It’s taking a little longer than expected, but the Conger branch of the First National Bank of Kiester will be open for business starting Monday, April 8.

Friday, March 29, 2002

It’s taking a little longer than expected, but the Conger branch of the First National Bank of Kiester will be open for business starting Monday, April 8.

While the drive-up window, vault, lobby and work areas are all ready, they are still waiting for some finishing work to be completed, said Kent Christian, president of the Kiester bank. They’ve received the necessary regulatory approval, as well, Christian said.

They’ve already hired Suzanne Miller as the full-time branch employee. Miller worked in the Conger branch of Americana Bank up until recently. A part-time loan officer will be added after awhile, Christian said.

While the branch won’t officially open until April 8, the building was open Friday morning from 8:30 a.m. until noon for customers to open new accounts and move their safety deposit boxes.

According to Christian, the Kiester bank is pleased to be able to offer full banking services in Conger. He hopes that people will let him or Miller know if they have any ideas or suggestions for the future.

The Kiester bank announced its plans to open a branch in Conger soon after Americana decided to close theirs. Bank officials have been working with community leaders since then to make sure the bank will fit the community’s needs, said Christian.

Regular hours for the bank will be 8:30 a.m. to noon and 1 to 3 p.m., Monday through Thursday. On Fridays the branch will be open until 5:30 p.m. The phone number is 265-3621 or toll-free (877) 294-3621.