Ever thought about running for office? Ever been frustrated with a decision from the city’s leadership and wished you could do something about it other than just picking up a phone and giving your opinion?

Now is the time if you live in Ward 1 in Oxford to really give becoming a city leader some serious thought.

Jay Hughes pursued becoming an alderman for the city of Oxford, won and served. However, in November he won an election for the House of Representative. He is now our District 12 representative, and that leaves his seat open for the next city leader.

As an alderman for the city of Oxford, you  work with the mayor and fellow board members  to make policy decisions in accordance with procedures and responsibilities set out in state law.

The board of aldermen is composed of seven members. Six aldermen are elected according to their respective wards, and one alderman is elected at-large.

Being a city leader right now is not only desirable, but it is also crucial. With long-range planning on the table like Vision 2037, if you think you have what it takes to get it done right, throw your name in the hat. There are too many issues facing Oxford due to its growth in population for the race to be a popularity contest. The proper amount of skills, education and background should be embraced by residents to make their proper pick in a special election to fill Hughes’ seat.

Those living in Ward 1 who plan to run must garner 50 signatures from Ward 1 voters to qualify to run by Jan. 26. That means there are three weeks left from today to get those signatures and, in doing so, start campaigning and letting residents know what you stand for.

The election will be held on Feb. 16 at the Oxford Conference Center from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. If you decide not to run for the seat, be sure to be active in who you pick as your next representative for Ward 1 and get out and vote.

The mayor and the board are elected for four-year terms. The next election will be held in June 2017. There’s time for whoever wins the special election to make an impact and rise in leadership prior to the next vote.