Today, the goal is just to get the word out in the community that we're open for business.”

Dominic Kielas, General Manager at Tri River Chevrolet

The Hastings Area Chamber of Commerce and members of the local business community gathered recently to officially welcome Tri River Chevrolet with a ribbon cutting ceremony and business after hours event. Though the dealership has already been operating for a few months, the celebration marked an important milestone as the final touches of the transition to new ownership fall into place.
Dominic Kielas, General Manager at Tri River Chevrolet, said the event was about more than cutting a ribbon.
“Today, the goal is just to get the word out in the community that we're open for business,” he said. “Of course, we have been for a few months now, but most all of the groundwork has been laid, and everything's going smooth.”
The dealership is already seeing signs of progress.
“Last month, we sold 52 cars,” Kielas said. “That's four times the average they were selling here over the previous two years.” He credited the boost to community support and the dealership’s commitment to transparency and fair pricing. “There’s been a good response from the community and the surrounding areas, liking how we do business with our best price and our transparency up front.”
Tri River Chevrolet has made it clear that giving back to the community is a top priority. One of the first things customers see upon entering the dealership is a plaque recognizing the Dakota County Sheriff's Office and first responders. Next up, the team will launch its involvement in the Chevrolet Youth Hockey program, which will raise awareness and funds for the Hastings Hockey Association.
Looking ahead, Tri River plans to spotlight a different local nonprofit or cause each month through in-store promotions and financial donations. Kielas has invited the dealership’s staff, many of whom live in Hastings, to suggest local organizations that are meaningful to them.
“I told the staff, if there’s something near and dear to your heart, like your local fluffy bunny pet shelter or whatever it is, let me know,” Kielas said. “We can even draw every month if there’s enough suggestions and just pick an organization to partner with. Then I’ll get in touch with that organization, and we’ll raise awareness for them and give them some money at the end of the month.”
The ribbon cutting event itself was low-key but meaningful. “Nothing major,” Kielas said. “Just the ribbon cutting and meeting some local business owners and Chamber members. Really, the goal is networking and making connections.”
That emphasis on relationships — whether through business, service or community — is central to Tri River’s approach. As shared in a previous interview, the dealership has already invested more than $1 million in new inventory and plans to continue growing its presence and service offerings in Hastings. The team also retains the entire staff from the previous ownership group, reinforcing their commitment to small-town familiarity and long-term trust.
With solid sales momentum, community outreach plans underway, and a team invested in Hastings for the long haul, Tri River Chevrolet is shifting into high gear — and making it clear they’re here not just to sell cars, but to be a partner in the community.