The Unselects

A Spagtactular Groundhog Day

In this episode we review and discuss the history of the mixed use development at 335 Maple Ave.  Starting in 2014 this development has followed the path of many others before it.  Lobby the town to make changes that ultimately only benefit the developer.  Tune in to learn more.

The Case Against Fluoride

In this episode we recap the highlights of fall Town Meeting including Article 7, a citizens petition to allow Shrewsbury residents to vote on removing fluoride from our town drinking water.  Since fluoride has been promoted in public water supplies since the 40's we make the case that it may be time to revisit the topic.  We argue the same points that were made in the federal case Food and Water Watch vs. EPA which was ruled upon in September of 2024.  For those unfamiliar with the case the court ruled that "Plaintiffs have proven, by a preponderance of the evidence, that water fluoridation at the level of 0.7 mg/L - the prescribed optimal level of fluoridation in the United States - presents an "unreasonable risk of injury to health or the environment, without consideration of costs or other non-risk factors, including an unreasonable risk to a potentially exposed or susceptible subpopulation under the conditions of use."

We Are Back!

After a few months off we are finally back with new episodes.  We are going unscripted highlighting and discussing all things Shrewsbury.  It's a new format in the new SMC Podcast studio.  In the first episode of season 2 we catch everyone up with what has transpired since the May election and Gregg's experience as a Select Board Member.

Episode 20 - To 40B or no to 40B That is the Question

Our 20th Episode has been released! To 40B or not to 40B that is the question. This episode explores the ramifications of passing MBTA zoning and how it negatively impacted affordable housing in Shrewsbury.

Episode 19 - DPW Project $10M Over Budget, What Went Wrong?

On this episode we review the DPW and Town Hall upgrade project to determine how it became $10M over budget.  We focus on setting proper expectations with the community and how Shrewsbury can do better.  

Episode 18 - Are We Destined to be The City of Shrewsbury?

In this episode we review two topics.
 
1) The changes to town meeting member representation by precinct.
2) The proposed form of government committee and the four types of government Massachusetts towns can utilize.
 
Please watch and let us know what you think.

Episode 17 - Sometimes You Win, Even When You Lose

On this episode of The Unselects, we discuss the results of the special referendum election in Shrewsbury and dig into the influence the outside dark money organization One Commonwealth had supporting the YES side.

Episode 16 - Pre-Election Special Episode

On this Special Episode of The Unselects we are 48 hours away from the special election on Tuesday February 4. What last minute roadblocks has the town put in the residents way?

Episode 15 - Why Vote NO on February 4th

In this episode we discuss further implications of the Massachusetts SJC ruling and the ineffective and unenforceable guidelines.  How did we get to this point and why is the state pushing so hard for compliance?

Episode 14 - The Impact of the SJC Decision

In this episode we discuss the SJC ruling on the MBTA Communities Act in Massachusetts and how it may impact the special election on February 4 in Shrewsbury.  The media along with the governor are claiming a sweeping victory.  However, this is not the case.  The real substance of the law was the guidelines.  Without the guidelines what can towns comply with?