Representatives from Monona Chamber and Economic Development and the city of Monona celebrated the transition of ownership at Smitty’s Oil and Tire with a Sept. 15 ribbon cutting.

Over the summer, Dave and Anna Mae Smith announced the sale of their business to long-time employee Garett Palas and his wife Niki, effective July 1.

Established in 1966, Smitty’s will continue to thrive as a family-oriented business, the Smiths said in a statement to customers: “We want to sincerely thank each and every one of you for your business, friendship and support over the years and hope you will continue with the outstanding service our employees have given to our community and surrounding areas.”

Garett and Niki Palas are excited for the opportunity. Garett has taken over operations, with assistance from Dave through the transition, while Niki is the new face in the office as Anna Mae enjoys retirement.

March will mark 17 years at the business for Garett.

“I’ve been able to work under Dave since then, and I knew Bob, who started Smitty’s, when I started,” Garett said. “It was nice to be able to learn a few things from him and then Dave. I’ve continued working through the years and gaining knowledge and skill in the business. I enjoy doing it.”

That history—and appreciation for the Smiths’ guidance—is one reason the Smitty’s name will remain.

“That’s where everything I’ve learned has come from,” Garett said. “Everybody knows the name, they know the location, they know what we’ve done and that our customer service is good. It’s an honor to be able to take it over, that he trusted in us enough.”

Overall, everything is basically staying the same, added Niki.

“We’re not changing anything,” she said.

Located at 501 Franklin St., in Monona, Smitty’s Oil and Tire has four service trucks and does everything from small lawnmower tires up to large tires for over-the-road trucks used in rock quarries and construction.

Farm service is another key part of the business, according to Garett.

“We do on-the-farm repairs and replacements. We also do a lot of the Rim Guard, which is liquid weight that goes in the rear tires to keep equipment on the ground,” he explained.

Additionally, Smitty’s does oil changes, brakes and other smaller repairs and maintenance. Garett and Niki remind people that, with winter coming, it’s also a good time to consider snow tires.

“We hope we can keep treating customers well and have them come in the door like they have been,” Garett said.