Peoples Bank Hosts Chamber Meeting
Emelie Lalama, Peoples Bank branch manager. PHOTO | Beverly Bonilla
Story and Pictures by Beverly Bonilla
The September meeting for the Butler Co Chamber of Commerce was held at the Eva Hawes Building in the City Park on September 24. The meeting was hosted by Peoples Bank and was catered by Sabor De Fe Mexican Restaurant.
Emelie Lalama, branch manager of the Morgantown location, welcomed those attending and introduced members of its regional team that highlighted the variety of banking, lending, insurance and business services available to individuals and businesses throughout the community.
Emelie stated that Peoples Bank has been part of the community for nearly four years and is based in Marietta, Ohio. Peoples Bank is a regional bank that combines a broad range of financial products with a focus on serving local communities.
Andrea Childers, mortgage consultant, discussed several home financing options available through Peoples Bank. She highlighted a community housing program designed to assist low-to moderate income borrowers with 100% financing, a fixed interest rate for 30 years and no mortgage insurance.
Childers said the program is intended to make homeownership more accessible, particularly as housing prices continue to rise and saving for a down payment can be difficult for younger buyers. She also discussed home equity options, including home equity lines of credit and fixed-rate home equity installment loans that can be used for projects such as home improvements or starting a business.
Eli Samek, the bank’s New Business Banker for the Western Kentucky region, spoke about services available to small businesses. Samek said Peoples Bank is currently offering competitive pricing on business loans and lines of credit but emphasized that business owners are encouraged to meet with him even if they do not currently need financing.
Eli Samek, New Business Banker. PHOTO | Beverly Bonilla
“I’d like to convince you that you could have it a little better,” Samek said, encouraging local business owners to discuss their banking needs and explore available options.
Brandon Farley, representing Peoples Insurance, explained that Peoples Bank also operates an insurance brokerage. He handles commercial insurance, life insurance and bonds, as well as personal insurance services. Farley said the insurance team works throughout Kentucky and serves customers across the country.
Latasha Hatcher, commercial lender, highlighted additional business services, including ACH and treasury services, merchants’ services, commercial loans and equipment financing. She said Peoples Bank works with businesses of various sizes and can partner with other financial institutions on larger syndicated loans.
Hatcher also pointed out special products available through the bank for “Hometown Heroes,” including firefighters, ambulance personnel and law enforcement officers.
Throughout the gathering, the Peoples Bank team emphasized its commitment to the local community. Lalama said the bank regularly supports organizations through sponsorships, donations and volunteer efforts. “We’re always looking for opportunities to be able to go and volunteer and support you and the things that you guys need help with,” Lalama said.
The Morgantown branch team encouraged residents, business owners and community organizations to reach out to the bank to learn more about its financial service and opportunities for community involvement.
If you need any financial help, you can contact the Peoples Bank at 270-526-3855.
