BRIGHTON ? Following lengthy public comment at Tuesday night’s meeting, Brighton’s City Council voted to fire the city manager on a 5-4 vote.

Supporters of now-former City Manager Philip Rodriguez said he was fired to cover up $70 million in excess water bills. Mayor Ken Kreutzer, meanwhile, insists it has nothing to do with that.

“I’ve worked with this gentleman for the last two years and I’ve come to the conclusion that I don’t have faith or confidence in him leading our city,” Kreutzer said.

The allegations over water rates have led some Brighton citizens to begin an effort to recall Kreutzer, arguing that he knew about the overcharging and that he suspended Rodriguez without “any reason or action.”

The recall petition needs 1,150 signatures. City Councilman Matt Johnston, who supports Rodriguez, said earlier this week the group could go after other City Council members should they vote to fire him.

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