While the battle for presidential party nominations has captured the campaign spotlight, political contests on the local level are starting to shape up.

In today’s Beacon, we look at the City Council, where at least one incumbent, Camille Vella-Wilkinson from Ward 3, has declared she won’t run for re-election, saying she plans to formally announce her candidacy for the 21 District House seat in the near future. Ward 8 incumbent Joseph Gallucci said he expects to decide soon on whether to seek re-election; Ward 1 Councilman Steve Colantuono may not run if named the Rhode Island Child Advocate; and Thomas Chadronet, Ward 2, and Kathleen Usler, Ward 7, who couldn’t be reached, have not indicated whether they will seek re-election.

Joseph Solomon, Ward 4, Ed Ladouceur, Ward 5, Donna Travis, Ward 6, and Steve Merolla, Ward 9, have all said they plan to be on the ballot this November.

Conceivably, depending on what the incumbents decide, a whole lot of new faces could be running for City Council this year. Some names have been mentioned, and as is often the case in these situations, potential candidates are waiting to see what incumbents will do before stepping on any toes. Conceivably, former council members could be looking at this year as an opportunity for voters to return them to office. Wards 3 and 7 come to mind. We’ll be interested to see.

March and April are frequently months where those interested in running for elective office test the waters, feeling out what support they might receive from political parties, incumbents and their own networks of friends and organizations. Word gets out, whether it’s the political chatter at the local breakfast and coffee nook or on social media. A serious bid for office can be an expensive proposition, so this period is also a time to evaluate whether supporters will give more than lip service to the campaign.

We were impressed by the response Joseph Gallucci gave when asked if he has decided what to do. A political veteran, Gallucci understands the significance of his response. He answered that he hasn’t decided, but made it clear he will make his intentions made known soon. In making that statement, it is apparent that he plans to give candidates thinking of running the time to decide what they want to do.

That has not always been the case.

In past years, incumbents have kept their intentions secret until the eve of the June declaration deadline, when they “surprisingly” step aside and their “hand-picked” successor jumps in.

Naturally, the council is not the only local contest this election year. There are also races for mayor, state representatives and senators, and for School Committee.

We look forward to the fresh ideas, debate and examination of where Warwick is today these campaigns will generate. Like the spring that lies before us, we can anticipate certain trees and flowers to bloom – you can count on it, there will be lawn signs everywhere by September. But then, too, we are hopeful of renewed as well as new energy for this good city.