About Matt
History in Springwater
Matt grew up on a farm on the 5th Concession in Phelpston and has proudly called Springwater home his entire life. His grandfather, Gilbert Moreau, instilled in him a deep appreciation for community and the importance of taking pride in where you come from.
Community involvement has always been a central part of Matt’s life. Alongside his family, he has actively participated in many local traditions and events, including the Elmvale Fall Fair, the Maple Syrup Festival, 4-H, and numerous other community initiatives.
Matt’s involvement with the Elmvale Fall Fair has been especially meaningful. He served as Junior Ambassador, Senior Ambassador, and later earned the title of CNE Ambassador of the Fairs — an Ontario-wide public speaking competition focused on leadership and agricultural advocacy. In this role, Matt travelled across Ontario attending fairs and agricultural events, promoting youth agricultural programs, and highlighting the importance of agriculture within our communities.
Today, Matt serves as First Vice-President of the Flos Agricultural Society, where he continues to chair committees and support the planning and success of the annual Elmvale Fall Fair. He also served as the former District 5 Agricultural Director and was recognized as one of the Top 10 Under 40 in the Canadian fairs industry by the Canadian Association of Fairs and Exhibitions (CAFE) for his contributions to both the Ontario Association of Agricultural Societies (OAAS) and his hometown fair.
Since being elected as Ward 1 Councillor in 2022, Matt has developed an even stronger appreciation for municipal government and its vital role as the level of government closest to the people it serves.
The Garwoods
Matt lives in Elmvale with his wife, Danielle, their daughter Ivy, and their sons Abel and Oliver. Family and community are at the heart of Matt’s life and he is proud to call Ward 1 home. Having grown up in the area, Matt values the strong sense of community, safety, and small-town spirit that make Elmvale and Springwater such special places to raise a family.
Matt and Danielle met 15 years ago and the two were married in 2021. Originally from southern Ontario, Danielle quickly fell in love with the welcoming atmosphere, natural beauty, and close-knit community that Springwater has to offer.
Since Matt was first elected to Council in 2022, it has been an especially busy and rewarding chapter for the Garwood family. In addition to serving the residents of Ward 1, Matt and Danielle have welcomed two sons, Abel and Oliver, into their family. Balancing the responsibilities of public service with the joys and challenges of raising three young children has given Matt an even deeper appreciation for the needs of local families.
As parents, Matt and Danielle are committed to raising their children in a place where neighbours look out for one another, local traditions are celebrated, and families feel safe and supported. They appreciate the opportunities that Ward 1 provides for young families and believe strongly in fostering a community where future generations can thrive.
Matt understands the importance of hometown pride because he experienced it growing up in this community himself. He and Danielle hope to pass on those same values to Ivy, Abel, and Oliver, encouraging them to appreciate the people, values, and sense of belonging that make Springwater unique. They believe that by investing in the community today, they can help ensure the next generation grows up with the same pride and connection to their hometown.
Skills and Experience
With four years of experience serving as Councillor, Matt remains committed to continuing his service to the Springwater community and advocating for the residents who call it home.
Matt has been a valued member of the Georgian College team for 10 years and is passionate about public service and supporting a strong local employer. In his role as a System Administrator, he manages the College’s online student registration system.
Beyond his professional career, Matt is actively involved in many local organizations and community initiatives, including the Elmvale Fall Fair, the Elmvale Maple Syrup Festival, and the Elmvale Farmers’ Market. Through his work on Council, he has also contributed to numerous committees and community organizations dedicated to strengthening and supporting Springwater.