I had the same experience yesterday. Maybe Ron just got ahold of someone who was taking their job a little too seriously. I went with the Kenwood TM-281A (*single band, 2m) and a 5/8 mag mount which I'm playing around with different installation locations. If I stick the mag mount on the Short Bus bumper, it clears the garage door without any problem. Less than $200 out the door from HRO, and they were very helpful in hearing what I wanted it for and confirming my choice of radio, then proposing different antenna solutions to suit my needs.
Waiting on the PC Programming cable to setup my radio how I want it. And STILL waiting on FCC database entry for my call sign...
EDIT TO ADD: next VE Test date with Gary @ W7IO .org is the 4th Saturday of May, for those studying for the test! Let me know if you're interested, and I'll build a roster.