Julia Griffin
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Town Meeting 1999

The annual Town Meeting of the Town of Hanover, New Hampshire was convened on May 11, 1999 at 7:00 a.m. by the Town Moderator, Harry Bird, at the Hanover High School gymnasium. Moderator Bird explained that the polls would be open from 7:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m. for the purpose of voting for the candidates for Town Offices and for all other articles requiring vote by official ballot as set forth in Articles One through Seven of the Town Meeting Warrant.

Moderator Bird requested residents of Hanover to be seated in chairs on the main floor of the gymnasium or on the bleachers. The Moderator noted that there were hearing assistive devices for those with hearing impairments.

After the polls were closed at 7:00 p.m., the following seven articles which were voted on were tabulated.

ARTICLE ONE: To vote (by nonpartisan ballot) for the following Town Officers:

Two Selectmen, to serve for a term of three (3) years each:

Marilyn "Willy" Black 527 (elected)
Brian Walsh 510 (elected)

One Treasurer to serve for a term of one (1) year:

Michael J. Ahern 540 (elected)

One Library Trustee to serve for a term of three (3) years:

Amy M. Stephens 536 (elected)

One Trustee of Trust Funds to serve for a term of three (3) years:

Judson T. Pierson 541 (elected)

One Supervisor of the Checklist to serve for a term of one (1) year:

Fay T. Sorenson 290 (elected)
Evalyn O. Hornig 206 (defeated)

Such other Town Officers as may be required by law.

ARTICLE TWO: "Are you in favor of the adoption of Amendment No. 1 as proposed by the Planning Board for the Hanover Zoning Ordinance as follows?" Amendment No. 1 would amend Section 902 "Term Definitions, Governmental Use" to more clearly define "governmental use". Amendment No. 1 would also add a new Section 324 that specifies the requirements for notification by governmental entities to the Board of Selectmen and the Planning Board when the governmental entity intends to initiate new development or significantly modify the use of governmental property.

RESULTS: YES 565 NO 27 ARTICLE PASSED

ARTICLE THREE: "Are you in favor of the adoption of Amendment No. 2 as proposed by the Planning Board for the Hanover Zoning Ordinance as follows?" Amendment No. 2 would add a new subsection "1006.4 Variance" to enable the Zoning Board of Adjustment to grant a variance without finding hardship when reasonable accommodations are necessary to allow a person or persons with a recognized physical disability to reside in or regularly use a premises.

RESULTS: YES 520 NO 46 ARTICLE PASSED

ARTICLE FOUR: "Are you in favor of the adoption of Amendment No. 3 as proposed by the Planning Board for the Hanover Zoning Ordinance as follows?" Amendment No. 3 would add a new subparagraph "317.1 K Signs" to exempt ordinance building directory panels and information signs from regulation if they are maintained within a building or not intended for view from outside the property. Amendment No. 3 also deletes reference to directory panels and information signs from subparagraph 317.3C.

RESULTS: YES 526 NO 67 ARTICLE PASSED

ARTICLE FIVE: "Are you in favor of the adoption of Amendment No. 4 as proposed by the Planning Board for the Hanover Zoning Ordinance as follows?" Amendment No. 4 would add a new paragraph 317.2 F to allow institutionally owned art museums to utilize signs and banners to identify the museum and to announce exhibitions open to the public. Amendment No. 4 also outlines limitations restricting the number, size and specific placement of such signs and banners.

RESULTS: YES 546 NO 60 ARTICLE PASSED

ARTICLE SIX: "Are you in favor of the adoption of Amendment No. 5 as proposed by the Planning Board for the Hanover Zoning Ordinance as follows?" Amendment No. 5 would amend Section 303 "Principal Buildings Including Dwellings on Lots" to insert the Service Business and Limited Manufacturing (BM) and Office and Laboratory (OL) zoning districts as areas where more than one principal building including dwellings can be allowed on one lot. Currently only the Institutional (I) and Business (B) zoning districts allow more than one principal buildings on a lot.

RESULTS: YES 450 NO 117 ARTICLE PASSED

ARTICLE SEVEN: "Are you in favor of the adoption of Amendment No. 6 as proposed by the Planning Board for the Hanover Zoning Ordinance as follows?" Amendment No. 6 would amend the definition of Building Height in Section 902 to clarify the means of measuring height from flat roofs, mansard roofs and other types including gambrel roofs.

RESULTS: YES 549 NO 39 ARTICLE PASSED

The Business Session of the 1999 Town Meeting of the Town of Hanover, New Hampshire was called to order by Moderator Harry Bird at 7:00 p.m. Selectmen present included: Marilyn W. Black, Chair; Brian F. Walsh, Vice Chair; Katherine S. Connolly; John W. Manchester and John P. Colligan. Town Manager Julia Griffin was also in attendance. Community Access Television (Channel 6) recorded the Town Meeting to rebroadcast.

ARTICLE EIGHT: To choose the following Town Officers to be elected by a majority vote:

One member of the Advisory Board of Assessors for a term of three (3) years;

Three Fence Viewers and one alternate for a term of one (1) year;

Two Surveyors of Wood and Timber each for a term of one (1) year;

Such other Officers as the Town may judge necessary for managing its affairs.

Selectman Black moved to nominate the following persons for the following offices:

One member of the Advisory Board of Assessors for a term of three (3) years - Robert McLaughry.

Three fence viewers and one alternate each for a term of one (1) year - Frederick Crory, Edward Lathem, Edward Lobacz, and Robert Morris.

Two surveyors of Wood and Timber each for a term of one (1) year - Willem Lange and John Richardson.

Selectman Walsh seconded the motion.

There was no further discussion or nominations from the floor regarding the nominations for Advisory Board of Assessors, Fence Viewers, and Surveyors of Wood and Timber, as shown above. A voice vote was taken on these nominations, and found to be in the affirmative. The motion was PASSED and Article Eight was ADOPTED.

Moderator Bird introduced Selectman Walsh to make some comments regarding the Board's understanding of the impact of the school funding situation in Concord on the finances of the Town of Hanover. Selectman Walsh said that Article Nine is relative to the Town's budget but any conversation about taxes this year has been overshadowed by the Claremont decision and the goings on in Concord in the State legislature about school funding. He said that the projections the Town has made are based on the legislation that is passed so far. He said that the most recent estimates are that there is a $120,000,000 shortfall in the $840,000,000 deemed to be what is required for adequate education for the State of New Hampshire. He said that it is not clear how this shortfall will be filled. He said that it could affect the projections of the effect on the Town. He said that many of the sources of funding are one time sources. He said that the question of how adequate education will be funded forever will have to be readdressed next year, if not readdressed again this year.

Selectman Walsh said that the basis for the funding formula is based on a number called the average daily matriculation. He said that school districts have not kept detailed and consistent track of the number of children attending school each day as it was not important previously. He said that the department of education is not sure how to determine the number. He said that the average daily matriculation has not been set yet for Hanover or any other town in the State. He said that with all of these caveats, the best projections the Town can make are that if all the other taxes remain the same this year (school tax, town tax, and county tax), the Hanover property tax bill will go up less than 3% to fund the Claremont decision. He said that it could be as low as 1Π%. He said that could change as the legislature figures out where to find the $120,000,000. He said that it could change as the average daily matriculation numbers roll in across the State.

ARTICLE NINE: To see what sum the Town will vote to raise and appropriate to pay the expenses of the Town for the 1999/2000 fiscal year, for the purposes set forth in the Town budget.

Selectman Walsh moved that the Town vote to appropriate the sum of Eleven Million Five Hundred Thirty One Thousand Six Hundred Eight Six ($11,531,686) Dollars to pay the expenses of the Town during the 1999/2000 fiscal year, for the purposes set forth in the Town Budget. Selectman Connolly seconded the motion.

Selectman Walsh said that each year, the Selectmen go through the process of setting goals for the Town. He said that last year they set a goal for the Town Manager to bring in a budget at or under inflation. He said that inflation over the past year was 1.6%. He said that when the budget was put together in February, it was at 1.6%. He said that in January discussions began in Concord about how to fund education. He said that the damage which could be done to Hanover was incalculable.

Selectman Walsh said that the SelectBoard looked at the effects of bringing in a 0% tax increase. He said that the budget they are presenting tonight is a 0% tax increase. He said that the general fund will have no tax increase. He said that in 1998-1999, the total appropriation was $7,105,168. He said that this upcoming general fund would be $7,125,907. He said that is a $20,000 increase. He said that there are some differences in the Capital Reserve Accounts. He said that the total increase in expenditures is about 1%. He said that it is off-set by increases in fees in the Planning, Zoning, and Building Code Office and increases in the Grand List. He said that the general fund has no tax increase.

Selectman Walsh said that while all this has been going on, they have achieved some major improvements in Town Government. He said that the Town Planning and Zoning Office has grown by 1Π people. He said that the Town has added a Community Police Officer position. He said that there is $20,000 in the budget to start a revaluation of the Town. He said that it has been 10 years since the last Town-wide revaluation. He said that there is $15,000 in the budget for improving the Town's geographic database. He said that the Town has implemented a classification and compensation program for the 108 employees at the Town. He said that the program lines up all the employees on a skill-base level and lines up their salaries and steps to grow with the regional job market.

Selectman Walsh said that in fire district 1, the tax rate is expected to go from $2.52 to $2.55. He said that the increases in districts 2, 3, and 4 are less. He said that the sidewalk fund tax rate will go down from 15 cents to 14 cents. He said that the parking fund will have major increases in the fees and the tax rate. He said that they do not touch the general taxpayer in Town. He said that they do not know what the county is projecting but they have not heard any big increases projected. He said that over the past 6 years, the general fund has grown at an average of 1.2% per year.

There was no further discussion. A voice vote was taken and found to be in the affirmative. The motion PASSED and the Budget was ADOPTED.

Moderator Bird introduced Suzanne Young, Vice Chair of the Hanover Parks and Recreation Committee, for the reading of the following Hanover Parks and Recreation Board Volunteer Service Award:

Resolution for William Young

"It is my honor and pleasure tonight to present the Hanover Parks and Recreation Board's Volunteer of the Year Award to a wonderful gentleman who has served the citizens of Hanover for many years in many different ways. Some of you know him as "Dr. Bill" and others as "Coach". This winter he even held the title of "Pond Party Princess." Whatever role he is playing, Dr. William Young does it with humor, heart and sincerity. Bill, would you please come up and receive your well-deserved accolades.

As Bill is making his way to the podium, I'd also like to take this opportunity to express the gratitude of the Recreation Board to all of the volunteers in Hanover who make the multitude of programs possible. We could not offer the variety and high quality programs that we do without you. Your generosity of time and spirit is simply amazing and is very much appreciated.

Bill Young is an obstetrician and gynecologist by profession and according to a colleague, he has "always been willing to voluntarily involve himself in educational and health care related work well beyond the requirements of his basic job description." This includes serving as an officer with the American College of OB/GYN's, as a consultant to various committees of the NH State legislature, and as a volunteer for Planned Parenthood of New England. Apparently, he is also the unofficial "social chairman" for his department at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center and is responsible for organizing staff parties. Knowing Bill, there is probably a lot of laughter and pizza at these parties.

Bill's personal life also involves a great deal of volunteer work. As a member of the Hanover Parks and Recreation Board from 1992 to 1998, he worked tirelessly on many different projects, not the least of which was the Hanover Winter Games. Over the past two years as chairperson of this event, Bill single-handedly revitalized this Town tradition transforming it from a competitive, fund-raising event to a community celebration of our winter wonderland. Now know as the Occum Pond Party, the event draws thousands each year to Occum Pond during the Dartmouth Winter Carnival Weekend where everyone enjoys beautiful ice castles, snow sculptures, skating, parades, and silly games such as the couch potato race which Bill has the dubious honor of being the inventor of. Bill organizes all of this and spends hour after hour out on the pond packing snow, cutting ice, dragging ice blocks, working very hard so everyone has a great time at the pond party. Tremendously successful, both the New York Times and the Boston Post have published articles about the Pond Party and it's all due to Bill's efforts.

During the summer, Bill focuses on Hanover's Fourth of July Celebration and for the past four years has acted as the "Games Referee", coordinating fun, crazy activities on the green for young and old alike, including the very popular Raw Egg Toss. Bill spends a tremendous amount of time and energy on these two community celebrations and asks for nothing in return.

He has also served the town of Hanover as a youth baseball coach and as a member of the Hanover High School Athletic Council and the community Bike Path Project Committee. He and his wife Sarah can often be found on the sidelines cheering their daughters' basketball and field hockey teams onto victory, supporting them in any way they can.

Bill Young approaches every project with enthusiasm, imagination, kindness, and energy. He is a wonderful role model for all of us and it gives me great pleasure to present him with the 1999 Hanover Volunteer of the Year Award."

Mr. Young accepted the Volunteer of the Year Award with appreciation.

ARTICLE TEN: To see if the Town will vote to discontinue the "Land Acquisition and Capital Improvements Restricted Purpose Fund" created in 1989. Said funds, with accumulated interest to the date of withdrawal, are to be transferred to the General Fund.

Selectman Black moved that the Town vote to discontinue the "Land Acquisition and Capital Improvements Restricted Purpose Fund" created in 1989, and vote to authorize that said funds, with accumulated interest to the date of withdrawal, be transferred to the General Fund. Selectman Connolly seconded.

Selectman Black said that Article Ten will discontinue a fund which was created from excess funds from the land use change tax. She said that it has been accumulating since 1989. She said that it is now standing at $258,776. She said that if the article is approved, the fund will be discontinued and go into the General Fund. She said that Article Eleven is to discontinue the Capital Improvements Restricted Purpose Fund created in 1989. She said that Articles Ten and Eleven would put the money in the General Fund. She said that Article Twelve would create a Land and Capital Improvement Fund which would be 50% of the money from the two discontinued funds. She said that Article Thirteen would discontinue the Land Acquisition Fund and the Land Maintenance Fund and put the money in the General Fund. She said that Article Fourteen would take 50% of the first two funds and all of the existing Conservation funds and put them into a new fund called the Conservation Fund. She said that Article Fifteen would create a new fund for all the land use change tax.

Judy Reeve Davidson, Chair of the Conservation Commission, said that the entire Conservation Commission strongly supports all of these articles and hopes the Town will vote in favor of them. She thanked Elaine Bent for her historical research on the Conservation Commission and its funding. She said that Denis Kelemen studied how funding is handled in towns across the state. She said that the creation of these funds will make it easier to track and use the money. She said that the Conservation Fund will accrue interest, which has not been happening in its current status. She said that it will enable the Town to act more quickly if a piece of critical land becomes available. She said that they could secure lands that the Town really values.

H. Bernard Waugh said that there is no reference to the memo of agreement in any of the articles. He said that is the part he does not like. He said that he would like to see 100% of the land use change tax go into the Conservation Fund. He said that the Selectmen could develop an impact fee ordinance. He said that they should work towards that and not bind themselves to 50%.

Selectman Black said that one of the reasons there is a memorandum of understanding is that Article Fifteen would be passed on an annual review. She said that for the first year, it made more sense to go 50-50 and get both funds going. She said that next year, there is an opportunity to change that. She said that the RSA which funds the Conservation Fund says that the Conservation Commission has the right to spend the money with review by the Selectmen and a public hearing. She said that some people were nervous about the entire amount being spent. She said that for the first year, they have agreed to a cap of $50,000 of spending by the Conservation Commission without Town Meeting approval. She said that the RSA does not allow this to happen so they have a gentleman's agreement. She said that it will be reviewed annually at Town meeting.

Mr. Waugh asked if it would be better to vote on all of the articles with the understanding that they are not necessarily committing themselves to doing something next year. He asked if there should be an amendment which specifically states that they are not committing themselves to anything next year. Selectman Walsh said that it would be up to Mr. Waugh to make an amendment. Mr. Waugh said that he would wait until discussion of Article Fifteen.

There was no further discussion. A voice vote was taken and found to be in the affirmative. The motion PASSED and Article Ten was ADOPTED.

ARTICLE ELEVEN: To see if the Town will vote to discontinue the "Capital Improvements Restricted Purpose Fund" created in 1996. Said funds, with accumulated interest to the date of withdrawal, are to be transferred to the General Fund.

Selectman Black moved that the Town vote to discontinue the "Capital Improvements Restricted Purpose Fund" created in 1996, and vote to authorize that said funds, with accumulated interest to the date of withdrawal, be transferred to the General Fund. Selectman Connolly seconded.

There was no further discussion. A voice vote was taken and found to be in the affirmative. The motion PASSED and Article Eleven was ADOPTED.

ARTICLE TWELVE: To see if the Town will vote to create an expendable general trust fund under the provisions of RSA 31:19-a, to be known as the "Land and Capital Improvements Fund", for the purpose of acquiring land for public purposes and to construct capital improvements in response to needs required by growth and development, and to raise and appropriate from the general fund balance a sum equal to half of the balance of the totals of the discontinued "Land Acquisition and Capital Improvements Restricted Purpose Fund" and the "Capital Improvements Restricted Purpose Fund", that is $158,292, with no amount to be raised from taxation, for this purpose.

Selectman Black moved that the Town vote to create an expendable general trust under the provisions of RSA 31:19-a, to be known as the "Land and Capital Improvements Fund", for the purpose of acquiring land for public purposes and to construct capital improvements in response to needs required by growth and development, and vote to raise and appropriate from the general fund balance a sum equal to half of the balance of the totals of the discontinued "Land Acquisition and Capital Improvements Restricted Purpose Fund" and the "Capital Improvements Restricted Purpose Fund", that is $158,292, with no amount to be raised from taxation, for this purpose. Selectman Connolly seconded.

Margaret Fanning asked if the reason that Town Meeting approval was required for expenditure was because of the RSA 31:19-a. She asked if the RSA specifies how the fund will be overseen. Selectman Black said that the Selectmen do not take anything from any of the funds without Town Meeting approval. She said that the Conservation Commission RSA allows them to spend money without Town Meeting approval. She said that the Selectmen do not have the authority. Mrs. Fanning asked how the funds come out. Selectman Black said that the funds come out by a Warrant Article at Town Meeting.

There was no further discussion. A voice vote was taken and found to be in the affirmative. The motion PASSED and Article Twelve was ADOPTED.

ARTICLE THIRTEEN: To see if the Town will vote to discontinue the special revenue fund accounts categorized as the "Conservation Commission Reserves" and known as the "Land Acquisition Fund" and the "Land Maintenance Fund". Said funds, with accumulated interest to the date of withdrawal, are to be transferred to the General Fund.

Selectman Black moved that the Town vote to discontinue the special revenue fund accounts categorized as the "Conservation Commission Reserves", and known as the "Land Acquisition Fund" and the "Land Maintenance Fund", and vote to have said funds, with accumulated interest to the date of withdrawal, transferred to the General Fund. Selectman Walsh seconded.

There was no further discussion. A voice vote was taken and found to be in the affirmative. The motion PASSED and Article Thirteen was ADOPTED.

ARTICLE FOURTEEN: To see if the Town will vote to establish a Conservation Fund as authorized by RSA 36-A:5.1, and to raise and appropriate from the general fund balance a sum equal to half of the balance, that is $158,292, of the totals of the discontinued "Land Acquisition and Capital Improvements Restricted Purpose Fund" and the "Capital Improvements Restricted Purpose Fund", as well as a sum equal to the balance, that is $18,706, of the totals of the discontinued "Conservation Commission Reserves" known as the "Land Acquisition Fund" and the "Land Maintenance Fund", with no amount to be raised from taxation, for this purpose.

Selectman Black moved that the Town vote to establish a Conservation Fund as authorized by RSA 36-A:5.1, and vote to raise and appropriate from the general fund balance a sum equal to half of the balance, that is $158,292, of the totals of the discontinued "Land Acquisition and Capital Improvements Restricted Purpose Fund" and the "Capital Improvements Restricted Purpose Fund", as well as a sum equal to the balance, that is $18,706, of the totals of the discontinued "Conservation Commission Reserves" known as the "Land Acquisition Fund" and the "Land Maintenance Fund", with no amount to be raised from taxation, for this purpose. Selectman Connolly seconded.

Mrs. Fanning asked if Town Meeting approval would be sought on significant expenditures. She said that Article Fourteen does not say that. She asked if there is any supervision or oversight. She asked what constitutes a significant expenditure.

Selectman Black said that the memorandum of agreement can not be included in the Articles. She said that the memorandum states that the Conservation Commission, with the Town Planning Staff, will create a priority list of lands to be bought. She said that the Conservation Commission is restricted to expending no more than $50,000 a year without Town Meeting approval. She said that the Selectmen cannot spend any money without Town approval. She said that any expenditure over $50,000 has to go to Town Meeting. She said that any expenditure under $50,000 has to be approved by the Selectmen at a public hearing. She said that gives the Conservation Commission some flexibility to hold land or get easement or development rights when they become available.

Bill Baschnagel said that a memo of understanding which is not referenced in the warrant has no real legal binding. He asked the validity of the memorandum of agreement. He asked if anything prevents the Conservation Commission from spending the money without authorization.

Selectman Black said that Selectmen approval is required to spend any of the funds. She said that the Selectmen would not approve an expenditure of more than $50,000 without Town Meeting. She said that the reason the memo of understanding was not included in the Articles was because the Department of Revenue would not let them put it in.

Walter Mitchell said that there is no binding restriction. He said that the Statute says that the money can be expended from the fund by the Conservation Commission once it is in the fund. He said that it is enforceable, though not legally. He said that the Conservation Commission members are people of honor. He said that if there is a problem, next year they would not get any money. He said that a restriction is imposed which will work.

Denis Kelemen said that the RSA says that the Conservation Commission can spend the money without SelectBoard approval. Mr. Mitchell said that is correct for land acquisition.

Selectman Colligan said that it requires SelectBoard vote. He said that the SelectBoard is the group of people who appoint the Conservation Commission. He said that with $158,000, the Conservation Commission would not be able to go on a buying binge. He said that they are going to be very careful with any money.

Ms. Davidson said that her recollection is that the Conservation Commission can hold a public hearing on a piece of land but they cannot spend any money. She said that the SelectBoard makes the decision. She said that the Commission can only recommend the expenditure of funds. She said that they have an agreement not to spend any more than $50,000.

Mr. Mitchell said that the Statute says that dispersion shall be authorized by the majority of the Conservation Commission. He said that it further states that the Commission is required to hold a public hearing for any expenditure.

Selectman Black said that there is a lot of money involved. She said that when the Selectmen spend money it is either in the budget or it is brought to Town Meeting. She said that they were nervous about having no checks or balances. She said that they came to this agreement to see how it would work. She said that it is up for annual review. She urged the Town to pass the Articles. She said that for the first year, the Conservation Commission is limited to $50,000. She said that if they want to spend more, they will have to come to Town Meeting next spring. She said that they should give it a year to see how it works before they try to decide what percentage of the funds should be given to the Conservation Commission. She said that the Town may not want to have a Commission which is able to spend up to $500,000 without Town vote. She said that the Selectmen feel that they have come to a good agreement. She said that it will be revisited next year.

There was no further discussion. A voice vote was taken and found to be in the affirmative. The motion PASSED and Article Fourteen was ADOPTED.

ARTICLE FIFTEEN: To see if the Town will vote favorably on the following question (from RSA 79-A25-bI (c)): "Shall we adopt the provisions of RSA 79-A:25-a to account for revenues received from the land use change tax in a fund separate from the general fund? Any surplus remaining in the land use change tax fund shall not be part of the general fund until such time as the legislative body shall have had the opportunity at an annual meeting to vote to appropriate a specific amount from the land use change tax fund for any purpose not prohibited by the laws or by the constitution of this state. After an annual meeting any unappropriated balance of the land use change tax revenue during the prior fiscal year shall be recognized as general fund revenue for the current fiscal year."

Selectman Black moved that the Town vote favorably on the following question (from RSA 79-A25-bI (c): "Shall we adopt the provisions of RSA 79-A:25-a to account for revenues received from the land use change tax in a fund separate from the general fund? Any surplus remaining in the land use change tax fund shall not be part of the general fund until such time as the legislative body shall have had the opportunity at an annual meeting to vote to appropriate a specific amount from the land use change tax fund for any purpose not prohibited by the laws or by the constitution of this state. After an annual meeting any unappropriated balance of the land use change tax revenue received during the prior fiscal year shall be recognized as general fund revenue for the current fiscal year". Selectman Colligan seconded.

Mr. Waugh moved to amend the question by adding the following sentence at the end: It is not the sense of this vote that the Town Meeting is committing itself to any particular allocation of funds in future years. Moderator Bird asked if the intent of the amendment was that it should expire in one year. Mr. Waugh said that it should not. He said that as long as there is a record in the minutes that they are not committing themselves, he is satisfied. He said that he would like to try it for one year and see how it works. He said that he would like to see the Commission get more money. Moderator Bird noted that would be specified in the minutes. Mr. Waugh withdrew his amendment.

Selectman Black said that this came about from the King Road incident a year or so ago when they appointed a Scenic Locales Committee who came up with some specific recommendations about areas in town which needed to be protected. She said that to have protection, there has to be money to do it. She said that with Article Fifteen, this will complete the first step towards preserving their lands.

Fred Crory asked if all 10% of the land use change tax would be applied to the two articles or would a base number be subtracted first and then the surplus used. Selectman Black said that in the past there has been a base number of $20,000 for the General Fund. She said that if this article passes, none of that money would go into the General Fund. She said that it would go to the two new funds.

Mr. Crory asked if there would be an article on next year's warrant for this to be discussed. Selectman Black said that there would be. She said that they have created two new funds. She said that next year they will decide whether to put the money in. She said that this year they are using existing funds. She said that next year they can decide whether to add money to the funds.

Robert Jeffrey asked if the Town can use these funds to purchase land using eminent domain. Selectman Black said that if there is a project that the Town needs very badly, the Land Acquisition & Capital Improvement fund money could be used for imminent domain if it were in the best interest of the Town to do it and Town Meeting approved it.

Robert Morris asked what the legislative body is. Selectman Black said that the Town Meeting is the legislative body and the citizens are the legislature.

David Bradley said that his understanding is that 50% will go to the Land and Capital Improvements Fund and 50% will go to the Conservation Fund. He asked if that is covered in this Article. Selectman Black said that is what they hope to do with the funds at next year's Town Meeting. She said that next year, rather than going to the General Fund, they would like to see the land use change tax funds go to the Conservation Commission. She said that would be determined next year.

Julia Griffin, Town Manager, said that the goal in Article Fifteen is to create a holding tank to receive the revenue from the land use change tax. She said that next year at Town Meeting, recommendations will be made about allocating the funds. She said that the current desire of the Selectman and Conservation Commission is to have a 50-50 allocation. She said that is subject to an annual discussion.

Walter Mitchell said that they are creating a vehicle to receive money if the Town benefits from current use tax penalties during the next year. He said that the money will go into the vehicle and wait for action at next year's Town Meeting.

Mr. Bradley asked what would be taken out before they get to the surplus. Mr. Mitchell said that the language in Article Fifteen is from the legislators. He said that the money accumulates over the next year rather than defaulting to the General Fund. He said that next year they will be able to address how to move the money or spend it. He said that if no action is taken next year, the money would go to the General Fund. He said that they could choose which fund to put it in.

Cam Rankin asked why they can't do the 50% right now. Selectman Black said that they do not have any money yet. She said that the fiscal year starts July 1, 1999. She said that the money in this year's budget is going to the General Fund. She said that the money has to accumulate before they decide where it goes. She said that the amount of money which has been generated in the last 10 years has ranged from $75,000 to $100,000 a year.

Mr. Rankin asked why they are waiting. Ms. Griffin said that they have to appropriate a specific amount of money into the funds. She said that they do not know how much money will come out of land use change tax next year. She said that there will be an annual opportunity to appropriate the funds at Town Meeting. She said that they could vote at Town Meeting to put 100% of the funds into the Conservation Fund or they could vote to put it in a different fund.

There was no further discussion. Moderator Bird reminded the audience that voting on Article Fifteen will be carried out by written ballot, requiring a 2/3 majority to pass.

RESULTS: YES 215 NO 6 ARTICLE PASSED

ARTICLE SIXTEEN: To see what sum the Town will vote to raise and appropriate to provide for the cost items contained in the collective bargaining agreement, approved by the Board of Selectmen on May 6, 1999, between the Town of Hanover and the Professional Fire Fighters of Hanover, Local 3288 of the International Association of Fire Fighters.

Selectman Manchester moved that the Town vote to raise and appropriate $7,706 to provide for the cost items contained in a proposed collective bargaining agreement between the Town of Hanover and the Professional Fire Fighters of Hanover, Local 3288 of the International Association of Fire Fighters, initially approved by the Board of Selectmen on May 6, 1999, which appropriation is subject to ratification by the IAFF. Selectman Connolly seconded.

Selectman Manchester said that this is important this year because they are implementing a new classification system. He said that required major changes in the union contracts. He said that they have tentative agreements with both unions. He said that they have spent months negotiating the contracts. He said that they offer competitive wage and benefits so they can continue to attract qualified individuals. He said that this is already built into the 0% tax rate increase.

Mr. Bradley asked if the agreement was reached a few days ago. Ms. Griffin said that they are tentative agreements. She said that they reached a tentative agreement with AFSCME a week ago and with the firefighters about 10 minutes before the Town Meeting started. Mr. Bradley said that they are not authorized to act on agreements reached after the deadline. He said that there is a good purpose for that rule. He said that the idea is to get it done in time so everyone knows what it is. Ms. Griffin said that one of the reasons it took so long was that they spent the last 9 months implementing a classification and compensation system. She said that there were many issues which had to go to the bargaining table which required several radical changes. She said that took considerable time to discuss and negotiate. Mr. Bradley said that they do not have a choice. He said that the Statute prohibits presentation of an Article that is not finished in time.

Moderator Bird said that he was not sure they could resolve this matter tonight. He suggested that the Town take action now and leave the question of enforceability to the attorneys. When asked whether a special Town Meeting could be called if future action was needed, the Moderator stated that would be possible but that the process to call a special Town Meeting would make it very unlikely

Ginger Culpepper asked if it would set a precedent. Ms. Griffin said that it would not.

There was no further discussion. A voice vote was taken and found to be in the affirmative. The motion PASSED and Article Sixteen was ADOPTED.

ARTICLE SEVENTEEN: To see what sum the Town will vote to raise and appropriate to provide for the cost items contained in the collective bargaining agreement, approved by the Board of Selectmen on May 6, 1999, between the Town of Hanover and AFSCME Local 1348.

Selectman Manchester moved that the Town vote to raise and appropriate $14,006 to provide for the cost items contained in a proposed collective bargaining agreement, between the Town of Hanover and AFSCME Local 1348 initially approved by the Board of Selectmen on May 6, 1999, which appropriation is subject to ratification by the AFSCME. Selectman Connolly seconded.

There was no further discussion. A voice vote was taken and found to be in the affirmative. The motion PASSED and Article Seventeen was ADOPTED.

ARTICLE EIGHTEEN: To see if the Town will vote to authorize the Board of Selectmen to grant necessary easements in connection with the construction of the Lebanon Street parking structure, which is scheduled to be conveyed to the Town upon its completion.

Selectman Manchester moved that the Town vote to authorize the Board of Selectmen to grant necessary easements in connection with the construction of the Lebanon Street parking structure, which is scheduled to be conveyed to the Town upon its completion. Selectman Connolly seconded.

There was no further discussion. A voice vote was taken and found to be in the affirmative. The motion PASSED and Article Eighteen was ADOPTED.

ARTICLE NINETEEN: To receive reports from the Selectmen, Town Clerk, Treasurer, Collector of Taxes and other Town Officers and to vote on any motion relating to these reports and to receive any special resolutions that may be appropriate and to vote thereon.

Selectman Manchester moved that the reports from the Selectmen, Town Clerk, Treasurer, Collector of Taxes and other Town Officers as printed in the 1998 Town Report be accepted, as well as any Special Resolutions. Selectman Connolly seconded.

Moderator Bird introduced Selectman Black for the reading of the following resolution:

Resolution for Ken Force

"A newly minted civilian after twenty-six years as a Sergeant Major in the Army, Ken Force moved back home to the Upper Valley looking for a quiet and a relaxed life following his retirement from Uncle Sam. Little did he suspect what his new life would become as he settled in as a dispatcher for the Hanover Police Department in 1977. Retiring this summer after twenty- two years on the job, first as a dispatcher and since 1990 as the communications supervisor, Ken has been responsible for over one million five hundred thousand telephone calls, and five million two hundred thousand radio transmissions.

In addition to providing police, fire, and emergency services to Hanover, Norwich and Lyme, the Hanover dispatch center under Ken's supervision, has handled all calls for Orford and Piermont, New Hampshire, plus all calls from Thetford, Strafford, Vershire, West Fairlee, Fairlee, and Bradford, Vermont. Add to the list, police calls for Plainfield, fire and police calls for Grafton, and fire calls for Springfield and Grantham, New Hampshire, and you can see that the first retirement for Ken was not as relaxing as he might have imagined.

Ken has seen major changes over the years with the communication services becoming computerized under his watch. He was also key in the establishment of the 911 system in the Upper Valley. When on duty, Ken is the epitome of calm and control bringing a no nonsense approach to the job. No situation unnerved him, and he came each day to the job with dedication and professionalism. If questioned, I'm certain he could spin many a tale about some of the calls he has received, and speak of both tragedies and triumphs, but he will modestly answer that he was just doing his job.

But all work and no play was not Ken's style. When not behind the console of radio and telephone dials, his passions include his family, reading, and his love of puzzles. We hope his second retirement will bring him the relaxation he richly deserves, and we hope someone will devise a crossword puzzle for him that will take him more than five minutes to do. We thank him for his years of service, and know that the airwaves of the Upper Valley will miss his deep and booming voice answering, "Force Here"."

Moderator Bird introduced Selectman Connolly for the reading of the following resolution:

Resolution for Dian Taylor

"Who does Peter Johnson, Karen Pierson, Jay Barrett, Cia Phillips, Craig Ohlson, Susan Beliveau, Tara Banford, Jim Forcier, Ryan Borkowski, Judy Brotman, Vicki Smith, Annie Fichera, Jonathan Edwards, all present and former staffers of the Planning, Zoning and Code office, and the seventy-five or so members of the Conservation Commission, Planning Board and the Zoning Board of Adjustment have in common since 1991? The answer is Dian Taylor. Dian came to the Town of Hanover from Barre, Massachusetts. As a veteran of positions at IBM, The Charles Allen Company, and as well as the Assistant Tax Collector and the Administrative Assistant to the Barre Board of Health, Dian and her husband Doug decided to reduce the job- related stress in their lives and move to the Upper Valley. I hope that Doug succeeded in that effort as I would find it difficult to believe that Dian has.

Originally hired as a secretary, Dian has overseen the diverse functions of the Planning/Zoning office and is now the Office Manager. Dian has been a part of all of the functions of that office including helping to prepare cases for all three of the Boards, doing meeting minutes, being the first person that all applicants and the public meet as they interact with that office and working with all of the staff that I mentioned before.

During any of the periods when the Planning/Zoning office has been embroiled in controversy I have never heard Dian's name mentioned as a part of any problem. Dian has spent the last nine years interacting with her fellow staffers and their idiosyncracies, other Town employees as well as the public with intelligence and enthusiasm for her work. Her good-humored pleasant demeanor, ever-present despite repeated challenges to her even temper, will be sorely missed by everyone.

Thank you Dian for giving us nine years of your service and I hope when you are truly bored or miss job-related stress you will consider helping us again."

Moderator Bird introduced Selectman Colligan for the reading of the following resolution:

Resolution for Mary M. Scott-Craig

"Mary McCormick Scott-Craig received her Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts degrees in English from Cornell University. She began her career in 1929 as a teacher at William Smith College in Geneva, NY. In 1936, she became the first woman dean at the college. McCormick House, a residence hall at the college, was named in her honor. In 1986, she was awarded an honorary doctorate of humane letters from Hobart and William Smith College.

In 1944, Mary brought her rich experience in education and a lively interest in community affairs to Hanover, when her husband joined the Dartmouth College faculty.

In 1977, Mary became the first woman to be named Hanover Citizen of the year. A proud pioneer, Mary was the first Democrat to represent Hanover in the General Court. She was a delegate to the 1974 New Hampshire Constitutional Convention and a political mentor to many.

Mary died last month. On April 21, 1999 at a memorial mass, a favorite quotation of Mary's from Canon Henry Scott Holland was read. She would frequently share this with others at times of loss. "...I am but waiting for you, for an interval, somewhere very near just around the corner...All is well." Mary Scott-Craig, you were devoted to your faith, your family and your community. Thank you for your friendship. We salute your life and your overwhelming contributions to Hanover."

Moderator Bird introduced Selectman Colligan for the reading of the following resolution:

Resolution for anonymous

"This Resolution is a tribute to the anonymous donors whose magnificent gifts of $850,000 and $200,000 assure that Mink Brook will forever remain a natural sanctuary. The poet Walt Whitman wrote, "After you have exhausted what there is in business, politics, conviviality, and so on - have found that none of these finally satisfy, or permanently wear - what remains? Nature remains."

Thanks to the extraordinary generosity of two anonymous donors combined with the great efforts of the Upper Valley Land Trust, the Hanover Conservation Council, more than 500 additional contributors and the Barrett-Ransmeier families, Mink Brook remains. This represents one of the most significant land acquisitions for conservation in Hanover's history. The Town of Hanover thanks you all for the permanent opportunity to enjoy the beauty of this nature preserve."

The Town Meeting gave a round of applause to Professor Robin Robinson and instructed the Moderator to convey happy 96th birthday wishes. Professor Robinson and his late wife Ellen have been 70 year residents of Hanover and his WDCR Opera radio broadcasts have been a community favorite for decades.

ARTICLE TWENTY: To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate and authorize payment into the Capital Reserve Funds in the following amounts for the purpose for which such funds were established:

Police	$ 45,000
Howe Library	$ 10,000
Public Works	$115,500
Fire Fund	$ 70,000
Sidewalk Fund	$ 19,000
Wastewater Treatment Plant Fund	$100,000
Ambulance Fund	$ 20,000
Parking Fund	$ 12,660

Selectman Connolly moved that the Town vote to raise and appropriate and authorize payment into the Capital Reserve Funds in the following amounts for the purpose for which such funds were established: Police - $45,000; Howe Library - $10,000; Public Works - $115,500; Fire Fund - $70,000; Sidewalk Fund - $19,000; Wastewater Treatment Plant Fund - $100,000; Ambulance Fund - $20,000; and Parking Fund - $12,660. Selectman Black seconded.

There was no further discussion. A voice vote was taken and found to be in the affirmative. The motion PASSED and Article Twenty was ADOPTED.

ARTICLE TWENTY-ONE: To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate $623,532 for the purposes listed below, and to authorize funding these items by withdrawal from the listed capital reserve funds and to designate the Board of Selectmen as agents of the Town to expend such funds for the purposes for which such funds were established, in the following amounts as set forth in the Town Report:

Police	$ 85,532
Public Works	$122,000
Wastewater Treatment Plant Fund	$296,000
Ambulance Fund	$120,000

Selectman Connolly moved that the Town vote to raise and appropriate $623,532 for the following purposes, and to authorize funding these items by withdrawal from such Capital Reserve Funds in the following amounts as set forth in the 1998 Town Report, and to designate the Board of Selectmen as agents of the Town to expend such funds for the purposes set forth: Police - $85,532; Public Works - $122,000; Wastewater Treatment Plant Fund - $296,000; and Ambulance Fund - $120,000. Selectman Manchester seconded.

Selectman Connolly said that from the Police Reserve fund they need $85,532 for four new cruisers. She said that from the Public Works Equipment Reserve they need $122,000 to replace two 10-year- old dumptrucks. She said that from the Wastewater Treatment Plant Fund they need $296,000 to replace an aging bar rack and grit removal systems and install a telemetry system for the main plant pump station. She said that from the Ambulance Fund they need $120,000 for a new ambulance.

There was no further discussion. A voice vote was taken and found to be in the affirmative. The motion PASSED and Article Twenty-One was ADOPTED.

ARTICLE TWENTY-TWO: To see if the Town will vote to collect an additional motor vehicle registration fee of $5.00 per vehicle for the purpose of supporting a municipal transportation improvement fund for the purposes set forth in RSA 261:153 VI, and further, to vote to establish said fund. Proceeds from said fund are to be used to support eligible local transportation improvement projects such as public transportation, roadway improvements, signal upgrades, and development of new bicycle and pedestrian paths. (Public hearing scheduled on April 26, 1999. Vote pending.)

Selectman Walsh moved that the Town vote to collect an additional motor vehicle registration fee of $5.00 per vehicle for the purpose of supporting a municipal transportation improvement fund for the purposes set forth in RSA 261:153 VI, and vote to establish set fund. Proceeds from said fund are to be used to support eligible local transportation improvement projects such as public transportation, roadway improvements, signal upgrades, and development of new bicycle and pedestrian paths. Selectman Black seconded.

Selectman Walsh said that the State has enabled the Towns to collect an additional $5.00 to support local transportation improvement projects. He said that the Selectmen voted 4:1. He said that the reason the one member was opposed to it was because the Selectmen had not decided how to spend the money. He said that if everything goes as planned about $25,000 will be raised. He said that there is much in Town that needs to be done to improve the transportation network. He said that the cost of private transportation in other countries is up to five times as much as it costs in this country.

Mrs. Fanning said that she is concerned about how the money would be spent. She said that she did not know if they were limited by the RSA. She said that she would like the money to be used to discourage the use of cars and encourage the use of bicycles and public transportation. She suggested amending the motion so that the $5.00 is used for public transportation and bicycle paths rather than signalization. She said that she doesn't want it used to build more roadways.

Moderator Bird asked if the restriction can be imposed for next year. Selectman Walsh said that the language in the motion is the language in the RSA. He said that the focus of this money would be on bicycles or public transportation. He said that signalization might be needed to make public transportation work. He said that it is legitimate to make it part of the Town budgeting process. He said that the need for bicycle path improvements is where the SelectBoard would focus the funds.

Mrs. Fanning said that she would like it amended such that the intention is that the extra $5.00 should go for public transportation and bicycle paths. Selectman Walsh suggested amending the motion by striking "roadway improvements". He said that signalization may be important for public transportation. Mrs. Fanning asked to defer until everyone else had a chance to speak.

Selectman Colligan said that he voted against the motion. He said that it was a unanimous vote to bring it to the Town Meeting. He said that he voted against it because it is a tax that the taxpayers will not know exactly what the money is being spent for. He said that he would prefer to see it done in the budget process. He said that people want the money spent on different things. He said that the Town already collects over $950,000 a year on auto registrations. He said that $5.00 or $10.00 is not a lot of money. He said that it raises $25,000 and people do not know where it will be spent. He suggested voting it down.

Robert Morris asked if the $5.00 is paid annually. Mr. Walsh said that it is paid whenever the vehicle is registered.

Fred Fellows asked if there was any money in the budget for gravel for the roads. He said that when he came down Ferson Road, there was a vehicle with a flat tire. He said that last year after they graded, he had three flat tires. He said that the Town tax is based on a figure in the book which exceeds the cost of his vehicle. He said that the registration has increased immensely because of the Town tax. Ms. Griffin said that it is a $5.00 flat fee regardless of the value of the vehicle. She said that the gravel roads program is funded in this year's budget as it has been in previous years' budgets. Mr. Fellows said that Ferson road is not safe. He said that even a police cruiser was in an accident on that road.

Bob Norman said that one of the reasons signals are included is to make it possible to have signals operated by bicycles. He said that road improvements are also important for bicycles. He said that there are some places where the bicycle lanes contain storm drains. He said that he would like to keep road improvements as part of the motion. He suggested voting in favor, regardless of not knowing how the money will be spent. He said that it is a good article. He said that next year they could vote it out if they do not like it.

Elizabeth Crory said that she is opposed to dedicated funds. She said that an enlightened fiscal policy of raising tax revenues uses it for the current year. She said that they have increased the funds when there is a need. She said that it is important to realize that if this fund accumulates and no money is spent, some of the taxpayers could become deceased and not benefit from the money they paid in. She said that the money should be spent when it is acquired. She said that one of the best ways to pass a piece of legislation is to say it will only cost $5.00. She said that the best way to defeat a piece of legislation is to talk about the total sum. She said that at $5.00 a permit, it would generate about $35,000. She said that they are underselling it to make it sound reasonable. She said that they should take the funds on an annual basis.

There was no further discussion. Moderator Bird reminded the audience that voting on Article Twenty-Two will be carried out by written ballot, requiring a 2/3 majority to pass.

RESULTS: YES 90 NO 91 ARTICLE DEFEATED

ARTICLE TWENTY-THREE: To see if the voters will authorize the Selectmen to grant and accept easements over town property, for various purposes, as they deem fit.

Selectman Colligan moved that the Town vote to authorize the Selectmen to grant and accept easements over town property, for various purposes, as they deem fit. Selectman Manchester seconded.

Selectman Colligan said that during the year, the Town occasionally encounters a need to accept or grant an easement for sewers, sidewalks, pedestrian access, or vehicular access. He said that rather than waiting for the annual Town Meeting to accept or grant easements, the Board of Selectmen would like the Town Meeting to delegate that responsibility to the Board and the staff.

There was no further discussion. A voice vote was taken and found to be in the affirmative. The motion PASSED and Article Twenty-Three was ADOPTED.

ARTICLE TWENTY-FOUR: To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of $5,000 to support the services provided by CATV 6.

Selectman Colligan moved that the Town vote to raise and appropriate the sum of $5,000 to support the services provided by CATV 6. Selectman Black seconded.

There was no further discussion. A voice vote was taken and found to be in the affirmative. The motion PASSED and Article Twenty-Four was ADOPTED.

ARTICLE TWENTY-FIVE: To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate the sum of $1,250 to support the continuation of a survey of historic Town structures to be conducted by the Hanover Historical Society.

Selectman Colligan moved that the Town vote to raise and appropriate the sum of $1,250 to support the continuation of a survey of historic Town structures to be conducted by the Hanover Historical Society. Selectman Connolly seconded.

There was no further discussion. A voice vote was taken and found to be in the affirmative. The motion PASSED and Article Twenty-Five was ADOPTED.

ARTICLE TWENTY-SIX: To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate $1,000 to be used by Hanover-Joigny Exchange Inc. in the furtherance of cultural, student, and adult exchanges between the Town of Hanover and its sister city Joigny, France.

Selectman Black moved that the Town vote to raise and appropriate $1,000 to be used by Hanover-Joigny Exchange Inc. in the furtherance of cultural, student, and adult exchanges between the Town of Hanover and its sister city of Joigny, France. Selectman Manchester seconded.

There was no further discussion. A voice vote was taken and found to be in the affirmative. The motion PASSED and Article Twenty-Six was ADOPTED.

ARTICLE TWENTY-SEVEN: To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate $1,000 to be used by the Town of Hanover in the furtherance of cultural, student, and adult exchanges between the Town of Hanover and Nihonmatsu, Japan.

Selectman Connolly moved that the Town vote to raise and appropriate $1,000 to be used by the Town of Hanover in the furtherance of cultural, student, and adult exchanges between the Town of Hanover and Nihonmatsu, Japan. Selectman Walsh seconded.

Selectman Connolly said that Nihonmatsu is about 180 miles North of Tokyo. She said that it is a city of 35,000 people. She said that 100 years ago Kinski Asakawa came to Dartmouth and graduated four years later. She said that he received his Ph.D. at Yale. She said that he had a distinguished career as a historian and writer until his death in 1948. She said that in the mid-1980s another Japanese Dartmouth graduate thought it would be nice to have a baseball exchange. She said that Fred Salvatoriello was the first coach of the baseball team when they came to Hanover. She said that the Salvatoriellos have hosted many students since that time.

Selectman Connolly said that last October, Selectman Black, herself, and 12 other people went to Nihonmatsu, Japan to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the city. She said that the trip was fascinating. She said that the ceremonies were fascinating. She said that their hospitality was overwhelming. She said that the best part of the trip was a visit to the grammar school. She said that it was clear that this was a good way to develop cultural exchanges. She said that Nihonmatsu has been bringing students to Hanover for a number of years.

Selectman Connolly said that officials from Nihonmatsu are coming to Hanover July 30, 1999 for a joining ceremony. She said that they refer to it as an exchange from the heart. She said that they would like to have $1,000 to help facilitate that event. She said that the major beneficiaries will be their children.

There was no further discussion. A voice vote was taken and found to be in the affirmative. The motion PASSED and Article Twenty-Seven was ADOPTED.

ARTICLE TWENTY-EIGHT: To see if the Town will vote to raise and appropriate $2,000 to support the services provided to the Upper Valley by the AIDS Community Resource Network (ACORN).

Paul Pilcher moved that the Town vote to raise and appropriate $2,000 to support the services provided to the Upper Valley by the AIDS Community Resource Network (ACORN). Selectman Black seconded.

Paul Pilcher said that he is Chair of the volunteer Board of directors of ACORN, the only AIDS service organization serving the Upper Valley. He said that their mission is to support and assist those whose lives are affected by HIV/AIDS and to stop the spread of the disease. He said that they provide direct services to people in the community living with AIDS, to their families, to their partners, to their loved ones. He said that they provide support groups for those who are infected by the virus and infected by the disease. He said that they provide education and prevention services. He said that they have speakers who go into schools. He said that they are at the Hanover Streetfest and the Home Show. He said that they are trying to spread information about HIV and AIDS.

Mr. Pilcher said that in recent years they have extended their outreach to jails and prisons. He said that they do this largely, but not entirely, as a volunteer agency. He said that in the last couple of years, with the improved treatments for people with HIV and AIDS, people are living longer. He said that with their improved health, they have doubled and tripled their demand. He said that they are providing services to more than twice as many families in the community. He said that they have asked Norwich and Enfield for $2,000 to help support their services.

There was no further discussion. A voice vote was taken and found to be in the affirmative. The motion PASSED and Article Twenty-Eight was ADOPTED.

ARTICLE TWENTY-NINE: (Article by Petition) To see if the Town will vote to designate and proclaim April 7, 2000 as Howe Library Day in celebration of the library's 100th birthday, and to observe a series of related public activities that will promote citizens' awareness of their library.

Marilyn Crichlow moved that the Town vote to designate and proclaim April 7, 2000 as Howe Library Day in celebration of the library's 100th birthday, and to observe a series of related public activities that will promote citizens' awareness of their library. Selectman Black seconded.

Ms. Crichlow said that they are asking for the Town's stamp of approval for the party, not funding.

There was no further discussion. A voice vote was taken and found to be in the affirmative. The motion PASSED and Article Twenty-Nine was ADOPTED.

ARTICLE THIRTY: (Article by Petition) To see if the Town will vote to call upon the U.S. Government and governments of all nuclear weapons states to secure on an urgent basis a nuclear weapons abolition treaty. This treaty must include an early timetable for the elimination of nuclear weapons in a manner that is mutual and verifiable among all nations. In addition, to further urge our state senators and representatives to introduce a resolution to this effect and to send it on to the New Hampshire Congressional delegation for immediate action.

It was moved and seconded that the Town vote to call upon the U.S. Government and governments of all nuclear weapons states to secure on an urgent basis a nuclear weapons abolition treaty. This treaty must include an early timetable for the elimination of nuclear weapons in a manner that is mutual and verifiable among all nations. In addition, to further urge our state senators and representatives to introduce a resolution to this effect and to send it on to the New Hampshire Congressional delegation for immediate action.

The member of the audience who made the motion said that it is far from specific enough to be a plan of action. He said that it is a statement of principle affirming the alarm that the community feels relative to nuclear weapons. He said that this Article puts their position on the record.

Ginger Culpepper asked if it would be possible to write a letter to a senator. Moderator Bird said that there is a history of taking a position which does not relate to the operation of the Town. He said that in the past, actions such as this have been considered. He said that if it were to pass, it would be the expectation that the Town Manager's office would send this information to the New Hampshire State legislative delegation. He said that would be the extent of the action they would take.

Martha Solow said that this is an ideal opportunity, if they share the sentiment, to take action. She said that they can express their views to the congressional delegation. She said that is an effective way for the community to get their views to the national government. She urged support of the motion.

There was no further discussion. A voice vote was taken and found to be in the affirmative. The motion PASSED and Article Thirty was ADOPTED.

ARTICLE THIRTY-ONE: (Article by Petition) To see if the Town will vote to urge the General Court of New Hampshire, the U.S. Congress, and the President of the United States to support and pass meaningful laws reforming electoral campaign financing. Meaningful reform will:

· Return the political process to the will of the people;

· Encourage participation by qualified candidates with limited means;

· Reduce the influence of moneyed special interests on elections and lawmaking; and

· Restore the principal of "one person, one vote" to elections.

Elizabeth Crory moved to see if the town will vote to urge the General Court of New Hampshire, the U.S. Congress, and the President of the United States to support and pass meaningful laws reforming electoral campaign financing. Meaningful reform will return the political process to the will of the people; encourage participation by qualified candidates with limited means; reduce the influence of moneyed special interest on elections and lawmaking; and restore the principal of "one person, one vote" to elections. A member of the audience seconded the motion.

Mrs. Crory urged the body to vote in favor of the motion. She said that it is a national movement. She said that there are several pieces of legislation before the General Court limiting the amount of money spent on elections. She said that she strongly supports the idea of encouraging participation by qualified candidates with limited means.

There was no further discussion. A voice vote was taken and found to be in the affirmative. The motion PASSED and Article Thirty-One was ADOPTED.

ARTICLE THIRTY-TWO: To transact any other business that may legally be brought before this Town Meeting.

Channing Brown moved that the citizens of Hanover at the May 11th Town Meeting go on record as opposing House Bill 117 FNAL as a solution to the Claremont lawsuit. It was seconded. Mr. Brown said that he has never seen a Bill that has created a chaos that has not been funded that has not done the job that has been asked of it by the court. He said that the impact on Hanover could be between $500,000 to over $1,000,000. He said that by using the Town as a tax vehicle does not take into consideration certain citizens who are living on fixed incomes. He said that the answer will be that property values will go down. He said that he does not favor this solution.

Mrs. Solow said that Bill 117 is not a solution. She said that it doesn't raise enough money to meet the need. She said that the Bill which would have provided adequate funding and which was fairer included a state-wide property tax and a low-based income tax. She said that it would spread the support for education much more fairly. She said that Bill was opposed by the governor. She said that Bill 117 is not a solution. She said that individuals have written to the governor about their views.

There was no further discussion. A voice vote was taken and found to be in the affirmative. The motion PASSED and Article Thirty-Two was ADOPTED.

Moderator Bird suggested sending prayers and best wishes to our State representative and former selectman Sharon Nordgren who will be undergoing heart surgery.

Having no other business, the Moderator stated he would entertain a motion to permanently dissolve this meeting. The motion was made and seconded. The motion carried and the meeting was dissolved at 9:49 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Dianne Quill, Town Clerk

Taken and Transcribed by:

Annie R. Fichera

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Town Meeting

5/11/99