Former employee buys dry cleaning business after decades-long career

A Monroe resident who once worked the front counter at a local dry cleaning establishment has assumed ownership of the business, marking a significant shift after nearly two decades since her tenure as an employee began.

The transition occurred at Hill Street Cleaners, where Alyssa Aggarwal initially took a position as a teenager. Although her employment spanned only four years, she maintained connections with the former proprietor, Eldon Bartelheimer, through local community engagements and their shared residential area. The opportunity for acquisition arose during a neighborhood walk when Bartelheimer indicated he was preparing to retire after 35 years in operation and sought a new owner.

Aggarwal described the prospect as immediately compelling. After discussing the potential purchase with her husband, Sagar Aggarwal, who shared her interest, the couple completed the acquisition by the start of June.

The change in role has been described as surreal by the new owner. Having previously sat across from the former proprietor in his office to discuss work-related matters, Aggarwal noted the irony of now occupying the same chair to answer employee inquiries.

Bartelheimer, who acquired the North Lewis Street location in 1991, had served on the board of the Monroe Chamber of Commerce. He also contributed to local events by laundering mascot costumes and uniforms for drivers at the Evergreen Speedway. While expressing fondness for his former staff, the retiring owner expressed satisfaction in transferring the business to someone familiar with its operations, hoping it will continue for another 35 years.

The new ownership team currently manages nine employees, some of whom have been with the company since Aggarwal’s time as an employee. The transition period has been busy, but the team’s established expertise has allowed the business to operate without interruption.

While aiming to maintain existing service standards, the new owners have implemented modern updates to payment systems. Zelle, a digital payment method, has been added to the accepted forms of payment, which previously included credit cards, checks, and cash.

Looking ahead, the owners intend to expand the brand to nearby towns. Hill Street Cleaners currently operates from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays.

Earlier reporting identified the owner as Alyssa Green Aggarwal based on a press release from the business; the corrected name is Alyssa Aggarwal.