At the village office, we occasionally get reports from residents about “solicitors” going door to door trying to sell things — magazines, candy bars, vinyl siding, steaks and seafood (ewww… really?), etc. Homeowners often can’t tell if these are real salespeople, or just criminals casing the neighborhood to see who is home. It’s rarely a pleasure to see someone with a clipboard standing on your front porch, but occasionally these are simply hardworking people who are trying to do their jobs. Often, they’re just creeps.
If you live in Columbia, the Howard County Police Department has your back. I recently received a fabulous chart that outlines the solicitor rules in Howard County from our Southern District Community Resource Officer, Terrence Benn. Take a few minutes to familiarize yourself with the content, so that the next time someone knocks on your door you can ask them to produce a permit. If they can’t, then just close the door — unless it’s a Girl Scout. In that case, buy at least 4 boxes of cookies. Did I mention that I’m a troop leader?
Have a great weekend!
Hickory Ridge Village 