Firing city managers has become somewhat of a biannual tradition in Milpitas. The city has now let go of its third administrator in six years – Steve McHarris. But it wasn’t a firing, insists Mayor Carmen Montano. Instead, a majority of the City Council voted during a special meeting earlier this month not to renew his contract.
The vote was 3-2, with Montano, Vice Mayor Evelyn Chua and Councilmember Garry Barbadillo in the majority. Councilmembers Anthony Phan and Hon Lien voted no.
Some residents expressed anger over the decision and demanded greater transparency.
McHarris is frustrated as well.
“They provided no communication and no plan,” before voting to oust him, McHarris told San José Spotlight.
McHarris’ contract prohibits the City Council from terminating him without cause within six months after a City Council election. The last election, which put Montano in office, was just four months ago. The city does not believe the city violated the terms by declining to renew his contract.
Image Credit: City of Milpitas