Our sincere hope is that nobody runs for office on Whidbey Island this year unopposed.

Debate, discussion and new ideas are vital to a functioning democracy, but those things usually don’t happen when someone becomes an elected official by default. It’s happened too many times in the past.

If you have concerns or solutions to local problems, consider running for office. If you want to help shape the future, consider running for office. If you care deeply about the community, consider running for office.

Being an elected official can be a thankless job, but it can also be extremely rewarding. The key is to listen to the community, be an independent thinker, always be transparent and don’t take criticism personally.

Filing week is May 13-17.

Many seats will be on the November ballot, including the mayor and city council seats of Langley, school board positions and more.

Right now, one of the biggest controversies in local government involves the WhidbeyHealth board and the direction of the hospital.

Things came to a head recently with the CEO’s surprise resignation amid budget issues.

The hospital board has a crucial role in providing health care on the island, but sadly board members usually run unopposed.

Two of the positions will appear on the ballot this year.

Langley Mayor Tim Callison is running again but no challengers have yet spoken of their intentions to oppose the first-term mayor.

It’s an important position and more candidates mean more engagement from the community.

Two positions are up on the Langley City Council; Ursula Shoudy has decided not to seek re-election while Bruce Allen said he intends to seek another term.

Three positions on the five-member board that oversees the South Whidbey School District will also be on the ballot. In the past month, parents have confronted the board at heated meetings demanding change. Now is their chance to walk the talk.

School board chairwoman Linda Racicot has said she intends to run again, member Damian Greene said he’s “90 percent sure” he won’t while Shawn Nowlin said she’s decided not to seek a second term.

Those who run for office are leaders in the community whether they win or lose. The process is as important as the outcome.