DENISON, Texas (KTEN) — Brian Hander and Robert Crawley know what it takes to serve the city; both have spent time on the Denison City Council the past five years. 

Both men are vying to be the next mayor of Denison.

The candidates have had a front row seat on the growth coming to the community.

"We have to be ready for that," Hander said. "We're already updating our water system. We're going to have to build new fire stations; we're going to need new police stations. So the importance is to focus on all areas of the city as we continue to grow." 

Crawley noted that Denison's growing population means a larger tax base. 

"The main thing that we're going to continue to focus on is streets and water and sewer improvements," he said. "We're a very old community, but we know we have a long way to go."

Since graduating from Denison High School, Hander knew he was ready to serve in this capacity. 

"I'm willing to listen, I'm transparent and I just have a servant's heart; I want to help," he said. 

Crawley's dedication on the city council motivated him to continue to a higher position. 

"We have to take care of all of our citizens and do the very best we can for everyone, and that's what I think I am — I'm a candidate for all of Denison," Crawley said. 

The first day of early voting is April 22 and runs through April 30. Election Day is May 4.

The winner will take over from Janet Gott, Denison's first female mayor.