Put On Hold. Littleton Pumps Brakes On Eaton Property Development. Page 2 - One Outbreak Over, Another Continues - Townnews
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TOP NEWS
One Outbreak Over,
Another Continues
THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021 Page 4
Cyan Magenta Yellow Black
Put On Hold. Littleton Pumps Brakes On
Eaton Property Development. Page 2
2 The Record Thursday, January 7, 2021
No Town-Sponsored Article Planned For Eaton Property
committee. municipal purposes, said Tom Alt, chairman that was 5,003 in 1960, a gain that equates to
BY ROBERT BLECHL
The committee could consist of department of the Littleton Conservation Commission, a about 3 percent per year, said Alt.
Staff Writer
heads, abutters offering input, conservation friend of the Eaton family and an opponent of Although the project would generate prop-
commission members, and even developers turning the land into a housing development. erty tax revenue for the town, Alt said addi-
LITTLETON — After push-back by res-
from the area, said Gendreau. Although the recommended proposal calls tional cost of community service to large and
idents and abutters about the proposal to
The request for proposals issued in No- for keeping 35 acres for community green quick influx of new residents is another piece
develop two-thirds of the Eaton property
vember came after recreational uses — the and recreation space, Alt said 102 acres is not to be considered.
into residential housing, selectmen said the
town had once been mulling playing fields anything too large for a town forest, which “Open land costs you next to nothing,”
brakes are being applied and there will be no
— were found not to be viable, a site for a requires a certain amount of un-fragmented he said. “The trees don’t send their kids to
related town-sponsored warrant article for
new elementary school also not viable, and space to maintain a healthy environment for school.”
town meeting in March.
several people in town began asking what is tree and wildlife species. For residential services in the state of New
On Dec. 28, for the second time in two
being done with the property and is it best to After crunching numbers for an estimate, Hampshire, a municipality spends an average
weeks, the proposal went to a discussion at
get back on the tax rolls, said Littleton Town he said the total roof areas of a development of $1.15 for every dollar it receives in tax
a Board of Selectmen’s meeting, where se-
Manager Andrew Dorsett. would be 16 acres or 12 football fields, which revenue, said Alt.
lectmen said the next step will be to form a
The proposal for housing originated would dump water on homes below, includ- “We have many other places in town with
diverse committee to determine the highest
through the town’s master plan, which en- ing residents along Richmond Street, whose house lots available, many,” he said. “And we
and best use for the 102-acre property in the
courages more housing in town, and the RFP yards have not been eroded because the Ea- don’t need to build this tremendous amount
Apthorp area that the town has owned since
process was a way to begin a public dialogue, ton property now acts as a “living sponge.” of infrastructure that is going to require ex-
1995 after voters approved its purchase for
he said. One vision is to manage the land as a forest tra community services. You will see another
$113,000 from former state Rep. Stephanie
The town purchased the property at market for wildlife, water, recreation and occasional policeman, you will see another plow truck,
Eaton.
price with no restrictions in the deed, said timber harvesting, said Alt. all of those things. It will take away a piece
“There were a lot of people who shared
Dorsett. After another estimate of how many resi- of land that has been in the same family since
concerns at that last [Dec. 14] meeting,” said
While that might be true, it was Stepha- dents the development would accommodate, 1900.”
Carrie Gendreau, chair of the board.
nie Eaton’s intent, through wording in the he said he came up with 1,500 people. Stephanie Eaton spent a great deal of her
“I think it needs to be a good chunk of the
warrant article presented to voters in 1995, Littleton has a current population of just life as a state representative going down to
community, 10 anyway, to get both sides,”
that the property is used for recreational and under 6,000 residents, up from a population
Cyan Magenta Yellow Black
Selectman Roger Emerson said of the new See Property, Page 9
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4 The Record Thursday, January 7, 2021
News Briefs
Nursing Hospital Outbreak As of Monday, there were 58 active COVID cases in Berlin, 19 in $551,000 in unanticipated revenue, the five-year historical norm, to
Lancaster, 15 in Gorham, nine in Whitefield, seven in Milan, six in taxpayers to offset the tax rate.
Declared To Be Over Littleton, and at least one in Bethlehem, Carroll, Colebrook, Dalton, The school board, however, said this academic year is no normal
Dummer, Haverhill, Jefferson, Lincoln, Lisbon, Northumberland, Pier- year and they are unable to commit to a specific number because of the
It’s over. mont, Randolph, Stark, Stratford, Warren, and Woodstock uncertainties that will continue to exist into 2021 around the coronavi-
The COVID-19 outbreak at the Coos County Nursing Hospital in Mills urged the public to remain vigilant and continue to take rus pandemic and its impact on revenues.
West Stewartstown officially ended last week, according to reports. COVID precautions, in order to keep community spread down and But board members, during their meeting on Jan. 4, said they will
The facility went two weeks without a positive case and was cleared prevent another outbreak at CCNH. do everything in their power to return as much to taxpayers as possible.
of outbreak status by the state Department of Health and Human Ser- She concluded her Facebook post by saying, “Thank you for being SAU 84 Superintendent William Hart spoke of the present challeng-
vices, CCNH administrator Laura Mills wrote on the hospital’s Face- there for us. Please stay safe and take care of yourselves. Please wear es and the federal stimulus package that will have an impact on the
book page on Dec. 30. your masks, wash your hands, maintain your social distancing, and district’s budget.
“It has been a great week so far and has really given me hope for avoid large groups!” The school district will receive more COVID-19-related Corona-
2021,” she wrote. virus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act money, and
It ends the deadliest chapter of the pandemic in the North Country in addition, the state will receive money, said Hart, who cited a recent
so far. Four Deaths In Lancaster Outbreak report for school districts.
The Coos County Nursing Hospital’s outbreak began Oct. 31 and Hart said he hesitates to get too excited about it, but one of the things
resulted in 134 infections (72 staff, 62 residents) and 15 resident deaths LANCASTER — Four residents have died from COVID-19 during the report states is the district will receive roughly four times what it
over 59 days. a month-long outbreak at Country Village Center. received last year for education-related expenses.
During the time, the community rallied support for hospital employ- Three of those deaths have occurred in the past week, according to “If that comes through, that’s a significant amount of funding,” he
ees, who faced long hours and intense stress during the two-month Genesis HealthCare, which manages the 86-bed facility. said.
ordeal. Overall, 13 residents and 16 staff members have tested positive The other component is what is called “maintenance of effort,”
“Let us remember that heroes come in all shapes and sizes and for since the outbreak began on Dec. 3. meaning if a school district experiences a decline in financial resourc-
many different reasons. I consider my entire staff heroes, maybe not all It is one of 32 active outbreaks statewide as of Dec. 30. es, funding will be maintained for schools in 2022 at the level that is
for the same reasons but all for the courage and heart they each have “Our thoughts and prayers go out to those impacted by COVID-19 proportional to the states, though how the state interprets that and how
shown in their own ways through this ordeal,” Mills wrote. during this difficult time, especially the families of the four residents it plays out remains to be seen, he said.
Meanwhile, 40 residents and 63 employees have received their first who passed away,” said Dr. Richard Feifer, chief medical officer for Hart said he brought it up for discussion because SAU 84 was in-
dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine. The vaccines were distributed Genesis. formed that its state adequacy funding in the first round is going to be
last week by regional Walgreens staff. The second dose will be admin- In response, Country Village Center has taken steps to control the cut by $661,000.
Cyan Magenta Yellow Black
istered on Jan. 20. outbreak. “The budget that we have right now reflects us not getting that
Mills thanks her employees for ‘taking one for the team’ and get- The facility screens residents three times daily. They have also re- $661,000,” he said. “So I guess there’s good news and bad news. The
ting vaccinated. She singled out environmental services director Lisa stricted visitations and canceled outside medical appointments (except good news is it looks like there’s going to be an influx of funding. The
Young, who was among the most enthusiastic vaccine recipients. for medically necessary, time-sensitive or life-saving procedures). bad news is it will most likely only last through the next year or maybe
“[Young] was so excited for today. She has been wanting the vac- On top of that, its 100 enoloyees are screened upon entry and re- the next year and half.”
cine since this pandemic started and today it finally happened! She quired to wear personal protective equipment. Although the $661,000 is not in the budget, it will essentially go
said, ‘Today is a good day!’ And she was right!” Mills wrote. Country Village Center is scheduled to administer vaccinations, in back to taxpayers when it does come through, said Hart.
With the outbreak over, CCNH will relax some restrictions. partnership with CVS, on Jan. 28. During the budget process, the school district estimates which reve-
Residents will return to gathering in small groups (of 10 or less) and “Vaccination is the critical third leg of the stool, along with personal nues will be there for the following year, said SAU 84 Business Man-
will resume occupational and physical therapy. They will also restart protective equipment and testing, in stemming COVID-19 spread in ager Tom Mangels.
visitations later this month. nursing homes and protecting residents and healthcare workers. This “What shows up on the warrant, what people actually have an op-
Due to high levels of community spread, visitations will be held is unquestionably the biggest vaccination effort ever undertaken and portunity to vote on, is only the expenditures,” he said. “When we get
outdoors or through barriers/windows. More details will be released will help prevent further tragedies, especially in this vulnerable popu- to the following fall, next September, we’ll revise our revenue esti-
next week. lation,” Feifer said. mates. At that time, there will be new numbers form the Department
However, some precautions will remain in place. Country Village Center had 17 active cases (9 residents, 8 staff) as of of Education in terms of adequacy aid and any other one-time adjust-
CCNH will continue to perform weekly tests on staff and residents Tuesday, according to state officials. ments they are willing to take on our behalf, and any fund balance left
who have remained COVID-negative. The facility will remain on outbreak status until it goes 14 days with- over from this year will flow into that revenue calculation next fall …
Residents and staff will be required to wear masks. Residents must out a positive result. Any revenue will directly reduce taxes next December.”
also observe social distance and remain with their residential cohort The Country Village Center outbreak has occurred during a seasonal The pandemic year, though, calls for prudence, said Mangels.
(those living on the same floor). spike in COVID cases. “I would not in any way, shape, or form predict what you will have
Restrictions on travel (medically necessary trips only) and building The state reported 657 new cases on Jan. 5 for a total of 6,480 active for fund balance at this point,” he said. “I don’t know what’s going to
entry (essential personnel only) remain in place. cases. That includes 45 active COVID cases in Berlin, 17 in Gorham, happen the rest of this year [the 2020-2021 academic year that ends
Those precautions guard against rising COVID rates statewide. 16 in Lancaster, 10 in Milan, nine in Whitefield, six in Littleton, and June 30] and we’re not sure what’s happened through this year up to
On Sunday, the state reported 1,317 new cases of COVID-19 and 11 at least one in Bath, Bethlehem, Carroll, Colebrook, Dalton, Dummer, this point. Our revenue streams are messed up; expenditures are all
deaths, bringing the total number of deaths to 780. There are currently Haverhill, Jefferson, Lincoln, Lisbon, Northumberland, Piermont, over the place. We’re getting all kinds of funding for things that we
6,096 active cases and 325 hospitalizations. The number of hospitaliza- Randolph, Stark, Stratford, Sugar Hill, Warren and Woodstock. don’t normally buy.”
tions has doubled in the last month. Country Village Center is one of 83 state-recognized outbreaks to Hart said, “I think the concern from the budget committee is our
occur in New Hampshire since the pandemic began. current budget increased taxes by 83 cents per $1,000. I know the town
That includes a current outbreak at the Northern New Hampshire is going down by 50 cents, so it’s really a gap of 30 cents per $1,000 to
Reveal Yoga Beginner Online Correctional Facility in Berlin, which has infected 83 inmates and 22 keep it level-funded.”
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Zoom Yoga Classes claimed 15 lives.
If things play out the way the federal government wants them to play
out, there will be a bigger turn-back for taxpayers next year, said Hart.
7 Week Series: January 11-February 24 To date those incidents have resulted in 510 deaths, 69 percent of The budget committee said in support of the proposed 2021-2022
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6 The Record Thursday, January 7, 2021
News Briefs Town Threatens To Withdraw town of [SAU 36],” he said. “Should that not remain feasible,
Continued from Page 4 we will become a choice town reaching out to neighboring
“My concern is we are not through this pandemic yet,” said Littleton
From SAU Over Funding districts to form tuition agreements to educate the students
School Board Chairman Greg Cook. “We are not through this year. We of Carroll.”
Fed up with hefty education expenses, Carroll could leave The current 60/40 formula was set in 1963 when the White
don’t know the impact it will have next school year. I would hate to
the White Mountains Regional School District SAU 36. Mountains Regional School District was founded.
commit to something we have no control over, certainly in the next six
The town, which pays triple the per-pupil cost of other SAU Since then, Carroll’s valuation has skyrocketed nearly
months at the very least.”
36 communities, will seek relief through two warrant articles 10,000 percent, largely because of resort development (Omni
To say any unanticipated tax revenue will be returned to taxpayers
for Town Meeting in March. The first would reduce Carroll’s Mt. Washington, Bretton Woods) and second-home growth.
might be a broader way of saying it, said Hart.
annual contribution to the district and, if that’s unsuccessful, Being property-rich disqualifies the town from potentially
“I think the way we crafted our budget and the way this will play out
a second would begin the withdrawal process. hundreds of thousands of dollars in state education aid.
as far as the funding is concerned, that 83 cents is never going to come
The Carroll School Study Committee notified the school Meanwhile, its student population has declined 30 percent
to fruition,” he said.
district of its intentions on Dec. 29. in the past 15 years.
“I agree,” said Mangels.
While not exactly an ultimatum — both warrant articles As a result, Carroll is paying an out-sized cost.
All school board members agreed to not to yet commit to a specific
require voter approval — the drastic plan reflects the town’s This year the town accounts for 26 percent of the district’s
number to be returned to taxpayers in light of the current unknowns for
growing frustration with school spending taxpayer funding (over $3 million) and 5 percent of its stu-
this academic year and going into the next year.
“We feel there is a disparity,” said Ben Jellison of the dents (approximately 65).
“I think the board has been very dedicated to the town in return-
School Study Committee. Viewed another way, Carroll’s per-pupil cost (approxi-
ing unanticipated revenue, “said School Board Member Ann Wiggett.
The committee developed the warrant articles following mately $59,000) is three times higher than other SAU 36
“Yes, we’ve had a tough year, and yes, it’s not over. 2021 is just begin-
nearly nine months of discussion. communities (appx. $17,000).
ning, including ‘22. We don’t know what’s going to happen until we
The first will ask SAU 36 voters to amend Carroll’s fund- “We do have a higher valuation [than other SAU 36 towns],
have our final audit in August or September.”
ing formula from 60/40 (student enrollment/town valuation) but that doesn’t mean that we need to pay more for our kids,”
to 80/20, phased in over four years, which would save the Jellison said.
Fund-Raising Reaches Mid-Point town approximately $1 million per year. The School Study Committee was established in the spring
The 80/20 warrant article will be presented to the school by a 127-53 town meeting vote. Its mission was to study the
For Rocks Estate Renovation board on Jan. 11. If accepted, it would require approval from town’s membership in SAU 36 and explore alternatives.
all five district towns (Carroll, Dalton, Jefferson, Lancaster Following months of meetings, they agreed the two make-
A major project is moving forward at The Rocks Estate in Bethle-
and Whitefield). or-break warrant articles were the best course of action. Their
hem, which is rebuilding after a fire destroyed its center of operations
Should that fail, a second warrant article will ask Carroll decision was supported by the Board of Selectmen.
nearly two years ago.
voters to okay withdrawal proceedings. If neither warrant article passes, Jellison told selectmen on
Cyan Magenta Yellow Black
Following a conceptual presented to the Bethlehem Planning Board
Withdrawal would be a multi-year process. Jellison hoped Dec. 8 that the town could appeal its funding formula to the
it would not be necessary. State Board of Education.
Your Community Health Partner Since 1975 “The preference of the committee is to remain a member
in June, plans continue to be refined and about half the money for the Forest Society efforts in northern New Hampshire, to be called Forest
total $7.5 million in renovations has been raised, Jack Savage, presi- Society North.
dent of the Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests, said After the renovation of the Carriage Barn is complete, all retail
Ǧ Ǩ Monday. Christmas tree operations will be located there.
“We continue to refine the plans for the Carriage Barn itself, and The concept also involves turning the first floor of the barn into an
we’ve gotten some nice, generous gifts in the last six weeks,” he said. educational center and designing a whole new level of programming
“It feels like we have some momentum. We are confident in getting and improvements to existing programs.
the money we need. I think what COVID presented us with was more In the concept, the Carriage Barn will include several classrooms,
unknowns about when that will be.” gallery space, a gift shop, a welcome center and space for events, as
SPNHF, which has owned The Rocks Estate for more than four de- well as a patio and an open-air pavilion,
cades, set itself the goal of raising $2 million by May 1 in order to go The land surrounding it will maximize the views.
ACHS = Integrated Health Care ahead and break ground. The plan also involves keeping as much of the original Carriage
“We are feeling confident enough that we will break ground,” said Barn architecture as possible, including the stone.
Primary Care Savage. “The total project is $7.5 million and we’ve raised closer to
$4 million now. That $7.5 million includes a $2 million endowment
The barn was built in 1884.
The nonprofit SPNHF received the 1,400-acre Rocks Estate in 1978
Behavioral Health to make sure we can fix the roof when it needs fixing. We are well on as a donation from the Glessner family, which had owned the property
our way.” for a century.
Dental & Oral Health Early Phase 1 work has already occurred, and included, in 2020,
landscaping work to fill in the foundation of the former Tool Barn that $2M Cultural Arts Center
burned down in the Feb. 13, 2019 fire.
Ǧ And a decision was made to move the farm headquarters, tractors, Eyed For Opera House
tools, and equipment to the red house visible from Route 302, where
ACHS accepts most major insurances, a new heated two-bay garage and workshop was built, said Savage. LITTLETON — The town is looking at a cultural arts center to be
Medicare & Medicaid, and Rocks General Manager Nigel Manley and crew are currently work- housed in the Littleton Opera House, a $1.7 to $2.4 million project
ing out of the red house. that would include a performance venue, multi-purpose room and
ơ “The next phase will be working on the parking lot behind the Car- lounge, as well as a potential community kitchen, outdoor deck and
Ǥ riage Barn and expanding it a little bit because we have to think about radio broadcast studio.
utilities,” said Savage. “We’re planning a solar array, as well as geo- A conceptual plan was presented at Monday’s Board of Selectmen’s
Call our NEW PATIENT Hotline
thermal for heat. The idea for next Christmas is we would have the meeting by Dennis Mires, of The Architects, of Manchester, who ad-
toll-free at 1.866.201.5076. parking lot in place, and the building will follow. I feel we are making vanced the plan and explored its feasibility through a $12,000 New
good progress … We are well on our way for the re-imagining of The Hampshire Community Development Block Grant and a $5,000 U.S.
Ammonoosuc Rocks.” Department of Agricultural Grant through the St. Johnsbury-based
Community Health Services In June, town planners gave the green light for the new garage and
landscaping and heard the conceptual plan for the Carriage Barn, the
Northern Community Investment Corp.
“We were charged with looking at the the Cottage Street floor of the
Littleton • Franconia • Warren • Whitefield • Woodsville core of the project that will not only replace the Tool Building as the
603.444.2464 • www.ammonoosuc.org operations center of the historic estate, but create a headquarters for all See News Briefs, Page 7
Thursday, January 7, 2021 The Record 7
News Briefs people.
In discussions with the state historic preservation
Dalton (7.6 percent); Easton (3.8 percent); Gorham
(5.0 percent); Jefferson (4.6 percent); Lincoln (5.8
“We’re hoping,” she said.
Continued from Page 6 officer, plans in the design and budget have the deck percent); Littleton (4.3 percent); Lyman (4.8 per- Bethlehem Mulls Postponing
built independently of the building so it could be re- cent); Monroe (4.2 percent); Northumberland (3.7
opera house as a cultural arts center, but we took a moved at some point, and the same removal option percent), Pittsburg (4.3 percent); Randolph (3.6 Deliberative & Town Meeting
look at the whole building because there’s a lot of is planned for the banner and marquee, he said. percent), Stark (5.2 percent); Stewartstown (4.7
other cultural events that get programmed here and The base building bid, after working with Laco- percent); Stratford (8.8 percent); Sugar Hill (3.7 per- It’s crunch time for North Country SB2 towns
we want to be able to support that with our Cottage nia-based construction manager Bonnette, Page and cent), and Whitefield (4.0 percent). and school districts as they decide how they will
Street plan and enhance the uses of the rest of the Stone for an estimate, is $1.7 million. hold their annual deliberative sessions and town
building,” said Mires. If alternatives, such as the community kitchen de- elections during the coronavirus pandemic.
Because the opera house is on the National Reg- veloped to its fullest extent, the exterior deck, an up-
Million Dollar Ticket Although the vaccine is being rolled out now, it’s
ister of Historic Places, with easements both inside stairs multi-purpose room and the marquee, are add- Sold In North Stratford expected that sufficient inoculation of the general
and outside, Mires said he continues to have dis- ed in, the cost would increase to about $2.4 million. population won’t occur until spring or summer.
cussions with the state historic preservation officer Retiring opera house manager, Sue Pilotte said Someone had a Merry Christmas. In the meantime, the state has given SB2 munici-
about limitations and what can and cannot be built. to more effectively market the opera house and pro- Northwoods Trading Post in North Stratford, palities and districts several options.
Inside the space now are basically basement walls vide another revenue source through rentals, a com- N.H., sold a winning Mega Millions ticket worth $1 The town of Bethlehem, an SB2 town, consid-
and two egresses at the south side of the building. munity kitchen would be an asset. million for the Dec. 25 drawing. ered three of them.
“We really have a clean slate to develop a pro- Looking at the total project costs, resident Bruce The ticket had the winning numbers (17 23 36 69 Option one is to hold the sessions in person at
gram,” said Mires.” We met with the [Littleton Cul- Hadlock asked who’s going to pay for it. 70), but not the Mega Ball of 19, which would have their regularly scheduled dates, the first week in
tural Arts Commission] over a number of months “We go after a number of different funding given them the entire Mega Millions prize estimated February for deliberative sessions and the second
and developed a proposed plan, which really en- sources for any project we do and NCIC has been a at $376 million. Tuesday in March (March in 2021) for the ballot
hances the entrance off Cottage Street.” strong partner for us,” said Littleton Town Manager It has been the talk of the town, said Mary Chap- election vote.
Entering, one would look directly at a lounge and Andrew Dorsett. ple, the store’s general manager. The second option is a hybrid model that would
bar, and beyond would be the primary multi-pur- For communities and nonprofits, NCIC works to “They want to know who it is,” she said. hold a virtual COVID-19 deliberative session on
pose room, with a box in the center of the building identify funding sources and matching funds that The identity of the winner remains unknown. No the usual day in February and a live, in-person town
designed to accommodate small performances, such are available locally or from the state and federal one has claimed the prize yet, according to the N.H. meeting in March.
as a comedian or small musical group, with seating government, as well as private donations and in- Lottery. The third is to postpone both until the spring or
for approximately 75 spectators. dividuals businesses, and the organization helps to It was one of three $1 million winning tickets for summer, until such a time that town officials feel
“It can take tables and chairs, where you might leverage all those resources, said Katelyn Robinson, the Dec. 25 drawing. The others were sold in New comfortable having in-person sessions.
have a group of 40 or 50 people with the tables and director of economic development for NCIC. York and Texas. It’s the third option that some Bethlehem select-
chairs for more of a community meeting or break- “$1.7 million sounds high, but by leveraging with It was the biggest winner that Northwoods Trad- men are eyeing after a discussion at their Monday
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out meeting or corporate kind of meeting,” he said. those grants it ends up being a fraction of the cost to ing Post has ever sold, Chapple said. meeting, that also included questions about what
“The idea was that it can also be an art gallery and the town,” she said. “There are millions of dollars The store will receive $10,000 for selling the happens to the budget and elected residents on
the walls are set up for display. The lighting [can] out there.” ticket. boards if the elections are delayed several months.
light the walls, as well as provide for the theater.” Dorsett said an example is Littleton’s $1.5 million The winning ticket was sold in hard-hit Coos “Keeping people safe and getting as many people
In the mix is a green room for performers and a riverfront commons project. County, which has seen the highest unemployment in on the conversation, I think, are two great goals,”
large storage space for the tables and chairs that are Taxpayers kicked in $175,000 and the rest is rate in the state during COVID, and where many said Bethlehem Board of Selectmen Chairman
put away for standing room-only performances or coming from New Hampshire Community Devel- communities continue to report unemployment Gabe Boisseau.
an art gallery. opment Finance Authority tax credits ($575,000), numbers well above the state average. Because of health and safety concerns, no board
There would also be several smaller multi-pur- private donations ($155,000), the Northern Border Chapple has her fingers crossed the ticket was member was in favor of the first option.
pose rooms that could be used for musicians to Regional Commission ($110,000), and the state sold to a local customer from either the North Coun-
practice, or for community meetings or conferences. land, water and conservation fund ($200,000), he try or Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom. See News Briefs, Page 10
The plan also anticipates opening up the south said.
wall, to open out onto a deck so visitors can take in The approach has been to ask taxpayers for seed
the views of the river and the sunshine. money and leverage it 3-to-1 or 4-to-1 with grant
When entering the Cottage Street level, a broad- money, said Dorsett.
cast studio could be immediately to the left.
“We’ve had a lot of discussions with the local
radio station,” said Mires. “They don’t want to Unemployment Improves,
abandon the site they’re in, but they really see an op- North Country Still Lags
portunity to bring the broadcast piece over here, as
well as a multi-purpose room behind it, where they New Hampshire reported a 3.5 percent unem-
can record and interview people … We see a lot of ployment rate for November.
multi-purposes activities going on here that will en- It represents a steady decline from April, when
hance the ones you already have.” state unemployment hit a record high of 17.2 per-
A community kitchen on the other side is an idea cent as the coronavirus shut down the Granite State
still being tested in terms of viability. economy.
“There has been a lot of interest to provide a com- Since then, New Hampshire unemployment has
munity kitchen that will support our farmers and decreased every month: 15.3 percent in May, 9.1
help them grow their business and be able to market percent in June, 7.9 percent in July, 6.4 percent in Move your smile and life forward with Invisalign!
their products.” said Mires. “This is anticipated to August, 5.5 percent in September, 3.8 percent in Oc- Invisalign’s clear, custom-designed aligners can be an inconspicuous way to get a beautiful new
be set up as a commercial USDA-approved kind of tober, and 3.5 percent in November. smile without interruputing your lifestyle. Meaning you can still enjoy the activities you love
kitchen. But we’re still testing the market and con- That recovery continues to be slower in the North and the foods you can’t live without, while shaping your smile more gently.
firming the viability.” Country. STRAIGHT TEETH ARE WITHIN REACH.
In the concept, a marquee could shelter the Cot- Unemployment rates remain above the state av- Call Dr. Alan Kennell today for a free, no-obligation consultation.
tage Street entrance and provide advertising, and a erage in Coos County (4.4 percent) and northern
banner could run up the side of the building. Grafton County (4.0 percent in the Littleton labor Schedule a Free Consultation Today!
“As you cross the bridge, you identify that as a
major cultural resource and welcome visitors to Lit-
market area). KENNELL Dr. Alan F. Kennell
Communities with unemployment rates above
tleton and the opera house,” said Mires. “Once you the state average include: Berlin (5.1 percent); The Clear Alternative to Braces
come in, you see everything that’s available.” Bethlehem (4.7 percent); Clarksville (3.7 percent),
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8 The Record Thursday, January 7, 2021
Obituaries
Vaughn M. Newton spending time with his family and many friends. pitching horseshoes, maple sugaring, snowmobiling, driving
Vaughn M. Newton, 82, passed away peacefully at home Von is survived by his four children: Ellen Allen (Andy the quad, and cutting firewood.
with family members on December 29, 2020. Vaughn (Von) Letson) of Littleton, Richard Newton (Janice) of Littleton, He was a member of the Ross Wood American Legion
was born November 4, 1938, in Barre, Vt., one of six children Kathleen Boswell (Michael) of Littleton, and Laura A. Bai- Post #20 in Woodsville, N.H., was a life-long member of the
born to James and Ruth (Celley) Newton. ley (Dennis) of Pelham. He leaves 12 grandchildren: Joshua, Monroe Community Church, and was a former member of the
Raised in Littleton, Von will be remembered for his knowl- Cortney, Justin, Kevin, Taylor, Spencer, Tyler Alexa, Korynn, Monroe Men’s Club and the Grange. Along with Marilyn, he
edge and passion for automobiles and Kiana, Kayla, Brett; and 1 great-grandchild: Avery. He is also enjoyed attending and delivering the meals at the West Barnet
motorcycles. Von’s interest in automo- survived by his partner Marion Pineo of Littleton, two sib- (Vt.) meal site and for over 15 years.
biles was fostered from a very early lings Edna Walker of Littleton and Betsy Mardin of Lisbon, He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Marilyn Dickin-
age when he helped his dad at the Esso and many nieces and nephews. son of Monroe; four children, David A. Dickinson and wife
Garage on the Main Street of Littleton. Von was predeceased by three siblings Jeanette Bisson, Paula of Beachwood, N.J.; Steven L. Dickinson and wife Pa-
As a youth Von raced soapbox derby James Newton, and Willard Newton. tricia of Bayville, N.J.; Susan G. Wood of Middletown, N.J.;
cars, an experience that led to his later Calling hours will be Monday, January 4 at Pillsbury and Daryl L. Dickinson and wife Lisa of Toms River, N.J.;
work with stock cars. Phaneuf Funeral Home in Littleton from 5-8 pm. There will along with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren and
After serving three years in the be a graveside service at the Glenwood Cemetery at 11:30 a great-great-grandchild.
Navy, he was the mechanic and pit a.m. on Jan. 5 with COVID-19 protocols in place. He was predeceased by his mother, Una, on Jan. 1, 1970;
crew boss for his lifelong friend In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American his step-father, Percy Gaylor in October 1983; two children,
Ronnie Marvin who started racing Vaughn Newton Diabetes Association or a charity of one’s choice. Linda D. Allegretti on July 28, 2001, and Bryan W. Dickinson
at Northeastern Speedway, Thunder To view an online tribute, leave a message of condolence on Jan. 24, 2007; three grandsons, Donald Wood on March 9,
Road, Catamount Stadium, and eventually Daytona, Florida. or for more information please visit www.phaneuf.net. 1999, Erik Wood on Jan. 26, 2012, and Larry Dickinson on
Other lifetime bonds were made with shipmates Von served May 17, 2017; two great-grandsons, Andrew Michael Barber,
with in the Navy. At age 17 he enlisted and spent three years Donald Alva Dickinson Jr. on Oct. 26, 1999, and Reuben June Rainey on Jan. 8, 2005;
on the U.S.S. Orion out of the Norfolk Naval Base. Travel Donald Alva Dickinson, 88, of Plains Road, Monroe, N.H., three sisters, Joan Moody on Jan. 19, 2002, Barbara Scott on
between Littleton and Norfolk was always a challenge due to died on Wednesday, Dec. 30, 2020, at the Grafton County Aug. 1, 1998, and Elizabeth Tetreault on Sept. 10, 1986; and
hitchhiking both ways, but the effort was worth it to see his Nursing Home, North Haverhill, N.H. a brother, Roger Hazelton on May 18, 2005.
new love, Rita. Donald was born in Monroe on Feb. There will be no calling hours.
Von was supported in his life’s adventures and experiences 4, 1932, to Una Dickinson. He attend- A graveside service in the Monroe Village Cemetery will
by his wife of 52 years, Rita (Boulay) Newton who passed ed the Monroe Grade School was a be held in the spring of 2021 with dates and times to be an-
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away in 2010. Von and Rita grew a large business in Littleton graduate of McIndoe Falls Academy, nounced.
that included Von’s Auto, Newton’s Trailor Park, and numer- Class of 1951. In his senior year, he Memorial contributions may be made to the Monroe FAST
ous rental properties. Many remember purchasing their first was the high scorer on the basketball Squad, c/o Mr. Maynard Farr, 71 Hammond Drive, Monroe,
car from Von, a kind and generous person. Willing to lend a team. On July 31, 1951, he enlisted in NH 03771.
helping hand, he personally financed some of the car loans at the U.S. Navy, and visited places he For more information or to offer an online condolence,
little or no interest. never would have been able to see, please visit www.rickerfh.com.
Von and Rita raised their family in Littleton with all of otherwise. He was honorably dis- Ricker Funeral Home & Cremation Care of Woodsville is
their children receiving multiple cars as teenagers, trading charged with ZP-3 in Lakehurst, N.J. in charge of arrangements.
them out later when Von returned home from yet another on July 29, 1955. Donald Dickinson
car auction. The family spent many early mornings fishing On Aug. 6, 1955, he married Mari- Richard (Dick) Warren
at Zealand, snowmobiling, outdoor time at Forest Lake, and lyn. E. Schiel in Pine Beach, N.J. Richard (Dick) Warren, 80, passed away on Dec. 20, 2020,
traveling to visit friends Von had met during his time in the Donald was hired by Jersey Central Power and Light Com- at his home in Voss, Norway. Dick was born on March 5,
navy. The children were used to their dad always bringing pany, attained the ranking of Chief, and retired after 35 years 1940 in Woodsville, N.H.
home stray animals, including a raccoon. In his later years, of service on Feb. 29, 1990. He graduated from Littleton High School in 1959. In 1965
he left the daily oversight of Von’s Auto to his nephew, Joe Following retirement, he and Marilyn moved from Beach- he married Torunn Slatten of Voss,
Bisson, who assisted Von for over 25 years. Never one to wood, NJ to their vacation home in Ryegate Corner, Vt. They Norway and in 1973 they moved
be idle, Von continued to collect cars and motorcycles, buy- relocated to his hometown of Monroe in 1997. permanently to Norway. Prior to the
ing a Harley Davidson trike only a few years ago. He loved When he was younger, Donald enjoyed fishing and hunt- move, Dick had owned and operated
tinkering with machines, playing roulette at the casino, and ing. He had always enjoyed flowers and planting and tending Jerry’s Taxi for a number of years in
his garden. He liked hiking, camping, bowling, playing cards, Littleton. Until his retirement Dick
worked in the hotel business, Voss be-
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See Obituaries, Page 9
Thursday, January 7, 2021 The Record 9
Property 13 acres of land, 72 three-bedroom detached homes on 22
acres, 48 three-bedroom triplexes on 10 acres, 500 apartment
Continued from Page 2 units on 20 acres, and 35 acres of green and recreational
space.
Concord for next to nothing to help people in Littleton, said “Our intent is to put something there that people would
Alt. want, recreational space for people to enjoy and to address
“For those of you who knew her, who met her on the street, the housing shortage in town,” he said.
she cared about you,” he said. “She didn’t put restrictions in Sixteen rooftop acres within 100 acres is well below devel-
the deed, but if you look at her paperwork, you’ll find she opments in many other towns, where housing coverage can be
had a little master plan of her own with a forest management up to 50 percent, said Bombaci.
plan in it.” “We kept it low on purpose and didn’t want to over-pack
Eaton could have sold the land to a realtor and netted a the area,” he said.
better price than what the town paid for it, said Alt. After being asked what kind of a population would be
She viewed the warrant article specifying recreational and housed there and if it would be low-income, Bombaci said
municipal uses as a “handshake” deal with the town, he said. there are no restrictions and the condominium units would
Since the first discussion last month, Alt said he’s been in be affordable for many people moving to the area, and the
touch with family members about what they feel was Eaton’s apartment buildings would help alleviate the rental shortage
views and feelings. in Littleton.
To abutters whose backyards are nearby, Alt said, “You “Vouchers and subsidies are not part of the plan,” he said.
know what will happen to the value of your property if some- “It’s meant to be affordable in terms of not being overpriced,
thing like this takes place.” but it will definitely not be subsidized.”
Closing, to applause, he said, “From a conservation com- Selectmen were then queried by residents circling back to
mission point of view and being a valued friend of the Eaton the possibility of a warrant article.
family, this is my take on it.” “We don’t plan on selling it or putting it on the warrant any
Giving his take was Jonathan Bombaci, who said his bid, time soon,” said Selectman Chad Stearns.
the only one of three submitted that was recommended by “I think the people ought to have a little more input on what
an advisory committee, is based on Littleton’s master plan, happens to this piece of property,” said Emerson.
which underscores a need for more housing along with a com- One resident suggested the idea of a voter-submitted peti-
munity forest. tion article urging residents to save the land for what Eaton
The Bombaci proposal entails self-storage units on about wanted in spirit for the town.
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Obituaries close to their daughter and grandchil-
dren. Beautiful memories were created
in his final days. He was an amazing fa-
ther, grandfather, great-grandfather and
Continued from Page 8 as Paul and Theresa were fully involved friend.
in the upbringing of their grandchildren Paul lived his last three months at the
loved Father, Grandpa, Great-Grandpa and great-grandchildren. Paul was an Blue Spruce Retirement home in Brad-
G and Friend, Paul Earl Williams, 95, avid photographer and could always be ford, Vt. We are so appreciative of the
of Bradford, Vermont on Dec. 22, 2020. found documenting every special occa- amazing love and care they provided
Growing up through The Great De- sion. Paul and Theresa were well-known him.
pression, he faced many hardships that for their love of dancing. Prior to their He leaves his daughter Marie Greg-
influenced the rest of his life. After his move to Vermont they belonged to the ory and her companion Steve Huff
dad passed when he was 8 years old, So-Ed Dance Club and enjoyed ball- of Bradford, Vt., Grandson Shilo W.
he and his brothers could be found on room dancing as well as line dancing. Gregory and great-grandson Solomon
the streets of Pittsfield, Massachusetts After they moved to Vermont, they were Gregory of Woodsville, N.H., Grand-
searching for food and clothes, rallying members of the Elks Club and Moose daughter Lynnette Gregory Knapp and
together to care for their needs as well Club in St. Johnsbury, Vt. and spent great-granddaughter Tenley Knapp of
as their mother. every Saturday night out dancing. They Bradford, Vt., Yvette Gregory Koslows-
Early on, Paul worked at the Pitts- became members of the Horse Meadow ky and husband Frank with great-grand-
field Milk Exchange delivering milk, Senior Center in Haverhill, N.H. and children Zachary Koslowsky and Noell
Wohrles Foods, and General Electric. taught line dancing there as well. Koslowsky, all of Newbury, Vt. Addi-
During this time he met and married Paul and Marie were married 64 years tionally, he leaves his special compan-
the love of his life, Marie Theresa Ste- when she passed on Dec. 31, 2013. ion Rose Hatch of Ryegate, Vt.
vens, on May 28, 1949. On March 8, When Theresa went to heaven, he con- He was predeceased by his wife Ma-
1950, their beloved daughter, Marie, tinued on with line dancing at the Senior rie Theresa Williams on Dec. 31, 2013.
was born. Later, Paul became a custo- Center and attended the center five days His parents Samuel Williams and Cath-
dian of the schools of Pittsfield, Mass. a week until its shutdown last spring. erine Bubb Williams and siblings John
as he worked his way up to become He was a social butterfly, enjoying the Williams, James Williams and Cather-
the custodial supervisor for several of camaraderie and making the most of ine Hayes, all of Pittsfield, Mass.
Pittsfield’s schools and finally Taconic every single day. Paul was a positive A graveside service will be held in the
High School. With much hardship in thinker, enjoying each day to the full- spring, if permitted. Donations in Paul’s
their past, Paul and Marie built a beau- est. He deeply loved his family, friends name may be made to the Horsemeadow
tiful life they loved. Upon retirement, and most of all life. He never let things Senior Center North Haverhill, N.H.
they moved to Newbury, Vermont to be get him down and pushed through even
www.northcountryhealth.org
10 The Record Thursday, January 7, 2021
News Briefs Governor Cancels navirus pandemic. On Monday, local police spokesperson, Benjamin Vihstadt, said in a
Continued from Page 7 issued summonses to nine people and arrested statement.
Inaugural, Citing Mask one of them under a new anti-picketing or- The ordinance says “It is unlawful for any
Some weren’t keen on the second, either.
“My concern about a virtual meeting is some Protests At His Home dinance passed by the Newfields selectboard, person to engage in picketing before or about
people would not be able to participate,” said Se- on which Sununu’s brother sits. the residence or dwelling of any individual in
lectman Chris Jensen. “And a hybrid meeting, just CONCORD, N.H. (AP) — New Hamp- Skylar Bennett, 38, of Concord, said the town of Newfields.” Violators are subject
because some people would be willing to attend, shire’s Republican governor said Wednesday Wednesday he will contest his arrest on to a $100 fine.
doesn’t mean it’s a good idea.” that he is canceling his outdoor inauguration charges of criminal trespass and disorderly According to the minutes of the Dec. 8
Next Monday, selectmen could make a decision ceremony next month because of public safe- conduct at a candlelight vigil held outside the board meeting, Newfields Police Chief Na-
on an option, following a meeting with New Hamp- ty concerns — namely, armed protesters who home. than Liebenow said the Nov. 22 protest was
shire Municipal Association on Saturday, when have been gathering outside his home in the “It’s clear this ordinance in Newfields was described as “very boisterous and disturbing”
Bethlehem Town Moderator Mary Lou Krambeer weeks since he issued a mask order. specifically to benefit King Sununu,” Bennett and generated a number of complaints from
will have more information for a better board de- “My first responsibility is ensuring the said. He added that people have been gath- residents.
cision. safety of my family and our citizens” Gov. ering to protest because Sununu “closed the There had been at least three more gath-
The options come out of legislation, House Bill Chris Sununu said in a news release. “For state.” erings since then, and Liebenow said more
1129, that was passed in the summer of 2020. weeks, armed protesters have increasingly When Sununu issued the mask order, he events were planned into January. He said the
Option two for deliberative sessions is logisti- become more aggressive, targeting my fam- said at the time a mandate was appropriate, intention of the ordinance is not to suppress
cally tricky and requires a mail-out of postcards to ily, protesting outside my private residence, given the rising percentage of positive test re- or violate anyone’s constitutional right to free
inform all registered voters and involves not one, but and trespassing on my property — an outdoor sults, the fact that the number of people hos- speech.
two deliberative sessions, the first an informational public ceremony simply brings too much risk. pitalized with COVID-19 had doubled in the The language of the ordinance is similar to
session and the second, seven days later, the actual We do not make this decision lightly but it is past two weeks, there were new outbreaks at one affirmed by the U.S. Supreme Court, said
vote to make any changes to warrant articles or the the right thing to do.” five nursing homes, and an “incredibly alarm- Assistant Attorney General Matthew Broad-
budget, said Krambeer. In consultation with Attorney General Gor- ing rate” of community transmission by peo- head, chief legal counsel for the state police.
The actual town-vote election in the second op- don MacDonald, Sununu said, he and Senate ple who aren’t showing symptoms. The order He also described “the verbal harassment en-
tion would be a drive-up election as required under President Chuck Morse, acting House Speak- expires Jan. 15. dured by the governor, his family and nearby
HB 1129, and while town hall can be used as a walk- er Sherm Packard and the Executive Council At least 100 people appeared outside residents,” according to the minutes.
in polling location, it won’t be a regular town hall will be sworn in during a small ceremony Jan. Sununu’s home at the first protest. Frank Sta- The Newfields Police Department, in its
election because of COVID restrictions, she said. 7. It will be attended by leaders of both hous- ples of the group Absolute Defiance said pro- news release Wednesday, said the nine peo-
For the postponed sessions in option three, the es of the Legislature and will be virtually at- testers chose the site because Sununu had shut ple were advised of the town’s residential
everything down, including the Statehouse, picketing ordinance and instructed to stop but
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dates would be the second Tuesday in April, May, tended by all other members. Sununu will de-
June or July. liver his inaugural address at 7 p.m. that day. “so right now, this is the Statehouse.” didn’t, so they were given summonses.
“If we waited for option three, many more people Protesters started gathering outside There have been more protests since then. Police did not provide names other than
would hopefully be vaccinated and we could do the Sununu’s home in Newfields on Nov. 22 over That led to the Dec. 22 passage of the ordi- Bennett’s, but the NH Journal said one of its
regular deliberative meeting in one night and then his order, which had taken effect two days nance by the three-member Newfields select- reporters, Chris Maidment, was given a sum-
do a regular election,” said Krambeer. earlier, requiring masks to be worn in public board. mons, even though he repeatedly identified
She called option one “regular at the regular spaces, indoors or outside, when social dis- The governor, who was not at home during himself as a reporter covering the event. The
time” and option three “regular at a different time.” tancing isn’t possible because of the coro- Monday’s gathering, had no involvement in Journal said it will contest the summons and
Selectmen agreed that the second option would, the ordinance or in its enforcement, Sununu’s fine.
in the words of Boisseau, have “a lot of logistical
headaches.”
“If we do a virtual meeting, according to HB months, given that you have to have two vaccina- date beyond the Feb. 1 date in option two to give on economic development issues in the region, like
1129, we have to give notice of the meeting at least tions.” the town more time to issue mailing notices, said transportation, broadband or childcare. The docu-
seven days prior to the first meeting, which would Caplain said he would lean toward option two if Krambeer. ment is produced every five years with an annual
probably be Feb. 1,” said Krambeer. “And then we the town can figure out how to make a virtual delib- The budget hearing that is scheduled for some update. The current CEDS is for the years 2018-
mail out a postcard and the mail takes a while so erative session work and not exclude anyone. time in January will be held virtually, on the Zoom 2022; the 2020 update is set to be posted on NCC’s
we probably have to mail it more than seven days in Others called for a delay. video-conferencing platform, as all selectmen meet- website in early January.
advance, which would mean mid-January.” “It seems the best way to move forward would ings have been held since last year, said Town Ad- Michelle Moran-Grey, who has worked for the
Then the postcard would need to be made, which be to postpone until spring,” said Selectman Mary ministrative Assistant Tim Fleury. NCC for over 10 years and as executive director for
would take a few days and require action to move on Moritz. the past three, admits the CEDS is not always that
that by next week, said Selectman Bruce Caplain. It’s reasonable to assume that positive case num- North Country Council interesting.
“With the hybrid thing, I think we will miss out bers will go down after the second shot of the vac- “A lot of times we get calls when we get other
on a lot of input from the community,” Selectman cination is administered, so June might not be a bad Receives Federal Funds types of funding on specific projects, things we can
Linda Moore said of the second option. “I think time, she said. To Update Economic touch,” she said. “This is kind of one of those im-
it’s going to be too complicated, just too much. In School will not be in session, so sanitizing will portant things happening in the background.”
Bethlehem, we have a really good community en- be easier, and a session could even be held outside, Development Plan The CEDS’ production, which includes meetings
gagement on these things and I hate to lose that. I said Moritz. every other month of stakeholders to discuss region-
As for elected officials, Krambeer said it appears LITTLETON — If you want to get a handle on al economic strategy, costs about $140,000 a year.
love that people are so engaged, so I’m not a real key economic issues and trends in Northern New
fan of that.” they will stay elected and in office until the 2021 The NCC applies and generally receives funding
election is held, whichever the date. Hampshire, you should probably check out the from the EDA for the process.
“I hear you on that,” said Boisseau. Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy
Profile School has been reserved for the town’s As for the budget, Moore said she doesn’t think it “We’re very thankful that we get it,” said “[The
will change because the town is already working off (CEDS). EDA funds are] amazingly helpful in the economic
traditional deliberative session, so if the session is On Dec. 17, Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, D-NH, an-
delayed for a few months, it would still be at the of the 2021 budget. development work in the region.”
“We ended Dec. 31 anyway, so whether it’s ap- nounced that the U.S. Department of Commerce’s The 2019 CEDS committee included residents,
high school where it’s a lot easier to social distance, Economic Development Administration (EDA)
then in the town hall, said Krambeer. proved in March or June, if the state is saying we can members of various government agencies, com-
delay this, it shouldn’t matter,” she said. “Whether would award the North Country Council (NCC) munity development organizations and non-profits,
Realistically, postponement would probably be $70,000 to help the organization update its CEDS.
not in April or May, but later, said Selectman Bruce it’s April, May, or June, we are still working off the the Appalachian Mountain Club, White Mountains
budget that hasn’t been approved.” The NCC is a non-profit regional planning commis- Community College and Littleton Coin Company.
Caplain. sion in Littleton.
“June would be a best-case scenario, given that At most, the town would be delaying the vote by The CEDS generally focuses on resiliency, but
three months, said Boisseau. The CEDS is a document that serves as a way Moran-Grey says the pandemic has really
the vaccine hasn’t started to roll out to the general to engage community leaders across all sectors in
public,” he said. “When it does, it will take several Another option is to set a deliberative session
creating a strategic roadmap for working together See News Briefs, Page 13You can also read
