Ads are faster way to reach desired audience and now since they are prioritized in the serps so, it won't be wise to ignore them.
Local SEO on the other hand is also essential as it helps to build brand & reputation.
Also local SEO isn't dead so other will still be effective with driving...
In that case it should turn out in your favor and the fact that you also were able to run your own tags on the site without an issue further strengthens your case (although it shouldn't even be necessary).