Matthew Riiska

Matthew "Matt" Riiska served as First Selectman of Norfolk, Connecticut for eight years before stepping down in late November 2025. As First Selectman, he was responsible for overseeing the general day-to-day operations of the town, a role that operates within Norfolk's three-member elected Board of Selectmen, which holds authority over general municipal services and serves as the appointing authority for non-elected town boards and commissions.

During his tenure, Riiska guided Norfolk through a series of significant challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, a major oil spill, flash flooding, Tropical Storm Isaias, bridge failures, and extended power outages. He was recognized for his service at a September 6 event on the Norfolk Village Green, organized by the Democratic Town Committee, where he received a commendation from state Representative Maria Horn and state Senator Paul Honig. In the 2021 municipal election, Riiska ran unopposed for First Selectman, receiving 100 percent of the vote. Following his retirement, Henry Tirrell assumed the position of First Selectman of Norfolk.