Voters have chosen a new member of the city council in Independence.

Community volunteer Deb Hanna defeated local business owner Todd Kuhse by an unofficial vote of 71-44 during a special election in the city's fourth ward on Tuesday (Aug. 30, 2016).

Hanna is replacing Kuhse, who was picked to fill the open seat last month. The vacancy was created in April, when councilman Dustin Dallenbach resigned to become the new police chief in Independence.

Kuhse was appointed by the city council on July 11 to replace Dallenbach. Hanna then petitioned the community and gained enough support in the fourth ward to force a special election.

Hanna's victory over Kuhse won't be official until the votes are canvassed by the Buchanan County Board of Supervisors.

More From 97.7 KCRR