Democrat Gene Dorsey will fill the new County Commission seat representing Eudora and east Lawrence.

Dorsey received 5,849 votes, or about 58% as of 9:30 p.m. Tuesday with 100% of precincts reporting in unofficial results.

Dorsey, of Lawrence, was running against Eudora Republican Tim Bruce and Lawrence Libertarian Steve Jacob.

Dorsey said the election results show the trust he has built within the Eudora city and township through his outreach. He said it’s gratifying to see that his desire to represent everyone in the district has shown.

He plans to hold town halls or listening sessions to ensure Eudora voices are heard, he said.

“I just want to re-emphasize I’m here for everybody and, if anyone has an issue they want presented at the county, to reach out to me and I’ll be happy to take care of it,” Dorsey said.

At a recent town hall with all three candidates, Dorsey said he will focus on lowering residents’ property taxes and encourage more transparency within the commission. He also focused on conversations about mental health services within the county. 

This will be the first commission cycle where there are five commissioners rather than three. Dorsey will be the new District 4’s first commissioner.

As of 9:30 p.m., Jacob has 7% of the vote and Bruce has 35%, or 3,557 votes.

Bruce won all of the Eudora city and township precincts, ranging from 54% to 71% of the vote. His votes from Eudora residents totaled 2,218.

Bruce said he is disappointed about the results but not completely surprised. He said he knew it would be a hard fight but is thankful for the Eudora community showing up.

“I knew trying to win over Lawrence was going to be tough,” he said.

He said he thinks Dorsey will be a good representative for Eudora and is excited to see what he does.

Jacob said receiving 7% of the vote for a Libertarian is pretty solid. He said he has no complaints. He said Dorsey will make a fine county commissioner and thanked the community for the opportunity.

Results are not official until the canvass.