J. Miller advised that this Public Hearing was duly advertised and posted. Mr. Daviss explained that the Planning Board has been working on these revisions for a long time. Based on their study they put together a draft of Goals and Objectives that were submitted to the Southwest Regional Planning Commission for a review and analysis, a final draft was produced and posted.
Mrs. Teague appreciates all the hard work the Board did on this but does not agree with all the wording. She has concerns with the wording “to discourage” something and just hopes that we are not being too careful to discourage too much growth. She pointed out that this is an advisory document.
Mrs. Mansouri noted that the survey that is mentioned was done about three years ago. Things have changed. The Town does not have that much commercial or industrial land left.
Attorney Kasper feels that most people he talked to are comfortable with development on Route 12. They are tired of going out of town to shop. Mr. J. Miller did not feel this would discourage development on Route 12 but it should be done in a planned, attractive way. The character of the Village is preserved. Walpole still has a tremendous amount of agricultural land.
Mr. J. Miller closed this Public Hearing at 8:31 PM.
Mr. Daviss moved to adopt these revisions to the Master Plan’s Land Use Chapter and incorporate them into the Master Plan. Seconded by Mr. B. Miller. Vote called, all were in favor, motion carried.
IV. SITE PLAN REVIEW - Application:
504 Main Street, LLC / Avanru Development Group LTD – Site Plan Review on Route 12, Town Map #012, Lots #013 and #018 for Residential Condominiums in the Commercial Zoning District.
Mr. J. Miller advised that the Planning Board is not obligated to make a decision at this meeting. At the next meeting they should have additional information from DOT on the intersection and DES on the wetland area. Avanru might come back with an alternative design on the roof pitch. Mrs. Teague
Planning Board –August 10, 2010- Page 5
suggested that the Board members could view the area and because Mr. Sawyer has been present for past meetings on this he should be present for the vote. Mr. Franks said they were hoping for a preliminary approval at this meeting based on them providing the additional information.
Mr. Dalessio has concerns about the financing of the project; should there be a security deposit or bond. Mr. Franks indicated that they are prepared to submit a Bond and have done research on it. Mr. Dalessio would like to see something from the Department Heads on the impact of this development. Mr. J. Miller noted that they have been working with the Fire Chief and Mark Houghton. Mr. Daviss felt it would be nice to retain the view from the Upper Walpole Road.
Mr. Fletcher moved to grant approval for this Site Plan Review for 504 Main Street, LLC / Avanru Development Group LTD as presented with the following conditions: 1) Clarity of bonding on all the infrastructure; 2) DOT approval for the official curb cut and future use acknowledgement; and 3) approval from the DES. Seconded by Mr. B. Miller. Vote called, all were in favor with the exception of Mrs. Teague who abstained, motion carried.
V. NEW BUSINESS / APPLICATION SUBMISSION:
There were no new applications submitted at this meeting.
VI. PLANNING DISCUSSION:
Work Session: The next Work Session was scheduled for August 24, 2010, in the downstairs office.
VII. COMMUNICATIONS AND MISCELLANEOUS:
Proposed Commercial Use of Two (2) Existing Buildings on a Single Lot: At the last meeting Bensonwood came in for a preliminary consultation on a proposal for commercial use of two existing buildings on a single lot. Copies of the legal opinion from Attorney Hockensmith had been distributed. Mr. J. Miller asked Mrs. Mansouri if the Zoning Board of Adjustment will give the Planning Board direction so they can move forward based on the recommendation. Mrs. Mansouri will discuss it with the ZBA members at their next meeting.
VIII. Adjourn Meeting:
Mr. Fletcher moved to adjourn this meeting. Seconded by Mr. B. Miller. Vote called, all in favor, motion carried. The time was 9:03 PM.
The Real Twist Ice Cream stand in Walpole, NH will hold its next Classic Car Cruise Night, weather permitting, on Sunday, August 15thth, from 6-9PM. There will be live music by Vinnie Dibernardo (vet emergencies permitting). Anyone who brings his classic car to show will get a free regular sized sundae. Everyone visiting can get free jimmies, diptop or flavorburst with any cup or cone. Make sure to enter the drawing for free Pizza, ice cream or DVD’s!
The Real Twist is located next to Real to Reel Video at the North Meadow Plaza in Walpole. It is open noon – 9PM, seven days a week. Enjoy your ice cream outside, in the lovely garden, or under the porch.
Future 2010 Season Cruise Nights are scheduled for September 5th. See you there!
Ed. Note: This story appeared in yesterday's Eagle Times. CCB
8-3-2010
Walpole Developers Pitch Coop Grocery Plan
By Chuck Bingaman
Four Walpole businessmen acting as Avanru Development Group Ltd. pitched their idea for developing a cooperative grocery store on land they own off Rt. 12 to a public meeting of nearly 70 citizens at Fall Mountain High School Tuesday evening.
Backing them up and providing voices of experience were Terry Appleby, general manager, and Tony White of the Hanover Coop and Ed King, general manager of the year-old Littleton (NH) Coop.
Walpole ringleader Jack Franks said he had been thinking about improved grocery possibilities for several years since he served on the board of the Village School and commiserated with other young families about Walpole’s limited grocery choices and prices. “There was a recurring theme about what choices we had here and, especially, what we didn’t have!” according to Franks.
Franks added that, “in thinking about developing the site on Rt. 12, I discussed possibilities with Hannaford's, Price Chopper, Trader Joe’s and others. While there was some interest, it just didn’t seem to me to be a good fit." Then I learned about the grocery coop being developed in Keene, and we visited the coops in Hanover and Littleton, and we liked the idea of keeping our own money in our own town.”
The developers also liked the idea of having a coop owned and run by local people—members of the coop itself and a local board of directors—that would determine what the store sold, how it would relate to local producers, and how any profits would be used.
Hanover’s Appleby defined a coop as “an autonomous association of people voluntarily joined and democratically run.” And he noted that Hanover’s coop is now 75 years old and was founded by a group that wanted to get fresh fruit in the winter. Last year the Hanover coop, now with four locations, had $65 million in sales, including $8 million in “locally sourced” products, over half of which was locally grown agricultural products.
Appleby and White also explained how, over the years, the coop has worked with area farmers to help them coordinate what they grow in order that the farmers would have guaranteed markets for their crops and so that additional crops might be grown and offered to coop members. They also gave examples where farmers, given the opportunity to have flexible give and take with a sizable grocery outlet, have created additional food products made possible by working out sustainable pricing arrangements.
Appleby and White also noted that, to make it possible to have some locally grown crops in Northern New England, it does take higher prices than some other stores can charge to import those crops. But, they said, their members have understood that concept and supported it with their food dollars.
While noting that no plans are set yet, Franks said his group was thinking at this point of a 25-30,000 square foot store, even larger that the current Shaw’s Supermarket.
Kasper added that cooperative grocery stores usually emphasize food education for customers that really want to know about their food and that their plans call for a 3,000 square foot green house area where children’s food growing programs could be housed and encouraged. He added that coops tend to offer more full-time, good paying jobs with benefits to provide the knowledgeable services that coop members expect.
The developers hope that community leaders will step up at this stage to indicate interest in pursuing the cooperative idea, to participate in necessary feasibility studies, and to participate in the process of organizing the legal structure, raising seed money and attracting coop members. Referring to the other part of the proposed development, Franks said “the whole condo thing was secondary to putting in a grocery store that worked for Walpole. That’s what got this all started!”
Walpole Coop Food Store Exploratory Meeting Tonight
The Walpole group seeking to develop acreage north of LaValley's Building Supply and behind the new Tractor Supply store will host an informational meeting tonight at 7:00 p.m. at Fall Mountain High School to explain the possible operation and structure of a coop food store and to answer area residents' questions about such a project. Part of their purpose is to gauge area interest in such a store. The meeting is free and open to the public. CCB
Ed. Note: This is the text of an Eagle Times story I wrote last week based on an interview I conducted with Walpole real estate developers Jack Franks, Jedd Pellerin, Rob Kasper and Jayson Dunbar. CCB
7-22-10
Walpole Developers Test Grocery Coop Concept
August 3 Public Meeting at Fall Mountain High School
By Chuck Bingaman
Walpole residents seeking to build a multi-use commercial development off Rt. 12 will hold a public meeting Tuesday, August 3 from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. at Fall Mountain High School to test interest in their including a coop food store along the lines of such stores in Hanover and Littleton.
Jack Franks, Jayson Dunbar, Jedd Pellerin and Rob Kasper have been meeting with management teams from the Hanover Coop and the Littleton (NH) Coop to learn about their organizational steps and keys to their market successes. And Hanover Coop’s Manager Terry Applebee will join in the August 3 meeting to discuss how a coop operates and how Walpole might create one.
Why attend the meeting? Kasper said that those in attendance would find out about the advantages of being a member of a coop and how a coop might benefit the community. The Hanover Coop, he noted, now has 40,000 members and does $70 million in sales annually. It has three stores, over 40 employees, nearly 30 of which are full-time with benefits. See www.coopfoodstore.com.
“Attendance at the meeting will show us the level of interest in the area. If a large number of people express interest, we’ll know it might be possible here. Of course,” Kasper added, “we will also do an independent market analysis to help us decide how to ‘size’ the store and to get ideas on how to stock it.”
Kasper pointed out that the successful coop stores up and down the Connecticut Valley emphasize the offering of locally produced food but also have contracted with distributor Associated Grocers to supplement local foods and to offset their seasonality.
Franks added that a key element in the success of the other coops has been their willingness to listen to what members and customers want and to respond effectively. He added that the Hanover Coop helped the Littleton Coop get started—it opened in May 2009—and would be willing to assist the Walpole project if it goes farther. “Actually,” according to Franks, “we would have an advantage over where Littleton started because we already have a prime building site—our land on Rt. 12. And a coop in Walpole would fit in so well with our “agri-tourism” tradition of ‘top-shelf’ local food produced by Alyson’s, Burdick’s, Walpole Creamery, Westminster Meats and many others.”
The building site the developers are eyeing for a possible coop would be the lot closest to Rt. 12 using the new access road, Red Barn Lane, just south of the new Tractor Supply store. While details are merely concepts for now, the developers released an artist’s rendering of a possible coop store that included an open area in the front for possible growing of vegetables, herbs, etc. and possible gardening projects for area children.
Jayson Dunbar noted that the group has been in discussion with the Vermont Food Hub about possible networking or more with the site.
Franks summed up the planning to date as “an effort to see if we can do something here locally to save people and the community money, to save fuel along with our carbon footprints, and to create some jobs. Those having really been the driving forces to get us to start looking into this.”
Franks and his development team earlier this month filed a site plan application with the Walpole Planning Board that envisions building 48 condominium units in three buildings to the east of Rt. 12, possible professional offices, restaurants or other commercial buildings in a second lot and an undetermined use of the lot nearest Rt. 12, now the site of the possible food coop. All of the land in question is in the Walpole commercial zone. The site plan application will be up for public hearing and possible approval of the plan are set for the August 10 Planning Board meeting at 7:00 in the Walpole Town Hall.
The Walpole Town Pool is putting on its 2nd Annual Community Day on Saturday, August 14. The event will be from 12pm-12am and it is a free event. However, donations are welcome and appreciated as all proceeds will go toward building a new playground at Whitcomb Park. We are also having two movie showings at 8pm (PG movie) and one at 10pm(PG-13). There will also be food for sale during the whole event.
Please note: It has always been the policy of The Walpolean to encourage comments AND to request that those adding comments sign them with their names. While I confess to not having enforced that policy as consistently as I should have, I want to remind commenters again. Signing adds, I hope, responsibiliity, civility and the possibility that readers can contact commenters outside of The Walpolean if they want to. I also suggest adding email addresses to your signatures. I reserve the option of deleting comments that are not signed. Thank you! Chuck Bingaman chuck@chuckbingaman.com.
Ed. Note: Here's my story that appeared in the Eagle Times yesterday reporting Tuesday evening's Planning Board meeting. CCB
7-13-2010
Walpole Group Proposes Condo/Commercial Development
By Chuck Bingaman
Four Walpole residents Tuesday evening gave the Planning Board a preliminary look at a 48-unit condominium development with possible added commercial pieces they are seeking to create on a 12+ acre site off Rt. 12 behind the new Tractor Supply store.
Prior to hearing the development overview, the Board approved a lot-line adjustment clearing the way for the condominiums to be built.Before the Board approved the adjustment, a sale, really, of 2 acres of abutting land to the developers, the primary abutter, Ralph Murray, claimed that he was the “most affected” abutter and told Board members that he was opposed to the project on so many levels, both ethical and moral, that he couldn’t express them all.
After the Board approved the lot line adjustment, local attorney Rob Kasper, one of the four proposers of the development, gave an overview in which he said he wanted to put to rest some of the innuendos that had been circulating about it.First, he wanted to clarify that all of the development group were local Walpole residents: Jack Franks, Jason Dunbar, Jedd Pellerin and himself.He stressed that they were merely “local people trying to do what’s best for Walpole and not popping up a ‘big box’ store as have already been approved twice recently here!”
Kasper further noted that all of the plans more than complied with local zoning and planning regulations and that the group was more than prepared to fully accomplish the multi-phase work.
The condos, according to Kasper, have been designed to serve an “adult community” meaning that at least one of the residents will be required to be over age 50 and that underage persons would be allowed residence only for limited periods.
Partner and group architect Jedd Pellerin showed drawings and renderings that left about 57% of the section of the development set for condominiums as open space, nearly twice the required amount in Walpole regulations.He noted that they would be 600 feet back from Rt. 12, have shed-roofed parking areas and both a berm and plantings to limit views to the west that would be the rear of the new Tractor Supply building. The buildings would be built in phases based on how quickly they sell.
Pellerin’s rendering of the three buildings showed large, barn like structures with tall, peaked roofs and cupolas on each.They would have16 units in each, eight on each of two floors.Entrances would be at both ends of each building with common lobbies at each end. Common hallways on each floor would lead to interior entries to each 1100 square foot, two-bedroom, 1.75-bath unit.Middle units in the each building, he said, would be at the most 82 to 100 feet from an entrance. There would not be elevators because, he said, there would be sufficient accessible units on the first floors.
Planning Board members and audience members peppered Kasper, lead developer Jack Franks, Pellerin and engineer Tom Duffield with questions about the buildings, units and estimated pricing.Franks said, “we’re still getting numbers, and my goal is to make the units affordable locally.” He emphasized that the design of the buildings and the units in them had prefabrication and price control in mind.Board Chair Jeff Miller asked that Franks be prepared at the August public hearing to discuss specifics of what he considers “affordable.”Former Board member Eric Merklein asked if some units might be reserved as rental units for people unable to afford to purchase.
As to future development of condominium amenities such as common rooms, a health club, etc., Franks said, “We see ourselves as just the vehicle putting these units in place for the future people who will govern the development through a condominium association and who can choose to create such things.”
In addition to the condos that would be the first phase of the overall plan, Mr. Kasper discussed two other parcels in the 12-acre development.In the lot closest to Rt. 12, he said the group was considering a possible coop food store on the order of those in Littleton and Hanover NH, both of which the group had studied.Such stores sell not only locally produced foods but also commercially imported foods to broaden their inventories and deal with seasonality.In the lot between such a coop grocery store and the condominiums, he said the group was looking at a number of options and invited Walpole residents to make suggestions.Among the possibilities, he said, were a health club, a dentist’s office, a possible bank or coffee shop or even a resurrection of the old Fall Mountain Brewery as a brewpub and restaurant.Those plans, however, would wait until after the condominium buildings are completed or well on their way to being sold.
The Board voted to accept the group's complete site plan application and to set it for public hearing at its regular meeting August 10.
The Real Twist Ice Cream stand in Walpole, NH will hold its next Classic Car Cruise Night, weather permitting, on Sunday, July 18, from 6-9PM. Here’s a chance for the whole family to enjoy a Sunday evening looking at old and antique cars, while enjoying delicious soft serve ice cream. There will be live music by Vinnie Dibernardo (vet emergencies permitting). Anyone who brings his classic car to show will get a free regular sized sundae. Everyone visiting can get free jimmies, diptop or flavorburst with any cup or cone. Make sure to enter the drawing for free Pizza, ice cream or DVD’s!
The Real Twist is located next to Real to Reel Video at the North Meadow Plaza in Walpole. It is open noon – 9PM, seven days a week. Enjoy your ice cream outside, in the lovely garden, or under the porch.
Future 2010 Season Cruise Nights are scheduled for August 15th and September 5th. See you there!
Mr. Aldrich called the meeting to order at 7:30 PM with eight people present in the audience.
PUBLIC BUSINESS:
LEWIS LeCLAIR: Mr. LeClair asked the Selectboard to consider issuing an Abatement on his property taxes. He feels there are a few discrepancies in the assessment . Avitar stated that property values are dropping so the most recent appraisals are not comparable. Before submitting an Appeal to the Board of Tax and Land Appeals (BTLA) he wanted to present what he had researched to the Selectboard. Following their discussion the Selectboard recommended that he make his Appeal before the BTLA.
RECESS REGULAR MEETING:
Mr. Sawyer moved to recess this meeting to allow the Selectboard to enter into a meeting as the Hooper Trustees. Mrs. Teague seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with all in favor, the motion was approved. The time was 7:48 PM.
MEETING OF THE HOOPER TRUSTEES
JOE DION and JERRY GALLOWAY: Mr. Dion, on behalf of the Hooper Property Study Committee, had an appraiser look at the antiques in the Hooper Mansion room-by-room. He anticipates that it will take about three days to do the appraisal at a cost of approximately $3,500. He feels this is not a good time to sell them because the market is down. In the meantime they should be insured.
Mr. Dion called Terry Knowles and left a message to ask her to contact him. In a previous conversation she indicated she would be available to meet with the Hooper Study Committee after July 1st.
Mr. Sawyer moved to have Mr. Dion and Mr. Galloway proceed to get a full appraisal of the antiques in the Hooper Mansion as presented at this meeting. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed by a unanimous vote.
Adjournment:
Mr. Sawyer moved to adjourn this meeting of the Hooper Trustees. Mrs. Teague seconded the motion and, on a roll call vote with all in favor, the motion was approved. The time was 7:56 PM.
SELECTBOARD MEETING (Continued)
Mr. Aldrich resumed the regular meeting of the Selectboard.
DAN NORTHCOTT and BEN NORTHCOTT: At the last meeting Mary McHugh expressed concern with the repair shop across the street from her property. The Selectboard moved to ask Daniel Northcott to attend this meeting to discuss this situation at his residence in a Rural/Agricultural District. Dan Northcott and Ben Northcott attended this meeting to respond to the concerns. Ben Northcott advised that at this time there is a bulldozer and an excavator on the property for maintenance because they have a garage there where they can do their maintenance work. They work on their own equipment
Selectboard Meeting –July 08, 2010- Page 2
only; they do no work for other people. A good part of their work is forestry, logging jobs, and thinning field restoration but they also do some construction work. Mrs. Mansouri read a section from the Zoning Ordinance, Article VIII, for the Rural/Agricultural District. Ben Northcott explained that this property abuts their family farm; the farm is on both sides of the road. He feels he has been a very nice neighbor, does not work after dark and most of the time there is only one truck there. Mrs. Teague recommended that a letter be written to Ms. McHugh to report that this is not a commercial operation; the equipment is owned by them. They have agreed to attend the next Zoning Board of Adjustment on July 21st for a consultation.
SOLID WASTE FACILITY – Paul Colburn: Mr. Colburn reported that they had a WRAP Committee meeting this afternoon. He talked to the committee about sending out some Thank You letters to LaValley’s in West Lebanon as they gave them a shed at no charge; to the Walpole Police Department for their donated computers; to Ray Harris and Ken’s Computers in Springfield for their donation of a hard drive; and to Herb Hurlburt for donating a box for the baler. National Grid will be coming in to be sure there is sufficient electricity coming into the facility. The furnace is completely installed and it was test fired. Since they have a supply of veggie oil it can be used provided it has a separate line. Mary Lou Huffling asked if they would be willing to take 3-or-4 used refrigerators and/or freezers this year; last year Alstead took several at no charge. The WRAP Committee had voted not to allow this but the Selectboard approved this request because the Food Shelf helps many residents in this Town.
Mr. Sawyer moved to allow the Coordinator of the Solid Waste Facility to assist Mary Lou Huffling with whatever he deems appropriate. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed by a unanimous vote.
Mr. Colburn advised that the NH Legislators and Governor have extended the current burn pit regulations until 2014. The highest bidder has until Saturday to pay for the old truck. If he does not do so the Selectboard recommended that he be called and told that the truck will go to the next highest bidder. Mr. Colburn has held a safety meeting with the employees but still needs to do forklift classes.
The Walpole Village Market still has not paid for Walpole bags that were for sale in the store as a convenience to residents. A letter will be written to the owner to give her 30 days to pay for them or the Town will be forced to take legal action for collection.
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:
Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the Accounts Payable check register and manifest in the amount of $624,171.21. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed by a unanimous vote.
The above amount includes a monthly payment to the Fall Mountain Regional School District in the amount of $429,031.14.
PAYROLL:
Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the payroll voucher for the week ending July 03, 2010, for checks dated July 09, 2010, for gross wages in the amount of $24,318.26 or net wages in the amount of $15,513.52. 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 $5,109.95. Seconded by Mr. Sawyer. Motion passed by a unanimous vote.
Selectboard Meeting –July 08, 2010- Page 3
MINUTES:
SELECTBOARD MEETING – July 01, 2010: Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the Minutes of the Selectboard meeting of July 01, 2010, as written. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed by a unanimous vote.
Mrs. Teague moved to approve the Minutes of the Non-Public Selectboard meeting of July 01, 2010, as printed. The Minutes will remain sealed. Seconded by Mr. Sawyer. Motion passed by a unanimous vote.
COMMITTEE REPORTS:
The Selectboard received and reviewed the Minutes of the following meeting:
· North Walpole Village District Board of Commissioners – July 6, 2010.
BUILDING PERMITS:
PICKERING, 82 Thompson Road, Map & Lot #008-099-001: Mr. Sawyer moved to approve Building Permit No. 2010-30 for Rick and Gayle Pickering to construct a single family home at 82 Thompson Road. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed by a unanimous vote.
LEWIS, 10 Short Lane, Map & Lot #017-018-000: Mr. Sawyer moved to approve Building Permit No. 2010-31 for Kimberly Lewis to construct a screen porch. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed by a unanimous vote.
ABATEMENT:
EMMERMAN, 503 March Hill Road, Map & Lot #011-058-000: Mr. Sawyer moved to approve the Abatement for Emmerman as recommended by the assessor, Avitar Associates. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed by a unanimous vote.
REFUNDS:
HURLBURT, 28 Pinewood Circle, Map & Lot #008-057-000: Mr. Sawyer moved to grant the Property Tax Abatement Refund for the Tax Year 2009 in the amount of $769.00 Overpayment and $28.70 Interest for a total of $797.70 for George and Joanne Hurlburt. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed by a unanimous vote.
BARCOME , 392 Watkins Hill Road, Map & Lot #005-047-000: Mr. Sawyer moved to grant the Property Tax Abatement Refund for the Tax Year 2009 in the amount of $1,777.00 Overpayment and $66.31 Interest for a total of $1,843.31 for Glenn Barcome. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed by a unanimous vote.
HODGKINS, 256 Old Keene Road, Map & Lot #007-024-002: Mr. Sawyer moved to grant the Property Tax Abatement Refund for the Tax Year 2009 in the amount of $168.00 Overpayment and $7.13 Interest for a total of $175.13 for John and Suzanne Hodgkins. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed by a unanimous vote.
ABATEMENT APPEAL:
ANDREW K. LEWIS v. TOWN OF WALPOLE – Decision: The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of the Notice of Decision from the Board of Tax and Land Appeals regarding the Andrew K. Lewis property.
Selectboard Meeting –July 08, 2010- Page 4
NEW BUSINESS:
COLONIAL DRIVE ROAD SIDE WORK: The Selectboard viewed the pictures submitted by Paul Trask regarding the way the road side was mowed on Colonial Drive.
Mr. Sawyer moved that the pictures be passed onto the Road Agent for his information. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed by a unanimous vote.
NOTE FROM JOHN STEVENS FAMILY: The Selectboard acknowledged receipt of the Thank You note from the John Stevens Family for use of the Town Hall for the memorial service.
WOMEN OF WALPOLE GAZEBO/COMMON USE: Mr. Sawyer moved to allow the Women of Walpole to use the Gazebo and Common for their annual flea market on Saturday, June 4, 2010 free of charge. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed by a unanimous vote.
WALPOLE RECREATION DEPOSITS: There was a consensus of the Selectboard to allow Joe Goodhue to continue to make deposits as he has been but he needs to send a copy of the deposit slip to Mrs. Clough who will share it with Mrs. Mansouri.
SOLID WASTE FACILITY: Charlie Andros contacted Mr. Sawyer relative to reinstating his privilege to use the Solid Waste Facility again.
Mr. Sawyer moved to send a letter to Charlie Andros to advise that he should contact Paul Colburn about using the facility again. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed by a unanimous vote.
OLD BUSINESS:
WALPOLE TOWN LIBRARY: The five quotes for repairs to the rear roof at the Library were reviewed by the Selectboard. Following a discussion there was a consensus to ask Lyn Cook and Jeanne Ramey to attend the next Selectboard meeting on Thursday, July 15th at 7:30 PM.
HEALTH OFFICER: Mr. Sawyer moved to sign the State of New Hampshire Local Health Officer nomination form for Dr. Charles Shaw. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed by a unanimous vote.
Mr. Sawyer requested that Mrs. Clough write a letter to Dr. Charles Shaw to let him know that Dr. Harneet Sethi might be interested in being the Deputy Health Officer.
OLDEST TOWN RESIDENT: The Selectboard continue their research to find the oldest Town resident who will be the recipient of the Boston Post Cane.
WALPOLE FARMERS MARKET REQUEST: Mr. Sawyer moved to allow the Walpole Farmers Market to have access to water. The Town Hall will be locked at 6:00 PM. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed by a unanimous vote.
EAGLE ON FLAG POLE: Mr. Sawyer mentioned that Mark Houghton needs to be asked if he will make arrangements for the Fire Department to take the eagle down from the top of the flag pole so Stu Bailey can fix it and then have the Fire Department put it back on the top of the flag pole.
Selectboard Meeting –July 08, 2010- Page 5
ADJOURNMENT:
Mr. Sawyer moved to adjourn this meeting. Seconded by Mrs. Teague. Motion passed by a unanimous vote. The time was 10:26 PM.
Ed. Note: This announcement comes from Artisan Cooperative member David Howell. CCB
Do you have a sweet tooth and a yen to be creative?
Then drop by the Walpole Artisan Cooperative for some art and ice cream this Saturday afternoon. Sample free ice cream provided by the Walpole Creamery. Then learn to make quick and easy collage bookmarks with Walpole resident and guest artist Janette Schuster, author of Mixed-Media Collage Jewelry.
These one-of-a-kind bookmarks make great gifts and are perfect for marking your place in a juicy summer novel. You will learn basic collage techniques using a variety of papers including vintage photos, maps, and ephemera. All materials are provided, and no previous experience or pre-registration is required.
Ed. Note: A news release from the Walpole Farmers Market. CCB
WALPOLE FARMERS MARKET TO MOVE 2 MORE TIMES
The Walpole Farmers Market will be moving again on July 16 and August 6. The Market is usually held on the Walpole Town Common, on Fridays from 3 to 6 pm, rain or shine. On July 16 and August 6, however, the Market will move diagonally across from the Common, behind St. John's Episcopal Church, to the field that is used in winter as a skating rink.
Our hard working farmers are cooperating with Mother Nature to shower us with summer's bounty. The Market offers organic and conventional produce; meats; cow (and sometimes goat) milk; sheep and cow milk cheese; eggs; maple products; honey and bee products; wine; flowers; ice cream; baked goods; prepared foods; fiber products; handmade soaps and pottery; as well as some homemade health care in the form of chair massage and reiki.
For more information about the WFM, visit the website at walpolefarmersmarket.com, email jill@walpolefarmersmarket.com, follow along on Facebook, or call 756-3169. If you'd like to receive email updates about the market, send along your email address.
Ed. Note: Thanks to Board member Ben Daviss, here is tomorrow evening's Planning Board agenda. CCB
MEETING AGENDA: Tuesday, July 13, 2010 at 7:00 pm in the Town Hall Meeting Room.
Call Meeting to Order:
A. Roll Call – Designate Alternates.
B. Approve Minutes of June 08, 2010 Regular Meeting and June 22, 2010 Workshop Session.
Review Applications Submitted: Accept/Reject/Delay – Once an application has been accepted as complete the individual public hearing is held, following the hearing(s) the Board may take final action by approving, disapproving or delaying final action on each application.
Public Hearings:
A. Jared S. & Linda K. Stopler and Jane M. Phipps Revocable Trust 2005/Jane M. Phipps,
Trustee- Boundary Line Adjustment on Map 010, Lots 013, 012 and 012-1. This is located in the Rural Agricultural Zoning District and is on the east side of the Old Drewsville Road.
B. Philip D. Carroll and Linda Carroll – Lot Line Adjustment, Map 005, Lots 24-2 and 39, to Become One Continuous Lot of Record. This is located in the Rural Agricultural Zoning District and is near the intersection of Taggard Road and County Road.
C. 504 Main Street, LLC and Avanru Development and Ralph A. & Gloria H. Hodgkins –Boundary Line Adjustment on Map 012, Lots 013 and 018. This is located in the Commercial Zoning District and is off Route 12.
New Business:
A. 504 Main Street, LLC and Jack Franks / Avanru Development – Preliminary Consultation for Site Plan Review – Town Map 012, Lots 013 and 018.
B. Bensonwood Homes – Tedd Benson and Peter Wotowiec. Preliminary Consultation about planning for their commercial building at 9 Edwards Lane.
C. Other – None scheduled as of posting – may change.
Planning Discussion:
A. Master Plan – Review of Land Use Chapter;
B. Development Design Criteria;
C. Work Session for July 27, 2010 (must be held in Downstairs Office).
Jack Franks is scheduled to tell about his expected site plan application for a major development in Walpole's commercial zone behind the new Tractor Supply store at the Planning Board's meeting at Town Hall at 7:00 p.m. Tuesday.
If you would like to hear it from the source and to form your views based on the facts, rather than gossip and third-hand information, you should attend this meeting. Many questions will be asked by the Board members and the public.
This will not be the last opportunity for you to learn about Mr. Franks and his plans. There will likely be additional meetings and public hearings. But this one will probably raise the key issues members of the Board and public are interested in, and it may determine the directions of future discussions.
It will be a great opportunity to see your elected officials in action on an important matter and to participate if you wish. Chuck Bingaman
Apple Hill Playing for Peace Concert/Discussion This Sunday Afternoon
Walpole's International Affairs Discussion Group is presenting a special public program Sunday afternoon, July 11, featuring Apple Hill Director Lenny Matczynsky and the Semplici String Quartet, a group of Turkish professional musicians currently in residence here.
The program will be preceded by light refreshments at 4:00 p.m. and followed by a discussion of the Apple Hill program and musical interludes by the quartet. It is free and open to the public, although contributions are requested and gifts of $20 are suggested.
David Howell's barn/studio, the program venue, is at 250 Old Keene Road, approximately 1.25 miles out from the center of Walpole on the west side of the road. There is a long driveway and ample parking not far from the barn.
Mr. Matczynsky will explain the 39-year-old, internationally acclaimed program of Apple Hill, headquartered in Nelson, NH, and introduce the quartet. For further information on Apple Hill, see www.applehill.org or leave a message for Chuck Bingaman at 603-313-0500.
Ed. Note: This reminder comes from Cheryl Hoffman of the Friends of the Walpole Town Library. CCB
WANT A GREAT PLACE TO TAKE YOUR KIDS THIS SUMMER?
THE FRIENDS OF THE WALPOLE TOWN LIBRARY ARE OFFERING PASSES TO SEVEN AREA MUSEUMS. IT IS A COOL WAY TO SPEND A HOT DAY IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR SOMETHING DIFFERENT TO DO. PASSES PROVIDE EITHER FREE ADMISSION OR REQUIRE A NOMINAL FEE FROM PASS HOLDERS, DEPENDING UPON THE MUSEUM OF CHOICE. THIS IS A UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY TO VISIT SOME OF THE WONDERFUL AND VARIED ATTRACTIONS RIGHT IN OUR OWN BACKYARD. ALL PASSES ARE PROVIDED COURTESY OF THE FRIENDS OF THE WALPOLE TOWN LIBRARY.
THE PASSES ARE AVAILABLE FOR THE FOLLOWING MUSEUMS TO ALL WALPOLE TOWN LIBRARY CARD HOLDERS:
THE VERMONT INSTITUTE OF NATURAL SCIENCE -
QUECHEE, VT.
BILLINGS FARM AND MUSEUM - WOODSTOCK, VT
MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY - CONCORD, NH
MT. KEARSARGE INDIAN MUSEUM - WARNER, NH
CURRIER GALLERY OF ART - MANCHESTER, NH
CANTERBURY SHAKER VILLAGE - CANTERBURY, NH
BOSTON MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS - BOSTON, MA
TO OBTAIN YOUR MUSEUM PASSES OR FOR MORE SPECIFIC INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT OR VISIT THE WALPOLE TOWN LIBRARY. TEL: 603-756-9808
Ed. Note: These two job notices come from Janet Clough, Secretary to the Selectmen. CCB
Financial Services Clerk
Town of Walpole seeks a Financial Services Clerk. A Bachelor's Degree in Accounting or Finance is preferred but will consider applicants with 5 years of relevant job experience.
This position reports to the Selectboard and is responsible for a variety of financial and administrative tasks; knowledge of fund accounting is required. Essential job functions include management of accounts payable, payroll and human resources including benefits administration; financial reporting to board and the State of NH; cash receipts and monthly reconciliation; and audit preparation.
This position is available immediately. Interested candidates should submit an application and resume to Janet Clough at the Town of Walpole, PO Box 756, Walpole, NH 03608 or via email to jclough@walpolenh.us. The deadline for applications is July 14, 2010. Applications can be found on the Town of Walpole website at www.walpolenh.us.
Office Assistant
Town of Walpole seeks a part time Office Assistant in the Selectboard Office. Applicants must have a high school diploma and have had prior office experience. Basic accounting skills a plus.
This position reports to the Administrative Assistant and is responsible for a variety of administrative tasks. Functions include answering phones, filing, purchasing, handling public requests, data entry and executing other related duties as assigned.
This position is available immediately. Interested candidates should submit an application and resume to Janet Clough at the Town of Walpole, PO Box 756, Walpole, NH 03608 or via email to jclough@walpolenh.us. The deadline for applications is July 14, 2010. Applications can be found on the Town of Walpole website at www.walpolenh.us.
Ed. Note: Virginia Carter of Walpole's Barnett Hill Vineyard sends this notice. BTW, have you checked Barnett Hill's web site at www.bhvineyard.com? CCB
Growing Grapes in Your Backyard
UNH Cooperative Extension in Cheshire and Sullivan Counties is holding "Growing Grapes in Your Backyard" seminar for homeowners on Thursday, July 22 from 6-8pm at Barnett Hill Vineyard in Walpole, NH.
The program will focus on variety selection for wine and table grapes, soil fertility, dealing with pests, and harvesting. Becky Sideman, Sustainable Horticulture Specialist for UNH Cooperative Extension, will lead the discussion and will be there to answer questions. Virginia Carter, owner of Barnett Hill Vineyard, will lead participants on a tour and share her own expertise with growing grapes.
This program is free of charge, but pre-registration is appreciated.Call Carl Majewski at the Cheshire County Extension office at 603-352-4550 or Seth Wilner at the Sullivan County Extension officeat 603-863-9200 to preregister, directions, or more information.
UNH Cooperative Extension programs and policies are consistent with pertinent Federal and State laws and regulations and prohibits discrimination in all its programs, activities and employment on the basis of race, color, national original, gender, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sex, sexual orientation, veteran's, marital or family status.New Hampshire counties cooperating.
Ed. Note: Walpolean reader Dodie Ransome passed along this important news! CCB GEORGE WATKINS RECOGNIZED
FOR OUTSTANDING COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
EPSOM, NH - The Northeast Resource Recovery Association (NRRA) has
recognized George Watkins of Walpole with the Outstanding Volunteer of the Year Award. This is a new award this year to recognize a truly outstanding volunteer effort over a sustained period of time.
This year’s nomination was submitted by Paul Colburn, Manager of the Walpole Recycling and Transfer Center, who said that Watkins and two others persuaded the Walpole Selectboard to start a Recycling Program in 1986.
“George was instrumental in recruiting a small group of volunteers, later known as the Walpole Recycling Action Project “WRAP”, to staff a Recycling Center at the landfill,” Colburn said. “Within 2 years, ‘the program’ had grown to include a granulator, glass crusher, storage facilities and around 100 volunteers. In 1990, a full time Coordinator was hired and, in 1992, ‘the Transfer Station was’ moved to its present location. In 1995, a Pay-as-You-Throw program was put in place.”
Watkins has continued to be Chair of the WRAP Committee, which recruits 55+ volunteers per month and has been the guiding light behind the creation of the separate facility and equipping it. In addition, he has overviewed the continual expansion through the WRAP Committee, which is the “Board of Directors” for the Recycling Center, meeting and reviewing progress each month. Without Watkins continued pushing of the Walpole Selectboard, Recycling in Walpole wouldn’t exist today.
Incidentally, Watkins is over 90 years old, granulates plastic and other things every week – still.
This award was presented at NRRA’s 29th Annual Conference and Expo on June 7h and 8th. This year featured a first-ever, School Recycling Conference within the NRRA Conference at the Radisson Hotel Manchester. This Conference & Expo was a fantastic opportunity for those interested in recycling and waste reduction to come together to discover new technologies, exchange ideas, share philosophies, and further promote waste reduction efforts.
The NRRA is a proactive, non-profit cooperative working with its membership to make their recycling programs strong, efficient and financially successful. For more information, visit www.nrra.net.
Ed. Note: Jill Robinson sends along this announcement of a special farmers market for July 2. CCB
Picnic At The Walpole Farmers Market July 2
The Walpole Farmers Market (WFM) will celebrate the July 4 weekend with a special "Picnic At The Market" on Friday, July 2. In addition to offering their usual wares, farmers will be cooking up picnic dishes using some of the products they sell. Customers are invited to bring along friends and family, and set up blankets or lawn chairs, and start their holiday picnicking early.
Vendors will be selling burgers, beef and veal (pastured, of course) skewers, ice cream, milkshakes, chocolate milk, nettle tea, berries, cheese, and veggies, in addition to the usual delicious prepared foods. Everything you need for a perfect summer picnic!
The "Picnic At The Market" will go forward rain or shine. In addition to the Gazebo, there will be a tent set up to provide limited cover from sun or rain.
Especially eco-conscious shoppers may want to pack along their own picnic-ware: plate, utensils, cup, and cloth napkin. The WFM invites anyone making ecologically sound picnic packs to inquire about selling them at the July 2 Market.
Meanwhile, summer has arrived on the produce tables! Don't miss out this week on the last of the cool season greens and rhubarb, or the treats that come at the beginning of the warm season: strawberries, peas, squash blossoms, garlic scapes, and hothouse tomatoes.
The Walpole Farmers Market is held every Friday through the season, rain or shine, from 3 - 6 pm, on the Walpole Town Common. The exceptions to that location will be July 16 and August 6, when the Common had already been booked for other activities. On those two days, the Market will be held diagonally across Westminster St., in the field that is used as a skating rink in winter, behind St. John's Episcopal Church. St. John's is across Westminster St. from the Town Hall.
For more information about the WFM, visit the website at walpolefarmersmarket.com, email jill@walpolefarmersmarket.com, follow along on Facebook, or call 756-3168. If you'd like to receive email updates about the market, send along your email address.
The Walpole Conservation Commission invites you to explore conservation lands and special places in Walpole. Please join us, rain or shine! Each walk will meet at Walpole Common 15 minutes before start time for carpooling.
Sat. July 10th, 9 - 11 AM: Mill Pond Conservation Area
Once a power supply for mills and a source of ice for refrigeration, today the Mill Pond is a beautiful wildlife sanctuary with 1.3 miles of winding trail though upland and floodplain forests and to a beaver pond. Walkers can find beavers, bullfrogs, waterfowl, warblers, wildflowers and several of Walpole’s largest trees. This walk will be led by Walpole Conservation Commission Member Marcia Galloway. The 86-acre preserve is located on Main St. north of Walpole Center.
Sat. July 31st, 9 - 11AM: Trombley Forest
Explore the high country of Walpole at the Trombley Town Forest (Monadnock Conservancy easement) and High Blue (SPNHF). This will be a moderately strenuous walk on a loop that will take about 1 ½ - 2 hours to complete. There are views to the east from Monadnock to Sunapee and views to the west that extend to the western edge of Vermont! We will also pass over the highest point in Walpole. The walk will be led by Walpole Conservation Commission Member Lew Shelly.
Sat. September 25th, 9 - 11 AM: Boggy Meadow Oxbow
Boggy Meadow provides a wonderful example of an oxbow long since abandoned by the Connecticut River. Tom Beaudry of the Walpole Conservation Commission and Eloise Clark of the Hooper Institute will lead this walk along an old carriage road laid out by Fanny Mason in the early 1900s around the perimeter of the swamp. The route approaches the embankment for the old railroad bed and passes along the edge of the Fanny Mason Forest. This relatively easy walk is mostly flat and there may be a few wet places, so consider wearing boots.
For more information, contact Marcia Galloway @ 756-3604 or Lew Shelley @ 756-3640
Ed. Note: Janet Clough, secretary to the Selectmen, tells me that the Select Board is in search of the “Oldest Walpole Resident”. "We have the cane in the office," she says, "that is presented to the oldest resident in town. If you may be the oldest resident and know who it might be, please contact me at 756-3672." CCB
Ed. Note: Thanks to Frankie Knibb and her staff and volunteers for the following summer reading program. CCB
READING MAKES A SPLASH AT THE WALPOLE TOWN LIBRARY
The long lazy days of summer are here – time to look forward to hammocks, lemonade, swimming holes and reading for fun. Celebrate summer at the Walpole Town Library and register for the 2010 Summer Reading Program, “Make a Splash – Read!” Children may register at the library beginning TODAY, June 17. Sign up for the book club. Read your way through the Library’s great collection of books and win prizes along the way.
We have special programs lined up throughout the summer at the Bridge Memorial Library. Most will be held at 2 p.m. on Thursdays. Learn about Oceanic cultures, including boomerangs and grass skirts, with the Mariposa Museum on July 1. The Grafton Museum will present a program on life in a beaver pond on July 8. Make your own puppets with Carol Weis, author of When the Cows Got Loose, on Saturday, July 10. Get a front row seat for zany Martha Dana and her life sized puppets on July 15. Have lots of fun working on watery crafts with Carol Failla on July 22. The Wildlife Encounters Traveling Zoo brings reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates native to aquatic habitats to the Library on July 29. And the Mad Scientists of Vermont and New Hampshire will explore the wonders of water on August 5.
Sign up for a summertime adventure at the North Walpole Branch too. Kerry Pickering will be offering programs on Saturday mornings from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.: July 24, July 31, August 7, and August 14. Each program will focus on a different water theme: the ocean, pirates, the water cycle, and the beach. She has lots of fun activities for children, including making an octopus and a pirate’s pet parrot.
Registration is required for these special programs so come in early. An adult must accompany children to the programs. All programs are free and open to the public. For a complete schedule of events and more information about the program, please contact the library at (603) 756-9806 or check out our website at www.walpoletownlibrary.org. The Walpole Town Library is located at 47 Main Street. The North Walpole Branch Library is located at 70 Church Street in North Walpole. Discover the joy of reading!
Ed. Notes: Thanks to Secretary Janis Hall-Fuller, here are the minutes of the June 7 Walpole Conservation Commission meeting. CCB
MINUTES
For the regular meeting of the
Walpole Conservation Commission
Monday, June 7, 2010
Present: Tom Beaudry, Jan Galloway, Marcia Galloway, Myra Mansouri (alt.), Mary Lou Montgomery, Peter Palmiotto (alt.), Lew Shelley, Gary Speed, Bill Webb (alt.)
Present as Guest: Aimee Annichiarico, Eloise Clark, Melvin Schupack
Not Present: Duncan Watson
Ms. M. Galloway, co-chair, called the meeting to order at 7:44 PM.
NRI Proposal for Fanny Mason Forest
Aimee Annichiarico, Antioch graduate student, presented the details of the preliminary Natural Resource Inventory project, including the methods and results. She then answered questions about the proposed full NRI.
Ms. Annichiarico specified that the Annex would be included in the full NRI. The entire forest would be included. Gary Speed is interested in the mammals that were tracked in the area, particularly fishers, and would like to be included in future mammal survey activities.
Non-Public session
Ms. Montgomery moved to approve the minutes of May 3, 2010, as written. Ms. J. Galloway seconded, and the motion passed with all in favor.
Public session
Correspondence
SWRPC highlights were received, and a notice of the June 22 dinner meeting at Croched Mountain.
The Annual Meeting of NHACC will be November 6 in Concord.
Treasury
The Conservation Fund now totals $69,987.71. The Forestry Fund is at $6494.22.
Walpole Walks
Ms. M. Galloway handed out posters for the walks. Pete Troop of Monadnock Conservancy had them made. Ms. Hall-Fuller will send the information to The Walpolean.
Easement
Ms. M. Galloway attended the signing of the conservation easement for a portion of Paul Galloway’s property. She passed around a copy for review.
Merriam Road
Mr. Shelley talked to the answering machine of the project manager and explained our concerns about the tree cutting and erosion issues. The manager called and said the project had not started, so apparently he does not consider the tree cutting to be part of the project. Mr. Shelley intends to contact him again to get clarity on what constitutes the start of the project.
Mr. Shelley asked the Select Board for a copy of the plans related to drainage, but has not seen them yet.
Cranberry Knapp Meadow
Maintenance work at the dam is delayed, due to a beaver that so far refuses to be trapped. Gary Speed will try some other trapping methods. If he uses a live trap, the beaver will need to be re-homed, so he wants to know if anyone wants to host a beaver.
Fanny Mason Forest Annex Parking Lot
Ms. M. Galloway inspected the new parking area. It seems near completion and looks very good. The gate has been moved above the lot. Now there is room for seven or eight vehicles. She will contact the police department to let them know of the increased activity that the parking lot may invite in this area. It may be desirable to thin the trees around the lot to increase visibility for monitoring the lot.
Eloise Clark will be leading some family walks this summer, and asked when the trails might be ready.
Ms. M. Galloway reported that Jim Terrel approached her about two turn-around areas for snowplows that would involve conservation land: one on French Road and one on Leonard Road. The plans for this have been worked on with the help of the Monadnock Conservancy.
Notices of Intent to Cut
A small cut is planned at 198 Wentworth Rd, and another on March Hill Road.
Dredging Permits
Marcia signed two requests for minor work to maintain ponds on Ramsay Hill and Prospect Hill.
Pharmaceuticals in the Environment
Mr. Schupack provided information on home disposal of medications. For example, a small amount of estrogen products in the water can affect the gender and mating success of fish. He recommends providing the handouts at the recycling center. Ms. Montgomery said this is a great opportunity to collaborate with the recycling committee. Ms. M. Galloway will see about meeting with them.
Stipend for NRI work
Ms. M. Galloway invited a motion about the proposed NRI and stipend for Ms. Annichiarico.
Mr. Beaudry moved to request $1000 from the Fanny Mason Forest Trust Fund to be paid to Aimee Annichiarico for a natural resource inventory of the Fanny Mason Forest and Annex. Mr. Shelley seconded. With all in favor, the motion passed.
Culvert Repairs
Ms. M. Galloway approached DOT and got assurance that the culvert work will be done at Halls Crossing Road and in Westmoreland, allowing the railway trail to be open all the way through to Keene.
One of the commissioners reported that Harold Putnam (long-time former commissioner) thinks it’s time to assess the Pinnacle forest, the Mill Pond Forest, and the Hooper Forest below the Golf course. Mr. Shelley said it would be great for forester Peter Rhoades to look at them and then tell us what he thinks. There was no objection.
Mr. Shelley asked to get some clarity how we compensate Mr. Rhoades for all of the time he spends looking and reporting to us. Ms. M. Galloway will do that.
Problematic Road Surfaces
Mr. Shelley reports that crushed glass on Crehore Road and other places is causing problems. Cyclists are getting flat tires, and dog-walkers are forced to avoid these areas. He was told it is supposed to be tumbled glass, but this glass is sharp. Whenever the road is re-graded, more sharp glass comes up. If there were another layer of material on top that might help.
Mr. Beaudry moved to adjourn, and Ms. J. Galloway seconded. The motion passed with all in favor.
Editor's Note: The following is a comment from Walpole resident Barbra Bragg about the recent destruction by developers of the new Tractor Supply store of the old barn on their lot and, ironically, their naming the road off Rt. 12 "Red Barn Lane." Perhaps they should have named it "No Red Barn Lane." The Walpolean welcomes comments from registered readers and asks that all commentators stand behind their comments by signing their names. CCB
"Historic barns and agricultural structures symbolize the distinctive New Hampshire values of heritage, hard work, productivity and stewardship. They are witnesses to the role of agriculture in our state's image and its economy, and they serve as scenic landmarks for residents and visitors alike."
New Hampshire RSA 227-C:27, 1999
"Red Barn Lane" signage has just been installed along Route 12 at the entrance to the new Tractor Supply Company's building site.
There is NO barn there! No barn on Red Barn Lane? The red barn was destroyed, crushed into dumpsters and carted off to a landfill
somewhere.
First let me say: I have nothing against thoughtful development in our community, but only development that takes the entire environmental
impact on the community seriously should be acceptable. Environmental
impacts include scenic and historic, as well as, any and all
ecological changes.
Where was the Historic Society? The Conservation Committee? The
Planning Board? Or our State Representative, who heads the
Agriculture and Environmental Committee? Didn't the developers tell
you that they planned to destroy the Barn?
The Red Barn was a beautiful building that should have been saved.
There were families eager to have it moved on to their own property.
It is Walpole's loss.
Sure, it wasn't the biggest barn around or the most historic . . . but
our State is losing a large number of farm buildings every year.
There is State money to protect New Hampshire's barns.
Walpole will continue to face development challenges, but the Town
needs to be much, much more careful in regulating what goes up and
The Real Twist Ice Cream stand in Walpole will hold its next Classic Car Cruise Night, weather permitting, on Sunday, June 20th, from 6-9PM. Here’s a chance for the whole family to enjoy a Sunday evening looking at old and antique cars, while enjoying delicious soft serve ice cream. There will be live music by Doc Vinnie Dibernardo (on- call permitting). Anyone who brings his classic car to show will get a free regular sized sundae. Everyone visiting can get free jimmies, diptop or flavorburst with any cup or cone. Make sure to enter the drawing for free Pizza, ice cream or DVD’s!
The Real Twist is located next to Real to Reel Video at the North Meadow Plaza in Walpole. It is open noon – 9PM, seven days a week. Enjoy your ice cream outside, in the garden, or under the porch.
Future 2010 Season Cruise Nights are scheduled for July 18th, August 15th and September 5th.
Ed. Note: This notice sent by Janet Clough, Secretary to the Selectmen. CCB
TOWN OF WALPOLE
DRAINAGE PROJECT BID
The Town of Walpole is seeking bids for a drainage project on School Street in downtown Walpole to be completed this summer. Project specifications are available at the Town of Walpole Selectboard Office or on the Town of Walpole website, www.walpolenh.us. Sealed bids may be brought to the Selectboard office at 34 Elm Street, Walpole, NH or mailed to The Town of Walpole Selectboard Office, PO Box 729, Walpole, NH 03608. Sealed bids will be opened on Monday, July 12, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. at the Selectboard Office. The winning bid will be announced within five (5) business days. Any and/or all bids may be rejected. Bids must be marked “Drainage Project” and be received at the Town of Walpole Selectboard Office on or before 4:00 p.m. on July 9, 2010. The s
