County considers eatery rankings

During an evening dining out at a favorite restaurant, have you ever wondered just what it looks like in the kitchen?  So have others.

It’s for that reason Lincoln County Environmental Health Department Director Kathi Hooper has devised a food-provider ranking system that replicates one used in Flathead County.

Hooper has been doing food-provider inspections for some time. The difference now, she explained Wednesday to commissioners, is the proposal will assign an A to F ranking that businesses — from restaurants to grocery stores to convenience stores — will be required to prominently display in their windows.

“Mostly, I think the public will be surprised to see the number of (grade) A food establishments we have in Lincoln County,” Hooper said.

Hooper said the intent is not to embarrass eateries but to better inform the public while helping businesses elevate their cleanliness.

“I think it’s a good idea,” Presiding Commissioner Tony Berget said. “I think we go with it if Bernie (County Attorney Cassidy) is OK with it.”

Contacted later Wednesday, Hooper said she had conferred with Cassidy who recommended the County Health Board give it a go-ahead.

Commissioner Mike Cole is in favor of the ranking system, stating it may be an incentive to food providers who do not fare so well.

“I like it. If having that rating out front drives compliance, I’m all for it,” Cole said.

Hooper’s plan involves a 60-point ranking system with 13 ranks from A-plus to F.

The food-ranking system would remove points for critical food safety issues (10 points), physical facility infractions, such as coolers not cold enough (five points), and retail practices, non-hand washing (one point).

Hooper also outlined criteria for the grading system, which includes:

• Grades will be reassessed annually after follow-up inspections.

• The most-current grade must be posted on a window, door or other location, which is clearly visible to customers upon entry.

• Grades must not be changed, removed, altered or defaced in any fashion.

• Grades are public information that may be published by local media.

“We really want to work with restaurants,” Hooper said. 

Hooper said she would attempt to meet with the Health Board next week to get approval.