Wilmington Will Use Shriners For 2021 Town Meeting

WILMINGTON, MA — Wilmington's 2021 annual town meeting will be held in the Shriners Auditorium after the Board of Selectmen approved the switch Monday.

The town meeting was scheduled for May 1 in the high school, whereas last year's town meeting took place outside due to the virus, under a tent.

The Shriners offered their auditorium, which is much larger than the high school auditorium and would allow for more social distancing, for free. Town Manager Jeffrey Hull recommended that the Board authorize the use of the auditorium, noting that weather could be a significant concern in early May.

Board Chair Jonathan Eaton said that the town tried to pay for tables and chairs but Sheila Bissett of the Shriners "insisted they receive no funds."

The selectmen had also discussed making a donation to the hospitals, but municipalities are barred from donating to private nonprofits.

Hull called the Shriners "incredibly generous," noting they also hosted the town's Nov. election and will be hosting coronavirus vaccine clinics.

Christopher Huffaker can be reached at 412-265-8353 or chris.huffaker@patch.com.