MA Resident Fined For Projecting 'Trump 2024' On Town's Water Tower

HANSON, MA — A Hanson resident is being given the maximum daily fine after projecting a "Trump 2024" image onto Hanson's municipal water tower on High Street, according to a GoFundMe campaign and a statement from the town Saturday.

The statement, which came from Hanson's town administrator Lisa Green, did not specifically mention the content of the "political sign," which was apparently being projected from the resident's property onto the tower. However, a GoFundMe campaign set up in an attempt to keep the projection running shows a photo.

"This misleads the public into believing that this activity is sanctioned by or condoned by the town, Green said. "As a governmental entity, the Town of Hanson does not endorse candidates for any office from any political party, nor does the Town allow political signs to be displayed on municipal property."

The town further posted its sign regulations, which "contain language that makes this individual’s actions a violation of Town bylaws," according to Green.

Officials are working on a Cease and Desist order to present to the resident and intend to "issue the maximum fine of $100 per day until the activity is discontinued."

On the GoFundMe page, the organizer says that they intend to give "100% of the money" raised to the person who is projecting the sign to "cover any costs associated with projected signage" including the daily fine, any legal representation, "or even just compensation to the person doing it for their cost of the projector, electricity, and even their time/creativity."

Meanwhile, highway department employees have positioned a spotlight to shine on the water tower to dim the projection, and further measures are under consideration, officials said.

"This individual’s 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," according to Green. "The $100 per day fine will likely not cover these expenses."

Green finished her statement by adding that the town "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."