ABOUT
BRET
Learn more about my background, my connection to Saline, and why I'm running for City Council.
Home in Saline
I've called Saline home for the past three years, though my connection to the community runs much deeper. Like many young families, my wife Jess and I were drawn here for the excellent schools. For her, it was a homecoming because she grew up here, and settling in just felt right. My own path to Saline began when I moved to Ypsi for college, and later bounced around Ann Arbor for work before we finally put down permanent roots here.
Early Foundations
I grew up in Wayne, Michigan, a downriver suburb with Michigan Avenue running straight through its heart. Raised by a single mother who worked long shifts as a waitress to support me and my three siblings, I learned early the value of hard work, responsibility, and leadership. At 13, I became the youngest-ever member of the Historic Wayne Theatre Restoration Committee, dedicating over a decade to planning events and leading fundraising efforts. I also volunteered with my local Salvation Army, using my skills as a musician to perform holiday music at bell-ringing stations. By high school, I was working full time as a busboy at my stepfather's family's restaurant while balancing volunteer commitments.
Civic Engagement
My passion for civic engagement grew during my college years, when I worked as an organizer for Working America AFL-CIO. I became so effective in the role that I was asked to train others, and I had the opportunity to work on several campaigns, including the federal congressional campaign for former Saline Mayor Gretchen Driskell—who would later become my neighbor and one of the first people I met in Saline. My organizing experience also included mobilizing communities during the Flint Water Crisis, a project that left a lasting impact on my approach to advocacy and public service.
Arts & Community Building
Outside of politics, my passion lies in creativity and building community through the arts. From serving as the youngest president of my high school art club to creating and hosting open mic nights at Karma Coffee in Wayne, I've always found joy in bringing people together through creative expression. Here in Saline, I continue that tradition by organizing shows and producing and recording local bands from my basement. As a member of the Arts & Culture Committee, I helped launch the city's first Jazz Fest and collaborated with others to design and implement a creative, cost-effective way to showcase "Art Around Saline." My sons even joined in, making it a true family and community effort.
Looking Forward
Community involvement has been part of my identity for as long as I can remember. Whether helping restore historic theaters or stepping up during a public health crisis, my work has always been about strengthening the communities around me. Now, with my family firmly rooted in Saline, I'm eager to bring my dedication to service to City Council. I hope to bring people together, foster creative solutions, and ensure Saline remains a place where everyone can thrive.
READY TO SUPPORT BRET?
Now that you know more about me, I hope you'll join our campaign to build a stronger, more connected Saline for everyone.