- Elizabeth Larson
- Posted On
McDonald’s restaurant reopens after issues with sewer system backup, water leak
James Scott of Lake County Environmental Health told Lake County News that county staff responded to the restaurant on Monday in response to a significant backup in the restaurant’s sewer lines.
When county staff arrived, the restaurant was still in operation, and there was standing water – specifically sewage – and debris on the floors, with every drain backed up, he said.
The restaurant staff thought it was compliant but Environmental Health informed them that they were required to close due to the circumstances.
“Our goal is to protect the public,” Scott said.
He said at that time there were objects found in the sewer laterals, which were cleaned out. That pipe, he said, appeared to have had a liner put in it and also has a low spot which may have contributed to the problem.
Restaurant staff had to do extensive cleanup inside the restaurant, including washing, rinsing and sanitizing floors and all equipment, Scott said.
During the middle of the week Lake County News heard from community members who said they found the restaurant’s driveway was blocked off and diners weren’t allowed inside.
On the followup inspection, Environmental Health staff found a soggy area in the floor in and around the women’s bathroom. Scott said water would come up out of the flooring when they walked on it.
The restaurant called out Roto-Rooter, which helped find a water leak that had been going for some time, he said.
Repairs of the area where the water leak was discovered are continuing. Scott said the restaurant is keeping that area isolated and sealed off with a tent-like area with plastic sheeting around the women’s restroom and the hallway in front of it.
By Friday the restaurant had reopened, despite repairs continuing. “They’re permitted to operate,” he said.
Scott said the city of Lakeport Building Official Tom Carlton is working with the restaurant, which may need a new sewer lateral.
Environmental Health also remains involved. “We’re working very closely with the management there,” Scott said.
The closure gave rise to conjecture and a number of theories circulating on social media about the possible reasons, including feces in kitchen equipment.
“That’s all fantasy,” said Scott.
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