Hanson Select Board Stands Firm on Trump Water Tower Projection
Hanson officials leave measures in place to dim unauthorized political display, face threats and vulgar messages in response
HANSON, MA - October 22 - The Hanson Select Board has decided to keep measures in place to prevent a resident from projecting a “Trump 2024” sign onto the town's water tower. The decision, made during an executive session, comes after the resident declined to agree in writing that they would not project the image again.
Town officials cite bylaws prohibiting the display of political symbols or signage on government property as the basis for their action. The decision comes after a rally to support the resident, and Donald Trump, took place in Hanson over the weekend. The situation has escalated, resulting in threats and inappropriate messages directed at town officials and employees.
"The Town of Hanson does not endorse any political candidate, party or platform in any election," the Select Board stated in a release. "Town bylaws prohibit the display of political symbols or signage on government property, and the Town is duty-bound to enforce the bylaws."
The conflict began on Oct. 12 when the town, through its legal counsel, delivered a cease and desist letter to the resident. Although the resident has stopped protecting the sign, he has refused an agree in writing not to do it again. This impasse has led the Select Board to maintain measures that dim the projection "until further notice" to avoid what they describe as an "on-again, off-again cycle."
The board expressed frustration with the situation, calling it "deeply unfortunate and unnecessary." They emphasized that town officials are in the "often unenviable position of objectively and dispassionately enforcing the bylaws put in place by its citizens."
The incident has had broader implications for the town. Officials report receiving at least one threatening voicemail directed at a town official, as well as numerous "inappropriate and vulgar" phone calls and email messages to town employees.
"While it is believed that these messages do not originate locally, they are nonetheless concerning," the statement read. The town has informed and is cooperating with law enforcement authorities regarding these communications.
The financial impact of the situation is also a concern for town officials. The Select Board noted that the actions of "a single resident trying to make a political statement" have caused an "undue financial burden on the Town."
Despite the ongoing conflict, the Hanson Select Board expressed a strong desire for resolution. "The Hanson Select Board strongly desires that this individual resident agree to put an end to this matter without delay," the statement concluded.
The town's stance on political neutrality remains firm. Officials reiterated that Hanson does not endorse any political candidates, parties, or platforms in any election, emphasizing their commitment to enforcing town bylaws impartially.