Serving Franklin County, WA
Nearest offices are in Pasco, Ritzville or Othello
CONNELL – Connell Auto Licensing is closing its door permanently today, Sept. 9.
“I took another job,” owner Tearsa Cope said of closing the 133 N. Columbia Ave. office.
Cope has owned the business since 2013, providing state licensing services for trucks, cars, boats and more.
“At this time, I’m taking a different career direction,” Cope said.
According to Cope, her decision will impact customers from Connell, Mesa, Eltopia, Kahlotus, Washtucna, Othello, Lind and Ritzville, among other places.
The decision to shut down the licensing sub-agent office was a last-minute decision, she said, noting that she only had a couple weeks’ notice of her new job with the state Department of Corrections at Coyote Ridge.
Beginning Friday, Sept. 10, residents that patronized her business for licensing services will have to travel to Ritzville, Othello or Pasco for in-person services, she said.
Franklin County Auditor Matt Beaton said residents should consider mail and online services, too.
“We encourage people to use online or mail services, or visit the Franklin County Courthouse or one of the Pasco subagents,” he said.
Beaton also thanked Cope for offering the service in northern Franklin County.
“She offered a convenience for the north county,” he said. “I want to thank her for her years of providing the service.”
With the closure, Beaton said his office will be looking for others interested in providing vehicle licensing services in the Connell area.
“We are reviewing what our next steps are,” he said, calling Cope’s decision to shut the agency “sudden.”
“Hopefully, the county and state will be able to find somebody soon,” Cope added.
Cope thanked her customers for her years in business.
“It’s been great,” she said. “I appreciate the last eight years and the support they’ve given me.
“I wish everyone the best.”
Reader Comments(0)