PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Community bankers are in their communities every day, both in helping the community with their financial needs and through involvement in activities outside of the office. Nebraska’s Community Banks are Well-Positioned Dexter Schrodt, President and CEO, NICB As we get settled in a new year, Nebraska’s community banks are well-positioned for any uncertainty that lies ahead with the economy. While inflation is finally starting to slow down during the first part of this year, questions remain about the current rate environment and the impact it will have on key sectors. Specifically, higher rates continuing to impact home loans is one of the questions bankers around the country will be keeping an eye on this year. Conservativeness in their business and an awareness and gut instinct for future economic trends are what separates community bankers from their large-bank counterparts. Community bankers are in their communities every day, both in helping the community with their financial needs and through involvement in activities outside of the office. This constant contact with the pulse of the community is a big part of how a community banker approaches economic uncertainty; because, after all, it’s times of economic uncertainty when customers increase their need for the services and expertise of their local bank. While the national and international economic outlook is a little murky right now, Nebraska continues to enjoy record-low unemployment, and our state government has a large operating surplus thanks to consistently strong tax receipts. The Legislature is, rightfully so, considering historic tax cuts and reform in order to ensure it is not taking in an unnecessarily large surplus of tax dollars. New Governor Jim Pillen has expressed a desire to cut spending while also consistently drawing a distinction between investment and spending. In my view, this is exactly what community bankers should want to hear. Investment by our state government should include all the things our communities care about in order to thrive: roads, broadband, housing, health care, and child care. These items are critical to attracting and retaining residents in our non-Omaha or Lincoln communities, whether it be the eastern, central, or western parts of our state. It is vital that our policymakers recognize the importance of investment in these areas, just as our bankers and business leaders in these communities currently do on a daily basis. This is why I am looking forward to NICB taking a more proactive approach to economic development policies in our state; it is truly an investment in our communities and can make a difference in meeting the demands required for growth. Being a part of the discussions with groups already doing great work in these areas is how we can continue to lead and navigate our communities in a way that mirrors the way community bankers approach their businesses. One thing we do know is that when our communities thrive, so do our community banks; thus, it is imperative for our association to do all we can to support communities so that they can thrive and sustain themselves. Please do not hesitate to reach out to discuss what you see in your community or ideas you may have on how policymakers can help support your community. I am eager to see what 2023 brings for our community banks and all that we can accomplish this year. NEBRASKA INDEPENDENT BANKER 4
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