Sean Matteson (Indian Trail Town Council, North Carolina, candidate 2025)
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Sean Matteson ran for election to the Indian Trail Town Council in North Carolina. Matteson was on the ballot in the general election on November 4, 2025.[source]
Matteson completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. Click here to read the survey answers.
[1]Biography
Sean Matteson provided the following biographical information via Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey on October 31, 2025:
- Birth date: March 27, 2004
- High school: North Carolina Connections Academy
- Profession: Political Activist
- Incumbent officeholder: No
- Campaign slogan: A Representative of the People
- Campaign website
- Campaign Facebook
- Campaign Instagram
- Campaign X
Elections
General election
General election for Indian Trail Town Council (2 seats)
The following candidates ran in the general election for Indian Trail Town Council on November 4, 2025.
Candidate | ||
| Tom Amburgey (Nonpartisan) | ||
 | Raven Faherty (Nonpartisan)  | |
| Dennis Gay (Nonpartisan) | ||
| Sean Matteson (Nonpartisan) | ||
| Marcus John McIntyre (Nonpartisan) | ||
| Jerel Sangandi (Nonpartisan) | ||
 | Richard Ray Sayre II (Nonpartisan) | |
| ||||
| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
| If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey. | ||||
Endorsements
Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Matteson in this election.
Campaign themes
Ballotpedia survey responses
See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection
Sean Matteson completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Matteson's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.
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My name is Sean Matteson, and I’m a proud resident of Union County who cares deeply about the future of our community. Over the past several months, I’ve spoken with residents across Indian Trail who share a common desire for better infrastructure, responsible growth, and more transparent leadership. I’m running for Town Council because I believe local government should work efficiently and focus on real issues that impact our daily lives, from roads and development to community safety and long-term planning. I’m committed to bringing thoughtful, results-driven leadership to Indian Trail and ensuring every resident’s voice is heard.
- Prioritize responsible development and modern infrastructure to keep pace with Indian Trail’s rapid growth while maintaining the town’s character and livability.
- Promote open communication and fiscal responsibility in local government so residents know how decisions are made and how funds are used.
- Strengthen community engagement and ensure public safety remains a top priority by supporting first responders and fostering safe, connected neighborhoods.
I’m most passionate about infrastructure, responsible growth, and community engagement. As Indian Trail continues to grow, I believe it’s essential to plan and invest in long-term infrastructure improvements, including roads, sidewalks, and public spaces that improve quality of life for residents. I also care deeply about transparent government and ensuring residents are involved in the decision-making process. Finally, I’m passionate about public safety and sustainability, making sure our town remains a safe, welcoming, and forward-thinking community for future generations.
The Town Council plays a unique and vital role in local governance because it serves as the level of government closest to the people. Unlike state or federal offices, council members directly impact residents’ daily lives through decisions on zoning, infrastructure, community development, and public safety. This office bridges the gap between citizens and higher levels of government by addressing local needs quickly and effectively. Its importance lies in shaping how the community grows, ensuring that local policies reflect the values and priorities of the people who live there.
I admire leaders like Abraham Lincoln and Eleanor Roosevelt for their integrity, dedication, and commitment to serving others. Lincoln’s example of moral courage and putting the greater good above personal interests, combined with Roosevelt’s focus on advocacy, equality, and community engagement, inspires me to approach public service with the same responsibility and thoughtfulness. I aim to follow their example by listening carefully, making informed decisions, and prioritizing the needs of the community.
The most important characteristics and principles for an elected official are integrity, accountability, and transparency. An official should always act in the best interest of the people they represent and be willing to listen, learn, and adapt. It’s essential to make decisions based on facts and fairness rather than personal or political gain. Respect, honesty, and a strong sense of responsibility are also key because public service is ultimately about earning and keeping the trust of the community.
The core responsibilities of a Town Council member include representing the interests of residents, making informed decisions on local policies, and managing the town’s growth responsibly. This involves overseeing budgets, infrastructure projects, zoning, and public services to ensure resources are used efficiently and fairly. It’s also the responsibility of a council member to maintain transparency, encourage public participation, and work collaboratively with fellow officials to create policies that strengthen the community and improve residents’ quality of life.
I would like to leave a legacy of being a dedicated public servant who truly listens to and represents the people. I hope to be remembered as a leader who put the needs of the community first and worked tirelessly to improve the lives of residents. I also aspire to continue growing in public service, with the goal of pursuing opportunities in state and federal politics in the future, always guided by the same commitment to integrity, transparency, and being a man of the people.
One of the first historical events I remember clearly is the 2012 U.S. presidential election between Barack Obama and Mitt Romney. Despite being only 8-9 years old at the time, I remember still watching the news broadcast that night.
My first job was in food service, which I started at age 16. Over the years, I gained valuable experience in customer service, teamwork, and responsibility, which helped shape my work ethic and professional skills.
A favorite book of mine is Congress Overwhelmed by Kevin Kosar, Lee Drutman, and Timothy LaPira. I appreciate it because it offers a deep look at the challenges Congress faces today, including limited staff, declining institutional knowledge, and increasing reliance on lobbyists and the bureaucracy. The book highlights how even our most important governing institutions can struggle without the resources and expertise to function effectively. Reading it has given me a better understanding of the importance of preparation, knowledge, and strong institutional support in leadership, lessons that guide my interest in public service and politics.
If I could be any fictional character, I would choose Atticus Finch from To Kill a Mockingbird. He represents integrity, fairness, and courage, standing up for what is right even when it is difficult. His calm and principled approach to challenges and his dedication to justice and compassion are qualities I deeply admire and strive to reflect in my own life.
One struggle I’ve faced is learning to ask for help and build a strong network of support. Early on, I often tried to handle everything on my own, but I’ve realized that seeking guidance, collaborating with others, and connecting with people who can offer different perspectives is essential for growth. Learning to reach out and build relationships has not only helped me personally but has also prepared me to work more effectively in public service.
Another lesser-known responsibility of the Town Council is reviewing and approving local agreements and contracts. This can include things like service contracts, public-private partnerships, or utility agreements, which may not be widely visible but have a significant impact on how town services are delivered and funded.
I do not believe previous experience in government or politics is required for this office, but it is essential that anyone who serves takes the role seriously. Success in this position depends on a commitment to serving the community, listening to residents, and making thoughtful, informed decisions. Even without prior experience, a responsible and dedicated approach can have a meaningful impact on the town.
The most helpful skills for this office include strong communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving. Council members benefit from the ability to understand budgets, analyze policies, and make decisions that balance the needs of different community groups. Collaboration and teamwork are also important, as much of the work involves working with fellow council members, staff, and residents to achieve practical solutions for the town.
This office is unique and important because it is the level of government closest to the residents. Town Council members have a direct impact on everyday life through decisions on local services, zoning, infrastructure, and community programs. The office serves as a bridge between citizens and government, allowing residents to have a voice in how their community grows and functions. Its decisions shape the character, safety, and quality of life in the town.
I have received support and encouragement from local residents and members of the community, reflecting their confidence in my commitment to serving Indian Trail.
A story that really stayed with me happened a few weeks ago when I spoke with a man experiencing homelessness. He shared the daily challenges he faces just trying to get by and the barriers that make it difficult to access basic resources and support. Hearing his story reminded me that behind every issue are real people with real struggles, and it reinforced the importance of listening to residents, understanding their needs, and making thoughtful decisions that help improve the community for everyone.
One accomplishment I am particularly proud of is my growing involvement in public service and my community. Running for office has been a meaningful step in that journey, along with internships, earning my FCC license, and pursuing my education. I am also proud of my experiences in Boy Scouts, holding down a job, helping care for my sister who has Down syndrome, and participating in numerous volunteer and service opportunities. Together, these experiences have taught me responsibility, empathy, and the value of actively working to make a positive difference in the lives of everyday people.
Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.
See also
2025 Elections
External links
Footnotes
