Matt is a a fiscal conservative who brings his unique blend of hard work and common sense to the Mayor's office. He is a Vietnam Veteran who was awarded the Purple Heart. Matt is also a proven leader as an elected public servant and successful businessman, and a ong-time member of the Village Redevelopment Committee and the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce.

Matt and his wife Phyllis have deep roots in Carlsbad. While raising their daughters, Matt ran his business and volunteered as a Lightning Soccer coach; and Phyllis owned and operated two successful restaurants in the village.

Matt's record of accomplishments include: City of Carlsbad City Council since 1994; Carlsbad Planning Commission Open Space Committee; Carlsbad Design Review Board Committee to Study Growth General Plan Update; Committee to Study Redevelopment; and the Village Master Plan Update Advisory Council.

Additional accomplishments include: the Buena Vista Lagoon Joint Powers Committee; Regional Government SANDAG Board since 2004, Executive Committee since 2008; SANDAG Transportation, Planning, Public Safety, and North Coast Transportation Study Committees; Encina Wastewater Board & Committee Member; and the Alcohol & Drug Abuse Prevention Task Force League of CA Cities, Member.

His business and personal accomplishments include: Citizens and Carlsbad Chamber's LEGOLAND Committee; Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce, Member; Carlsbad Rotary Club, Member, Rotarian of the Year 2000; CA Auto Recyclers Association, Past President; Carlsbad Charitable Foundation; and the North Coast Calvary Church, Member.