Select Board
Thursday, October 17, 2024
Meeting Minutes
Select Board: Andrew Maneval, Andrea Hodson, Kathy Scott
Attendees: John Cucchi, Christopher Dargie, John Ziemba, Charles Sorenson, Cathy Sorenson, Mike Wilder, Andrew Scanlan, Nancy Chabott, Adam Drew, Liz Friberg, Samantha Skove, Jon Miner, Julie Gargan, Don Scott, Afton Rodriquez
Agenda, Minutes of October 3 – The board approved the agenda and the Meeting Minutes of 10/3.
Code Enforcement -The Select Board met with the owner of 362 Chesham Road and interested abutters and attendees to discuss the Town’s Zoning Ordinances as they may pertain to the subject property, which is located in the Village Residential District.
The questions addressed included whether there was a use other than a residential use in a zoning district that is restricted to residential uses, and whether they may be a violation of the town’s junk ordinance by virtue of the materials and structures on the lot.
The property owner expressed extreme frustration with the Select Board and abutters for what he felt was overreach, unfair treatment, and a violation of his rights. He denied any wrongdoing and shared a number of photographs and slides to convey his argument.
The Select Board clarified the reason for the Town’s repeated attempts to connect with Mr. Drew and its responsibility to respond to complaints it receives. The board also clarified the purpose of the town’s ordinances, the SB’s practice of reaching out to property owners to resolve issues in a collaborative manner, its goal of treating all property owners equally, and that the reason for this meeting was to clarify the questions of the use of the property. Mr. Drew stated that the property is being used solely for personal reasons and storage of personal belongings, and in no way being used for his commercial business. He intends to improve its condition and to build a dwelling as his circumstances and time allow. He committed to returning to the town for the required approvals as he is able.
Following a lengthy discussion, Mr. Maneval moved that the Select Board recognize the input received from the Code Enforcement Officer, that the SB request that the board and Mr. Drew stay in touch regarding his intentions for a residence on that property, and that the Select Board defer any decision relative to an on alleged violation of the zoning ordinances until such time as it is renewed by input from the town or at the request of Mr. Drew.
There was no second on the prior motion. On the suggestion that the SB also address and dismiss the alleged violation of the junk ordinances, and following additional comments and re-confirmation from Mr. Drew that the property and goods on it are for personal use only, Mr. Maneval moved that, based on input from the Select Board members, the SB finds that there is no violation of the town ordinances at 362 Chesham Road at this juncture. Kathy Scott seconded. All voted in favor.
Mr. Maneval reiterated that the town aims always for consistent implementation of ordinances. Until the town changes them, the existing ordinances are what we are bound by, and town officials do their best to treat everybody equally.
Village Road project – The board will connect with the Road Agent on the timing for completion of the road project, estimated to be in the next couple of weeks.
Other business
Police activity – The SB heard from Chief LaMears on a serious police matter and safety threat in close proximity to town hall. The SB moved and voted in favor to request that the Chief work with Jeff Cady to explore costs and options for installing bullet proof glass in town hall windows and doors.
MS-434 (Revised Estimated Revenues) – The SB approved the Revised Estimated Revenue report for submission to the DRA. Andrea Hodson noted that, compared to 2023, estimated local revenues are down, capital reserve withdrawals are down, but overall revenues up due to fed and state funding. Pending approval and disbursement, there is potential for additional revenues before year end or in 2025.
2023 Warrant Article 10, Highway Barn solar array – The town’s application for the federally funded solar rebate is under active review by the NH Dept of Energy for approximately $30K. The town awaits notification of approval and, if approved, whether disbursement would be in 2024 or 2025.
DOE Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant – Peterborough is reviewing grant award contract details, after which the SB will review and vote whether to accept. The subsequent step will involve coordination of Harrisville’s launch in January in conjunction with Peterborough’s, and coordination of community outreach about “HeatSmart+” and communication about all elements of the program.
2024 Warrant Article 10, South Road Bridge – following Local Public Agency training certification, the next step is for engagement of Dubois & King to produce the updated engineering plans, expected by the end of the year.
The SB signed the pay warrant for $41,372.67 and the payroll warrant in the amount of $34,100.73.
The board signed the Transfer Authorization for the Trustees of the Trust Funds for a contribution to the Cemetery Maintenance Trust Fund in the amount of $175.00.
The SB signed the Election Warrant for posting by the Town Clerk. Election Day is Tuesday, November 5. Voting is at Wells Memorial School with the polls open from 8am – 7pm.
Building committee – Mr. Maneval shared that the Building Committee met and planned a site visit to the Old Fire Station, next to the Harrisville Pond Boat Ramp, and Old Highway Garage on Skatutakee Road, to discuss potential uses of structures and a process for gaining input from interested parties. No formal recommendation or proposal will be forthcoming for Town Meeting 2025. Committee members include Jeff Cady, Paul Clark, Charlie Sorenson and Andrew Maneval.
SB Draft Agenda for Fri 10/25 – The agenda includes discussion with DES Dam Bureau engineer and Russell Reservoir residents on water levels at Howe and Russell Reservoirs; an update from the Recycling Center on winter weatherization of the facility, and other business as needed.
The meeting adjourned at 9:00 pm.