Candidates Set to Square Off Tonight at WCTV

Wilmington’s Annual Town Election is rapidly approaching, and on Tuesday night residents will have the chance to learn more about their choices on the April 28 ballot.

School Committee and Board of Selectmen candidates will take part in the annual Candidates night. The event will take place inside the studio beginning at 6:30 p.m. For residents unable to attend in person, the debate will be televised on WCTV.

Former Wilmington Town Crier editor Steve Bjork will moderate the event as he did last year. Town Moderator Jim Stewart normally moderates the debate, but has been unable to for the last two years.

“Candidates’ Night is a longstanding tradition in Wilmington, originated by the League of Women Voters,” said Bjork. “It is the only formal venue in which voters have a chance to see all of the candidates in one place articulating their positions on the issues.”

There will be a meet and greet with the candidates at the studio beginning at 6 p.m.

Board of Selectmen hopeful Kevin MacDonald will square off against incumbent Michael Champoux beginning at 6:30 p.m. Then at about 7:15 p.m., incumbent Mario Marchese will discuss issues alongside hopefuls Mary Jane Byrnes and Manny Mulas. There are two available School Committee seats.

“As moderator, it is my responsibility to ensure that all candidates are provided with a level playing field, and that everyone adheres to the rules,” said Bjork. “There simply is no other opportunity to see them all in one place answering the same questions.  This is the single most valuable vehicle with which to form an informed decision on who should be overseeing the Town and the schools.”