Turlock Chrysler, Turlock Dodge, Turlock Jeep, Turlock Subaru, and Turlock Auto Plaza will be going out of business. Employee lay offs are to total over 40 by the end.
Sales of up to around 40 percent and special financing by banks will be offered over the next three weeks to help clear out the approximate 200 vehicles.
Smith Chevrolet Cadillac is also located in the Turlock Auto Mall but not affiliated with the neighboring businesses. Smith Chevrolet Cadillac is owned by the Smith family and will remain open.
The Turlock car dealerships that are closing down are co-owned by Bob Field and Leonard Harrington. Leonard Harrington was a speaker at the “Try Turlock First” introduction in October and spoke on the area of fundraising for the campaign.
The economy is ultimately responsible for the closing of the Turlock auto dealers and others in the area. Bank loans are so hard to get that purchasing a car is not possible for many people.
The City of Turlock Redevelopment Agency was asked for some kind of funding to help the business. It appears there was no such luck of a local Turlock “bailout.” Car dealerships are known for being a major economic engine for local communities. The closing car dealerships will be an incredible loss for Turlock.
Harrington and Field own about 12.6 acres on Auto Mall Drive just west of Highway 99. They will be trying to sell the property in hopes of not filing bankruptcy.
