Controversial McDonald's in Oregon goes up in flames
The Associated Press
SISTERS, Ore. — A soon-to-open McDonald's was gutted by a fire that investigators in this western-themed city deemed suspicious.
The blaze started Sunday morning and injured no one, according to the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office.
Plans to build the McDonald's led to a showdown over the future of fast-food chains in the city. The City Council voted 3-2 last month against an ordinance that would have limited the number of franchise restaurants in Sisters to four.
Because three other franchises are already operating in Sisters, the ordinance would have barred construction of any more after the opening of McDonald's.
"If this turns out to be arson — which it's looking like it is — somebody is very misguided, and totally out in left field," said Brad Boyd, a member of the Sisters City Council. "This is not the way you advance your issues."
The building, which is intended to be a combination gas station, convenience store and McDonald's restaurant, had been scheduled to open in three weeks. The inside of restaurant was based on an 1880s-style interior design, chosen by respondents to a survey conducted by Sisters High School students.
"I want people to know that this isn't going to stop us," said Steve Rodgers, a partner in the company constructing the building.
John Rahm, who voted to approve the permit for McDonald's while he was a councilman, opposes the proliferation of more franchise restaurants, and is working with a group called Friends of Sisters to achieve that goal.
If the fire was deliberate, Rahm said he hopes authorities find those responsible.
"It's a terrible thing for Sisters," Rahm told The Bulletin newspaper of Bend. "It casts a shadow on the town and I'm afraid it's going to poison the dialogue." |
