Opportunity Bank of Montana Acquires First Community Bank

The corner of Second Avenue South and Sixth Street South was busy throughout the day on May 25 as crews from EPCON Sign Group, out of Billings, updated all of the signage on the First Community Bank building and ATM drive thru. Though the signage was recently changed, First Community Bank branches opened their doors as Opportunity Bank of Montana on May 2.

Upon acquisition of First Community Bank, Opportunity Bank expanded into the communities of Ashland, Culbertson, Froid, Glasgow, Hinsdale and Three Forks. These communities have all seen external signs changed however the focus is still on strong customer relationships and quality banking products and services with the same people working inside. Opportunity Bank of Montana is celebrating their 100th year in businesses and like First Community Bank, is a Montana community bank, headquartered in Helena.

"We are thrilled to welcome First Community and its employees to the Opportunity Bank team," stated CEO Peter J. Johnson. "First Community is an experienced agriculture and commercial lender with a 130-year operating history in Montana and deep roots in the communities it serves. This transaction expands our presence across the state of Montana and builds on our reputation as an experienced and preferred agricultural lender across the state."

Johnson also announced that Sam Waters, the chairman and president of First Community Bank, joined the boards of Opportunity Bank of Montana and Eagle Bancorp Montana, Inc., the holding company of Opportunity Bank. Kris Simensen, the CEO of First Community Bank, will serve as the Northeast Montana Regional Market President.

Customers of all First Community branches have been mailed conversion guides to help ensure a smooth transition. The data conversion of customer accounts will take place the week of June 17 through 19, however until then it's business as usual at all branches. Following conversion, some branches will be consolidating. The First Community Bank branch in Wolf Point and the First Community branch on Prospect Avenue in Helena will cease operations as of close of business June 17, with the employees from those branches relocating to existing Opportunity Bank locations.

Opportunity Bank of Montana has been in business since 1922 and offers a full line of personal, commercial, and agricultural banking products with online and mobile banking services. The bank employs over 450 people, all working in support of the mission "To Provide Strong Financial Futures For Montanans."