The City of Odessa (Tex.) has fired its fleet manager after shop technicians claimed he was abusive to seasoned employees, reports the Odessa American.

Doug Hildebrand, equipment services director, is considering challenging the firing, claiming he is being forced out because the city wants to outsource his department.

Hildebrand was fired following a grievance by shop employees accusing him of age discrimination, threats against their jobs, and comments about employees' medical problems.

City officials have declined to comment on the reason for the firing, and acknowledged that they are considering outsourcing the City of Odessa's vehicle maintenance to private companies.

Prior to Hildebrand leaving the city, Odessa's city manager ordered an audit of the fleet management unit. Employees complained that Hildebrand "buys new equipment that is never used" among other claims of mismanagement of the department.