FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WOWO): Local musician and businessman Mike Conley is running for City Council.

Speaking to friends, family and supporters Thursday, the democrat made it official. He says he's running because he's passionate about Fort Wayne and the political system needs good people involved in it.

He'll square off against Paul Ensley for Council District 1. Conley says winning in the heavily Republican district, will be a serious challenge.

Ensley upset incumbent Tom Smith in the May primary. Conley ran for county council 2010.