The owners of two popular Mexican restaurants in Nocatee are pushing back against claims that they abandoned their workers right before the holidays.

Jesus and Blanca Valencia, who run multiple restaurants, are facing criticism after closing Anejo Cocina in Yulee and Salsas in Blanding last weekend. Many employees were caught off guard and suddenly found themselves without a job.

Their business partner in those two locations, Melandy Higdon, told the media that she had no idea the restaurants would close. She also called the Valencias “heartless” for shutting down right before Christmas and leaving employees without work.

But the Valencias say that’s not true. They claim Higdon had been refusing to step down from her role as a minority partner for months, even after being warned multiple times in writing.

“She refused numerous times and was informed in writing, more than once, that her refusal would result in the temporary closing of the restaurants,” the Valencias said in a statement. “This was necessary for Mr. Valencia, as President and majority owner, to take back control and restructure the business.”

The Valencias say Higdon knew about the planned closures but chose not to inform employees.

Despite the temporary shutdown, the couple says both restaurants will reopen soon and that all employees “in good standing” will be rehired.

“We have already contacted employees by email and held a meeting with many of them,” they said. “So far, everyone we’ve reached is happy to return to work.”

The Valencias also apologized for the disruption and promised to improve their management system.

“We are now restructuring our management team to improve operations and communication with our staff and the community that has supported us for years,” they said.

Higdon has not responded to multiple requests for comment from The Citizen.