Why I'm Running: Matt Bower, BOCC D3

I am a native of Bradenton, Florida and returned to my hometown after my seven years as a JAG Army Non-Commissioned Officer. I thoroughly enjoy networking, meeting people and making a difference within the community while I build my business and serve my clients with their best interest at heart. I’m self-motivated and never quit. Thinking outside of the box is my specialty with a common-sense approach to nearly everything I do. Admittedly, I thrive as a "David" versus Goliath.

1992 – 1999: US Army; Legal Noncommissioned Officer (NCO), squad leader, Training NCO and various other positions while stationed at five (5) different duty stations. Highly decorated: Five Army Commendation Medals; four Army Achievement Medals; Two Meritorious Unity Awards; Two General Letters of Commendation; Twice Battalion Soldier of the Quarter; 1995 Post Athlete of the Year; and several letters of accommodation.

2000-2015: Luhrsen Law Group’s COO/CMO I was responsible for nearly every aspect for the success of the law firm. Negotiations with insurance adjusters and medical facilities, trial strategy, jury selection, logistics (technical and otherwise), cash-flow, business development, marketing, leadership, morale, and fire-missions: These were all part of my everyday responsibilities. There were two faces to this firm: The Luhrsens’ and mine.

2013-2017: Manatee County Planning Commission: Appointed by the members of the BoCC, I was the only non-developer commissioner serving on a volunteer basis. Over the four-year period, I was often sought after to be the voice of the people. Without a developer background, I was able to preside over matters with a common-sense approach with an emphasis on irresponsible development, environmental impacts, traffic and infrastructure problems and impacts to schools. Over time, the board became less of a rubber stamp and more of a board discussing real issues. I voted on hundreds of issues over the 4-year period and proud to have carried the voice for the everyday citizen.

2015-Present: Financial Advisor with Edward Jones, West Bradenton office. Serving the community by providing overall financial services by meeting the needs and goals of my clients where clients always come first, without exception.

Bayshore High School Graduate (1992; Top 10%)

Bachelor of Arts Degree (Business Administration) from St. Leo University (2009)

(I managed Luhrsen Law Group while finishing three years of full-time college)

Vice-President, Manatee Tiger by the Bay

Past Vice-President, Paws and Warriors

2014-2015 Manatee Leadership Graduate

Past-President of the Sarasota Manatee Chapter of the Association of Legal Administrators

Region 2 Representative for the Association of Legal Administrators

Cpt’s License: Previous part-time fishing guide as a hobby

2006-2007 – Volunteer lobbyist for Mothers Against Drunk Driving (Passed seven legislative bills)

2011-2013 – Volunteer lobbyist for Sarasota Coalition on Substance Abuse

Active community volunteer. My community involvement is well established and will continue as its part of my passion for public service.

Sierra Club

EMS Union

Manatee County Commissioner Robin Disabatino

Former Commissioner Joe McClash

Former Commissioner Jane Von Hahmann