MEMBERS PRESENT: Margaret Crisler, Roger Hohenberger, Galen Stearns and Alan Carpenter. David Sullivan, Town Administrator, was also present. Meeting commenced at 7:00 pm.

ANNOUNCEMENTS: None

LIAISON REPORTS: Mr. Hohenberger stated that the Planning Board will hold a Public Hearing on January 15th on the proposed zoning amendments.

PENNACHUCK WATER ACQUISITION: Karen White, Planning Director of Bedford, spoke with the Board regarding the possible acquisition of the Pennachuck Corporation by the City of Nashua who will then turn it into a regional water district.

Ms White explained that a private corporation, Philadelphia Suburban, is also attempting to acquire Pennachuck. She outlined the following benefits to the towns acquiring the corporation: to maintain local control, lower operation costs, protection of the watershed and will have no impact on property tax rates.

Ms White told the Board that Nashua will voted on January 14, 2003 to obtain approval to acquire Pennachuck Corporation and enter into agreements with other municipalities to establish a regional water district. At this date, there is no legislation to allow multiple municipalities (present legislation only allows one municipality) to establish this district, however legislation is being introduced to allow this.

Ms White stated that there is a Memorandum of Understanding that needs to be accepted by the Board in order to have representation on the committee. Acceptance of this Memorandum will allow Windham to actively participate in the discussions and negotiations concerning the terms and conditions of a Charter for the creation and operation of a new Municipal Corporation to be formed under RSA Chapter 53-A. It was also noted upon a majority vote of the governing body, a municipality may withdraw without penalty or prejudice. To date twenty three towns are eligible participate.

Barbara Presley of Nashua, spoke with the Board regarding the upcoming election in Nashua.

The Board questioned Ms White and Ms Presley regarding the number of Windham residents presently on Pennachuck (350+), effect on present rate payers (cannot predict, hopefully lower), where are the water supplies (Manchester, Hudson, and local wells), what if Windham doesn't join (possible higher rates or Nashua could dismantle and give it to Windham) and the present valuation of Pennachuck and risks of ownership.

The Board will review the information provided and make a decision on acceptance of the MOU at their next meeting on January 6, 2003.

Rep. Kevin Waterhouse volunteered to be the formal representative for Windham if the Board votes to join and also he will be working on the proposed legislation.

MINUTES: December 2, 2002 - Mrs. Crisler requested that the minutes be amended to add under the Workshop on I-93 Mitigation that the Group asked the Conservation Commission to provide a list of lands to be considered for mitigation. She further noted that if Mr. Ulakey's land was on the list, he would be notified. Mr. Hohenberger motioned and Mr. Stearns seconded to approve the minutes of December 2, 2002 as amended. Passed unanimously.

December 16, 2002 - Mr. Carpenter requested amending the minutes under New Business, changing the word Technical to Technology in denoting the District. Mr. Carpenter moved and Mr. Stearns seconded to approve the minutes of December 16, 2002 as amended.

CORRESPONDENCE: Letter received from Carol Higgins regarding her concerns with the proposed relocation of the Park and Ride due to the I-93 improvements. The Board noted that this relocation has been discussed by the Selectmen, the Planning Board and the Conservation Commission and addressed, to some extent, in the proposed Gateway District. The Board suggested that she attend any additional Public Hearing held by the State on this project.

Road Bond Release - Mr. Hohenberger motioned and Mr. Stearns seconded to approve the partial release of $55,883.00 to Yorkshire Realty Trust for Yorkshire Road. Passed unanimously.

OTHER BUSINESS: Mr. Sullivan noted that some purchase orders are being held awaiting bills from last week's storm.

NON-PUBLIC SESSIONS: Mr. Carpenter motioned and Mr. Stearns seconded to go into non-public session in accordance with RSA 91-A:3, IIa and c. Roll call vote - all members - yes. Subjects were personnel and reputations.

The Board discussed a personnel matter with Chief Moeckel.

The Board discussed the Factfinder's Report on the proposed police union contract. Mr. Stearns moved and Mr. Carpenter seconded to accept the Factfinder's Report. Passed unanimously.

The Board reviewed and approved a department head evaluation.

Mr. Sullivan updated the Board on two fire department personnel issues.

BUDGET WORKSHOP: The Board and Mr. Sullivan held a brief budget workshop.

Mr. Hohenberger and Mr. Carpenter seconded to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at approximately 9:45 pm.

Respectfully submitted,

Kathleen Davis
Administrative Assistant

NOTE: These minutes are prepared in draft form and have not been submitted to the Board for approval.