The more the merrier, so they say. And when it comes to the latest political season that is currently coming into full bloom, we should all indeed be prepared for some merry times ahead of us.

Along with the regularly recurring contests for various seats on the City Council and School Committee, the current mayor’s recent announcement of his decision to not run again to retain his seat at City Hall has upped the ante in the upcoming power plays soon to unfold.

A number of newcomers have emerged to vie for positions on the City Council and School Committee, and a few well-known names have stepped up to announce their ambition to take the city’s top honor, Mayor of Somerville.

It’s a little difficult to imagine a new administration in charge of the city, since the present mayor has been in office for so long. His governing style has become an institution in itself, and he will leave an indelible impression on the character of the city for many years to come.

So, whoever takes up the mantle not only has big shoes to fill, the complexities of the present-day and future issues that confront our community not only persist but are compounded constantly, and call on the best and the brightest to step up and boldly embrace the challenge.

Some will come as serious and highly qualified candidates, and others as pretenders interested only in seeking attention and momentary fame. Ultimately, the process will separate the wheat from the chaff and the voters themselves will dub the successor to the seat of power. That’s our system, and that’s good.