(Spokane, WA) – Locally owned Wheatland Bank, a 5-Star Superior rated community bank, is continuing to establish itself as an independent community bank with deep roots throughout the eastern and central Washington markets that it serves. In the face of industry consolidation, Wheatland Bank continues to build upon their unique strengths and specialization as a boutique bank that caters to the financial needs of the business, agricultural and consumer markets throughout eastern and central Washington, investing in new markets, employing highly experienced bankers and recently purchasing the Wheatland Bank Financial Center in downtown Spokane All of this provides a strong statement, further cementing their commitment to the community and intention to remain independent.
In February 2015, Wheatland Bank expanded their regional footprint with the opening of their first branch in the Tri-Cities market. The opportunity to hire a highly respected agricultural lending expert, Steve Lancaster, as the leader for this region was a major factor in determining that now was the right time for Wheatland to continue its expansion in the Columbia Basin. The Tri-Cities expansion, in conjunction with efforts throughout the Bank, have allowed Wheatland to experience strong growth over the previous year. Loans have increased a record 38%, and earnings are up 55%.
In addition to the new Tri-Cities branch, Wheatland Bank is pleased to announce that they recently purchased the former Great Western Bank building located at 222 N. Wall Street from River Park Properties. The building, which has come to be recognized as the Wheatland Bank Financial Center, has housed the Bank's administrative offices since 1999 and is home to the Bank's main branch.
Susan Horton, Chairman, CEO and President said, "We are very excited about our expansion into the Tri-Cities market and the purchase of the Wheatland Bank Financial Center in downtown Spokane. With deep roots and an unwavering commitment to the agricultural and small business markets throughout eastern and central Washington, we view these new initiatives as a statement to the community...Wheatland Bank is here to stay. We are excited about the renovations that will be taking place throughout Riverfront Park and the changes that are taking place on Wall Street. With plans to further expand our corporate and administrative offices, we are excited about our continued growth.”
About Wheatland Bank
Wheatland Bank, formed in 1979 in Davenport, Washington, is a locally owned independent community bank. Wheatland Bank’s commitment to eastern and central Washington is strong and has deep roots. It’s a commitment that is kept alive with powerful local ownership, leadership and decision making. In the 35 years since inception, Wheatland Bank has grown through organic and diversified expansion with 14 branches, including the new Pasco Branch, serving over 15,000 customers throughout Spokane, Lincoln, Adams, Chelan, Douglas, Grant, Kittitas, Yakima, Franklin and Benton Counties. Wheatland Bank focuses on helping businesses, farmers, ranchers and consumers succeed by offering the highest quality personalized banking relationships and customized lending, banking and wealth management services. Wheatland Bank is a value-oriented financial services provider dedicated to serving the needs of its customers, communities and employees while enhancing shareholder value. That dedication, coupled with the sound risk management and fiscal responsibility of Wheatland Bank's Board of Directors and management, has resulted in the distinct recognition of a 5-Star Superior rating by BauerFinancial, Inc. for over 32 consecutive quarters and the acknowledgement that Wheatland Bank is one of the strongest banks in the nation.