SACRAMENTO – Senator Ted Gaines (R-Roseville) today recognized long-time Auburn businessman Steve Snyder on California Small Business Day. “I think any small business person who can survive in overtaxed, overregulated California deserves an award,” said Gaines. “But Steve Snyder stands out for his dedication and success and it’s my pleasure to honor him today.”..

Mr. Snyder has been in the auto business for 50 years and in 1986 he bought Gold Rush Chevrolet in Auburn. As part of a nationwide consolidation undertaken by General Motors, Gold Rush was slated for closure in 2009. Mr. Snyder worked with GM, writing letters to make the case why his dealership should be reinstated, and ultimately the company agreed.

“Steve Snyder showed a fighting spirit and his determination paid off,” said the Senator. “Thanks to his efforts, his employees kept their jobs and the people of Auburn kept a business that has served them for decades.” Since securing his dealership, Mr. Snyder has gone on to hire an additional 12 people at Gold Rush.

Mr. Snyder has been involved with the Auburn Chamber of Commerce and Auburn Sutter Faith Hospital. He has served as a Board Member for the Auburn Rotary Club, Auburn Community Bank, Auburn First, and he is currently the Board President of the California New Car Dealers Association.

Senator Ted Gaines represents the 1st Senate District, which includes all or parts of Alpine, Amador, Calaveras, El Dorado, Lassen, Modoc, Mono, Nevada, Placer, Plumas, Sacramento and Sierra counties.