CSAC Profile in Leadership: Alpine County Supervisor Terry Woodrow

Everyone has heard the age-old tale: “Back in my day, we walked uphill, both ways, in the snow to school.” In Alpine County, that might not be an exaggeration. For Supervisor Terry Woodrow, just getting to the county seat in Markleeville to participate in Board of Supervisors meetings is a journey of dedication – one that can take hours, or even an entire day, depending on the weather.

Living in Bear Valley, where roads transform into ski trails in the winter, Supervisor Woodrow’s commute involves snowmobiles, skis and miles of winding mountain highways. When snow closes Ebbetts Pass, her usual one-hour drive into Markleeville turns into a 154-mile detour through multiple counties – sometimes stretching into an 11-hour trek just to fulfill her duties.

But for Supervisor Woodrow, service to her community isn’t about convenience. “Living in a small community, you see firsthand how decisions affect the people around you. That’s what keeps me going.” And she does – no matter the obstacles, no matter the conditions, ensuring that even California’s smallest, most remote county has a voice at the table.

Nestled within the stunning landscapes of the Sierra Nevada, Alpine County may be small in population, but it is rich in community spirit. As a dedicated advocate, Supervisor Woodrow works tirelessly to ensure Alpine’s interests are heard in Sacramento and Washington, D.C. She actively participates in legislative advocacy, securing funding and support for essential county services. “Without strong representation, small counties like Alpine could easily be overlooked in policy decisions that impact our communities.”

By making the long trip to the state capital and beyond, she helps elevate Alpine County’s unique challenges and opportunities, pushing for legislative solutions that benefit her constituents.

“[Alpine County] may be small, but we have the same mandates and responsibilities as larger counties. It’s crucial that we’re not overlooked.”

Like many other rural counties, Alpine faces pressing issues, from wildfire safety and broadband expansion to the growing challenges of homeowners’ insurance. With a background in emergency services, Supervisor Woodrow has been instrumental in wildfire protection planning and fuels reduction projects. She also serves as the chair of the Calaveras Fire Safe Council and sits on the boards of Mountain County EMS and the Health Plan of San Joaquin, ensuring Alpine County’s healthcare needs remain part of the regional conversation.

And she doesn’t just advocate from afar – she’s on the front lines…literally. Woodrow remains an active first responder, still answering emergency calls as an EMT. When asked why she continues this hands-on approach, she puts it simply: “The nearest ambulance is 25 miles away. And in bad weather, it can take a long time to get here.” Then she pauses and smiles. “You just join together as a community.”

Her deep commitment to public service is matched by her love for Alpine County’s landscapes and people. “One thing people don’t realize about Alpine County is how vibrant and diverse our community is. We have a 25% Native American population, a large seasonal tourism industry, and some of the most breathtaking backcountry in the state.”

Looking ahead, Woodrow envisions sustainable growth, including more affordable housing and economic development. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the county’s potential as a remote work destination, but infrastructure improvements are needed to support long-term residents.

“The beauty of Alpine County is already here – it’s unmatched. Now, we need to make sure our residents, both full-time and seasonal, have the resources they need to live and work here comfortably.”

Through every challenge, Supervisor Terry Woodrow remains a steadfast advocate for Alpine County, proving that even the smallest counties can have a powerful voice in shaping California’s future.