The Oakley Chamber of Commerce is looking for a few dedicated candidates to fill four directors seats in the upcoming election, but more are certainly welcome.

“Chamber bylaws state that there can be no less than three directors on a chamber board and no more than 21,” said Chamber President Steve Nosanchuk. “I don’t think we’ll have that many, but we are hoping to add some more people; the board could certainly use the help.”

And one of the ways the board will get help will be with the election of a new chamber president. After three years at the helm and four as vice president, Nosanchuk will be stepping down to devote more time to his business and family.

But he won’t be far away.

“I need to concentrate more energy on my business,” said Nosanchuk, who is hoping to stay on as the chamber’s past president. “But I’m not going anywhere. I’m going to do the Almond Festival again next year and work on building and maintaining that event – and that’s a big job.”

Candidates interested in a position must be two-year chamber members in good standing, be willing to commit to bi-monthly board meetings, chamber mixers, and sit on at least one chamber committee.

“People need to understand the commitment in time and effort it takes to be a chamber director,” he said. “I think that anyone with an enthusiasm and willingness to commit to the chamber would make a great nominee. What we don’t want is someone who is just interested in a title or isn’t willing to work hard. But if they meet the eligibility requirements and want to serve, we would love to have them.”

Chamber nominations are being accepted now through Oct. 30. In November, after candidates have gone through the vetting process, ballots will be mailed to all 170 chamber members for a vote, and the results will be announced at the chamber’s regular board meeting on Dec. 10.

Nosanchuk said that while he’ll miss leading the chamber, he believes the time is ripe for a change: “My attitude has always been to leave the chamber in better shape than when I took over, and I’m sure that’s true for every president. I’ve been very lucky to have the boards that I have; they all work very hard. We’re a strong chamber and I believe a strong chamber is good for business. Now it’s time for someone else to take over.”

To obtain a ballot or for more information on the chamber or becoming a member, call 925-625-1035 or visit www.oakleychamber.com. The Oakley Chamber offices are located at 3510 Main St.