Candidate Biography (submitted by campaign):

I graduated from UNC-Chapel Hill in 1996 and the Kenan-Flagler Masters of Accountancy program in 1998. Upon graduation, I began working for Ernst & Young.  I worked with E&Y in NYC, Atlanta and Seattle.  In 2002, looking for a change of professional pace, I accepted a position with the Center for International Education in Chapel Hill. Despite his success at the Center for International Education, I was looking to get back to my financial roots and accepted the position to manage the Family Office at Franklin Street Partners.

As head of the Family Office at Franklin Street Partners, Matt provided financial and business advice and financial reporting to a select group of private investors and high-net worth individuals. Recently, Matt was promoted to head up a process-oriented client services group at Franklin Street Partners.

In 2001, Shelby, my wife, and I moved back to Chapel Hill. Shelby was born at UNC Hospital and raised in Chapel Hill. Shelby is a small business owner in Chapel Hill, teaches a taxation class at Kenan Flagler Business School and serves as Treasurer of the Board of Directors for a local museum.  Shelby and I have 2 boys, Nick (6) and Will (2). Nick is a rising first grader at FPG Elementary School. Will attends preschool at Chapel of the Cross, where Shelby and I were married in 2001 and are currently parishioners.

I have been actively involved with the Mental Health Association in Orange County (MHAOC) since 2003.  I have served as the President and Treasurer of that Board.  I had previously served in the capacity of Treasurer and Board Member for the MHAOC.  I have been actively coaching youth athletics since my undergraduate days at UNC.  I continue to be involved in coaching with programs like the YMCA T-ball and Rainbow Soccer.

Why am I running?
It is my intent to do all I can to give back to the community that has given so much to me and my family.  I feel strongly that it is my civic duty to get involved with town governance.  The council and Chapel Hill citizens need someone with experience in financial matters -- budget development, expenditure control and understanding the intricacies of taxation.

What makes me different?
My experience and training in the field of finance is unique relative to the other candidates running for the Chapel Hill Town Council.  Although I have no political experience, I have gained substantial, relevant experience through sitting on boards, volunteer work and commitment to my professional life.

Primary Areas of Focus:

1. The town must develop a sustainable budget -- in the near term and in the coming years.  Our community is focused on sustainability -- why would we not want a sustainable financial future?  One critical element to a sustainable financial future is focusing on needs -- not wants.  Our Town must face this reality head-on.
2. Historic and environmental preservation of our great town.  Our town must continue to be a leader in understanding and limiting citizen impact on the environment -- in a smart, thoughtful way.  In addition, we have a unique town with rich historical character that must be protected.
3. Our town must continue to reach out to the University and start reaching out to the students.  There is a dynamic student body living in our town which we should engage in our town governance.  These young people are a tremendous resource which has gone largely untapped.
4. We have to focus efforts on improving downtown -- without forgetting about ALL parts of our town.  All of Chapel Hill benefits from a vibrant downtown.