The California Coastal Commission voted 7-5 on Feb. 10 to fire Executive Director Charles Lester.
Hundreds of people filled the Morro Bay Community Center and gave several hours of public comment in support of Lester before commissioners deliberated in a closed session and then announced their decision.
Lester, who defended his leadership, said he was disappointed by the vote. Some commission members blasted Lester for what they said was poor leadership, saying they were not sufficiently informed about Coastal Commission matters.
• Contact Glenn Rabinowitz at grabinowitz@pacbiztimes.com.