In Hanson, Massachusetts, a local resident's decision to project a pro-Trump message onto the town's water tower has sparked a flurry of concern among town officials.
The Boston-area town, home to approximately 11,000 residents, found itself in the spotlight on Friday when a "Trump 2024" sign appeared on the water tower at 228 High St. In response, the Highway Department attempted to counteract the illuminated message by shining a spotlight on the water tower, only managing to dim the Trump image.
According to The Blaze, the town's main issue with the image is not its political nature, but the potential for public misunderstanding. Hanson Town administrator Lisa Green stated that the image "misleads the public into believing that this activity is sanctioned by or condoned by the Town." Green emphasized that the town "does not endorse candidates for any office from any political party."
In an attempt to curb the resident's actions, the town prepared to issue an official cease-and-desist letter to the suspected individual or individuals. Additionally, a daily fine of $100 was imposed to offset some of the costs associated with the spotlight. Green noted, "This individuals actions have the potential to cost a significant amount of taxpayer dollars, including attorney fees, overtime to pay Highway Department workers to turn the spotlight on and off each day, and the potential for having to rent or purchase stronger lighting equipment. The $100 per day fine will likely not cover these expenses."
Green also hinted at the possibility of further measures, though she did not elaborate on what these might entail. While the town officials have refrained from identifying the resident responsible for the image, they have affirmed their respect for the free speech rights of all residents. Green's statement clarified, "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."
The political stunt has elicited mixed reactions from Hanson locals. Patrick Croghan, a resident living across the street from the water tower, found humor in the situation, stating, "I thought it was ingenious and laughed and got a kick out of it." However, he also expressed understanding for the town's position, adding, "but I can understand the town not wanting it up there, 100 percent, just because it is a political thing." Another local, Lisa Carson, echoed this sentiment, underscoring the importance of adhering to state laws while respecting individual rights to political expression.
As of Friday night, the image remained visible. The continuation of the light projection remains uncertain, but the accruing fines and a Monday morning visit from WHDH to the home suspected of originating the projection suggest that the image on the water tower persists. The town's response to this incident underscores the delicate balance between individual freedom of expression and the need for public property to remain politically neutral.
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