SPENCER CAR DEALER HEADED FOR WASHINGTON

(06/02/2009)
Lots of community car dealers and their customers have failed to understand why their local outlets have lost their franchise, many of them declaring long-time profitability.

A Spencer dealer was hard hit, losing both his Chrysler and GM franchise.

Spencer Auto Part's owner Pete Lopez is getting a chance to speak out about his dilemma.

Lopez is headed to Washington, having been invited to testify in a hearing regarding the matter before the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee.

A press release says Lopez will be able to address company heads from GM and Chrysler.

Lopez says his kind of dealership is an important part of a rural community. Without it, customers will be forced to drive an hour and one-half to get service.

The Washington hearing will be held Wednesday.

Chrysler is closing 40 percent of its West Virginia franchises by June 9, putting about 250 people out of work.