As June 30th approaches tension is running high between the supporters and non supporters of the school budget in Mendon.
Mendon Police Chief Horn said several complaints of missing/damaged signs and online harassment have been made in connection with the budget vote.
On social media residents who have posted yard signs either for or against the override are reporting the signs stolen, run over by cars, or otherwise vandalized.
“We have complaints that signs opposing the override have been stolen from residences on Blackstone Street, North Ave, and Northbridge Road,” said Mendon Police Chief Horn. “There was also one incident of someone running over a sign that was in support of the override. That incident occurred on Blackstone Street,” said Chief Horn.
According to Chief Horn in addition to sign damage, one Mendon resident has reported spray paint damage to their fence.
“We are also receiving some reports of harassment on social media against a few people in town,” said Chief Horn. “None of the social media complaints rise to the level of criminal harassment under the statute,” he said.
“I would like to remind everyone they should respect each other’s right to free speech on both sides of the issue,” said Chief Horn.
Forward 15, an organized group in favor of the override, wrote on their Facebook page, “It is unfortunate that incidents of vandalism are being reported by both sides of the issue. Mendon, we are all in this together, and respect should be everyone’s guiding principle!”
Chief Horn advised he will have additional staff on duty the day of the vote to ensure a smooth process.
UPTON DAILY 