SIDNEY, Neb. (AP) — The council has accepted the resignation of the longtime Sidney city manager.

Gary Person spoke about the city’s successes and growth over the past decades and during his 16 years in the post.

He announced his intentions last week and said he wasn’t being pushed out. At Tuesday’s council meeting Person acknowledged the events involving Sidney Police Chief B.J. Wilkinson, who remains on paid administrative leave, stemming from an incident involving former city public works director John Hehnke, whom Person fired last week.

Person told the council that if his resignation “will help the community heal, move forward and place its energy and focus into its very bright future, then please accept it.”

The council appointed City Clerk Geri Anthony as interim city manager.