New police and fire stations

[Unregistered]

You are going to the opening of The Raven's Nest? Are you walking in or flying in?! We know that it is not your nest as that is up in the top of the old Town Hall. Are you anxious to see what another raven's nest looks like?
Sometimes I think how wonderful it would be to be on top of the old Town Hall and look all around at the town.
However, I just remembered I don't like heights.

[Unregistered]

:)

I am with all those that endeavor to preserve and protect Adams Farm. I have enlisted a full squadron of ravens, as well as red-winged blackbirds, bluejays, a few hawks a flying squirrel and a moose, to help you set up a defensive perimiter. Some people think the property is useless. Have you ever noticed the wildlife LIVING there?

(the squirrel showed up with an aviators leather helmet and goggles...whats up with that?)

fyi: The Ravens Nest opens officially this coming Tuesday. See you all there!!

I am genuinely curious how you feel about other land in town. Truely serious. Raven, should Siemen's be allowed to expand onto residential land abutting Moose Hill Road? That too is a lovely spot. It used to be apple orchards. What about the undeveloped land in South Walpole. Some of it not yet recoverred from previous bad land uses. All of it on top of our drinking water. Is a power plant or a Pharmacutical Manufacturing facility really reasonable and a good choice in your eyes?

Inquiring minds want to know...

[The Raven]

I am genuinely curious how you feel about other land in town. Truely serious. Raven, should Siemen's be allowed to expand onto residential land abutting Moose Hill Road? That too is a lovely spot. It used to be apple orchards. What about the undeveloped land in South Walpole. Some of it not yet recoverred from previous bad land uses. All of it on top of our drinking water. Is a power plant or a Pharmacutical Manufacturing facility really reasonable and a good choice in your eyes?

Inquiring minds want to know...

I will have to admit I am not up-to-speed on these issues. I need to peruse maps of the town, and all the proposals by Siemens, etc. to make an intelligent response.

I can tell you with absolute certainty: I do not like pollution of any kind, and considering what will be happening to "mis hermanos en el Golfo de Mexico", I have started to begun to think like Governor Schwarznegger, who claimed there will be no deepsea offshore drilling in California.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LuFNf8LIbEw

At this time, I can say that many people from Walpole work at Siemens. I don't know the exact number, but wouldn't be surprised to know that it is the largest employer of local people in the area. Some of those people put out feed for me. We all know the old adage: "Don't bite the hand that feeds you..."


And where were you all protecting our health from the downwind effects of the power plants in Bellingham and elsewhere?

Humans have failed to embrace green energy, and they are still hooked on oil and gas to provide their energy needs. The trashing in the media of the Cape Wind project is typical of those that can't let go.

We are going to have to pay more for energy no matter what. Why not alternative energy? (and its "made in massachusetts").


http://static.howstuffworks.com/gif/willow/raven-info0.gif
The Raven

[Unregistered]

I will have to admit I am not up-to-speed on these issues. I need to peruse maps of the town, and all the proposals by Siemens, etc. to make an intelligent response.

I can tell you with absolute certainty: I do not like pollution of any kind, and considering what will be happening to "mis hermanos en el Golfo de Mexico", I have started to begun to think like Governor Schwarznegger, who claimed there will be no deepsea offshore drilling in California.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LuFNf8LIbEw

At this time, I can say that many people from Walpole work at Siemens. I don't know the exact number, but wouldn't be surprised to know that it is the largest employer of local people in the area. Some of those people put out feed for me. We all know the old adage: "Don't bite the hand that feeds you..."


And where were you all protecting our health from the downwind effects of the power plants in Bellingham and elsewhere?

Humans have failed to embrace green energy, and they are still hooked on oil and gas to provide their energy needs. The trashing in the media of the Cape Wind project is typical of those that can't let go.

We are going to have to pay more for energy no matter what. Why not alternative energy? (and its "made in massachusetts").


http://static.howstuffworks.com/gif/willow/raven-info0.gif
The Raven

Just how many people from Walpole work at Siemens? I think you should provide an exact number instead of an assumption. And did YOU work to protect us from the Bellingham downwind effects?

[Unregistered]

While downtown for Walpole day spoke to most of the BOS candidates who said if the field and ajoining land were taken for a combined facility we could no longer have a downtown. People are beginning to get it !

[Unregistered]

I will have to admit I am not up-to-speed on these issues. I need to peruse maps of the town, and all the proposals by Siemens, etc. to make an intelligent response.

I can tell you with absolute certainty: I do not like pollution of any kind, and considering what will be happening to "mis hermanos en el Golfo de Mexico", I have started to begun to think like Governor Schwarznegger, who claimed there will be no deepsea offshore drilling in California.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LuFNf8LIbEw

At this time, I can say that many people from Walpole work at Siemens. I don't know the exact number, but wouldn't be surprised to know that it is the largest employer of local people in the area. Some of those people put out feed for me. We all know the old adage: "Don't bite the hand that feeds you..."


And where were you all protecting our health from the downwind effects of the power plants in Bellingham and elsewhere?

Humans have failed to embrace green energy, and they are still hooked on oil and gas to provide their energy needs. The trashing in the media of the Cape Wind project is typical of those that can't let go.

We are going to have to pay more for energy no matter what. Why not alternative energy? (and its "made in massachusetts").


http://static.howstuffworks.com/gif/willow/raven-info0.gif
The Raven

Raven, I appreciate your saying you need to know more to have an opinion,... but to follow it up with "At this time, I can say that many people from Walpole work at Siemens. I don't know the exact number, but wouldn't be surprised to know that it is the largest employer of local people in the area. Some of those people put out feed for me. We all know the old adage: "Don't bite the hand that feeds you..."", seems to be having an opinion without merit. The Rec Dept and Town Hall each employ more residents of Walpole on their own than does Siemens. I don't know a sole who works there, and despite their promises to "try and hire Walpole residents" in resturn for a tax cut, they have no figures.... That tells me all I need to know. How many residents do you "think" they employ? Is that worth selling out all the residents on Moose Hill Road? Is it worth the selling out all the residents on Sandra and Hale Roads?? Is it worth putting another Siemens at Bird Machine... on top of our drinking water???

I am dissappointed in a fluff answer. You should have stuck with "I am uninformed and have no opinion".

[Unregistered]

This week's BOS agenda includes a discussion of the promotional process for hiring the next deputy chief. Does anyone think that selectmen who have family on the police force should be involved in the discussion and hiring process? It will be too tempting to hire from within because it will free up another position that the BOS can get very involved in again.

I think we will see yet another nationwide search that begins and ends in the same location unless some groundrules are set for selectmen participation.

[The Raven]

Raven, I appreciate your saying you need to know more to have an opinion,... but to follow it up with "At this time, I can say that many people from Walpole work at Siemens. I don't know the exact number, but wouldn't be surprised to know that it is the largest employer of local people in the area. Some of those people put out feed for me. We all know the old adage: "Don't bite the hand that feeds you..."", seems to be having an opinion without merit. The Rec Dept and Town Hall each employ more residents of Walpole on their own than does Siemens. I don't know a sole who works there, and despite their promises to "try and hire Walpole residents" in resturn for a tax cut, they have no figures.... That tells me all I need to know. How many residents do you "think" they employ? Is that worth selling out all the residents on Moose Hill Road? Is it worth the selling out all the residents on Sandra and Hale Roads?? Is it worth putting another Siemens at Bird Machine... on top of our drinking water???

I am dissappointed in a fluff answer. You should have stuck with "I am uninformed and have no opinion".

I think you are dissapointed in my answer because it wasn't the one you wanted to hear!

Listen: I will attempt at finding out how many people from Walpole (and Sharon) work at Siemens. I can tell you for sure that at least 6 Walpole folks work there, because I know they do!

I'd also like to know how many people that have leeching fields and cesspool systems not connected to the town sewer who are located on top of the aquifer. And please, you do realize that all the salt we put on our roads during the winter washes off into parts of our aquifer. You do realize that?

Regarding the poster who wondered where I was when they put in the power plant in Bellingham: I will tell you that I wasn't against it.

I would like to see a greener world, and the bit part I play in doing that is reducing my carbon footprint on our world by using a smaller vehicle, using energy saving electrical devices, and urging our politicians to support green businesses. But I am a realist: we need energy sources, and gas plants are much cleaner than coal or oil.

The Siemens site near rt. 95 has great potential for business development of many different kinds. I don't live in the neighborhood, but to be honest, I'd rather see a Siemens plant enlargement next to me, than the expansion that was done at Walpole Mall. The traffic increase has been substantial, and the "aesthetic": trashy. What can I say??


I know you won't like my answer, and perhaps this raven pseudonym doesn't totally apply to my viewpoint...considering Ravens seem to represent nature. But did you see that Raven picking away at a road-killed squirrel the other day up on Fisher Street? Pretty gross, huh? Sorry, but that was ME. And yes, I have been known to dive into a dumpster once in a while. ;)

The Raven

http://static.howstuffworks.com/gif/willow/raven-info0.gif

[Unregistered]

I think you are dissapointed in my answer because it wasn't the one you wanted to hear!

Listen: I will attempt at finding out how many people from Walpole (and Sharon) work at Siemens. I can tell you for sure that at least 6 Walpole folks work there, because I know they do!

I'd also like to know how many people that have leeching fields and cesspool systems not connected to the town sewer who are located on top of the aquifer. And please, you do realize that all the salt we put on our roads during the winter washes off into parts of our aquifer. You do realize that?

Regarding the poster who wondered where I was when they put in the power plant in Bellingham: I will tell you that I wasn't against it.

I would like to see a greener world, and the bit part I play in doing that is reducing my carbon footprint on our world by using a smaller vehicle, using energy saving electrical devices, and urging our politicians to support green businesses. But I am a realist: we need energy sources, and gas plants are much cleaner than coal or oil.

The Siemens site near rt. 95 has great potential for business development of many different kinds. I don't live in the neighborhood, but to be honest, I'd rather see a Siemens plant enlargement next to me, than the expansion that was done at Walpole Mall. The traffic increase has been substantial, and the "aesthetic": trashy. What can I say??


I know you won't like my answer, and perhaps this raven pseudonym doesn't totally apply to my viewpoint...considering Ravens seem to represent nature. But did you see that Raven picking away at a road-killed squirrel the other day up on Fisher Street? Pretty gross, huh? Sorry, but that was ME. And yes, I have been known to dive into a dumpster once in a while. ;)

The Raven

http://http://static.howstuffworks.com/gif/willow/raven-info0.gif

If you weren't against the power plant in Bellingham, then don't take issue with those who were against it in Walpole and there were many, many people from all areas of town.

Once again another blanket statement about Siemens like so many that the selectmen have made without fact. Just what you or they heard.

When you fly off the head of Pallas, make sure you fly with the facts. Or post here NEVERMORE.

Your friend, Edgar

[Unregistered]

This week's BOS agenda includes a discussion of the promotional process for hiring the next deputy chief. Does anyone think that selectmen who have family on the police force should be involved in the discussion and hiring process? It will be too tempting to hire from within because it will free up another position that the BOS can get very involved in again.

I think we will see yet another nationwide search that begins and ends in the same location unless some groundrules are set for selectmen participation.

Selectmen with family on the Police Department have NO business even breathing the air in the room regarding the hiring process for a new deputy chief. That is EXACTLY what is wrong in this town!

Selectmen with family members on the payroll have no incentive to get salaries and benefits under control, because it will cost them money! Nancy MacKenzie is the selectman who continually presented and pushed the biotech zoning. She has a spouse on the payroll. It makes perfect sense for her to push dirty business instead of cost control. Perfect sense for her. Not for residents. Continually pumping that we need revenue from dirty business, and excluding any cost control when it comes to our two biggest items, salaries and healthcare, is self serving and hurtful to the community.

[Unregistered]

This week's BOS agenda includes a discussion of the promotional process for hiring the next deputy chief. Does anyone think that selectmen who have family on the police force should be involved in the discussion and hiring process? It will be too tempting to hire from within because it will free up another position that the BOS can get very involved in again.

I think we will see yet another nationwide search that begins and ends in the same location unless some groundrules are set for selectmen participation.

Why go out of town when you have perfectly capable and qualified candidates already on the department? Why not have a little movement? Give the members of the department some incentive to achieve higher positions. It's good for the department, the town, and morale. And no, I am not a member of the police department, nor do I have family on the department. I'm sure if it came down to a family member of a member of the board being up for a promotion, that individual would abstain from voting. Ok, they should. I guess you just never know around here.

[Unregistered]

Why go out of town when you have perfectly capable and qualified candidates already on the department? Why not have a little movement? Give the members of the department some incentive to achieve higher positions. It's good for the department, the town, and morale. And no, I am not a member of the police department, nor do I have family on the department. I'm sure if it came down to a family member of a member of the board being up for a promotion, that individual would abstain from voting. Ok, they should. I guess you just never know around here.

How can other members of the BOS really be un-biased when voting on a promotion involving the Selectman not in the room? Truely. It is a bad bad BAD idea. And once again, the only one who looses is the taxpayer. I would like someone from outside the community. There are far to many vested interests to overlook. What happemnned at the highschool was a travesty.

[Unregistered]

Why go out of town when you have perfectly capable and qualified candidates already on the department? Why not have a little movement? Give the members of the department some incentive to achieve higher positions. It's good for the department, the town, and morale. And no, I am not a member of the police department, nor do I have family on the department. I'm sure if it came down to a family member of a member of the board being up for a promotion, that individual would abstain from voting. Ok, they should. I guess you just never know around here.

If someone from inside is promoted then another position becomes available for selectmen to get involved with again. Those selectmen who have family in the police department should abstain from the hiring process.

Let's see what happens tonight..

[Unregistered]

First of all, there is nobody on the BOS related to anyone who has any chance of being the next Deputy Chief. I'm assuming Chief Stillman will make a recommendation as to who in the ranks would be qualified and suitable for the position. Other than making the appointment, the BOS should have no say. They don't know the members of the department and how they perform their duties. Passing over department members for promotions and going outside the department will destroy morale. Ask a firefighter.

[Unregistered]

First of all, there is nobody on the BOS related to anyone who has any chance of being the next Deputy Chief. I'm assuming Chief Stillman will make a recommendation as to who in the ranks would be qualified and suitable for the position. Other than making the appointment, the BOS should have no say. They don't know the members of the department and how they perform their duties. Passing over department members for promotions and going outside the department will destroy morale. Ask a firefighter.

The BOS has plenty of say in who gets chosen. They have the last word and are involved in the process all the way. Very naive to think otherwise.

[Unregistered]

Selectmen with family on the Police Department have NO business even breathing the air in the room regarding the hiring process for a new deputy chief. That is EXACTLY what is wrong in this town!

Selectmen with family members on the payroll have no incentive to get salaries and benefits under control, because it will cost them money! Nancy MacKenzie is the selectman who continually presented and pushed the biotech zoning. She has a spouse on the payroll. It makes perfect sense for her to push dirty business instead of cost control. Perfect sense for her. Not for residents. Continually pumping that we need revenue from dirty business, and excluding any cost control when it comes to our two biggest items, salaries and healthcare, is self serving and hurtful to the community.

Who cares.....give it a rest.....thats life in the big (and small) city...why dont YOU and all the other winers tell your bosses you want to do whats right and donate more for your health and wages because its the right thing to do,,NOT !!.. go to the selectmans next open form and tell her to her face what you think of her, that she shouldn be doing any thing to do with the police dept. I bet you will hide behind your posts just like most of the others.

[Unregistered]

First of all, there is nobody on the BOS related to anyone who has any chance of being the next Deputy Chief. I'm assuming Chief Stillman will make a recommendation as to who in the ranks would be qualified and suitable for the position. Other than making the appointment, the BOS should have no say. They don't know the members of the department and how they perform their duties. Passing over department members for promotions and going outside the department will destroy morale. Ask a firefighter.

you might want to check the facts. The Selectman are The Fire and Police commissoners for The Town of Walpole

[Unregistered]

I can't believe how long the BOS talked about where to post a position and whether or not to advertise it. This is a no brainer. Jobs should be advertised in the paper so anyone has the opportunuty to apply rather than an internal posting where the those already in the system have the opportunity.

[Unregistered]

First of all, there is nobody on the BOS related to anyone who has any chance of being the next Deputy Chief. I'm assuming Chief Stillman will make a recommendation as to who in the ranks would be qualified and suitable for the position. Other than making the appointment, the BOS should have no say. They don't know the members of the department and how they perform their duties. Passing over department members for promotions and going outside the department will destroy morale. Ask a firefighter.

You think "the BOS should have no say?" There was so much posturing at the BOS meeting tonight that it was ridiculous. It is fairly obvious some do not want the process to go outside of the building. A promotion from within will provide another department opening and promotion down the line. Some process when two selectmen who have family on the force participate in the discussion.

[Unregistered]

First of all, there is nobody on the BOS related to anyone who has any chance of being the next Deputy Chief. I'm assuming Chief Stillman will make a recommendation as to who in the ranks would be qualified and suitable for the position. Other than making the appointment, the BOS should have no say. They don't know the members of the department and how they perform their duties. Passing over department members for promotions and going outside the department will destroy morale. Ask a firefighter.

The BOS actually INTERVIEWS and HIRES the candidate. They are not just involved in the process,... they ARE the process.

If they hire from with-in, a sargent position will likely open up. SelectmAn MacKenzie's husband applied for the last Sargent opening and did not get it. The BOS decides the sargents too. She ran for SelectmAn right after that. Now she is adamant that it is not a conflict of interest for her to hire her patrolman husbands new boss.

I watch the BOS meeting tonight. I found her demeanor and tone to to be hostile and arrogant, aimed right at Chairman Timson. How could it be possible that it is not a conflict if interest for her to be involved in hiring the new Deputy Chief??? It is so VERY CLEARLY an issue. Why would she subject the town, the process, and her Board to looking so inappropriate? She was down right hostile tonight that anyone would question her involvement in the process.

If she doesnot have a vested interest, then why not recuse herself? It became very clear to me that she is adamant that she be involved. Why so adamant Nancy? There must be something to gain.

I am horrified that she does not have the good sense, judgement, or up-bringing to recuse herself. But then again, after the e-mail I received this weekend, it is clear that boundaries and taste are not familiar subjects.

By the way,.. it is Board of SelectmEn... you know, plural? As in the show and agenda is not suppossed to revolve around one isolated individuals personal goals. Remember us... the people...

Get us the best Deputy Chief. Not an inside job. SelectmEn MacKenzie and Sullivan should absolutely recuse themselves. Hans down. No question.

[Unregistered]

How can other members of the BOS really be un-biased when voting on a promotion involving the Selectman not in the room? Truely. It is a bad bad BAD idea. And once again, the only one who looses is the taxpayer. I would like someone from outside the community. There are far to many vested interests to overlook. What happemnned at the highschool was a travesty.

I am not sure what you are refering to at the High School.

If you are refering to Villa, I agree that was a total travesty, tragedy, and horrible ordeal for the young woman, her family, the rest of his family and our town. (In that order as well). Although since Villa was the outside candidate for coaching, beating out a few "insiders" for lack of a better term, this seems to go against what your arguement. Granted it was a few years later, but bringing in the outside candidate to coach is what brought Villa into the high school originally. Kinda seems to go against your arguement.

If you are refering to former Principal Bernstein, the exact same thing occured. The final two candidates were an "outsider" Bernstein and an "insider" Bob Mullaney. Mullaney was not hired because he had been a teacher at the school a few years earlier, and then Supt. Smith thought that the prior connection the school would cause a problem. Four year later, Bernstein had left the school a with a hugh NEASC Accredidation headache and jumped ship mid-year leading to a total scramble for leadership and direction at the highschool (Major kudos to Principal Imbusch, Asst. Prin. Conner and Interim Asst. Prin. Cantrell for what they have done by the way). Also bears mentioning that the selection of Villa as Athletic Director was pretty much Bernstein's call.

Mullaney on the other hand was hired at another school, and was awared the Massachusetts Principal of the Year Award, but we should discount all insiders, right?

The only requirement that I have of the BOS is that of the Candidates who apply for the position, they hire the one that is the most qualified and capable of doing the best job. I could care less if that person is currentyly a member of the Walpole PD, Boston PD, or Mars PD for that matter. Just hire the BEST candidate we get. Automatically discounting those who are on the force already, is just as stupid as only looking at those who are not already on the force. Get the biggest applicant pool possible, and pick the one that can do the BEST job.

[Unregistered]

You're absolutely right, and I shouldn't make it sound like they don't or shouldn't have any involvement. They are the hiring authority, and police/fire commissioners. I just like to think they would trust the leader of said department to recommend someone from within, if he feels it's appropriate to do so. Going against a department head is a slap in the face like going outside.

[Unregistered]

The outcome of who gets hired to be deputy chief totally depends on the process that is put in place by the selectmen. If they choose not to advertise from outside of the department, then they deliberately guarantee that someone inside will get the deputy chief job. This creates a domino effect. If a lieutenant becomes deputy chief, then that position becomes open. If a sergeant applies for lieutenant position and gets the job, then a sergeant position becomes available. Patrol officers then can apply for the sergeant job.

The selectmen will create the process again for these openings and make the appointments.

This is why selectmen with family who are police officers should stay out of the process so it is not called into question. The process should always allow for a wide pool of applicants so the town hires the most qualified person for the job.

[Unregistered]

How about we thank Nancy for putting herself out there and put a stop to the Police Chief giving the job to one of his Chief friends. And what about the only outside applicant grew up with our administator..Will you print this or only attacks on Nancy?

[Unregistered]

I must have watched something else???
I saw Chairman Timson attacking his fellow selectman after she said she went to ethics.
My question is what is he covering up?

[Unregistered]

so lets get this right, All of you that write out of both sides of your " mouth" selectman McKenzie stops a back room deal and now shes out of line.............................................. ...................

[Unregistered]

I must have watched something else???
I saw Chairman Timson attacking his fellow selectman after she said she went to ethics.
My question is what is he covering up?

Mild mannered Timson would have done well to attack Nancy ManKenzie. She deserved it. I would love to see him actually take charge. He very politely (to politely) asked if she had the job description available when she discussed it with the ethics commision (by the way, the job description just became available last night, so she could not have discussed it). Timson was way to passive about a critical issue that will once again make Walpole town Govt look less than professional. MacKenzie went immediately on the attack and was clearly hostile that anyone would even want to discuss it.

Makes you wonder just how MacKernzie presented the matter.... did she tell the ethics commission that hiring an internal candidate could allow her husband to put in for a promotion? The very same promotion he was recently denied? That "her board" (her words, not mine) would then decide his fate?

Sounds very dirty to me. I hope our town attorney puts a stop to this. Walpole town Government does not need another black eye. The poor Chief. Just let him get the best person for the job, and stop with all the politics.

[Unregistered]

so lets get this right, All of you that write out of both sides of your " mouth" selectman McKenzie stops a back room deal and now shes out of line.............................................. ...................

MacKenzie is the backroom deal. She should not be involved in hiring her husbands boss. No matter how you try to spin it, that's the fact. It is grossly inappropriate.

[Unregistered]

why didnt the chief advertise the position for Deputy outside the town hall? How did the Millis Chief know to apply?

[Unregistered]

so lets get this right, All of you that write out of both sides of your " mouth" selectman McKenzie stops a back room deal and now shes out of line.............................................. ...................

What is the backroom deal??? I want to know exactly what is what, and who is who with this board.

[Unregistered]

Why doesn't the Walpole Times file a Freedom of Information Act and request all email and correspondence on the police station process? Many major newspapers file these requests to shed light on what really goes on..

[Unregistered]

so lets get this right, All of you that write out of both sides of your " mouth" selectman McKenzie stops a back room deal and now shes out of line.............................................. ...................

OMG, is Mighty Mouse on the way?

[Unregistered]

Mild mannered Timson would have done well to attack Nancy ManKenzie. She deserved it. I would love to see him actually take charge. He very politely (to politely) asked if she had the job description available when she discussed it with the ethics commision (by the way, the job description just became available last night, so she could not have discussed it). Timson was way to passive about a critical issue that will once again make Walpole town Govt look less than professional. MacKenzie went immediately on the attack and was clearly hostile that anyone would even want to discuss it.

Makes you wonder just how MacKernzie presented the matter.... did she tell the ethics commission that hiring an internal candidate could allow her husband to put in for a promotion? The very same promotion he was recently denied? That "her board" (her words, not mine) would then decide his fate?

Sounds very dirty to me. I hope our town attorney puts a stop to this. Walpole town Government does not need another black eye. The poor Chief. Just let him get the best person for the job, and stop with all the politics.

How could they post a job without a Job Description?
Timson is not the ethics board. the fact that all the policeman did not know the position was posted IS the issue. Look at what has happened under this police chief
1 cop fired for stealing from the department
1 cop fired for stealing from stop and shop
1 cop charged with tax evasion
1 cop out on admin leave currently
and he is doing what kind of job?
What is going on? If he was looking for the BEST Person for the job why did he hide the posting? Snuffer said we have the best people. What is wrong with the officers currently in line? Snuffy said MacKenzies husband wasnt eligible.
Timson seamed to be pushing hard to exclude her. She didnt seem to be pushing for an inside or outside man.
Did I miss something?
Back reading people say her and Timson and cohorts?

[Unregistered]

Mild mannered Timson would have done well to attack Nancy ManKenzie. She deserved it. I would love to see him actually take charge. He very politely (to politely) asked if she had the job description available when she discussed it with the ethics commision (by the way, the job description just became available last night, so she could not have discussed it). Timson was way to passive about a critical issue that will once again make Walpole town Govt look less than professional. MacKenzie went immediately on the attack and was clearly hostile that anyone would even want to discuss it.

Makes you wonder just how MacKernzie presented the matter.... did she tell the ethics commission that hiring an internal candidate could allow her husband to put in for a promotion? The very same promotion he was recently denied? That "her board" (her words, not mine) would then decide his fate?

Sounds very dirty to me. I hope our town attorney puts a stop to this. Walpole town Government does not need another black eye. The poor Chief. Just let him get the best person for the job, and stop with all the politics.

So, Why would they post a job with out a job description? It sounded like they are going to NOW CHANGE the job description.
How do you know they didnt have a job description?

[Unregistered]

I bet that girl wishes she stayed out of it.... What does she have to gain? REALLY GAIN? It appears that Selectman Mckemnzie found or was shone an error in the process and brought it to light. If the other Selectman werent such Bafoons they would have corrected it.

[Unregistered]

Mild mannered Timson would have done well to attack Nancy ManKenzie. She deserved it. I would love to see him actually take charge. He very politely (to politely) asked if she had the job description available when she discussed it with the ethics commision (by the way, the job description just became available last night, so she could not have discussed it). Timson was way to passive about a critical issue that will once again make Walpole town Govt look less than professional. MacKenzie went immediately on the attack and was clearly hostile that anyone would even want to discuss it.

Makes you wonder just how MacKernzie presented the matter.... did she tell the ethics commission that hiring an internal candidate could allow her husband to put in for a promotion? The very same promotion he was recently denied? That "her board" (her words, not mine) would then decide his fate?

Sounds very dirty to me. I hope our town attorney puts a stop to this. Walpole town Government does not need another black eye. The poor Chief. Just let him get the best person for the job, and stop with all the politics.

you dont know what your talking about!!!!
Mackenzies Husband cant become a Sargent.
He did not take the test and is not on the Sargents or any list to be promoted. And YES i know this for fact I am his friend.

[Unregistered]

I'm guessing the Millis Chief became aware of the opening when there was an article in the newspaper that Deputy Chief Bushway was retiring. Or maybe it was one of those clandestine chief meetings that the heads of departments go to once a month.

Someone made a good point in regards to Mrs. McKenzie's husbands boss. I hadn't looked at it that way. I just hate to see someone from within the department who is qualified get passed over just because of small town petty politics. And we all know it happens. Either of the two Lieutenants on the department now would be excellent choices. Just my 2 cents. As far as how Chief Stillman feels about that, I don't know. I would just like to see the board do something at least similar to what the Chief wants. What that is, I have no idea. I didn't see the meeting. In the long run, it's his department and he'll have to deal with the ramifications, good or bad. And so will the board.

[Unregistered]

For many years there was a simple concept, "the appearance of impropriety". when it was even possible that something appeared to be improper you step down, abstained or recused yourself from process or a vote.

Having a husband, wife, or child in a department you were voting on meant you stepped down.
Nancy Mackenzie and David Sullivan should both recuse themselves.

verb (used without object)
2.to withdraw from a position of judging so as to avoid any semblance of partiality or bias.

Recuse- simple and the right thing to do.

One final question? How does it ever benefit the the taxpayers of Walpole to limit the pool of applicants for positions within the town?

[Unregistered]

The Boston Globe has written about the police station override proposal. It's never a good sign for supporters when the first sentence calls it a "beleaguered initaitive" and references the defeat at Town Meeting.

http://www.boston.com/news/local/articles/2010/05/20/opponents_seek_to_again_derail_walpole_police_stat ion_proposal/

[Unregistered]

you dont know what your talking about!!!!
Mackenzies Husband cant become a Sargent.
He did not take the test and is not on the Sargents or any list to be promoted. And YES i know this for fact I am his friend.

Really??? Mackenzie's husband had applied for the sergeant position and was not chosen last year. From the BOS minutes of February 10, 2009:

"Ms. Winston called the meeting to order. The Board met in the Town Administrator’s office to conduct interviews for three candidates for the Police Sergeant position. The three candidates are David Smolinsky, Christopher McKenzie and Joseph Zangehtti. Each candidate was asked the same questions and were given time to inform the Board members of anything they felt was relevant."

[Unregistered]

Couple of interesting quotes in that Globe article that show how disconnected from reality the selectman have become on this issue.

Quote 1..."Officials quickly called a roll-call vote, but two members had already left, resulting in a vote of 68 yeas and 42 nays. Passage would have required 74 votes. “It was very close,’’ said selectmen chairman Christopher Timson, who wondered whether better attendance would have produced a different result."

So we are going to move forward with putting this on the June ballot because even though it lost "it was close". If they are saying that a "close loss" means that the idea is still viable then why are we moving forward with a library that got crushed in the first vote and suffered a "close loss" on the 2nd vote (8 votes). That tells me that the "no library" approach is still viable.

Quote 2..."A combined downtown facility is probably feasible, Timson said, but not without sacrificing parking and green space, and the acknowledged risk of building on a high water table. Then there’s the cost of moving the police and fire operations elsewhere while construction was underway, he said."

#1 - If you build the facility on Stone Field how would you be sacrificing parking?

#2 - If you are building a combined facility separate from the existing facilities why would you need to relocate either the fire or police department operations while construction was underway?

#3 - If we would be combining the facilities (prompting the relocation mentioned) and there is a risk of building on a high water table then doesn't that same risk exist for a new stand alone fire station that we are discussing building there?

Bottom line....This quote sounds like grasping for excuses because the arguments are completely inconsistent.

[Unregistered]

What a one-sided story from Michele Morgan Bolton. Not the first time this reporter has failed to get the whole story.

She obviously got the list of who voted wich way. Why is there no quote from any from the majority TM members who voted yes for the proposal (other than Chris "I better choose my words very carefully here" Timson), rather than from just the disgruntled neighbors? They should change the group's name to Walpole NIMBY 2020, so they can oppose everything that comes down the pike.

Back to the article: Why no quote from Selectmen Snuffer, whose presentation was credited for its thoroughness by many TM members. Why nothing from Chief Stillman, who must remain working out of a woefully subpar facility? Why nothing from Mr. Smolinsky, who is an RTM member and an officer on the Walpole PD, who also happened to be "the official" who called for the roll call vote??? I don't know, she could have included a lot more than just quoting the most vocal opponents.

[Unregistered]

For many years there was a simple concept, "the appearance of impropriety". when it was even possible that something appeared to be improper you step down, abstained or recused yourself from process or a vote.

Having a husband, wife, or child in a department you were voting on meant you stepped down.
Nancy Mackenzie and David Sullivan should both recuse themselves.

verb (used without object)
2.to withdraw from a position of judging so as to avoid any semblance of partiality or bias.

Recuse- simple and the right thing to do.

One final question? How does it ever benefit the the taxpayers of Walpole to limit the pool of applicants for positions within the town?


Mckenzie filed paperwork from ethics with the town hall. ethics gave her the ok. arent they the experts? or does that get to be questioned by the chairman? did Sullivan file paperwork? did he call ethics? why didnt the chairman question him like he did Mckenzie? If ethics said it was fine, why does the chairman seem so hell bent on her stepping down? Timson should call ethics about his role.

[Unregistered]

Mckenzie filed paperwork from ethics with the town hall. ethics gave her the ok. arent they the experts? or does that get to be questioned by the chairman? did Sullivan file paperwork? did he call ethics? why didnt the chairman question him like he did Mckenzie? If ethics said it was fine, why does the chairman seem so hell bent on her stepping down? Timson should call ethics about his role.

You must not be familiar with the ethics process. They never say it is fine, they leave it up to each person. But more importantly you miss the point, standards are falling when this is even discussed. Any person with a relative in a department shouldn't have to be told to recuse themselves, they should know they need to do it.

[Unregistered]

The Globe , all local "media" are most interested in tabloid journalism. They do not seek balance only sensationalism.
The opposition to the Robbins Road site is about 4 loud mouths deep but they are savy enough to know the weakness of the so called media and exploit it. The people of Walpole clearly know the need for police and fire and will vote YES for their future. Public safety means our safety.Do the research and you will find it very very comfortable to vote YES!

[Unregistered]

Many more than 4 people, both from the public and at the town meeting who have very articulately argued the facts and exposed to the residents of Walpole that our BoS are trying to railroad a bad proposal through the voters to the detriment of Walpole’s future. By all means check the facts. You will find little to support any recommendation to put a stand alone police department on Robbins Road that makes any sense. Before you argue that a stand alone facility on Robbins Road will save the people money don’t you at least have to research one other proposal to compare that to? The facts show that was not done. You, are the loudmouth. At least your post makes you sound like one.

[Unregistered]

The Globe , all local "media" are most interested in tabloid journalism. They do not seek balance only sensationalism.
The opposition to the Robbins Road site is about 4 loud mouths deep but they are savy enough to know the weakness of the so called media and exploit it. The people of Walpole clearly know the need for police and fire and will vote YES for their future. Public safety means our safety.Do the research and you will find it very very comfortable to vote YES!

A building or, more correctly worded, two new buildings does not equal safety folks. Last year a vote for safety was before the Selectmen and Town Meeting, they decided safety was not important and voted to lay off four firefighters. Though union concessions four firefighters were rehired, but safety is still jeopardized because they are allowed to work with only seven firefighters to protect the whole town.

I have done the research, both buildings need to be replaced but it has very little to do with anyone’s safety, so let’s not cloud the issue here. It is about building a police station. Why don't you do a little more research?

[Sparky]

...
The people of Walpole clearly know the need for police and fire and will vote YES for their future. Public safety means our safety.Do the research and you will find it very very comfortable to vote YES!
Is anyone doubting that the people of Walpole largely recognize the need for police and fire? Aren't you misrepresenting the issue here? I think their is little doubt about the widespread support for police and fire facility upgrades. The questions are:
1) Is the current Robbins Road proposal the right plan to support?
2) Should the facilities be combined?
3) Should police remain downtown?
4) Is the Stone Field site buildable due to the water table?
5) Would the use of the Stone Field destroy our primary downtown open gathering space?
6) Would a downtown combined facility look disproportionately large?
7) Should the plan be created in conjunction with other impending building needs, most notably the two Middle schools and Senior Center?
8) What would be the follow-on plan for the current police station historic building? And how does the existing library fit into the plan?

Interestingly, this is one override that does not seem to be largely about whether money should be spent, but rather, how best to spend it. I think if there was a facility plan that pleased everyone, the vote would pass handily.

[Unregistered]

What a one-sided story from Michele Morgan Bolton. Not the first time this reporter has failed to get the whole story.

She obviously got the list of who voted wich way. Why is there no quote from any from the majority TM members who voted yes for the proposal (other than Chris "I better choose my words very carefully here" Timson), rather than from just the disgruntled neighbors? They should change the group's name to Walpole NIMBY 2020, so they can oppose everything that comes down the pike.

Back to the article: Why no quote from Selectmen Snuffer, whose presentation was credited for its thoroughness by many TM members. Why nothing from Chief Stillman, who must remain working out of a woefully subpar facility? Why nothing from Mr. Smolinsky, who is an RTM member and an officer on the Walpole PD, who also happened to be "the official" who called for the roll call vote??? I don't know, she could have included a lot more than just quoting the most vocal opponents.

Has anyone looked into re-doing the inside of the police station to make it work? We see buildings change from "woefully subpar" to "renovated and functional" all the time. Other towns do it.

If you are not ready to spend time trying to understand the facts, then you are not adding to the discussion, just spouting. The B of S presentations are full of hollow proclamations and are content-free if you care to look closely.

Are the occupants of Walpole Town Hall NIMBY because they are trying to push the police station out of their backyard ? Labels don't solve problems.

Seems like "disgruntled neighbors" is another convenient label. The 40 or so Town Meeting Reps who took the time to look into the issue and vote against the "woefully subpar" proposal--are they "disgruntled neighbors"?

[Unregistered]

A building or, more correctly worded, two new buildings does not equal safety folks. Last year a vote for safety was before the Selectmen and Town Meeting, they decided safety was not important and voted to lay off four firefighters. Though union concessions four firefighters were rehired, but safety is still jeopardized because they are allowed to work with only seven firefighters to protect the whole town.

I have done the research, both buildings need to be replaced but it has very little to do with anyone’s safety, so let’s not cloud the issue here. It is about building a police station. Why don't you do a little more research?

Excellent point that makes perfect sense. So everyone will probably give you a hard time for it. Some of us appreciate it though.

And I have a question in response to a question. A previous post commented about re-doing the interior of the current police station. My question is, is the fact that the building is a historical building a stumbling block for something like this? I'm not trying to create an argument, I just thought I heard that somewhere once.

And on that note, no matter what you do to that building, and the fire station for that matter, both departments will or already have outgrown them. The departments get bigger, the equipment gets bigger, so more space is needed, not just nicer space.

[Unregistered]

Is anyone doubting that the people of Walpole largely recognize the need for police and fire? Aren't you misrepresenting the issue here? I think their is little doubt about the widespread support for police and fire facility upgrades. The questions are:
1) Is the current Robbins Road proposal the right plan to support?
2) Should the facilities be combined?
3) Should police remain downtown?
4) Is the Stone Field site buildable due to the water table?
5) Would the use of the Stone Field destroy our primary downtown open gathering space?
6) Would a downtown combined facility look disproportionately large?
7) Should the plan be created in conjunction with other impending building needs, most notably the two Middle schools and Senior Center?
8) What would be the follow-on plan for the current police station historic building? And how does the existing library fit into the plan?

Interestingly, this is one override that does not seem to be largely about whether money should be spent, but rather, how best to spend it. I think if there was a facility plan that pleased everyone, the vote would pass handily.

Well framed Sparky.

Just one quick point to #5. Since the BoS are so gung ho about handing the field over to the football group, who will spend thousands of dollars to "fix it up", do we honestly think that they will allow events like Walpole Day or a Farmer's Market to continue there and risk ruining their investment? They already told the carnival to pound sand for next year.

At this point, no events will take place on Stone Field in the future, because it will either be a upgraded football field or part of the public safety building. Which does the town need more?

[Unregistered]

At this point, no events will take place on Stone Field in the future, because it will either be a upgraded football field or part of the public safety building. Which does the town need more?

I don't know. How many Super Bowls has the fire department won?

[D.E.]

I was under the imrpession that the farmers market was taking place in the municipal parking lot itself, not the field. I could be wrong, but I've been at the firehouse all day, and that field has been in use since around 8am and is still being used now at 3:30 by tee-ball and softball. (Any just to cover myself...I am NOT using a town/department computer to make posts while working). I imagine any weekend day will be the same.

I really don't see how something like Walpole Day or The Night Before the 4th is going to do any more damage to the field than a football game. And another thing....how high does the fence have to be to keep geese out? Last time I checked, they're pretty sneaky and do this crazy thing where they flap their wings and go up in the air. Or you could make goose chasing (or would that be geese chasing?) an annual event as well. You can use all the funds raised to have all the young athletes who use the field vaccinated from whatever the flying rats leave behind.

And yes, my tongue is firmly planted in my cheek as I write this. Certain things just get me to thinking and scratching my head.

I'm going to stay out of the debate in regards to the police station because I don't pay taxes in this town and it doesn't effect (or is it affect?) my wallet. I will say, and this is my personal opinion and does not reflect that of the Walpole Fire Department, any of it's members or leaders, but there is a need for new stations for both departments. Personally i would like to see two stand alone buildings. I think it would be a little more aesthetically pleasing, as well as beneficial to both departments, allowing us both to build what we need, and not have to worry about which side is going to lose space when the process gets screwed up along the way. (Sorry, sometimes that stuff just kind of slips out).

As I said, that's my opinion and it may differ from that of others, but that's why it's called an opinion. I have more but I'll save them for another day. (Insert cute smiley face here)

[D.E.]

I don't know. How many Super Bowls has the fire department won?

Taking a deep breath. Moving the cursor to the little X in the upper right hand corner, and slowly walking away hoping that's not how some people actually think. Not going to say bad things.....

[Unregistered]

...is about 4 loud mouths deep but they are savy enough to know the weakness of the so called media and exploit it. YES!

I think you've got the wrong number. Aren't there 5 Bord-of-SelectMen? Not 4?

[Unregistered]

When a level 3 or 4 sex offender needs to register at the local police department of the community they live or work in will they be able to go to Walpoles police station next to Johnson middle school?
Why dont we do a combo on south street brown field or buy the walpole wood workers property on school street and put it there?
How about we then turn the fire department building in to a senior center?

[Unregistered]

Why does Stone field have to 'go away' for a combined facility? This is the exact problem with the Robbins Road proposal. Broad assumptions not based in fact. The stupid rectangle posted by BoS as a combined facility footprint holds no water. Hire an architect and a civil engineer, and its almost guaranteed that an attractive, well placed, suitably sized building that uses some or all of the existing police station and fire station sites can be designed a built. All it takes is the desire. I don't what the problem with trying is. Seems to me that the BoS have some issue with doing what the people have asked them to do. Last time I checked, the job is volunteer. If they don't like what they are being asked to do, they should resign so someone with some energy and willingness can take the job.

[Unregistered]

When a level 3 or 4 sex offender needs to register at the local police department of the community they live or work in will they be able to go to Walpoles police station next to Johnson middle school?
Why dont we do a combo on south street brown field or buy the walpole wood workers property on school street and put it there?
How about we then turn the fire department building in to a senior center?

Ok, just one observation because I didn't realize you said School St. (That's actually a pretty good idea). Is there money for a senior center? To turn the firehouse into a senior center would be a HUGE cost I think. That used to be a combined a facility (yes, it was a police and fire station at one time). It's not handicapped friendly at all, and I assume would need an elevator, among many other things. The fact that it's getting too small for the fire department isn't the only reason it needs to be replaced. It's an old building that would need an extraordinary amount of work to be made functional for anything.

[Unregistered]

Buying Walpole wood workers will be very costly. It would be a great location, but it's also prime for business or residential use. Town owned land would certainly be cheaper. Also, consider the long-term cost. It would be a bad enough hit in the pocket book to have that property go from business to dwellings- but to take it off the tax rolls entirely would make it worse.

[Unregistered]

Excellent point that makes perfect sense. So everyone will probably give you a hard time for it. Some of us appreciate it though.

And I have a question in response to a question. A previous post commented about re-doing the interior of the current police station. My question is, is the fact that the building is a historical building a stumbling block for something like this? I'm not trying to create an argument, I just thought I heard that somewhere once.

And on that note, no matter what you do to that building, and the fire station for that matter, both departments will or already have outgrown them. The departments get bigger, the equipment gets bigger, so more space is needed, not just nicer space.

You raise a good point about renovating the old police dept. building. Even a historic building (and it is a registered historic building), can get approvals to re-do interiors, and even add on to existing structures. There is a process for it, and a number of towns have taken that route. There is even grant money available if the renovation is done carefully and according to historic preservation rules. So if there is a will to look into it, it could end up being cheaper in the long run. It's a tried and true Walpole and New England tradition to mix old and new to make things better.

Also, the Town population is not expected to grow that much over the next 20 years. Smarter use of existing space and adding on beats abandoning old buildings and clearing out woods near the wells.

Is it our right to gobble up all the environmentally sensitive open space and leave the next generation with the junk we left behind? Especially when we haven't even looked into alternatives?

[Unregistered]

Why does Stone field have to 'go away' for a combined facility? This is the exact problem with the Robbins Road proposal. Broad assumptions not based in fact. The stupid rectangle posted by BoS as a combined facility footprint holds no water. Hire an architect and a civil engineer, and its almost guaranteed that an attractive, well placed, suitably sized building that uses some or all of the existing police station and fire station sites can be designed a built. All it takes is the desire. I don't what the problem with trying is. Seems to me that the BoS have some issue with doing what the people have asked them to do. Last time I checked, the job is volunteer. If they don't like what they are being asked to do, they should resign so someone with some energy and willingness can take the job.

Thanks for bringing up the point that many in the Town have wanted to say. Walpole has lots of engineers and architects who are watching and just shaking their heads, while the Selectmen try to do it all themselves, and scoff at bringing in some skilled help with town planning. It's possible buildings can be built without losing all the green space downtown.

The Selectmen are like the homeowner who wants to fix his own pipes, and is too stubborn to call a plumber. Eventually the homeowner is left standing in his basement, knee deep in poop water, and has to pick up the phone.

Town planning and development shouldn't be left only to the experts, but the experts shouldn't be left out either. The citizen based Master Plan is a good start, and it directs town buildings to be downtown.

When the Town asked for resident expert help, they got it, and the suggestion was to use the land downtown for municipal facilities. These Selectmen are rejecting the suggestion and doing it themselves.

Selectmen, put down the wrench and pick up the phone (wash your hands first).

[Unregistered]

Im not voting for a new police station so the police chief can have a bathroom in his office and the criminals can have nicer cells. When all of our Children are going to be jamming 35 in a class room.
Im not voting for a police station when my spouse has lost their job.
Im not voting for a police station when I cant afford my mortgage, or any of the school fees.
I am not voting for a police station because I need to save my money so I can pay for trash fees.
I am voting for a police station when we cant afford the town budget we have.
Other towns pay for these things with business revenue but instead we are "the unfriendly town"

[Unregistered]

Shameful and embarrassing are just some of the words I can come up with to describe Mr. Snuffer’s letter to the editor in last week’s paper. Mr. Snuffer as a resident of this town you are certainly welcome to your opinion on the proposed police station, however, you need to understand that as a representative of the Board of Selectmen it is your (and the rest of the board’s) job to SELL the townspeople on this idea as a viable solution. Referring to opponents of this plan as smug NIMBY’s with “tired” questions is probably not the best approach to do that.

More than 40 town meeting members voted against this plan and it did not garner enough support to set the money aside. Are we to believe that all of these people are Robbins Road area residents.
What about nearly all the current candidates for selectman who do not see Robbins Road as the best solution. Are they NIMBY’s?
Maybe it is the members of the Master Planning Implementation Committee who found a downtown public service facility to be viable? Are they the traditional “No” crowd?
How about the appointed board of town residents who came up with a plan several years back to build a combined facility downtown, only to be summarily dismissed with no further action?
Could it be the students of the Boston architectural school who also studied the downtown area and came to the conclusion that a combined facility there was a good option?

The simple fact is that you and the board have left numerous unanswered questions. One of the biggest in my mind is how you can consider this a well thought viable solution after spending $1350 while in the next breath asking for $600,000 to study a fire station design.

If you want my support here is my recommendation. Pull this question from the ballot and come back in the fall with the $600,000 standalone on the ballot to study ALL options for a police and/or fire station. I bet if you told people it would cost the average tax payer $5.50 per year to study the best alternative vs. $78.80 on this questionably cooked up plan you would find a whole lot more support.

[Unregistered]

Im not voting for a new police station so the police chief can have a bathroom in his office and the criminals can have nicer cells. When all of our Children are going to be jamming 35 in a class room.
Im not voting for a police station when my spouse has lost their job.
Im not voting for a police station when I cant afford my mortgage, or any of the school fees.
I am not voting for a police station because I need to save my money so I can pay for trash fees.
I am voting for a police station when we cant afford the town budget we have.
Other towns pay for these things with business revenue but instead we are "the unfriendly town"

Bet you won't vote for anything that isn't related to schools. It will be a long time before you see more business revenue despite the claims made by certain candidates.

[Unregistered]

Anyone else feeling harassed by this 2020 group? I have received at least a half dozen automated/message calls from them, including one taking a poll on how I was voting. Doesn't give me a warm fuzzy about this group.

[Unregistered]

Should the police and fire question fail and the town of Walpole decide that those 55 acres would make a great middle school expansion site you will see the group again . Should the town of Walpole wish to develp the 55 acres for affordable housing you will see the group again. Should the town of Walpole wish to develop the 55 acres for multi-use sports fields you will see the group again. Some of the members are also affiliated with involvment in the Peace and Justice movement. You are right to question this new PAC

[Unregistered]

Anyone else feeling harassed by this 2020 group? I have received at least a half dozen automated/message calls from them, including one taking a poll on how I was voting. Doesn't give me a warm fuzzy about this group.

So the multiple unanswered questions about an $8 million proposal that has little or no research to back it up is not a concern of yours?

But you are moved to write about "feeling harrassed" by a group that by my account at least took some time to look into the issue. I didn't get any calls/messages from them, but if I did I'd let them know that I agree that the Robbins Road location is not really a good fit for a stand alone police station.

The Selectmen haven't answered a lot of legit questions about the proposal, and have dismissed anyone that's against the proposal with convenient cop-out names. If you live near the site and are against it, a certain Selectman calls you a NIMBY. If you're against it and you don't live near it, you're part of the "no" crowd.

That way, the Selectmen don't actually have to answer specific questions about the proposal.

Doesn't give me a warm fuzzy about this group of Selectmen.

[Unregistered]

Anyone else feeling harassed by this 2020 group? I have received at least a half dozen automated/message calls from them, including one taking a poll on how I was voting. Doesn't give me a warm fuzzy about this group.

I received 2 calls and responded to both. Do you think asking people to research this question and posting information about it on-line is deceptive? What's the warm fuzziness issue? I've gotten more information from looking at what is posted on the Walpole 2020 website about the fire/police station than we've seen from the Selectmen in four years. Its tools like this that are finally getting people active in politics. I say more power to them.

[Unregistered]

Should the police and fire question fail and the town of Walpole decide that those 55 acres would make a great middle school expansion site you will see the group again . Should the town of Walpole wish to develp the 55 acres for affordable housing you will see the group again. Should the town of Walpole wish to develop the 55 acres for multi-use sports fields you will see the group again. Some of the members are also affiliated with involvment in the Peace and Justice movement. You are right to question this new PAC

Ignorant response, and another part of the misleading campaign the pro-side has been engaged in from the start.

Those 55 acres are not all developable. The Selectmen themselves backed off their initial plan to place the station deeper in the woods because of the aquifer zone. They then shoe-horned it up to the front acreage and said they wouldn't develop a building or communications tower in the aquifer zone, which runs along the back line of the VFW parking lot.

I also received just two calls. One asked my opinion, one restated all the reasons they have stated for opposition on the Walpole 2020 website. I thought we lived in a democracy, where people are allowed to share their opinion, not a dictatorship where Cliff Snuffer and the town hall gang tell us what we must believe and expect us to accept it as fact.

[Unregistered]

I think that Walpole 2020 is beating a dead horse. The police station override died at Town Meeting. I didn't like the robo call. A little too Boston politics for me.

[Unregistered]

Should the police and fire question fail and the town of Walpole decide that those 55 acres would make a great middle school expansion site you will see the group again . Should the town of Walpole wish to develp the 55 acres for affordable housing you will see the group again. Should the town of Walpole wish to develop the 55 acres for multi-use sports fields you will see the group again. Some of the members are also affiliated with involvment in the Peace and Justice movement. You are right to question this new PAC

This group is not all of Walpole. But their message on this issue has resonated. I personally am against the police station up there, but for a combined facility downtown. And I'd be all for ball fields up there. But the point they make, at least from the ones I listened to is, that the Board of Selectmen have no idea what they are doing because they have not tried to do any formal, professional study. And from my dealings with the BoS, I completely agree. Your message says it all. The Board of Selectmen are the ones that called the site 55 acres of developable land, but at the Town meeting admitted that most of it is aquafer and therefore can't be developed. How about we develop only what makes sense and do it professionally?

[Unregistered]

I don’t care if it’s 5 people or just one person, I’m glad Walpole2020 is bringing the facts to the forefront. We’re not seeing them anywhere else.

I was at the Finance Committee meeting where Mr. Snuffer made his proposal for Robbins Road, and I was alarmed at the lack of substance in his proposal. It was clear that there was no real research to support the Robbins Road plan—only some quotes from architecture students—students!—that spoke glowingly about a vision for Walpole. (And if you look at the Walpole2020site, they show that even the quotes were taken out of context.) The idea of a cheap and easy police station may sound good in a sound bite, but when you did deeper, it’s disturbing at how this proposal disregards the clear plan for this town, the will of the people, and the importance of keeping protected areas (especially near or on our water supply) in Walpole.

I also think it is very sad that this issue has turned so contentious. I think everyone can agree our police and fire corps deserve the best, but we have to do this right. I thought it was very disingenuous of Mr. Snuffer in his latest latter to the Walpole times to couch this both as just NIMBY issue and one that means you’re either for or against supporting our police and fire personnel. This is a Walpole issue, and I’m not a NIMBY. I don’t live on Robbins Road (I’m in N. Walpole), and I do support our fire and police. I am still voting NO because I don’t want to spend my tax dollars on a proposal that has not been studied properly. I'm glad to see that all of the new Selectman candidates indicated they will also be voting no. Maybe there is hope for us yet.

[Unregistered]

I think that Walpole 2020 is beating a dead horse. The police station override died at Town Meeting. I didn't like the robo call. A little too Boston politics for me.

I don't know what "Boston politics" is, unless it's just some throw-away term for something you don't like.

Is it "Boston politics" to try stuffing a bad proposal through after it had already been voted down ?

I thought the police station override died in 2006.

But somehow it came back. Fortunately some residents and Town Meeting Members looked into the issue and raised objections, prompting voters to do the same.

I haven't gotten a call from anyone.

[Unregistered]

Why not convert the old library into a police station?

[Unregistered]

I think we can officially declare a stand alone station on Robbins Road dead. You can't get much clearer than a 4 - 1 defeat. Any selectmen who tries to resurrect this plan a third time is on a suicide mission and begging for a recall.

I think the message is clear. Gather some facts on ALL the options (combined, not combined) and locations (Stone Field, old library, South Street, others??) available and come back to the town with those options.

[Unregistered]

I think we can officially declare a stand alone station on Robbins Road dead. You can't get much clearer than a 4 - 1 defeat. Any selectmen who tries to resurrect this plan a third time is on a suicide mission and begging for a recall.

I think the message is clear. Gather some facts on ALL the options (combined, not combined) and locations (Stone Field, old library, South Street, others??) available and come back to the town with those options.

Why not keep put it back on the ballot and vote until it passes like the library?

[Unregistered]

I think we can officially declare a stand alone station on Robbins Road dead. You can't get much clearer than a 4 - 1 defeat. Any selectmen who tries to resurrect this plan a third time is on a suicide mission and begging for a recall.

I think the message is clear. Gather some facts on ALL the options (combined, not combined) and locations (Stone Field, old library, South Street, others??) available and come back to the town with those options.

Yes, I agree. I just hope the entire situation isn't dead and that the powers that be, as well as the people of this town, realize that the need is still there and something needs to be done. The vote was obviously a resounding NO, but I think coming up with another plan, that is acceptable to everyone, should be a priority for the BOS and its new members.

[Unregistered]

Why not convert the old library into a police station?

That is a great idea. Its centrally located, and I think the lot is big enough. The building could be architecturally designed to fit within the neighborhood.

[Unregistered]

That is a great idea. Its centrally located, and I think the lot is big enough. The building could be architecturally designed to fit within the neighborhood.

If by converting the old library into a police station you mean tear it down and build a new building, you might have a good idea. As far as turning it into a police station, how many times do you put the police in an old building that wasn't meant to be a police station and call it one? There is barely enough parking spaces for the cruisers, let alone the employees. Why don't we turn it into the Senior Center?

[Unregistered]

Heard today that there is a meeting scheduled for the end of June with Mass Housing to turn the Library into affordable housing. Not sure Common Street is the proper location for that. Maybe we should check into this......

[Unregistered]

Heard today that there is a meeting scheduled for the end of June with Mass Housing to turn the Library into affordable housing. Not sure Common Street is the proper location for that. Maybe we should check into this......

I think it's a great idea. Centrally located. Foot traffic for downtown businesses. Near T and other services.

[Unregistered]

If by converting the old library into a police station you mean tear it down and build a new building, you might have a good idea. As far as turning it into a police station, how many times do you put the police in an old building that wasn't meant to be a police station and call it one? There is barely enough parking spaces for the cruisers, let alone the employees. Why don't we turn it into the Senior Center?

I think the old library building is a better building than the old town hall. And I think that enough people were angered by the library vote that it will be a while before another override passes. It seems that the library took preference over our public safety.

[Unregistered]

I think the old library building is a better building than the old town hall. And I think that enough people were angered by the library vote that it will be a while before another override passes. It seems that the library took preference over our public safety.

It seems like the NO crowd won't vote for any override and keeps using the library as an excuse. If they really supported public safety, then they would support a public safety override. What will it be next? They won't support an override because they don't like the color of the ballot?

[Unregistered]

I think the old library building is a better building than the old town hall. And I think that enough people were angered by the library vote that it will be a while before another override passes. It seems that the library took preference over our public safety.

There really are not that many people "angered". You need to let go of the past. Move into the future. Most are thrilled to finally have a new building in town. The library opportunity can before public safety, because those leading the charge had a great plan and incredible funding. We are SO LUCKY to have had access to a grant of sizeable value.

The "just say no to everything" crowd will continually oppose the public safety facility for a series of ever changing reasons. If you really believe in the facility and the need, then just step up and drive it. Instead you sound like an old complainer who lost on one of your "just say no" campaigns.

[Unregistered]

There really are not that many people "angered". You need to let go of the past. Move into the future. Most are thrilled to finally have a new building in town. The library opportunity can before public safety, because those leading the charge had a great plan and incredible funding. We are SO LUCKY to have had access to a grant of sizeable value.

The "just say no to everything" crowd will continually oppose the public safety facility for a series of ever changing reasons. If you really believe in the facility and the need, then just step up and drive it. Instead you sound like an old complainer who lost on one of your "just say no" campaigns.

And I take it that you're one of those who believes in voting over and over again until it goes your way. The voice of the people doesn't count the first few times, right? Let's have a vote for an override every month, that way it may pass quicker. You got your library, be happy. The economy will be back to normal by the time it's open and nobody will use it anyway. I can just see the article in the Times that library hours will be cut due to lack of use.

We need a public safety facility far more than a library. And we need the people to staff the police and fire departments adequately. So what does Walpole do? Hire more library employees and cut back on schools and public safety?

[Unregistered]

The police department in Walpole does not need a Deputy Chief, there are more than enough Lieutenants and sargeants to run the department. This department already has too many chiefs and not enough Indians!!! If any positions are added to the police department they should be directly related to officer safety, more cops on the streets and less on the second floor or the police station. Check out how many officers we have available to answer calls on a day shift, 4-12 shift and midnight shift,then compare when the highest volume of calls are and the nature of the calls and you will see we need more officers available at night and more officers on the street!!!

[Unregistered]

Poster #335 said;
"And I take it that you're one of those who believes in voting over and over again until it goes your way. The voice of the people doesn't count the first few times, right? Let's have a vote for an override every month, that way it may pass quicker. You got your library, be happy. The economy will be back to normal by the time it's open and nobody will use it anyway. I can just see the article in the Times that library hours will be cut due to lack of use.

"We need a public safety facility far more than a library. And we need the people to staff the police and fire departments adequately. So what does Walpole do? Hire more library employees and cut back on schools and public safety? "

I've been trying to stay out of this discussion, but after reading this post, I just had to reply. The voice of the people DOES COUNT, what doesn't count is the opinion of someone as uninformed at you. The library overide was voted on twice because the second plan was a modified and scaled down plan. It was two seperate designs! You just want to say NO. Yes we do need a public safety facility. I want a combined facility like our surrounding towns have, not a stand alone police and fire buildings. Separate buildings will cost more than a combined facility. The plan was to have a gym facility for the police within the structure. I think this could be left out of the plan and the police could instead be reimbursed for joining a gym. I will agree that we need more police on the streets, perhaps doing more traffic duty. I really don't pretend to know what the chief's needs are, but I think that you should listen to him with an open mind.

[Unregistered]

#335- "nobody will use it anyway" (the library). It's clear that you are not a library user. It's always busy and the best thing Walpole has to offer.

[Unregistered]

Poster #335 said;
"And I take it that you're one of those who believes in voting over and over again until it goes your way. The voice of the people doesn't count the first few times, right? Let's have a vote for an override every month, that way it may pass quicker. You got your library, be happy. The economy will be back to normal by the time it's open and nobody will use it anyway. I can just see the article in the Times that library hours will be cut due to lack of use.

"We need a public safety facility far more than a library. And we need the people to staff the police and fire departments adequately. So what does Walpole do? Hire more library employees and cut back on schools and public safety? "

I've been trying to stay out of this discussion, but after reading this post, I just had to reply. The voice of the people DOES COUNT, what doesn't count is the opinion of someone as uninformed at you. The library overide was voted on twice because the second plan was a modified and scaled down plan. It was two seperate designs! You just want to say NO. Yes we do need a public safety facility. I want a combined facility like our surrounding towns have, not a stand alone police and fire buildings. Separate buildings will cost more than a combined facility. The plan was to have a gym facility for the police within the structure. I think this could be left out of the plan and the police could instead be reimbursed for joining a gym. I will agree that we need more police on the streets, perhaps doing more traffic duty. I really don't pretend to know what the chief's needs are, but I think that you should listen to him with an open mind.

I'm quite informed. The overide lost by 900 votes the first time. The people spoke. But that didn't count. So have the vote in a local only election when the turnout is lower and voila, it passes by the skin of the teeth. And now the people like you proclaim that democracy has prevailed. It didn't pass due to a change in design and you're fooling yourself if you think so. You just want to say YES. I can play that game as well.

[Unregistered]

I hope it is affordable housing for seniors. If it is for families, watch out. 20 kids equals to $200,000 a year, equals loss. Seniors will require ambulances which their insurance will pay for.

[Unregistered]

Not sure if this is such a good idea. On the surface it could be good. But I think that any re-use of the library has one inherent problem, lack of off street parking and handicap access. That's partly why a new one was needed.
My high school in Boston is now elderly housing and it works well because of adequate parking and handicap access. There are many good uses for the library building but parking and handicap access will be a major stumbling block. Maybe the building should be raized and something else go in its place. I'm sure that the majority of you can come up with some good ideas.

[Unregistered]

Maybe Longview Farm can pay for a new police station. It can be built on their site since the police spend most of their time there. Our Public Safety personnel need a new facility. We don not need Longview Farm.