Delano Herald Journal

Serving the communities of Delano, Loretto, Montrose, MN, and the surrounding area

Ground broken for new auto center



Drive into Howard Lake from the east, and the first thing
that catches the eye is the construction work for a new auto center being
built by Art Jordan of Howard Lake.

Jordan conceived the idea when he was looking for a lot
in Howard Lake to build storage space for his equipment.

He owns Mr. Rooter, a plumbing company that also does septic
systems.

It is based out of Cokato, but all his equipment has been
stored out-of doors, until now.

“I just ran out of room at my place,” said Jordan.

The only lot available was the one on Highway 12 next to
Dura Supreme, and when he found out the Minnesota Department of Trans-portation
was going to put an access right in front of it, he purchased the lot.

The Howard Lake Auto Center is actually owned by a parent
company, A. L. Jordan, Inc. The company also owns Mr. Rooter here in Howard
Lake and part of another Mr. Rooter in the Twin Cities.

Since the plumbing company does so much septic system work,
Jordan said it purchased an excavating company for the heavy equipment,
rather than sub-contracting the work out.

The new establishment will host a Fast Lube for oil changes,
a detail shop for hand-cleaning vehicles, equipment storage for Mr. Rooter,
and two areas that Jordan hopes will eventually house a muffler shop and
office spaces.

Tammy Higgins of Howard Lake will be the manager of Fast
Lube and the detail shop.

Two or three more full-time people will be needed, as well
as part-time help, said Jordan.

Depending on the weather, Jordan hopes to move into the
facility in December or January. A grand opening will be planned for sometime
after that, he said.

Jordan said he is looking forward to joining the Howard
Lake Business Association and becoming involved in the community.

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