Committee members say they made their decision after they received several complaints from spectators and parade participants about the behavior.
Parade co-chair Bridget Weitzel said, "They're breaking the law. This is a family event; we're trying to protect our children. We're bringing a lot of people to downtown Rochester; we want to be respectable. We want to be known as a family event, not necessarily a drinking event."
Both departments say they're disappointed about the news and are upset they weren't given a chance to discuss the allegations with the committee.
Brighton Fire Chief Ted Aroesty said, "I would have liked if there was some kind of process that we were involved in to get some dialog and take a look at the situation. I hope that after the parade goes by this year, there will be some opportunity to sit down with the parade committee and address some opportunities for the future."
The parade committee says the departments may be allowed back for next year's parade. Chili's fire chief said that his department may still not participate, even if it is allowed back.
Several other volunteer fire companies in Monroe County are boycotting the parade in response to the parade committee's decision.
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