Cheshire McDonalds Responds to Hiring Concerns

A new Facebook page created in support of a former Cheshire worker has grabbed the attention of Cheshire Patch readers. Residents have commented about their concern that long-time employee Sue Bell was not rehired when the restaurant reopened in June. It had been closed for three months while the building was rebuilt and modernized.

The Facebook page in support of Sue Bell has 409 members with Kevin Brosnahan as one of the driving forces behind the movement. He also posted Bell's information on Cheshire Patch. 

Cheshire Patch asked the management of the McDonalds to comment about the statements. Owner Rachel Deane responded by email:

"The McDonald’s of Cheshire is proud to serve the local community with a new and modern restaurant. We are also proud to employ 74 people. McDonald’s is deeply committed to both our customers and our employees.

"While we are not at liberty to discuss specific hiring decisions, our staffing is put in place with the intent of delivering the highest level of customer service."

During the reopening ceremony in June, Deane said the restaurant had hired 68 employees and had applications from about 150 job seekers. The company held , Deane said, and applicants were given immediate interviews.

Cheshire Patch reached out to Sue Bell to ask for her comments about the Facebook page. She has not responded.

However, Sue Bell's sister, , wrote on Cheshire Patch that Bell had worked at the restaurant for over 30 years.

Sue Bell's daughter  wrote on Sunday that her mother is now employed at an Aldi grocery store.

Earlier comments on Cheshire Patch about slow service and long lines at the drive-through were also addressed by Deane.

"We are grateful to our customers for their patience and understanding as we settle into our new processes aimed at providing the best McDonald’s experience possible," Deane wrote.