Re-Elect Jim Wood

My story begins in the mountains of Southwest Virginia.

I was born and raised in Haysi, Virginia, where I learned the values that have guided my entire life: faith, hard work, personal responsibility, respect for others, and love of country. In a small town, you learn early that your reputation matters. Your neighbors know you, your word means something, and when someone needs help, you don't wait to be asked—you simply lend a hand.

Those lessons shaped the man I became.

As a young man, I answered the call to serve our nation by joining the United States Army. I proudly served as a combat infantryman in the legendary 82nd Airborne Division, where I learned firsthand the meaning of courage, discipline, sacrifice, and leadership. Serving alongside some of America's finest men and women reinforced my belief that freedom is never free and that every generation has a responsibility to protect the Constitution and the liberties that define our nation.

After my military service, I built a career and eventually made Waynesboro my home. Like so many Americans, I worked hard to build something of my own. As the owner of Big Ridge Guns & Archery, I've had the privilege of serving customers from across Virginia while promoting responsible firearm ownership, safety, and the outdoor traditions that are part of our Commonwealth's heritage.

I've always believed that a business owner should give back to the community that supports them. That's why I've remained active in community service, veterans' causes, and local organizations. My commitment has never been about titles—it's always been about making a difference.

That same commitment led me to run for Waynesboro City Council.

I didn't seek public office for recognition. I ran because I believe local government should work for the people—not the other way around. Taxpayer dollars should be respected. Government should be transparent. Public safety should be a priority. Decisions should be based on common sense, not politics.

As your Ward D representative, I've worked every day to keep those promises. I've challenged unnecessary spending, demanded accountability, and stood up to bureaucracy when I believed taxpayers weren't getting the value they deserved. I believe every dollar the city spends belongs to the people who earned it, and elected officials have a duty to spend those dollars wisely.

I also believe leadership means listening. Whether we agree on every issue or not, every citizen deserves to have their voice heard. My door has always been open because I work for the people of Waynesboro—not special interests, not political insiders, and not personal agendas.

My campaign has always been built around a simple promise: Keep My Word. Those aren't just words on a campaign sign—they're the standard I hold myself to every day. I believe integrity isn't measured by what you say during an election; it's measured by what you do after you're elected.

I'm proud of what we've accomplished together, but there's still important work ahead. We must continue protecting taxpayers, supporting our police, fire, and first responders, investing responsibly in our infrastructure, encouraging economic growth, and preserving the freedoms and values that make Waynesboro such a special place to live, work, and raise a family.

I love this community, and I believe its best days are still ahead.

It has been an honor to serve as your City Councilman, and I remain committed to earning your trust every single day. Together, we can continue moving Waynesboro forward with honest leadership, fiscal responsibility, and a government that never forgets who it serves.

I'm Jim Wood, and I will continue to keep my word.