LEGAL COUNSEL

Each CATA member is entitled to a limited amount of general legal counsel through the association’s longtime attorney, Dennis O’Keefe. With extensive experience in the automotive industry, manufacturer relations, franchise law and state and local regulations, Dennis serves as a valuable resource for dealers navigating legal and operational challenges impacting their businesses.

employee relations COUNSEL

CATA members receive access to SESCO’s certified consulting and legal staff for guidance on human resources and employment law matters. Through a dedicated hotline, members can discuss employee relations issues including disciplinary matters, terminations, labor agreements, federal and state employment regulations and HR best practices. This service helps dealerships address workplace concerns quickly and confidently while remaining compliant with evolving employment laws. 

legislative consultants

The CATA provides strong representation for dealers at the state and local levels through its legislative and governmental affairs efforts. The association has helped secure significant wins for the retail automotive industry, including warranty reimbursement enhancements to franchise law, restoration of the full sales tax trade-in credit and changes to lease taxation. Led by Scott Marquardt and Chip Humes, and coordinated through the CATA Government Relations Committee, these advocacy efforts ensure dealers maintain a strong voice on the legislative issues that impact their operations and profitability.

drivechicago

DriveChicago.com is a complimentary benefit available exclusively to CATA dealer members and has served as one of Chicagoland’s most trusted automotive shopping platforms since 2000. Featuring more than 100,000 continuously updated new and used vehicle listings with no paid placement or sponsored listings, the site is designed to connect in-market shoppers directly to member dealer inventory and vehicle pages. On average, DriveChicago.com delivers approximately 7,500 users each month directly to dealer websites, helping generate qualified traffic and leads at no cost to members. The DriveChicago brand also extends through DriveChicago Radio on WLS-AM 890, online vehicle reviews and YouTube video content, all of which help promote member inventory, engage consumers and strengthen awareness of CATA dealerships throughout the Chicagoland market.

industry news and communications

CATA members stay informed through a variety of industry publications and communications designed to provide timely news, market insights and association updates. The printed quarterly Up to Speed publication highlights association initiatives, dealer news and industry trends, while the bi-weekly Auto Insider email newsletter keeps dealership personnel updated on legislative changes, regulatory developments, upcoming events and operational matters impacting daily business activities.

Members also receive Chicago Auto Outlook, a detailed market analysis publication featuring local and national sales comparisons and automotive market trends to support strategic planning and performance analysis. In addition, the CATA Annual Report & Directory serves as a valuable reference guide featuring a comprehensive listing of member dealerships and allied industry partners.

meeting space & educational programs

CATA headquarters offers meeting and event space for member dealerships and industry groups. The facility includes conference rooms and a large showroom atrium capable of accommodating meetings, training sessions and vehicle displays for groups ranging from 5 to 200 attendees.

In addition, the CATA hosts a variety of educational seminars and training programs throughout the year focused on operational improvements, compliance updates, legislative issues and industry best practices. These programs provide members with valuable opportunities for professional development and networking.