Gary Schlack is a Father. Husband. Businessman. Veteran. Parishioner. Two-term Allen Park City Councilmember with deep roots in Michigan and a bold vision for the future of Downriver. His life story is one of public service, determination, and leadership shaped by family, faith, and community.
Born and raised in Detroit’s Mexicantown, Gary grew up in a neighborhood where every dollar mattered and every family looked out for one another. His father, a Vietnam-era veteran, and his hardworking mom taught him the values of service, fairness, and grit.
From an early age, Gary understood that leadership isn’t about titles — it’s about showing up, doing the work, and
fighting for people. At Holy Redeemer High School, Gary put those lessons into action. He volunteered in his
community, led his debate team, and was elected class president by a single vote — a reminder that every voice
counts. He even played bass in an Allen Park garage band, where he learned the teamwork and persistence that still
define his leadership style.
Gary became the first in his family to earn a college degree at Michigan State University, where he studied political
science and business and served as a proud brother of Theta Chi Fraternity. But when global conflicts escalated in
the early 2000s, Gary answered the call to serve, enlisting in the U.S. Army National Guard in 2005. He learned
discipline, determination, and the meaning of service above self — lessons that continue to shape his decisions today.
After his service, Gary worked as a substitute teacher before building a career in logistics, managing the kind of large, complex operations that keep America moving. That experience gave him firsthand insight into Michigan’s infrastructure challenges — and the know-how to solve them. He later earned a Master’s in Public Leadership from the University of San Francisco, sharpening his skills to deliver bold, community-driven change.
Gary wasn’t born in Downriver, but like many families, he and his wife, Bridget, chose it to build their future. In Allen Park, they are raising their two boys, Gary Jr. and Frankie, in the same schools, parks, and neighborhoods that Downriver families rely on every day.
For Gary, the fight is personal — because if it’s not good enough for his kids, it’s not good enough for yours.That commitment led him to the Allen Park City Council, where he is now serving his second term.
On council, Gary earned a reputation as the member who does the homework, speaks up when others stay quiet, and fights for safer streets, stronger neighborhoods, transparency in government, and respect for taxpayers. He has represented Allen Park in the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments, advised the Downtown Development Authority, and continues to serve on key City Council committees, including Economic Development, Legal Affairs, and Community Affairs. Additionally, he works collaboratively with his fellow councilmembers by attending municipal conferences to stay connected with issues across Michigan, and he proudly supports the Detroit Lions, headquartered in Allen Park!
As a Downriver Democrat, Gary is very committed to making sure Downriver families get the respect they deserve and has worked alongside the best.
Beyond public office, Gary is a member of the American Legion, the Knights of Columbus, the Kiwanis Club of Allen Park, the Sierra Club, and a parishioner at St. Frances Cabrini Catholic Church. These commitments reflect his deep belief in fairness, service, and community — the very values he’ll take with him to Lansing.
Disclaimer: Photos of Gary Schlack are for illustrative purposes only and do not necessarily imply endorsement by, or of, the individuals, organizations, or groups shown. These images highlight Gary’s record of advocacy and service as an Allen Park City Councilmember and member of the Michigan Democratic Party.
