Hanson, Massachusetts, Orders Removal of Trump Sign Projected on Water Tower Amid Fines and Community Backlash

In the town of Hanson, Massachusetts, a contentious issue has arisen after a resident projected a ‘Trump 2024’ sign onto the side of the local municipal water tower. The town administration has swiftly responded by issuing a cease-and-desist letter to the property owner responsible for the projection.

According to Hanson’s Town Administrator, Lisa Green, the town does not endorse any political candidates and strictly prohibits the display of political signage on government property. The town first became aware of the projection on October 11 and has since taken measures to address the issue.

The town has imposed a daily fine of $100 until the projection is ceased. However, officials have noted that this fine may not cover the potential costs incurred by taxpayers, including legal fees, overtime for highway department workers managing the spotlight, and possibly the need for more powerful lighting equipment to dim the projection.

To mitigate the visibility of the sign, employees from the Highway Department have set up spotlights aimed at the water tower. Despite these efforts, the situation has sparked significant attention and debate among residents. While some neighbors express frustration and wish for the issue to be resolved, town officials emphasize their respect for the free speech rights of all residents while maintaining that such actions are misleading and violate town bylaws.

The ongoing dispute highlights the delicate balance between free speech and the enforcement of municipal regulations, particularly in the context of political expression in public spaces.