Election filing officially opened Tuesday, and several local incumbents and new faces have thrown their hats in the ring for county commissioner, House representative, Austin mayor and city council.

While experience on a governing board is important, bringing fresh ideas may shake up a stagnant group and generate more interest from citizens in the community.

Sometimes the least likely candidates grow into excellent leaders; there are many potentially strong council members, commissioners, mayors and representatives hidden in our community as well.

The number of citizens filing already is encouraging, and will hopefully continue until the deadline.