In Hanson, Massachusetts, a political controversy is brewing after a local resident began projecting a “Trump 2024” campaign logo onto the town’s municipal water tower. The incident has prompted swift action from town officials, who have issued a stern warning and are considering fines to put an end to the unauthorized display. According to a statement released by Hanson Town Administrator Lisa Green, the projection was discovered on October 11, and town officials have since been working to mitigate the situation.
Green noted in her statement that the town does not support or endorse any political candidates and expressed concern that the projection could mislead the public into thinking the display had the town’s approval. “This misleads the public into believing that this activity is sanctioned by or condoned by the Town,” Green said.
The town has already taken preliminary steps to address the issue, including deploying a spotlight to reduce the visibility of the projection on the water tower, located at 228 High St. However, as of Friday evening, the projected image remained faintly visible, suggesting that more aggressive measures may be needed.
One of the primary concerns highlighted by Green is the potential cost to taxpayers. The town has incurred additional expenses in the form of overtime for Highway Department employees who are tasked with turning the spotlight on and off daily, as well as potential legal fees. Green warned that stronger lighting equipment might be necessary to fully eliminate the projection. “The $100 per day fine will likely not cover these expenses,” she added, indicating that the financial burden could grow if the situation persists.
Hanson officials have been clear about their respect for free speech and the right to express political views, but they draw the line when such actions suggest that the town itself is taking a political stance. The projection, while originating from a private residence, falls into a legal gray area as it infringes on town property, which has sparked the ongoing enforcement effort.
As of now, town officials are preparing a Cease and Desist order for the resident, which will carry a $100 daily fine until the projection is halted. Despite the floodlight that has been deployed to obscure the image, the matter remains unresolved, and the town is facing both logistical and financial challenges in ensuring the projection does not continue.
“The Town of Hanson respects the free speech rights of all residents, and the right of all residents to express their political views, but not on Town property or in a manner that makes it appear that the Town of Hanson is endorsing any political candidate,” said the statement.
