A 'cool' addition

NORWALK — Their negotiations didn't involve an ounce of hot air. Rather, representatives of two longstanding local companies worked together in a quick, seamless and meaningful way to ensure a legacy company survives. In April, Norwalk-based Bauer Heating & Cooling finalized a buyout, selling to Milan-headquartered Hartland & Wilken Custom Heating, Cooling, Plumbing, Electrical. Financials were not disclosed. In operation for more than 50 years, Bauer — under the ownership of Christine and Mel Holida — relinquished their ownership stake to Hartland & Wilken. Mel, who operated Bauer with Christine for nine years, wrote an open letter to customers, explaining their decision. "Chris and I have reached retirement age and have sought out a buyer who really appreciates the business, understands how to operate it properly and is keen and capable of developing its future potential," Mel wrote. Hartland & Wilken "appreciates the company's value, understands its operations and is eager to unlock its future potential," he wrote. "They recognize the goodwill built by both previous owners, Mr. and Mrs. Glenn and Patricia Tinker, and our own enduring relationships with our loyal customers." Mel believes his family made the right call, expressing confidence in how Hartland & Wilken "will uphold this legacy by keeping customers happy. We officially hand over the keys with great pleasure and wish them continued success as they share their own exciting news for the businesses' next chapter." Jake Wilken, an owner and president of Hartland, made the following promises regarding: • The business name: "The Bauer legacy lives on and will continue to operate as Bauer Heating & Cooling, a division of Hartland Mechanical Services. The Norwalk office will remain open at 108 E. St. Norwalk." • The offerings: It will continue to offer heating, ventilation and air conditioning services to Norwalk and the surrounding area. • The promises: "We are excited to continue our growth while offering excellent services to our community and a great place to have a successful career. We will maintain the same level of service that Bauer provided with the addition of plumbing and electrical." • The additions: Bauer complements what Hartland and Wilken already offers: "custom heating, cooling, plumbing, electric (for) both residential and commercial services to Huron, Erie, Lorain, Ottawa and Sandusky counties. We have offices in Milan, Catawba, Fremont and Norwalk. We believe in quality, great customer care and our community." Before ending the letter, both Mel and Christine offered one final "thank you" to those who supported and patronized the Bauer business. "We'd like to extend our heartfelt thanks for our wonderful customers: Your support and trust over the years have made this journey so rewarding, and we are grateful for each and every one of you," the letter read.