Summary
- Diesel trucks are becoming increasingly harder for small business owners in New York to purchase due to new state regulations favoring electric vehicles
- Bruce Scofield, owner of Scofield Transfer & Recycling, believes the shift to electric vehicles is not practical due to high costs and limited technology
- Despite challenges, Scofield has overcome obstacles in growing his business, including securing financing and acquiring a transfer station
- The new state mandate poses a challenge, but Scofield is determined to find creative solutions, such as purchasing used trucks or exploring options out of state
- Scofield believes the lack of public awareness and forethought in implementing the new regulations is a major issue for New York businesses
Article
Bruce Scofield, the founder and owner of Scofield Transfer & Recycling in New York, compares being a small business owner in the state to being in an abusive relationship. He explains that new regulations favor fleet buyers over small business owners like him when it comes to purchasing new diesel trucks. The state now requires dealers to ensure that 10 percent of all new trucks sold are electric, which makes it difficult for Scofield to buy a new diesel truck as a small business owner.
Scofield acknowledges the need to reduce carbon emissions but believes that the current technology for electric vehicles is not practical for his business. He highlights the high cost of electric trucks, chargers, and limitations on mileage as barriers to adopting this technology. Despite his concerns, he remains open to using electric vehicles in the future if the technology improves, as he cares about the environment and future generations.
Having built Scofield Transfer & Recycling from the ground up, Scofield is not afraid of overcoming challenges. He recounts the difficulties he faced in expanding his business, including negotiating the purchase of a shuttered transfer station and obtaining financing. Scofield credits the Genesee County Local Development Council for providing crucial support in the form of a low-interest loan and tax abatements. He has also surpassed his commitment to creating new jobs in the community.
Scofield expresses frustration with the lack of public awareness about the new regulations impacting business owners in New York. He believes that many people are unaware of the potential costs and consequences of these rules. Despite understanding the importance of regulations in the waste management industry, Scofield criticizes the lack of forethought in implementing these specific regulations that hinder small business owners like himself.
The mixed emotions of Scofield’s relationship with New York are evident as he reflects on the positive aspects of the community and the challenges he faces as a business owner. He appreciates the small-town values of Genesee County and the support he receives from the local community. Despite the difficulties he encounters with state regulations, Scofield remains committed to staying in the area and finding creative solutions to navigate the challenges of operating a small business in New York.
Overall, Bruce Scofield’s experience as a small business owner in New York highlights the struggles faced by entrepreneurs in navigating state regulations and adapting to changes in the industry. Despite the obstacles, Scofield’s determination and resourcefulness shine through as he continues to grow his business and contribute to the local community. His story is a reminder of the resilience and perseverance required to succeed in the business world, even in the face of challenging circumstances.
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