Ontario’s vehicle sales regulator will be in Sault Ste. Marie next week to speak with customers of an auto dealership that had its licence revoked earlier this year.
Back in April, Ontario Motor Vehicle Industry Council (OMVIC), ordered the immediate suspension of Personal Touch Auto Limited, operated by Gino Burzese. The move meant Burzese and Personal Touch Auto Limited could not legally sell, lease, buy or consign vehicles.
In May, Personal Touch did not appeal the suspension and its licence was revoked.
Now, OMVIC staff are travelling to the Sault to speak with customers on August 30.
“OMVIC has received 12 claims to its Compensation Fund since shutting down Personal Touch Auto Limited,” explained John Carmichael, OMVIC CEO.
“So far, five claims have been processed and $66,460 has been paid to four Personal Touch customers.” The fifth claim was deferred awaiting additional information and the remaining seven claims will be heard at the next meeting of the Compensation Fund Board.”
Based on serious consumer complaints and an OMVIC suspension, the agency alleges the dealer:
- did not deliver vehicles for which payment had been received
- did not pay, or only made partial payments, to consumers whose vehicles were sold by the dealer on a consignment basis
- did not remove liens from vehicles traded in, leaving consumers potentially responsible for the debts
- did not submit contracts and/or payments for extended warranties customers had purchased
OMVIC said there may still be consumers who are eligible to file a claim for compensation but who have not yet contacted the regulator.
“It is indeed unfortunate these consumers have had to go through this,” said Carmichael.
“But ultimately, because they bought from a, then, registered dealer, they have been protected.”
OMVIC said staff will be at the Quattro Hotel and Conference Centre (229 Great Northern Road) from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on August 30.
