Business owner 'ruffed' up

I feel compelled to write this comment about Jess Ruf, owner of the Do-it Center hardware store. We have all seen this gentleman vilified many times in the newspapers before elections because of his stand on development of competing large hardware outlet stores.

Unfortunately, he and I are always on opposite sides of the issues. I have always been on the community-minded side of these issues, since I felt them to be good improvements and fiscal resources for cities. But let's look at his side. He has been fighting for the survival of his business and livelihood, a challenge I don't have to face.

By working to prevent new hardware stores and adjacent business in those developments, he has almost single-handedly cost the cities of Westlake and Agoura Hills about $2 million a year in lost tax revenue. Does that make him an enemy?

He has led campaigns full of exaggerations and scare tactics, but isn't this the way all campaigns are carried out if you want to win? Does this make him an enemy?

I personally respect him for his perseverance and behavior, as I believe he has behaved as any good businessman should. These are battles not created or caused by him but brought to him, not by his choosing. I congratulate him on his successes.

Do-it Centers are not Home Depot or Lowe's. No independent businessman can have the buying power those companies have. But he does offer good products at a fair price in stores where pride is apparent in the well-maintained and clean atmosphere.

Jess Ruf deserves our business and respect. He has always been a good citizen and gives many helping hands to this city, contributing in many ways. I'm glad he is part of our great community. Tom Bancroft Agoura Hills