As most people know, a provincial election is coming in Alberta this October.
At this point, no one knows for sure how many openings will be available on Taber town council.
We know for certain Mayor Ray Bryant is seeking another term, while The Times will begin to canvass those on council in the coming weeks and months to determine their intentions.
The question becomes, however, what type of interest will there be among locals to fill potential vacant seats? In small towns, it can be difficult to attract people interested in running for municipal office.
The money is not great,  the hours require some evening meetings and, last but not least, you are going to get your fair share of grief from the public.
You hear it all the time — people complaining about their elected officials and the bureaucrats that carry out their wishes.
Certainly, there are challenges associated with being a town councillor, no matter what size of community you are dealing with in this country.
But on the other side of the coin, it can be an extremely valuable experience.
Not only are you at the ground level of the decision-making process, but the opportunity is there to learn as much as you want about the inner workings of your town.
There is certainly a lot to learn. Budgets have to be formulated, development decisions have to be pondered and the wants of the citizenry have to be balanced with the needs of the municipality.
Now, here in front of you, is an opportunity to make a difference, and be on the other side of the fence. Valuable contributions can be made by every-day citizens by throwing their hat into the ring and running for council.
Who knows — it could be a job you enjoy immensely, and may translate into a career in politics. Until you take the leap, you may never know. Rumours have circulated about certain people throwing their hat into the ring but at this point, no one has approached The Times to  announce their candidacy 100 per cent.
With the nominations deadline coming up, residents should think about running.