If you’re a West Virginia resident not satisfied with the status quo of the Mountain State — or if you are satisfied and would love to see what you consider positive momentum to continue — there’s a way for you to directly influence that.

From Jan. 12 through midnight Jan. 31, West Virginia residents can file to run for elected office. Seats in government both large and small are up for grabs this year, and now is the time to throw your hat in the ring.

Among the seats up for grabs this year are those in the United States Senate and House of Representatives, West Virginia Senate and House of Delegates, county commission and board of education and conservation district supervisor. While some of those positions are quite lofty, and would take plenty of time, effort and especially money to vie for, local seats offer a wonderful opportunity to become active in shaping your community.

With that project would come significant responsibilities to make sure you’re running a clean and fair campaign. But the West Virginia Secretary of State website has a guide to running for office that takes you through everything you need to know from how to file to the ins and outs of campaign spending.

There are few roles more important in our communities than that of an elected official. You’re the architects, the engines of progress where you live. Whether you like how things are going in your neck of the woods or want it to change, this is the way to take an active part in it.