When the auto dealerships take a hit, members of the communities feel the pain.
The dealerships are good for communities by providing economic development with the jobs they provide. So says Wisconsin Automobile and Truck Dealers Association President William Sepic. And he says, that's not all.
"They also are the people who are contributing money into your community, participating in the United Way as well as sponsorship of softball teams, youth functions and a host of different things."
Eighteen Chrysler dealerships in Wisconsin are targeted to be shut down as part of the company's financial restructuring plan. Sepic argues there is very little cost to the manufacturer to have this network of dealers out there.
"A lot of people don't recognize that the dealers buy the cars as they come off the line, they own the cars that are on their lot, they own the property, they own the structure, they own parts and they employ the people."
Chrysler plans to eliminate almost 800 dealerships nationwide — all part of the restructuring plan after Chrysler filed for bankruptcy last week. The automaker's plan needs approval from the U.S. Bankruptcy Court. The dealers can appeal the decision.