CRESTLINE — Residents in Crestline and the surrounding area will once again have multiple banking options in their community as a locally-based bank continues to expand its physical footprint.
First Federal Community Bank participated in a ribbon-cutting ceremony Monday with the Galion-Crestline Area Chamber of Commerce.
The event to celebrate the addition to FFCB’s new branch location in Crestline, the fifth branch for the company. It is the 11th financial facility operated by the Bucyrus-based company.
The business at 350 N. Seltzer St., is housed in the former Huntington Bank location.
Joe Kleinknecht, president and CEO of the Galion-Crestline Area Chamber of Commerce said he was pleased to see the business come to town.
“It’s great to see a building that had such a purpose not stay empty too long,” Kleinknecht said. “Banks are important to the infrastructure of a town and it’s good to have options.”
He said he also was excited to have a business with the longevity and business footprint such as that of FFCB move into town.
FFCB President and CEO Brad Murtiff said choosing Crestline and as the newest home for First Federal Community Bank was a win-win situation for all involved.
Murtiff said Crestline is near the main office in Bucyrus and Crestline also shares some demographic similarities as well. Meanwhile, with a void left by the departure of Huntington Bank, Murtiff said it provided an opportunity to make the move.
The move allowed for an economic impact as well, as Murtiff said FFCB was able to hire new staff at the Crestline location.
The existing building also had the needed infrastructure, including a drive-thru for customers.
Murtiff said he and his staff are looking forward to the new venture.
“We are really excited to be a part of a community rich in history and tradition and we want to be there to help continue to make good things happen,” Murtiff said. “We want to show them why we say community is our middle name.”
The Crestline branch is now open to customers.