BELLOWS FALLS, Vt. – There is an old saying from back in the day, and it was called doing business “the old Yankee way,” meaning that you respect everyone, respect their property and opinions, and show courtesy, concern, and compassion for your neighbors and community.
These words, which can actually be found right on their website, remain the foundation of Cota & Cota Inc., a local business based in Bellows Falls and with other convenient offices in Brattleboro, Jamaica, Springfield, Ludlow, Manchester, and White River Junction. It has been a pillar in the community since 1941.
Ken and Helen Cota had previously owned a 24-hour gas station in Bellows Falls before purchasing a kerosene fuel business after Ken went on a service call with the previous owner. Being a strong, take-charge kind of lady, Helen insisted her name also appear on the business name, and Cota & Cota was born.
In the early ‘60s Hugh Cota purchased the business from his parents after Ken had a serious back injury and could no longer physically operate the business. During the early years under Hugh, along with his three sons, the business grew exponentially after Hugh had purchased his brother’s plumbing service in 1979 and merged that business with his burner service, allowing Cota & Cota to now offer plumbing, septic, and bathroom work as well as fuel service.
The expansions would continue over the decades, with new offices opening in Ludlow in 1982, Springfield in 1990, White River Junction in 2004, Brattleboro in 2009, and Jamaica in 2012. In 1995, Hugh Cota officially turned the business over to his sons, Casey and Sean, and in 2011, Casey purchased the business from his brother. In 2016, Casey and Sean’s sister, Kelly Cota Tully, rejoined the family business.
Three generations of the Cota family have dedicated their lives to not only serving, but understanding their communities around them, which is one of the big reasons for not only their longevity, but their reputation as well. Additionally, Cota ownership has always strongly believed in treating both their customers and employees like family.
In celebration of 85 years in business, Cota & Cota is offering three 850-gallon fuel giveaways, with the drawings set for early July. The deadline to enter the free fuel contest is June 26, and you can enter by visiting the Cota & Cota website, www.cotaoil.com.