Waterville Valley Select Board Approves Prosecutor Agreement and Staff Housing Lease
The Waterville Valley Select Board convened for its regular meeting on November 5, 2025, addressing several key items including contractual agreements, infrastructure updates, and future planning considerations.
Municipal Prosecutor Agreement
The board approved an inter-municipal agreement for a regional municipal prosecutor, shared among several towns including Waterville Valley, Woodstock, Lincoln, Campton, and Holderness. The arrangement covers misdemeanor cases and related legal work, with Waterville Valley’s share costing $10,000 annually, paid in four quarterly installments of $2,500. Board members noted this as a cost-effective option compared to past arrangements, reflecting the town’s relatively low caseload. The motion passed unanimously. (link)
Village Condo Lease for Town Staff
To support interim town staff during the search for a new town manager, the board authorized a six-month lease for a two-bedroom unit at Village Condominiums. The lease totals $10,000, paid in two $5,000 installments, plus a $2,000 security deposit. This housing allows staff to remain in town longer, particularly during winter, and could accommodate candidates during interviews. The motion was approved unanimously. (link)
Draft Warrant Article on Air Rights
The board reviewed a draft warrant article concerning air rights over town-owned roads, specifically Village Road and Snow’s Mountain Road, in relation to a proposed gondola line. The item will undergo further review, including consultation with town counsel for legal formatting, before any decision. No action was taken at this meeting. (link)
Wastewater Treatment Facility Update
Updates on the wastewater treatment facility included receipt of the 90% Basis of Design Report, with a review meeting scheduled. Subsurface work at the site is set to begin on November 11, 2025. The engineering firm is preparing a response to the EPA regarding a requested schedule adjustment to meet ammonia limits, potentially extending timelines due to construction seasons. Discussions also covered project management options, emphasizing the need for dedicated support through design and construction phases to ensure project success. (link)
Given the ongoing wastewater treatment facility upgrades, which involve significant long-term investments and schedule adjustments.
- What factors are contributing to the proposed schedule extension for meeting EPA ammonia limits?
- Are there detailed comparisons of similar projects to justify the timeline adjustments?
- What alternatives were considered to minimize delays in the project?
- What is the projected impact on utility rates for residents?
- How will the project be funded, including any potential grants or loans?
- What is the full timeline, including contingencies for seasonal construction constraints?
- What measures are in place to ensure effective project management and prevent overruns?
Other Business
The board deferred an update from the town manager search committee and tabled review of the 2026 transit agreement until December 15, 2025, noting ongoing concerns about bus stops and parking at key locations. Discussions on a potential social district ordinance concluded with a recommendation to maintain the status quo, as it could complicate enforcement of the existing open container law without clear public benefit. The board approved an exception to the noise ordinance for town-related work on Veterans Day, November 11, 2025, specifically for handrail installation at Golden Eagle Lodge.
The meeting included reminders about staff attire policies and maintenance of town signage, such as cross-country trail markers. The next regular Select Board meeting is scheduled for November 19, 2025, at 3 p.m.