Further, as you likely know by now, in November, I was fortunate to be elected to serve as Montana’s state auditor. My four-year term of office kicked off on Jan. 6. I very much appreciate the support I received from the MIB board and membership during my run for office. With the agreement of the MIB board, for now, I will continue as the executive director of the Association until such time as a suitable replacement is identified, trained and hired. Speaking of tradeshows and conventions, ICBA has announced that ICBA LIVE will be held in Nashville this year. The national convention is slated for March 11-14, and one of the highlights is attending the ICBA PAC auction. And, with the great work performed by ICBA PAC on our behalf during the 2024 elections, the importance of electing pro-banking candidates cannot be overstated. As a reminder, the contributions you make to the ICBA PAC and to the MIB PAC are the lifeblood of our collective legislative advocacy efforts. This past election season, thanks to your support, MIB was able to financially assist multiple pro community banking candidates both for legislature and statewide office. I trust you will enjoy this edition of the Community Banker. The MIB and the MIB staff are proud of the continued quality of this publication, and we encourage you to peruse the informative articles written by ICBA President and CEO Rebeca Romero Rainey and Montana FHLB Rep. Joe Kessler. In 2025, MIB will continue to work on promoting community banking across Montana. That’s why, this year, we have decided to once again undertake a digital marketing campaign on behalf of our member banks. We thank you for all you do on behalf of your communities, your customers and your colleagues. Community banking has many great days ahead of us. MIB is here to partner with you to see them come to pass. From us to you and yours, we wish you a happy, fun and productive year. James Brown, Esq. MIB Executive Director Sometimes SBA lending decisions are difficult. But not this one. q ICBA’s only Preferred Service Provider for SBA and USDA lending Get started today. 800.340.7304 holtandmon.com ICBA’s only choice makes yours easy. Our industry experts handle the hard work at no net cost to your bank, while you empower small businesses and earn non-interest fee income. Over 40 years of serving community banks add up to trusted data, processes and procedures that meet stringent SOC 2, Type II security and privacy standards set by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. No other company comes close. TM Community Banker 7
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