One of the most important ingredients of a healthy, vibrant community is leadership.

Those communities which are blessed with strong leaders are generally healthier and happier than those beset with apathy and indifference.

In Wallowa County we have had plenty of opportunity over the years to see the fruits of strong leadership. When we think of some of the great leaders that have dedicated themselves to this community the thing that stands out about these individuals is a strong conviction that community service is important and that Wallowa County is worthy of their time, energy, and talent. There are many venues where leaders are needed, including churches, civic organizations, and schools.

Another important area is in the realm of local government. This fall voters in all four incorporated cities in Wallowa County will select a new crop of city council members to represent them over the next four years. Three of the four – Wallowa, Lostine, and Enterprise – will also select mayors. In addition, Wallowa County voters will also elect five representatives of the proposed Wallowa County Park and Recreation District.

In other words, there are plenty of places to get involved.

Almost anyone who has ever served on a city council or county board or commission will tell you it was a lot of work but well worth the time and effort. Not only is it a great way to get to know people but there is something very satisfying about working to make your community a better place to live. Not only that, public service on an elected board is is also an excellent way to pick up all kinds of new skills, including budgeting, public speaking, and consensus building to name a few.

To date only three people have filed for 17 positions that will be up for grabs in November. The filing deadline for all of these positions is Aug. 27.

If you’ve ever considered running for public office maybe now is the time to give it a shot. R.S.