Less than thirty days are left before Austin voters cast ballots in three city council races. Two of the contested races feature incumbent council members facing challenges from political newcomers.

"It seems awfully busy, there's forty or fifty forums to go to in the period of five to six weeks," said Councilman Lee Leffingwell, who's up for reelection.

In Place One, Leffingwell is facing off against challengers Jason Meeker, who was communications head for Responsible Growth for Northcross in their fight against a proposed Wal-Mart; and mechanical engineer Allen Demling, who is focusing on transportation and environmental issues.

"Personally my passion is cycling, so cycling, making Austin the most bike friendly city in the country is actually my top goal," Demling said.

Meeker said he learned from his role in the Wal-Mart battle that neighborhood voices should be better factored into Austin's growth.

"I'm running because I think the people need to have a seat at City Hall," Meeker said.

 In Place Three, businesswoman Randi Shade is the most well-financed of the three challengers going up against Councilmember Jennifer Kim.

"I think we need to open City Hall up, I think we need to tap the citizen activism that makes Austin, Austin, rather than squelch it," Shade said.

Kim is playing up her record in areas like affordable housing and the environment. 

"I think people want to hear a positive vision for this community, and that's what I've been working for many years," Kim said.

Place Four is an open race in which six candidates are vying for the seat of outgoing member Betty Dunkerly. Election Day is May 10th, but early voting starts April 28th.