Rowe Town Seal

Town of

Rowe

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Open Govt

Previous meeting:

Beautification Committee

 

 

 

Meeting Schedule: Meet Monthly

Next meeting:

Previous meetings:

Board of Assessors

Contact:

Christine Bailey
Admin Assistant

Rick Williams
Assessor - Chair

Ellen Miller
Assessor

Herb Butzke
Assessor

Address:

Rowe Town Hall
321 Zoar Road, PO Box 462
Rowe, MA 01367

Phone:

Fax:

(413) 339-5520 ext. 104

(413) 339-8585

Email:

assessor@rowe-ma.gov

Office Hours:

Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 8am-1pm
(or by appointment)

 

FY25 Tax Rates

Residential: $5.14

Commercial-Industrial-Personal: $11.01

 

Fiscal Year 25 Valuations

Real Estate and Personal Property valuations may be viewed by clicking the applicable link(s) below under BOA - Files

 

Abatement & Exemption Application Forms

Abatement and Exemption Application forms are available by clicking the applicable link(s) below under BOA - Forms

 

Tax Maps

Tax Maps (updated to 1-1-25) may be viewed by clicking the applicable link(s) below under BOA - Property Tax Maps

 

Additional Links

AxisGIS - Online Rowe Tax Map System

Franklin County Registry of Deeds (Deeds and Survey Plans)

Mass Dept of Revenue (Taxpayer Forms and Guides)

Mass General Laws (searchable)

 

 

Next meeting:

Previous meetings:

Board of Health

Contact:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Herb Butzke, Chairperson

Christine Bailey, Admin Asst

boh@rowe-ma.gov

413-339-5520 ext. 105

 

The Cooperative Public Health Service (CPHS) of the Franklin Regional Council of Governments (FRCOG) serves as the Health Department for the Town of Rowe. The Health Agents, Public Health Nurses and Community Health Educator provide environmental health inspections, communicable disease investigation and prevention, code enforcement, education, wellness, and special programs; CPHS staff work closely with members of the Town Board of Health on these matters. For further information, and for a CPHS staff listing and contact details, please see the CPHS website.

Address:

 

321 Zoar Road
Rowe, MA 01367

Phone:

 

 

BOH Town Hall:    413-339-5520 x 105

BOH Town Nurse:  413-339-5520 x 107

Refuse Gardens:  413-339-0216

Fax:

413-339-5316

Hours:

 

 

BOH Office Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday  8:00am to 1:00pm

The Transfer Station will be closed on the following holidays:  New Year’s Day - Martin Luther King Day - President’s Day - Patriot’s Day - Memorial Day - Juneteenth - Independence Day - Labor Day - Columbus Day - Veterans’ Day - Thanksgiving Day - Day after Thanksgiving - Christmas

 

 

Next meeting:

Previous meetings:

Board of Registrars

Meeting Schedule: As Needed

Previous meeting:

Board of Selectmen

Contact:

Brooke Shulda

Town Administrator

townadmin@rowe-ma.gov

Address:

Rowe Town Hall
321 Zoar Road, Post Office Box 462
Rowe, MA 01367

Phone:

(413) 339-5520 ext. 100

Fax:

(413) 339-5316

Hours:

Monday-Thursday 8:00am-4:00pm

 

 

Contact:

Donna Butzke

Administrative Assistant

adminasst@rowe-ma.gov

Address:

Rowe Town Hall
321 Zoar Road, Post Office Box 462
Rowe, MA 01367

Phone:

(413) 339-5520 ext. 101 

Fax:

(413) 339-5316

Office Hours:

 Monday-Thursday 8:00am-4:00pm

Additional Links

Franklin Regional Council of Governments

 

Meeting Schedule: Every other Thursday at 5:00

Previous meetings:

Cemetery Commission

Previous meetings:

Conservation Commission

Contact:

Ramon Sanchez
413-339-4836

Address:

321 Zoar Road
PO Box 462
Rowe, MA 01367

Phone:

413-339-4836

Fax:

413-339-5316

Hours:

Meets as needed

 

Helpful Links: 

Request for Determination of Applicability Form

Notice of Intent Form

Wetlands Protection Act Regulations

Previous meetings:

Council on Aging

 

Contact:

B.J Roche

Chair

roche.bj@gmail.com

Address:

Rowe Town Hall
321 Zoar Road
Rowe, MA 01367

Phone:

(413) 339-5520

extension: 101

Meeting Time:

Monthly

 

To Schedule Medical Rides: 

 

Local:            413-625-2502 (Shelburne Falls Senior Center)
Out of Area:  413-774-2262 (FRTA)

Next 5 meetings:

Previous meetings:

Cultural Council

The Rowe Cultural Council is the town's appointed committee charged with receiving applications for cultural grant money allocated by the state.  Members are appointed by the Board of Selectmen and serve three-year terms from the date they're appointed, and may not serve more than two consecutive terms or hold an elected office during their tenure.  They typically meet in November or December to decide on grant applications, and as needed throughout the rest of the year.

Meeting Schedule: Meets as needed.

Previous meetings:

Finance Committee

Contact:

Dan Pallotta, Chair

Loretta Dionne, 

Susan Gleason

Marilyn Wilson, vice-chair

Wayne Zavotka

Address:

321 Zoar Road, Rowe, MA 01367

Fax:

413-339-5316

Article III, Section 11 of the Town of Rowe Bylaws:

"In accordance with Section 16 of Chapter 39 of the General Laws there shall be a Finance Committee consisting of five members which shall consider all municipal questions relating to appropriations and may consider any municipal question for the purpose of making reports and recommendations to the Town. This committee shall submit its recommendations and report to each town meeting, annual or special. Two members of said committee shall be elected on each of two consecutive years and one on the third year by ballot at each annual town election. No member of the Board of Selectmen or School Committee shall be eligible to serve on said committee. Members of the Finance Committee holding other town offices or positions must recuse themselves on all matters pertaining to that department. The Finance Committee shall have the powers and duties delegated to it by said Section 16 and other applicable laws including the duty of submitting a budget for the annual Town Meeting and such recommendations shall be printed on the annual Town Meeting warrant."

Responsibilities:

The Town of Rowe Finance Committee's primary role is to help develop an annual budget in conjunction with the Board of Selectmen and various elected and appointed officials. Beginning with the FY2022 Budget, the Finance Committee's will be responsible for ultimately submitting the budget that will be presented to the voters, a shift from the past when it only held advisory/recommending powers and had no say in the final budget.

Prior to all town meetings warrant articles involving finances are reviewed by the Finance Committee. The committee then voted either to recommend or not recommend the various articles, and their recommendations are printed on the warrant that is mailed to all voters.

The Finance Committee is part of the town's "Budget Advisory Group", which consists of the Board of Selectmen, Finance Committee, School Committee, Board of Assessors, Treasurer, Accountant, and Executive Secretary.

While having limited direct authority over financial matters, their recommendations often carry a great deal of weight, and the committee is often asked to collaborate on many other areas involving town moneys and policy.

The Finance Committee also controls the Reserve Fund- a fund appropriated annually at town meeting to cover unforeseen expenses, and also must concur on all line-item transfers conducted in May and June of each year.

Meetings:

The Finance Committee has no regular meeting schedule, but typically meets once a month during the summer and fall, and then more often during "budget season"- December through May.

Meeting Schedule: As Needed

Previous meetings:

Gracy House Committee

Meeting Schedule: Meet Monthly

Historical Commission

Honoring Rowe’s Past, Shaping Its Future
Historical Commission Updates By-Laws for Long-Term Preservation

The Rowe Historical Commission is making steady progress in its mission to safeguard the town’s rich history while preparing for a thoughtful and collaborative future. Over the past few months, the Commission has focused on strengthening the foundation of its work by reviewing and refining the By-Laws that guide both the Historical Commission and the Historic District Commission.

The goal is clear: to ensure these guiding documents reflect a broad and lasting vision for historic preservation — one that goes beyond individual projects and serves the whole community. As Rowe continues to grow and evolve, the Commission is dedicated to helping the town balance modern needs with the protection and celebration of its unique heritage.

During recent meetings, Commission members discussed ways to shape the By-Laws to support long-term preservation efforts, community education, and transparent decision-making. This work will provide future commissions and town leaders with a clear, consistent framework for approaching preservation projects, whether restoring historic buildings, recognizing cultural landscapes, or guiding new construction in historically sensitive areas.

Beyond policy updates, the Historical Commission is also working to expand its outreach to residents and encourage greater community involvement in preserving the stories and places that define Rowe’s character. From educational programs to public discussions about the town’s evolving history, the Commission looks forward to creating new opportunities for residents to connect with Rowe’s past — and help shape its future.

Residents interested in learning more about the Commission’s work, offering input, or getting involved are encouraged to attend upcoming meetings or reach out to any Commission member. Together, we can ensure that Rowe’s history remains a living part of our town for generations to come.

Meeting Schedule: Meet as Needed

Previous meetings:

Library Board of Trustees

Contact:

Molly Lane
Library Director

Address:

318 Zoar Road
Rowe, MA 01367

Phone:

413-339-4761

Fax:

413-339-4713

Hours of Operation:

Tuesday 10-5.
Wednesday-12-8
Thursday3-7

Saturday 10-3

Town Library

Circulation Policy

Using the Rowe Town Library: Any resident of Massachusetts is entitled to use the Library. Borrowers are assigned a Library number which is used each time material is taken out.

LOAN PERIODS: - Books and audio books can be taken out for three (3) weeks. - Videos and periodicals can be taken out for one (1) week.

RENEWALS: Most items can be renewed once--unless reserved by another person. You can renew by phone or in person.

Next meeting:

Previous meetings:

Library Feasibility Committee

Feasibility Study and ADA Upgrades for the existing Rowe Town Library.

Restoring the rich and eclectic history of the Library, while creating a safe, multi-functional space for all Town Residents of all ages and readership interests to enjoy!

 

Proposed Design Upgrades Include:

- ADA Accessibility and Upgrades Bathrooms

- Added Meeting Room and Multi-Functional Event Space

- Added Outdoor Reading and Event Spaces

- Increased Seating and Reading Areas

- Upgaded Infrastructure, Safety, and Cohesion

 

Vision:  The Rowe Library will be the heart of the community—a welcoming space where people come to learn, discover, and connect. We will aim to inspire curiosity, foster lifelong learning, and bring people together to build a stronger, more connected community.

 

Mission:  Our mission is to serve as a dynamic community hub that inspires discovery, fosters lifelong learning, and nurtures meaningful connections. We are committed to providing inclusive spaces, diverse resources, and innovative programs that empower individuals to explore ideas, unlock potential, and enrich their lives.

Through collaboration and a deep dedication to our community's needs, we aim to cultivate a welcoming environment where knowledge, creativity, and connection thrive.

 

 

Next meeting:

Previous meetings:

Municipal Light Board

Note that Rowe has voted to authorize the Select Board, pursuant to M.G.L. c. 41, section 21, to act as the Municipal Light Board. The Municipal Light Board appoints or hires the MLP Manager who is in full charge of the operation of the Municipal Light Plant (MLP). Please go to Broadband Municipal Light Plant for further details.

Open Space and Recreation Committee

Spring 2025 Update

The Open Space and Recreation Committee (OSRC) is proud to announce a major step forward in Rowe’s commitment to land conservation and outdoor recreation.

Working in partnership with the Franklin Land Trust, Berkshire Natural Resources Council, The Nature Conservancy, and Mass Audubon, the OSRC is pursuing the acquisition of two significant conservation parcels — including the Tunnel Road Property (178 acres). These lands offer Rowe a unique opportunity to expand protected open space, safeguard vital natural resources, and provide future recreational and educational access for residents and visitors.

Through these partnerships, we are actively seeking grants and alternative funding from federal, state, and nonprofit sources to reduce or eliminate the financial burden on the Town. If approved at Annual Town Meeting, the Tunnel Road Property will be permanently conserved under the management of the Rowe Conservation Commission, and protected under Article 97 of the Massachusetts Constitution — ensuring it remains available for passive recreation (including hunting), land stewardship, and nature education for future generations.

Open Space and Recreation Plan Survey, the OSRC will continue to prioritize what matters most to our residents:

  • Invasive Species Management:
    Field planning has begun for the targeted removal and long-term control of invasive plants threatening Rowe’s native ecosystems.

  • Maintaining Recreational Structures:
    Assessment and maintenance are underway to ensure key conservation and recreation areas remain safe, accessible, and welcoming.

  • Land Conservation:
    The OSRC, in partnership with the Franklin Land Trust, Berkshire Natural Resources Council, and Mass Audubon, is actively pursuing the acquisition of two key parcels, including the Tunnel Road Property (178 acres). This will be presented for vote at Annual Town Meeting.

  • ADA Accessibility:
    Evaluating trailheads, recreation sites, and public spaces for future ADA-compliant upgrades — with the Town Library Renovation as one example.

  • Improving Indoor Recreation Spaces:
    Working with Town departments and Rowe School to enhance year-round indoor gathering spaces for all ages.

  • Enhancing Public Land Management:
    New signage, mapping, and stewardship efforts are in development to support responsible land use and improve visitor experiences.

Want to Learn More or Get Involved?
Email: openspacerecreationcommittee@gmail.com

Thanks for your continued support in protecting Rowe’s open spaces and shaping a sustainable, vibrant future for our community!

 

 

Meeting Schedule: as needed

Next 3 meetings:

Previous meetings:

Park Commission

Contact:


Park Manager - Briel Gibson

Address:

Park Commission

321 Zoar Rd, PO Box 462

Rowe, MA 01367

Phone:

(413) 339-8554

(413) 339-5520 x-110

Hours:

Town Hall Fitness Room - Hours

Mon - Thurs 9am to 4pm

Starting November 4th 2024:

Attendent Hours-Mon. and Wed. 9-11am and 4-6 pm

 
For more details about the Park,
see the Pelham Lake Park page
 

 
     

Previous meetings:

Planning Board

The Rowe Planning Board is an elected body consisting of five members, one elected each year for a five-year term.  In Rowe, the Planning Board is the body empowered to grant special permits.  Its other responsibilities include reviewing and making recommendations on Zoning Bylaw changes, holding public hearings on various actions to be taken by private and public entities, and helping to formulate planning documents for the town.

Contact: planningboard@rowe-ma.gov

Meeting Schedule: Second Thursday of the Month at 5:30 PM (subject to change)

Previous meetings:

School Committee

Contact:

Susan Zavotka
Rowe School Committee Chair

William Knittle
Rowe Elem School, Principal

Laurie L. Laffond
Rowe Elem School, Secretary

John Franzoni
N. Berkshire School Union, Superintendent

Address:

86 Pond Road

Rowe, MA 01367

Phone:

413-512-5100

Fax:

413-339-5760

Hours:

Meetings as posted
Rowe Elementary School, 86 Pond Rd, Rowe
413-512-5100
contact@roweschool.org

Previous meetings:

Woodlands Partnership

Previous meetings:

Zoning Board of Appeals

Address:
321 Zoar Road
Rowe, MA 01367
Phone:
413-339-4446
Alternate Phone:
413-339-5520
Hours:
As needed

The Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) is an appellate body that grants variances to the town's zoning bylaws when a building permit has been denied.  The ZBA is appointed by the Board of Selectmen and has five members, each serving a three-year term.  Terms are staggered so that no more than two people should be appointed in any one year.  Members meet only when needed, which can sometimes result in no meetings held in a given year.

Previous meetings:

Calendar of Events
Walking Group
Rowe Town Hall -
Posted to: Council on Aging
Board of Assessors Meeting -- SCHEDULED
board of assessors meeting room
Posted to: Board of Assessors
Bowling COA -- SCHEDULED
Shelburne lanes
Posted to: Council on Aging
Open Space and Recreation -- SCHEDULED
Rowe Town Hall - Meeting Room #1 and via Remote Participation
Posted to: Open Space and Recreation Committee
Walking Group
Rowe Town Hall -
Posted to: Council on Aging
Go to Calendar...
Latest News
Town Mosaic is currently in the Design phase

Town Mosaic is currently in the Design phase
Stay tuned for times, dates and places where you can work on our town mosaic.
Posted: Wed, Apr 23, 2025
Dog and Cat Rabies Vacination Clinic

Dog and Cat Rabies Vacination Clinic
Saturday April 12th 2025-10-12 noon
Posted: Mon, Apr 07, 2025
Cyrus Stage Road Bridge Closure

Cyrus Stage Road Bridge Closure
As of Tuesday April 1, 2025, The Cyrus Stage Road Bridge will be closed.
Posted: Mon, Mar 31, 2025

2025 Open Space & Recreation Plan Survey
The Rowe OSRC requests your feedback on a list of top priorities for the committee to pursue. https://forms.gle/SE66DWH7Wiq3buKE7
Posted: Tue, Feb 11, 2025

Burn Permits information
go to the enclosed website to get your permit.
Posted: Wed, Jan 15, 2025
Read more News...

Rowe Town Hall
321 Zoar Road
Rowe, MA, 01367
Phone: (413) 339-5520
Fax: (413) 339-5316
Town Hall Hours:
Monday-Thursday 8am-4pm
except for Federal and State Holidays...
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https://us-postoffice.com/ma/rowe/rowe-post-office