> SOUTHERN INDIANA — We had many discussions at the News and Tribune about the political races leading up to Tuesday — what candidates we thought would win and who we thought was running a good campaign. We even have a nice collection of mailers hanging on the newsroom wall in Jeffersonville. They are sort of like a more crabby form of Christmas decorations.

The subject of the significant number of young candidates delving into the often ugly world of politics came up a few times. Inevitably, when a 20-something man or woman declares for office, one of the next things said is, “What could they possibly know about running a city or serving on a council?”

I tend to counter that by saying, “They probably know as much or more than people who have served before them. If not, they’re ready and willing to learn.”

I’m betting that come Jan. 1., Jeffersonville will be a rarity — a second-class city in Indiana with two city council members 22 years old or younger.

Wait, I’m betting it’s the only such city. I’d have done some research on that by now, but election week leaves little time for that sort of endeavor.

Regardless, the wins by Zach Payne, 22, in District 3, and Matt Owen, 21, for an At-large seat are impressive. Both handle questions about issues facing the city well, seem thoughtful and touted their hard work in face-to-face campaigning in helping in their victories.

And don’t say they have no political experience.

Both have a good amount of experience in college or other local political groups.

That might not be the same as a five-term councilperson, but it’s more than someone who comes straight from the private sector likely has.

Also, lack of experience isn’t always a bad quality. It can also mean the lack of a predetermined agenda; lack of favors owed; lack of an elitist attitude; and lack of desire to say, “that’s how things have always been done.”

I think the election of Owen and Payne — and good showings by younger candidates in other cities and towns — is a positive for Jeffersonville and Southern Indiana. It shows an open mind by many voters, something that should be reciprocated by the young candidates they elected.

I hope the older members of the city council welcome their two new junior members when they take office. They should look to teach them about procedure and policy, but also listen as much as they talk.

Payne and Owen were creative and fresh in campaigning and winning seats on the council at a young age. They have an opportunity to operate in the same manner in bringing new ideas and passion to the Jeffersonville City Council.

I wish them the best and salute the voters who either looked past the age of these candidates or realized it was an advantage rather than a hindrance.

— Editor Shea Van Hoy may be reached at shea.vanhoy@newsandtribune.com.