TOWN OF ALLENSTOWN
SELECTMEN'S OFFICE
16 SCHOOL STREET
ALLENSTOWN, NEW HAMPSHIRE 03275
SELECTMEN'S PUBLIC MEETING 5/24/2004
The Chairman of the Board, Arthur G. Houle, opened the meeting at 7:00 PM. Present at the meeting were the Chairman, Arthur G. Houle, Sandra A. McKenney, and Peter A. Viar, Selectmen; David A. Jodoin, Adminitrative Assistant, and Laura Bonk, from the Conservation Commission.
Laura Bonk discussed the cleanup for Town cemeteries, one in particular, the Dowst Allen Cemetery. There are 8 small cemeteries in Town, and the Conservation Commission is doing repair work, disposing of trash, debris, and tree limbs, and possibly also trees.
The Cemetery in question is located between the Talbot residence and the Beaucher residence on Wing Road. Laura has contacted the Attorney General's office to find out what happens if a resident refuses to let them on their property to get to the cemetery. Under RSA 289:14, two things can happen legally: the land can be called abandoned or a temporary right of way can be granted. Laura explained that the Commission can access the Cemetery without crossing on Mr. and Mrs. Talbot's land, however, and it is not necessary to go through legal channels.
Mrs. Talbot does not want anyone to cross on her land to get to the Cemetery. The Commission has permission from Mr. Beaucher to cross on his land. There is a stonewall that should not be disturbed which rests on the Talbot's property. Sandie will call Mrs. Talbot and let her know what is happening in case she sees the group in the Cemetery.
Chairperson Houle stated that any tire problem is now a Health Department problem, and will be taken care of by that Department.
The Selectmen discussed the use of the Town Buildings as meeting places, because the Town has to be protected from liability and a certificate of insurance needs to be in place. The TrailDawgs have been having their meetings at the Fire Department, and, as an outside organization, the group needs to show a certificate of insurance. Also, if a firefighter needs to be present at all meetings, the applicant will need to reimburse the Town for the individual's pay.
The Selectmen will be meeting with the Uchida law firm to discuss Lincoln Street opening as part of the McNamara's Landing project on June 7th.
The Selectmen will hold a Public Hearing on June 7th if there is enough time to post, to discuss opening up Lincoln Street as a means of access in and out of McNamara's Landing project.
The Hodgson Mill on Canal Street is without water as a result of a sprinkler problem. It will take two weeks for repairs. In the meantime, the Fire Department has been monitoring the situation. Fire Chief Everett Chaput wants to pay the personnel a detail rate of $30 an hour. The Selectmen do not agree to this and will inform the Chief that the pay will be the same as hourly rates paid.
A sub-committee has been formed for joint Sewer Department meetings with Pembroke and Allenstown. Arthur Houle will serve as the Selectmen's representative as well as perhaps asking someone who served in the past on various Boards.
The Dare Graduation is June 4th at ARD. The Selectmen are invited.
Mark Temple will receive his Eagle Scout award on June 13th. The Selectmen are invited to attend. Peter will attend.
The Planning Board room has been cleaned out. A chair is missing and Selectman Houle suggests perhaps dividing the room for more privacy and safety.
A new flag will be put up at Town Hall.
A discussion followed on the Historical Society and the Meeting House Steering Committee.
Carol Martel is the person in charge representing the Town on issues regarding the Old meeting House. The Historical Society can be the fundraiser for the meeting house but Carol will do the grant work through the Town. The Historical Society is in no way a part of the Allenstown Revitalization Association. The two groups, however, can work together for the benefit of the Town's history by sharing information.
Sandy stated that both groups should report weekly to the Selectmen and to each other for an update on what is happening, so that there is an ongoing flow of information. Sandra will call both Carol and Laura regarding this request to keep the lines of communication open.
Sandra McKenney made a motion, seconded by Peter Viar, to accept the minutes of May 17th. Selectmen's meeting. Motion passed.
Peter Viar made a motion, seconded by Sandra McKenney, to accept the minutes of May 10th Selectmen's meeting. Motion passed.
Work is being done by the contractor on the Bear Meadows subdivision road. No bond has been posted. The road is being graded, and someone is hauling fill and gravel. All contractors are required to post a bond. A motion was made by Peter Viar, seconded by Sandra McKenney, to issue a Cease and Desist until the requirements of the Planning Board are satisfied. Motion passed. The Attorney will prepare the legal documentation.
A motion was made by Sandra McKenney, seconded by Peter Viar, to adjourn the meeting. Motion passed. The meeting was adjourned at 8:44 PM.
ARTHUR G. HOULE, CHAIRMAN
SANDRA A. McKENNEY, SELECTPERSON
PETER A. VIAR, SELECTMAN