Do you have a neighborhood association? (Not an HOA)

That can be a starting point. Does your city need traingang/bikegang energy? A lot of city councilors (zoning commission etc...) are less qualified for the job than anyone who browser this site.

Getting involved with lib/electoral stuff can make you immediately useful to your community, and give you the opportunity to meet people like you who are or want to be doing the "cool stuff".