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This past session of the state legislature was one of contention. Being a budget session, and with Wyoming currently facing financial struggles, money was the word on everybody’s minds. Appropriations meetings were called, bills argued, and cases made all culminating in budget cuts across the board. Education was an area hit especially hard, with SCSD2 not exempt from the damages. Jeff Wells, a longtime SCSD2 employee, was one of the first to be affected. For years he had worked as a supervisor for construction and building maintenance for the district, and because of the budget cuts he was informed that his position would not be renewed. Taking this in stride, he promptly purchased “Pavement Markings” (now LLC) and set to work. We caught up with Jeff to talk about his new business, which he now runs with his son.
- How did the budget cuts affect you?Well our department, for the last several years, has funded a lot of building and maintenance in the district. New construction and renovation and all that. So with that slowing down, it had already impacted our department in that we had to cut positions. But then of course with the recent across-the-board budget cuts for state entities, we felt that much harder. Unfortunately education is often on the chopping block when one discusses budget cuts, and this time was no different. My job was one of the first cut.
- How did you overcome these challenges?Well they did let me know earlier that my position would be terminated, so it wasn’t too much of a shock. Jimmy Legerski owned Pavement Markings, and since we’re friends we initiated a conversation about him selling the business, which I knew had been his intent for a while. So we put together a deal, and (laughs) now I’m an entrepreneur! So for about two months now I’ve owned pavement markings, now an LLC. I was very excited because for 21 years it’s been a reputable business, you know one of those that people trust, and rightfully so.
- Why did you choose Pavement Marking as a career path?Well first of all it’s a respectable business, with longstanding and loyal clients. And it’s full of opportunity, you know, like sweeping, striping, seal coating, crack sealing, and then in the winter, snow removal. So not only is it a year-round business, it’s one that has already proven itself to the people of Sheridan.
- How do you plan to grow your business in the future?(laughs) Well I think I’d like to reach out to anyone who has a parking lot or driveway in Sheridan. Jimmy had been so busy such that I think I’ll be able to kind of reach out to some of the people he didn’t have a chance to. I drive up and down Sheridan and over on Coffeen and look at driveways and such and just think “These could be clients.” But, number two, and maybe the most important will be to maintain the quality of service. We’re dealing with quality products, paint and sealer, and I’ll provide the best customer service possible. I want business with me to be productive, and enjoyable.
- What drove you to operate a business in Sheridan?Well, my family’s here. I have a sophomore in high school here of whom I share custody, so I wouldn’t want to do anything that might jeopardize that relationship. This was made much easier because Sheridan is such a great community. I’m actively involved in the community, and that puts it above moving somewhere else. I have lots of friends and connections here and I wouldn’t want to leave that. Sheridan has ingrained itself on me fairly heavily, and I don’t want to move.”
Jeff Wells and his Son
