2022 Hampstead Board of Selectmen Meetings
Hampstead Selectmen Honor Servicemen, Review Warrant Articles and Approve 2023 Proposed Budget
By Penny Williams 12-14-22
On Monday night, December 12, two Hampstead servicemen who lost their lives in recent wars were honored.
Resident Howie Steadman introduced Matt Foster who represented Swim with a Mission, an organization supporting veterans with a Never Forget Fallen New Hampshire Veterans certificates to be posted.
According to their web site, "As part of our “SWAM To Remember” initiative to honor the 94 New Hampshire service members who died in service to our country during the Global War On Terror, we previously created an Honor Wall as a living tribute to these brave warriors. We are now releasing special plaques as a way to further honor these service members in a greater way. Each plaque will be custom made to honor one of our 94 fallen soldiers. The plaque will have a QR code that will allow anyone to scan and interact with our honor wall. Friends, family and the public will be able to post comments, pictures and videos on the Honor Wall page as a living memorial to our fallen soldiers."
Foster presented the plaques to be posted at Town Hall in memory of two Hampstead veterans who lost their lives at war in recent years.
The veterans honored are PFC Matthew Bertolino and Capt. Jonathan Grassbaugh, both killed while serving overseas in the current conflicts. Bertolino was killed in Afghanistan and Grassbaugh in Iraq. Joyce Bertolino was present to receive the certificate in memory of her son.
Bob Weimar, Planning Board Chair asked the Selectmen to endorse membership of the Steering Committee which is charged with considering the suggested goals and objectives of the newly completed Master Plan.
Planning Board member Louis Eaton will be the chair of the committee and members of the various committees and boards will nominate a member for the board which the Planning Board will then appoint.
The committee will meet four or five times annually with the purpose of reviewing the town's progress regarding the Master Plan recommendations and getting recommended suggestions implemented.
The board approved the structure of the Master Plan Steering Committee as presented by the Planning Board. The Selectmen will appoint someone from the Capital Improvement to be on the committee.
Police Chief Joe Beaudoin introduced the name of the full time officer he wishes to hire. Shane Morton is a to be sworn in December 26 and start on January 2nd. The board approved the hire.
Interim Road Agent Jonathan Worthen asked the board to approve putting on the ARPA list a second solar message board at a cost of $20,000. Selectman Joe Guthrie wasn't in favor but the board accepted Worthen's request for consideration.
The board reviewed the proposed budget which is $9,054,983.98, an increase of 9 percent.
Comments regarding the budget came from Animal Control, Maura Wentworth who said her department is seeking a new vehicle as their truck is totally dysfunctional. The plan is to lease a new vehicle.
Recreation said they need to increase the Senior Dinner line from $8,000 to $9,500 which the board approved.
The board approved encumbering $10,950 for the Fire Department's new doors that are to be installed and $1,722.24 for the Recreation Department for work to be done on the tennis courts.
The board went over the warrant articles.
Of note, one calls for rescinding the article for electing a part time police chief and for the Town to seek a full time police chief appointed by the board of selectmen.
Beaudoin said he himself had submitted this article as it is time to do this.
Conservation submitted an article seeking conservation easements for a number of wetland properties. Chair Tim Lovell said the purpose is to protect these properties from development in the future.
The board discussed the changes to the cell phone policy and agreed on a flat reimbursement fee to start January 1, 2023. The board discussed the changes and the final numbers will be presented at the December 28 meeting for final approval.
A public hearing was held to accept grants in the amount of $1,070,568.46 .
The board approve accepting the grants:
* ARPA funds.
* Police Department, NH Department of Safety grant for Police body cameras; GOFFER funds for a speed trailer; Traffic Enforcement Patrol grant from NH Office of Highway Safety; and funds for the K9 Program from the Stanton Foundation.
* Highway - Waste Oil Grant from the Department of Environmental Services
* Fire Department a grant for Protective Gear Extractor and Dryer from GOFFER.
Hampstead Selectmen Revisit and Clarify Plow and Sander Rates
By Penny Williams 11-29-22
The Hampstead Selectmen met Monday night, November 28, and a resident insisted that the plow and sander rates be clarified.
Local resident and former selectman Chad Bennett challenged the board saying they had approved a stipend for sanders that has now disappeared. The board and Bennett went over this issue at length.
Finally it was determined that the following would be the accepted and approved plow and sander rates.
Plow drivers are paid a 10 hour minimum per week at the rate based on their truck, and this is for 16 weeks. If they work less or more those hours are paid by the hourly rate. That means if a plow driver works week one for 6 hours, they get paid for 10 hours and if they work 11 hours they get paid for 11 hours.
A plow driver who has a pick/up truck with a 8 foot plow, would be paid $100 and a 9 foot plow would be $110. And there is also a fuel escalator. Anything over $4.00 in gas is paid per hour and anything over $5.25 diesel. At the last meeting the Board authorized Interim Road Agent Jon Worthen to call once a week to get the average rates in Hampstead that will determine the escalator.
Sanders, which is a separate contract, are paid a contract for 4 months , from December 1 to April 1 that is a guaranteed 85 hours at the rate of $100.00. Anything over the 85 hours will be paid at the rate of $100.00
The board voted to approved these contract agreements. However, Chair Sean Murphy said that to avoid similar confusion next year he wants to start this conversation at the end of the season and have the rates set by July 1, 2023..
While tax bills have already been sent out, the board reaffirmed a motion they made by phone in order to get the bills out.
The Hampstead Tax Rate has been changed and the new tax rate has been approved by the Department of Revenue Administration.
The new confirmed tax rate is $ 23.68 not $23.81 as previously announced. The rate had to be corrected after some calculation issues were identified.
The tax rate is an overall increase of $0.93 over last years rate.
* Town $4.83
* County $0.87
* Local Ed $16.62
* State Ed $1.36
* Total $23.68
Hampstead Police Chief Joe Beaudoin said that the agreement with the state regarding the State Police and Hampstead police responsibilities regarding incidents at Hampstead Hospital have been reviewed by Town Council and approved by all. Hampstead police will be expected to respond to incidents at the Hospital and to control things until the State Police arrive on scene to take command.
Beaudoin said he got all he asked for in the final MOA but it took nearly a year to get it all affirmed. He indicated his department will be notified if and when a high risk individual is placed at the hospital. He said all that remains is for the board to approve the MOA which they did.
The board approved the HERO Tree being set up in the lobby as usual.
Selectmen's Administrative Assistant Sally Theriault thanked the Garden Club for putting up the Christmas decorations at the Town Hall and at other town buildings around town.
Selectman Joe Guthrie asked that the MRI (Municipal Resources Inc.) Report that is due the town recommending how best to move from a Highway Department and Road Agent and a Building and Grounds Department and Director to a Public Works Department that would combine these departments into one. He indicated he feels MRI has not communicated with the Selectmen and he wants the Board to have input but they need the report to know what is being recommended.
Theriault said she would arrange for MRI to come before the board in a pre-board meeting work session to discuss what MRI has been doing and to review their recommendations.
In Other News
The goal of the Cegelis Family Challenge is twofold. We’ll use the generous family donation to support St Anne’s Food Pantry Christmas distribution in 2022 to encourage other families with the financial means to contribute in a more substantial way in support of the food pantry efforts to meet the growing number of families in need. We’ll look to build awareness through an annual campaign to inform the community of the growing need in our communities and how St Anne’s Food Pantry is responding to that need.
The annual campaign will market the Cegelis Family Challenge during the months of November and December annually. Like all families, we’d like to continue to find ways to make our major holiday distributions just a little bit different and special for guests of the food pantry. With various challenges, we’d like to make sure food insecurity takes a back seat for at least a short time allowing our guests and their families to focus on enjoying time with their families around a bountiful meal.
We typically serve about 100 families for our 3 major holiday distributions at a cost of around $6000. Participation in the Cegelis Family Challenge offers those who can provide groceries for a full week or more for 100 families along with a full holiday meal at a cost of just $60 per family. The impact is enormous.
The second goal of the Cegelis Family Challenge will be to engage the next generation of communities to build awareness of and support for those less fortunate in our schools, businesses, and neighborhoods. We’ll use this process to engage young people in the process at whatever level makes sense. Planning, coordination, sorting, packing, and culminating in actual distribution to the families we serve. We hope to provide a valuable family experience to those families who are looking to go a little beyond donating to a local charity by offering an opportunity to create a family educational experience that will have a major impact for the families we serve.
For those who are able, please consider joining us in this annual appeal by contacting Jim Carey at Rigatoni26@comcast.net or 603-339-3731. And for those families that continue to support the efforts of the food pantry in a variety of ways, thank you for your continued support. This ministry would not exist without your long time, consistent participation
Hampstead Corrects Tax Rate
By Penny Williams 11-22-22
The Hampstead Tax Rate has been changed and the new tax rate has been approved by the Department of Revenue Administration.
The new confirmed tax rate is $ 23.68 not $23.81 as previously announced. The rate had to be corrected after some calculation issues were identified. Bills with new confirmed rate are going out.
The tax rate is an overall increase of $0.93 over last years $22.75.
* Town $4.83
* County $0.87
* Local Ed $16.62
* State Ed $1.36
* Total $23.68
Hampstead Selectmen Approve Bids on Fire Department UTV and Trailer and Tax Rate Set
By Penny Williams 11-15-22
On Monday night, November 14, the Hampstead Selectmen met and among other things opened bids for a UTV and Trailer for the Fire Department.
There were two trailer bids but just a single bid for the UTV. That bid was from Dasilva-Gelormini Motorsports in East Hampstead for $23,215. The board approved handing it over to the Fire Department for review and recommendation.
It was noted that Fire Chief Michael Carrier affirmed that the UTV bid was within the parameters that had been set and he was in favor of accepting the bid. However, Selectman Chair Sean Murphy said that this bid and those regarding the trailer should be forwarded for department review but if they wanted to review and make a decision at the end of the meeting that would work.
There were two trailer bids: one from HK Power Sport for $9,950 and one from Technology International for $19,750.
All three bids were handed over to Deputy Chief Will Warnock for his review and recommendation.
At the conclusion of the meeting Warnock, supported by the Selectmen liaison Maurie Worthen said they recommended accepting the Dasilva-Gelormini UTV bid and the trailer bid from HK Power Sport.
The board then approved these bids as recommended.
The board discussed the tax rate and whether to use money from the Unassigned Fund Balance to reduce it. There$347,000 in the unassigned Fund Balance and if they took $134,772 from there to lower the tax rate that would only reduce the tax rate by 10 cents per thousand. After a discussion all the board members except Joe Guthrie decided that it would not be prudent to reduce the Unassigned Fund Balance further as it is already well below what the state recommends.
The board voted to affirm the following. The 2022 tax rate was set at $23.81 which is an overall increase of $1.06.
The breakdown is as follows.
Town $ 4.86
Local School Rate $16.71
State School $ 1.37
County Rate $ 0.87
Total $23.81
There was a discussion about plow driver truck rates with interim Road Agent Jon Worthen. It was decided to use the average daily gas costs at the local four gas stations to determine reimbursement and this average to be determined each Friday for that purpose.
School Board Chair Dave Smith and Superintendent Robert Thompson gave the board an update on the designs being proposed for the Hampstead Central School Renovation and Construction project. Pricing will be available later the board was told.
Maurie Worthen said the Fire Department is replacing all five of the station bay doors at a cost of $27,500. They will pay for this by using $12,000 from the department budget and asked the board to approve using $15,500 from the Building maintenance Capital Reserve Fund. The board approved this request.
The board accepted with regret the resignation of Dale Blaine from the Zoning Board of Adjustment.
Further discussion of the town's cell phone reimbursement policy was continued to a future meeting after more research is done on how much the town is paying now and to whom and whether all these individuals still need reimbursement for cell phone use.
Hampstead Selectmen Approve Using Voter Registration List for Proof of Residency
By Penny Williams 10-26-22
The Hampstead Board of Selectmen met on Monday evening, October 24, and finally ended the discussions and deliberations regarding how the definition of residency would be used.
Missy Denton from the Recreation Commission indicated the Commission prefers to use voter registration information in order for people to prove eligibility for Recreation services and programs. It was affirmed by the Board of Selectmen that they could continue to use the information they prefer to determine residency.
While speaking about the residency issue, it was noted that seniors showing up to get tickets for the Senior Dinner with the intent of purchasing two were refused. Each individual needs to come for their ticket.
The Selectmen pointed out that some spouses might be disabled so it would be more convenient for one spouse to get tickets for both as long as they had both licenses or the required documentation for both. Recreation said they would look into this issue.
Zoning Board of Adjustment (ZBA) Vice Chair Hank Riehl informed the board the ZBA had lost their denial of subdividing a lot on Bonnies Way at the Housing Appeal Court hearing. He suggested that the reason for the Housing Appeals Court reversing the ZBA's denial of the proposed subdivision was because the ZBA didn't substantiate their denial properly and thus it might be worth a rehearing request. However, he said the Town should check with Town Attorney Diane Gorrow before making such an appeal.
Planning Board Chair Robert Weimar told the board the Planning Board has accepted the Master Plan and recommended the Selectmen approve it so things could start being implemented. He suggested a steering committee be created to work on this.
Selectman Joe Guthrie said the Selectmen have the responsibility of creating any steering committee to work on implementing Master Plan items. It was noted that the Planning Board handles the Master Plan but recommends that the steering committee be comprised of members from all the associated boards and committees in town.
It was also noted that a Capital Improvement Committee needs to be established.
The Master Plan will be up on the Town's web site as soon as all typos and errors are fixed.
The board went over several more budgets including the Executive, Personnel Administration, Government Buildings, Cemeteries, Health Agencies, Welfare, and Animal Control.
The board discussed the ARPA funds at length. In the end they made a list of proposed priority items for the balance of the ARPA funding which amounts to roughly $300,000 at this point in time.
The list includes:
* Ford Expedition - $54,950
* Voting Machine - $10,000
* Rescue Trailer - $43,000
* Portable Radios for PD - $30,468
* Non- Lethal Kit -$9,622
* Softball Field - $7,000
* 2nd Packer for Kent Farm Transfer Station - $37,500
* total of $192,542
The board approved the list.
The board voted to advertise for a full-time Highway employee since there have been no takers for the presently advertised part time position. Guthrie objected saying the manpower wasn't needed but the board approved the request 4 to 1.
In Other Business:
Friends of the Library approved expenditures of the movie license. They also voted to automatically approve the movie license request each year. The Friends also voted to approve half of costs for babysitting course for 12 students and up to an additional $600 for on the wait list students.
The Trustees met with Chris Adams- Certified Financial Planner, from Edward Jones who manages a portion of the library’s trust funds. Adams was checking in with the trustees to see if there are any plans for changes to the library policies for managing our funds. He asked trustees to fill out a risk tolerance survey, as requested every 2 years. They will complete one survey as a board and deliver it to him
Rosemary Krol Library Director reported that Jennifer MacLeod, Youth Services Librarian got another grant from NH Children’s Museum. She added that construction on the pavilion began with the foundation digging.
Lori Fisher, Assistant State Librarian, remarked on Rosemary’s children’s area grant report: “the photos and examples you gave in your narrative truly reflect what we hoped to accomplish with these grant monies, you rock and are an amazing library director!”
Report on the annual call from Ray Noel at LPL for period Jan 1, 2022 through September 29, 2022, the starting balance is $84,148.62 i; Losses are $20,222.15; Withdrawals are $1675.52 so the current Balance as of 9/29/22 is $62,250.95 life. Noel's recommendation: Staying the course because we have strong investments.
Hampstead Selectmen Negotiating with John Worthen to Be Temporary Highway Supervisor
By Penny Williams 10-13-22
On Wednesday evening, October 12, the Hampstead Board of Selectmen announced they were negotiating with retired Road Agent John Worthen to temporarily return as Highway Supervisor.
It was noted that original plan to have someone from MRI (Municipal Resources Inc.) or someone recommended by MRI become the Public Works Director in Hampstead after Worthen retired. It was said this plan has hit a snag and to address the need for highway department leadership the board has offered a temporary Highway Supervisor position to Worthen and are negotiating a salary. He would serve until April 1.
After a brief discussion the board voted to approve this recommended hire. His pay will be negotiated.
The board voted to approve a request for encumbering $1,477.76 for work on the basketball hoop at the Basketball Court. The board approved the request from Recreation for this encumbrance as they have a contract to do the work in the spring.
The board re-appointed Susan Hastings as a Hampstead commissioner to the Rockingham Planning Commission.
Police Chief Joe Beaudoin requested and the board approved paying a patrolman for the annual Turkey Trot from the department's Detail Fund.
Beaudoin also told the board he is interviewing a 27 year old Hampstead resident with experience in another town's police department to replace the retired Allan Fratus. He said the fact the proposed officer is a Hampstead resident who is also willing to take the midnight shift makes it a good choice. He will notify the board when he finishes the interview process.
Fire Chief Michael Carrier asked the board to authorize him to sell by advertisement, not sealed bids, the old Skid Unit that is no longer needed. He anticipates it is worth between $750 and $1,000 dollars. The board approved him putting the skid unit up for sale using social media.
The board declined to reconsider their COLA decision noting that a wholesale salary review for town employees should take place in the not too distant future.
The board then heard budget information from many of the town's departments. Several had increases of up to 3 or 4 percent. Most of the increases were short dollar amounts but several budgets hadn't been turned in to the office as yet. This was the first budget review.
The board voted to approve signs and a police detail for work on Route 111 culvert replacement by the state.
The board also approved the request for bids from Lane Roofing for repairs to each of the Historical Museum and Town Hall roofs. The cost would be $10,000 for each roof repair.
Trick or Treat will be held on Monday, October 31st in Hampstead from 6 pm to 8 pm.
Hampstead Selectmen Meet with Communication Committee to Discuss Working on Voter Guide
By Penny Williams 9-28-22
At the Monday night, September 26, Selectmen's meeting, Matt Gillette, Chair of the Communication Committee, met with the board to discuss his committee possibly taking the lead on developing a voter guide.
Both Gillette and the Selectmen agreed that the voter guide should come from the Town or a town committee, not from Face Book or social media.
There was a discussion regarding whether the guide should include links to other information or sources of data and it was decided that would be a case by case decision.
As for funding the associated costs of developing the Voter Guide it was noted that the Election Budget would cover the costs.
Gilllette said his committee would head up the development working closely with Selectmen's Assistant Sally Theriault and Selectmen's Clerk Tina Harrington. In the end however, the Board of Selectmen have the final say on what is in the Voter Guide.
Police Chief Joe Beaudoin asked the board accept a $10,000 grant that will allow him to have 33 hours of special patrols directed to DWI, speed, and traffic lights. The board approved accepting the grant.
The issue of what defines residency for various town things such as stickers for parking at the beach or taking part in a Recreation program continued.
The discussion boiled down to Chair Sean Murphy asking why Recreation doesn't accept the same option on residency proof the other organizations accept.
It was decided to ask Recreation to attend the next board meeting so the board can fully understand their position. The final report on residency definition will have to wait until the next meeting.
The board discussed the ARPA fund list at length. Theriault said the Department Heads had pared down their requests to just the absolute essentials. Still, the requests add up to $538,000 which exceeds what is left. There is $600,000 already committed with around $300,000 left to be designated.
Selectman Joe Guthrie went through the list pointing to requests he felt were not necessary but then turned around and asked the board to approve committing $59,700 to the Library to finish the Pavilion.
The board approved his request for the money for the pavilion after a discussion.
Beaudoin asked the board to consider using ARPA funds for a cruiser. That would allow him to remove $58,000 from his budget. The board approved that request.
The board was asked to revisit their COLA decision given how things have changed with inflation. The COLA needs to address the increase in costs for employees. The board will look at data Theriault provided and discuss it at a future meeting.
Tim Lovell, Budget Committee Chair spoke at the meeting. He suggested that given current circumstances the board should look at freezing hiring. He said the Public Works Director hire would be an exception since it replaced two people with one.
The board decided to roll the Selectmen's meeting into the Budget meeting thats slated for Wednesday, October 12. There will not be a selectmen's meeting on Monday, October 10.
Hampstead Selectmen Continue Discussion of Residency Definition and Hampstead Hospital Police Coverage
By Penny Williams 9-13-22
On Monday night, September 12, the Board of Selectmen continued their discussion regarding the definition of residency and what it allows.
Board members discussed whether residency should be defined as those who pay taxes making them eligible for such things as Transfer Station sticker, beach parking sticker, senior trip approval.
Regardless of how residency was defined there appeared to be an issue given a specific happening. Chair Sean Murphy felt if an individual paid taxes, either directly or indirectly, they should be eligible for town services.
An exception appeal process was suggested and this was considered and will be further clarified as the board continues to work on this issue.
The discussion tried to address all the possible situations and the board decided that the spreadsheet provided by Selectman Laurie Warnock should be clarified and tightened before being finalized. As such the issue was tabled until the next meeting.
Budget Committee Chair Tim Lovell asked the board to ask department heads to sharpen their pencils when it comes to proposing budgets. He indicated this has been a difficult year and the year ahead will be even more difficult. It would help if each department carefully reviews its priorities and tried to do more with less.
Police Chief Joe Beaudoin asked the board to accept the resignation of Officer Allan Fratus, effective September 30, 2022 and to then appoint him as a Part Time Police Officer effective October 29, 2022. The board accepted his resignation and made the part time appointment.
Beaudoin also reviewed how things stand between his department and the State Police regarding an agreement for providing coverage to Hampstead Hospital.
He indicated that the main sticking point is his department feels they need to know when there is a high profile person at the hospital so if there is an escape or incident the appropriate degree of response is provided.
The Hospital doesn't believe this information for the Hampstead department is necessary. Beaudoin told the board he is continuing discussions with the State Police regarding the process and procedures for local coverage of events at the hospital.
Al Davis, town representative to the Rockingham Planning Commission Transportation Committee, asked the board if it wanted to be included on the list of municipalities interested in participation in the Safe Streets Program when it is implemented.
This is a program provided by the Rockingham Planning Commission that will look at potential improvements to municipalities’ highway infrastructure. After a brief discussion the board voted to be a participant and a letter to this effect will be sent to the Commission.
The board voted to accept the grant for the town's Fire Department Program for upgrading the Emergency Operations Center. The town will be responsible for coming up with $66,667 but will receive a grant amount of $200,000.
There was a discussion regarding whether the board would be interested in an official voters guide for this year. It was decided they would but want to involve the Communication Committee if they are interested in handling this. All board members but Selectmen Joe Guthrie approved this idea. Guthrie expressed concern with the municipality being involved with a voter's guide.
The board reviewed the money spent from the ARPA funds - both the first issued amount and the second. It appears that out of the combined $564,000 there is about $342,000 remaining. It was decided not to add any new items to be covered at this time.
The MS4 has been filed with the State. Murphy asked the Selectmen's Administrative Assistant Sally Theriault to check and make sure the School District has filed their MS 4 so tax bills can be sent out on time this year.
Leigh Campos and Catherine Abruzzese Pavlini were approved by the board as Selectmen Pro Tems for the elections taking place the next day, Tuesday, September 13.
Hampstead Hospital has acknowledged that it will be paying for all three parcels that make up the Hampstead Hospital property. There has been accrued interest on these parcels and the state asked the board to waive the interest. The board approved waiving up to $2,500 in interest.
Hampstead Town and School Together Open and Accept the Bid for Heating Fuels
By Penny Williams 8-23-22
On Monday evening, August 22, the Town and the School District together opened the one heating oil bid and accepted it together, hoping it will create a savings for both.
The one bid was from Palmer Gas and Oil, who is the current company both the Town and School District uses for heating fuel. The School District was represented by Business Administrator Geoffrey Dowd who had the authority to accept or refuse the bid on behalf of the school District.
The bid was for:
* Number 2 fuel oil - $3.879
* Diesel - .30 below market standard
* Liquid Propane - $1.85
Dowd said the fuel oil price was lower than he had anticipated and given current circumstances he thought it should be accepted. Palmer Gas and Oil has been a good company, he also noted.
The Board of Selectmen voted to accept the Palmer Gas and Oil bid and Dowd on behalf of the school district accepted as well. Both are hoping that by combining forces both will see a discount.
Paul Carideo presented the Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan report to the board. The report focused on the Highway Garage and the Transfer Station. Included in the report was a form for an annual inspection for each area.
Carideo noted that a spill prevention plan for the garage is needed. At the Transfer Station there is a need for water testing for the run off but care needs to be taken as to where tests are done since the old, closed, landfill is there. In addition, the Transfer Station is in two water sheds and some of the run off flows into Sandown and tests need to be done there.
The board thanked Carideo for doing the work and developing the report and approved accepting the report.
Carideo with another report indicated that plans covered by the Planning Board need to come before the Conservation Commission and the Storm Water Management committee.
He identified several sites that have issues with outflow and run off that were not part of the approved site plans such as the salt shed. There needs to be engineering regarding the runoff from the Salt Shed in order for it to be in compliance with MS4 and there wasn't any done when the salt shed was placed where it is located.
He suggested it is time the Selectmen enforce or mandate that site plans before the Planning Board be reviewed by the Conservation Commission and the Storm Water Committee to ensure compliance with MS4 requirements. It might also be time to add a soil scientist for the town.
Another example he noted is that the town recently repaved a road but failed to replace three culverts along the roadway that have failed and need replacement.
The board discussed the various requirements for determining residency in order to make it easier for Recreation to determine who is and who might not be eligible for Recreation programs.
It was decided that more work needs to be done on this and a final proposed residency description and definition and the various different residency requirements be developed. When it is ready it will come back to the board for approval.
Police Chief Joe Beaudoin reported the department canine is in place. He also announced that Officer Allan Fratus is retiring. Beaudoin requested permission to start interviewing full time officers for the vacancy when it happens.
Beaudoin asked for the ARPA funds to pay for the town's 50 percent for the body cameras that is owed and which the board approved previously.
Selectmen's Administrative Assistant Sally Theriault said the taxes for the three parcels bought by the state when they purchased Hampstead Hospital will be coming to the town.
During a work session the board discussed what the first ARPA funding was supposed to have been spent on - what payments have actually been made and what planned spending has not happened because grants were received. The object was to determine what amount of ARPA money the town actually has available before the departments begin to work on recommended projects that need funding.
In Other News:
The Board of Selectmen adopted a Lawn Watering Ordinance to protect water supply during this historic drought.
On August 8th, pursuant to RSA 41:11-d, the Hampstead Board of Selectmen unanimously voted to adopt a Lawn Watering Management Ordinance in order to protect public health and safety by restricting the use of water from private wells or public water systems for outdoor lawn watering (including residential and commercial properties) during a state or federally declared drought.
On Aug 18th the Town posted the required 3 days notice of Level 2 restrictions, limiting outdoor lawn watering to twice a week only. This came into effect on Monday August 22nd and will apply to all water users in Hampstead.
Level 2 - Severe Drought
• Lawn watering at odd numbered addresses should take place only on Mondays and Thursdays
• Lawn watering at even numbered addresses should take place only on Tuesdays and Fridays.
• Lawn watering should not occur between the hours of 8 AM and 7 PM.
The Hampstead Police Department has the authority to enforce these restrictions but we hope and expect residents will comply voluntarily in recognition of the significant threat that our water supply is currently experiencing.
The Select Board will continue to monitor the drought status in order to adjust restriction levels, up or down, accordingly
The link to the full text of the ordinance is here https://www.hampsteadnh.us/ordinances/pages/lawn-watering-ordinance
If you have any questions please contact Select Board member Laurie Warnock at lwarnock@hampsteadnh.us or the Hampstead Water Resources Committee at hwrc.all@gmail.com
Hampstead Public Library News
Friends of the Library approved providing an electric kettle for the teas, a Radon testing kit, $3500 for summer reading support, and paying for 5 teas going into 2023.
Raffle basket available themed to match the Friends the first program. Winner will be drawn on Sept 13, the night of the program.
The friends partnered with TD Bank for the Affinity program. The bank reserved money to reinvest in the community they serve. For people who wish to support the Friends of the library, TD Bank will make a small donation to the Friends. Account holders simply need to tell TD Bank that they wish to support the Friends of the Library. For more information you can email the Friends: hampsteadfriends@gmail.com.
Trustees asked the Friends if the library could partner with them to apply for grants for the pavilion that are only available to organizations that are a 501(C)3. Discussion covered the Friends previous vote by members to not fund the pavilion from their funds, nor help fundraise for it; the Library’s goals for the pavilion; the progress of the trustee’s fundraising so far.
The Friends expressed reservations about the work that would be required to handle the funds of a grant, if awarded, and the Library Director said that she would handle the paperwork and reporting, as she has done with the children’s renovation grant process. Each grant is different, so it will be a general review.
Treasurer’s Report indicated the supply line is high but Director Rosemary Krol reports it is usually high on that, plus the costs for everything went up.
The Quarterly Report ending June 30, 2022 shows a loss of 15.4%. $19,328.20. Despite losses, there is still growth above the target of 6% growth. There will be the annual call with Ray Noel from LPL on September 15, at 1 p.m. where member Al Cipriano will discuss things, and will then bring any news to the September 20, Trustees meeting.
Krol noted that several people are needed to assist with the Strategic Plan. She is seeking a local religious leader, a couple of parents, and some local business owners. Please reach out if you are interested in helping plan for your library’s future.
Cipriano set up active shooter training on October 5, during the library staff meeting. Most trustees will be able to attend as well
Hampstead Board of Selectmen Approve Water Ordinance
By Penny Williams 8-9-22
The Hampstead Board of Selectmen met Monday evening, August 8, and given the state's determination that the town is in a severe drought area approved implementing a water policy.
Stephanie Spyvee, Water Resource Committee Chair, presented the state's information regarding the drought noting it is at level 2 in terms of severity. She proposed a model policy for the board to consider.
Lawn watering creates the highest demand on our limited water supply during the summer months. Set sprinklers to run at night for the minimum amount of time to reach this goal and allow the grass to go dormant during dry periods. Residents are asked to do their part to conserve this shared resource by reducing the amount of water you use on your lawn and garden regardless of drought status or private well.
The Town of Hampstead Board of Selectmen and Water Resources Committee recommend these practices for restricting lawn watering during periods of drought as determined by the New Hampshire Drought Management Team and/or a State of Emergency Declaration by the Governor's Office.
For current conditions go to www.drought.gov/states/New-Hampshire Level 1 — Moderate Drought • Lawn watering at odd numbered addresses should take place only on Mondays and Thursdays • Lawn watering at even numbered addresses should take place only on Tuesdays and Fridays • Lawn watering should not occur between the hours of 8 AM and 7 PM. Level 2 — Severe Drought • Lawn watering should cease Level 3 — Extreme Drought The Select Board will review drought condition updates provided by the State Drought Management Team, U.S. Drought Monitor and Hampstead Water Resources Committee on a bi-weekly basis and consider the need to change or eliminate the level of restrictions recommended. For more information contact the Town Hall or email hwrc.all@gmail.com , for drought status, go to www.drought.gov/states/New-Hampshire.
The board approved this declaring the Town is at Level 2 and lawns should be watered only twice a week. The board approved the proposed Water Ordinance.
Enforcement will come into play if level 3 is reached but for the current restrictions the residents are expected to cooperate. When enforcement becomes necessary it will be announced before hand and that decision will be made by the selectmen. Fines for enforcement will be a warning at first offense; $250 for the second and $500 for subsequent violations.
There was a discussion over the fact that the town cannot enforce its policy on Hampstead Area Water Company (HAWC) members as they are a public utility and governed by the state. It is hoped that HAWC itself and its members will follow the town's restrictions but it was noted that HAWC's well supply is not at capacity at this time though it has recommended precautions and water conservation suggestions for its members.
Police Chief Joe Beaudoin reported that a Memorandum of Understanding has been received from the State Police regarding the Hampstead Hospital change in ownership and administration. He indicated his department had some changes and that Town Attorney will review the MOU when it is returned and then it will come to the board for final approval.
Beaudoin asked the board to approve using $15,000 to $20,000 from the department's Detail Fund for the purchase of 16 bulletproof vests. The board voted to approve the request.
Beaudoin also said he has contacted a part time police officer to join the Police Department with the role of developing a policy for use of the police officer body cameras. He asked the board for authorization to make the officer the offer of employment so a background check could be conducted. The board authorized him to move forward with this.
The department got a 50 percent grant for the cameras and the board approved the town using $37,000 of ARPA Funds for the full payment.
Selectman Joe Guthrie asked the board to approve the Hampstead Library's request for $54,000 from this second ARPA Fund that the town has received to complete the library's pavilion project. Library IT Director Kate Thomas presented the information regarding the pavilion project. There will be a work session coming up regarding the pavilion project and the board decided to delay any decision until after that work session.
Guthrie wants the board to not use the second ARPA Fund payment of $451,000 but rather hold it for the construction of a Community Center despite having asked for the library pavilion payment. It was noted that a community center couldn't be constructed for that amount and Chair Sean Murphy expressed the doubt the money could be used that was in the first place. Guthrie asked that the board not use the ARPA Funds for the wishes of the department heads.
Selectman Laurie Warnock noted that the items brought forward for ARPA Funds were not wishes but actual needs and that many department's had not actually used the funds they had been given because they got grants for the items they sought. It was decided to hold a work session regarding the ARPA Funds on August 22.
There was a long discussion about how the town defines residency for a variety of different situations - recreation program participation - voting - dump stickers- to name a few. The issue was tabled until the next meeting so the board members could review the information Warnock had put together.
The board approved the issuance of a building permit for the Henry Homes/Collins Road application. The board authorized Code Enforcement to issue the building permit as a Hold Harmless Agreement has already been completed.
The board approved the Primex 3 year contract Cap .
The board approved the Selectmen's Office going to $1 per photo copy to be consistent with the other departments.
The SAU and the Selectmen will look at the diesel bids and see if there might be a savings if they joined forces. Selectmen's Administrative Assistant Sally Theriault will see if SAU Business Director Geoffrey Dowd will come to the next board meeting to open the bids.
The board learned that the $200,000 grant is still being sought for the Emergency Operations Center at the Fire Station. They are still working on getting that funding - it was approved but only to a point. They are in the process of closing the deal now.
The Energy Committee is finally fully staffed. Members of the Energy Committee are Jay Giard (from School Board)Jeff Mackey (School Facilities)Alan Davis, Sally Theriault and Steve Morse as liaision.
Hampstead Water Resource Committee Ask Selectmen to Consider Water Conservation Ordinance
By Penny Williams 7-26-22
On Monday night, July 25, the Board of Selectmen heard a report and recommendation regarding water conservation from the Water Resource Committee that is asking the board to consider implementing an ordinance for water conservation in drought times.
Stephanie Spyvee, Water Resource Committee Chair, gave the board the information her committee has regarding the current drought situation. Hampstead is in a moderate drought situation and as such she and her committee would like the board to consider implementing a water conservation ordinance.
She indicated under current conditions, residents should consider lawn watering every other day. Lawn watering should not occur between the hours of 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. The Select Board will review the drought condition updates provided by the State Drought Management Team, U.S. Drought Monitor and Hampstead Water Resources Committee on a bi-weekly basis and consider the need to change or eliminate the level of restrictions recommended. For more information contact the Town Hall or email hwrc.all@gmail.co
She went on to say if the drought should become extreme in Hampstead then the board should consider asking residents not to water laws. The ball fields being watered should be a discussion but all of this would be easier to manage from a municipal point of view if the ordinance is in place.
She noted that Hampstead Area Water Company restricts their customers to watering lawns every other day.
She indicated she recognized that enforcement is a major issue. However, she said she felt that Hampstead residents in the main would respond to the need to conserve water in an extreme situation but would probably respond more quickly if there was an ordinance in place.
She asked the board to look at the draft ordinance she presented and to consider adoption. She said she would come back to the August 8, meeting to see what the board's opinion and or decision is regarding the Water Conservation Ordinance.
The board tabled and moved to the August 8, meeting a discussion regarding residency relating to Recreation requirements since Selectman Laurie Warnock was not present and she had brought the issue up.
The board also tabled the discussion of the Library's Pavilion Project to the August 8, meeting although Selectman Joe Guthrie said the library plans to move forward. They will pour the pavilion slab this summer and continue to work at raising funds to complete the project.
Chair Sean Murphy said he had discussed the tax relief issue from the state to the town regarding the state having bought Hampstead Hospital. He said the state will be making the town whole in terms of the lost revenue and will be making an annual payment. Further discussions will be held regarding law enforcement issues regarding the town's law enforcement services and the hospital's needs given the changes in the nature of the hospital community.
The board held a work session following the meetings regarding the issue of combining the Highway and Building and Grounds Departments into a Public Works Department. It was not recorded.
Hampstead Selectmen Sell F350 Truck to Highest Bidder, Water Bills Increase 34 Percent
By Penny Williams 7-13-22
The Hampstead Board of Selectmen met Monday night, July 11, and opened the seven bids for the F350 truck that the board had approved selling.
The bids ranged from a low of $4,567 to a high of $7,394. The board approved awarding the truck to the highest bidder, James Beauregard for his bid amount of $7,394.
Fire Chief Michael Carrier told the board he has a forestry skid unit for the F350 he wishes to sell. He indicated he didn't think he'd get more than $1,000 for it. The board said he could just sell it so long as the amount he set was below the amount the town's policy requires a sale go out to bid.
The board then accepted the Historical Commission's recommendation to award the painting of the exterior of the Museum building to the lowest bidder, Jim's On Call Painting, Manchester, in the amount of $16,000. The board voted unanimously to approve the bid.
Selectman Laurie Warnock informed the board the Hampstead Area Water Company (HAWC) increase has been set and the company will phase in the increase on its forthcoming bills. She noted HAWC had initially sought a 64 percent rate increase but through negotiations the actual finally approved amount was 34 percent.
Warnock also said the Water Resource Committee will be mailing out information regarding how residents should conserve water given the near drought situation.
The board contracted with MRI to do the feasibility study of Hampstead combining the Highway and Building and Grounds Departments into a Public Works Department. The work has begun and a part time MRI employee is already at work in town working on the study and handling the highway issues since long time Road Agent Jon Worthen has reigned.
Selectman Joe Guthrie told the board he wants the MRI person to come before the board and tell the selectmen what he has found and where things are going. The board agreed such a meeting should take place at some point. No date or time was set.
Selectmen's Administrative Assistant Sally Theriault told the board the town will be receiving approximately $36,000 from the State Retirement Surplus while the School District will be getting $127,000 which should ultimately come to the town. The funds are from the Teachers, Fire and Police Retirement surplus funds. The funds will be used to reduce taxes.
There was a discussion about the Hampstead Hospital issues. There will be a Zoom meeting to which Chair Sean Murphy will participate but he was clear that he wanted to keep participants to a minimum so as to have as effective a meeting with Hospital personnel as possible. Guthrie asked to be allowed to at least listen in.
Police Chief Joe Beaudoin said regarding the missing MOU that was originally promised the town by the State regarding the Hospital repaying the town for lost revenue from property taxes and for understanding how law enforcement would be configured is under development by the hospital personnel and the State Police.
He added that he doesn't feel the trails used by Conservation at the rear of the Hampstead Hospital property ought to be used now that the hospital community has changed but it hasn't been discussed and Conservation isn't working with the hospital on this issue.
Beaudoin also asked permission to provide an officer at the summer concerts at Ordway Park and to fund this from his Detail Fund. He also informed the board that the search for the missing Hampstead resident is continuing but has been scaled back.
The board, after a discussion, approved the Treasurer authorizing debit cards for the Police, Fire and Building Departments. The board asked if there is a policy regarding the distribution and use of debit/credit cards in place and if not to create one.
Hampstead Selectmen Considering Changing from Road Agent to Public Works Department
By Penny Williams 6-28-22
The Hampstead Selectmen discussed in open meeting and in non-public various aspects of moving Hampstead from a Road Agent to a Public Works Department on Monday night, June 27.
Selectman Joe Guthrie challenged the board to discuss their consideration of moving to a Public Works Department in public after the current Road Agent Jon Worthen submitted his resignation, effective in 2 weeks.
The board discussed combining the Highway and Building and Grounds Departments into a single department. They then discussed a possible MRI (Municipal Resources Inc.) study to look to see what would be in a Public Works Department after reviewing what currently exists in Hampstead and how to move forward with combining the highway and building and grounds.
In open session after the discussion, the board approved having MRI conduct a Study regarding Hampstead moving to a Public Works Department.
In non-public the Selectmen discussed further whether to take advantage of another option offered by MRI.
The offer was for an MRI employee to become an Interim Public Works Director while a MRI study is being conducted and for that individual to participate in the study. It was noted that there are internal individuals who have told board members they would be interested in being a Public Works Director so that was why this was discussed in non-public.
After coming out of non-public the decision to hire an MRI person as the Interim Public Works Director was made.
Executive Council Janet Stevens was unable to attend the board's meeting to discuss updates regarding the state's purchase of Hampstead Hospital that was finalized on June 8. Senator Regina Birdsell stepped in for Stevens. She said the current CEO of Hampstead Hospital, Kathy Collins, will continue with Well Path the company that has the contract to run the facility.
However, Birdsell told the board there is no Memorandum of Agreement to be presented to the town regarding the State's agreement to repay the town the lost tax revenue from the purchase and sale of the hospital and that law enforcement will be provided. However, she insisted the plan to make the payment is in the budget and the agreement is part of the plan moving forward.
Speaking for the Hampstead Police Department Deputy Chief Robert Kelley said he is very concerned that the State no longer intends to provide the town with a MOA.
He said he has learned from other locations with similar facilities that his department should expect to be called on to a greater degree than it currently is and that the calls will be very different in nature from what his officers are prepared to deal with.
He said the Hampstead Police and Fire Departments are not in a position to address the increase and difficult nature of calls that are likely to start coming once the hospital population changes. He said neither department is staffed to address increased and difficult calls that will emerge as the hospital population changes in nature.
Kelley asked that the town reach out to the State with his concerns and seek the MOA originally promised by the State that indicated the State would be handling increased enforcement issues. He said he too would reach out.
Jaye Dimando gave the board an update regarding the Seniors trips and meetings. She also asked the board to support creating a committee to look into a community center and report back to the board.
While the Community Center issue is part of the Master Plan work being currently developed it was felt that the committee Dimando sought was justified and the board approved creating a feasibility exploratory committee for a Community Center for Hampstead. Anyone interested in participating as encouraged to notify the Selectmen's Administrative Assistant Sally Theriault.
It was noted that there needs to be someone on that committee with building skills. Guthrie offered to be a member representing the Selectmen.
The board opened three bids for the exterior painting of the Historical Museum Building. They included:
* Noonan Brothers - Manchester - $39,600
* Jim's On Call Painting - Manchester - $16,000
* Bouchard Painting - Derry - $26,300.
The board referred the bids to the Historical Commission for their review and recommendation.
David Walker, Rockingham Planning Commission Transportation Director, gave the board a summary of what the Transportation Committee does and the projects they consider.
It emerged that the Intersection of Derry, Depot roads and Route 121 is currently on the State's 10 year plan and design engineering is to start next year. The town has sought to have that intersection upgraded for more than 20 years and the board was pleased to hear that action on it would be in the near future.
Walker asked if the board thought the town and the board would be interested in a regional effort for Safe Streets and Roads projects. If so a Safety Action Plan would need to be developed which RPC would apply for a grant to do if there is enough regional interest. The board indicated there was some interest and Walker said when he has more information available he would return and address this further with the board.
The board accepted the $2,500 grant for Waste Oil for the Town Garage, It also approved accepting a grant of $37,801 from the Department of Safety for Police body cameras. The town will need to cover 50 percent of the total cost.
The board signed the Warrant for the collection of the 138 unlicensed dogs in town.
The board approved the recommendation from the Town Health Code Officer Kris Emerson to appoint Phil Boisvert as the Deputy Health Officer. He will replace Worthen, the present Deputy Health Officer who is retiring.
The board approved appointing School Board member Jason Giard to the Energy Committee.
Hampstead Selectmen Accept Road Agent Jonathan Worthen’s Resignation
By Penny Williams 6-14-22
After returning into public session from a non-public session following the Board of Selectmen's Monday night, June 13th meeting, the board voted to accept the resignation of the Town's long time Road Agent.
Jonathan Worthen submitted his resignation, effective June 30, and the board voted to accept that resignation in public session Monday night. The board decided to wait until their June 27th meeting, to decide what direction they would go in regarding to replacing Worthen.
Kevin Hatch, Cornerstone Survey, Chester, asked the board to sign the Hold Harmless Agreement for a resident on Collins Drive, a Class VI road.
The reason for the Hold Harmless is that the driveway to the parcel initially uses a portion of the Class VI Collins Drive and before a building permit can be issued the Selectmen need to sign the Hold Harmless Agreement. The board approved and signed the agreement.
Hampstead School Superintendent Robert Thompson appeared before the board and reviewed the newly approved District Strategic Plan. He also indicated the plan can be reviewed in more detail on the School District Web site.
School Board Chair David Smith provided the Selectmen with the concept designs for the renovation and construction project at the Central School. Smith said the plan is to hold the price at just above $5 million ( that amount in order to be eligible for building assistance from the State Department of Education) this year as they take a new piece by piece approach to the space needs and security issues at the school.
He indicated the approach is to address Safety and Security. These new design concepts are to renovate the entrance to the school with a library over the newly designed entrance and nurses office.
In addition, one or two additional classrooms would be added to the 60s wing which would include bringing that stairwell and staircase up to code.
He indicated the School Board will decide on exact costs and which option, 1 new classroom or option 2 , two new classrooms at the 60's wing at their meeting Tuesday night, June 14.
The board approved the repainting of the main Veterans Memorial Gym bleachers after it was determined it had been done back in 2012. The board approved the $2,850 cost.
Selectman Joe Guthrie asked if it couldn't be done in house for less and it was pointed out that the touch up to the bleachers was done in house and that is why it now needs to be repainted properly.
There was a discussion regarding the money needed from ARPA funds for the purchase of the Fire Department forestry vehicle. There is a buyer for the old forestry vehicle and once the trade-in amount was subtracted from the cost the amount needed for the new vehicle it was reduced.
The board voted to put the old forestry vehicle out to bid with a minimum bid of $4,000 and also approved using up to $58,800 ARPA funds for the new vehicle. The board all voted to approve except Guthrie.
Selectman Steve Morse asked Guthrie if he could explain his concern with the town's use of the ARPA funds but Guthrie did not respond.
Selectman's Administrative Assistant Sally Theriault told the board she has developed a web page for the Town's Human Resource Department. Guthrie asked if the town actually has a Human Resource Department and Theriault said being the director of it is in her job description. Chair Sean Murphy indicated the Board is actually the Human Resource Department. The board will discuss the page at their next meeting.
The board re-appointed Chris Kowalski to the Recycling and Waste Disposal Committee for a three year term.
Guthrie has asked that the house at the Stage Road and Route 111 intersection be boarded up and eventually removed as it has been abandoned for a long time and is a safety hazard. This is being looked into.
Selectman Laurie Warnock reviewed the PUC decision on the proposed Hampstead Area Water Company (HAWC) increased rates.
HAWC had asked for a 66.5 percent increase but were granted a 34.64 percent increase. In addition she stated that a Municipal Fire Protection Plan was developed. It includes:
- A flat rate of $68,730 based on the number of hydrants in each town at the test year 2019, regardless of any added since or going forward.
- Testing and performance criteria, a maintenance schedule and sharing of emergency plans and annual reports to the PUC.
Further, HAWC’s shareholder has agreed to contribute a portion of the first year’s municipal fire protection charge, in the amount of $27,718.30 which will not be recovered in any way from the residential rate.
The board approved the Energy Committee moving forward rather than waiting for additional members. It was felt that when the committee gets started more people will be interested in participating.
It was announced that both the mileage and postage rates have increased.
The board will hold a work session to discuss whether to go with an outside company regarding the sale of the lease of the cell tower at a future meeting..
Hampstead Selectmen Seek Consultant to Put Cell Tower Lease Out to Bid
By Penny Williams 5-24-22
The Hampstead Selectmen met on Monday evening, May 23, and decided to seek a consultant to do the RFP and marketing of the cell tower lease.
Whether to sell the cell tower lease has been under discussion for the better part of a year. The board discussed it again and decided that the most cost effective way to go about actually looking into selling the lease would be to find a consultant that would do the work.
The board made it clear the consultant would not be paid anything unless or until the lease was actually sold and the Town received money for the lease. The board members were interested in what selling the lease would bring the Town so voted to move forward with putting the cell tower lease out to bid using a consultant.
Julia Forbes came before the board seeking their assistance in curbing Eversource's cutting of brush and small trees along the inside of the Ordway Park stone wall. She indicated what they cut would never grow to impede the power lines and the stumps and brush cuttings left behind pose a safety hazard. She said she has tried to get Eversource to follow its own best practices but has had no success.
The board indicated they would contact Eversource and look into the issue.
Forbes also wanted the grass cut early at the park but said Building and Grounds Director Steve Harmes said he is under staffed and will get to Ordway when he can. She questioned whether an outside company could be hired to get the mowing done early. The board told her they would discuss the issue with Harms.
Robert Wiemar, Planning Board Chair and the person heading up the Master Plan upgrade efforts told the board they had received input from the residents who attended the early May meetings.
He indicated the committee is trying to finalize their list of items and get it to the various committees and boards that are involved. Once that is done and those comments, suggestions and additions or deletions have been added the proposed plan will come to the board.
Police Chief Joe Beaudoin said the grant for the Canine Unit has grown again, now up to $51,000. He said he and Town Financial Clerk, Tina Harrington are working on where the grant can be put so the department can expend the funds.
The board approved his report and congratulated Beaudoin on 50 years of Service to the Town of Hampstead.
Harrington said there were three bids for the Security Audit. She indicated that she and the School District Financial Director Geoffrey Dowd and the IT Director at the Library, Kate Thomas all agreed that the RMON Networks bid was the best for the Town.
The RMON Networks bid was for $10,000 and the board approved going with that bid. Harrington said she thought the funding could come from the ARPA funding the town will have.
There was a long discussion regarding repainting of the Veterans Memorial Gym bleachers. Someone touched up the bleachers but their paint and paint color wasn't a match for what the Noonan Brothers had painted the bleachers. To repaint the bleachers properly Noonan Brothers said would cost $2,850.
The board wanted to know how long ago the bleachers had been painted and how long this paint job would last. They also wanted to know more about the repaint that apparently is unsightly.
A motion was made for the $2,850 to do the repaint job but it failed as both Selectman Joe Guthrie and Chair Sean Murphy felt additional information was needed because not that many people use the bleachers. It was tabled to a future agenda.
The board endorsed the Big Island Pond Watershed Plan. The information in the Big Island Pond report should be forwarded to the Water Resource Committee.
Beaudoin said there has been no progress with information from the State regarding a stop light for the Depot/Hampstead roads and Route 121 intersection. He said it is doubtful they will approve it as there have been many accidents there but no fatalities. However, he thought they might approve the Town putting lighted stop signs on Depot and/or Hampstead Roads. These would cost the town in the neighborhood of $2,000 each if approved.
The board appointed Robert Wiemar to the Stormwater Management Committee for 3 years. They appointed Allen Davis to the Energy Committee for 3 years.
Hampstead Selectmen Appoint Committee Members and Learn Fire Department Wants to Purchase Pick-up Truck
By Penny Williams 5-10-22
In an unusually short meeting, Monday night, May 9, the Board of Selectmen addressed a couple of appointments, and learned that two service programs were approved for ARPA Funds and discussed the Hampstead/Derry Road/ Depot Road, Route 121 intersection.
The board appointed Lewis Eaton and Jessica Daley to the Budget Committee for 3 year terms ending in 2025.
Police Chief Joe Beaudoin said the department had received the grant for the department's Canine Program. In fact, he reported they had received more than expected. The grant for department's Canine Unit program was $32,000.
Selectmen's Administrative Assistant Sally Theriault told the board that Care Givers and Isaiah 57 have both been approved to receive ARPA Funds.
Selectman Laurie Warnock said the Public Utilities Commission hearing will take place this week and she plans to attend. She said that the Hampstead Area Water Company increase request for fire hydrants was reduced to a more reasonable amount but the other company increases haven't changed. The company refuses to plow the hydrants. As such the town will need to deal with that aspect of the town's 70 hydrants.
To address this issue Selectman Maurie Worthen said the Hampstead Fire Department is seeking approval of purchasing a pick-up truck and plow to do the job. Funding would come from the Hydrants line - $43,000 and $9,600 from ARPA funds. The board wants to look into this before approving it.
There was a new accident at Depot Road/Hampstead/Derry Roads and Route 121 intersection. Beaudoin said that to get a light there a specific process needs to be followed.
First he will send a letter to the State requesting a new review of the intersection asking to see if the State would recognize the intersection as needing a street light. He said he would request permission to add a lit up stop light which would probably cost the town about $1,000 if the state approves it.
Beaudoin explained the town can put a sign or light on Deport Road because it is a town road but not on Hampstead/Derry Road because that is a state road and needs permission for that from the state. The board authorized him to send the letter and get information from the state regarding what they will do and what they might consider allowing the town to do.
Recycling and Waste Disposal Pilot Program Approved by Hampstead Selectmen
By Penny Williams 4-26-22
The Board of Selectmen approved a pilot program recommended by the Recycling and Waste Disposal Committee at their Monday night, April 25, meeting.
The pilot program is about residents adding an extra bag for pick-up. The orange bags will need to be used with a green sticker, both obtained at the same time from the Town Hall. The cost of the extra bag and sticker is $7 and only one extra bag can be put out a week.
Residents using the extra bag will need to put the bag on top of the barrel. There will be information on the purchase of the sticker that the resident is responsible if the bag falls off or rips.
The program will be a six-month trial to see how often it is used and how well it works. The plan will start once the board approves it. After a brief discussion the board approved the 6 month extra bag Pilot Program.
Police Chief Joe Beaudoin announced that the Drug Take Back program would take place on April 30, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Police Station.
Beaudoin asked the Selectmen to wave the fee for two detail officers for the Food Truck Festival on Saturday, April 30.
The Food Truck Festival is put on by the Hampstead Congregational Church. There will be a variety of foods truck including Crescent City Kitchen, Mr. B’s Tacos, Boogalow’s Island BBQ, Kona Ice, The Whoo(Pie) Wagon, Pat’s Cider Donuts, Chubb’s Fries and Dough, and The Traveling Foodie.
Participants are encouraged to bring a chair or blanket and pull up a socially distanced spot on the lawn to enjoy your food and enjoy performing artists from Let’s Play Music, The Sons of the Solstice and Space Heaters.
The entrance fee is $5 for ages 5 and up, cash or check only. The event will benefit the Hampstead Congregational Church and the New Hampshire Food Bank., which will be collecting donations during the event. The board approved waiving the fee for his officers at the event.
Beaudoin told the board he is applying for a grant for K9 dog for the department. The grant is for $27,000 and would cover expenses to get the program up and running.
He asked the board to agree to support the grant and the program if the department gets it. The board approved supporting both the program and the grant.
The board discussed forming the Energy Committee. It approved forming the committee and Chair Sean Murphy suggested putting it out to the public asking those interested in membership to send a letter of interest to the board. It was noted that the board thinks that a School Board member, a member from the Library, and Steve Harms, Grounds and Facilities Director, should be on the committee.
Selectmen's Administrative Assistant Sally Theriault advised the board that of the $451,840.52 ARPA funds, $111,554 have been expended.
The board learned that children have been playing dangerously and doing damage at the Depot Fields. If anyone sees any activity that is not appropriate they should call the police not the Recreation Committee.
The Master Plan Committee has worked with Rockingham Planning Commission's Jenn Rowden and there are plans for a Public Hearing at the Town Hall on May 5, with a second scheduled at the Hampstead Middle School at 9 a.m. on May 7.
It was noted that while the NH State Executive Council has approved buying the Hampstead Hospital they did not approved the funding for its operation.
Hampstead Selectmen Agree to Create Energy Committee, Discuss Cell Tower Lease and Appoint Committee Members
By Penny Williams 4-13-22
On Monday night, April 11, the Hampstead Board of Selectmen approved a suggestion from board member Steve Morse to create an Energy Committee.
Morse and School Board Chair David Smith visited Londonderry recently to listen to information at a meeting regarding Derry's Net Zero Plan and its accomplishments. Impressed they decided to see if something similar to Derry's program would help Hampstead.
The Net Zero Plan was created in 2016 in Derry and is made up of municipal, school district, and community stakeholders who share a vision of finding ways to arrive at cost-effective solutions for reducing energy costs. It has brought a solar project to the Transfer Station property in Derry.
Morse and Smith wish to create a committee made up of town and school district stakeholders to look for solutions in Hampstead that would reduce energy costs. Morse suggested the committee would evaluate the municipal and school district energy needs and then work to find ways to address these in a more cost effect manner.
After a discussion the board voted to approve the creation of the Energy Commission and Morse said he would go to the School Board with the proposed committee.
The board then discussed the sale of the cell tower lease. The town doesn't own the tower, only the land it is on. It receives about $18,000 in annual revenue from the current tower owner and has a 25 year lease.
The board discussed the pros and cons of selling the lease. It was thought that the town might well earn more revenue over the long haul from the sale of the lease but further discussion was needed to determine how long to sell the lease for.
The board finally decided to create a RFP for a 20 to 30 year sale of the lease which would retain the right for the town's emergency fire department equipment on the tower. It would also include the town receiving a revenue share should the current tower owner get another vendor for the tower.
Where the money would go if such a sale went through was subject of a long discussion. In the end it will take a Warrant Article from the voters on where to put the money from the sale of the lease.
The money from the lease sale would go into the General Fund and then could be moved to the Capital Reserve Fund created for this purpose if the voters so instructed.
The board decided that more information and more structure need to be done regarding the account established for the funds from the sale of the lease.
Morse said that Road Agent Jon Worthen has resurrected the Adopt a Road Program and he has put a list of available roads on the Web site. Bags and sign-up are available.
Selectman Laurie Warnock indicated she plans to work with Public Library IT Director Kate Thomas on updating the Social Media and Cell Phone policies.
Selectmen's Administrative Assistant Sally Theriault updated the board on the ARPA funds saying that $106,421.01 has been spent so far. She plans to go over the entire list expenditures at the next meeting.
The decision regarding use of trails on the Hampstead Hospital property is a matter for decision between the town's Conservation Commission and the hospital but given the nature of hospital's patient community it appears this would be a security risk.
Theriault asked board chair Sean Murphy to sign another Used Oil Grant Application as the State changed the application.
Murphy read off the re-appointments, Brent Ebner to Conservation, David Rollins and Linda Anthony to Water Resource and the board approved them.
Hampstead Selectmen Given Planning Board Master Plan Update
By Penny Williams 4-4-22
Planning Board Chair and member of the Master Plan Steering Committee Robert Weimar gave the Hampstead Selectmen an update on the work taking place on the Master Plan at Mondays, March 28 meeting..
Weimar reported that the Master Plan Vision Statement has been finished and he asked that everyone review it and let the committee know if it covers what is wanted and what if anything should be added. The object is to determine if the committee is on the right track.
He indicated they are working with Jen Rowden, Rockingham Planning Commission Land Use Manager and following state guidelines.
There are three phases to the Master Plan work. The first was the 2021 Survey.
This took place between June 1, and June 30, 2021 with a total of 800 individuals taking the Master Plan survey and providing 77,589 responses or comments to the survey questions. This survey will serve as one of many sources used in the current Master Plan update; other sources may include public meetings, census data, and other resources. A summary of the survey results and the full results are available on the Hampstead Planning Board website at www.hampsteadnh.us/planning-board.
Phase two is this, the Vision Statement and objectives which we are seeking opinions on as to completeness or what needs to be added.
The final phase will be a more detailed Master Plan developed to achieve the vision objectives. Weimar hopes to present the finished work to the board by the end of the year.
In describing the work being done he said the goals are to ensure the Master Plan is useful; that it presents and protects the character of the community; that there is a balance of municipal services; that protections for the environment are provided; recreation is available for all; that communications are clear and available; that community development is supported; that there is diversity in housing; that clean water is protected and made available; that there is safe transportation (referring to walking and bicycling); that historical, cultural, and agricultural protections are provided; and, that civic involvement is encouraged.
Weimar encourage everyone to read the vision statement and review the survey and make comments. He said there will be two public hearings one at Town Hall on Thursday, May 5 and a second on Saturday, May 7 at Hampstead Middle School and he encouraged people to attend and be prepared to comment.
Jim Wilkerson, Conservation Commission, told the board members that there are trails at the rear of the 90 acre Hampstead Hospital parcel that connect to other conservation system and town owned property trails.
He wanted the board to look into determining if the state would allow these trails to be maintained once the sale of Hampstead Hospital is completed. He would like the state to allow the trails to continue to be used and wondered whether a conservation easement might be possible or whether the land with the trails might be donated to the town by the state.
It was noted that this is something that the town will need to stay on top of. However, Police Chief Joe Beaudoin noted that there are some real issues involved here in as much as the hospital patient population will be of an entirely different population than is currently there. He saw significant issues with people being on the trails if a patient were to escape and be sought by law enforcement.
The board agreed the state should be aware of the trails and the interest the town has in continuing to use them but as Chair Sean Murphy pointed out, the state is unable to make any statements or decisions with the town until the actual sale has been completed and Beaudoin indicated that won't be until July 1.
Road Agent Jon Worthen provided the board members with the list of roads he plans to work on. He added the expected type of work per road and the estimated cost.
He told the board the cost of asphalt has risen significantly so he expects the costs will exceed expectations and it may be necessary to drop planned work on a smaller road to stay within the budget limits.
Selectman Laurie Warnock spoke of the development of the community garden at St. Anne's. There will be raised plots for community members (elders) and she spoke of the work being done by the schools and students to make this a truly community garden.
The board discussed the cell tower issue with Selectmen's Administrative Assistant Sally Theriault asking if the board was ready to decide for how long they were interested in leasing the cell tower and if they wanted a RFP developed.
The board has to decide if they want to sell the lease for a 25 or 30 year period and if they do sell it where the funds from the sale would go. The board members demurred asking for more information before making any final decisions.
Theriault noted that she is working with the school district to see if they can achieve a cost saving by partnering on fuel bids. She also noted that there has been a technology review of the town departments and town hall.
A Conservation Easement has been developed for the five properties approved by the voters and she asked the selectmen to sign the document.
The board accepted the resignation of Steve Wentworth from the Planning Board and the Stormwater Committee.
The board approved Zoning Board of Adjustment (ZBA) alternate Karen Hanides as a full time ZBA member and approved as a Library Trustee Alternate Robert O'Brien. The board also approved Laura Jones to be a member of the CART Advisory Board.
In Other News:
Heaven’s Kitchen, a ministry of St Anne’s Food Pantry and St Anne’s Parish continues to look for ways in which we can help our community cope and find ways to minister to those most in need. Our Community Chicken Kiev Dinner, to go! Heaven’s Kitchen to World Central Kitchen to support their efforts in Ukraine
On Thursday, April 7th from 4:30-6 p.m. we will be offering a Chicken Kiev dinner for pick up behind St Anne’s Parish. We will offer individual size meals. Meal will consist of Rice Pilaf, Chicken Kiev (stuffed chicken breast), chicken pan gravy, butternut squash, spinach, buttermilk biscuit and our own apple crisp for dessert.
WCK is active in Ukraine, Poland, Romania, Moldova, and Hungary where they have served more than 1,000,000 meals since launching their response.
● WCK is supporting the community as best they can and focusing on serving as many people as possible at border crossings, shelters, and other locations along the journey. WCK has also established its own field kitchen in Przemyśl, Poland. ● In addition to hot meals, WCK is distributing bulk food product including produce and dry goods to restaurant partners in Ukraine to supplement the strained food supply chain.
● They prioritize working with local food businesses because it allows them to leverage the existing infrastructure to provide meals immediately
● They invest in the local economy during a time when business as usual has ground to a halt.
● They ensure the meals they provide are culturally relevant and engage the local community in their response.
In lieu of a set cost, we ask that you donate at the time of pick up. We encourage you to be as generous as you can at this time. Imagine, during the winter months having to flee your home on short notice and in many cases, walk for days and weeks to find a haven for you and your children. Not knowing when or if you will ever return to your home and if you do, what will remain of that place you have raised your family.
Please place your order by end of the day Sunday, April 3rd by providing last name and number of meals. Orders can be texted to 603.339.3731 or by calling the Parish office at 603.329.5886. Please make checks out to St Anne’s Parish or pay in cash.
Hampstead Selectmen Re-elect Sean Murphy as Chairman and elect Steve Morse as Vice Chair
By Penny Williams 3-15-22
The Hampstead Board of Selectmen met on Monday night, March 14, and reorganized the board assignments.
Chair Sean Murphy was nominated and re-elected as Chair of the Selectmen and Steve Morse was elected as the Vice Chair. The only liaison change was Selectman Joe Guthrie suggested combining Highway and Building and Grounds in the future but suggested Morse should have Building and Grounds now and Morse agreed. Guthrie accepted Senior Affairs liaison from Laurie Warnock but the rest of the assignments remained the same.
Dave Smith, school board and resident, spoke to the board and suggested that Hampstead consider implementing impact fees in some form.
He also asked for interested people to take part in the Community Garden effort at St. Anne's where plots will be available for individuals later on. He also asked for volunteers to help with the main garden work.
The board opened the bids for Recreation mowing and fertilization. There were three bids for mowing and two for fertilization and they were handed over to Matthew Johnson, Recreation Chair for that board's review and recommendation.
At the end of the meeting Johnson returned with Recreation's recommendation to have Auger Property Management do the mowing and to go with Lawn Master for fertilization and the board approved these selections.
Police Chief Joe Beaudoin said the two pole attached radar signs have arrived and he recommended putting them in the Tel Noar/Harris Avenue and Agawam Avenue areas. The portable radar sign will be coming and that can be placed in different driveways and locations.
In the work session prior to the meeting the board voted to appoint North Point Management as the construction company for the Hampstead Fire Department Building and Renovation project. The board also voted to approve using $50,000 of ARPA funding for the project to provide adequate cash flow.
Selectman Laurie Warnock brought up whether the town ballot should have the tally recommendation for articles on the Warrant. The law, she noted requires if used it be for appropriation articles but would not be mandated for non-appropriation articles. The discussion was tabled until further legal information could be gotten.
Morse asked the board to approve authorizing the development of an RFP for an audit of the Town's IT system. ARPA money could fund the probably $7,5000 cost to do this. The board approved moving forward with developing an RFP.
Warnock said the negotiations continue trying to lower the proposed Hampstead Area Water Company (HAWC) per town fire hydrant increase to $1,419 per hydrant. The town has 63 hydrants and Lewis Builders has offered to contribute to lower the delta between the per hydrant cost now and the proposed increase. Regardless, this increase will significantly increase the Fire Department budget.
Three new hydrants will be installed - 2 along Route 121 and 1 at Emerson Avenue for the new Bluebird Storage.
The agreement with the Londonderry Dispatch has been approved.
The board voted to cover the $245 cost for Rob Morris, town historian and Chair of the Scenic ByWay Committee to attend the national meeting. The board voted to expend out of the administration budget up to $300.
Tina Harrington, Town Financial Clerk, was appointed to the Age Friendly Community Committee.
The board accepted with regret the resignation of Geoffrey Dowd from the Zoning Board of Adjustment.
Hampstead March 2022 Election Results
By Penny Williams 3-8-22
Hampstead residents elected the following at the March 8th elections. The leading issues were the Hampstead Central School bond and the Fire Department one and done building renovation and construction. The School bond failed to pass but the Fire Department article was approved.
* Selectmen: Joe Guthrie, Laurie Warnock, were re-elected for three year terms.
* Moderator: Neil Reardon was re-elected for another 2 years.
* Trustee of the Cemeteries: Stephen Wentworth was re-elected for a 3 year term
* Planning Board: Robert Weimar and Ryan Gray were elected for 3 year terms
* Trustee of the Trust Funds: Maria Kuhl was re-elected for three years
* Trustee of the Trust Funds: Kristina George re-elected for a two year term
* Library Trustee: Veronica Shelley, Kristina Durocher, were re-elected for three year terms
* Budget Committee: Lilli Walsh was re-elected for a three year term but one Budget Committee seat remains open
* Supervisor of the Checklist: Angeline Gorham was re-elected for a 6 year term
* School Board Member: Karl Hubner was elected for a 1 year term
* School Board Member: David Smith was re-elected for three more years
Among the 16 Warrant Articles the residents let their voices be heard:
* Article 5 - Operating Budget of $8,258,630 approved 1267 to 883
* Article 6 - Addition and Renovation of Fire Department Building - $1,745,793 approved 1203 to 993
* Article 8 - Residents approved o selling the Town's interest in any leases with tower development companies on Town Property located at the Kent Farm Transfer Station 1073 to 1008
* Article 10 - Residents overwhelmingly approved placing a conservation easement on town-owned properties located at Stony Ridge/Freedom Hill ( 3 parcels), Squire Ridge Road and Main Street 1843 to 287
* Article 11 - Residents voted yes on raising $10,000 for the Building Repairs and Maintenance Expendable Trust Fund 1413 to 731
* Article 12 - Residents voted yes on raising and putting $10,000 in the Hampstead Public Library Building Maintenance Non-Capital Reserve Fund 1352 to 800
* Petition Article 17 - Residents overwhelmingly approved changing the Zoning Board of Adjustment members from being appointed to being elected by a vote of 1699 to 415
School Board Articles are as follows:
* Article 2 - Residents failed to approved raising $12,595,000 for a five year bond to finance the Hampstead Central School Project and to raise $314,875 for the first year's interest - 3/5 vote required by a vote of 1146 to 1084
* Article 3 - Residents voted yes on the $31,671,796 budget 1709 to 490
* Article 4 - Residents voted yes on putting $500,000 from Surplus into School Renovation, Reconstruction, and Capital Improvement Fund of 2006 and transferred to the unassigned fund balance 1408 to 752
Article 5 - Residents voted yes on the Lot Line Adjustment at the Central School Property 1576 to 604
Hampstead Board of Selectmen Approve Community Health Services Contract
By Penny Williams 2-15-22
The Hampstead Board of Selectmen met on Monday evening, February 14, and there were no visitors, no department heads, nothing under new business and nothing under old business.
Selectmen's Administrative Assistant Sally Theriault ask the board to approve and sign the contract with Community Health Services that handles Hampstead Welfare for the town. The new contract is a two year contract and is a slight increased over the previous contract but Theriault said she had budgeted for this amount. This contract calls for $11,700.
Board member Steve Morse asked if there is information regarding the actual services the company provides the town. Theriault told him they send an itemized report monthly and these reports are put in the selectmen's file for their information. She also said if the board wanted she could put together a summary of the services provided over the last year.
The board was comfortable with the information and approved the new contract and authorized Chair Sean Murphy to sign the contract.
Theriault also said that the Water Resource Committee had reviewed the bids for Stormwater Management and recommended staying with the current company CEI. The board approved accepting the CEI contract and having Murphy sign the paperwork.
The board then went into non-public to discuss a letter they had received without identifying the letter writer or the subject.
The board has canceled its next meeting scheduled for February 28, and will not meet again until March14.
In Other News
* Recycling and Waste Disposal -
Extra Bag Program- The orange bags and green stickers are in. Ellen Cabral will do a test at home to see how strong the bag is and how the process works putting the bag on top of the barrel. There will be verbiage on the purchase of the sticker that the resident is responsible if the bag falls off or rips. The program will be a six-month trial to see how often it is used and how well it works. The plan is to start it in April, which will allow time to get it advertised. The cost decided at the last meeting was going to be $7.00 per sticker/bag (they will go together).
2022 Flyer- There was discussion about updating the information and get it out with the information on the extra bag program and that bags will not be accepted at the transfer station. It can also add the information about the Swap Shop. The extra trash cart through Pinard is now at $175 for a year, and is prorated the first year. Secretary Tina Harrington was asked to see if there were any changes to what is allowed for recycling curbside, especially black plastics.
Clean Up Hampstead Day- This is set for Saturday, May 7th. It will get advertised, but the residents can actually do it whenever they want and notify the town of where the bags are located to be picked up. Bags will be available at the Town office during normal business hours, and on May 7th at the Town Office front steps from 9 a.m.to 11 a.m. There was discussion about having the blue bags available at the transfer station, but decided against this idea and instead will be available at the Swap Shop on April 16th.
ARPA Funds- There was request to see what else needs to be done to be considered for the ARPA funds for a new packer at the Transfer Station. Harrington reported that she needs to get acost and proposal together but the request had been submitted to get on the list.
Compost Class- There was discussion about whether or not to have a compost class and if so whether the NRRA had someone that would do it. The compost bins should be advertised again and Harrington will check to see how many are left. Member Reinhild Davis will do some research on composting companies to see if they also would do guest speaking and this could be done the same day as the clean up Hampstead Day. It was suggested that if they can find a speaker that it be held outside, such as the bandstand or Ordway Park.
The Reuse Caboose Swap Shop-Everyone agreed to go with the Reuse Caboose for the name and now need to look at getting the container cleaned up and painted. The committee will need to find a company that can do the prep work and paint the container (via the spray method). They would also like to have an art student come in and paint some drawings such as a train on the container. Will use the Facebook page to see if there is any interest.
There was a question about the plastic bags and the Trex program. It was wondered if there was a more efficient way to collect plastic bags such as at the Kent Farm Transfer Station. This was thought to go against the message of no plastic bags at the transfer station. The local stores still allow people to drop off their plastic bags and there are still people collecting bags to turn into Trex. There was also the question as to whether or not Trex was the only option and if benches were the only option. Trex is the only company doing such as project and according to their website, only benches are being given out on the bag recycling program.
Need to look at new signage for the packer to show no plastic bags or bagged trash.
Hampstead Board of Selectmen Set Operating and Default Budgets
By Penny Williams 1-25-22
On Monday night, January 24, the Hampstead Board of Selectmen met and the Default Budget was corrected and the difference between the Operating and Default Budgets was set.
Selectmen's Administrative Assistant Sally Theriault had contacted Town Counsel Diane Gorrow, Soule, Leslie, Kidder, Sayward & Loughman, with default budget inclusion questions.
One was whether the default can include employee COLA and merit increases. Gorrow responded saying, "...the COLA and merit increases cannot be included in the default budget." She indicated that the board could amend the default budget at their meeting before the Warrant is posted since it would be acting "on relevant new information...".
The board amended the default budget amount to $8,118,812 which creates a difference of $139,818 between the default and the operating budget of $8,258,630. Theriault went over where she had made changes and corrections to the previously provided default budget. She noted the default budget is lower than the operating budget and the board discussed this briefly.
After the discussion the board approved the amended default budget and then approved moving it to the Warrant.
Theriault had also asked Gorrow about the wording, "raise and appropriate" in Article 9 that asks voter approval to transfer funds in the amount of $15,000 from the Town Forest Maintenance Account to the Conservation Fund.
Gorrow explained that the terms "raise and appropriate" do not mean the money must be raised by taxation. She noted raised means to collect or procure. Appropriate means to set that amount of money apart for a specified purpose and to authorize expenditure of said funds.
Gorrow suggested if the board chooses, the language of the article could be changed by adding "No amount to be raised from taxation."
After a brief discussion the board approved the new wording of Article 9 as suggested by Gorrow.
SAU Superintendent Robert Thompson addressed the board noting he found severe deficiencies in the Hampstead Central School Building making the Construction and Renovation project necessary. He indicated the cost has grown from the $10,000,000 last year to $12,595,000 this year.
He indicated the school budget is down 2.09 percent or roughly $300,000 from the previous year's budget with the operating budget in the amount of $31,671,796 while the default budget is $31,972,403, which is higher than the operating budget.
Resident Jaye Dimando spoke suggesting that the selectmen consider separating and addressing individually the Library Budget, the School Budget and the Town Budget.
Her point was the selectmen can't change either the school or library budget as things stand now but by addressing each individually the voters could.
Selectman Joe Guthrie read a letter from the Library Trustees asking that the proposed Patio at the library be considered for some ARPA funds. He also read a letter from the Library Trustees asking that the board speak up against the proposed zoning change to allow commercial business to be installed on the lot adjacent to the library parcel.
Selectman Laurie Warnock said the Hampstead Area Water Company (HAWC) has had its proposed temporary rate increase of 15 percent reduced to 12.31 percent by the Public Utilities Commission.
These increases are retroactive to June 2021. Board Chair Sean Murphy voiced his concern over the very large bill people could receive this month and called it unfair and said he would make some calls.
There was a discussion about the article calling for the election of rather than appointment of Zoning Board of Adjustment members.
A letter from Planning Board member Hank Riehl, speaking as a resident, outlined his belief that appointed is better because then the selectmen have the opportunity to do in-depth research on proposed members to ensure they do not have an "agenda" or leanings in particular directions. Whereas election of members usually wouldn't do this type of research and careful selection.
Selectman Steve Morse proposed and the board approved getting draft minutes of Selectmen's meeting minutes up on the web site quickly. Morse also asked the board to approve asking other boards and committees to do this as well and this was approved. However, it was noted the selectmen cannot make committees and boards do this but can recommend it.
Theriault said she would work on making this happen. It was noted that the various minutes should be included in the Communications Committee Newsletter,
Morse suggested he also wanted a specific Face Book page for the town information to be created.
This was discussed but the board wanted to make sure if this happens the Face Book Page is not interactive. But before this can happen the Social Media Policy of the Town needs to be reviewed and updated, Warnock suggested and the board agreed.
In Other News
The Recycling and Solid Waste Disposal Committee discussed where to go with the concerns they have about rules and expectations. It was suggested that the rules be explained and that more information be on the website such as no trash taken and no bags accepted.
The heating/ac unit is working and the electric is all set up and paid for at the shed at the Transfer Station. Only items left would be closing up the walls.
The committee would like to move forward with requesting funds from the ARPA funds. They agreed they need to come up with a cost proposal and include the second packer, the pad, electricity costs and paving of the area. There would also be a cost avoidance calculation in that the second packer would save money and /or time on. A proposal will be put together when the time comes to present the request.
Recycling Secretary Tina Harrington reported that it is difficult to find a small quantity of bags, for additional trash pick-up bags. Most companies have a 10,000 minimum.
The committee discussed the reason for the overflow bag, which would is to help those that have an occasional extra bag and don’t want to buy the annual subscription barrel.
It is also a way to stop bags from going to the transfer station where there is also the issue of trash bags going into the roll off containers and then they are denied at the Casella facility because they are not licensed to take trash 2 there.
Member Ellen Cabral will go to the Selectmen’s meeting on December 27th to explain the plan and why they are looking to go in this direction
It was suggested to add more money to the Kent Farm Salaries for an additional person for Transfer Station.
Cabral stated that people think they need to bring items to the Swap Shop in order to take items as in the name swap. She would like to rename it. A couple of names that were suggested were “Free for All” “Finders Keepers” and “Second Time Around”.
The Library Trustees held a Public Hearing to accept $57,734.00 in grant money from the State Library of New Hampshire. These funds are going to be renovating the entire children’s area of the library to bring it up to more modern needs of our younger patrons and their families.
Budget Committee reports the select board approved the warrant article for the library.
Director Rosemary Krol told the Trustees the Virtual Town forum is live on the Library website, and Hampstead Cable will also be airing it on channel 17
Brick sales for funding the construction of the Patio are at 249, which is halfway to our goal of 500
Treasurer Charlene Flaherty received a request from Northeast Planning Associates (NPA) asking if the library was ready to receive the proceeds from its investments. The Trustees will be reviewing and potentially amending their investment policy. NPA will likely be providing our Q4- 2021 report around Jan 24th. The distributions will be $9148 if we take the full earnings as we have in the past, or $8055 if we take the proceeds less the cost of living adjustment to help make sure the balance retains its value for the future.
The Investment Policy was read and approved
The Non-resident Card Holder Policy (second reading) was approved and the Library Card Patron Eligibility (second reading) was approved.
The Trustees discussed the proposed building of Trade Business units behind the library. Krol wrote letter to the zoning board and will be sending it and a petition will be created. Krol and Trustees wrote a letter to be sent to the select board to request that the library - patio project - be considered for the next round of ARPA funds.
It was suggested that a new Bank account be created to hold the grant funds received and the various proceeds/interest to help make bookkeeping easier and more transparent.
The board discussed recent statements or confusion that happened at a recent public meeting. This refers to comments made by Jaye Dimando at the last Selectmen's meeting.
The Trustees want to refute the information. The Trustee want to make sure factual information about the library is available and that if anyone has concerns about what transpires at the Library Trustees meetings about budget, or finances, or funding at the library, they can come to any of our public meetings.
Any concerns or questions about any of the library’s practices should be addressed to the trustees so they can answer them. If anyone wishes to attend any trustees meeting and the time is a deterrent, the trustees have always said that meeting times can change as needed some months to make sure people can attend.
Another thing the trustees want the public to know is they are not meeting in isolation and without oversight of any town official. Our Liaisons from both the Select Board (Joe Guthrie) and the Budget Committee (Carol Cipriano) faithfully attend our meetings, as does the Friends of the Library Liaison John Skidmore. All the reports from each meeting and the trustees’ minutes are on the library’s website.
Hampstead Selectmen Hold Public Hearing on Warrant Articles and Budget
By Penny Williams 1-14-22
The Hampstead Board of Selectmen held a public hearing on the budget and the articles for the Warrant on Wednesday, January 12.
Chair Sean Murphy reviewed the budget and the Articles and then the board voted on their recommendation for each of the articles. Articles 5 through 17 were recommended 5-0 with the exception of Article 16, (citizen petition - regarding freezing school portion of property tax for those over 65 - an illegal article) which the board voted unanimously not to recommend
Article 5, the Operating Budget and Default Budget had corrected bottom lines. Murphy went through the budget department by department. The Operating Budget is $8,258,630 while the Default is $8,218,078. The Default amount was an amended number. With the amended figures, there is a much lower delta between the Operating and Default budgets.
During the operating budget review there was a lot of discussion led by Selectman Joe Guthrie and Resident Jaye Dimando about the salary increases of Library personnel. The changes in the default are primarily due to the inclusion of part time to full time positions and associated money in the default. However, there were no changes to the overall budget.
Article 6, the $1,745,793 cost of the Fire Department construction project came in for discussion with Guthrie trying to lower the amount to be raised from tax payers. In the end the decision was made to remove any reference in this article to monies that might offset the amount to raised.
Article 7, establishment of a Building Capital Reserve Fund for new construction, renovation and Town Building additions and the money to start this was set at $1.00.
Article 8, asks for the authority for the Town to sell the lease of Communication Tower. Any mention of a possible amount from the sale was eliminated from this article.
Article 9, asks for the transfer of $15,000 from Town Forest Maintenance to the Conservation Commission Fund. Conservation Chair Tim Lovell said this is because the $15,000 would be of greater benefit this way as it would increase the amount the commission has to purchase land. The money in the Town Forest Management Account has been just sitting there for several years unused. Guthrie insisted that there is no need for an article to do this.
Article 10, requested five town properties have a conservation easement put on them. There was a brief discussion regarding one property, the Main Street property.
Article 11, asks to add $10,,000 to the Building Repair and Maintenance Fund.
Article 12, asks that $10,000 be added to the Library Building Maintenance Non-Capital Reserve Fund.
Article 13, asks for $6,800 to support Rockingham Community Action
Article 14, asks for $17,142 for CART.
Article 15, asks for $500 for CASA.
Article 16, an (illegal) citizen petition wants those 65 and over not to have to pay the school portion of property taxes.
Article 17, a citizen petition, seeks to have Zoning Board of Adjustment members be elected not appointed.
The articles were forwarded to the Warrant and on to the Budget Committee.
Hampstead Board of Selectmen Review Articles for Budget Public Hearing
By Penny Williams 1-12-2022
The Board of Selectmen met Monday night, January 10, and reviewed articles in preparation for the upcoming Budget Public Hearing.
Chair Sean Murphy first reviewed the open seats in Hampstead that include the following:
* Incumbent Selectman TWO, Three year terms Joseph Guthrie Laurie Warnock
* Planning Board TWO, Three year terms Charles Ashford Robert Villella
* Moderator ONE, Two year term Neil Reardon
* Trustee of the Cemeteries ONE, Three year term Stephen Wentworth
* Library Trustee TWO, Three year terms Veronica Shelley Kristina Durocher
* Trustee of the Trust Funds ONE, Three year term Maria Kuhl, Trustee of the Trust Funds ONE, Two year term Kristina George
* Budget Committee TWO, Three year terms Lilli Walsh, OPEN SEAT
* Supervisor of the Checklist ONE, Six year term Angeline Gorham
The board then went over a few of the proposed articles before approving them for the Warrant and the Budget Committee.
The first discussed was article 11, concerning conservation and an easement for property off of Main Street.
Conservation Chair Tim Lovell addressed one of the areas in the article this saying this property should be protected from development because it connects to Conservation Land, Cedar Swamp. More importantly, homes in this area of Main Street have had serious water issues with their wells and this property shouldn't be developed, adding further stress to water issues. It was decided to put the article forward as written.
Article 5, Operating Budget and Default. This year there is a larger than normal delta between the Operating budget ($8,258,629) and the Default ($8,085,872). There was a discussion about removing some of the items from the Default and in the end Murphy suggested that a recommendation be sought from Town Counsel regarding removing any items and the final figures were posted Wednesday on the town's Web site.
There was a long discussion on article 6, the $1.7 million 'one and done' for the Fire Station Construction.
Selectman Joe Guthrie wanted the amount reduced to $1,000,000 so it would pass but it was decided this might handicap construction if costs exceeded the amount and the other money expected didn't appear - a grant for $200,000 and money from ARPA funds. In the end the board decided to wait until after the Budget Public Hearing to determine the final amount for this article.
On article 9, (the sale of the Cell Tower lease, and where the funds from the sale would go), was discussed and it was decided to set $300,000 as the sale amount and up to that amount would go into the established Capital Reserve Fund.
Selectmen's Administrative Assistant Sally Theriault told the board a new category relative to how ARPA funds can be reported would allow them to lump all their decisions on spending into it.
The new category is Revenue Replacement Standard Allowance. There was a discussion about this and Fire Chief Michael Carrier pointed out any ARPA funds allocated to the proposed Fire Station Construction project wouldn't be able to be in that new category.
The board wanted Theriault to get further clarification about exactly what can be reported under the Standard Allowance Revenue Replacement category.
Theriault asked the board if they wanted to reduce the number of paid days an employee is eligible for if out of work because of COVID from the 10 days now allowed to 5 days, given the new CDC Guidelines. After a discussion the board voted not to make any change in their present 10-day policy.
Carrier was approved for an submitting an application for a $49,307.46 grant for emergency relief and recovery. equipment and to be authorized to sign for accepting up to $50,000 for the grant.
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