Who’s Your Neighbor? Episode 97 – Guest: William Flanagan, 42nd Mayor of Fall River

• The Show’s Purpose: Exploring the “absolute” – from rock bottom to the pinnacle – finding light through struggle.

• Politics & People: Why the podcast highlights local politicians as human beings, neighbors, and members of the community.

• Fall River Media Past & Present: From the Herald News & WSAR to today’s lack of local coverage.

• Election Insight:

  • Breakdown of the mayoral primary race – Paul Coogan, Gabriel Amaral, Christopher Silvia, Carlos Cesar, Michael Vandal.

  • Low turnout (7%), but highly engaged voters.

  • Flanagan’s perspective: 49% for the incumbent shows warning signs.

• Campaign Lessons: Importance of connecting personally, knocking doors, being relatable.

• Housing & Development: Rising costs, displacement of lifelong residents, and the need for balance in planning.

• Route 79 & Waterfront Project: Flanagan’s role in lowering the highway, creating buildable land, and planning for growth.

• Vision for Fall River: Arts, entertainment, museums, restaurants, music venues, and waterfront vibrancy.

• Cannabis Industry:

  • Founding role in legal dispensaries.

  • Cosmopolitan dispensary (82 Hartwell St.) and Green City in Attleboro.

  • Focus on customer service, affordability, and cannabis as medicine.

• Acting Career:

  • First film role with Stacey Dash (Lifetime movie).

  • The Roaring Game – comedy about curling, with Mickey Rourke & Rob Gronkowski.

  • Bad News on the Doorstep – mob drama with Sopranos cast & Chazz Palminteri.

• Reflections on Public Service:

  • Joy of helping people.

  • Considering future political runs, now as a Republican.

• Society & Community:

  • Reflections on tragic events, mental health, and community responsibility.

  • Importance of knowing your neighbor and restoring connection.

• Closing: Appreciation for Studio B, Fall River, and the audience

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  “All Roads Lead Here."