Wendy's opens in Wasco

Wasco celebrated the official ribbon-cutting for its new Wendy's restaurant on Highway 46, introducing the latest addition to the growing business landscape. Community members and local officials gathered to welcome Wendy's, excited about its positive impact on the local economy and dining options.

Mayor Valentin Medina called it a step in the right direction for economic development. "This is a $3.5-million investment into our community, providing 37 local jobs with over 400 applications submitted," he said in an interview. "These numbers demonstrate that there is interest in continuing to develop our local economy, and they show that we have the workforce to support new businesses coming into town."

He added that he hopes Wendy's, as the most recent business to open along the Highway 46 corridor, will inspire others to consider Wasco as a location. "There is other development happening along the highway, which I am certain will continue to boost interest and attract more businesses to Wasco."

City Manager Scott Hurlbert expressed his enthusiasm for the significant investment. "They have faith in the community. They have faith in the business model. It's an educated decision to come to this market. The payroll gets turned over multiple times in the community, and it didn't get lost here."

Ron Dhillon, who owns another Wendy's in Northern California, chose to open his second location in Wasco because of the warmth and kindness he felt from the close-knit community. "When I first visited and got to know the town by talking to people, I felt a real sense of community. I enjoyed my interactions with the residents and believed it was a great place to do business and support the growth of Wasco."

He noted that what sets Wendy's apart is the quality of its food. He points to their beef, which is never frozen. "And being a superior product adds value for the good people of Wasco at a good price point."

Being active in the community will be a priority for him, and he wants to get involved with the schools. "It's important to us because we don't only want to do business in Wasco, we want to be a productive member of the community." He will also maintain a strong presence at the restaurant while managing plans for additional Wendy's locations in Bakersfield and surrounding cities.

This commitment to community values is shared by his family, as his two teenage daughters, Samrina and Sumaira, attended the ceremony. "I'm proud of him and intend to carry on the legacy. I know my dad worked very hard for it, and I want to honor him and his perseverance," Sumaira said.