Equity Bank, A Kansas Bank based in Wichita, Kansas, and First Community Bank, based in Lee's Summit, MO announced the completion of their merger effective 5 p.m. yesterday (October 25).

"We are thrilled to announce the completion of this merger," said Equity Bank's Chairman and CEO Brad Elliott.  "Together, we become one of the strongest banks in the region that is ready to lend and invest in our communities.  The merger provides and excellent platform for growth."

One of the goals is to be community minded.  "As we move forward, we will retain our community bank values and culture, remaining focused on helping our customers and the communities we serve," Elliott said.  "This will include maintaining strong leadership at the community level which will ensure that our customers have direct access to decision-makers as well as highly personalized financial service."

First Community Banke's Dana Cass has been named as the Equity Bank Western Missouri President and will oversee the ten branch locations in Missouri.  Bob Holem has been promoted to Equity Bank President-Sedalia.

"Our signage has changed, but you will still bank with the people you already know," said Holem.  "Because Equity Bank is a community bank we retain our community focus, which means I can do what is right for our customers as well as the city of Sedalia."

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