WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) — Only a few mayoral races are being contested in our viewing area and one of them is in West Lafayette.

Current Republican Mayor John Dennis is pitted against Independent candidate Zachary Baiel.

Both men laid out their political philosophies.

"My name is Zachary Baiel from West Lafayette," said Baiel. "I love this great city because of the vibrant energy"

"My name is John Dennis from West Lafayette," said Dennis. "I love West Lafayette because this is the only home I know."

Both West Lafayette mayoral candidates know there is major growth happening within the city.

Dennis is in his third term and has been a part of those decisions.

Baiel on the other hand is a new candidate who wants to make his mark.

He has goals set if he wins.

"Let's rekindle that connection with the community at large, bring genuine engagement, pursue sustainable development and be very proactive in transparency when it comes to people's data," said Baiel.

Even though Dennis has been mayor for 12 years he still said there is plenty of work to be done.

"We want to make sure people feel very comfortable here being who they are," said Dennis. "The second thing is our business community."

Dennis said community partnerships are important like the one with Purdue and automobile manufacturer Saab.

Baiel said he knows he has a tough contest, but he can handle it.

"Oh definitely I have a chance," said Baiel. "I have been doing a lot of public events door to door canvassing and no stranger in the community."

Baiel runs his own business, mostly IT work, but focuses on community relationships

"I'm really at that intersection of humans and technology," said Baiel. "I really thrive."

Dennis is ready for another term and he said he yearns for the opportunity to make West Lafayette better and better.

"Taking West Lafayette to from what it was to what it is to now we need to take it to what it will be," said Dennis.

If Dennis wins re-election he would become the second longest serving mayor in West Lafayette history.