The Kern County Water Agency fired its General Manager after only five years in the top spot at one of the most powerful water entities in the county and the state. The agency board announced Thursday it would not renew Tom McCarthy’s contract when it expires on June 30. The board will appoint an interim manager and has formed a committee of board members to provide continuity and “stability,” according to an agency press release. The vote, held in closed session, was unanimous, according to an agency spokesperson. No reason was given for McCarthy’s dismissal other than, “…the Board believes this is the right time to take a new direction in leadership to meet the evolving needs of our organization and address future challenges,” according to a quote by board president Eric Averett in the release.