Trying (and Failing) to Buy Local

I'm a big believer in, whenever possible, buying from local producers, as I think helping the local economy is good for everyone. However, when it comes to the electrical contracting work we want done on the house, it's a challenge. Lisa wants us to replace the main electrical box (which is maxed out on connections but not on total amps used) so that we can put in some 220V circuits for a hot water heater and the clothes dryer we bought when we moved here but have never been able to use. Fernley Electric is around the corner from our house. But there's never anyone there, and whenever we've called, they say they're booked up months in advance. The other electricians in Fernley that say they do residential work won't return our calls. While I guess this means the local market is saturated with work, it's frustrating when you're trying to spend money on them.

Lisa says she'll start calling electrical contractors in Sparks, Reno, Fallon, and Yerrington soon to try and get someone out here. Even when the money becomes available for the major work the house needs, trying to get things moving is challenging. Every single job seems to need other jobs done first.