Wilton To Revisit Polling Locations After Clune Center False Alarm

Wilton will revisit alternative polling locations after a false alarm at the Clune Center early voting site prompted a Wilton High School lockdown Monday, Oct. 26.

First Selectman Toni Boucher outlined the review in an announcement on the Town of Wilton website, with discussion scheduled for the Board of Selectmen meeting Monday, Nov. 2.

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Police investigated a report Monday morning, Oct. 26, of a person described as carrying a barrel over their shoulder toward the polling location, according to the announcement. Schools were placed in secure mode, while the high school went into complete lockdown because of the polling site's proximity and access to the school entrance.

Surveillance footage showed an older man who appeared to be wearing a green military jacket and carrying a walking cane, according to the announcement. He was no longer on the premises, and further review showed he had been there for legitimate purposes. Police inspected the area and deemed it safe for schools to resume regular activities.

"Together, we are considering plans for future elections and reviewing our security processes for polling places," Boucher wrote. Her announcement said extended early voting had created new security concerns, and hall monitors had been stationed to prevent public access to the high school and other student spaces.

Town leaders previously considered Comstock Community Center as their preferred alternative, but it required renovations to provide the necessary voting space and privacy, according to Boucher's announcement. The town will revisit that option following the incident.

Any changes would have budget implications requiring Board of Selectmen discussion, Boucher wrote. Polling-place options also must meet state requirements, including accessibility under the Americans with Disabilities Act, fire- and police-approved emergency plans and minimum parking requirements.