Michigan needs Moore: MML’s newest President

On Tuesday, October 15, Councilwoman Brenda F. Moore was officially appointed as the Michigan Municipal League’s 2019-2020 board of trustees president. Moore’s status as president is a milestone for the Michigan Municipal League (MML), as she is the first black female president in its 120-year history.

“I think this illustrates the changing demographics of Michigan and the communities here,” said MML CEO and executive director Dan Gilmartin. “It’s a win for inclusivity.”

Moore is a lifelong resident of Saginaw, Michigan and has a deep connection with her community. Moore understands the importance of strengthening Michigan’s communities and is a proponent of fostering a thriving environment for Michiganders.

Moore serves as an organizer for the Service Employees International Union (SEIU Local 517M), is a member of the City County School Liaison Committee and previously worked as a bail bonds person. Moore always keeps her hometown in mind with each position she takes on and hopes to positively impact Saginaw youth and the community.

“I came from no experience with being a politician, but my training from the MML has made me stronger. It’s making me a better politician,” Moore said.

Moore has been an active member on the Saginaw City Council since 2013 and is the current Mayor Pro Tem. After her election in 2013, Moore quickly became involved with MML by attending the league’s Elected Officials Academy (EOA). The academy is available to officials as an opportunity to expand their knowledge and expertise.

The EOA program cements the importance of municipal leaders thinking about how their local communities might be impacted by an impending recession. The SaveMICity initiative hopes that when elected officials like Moore balance the state’s budget, they will plan how to ensure Michigan is recession proof. 

“Brenda is a great person and is very passionate about her work,” Gilmartin said. “I’m sure she will have a great year.”

The SaveMICity initiative looks forward to seeing what Moore achieves as the 2019-2020 MML board of trustees president. Communities like Saginaw are the backbone of Michigan’s economy and having a leader like Moore who is invested in her community is encouraging.