Gainesville Commissioner Bryan Eastman will return to the dais for a second term after no one filed to run against him.  

Eastman represents District 4, which consists of much of central Gainesville, including the University Park, Duckpond and Forest Ridge neighborhoods. His first term started in 2023. 

In a press release, Eastman said he was deeply grateful for the opportunity. 

“When I first ran for this seat, I knocked on thousands of doors and made a promise to my neighbors to fight for a Gainesville that is affordable, livable, and true to the independent spirit that makes our community special,” Eastman said in the release. “Those are promises I’ve kept in my first term, and I will continue doing that work as we face whatever comes next for our amazing city.” 

Eastman said he would continue to focus on housing affordability, safer streets, environmental protection, downtown investments and supporting local small businesses. 

He also said a priority would be holding Gainesville Regional Utilities accountable as the Florida Legislature and City Commission continue to collide over management of the utility—an issue that broke shortly after Eastman took office and that he has spoken out on. 

Mayor Harvey Ward and Commissioner Casey Willits will face challengers in August, and Commissioner Ed Book will step down after his first term, with three candidates lined up to earn voter approval.