Town of Waterville Valley

The Forest Management Plan for Waterville Valley outlines a comprehensive strategy focused on ecosystem restoration, responsible forest management, and community awareness. Key initiatives include removing dead and flammable vegetation, replanting fire-resistant deciduous trees and native vegetation, improving soil health, and controlling invasive species. The plan emphasizes educating residents on fire prevention, including proper cigarette disposal and safe campfire practices, to enhance the long-term resilience and health of the town's forests against the impacts of changing climate and potential wildfires.

The primary discussion focused on road salt usage during winter conditions, particularly addressing the necessity of switching from a sand-to-salt ratio mixture to straight salt application during periods of subzero temperatures to prevent black ice and improve road safety. The operational benefits of a new plow truck with an enhanced Cutting Edge designed to reduce salt usage were discussed. The commission also explored the Green Pro program for salt reduction, noting a lack of municipal incentives compared to commercial participation and the high cost of liquid application methods like brine. Concerns were raised regarding public expectation for clear roads versus environmental impact, testing for elevated sodium/chloride levels in water sources, and excessive salt application on sidewalks and in condominium areas, leading to discussions about public education and communication with property managers to encourage reduced chemical use.

This session was the second required public hearing concerning a land donation offered to the town by David Britain, as stipulated by State RSA 4114a. The Board opened the public hearing to listen for questions, noting that the presentation from the first hearing, held on September 26, was recorded and available for review. The Board confirmed that correspondence from the public on the matter had not yet been received. A resident spoke to voice support for the land donation. The public hearing was subsequently closed, with the Select Board planning to vote on the matter at the next regular meeting scheduled for October 23, as per the minimum 7-to-14-day waiting period requirement.

The meeting commenced with a Non-Public Session discussing legal advice, followed by the public session call to order. Key discussions included concerns regarding pond water levels for snowmaking efforts, resulting in a decision to maintain current levels according to O&M procedures while ensuring communication between the Director of Public Works and the WVSR Operations Manager. New business covered discussions for the 2026 Budget, setting dates for the Budget & Bond Hearing, School Budget hearing, Town Meeting/Election, and School Annual Meeting. Old business included clarifying the Town's responsibility limit (25%) in the WVSR Transit Agreement and an update on the Town Manager Search Committee, which has three candidates for interviews. Additionally, the public hearing for the WWTF Communications item was postponed to the week of January 19th, and the Board reviewed updates on sludge removal scheduling with the EPA, outstanding finance reports, and department head activities, including winter water break contract signing and website redesign options.

The meeting commenced with a non-public session concerning the hiring of a public employee, followed by the official call to order. During the privilege of the floor, representatives from the Community Power Committee explained their switch to ECM LLC to achieve a lower charge per KWH. New business involved the approval of a sign permit application for Alpine Advent. Old business discussions included minor changes to the WVSR Transit Agreement, approval of the NCC Professional Services Agreement for the Planning Board Land Planning Consultant with defined hourly rates and budget caps, and an update indicating no current developments from the TM Search Committee. The Wastewater Treatment Facility (WWTF) update included planning for a public hearing in January 2026, authorization for contract negotiations with Tighe & Bond for value engineering services, and updates on potential EPA funding sources. Department heads provided updates, including signing ambulance billing insurance agreements, allowing a contractor trailer storage, road treatments, and discussing the statewide staffing crisis for water/wastewater operators. Ex-officio reports noted that 12 of 13 proposed zoning amendments are moving forward following a public hearing. The session concluded with a second non-public session regarding a legal matter.