As we usher in the new year, Oak Harbor City Councilman Bob Severns will get a new title — and a new office.

In the vernacular of the Secret Service, the longtime resident will transform into MOTCOH: Mayor of the City of Oak Harbor.

His upward mobility means that his seat on the City Council will be vacant and must be filled by appointment. The council is currently accepting applications for the position. Whoever is appointed will serve the two years remaining on Severns’ term.

Any city resident who’s interested in local politics, wants to serve the community or has ideas for building a better city should apply.

Young people should apply. The average age of the current council is above the median age of the city, with Councilwoman Tara Hizon offering some balance on the younger side. Another young voice would add a valuable perspective.

Outsiders should apply. Any legislative body will benefit from new blood, and some people worry that the friendly relationship between the incoming administration and council will mean less oversight and critical thinking.

Insiders should apply. There are also a lot of people who’ve volunteered their time on the planning commission and many other boards who have proven their dedication and commitment — and understand how city government works.

But be warned, it’s a lot of work. Council members earn less than $600 a month, though the more valuable remuneration is free health insurance.

Councilman Rick Almberg once estimated that he makes about $3 an hour. Not only are there twice-monthly council meetings and monthly workshops, there are often special meetings throughout the year. Council members also serve on various boards and committees, which can be very time consuming.

The copious number of meetings is why many council members are traditionally retired folks. Yet many council members with day jobs have made it work, especially with the help of modern technology. Most meetings are videotaped and streamed online and teleconferencing can be an option.

It’s a surprisingly important job. Council members shape the policies that the city runs by. They set the tone for the community. They decide how millions of taxpayer dollars are spent.

Anyone interested can pick up an application online at www.oakharbor.org or at the City Hall’s utilities office.

Completed application must be turned in by 4:30 p.m., Monday, Jan. 4.

Council members will have a special meeting Jan. 12 to review the applications and create a shortlist. They will then interview the candidates at the regular meeting and possibly pick the appointee on Jan. 19.

It will likely be a difficult choice for the council members, but the decision making has to be made in public under the Open Public Meetings Act. They can discuss the qualifications of the candidates behind closed doors, but they shouldn’t discuss who they prefer or make any informal decisions.

In an open government, decisions are made in the open.