MAYOR SHAWN TEAMANN, SHERMAN
What inspired you to run for Mayor?
When I first ran for City Council in 2016, my wife and I had just learned we were expecting our first child. I had owned a local business for more than a decade and wanted to bring that experience to public service to help make thoughtful, efficient decisions for our community.
As my family grew, so did my desire to help shape a city my kids and future generations could enjoy and be proud of. After eight years on City Council, I ran for Mayor because Sherman was at a critical crossroads. I knew the challenges and opportunities ahead and wanted to ensure that as we grow, we stay focused on the issues that matter most to families here.
As we celebrate Love Local this month, what do you love most about serving this community?
What I love most is the people and their pride in Sherman. This is a community that supports local businesses, shows up for events, and looks out for neighbors. There’s a strong sense of ownership, and people genuinely care about where they live. Being able to serve a community invested in itself is something I truly appreciate.
What is one surprising fact about yourself that people may not know?
I genuinely enjoy working with numbers. Math feels like a puzzle to me, and I love when numbers are part of the conversation. I enjoy building large Excel spreadsheets, digging into budgets, and reconciling bank statements—sometimes spending hours tracking down a single cent. And I never pass up a good Sudoku puzzle.
What are your top priorities for the city over the next few years?
My priority is focusing on the community’s basic needs and taking care of what we already have before moving on to new projects. That includes investing in infrastructure, running an efficient government, and continuing quality-of-life initiatives.
I want downtown to flourish as a gathering place for residents and visitors. I’ll continue to advocate for the community and believe maintaining Sherman’s identity is critical. We’re growing faster than in decades, and now more than ever, it’s important to keep Sherman, Sherman.
In your opinion, what is the heart of this community?
The heart of Sherman is its people. Once you’ve lived here, it’s hard to be happy anywhere else. Connections are never far away - if you don’t know someone, one call usually gets you there.
We value relationships. You can go out to dinner and run into a room full of familiar faces. Sherman is a big town that truly feels like a small city, and that sense of connection is what makes it special.
MAYOR ROBERT CRAWLEY, DENISON
What inspired you to run for mayor?
A deep love for the City of Denison and a strong belief that local leadership can improve everyday quality of life by strengthening neighborhoods, supporting families and businesses, and planning responsibly for the future. Being mayor is about listening, leading, and helping shape a community people are proud to call home.
As we celebrate Love Local this month, what do you love most about serving this community?
Denison has a strong sense of community, connection, and pride. Its rich and impactful history is paired with a bright future. This is a city where residents genuinely care about one another and about the future of their hometown. Serving Denison as mayor means being part of a close-knit community that values hard work, integrity, and teamwork, while preserving its character and supporting thoughtful, meaningful growth.
What is one surprising fact about yourself that people may not know?
I play the drums in a rock and roll band, and I love all music genres.
What are your top priorities for the city over the next few years?
Responsibly managing growth while preserving Denison’s historic charm will remain a top priority. The city will continue investing in critical infrastructure, public safety, and quality-of-life amenities that support families, businesses, and visitors. Strengthening economic development, supporting local businesses, expanding recreational opportunities, and maintaining transparent, responsive city services will help keep residents engaged and proud of the City of Denison.
In your opinion, what is the heart of this community?
The heart of Denison is its people and their strong sense of community. Residents work together to make the city great, taking pride in their neighborhoods, schools, and local businesses. That heart also lives in Denison’s rich history and hometown spirit, where community connections truly matter.
MAYOR TOM CECI, POTTSBORO
What inspired you to run for mayor?
After our late Mayor Frank Budra passed away, the council was looking to appoint a temporary mayor. Several citizens asked me to consider the role. There were 10 candidates, and each of us made a brief presentation to the council. I was selected and served as temporary mayor until the May elections, where I ran unopposed and became Pottsboro’s mayor.
As we celebrate Love Local this month, what do you love most about serving this community?
Pottsboro is a beautiful place to call home, filled with great citizens who make it special. Pride in our town runs deep, and our dedicated city employees work every day to keep Pottsboro thriving. Our library is recognized as one of the best in the nation, and programs supporting youth and seniors reflect the community’s commitment to service. Events like the Boot Scootin’ Ball showcase the camaraderie surrounding our Fire and EMS teams, while the Chamber of Commerce supports local businesses and guides responsible growth. Serving as mayor allows me to listen, advocate, and help turn community ideas into real progress.
What is one surprising fact about yourself that people may not know?
Being mayor isn’t about having all the answers, it’s about listening. I prioritize hearing concerns, ideas, and perspectives from residents, business owners, and staff. These conversations shape the best decisions and remind me that leadership in a small town like Pottsboro is about being accessible and learning from the community.
What are your top priorities for the city over the next few years?
My focus is on thoughtful growth, strong infrastructure, and preserving the character that makes our town special. Maintaining and improving roads, water, and sewer systems ensures we meet current needs while preparing for growth. I am also focused on smart, well-planned development that brings quality housing and business opportunities without losing our small-town feel. Supporting local businesses and attracting new ones that align with our community values is key to a strong local economy.
In your opinion, what is the heart of this community?
The heart of Pottsboro is its people. Neighbors look out for one another, volunteers give their time, small businesses invest locally, and families take pride in calling Pottsboro home. It’s found in our schools, churches, civic groups, and everyday moments where people come together. Residents’ love for this community, rooted in tradition and involvement, keeps Pottsboro welcoming and connected for generations.