Jim Flory, a former county and federal prosecutor, filed as a Republican Tuesday for Douglas County’s Third District County Commission seat.

Flory, 59, a southwestern Douglas County resident, said it is important to have a rural voice on the commission.

“My family lived and farmed in rural Douglas County for six generations, and I think that is important,” he said.

Flory also said his early experience as a sheriff’s deputy and Douglas County District Attorney gives him an insight into county government.

“We have challenging times ahead, I think, with property valuations being flat, maybe even decreasing, and the ever-increasing need for government services,” he said. “I think there are a lot of challenges, and I want to tackle those challenges.”

Flory said he intends to meet as many Third District voters as possible to discuss issues and concerns.

Flory had been out of public service since he retired in 2006 as first assistant U.S. Attorney General. He served as interim U.S. Attorney for Kansas in 2001 and 2002. He moved to the U.S. Attorney’s Office after six years as Douglas County District Attorney (1985 to 1991). He was a sheriff’s officer in the 1970s and then worked several years in the Kansas Attorney General’s office.

Flory is the second Republican candidate for the position currently held by Jere McElhaney, who is not seeking re-election. Former Lawrence school board member John Tacha, also a Republican, and Clenece Hills, a Democrat, have filed.

The filing deadline is noon June 10.