Anna City Council approves agreements for downtown restaurants and entertainment project

In the heart of Anna, Texas, the city council convened on July 8, 2025, under the warm glow of city hall lights, to discuss pivotal developments that promise to reshape the community's landscape. The meeting was marked by a unanimous vote to approve a significant project that will bring five new restaurants and entertainment options to the downtown district, a move that city officials believe will invigorate local commerce and enhance the quality of life for residents.

Director of Economic Development, Bernie Parker, presented the details of a ground lease purchase agreement and performance agreement with GTP Food Group LLC. This initiative is part of a broader strategy initiated in early 2022, aimed at prioritizing downtown land acquisition to stimulate growth. Parker expressed enthusiasm about the project, highlighting that it aligns with the city’s vision for a vibrant downtown area. “This is going to absolutely completely change the downtown in this city,” he stated, emphasizing the collaborative effort between the city council, the Economic Development Corporation (EDC), and local landowners.

The council's decision to approve the project reflects a proactive approach to urban development, with Parker noting that the investment is expected to yield returns within five years. The agreement stipulates that while the property is currently tax-exempt, it will eventually contribute to the city’s ad valorem taxes once the conditions are met. Importantly, the city will retain 100% of the sales tax generated from the new establishments, further supporting local revenue.

In addition to the downtown development, the council also discussed the need for executive recruiting services to find a new city manager. Acting City Manager Mark Marchand highlighted the importance of this search, commending the HR director for her efforts in gathering proposals from various executive search firms. This step is crucial as the city prepares for future leadership transitions.

As the meeting concluded, the atmosphere was one of optimism and anticipation. The council's unanimous decisions signal a commitment to fostering growth and enhancing the community's appeal. With the announcement of the new restaurants set for July 17, residents are eager to see how these developments will unfold, marking a new chapter in Anna's ongoing evolution.