Former Colton City Manager Stephen Compton has filed a lawsuit against the city, claiming his August termination was a retaliatory action that violated the state’s open meetings laws.
In the lawsuit, filed Thursday, Compton alleges he was fired while investigating possible misconduct and misappropriation of public funds by city officials. To add insult to injury, Compton claims officials did not properly notify him of any charges against him and failed to notify the public about their decision to discipline him. That failure, Compton contends, constitutes a violation of the Brown Act.
“I want to see a change in the city government,” Compton said Friday. “I saw some things that were pretty atrocious. I think they need to change how they’re treating their city managers.”
Compton wants the city to hold off on hiring a new city manager until the issue is resolved. But that seems unlikely, as city officials have vehemently denied Compton’s allegations.
“As most people who have followed this issue know, Mr. Compton was released from his position as city manager at a lawfully conducted meeting, pursuant to the terms of his employment contract as well as the city’s Municipal Code,” said attorney Carlos Campos, whose firm represents the city. “As a result, we expect the city will vigorously defend the case and continue its search for a permanent city manager.”
Colton officials maintain that charges against Compton were unnecessary because he was fired without cause—a claim Compton disputes.
If successful, Compton’s suit would force the city to formally terminate him again and allow him to respond to charges. The city would also be required to compensate for lost time and could be delayed in hiring a new city manager.
Read more about the lawsuit here.