John Anker lost his bid to retain the District 9 at large city council seat in a primary runoff against local dentist Dr. Cathy Cook. Anker took 40% of the vote with 12,506 ballots cast in his favor. Cook won with 60% and 18,780 votes ending the controversial tenure of the local businessman.
Anker was appointed to the at large seat left vacant by Judy Thomas in March of 2025. City council voted to immediately appoint Anker to the at large seat after her retirement announcement with no discussion prompting outrage from citizens suggesting councilors had privately discussed the appointment leaving citizens with no say in the process.
Anker angered some voters when he announced his candidacy to keep the seat on council breaking a “gentleman’s agreement” that he previously made not to seek election after being appointed. The runoff loss marks the third time Anker has failed in his bid for an elected office.
There will be another new face representing District 7 on city council and the seat being vacated by Joanne Cogle who lost the race for mayor. Becca Zajac won her seat with 1,217 votes in the runoff against Laketha Ashe. Ashe had 889 votes.
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