Matthew Hinton is a dedicated entrepreneur and devoted community member whose roots run deep in Ocean Springs. Growing up in the Ocean Springs School District he is a proud Greyhound and a former member of Boy Scout Troop 271. As a second-generation owner of a family business that has thrived for over 40 years, Matthew has not only preserved his family's legacy but also infused it with his own vision for growth and innovation. He credits his strong work ethic to his parents, Jim and Betty Hinton.
His commitment to excellence and service extends beyond his business endeavors; he has actively contributed to the community by serving on the Planning Commission for 8 years, 6 of those years as Vice Chairman and as a member of the Jackson County Harbor Commission for 11 years, 8 of which as Chairman.
In addition to his business and civic responsibilities, Matthew is a licensed Coast Guard Master with a 100 Ton license, showcasing his passion for the sea and dedication to maritime excellence. Matthew’s leadership style is characterized by collaboration and a genuine desire to enhance the quality of life for his fellow residents. Community engagement is important to him, and he will work tirelessly to ensure that the voices of the people he serves are heard.
Outside of his professional life, Matthew is a family man. He has been married to his wife, Casey, for 13 years and is a proud father of 3 children, Emersyn, Camellia and Cory. Together, they enjoy exploring the coastal beauty of their hometown and creating lasting memories as a family. With a combination of entrepreneurial spirit, community service, and family values he looks forward to continuing his support and dedication to the community and its residents as your Alderman At Large.
- Born and raised in Ocean Springs
- Member of First Baptist Ocean Springs
- Attended St. Paul's and St. John's preschools - parents were married at St. Paul's in Ocean Springs, 1980
- After school, worked for myself, created several businesses and worked with father at paint store
- 2011 received 100 Ton Captains License with Commercial Towing from USCG Sea School in Louisiana
- Apprenticed as a shipwright and started business dealing in wooden boat restoration
- 2021 2nd generation business owner, Hinton’s Paint, founded in 1983 by parents Jim and Betty Hinton
- Grandfather, James Karr Hinton II MD, was a General Surgeon who helped Open/Establish Ocean Springs ER in 1968. Retired in 1985.
- Maternal Grandmother, Nava Lou Rose, Maiden Name-Dunnaway, her family moved to Biloxi in the 1930’s. She was a very influential figure to me and encouraged me to be active in my community.
- Mystic Charters business created in 2009, Became part of the MS Coast National Heritage Outpost program in 2020.
- Volunteer with Cruisin The Coast in Ocean Springs for the last 6 years
- Volunteer for Peter Anderson Festival through the OS Chamber for the last 5 years