KANSAS CITY, Mo. — A Jackson County Circuit Court judge ruled Thursday that a temporary restraining order should remain in effect for Rae’s Cafe in Blue Springs.
In the ruling, Judge Jennifer Phillips wrote the order remains in effect unless the restaurant complies the county’s public health order requiring the wearing of masks in most indoor settings.
The judge’s order prohibits Rae's Cafe and its owner, Amanda Wohletz, from directly or indirectly operating the cafe in violation of the health order.
Additionally, the judge ordered the cafe to cease operation as a restaurant and food service provider until a valid food permit is obtained. Jackson County revoked its Food Service permit on Sept. 3, 2021, after repeated violations of the public health order.
The judge also ruled against a counter claim filed by the cafe’s attorneys earlier this week.
The parties will meet for a case management hearing on Sept. 24.
In a statement, Jackson County Executive Frank White said he appreciated the judge's ruling.
“We respect and appreciate the Court’s ruling as well as their time and attention to this matter. While we are pleased with the outcome, it is unfortunate that we had to pursue legal action, but today, the Court affirmed that doing so was our only option to ensure our public health order is followed. We remain committed to taking the actions needed to protect the health and safety of our community during this difficult and challenging time. Together we will get through this pandemic and in the end, we will have a stronger, more compassionate and caring community.”
