Probably because it's infested with mice and health inspectors haven t inspected the place in four years.
State law requires annual checks for health and sanitation. (it's been four years)
Auditor General Jack Wagner said Thursday he received assurances in 2005 that the state Agriculture Department would inspect it. (that's like being told, "the checks in the mail.")
He says his auditors later received false assurances (lies) that it was being inspected regularly.
When an inspection was finally done last week, authorities found "excessive" mice droppings on food preparation equipment and in cabinets and utensil areas.
This is what we call an imminent health risk.
"There were mouse droppings around the facility too numerous to mention," said Justin Fleming, a spokesman for the state Agriculture Department.
Did we mention the leak that prevented the water in dishwashers from becoming hot enough to sterilize plates and utensils?
This is also was an imminent health threat.
Aramark Corp., the Philadelphia-based food service company that runs the cafeteria, voluntarily closed it at the request of state inspectors.
An Aramark spokeswoman, Sarah Jarvis, had absolutely nothing of value to say, so instead she said the problems were being corrected.
"Our priority is to ensure that the food served at the Capitol building is of the highest quality and prepared (in) the safest environment possible," she said. "We take all violations and suggestions very seriously" and promptly correct any problems. (promptly?)
The ground-floor cafeteria is now closed and is not expected to reopen until January.
It is a popular coffee and lunch spot for statehouse visitors and employees and may they rest in peace.
