NEW ORLEANS (WDSU) – A popular New Orleans restaurant was forced to close its doors after its owner said the energy company gave him an ultimatum.
Eric Cook said he not only had to close his Saint John restaurant but also laid off more than 40 people.
“It is a tremendous loss. Not just for the people who work there and love this place, but also for the neighbors in the French Quarter who have really welcomed us,” Cook said.
He had to close the restaurant’s doors after he said he received a fake bill for $40,000 from Entergy.
Cook said he paid Entergy well over $2,000 a month before he was charged the bill, which he said came from a meter he didn’t even know existed.
“We’re talking $40,000 and adding $5,000 a month to your bills,” Cook said.
According to Cook, the bill came a few months ago and he couldn’t afford it and refused to pay it.
“To bear such a financial burden? That’s impossible,” Cook said.
Entergy responded to Cook’s claims, saying in part:
“We asked the customer for permission to discuss their account. The restaurant owner did not respond. We will be happy to restore service immediately once we speak with the customer and agree on a payment plan they can afford.”
Cook said it’s time for change in the city and he fears business owners like him will continue to be left behind.
“We all need people to visit us, see this great city and ensure that it remains one of the greatest cities in the world, because it is and I will always believe in that. But let’s make real change,” he said.
Cook said he is working with other restaurant owners in the city to find new jobs for his former employees.
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