Lake County is a special place. And, as I look forward to Thanksgiving and reflect on my blessings, I’m especially thankful that I’ve had the honor to represent you as your Assemblymember.

My term in the Assembly ends this month, and I’ve been taking stock of my time as your Assemblymember. I decided to run for the Legislature because I was concerned about the state we were on track to leave our children and grandchildren.

We need to have economic opportunity and a robust, sustainable environment – now, and for future generations. It’s fair to say that these needs are amplified here, and that over the years the state of California has not paid enough attention to the residents of Lake County.

I was very fortunate to begin my term as your representative two years ago along with Sen. Mike McGuire. I couldn’t have asked for a better partner in the Legislature than Mike. He is a tireless advocate, and we resolved that we would fight to put the spotlight on addressing Lake County’s needs.

Together, we opened the first legislative office here in memory. And, at the federal level, Congressman Mike Thompson has been a tremendous partner. Over the last two years, we’ve seen meaningful progress towards addressing some of our most critical challenges. However, we know that there is still much to do.

Unfortunately, we have had to deal with the aftermath of several devastating wildfires, pushing the state to help impacted residents and communities. From visiting the evacuees in the early days of the Valley fire to assessing the damage after the Clayton fire, these disasters have been truly heartbreaking. But it has also been heartening to see the way that people have come together to help each other through difficult times.

While Lake County isn’t in my new Senate district, I will continue to fight for your interests in Sacramento. You cannot get to know this beautiful place and the spirit of its people without being permanently impacted. I will be a strong supporter of Senator McGuire as he continues to fight for you. I know our Assembly District is in good hands with Assemblymember-elect Cecilia Aguiar-Curry. With her joining the team, we will gain another advocate.

As I sit down for Thanksgiving dinner with my wife Mary, our kids and grandkids, I will be saying a special thanks to all of you for allowing me carry your voices to our Capitol. Thank you and God bless.

Assemblyman Bill Dodd (D-Fourth Assembly District) of Napa County is finishing his first term in the California Assembly and in December will take his seat representing the Third Senate District in the State Senate.