With two fresh faces, the Federal Way School Board enters a new chapter.

The dynamic will be different as two vocal personalities step down. Charlie Hoff decided not to run again, and fellow board member/sparring partner Evelyn Castellar lost re-election.

We know their replacements, Suzanne Smith and Amye Bronson-Doherty, will increase civil communication among the five members of the board.

Following his election victory, board member Dave Larson will stay in the driver’s seat as one of the school district’s main links to Olympia. This is Larson’s time to step up and lead the board in its quest to improve education for Federal Way students.

On the Federal Way City Council, Jack Dovey will continue to provide a vital voice of reason to city affairs following his comfortable re-election.

But the race between Hope Elder and Dini Duclos for the open council seat will likely come down to a photo finish. Separated by just a handful of votes, both candidates vowed to continue serving on the city’s Planning Commission if they lose the election.

These two candidates presented a tough choice for voters. Both are steeped in community involvement, albeit with slightly different approaches and views.

Regardless of the outcome, we are confident that either Elder or Duclos will do the job well.

The Mirror wishes the new school board and city council members the best of luck in their endeavors.