Doug Wilson delivered a heartfelt and spirited speech to the Golden State Republican Women District 7 organization at a celebration aimed at honoring the “County Line Fire” firefighters and rallying support for the historic Riley’s Farm, Wilson used the occasion to reflect on his legacy, his values, and his vision for the future of Grand Terrace. “We are here to save Riley's Farm and honor the ‘County Line Fire’ Firefighters, a terrific group of dedicated individuals,” Wilson said. “It is only right that we recognize the brave men and women who risk their lives for us.”
Known locally as “The Budget Watchdog,” Wilson has long been a fixture in Grand Terrace politics. With 31 years of public service and a 52-year career as a developer and homebuilder, he emphasized fiscal responsibility and practical governance. “At heart, I am a numbers guy,” he said. “I solidly support budgeting based on real-world assumptions, not ‘wish lists.’ I am still for all the good government we can afford, no more, no less.”
Wilson recounted how Grand Terrace was the first jurisdiction in California to escape the financial burden of the state’s now-defunct Redevelopment Act. “The City of Grand Terrace found out the hard way that it did not need a bigger waistband, it had to get skinny in a hurry,” he said. “The secret is we do not spend money we do not have.”
In a pointed contrast to state politics, Wilson criticized Sacramento for its inefficiencies. “You would be appalled at how dysfunctional Sacramento is,” he stated, citing frequent legislative rewrites and bills stalling in committee. “Not an effective way to conduct business.”
Throughout his speech, Wilson returned to a consistent theme: empowering local communities through smart investment and strong leadership. “We believe in hard infrastructure investment and investment in people. After all, we are a nation of producers, so let us produce!” he proclaimed.
He also shared a deeply personal note, celebrating his family and their work ethic. “Forty-six years ago, God granted me the great fortune of marrying my wife Ricki, who is the most intelligent, wonderful, and creative woman I have ever known,” Wilson said. He highlighted the achievements of his daughter and granddaughter, both professionals in the mental health field, as proof that opportunity and determination can span generations.
Looking forward, Wilson expressed optimism about California’s infrastructure future, particularly in water resource management. He described a recent visit to the planned Sites Reservoir project and praised local innovation. “We must think fifty to a hundred years ahead to provide a safe water supply to the generations who follow us,” he urged.
Ending on a high note, Wilson celebrated the unity and resilience of Grand Terrace. “That is what makes Grand Terrace the biggest little community in the largest county in the continental United States,” he said proudly announcing his candidacy for Grand Terrace City Council in the upcoming November 2026 election.