EudoraNews.com

Eudora's small-town charm and prime location has lured another small business as Edmonds Collision Repair prepares to open for business next week.

Galen Edmonds, Lawrence, said he moved his business from Baldwin City to Eudora after being there for one year. He made the move to get closer to K-10 Highway, hoping to attract more business and get away from Lawrence's market.

He settled at 1904 Elm, formerly the location of Bargain Town.

No stranger to collision repair, Edmonds has worked on cars since he was 16 years old. The skill runs in the family. His father was a mechanic.

With 17 years of experience under his belt, Edmonds has worked for Ford and Honda dealerships in the Kansas City metro area and in Lawrence.

"I just kind of went place to place," he said. "Whoever had the best pay is where I worked."

Eventually, he decided to go into business for himself.

"I guess I just kind of liked getting into the business of working on cars," Edmonds said.

Edmonds' shop will focus on repairing cars damaged in wrecks. His equipment is new, including software to shorten time spent for estimates between his business and insurance companies.

But the quality Edmonds most hopes to show customers is a personal touch.

"I oversee everything that happens here," he said. "I'm it. That's one of the things I personally offer the customer. I want to fix their car right."

The business will employee three technicians and one office staff member. Edmonds said he's hoping his business will thrive in the new location.

"I'm planning to stay here," he said. "I've signed a long-term lease to eventually buy the building."

Edmonds Collision Repair will open April 2.