Longtime legislator ready for retirement

Longtime State Rep. JoAn Wood cleaned out her Capital office and said goodbye to her Boise home.

With the 2014 legislative session over, the Rigby republican will continue to work for her constituents until she is officially retired in November.

At 79 years young, Wood has served consecutive terms for a total of 32 years in the Idaho Legislature.

“It was hard to control my emotion to leave,” said Wood.

The Wood Pilot Project remains her proudest accomplishment. The problem solving court program promotes recovery and self-sufficiency for those struggling with alcohol, drug and mental problems.

“I’m very very proud of that program,” said Wood. “It’s helping people change their lives, so it’s very satisfying.”

Wood says helping her constituents by maneuvering through the red tape was also rewarding.

“I’ve been able to get to the right person to help the individuals with the problems that they’ve had,” said Wood. “Over the years I’ve been able to do a lot of that.”

Now it will be someone else’s turn. Wood finally feels comfortable retiring with hopes that Danny Ferguson will replace her.

“The time came when I felt that there was someone ready, and I could devote time now to my family,” said Wood.

Family; remember that.

Wood hasfive daughters, 17 grandchildren, 50 great grandchildren and one great great grand daughter. She also has 5 siblings.

“We’re still here, we’re still getting together,” said Wood. “Now I’ll have more time to do that.”

She’ll also have more time to continue finishing her family’s genealogy that already dates back to the 1500’s. Wood even plans to visit the home of her ancestors.

“I’m hoping to go to Wales,” said Wood. “I’m intending to go this year.”

Wood has a ranch in Clark County she plans to get to more often. She’s even planning to write a book about her 3 plusdecades in the Idaho House.

“Those memories will stay with me the rest of my life,” said Wood.