By Scott Harvey
Greenville – The City of Greenville will soon offer a food handler certification program to residents. The program, to start next month, is required for anyone who prepares food in local restaurants.
The City Council approved the establishment of the program in June, under an amendment of the local health code. The program is designed to provide education and certification requirements for employees who prepare or handle food.
A certification card is issued upon completion of the program and the passage of a written test. The certification costs $20 per employee and is good for three years.
Classes will be conducted at the Fletcher Warren Civic Center, 5501 South Highway 69, and are scheduled Sept. 3, 10, 17 and 24; Oct. 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29; Nov. 12 and 19; and Dec. 3 and 17.
There will be three classes offered on each date. Classes in English will be offered at 8:30 a.m. and 2 p.m., with classes in Spanish will be offered at 10:30 a.m.
Each class lasts approximately two hours allowing time for instruction and testing. Seating is limited to 75 people per class.
Applicants can register in person at the City of Greenville Municipal Annex, 2315 Johnson Street, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Applicants will need to pay the $20 fee at the time of registration and bring their photo I.D., which must also be presented at the class.
Under the new ordinance, food establishments must also have a Certified Food Manager on duty at all times.
Additional information may be found at the Texas Department of Health Website at www.dshs.state.tx.us or by calling (512) 834-6727. Food Manager Certification must also be obtained by Jan. 1, 2009.
Those wanting additional information about the local program can contact the City of Greenville Health Department at 903-457-3161.