Worker says he was fired for e-mail questioning ex-CEO

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- The e-mail from Aquila Inc. chief Richard Green encouraged employees to share their "thoughts and concerns" about the company. Employee Stephen Millan shared a concern -- and lost his job.

Millan sent a note critical of the $7.6 million severance package given to former chief executive officer Robert Green, who last week turned the CEO post over to his brother, Richard.

Millan had planned to leave Aquila for another job on Oct. 18.

His e-mail noted that Green's severance payment comes at a time when the company is making cuts, including removing free hot cocoa from break rooms.

The $7.6 million could pay the salaries of 152 persons for one year if they made $50,000 each, Millan's e-mail said.

"I bring these items not to belittle or accuse you," Millan wrote. "I simply would like to know if you feel these decisions were ethical."

A half-hour after sending the e-mail, Millan said he was told that sending it to other employees violated the company's e-mail policy, which says e-mail is to be used for business only. Later on Friday, Millan said, he was told that he could no longer work at the company.

Aquila declined to comment about Millan's dismissal.