Restaurant Closing Because of New Grease Rules

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By Aaron Hepker

Story Created: Feb 19, 2010 at 1:33 AM CST

Story Updated: Feb 19, 2010 at 1:33 AM CST

URBANDALE (AP) — Tighter federal rules on the amount of grease restaurants can release into sewers means a family-owned Italian restaurant in Urbandale will be closing at the end of the month after 53 years in business.

Jim Lacona, owner of Mama Lacona's, says the business will probably close on Feb. 28, in part because he cannot afford the $60,000 to $80,000 needed for required renovations.

Government regulators told the restaurant it must install several 3,000 gallon underground tanks to collect discarded fats and oils.

Lacona had until Feb. 28 to make renovations.

Lacona's late father and mother, Charles and Mary Lacona, opened the business in Beaverdale in 1957. It moved to Urbandale about 10 years ago.

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