Another California Fire Chief Sues Employer

Another California fire chief has filed an employment related suit against a city, the second such filing in a week. Chief Dave Kapler filed suit against the city of Alameda, claiming he was wrongfully forced out of his job last fall.

Chief Kapler claims that a councilwoman conspired with the firefighters’ union force him out, and that the Interim City Manager acceded to their wishes without justification.

However, last August the chief was photographed fueling his personal vehicle, a BMW Z4, at the city pumps. When the matter became publicized, Chief Kapler responded that he had permission from City Manager Debra Kurita to refill his personal car using city fuel. The situation created a bit of a public furor, and when asked about granting Chief Kapler permission, Kurita cited a “miscommunication”.

The Chief was placed on administrative leave in September, 2010 and threatened repeatedly with termination. He submitted a letter of resignation of November 5, 2010.

The suit asks for $2 million in damages, and names the City of Alameda, Councilwoman Lena Tam, Kurita and the former Interim City Manager Ann Marie Gallant (who issued Chief Kapler a termination letter), as defendants.

More on the story.

The other recent suit was filed by Fire Chief Cathleen Orchard against the City of Monterey Park for gender and sexual orientation discrimination.