Dealership building rises in Oakesdale

Tim O’Neill of Camas Prairie and Palouse Versatile cleaned a giant Delta track rental unit Saturday at the new dealership and repair shop being built in Oakesdale. Construction on the 7,500-square foot building began last month across from the city pool with a mid-June opening targeted. The owner is Ray Oneal of Lapwai, Idaho, the holder of a Versatile territory from Spokane to Grangeville.

“They came and they’re obviously serious,” said Oakesdale councilman Tom Crooks. “They approached us and we were more than happy to accommodate them.”

Versatile is a Canadian manufacturer of agricultural tractors, a division of Buhler Industries. Founded in 1966, the company was owned by Ford New Holland from 1987-2000.