There are many thoughtful, intelligent Lawrence residents who should consider taking their turn at public service.

Only a week remains before the Jan. 21 filing deadline for local city commission and school board races. The slates are growing, but there always is room for good, community-minded candidates.

Maybe one of those is you.

In Monday’s Journal-World, Tom Murray, a local attorney and former school board member, made a strong case for serving on the school board. He urged people to consider serving a term on the board, which makes so many important decisions for our children. He also discounted the usual excuses about time or the fear that serving on the board will have a negative impact on business. His comments are equally applicable to those who might consider running for the Lawrence City Commission.

These are important jobs that have incredible impact on our daily lives. We need intelligent, thoughtful people in those jobs, people who listen and put their own personal interests aside to do what’s best for local residents. Our future depends on the quality of our leadership in public offices.

Unfortunately, it isn’t an easy job and we, as a community, don’t make it any easier. Too often, we forget to be respectful of leaders who are doing a job most of us are unwilling to take on. We write sarcastic letters or make unpleasant phone calls. We attend a meeting so we can yell into a microphone or wave a sign in someone’s face. Do they deserve that kind of treatment? Is that how you would expect to be treated if you were giving your time — lots of it — to doing a public job that pays little or nothing?

The first step in having good government is having good candidates. Now is the time to consider running or urge someone you know would do a good job to take that step. Support them during the campaign and, if they are elected, support them even more while they are in office. Understand if they cast a vote you oppose that they were doing what they thought was right.

If they choose to serve only one term, thank them for their work. Public service doesn’t need to be a career. In fact, having more people involved only brings more energy and expertise to the table.

This is a wonderful community full of intelligent, well-intentioned people. Let’s see that some of their names get on the ballot for city commission and school board races and show our appreciation after the election by treating them with the respect they deserve.