Rhody Matthijs said he was surprised when Jong Lelystad approached him after winning the municipal elections to consider an alderman role. Matthijs was known in Lelystad's education sector as Porteum's spokesperson but had little political experience, and he initially rejected the idea before reconsidering its significance for himself and his family.

He said the administrative crisis in Lelystad's local politics also influenced his decision. As an alderman, he wants to strengthen residents' trust in politics by being reliable, communicating openly and transparently, and remaining visible and approachable.