Brent is focused on helping Palmy be a future ready, inclusive city that's affordable for everyone. Transport, environmental issues and strengthening communities are areas he is particularly interested in.
Outside of Council, Brent works part time as a scientist studying pasture plants. His work looks at how these plants function and how they can be improved, research that plays an important role in more sustainable agriculture. With this background in science, he tends to approach issues by looking at the evidence and understanding what the data are telling us, something he brings with him into Council decision making.
Brent has called Palmy home since the turn of the century. He originally moved here for the science opportunities, but it was the people, the strong sense of community and our city’s culture that made him want to stay.
One of the things he enjoys most about being a councillor is working with communities to help shape the city’s direction and advocating for people and planet. For Brent, it is about thinking ahead to the future while also making sure the day to day work of Council is done well and runs efficiently.
When he is not at work or in Council meetings, you might spot him riding his bike around town. Brent enjoys getting outdoors and keeping active. Tramping is a favourite pastime, along with reading, following politics and watching basketball.
A fun fact that sometimes surprises people is that Brent was born in California. These days though, Palmy is very much home.
If you ask him about a favourite spot around the city, Brent will quickly mention Te Āpiti - Manawatū Gorge. He enjoys heading there for a walk, a bit of fresh air and a reminder of just how lucky we are to access nature right on our doorstep.