Info session to discuss ADUs

ROWE — Residents who are curious about how a new state law regarding accessory dwelling units (ADUs) may impact the town and their properties are invited to attend an informational meeting with the Planning Board at Rowe Elementary School on Thursday, Nov. 14, at 6 p.m.

The provisions of the Affordable Homes Act, which take effect in February, allow ADUs by right on residential properties that already have a principal dwelling. In preparation, the Planning Board is reviewing the town’s bylaws and preparing changes to be consistent with state law.

The board will answer any questions about the state law, town bylaw and the process of updating it during the information session. Questions can be sent ahead of time to planningboard@rowe-ma.gov.

Silver Bell Bazaar set for Nov. 23

BUCKLAND — Mary Lyon Church will hold its annual Silver Bell Bazaar from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 23.

The church at 17 Upper St. and the neighboring Buckland Public Hall will be transformed into a holiday shop featuring crafts, plants, books, birdhouses, homemade items, a bake sale, a quilt raffle and more. The event will also include the annual “Festival of the Wreaths” raffle and a soup luncheon starting at 11:30 a.m.

For more information, visit marylyonchurch.org.

Shelburne looking to adopt policy for solicitors

SHELBURNE — Door-to-door solicitors will soon need to register at Town Hall before hitting the streets of Shelburne. The Selectboard is looking to develop a “Transient Vendors, Hawkers and Peddlers” policy requiring vendors to apply for a permit before soliciting in town.

Selectboard Chair Rick LaPierre said the goal of the policy is to give guidance to Town Hall staff who frequently receive calls from people inquiring about solicitation procedures, as well as to reassure residents that vendors have permission to sell goods in town. The policy would apply to vendors selling goods or services, but not political campaigners or those offering free materials. The list of registered vendors would be shared with the Police Department.

“What we’re doing is giving Town Hall a process when they’re approached,” said LaPierre, “but more importantly, the example of, 6 o’clock in the evening, when somebody knocks at your door and claims to be selling something and you get nervous and call the police, they would know immediately that this is an approved vendor with a permit.”

Selectboard members are still finalizing the specific language of the policy.