The City of Anna is entering a period of transition following the resignation of City Manager Ryan Henderson. His departure was set in motion after the City Council voted 5-2 to amend Henderson’s contract — a move not listed on the meeting agenda and approved after all attendees had left for the evening. The decision came following a closed session, where council members emerged to take the unexpected vote. Mayor Pete Cain and Mayor Pro-Tem Kevin Toten opposed this, but the majority of the council supported it, sealing Henderson’s exit.

The surprise action fueled widespread speculation online, with many residents questioning whether the city manager had been pressured to leave by newer members of the council. Social media posts and community chatter pointed to a perceived lack of transparency, with some expressing frustration at the absence of public discussion before such a significant decision. The suddenness of the vote and the circumstances surrounding it have only deepened the community’s curiosity about what prompted the council’s action and what it means for Anna’s leadership moving forward.

Six days later, the council voted to appoint Marc Marchand as acting city manager. Marchand will oversee city operations while the council begins the process of searching for a permanent replacement, following a national search — a process for which no timeline has yet been announced.

Amid the uncertainty, Councilman Stan Carver urged residents to avoid jumping to conclusions.

“There’s a lot of rumor and conjecture — it’s pretty dangerous. We have a lot of quality people that work for us… It’s a lot for this whole council to handle, it’s a lot for our staff to handle. Please limit your hearsay. It makes things much more difficult… These are all people that this whole community has cared about. We’re in a position where we have to figure this out. Hang in there.”

Councilman Manny Singh struck an optimistic tone, emphasizing that the city’s long-term vision remains on track despite the leadership change.

“The future of Anna is bright and we’re just getting started. Our doors are open, the vision is clear, and our commitment to responsible, quality growth has never been stronger. Tonight I ask that we continue to build a future that works for all of Anna together.”

Not everyone was satisfied with how the situation unfolded. Former Councilman Randy Atchley, who lost races for mayor in 2024 and city council in 2025, criticized the handling of Henderson’s departure and took a swipe at Singh’s remarks in a Facebook post.

“Sad night for Anna… If you were hoping for answers to why a certain few wanted CM gone you’ll be disappointed. If you were longing for a campaign speech from a 1-month Councilman about his hopes and dreams you’re in for a treat.”

For now, the city will rely on Marchand’s leadership while the council will proceed with a national search to fill the city manager position permanently. More information about the search process is expected at future council meetings.