Laura Helle has filed to run for Austin City Council because she wants to help improve the community.

Helle, 40, filed to challenge incumbent Michael Jordal for his 1st Ward council seat .

“I love Austin,” Helle said. “I’d like to work toward making it a better community.”

She said she is most concerned about is the business and economic development environment in Austin and downtown.

“[We need to] make sure we are providing a good environment for business in Austin,” Helle said.

Helle added when she looks around Austin, she sees a lot of growth, construction and community development happening.

“I think all of that activity will account in different ways,” she said. “Housing is a big need in the community.”

Helle currently works as director of grants and alumni affairs at Riverland Community College. She also serves on the City Planning and Zoning Commission and the Board of Austin Area Commission for the Arts.

She has previously served as the Vision 2020 director for three years.

“I certainly got to see a lot of city government close up,” Helle said. “I was really impressed with the staff at the city of Austin.”

She lives in Austin with her husband, Matt, and her 7-year-old daughter, Danica.