Democracy is alive and well in North Kitsap, we’re very proud to say. And as the election season nears, it’s a good sign to see so many contested positions.

Not that the folks who currently hold offices at our ports, City of Poulsbo, school and fire boards aren’t doing a fine job. It’s just a positive sign that there are people in our community who feel strongly enough about the issues at hand to throw their hats in the ring by challenging incumbents and newcomers in what we hope is a civilized election process.

With meetings, forums and endorsements still a ways down the road, it’s important that we thank our candidates, both those who serve currently and those who hope to serve us in the future.

By and large, these elected positions are volunteer (as are countless appointed posts around North Kitsap). Even those that pay do so on a fairly minimal basis.

It’s not the money.

It’s the chance to improve the community as a whole. To be one of the many hands that shape the clay of our society.

Candidates know this and we applaud them whether they win or lose this fall. It takes guts to do what they do and guts to serve as a leader for your community.

Sometimes your best intentions are shot down, other times the voters want you at the head of the parade. But it all starts here and now.

Thanks for the willingness to get your hands dirty.