Meet Our Diamond Certified Expert Contributor

Todd Maltbie: Building Dreams

By Matt Solis, Editor

Todd Maltbie was just 19 years old when he launched his own landscaping business, but as the son of a contractor, he had enough real-world experience to make an immediate impact. “I didn’t really know what I was doing even though my dad trained me in the construction trades, but I tried hard and kept learning,” he remembers. “I started with a landscape contractor’s license and eventually added a swimming pool license and a general contractor’s license, so now I’m able to build custom backyards that bring my clients’ dreams to life.”

For Todd, running Pool & Landscape Development Inc. is a deeply personal commitment—so much so that he handles every aspect of the business himself, from payroll and design to customer relations and contracts. “The office work can be exhausting, but what keeps me going is seeing how these spaces affect people,” he says. “Most of our clients have never had a pool or a really nice backyard, so it’s very rewarding to see how much their lives improve.”

A longtime resident of Oakley, Todd says he appreciates the community atmosphere and small-town charm of life in the northern East Bay. “We moved a lot when I was a kid—I went to 17 different schools in 12 years—so I always promised myself that when I found the right place, I would stay put. Oakley is just a great place to live and raise a family. It’s small enough that you can walk into the city offices and talk to a real person, but if you want to have dinner in Walnut Creek or visit Monterey for the weekend, it’s close enough for that as well.”

Outside of work, Todd likes staying active by playing basketball and golf, but his favorite way to unwind is by spending time with his wife, Michelle, and their children and grandchildren. “We also have two dogs, so it’s a very lively household,” he laughs. “Our grandkids love coming over to swim, and we try to have friends and family over as much as we can. After all, I built this beautiful backyard, so I feel like it should be shared with others.”

When asked what his life might look like if he retired tomorrow, Todd says his first move would be to take care of his team. “I’ve had some amazing people work for me over the years, and I wish I had the money to bless every one of them for their loyalty and service. After that, I’d probably get on a boat with my family and go see the world.”

Ask Me Anything!

Q: What are your favorite sports teams?
A: The Las Vegas Raiders and the San Francisco Giants. I also like the Kansas Jayhawks because I went to college at KU.

Q: If you were a professional athlete, what number would you wear on your jersey?
A: Probably 23. Michael Jordan was my favorite when I was growing up.

Q: If you could immediately travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?
A: Portugal. My wife’s family is from there and they have a property on Pico Island.

Q: Are you a dog person or a cat person?
A: A dog person.