Snapshot: Bruce Rittenhouse

And don’t write off write-in candidate Bruce Rittenhouse. In his multiple runs for City Council, the 63-year-old retired insurance investigator, Michigan police officer and U.S. Army veteran has become well-known as a Westside activist and City Hall agitator.

Rittenhouse said the council lacks leadership, and that the other candidates will make little difference to the city.

“We don’t need any more nice people in office,” said Rittenhouse, who is campaigning on a platform that includes a referendum on district elections, medical marijuana implementation, ending the city’s use of consultants, replacement of sewer lines and sewer treatment upgrades, keeping the homeless shelters open 24/7 and full time pay for City Council members. “It’s time we recognize who we’re here for. I would bring a difference in tone and attitude in city government from day one. Somebody’s got to wake up,” said Rittenhouse.