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At the beginning of the Chambers County Commission meeting on Monday, June 2, Debbie Wood gave a heartfelt goodbye, announcing that she will be retiring from the House of Representatives at the end of July.

Wood, a representative of Alabama’s 38th district and Valley native, has been serving as a Republican member of the House of Representatives since 2018. She credits the success of her time in office to those with whom she served on the Chambers County Commission, having served as the first female chairperson for the County Commission.

Wood also expressed great pride in serving her community. Noting the improvements to the Greater Valley Area, Wood was thankful for the opportunity to serve in the capacity she had for the time she did.

The unexpected announcement of her retirement during the meeting turned emotional as she gave credit to the Chambers County Commission for her success.

“This is where everything began for me. So I’m coming back today to retire. This is where I wanted to do it. I didn’t want to do it anywhere else.” Wood confessed during a personal moment after her legislative update at the commission meeting.

After addressing the Commission, Wood turned to address the members of the audience, relaying to them the value of the Commission and how vital their work is to the local community.

In response, several members of the Commission highlighted what a privilege it was to serve with Wood on the Commission and to work with her as a Representative. The members expressed gratitude to Wood for her level of support and dedication to the Chambers County Area.

One of Wood’s notable accomplishments includes serving as the governor’s appointee on the ATRIP (Alabama Transportation and Improvement Program), which allowed for up to $50 million in grant funds to improve local roads, making roads in the Chambers County area safer.

The bill, known as “Exton’s Law” was championed by Wood. Exton’s Law prohibits the denial of organ transplants to individuals based on physical disabilities and is one of Wood’s largest pieces of legislation passed during her time in office.

Walking away is difficult for Wood as she transitions to a new stage in her life.

After her retirement on July 31, she will be moving with her husband to Pensacola, Florida.

Woods concluded her retirement announcement with “Though I may be leaving office, this community will always remain close to me—especially with my grandbaby here, which ensures I’ll be back often for visits. Thank you for believing in me, guiding me and allowing me the great honor of serving you. I will forever be grateful for your support and friendship.”