Matt was VERY insistent the validators be finished by specific developers and at a specified cost. He actually first said 'it doesn't have to be them, the DAO can hire someone else if it chooses' but as soon as Jarvie and PM tossed their hat in the ring at a significantly lower cost, Matt backtracked and basically insisted it would be devastating and irresponsible to switch developers.
Since you bring this point up regularly (a valid point) maybe check in with Matt about the cost of the SPS validator project? He certainly influenced and one might even argue 'strongarmed' that expense.
RE: SPS Governance Proposal - Establish a Legal Fund