Early voting is underway as Peekskill residents are experiencing the first true Democratic primary in recent years in the current mayoral election.

Two candidates are running: Vivian McKenzie, who currently serves as the city’s deputy mayor, and Conor Greene, a grassroot organizer who is affiliated with Progress for Peekskill.

McKenzie has served on the city’s council since 2013 and hopes to replace Mayor Andre Rainy, who is not seeking reelection.

The local business owner has also received endorsements from County Executive George Latimer and the Peekskill Democratic City Committee.

McKenzie tells News 12 her slate is the experienced slate, saying in part, “It’s the slate that has been here and doing the things that other people are advocating for."

Opponent Conor Greene is the co-founder of Peekskill Walks. He’s advocated for safer, pedestrian-friendly streets and led the way to convert Esther Street into a public space.

"We need to look at our planning, our zoning, our codes,” says Greene. “Our city's master plan goes back to 1968.”

Both candidates want to see more affordable housing--but have different ideas on how to get there.

"I don't believe we need to build luxury apartments to have a successful, prosperous city,” says Greene.

McKenzie says, "We need luxury housing, we need market-rate housing, we need affordable housing…all so we can balance. So we can provide services for our city.”

Early voting is underway now until June 20, with primary Election Day set for June 22.