Raise your hand, get active

With Marion City Council faced with the challenge of filling six vacated seats on the city’s planning commission and board of zoning appeals, I hope the council sees this as an opportunity.

There are people in the community who would like an opportunity to serve on a civic board such as this but they need to be asked.

It would be good to make sure the appointees come from varied backgrounds and women should be included.

The past board was composed of six men and one woman.

Women bring different perspectives to boards and committees just like men. And I’m not advocating an all-female board either. There has to be a balance for the boards to function well.

Some planning, thought, and consideration should be taken before asking community members to serve.

And you community members — step up. Volunteer to serve. Don’t be on the sidelines and complain about things. Get involved and be a part of the change.

— susan berg