Winchendon MA – May 2026
The top news stories in Winchendon, MA, for May 2026 focus heavily on local governance, community updates, and a major federal law enforcement operation.
Town Meeting Approves $27.8M School Repairs and Operating Budget
At a marathon four-hour Annual Town Meeting on May 18, 374 local voters passed 28 out of 29 warrant articles. The biggest highlight was the overwhelming approval of three major school roof replacement projects for Murdock Middle/High School, Memorial Elementary, and Toy Town Elementary. Costing an estimated $27.8 million, the projects rely heavily on debt exclusion and expected Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) grants to cover roughly 70% to 77% of the costs. Voters also finalized the FY27 General Government operating budget of $20,770,350 and a School Department budget of $18,667,547.
Winchendon Resident Arrested in Multi-State Drug Ring
A Winchendon local was among 18 individuals arrested in a massive federal drug trafficking and money laundering sweep spearheaded by federal prosecutors. The criminal enterprise was centered in nearby Gardner, MA, and allegedly distributed cocaine, marijuana, and counterfeit prescription pills across multiple states, including Texas, California, and Hawaii. The operation allegedly laundered its proceeds through a commercial painting company. The Winchendon Police Department assisted federal agencies in executing the local arrests.
Memorial Day Ceremony at the State Veterans Cemetery
On May 25, the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Winchendon hosted its annual Memorial Day ceremony inside a fully packed chapel. Governor Maura Healey led the program, delivering a speech to honor fallen military heroes and taking part in a formal wreath-laying ceremony. Volunteers placed individual flags at each of the thousands of service members’ graves across the cemetery grounds.
History and Cultural Center Issues Emergency Call for Volunteers
Following a severe winter plagued by ice dams, burst pipes, animal intrusions, and a minor fire, the Winchendon History and Cultural Center issued an urgent public appeal for volunteers. Organizers are searching for tour guides, curators, and event coordinators to staff the historic Murdock-Whitney and Isaac Morse houses so the properties can successfully maintain regular open hours for their 2026 season launching in June.
New Business Openings & Local Events
Koi Asian Restaurant and Lounge: A new fusion restaurant has officially opened its doors in Winchendon. The business is a collaborative venture partnered by the partial owners of the popular Asian Gourmet in Athol.
Montapalooza Music Festival: Final preparations are underway for the region’s newest music festival, debuting May 30 at the Winchendon Community Park & Amphitheater. The festival will feature dual acoustic and main stages alongside food trucks and artisan vendors