Trucker’s Paradise, a new truck stop in Gainesville, Texas, has not paid a number of its employees for months, leaving both current and former staff worried about their finances.
What’s happening: The truck stop, which opened this summer in a remodeled outlet mall off I-35, promised drivers better amenities. But workers say paychecks have been missed multiple times. The first time, many brushed it off. But as the problem continued, stress piled up.
- Excuses ranged from a company investor being on vacation to “medical issues.”
- At a meeting last Friday, employees expected checks but got more delays instead.
- CEO Dean Ash told workers they’d be paid by Monday, September 22. By Tuesday, no money had shown up.
The impact: Some employees say they are owed almost $2,000. A former worker said she was told, “this is Texas, it’s a free work state so they don’t need a reason to fire me.” Many are struggling to cover basic bills, with some saying they have no money for gas or groceries.
Company response: Trucker’s Paradise admits the business has been tougher and more “complex” than planned. They blame the delays on an investor facing personal problems, which has slowed funding. The CEO says paying employees is now the top priority and offered an apology, reported KXII News.
Even employees let go last month have yet to receive all they’re owed. So far, no date has been set for when everyone will receive their missing pay.