In this episode of More Than Politics, State Senator Michael Moore is joined by Beth Casavant, Vice Chair of the Shrewsbury Select Board, and Carlos Garcia, Clerk of the Select Board, for a wide-ranging conversation about the issues shaping the future of Shrewsbury.

Together, they discuss Shrewsbury’s form of government study, what it means for the town’s future, and why examining local government structure is about improving efficiency, responsiveness, and public understanding—not simply becoming a city. They also explore how local government works, the role of representative town meeting, and why helping residents better navigate town government matters.

The conversation also takes on several pressing issues facing the community, including the long-running concerns over the Worcester police gun range, the impact of noise on nearby neighborhoods, road conditions and infrastructure funding, housing and development, the pressures on municipal budgets, and the importance of balancing commercial growth with residential quality of life.

Senator Moore, Casavant, and Garcia also discuss Shrewsbury’s progress on Chapter 40B affordable housing goals, local revenues, and ongoing efforts to support schools, transportation, and community services.

This episode offers an inside look at the challenges and opportunities facing one of Central Massachusetts’ fastest-growing communities, while highlighting the importance of collaboration between local and state leaders in delivering results for residents. In this episode:

-Shrewsbury’s form of government study

-Town meeting, town manager government, and city government options

-The Worcester police gun range and neighborhood concerns -Road conditions, Chapter 90 funding, and infrastructure needs

-Economic development and its impact on taxpayers

-Housing growth and Chapter 40B

-Supporting schools, transportation, and youth and family services

From local government structure to quality-of-life concerns, this episode of More Than Politics gives viewers a deeper understanding of the decisions affecting Shrewsbury residents every day.

March is Maple Syrup Month in Massachusetts, and on this episode of More Than Politics, State Senator Michael Moore sits down with Bruce Hopper of Pure BS Maple Shack in Auburn to talk about the sweet science of maple sugaring.

What started as a childhood memory and a passion project has grown into a successful local business rooted in family, community, and tradition. Bruce shares how he got started making maple syrup, what it takes to run a sugar shack, and how Pure BS Maple Shack expanded from backyard buckets in Auburn to larger-scale production in western Massachusetts.

Senator Moore and Bruce discuss the full maple sugaring process—from tapping trees and collecting sap to boiling, bottling, and selling finished products—as well as the challenges and rewards of turning a hobby into a business. They also talk about the importance of supporting local producers, educating the next generation, and preserving the connection between agriculture, nature, and community.

This episode is a fun and informative look at one entrepreneur’s journey and a reminder of the value of local tradition, small business, and following your passion.

In this episode:

-How Pure BS Maple Shack got started

-What goes into making real maple syrup

-The difference between maple syrup grades

-How a family passion became a local business

-Why buying local matters

-Educational tours, farmers markets, and community connections

From Beacon Hill to backyard sugar shacks, More Than Politics highlights the people, ideas, and stories shaping life across the Commonwealth.