Jim Wood, D.D.S., recently retired from a decade of service in the California legislature, has over two decades of experience in public service and public policy as a former Planning Commissioner, Councilmember, Mayor and State Assemblymember.

Jim owned and operated a family dental practice in Cloverdale for over twenty-five years while becoming involved in advocacy efforts for the California Dental Association. Approached by community members as a problem solver, he ventured into local government before serving as the Assemblymember for California’s diverse and sprawling North Coast district from 2014-2024.

While serving in the legislature Dr. Wood developed significant expertise in health care policy. Chair of the Assembly Health Committee for 8 years, he focused on access, affordability, prevention, workforce and efficiency. Not afraid to tackle difficult issues, Jim was noted for his ability to navigate complex policy challenges and produce significant positive results for his constituents.

In addition to work in health care Jim emerged as a policy leader in areas such as homeowners insurance, wildfire protection, energy infrastructure, broadband and natural resource conservation. He consistently pushed for increasing the efficiency of government agencies, as well as technical assistance and flexibility for rural communities.