Austin City Council Member Ward 1 Choose 1
As local legislators who sometimes have executive power, council members can propose ordinances, set administrative policy, and authorize the budget proposed by the mayor. They oversee all city activities, including city services, programs, licensing, and public safety. Mayoral appointments to city government typically require council approval. Learn more here: https://www.lwv.org/blog/voting-local-matters-why-vote-city-councilUse the MN Secretary of State’s Candidate Filing page (https://candidates.sos.state.mn.us/) to find specific candidate contact information.
Biographical Information
Why are you the best candidate for this position? (750 characters)
Candidate has not yet responded.
If elected, what will your top three priorities be and why? (500 characters)
Candidate has not yet responded.
How do you plan to engage with and represent all members of our diverse community?(500 characters)
Candidate has not yet responded.
What steps will you take to ensure transparency and accountability in city government? (500 characters)
Candidate has not yet responded.
Biographical Information
Campaign Website
http://votelaurahelle.com
telephone
5074383988
Facebook (Full URL)
http://www.facebook.com/VoteLauraHelle
Campaign Email
laura@thehelles.com
Why are you the best candidate for this position? (750 characters)
With 8 years of experience on city council, I am the candidate best prepared to represent residents of Austin on the council.
Prior to being elected to council, I served on the Planning and Zoning Commission. During my elected terms, I served on the Port Authority (Economic Development) Board, Human Rights Commission, Culture and Arts Commission, Parks, Recreation and Forestry Board, Community Education Advisory Council, and Housing and Redevelopment Authority.
I am familiar with the size and scope of city operations and the unique challenges the city faces.
Currently, I work as the Housing and Homeownership Director at Three Rivers Community Action where I oversee development of new affordable housing across Greater Minnesota.
If elected, what will your top three priorities be and why? (500 characters)
My vision is a growing, sustainable and safe Austin for everyone. Austin needs to grow with by attracting residents, growing the economy, building more housing, and celebrating diversity. Austin needs to be sustainable by using resources efficiently, leveraging community assets and protecting the natural environment. I want to give Austin safer neighborhoods and streets, and make the community prepared for emergencies. All residents should feel welcome and safe. Austin is for everyone!
How do you plan to engage with and represent all members of our diverse community?(500 characters)
I am proud of my record of engaging with all the diverse communities within Austin. Formally, I have been a member of Austin's diversity council, Apex Austin, for many years. I have also been involved with the Austin Human Rights Commission. Informally, I have been a champion of the Honorary Council program that offers residents from underrepresented communities the chance to shadow the council for three months. Our diversity is our strength.
What steps will you take to ensure transparency and accountability in city government? (500 characters)
As I have for my elected terms, I will make myself available to Austin residents by telephone and email. I am ready to discuss what you love about Austin, your concerns and challenges, and ideas for making the city more efficient and sustainable. The City of Austin is currently upgrading their web site to be more accessible for everyone. When that is finished, the city needs to improve our data reporting and make data easier to search, view and understand. We can do better.
Biographical Information
Why are you the best candidate for this position? (750 characters)
Candidate has not yet responded.
If elected, what will your top three priorities be and why? (500 characters)
Candidate has not yet responded.
How do you plan to engage with and represent all members of our diverse community?(500 characters)
Candidate has not yet responded.
What steps will you take to ensure transparency and accountability in city government? (500 characters)
Candidate has not yet responded.