Ryan Companies uses local workers

I am writing in response to the April 10 letter from John McWilliams of Mount Vernon concerning the involvement of Ryan Companies in a number of projects here in Cedar Rapids. His assertions are misguided and not factually based.

I own T&K Roofing Company in Ely and our company has worked with Ryan Companies extensively for nearly 20 years.

Since Ryan Companies opened a division in Cedar Rapids, it has consistently used local subcontractors and their employees. I can assure you that Ryan Companies has favored companies located in this community over any from Minnesota.

While the courthouse project may involve contractors from outside our area, Ryan Companies made every attempt to ensure local companies were involved in this unique and difficult project. My company, for example, passed on bidding the project because of a number of federal procurement requirements.

We also have found Ryan's commitment to this community unsurpassed. A review of local volunteer boards and charitable organizations will show many Ryan Companies personnel involved and supporting those organizations.

Since Ryan Companies opened its division in Cedar Rapids, it has worked hard and succeeded in adding to the group of other outstanding local general contracting and development firms in Cedar Rapids/Iowa City. The firms, which certainly include Ryan Companies support safe, quality, cost efficient construction utilizing and supporting local subcontractors and companies.

Kurt T. Tjelmeland

President

T&K Roofing and Metal Inc.